Here is a quick peak at some of the events scheduled to take place in New Orleans.

Thursday Night Welcome Reception and Black Lantern Processional at Tulane University
On Thursday, August 5, 2009, Grand Chapter attendees will be shuttled over to Tulane University (just 15 minutes from our hotel) to participate in the Welcome Reception. The evening will kick off New Orleans style and will include appetizers, dinner, and entertainment. At the conclusion of the reception attendees will participate in the Fraternity’s Black Lantern Processional. The processional will march through campus and end in one of the campuses prominent courtyards.

Alpha Sigma Phi and Tulane have history together. In 1964, the Gamma Omicron Chapter was chartered at Tulane University becoming the 85th chapter of the Fraternity. The chapter closed in 1992 due to lack of membership. Our being at Tulane not only pays homage to the more than 300 men who call Tulane their chapter, but also allows our members to visit a historic campus and be a part of fraternity history.

Tulane University was founded in 1834 and is one of the most highly regarded and selective independent research universities in the United States. Tulane's schools and colleges offer degrees in the liberal arts, science and engineering, architecture, business, law, social work, medicine, and public health and tropical medicine.

Friday Opening Ceremonies
Be a part of the Fraternity’s pomp and circumstance as we call the 51st Grand Chapter to order. In a tradition as old as the Fraternity itself, each chapter’s delegate will parade in the room carrying their respective chapter flag. The room resembles the floor of the United Nations as each delegate takes his respective seat.  Opening Ceremonies also formally introduces the Fraternity’s Grand Council and it’s Past Grand Senior Presidents.

Ritual Exemplification
On Friday afternoon the Fraternity will conduct the Initiation Ceremony. The Ritual Exemplification provides each attendee with the opportunity to see the Ritual conducted in the most proper and dignified manner. Lead by undergraduate members, the Grand Marshal narrates the event and provides context about the methods and manner in which Initiation is conducted. Following the Ritual Exemplification alumni and undergraduates will have the opportunity to participate in Ritual Education.

Fraternity and Foundation Alumni Recognition Reception
Alumni attending Grand Chapter will be invited to attend a special reception to recognize outgoing members of the Fraternity’s Grand Council and the Foundation’s Board of Directors. The reception also aims to highlight the need for volunteer service to the Fraternity and the ways in which one can participate in Fraternity functions across the country.

Cardinal and Stone Gala Awards Banquet
The columniation of the our time together will end with the Cardinal and Stone Gala Awards Banquet. Keeping with tradition, the Fraternity’s Grand Senior President will deliver an address. Expect to sing and enjoy local entertainment. The Fraternity will also recognize the best of our chapters, undergraduate and alumni members for their contributions to the Fraternity.