Jump to content

Beta Upsilon Chi: Difference between revisions

Add links
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Browse history interactively
← Previous edit
Content deleted Content added
VisualWikitext
→Vanderbilt University: reflect source
 
(20 intermediate revisions by 10 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
{{Short description|American Christian social fraternity}}
{{Short description|American Christian social fraternity}}
⚫
{{Infobox Fraternity
{{Multiple issues|
{{Tone|date=September 2020}}
{{Advert|date=April 2021}}
⚫
}}
⚫
{{Infobox Fraternity
| letters = {{lang|grc|ΒΥΧ}}
| letters = {{lang|grc|ΒΥΧ}}
| name = Beta Upsilon Chi
| name = Beta Upsilon Chi
| motto = ''Behold, how good and how pleasant it is when brothers dwell together in unity! - [[s:Bible (American Standard)/Psalms#Chapter 133|Psalm 133:1]]''
| motto = ''Behold, how good and how pleasant it is when brothers dwell together in unity! - [[s:Bible (American Standard)/Psalms#Chapter 133|Psalm 133:1]]''
| crest = File:The_crest_of_Beta_Upsilon_Chi.png
| crest = The_crest_of_Beta_Upsilon_Chi.png
| image_size = 220px
| image_size = 220px
| founded = {{start date and age|1985|4|27}}
| founded = {{start date and age|1985|4|27}}
| birthplace = [[University of Texas at Austin|University of Texas]]
| birthplace = [[University of Texas at Austin|University of Texas]]
| affiliation = NIC
| affiliation = NIC
| type = Social
| type = Social
Line 18: Line 14:
| chapters = 38
| chapters = 38
| colors = {{color box|#A020F0}} Purple and {{color box|#FFFFFF}} White
| colors = {{color box|#A020F0}} Purple and {{color box|#FFFFFF}} White
| free_label = Purpose
| free_label =
| free =
| free = To establish brotherhood and unity among college men based on the common bond of Jesus Christ.
| address = 12650 N. Beach Street<br>Suite 114 #305
| address = 12650 N. Beach Street<br>Suite 114 #305
| city = [[Fort Worth, Texas|Fort Worth]]
| city = [[Fort Worth, Texas|Fort Worth]]
| state = [[Texas|TX]]
| state = [[Texas]]
| ZIP code = 76244
| ZIP code = 76244
| country = [[United States|USA]]
| country = United States
| homepage= {{official website|http://www.betaupsilonchi.org}}
| homepage = {{url|http://www.betaupsilonchi.org}}
| status = Active
}}
}}


'''Beta Upsilon Chi''' ('''{{lang|grc|ΒΥΧ}}''') is a [[Christian fraternity (fraternities and sororities)|Christian social fraternity]] in the United States.<ref>"[http://www.stltoday.com/stltoday/news/stories.nsf/religion/story/2B64284FBC8F1CE386257287001308BD?OpenDocument In constitutional clash with university, Christian fraternity wins big]{{dead link|date=October 2016 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}." ''STLToday.com.'' Retrieved on April 6, 2007.</ref> Since its founding at the [[University of Texas at Austin|University of Texas]] in 1985, ΒΥΧ has spread to twenty-nine [[campus]]es.<ref name="chapter_list">{{Cite web |title=Chapters |url=https://betaupsilonchi.org/about/chapters/ |access-date=2022-12-28 |website=Beta Upsilon Chi |language=en-US}}</ref>
'''Beta Upsilon Chi''' ('''{{lang|grc|ΒΥΧ}}''', pronounced "Bucs") is an American [[Christian fraternity (fraternities and sororities)|Christian social fraternity]].<ref>"[http://www.stltoday.com/stltoday/news/stories.nsf/religion/story/2B64284FBC8F1CE386257287001308BD?OpenDocument In constitutional clash with university, Christian fraternity wins big]{{dead link|date=October 2016 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}." ''STLToday.com.'' Retrieved on April 6, 2007.</ref> It was founded at the [[University of Texas at Austin]] in 1985 and has chartered 29 chapters.<ref name="chapter_list">{{Cite web |title=Chapters |url=https://betaupsilonchi.org/about/chapters/ |access-date=2022-12-28 |website=Beta Upsilon Chi |language=en-US}}</ref>

BYX seeks to set itself apart from other fraternities in its incorporation of cell groups where, separate from weekly fraternity meetings, small groups gather weekly to edify college men through [[Bible]] study, worship, accountability, prayer, and fellowship to promote brotherhood among members.<ref>"[http://www.tcu360.com/campus/2012/04/15243.student-describes-struggles-orientation-fraternity-life]."</ref>


==History==
==History==
In the spring of 1985, Craig Albert, a student at the University of Texas at Austin, mentioned his idea of forming a Christian fraternity to his friends who were involved in the [[Campus Crusade for Christ]].<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Reid |first=Don |date=2014-06-23 |title=Alumni Spotlight: Laying the foundation for 30 years of brotherhood and unity. |url=https://betaupsilonchi.wordpress.com/2014/06/23/alumni-spotlight-laying-the-foundation-for-30-years-of-brotherhood-and-unity/ |access-date=2024-01-26 |website=The BYX Blog |language=en}}</ref> Albert held a meeting at Jester dormitory to present his plan.<ref name=":1" /> Beta Upsilon Chi became official on April 27, 1985.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Beta Upsilon Chi Fraternity- Virginia Tech Colony |url=https://fsl.vt.edu/content/fsl_vt_edu/en/organizations/chapters/BetaUpsilonChi.html |access-date=2023-06-04 |website=fsl.vt.edu |language=en}}</ref> The group planned an Island Party to announce the founding of the fraternity.<ref>{{Cite web |title=History |url=https://utexas.byx.org/history |access-date=2024-01-26 |website=Beta Upsilon Chi - The University of Texas}}</ref>
ΒΥΧ was founded at the University of Texas at Austin on April 27, 1985.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Beta Upsilon Chi Fraternity- Virginia Tech Colony |url=https://fsl.vt.edu/content/fsl_vt_edu/en/organizations/chapters/BetaUpsilonChi.html |access-date=2023-06-04 |website=fsl.vt.edu |language=en}}</ref> It began with the vision of Craig Albert, the first president.{{Citation needed|date=December 2022}} As an alternative to what was seen as the "normal" [[fraternities and sororities|fraternity]] scene, the founding fathers of Beta Upsilon Chi established their fraternity as Brothers Under Christ, and took the [[Greek alphabet|Greek]] letters [[Beta (letter)|Beta]], [[Upsilon]], and [[Chi (letter)|Chi]] to identify themselves.<ref name="about">"[http://www.betaupsilonchi.org/about-byx About BYX]." ''Brothers Under Christ (website).'' Retrieved on July 19, 2010.</ref> communities.

Established an alternative to the "normal" [[fraternities and sororities|fraternity]] scene, the founding fathers established their fraternity as Brothers Under Christ and took the [[Greek alphabet|Greek]] letters [[Beta (letter)|Beta]], [[Upsilon]], and [[Chi (letter)|Chi]] to identify the fraternity.<ref name="about">"[http://www.betaupsilonchi.org/about-byx About BYX]." ''Brothers Under Christ (website).'' Retrieved on July 19, 2010.</ref> The purpose of the fraternity was to "equip and empower college Christian men to live faithfully and lead courageously".<ref>{{Cite web |title=About BYX |url=https://byx.org/about-byx/ |access-date=2024-01-26 |website=Beta Upsilon Chi Fraternity |language=en-US}}</ref> Albert served as the fraternity's first president which met in the basement of the University Christian Church.<ref name=":1" />


The founding fathers of the Alpha chapter were: {{col-begin}}
The founding fathers of the Alpha chapter were:
{{columns-list|colwidth=15em|
{{col-break|width=35%}}
* Craig Albert
* Craig Albert
* Jeff Miller
* Jeff Miller
Line 47: Line 44:
* David Daniels
* David Daniels
* Steve Patrick
* Steve Patrick
{{col-break|width=35%}}
* John Douglas
* John Douglas
* Roger Poupart
* Roger Poupart
Line 58: Line 54:
* David Givens
* David Givens
* Garland Spiller
* Garland Spiller
{{col-break|width=35%}}
* Steve Hoehner
* Steve Hoehner
* Clayton Walther
* Clayton Walther
Line 68: Line 63:
* Greg Young
* Greg Young
* Tse-Horng Yu
* Tse-Horng Yu
⚫
}}
{{col-end}}


The process of growing from one chapter in [[Austin, Texas]], to a national organization across the country was slow at first. Initially, the ''Alpha chapter'' rejected requests from Christian men at other schools to be initiated into the fraternity or to start new chapters. Eventually, the founding fathers of ''Beta chapter'' were initiated at [[Texas Christian University]] in [[Fort Worth, Texas]]. The fraternity then expanded with ''Gamma'' and ''Delta chapters'' at [[Texas A&M University]] and [[Stephen F. Austin State University]], respectively.<ref name="chapter_list"/>
The process of growing from one chapter to a national organization was slow. Initially, the ''Alpha chapter'' rejected requests from Christian men at other schools to be initiated into the fraternity or to start new chapters. Eventually, the founding fathers of ''Beta chapter'' were initiated at [[Texas Christian University]] in [[Fort Worth, Texas]]. Beta Upsilon Chi then expanded with ''Gamma'' and ''Delta chapters'' at [[Texas A&M University]] and [[Stephen F. Austin State University]], respectively.<ref name="chapter_list"/>


In 1994, the fraternity held an Island Party to give back to the at Texas A&M community.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=BYX Island Party {{!}} About the Event |url=http://www.tamuislandparty.com/about |access-date=2023-06-04 |website=www.tamuislandparty.com}}</ref> Now an annual philanthropy event, the Island Party is free Christian music concert or event provided to the entire university.<ref name=":0" /><ref>{{Cite web |title=Our BYX Island Party |url=https://byx.crowdchange.co/ |access-date=2023-06-04 |website=Beta Upsilon Chi |language=en}}</ref> The largest Island Party was held at [[Baylor University]] (''Iota chapter'') on April 20, 2007; the band "[[Switchfoot]]" was the headliner and attendance was estimated between 15,000 and 20,000.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Lewis |first=Erianne |date=2021-09-30 |title=Beta Upsilon Chi's annual Island Party is expected to be its biggest yet {{!}} The Baylor Lariat |url=https://baylorlariat.com/2021/09/30/beta-upsilon-chis-annual-island-party-is-expected-to-be-its-biggest-yet/ |access-date=2023-06-04 |language=en-US}}</ref>
In 1994, the fraternity held another Island Party to give back to the Texas A&M community.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=BYX Island Party {{!}} About the Event |url=http://www.tamuislandparty.com/about |access-date=2023-06-04 |website=www.tamuislandparty.com}}</ref> Now an annual philanthropy event, the Island Party is a free Christian music concert or event provided to the entire university.<ref name=":0" /><ref>{{Cite web |title=Our BYX Island Party |url=https://byx.crowdchange.co/ |access-date=2023-06-04 |website=Beta Upsilon Chi |language=en}}</ref> The largest Island Party was held at the ''Iota chapter'' at [[Baylor University]] on April 20, 2007; the band [[Switchfoot]] was the headliner and attendance was estimated between 15,000 and 20,000 people.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Lewis |first=Erianne |date=2021-09-30 |title=Beta Upsilon Chi's annual Island Party is expected to be its biggest yet {{!}} The Baylor Lariat |url=https://baylorlariat.com/2021/09/30/beta-upsilon-chis-annual-island-party-is-expected-to-be-its-biggest-yet/ |access-date=2023-06-04 |language=en-US}}</ref>


⚫
Beta Upsilon Chi changed its policy regarding the expansion of chapters in February 2009. The fraternity's board of directors, in consultation with its board of advisors, implemented a three-phased expansion process for prospective chapters to pursue active chapter status.<ref>"BYX Boards, Staff Meet." ''Beta Upsilon Chi National Newsletter.'' Spring 2009. Fort Worth, Texas: Beta Upsilon Chi Fraternity.</ref>
⚫
Today, the national fraternity is headquartered in Fort Worth, and an expansion program oversees the establishment of new chapters.<ref name="contact">"[http://www.betaupsilonchi.org/contact Contact]." ''Brothers Under Christ.'' Retrieved on July 19, 2010.</ref> The influence of Beta Upsilon Chi on the [[Christian fraternity (fraternities and sororities)|Christian fraternity]] movement was significant. In 1988, women from [[University of Texas at Austin|Texas]] established [[Sigma Phi Lambda]], or Sisters for the Lord, as a "female version of BYX."<ref name="SFL">"[http://www.sigma-phi-lambda.com/All%20About%20Phi%20Lamb.htm All About Sigma Phi Lambda] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070921153339/http://www.sigma-phi-lambda.com/All%20About%20Phi%20Lamb.htm|date=September 21, 2007}}." ''[http://www.sigma-phi-lambda.com/ Sigma Phi Lambda].'' Retrieved on April 2, 2007.</ref><ref name="kpeck">Peck, Kevin. ''History of Beta Upsilon Chi, 1985-2000.'' Fort Worth, Texas: Beta Upsilon Chi Fraternity, 2000.</ref> In addition to its name, Sisters for the Lord, the sorority's system of "cable groups" closely mirrors BYX.<ref name="SFL" />

⚫
Beta Upsilon Chi became a member of the [[National Interfraternity Conference|NIC]] on September 22, 2016.<ref>[http://nicindy.org/news/2016/beta-upsilon-chi-joins-north-american-interfraternity-conference/ ΒΥΧ joins NIC, as noted in the NIC News] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170606144731/http://nicindy.org/news/2016/beta-upsilon-chi-joins-north-american-interfraternity-conference/|date=2017-06-06}}, on that date. Accessed 12 May 2017.</ref> The national fraternity is headquartered in Fort Worth.<ref name="contact">"[http://www.betaupsilonchi.org/contact Contact]." ''Brothers Under Christ.'' Retrieved on July 19, 2010.</ref>


==Symbols==
==Symbols==
As with other Greek letter organizations, Beta Upsilon Chi is a ritualistic organization whose pledge induction, initiation, and other ceremonies are esoteric and not open to the general public. In addition to the usual Greek practices of grips, words, and memory work, Beta Upsilon Chi also utilizes several symbols. Its founding scripture is "Behold how good and how pleasant it is for brothers to dwell together in unity." - Psalm 133:1<ref>[http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%20133:1&version=ESV Psalm 133:1]</ref><ref name="about" /> The fraternity's colors are purple and white.<ref name="about" />
The fraternity's name, Beta Upsilon Chi, was selected from the Greek letters '''{{lang|grc|ΒΥΧ}}''' to stand for Brothers Under Christ.<ref name="about" /> Its founding scripture is Psalm 133:1, "Behold how good and how pleasant it is for brothers to dwell together in unity."<ref>[http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%20133:1&version=ESV Psalm 133:1]</ref><ref name="about" /> The fraternity's colors are purple and white.<ref name="about" />


==Activities==
⚫
== Religious discrimination ==
⚫
Since the beginning, the chapter officers gather annually for a National Leadership Conference, which consists of all the officers of the fraternity and the national staff. This meeting is in the fall, and shortly follows the election of the local chapter leaders.<ref name="conference">"[http://www.brothersunderchrist.org/display.php?document=announcements&id=21 Next Leaders Conference]{{dead link|date=October 2016|bot=InternetArchiveBot|fix-attempted=yes}}." ''Brothers Under Christ (website).'' Retrieved on April 2, 2007.</ref>
⚫
The fraternity had been involved in several court cases seeking to assert local chapters' rights to organize with leaders, or to include as members, those who share the organization's Christian beliefs. Until these court cases, three universities held that student organizations may not discriminate based on religion, among other things, and had asserted this blanket prohibition applies to religious student organizations. In each of these, the Fraternity has prevailed, and three universities have changed their policies. These include:


⚫
In the early spring of even-numbered years, the entire fraternity is called together for the National Summit, typically held outside of [[Dallas, Texas]]. The event includes Bible studies, worship, fellowship, athletic competitions, and seminars on fraternity issues. It is also at Summit where the fraternity's annual Delegate Convention takes place.<ref name="national_summit">"[http://www.betaupsilonchi.org/index.php?option=com_eventcal&task=event&date=1204290000&eventid=9&Itemid=48&catid=&catid=&catid= National Summit Conference] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110725065536/http://www.betaupsilonchi.org/index.php?option=com_eventcal&task=event&date=1204290000&eventid=9&Itemid=48&catid=&catid=&catid=|date=July 25, 2011}}." ''Brothers Under Christ.'' Retrieved on April 2, 2007.</ref>
⚫
=== University of Georgia ===
⚫
In late 2006, the ''Pi chapter'' at the [[University of Georgia]] was prevented from registering as a student organization by university officials "because the group requires its members and officers to share the group's Christian beliefs".<ref>Staff Writer. "[http://www.alliancedefensefund.org/news/story.aspx?cid=3938 University of Georgia: No religious fraternities]." ''[[Alliance Defense Fund]].'' December 5, 2006. Retrieved on April 2, 2007.</ref> After months of negotiation between university officials, student officers of the local chapter, and officials at the fraternity's national headquarters in Texas, attorneys with the [[Christian Legal Society]] and [[Alliance Defense Fund]] filed a civil rights suit on December 5, 2006, in the [[United States District Court for the Middle District of Georgia]] against the [[University of Georgia|University]] on behalf of the fraternity.<ref>"[http://www.telladf.org/UserDocs/BYXcomplaint.pdf ''Beta Upsilon Chi v. Michael F. Adams''] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070222004918/http://www.telladf.org/UserDocs/BYXcomplaint.pdf |date=2007-02-22 }}." [[United States District Court for the Middle District of Georgia]]. December 5, 2006.</ref>

⚫
Five days later, on December 10, published reports by the [[Associated Press]] indicated that the university would "remove the religion clause from the [university's anti-discrimination] policy for the Christian fraternity to settle this particular situation and is discussing an exception to religious discrimination [that] could be put into place much like an exception to gender discrimination is in place for same-sex social fraternities and sororities."<ref>The Associated Press. "[http://www.firstamendmentcenter.org/news.aspx?id=17878 Univ. of Ga. to recognize Christian fraternity] {{webarchive|url=https://wayback.archive-it.org/all/20080725083651/http://www.firstamendmentcenter.org/news.aspx?id=17878 |date=July 25, 2008 }}." ''[[First Amendment Center]].'' December 10, 2006. Retrieved on April 4, 2007.</ref>

⚫
=== University of Missouri ===
⚫
Ten students formed a chapter at the [[University of Missouri]] in April 2006. In December of that year, a university administrator notified them that the chapter would have to abide by campus prohibitions on discrimination based on "race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, gender, sexual orientation, disability" or status as a [[Vietnam War]] veteran. The students objected, with assistance from the Christian Legal Society, which sent university officials a letter listing several legal precedents protecting religious student groups' First Amendment rights of free association. In response, the university quickly reversed the directive.<ref>[http://www.christianpost.com/Education/General/2006/12/university-drops-effort-to-restrict-christian-fraternity-29/index.html University Drops Effort to Restrict Christian Fraternity]{{dead link|date=October 2016 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}, The Associated Press, December 29, 2006 08</ref>

⚫
=== University of Florida ===
⚫
On March 16, 2007, the ''Upsilon chapter'' at the University of Florida was officially recognized by the BYX national board.<ref>University of Florida chapter. "[http://www.betaupsilonchi.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=55&Itemid=66 Upsilon chapter] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071008100952/https://www.betaupsilonchi.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=55&Itemid=66 |date=2007-10-08 }}" Retrieved on November 4, 2007.</ref> The University of Florida however, refused to recognize BYX.<ref>''The Alligator''. "[https://archive.today/20110519051226/http://www.alligator.org/pt2/070717lawsuit.php Christian fraternity suing UF, seeking official recognition.]" Retrieved on June 24, 2008.</ref> The university had refused to recognize the chapter as a registered student organization because the fraternity did not accept non-Christians, and would not recognize the chapter as a social fraternity because it was too exclusive.<ref>''Speak Up'' (website) "[http://www.speakupmovement.org/Map/CaseDetails?Case=189]" Retrieved on February 3rd, 2015</ref><ref>Beta Upsilon Chi, ''Upsilon chapter'' at the University of Florida v. J. Bernard Machen, in his official capacity as President of the University of Florida.]" Retrieved on November 19, 2010.</ref> On July 10, 2007, the [[Alliance Defense Fund]] Center for Academic Freedom and the [[Christian Legal Society]] filed suit on behalf of BYX against various officials from the University of Florida for various constitutional violations.<ref>Alliance Defense Fund. "[http://www.centerforacademicfreedom.org/cases/default.aspx?cid=241 Beta Upsilon Chi,'' Upsilon chapter'' at the University of Florida v. Machen, et al.] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081220103249/http://www.centerforacademicfreedom.org/cases/default.aspx?cid=241 |date=2008-12-20 }}" ''[[Alliance Defense Fund]].'' July 10, 2007. Retrieved on November 4, 2007.</ref> During the legal proceedings, the 11th [[United States circuit court|Circuit Court]] ruled that the university must recognize the chapter pending appeal. Ultimately, the case was dismissed as moot when the university amended its policies to accommodate the chapter.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.gainesville.com/article/20091028/ARTICLES/910281003/1002?Title=Around-the-Region-Oct-28|title = Article 404 - Gainesville Sun - Gainesville, FL}}</ref><ref>''The Alligator''. "[http://regulations.ufl.edu/chapter1/1006.pdf UF Regulation Handbook.]" Retrieved on July 31, 2008.</ref>

=== Vanderbilt University ===
On November 4, 2010, two anonymous former members of the Vanderbilt chapter, an alumnus and a senior student, alleged they were evicted from the fraternity for being gay.<ref name="insidevandy.com">Liz Furlow, 'Former Beta Upsilon Chi members allege unfair treatment based on sexual orientation', in ''Vanderbilt Hustler'', Nov 4, 2010 [https://web.archive.org/web/20101107011635/http://www.insidevandy.com/drupal/node/15386]</ref><ref>'Vanderbilt Christian fraternity removes gays', in ''[[Out & About Newspaper]]'', Nov 9, 2010 [http://www.outandaboutnewspaper.com/article/4363]</ref><ref>'Vanderbilt Christian Frat Ousted Gays', in ''[[The Advocate (LGBT magazine)|The Advocate]]'', Nov 9, 2010 {{cite web |url=http://www.advocate.com/News/Daily_News/2010/11/09/Christian_Fraternity_Accused_of_Antigay_Discrimination/ |title=Vanderbilt Christian Frat Ousted Gays &#124; News &#124; the Advocate |access-date=2011-06-06 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101112052014/http://www.advocate.com/News/Daily_News/2010/11/09/Christian_Fraternity_Accused_of_Antigay_Discrimination/ |archive-date=2010-11-12 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|first=Melissa |last=Wright |title=US fraternity comes under fire for expelling gay members |publisher=[[Pink Paper]] |date=10 November 2010 |url=http://news.pinkpaper.com/NewsStory/4247/10/11/2010/us-fraternity-comes-under-fire-for-expelling-gay-members.aspx |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120319054830/http://news.pinkpaper.com/NewsStory/4247/10/11/2010/us-fraternity-comes-under-fire-for-expelling-gay-members.aspx |archive-date=2012-03-19 }}</ref> If the allegations were true, then BYX could be found to have violated Vanderbilt policies against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation.<ref name="ReferenceA">Liz Furlow, 'Bandas: formal complaint against BYX needed to take action', in ''Vanderbilt Hustler'', Nov 10, 2010 {{cite web |url=http://www.insidevandy.com/drupal/node/15465 |title=Bandas: Formal complaint against BYX needed to take action &#124; InsideVandy |access-date=2011-01-08 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101115090313/http://www.insidevandy.com/drupal/node/15465 |archive-date=2010-11-15 }}</ref> According to the initial report in Vanderbilt's student newspaper, the ''Hustler'' (which first published the anonymous allegations), the BYX code of conduct prohibits homosexual activity by its members (along with [[fornication]] by heterosexual members).<ref name="insidevandy.com" />


==Organization==
==Governance==
===Board of directors===
===Board of directors===
At the national level, ΒΥΧ is headed by a [[board of directors]]. This board is the ultimate authority in the fraternity and is responsible for the guidance of the [[fraternities and sororities|fraternity]]. The board also comprises the governing body of the Beta Upsilon Chi corporation, a 501(c)(3) organization, which controls the assets of the fraternity. They appoint the national [[executive director]] to run the fraternity's daily business. In conjunction with this executive director, they approve any [[charter]] changes. All members of the board of directors must be alumni of the fraternity, and new members are appointed from the board of advisors.
At the national level, Beta Upsilon Chi is headed by a [[board of directors]]. This board is the ultimate authority in the fraternity and is responsible for the guidance of the [[fraternities and sororities|fraternity]]. The board also comprises the governing body of the Beta Upsilon Chi corporation, a 501(c)(3) organization, which controls the assets of the fraternity. The board appoints an [[executive director]] to run the fraternity's daily business. In conjunction with this executive director, the board approves any [[charter]] changes. All members of the board of directors must be alumni of the fraternity; new members are appointed from the board of advisors.


===Board of advisors===
===Board of advisors===
The Board of Directors is assisted in its governance of the fraternity by a board of advisors. This board serves as a consultative partner of the board of directors, with a voice but no vote in the directors' decisions. Board of Advisors members are appointed by the board of directors, in consultation with the national executive director. All members of the board of advisors must be alumni of the fraternity, and only alumni of chartered chapters may be appointed to the board.
The fraternity's board of advisors serves as a consultative partner of the board of directors, with a voice but no vote in the directors' decisions. Board of Advisors members are appointed by the board of directors, in consultation with the national executive director. All members of the board of advisors must be alumni of the fraternity, and only alumni of chartered chapters may be appointed to the board.


===Executive director===
===Executive director===
The BYX executive director is the fraternity's national administrator. Through his staff, he coordinates the activities of the fraternity from its headquarters in Fort Worth, Texas. The executive director's staff is equally responsible for the day-to-day operation of the national fraternity, and staff from National Headquarters frequently visit the chapters. The national executive director is an ''ex officio'' member of the board of directors; he has a voice in decisions, but no vote.
The '''{{lang|grc|ΒΥΧ}}''' executive director is the fraternity's national administrator. Through his staff, he coordinates the activities of the fraternity from its headquarters in Fort Worth, Texas. The executive director's staff is equally responsible for the day-to-day operation of the national fraternity, and staff from the National Headquarters frequently visit the chapters. The national executive director is an ''ex officio'' member of the board of directors; he has a voice in decisions, but no vote. Brian Lee became the fraternity's executive director in 2018.

The following men have served as executive director of Beta Upsilon Chi:<ref>Hoyt, Jason. "Executive Director's Report." ''Beta Upsilon Chi National Newsletter.'' July 2005.</ref>
* Kyle Hoover, 1999&ndash;2001
* Kevin Peck, 2001&ndash;2004
* Jason Hoyt, 2004&ndash;2017<ref name="hoyt">"[https://www.betaupsilonchi.org/about/who-we-are/executive-leadership Beta Upsilon Chi - Executive Leadership] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150622063423/https://www.betaupsilonchi.org/about/who-we-are/executive-leadership |date=2015-06-22 }}." ''Brothers Under Christ (website).'' Retrieved on June 21, 2015</ref>
* Brian Lee, 2018&ndash;Present


===Chapter governance===
===Chapter governance===
⚫
Chapters are authorized by a [[charter]] from the National Board of Directors, allowing each chapter to work under a chapter [[constitution]] that provides for the election of chapter officers.<ref name="chapter_list" /> Chapter officers typically include a [[president (corporate title)|president]], [[vice president]], [[secretary]], [[treasurer]], [[chaplain]], and a [[Fraternities and sororities#Joining a fraternity or sorority|pledge trainer]], sometimes called a new member captain.<ref>"[http://www.betaupsilonchi.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=30&Itemid=43 Contact Us] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071006162020/http://www.betaupsilonchi.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=30&Itemid=43 |date=October 6, 2007 }}." ''Baylor Chapter (website).'' Retrieved on April 6, 2007.</ref><ref>"[http://www.byx.tcu.edu/index.asp Officers] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060908183723/http://www.byx.tcu.edu/index.asp |date=September 8, 2006 }}." ''Texas Christian Chapter (website).'' Retrieved on April 6, 2007.</ref><ref>"[http://utbyx.moonfruit.com/ Officers]." ''Texas Chapter (website).'' Retrieved on April 6, 2007.</ref> These [[wikt:officer|officer]]s are responsible for the administration of the chapter for a [[calendar year]], including conducting [[ritual]], overseeing meetings, organizing trips, implementing the pledging program, and organizing parties. The officers serve one-year terms and may be re-elected only once to a different office.
Chapters are authorized by a [[charter]] from the National Board of Directors and denominated by a letter of the [[Greek alphabet]] that corresponds with their order of admission into the fraternity (for example, the [[University of Texas at Austin|University of Texas]] is ''Alpha chapter'').<ref name="chapter_list" />


=== Interfraternity Council ===
⚫
The charter authorizes each chapter to work under a chapter [[constitution]] that provides for the election of chapter officers: typically a [[president (corporate title)|president]], [[vice president]], [[secretary]], [[treasurer]], [[chaplain]], and a [[Fraternities and sororities#Joining a fraternity or sorority|pledge trainer]], sometimes called a New Member Captain.<ref>"[http://www.betaupsilonchi.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=30&Itemid=43 Contact Us] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071006162020/http://www.betaupsilonchi.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=30&Itemid=43 |date=October 6, 2007 }}." ''Baylor Chapter (website).'' Retrieved on April 6, 2007.</ref><ref>"[http://www.byx.tcu.edu/index.asp Officers] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060908183723/http://www.byx.tcu.edu/index.asp |date=September 8, 2006 }}." ''Texas Christian Chapter (website).'' Retrieved on April 6, 2007.</ref><ref>"[http://utbyx.moonfruit.com/ Officers]." ''Texas Chapter (website).'' Retrieved on April 6, 2007.</ref>
⚫
Since its inception in 1985, chapters of Beta Upsilon Chi have chosen not to affiliate with the Interfraternity Council (IFC) at the school where they are established. This has proven controversial on some campuses because it means that '''{{lang|grc|ΒΥΧ}}''' does not pay IFC dues. On the other hand, IFC membership sometimes involves sanctioning rules and regulations that would be contrary to the purpose of '''{{lang|grc|ΒΥΧ}}'''. Because of the potential for conflict inherent in such affiliations, the National Board of Directors continues to uphold a policy prohibiting local chapters from affiliating with host university IFCs.<ref name="general">"[http://www.brothersunderchrist.org/docs/phase1-07.pdf General Information] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070210065620/http://www.brothersunderchrist.org/docs/phase1-07.pdf|date=February 10, 2007}}." ''Beta Upsilon Chi.'' Retrieved on April 2, 2007.</ref> As a result, depending on the university, each chapter is either registered as a social fraternity unassociated with the IFC or as a student organization. The ''Alpha Eta chapter'' at Clemson University, the ''Omicron chapter'' at Mississippi State University, and the ''Pi chapter'' at the University of Georgia are exceptions, affiliating with their local IFCs in 2014, 2015, and 2017 respectively.
These [[wikt:officer|officer]]s are responsible for the administration of the chapter for a [[calendar year]], including conducting [[ritual]], overseeing meetings, organizing trips, implementing the pledging program, and organizing parties. The officers serve one-year terms and may be re-elected only once to a different office.


⚫
==Membership==
===National meetings===
⚫
[[Image:BYX Miss State Omicron Tailgate.jpg|thumb|right|Founding fathers from the ''Omicron chapter'' at a '''{{lang|grc|ΒΥΧ}}''' tailgate]]
⚫
Since the beginning, the chapter officers gather annually for a National Leadership Conference, which consists of all the officers of the fraternity and the national staff. This meeting is in the fall, and shortly follows the election of the local chapter leaders.<ref name="conference">"[http://www.brothersunderchrist.org/display.php?document=announcements&id=21 Next Leaders Conference]{{dead link|date=October 2016 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}." ''Brothers Under Christ (website).'' Retrieved on April 2, 2007.</ref>
⚫
There are three kinds of members in the fraternity: pledges, active members, and alumni members. Local chapters are composed of active members and pledges. Active members have voting rights and participate in rituals, leading [[worship]], [[Bible study (Christianity)|Bible study]], and other activities. Active members become alumni members after their graduation. Pledges become members by finishing a semester-long pledging process, a process that differs from chapter to chapter.


⚫
All '''{{lang|grc|ΒΥΧ}}''' members are a part of cell groups that consist of four to six brothers and pledges who meet weekly for social activities and Bible study.<ref name="general" />
⚫
In the early spring of even-numbered years, the entire fraternity is called together for National Summit, typically held outside of [[Dallas, Texas]]. The event includes Bible studies, worship, fellowship, athletic competitions, and seminars on fraternity issues. It is also at Summit where the fraternity's annual Delegate Convention takes place.<ref name="national_summit">"[http://www.betaupsilonchi.org/index.php?option=com_eventcal&task=event&date=1204290000&eventid=9&Itemid=48&catid=&catid=&catid= National Summit Conference] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110725065536/http://www.betaupsilonchi.org/index.php?option=com_eventcal&task=event&date=1204290000&eventid=9&Itemid=48&catid=&catid=&catid= |date=July 25, 2011 }}." ''Brothers Under Christ.'' Retrieved on April 2, 2007.</ref>


⚫
==Chapters==
===Affiliating with local universities===
⚫
{{main|List of Beta Upsilon Chi chapters}}
⚫
Since its inception in 1985, chapters of Beta Upsilon Chi have chosen not to affiliate with the Interfraternity Council (IFC) at the school where they are established. This has proven controversial on some campuses because it means that BYX does not pay IFC dues. On the other hand, IFC membership sometimes involves sanctioning rules and regulations which would be contrary to the purpose of BYX. Because of the potential for conflict inherent in such affiliations, the National Board of Directors continues to uphold a policy prohibiting local chapters from affiliating with host university IFCs.<ref name="general">"[http://www.brothersunderchrist.org/docs/phase1-07.pdf General Information] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070210065620/http://www.brothersunderchrist.org/docs/phase1-07.pdf |date=February 10, 2007 }}." ''Beta Upsilon Chi.'' Retrieved on April 2, 2007.</ref> As a result, depending on the university, each chapter is either registered as a social fraternity unassociated with the IFC or as a student organization. The ''Alpha Eta chapter'' at Clemson University, the ''Omicron chapter'' at Mississippi State University, and the ''Pi chapter'' at the University of Georgia are exceptions, affiliating with their local IFCs in 2014, 2015, and 2017 respectively.


The fraternity is currently composed of 33 active chapters.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.betaupsilonchi.org/about/chapters|title = Chapters}}</ref> Chapters are denominated by a letter of the [[Greek alphabet]] that corresponds with their order of admission into the fraternity.<ref name="chapter_list" />
⚫
On a national basis, Beta Upsilon Chi became a member of the [[National Interfraternity Conference|NIC]] on 22 Sept 2016, to "align itself with the fraternal movement " and access advocacy and resources that will elevate its value in higher education, said Jason Hoyt, Beta Upsilon Chi President and COO.<ref>[http://nicindy.org/news/2016/beta-upsilon-chi-joins-north-american-interfraternity-conference/ ΒΥΧ joins NIC, as noted in the NIC News] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170606144731/http://nicindy.org/news/2016/beta-upsilon-chi-joins-north-american-interfraternity-conference/ |date=2017-06-06 }}, on that date. Accessed 12 May 2017.</ref>


⚫
== Religious discrimination ==
⚫
==Membership==
⚫
The fraternity had been involved in several court cases seeking to assert local chapters' rights to organize with leaders or to include as members those who share the organization's Christian beliefs. Until these court cases, three universities held that student organizations may not discriminate based on religion, among other things, and had asserted this blanket prohibition applies to religious student organizations. In all cases, the universities changed their policies.
⚫
[[Image:BYX Miss State Omicron Tailgate.jpg|thumb|right|Founding fathers from [[Mississippi State University|Mississippi State's]] ''Omicron chapter'' at a BYX tailgate]]
⚫
There are three kinds of membership in the fraternity: pledges, active members, and [[alumni]] members. Each local chapter is composed of its active members and pledges. Active members form the backbone of the fraternity, participating in rituals, leading [[worship]], [[Bible]] study, and other chapter activities. Active members have voting rights within the chapter and become alumni members upon their [[graduation]]. Pledges become members by finishing the pledging process, a process that differs from chapter to chapter, but typically lasts a semester.


===Cell groups===
=== University of Georgia ===
⚫
In late 2006, the ''Pi chapter'' at the [[University of Georgia]] was prevented from registering as a student organization by university officials "because the group requires its members and officers to share the group's Christian beliefs".<ref>Staff Writer. "[http://www.alliancedefensefund.org/news/story.aspx?cid=3938 University of Georgia: No religious fraternities]." ''[[Alliance Defense Fund]].'' December 5, 2006. Retrieved on April 2, 2007.</ref> After months of negotiation between university officials, student officers of the local chapter, and officials at the fraternity's national headquarters, attorneys with the [[Christian Legal Society]] and [[Alliance Defense Fund]] filed a civil rights suit on December 5, 2006, in the [[United States District Court for the Middle District of Georgia]] against the university on behalf of the fraternity.<ref>"[http://www.telladf.org/UserDocs/BYXcomplaint.pdf ''Beta Upsilon Chi v. Michael F. Adams''] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070222004918/http://www.telladf.org/UserDocs/BYXcomplaint.pdf|date=2007-02-22}}." [[United States District Court for the Middle District of Georgia]]. December 5, 2006.</ref>
⚫
All BYX members are a part of "cell groups, which are groups of four to six brothers and pledges who meet weekly for social activities and Bible study.<ref name="general" />


⚫
On December 10, 2006, the [[Associated Press]] reported that the university would "remove the religion clause from the [university's anti-discrimination] policy for the Christian fraternity to settle this particular situation and is discussing an exception to religious discrimination [that] could be put into place much like an exception to gender discrimination is in place for same-sex social fraternities and sororities."<ref>The Associated Press. "[http://www.firstamendmentcenter.org/news.aspx?id=17878 Univ. of Ga. to recognize Christian fraternity] {{webarchive|url=https://wayback.archive-it.org/all/20080725083651/http://www.firstamendmentcenter.org/news.aspx?id=17878|date=July 25, 2008}}." ''[[First Amendment Center]].'' December 10, 2006. Retrieved on April 4, 2007.</ref>
⚫
==Chapters==

⚫
{{main|List of Beta Upsilon Chi chapters}}
⚫
=== University of Missouri ===
⚫
Ten students formed a chapter of Beta Upsilon Chi at the [[University of Missouri]] in April 2006. In December 2006, a university administrator notified the chapter that it would have to abide by campus prohibitions on discrimination based on "race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, gender, sexual orientation, disability" or status as a [[Vietnam War]] veteran. The fraternity objected and, with assistance from the Christian Legal Society, which sent university officials a letter listing several legal precedents protecting religious student groups' [[First Amendment rights]] of free association. In response, the university reversed its directive.<ref>[http://www.christianpost.com/Education/General/2006/12/university-drops-effort-to-restrict-christian-fraternity-29/index.html University Drops Effort to Restrict Christian Fraternity]{{dead link|date=October 2016|bot=InternetArchiveBot|fix-attempted=yes}}, The Associated Press, December 29, 2006 08</ref>

⚫
=== University of Florida ===
⚫
On March 16, 2007, the ''Upsilon chapter'' at the University of Florida was officially recognized by the '''{{lang|grc|ΒΥΧ}}''' national board.<ref>University of Florida chapter. "[http://www.betaupsilonchi.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=55&Itemid=66 Upsilon chapter] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071008100952/https://www.betaupsilonchi.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=55&Itemid=66|date=2007-10-08}}" Retrieved on November 4, 2007.</ref> The [[University of Florida]] refused to recognize the chapter as a registered student organization because the fraternity did not accept non-Christians and would not recognize the chapter as a social fraternity because it was too exclusive.<ref>''Speak Up'' (website) "[http://www.speakupmovement.org/Map/CaseDetails?Case=189]" Retrieved on February 3rd, 2015</ref><ref>Beta Upsilon Chi, ''Upsilon chapter'' at the University of Florida v. J. Bernard Machen, in his official capacity as President of the University of Florida.]" Retrieved on November 19, 2010.</ref><ref>''The Alligator''. "[https://archive.today/20110519051226/http://www.alligator.org/pt2/070717lawsuit.php Christian fraternity suing UF, seeking official recognition.]" Retrieved on June 24, 2008.</ref> On July 10, 2007, the [[Alliance Defense Fund|Alliance Defense Fund Center for Academic Freedom]] and the [[Christian Legal Society]] filed a lawsuit on behalf of Beta Upsilon Chi against officials of the university for various constitutional violations.<ref>Alliance Defense Fund. "[http://www.centerforacademicfreedom.org/cases/default.aspx?cid=241 Beta Upsilon Chi,'' Upsilon chapter'' at the University of Florida v. Machen, et al.] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081220103249/http://www.centerforacademicfreedom.org/cases/default.aspx?cid=241|date=2008-12-20}}" ''[[Alliance Defense Fund]].'' July 10, 2007. Retrieved on November 4, 2007.</ref> During the legal proceedings, the 11th [[United States Circuit Court |U.S. Circuit Court]] ruled that the university must recognize the chapter pending appeal. Ultimately, the case was dismissed when the university amended its policies to accommodate the chapter.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Article 404 - Gainesville Sun - Gainesville, FL |url=http://www.gainesville.com/article/20091028/ARTICLES/910281003/1002?Title=Around-the-Region-Oct-28}}</ref><ref>''The Alligator''. "[http://regulations.ufl.edu/chapter1/1006.pdf UF Regulation Handbook.]" Retrieved on July 31, 2008.</ref>

⚫
=== Vanderbilt University ===
On November 4, 2010, the ''Hustler'' student newspaper at [[Vanderbilt University]] published a report alleging that an anonymous alumnus and a senior member of the Beta Upsilon Chi chapter at Vanderbilt were evicted from the fraternity for being gay.<ref name="insidevandy.com">Liz Furlow, 'Former Beta Upsilon Chi members allege unfair treatment based on sexual orientation', in ''Vanderbilt Hustler'', Nov 4, 2010 [https://web.archive.org/web/20101107011635/http://www.insidevandy.com/drupal/node/15386]</ref> If true, '''{{lang|grc|ΒΥΧ}}''' would have violated Vanderbilt policies against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation.<ref name="ReferenceA">Liz Furlow, 'Bandas: formal complaint against BYX needed to take action', in ''Vanderbilt Hustler'', Nov 10, 2010 {{cite web |title=Bandas: Formal complaint against BYX needed to take action &#124; InsideVandy |url=http://www.insidevandy.com/drupal/node/15465 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101115090313/http://www.insidevandy.com/drupal/node/15465 |archive-date=2010-11-15 |access-date=2011-01-08}}</ref> According to the ''Hustler'', the '''{{lang|grc|ΒΥΧ}}''' code of conduct prohibits homosexuality, fornication, or adultery, citing [[First Epistle to the Corinthians|I Corinthians 6:15-20]] and [[Hebrews|Hebrew 13:4]].<ref name="insidevandy.com" />


⚫
== Notable members ==
⚫
The fraternity is currently composed of thirty-three active chapters<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.betaupsilonchi.org/about/chapters|title = Chapters}}</ref> Beta Upsilon Chi changed its policy regarding the expansion of chapters in February 2009. The fraternity's board of directors, in consultation with its board of advisors, continued the implementation of a three-phased expansion progress for prospective chapters to pursue active chapter status, but the national leadership began actively recruiting individuals to establish BYX chapters on those campuses which do not already have them.<ref>"BYX Boards, Staff Meet." ''Beta Upsilon Chi National Newsletter.'' Spring 2009. Fort Worth, Texas: Beta Upsilon Chi Fraternity.</ref>
⚫
* [[Ben Rector]], ''Arkansas,'' singer/songwriter<ref>{{Cite web|title=BYX to bring former member, singer for annual Island Party|url=https://tcu360.com/2011/09/09/13240byx-bring-former-member-singer-annual-island-party/|access-date=2022-09-08|website=TCU 360|date=9 September 2011 |language=en}}</ref>
⚫
* Tyler Toney, Garrett Hilbert, Cody Jones, Coby and Cory Cotton, ''Texas A&M,'' members of the sports and comedy group [[Dude Perfect]]
* [[Zac Alley]], ''Clemson,'' defensive coordinator for the [[Oklahoma Sooners football|Oklahoma Sooners]]


== Related organizations ==
⚫
==Notable alumni==
⚫
In 1988, women from [[University of Texas at Austin|University of Texas]] established [[Sigma Phi Lambda]] or Sisters for the Lord as a "female version of '''{{lang|grc|ΒΥΧ}}'''."<ref name="SFL">"[http://www.sigma-phi-lambda.com/All%20About%20Phi%20Lamb.htm All About Sigma Phi Lambda] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070921153339/http://www.sigma-phi-lambda.com/All%20About%20Phi%20Lamb.htm|date=September 21, 2007}}." ''[http://www.sigma-phi-lambda.com/ Sigma Phi Lambda].'' Retrieved on April 2, 2007.</ref><ref name="kpeck">Peck, Kevin. ''History of Beta Upsilon Chi, 1985-2000.'' Fort Worth, Texas: Beta Upsilon Chi Fraternity, 2000.</ref> In addition to its name, the sorority's system of cable groups closely mirrors Beta Upsilon Chi.<ref name="SFL" />
⚫
* [[Ben Rector]], ''Arkansas 2009'' - singer/songwriter<ref>{{Cite web|title=BYX to bring former member, singer for annual Island Party|url=https://tcu360.com/2011/09/09/13240byx-bring-former-member-singer-annual-island-party/|access-date=2022-09-08|website=TCU 360|date=9 September 2011 |language=en}}</ref>
⚫
* Tyler Toney, Garrett Hilbert, Cody Jones, Coby and Cory Cotton, ''Texas A&M 2009-11'' - members of the sports and comedy group [[Dude Perfect]]


==See also==
== See also ==
*[[Christian fraternities|Christian fraternity (fraternities and sororities)]]
*[[List of social fraternities]]
*[[List of social fraternities and sororities]]
*[[Christian fraternities]]


==References==
==References==

Latest revision as of 17:53, 30 October 2024

Beta Upsilon Chi
ΒΥΧ
FoundedApril 27, 1985; 39 years ago (1985-04-27)
University of Texas
TypeSocial
AffiliationNIC
StatusActive
EmphasisChristian
ScopeNational
MottoBehold, how good and how pleasant it is when brothers dwell together in unity! - Psalm 133:1
Colors  Purple and   White
Chapters38
Headquarters12650 N. Beach Street
Suite 114 #305
Fort Worth, Texas 76244
United States
Websitewww.betaupsilonchi.org

Beta Upsilon Chi (ΒΥΧ, pronounced "Bucs") is an American Christian social fraternity.[1] It was founded at the University of Texas at Austin in 1985 and has chartered 29 chapters.[2]

History

[edit]

In the spring of 1985, Craig Albert, a student at the University of Texas at Austin, mentioned his idea of forming a Christian fraternity to his friends who were involved in the Campus Crusade for Christ.[3] Albert held a meeting at Jester dormitory to present his plan.[3] Beta Upsilon Chi became official on April 27, 1985.[4] The group planned an Island Party to announce the founding of the fraternity.[5]

Established an alternative to the "normal" fraternity scene, the founding fathers established their fraternity as Brothers Under Christ and took the Greek letters Beta, Upsilon, and Chi to identify the fraternity.[6] The purpose of the fraternity was to "equip and empower college Christian men to live faithfully and lead courageously".[7] Albert served as the fraternity's first president which met in the basement of the University Christian Church.[3]

The founding fathers of the Alpha chapter were:

  • Craig Albert
  • Jeff Miller
  • Erik Bradford
  • Tim Miller
  • Michael Brown
  • Stuart Nolley
  • David Cortright
  • Keith Onishi
  • David Daniels
  • Steve Patrick
  • John Douglas
  • Roger Poupart
  • John Edson
  • Don Reid
  • Richard Foster
  • Brian Rynne
  • Jeff Garrett
  • Kenneth Sapp
  • David Givens
  • Garland Spiller
  • Steve Hoehner
  • Clayton Walther
  • Clayton Jewett
  • Wendel Weaver
  • Scott Love
  • John Wilson
  • Mark McGee
  • Greg Young
  • Tse-Horng Yu

The process of growing from one chapter to a national organization was slow. Initially, the Alpha chapter rejected requests from Christian men at other schools to be initiated into the fraternity or to start new chapters. Eventually, the founding fathers of Beta chapter were initiated at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, Texas. Beta Upsilon Chi then expanded with Gamma and Delta chapters at Texas A&M University and Stephen F. Austin State University, respectively.[2]

In 1994, the fraternity held another Island Party to give back to the Texas A&M community.[8] Now an annual philanthropy event, the Island Party is a free Christian music concert or event provided to the entire university.[8][9] The largest Island Party was held at the Iota chapter at Baylor University on April 20, 2007; the band Switchfoot was the headliner and attendance was estimated between 15,000 and 20,000 people.[10]

Beta Upsilon Chi changed its policy regarding the expansion of chapters in February 2009. The fraternity's board of directors, in consultation with its board of advisors, implemented a three-phased expansion process for prospective chapters to pursue active chapter status.[11]

Beta Upsilon Chi became a member of the NIC on September 22, 2016.[12] The national fraternity is headquartered in Fort Worth.[13]

Symbols

[edit]

The fraternity's name, Beta Upsilon Chi, was selected from the Greek letters ΒΥΧ to stand for Brothers Under Christ.[6] Its founding scripture is Psalm 133:1, "Behold how good and how pleasant it is for brothers to dwell together in unity."[14][6] The fraternity's colors are purple and white.[6]

Activities

[edit]

Since the beginning, the chapter officers gather annually for a National Leadership Conference, which consists of all the officers of the fraternity and the national staff. This meeting is in the fall, and shortly follows the election of the local chapter leaders.[15]

In the early spring of even-numbered years, the entire fraternity is called together for the National Summit, typically held outside of Dallas, Texas. The event includes Bible studies, worship, fellowship, athletic competitions, and seminars on fraternity issues. It is also at Summit where the fraternity's annual Delegate Convention takes place.[16]

Governance

[edit]

Board of directors

[edit]

At the national level, Beta Upsilon Chi is headed by a board of directors. This board is the ultimate authority in the fraternity and is responsible for the guidance of the fraternity. The board also comprises the governing body of the Beta Upsilon Chi corporation, a 501(c)(3) organization, which controls the assets of the fraternity. The board appoints an executive director to run the fraternity's daily business. In conjunction with this executive director, the board approves any charter changes. All members of the board of directors must be alumni of the fraternity; new members are appointed from the board of advisors.

Board of advisors

[edit]

The fraternity's board of advisors serves as a consultative partner of the board of directors, with a voice but no vote in the directors' decisions. Board of Advisors members are appointed by the board of directors, in consultation with the national executive director. All members of the board of advisors must be alumni of the fraternity, and only alumni of chartered chapters may be appointed to the board.

Executive director

[edit]

The ΒΥΧ executive director is the fraternity's national administrator. Through his staff, he coordinates the activities of the fraternity from its headquarters in Fort Worth, Texas. The executive director's staff is equally responsible for the day-to-day operation of the national fraternity, and staff from the National Headquarters frequently visit the chapters. The national executive director is an ex officio member of the board of directors; he has a voice in decisions, but no vote. Brian Lee became the fraternity's executive director in 2018.

Chapter governance

[edit]

Chapters are authorized by a charter from the National Board of Directors, allowing each chapter to work under a chapter constitution that provides for the election of chapter officers.[2] Chapter officers typically include a president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, chaplain, and a pledge trainer, sometimes called a new member captain.[17][18][19] These officers are responsible for the administration of the chapter for a calendar year, including conducting ritual, overseeing meetings, organizing trips, implementing the pledging program, and organizing parties. The officers serve one-year terms and may be re-elected only once to a different office.

Interfraternity Council

[edit]

Since its inception in 1985, chapters of Beta Upsilon Chi have chosen not to affiliate with the Interfraternity Council (IFC) at the school where they are established. This has proven controversial on some campuses because it means that ΒΥΧ does not pay IFC dues. On the other hand, IFC membership sometimes involves sanctioning rules and regulations that would be contrary to the purpose of ΒΥΧ. Because of the potential for conflict inherent in such affiliations, the National Board of Directors continues to uphold a policy prohibiting local chapters from affiliating with host university IFCs.[20] As a result, depending on the university, each chapter is either registered as a social fraternity unassociated with the IFC or as a student organization. The Alpha Eta chapter at Clemson University, the Omicron chapter at Mississippi State University, and the Pi chapter at the University of Georgia are exceptions, affiliating with their local IFCs in 2014, 2015, and 2017 respectively.

Membership

[edit]
Founding fathers from the Omicron chapter at a ΒΥΧ tailgate

There are three kinds of members in the fraternity: pledges, active members, and alumni members. Local chapters are composed of active members and pledges. Active members have voting rights and participate in rituals, leading worship, Bible study, and other activities. Active members become alumni members after their graduation. Pledges become members by finishing a semester-long pledging process, a process that differs from chapter to chapter.

All ΒΥΧ members are a part of cell groups that consist of four to six brothers and pledges who meet weekly for social activities and Bible study.[20]

Chapters

[edit]
Main article: List of Beta Upsilon Chi chapters

The fraternity is currently composed of 33 active chapters.[21] Chapters are denominated by a letter of the Greek alphabet that corresponds with their order of admission into the fraternity.[2]

Religious discrimination

[edit]

The fraternity had been involved in several court cases seeking to assert local chapters' rights to organize with leaders or to include as members those who share the organization's Christian beliefs. Until these court cases, three universities held that student organizations may not discriminate based on religion, among other things, and had asserted this blanket prohibition applies to religious student organizations. In all cases, the universities changed their policies.

University of Georgia

[edit]

In late 2006, the Pi chapter at the University of Georgia was prevented from registering as a student organization by university officials "because the group requires its members and officers to share the group's Christian beliefs".[22] After months of negotiation between university officials, student officers of the local chapter, and officials at the fraternity's national headquarters, attorneys with the Christian Legal Society and Alliance Defense Fund filed a civil rights suit on December 5, 2006, in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Georgia against the university on behalf of the fraternity.[23]

On December 10, 2006, the Associated Press reported that the university would "remove the religion clause from the [university's anti-discrimination] policy for the Christian fraternity to settle this particular situation and is discussing an exception to religious discrimination [that] could be put into place much like an exception to gender discrimination is in place for same-sex social fraternities and sororities."[24]

University of Missouri

[edit]

Ten students formed a chapter of Beta Upsilon Chi at the University of Missouri in April 2006. In December 2006, a university administrator notified the chapter that it would have to abide by campus prohibitions on discrimination based on "race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, gender, sexual orientation, disability" or status as a Vietnam War veteran. The fraternity objected and, with assistance from the Christian Legal Society, which sent university officials a letter listing several legal precedents protecting religious student groups' First Amendment rights of free association. In response, the university reversed its directive.[25]

University of Florida

[edit]

On March 16, 2007, the Upsilon chapter at the University of Florida was officially recognized by the ΒΥΧ national board.[26] The University of Florida refused to recognize the chapter as a registered student organization because the fraternity did not accept non-Christians and would not recognize the chapter as a social fraternity because it was too exclusive.[27][28][29] On July 10, 2007, the Alliance Defense Fund Center for Academic Freedom and the Christian Legal Society filed a lawsuit on behalf of Beta Upsilon Chi against officials of the university for various constitutional violations.[30] During the legal proceedings, the 11th U.S. Circuit Court ruled that the university must recognize the chapter pending appeal. Ultimately, the case was dismissed when the university amended its policies to accommodate the chapter.[31][32]

Vanderbilt University

[edit]

On November 4, 2010, the Hustler student newspaper at Vanderbilt University published a report alleging that an anonymous alumnus and a senior member of the Beta Upsilon Chi chapter at Vanderbilt were evicted from the fraternity for being gay.[33] If true, ΒΥΧ would have violated Vanderbilt policies against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation.[34] According to the Hustler, the ΒΥΧ code of conduct prohibits homosexuality, fornication, or adultery, citing I Corinthians 6:15-20 and Hebrew 13:4.[33]

Notable members

[edit]
[edit]

In 1988, women from University of Texas established Sigma Phi Lambda or Sisters for the Lord as a "female version of ΒΥΧ."[36][37] In addition to its name, the sorority's system of cable groups closely mirrors Beta Upsilon Chi.[36]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "In constitutional clash with university, Christian fraternity wins big[permanent dead link‍]." STLToday.com. Retrieved on April 6, 2007.
  2. ^ a b c d "Chapters". Beta Upsilon Chi. Retrieved 2022-12-28.
  3. ^ a b c Reid, Don (2014-06-23). "Alumni Spotlight: Laying the foundation for 30 years of brotherhood and unity". The BYX Blog. Retrieved 2024-01-26.
  4. ^ "Beta Upsilon Chi Fraternity- Virginia Tech Colony". fsl.vt.edu. Retrieved 2023-06-04.
  5. ^ "History". Beta Upsilon Chi - The University of Texas. Retrieved 2024-01-26.
  6. ^ a b c d "About BYX." Brothers Under Christ (website). Retrieved on July 19, 2010.
  7. ^ "About BYX". Beta Upsilon Chi Fraternity. Retrieved 2024-01-26.
  8. ^ a b "BYX Island Party | About the Event". www.tamuislandparty.com. Retrieved 2023-06-04.
  9. ^ "Our BYX Island Party". Beta Upsilon Chi. Retrieved 2023-06-04.
  10. ^ Lewis, Erianne (2021-09-30). "Beta Upsilon Chi's annual Island Party is expected to be its biggest yet | The Baylor Lariat". Retrieved 2023-06-04.
  11. ^ "BYX Boards, Staff Meet." Beta Upsilon Chi National Newsletter. Spring 2009. Fort Worth, Texas: Beta Upsilon Chi Fraternity.
  12. ^ ΒΥΧ joins NIC, as noted in the NIC News Archived 2017-06-06 at the Wayback Machine, on that date. Accessed 12 May 2017.
  13. ^ "Contact." Brothers Under Christ. Retrieved on July 19, 2010.
  14. ^ Psalm 133:1
  15. ^ "Next Leaders Conference[permanent dead link‍]." Brothers Under Christ (website). Retrieved on April 2, 2007.
  16. ^ "National Summit Conference Archived July 25, 2011, at the Wayback Machine." Brothers Under Christ. Retrieved on April 2, 2007.
  17. ^ "Contact Us Archived October 6, 2007, at the Wayback Machine." Baylor Chapter (website). Retrieved on April 6, 2007.
  18. ^ "Officers Archived September 8, 2006, at the Wayback Machine." Texas Christian Chapter (website). Retrieved on April 6, 2007.
  19. ^ "Officers." Texas Chapter (website). Retrieved on April 6, 2007.
  20. ^ a b "General Information Archived February 10, 2007, at the Wayback Machine." Beta Upsilon Chi. Retrieved on April 2, 2007.
  21. ^ "Chapters".
  22. ^ Staff Writer. "University of Georgia: No religious fraternities." Alliance Defense Fund. December 5, 2006. Retrieved on April 2, 2007.
  23. ^ "Beta Upsilon Chi v. Michael F. Adams Archived 2007-02-22 at the Wayback Machine." United States District Court for the Middle District of Georgia. December 5, 2006.
  24. ^ The Associated Press. "Univ. of Ga. to recognize Christian fraternity Archived July 25, 2008, at Archive-It." First Amendment Center. December 10, 2006. Retrieved on April 4, 2007.
  25. ^ University Drops Effort to Restrict Christian Fraternity[permanent dead link‍], The Associated Press, December 29, 2006 08
  26. ^ University of Florida chapter. "Upsilon chapter Archived 2007-10-08 at the Wayback Machine" Retrieved on November 4, 2007.
  27. ^ Speak Up (website) "[1]" Retrieved on February 3rd, 2015
  28. ^ Beta Upsilon Chi, Upsilon chapter at the University of Florida v. J. Bernard Machen, in his official capacity as President of the University of Florida.]" Retrieved on November 19, 2010.
  29. ^ The Alligator. "Christian fraternity suing UF, seeking official recognition." Retrieved on June 24, 2008.
  30. ^ Alliance Defense Fund. "Beta Upsilon Chi, Upsilon chapter at the University of Florida v. Machen, et al. Archived 2008-12-20 at the Wayback Machine" Alliance Defense Fund. July 10, 2007. Retrieved on November 4, 2007.
  31. ^ "Article 404 - Gainesville Sun - Gainesville, FL".
  32. ^ The Alligator. "UF Regulation Handbook." Retrieved on July 31, 2008.
  33. ^ a b Liz Furlow, 'Former Beta Upsilon Chi members allege unfair treatment based on sexual orientation', in Vanderbilt Hustler, Nov 4, 2010 [2]
  34. ^ Liz Furlow, 'Bandas: formal complaint against BYX needed to take action', in Vanderbilt Hustler, Nov 10, 2010 "Bandas: Formal complaint against BYX needed to take action | InsideVandy". Archived from the original on 2010-11-15. Retrieved 2011-01-08.
  35. ^ "BYX to bring former member, singer for annual Island Party". TCU 360. 9 September 2011. Retrieved 2022-09-08.
  36. ^ a b "All About Sigma Phi Lambda Archived September 21, 2007, at the Wayback Machine." Sigma Phi Lambda. Retrieved on April 2, 2007.
  37. ^ Peck, Kevin. History of Beta Upsilon Chi, 1985-2000. Fort Worth, Texas: Beta Upsilon Chi Fraternity, 2000.
[edit]
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/enwiki/w/index.php?title=Beta_Upsilon_Chi&oldid=1254371915"