The National Council originated on October 16, 1895 as the Phi Psi Chapter’s committee on extensions. Originally, it approved or denied Alpha Chi Rho Charters to various campuses. Then, in 1899, it became a committee of the National Convention composed of one Brother from each Chapter. The title of the committee was changed to the "National Charter Council” in 1900. By 1903 it became the "National Council”; its powers were extended beyond granting Charters to most of the executive authority it has today. In 1915 the size of the National Council grew by the addition of three elected graduate councilors. In order to better represent the feelings of the undergraduates when the National Convention was not in session, two undergraduate councillors were added to the National Council in 1968. Graduate National Councillors serve for four years per term, and Undergraduate National Councillors serve a term of one year.

Today, the National Council conducts the business of the Fraternity when the National Convention is not in session, subject to the Constitution and Bylaws of the Fraternity. The following members are elected by the National Convention:

Officer                                        Can Vote?
President                                   In case of a tie
Vice-President                            Yes
3 Graduate Councillors               Each has 1 vote
2 Undergraduate Councillors      Each has 1 vote
2 Alternate Councillors               No

The following officers are appointed by the National Council:

Officer                                        Can Vote?
Treasurer                                     Yes
Secretary (Executive Director)     Yes
Chaplain                                      Yes
Ritual Officer                                No
Scholarship Officer                       No
Newsletter Editor                        No

For a printable organization chart click here

As with most boards of directors, the President of the Fraternity can appoint committees to review certain areas of operations. There are two types of committees: ad hoc, which are temporary committees; and standing, which are permanent committees. There are several standing committees in Alpha Chi Rho: Finance, Awards, and Risk Management, to name a few. Committees have no voting power, but can make recommendations to the National Council or National Convention.