2026 InDeed Institute a Great Bonding Experience for Brothers

Founders’ Day through June 7 marked the biennial InDeed Institute, where emerging leaders from every Chapter and Colony gather to establish or enhance the understanding of the Brother of what it means to be an Alpha Chi Rho man in today’s society through the lens of our Landmarks and motto. The Institute also provides members with applicable life and leadership skills that will help improve themselves and their Alpha Chi Rho Chapter. The 2026 InDeed Institute marks the tenth year of this version of the Leadership / Scholarship Institute that began in the 1950s. Since 2016, the InDeed Institute has shaped almost four hundred resident members. 

On the afternoon of Thursday, June 4th, Brothers arrived at the YMCA of the Pines in Medford, New Jersey. From the outset, these men connected with each other even before the scheduled ice breaker activities. The rest of the day included an introduction to camp policy, a celebration of Founders’ Day, and the first instructional lesson on Brotherhood.

The second day, Friday, June 5, kicked off with a deep reflection of the Fraternity’s first and second Landmarks. Within those bounds, Ritual and Character became focal points of discussion, where participants compared the standards set forth by their Chapter. After these sessions, Brothers separated into teams and began competing in the inaugural “Crow Olympics”. Events included basketball, volleyball, GaGa, human pyramid, and a 100-meter dash. When the dust settled, “The ScareCrows” took home the gold after several competitive matchups. The day concluded with the election of Resident Councillors. These four outstanding Brothers represent the undergraduate Brotherhood on the National Council, attend Fraternity events, and are a liaison between Chapters and the National organization. 

The third day, Saturday June 6th, started with Brothers on the high ropes course. Participants took up the challenge, with several Brothers surmounting the five-story, fifty-two-foot climbing wall. Afterwards, many Brothers opted to hit the water, taking paddle boards out onto the lake and enjoying the nice weather. In the afternoon, participants returned to instruction, diving deep into the third and fourth Landmarks. Exploring these principles led to discussions on identity, Brotherhood, and Honor. Additionally, undergraduates began brainstorming to find solutions to problems afflicting the Fraternity. This “Crow Tank” would allow each team an opportunity to have a new program instituted on a National level. Afterwards, the Chapter award ceremony was held and eight awards were presented to high achieving Chapters and Colonies across several categories. 

The fourth and final day, Sunday June 7th, kicked off with teams presenting their “Crow Tank” pitches. After some deliberation, it was decided that two teams’ pitches would be implemented to improve outreach and visibility for Chapters and the Fraternity. All good things must come to an end, unfortunately, and 2026 InDeed Institute closed with a heartfelt thank you to those who facilitated the program, and to those who took the time to learn what it takes to be a leader in Alpha Chi Rho.  Brothers packed their cars and exited campgrounds, marking another successful and impactful InDeed Institute.