About the Winter Leadership Conclave
For 2025, Beta Theta Pi is introducing a new concept for its winter leadership development training programs by bringing the Miller Nichols Chapter Presidents Leadership Academy, Keystone Regional Leadership Conference and Hugh E. Stephenson Jr. Leadership Summit together for one weekend in one location – downtown Chicago!
Essential Information
DATES
Presidents Academy: Thursday, January 9 – Friday, January 10, 2025
Keystone: Friday, January 10 – Sunday, January 12, 2025
PARTICIPANTS
Chapter president
Three (3) vice presidents — brotherhood, member education and risk management
Chapter counselor
Regional and district chiefs
LOCATION
Chicago Marriott Magnificent Mile
540 Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
The hotel is located two blocks from the Chicago River, providing ample opportunities for training, brotherhood and entertainment in the vibrant downtown of America’s third-largest city. It is easily accessible from two major airports (Chicago O’Hare and Chicago Midway) and is within driving distance for many Beta chapters.
COSTS
See specific event-track pages below or visit at beta.org/membershipcosts for registration fees.
“We come here to have a good time together simply as brothers in the bonds of Beta Theta Pi and to recall the sweet associations of the past and to form wider friendship for the future.”
– Amb. Aimaro Sato, DePauw 1881
Leadership Programs
Presidents Academy
CPLA is a two-day intensive leadership training and networking event for chapter presidents, concentrating on personal and group leadership.
Leadership Summit
Leadership Summit provides an opportunity for General Fraternity Officers to meet annually to participate in high-quality training and shape the future of Beta.
Keystone Conferences
Keystone Conference is a high-quality education experience focused on chapter officer development, principled leadership and volunteer training.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of the Winter Leadership Conclave instead of separate leadership events?
- A comprehensive experience where all chapter leaders receive education and focused messaging simultaneously.
- Greater opportunities for networking, roundtables, peer-to-peer problem solving and idea sharing.
- Increased exposure to General Fraternity resources.
- Avoid burnout by minimizing travel to only one weekend.
- Streamline attendance during a busy time in the academic year.
How will it work? What is the timing of the programs offered?
- Chapter presidents arrive Thursday, January 9, for CPLA. On Friday afternoon, they join other attendees for Keystone.
- CPLA sessions will be expertly tailored to the needs of chapter presidents and enhance their skills in the role.
- Vice presidents and advisors arrive Friday, January 10, for a Keystone Conference kickoff event.
- All participants depart Sunday, January 12, at noon central time.
How should chapters budget for the event?
- Similar to past winter leadership programs, registration fees will be billed for four (4) collegiate attendees for Keystone and one (1) for CPLA. For budgeting purposes, see fees at beta.org/membershipcosts.
- Chapters should consider the new location when planning for travel expenses and budget for airfare, mileage and parking, if needed.
What will attendees experience at the Winter Leadership Conclave?
- Officer-specific tracks
- High energy keynotes
- Sessions focused on enhancing leadership skills and chapter culture
- A greater understanding of Beta’s Ritual and lore
- Roundtables with chapters of similar size, culture and composition
- Time for leaders to plan for the year ahead
- Collaborative opportunities with Administrative Office staff and General Fraternity Officers
It's held in Chicago in January, what if weather prevents the event from happening?
The Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile hosted CPLA in January 2024 with no weather disruptions. In the event of inclement weather in the area, the Fraternity will pivot its programming to fit a virtual format.
This resource was provided to chapter officers at the announcement of this new event during the 185th General Convention, and provides an overview of the Winter Leadership Conclave. If you have additional questions, contact Senior Director of Leadership and Education Dr. Viancca Williams.
