Why Join Acacia?
Acacia is unique among men’s college fraternities. With a Greek word for our name rather than the typical 2-3 Greek letters found in other organizations, Acacia offers a membership experience that is similarly unique. Membership in Acacia provides numerous benefits to members, from learning practical skills in leadership and organizational management, to making lifelong friends and professional contacts. With 30 active chapters, over 1,000 active undergraduates and over 50,000 alumni, Acacia is a wealth of experience and knowledge.
Our fraternity is a diverse and non-discriminatory social organization. Standing strongly against hazing, we ensure our members will enjoy a positive fraternal experience. A large part of of fraternity is based on our motto, Human Service. Hosting events such as Acacia Claus which collects toys for underprivileged children, volunteering at the Men’s Mission or even getting a pie in the face to raise money for the Arthritis Society are just the beginning of the events to expect from Acacia.
Our local chapter’s alumni most notably include Ottawa political figures, international business leaders, and members of the Canadian Armed Forces. Our diverse organization allows extensive networking opportunities for individuals in various fields, in Ottawa and around the world.
A prime benefit of being a social organization is that our members are provided the chance to experience a variety of social events. From social mixers with sororities, to brotherhood events and philanthropy events, Acacia provides its members with optimal opportunities to meet new people in the community while strengthening their bonds with brothers!
The Recruitment Period
Rush Week the two-week long recruitment period at the beginning of each academic semester. During this period fraternities and sororities recruit and welcome prospective members. Rush Week begins in September immediately after Campus Orientation Week, and in January after Christmas Break.
During this period prospective members are able to go out to rush events hosted by organizations. Rush should ensure that the organization that they are rushing has similar values to their own. Going out to events and meeting active members is the best way to get a feel for an organization. Events during rush are usually broken down in to three categories: Socials, Philanthropies, and Brotherhoods. Rush events give a slight glimpse in to the life of an active member condensed over the two weeks.
Fall 2021 Rush Calendar
What is Pledging and what does it entail?
Pledging is the probationary membership process before becoming an active Acacia brother. The pledge period allows students a chance to further develop ties within the fraternity. During this time pledges will learn more about Acacia and Greek life in general. Over the period of 8 weeks, pledges attend, plan, and execute several events that integrate them into the Chapter.
Acacia is a strictly against any form of hazing, harassment or negative treatment towards pledges; while we encourage pledges to step outside of their comfort zone, at no time will we ask or coerce a pledge into committing any undignified acts.