This November, Delta Sigma Phi’s Health & Safety team piloted the first-ever Courage & Culture Retreat: a weekend designed to strengthen chapter culture, deepen brotherhood, and equip undergraduate members with real tools for safe, values-driven chapter experiences.

Held November 15–16 at the scenic Green Lake Conference Center in Green Lake, Wisconsin, the retreat welcomed 38 undergraduates from six chapters in the area. Attendees included current chapter officers, general members, and emerging leaders that spanned the first semester of their membership to seniors graduating next semester.

Far from a lecture-heavy educational experience, the Courage & Culture Retreat was carefully structured around a progression of themes: from personal choices to group culture to collective accountability. Over two days, brothers engaged in immersive experiences and shared reflection designed to shift perspectives and build shared norms.

Key program components included:

• An Alcohol & Other Drugs workshop, exploring personal responsibility and the impact of individual choices.

• A pilot of The Conflict Playbook, the Fraternity’s new workshop focused on conflict resolution and effective communication.

• An immersive Social Simulation, featuring a mock social gathering using non-alcoholic beverages, followed by a guided debrief on event planning, social liability, and chapter norms.

• A Respect in Action workshop, reinforcing values of brotherhood and respect.

• Structured reflection sessions and chapter action-planning, plus unstructured time for bonding: hiking trails, s’mores by the fire, and space for brothers from different chapters to connect.

The retreat was about culture, connection, and challenge, and participants brought enthusiasm and authenticity to every session. The social simulation sparked “real talk”: conversations about policy, peer pressure, and what it means to create safe environments for members and communities. Ideas were exchanged, and new bonds formed across chapters.

Retreat Impact & Looking to the Future 

A post-retreat evaluation revealed strong enthusiasm, meaningful learning, and clear momentum:

• Participants repeatedly highlighted the Social Simulation and Conflict Playbook as the most impactful sessions.

• Many committed to bringing what they learned back to their chapters: from policy-aligned event planning to deeper conversation around social responsibility.

We’re excited to build on the inaugural retreat’s momentum. In 2026, we’re exploring additional regional retreats, refining retreat structure based on participant feedback, and supporting chapters as they bring their action plans home.

Delta Sigma Phi believes in empowering members to demonstrate courage in everyday decisions, and intentionally cultivate cultures of true brotherhood.  In an era when fraternity life is often scrutinized, the Courage & Culture Retreat aims to equip members with the skills to craft a positive, healthy experience in their communities. 

If you’re interested in learning more (or want to have your chapter participate in a Courage & Culture Retreat), reach out to the Health & Safety Department.