At least one chapter development consultant (CDC) resides with the colony/chapter for a minimum of one year – longer if necessary – to assure the chapter is functioning in all areas, from membership recruitment to member education to everyday operations. These representatives of the national organization are trained to implement the new member education program and guide the new members into assuming the responsibilities of chapter leadership and operations. The chapter learns by doing; the CDCs are there to support the chapter members’ efforts as they learn, but they do not do the work for them. As a result, the colony makes a smooth transition to chapter status, with its leaders well-educated in their duties.
Kappa Delta alumnae and collegians in the area also involve themselves with a colony to ensure its transition into a fully operating chapter. Recognizing that collegians can relate to the experiences of other collegians, we will choose a chapter of similar campus culture and regional perspective to assist local alumnae with the colonization of a new chapter at UALR. Whether it be in recruitment assistance, officer education, participation in regional leadership workshops, or official visits, we encourage the sharing of ideas and skills to develop our chapter leaders. All chapters receive an annual visit by a national representative to facilitate officer transition, answer questions regarding policy and procedure, and to share new ideas. New chapters also receive a visit from the collegiate membership director to help plan and facilitate their first formal recruitment. Kappa Delta is committed to working closely with the Panhellenic to ensure a successful colonization and develop a strong partnership with other chapters.
The national organization pays all expenses related to the colonization and installation of the chapter. There are no chartering fees and ritual equipment is given to the chapter at the time of installation. All expenses related to chapter visits made by national visitors are also covered by the national organization. Kappa Delta will also provide financial assistance to a chapter to meet start-up costs associated with recruitment and chapter operations.
Other than the requirements for membership, Kappa Delta imposes no additional requirements before a colony may be chartered. Most colonies are installed as chapters immediately following the six- to eight-week new-member education program. During this time, a colony is prepared for chapter status by the resident chapter development consultant(s). As well, the group is expected to make itself a contributing member of the campus community by participating in activities and events as individuals and as a group. It is also important that the colony be comparable in size to other sororities on campus.