Chi Sigma Iota International 2017-2018 Chapter Annual ......The purpose of Counselor Community Engagement (CCE) activities is to help persons in need while promoting professional counselor

This Annual Report Summary was created and compiled by the 2018-2019 CSI Leadership Fellows & Interns and Dr. Stephen Kennedy, CSI Chief Operating Officer.

Chi Sigma Iota International 2017-2018 Chapter Annual Report Summary

Table of Contents

Click on the number below to go directly to a section

Initiations .......................................................................................................................... 2Workshops ....................................................................................................................... 3Newsletters ....................................................................................................................... 5Counselor Community Engagement Activities ................................................................. 6Business Meetings ......................................................................................................... 11Social Events .................................................................................................................. 13Professional Advocacy ................................................................................................... 15Chapter Dues & Other Funding ...................................................................................... 20Involving Alumni and Former Members .......................................................................... 21

Involvement of Alumni ................................................................................................ 21Involvement of Former Members ................................................................................ 22

Involving Counselor Educators ....................................................................................... 23Recognizing Involvement of Counselor Educators ......................................................... 24Chapter Websites & Social Media .................................................................................. 25

Chapter Websites ....................................................................................................... 25Chapter Social Networking Sites ................................................................................ 26All Chapter Social Networking Sites Monitored .......................................................... 27

Greatest Accomplishments ............................................................................................ 28Other Activities ............................................................................................................... 30

CSI International 2017-2018 Chapter Annual Report Summary 2

Initiations CSI’s Bylaws require active chapters to hold an initiation for members are least once every two years. This is a minimum expectation, as the most active chapters hold initiations annually and maintain an active chapter membership from year to year. For assistance in planning initiations, chapters are encouraged to review our Best Practices Guide for Initiations at csi-net.org > Chapters > Initiations.

Ashley Ackerman, CSI Leadership Fellow, Upsilon Chi Chi Chapter, The University of Cincinnati

Total Chapters Reporting Initiations = 226, representing 96.6% of the 234 chapters submitting annual reports this year and 76.9% of the 294 active CSI chapters.

Of the 226 chapters that reported conducting initiations, 172 (76.1%) held one per year, 37 (15.8%) held two per year, 2 (0.9%) held three per year, and 15 (6.4%) held four or more per year. The chapters reporting two initiations per year generally held one in the fall and one in the spring. Of the 234 chapters that submitted annual reports, 8 (3.4%) reported that they did not hold an initiation.

Chapter Initiations N % (N=226)

1 per year 172 76.1% 2 per year 37 15.8% 3 per year 2 0.9% 4 or more per year 15 6.4%

Observations and Recommendations: CSI requires that chapters hold at least one initiation ceremony at least once every two years, but having one initiation per year is recommended, which accounts for the high percentage of chapters that held at least one initiation. The eight chapters that did not report an initiation for the year may have recently been established, were inactive for most of the 2017-2018 year, or may have held an initiation during the summer term shortly after reports were submitted at the end of the fiscal year on April 30. Many initiation ceremonies included one or more guest speakers at the induction ceremony (e.g., doctoral alumni, speakers from the community, members of the ACA Governing Council, and other leaders/professional advocates). Some programs also noted that fundraiser items were sold during the initiation ceremonies (i.e., selling chapter stickers).

172

37

2

15

1 per year

2 per year

3 per year

4 or more per year


Chapters are encouraged to review the list of initiation speakers available through CSI (www.csi-net.org/page/Presenter_Policies). These presenters, who include CSI Executive Council members and many Past-Presidents, do not accept honoraria. Chapters are asked to reimburse the speakers for their travel expenses, but once every two years, chapters can request that CSI Headquarters pay for up to 50% of an approved speaker’s travel expenses.

Workshops Charmayne Adams, CSI Leadership Fellow, Upsilon Theta, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville

Total Chapters Reporting Workshops = 182, representing 77.8% of the 234 chapters submitting Annual Reports this year and 61.9% of the 294 active CSI chapters.

Of the 182 chapters that reported conducting workshops, 66 (36.3%) held one per year, 53 (29.1%) held two per year, 29 (15.9%) held three per year, 17 (9.3%) held four per year, 14 (7.7%) held five to nine per year, and 3 (1.6%) held ten to fourteen per year. Of the 234 chapters that submitted annual reports, 52 (22.2%) reported that they did not hold any workshops.

Workshops N % (N=182) 1 per year 66 36.3% 2 per year 53 29.1% 3 per year 29 15.9% 4 per year 17 9.3% 5-9 per year 14 7.7% 10-14 per year 3 1.6%

Among the 182 chapters reporting workshops, 329 workshop activities were reported. For the following breakdown, chapters may have described one workshop by choosing more than one theme (e.g. counseling transgender youth, clinical or school issues and

66

53

29

17

14

3

1 per year

2 per year

3 per year

4 per year

5-9 per year

10-14 per year


multiculturalism). Due to this, the theme totals are more than the total number of workshops activities reported and represent a total of 347 workshop themes reported.

• Student-Oriented: 82 (23.6%) workshops addressed topics such as developing a conference proposal, preparing for comps and the NCE, proposal writing, APA writing guidelines, orienting and welcoming new students, job and internship fairs, as well as applying to doctoral programs.

• Clinical or School Issues: 89 (25.6%) workshops included practical information for clinical and school counselors including theories and techniques such as DBT, psychodynamic, Gestalt, EMDR, equine therapy, and play therapy. DSM-5 updates, suicide assessment and intervention, grief and loss, spirituality and counseling, HIV awareness, as well as trauma adjustment disorders were also covered in chapter workshops.

• Professional Development & Leadership: 110 (31.7%) workshops provided information on licensure and certification requirements, discussions on ethics, CACREP and CORE awareness and transition, working in private practice, resume building, developing leadership skills, acquiring additional clinical skills, and mindfulness training.

• Multiculturalism: 47 (13.5%) events focused on identifying and addressing local and global social justice issues, cultural competence, organizing a diversity institute, and the social justice implications of the ACA Code of Ethics.

• Other: 19 (5.5%) chapter workshops covered topics such as geriatric and disability counseling, conference presentation preparation, IRB preparation, SPSS overview, yoga for counselor self-care, and wellness.

Workshop Themes N % (N=347) Student 82 23.6% Clinical 89 25.6% Professional Development & Leadership 110 31.7% Multiculturalism 47 13.5% Other 19 5.5%

82

89

110

47

19

Student

Clinical

Professional Development & Leadership

Multiculturalism

Other


Observations and Recommendations: Compared to workshop activity last year, chapters reported an increase in the number of activities they had. Of the chapters that submitted an annual report (n=234), the majority of chapters reported some workshop activity over the course of the year. For the chapters that did report having a workshop, the majority reported having one to two workshop activities a year (n=119, 65.4%).

Chi Sigma Iota local chapters offer numerous workshops throughout the academic year. This number continues to grow as evidence by the increase in the number of workshops offered from the previous year. The majority of chapters are hosting 1-2 workshops a year. These workshops were on a variety of topics including specific populations (e.g., veterans, LBGTQ+ community, couples, individuals that have experienced trauma), specific techniques (e.g., EMDR, sand tray, and neurofeedback), and specific settings (e.g., counseling in correctional facilities, mobile crisis, private practice). Additionally, they were facilitated and attended by students, alumni, community members, faculty, and other mental health professionals. The reports showed an increase in the overall number of workshops, but specifically showed a significant increase from last year’s reports in “professional development and leadership” themed workshops.

Workshop activities were described in varying levels of specificity in the reports with most chapters providing only the workshop topic. It could be helpful for chapters to provide a more in-depth description of the activity including how many participants attended, time of day the workshop was planned, number of members that facilitated it, and the length of the workshop. This information would provide other chapters with not only the topic area, but also information to judgement if it is feasible to replicate the workshop for their own chapter. It would also allow the reporting chapter to talk about the strengths and challenges of the workshop, so others could not only replicate, but implement changes if necessary.

Newsletters Many chapters publish newsletters both in print and online. Chapters may request chapter logos for use on newsletters by completing the Chapter Logo Request Form at csi-net.org > Chapters > Internet Presence.

When creating newsletters, chapters are encouraged to provide links to information on CSI’s website rather than the information itself because CSI webpages change regularly. For the most up-to-date information, send your chapter members to csi-net.org and our social media.

Clark D. Ausloos, CSI Leadership Fellow, Alpha Omega Chapter, The University of Toledo

Total Chapters Reporting Newsletters = 99, representing 42.3% of the 234 chapters submitting Annual Reports this year and 33.7% of the 294 active CSI chapters.

Of the 99 chapters that reported producing newsletters, 29 (29.2%) held one per year, 41 (41.4%) held two per year, 8 (8.1%) held three per year, and 21 (21.2%) held four or more per year. Of the 234 chapters that submitted annual reports, 135 (57.7%) reported that they did not produce a newsletter during the 2017-2018 year.


Newsletters N % (N=99) 1 per year 29 29.2% 2 per year 41 41.4% 3 per year 8 8.1% 4 or more per year 21 21.2%

Observations and Recommendations: Chapter reports indicated that several chapters created newsletters, but did not report on the content, scope or specific page length. Of those chapters that did report information, common articles included: timelines of past and future CSI events, reflections from Chapter Executive Committee Officers, Chapter Faculty Advisors, and members; highlights of new and retiring faculty, articles reflecting CSI Initiations and Graduations, multicultural issues, conferences, community engagement pieces, and book reviews. Newsletters ranged from 1 to 28 pages, with the average number of pages being 7.

Recommendations for future newsletters include increasing attention to community engagement events and articles that expand beyond the scope of monetary donations and examine strategic ways to increase community engagement and professional members. Additionally, newsletters may increase attention to reporting benefits of CSI membership, including advertising specific webinars, professional development events, contents, essays, grants, and awards.

Additional recommendations include sharing newsletters through social media and email, as well as producing newsletters that are in email format only (i.e. MailChimp, Constant Contact). Using this format allows chapters to analyze statistics of who reads the newsletter, for how long, and which sections. One chapter noted the editor of their newsletter offered informational sessions to assist in students’ ability to submit articles. This format may assist in increasing the amount of diverse, quality articles submitted.

Counselor Community Engagement Activities The purpose of Counselor Community Engagement (CCE) activities is to help persons in need while promoting professional counselor competencies and advocating for the counseling profession. For more information, see our 10 Keys to Successful Counselor Community Engagement at csi-net.org > Chapters > Committees, Counselor Community Engagement.

41

8

21

22

1 per year

2 per year

3 per year

4 or more per year


Ramona I. Grad, CSI Leadership Fellow, Chi Epsilon Chapter, Georgia State University

Total Chapters Reporting Counselor Community Engagement (CCE) Activities = 181, representing 77.4% of the 234 chapters submitting annual reports this year and 61.6% of the 294 active CSI chapters.

Of the 181 chapters that reported CCE activities, 66 (36.5%) held one per year, 54 (29.8%) held two per year, 19 (10.5%) held three per year, 19 (10.5%) held four per year, 21 (11.6%) held five to nine per year, 0 (0%) held 10-14 per year, and 2 (1.1%) held 15 or more per year. Of the 181 chapters that submitted annual reports, 53 (29.3%) reported that they did not hold any CCE activities.

Community Engagement N % (N=181) 1 event per year 66 36.5% 2 events per year 54 29.8% 3 events per year 19 10.5% 4 events per year 19 10.5% 5-9 events per year 21 11.6% 15 or more events per year 2 1.1%

Observations and Recommendations: According to the reports provided, 181 chapters indicated involvement in CCE activities for the 2017-2018 year. Over 66% of chapters participated in one or two CCE activities annually. The number of chapters that participated in five to nine chapter activities this past year increased significantly. If previous year we had 5 chapters (2.8%), this year we have 21 chapters (11.6%) that participated in five to nine chapter activities. It was also noticed that chapter leaders were more specific in describing the activities they performed, which is wonderful since it is assumed that the target audience is represented by the other chapters looking for community engagement activities ideas. It is strongly encouraged for chapter leaders completing the reports to continue to spell out the name of the organizations that are collaborating with so that all the readers know what they are referring to.

66

54

19

19

21

2

1 event

2 events

3 events

4 events

5-9 events

15 or more events


Summary: Of the 181 chapters reporting CCE activities, 392 CCE activities were reported. 58 activities included advocacy/volunteering with the community (14.8%); 39 (9.9%) engaged in community awareness; 28 (7.1%) focused on community collaborations; 36 (9.2%) emphasized community fundraising; 22 (5.6%) included disaster response; 81 (20.7%) included donations; 59 (15.1%) centered on professional development; 52 (13.3%) included runs/walk-a-thons; and 17 (4.3%) completed other activities that were not included in the previous categories.

CCE Activity N % (N=392) Donations 58 14.8% Advocacy/volunteering 39 9.9% Run/walk-a-thons 28 7.1% Professional development 36 9.2% Community awareness 22 5.6% Community collaboration 81 20.7% Community fundraising 59 15.1% Other (describe below) 52 13.3%

Some specific examples of CCE activities reported by chapters included:

• Advocacy/volunteering: Attended Counselor Advocacy Day at the state capitol; participated in advocacy for suicide awareness/prevention and provision of mental health resources; hosted a workshop regarding social justice and advocacy in community counseling; participated in a Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Celebration through the university’s Multicultural Affairs Office; conducted community service work with the local Children's Services department; volunteered at a Food Bank and Shelter during the Christmas holidays; organized a day of service with SBP (an organization that works with victims of natural disasters all over the country to rebuild homes); engaged in a volunteer event for Habitat for Humanity; hosted three days where volunteers came to play with, feed, and support the children in a “Hope in Our City" program; volunteered at an annual Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Holiday

58

39

28

36

22

81

59

52

Donations

Advocacy/volunteering

Run/walk-a-thons

Professional development

Community awareness

Community collaboration

Community fundraising

Other


Party; volunteered at a local food bank; hosted a Veteran appreciation event (set up table to give out yellow ribbons to military veterans); volunteered at The National Federation of the Blind Conference; performed basic community service tasks for households, businesses, churches and organizations; made Valentine's Cards for patients at St. Jude Children's Hospital; volunteered at a residential center sponsored by the American Cancer Society (provided pizza and a trivia night for patients experiencing cancer and their caregivers); provided social skills workshops to community schools that currently only have one school counselor for the entire district; partnered with organizations provide services to marginalized individuals in the community; participated in the university's “Make a Difference Day” volunteering with a community organization by cutting down dead trees and making a trail safe for student campers; volunteered at a "Gear Up" event that advocated for helping professions as a career option for inner city high school students; conducted a needs drive for the victims of the hurricane in Puerto Rico; cooked and served dinner to residents of the local Ronald McDonald House; organized a volunteer event during the holidays to collect toys and food for families in need.

• Community awareness: Promoted suicide awareness in a community walk and engaged with the community around Suicide Prevention Month; offered an “In Our Own Voice” presentation to raise awareness of the struggles of mental illness; created wellness packets or passed out free stress balls during finals week; offered “Stress Reduction Self Care Awareness” activities throughout the month of December, including weekly emails; participated in the YWCA’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month; hung educational posters on campus to promote mental health awareness; participated in “Take Back the Night,” which brings awareness to and helps fund prevention efforts against intimate partner violence in the area; offered Counselor Awareness Month activities that talked about counselor identity in our professional communities; supported local mental health organizations such as the women's shelter and the university counseling training clinic; raised awareness of and sought donations for the community Crisis Center; ran a campaign to recognize Children's Grief Awareness Day; held holiday events to create cards for a local nursing home.

• Community collaborations: Partnered with another CSI chapter to collect book donations for the counseling students at the University of Botswana; partnered with a local Food Bank for a food drive; participated in a community clean-up in the neighborhoods surrounding the university; co-sponsored a garden where we grow and harvest food for older adults and others in need within the community; collaborated with the “Just Detention International Community Service”; partnered and hosted a quarterly Wellness symposium; participated in recycling, offered “Trunk or Treat” for children in the community; co-sponsored a “Wellness Woof” event that gave students, faculty, and staff on campus an opportunity to de-stress by playing with therapy dogs; partnered with “Family Violence Prevention Services” at an Annual Fall Festival; helped to organize a campus “Fresh Check Day” to raise awareness of how to support students with mental health concerns and suicidality; partnered with a program that promotes employment and independent living skills for students with developmental and intellectual disabilities to offer a “Fun Friday” that focused on wellness and mindfulness.


• Community fundraising: Collected donation items for individuals affected by homelessness and the opioid crisis; raised money for Autism Awareness; organized a dodge-ball tournament fundraiser; collected items for the Red Cross or the Salvation Army to benefit local homeless shelters; collected toys in an annual toy drive to donate to various children's agencies in the local area; conducted a silent auction to benefit a community children's organization that serves homeless and impoverished youth and their families; held a carnival fundraiser for the community; sponsored a trivia night to support a local non-profit agency, fundraised for the Aids Project of the Ozarks (APO); held a toiletry drive for ForKids; sponsored a RamPantry canned food drive which helps to combat food insecurities; held a fundraising social for “Everytown for Gun Safety.”

• Disaster response: Collected donations to assist an elementary school affected by the hurricane and floods in Houston; assisted with storm cleanup; Disaster Drill; First Aid/Disaster Response training through Red Cross; held a fall bake sale and donated the money raised to the Red Cross for hurricane relief; hosted a bake sale/coffee sale in the department with all funds donated to the Red Cross for Hurricane Relief; conducted relief efforts for the victims of Hurricane Harvey (item donations; clothing drive); held a fundraising event for Puerto Rico in response to hurricanes; hosted a Hurricane Relief and Recovery Drive in Collaboration with the local Puerto Rican Society; collected toiletries to donate for the hurricane ravaged areas in the Virgin Islands; collected donations for the Hurricane destruction that took place in Texas and Puerto Rico last year; participated in Hurricane Harvey relief efforts and shared ways counselors could best serve their communities in the aftermath.

• Donations: Collected clothing for needy families; conducted a toy drive to provide children in need with toys during the Christmas holiday; collected dry/non-perishable food, toiletries, and hygiene products for a local food bank; received children’s books to donate to counseling clinics; conducted garage sales with proceeds going to the Salvation Army; donated money for gifts for an annual “Grandparents Raising Grandchildren” Holiday Party; donated to a university clinic that serves uninsured and underinsured members of the community; collected donations for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention; supported a self-care initiative at a local Women's Shelter; collected Christmas gifts for children served by a local prison ministry; participated in a drive to collect shoes that will be recycled to help fund an animal assisted therapy program; helped to prepare and serve dinner to families participating in a “Strengthening Families Psych-educational Group”; made tie blankets that were donated to a local shelter in preparation for the cold weather; coordinated a book drive for a local elementary school in need.

• Professional development: Offered a "Darkness to Light" training (childhood abuse/mandated reporting) and an Autism Educational panel open to the community; provided a practicum and internship site supervisor workshop; invited practitioners to participate in a “Private Practice Panel”; recruited guest speakers who spoke about topics such as working with transgender adolescents, the licensure process, developing a specialty and practice, addiction and family systems, practicum & internship experience and post-masters career path, attachment-based family therapy and working in an agency setting, training in dream interpretation, disabilities related to cardiovascular disease and diabetes,


human trafficking, supervisee burnout, mental health counseling in the black and brown communities, suicide prevention, and supervising clinicians providing substance use disorder treatment; sponsored a statewide conference for CSI chapters; offered a "Counselor Wellness Workshop" brought in many professional counselors to discuss and practice wellness strategies; offered depression screenings through Upward Bound.

• Runs/walk-a-thons: National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Walk; Annual Domestic Violence Walk; Out of the Darkness Walks; Atlanta Pride; Atlanta Mission 5k Race to End Homelessness; Suicide Awareness Walk; Opioid Awareness Community 5K; March for Our lives; Mental Health Walk; Sickle Cell Awareness Walk; Run with the Cops; Stand Up To Cancer Walk; Multiple Sclerosis Walk; Alzheimer’s Association Walk; AIDS Atlanta 5K; organized two community walk-a-thons for Breast Cancer Awareness Month and for a local children's agency; participated in a walk dedicated to a former student who lost her life.

• Other (please describe): Hosted a “Trunk or Treat” in October as a safe and welcoming environment for the local community; focused on building a relationship with our department's chapter of CSJ in order to join; wrote letters to active duty service members, first responders, and veterans to thank them for their service; provided kindergartners through 2nd-grade students from a local elementary school with a fun day; participated in university-sponsored events such as face-painting at homecoming, scooping ice cream at an ice cream social, visiting older adults, and participating in C.H.A.M.P. (Creating Higher Aspiration and Motivation Project); volunteered at a local zoo for their Halloween party; participated in iFather, a program for elementary students and their fathers; wrote cards for patients at a local children’s hospital.

Observations and Recommendations: According to the reports provided, it is noticed that multiple chapters involved in disaster response activities and completed 22 projects that were intended to help those affected by the hurricanes this past year. While not surprising, it is very encouraging to see how chapters plan, evaluate and respond with activities that are most impactful for the community and consistent with their capabilities to serve. On a different note, while reading the reports provided by the chapter leaders, it was noticed that many of the CCE activities provided fell into multiple categories. The chapter leaders selected multiple categories for one, or two activities, and this leads to skewed data. An operational definition of each category would be helpful and also perhaps change the category fields to a single-select option instead of allowing multiple categories to be chosen.

Business Meetings Chapters are encouraged to have membership meetings at least twice a year so that all members can learn about the activities of the Society and be provided with opportunities to become involved in chapter leadership.

Ashley Ackerman, CSI Leadership Fellow, Upsilon Chi Chi Chapter, The University of Cincinnati

Total Chapters Reporting Business Meetings = 211, representing 90.2% of the 234 chapters submitting Annual Reports this year and 72% of the 294 active CSI chapters.


Of the 211 chapters that reported conducting business meetings, 23 (10.9%) held one per year, 35 (16.6%) held two per year, 12 (5.7%) held three per year, 29 (13.7%) held four per year, 8 (3.8%) held five per year, 19 (9.0%) held six per year, 12 (5.7%) held seven per year, 29 (13.7%) held eight per year, 9 (4.3%) held nine per year, and 35 (16.6%) held ten or more per year.

Chapter Business Meetings N % (N=211)

1 per year 23 10.9% 2 per year 35 16.6% 3 per year 12 5.7% 4 per year 29 13.7% 5 per year 8 3.8% 6 per year 19 9.0% 7 per year 12 5.7% 8 per year 29 13.7% 9 per year 9 4.3% 10+ per year 35 16.6%

Observations and Recommendations: Chapters generally reported that they held Executive Committee meetings and Business Meetings for all members on campus. The majority of chapters reported that business meetings took place on a monthly basis from August-April. Chapters reported that general business meetings were utilized to discuss chapter events, fundraising ideas, progress, and the needs of constituents. The frequency and duration of business meetings varied. One chapter reported that they held three summer retreats for fall chapter planning and that during the academic year the executive board met biweekly for 1.5 hours. Ratings of satisfaction/outcomes regarding the frequency and efficiency of CSI chapter business meetings may also be useful data to collect for annual report summary purposes.

35

9

29

12

19

8

29

12

35

23

10+ per year

9 per year

8 per year

7 per year

6 per year

5 per year

4 per year

3 per year

2 per year

1 per year


Social Events Clark D. Ausloos, CSI Leadership Fellow, Alpha Omega Chapter, The University of Toledo

Total Chapters Reporting Social Events = 201, representing 85.9% of the 234 chapters submitting Annual Reports this year and 68.4% of the 294 active CSI chapters.

Of the 201 chapters that reported hosting social events, 61 (30.3%) held one per year, 58 (28.9%) held two per year, 27 (13.4%) held three per year, 23 (11.4%) held four per year, 31 (15.4%) held 5-9 per year, 1 (.5%) held 10-14 per year. No chapters reported hosting more than 15 social events per year. Of the 234 chapters that submitted annual reports, 33 (14.1%) shared that they did not host any social events.

Social Events N % (N=201) 1 per year 61 30.3% 2 per year 58 28.9% 3 per year 27 13.4% 4 per year 23 11.4% 5-9 per year 31 15.4% 10-14 per year 1 0.5%

Summary: Among the 201 chapters reporting social events, 172 workshop activities were reported.

• Welcome/Orientation: 118 (58.7%) Many chapters held welcome/orientation events, introducing students and faculty to benefits of CSI membership and the CSI executive board members. Many chapters held these events at the beginning of the Fall and Spring Semesters, often accompanied by food and drinks.

• End of Semester/Graduation: 95 (47.3%) Chapters often recognized new CSI members (induction ceremonies) and graduating CSI members and counselor education students each year. These ceremonies and functions were generally more formal in scope, although some chapters conducted more informal social

61

58

27

23

31

1

1 event

2 events

3 events

4 events

5-9 events

10-14 events


gatherings at local restaurants. • Dinner/Parties/Socials: 144 (71.6%) Chapters often held themed social events

and mixers, often celebrating holidays, self-care/wellness, including games, music, and food. Many social events were held on-campus, while several chapter social events were hosted off-campus, some of which were CSI-sponsored.

• Recreational/Outdoor Events: 37 (18.4%) Many chapters held recreational/outdoor events, including: dodgeball, bowling, yoga, scavenger hunts, and social events at local parks.

• Recruitment/Networking: 1 (.5%%) One chapter highlighted a specific networking event, allowing soon-to-be masters-level graduates to connect with clinical supervisors in the area, in a CSI-sponsored event.

• Wellness: 3 (1.5%) Chapters held activities related to wellness, often creating a wellness committee, promoting and advocating for wellness, offering healthy snack breaks for students, psychoeducational workshops and one chapter hosted a University-wide Wellness Fair.

• Other: 5 (2.5%) Some chapters discussed other activities, including hosting a CSI reception at a state-level counseling conference, creating a talent show, book clubs, attending a social justice/advocacy-related conference, conducting classroom outreach opportunities and fostering informal mentorship opportunities.

Social Event Themes N % (N=201)

Welcome/Orientation 118 58.7% End of Semester/Graduation 95 47.3% Dinner/Parties/Socials 144 71.6% Recreational/Outdoor Events 37 18.4% Recruitment/Networking 1 0.5% Wellness 3 1.5% Other 5 2.5%

Observations and Recommendations: Annual Reports indicate many chapters host orientation and graduation events that introduce CSI members and benefits, as well as honor

118

95

144

37

1

3

5

Welcome/Orientation

End of Semester/Graduation

Dinner/Parties/Socials

Recreational/Outdoor Events

Recruitment/Networking

Wellness

Other


CSI and counselor education graduates. What is unclear, however, is the number of chapters using social events, dinners and parties as recruitment tools compared with events to honor and show appreciation for current members. Recommendations for future chapters include increased clarity and intentionality in hosting recruitment and networking events, increasing professional and CSI alumni engagement and membership. Additionally, as wellness is a major focus of CSI, recommendations include increasing the amount of wellness-related social events and opportunities for members.

There were also many chapters that indicated there hosted social events, but did not offer qualitative descriptions, which prevents us from including this data. Perhaps it would benefit future reports to educate chapters and chapter leaders on the importance of the chapter agendas and reports, thus increasing the amount of comprehensive, qualitative information we receive.

Professional Advocacy Advocating for our profession and those we serve is a key element of CSI’s mission and strategic plan. Chapters are encouraged to provide opportunities for members to learn and practice professional advocacy skills.

Sara E. Andrews, Leadership Fellow, Mu Tau Beta Chapter, The University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Total Chapters Reporting Professional Advocacy Activities = 171, representing 73.1% of the 234 chapters submitting Annual Reports this year and 58.2% of the 294 active CSI chapters.

Of the 171 chapters that reported professional advocacy activities, 67 (39.2%) sponsored one per year, 57 (33.3%) sponsored two per year, 20 (11.7%) sponsored three per year, 14 (8.2%) sponsored four per year, 11 (6.4%) sponsored five to nine per year, and 2 (1.2%) sponsored ten to fourteen per year. Of the 234 chapters that submitted Annual Reports, 63 (26.9%) reported that they did not sponsor a professional advocacy event or activity during 2017-2018.

Professional Advocacy N % (N=171)

1 event 67 39.2% 2 events 57 33.3% 3 events 20 11.7% 4 events 14 8.2% 5-9 events 11 6.4% 10-14 events 2 1.2%


Observations and Recommendations: The percentage of chapters that reported professional advocacy activities increased from 72.9% in 2016-2017 to 73.1% in 2017-2018. In addition, there were increases from the previous year in the percentage of chapters that reported engaging in one (+1.3%), two (+4.5%), and ten to fourteen (+0.5%) professional advocacy activities. However, there were decreases in the percentage of chapters that reported engaging in three (-1.9%), four (-0.9%), and five to nine (-5.0%) professional advocacy activities in 2017-2018 compared to the previous year. This suggests that, while there was a slight increase (+0.2%) in the overall percentage of chapters engaging in professional advocacy activities in 2017-2018, individual chapters were engaging in fewer numbers of professional advocacy activities than the previous year.

Of the 171 chapters that submitted Annual Reports, 63 (26.9%) reported no professional advocacy during 2017-2018. Three (4.8%) of these chapters indicated that they were planning to begin engaging in professional advocacy activities in 2018-2019. Four (6.3%) other chapters reported that they did not sponsor specific events or activities but instead: (1) encouraged their members to engage in advocacy-related events or activities sponsored by their college or university, and/or (2) integrated advocacy themes into professional development events, community engagement activities, and conference presentations.

A closer evaluation of individual chapter annual reports revealed that, of the 63 chapters that reported no professional advocacy, 10 (15.9%) chapters in actuality sponsored workshops or participated in community engagement activities which could have been additionally reported as professional advocacy. One of these ten chapters held a training workshop for students and site supervisors regarding counseling individuals who identify as LGBTQ which also included an educational component regarding ways to advocate for members of this population. Similarly, nine of these ten chapters supported the learning and practice of members’ advocacy skills by sponsoring events or partnering with community or university organizations to promote awareness and prevention resources related to suicide, gun violence, domestic violence, and substance abuse. In sum, these activities not only served to benefit community members but also fostered the development of counseling students as advocates and increased the visibility of professional counselors as change agents within their communities.

The results of this inspection of the annual reports submitted by chapters that reported no professional advocacy reveal two concerns which could impact future Annual Report

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57

20

14

11

2

1 event

2 events

3 events

4 events

5-9 events

10-14 events


Summaries. First, it suggests that there may be a misunderstanding within chapters regarding how to accurately report professional advocacy activities. More specifically, it appears that some chapters underreported professional advocacy under the impression that reporting an individual chapter activity was an either/or choice among Annual Report categories (e.g., either professional advocacy or community engagement) rather than having an awareness that an individual chapter activity might be reported among two or more categories (e.g., professional advocacy and community engagement). For instance, if a chapter organizes a workshop which seeks to educate members about cultural competence and developing advocacy skills, this activity would count as both a “workshop” and “professional advocacy/education about advocacy” for the purposes of annual reports submitted to CSI. Similarly, if a chapter hosts a panel discussion which involves alumni addressing professional identity issues, this event would count as both “involving aumni and former members” and “professional advocacy/advocacy within the profession.” Therefore, clarification regarding the ability to report individual chapter activities in multiple categories may serve to increase the accuracy of reported professional advocacy activities in future Annual Report Summaries.

Second, given the underreporting of professional advocacy activities, the percentage of chapters engaged in professional advocacy is, in actuality, higher than the data provided among the chapters’ annual reports would suggest. Thus, if the number of chapters (N=10) that underreported professional advocacy activities were added to the number of chapters (N=171) that accurately reported professional advocacy activities, the total chapters reporting professional advocacy for 2017-2018 would equal 181, representing 77.4% of the 234 chapters submitting annual reports this year and 61.6% of the 294 active CSI chapters.

Summary of Professional Advocacy Activities: Among the 171 chapters that reported professional advocacy, activities were described across four subcategories: 130 (76.0%) chapters engaged in advocacy with the community, 97 (56.7%) chapters engaged in advocacy within the profession, 72 (42.1%) engaged in education about advocacy, and 19 (11.1%) chapters engaged in other professional advocacy activities. Although three (1.8%) chapters did not indicate which subcategories encompassed their professional advocacy activities, an overwhelming majority of chapters (N=168; 98.2%) reported the subcategories under which professional advocacy activities occurred, with just over half (N=90; 52.6%) of these chapters engaging in activities which fell within two or more subcategories.

Professional Advocacy Activities N % (N=380) Advocacy with the community 173 45.5% Advocacy within the profession 128 33.7% Education about advocacy 53 14.0% Other 26 6.8%


Observations and Recommendations: During 2017-2018, there were increases from the previous year in the percentage of chapters reporting professional advocacy activities in the following subcategories: advocacy with the community (+3.0%), advocacy within the profession (+1.2%), and other (+4.0%). However, there was a decrease in the percentage of chapters reporting activities in the subcategory of education about advocacy (-8.2%) in 2017-2018 compared to the previous year. This indicates that, while chapters were participating in more advocacy activities with the community and within the profession in 2017-2018, they were engaged in fewer activities related to education about advocacy than the previous year.

When submitting annual reports, chapters are asked to: (1) indicate the number of professional advocacy activities for the year; (2) indicate which subcategories (i.e., advocacy with the community, advocacy within the profession, education about advocacy, other) encompass their professional advocacy activities; and (3) provide a description of the professional advocacy activities for each subcategories indicated. A review of individual chapter annual reports for 2017-2018 highlighted two fields of underreporting by chapters (N=171) that reported professional advocacy: (1) advocacy activities checklist (i.e., subcategories) and (2) descriptions of advocacy activities. The majority of chapters (N=151; 88.3%) that reported professional advocacy indicated both subcategories and descriptions of advocacy activities; however, 20 (11.7%) chapters that reported professional advocacy did not indicate subcategories and/or descriptions of advocacy activities. Of these, two (1.2%) chapters did not indicate subcategories or provide descriptions of their activities. One (0.6%) chapter reported descriptions of their activities but did not indicate the subcategories in which they occurred. Seventeen (9.9%) chapters indicated the subcategories which encompassed their activities but did not provide descriptions.

The number of chapters (N=20) which did not indicate subcategories or provide descriptions of activities, combined with the number of chapters (N=10) that reported no professional advocacy but did describe advocacy activities in other areas of their annual reports, raises a concern that professional advocacy is underreported in the 2017-2018 Annual Report Summary. Of the 181 chapters (i.e., 171 chapters reporting professional advocacy and 10 chapters reporting no professional advocacy but describing advocacy activities in other areas of their annual reports), thirty (16.6%) chapters underreported professional advocacy activities in 2017-2018. An area for growth, then, is to educate chapters (i.e., chapter faculty advisors, chapter officers, chapter members) regarding what constitutes professional advocacy for the purposes of annual reporting to CSI. This might improve the accuracy of reporting professional advocacy in future Annual Report Summaries, in addition to providing more specific descriptions of advocacy activities

173

128

53

26

Advocacy with the community

Advocacy within the profession

Education about advocacy

Other


which could inspire and assist other chapters in organizing and participating in professional advocacy activities at the local and state levels.

The majority of the chapters (N=171; 73.1%) submitting annual reports in 2017-2018 indicated that they were actively engaged in professional advocacy pursuits. All chapters reported professional advocacy activities at the local level (i.e., community, university). Twenty-six (15.2%) chapters reported engaging in professional advocacy at the state level. State-level professional advocacy activities included: participating in statewide advocacy summits/conferences hosted by CSI chapters in Alabama, Florida, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania and professional counseling associations in Ohio and Texas, in addition to advocating for the profession with state legislatures either through letter writing campaigns in New York, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Wisconsin and lobbying in-person at the state capitols in Florida, Illinois, Mississippi, Missouri, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, and Wisconsin. No chapter reported national or international professional advocacy activities.

The following recommendations are offered to CSI International and individual chapters to improve the accuracy of reporting of professional advocacy in future Annual Report Summaries and to increase professional advocacy activities among chapters. First, given the confusion among some chapters about what constitutes professional advocacy, a checklist of specific activities under each subcategory of professional advocacy in the online Chapter Annual Report submission form might assist chapters in recognizing and accurately reporting the nature of their advocacy activities. In addition, providing descriptive information of professional advocacy subcategories and examples of advocacy activities in the CSI Chapter Leadership Manual and the CSI Semester Tips for Chapter Development might also serve to clarify what constitutes professional advocacy for the purposes of annual reporting to CSI.

Second, chapters are encouraged to explore CSI’s website for the abundant information related to professional advocacy offered there. For the past 20 years, CSI has developed and provided a wealth of support for chapters regarding professional advocacy in terms of educational information and training opportunities via its website, publications, and conference activities, demonstrating the society’s commitment to advancing the counseling profession through social, legislative, professional, and personal advocacy efforts. It is recommended that chapters visit CSI’s Professional Advocacy webpage (www.csi-net.org/page/Advocacy) for detailed information regarding the society’s goals and initiatives related to its National Plan for Professional Advocacy and the Advocacy Training Materials provided there. Also included on the webpage are CSI’s advocacy tips, guidelines, philosophy, and links to CSI Exemplar articles related to counselor advocacy. It might be particularly useful for chapters to consult the Chi Sigma Iota Professional Advocacy Tips to learn more about what defines counselor advocacy and to seek inspiration and ideas from the descriptions of specific advocacy activities outlined by individual chapters from across the country. In addition, chapters are encouraged to refer to CSI’s Chapter Training Modules webpage which provides information regarding, among other information, best practices for counselor community engagement and advocacy letter writing. It is also recommended that chapter members visit CSI’s Webinar page to access over 50 presentations regarding professional advocacy.


Finally, several specific areas for the growth of professional advocacy among chapters have been identified from annual reports submitted for 2017-2018. First, it is recommended that chapters seek more opportunities for professional advocacy at state, national, and international levels. This may be accomplished by participating in events sponsored by professional counseling associations (e.g. ACA divisions, state and regional professional associations) or other organizations which are dedicated to engaging in advocacy and social justice efforts for members of underserved or marginalized populations. Next, chapters are encouraged to continue involving counselor educators, alumni, and former members in advocacy activities, as these individuals may have knowledge, experience, and a personal/professional commitment in the arena of advocacy and/or social justice and can provide professional advocacy education and mentorship for chapter members. Last, it is recommended that chapters increase their efforts in education about advocacy through the provision of presentations and workshops, hosting speaker sessions and training events, and organizing and participating in state/regional CSI professional advocacy summits.

Chapter Dues & Other Funding CSI’s policy is that chapter dues may not exceed 50% of CSI International’s dues. Our chapter rebates program provides each active chapter with an opportunity to receive a rebate check. Rebates are issued at the discretion of the CSI Executive Council. Chapters provide a record of how funds are spent by reporting activities in the Annual Plans and Annual Reports.

Matthew Nice, Leadership Fellow, Delta Upsilon Chapter, Duquesne University

Total Chapters Reporting Collection of Chapter Dues = 98, representing 41.8% of the 234 chapters submitting Annual Reports this year and 33.3% of the 294 active CSI chapters.

Of the 98 chapters that reported collection of chapter dues, 3 (3.1%) collected lifetime membership dues, 28 (28.6%) collected one-time dues, 28 (28.6%) collected annual dues, and 39 (39.8%) did not specify the type of dues collected.

Of 234 chapters that submitted Annual Reports, 136 (58.1%) reported $0 in chapter dues. Of the 136 chapters that reported $0 in chapter dues, 76 (32.5%) reported that they did not collect dues. Of the 234 chapters submitting Annual Reports, 60 (25.6%) did not report collecting dues or description of collecting dues, and thus are included with the chapters reporting that they did not collect dues.

Amount of Dues N % (N=92) $5-10 49 53.2% $15-20 21 22.8% $25-30 10 10.9% $35-40 11 11.9% $45-60 1 1.1%


Summary: Of the 98 chapters reporting collection of dues, 46 (46.9%) reported the collection of dues in the amount of $5 or $10; 21 (21.4%) reported the collection of dues in the amount of $15 or $20; 18 (18.4%) reported the collection of dues in the amount of $25 or $30; 7 (7.1%) reported the collection of dues in the amount of $35 or $40; and 7 (7.1%) reported collecting dues that were greater than $45. Of the 234 chapters submitting annual reports, 136 (58.1%) reported $0 in chapter dues.

Observations and Recommendations: The number of chapters reporting collection of dues was not submitted last year. This year’s number of chapters reporting a collection of dues has slightly increased from the last submission of the collection of dues (2015-2016) yearly reporting (n=92, 56.8%). Although the increase in chapter dues is minimal, it was the first increase in several years, as the reporting of the collection of chapter dues are declined steadily the past few years.

The most popular form of dues was yearly dues (28.6%) and one-time dues (28.6%). The average overall amount charged for chapter dues was $19. The number of chapters charging for $45 or more has increased from 1 in 2015-2016, to 7. Of the chapters submitting reports (n=234) 6% of chapters have charged members more than $30. This is not compliant with CSI’s Executive Council policy, stating “Chapter dues for new members may not exceed 50% of dues for CSI International”.

It should be noted that of the 98 chapters that reported a collection of chapter dues, 39 (39.8%) reported “chapter does not collect chapter dues” in collection description yet indicated dues have been collected. For clarity, these incidents were listed in the report as “did not specify the type of dues collected.” The reason for this incongruence is unclear and is a potential limitation of this section of the annual report summary.

Involving Alumni and Former Members Harvey Peters, Leadership Intern, Sigma Upsilon Chapter, Syracuse University

Involvement of Alumni

Total Chapters Reporting Alumni Involvement = 163, representing 69.6% of the 234 chapters submitting Annual Reports this year and 55.4% of the 294 active CSI chapters.

Summary: Of the 163 chapters that reported involving alumni, 101 (61.9%) involved 1-4 alumni members, 41 (25.1%) involved 5-9 alumni members, 14 (8.5%) involved 10-14 alumni members, 2 (1.2%) involved 15-19 alumni members, and 5 (3.0%) involved 20+ alumni members. Of the 234 chapters that submitted annual reports, 71 (30.4%) reported that they did not involve alumni in their chapters.

49

21

18

7

7

$5-10

$15-20

$25-30

$35-40

$45-60


Total Alumni Involvement N % (N=163) 1-4 alumni 101 61.9% 5-9 alumni 41 25.1% 10-14 alumni 14 8.5% 15-19 alumni 2 1.2% 20+ alumni 5 3.1%

Involvement of Former Members

Total Chapters Reporting Former Member Involvement = 117, representing 50% of the 234 chapters submitting Annual Reports this year and 39.7% of the 294 active CSI chapters.

Of the 117 chapters that reported former members, 74 (63.2%) involved 1-4 former members, 29 (24.7%) involved 5-9 former members, 9 (7.6%) involved 10-14 former members, 2 (1.7%) involved 15-19 former members, and 3 (2.5%) involved 20+ former members. Of the 234 chapters that submitted annual reports, 117 (50%) reported that they did not involve alumni in their chapters.

Total Former Member Involvement N % (N=117) 1-4 former members 74 63.2% 5-9 former members 29 24.7% 10-14 former members 9 7.6% 15-19 former members 2 1.7% 20+ former members 3 2.5%

5

2

14

41

101

20+ alumni

15-19 alumni

10-14 alumni

5-9 alumni

1-4 alumni

3

2

9

29

74

20+ former members

15-19 former members

10-14 former members

5-9 former members

1-4 former members


Summary: Based on 117 CSI chapters' self-reported data, CSI chapters identified utilizing various methods to involve former members, such as inviting and encouraging former members to attend CSI events, induction ceremonies, or professional development workshops; connecting former members to their chapter social media pages; or ensuring former members have access to upcoming and current chapter events. Other chapters also reported having former members provide career talks, panel discussion, and professional development workshops. Additionally, a few chapters identified engaging former members through practices, such as collecting data from former members about their experiences and needs, highlighting the accomplishments of former members, inviting former members to engage in client or community advocacy efforts, and requesting assistance or support from former members. One program reported utilizing former members to host a study group for counseling students wanting to prepare for the National Counseling Exam (NCE) or Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Examination (CPCE).

Observations and Recommendations: According to the data, there was much overlap between alumni and former members. This might lead to the duplication of data reported by CSI chapters. Thus, chapters might explore the similarities and differences between alumni members and former members of their CSI chapter. Next, many chapters discussed their desire to further involve alumni and former members, but identified the difficulties of engaging those who have already graduated or are currently disengaged. As a result, CSI chapters can adapt what has worked for other chapters, such as developing a Listserv or social media presence; inviting alumni and former members to attend graduation, induction ceremonies, or professional development workshops; allowing alumni and former members to serve on the board or as a mentor, consultant, or professional contact; or collecting and analyzing data on the needs of alumni and former members.

Involving Counselor Educators Counselor Educators serve many functions in CSI chapters - Chapter Faculty Advisors, mentors, supporters, and more! Only two faculty members can serve as the Primary Chapter Faculty Advisor (CFA) and Backup CFA, but many more can contribute to the chapter.

Beth Gilfillan, Leadership Fellow, Rho Alpha Mu Chapter, The Pennsylvania State University

Total Chapters Reporting Involvement of Counselor Educators = 177, representing 75.6% of the 234 chapters submitting annual reports this year and 60.2% of the 294 active CSI chapters.

Summary Summary: Of the 177 chapters that reported involving counselor educators (CEs), 18 (10.2%) reported involving one CE; 49 (27.7%) reported involving two CEs; 28 (15.8%) reported involving three CEs; 30 (17.0%) reported involving four CEs; 45 (25.4%) reported involving 5-9 CEs; 5 (2.8%) reported involving 10-14 CEs; and 2 (1.1%) reported involving 15 or more CEs. Of the 234 chapters that submitted annual reports 57 (24.4%) reported that they did not involve a CE.

Of the 177 chapters that reported involving Counselor Educators (CEs), 135 (76.3%) chapters reported involvement of CEs who were not Chapter Faculty Advisors (CFAs)


though their ongoing support of the chapter’s mission and goals. CEs who are not CFAs are involved in CSI chapters in multiple ways: as attendees, presenters, and facilitators at CSI events (e.g., initiations, meetings, workshops/seminars, etc.), as attendees at social events, galas/gatherings, as mentors to chapter members, as supporters of chapters and members (through distribution of information about chapter activities and allowing chapter officers to make announcements during class times), and collaborators on research and advocacy efforts.

Total Involving CEs N % (N=177) 1 CE 18 10.2% 2 CEs 49 27.7% 3 CEs 28 15.8% 4 CEs 30 17.0% 5-9 CEs 45 25.4% 10-14 CEs 5 2.8% 15+ CEs 2 1.1%

Observations and Recommendations: Based on the information provided, counselor educators are supportive of their local chapters and demonstrate their ongoing support through their participation, attendance at various chapter events and activities, and behind-the-scenes support. Some of the ways CEs are involved are through induction ceremonies, graduation ceremonies, chapter meetings, and social events. Chapters reported CE involvement as supportive participants or more active roles, such as mentor programs or speaking at events. CEs promote student engagement by permitting event advertisement during their classes, contributing to the chapter newsletter, and occasionally hosting social events (e.g., welcome back potluck) that promote chapter development and faculty and student cohesion.

Recognizing Involvement of Counselor Educators Chapters can consider providing Certificates of Recognition and Appreciation, which can be requested at www.csi-net.org/?Chapter_Logo_Request.

Beth Gilfillan, Leadership Fellow, Rho Alpha Mu Chapter, The Pennsylvania State University

18

49

28

30

45

5

2

1 CE

2 CEs

3 CEs

4 CEs

5-9 CEs

10-14 CEs

15+ CEs


Total Chapters Reporting Recognizing Counselor Educators’ Involvement = 150, representing 64.1% of the 234 chapters submitting annual reports this year and 51.0% of the 294 active CSI chapters.

Summary: Of the 150 chapters that reported recognizing counselor educators’ involvement, 84 (56.0%) reported sending thank you notes and messages, 30 (20.0%) reported giving awards/recognitions, 21 (14.0%) reported giving gifts, and 15 (10.0%) reported recognizing counselor educators’ involvement in another way. Of the 234 chapters that submitted annual reports, 84 (35.9%) reported that they did not recognize counselor educators’ involvement.

Recognizing CE Involvement N % (N=150) Thank you notes/messages 84 56.0% Awards/recognition 30 20.0% Gifts (e.g. meals, monetary compensation, gift cards, flowers, etc.) 21 14.0%

Other 15 10.0%

Observations and Recommendations: A majority of the chapters that involve CEs report recognizing them for their involvement. The most common forms of recognition are messages and notes of gratitude. Many chapters mentioned that they also verbally recognize CEs at chapter events, such as initiations. There were a significant number of chapters that report not recognizing CE involvement, which may be an important finding to explore. If CEs do not feel recognized or appreciated, they may be reluctant to participate in the future. Perhaps ideas for recognizing CEs can be shared with all chapters, even including examples that other chapters have used.

Chapter Websites & Social Media Mary Chase Breedlove Mize, Leadership Fellow, Chi Epsilon Chapter, Georgia State University

Total Chapters Reporting Active Chapter Websites (in addition to a CSI groupsite) = 52, representing 22.2% of the 234 chapters submitting Annual Reports this year and 17.7% of the 294 active CSI chapters.

Chapter Websites

Of the 234 chapters submitting an Annual Report, 52 chapters (22.2%) reported additional chapter websites (i.e., websites in addition to the chapter group on the CSI

84

30

21

15

Thank you notes/messages

Awards/recognition

Gifts (e.g. meals, monetary compensation, gift cards, flowers, etc.)

Other


website. Of these, 11 chapters (4.7%) reported websites consisted of active websites on an outside server, 33 chapters (14.1%) reported active websites on a program or university website/server, and 8 chapters (3.4%) reported active websites on an outsider server and on a program or university website/server. Of the 234 chapters submitting an annual report, 181 (77.4%) reported no active website other than the chapter group on the CSI website. It should be noted that CSI’s Internet Presence Policy requires that chapters use their customizable csi-net.org groupsite as their primary chapter website instead of creating an outside website.

Chapter Social Networking Sites

Of the 234 chapters submitting an Annual Report, 116 chapters (49.6%) reported use of one or more social networking sites (SNS), representing 39.5% of the 294 active CSI chapters. Of the chapters submitting an annual report, were 109 chapters (46.6%) that reported having a Facebook site, 15 chapters (6.4%) that reported having an Instagram site, 5 chapters (2.1%) that reported having an OrgSync site, 5 chapters (2.1%) that reported having a Twitter site, 3 chapters (1.3%) that reported having a LinkedIn site, and 5 chapters (2.1%) that reported use of a different social networking site. These sites included Google+ and Pinterest, and one chapter reported using a blog. Of the 234 chapters submitting an Annual Report, 118 chapters (50.4%) reported that they used no social networking sites. Of the chapters submitting an annual report who reported use of Facebook, 97 of the total 109 chapters provided links to their Facebook pages. Additionally, several chapters reported usernames/handles of Instagram and Twitter profiles, but not in the correct designated field to report their SNS profiles in the annual report.

Chapter Social Networking Sites N % (N=234) No Social Networking Sites 118 50.4% Facebook 109 46.6% Instagram 15 6.4% Orgsync 5 2.1% Twitter 5 2.1% Other Social Networking Site 5 2.1% LinkedIn 3 1.3%

118

109

15

5

5

5

3

No Social Media

Facebook

Instagram

Orgsync

Twitter

Other Social …

LinkedIn


Of the 116 chapters that reported using a social networking site, 96 (82.8%) reported use of only one social networking site. The remaining 20 chapters (17.2%) reported use of multiple social networking sites: 14 chapters (12.1%) reported using Facebook and Instagram, 4 chapters (3.4%) reported using Facebook and Twitter, 2 chapters (1.7%) reported using Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and 2 chapters (1.7%) reported using Facebook & Orgsync.

Social Networking Sites (Multiple Use) N % (N=116) Does Not Use Multiple Sites 96 82.8% Facebook & Instagram 14 12.1% Facebook & Twitter 4 3.4% Facebook, Twitter, & Instagram 2 1.7% Facebook & Orgsync 2 1.7% Facebook, Instagram, & LinkedIn 1 0.9% Facebook, Twitter, & Instagram 1 0.9%

All Chapter Social Networking Sites Monitored

Though many chapters have reviewed and agreed to comply with CSI’s Social Networking Policy to receive approval for their social networking sites, previous reports and social media searches have noted chapter networking sites that are either unreported or out of compliance. The CSI Chief Operating Officer monitors these unapproved social networking sites and works with chapters to make the necessary revisions in order to receive approval from CSI Headquarters.

At the end of the 2017-2018 fiscal year, CSI’s records indicated 194 active chapter social networking sites, including 190 approved sites and 4unapproved sites. The table below compares the number of unapproved and approved sites reported in the Chapter Annual Reports, along with the number of unapproved and approved sites recorded in CSI’s database as of April 30, 2018.

96

14

4

2

2

1

1

Does Not Use Multiple Sites

Facebook & Instagram

Facebook & Twitter

Facebook, Twitter, & Instagram

Facebook & Orgsync

Facebook, Instagram, & LinkedIn

Facebook, Twitter, & Instagram


The data included in the following table may differ from the totals reported above because, during a comparison with CSI’s records, sites that did not conform to CSI’s criteria for social media were excluded from the analysis.

Social Networking Sites for Chapters N Unapproved Facebook sites reported 0 Approved Facebook sites reported 109 CSI’s records: Total unapproved Facebook sites 9 CSI’s records: Total approved Facebook sites 144 Unapproved LinkedIn sites reported 0 Approved LinkedIn sites reported 3 CSI’s records: Total unapproved LinkedIn sites 0 CSI’s records: Total approved LinkedIn sites 12 Unapproved Twitter accounts reported 0 Approved Twitter accounts reported 5 CSI’s records: Total unapproved Twitter accounts 0 CSI’s records: Total approved Twitter accounts 14 Unapproved Instagram accounts reported 0 Approved Instagram accounts reported 15 CSI’s records: Total unapproved Instagram accounts 0 CSI’s records: Total approved Instagram accounts 14

Observations and Recommendations: Similar with previous Annual Reports, Facebook is consistently the dominant SNS among CSI chapters. There was a slight increase in reported Facebook sites this year, and fewer unapproved sites across multiple SNS platforms. There was also an increase in Instagram sites among chapters this year, which may be reflective of intentional use of social media among CSI and other counseling-related organizations, as well as university/departmental use of Instagram as a social media platform.

Although there were fewer unreported sites, unapproved and/or unreported social media sites may continue to be problematic among chapters. However, the communication of the CSI Social Networking Policy and monitoring of unapproved sites by the CSI Chief Operating Officer are likely contributing to the decrease in unapproved sites (for example, there were 11 total unapproved Facebook sites from 2016-2017, compared with 0 unapproved Facebook sties from 2017-2018).

Additionally, prior recommendations of forming a communications/social media committee may be helpful in the organization and compliance of chapter social media sites. Social media committees may work closely with Newsletter committees to ensure accurate content is communicated both digitally and in print.

Greatest Accomplishments CSI chapters engage in an amazing array of activities! Chapters are encouraged to review and adhere to CSI’s Mission, Vision, and Strategic Plan when developing chapter activities.


Dr. Isabel Farrell, Leadership Intern, Upsilon Theta Chapter, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville

Total Chapters Reporting greatest accomplishments = 234, representing 100% of the 234 chapters submitting Annual Reports this year and 79.6% of the 294 active CSI chapters.

The Greatest Accomplishments area of the Annual Report categorizes the accomplishment sections into four main areas: chapter growth, events, membership growth, and other. Chapters can choose more than one area to categorize their accomplishment(s). Of the 234 chapters that reported greatest accomplishments, 153 (65.5%) categorized their accomplishment in one area, 57 (24.3%) categorized in two areas, 24 (10.2%) categorized in three areas, and 0 (0%) categorized in four areas. Of the 234 chapters that submitted annual reports all chapters reported that they did have a greatest accomplishment.

Greatest Accomplishments N % (N=234) 1 Area 153 65.3% 2 Areas 57 24.3% 3 Areas 24 10.3% 4 Areas 0 0%

Summary: Of the 234 chapters reporting the greatest accomplishment, 330 accomplishment areas were reported. The area of “events” was the largest with a total of 122 (37.0%) chapters reported an event(s) as their greatest accomplishment this year. This was followed by “membership growth” with 91 (27.6%) chapters reported this area as their greatest accomplishment. In the area of “chapter growth” 76 (23.0%) chapters reported this area as their greatest accomplishment, Finally, 41 (12.4%) shared an item classified as “Other” as their greatest accomplishment.

Greatest Accomplishment Areas N % (N=330) Events 122 37.0% Membership Growth 91 27.6% Chapter Growth 76 23.0% Other 41 12.4%

153

57

24

0

1 Area

2 Areas

3 Areas

4 Areas


Observations and Recommendations: Accomplishments described by chapter leaders showed tremendous amount of advocacy, community engagement, leadership, and community partnerships. Chapters that reported membership growth stated an increase in membership between 6 to 500 members, with the median number of 40 new members. Chapter and membership growth were attributed to increased communication between leadership and chapter members (i.e., classroom announcements, emails, and social media), increased community engagements and outreach activities, hosting conferences, symposiums, and formal initiations. In addition, one chapter created a marketing video promoting their chapter and providing important information about CSI. Increasing communication and providing events that fit diverse members’ needs increased membership participation and enrollment.

Events not only promoted chapter and membership growth but also provided opportunities for personal and professional development. 122 chapters reported events as one of their greatest accomplishments. Events included suicide prevention and awareness educational sessions, multicultural and cultural competence training, and attending or hosting a conference or symposium. In addition, chapters reported a wide array of fundraising activities for suicide prevention, addiction and eating disorder treatment, toys for tots, and Mental Health First Aid training. Chapters also provided student-focused professional development and leadership events such as NCE preparation courses and career and job search services.

Other accomplishments included implementing formal leadership succession, mentorship programs, obtaining CSI grants and awards, and promoting sustainability by using online tools (i.e., google drive). It is important to note that some chapters reported “other accomplishments” when description matched criteria for events, membership, or chapter growth.

Other Activities

Dr. Isabel Farrell, Leadership Intern, Upsilon Theta Chapter, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville

Total Chapters Reporting other activities = 53, representing 22.6% of the 234 chapters submitting Annual Reports this year and 18% of the 294 active CSI chapters.

Of the 53 chapters that reported other activities, 30 (56.6%) held one other activity, nine (16.9%) held two other activities, four (7.5%) held three other activities, and 10 (18.9%) held four or more other activities. the 53 chapters that reported other activities, 41 (77.4%) held one other activity, 8 (15.1%) held two other activities, 3 (5.6%) held two other activities, and 1 (1.9) held four or more other activities. Of the 234 chapters that submitted annual reports, 182 (77.8%) did not report other activities.

122

91

76

41

Events

Membership Growth

Chapter Growth

Other


Other Activites N % (N=53) 1 other activity 41 77.4% 2 other activities 8 15.1% 3 other activities 3 5.6% 4 or more other activities 1 1.9%

Summary: Of the 53 chapters reporting other activities, many of these activities described below are more comprehensively captured in other areas of the annual report. Thus, some activities described may be listed twice. The summary below attempts to describe exceptional activities within the “other activities” category: fundraising and scholarship efforts, nominating or obtaining awards and grants, hosting a subject-expert initiation speaker, organizing expert panel discussions, hosting wellness and social events, and other activities such as newsletters and gifts to members.

Observations and Recommendations: “Other activities” described by many chapters overlap with many other areas of the annual report. For example, many chapters reported fundraising events, which is not only reported in “fundraising activities” or “other chapter methods”, but also could be added in advocacy or CCE events depending of the fundraiser’s emphasis. Providing examples of types of activities that are placed in each category or providing a template to chapter leaders could help with the overlap.

41

8

3

1

1 other activity

2 other activities

3 other activities

4 or more other activities

Documents

Chi Sigma Iota International 2017-2018 Chapter Annual ......The purpose of Counselor Community Engagement (CCE) activities is to help persons in need while promoting professional counselor