What is Noble Man Institute?
Noble Man Institute is Sigma Tau Gamma’s national new-member education program. Conceived in 2016, it is a weekend, camp-based retreat focused on leadership development and fraternal education.

Why do I have to be Initiated / A New Member?
At Noble Man Institute, you will discuss concepts that can only be fully understood by an initiated member of Sigma Tau Gamma. All initiated members have sworn an oath to protect the Fraternity’s Ritual and Secrets. Additionally, Noble Man Institute is specifically designed for new members of our organization. More experienced members act as small group facilitators to add to the new member experience.

Why do I have to pay a registration fee/no-show fee?
The Fraternity and the Sigma Tau Gamma Foundation greatly subsidize the cost of Noble Man Institute to increase accessibility for our new members. The total cost per person is $200, but the registration fee is only $50. Part of the national dues and fees that every member pay are allocated towards facilitating this program, and we must be good stewards of our member’s funds.

How do I register? How do I pay?
Participants do not register themselves individually. Each chapter should submit a registration form, located on the website, that includes all attendees from that chapter. Headquarters will then bill the chapter for the appropriate registration fees. The Director of Finance must decide whether to pass those fees onto the members or cover the cost of registration using chapter funds.

What should I pack?
Attire for the weekend is casual, typically jeans and Sig Tau or chapter apparel. This program takes place in the fall and spring, so be sure to bring jackets and outdoor activewear. Wear layers and comfortable shoes for walking outdoors. Close-toed shoes are required for an indoor or outdoor challenge course. Bedding is not provided, so bring sheets or a sleeping bag, and a pillow. Remember to pack toiletries and a towel! You will be staying in heated cabins with private restrooms/showers. Remember to pack any medications you may need.

Can I drink or do drugs at Noble Man Institute?
Noble Man Institute is a wholly educational developmental experience and is a substance-free program. This policy applies regardless of state law or the age of the participant. Without exception, any member found in violation of this rule will be dismissed from the program, their chapter will be billed a $200 no-show fee, and they will be referred to their chapter standards board. This rule applies to undergraduate participants, undergraduate facilitators, alumni facilitators, and Headquarters Staff.

What can I expect at Noble Man Institute?
You will be attending Noble Man Institute with over 100 other new members from chapters around the country. You will spend time in a large group, which we call the Learning Community. You will also spend a significant amount of time in a small group, which we call Circles. Your Circle will be facilitated by an experienced undergraduate member. You will spend time both indoors and outdoors, including about three hours working your way through a challenge course.

What are the facilities like?
Noble Man Institute is held at campsites, usually YMCA or church camps. These are located in rural areas and are rustic in nature. You will meet as a large group in a lodge and eat in a dining hall. You will sleep in heated cabins, and you can expect to walk a significant amount on dirt or gravel paths throughout the weekend as you travel from different camp areas. There are typical camp activities for you to participate in during any free time you may have in the evenings.

What will we eat? Should we bring food?
You will be provided regular meals with Friday dinner, Saturday breakfast, lunch, dinner, and Sunday breakfast. There will be some snacks provided, but you are free to bring your own. Keep in mind that there will not be refrigeration or much storage space available in your cabins. There will not be beverages provided outside of mealtimes, so bringing a water bottle is a good idea.

Can I arrive late / leave early?
You are expected to attend the entire program or be charged a $200 no-show fee. Emergency situations will not be penalized, but you must inform Headquarters by email (noblemen@sigtau.org). Any on-site emergency should be communicated to the Headquarters Staff member on-site. If anyone is found to be leaving the camp without authorization during the program, they may be dismissed and charged a $200 no-show fee.

Can I fly?
It’s an option. Transportation to and from the airport will not be provided. All participants are strongly encouraged to drive into the Noble Man Institute.

Is there anything I should not bring?
Campsites forbid firearms or other weapons, alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs or controlled substances, unapproved medicines, or pets (except service dogs.) If Sigma Tau Gamma is charged for a violation of camp rules, that fee will be passed on to the offending members.