As a result, depending on the university, each chapter is either registered as a social fraternity unassociated with the IFC, or as a student organization. The Alpha Eta chapter at Clemson University, the Omicron chapter at Mississippi State University, and the Pi chapter at the University of Georgia are exceptions, affiliating with their local IFCs in 2014, 2015, and 2017 respectively. On a national basis, Beta Upsilon Chi became a member of the NIC on 22 Sept 2016, to "align itself with the fraternal movement " and access advocacy and resources that will elevate its value in higher education, said Jason Hoyt, Beta Upsilon Chi President and COO. Membership There are three kinds of membership in the Fraternity: pledges, active members, and alumni members. Each local chapter is composed of its active members and pledges. Active members form the backbone of the fraternity, participating in ritual, leading worship, Bible study, and other chapter activities. Active members have voting rights within the chapter and become alumni members upon their graduation. Pledges become members by finishing the pledging process, a process that differs from chapter to chapter, but typically lasts a semester. Cell groups All BYX members are a part of "cell groups," which are groups of four to six brothers and pledges who meet weekly for social activities and Bible study. Events Most Beta Upsilon Chi chapters host between two and four parties a semester. Like other fraternities, BYX usually hosts one or two formals per semester for their members. Unlike parties, formals are by invitation only, meaning only members and their invited dates are open to attend. BYX chapters hold one weekend retreat a semester. Traditions and symbols As with other Greek letter organizations, Beta Upsilon Chi is a ritualistic organization whose pledge induction, initiation, and other ceremonies are esoteric and not open to the general public. In addition to the usual Greek practices of grips, words, and memory work, Beta Upsilon Chi also utilizes several symbols whose meaning is open to anyone: Purpose. To establish brotherhood and unity among college men based on the common bond of Jesus Christ. Founding Scripture. "Behold how good and how pleasant it is for brothers to dwell together in unity." - Psalm 133:1 Colors. Purple and white. Signature event. "Island Party" (IP) - a free Christian music concert or event provided to the entire university, the largest of which was held at Baylor