Although all Brothers are expected to live up to AGR's Covenant that all Brothers sign prior to initiation, the Fraternity wishes to recognize Brothers who achieve above and beyond "the basics."
The Five Orders have been designed for this purpose. Named after the symbols of our coat of arms, they are:
1. Order of the Shield
2. Order of the Lamp & Tree
3. Order of the Wreath
4. Order of the Sickle & Sheaf
5. Order of the Crescent & Stars
The Order of the Crescent & Stars is the highest Order a Brother can achieve. Specific criteria for each of the Orders can be obtained from the VNR-Membership Development, however, the general criteria involve Chapter leadership, campus leadership, scholarship, fraternalism, philanthropy, alumni interaction, and National Fraternity involvement. You are encouraged now to begin working toward the Order of the Shield, although this is not a requirement. Upon completing any of the criteria, you should provide to the VNR-Planning, a copy of any verification and upon completion of all criteria for induction into an Order, a letter signed by the Adviser and Noble Ruler, will be sent to the Home Office for final approval.
Appropriate jewelry "dangles" are to be worn with your Fraternity badge, attached to your Chapter guard. Brothers who achieve, wear these official symbols with pride! A special ceremony is conducted, usually at a regular Chapter meeting, to induct Brothers into the Order which they have attained. The recognition ceremony is open to all Brothers.
Order of the Shield Application
Order of the Lamp & Tree Application
Order of the Wreath Application
Order of the Sickle & Sheaf Application
Order of the Crescent & Stars Application