160th Congress
Cincinnati, July 17- July 19, 2026What is Congress?
Congress is the supreme authority of the Fraternity. Article I, Section 2 of the Constitution states that “The legislative power of the Fraternity, except as otherwise provided in the Constitution, is vested exclusively in the Congress.” During the day, Congress spends its time conducting the affairs of the Fraternity, and the evenings are spent enjoying the host city and the Bonds of Brotherhood. Attendees will be from all different generations and all corners of the country.
During the Congressional sessions, Chapter, Associate Chapter, and Alumni delegates will each have their own place on the floor of Congress. At Congress, the voice of every Brother is heard as an equal. Delegates will meet to evaluate new and existing policies, adopt Chi Phi’s 2026-2027 budget, and consider any new legislation. Congress will also elect a Brother to serve as Grand Alpha. Our 2025-2026 award winners will also be recognized during the weekend.
Who Goes to Congress?
Including delegates, national leaders, spouses, guests, honorees, and banquet/leadership dinner participants, nearly 250 people participate in the annual Congress. Every Chapter is obligated to send two Voting Delegates. Every Associate Chapter is obligated to send one Voting Delegate and one Non-Voting Delegate. Every registered Alumni Association and Chi Phi Club is entitled to one Voting Delegate. House Corporations are encouraged to attend but have no voting rights. Chapters, Associate Chapters, Alumni Associations, Chi Phi Clubs, and House Corporations may send additional representatives without a vote.
Typically, the Alpha and Beta or the Alumni Association President serve as their group’s Delegates; however, any Brother can be elected to serve as his Chapter, Associate Chapter, Club, or Alumni Association’s Delegate.
In addition, the Grand Council, the National Fraternity Staff, the Educational Trust Staff, the Board of Governors, and the Board of Trustees will be present. Additional Non-Voting or alternate Delegates are welcome to attend, however all participants must pay the full registration fee per Delegate to attend and participate in any Congressional activities. Registration as a Delegate does not constitute or include registration with the hotel.
We have learned that Chi Phi and family complement each other nicely. While our Brothers conduct the business of the Fraternity through committee meetings and Congressional sessions, guests may enjoy the host city and get to know each other as well. Lasting friendships are formed which have been credited with increasing Alumni participation.
Where is it?
This year we are headed to scenic Cincinnati, OH! We will be staying at the Westin Cincinnati at 21 E 5th St, Cincinnati, OH 45202.
Our room block is set at $159/night – reserve your room by June 23rd! Parking is $21.00 for on-site. Fountain Square Parking Garage for an off-site option.
Alumni & Additional Delegates
$600
Voice & Vote on the floor of Congress
Placement on a Congressional Committee
Boxed lunch with Delegates on Saturday
Dinner with Delegates on Saturday
Chapter & Associate Chapter Delegates
$600
Voice & Vote on the floor of Congress as your Chapter’s representative
Placement on a Congressional Committee
Boxed lunch with Delegates on Saturday
Dinner with Delegates on Saturday
Educational Trust Bourbon Tour Experience
The Educational Trust is excited to explore interest in a potential Alumni and Friends Bourbon Tour experience on Thursday, July 16. This full-day outing would include round-trip transportation, a group lunch, and exclusive tours and tastings at three premier Kentucky distilleries: Wild Turkey, Woodford Reserve, and Buffalo Trace.
We invite you to please complete the form below by Friday, April 17 to help us gauge interest and finalize event details. And, know that those who are under 21 or are non-drinkers are still welcome to participate in this experience.
2026 Grand Alpha-Elect Election
The election of our next Grand Alpha-Elect will occur at the 160th Congress in July 2026.
All qualified voting delegates at Congress have a say in the election – no one Chapter or Alumni Association has more power than another. Candidates will be allowed to present themselves and their plans for the Fraternity, and the Congress in turn will have the opportunity to address questions to each.
For more details on eligibility for Grand Alpha-Elect and how to nominate a Brother, go to chiphi.org/grand-alpha-nomination-committee/ – a qualified candidate may be nominated by any Brother of Chi Phi.
