April Coronavirus Update from Phi Sigma Sigma

As we hope this communication finds you and your loved ones safe, healthy and supported, we share with you the words, sentiment and call-to-action offered to all members as a guide:

THE DETOUR

We are faced with tough choices every time the road turns unexpectedly. BUT, because you had the foresight to choose a lifetime of sisterhood, you will never be alone on your journey.

The path may not be what it originally seemed, but you are supported to overcome every detour that comes your way. While out of our control, detours challenge our character and hold us accountable to our commitments.

Because of the [role] you ONCE took, you are ALWAYS a [partner] with a plan and a path forward. Follow the turns, lean into the curves and stay grounded to the road ahead.

This may not have been the path you had in mind as you began this semester with excitement and optimism, but we invite you to trust in us. As sisters we are choosing to connect and engage with one another in new and exciting ways. Follow us . . . the journey through begins here.

PRIORITIES & TIMELINE

As our days and weeks run their course, our staff remains dedicated to adjusting our priorities and updating all stakeholders. Our focus on remaining flexible in how we allocate our resources and energy day-to-day is what will help us ensure that we are in compliance with the evolving directives and unique and varied needs of our members.

To ensure accurate and up-to-date information is available to all, email communications, weekly priorities and all programmatic announcements will be hosted on our dedicated websites throughout the duration of our response.

THE LATEST

UP-TO-SPEED

As outlined in further detail online, Phi Sigma Sigma was quick to provide the following guidance and accommodations in response to COVID-19:

HOUSING – The National Housing Corporation and partnering local housing corporations closed, cleaned and coordinated move out for all properties. In locations where a stay-at-home order was issued before residents were able to collect their belongings, all items are secured in our homes until such time as move-out can occur. Whenever possible, we have partnered with housing and residence life offices to offer accommodations to members needing/desiring to stay on-campus. NHC staff is exploring housing and meal plan refunds where applicable.

DUES – An exhaustive audit of chapter financial accounts is being assessed to determine options for member credits/refunds. Members will be updated as each chapter’s account has been fully audited and authorized. We expect this process to take several weeks. The Fraternity has suspended all late fees associated with outstanding payments, extended (indefinitely) the deadline for immediate dismissal for non-payment and authorized an extension for all new members with outstanding initiation fees.

NEW MEMBER EDUCATION – An adapted Phi Program schedule and fully virtual format will be provided to all new member educators on April 3 for implementation throughout the month of April. New member educators and new members will have continued direct support from Headquarters staff.

INITIATION – New member educators with un-initiated new members were briefed on March 27 about the Fraternity’s “Build” initiative scheduled for September 2020. We are confident in this decision due to our governance that extends all membership privileges to new members as soon as they accept their bid.

CELEBRATING SENIORS – Seniors were provided a specialized online community focused to not only meet their unique needs during the “Next 90 Days,” but to also celebrate their many accomplishments and contributions while in the chapter. An international, virtual Senior Week will take place May 3-8, 2020.

STAYING CONNECTED – All collegiate and alumnae members were invited to engage in our new online communities offering virtual activities and programs. Phi Sigma Sigma will continue to update all members weekly during our newest format for our weekly “Fraternity Meeting”.

FINANCIAL DISTRESS/MEMBER NEEDS – The Phi Sigma Sigma Foundation continues to evaluate and structure opportunities to accept chapter and alumnae donations dedicated to the response and support of our sisters who are affected.

NEW! MEMBER SAFETY & WELLBEING SURVEY – Our attention now turns to the format and vehicles we will use to offer assistance to members and communities who are struggling the most. In early April, all members will receive an outreach survey to measure and assess the needs of individuals and connect them to the local and campus-based services available to them. Dr. Breny DaParre Garcia, Associate Vice President, Student Health & Wellness at Florida International University, and a team of volunteer social workers and mental health professionals will be available to provide ongoing support.

A PATH FORWARD

As we look forward, we are inviting our campus partners to share your needs, priorities, concerns and challenges. We understand you have many stakeholders and areas to coordinate and want to provide a streamlined system of support for the Phi Sig chapter on your campus.

The survey below has been created to intake information from each campus partner related to outstanding items the chapter is responsible for completing during this period, the institution's needs and effort to comply with local and state directives and the shared resources we can promote in our interactions with the women.

If you would prefer to discuss the role Phi Sigma Sigma may be able to play in assisting you, your community and our members one-on-one over the phone, please use the link below to schedule an appointment.

TAKE THE SURVEY

SCHEDULE A CALL

WHAT'S NEXT? DETOUR PROGRAMS

On March 27th – Phi Sigma Sigma announced a series of activities, programs and initiatives under the Detour umbrella. The opportunity to connect and engage in a new and exciting way is offered to all members. Reinforcing that observing social distancing best practices doesn't mean you have to feel alone.

Use the button below learn more about the Detour umbrella and follow us on Instagram @PhiSig_Detour.

LEARN MORE ABOUT DETOUR

PHI SIGMA SIGMA

(410) 799-1224 | phisighq@phisigmasigma.org

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