Dear Sisters,

We've been in awe of the adaptability and maturity of our sisters as they help lead our chapters during this time. The bold leadership of our members reinforces the shared values of our sisters and continues to make us proud as members of Phi Sigma Sigma. Additionally, the thankless work of university employees, the dedication of our volunteers and the care of corporations does not go unnoticed.

The one thing that continues to ring true as we approach our work and tough decisions in times like this is the need to maintain the health and safety of our members and their communities. Following Friday's National Emergency decision, we feel it is imperative to comply with the government and health official's recommendation to observe social distancing.

With great care, we are canceling in-person activities of any size and type hosted by our chapters through Spring 2020 semester. This follows guidance by the CDC that has recommended suspending events and activities with 10 or more people for the next eight weeks. As we look to ensure the health and wellness of our members and communities, it would be irresponsible for us to not follow this guidance.

We understand this is not how our members envisioned their semester - it is not how we envisioned it for them either. But as leaders in our communities, we need to take substantial action and follow the recommendations that can make a difference for the world around us.

Our staff's immediate priorities in the coming days include:
  • Regular communication with the chapter archon and advisors, supporting any chapter/campus specific needs.
  • Accommodating members requiring additional support and resources in navigating relocation.
  • Assessment and audit of each chapter's financial commitments and exploring the impact on member's financial responsibilities.
  • Scheduling cleaning and security services for all Fraternity facilities.
  • Development and roll out of online member development programming.
  • Exploration of methods to remain connected to sisters at a distance.

Please find the new chapter protocols outlined below. As we continue to adjust to the quickly changing landscape, we will share regular updates. Future updates and resources will be published on our COVID-19 webpage.

It is times like this that try us, but we know that the strength of our pyramid will only be reinforced by the love of our sisters!

In Our Bond,
Katie Vlietstra Wonnenberg
Grand Archon
Vanessa Freeman Zerhusen
Foundation President
Erin Sweeney
National Housing Corporation President
Michelle Ardern
Executive Director
Sandy Grossman
Programs & Services Consultant
Debbie Brown
Director of Financial Operations
Linda Beavin
Director of Database & Technology
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CHAPTER ACTIVITIES
Over the past week, the chapter services managers have connected with chapter archons to discuss university protocols and the impact on in-person chapter activities. The chapter services team will continue to work closely with chapter leadership to move any and all cancelled events to the fall term, address any impacted contracts and provide continued support.

Plans are currently being finalized to move many of the regular programs and benefits of chapter membership online. More than ever, we need to remain connected to one another. Observing social distancing best practices doesn't mean our sisters have to feel alone.
HOUSING
At this time we have closed all of our chapter houses as a preventative measure, providing accommodations by request for anyone with extenuating circumstances. We will also be conducting a deep cleaning of all residential facilities.
OUR PROGRAMS
Phi Sigma Sigma Foundation Scholarships & Grants - The Phi Sigma Sigma Foundation proudly fosters the next generation of leadership and continues to support sisters through our scholarship and grant program. In light of the current situation, we are extending the application deadline to June 1, 2020. We understand some of our sisters are facing financial hardships and hope that through our scholarship and grant program we are able to ease some of the burden. We are also amending our requirements to allow spring 2020 new members to apply, even if they have not been initiated yet. Click here for more information about our 2020-2021 scholarship and grant program.

Phi Sigma Sigma Awards Program - We are fortunate to have so many dedicated and committed sisters in Phi Sigma Sigma and we value the opportunity to recognize and celebrate their accomplishments. Therefore, we have extended this year's award deadline until June 1, 2020. Nominate a sister, here.
SUPPORTING OUR SISTERS
We know that change isn't easy and that feeling overwhelmed is to be expected. We are so thankful to have the support of our sisters in a time like this!

We encourage you to observe social distancing and avoid face-to-face interactions with others. If you feel anxious and feel like you need to speak with someone, we encourage you to look into online mental health resources. 
HEADQUARTERS TRANSITIONING TO REMOTE WORK
As of March 16, Phi Sigma Sigma Headquarters staff will be transitioning to a remote structure, until at least April 6, in observance of social distancing best practices. We are prepared for this transition and have implemented several processes to minimize any impact to our operations.

During this time operations will be as follows:

  • We will continue to operate with our normal business hours of 9:00 A.M. - 5:30 P.M. EST.
  • Please continue to call our main office line at (410) 799-1224 to be connected with our team or view our online staff directory for direct contact information.
  • Incoming mail will continue to be processed and outgoing mail will be assessed as needed.
  • Accounting and finance functions will continue to be maintained.

We recognize this is a challenging time for everyone; our team is dedicated to supporting our sisters as we make necessary accommodations to our practices. We appreciate your understanding and support during this unique situation and will continue to keep you updated.
Future updates and resources will be posted to our COVID-19 webpage.
For those currently residing in the U.S., additional information can be found on the Center for Disease Control website. For those currently residing in Canada, please utilize the information found on the Public Health Agency of Canada website.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at prepare@phisigmasigma.org .
Tune in tonight at 6 P.M. EST for an Instagram Live message from Grand Archon Katie Vlietstra Wonnenberg.
PHI SIGMA SIGMA
(410) 799-1224 | phisighq@phisigmasigma.org
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