Our Fraternity, our country, the US higher education system, and each of us face a new set of challenges that not many of us had ever imagined. I personally had never heard of a Corona Virus or the specific COVID-19 virus, and today, both have now become a significant part of our life for the foreseeable future. My grandsons are home from the local school, those of us in Southeastern PA are currently on a 2-week shutdown, and the situation is changing rapidly. Colleges and universities around the globe are reacting to the high potential of spreading the virus by moving their teaching activities online. In the KDR universe, all our host institutions have moved to online learning and have ceased campus activities and gatherings; all have sent their students home. Many are also cancelling Commencement, signaling that we are likely in this for a longer time than we all wish.
The National Fraternity staff is working diligently (from home) to assist the leadership in the chapters think about what it means to be an active chapter during this time apart. We must remember that many of those Brothers are also facing challenges of their own. Many of us have found that working toward some common good helps give us energy and a sense of accomplishment, while also providing a useful channel for our efforts in uncertain times. Our undergraduates need to learn that too. In addition, our staff are working to push information out to our entire Brotherhood during this time of crisis regarding Mental Health concerns during the outbreak, how to be proactive in preventing the spread of the virus, and tips on how to practice social distancing. Moving forward, you will be able to see our information on the COVID-19 response section of our website by clicking here. We also will be using our Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter sites to send this information out to our Brothers, both active and alumni.
When you have time, may I suggest that you reach out to a Brother you have not heard from in a while. Ask how he is doing and offer some words of encouragement. Most of all let him know what your relationship means to you.
Be well my Brothers. Honor Super Omnia!
Gene Spencer, Iota ‘76
National President
The National Fraternity of Kappa Delta Rho, Inc.
