Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to the most heard fraternity-related questions regarding the coronavirus pandemic. This resource will be regularly updated as needed. If you need additional support or have other questions, please do not hesitate to contact Fred Dobry, Director of Health and Safety, at fred.dobry@sigmanu.org.
What can I do to help?
This period of uncertainty is prompting many members to ask how they can help. In terms of the Fraternity, check-in with your chapter’s collegiate and alumni leadership to ask how they are doing and see if there are any specific needs for support or assistance. In the Helping Hand spirit, United Way is organizing efforts throughout the country to meet the needs of local communities. Virtual volunteerism is another way to get involved and provide support to worthy causes while also respecting the need for social distancing.
Are collegiate chapters expected to pay their remaining Spring 2020 dues, fees, and assessments from the General Fraternity?
We recognize these exceptional circumstances present operational and financial pressures for all. At this time, all normal Spring 2020 dues, fees, and assessments, including any past due balances, are expected to be paid. If the chapter needs assistance in reviewing its budget and making plans to meet its financial commitments, please contact your Leadership Consultant.
Will collegiate chapters and/or house corporations refund member dues and/or rent?
The Treasurer, with the assistance of the Finance Committee and Advisors, should immediately review the budget for the remainder of the term. Fixed costs, including dues, fees, and assessments from the host institution and General Fraternity, contractual obligations, and items paid in support of the chapter home should be prioritized.
Variable costs – expenses related to chapter activities and events – will likely drastically change for the remainder of the term. For any planned activities and events, the chapter should cancel or postpone them immediately and work with the impacted vendors to discuss contract cancelation. Most vendors have been flexible and accommodating; however, if you run into any issues, please contact Fred Dobry, Director of Health and Safety, at fred.dobry@sigmanu.org.
Is the Headquarters office still open?
The Headquarters buildings in Lexington, Va. are closed until further notice, except for a small group of Fraternity staff who will ensure the continuity of critical functions and upkeep of the Headquarters campus. All meetings, tours, or pilgrimages at the Headquarters campus through the end of the Spring 2020 academic term have been postponed or canceled.
To protect the health of the Fraternity staff, all staff members will work remotely during this time to ensure the continued provision of services and support for the Fraternity. We do not expect any interruption in services and support; however, response time to calls and emails may be slower than usual.
When is the 69th Grand Chapter going to be held?
In accordance with The Law of Sigma Nu Fraternity, Inc., the High Council of Sigma Nu Fraternity unanimously determined the global pandemic caused by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) constitutes a national emergency, making it unsafe and imprudent for the Grand Chapter to occur as scheduled in July 2020. With the health and safety of all Grand Chapter participants the highest priority, the High Council unanimously approved a postponement of the 69th Grand Chapter until summer 2021.
Is the Pursuit of Excellence Self-Assessment Booklet still due on April 30th?
Yes. The PEP Self-Assessment booklet should be submitted to pep@sigmanu.org by April 30th. Within that report, chapters should note any impact the coronavirus pandemic had on chapter operations and/or planned activities and events. That impact will be noted and considered in the evaluation process.
Are Alumni Advisory Boards still expected to complete their annual assessment survey by May 15th?
Yes. The Chapter Advisor and Alumni Advisory Board Chairman should complete the survey that was emailed to them directly. If they cannot locate that email, please contact Todd Denson, Director of Alumni Advisory Programs, at todd.denson@sigmanu.org.
In completing the survey, make note of any impact the coronavirus pandemic had on the AAB’s operations and/or planned activities and events. That impact will be noted and considered in the evaluation process.
Will the GreekLifeEdu financial incentive policy be enforced this academic year?
Yes, by May 18, 2020, 90% of current chapter members must have completed GreekLifeEdu at some point in their academic career for the chapter to qualify for the lowest available per member risk management assessment rate. Chapters who fail to achieve 90% by May 18th will be automatically enrolled in an extended deadline of September 30th by which all returning members who have yet to complete GreekLifeEdu must do so to avoid the financial surcharge.
Are individual and chapter merit award applications still due on April 30th?