March 12, 2020

Dear KD Sisters: 

We find ourselves in unprecedented times as people around the world are focused on the coronavirus (formally known as COVID-19) outbreak. Your health and well-being and that of all members and those in your communities is our top priority. 

As with most other organizations and businesses, responding to the coronavirus situation is a major focus for Kappa Delta. National Kappa Delta and local volunteers are working diligently to address concerns in our collegiate and alumnae chapters and the national organization. At this time, we are not aware of any confirmed cases of the coronavirus in any of our collegiate chapters, and we will continue to monitor.  

Many universities nationwide are moving to virtual, online classes and/or temporarily closing their campuses to keep the virus from spreading. To date, more than 85% of the college campuses where we have chapters have moved classes online or closed the campus. We expect that number to increase. We encourage our collegiate chapters to follow the lead of the university where they are located. We are evaluating how campus closures, classes moving to online or alternative delivery, event cancellations and other decisions affect our chapters and the member experience. 

We also anticipate collegiate and alumnae events and gatherings to be affected as universities and local health departments recommend people refrain from gathering in large groups, also called “social distancing.” These are unprecedented circumstances that require universities, organizations and businesses to think critically and make decisions for the good of all. 

We understand you may have questions. We will continue to reach out as necessary to chapter leaders, advisors and housing volunteers to offer guidance. Collegiate members can direct questions to the chapter president or CAB chairman. Advisors and housing volunteers can reach out to the chapter services coordinator or new chapter manager for their chapter. Other inquiries can be directed to kappadelta@kappadelta.orgcreate new email. 

We encourage all members to follow the recommendations provided by public health agencies and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, including staying home when you are sick, covering coughs and sneezes, washing hands often and thoroughly, and regularly cleaning frequently touched surfaces. Routine use of these measures by individuals and their families will increase community resilience and readiness for responding to an outbreak. For more information on prevention and treatment of the disease and the latest news regarding coronavirus, visit the CDC website. 

I am thankful for a sisterhood that offers support and reassurance in times like these. I encourage you to reach out to your KD sisters to offer support, encouragement and connection. 

In our KD, 

Tricia Spence
National President

Visit Kappa Delta’s dedicated Coronavirus webpage for additional information and resources.