The Constantine Sig
To: The undergraduate members of Psi Chapter
From: jmallon@spa.com
Subject: A challenge
Sent: Sunday, August 2, 2020 1:49 PM
Afternoon, Brothers,
Hope your summer's going as well as can be expected. I'm sure you're looking forward to returning to Cville and seeing one another.
Please read this entire email—it won't take long.
FYI, the House renovation will be done just before your return. You will be amazed.
Your leases are ready for signature. A lot of time was spent by numerous folks drafting these leases. This was purposeful—you know
we're in novel times and adapting daily to different aspects of COVID. These leases are our attempt to allow you to reside/ socialize at
608, but to do so in a prudent manner.
If this appears to be a motivational message from me, that's exactly right.
I'm asking you to do things that neither I nor any of your predecessors had to do. You may feel you are impervious to COVID, or not
worried should you contract it, or bristle about these restrictions. These are selfish and myopic views.
This isn't about you, it's about us. Us—Psis, UVA students, UVA faculty, and residents of Cville and Albemarle, of which I am one.
After Midsummers, Dean Groves said he heard some students defend not wearing masks/social distancing by stating they're young,
healthy, and not at risk of serious health conditions. Dean Groves' take on this: "To be clear, such an argument should be seen by us as
repugnant to any idea of fundamental decency towards our fellow citizens." Amen.
Here's a poignant article from today's Daily Progress – take a look at it… it's about being unselfish: https://dailyprogress.com/news/
uva-covid-prevention-tactics-will-rely-on-test-student-self-governance/article_3ff89b1a-7c39-53c0-b371-a1b4cd04b437.html
Indiscretion has a ripple effect—and it could have unforeseen and deadly consequences… some of which you may not ever know
you caused. Peer pressure can both be positive and negative—enhancing or detracting from a common goal. Your officers have a
significant challenge ahead of them this academic year. Be a positive influence.
And don't have UVA articles similar to this making the news: https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2020-07-30/coronavirus-usc-
greek-row-covid-19-colleges-prep
I spent 25 years in the Marine Corps doing a lot of things I didn't want to do, but HAD to do because it served the interests of my fellow
Marines, my unit, and the mission. We accomplished the mission every time.
Psi alums have done a lot for you all. I know you understand this and are grateful for it. But remember, all we ask in return is that you
take care of the House and you take care of one another. Accomplish the mission.
Best and In Hoc—look forward to seeing you all soon, masks and all.
Jim, Psi '81
