Delta Gamma - University of Iowa

Delta Gamma page 5 D ue to the unforeseen circumstances proposed by COVID-19, the Tau Chapter of Delta Gamma has implemented several changes to successfully navigate this uncertain time. Prior to returning to campus, Tau Chapter composed and established guidelines in several categories that align with the recommendations and mandates of the University of Iowa, Delta Gamma's Fraternity Housing Corporation, and the Iowa Department of Public Health. Aside from universal alterations regarding our Chapter structure, our members have also learned to endure the following accommodations: • All events must be held virtually. This includes, but is not limited to, recruitment events and preparation, sisterhood events, social events, general chapter meetings, and educational events. • Live-out members are no longer permitted to interact with live-in members within our Chapter facility. • Elections, officer transitions, and slating are to be held in a virtual format. Since this spring, our Chapter has grown closer as our members have learned to lean on one another in times of uncertainty. This was especially true was during recruitment. Although formal recruitment and continuous open bidding were very challenging, the Chapter maintained focus and determination throughout, resulting in a full pledge class. This proves that our sisterhood and individual commitment to Tau hold strong. From a presidential standpoint, I cannot say my term has been easy, but I am certain it was worthwhile. I expected it to be hard to adjust to in the beginning and get easier as time progressed. Due to the pandemic, however, the exact opposite took place. I have learned to endure this time by remembering that "what doesn't kill you makes you stronger." In other words, while my term has not been a breeze, I have developed a newfound love and appreciation for Tau Chapter, as well as an immense number of new leadership skills that will benefit me in the future. I have learned to communicate both internally and externally via a virtual platform, to better enforce multipurpose programming, to think strategically, to recognize and respond to my responsibilities, and to prioritize mental health within the Tau Chapter. Furthermore, I have found that positivity is contagious. My Chapter management team and I have learned that the attitude we lead with directly reflects the attitude of our Chapter. We must be the member we want our members to be in order to ensure a successful term. To do so, we have done our due diligence in fostering a safe environment, while promoting personal responsibility. As always, with this unexpected pandemic, change is inevitable, and while it took us months to adjust, I can confidently say now that we are consistently proactive in "preparing for the worst but hoping for the best." Adapting to change has been the hardest issue for me to overcome. This term has not been relatable to years past, and this new reality has been scary. With the help of my advisors and our alumni, though, I am certain I am not alone. In the Bonds, Emily Peckosh '17 Chapter President Tau Chapter Prioritizes Sisterhood and Connection

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