We're in this together, Sisters.

Dear Sisters,

As the Coronavirus pandemic keeps evolving, I wanted to reach out to you to express gratitude, provide some encouragement and share an update about what Alpha Xi Delta is doing to navigate this new normal we find ourselves living in.

Thank You
First and foremost, thank you to everyone who is doing their part to slow the growth and spread of Coronavirus. Whether you are a medical professional, a teacher who is putting together e-learning plans, a chapter advisor hosting Google Hangouts for new members, doing grocery runs for your elderly neighbors and everything and everyone in between, thank you for all that you are doing to extend grace, kindness and love in these uncertain times. I especially want to give praise to all of our volunteers and staff who are working tirelessly to ensure our members are cared for and safe and that our organization continues to move forward. It’s important that we all do our part and follow the recommendations provided by our states and CDC to help the greater good and slow the spread of COVID-19.

An Update on Alpha Xi Delta
We know that many of you are like us, fluctuating between nervous and anxious in these chaotic times. I want to assure you that your National Council, Foundation Trustees, and National Housing Corporation Boards of Directors, in conjunction with Alpha Xi Delta Fraternity staff, are focused on all the necessary items to keep Alpha Xi Delta moving forward. We have created a page on our website that answers all of our frequently asked questions related to the Coronavirus pandemic. This page will be updated often and will be the most up-to-date information for our recommendations and answers as it relates to Coronavirus. It can be accessed here.

As an organization, we have had to make some difficult decisions in the past week. To keep everyone safe and continue to be good stewards of the Fraternity’s resources, we had to cancel all summer 2020 collegiate leadership programs. We are disappointed that our collegiate Sisters will not be able to experience these wonderful opportunities this summer, but it ultimately came down to our number one priority of keeping everyone safe and healthy. On the financial side of our organization, we, along with many businesses and associations, do not know what our landscape will look like after this pandemic, but I want to assure you that we are assessing the financial impact to our organization, on all fronts, as quickly as possible. We endeavor to keep you apprised as we navigate these uncertain times as we can. One thing I do know is that we have so many Sisters and friends who are committed to ensuring Alpha Xi Delta remains a relevant, thriving organization that continues to inspire women to realize their potential. This truly is a time that is testing our Sisterhood, but I know that we will come out stronger in the end.

We’re in This Together
As we navigate the coming weeks through this pandemic, I want to remind you that we are all in this together. Our Sisterhood isn’t confined to a chapter house or an alumnae association meeting. Now more than ever, we need each other. Reach out to a Sister through FaceTime, Zoom, text messaging, social media or a phone call. Find a free online workout program and ask a Sister to be your accountability partner, or start a virtual book club. Whatever you choose to do, please remember to take care of yourself, your mind and your heart. Do what feels right to you and brings you joy and try hard to take all of this one day at a time. We will get through this together.

If you start to feel overwhelmed or anxious, it’s ok. Download a free meditation app, take a break from your phone and/or social media, listen to some uplifting music or take a walk outside and breathe in some fresh air. If you need to talk to a professional, The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s Disaster Distress Helpline can be reached at 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.

I am so honored to be your National President and I am here for you all during this difficult time. This is a learning experience for all of us, and I am eternally grateful we have one another to lean on. Please contact me with any questions or concerns anytime at misleraxid@gmail.com.

Loyally,

Micaela A. Isler
National President