What’s the backup plan for recruitment in August?

[trymeplease]

I can’t see any org willing to take on the liability of hundreds of students from all over being packed in houses, and the sharp increase in covid cases that will happen (if there is no vaccine). I can see social distancing in classrooms, maybe housing (single rooms?) but not Recruitment. So, what does that mean? Zoom Recruitment? I know these things are being discussed, but I just don’t see a way for the large SEC schools to do it.

[zTaalum]

Originally Posted by trymeplease

I can’t see any org willing to take on the liability of hundreds of students from all over being packed in houses, and the sharp increase in covid cases that will happen (if there is no vaccine). I can see social distancing in classrooms, maybe housing (single rooms?) but not Recruitment. So, what does that mean? Zoom Recruitment? I know these things are being discussed, but I just don’t see a way for the large SEC schools to do it.

There are far too many girls that rush at SEC schools to do it by zoom. Plus sorority recruitment at schools like Alabama , UGA and Auburn is a big factor in the amount of girls who attend the university. They are looking for the "experience" so for it to go to "zoom' would be a deal breaker for many. Again if a state is in phase 3 of the reopening there is no need for them not to do this. There is actually a great interview with a doctor and dean from UAB that addresses fall classes and events. He spoke of how they are planning for testing and contact tracing so that things hopefully can proceed as scheduled to include large gatherings like greek life and football . I have daughter attending one of these schools and they are choosing rooms next week and there has been no discussion of single rooms. I think if that was something her particular school was doing we would know by now.

[flirt5721]

I was on the recruitment call tonight and NMSU is looking in to possibly having a virtual recruitment. Not sure how that would work. They also said they are looking into other options that their peer institutions might be doing.

[FSUZeta]

How many girls normally go through rush at NMSU and how large is the typical pledge class?

[zTaalum]

Originally Posted by FSUZeta

How many girls normally go through rush at NMSU and how large is the typical pledge class?

Looks like the only have 5 chapters so probably a relatively small one. An online one may work for them but honestly IMOP I think if it has to be done that way everyone should wait until they can do it in person.

[AZ-AlphaXi]

Originally Posted by FSUZeta

How many girls normally go through rush at NMSU and how large is the typical pledge class?

Usually about 125-150 signup and new member classes are 17-22. Total is usually about 60. Recruitment is in the fall after classes start.

[flirt5721]

Originally Posted by AZ-AlphaXi

Usually about 125-150 signup and new member classes are 17-22. Total is usually about 60. Recruitment is in the fall after classes start.

NMSU has a small Greek Life. 5 chapters, 3 housed, 2 with lodges. The last few years registrations has been below 200. Total is usually around 50-60. This is probably something that wouldn't work for a campus with a large Greek Life.

[FSUZeta]

I agree. In addition, this question popped in my head-what would be the attraction to pledge if everything had to be done at a distance? I would think bonding would be near impossible. Holding virtual new member meetings....initiation? Nope!

[KSUViolet06]

Originally Posted by FSUZeta

I agree. In addition, this question popped in my head-what would be the attraction to pledge if everything had to be done at a distance? I would think bonding would be near impossible. Holding virtual new member meetings....initiation? Nope!

I can tell you we have been advised that NO ritual should be taking place in Zoom or any other virtual space due to security issues.

I have absolutely no idea what the alternative will be.

[FSUZeta]

Originally Posted by KSUViolet06

I can tell you we have been advised that NO ritual should be taking place in Zoom or any other virtual space due to security issues.

I have absolutely no idea what the alternative will be.

Good to hear.

[Cookiez17]

Well at least for the new member classes at my school that were going to be initiated after spring break they moved it to the fall. Plus with ritual/secrets/etc. it just wouldn't be possible.

[Titchou]

My group has decided that all spring PNMs just have to have the chapter check all the boxes on the initiation requirements and they will be considered to have been initiated. Will do a ceremony when appropriate.

[flirt5721]

The chapter is doing virtual NM meeting and chapter meeting but absolutely no Initiation or ceremonies done via virtually. Initiation has been move to fall when school starts again.

[Cookiez17]

Same with my chapter. The new members are now recognized as "initiated" but they'll have a real ceremony and finish their NME in the fall.

[nyapbp]

Aside from all of these worries, I think some institutions will be forced to close due to financial reasons. GLO chapters at these schools cease to exist.