January 8, 2021, By IHQ

New COVID-19 Directives and Guidelines

The following directive and guidelines revise and supersedes the Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity COVID-19 policy issued in April 2020.

Effective Immediately:
All Chapters are directed to strictly comply with the COVID-19 policies and guidelines below. Any Chapter or Member who violates this Directive shall be subject to disciplinary action pursuant to the Uniformed System of Sanctions. The Directives and Guidelines below are in addition to applicable local (municipal and state) healthcare guidelines. Activities resulting in COVID-19-related claims are not covered under the Fraternity’s general liability insurance policy.

The Fraternity will review and may revise these Directives and Guidelines on or before March 15, 2021.

Until such notice, Chapters and Members shall comply as follows:

Chapter Meetings:
Chapters are to host meetings virtually (this includes chapter meetings, informationals, and MIP educational modules).

In-Person Events and Gatherings:

Chapters are prohibited from participating in, hosting, promoting or sponsoring any in-person events until further notice from the International Headquarters.

MIP Education and Initiation:

• Chapters may only conduct a totally virtual MIP education process with approval from the Regional Director. The format for virtual MIP education processes have been supplied by the Fraternity and strict adherence is required.
• In-person initiation ceremonies are temporarily suspended. Chapters are permitted to conduct virtual ceremonies with the approval of the Regional Director.

New Member Presentations:

Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity chapters (both Alumni and Collegiate)) will continue to follow the new member presentation procedure implemented in Spring 2020.

• Chapters are required to reveal/present their new members via their chapter social media accounts within seven days of initiation.
• No in-person new member presentations/probate shows are allowed even for chapter members.
• All presentations/reveals must be approved by the Regional Director.

Service Projects:

Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity recognizes that Chapters may help prevent and slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus while still conducting service projects. Chapters are encouraged to pursue virtual community service projects. However, in-person community service activities are prohibited.

Special Note:

• As of the issuance of this Revised Covid-19 Directives and Guidelines, Myrtle Beach Conclave will still proceed as an in-person event, as planned.
• Chapters are directed to consult their Regional Director regarding current plans for 2021 Regional Conferences.

Fraternally,

Kedric D. Nalls
34th Regional Director | Western Region
Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Incorporated