This email was sent to the leaders of Duke’s fraternities and sororities on Friday, August 7, 2020.

Chapter Presidents & Council Leaders,

We know that for many of you, your first days and weekends back in the same vicinity are a welcome change from time this summer when you’ve been apart and isolated.  But if you are planning any kind of social event that gathers more than 10 people in one place—we need to pause your plans and to remind you that being off campus does not mean that Duke’s rules & expectations regarding COVID-19 safety do not apply to you. All students–those living on-campus or off-campus, undergraduate or graduate/professional–must abide by these expectations. 

We need your help in being part of the solution, not a source of unintended danger–for Duke, as well as also for our Durham community. A few reminders on this front:

  • The pandemic does not care where you live. On campus, off campus, a bus, the grocery store, your apartment — stopping the spread means following safety precautions everywhere.
  • ANY social event with more than 10 people (indoors or outdoors) presents a serious public health risk and is prohibited by Duke policy until further notice. As outlined in communication you’ve already received, ALL student organization activity has been directed to be virtual for the time being. Violations of this could result in both individual and organization suspension from Duke, and that is if you host or even just attend an event that does not follow policies.
  • We’re sure you’ve seen peers at other institutions’ failure to follow safety guidelines.  This has resulted in virus spread and students being suspended from their universities.  In addition to any proceedings with Duke, a large gathering could draw a public response (neighbors, media outlets, Durham police, etc.) that could amplify the difficulties event hosts and attendees experience.

Some of you may be feeling pressure to host events to provide a social outlet for others. We have heard you ask that our offices be more clear regarding consequences for students who violate policy, so please forward this to whoever needs to see it. Help us tell your members: if you host or attend a gathering that violates University rules and /or presents a public health risk, you may jeopardize your standing as a Duke student. 

Before you invite others to your house or apartment, or before you show up to someone else’s house or apartment — take a moment to think about if it’s worth losing the opportunity to remain at Duke. Please know that the University does not take violations of these policies lightly, and we need to demonstrate that we care and respect ourselves and our community by supporting these efforts, not diminishing them.

As a reminder, any member of the Duke community can share a concern regarding violations of Duke’s COVID-19 policies and expectations via email at conduct@duke.edu or anonymously by calling 800.826.8109 or completing an online form.

Thanks!

Emilie Dye

Director of Student Engagement, Leadership, UCAE
Michele Armstrong

Assistant Dean of Students, Student Conduct