STATESBORO —With the risk of COVID outbreaks on the horizon, Georgia Southern University’s fraternity and sorority councils have voted to avoid holding in-person social events, and have moved their organizational events to virtual meetings.

“With all of the uncertainty going on in the world right now, our main focus is keeping students on both campuses safe,” said Samoria Smith, president of the Multicultural Greek Council on the Armstrong campus in Savannah.

Following a summer decision to also move recruitment events virtually, the new plan is in line with the university’s back-to-campus plan, which hopes to return the campus experience to a state of normalcy while still adhering to guidelines set by the Department of Public Health and the CDC.

“As a Greek woman, I know the tremendous impact Greek leaders have on our campus communities,” said Shay Little, vice president for student affairs. “The collective action taken by our councils is exactly the bold leadership we need to slow the spread of COVID-19. I am proud of the Greek community’s leadership and vision to set high expectations to keep our communities safe and healthy.”

With other universities being criticized for holding large off-campus gatherings, GSU offers these councils praise for their decision.

“Faculty and staff are working diligently to keep our campuses healthy and safe,” Little said. “The six councils have now stepped up and lived true to our fraternal values by setting expectations for behaviors to support a safe and healthy campus environment. Each of us must do our part to keep our community safe.”

The plan for the university’s fraternities and sororities to remain virtual and withhold hosting in-person events will continue through October 1, both on and off campus. What plans will be enacted moving forward beyond that are unknown.