A LUM N I C O R N E R
BY MARCUS WYCH E, T HIR D V IC E P R ES I D E N T/A LU MN I A DV I S O R D E LTA D E LTA , WAS H I N GTO N DC ALUMNI A LUM NI A DV I S O R @ MU P H I E P S I LO N .O R G
s of this writing, Collegiate and Alumni presidents, chapter officers, district directors, and International Executive Board members have come together at least twice for online leadership meetings. Originally suggested by Portland Alumni Chapter President Lindsey Johnson and facilitated by Collegiate Advisor Jenny Smith and me, these virtual gatherings have been a forum for chapter and Fraternity leaders to share insights, updates, tips, news, and recommendations —and to see and hear how we are all faring in these still-difficult days. After initially fretting how such a meeting would be conducted across different time zones, I was encouraged by, and enjoyed, the interaction among Mu Phis from different areas of the country. And while, in my position, I regrettably don’t interact with Collegiates nearly as much as Jenny, it was fascinating and instructive to hear about collegiate activities and problem-solving, and to know their concerns were not so different than those of Alumni. One theme I believe emerged from these virtual meetings was the use of technology — ways of conducting chapter operations and performing music and service. But, going deeper, another theme for me emerged: how technology can make sharing possible and break down boundaries. I would never wish this terrible pandemic on anyone, and hope and pray we are able to return to a sense of normalcy as soon as possible. And I do not believe technology is the endall-be-all of human interaction. But the technology we’ve been forced to use, flummoxing and tiresome as it sometimes can be, has enabled us to reach out to one another in ways not previously explored. In the online leadership meetings, Alumni from the West Coast were able to share with collegiates in the Midwest. The Mid-Atlantic was able to connect with the Southeast. A techsavvy student could be given the awareness to assist a tech-challenged Alumni chapter 200 miles away. Ritual and ceremony performances could be compared across regions. Would this kind of long-distance communication and sharing have occurred otherwise? 4
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Illustration:Galina Ankudinova
NO BOUNDARIES, NO LIMITS
Even for an introvert like me, Mu Phi gatherings and fellowship are preferable in person. Barring that, we have 21st century tools at our disposal to stay connected (incidentally, “Connected” was the theme of our 2011 International Convention). In addition to teleconferencing, there is email, social media, online chat groups, tools for digital editing and file sharing, video conferencing, and live streaming. Our health and safety lockdowns can be isolating, but they can also provide opportunities to reach beyond traditional boundaries in untraditional ways as well as attract prospective members who bring a different skill set. Districts, provinces, and the Fraternity and Foundation boards represent the jurisdictional frameworks of our Fraternity. But I encourage everyone to not let these artificial distinctions keep you from becoming the best chapters and members you can be, and to seek assistance and fellowship beyond your zip code. True, for music professionals the personal touch is best, and we know the needs and workings of our localities best. But extraordinary times can lead to innovative thinking outside the box… or your geographical area. As an international Fraternity heading into a convention where technology will be key, what could be more intriguing?
