Hello Members of IISE DFW,
The IISE Leadership Team wanted to provide an update on our activities in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Six months ago, we announced that the chapter was suspending all in-person activities in order to encourage social distancing. This decision was made with all of our and our families health and safety at the forefront of our minds. In response to these measures, the chapter has increased our online presence by increasing the frequency of our e-mail updates, hosting more virtual webinars and tutorials, and even hosting a virtual general body meeting. The transition was smooth, and we believe the membership has gotten a lot of benefit from the activities we have hosted this year.
However, we understand that the face-to-face experience is another critical component to retaining a membership with a professional organization that is geographically constrained. I know that I personally miss our chapter dinners and various in-person activities. We appreciate everyone’s patience and hope that you continue to enjoy the benefits that we are able to provide virtually.
At this time, although the economy has begun to open up more and more over the passing months, IISE DFW will maintain a virtual-only presence at least through the end of the calendar year. According to John Hopkins University of Medicine Coronavirus Resource Center, Dallas County ranks 6th in the country with 84,951 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Tarrant County ranks 16th with 53,292 (as of October 8, 2020). We do not believe that it is in the best interest of our organization to resume in-person activities at this time.
Please know that we are continuing to monitor the guidance from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). We are also maintaining guidance from our parent organization, IISE. Our hearts and thought’s go out to all in our community who have been negatively affected by the coronavirus. We will reassess our position and delivery of benefits and activities in the new year.
Please let us know if there is anything the chapter can do to make your experience as an IISE DFW member as positive as possible. Thank you,
Brian Strevens
President
IISE Dallas-Fort Worth
IISE of Dallas-Fort Worth 