Letter from the Alumnae Relations Chair: Mackenna Gordon

Hello all! Amid all of the challenges that the coronavirus has brought on, we are seeking out new ways to keep singing and strengthen our sisterhood. One program that we are looking into is Jamulus, which would make virtual rehearsals easier. If anyone has experience with this program, please reach out to vwcalumnaerelations@gmail.com or uva.vwc@gmail.com. 

 While we are disappointed that we have to hold off on large, in-person gatherings indefinitely, we are thrilled to be launching a new mentoring program, “Supersisters,” that will aim to connect current VWC members and alumnae! Many thanks to Laura Harders, Emily Fox, and especially Chris Butler for all of their help!

 Vision: The vision of the Supersister program is to provide a mentoring relationship between a current member of the VWC and an alumna of the Chorus that allows for a shared connection over love of choral music and of this organization that means so much to so many people.  It is especially vital during the social distancing measures that can strip some aspects of community from our lived experience, especially choral music communities!

Expectations: The mentors and mentees will connect as frequently as is mutually decided, but the expectation is that the Supersister will reach out at least once a month to check in on the current chorus member. Once contact is made via email, the Supersister and Chorus member can decide whether email serves their connection purposes or whether texting/mailing would enrich the relationship. All participants must pledge that requested boundaries regarding contact will be honored, and all provisions for social distancing must be maintained as per the University's stated guidelines. Participation is voluntary, and participants on either side can discontinue at any time; however, any Supersister leaving the program must communicate with Chris Butler so that another can be assigned in her place.

This program is being initiated as a pilot for the 2020-2021 school year to mitigate the emotional cost of pandemic safety measures. Commitment will be expected to be the length of the full academic year (except in extenuating circumstances).  The effectiveness of the program will be evaluated in Summer 2021 to assess its viability for future implementation.

If you’re interested in becoming a supersister, you can fill out this form, and we will match you with a current member!

Mackenna Gordon

Alumnae Relations Chair, Virginia Women’s Chorus