The University of Arizona suspended all fraternity activities yesterday in order to address a backlog of misconduct reports.
In an internal letter to the Greek Life community shared with AZPM, Dean of Students Chrissy Lieberman said that her office was at maximum capacity in terms of the number of misconduct investigations it can handle, just seven weeks into the semester.
According to the letter, every single report of misconduct involves a fraternity, and about half of the university’s 21 fraternities are mentioned.
Last month, the university suspended the Sigma Tau Gamma fraternity over allegations that members had been forced to consume live goldfish last year. And in July, Sigma Alpha Mu lost recognition after members were allegedly burned with hot liquids.
“The number of cases under investigation and the severity of the concerns is egregious. President Garimella met with (fraternity) presidents on August 27th. The President made clear that the behaviors reported last semester were unacceptable,” wrote Lieberman in the letter. “Despite the President’s expectations, here we are.”
Fraternities that were in good standing prior to yesterday’s suspension will be able to resume activities once one of their chapter advisors attends one of three mandatory meetings taking place in the next week.
After that, chapter advisors will be required to attend quarterly meetings to remain in good standing.
Lieberman ended her letter with, “You have a part in what happens next. The time for change is now.”
