University of Arizona Suspends Six Fraternities Amid Investigations

The University of Arizona has suspended six fraternities due to ongoing investigations into issues related to drugs, alcohol, physical assault, and hazing. This action was reported by local outlets and announced through a memo from the Dean of Students, Chrissy Lieberman.

According to the memo released on Monday, Lieberman stated that her office has been overwhelmed with reports of misconduct, surpassing their capacity to manage investigations efficiently. The fraternities affected by this suspension include Zeta Beta Tau, Sigma Phi Epsilon, Sigma Chi, Phi Delta Theta, Theta Xi, and Phi Gamma Delta. In addition to the suspension, every chapter has been placed under ‘Interim Activities Suspension’ pending mandatory meetings with Lieberman and their advisors.

These suspensions highlight the increasing scrutiny on fraternity oversight nationwide. For instance, Cornell University is undergoing several investigations concerning its management of sexual assault allegations associated with the Chi Phi chapter. The New York Attorney General, Letitia James, has been named the special prosecutor in reopening the investigation while former Deputy Attorney General Sally Yates conducts an independent review of Cornell’s actions.

Newsweek reached out to the University of Arizona for comments on Tuesday night. Lieberman’s memo indicates that numerous reports were submitted from students, parents, and the community regarding misconduct involving IFC chapters. The Dean of Students Office is at full capacity with existing cases. The memo expressed gratitude towards those reporting misbehavior, emphasizing the need for accountability within the Greek community.

“To those who have reported misbehavior and have demonstrated that they care about the community and are working toward cultural change, I am grateful. We will do our part to hold every chapter and member accountable for their actions,” Lieberman stated.

The suspension bars fraternities from organizing, participating in, attending, or hosting activities, although business meetings are permitted during the suspension. Chapters maintaining good standing will regain their status after attending mandatory meetings.

Dave Aronberg, former Palm Beach County State Attorney, supported the interim suspension, considering it appropriate amidst credible allegations. He noted that universities might not wait for criminal charges to act on campus conduct violations but emphasized the need for a fair process with substantial evidence when enforcing severe and permanent penalties.

Meetings have begun, with the first held on Tuesday and subsequent ones planned at the Bear Down Gym and Nugent 100. This ongoing situation at the University of Arizona continues to develop.