4 days ago
University of Utah terminates recognition of fraternity accused of ‘egregious and serious' hazing
A statue of the University of Utah logo is pictured on campus in Salt Lake City on Monday, January 15, 2024. (Photo by Spenser Heaps for Utah News Dispatch)
The University of Utah has terminated its recognition of a fraternity accused of 'egregious and serious' hazing, including forcing new members to drink alcohol and use drugs, sleep on a basement floor, and do chores at 3 a.m.
According to a letter from Vice President for Student Affairs Lori McDonald, the university will not consider applications to recognize the Sigma Nu – Epsilon Lambda fraternity until 2031.
The letter, signed in May, details a number of hazing allegations that occurred during fall 2024 and spring 2025 semesters, pointing to 'a pattern of misbehavior over the past six years, including hazing, alcohol-related violations, and destruction of property.'
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In January, the university was alerted to possible violations of student code from the fraternity. It launched an investigation that was completed in May.
That investigation, according to a report released by the university, found at least 13 incidents of 'subtle, harassment and violent' hazing. That included:
An event where new members were forced to drink large quantities of beer, vodka and whiskey.
Requiring new members to complete chores as early as 3 a.m. or risk facing humiliating sexualized punishment by active members.
Blindfolding, kidnapping and bringing new members to an 'exotic dance club.'
Telling new members to participate in an interview while using marijuana, or risk removal.
Giving members 'derogatory' nicknames.
Hosting expensive and unsanctioned parties where alcohol was provided.
Requiring new members to carry 'pledge packs' at all times, which included items like tobacco, condoms, a golf tee, gum, Zyns and a marijuana pen.
The investigation report also detailed a tradition where new members were forced to stay in the basement of the fraternity building.
'During this timeframe, limited food was provided, new members slept on the basement floor, and they were required to clean the facility and sing songs while actives and alumni were present,' the document reads.
'I do not have confidence the Sigma Nu chapter will follow the University's directions, policies, or the terms of a suspension, and therefore, termination of the University's recognition of the chapter is warranted,' McDonald wrote to the fraternity in the May 19 letter.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the university's Greek Council Executive Board said hazing is 'harmful, unacceptable, and has no place in our community.'
'The actions that led to this decision, do not reflect the values or true purpose of Greek life. Greek organizations should stand for leadership, service, friendship, and personal growth,' the board said.
According to the university, three fraternities have lost their official recognition since 2002.
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