Penn State has suspended the Alpha Chi Chapter of Sigma Chi fraternity through summer 2024 following alleged “significant violations” of COVID-19-related policies, the university announced Monday.
Sigma Chi entered interim suspension on Oct. 2 after Penn State’s Office of Student Conduct investigated allegations made against the fraternity relating to violations of the university’s COVID-19 guidelines and State College’s ordinance. At the time, the fraternity appealed a finding of responsibility.
According to a university statement, Sigma Chi hosted “a large gathering” that broke COVID-19 protocols, including mask-wearing and social distancing.
The suspension follows a history of alleged conduct violations within the fraternity. In a news release, the university cited multiple violations of alcohol and drug-related regulations filed against Sigma Chi over the last two years.
Although Penn State provided “accountability, education, and guidance,” Sigma Chi continued engaging in behavior that warranted policy violations, according to the university.
“Despite multiple opportunities in recent years to correct various misbehaviors, the Sigma Chi chapter blatantly ignored clear guidelines about large gatherings during the pandemic,” Damon Sims, vice president for student affairs, said in a statement. “We cannot allow groups that show evident disdain for the most basic public health requirements to persist with the risk they pose to our community.”
While it’s suspended, Sigma Chi loses all privileges recognized student organizations would typically hold. It can’t participate in, attend, or organize any functions, activities, or events, including university-wide gatherings.
