The University of Arizona has suspended six fraternities this week, citing ongoing investigations into allegations of drug use, alcohol abuse, physical assault, and hazing, according to local reports. A memo from Dean of Students Chrissy Lieberman, released on Monday, highlighted that her office has been overwhelmed with misconduct reports and is unable to investigate all cases promptly.
The fraternities affected by the suspensions include Zeta Beta Tau, Sigma Phi Epsilon, Sigma Chi, Phi Delta Theta, Theta Xi, and Phi Gamma Delta, as reported by local affiliate KOLD. Additionally, every chapter within the Interfraternity Council (IFC) has been placed on ‘Interim Activities Suspension’ until a mandatory meeting between chapter leaders and Lieberman occurs.
The suspensions come as scrutiny intensifies over fraternity activities on college campuses nationwide. Concurrently, Cornell University is undergoing multiple investigations regarding the handling of sexual assault allegations involving its Chi Phi chapter. New York Attorney General Letitia James and former Deputy Attorney General Sally Yates are involved in reviewing these matters at Cornell.
According to the internal memo cited by KOLD, Lieberman acknowledges the influx of reports this semester from students, parents, and the community. The Dean of Students Office currently has reached its capacity for investigating these cases, all involving an IFC chapter.
To those who have reported misbehavior and demonstrated care for the community, I am grateful. We will hold every chapter and member accountable for their actions.
Lieberman emphasizes the need for the University of Arizona Greek community to exemplify positive change and initiate difficult conversations about their conduct.
During active suspension, fraternities cannot participate in or host any events. However, they may conduct business meetings. If a chapter leader participates in the mandatory meeting, chapters in good standing will resume their previous status. The first meeting occurred on Tuesday, with subsequent meetings scheduled for Wednesday and October 12, as reported by KOLD.
Former Palm Beach County State Attorney Dave Aronberg supported the measure, commenting that an interim suspension is justified when credible allegations related to hazing, assault, drugs, and other threats to student safety arise. He noted that nearly half of the University of Arizona’s chapters face misconduct inquiries, including some under criminal investigation, making the university’s cautionary approach reasonable.
Aronberg further mentioned that a university can take action according to campus rules without waiting for criminal charges. He stressed the importance of fair processes and reliable evidence as the severity and permanence of punishments increase.
This situation continues to develop, and updates will be provided as new information emerges.
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