UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. – On Jan. 22, the Penn State Office of Student Conduct suspended the Alpha Chi Chapter of Sigma Chi through summer 2024 for significant violations of COVID-19 policies.
The fraternity was placed on interim suspension on Oct. 2 while the Office of Student Conduct investigated allegations made against Sigma Chi related to violations of the University’s COVID-19 guidelines as well as the State College ordinance. During this time, the fraternity appealed a finding of responsibility.
The suspension is in response to the fraternity hosting a large gathering where COVID-19 protocols, such as masking and social distancing, were not followed. It also takes into account the fraternity’s conduct history. Over the last two years, there have been multiple violations of University regulations as well as violations regarding alcohol and/or drugs. The University has provided accountability, education, and guidance, but the organization continued to engage in behavior that constituted policy violations.
"Despite multiple opportunities in recent years to correct various misbehaviors, the Sigma Chi chapter blatantly ignored clear guidelines about large gatherings during the pandemic," said Damon Sims, vice president for Student Affairs. "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."
The suspension means the fraternity loses all privileges as a recognized student organization. The organization may not participate in, attend or organize any functions, activities or events, including University-wide events, or otherwise function as a sanctioned organization at Penn State.