Purdue places fraternity on extended probation
November 13, 2013
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - Purdue University officials announced Wednesday (Nov. 13) that the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity has been placed on probation through May 15, 2017.
The probation stems from violations that include making alcohol available to minors; stealing sheet signs from other Purdue student organizations; hazing in the form of demeaning or intimidating behavior toward new members; and taking lewd photographs with props. An investigation by the Office of the Dean of Students also concluded that three members were using the chapter's text messaging system to make prescription drugs available. All of the incidents were reported during the fall 2013 semester.
"The length of this probation will give Sigma Phi Epsilon a chance to correct several organizational culture issues that need to be addressed in order for the group to remain part of the Purdue University community," said Jeffery Stefancic, associate dean of students. "The assigned sanctions send a strong message that we have high expectations for Purdue's fraternity and sorority community and that certain behaviors will not be tolerated."
During the probationary period, Sigma Phi Epsilon cannot have alcohol at its chapter house or on any chapter property and cannot sponsor or co-sponsor any function at which alcohol is served. The chapter also is required to have an alumni adviser present at all new member events through Aug. 15, 2015, and it cannot participate in any Purdue Grand Prix activities next spring or Homecoming activities next fall.
"Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity values its partnership with Purdue University and the collaborative effort to addresses concerns about the actions of certain members," said Kyle Sutton, director of the fraternity's Balanced Man program. "We look forward to supporting a fraternity experience for members committed to the highest standards of Purdue University and SigEp."
Writer: Jim Bush, 765-494-2077, jsbush@purdue.edu
Source: Jeffery Stefancic, 765-494-1250, jpstefan@purdue.edu
