University of Arizona Suspends Fraternity Activities Amid Misconduct Reports

The University of Arizona has suspended all fraternity activities just seven weeks into the fall semester following persistent reports of misconduct, including allegations of assault, hazing, and drug and alcohol-related behavior. The decision was announced Monday by Dean of Students Chrissy Lieberman in a letter to the school's Greek organizations.

The university's Dean of Students Office is investigating multiple misconduct reports involving nearly half of the Interfraternity Council chapters. Lieberman stated in her letter that the number of cases and the severity of the concerns were "egregious."

These recent reports follow misconduct findings against some fraternity chapters in the spring and multiple ongoing criminal investigations. University spokesman Nick Prevenas did not immediately provide further details on the criminal investigations.

The suspension prohibits fraternities from hosting, attending, participating in, or sponsoring any organizational activities. This pause will remain in effect until fraternity advisers meet with Lieberman. Three meetings were scheduled for Tuesday, Wednesday, and October 12.

Lieberman's letter acknowledged that the Greek experience is "under scrutiny nationwide" and noted that the dean's office had reached its investigative capacity. Reports of misconduct continued even after the university president warned Interfraternity Council presidents in August about potential consequences.

"It is time for the University of Arizona Greek community to step up and set an example for good," the letter read. "It is time to have difficult conversations with each other and the members of the community."

In a separate incident, the university previously suspended activities at the Sigma Tau Gamma fraternity after new members reportedly were forced to consume large quantities of alcohol and live goldfish, and were subjected to verbal abuse and degradation. This suspension followed a Sept. 2 letter detailing these allegations.