Ohio University’s Sigma Chi fraternity was issued a cease and desist order Friday for allegedly violating the Student Code of Conduct and endangering the “health and safety” of its members.
Sigma Chi will not be permitted to meet in any capacity while the order is in place, according to a letter sent by Taylor Tackett, assistant dean of students and director of Community Standards and Student Responsibility. That directive does not limit communications between members and advisers, but organizational meetings, philanthropy, social events and other activities will not be allowed.
An investigation into Sigma Chi has also been initiated, according to the letter. The letter did not contain any specifics on the allegations leveled against the fraternity.
Sigma Chi is expected to supply a list of its full membership, those who were in the bid process, those who are no longer in the bid process and their reason for leaving and any big/little pairings, according to the letter. The information must be sent to Associate Director of Community Standards and Student Responsibility Mary Kate Kennedy by April 19. Kennedy will be the lead investigator for the case.
Sigma Chi is the third fraternity to receive a cease and desist order during the Spring Semester. Delta Tau Delta and Alpha Phi Alpha both received cease and desist orders in early February due to similar allegations. Previously, all IFC fraternity chapters were suspended during Fall Semester 2019 due to widespread hazing allegations.
