Sigma Chi - University of Kansas

ALPHA XI page 2 T here was no specific incident of hazing that led to the revocation of Alpha Xi's charter. Instead, it was a series of incidents over the years that unfortunately never stopped. The Fraternity's "Statement of Policy on Human Decency and Dignity" is instructive: "One of the objectives of the Sigma Chi Fraternity is the achievement of purposeful living, both in college and the years that follow. Further, the Fraternity strives to promote leadership responsibility and instill the ideals of good citizenship. Sigma Chi teaches and is committed to the principle that dignity, self-esteem, and respect are the inalienable rights of every individual. Each brother shares the responsibility of preserving the rights of all brothers, pledges, and guests at all times. The Fraternity does not condone any activity that is destructive, demeaning, or abusive to anyone or any group, nor does it condone any form of sexual harassment or personal degradation. Acts of verbal harassment, physical aggression, or intolerance are unacceptable in the Sigma Chi Fraternity. If any brother or chapter is found engaging in activities unbecoming a Sigma Chi, this Statement of Policy on Human Decency and Dignity will be enforced. If necessary, actions leading to individual suspension or expulsion, or to the suspension or revocation of a chapter's charter, may be initiated to ensure compliance." Further, KU's Code of Student Rights and Responsibilities states in part: "Hazing includes, but is not limited to, any action, activity, or situation which recklessly, negligently, or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health, welfare, or safety of a person; creates excessive fatigue, sleep deprivation, mental or physical discomfort; exposes a person to extreme embarrassment or ridicule; involves personal servitude; destroys or removes public or private property; or implicitly or explicitly interferes with the academic requirements or responsibilities of a student." As noted, there was no one incident that led to the chapter's suspension. By way of additional background, the chapter received letters from the Fraternity in each of the past five academic years that it had received information that members of "Alpha Xi may have engaged in hazing-related behavior." In each instance, investigations into the allegations were conducted by chapter officers and Sigma Chi alumni, sometimes with the assistance of the Fraternity staff and KU. Despite members being fined, removed from the chapter house, or being expelled from the Fraternity, the "hazing-related behavior" continued. Per the MOU, the Fraternity and KU determined the only way to change the culture of the chapter was to suspend it until all current undergraduates have graduated or left KU. What Hazing Occurred? A Deeper Dive into the Situation A s the chapter's charter was withdrawn less than a month before the fall 2022 semester began, House Corporation had no alternative but to close the chapter house for the 2022-23 academic year. The bad news is that the chapter house has ongoing expenses without a revenue stream to pay them. The good news is that certain sororities have expressed an interest in leasing the chapter house for the 2023-24 academic year while their houses undergo remodeling. The table below reflects annual costs to maintain the chapter house: While we are hopeful that the chapter house can be leased next year, House Corporation must still pay expenses for this academic year as well as the 2024-25 and 2025-26 academic years. Please contact Doug Miller '71 at doug.miller@bergankdv.com or Larry Pfeiffer '71 at lawrencepfeiffer@gmail.com for further information. CHAPTER HOUSE EXPENSES ARE ONGOING Your Support Is Appreciated Budgeted Expenses Insurance $36,000 Real Estate Taxes 44,000 Utilities 68,000 Repairs/Maintenance 100,000 TOTAL $248,000

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