Hazing allegations have led the Ole Miss chapter of Sigma Alpha Epsilon’s charter to be suspended. The organization released a statement on Tuesday stating that the action “is the result of health-and-safety concerns and an inability to adhere to the national organization’s standards and expectations.”
Following an investigation by the university’s Office of Conflict Resolution and Student Conduct, they uncovered “deeply disappointing and troubling.”
“Following an investigation of reported hazing allegations, the University of Mississippi’s Office of Conflict Resolution and Student Conduct uncovered serious and concerning conduct within the Mississippi Gamma Chapter of Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity. Those findings and concerns were shared with representatives from the national organization. Late last week, the national board decided to suspend the charter, close the chapter and disband the undergraduate group for several years.
The actions that led to this decision are deeply disappointing and troubling. Hazing will not be tolerated and we support the actions of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity to close the chapter.”
The chapter, which was established on the Ole Miss campus back in 1866, has suspended all initiated members and those who were recurring during this year’s rush at Ole Miss have been released from SAE.
In their statement, SAE references a zero-tolerance policy following the allegations based on national guidelines that were not being followed.
“Sigma Alpha Epsilon has zero tolerance for any actions or behaviors that are not consistent with or mission or our creed, “The True Gentleman.” We are committed to the safety and well-being of our members and others with whom they interact. Furthermore, our leadership will not hesitate to impose sanctions when guidelines are not being followed.”
The conclusion of the statements says that the organization remains hopeful that they can re-establish the chapter in the future.
“Although we regret the closure of any chapter, there are situations in which it becomes necessary and warranted. We remain optimistic that we can re-establish Mississippi Gamma in the future and members who exemplify our Ritual and beliefs and who serve as leading role models on campus and the greater Oxford community.”
The Ole Miss chapter of SAE is full of notable alumni including former Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour, writer William Faulkner and former U.S. Secretary of the Interior L.Q.C Lamar.
