After an alcohol-related incident at an on-campus party occurred last semester involving new members, the Missouri Beta chapter of Pi Beta Phi at Washington University is facing probation until the end of May.
“Risky behavior was involved,” said Director of Campus Life Jill Carnaghi. “On the part of the [fraternity] as well as the [University] we’re concerned for the safety of our students. We’re taking actions that will correct these indiscretions.”
As part of the punishment from the University, Pi Beta Phi will not be permitted to hold social events with alcohol this semester and may hold up to one next semester. Pi Beta Phi also may not partner with other student groups to put on social events for the whole academic year.
Furthermore, the fraternity for women must submit a performance plan, go through an alcohol education program and face tougher restrictions regarding new member education. Violation of any terms may lead to more severe sanctions, according to Carnaghi.
“We don’t do probation lightly,” she said. “It doesn’t need to be a Greek organization, either. Any organization that presents threats to the safety of its members is unacceptable. We need to be ever-vigilant. Too often one thing leads to another that they never thought would happen.”
However, Carnaghi noted that disciplinary action is only intended to “ensure future success.”
Officers of the Pi Beta Phi chapter on campus referred all requests to comment to their national office.
“Pi Beta Phi Fraternity is working closely with its Missouri Beta chapter at Washington University, as well as campus administrators to ensure the chapter complies with campus and Fraternity policies,” said Stephanie Gurley-Thomas, a national Pi Beta Phi spokesperson.
Gurley-Thomas stressed the history of the chapter on campus and that the chapter has the full support of its alumnae going forward.
“The Missouri Beta chapter of Pi Beta Phi is an integral part of the Greek system at Washington University and will continue to remain an active and involved chapter on campus,” said Gurley-Thomas. “Although the chapter has received sanctions, they will continue to participate in philanthropy and community service activities as well as the upcoming Greek Week.
Though fraternity members were unwilling to comment, Carnaghi described reactions to their situation.
“Some were concerned about how the [University] handled it, as well as the national headquarters,” she said. “Others understood. There’s always going to be a mixed reaction.”
Pi Beta Phi alumnae also, “picked up and moved forward” after a meeting earlier this week with the University.
Barring any future violations, the probation enacted last April will expire on May 30.