The local chapter of Sigma Chi fraternity at the Willamette University has lost its on-campus house and recruiting privileges indefinitely, for violating the university's student code of conduct.
The university authorities has imposed severe penalties against the fraternity after a Word Press blog filled with images from its private Facebook group went public in May. The images exposed a series of conversations between members, who used sexually explicit and humiliating language to describe female students and faculty members. The fraternity members also spoke about hazing pledges, secret on-campus parties and drinking.
Two days after the images were shared; a joint investigation was opened by the university and Sigma Chi's national organization. Within a few days, 12 fraternity members along with the chapter's president were voted out by their brothers.
On Thursday, David Douglas, Dean of Campus Life, stated that the investigation has been concluded and 'the chapter was found to be in violation of university conduct standards and a range of sanctions was imposed pending appeal.'
Douglas said that the chapter 'must transform its leadership and develop educational and advising programs' and 'must participate in programming endorsed by the university and related to healthy masculinity.'
Emily Burke, a recent graduate said that she backs the penalties.
"I feel this outcome will provide a good opportunity for the remaining members to seriously focus on their chapter and the ideals that they truly want to portray and live by," Burke said.
