NewsLocal News

Actions

Cal Poly fraternity loses university recognition over hazing

Posted

Cal Poly will no longer recognize the Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity. It’s been suspended for at least two years because of hazing.

The suspension comes after the San Luis Obispo university reportedly found the chapter in violation of alcohol and health and safety rules, disorderly behavior, hazing, conspiracy to haze, and violations of laws and policies.

Cal Poly spokesperson Matt Lazier said the violations occurred over the last several years and involved the chapter’s pledge process. Lazier said underage pledges were required to drink alcohol and forced to do push-ups. Chapter funds were also reportedly used to pay for the events where the violations took place.

All chapter operations must cease immediately, according to the university.

The fraternity will be eligible to apply to return to Cal Poly in Winter Quarter 2021.

If allowed to return, Lazier said chapter members would be required to attend hazing prevention workshops, men and masculinity training, and health education seminars through the university’s PULSE (Peers Understanding Listening Supporting Educating) program.

It’s just the latest fraternity to face suspension or sanctions by the university.

Lambda Phi Epsilon is also on a two-year suspension related to hazing. It can apply to return to the university in Fall Quarter 2020.

Six other fraternities are either on suspension until June 2019 or on probation. One sorority, Alpha Chi Omega, is currently under investigation. All of the organizations are accused of alcohol violations among other policy violations.