Following an initial investigation, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln has placed its chapter of Phi Kappa Psi fraternity on interim suspension after learning of a pattern of behavior within the fraternity in violation of the university’s Student Code of Conduct.
The measure includes the university’s withdrawal of recognition of Phi Kappa Psi as a greek organization at Nebraska and its revocation of the chapter’s affiliation with the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life.
The administration also has removed the status of university-recognized housing regarding the chapter’s house at 1548 S St. As a result, freshman members will not be allowed to live in the house and will be placed in other university-approved housing beginning in the spring 2017 semester.
“The safety of our students is our highest priority, and this decision is with their best interests in mind,” said Juan N. Franco, Nebraska’s vice chancellor for student affairs. “The university will always act to ensure student welfare.”
Franco said the administration’s interim action was necessary after the university learned of a series of likely violations involving problematic alcohol use in the chapter house and at off-campus parties. An initial investigation was conducted and also produced concerns about members’ treatment of the chapter’s current pledge class as well as claims of property damage to another greek house.
The university is continuing its investigation and additional steps may be taken. Franco said the university is working closely with the chapter’s Indiana-based national office, which also is looking into alleged violations of the fraternity’s national standards.
“We are working with the university and will do what we can to support the investigation,” said James D’Imperio, the fraternity’s national director of standards.
