Sigma Phi Epsilon Closes UM Chapter

The Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity board of directors has decided to close its chapter at the University of Mississippi, after reviewing the chapter’s activities.
“Sigma Phi Epsilon is committed to being a different kind of fraternity one that recognizes the importance of the out of classroom experience and is committed to making that experience the safest and most empowering part of a college male’s life,” said SigEp CEO Brian Warren in a press release.
“Though it’s always painful to close a chapter, these students’ actions clearly illustrate a determination to perpetuate an experience based on risky and unconstructive behavior. …”
The decision isn’t entirely based on the James Meredith statue incident several months ago, although the defacement by three freshman Sig Eps from Georgia did “mark the beginning of an intensified period of review.”
That investigation turned up newly discovered, continuing behavior that includes hazing, underage drinking, alcohol abuse, and failure to comply with the university and fraternity codes of conduct, according to the press release.
“Over the past several years we’ve worked with our chapter at the University of Mississippi to enhance the quality of their program,” Warren said in the release. “Following the James Meredith incident two months ago, we began a more formal and comprehensive review process that revealed this new and disappointing information.”
Sigma Phi Epsilon is currently working with the University of Mississippi to discuss a return date to campus.
Sigma Phi Epsilon was established in 1901 and is one of the nation’s largest fraternities. Nearly 15,000 undergraduates on 232 campuses are members across the United States.