Clemson Puts Brakes on Greek Activities

Clemson Limits Fraternity, Sorority Activities:
Numerous Alcohol-Related Arrests Cited As Reason

In response to a rising number of violations of Clemson University policies and alcohol-related arrests involving fraternity and sorority members, Greek council leaders have recommended that fraternities and sororities limit organizational activities for the rest of the fall semester.
“This action is regrettable, but we consider this a matter of student safety, which is our highest priority,” said Gail DiSabatino, vice president for student affairs, who met with the students Friday about recent incidents.

“I’m very pleased with the leadership being shown by our students. They recognize the need for change and are committed to moving forward,” she said.
A news release stated some activities would be limited under the recommendation, but during homecoming week, organizations would be permitted to participate in homecoming events and hold a limited number of meetings, philanthropic and service events.

The Interfraternity Council, Panhellenic Council and National Pan-Hellenic Council are in the process of refining the details specific to their chapters for the remainder of the fall semester, the release stated.

“We want to take action because the problem of underage drinking, alcohol abuse and unsafe pledging activities by some in the fraternity and sorority community threaten the future of all of our chapters,” James Clinton, Interfraternity Council president, a senior from Rock Hill; and Suzanne Pickens, Panhellenic Council president, a senior from Spartanburg, said in a statement.
According to the University’s website, close to 3,000 students are members of fraternities and sororities.
Students who called WYFF News 4, but who didn’t want to be identified, said the ruling means “no fun activities.”
University officials said rumors were running rampant on Twitter. There had been talk among the fraternities of going on strike against building floats, but News 4 learned Monday that the float building for the Homecoming parade is continuing.
A media briefing is planned for Monday.
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