UH fraternity, sorority members speak out about Sigma Chi
The Epsilon Xi chapter of Sigma Chi was suspended after allegations of hazing were brought forward to their national chapter. | Justin Tijerina/The Cougar
Members of the Greek community said they are shocked by the suspension of the Epsilon Xi chapter of the Sigma Chi last week and believe that UH may have acted too soon.
“I think UH should have gotten more details about the situation before suspending the students,” said psychology senior and Omega Phi Gamma member Bi Pham. “There are always multiple sides to the story.”
In January, allegations of hazing were brought to the attention of Sigma Chi International Fraternity. The investigation was turned over to UHPD on Feb. 19 after the national chapter became aware of a full investigation by local authorities. On March 17, President and Chancellor Renu Khator sent an email to the entire UH System, where she announced Sigma Chi’s suspension.
“I was really shocked,” said history senior Alex Roman, a member of Sigma Lamda Beta. “There should have been further investigations, and UH should have looked more into it before placing the students on suspension.”
UH investigated the allegations before turning over the information to the Harris Country District Attorney’s Office. While some students thought that UH was too quick to act, some believed it was necessary.
“What happened with Sigma Chi was definitely shocking. Everyone knows about the hazing policy,” said public relations junior Leticia Hernandez, a member of Kappa Delta Chi. “I think for the students’ safety, the suspensions needed to be done.”
In the email, Khator wrote that she was “shocked, dismayed and deeply disappointed” by the allegations.
“I’m surprised at the fact that a fraternity on campus would do such a thing to a group of students that only wanted to be part of a group of brothers,” said finance junior and Pi Kappa Phi member Shameet Desai. “If Sigma Chi did break the IFC recruitment rules, then I believe the suspension was right on.”
-Additional reporting by Glissette Santana
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