Pitt suspends 9 Greek chapters over health and safety guideline violations

The University of Pittsburgh has placed nine Greek life chapters on interim suspension of registration status after reports that the groups violated the university’s Health and Safety Guidelines and Student Code of Conduct.

Pitt announced the interim suspension of Alpha Tau Omega, Chi Omega, Kappa Delta, Pi Kappa Alpha, and Sigma Phi Epsilon on August 19. On August 24, the school reported suspensions of Pi Kappa Phi, Sigma Sigma Sigma, Delta Delta Delta, and Delta Chi.

Investigations are underway, Pitt spokesman Kevin Zwick said. He declined to provide specifics about the reported violations.

Greek life offices on campus are closed and unable to comment on the issue.

The fraternity and sorority organizations involved will face interim suspension of registration status. Those chapters must cease all organizational operations until the student conduct process is complete.

Individual students who were involved face punishments including interim Persona Non Grata status and modified interim housing suspensions. Persona Non Grata status means students are restricted from campus.

“Our policies and expectations have been made very clear to our students,” according to a statement from the university. “We encourage all students to reflect on their involvement in our fraternity and sorority community and their organization’s commitment to a culture that values excellence and the well-being of its community members.”

Students who spoke to the Tribune-Review in Oakland on Tuesday said it’s common knowledge around campus that some Greek organizations were hosting parties and not abiding by social distancing rules.

Elizabeth Johnson is a senior communications major at Pitt. She said students are generally abiding by the covid-19 guidelines. She feels safe on campus, but was frustrated with Greek life chapters who strayed from the rules.

“It does kind of make me mad,” she said. “I feel like they think they’re above us.”

Steph Kennedy, a freshman nursing major, said he was concerned about a campuswide closure if certain groups didn’t adhere to the covid-19 safety plan.

“I’d much rather be here than pack up and move out,” he said. “I get it if you’re more socially inclined, but it’s just not worth it for now.”

He acknowledged that it’s been hard to socialize with social distancing measures in place. He said he’s trying to follow the safety measures, while still making the most of his freshman year.

“It’s really hard to be responsible and be social, too,” he said, noting that he couldn’t even have visitors in his dorm.

Alex-Jaden Peart, a freshman pharmacy major, agreed.

“We have an obligation to keep everyone safe. I understand you want to have the college experience, but if you do this, you’re going to get repercussions,” he said, adding that he agreed with the school’s response.

Andres Trujillo, a freshman computer science major, said he hoped Greek life organizations will start abiding by the new safety rules before the whole campus suffered the consequences.

“Just stick to the rules so we can get through this,” he said.

Dean of Students Kenyon Bonner outlined the school’s expectations and potential consequences in a letter to students. He warned that hosting or attending large parties could result in punishments including housing suspensions and restrictions.