Aug. 18, 2003

Contact: Todd Cohen, University Relations, (785) 864-8858.

Statement re: reported hazing incident at KU fraternity house

Marlesa Roney, vice provost for student success at the University of Kansas, issued the following statement in regard to the injury of a student in an alleged hazing incident at the Sigma Nu fraternity:

"Hazing of any kind is a violation of human dignity. It is always taken seriously and immediately confronted by this university. We absolutely will not tolerate this type of behavior.

"Hazing is an egregious violation of our student code of rights and responsibilities, and the penalties can be severe. The university's Center for Campus Life and its department, Fraternity and Sorority Life, have already begun a thorough investigation of the report, and we have been in contact with the police, the local chapter and the national Sigma Nu organization.

"We are equally concerned about the report of use and abuse of alcohol, particularly the alleged furnishing of liquor to a minor. The university has campus programs and campaigns aimed at educating students about alcohol and their legal and personal responsibilities. We are committed to this important effort to keep our students safe.

"We have been in contact with the family of the injured student. We are thankful that this young man is recovering and will be in class this semester."