KU News Release

LAWRENCE — The Interfraternity Council at the University of Kansas has been placed on probation for two years as the result of a hazing investigation.

The investigation found the IFC violated the Code of Student Rights and Responsibilities for hazing. The code defines hazing as any action, activity or situation that recklessly, negligently or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health, welfare or safety of a person; creates excessive fatigue or mental or physical discomfort; exposes a person to extreme embarrassment or ridicule; involves personal servitude; or substantially interferes with the academic requirements or responsibilities of a student.

IFC is the governing board for 21 fraternities at KU.

During the probationary period, IFC members will undergo extensive anti-hazing education and its representative will meet regularly with Nicholas Kerhwald, student conduct officer in the Office of the Vice Provost for Student Success.

“Hazing absolutely will not be tolerated at KU,” said Marlesa Roney, vice provost for student success. “These sanctions are intended to rehabilitate and to offer the IFC the opportunity to provide true leadership to end the culture that has allowed hazing to persist.”

Specific sanctions include

— IFC will hire and fund an outside consultant to review the hazing culture in the KU greek community and lead the implementation of recommended initiatives.

— At least two IFC executive board members and their adviser or designee will attend the Novak Institute, an intensive, three-day anti-hazing seminar. Expenses will be covered by IFC, as will all expenses associated with these sanctions.

— IFC leadership will communicate the sanctions to the executive board and membership and apologize for their actions.

— The officer turnover procedures will be held in the presence of the staff adviser.

IFC members were notified of the sanctions Tuesday evening.