A Penn State fraternity was suspended indefinitely this week following what the university called “credible reports of serious misconduct and hazing.”
Acacia is continuing to operate as an unrecognized, off-campus organization outside the university’s oversight after preemptively withdrawing its Penn State recognition during the student conduct process, according to a university news release on Thursday.
Penn State’s Office of Student Accountability and Conflict Response launched an investigation in February when it received a report alleging that members sought medical care “following forced alcohol and tobacco consumption, acts of servitude and extended periods of required participation without adequate rest,” according to the release.
The fraternity was invited to submit proposals for “educational remediation” during the student conduct process and, despite the fraternity and its legal representation initially indicating they would take part, ultimately declined to do so and withdrew Acacia’s university recognition, Penn State wrote.
“OSACR continued to attempt to engage with the chapter, however the chapter chose not to participate in the remainder of the student conduct process,” according to the release. “Given the nature of the misconduct and the chapter’s lack of engagement, the University determined that an indefinite suspension was warranted.”
The fraternity suspension will be in place for no less than four years, during which time Acacia loses all rights and privileges as a university organization, including professional staff support, health and safety training, access to campus spaces, use of Penn State branding and participation in university activities.
Acacia is operating independent of the university with the support of its parent international organization, according to Penn State
“Reports of concerning, high-risk behavior continue, and students and members of the community are strongly encouraged to avoid engagement with the group,” the university wrote. “Penn State’s ability to respond to concerns with these groups is limited. While individual students can be held accountable under the Student Code of Conduct, the collective organization is not held to the same standards, limiting the effectiveness and impact of potential sanctions or disciplinary actions.”
Complaints about unrecognized organizations are shared with local law enforcement and the organization’s headquarters, according to Penn State.
Acacia is several fraternities that have chosen to forego university recognition and operate independently. Earlier this year, Tau Kappa Epsilon, Sigma Chi and Pi Kappa Alpha, which had already been operating independently, formed their own State College Interfraternity Council.
Acacia also is the third Penn State fraternity to be suspended following hazing allegations this academic year.
Pi Delta Psi was suspended in December for more than three years. Phi Beta Sigma was placed on interim suspension in March and criminal charges of hazing were filed against two of its members earlier this month.
