A University of Iowa fraternity has been shutdown due to hazing. Sigma Alpha Epsilon's national headquarters made the decision and they have the university's full support.
Sigma Alpha Epsilon has been at the University of Iowa for more than hundred years. The house has officially been shut down and all its members have been expelled from the organization due to hazing.
"The national headquarters determined that there had been potential violations of their guidelines and so they have closed the chapter," says University Spokesman Tom Moore.
The circumstances surrounding the hazing incident are not being released. The University says they do not tolerate hazing or unsafe and illegal consumption of alcohol in any of its student organizations.
"The university fully supports the decision made by the national headquarters to close the chapter," adds Moore.
The university is conducting its own separate investigation into the matter. University of Iowa officials says the hazing incident does not reflect on the entire Greek system and students agree.
"It was one of the things where one bad apple ruins it for everyone," says one UofI Freshman.
Students also support the decision to revoke the Sigma Alpha Epsilon's charter.
"I think that was a really good message, since it has been here a really long time," says another UofI Freshman, "It says that we know they did something wrong and they're being punished for it."
"I think it's a good decision, because I don't think hazing should be acceptable in any way," adds a UofI Sophomore.
All fraternity members who live in the house have move out. The university is helping them find new housing. The Sigma Alpha Epsilon house is managed and owned by a private corporation. It is up to the corporation to decide what will happen with the property.
