As a result of the allegations, the university will require fraternities and sororities to finish pledging by Friday — two weeks earlier than initially planned.
“Miami does not tolerate hazing. Behaviors that endanger the health or safety of others violate the values of our fraternal organizations as well as of the university,” wrote Carole Johnson, spokesperson at Miami, in an email to this newspaper.
“Over the past few weeks we received reports related to the fraternity new-member process that have led to serious concerns, and we are thoroughly investigating all of them.”
Miami has a very large Greek system, with more than two dozen fraternities. About one in three students participating in either a fraternity or sorority.
According to Miami’s website, the first fraternity at the school was established in 1833.
“By ending the new-member process for this spring earlier than scheduled, our fraternity community will be able to communicate expectations and monitor behaviors more quickly,” Johnson wrote.
Johnson declined to provide names of the fraternities the university is investigating. She did say that the allegations are related to pledges but wouldn’t provide further details.
This investigation isn’t the first time Miami’s Greek system has come under fire for inappropriate behavior. Since 2010, the university has kicked a dozen fraternities and sororities off campus.
Last spring, Miami suspended the Sigma Nu fraternity, citing hazing and unregistered, alcohol-fueled parties. The fraternity was already on probation for previous violations. It will be suspended until May 2018 but can submit a proposal to reopen earlier.
Prior to suspending Sigma Nu, Miami obtained photos sent through SnapChat and text messages that noted Sigma Nu’s newest members were told to drink 100 beers and were banned from showering or shaving.
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