WEST MIAMI-DADE, FLA. (WSVN) - Florida International University has announced it will suspend on-campus Greek life activities for at least one month beginning in January of 2018.
According to Friday’s statement by FIU President Mark B. Rosenberg, the decision was made after out of growing concerns for student safety. “After serious consideration, and keeping the safety of our students top of mind, I have decided to pause all Greek activities on our campuses for at least one month starting January 1, 2018,” he said.
The recent decision is in line with Florida State University’s suspension of Greek life until further notice. “This decision is a consequence of growing concerns about the state of fraternity and sorority life at FIU as well as around the nation, and is consistent with decisions made at other universities,” said Rosenberg.
Moreover, Rosenberg said in the statement, “The purpose of this pause in Greek activities is to allow time for the Greek community and university administrators to review and strengthen policies and procedures with the goal of enhancing safety and promoting behavior that is consistent with FIU’s values and our student code of conduct.”
The news comes weeks after FSU student Andrew Coffey died during an off-campus house party while pledging. Alcohol is believed to be a factor in the 20-year-old’s death, but investigators are waiting for the toxicology reports before making an official ruling.
The suspension of activities will take effect beginning Jan. 1 and is expected to last until at least Feb. 1.
“I hope all members of the Greek community at FIU will join me in ensuring that we take this opportunity to establish and observe norms that are consistent with safe and respectful behavior that uplifts the community and provides a supportive culture of growth and tolerance,” said Rosenberg.
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