California State University-Northridge (CSUN) has suspended all fraternity pledging activity while officials investigate a possible hazing incident.
Pi Kappa Alpha, the fraternity allegedly involved, has been placed on interim suspension by the university and can’t take part in chapter activities. The fraternity was also suspended by its national chapter. A student, who was pledging at the fraternity, contacted the university to report a hazing incident, according to CBS-Los Angeles.
Several months ago, Armando Villa, 19, who was attempting to join Pi Kappa Phi at CSUN, became unconscious on a fraternity sponsored hike in the Angeles National Forest and later died at the hospital.
In a letter to fraternity and sorority presidents, William Watkins, the vice president of Student Affairs, wrote, “I am dismayed to report that CSUN has learned of a new instance of possible hazing in connection with new member pledge activities at a university fraternity. This most recent incident cuts to the core of the university’s ability to have confidence that all recognized fraternities and sororities will conduct appropriate new member recruitment and intake procedures that ensure the safety and well-being of CSUN students. As such, and after consultation with President (Diane F.) Harrison, I directed that all pledge activities immediately cease and desist.
“Future new member recruitment, intake/pledging and induction processes will not be permitted until the university has been convinced that adequate changes have been made and will be adhered to. At this time, there will be no spring 2015 new member intake activities. We regret that it is necessary to intervene in this manner with new member processes, however, the safety and well-being of our students is paramount.”
Photo: Facebook
