COLLEGE PARK, MD—The University of Maryland at College Park, has suspended social activities for new members of Greek organizations, prohibiting interactions between new and existing members. This decision follows reports of behavior compromising the safety of the university community.
Officials from the Office of Student Conduct and the Department of Fraternity & Sorority Life issued a letter on Friday announcing an indefinite social moratorium affecting new membership activities. The suspension prevents Greek organizations from holding events involving alcohol, whether on or off campus.
The directive mandates that current members must avoid any form of communication with new or prospective members. This includes in-person interactions, phone calls, mailed correspondence, and social media communications.
The university’s student newspaper, The Diamondback, revealed that the letter addressed actions by certain chapters of the Interfraternity and Panhellenic Councils as hazardous. An emergency meeting was convened with the Fraternity & Sorority Life Councils to caution against further violations, which could trigger a cease and desist order.
Further reports of misconduct within fraternity and sorority organizations emerged despite these warnings. The letter did not detail the incidents but advised a review of the school’s student code of conduct and hazing policy.
James McShay and James Bond, university officials, have announced the initiation of an investigation into these matters. They warned against any coordination of responses or provision of misleading information to investigators, stating such actions would lead to disciplinary measures.