The Kappa Kappa Gamma national fraternity is currently investigating OSU’s Beta Nu chapter (pictured) after receiving information on a hazing incident that allegedly involved members of the sorority on OSU’s campus. Credit: Liz Young / Editor-in-chief
An Ohio State women’s fraternity has been issued a cease and desist letter from Student Conduct amid an investigation into an alleged hazing incident.
The Kappa Kappa Gamma national women’s fraternity is currently investigating OSU’s Beta Nu chapter after receiving information on a hazing incident that allegedly involved members of the sorority on OSU’s campus, said Elizabeth Bailey, Kappa Kappa Gamma national fraternity vice president.
“The fraternity is acting quickly and has already begun an investigation into the matter, working closely with campus and university officials,” Bailey said in an email. “The safety and security of our members are of upmost (sic) priority at this time.”
Dave Isaacs, spokesman for the Office of Student Life, said the cease and desist letter means the chapter must request permission and receive confirmation from Student Life prior to participating in any activities as a chapter or student organization.
This is not the first cease and desist order given to the chapter. A similar order was issued during an investigation by Student Conduct and the fraternity’s national organization in spring 2013.
Kappa Kappa Gamma is one of 17 national sororities at OSU governed by the Panhellenic Association. The association, which is part of the Panhellenic Association Conference, consists of more than 2,000 sorority women, according to its website.
The OSU Panhellenic Association did not respond to requests for comment on Thursday.
Founded in 1870, Kappa Kappa Gamma’s headquarters are also located in Columbus, according to its website. OSU’s Beta Nu chapter was established on campus in 1888, the website said. It was the first women’s fraternity established at OSU.
Bailey said the national organization plans to continue its investigation and will take disciplinary action as necessary.
“Kappa Kappa Gamma Fraternity makes it clear that hazing in any form is absolutely prohibited, and any member found to have participated in hazing will be subject to serious disciplinary consequences,” she said.
