Fatal fraternities: Florida State University bans Greek life after death

Study International Staff

08 Nov 2017

Fatal fraternities: Florida State University bans Greek life after death — Florida State University bans Greek life after death of student at fraternity house party. Source: Shutterstock.com

Florida State University has called for a reform of fraternity and sorority activity after a student died at the end of a fraternity house party.

Greek life – the notorious activity of fraternity and sorority houses – is suspended at FSU until further notice.

The decision was made after 20-year-old Andrew Coffey from Pompano Beach – a Pi Kappa Phi fraternity pledge – was found dead the morning after a house party, reported USA Today.

“For this suspension to end, there will need to be a new normal for Greek life at the university,” Florida State University president John Thrasher said in the release banning Greek life.

“There must be a new culture and our students must be full participants in creating it.”

During the suspension, fraternity and sorority chapters will be prohibited from holding new member and other events like council or chapter meetings, tailgates, socials, philanthropy, retreats, intramural, organized participation in Market Wednesday and organized participation in Homecoming.

Anyone who says that FSU's ban on Greek life is harsh or overreacting should be ashamed of themselves

— Jessie Groom (@jgr00m) November 6, 2017

Thrasher said the ban will only be lifted when students have reformed the dangerous culture on campus. He believes this is a necessary measure to mourn and understand the devastation that has occurred.

With 22 percent of FSU students belonging to a Greek group, more than 7,500 will be impacted by this decision.

Alcohol has also been banned at all Recognized Student Organization events.

https://twitter.com/serenisms/status/927622970083893248

“All of our student organizations – Greek organizations and the other recognized student organizations on campus – must step up. They will have to participate in the solution,” Thrasher said.

Mark E. Timmes, Chief Executive Officer of Pi Kappa Phi told USA Today: “Our thoughts and prayers are with the student’s family and friends. We appreciate the partnership and support from the Division of Student Affairs during this difficult time.”