Media Releases
Statement Regarding University of Southern California
CONTACT:
Christopher Brenton
Director of Communications
Sigma Nu Fraternity, Inc.
(540) 463-1869
christopher.brenton@sigmanu.org
October 21, 2021
Lexington, Va. – Sigma Nu Fraternity received notice earlier today from the University of Southern California of the Interim Protective Measure and interim suspension action taken by the University related to information received by the University alleging violations and misconduct related to the Epsilon Omicron Chapter of Sigma Nu Fraternity at the University. The Fraternity is concerned by these serious allegations and will seek to work with University officials to investigate the matter. The Fraternity will determine its further actions based upon the investigation. Sigma Nu Fraternity remains committed to responding appropriately to all matters of confirmed misconduct.
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Statement of the Epsilon Omicron Chapter of Sigma Nu Fraternity at the University of Southern California
CONTACT:
Christopher Brenton
Director of Communications
Sigma Nu Fraternity, Inc.
(540) 463-1869
christopher.brenton@sigmanu.org
October 22, 2021
The Epsilon Omicron Chapter of Sigma Nu Fraternity at the University of Southern California is deeply concerned by recent reports of allegations of serious wrongdoing related to our chapter. The gentlemen of Sigma Nu stand in absolute solidarity with all victims of sexual abuse (and victims of all abuse) and in no way condone any acts of violence or sexual abuse by anyone- especially members of Sigma Nu Fraternity. Our lack of communication thus far is not because we are unaware or out of touch or insensitive. We are going through the legal process and are working as quickly as possible to address this terrible situation.
Since receiving this information, we have been working directly with USC officials, our alumni volunteers, and national Fraternity leaders to ensure full and complete cooperation in the investigation of these matters. We take all of this information very seriously and we remain committed to direct opposition to abuse, harassment, and assault in any form. We are also committed to taking appropriate accountability and disciplinary action in response to any confirmed occurrence of member wrongdoing.
One of the matters currently under investigation involves an allegation of sexual assault against an individual student member. That individual’s Fraternity membership was suspended immediately by our chapter and by the national Fraternity, pending the completion of applicable investigations and procedures. It is our understanding that both the University and law enforcement officials are following up on this matter. The Fraternity will continue to fully cooperate and will take whatever additional action may be appropriate following such investigations and procedures.
The other matter is related to information received by the University alleging that a substance was given to one or more guests during a social activity at the chapter house in September. Further, the information received by the University alleges the occurrence of a sexual assault-related to this social activity. Presently, the chapter has no further information about this matter which is being investigated by the University’s Title IX office. We will continue to fully cooperate with this investigation and will respond as may be appropriate based on the outcome of that investigation.
If anyone has any information regarding these matters, we encourage you to contact Title IX officials at the University of Southern California or law enforcement officials.
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