Nationwide suspension of Lambda Chi Alpha chapter at Massachusetts Institute of Technology for a minimum duration of five years
In a recent development, the Lambda Zeta chapter of Lambda Chi Alpha General Fraternity (LCAGF) at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has been suspended for at least five years due to conduct that does not align with the fraternity's priority of providing a healthy chapter environment.
As a result, the chapter house located at 99 Bay State Rd will close, and residents are required to vacate the premises by Sunday. During this transition period, MIT is offering relocation assistance to help members find suitable on-campus or off-campus housing.
In a statement, Chancellor Cynthia Barnhart expressed that the Lambda Zeta chapter has fallen short of the MIT community's expectations. To ensure the safety and well-being of the entire MIT community, the chapter house was swiftly closed to protect the interests of the overall FSILG system.
The suspension means that no events or alcohol of any kind are permitted on the premises, and visitors are limited to Lambda Zeta chapter members and alumni only. MIT has also agreed to work with Lambda Zeta alumni and the Interfraternity Council (IFC) to maintain the iconic "Smoot" markings on the Harvard Bridge, a tradition that was first started by Lambda Zeta pledges in 1958.
Chancellor Barnhart's staff is committed to helping Lambda Zeta chapter members transition to new living arrangements and manage any disruptions caused by the suspension. The chancellor also hopes that this incident will serve as a learning opportunity for those involved.
MIT encourages members who require additional emotional or academic assistance to contact Student Support Services or MIT Mental Health and Counseling. The university remains committed to fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all students.
In the future, MIT will consider allowing the Lambda Zeta chapter to recolonize once the suspension has been served, provided certain conditions are met. The LCAGF and Lambda Zeta chapter's alumni are invited to discuss recolonization with the university.
This decision underscores MIT's commitment to upholding its values and ensuring a safe and healthy environment for all students. The university will continue to work diligently to address any issues that may arise within the FSILG system and promote a culture of respect and responsibility on campus.
- Mental health support is available for Lambda Zeta chapter members who may require additional emotional assistance at Student Support Services or MIT Mental Health and Counseling due to the suspension.
- The Lambda Zeta alumni are invited to discuss recolonization with the university in the future, contingent upon the LCAGF and Lambda Zeta chapter meeting certain conditions.
- To manage disruptions caused by the suspension, Chancellor Barnhart's staff will help Lambda Zeta chapter members transition to new living arrangements on or off campus.
- In the environmental sphere of education and self-development, MIT will maintain the iconic "Smoot" markings on the Harvard Bridge, a tradition initiated by Lambda Zeta pledges in 1958, in collaboration with Lambda Zeta alumni and the Interfraternity Council (IFC).
