[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#cfc5ae” background_image=”https:\/\/www.thelantern.com\/projects\/files\/2025\/02\/Brick-background.png” background_enable_pattern_style=”on” background_pattern_style=”tufted” background_pattern_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.thelantern.com\/projects\/files\/2025\/02\/FarmHouse-1.jpeg” alt=”In September 2022, the Student Conduct office within Ohio State\u2019s Office of Student Life received an anonymous report alleging hazing had taken place on ATZ\u2019s property, specifically inside the fraternity\u2019s house at 154 E. 14th. Credit: Carly Damon | Asst. Photo Editor” title_text=”FarmHouse 1″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” box_shadow_style=”preset2″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”||on||||||” text_font_size=”12px” text_orientation=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
In September 2022, the Student Conduct office within Ohio State\u2019s Office of Student Life received an anonymous report alleging hazing had taken place on Alpha Tau Zeta’s property, specifically inside the fraternity\u2019s house at 153 E. 14th Ave. Credit: Carly Damon | Asst. Photo Editor<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#fdf6e3″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_heading title=”Brotherhood and parties or violations and sanctions: Inside the hazing culture of Ohio State\u2019s fraternities” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_font=”|600||||on|||” title_text_align=”center” title_text_color=”#000000″ title_font_size=”35px” title_text_shadow_style=”preset2″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_heading][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_heading title=”Nora Igelnik | Campus Editor” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h2″ title_font=”|600|||||||” title_text_align=”center” title_text_color=”#000000″ title_font_size=”20px” title_text_shadow_style=”preset2″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_heading][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_heading title=”Brooke Tacsar | Senior Lantern Reporter” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h2″ title_font=”|600|||||||” title_text_align=”center” title_text_color=”#000000″ title_font_size=”20px” title_text_shadow_style=”preset2″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_heading][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Ohio State\u2019s chapter of FarmHouse International Fraternity, Alpha Tau Zeta, is a fraternity committed to shaping men into intellectual, moral, spiritual and physical leaders.<\/span><\/p>\n A community of young individuals with philanthropic interests, FarmHouse actively supports organizations like the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, according to its <\/span>website<\/span><\/a><\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n And just like 30 other Greek life organizations, it is also a fraternity that has faced hazing violations.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n In September 2022, the Student Conduct office within Ohio State\u2019s Office of Student Life received an <\/span>anonymous report<\/span><\/a><\/span> alleging hazing \u2014 including activities such as a blood oath, verbal abuse, pornography and forced memorization of songs about rape \u2014 had taken place on ATZ\u2019s property, specifically inside the fraternity\u2019s house at 153 E. 14th Ave.<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cHow did you become aware of this violation?\u201d the report language asks.<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cIt happened to me,\u201d the anonymous reporter wrote.<\/span><\/p>\n Of the 31 Greek life organizations that have committed violations from 2017-24, roughly four in 10 have faced revocation \u2014 or long-term suspension \u2014 according to a Lantern data analysis of violations committed by Greek life organizations and the disciplinary sanctions Ohio State handed out. In other words, these organizations lost their statuses as registered student organizations due to violations of the Code of Student Conduct, according to Student Conduct\u2019s <\/span>website<\/span><\/a><\/span>. <\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n For the other 17 Greek life organizations that committed violations but were not revoked, the most common sanction given \u2014 applied in 75% of cases \u2014 was titled \u201cadditional sanctions,\u201d followed by \u201cdisciplinary probation,\u201d which accounted for 50% of the violations.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Followed by hazing, alcohol violations were committed by 61% of Greek life organizations, while endangering behavior occurred in 42%.<\/span><\/p>\n Between 2017 and 2024, 77.5% of all hazing violations have been by Greek life organizations, 70% of which were fraternities.<\/span><\/p>\n According to the Ohio State <\/span>Code of Student Conduct<\/span><\/a><\/span>, hazing is defined as \u201cdoing, requiring or encouraging any act, whether or not the act is voluntarily agreed upon, tied to initiation, continued membership, or participation in any group, that causes or creates a substantial risk of causing mental or physical harm or humiliation.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n The <\/span>code<\/span><\/a><\/span> further elaborates that hazing acts may include, but are not limited to, \u201cusing alcohol, creating excessive fatigue, and paddling, punching, or kicking in any form.\u201d Additionally, it states any \u201cfailure to intervene, prevent, or report acts of hazing may constitute a violation of this section.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.thelantern.com\/projects\/files\/2025\/02\/FarmHouse-2.jpeg” alt=”In September 2022, the Student Conduct office within Ohio State\u2019s Office of Student Life received an anonymous report alleging hazing had taken place on Alpha Tau Zeta fraternity’s property, specifically inside the fraternity\u2019s house at 154 E. 14th Ave. Credit: Carly Damon | Asst. Photo Editor” title_text=”FarmHouse 2″ align=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” box_shadow_style=”preset2″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”||on||||||” text_font_size=”12px” text_orientation=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n In September 2022, the Student Conduct office within Ohio State\u2019s Office of Student Life received an anonymous report alleging hazing had taken place on Alpha Tau Zeta’s property, specifically inside the fraternity\u2019s house at 153 E. 14th Ave. Credit: Carly Damon | Asst. Photo Editor<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.thelantern.com\/projects\/files\/2025\/02\/Code-of-Conduct.png” title_text=”Code of Conduct” align=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” width=”100%” module_alignment=”center” height=”655px” border_color_all=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” box_shadow_style=”preset2″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”||on||||||” text_font_size=”12px” text_orientation=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n The first page of Ohio State’s Code of Student Conduct, as seen on the university’s Office of Student Life website<\/a><\/span>. Credit: Courtesy of The Ohio State University Office of Student Life<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Not all Greek life organizations at the university fall under Sorority and Fraternity Life\u2019s jurisdiction, but all student organizations are subject to the Code and Office of Student Conduct, said Hunter Hartwig, associate director of council leadership in Sorority and Fraternity Life, who also advises Ohio State\u2019s Interfraternity Council.<\/span><\/p>\n The way the Office of Student Conduct presents sanctions \u2014 a form of penalty or reprimand \u2014 for conduct violations operates on a \u201ccase-by-case\u201d basis, said Kelly Smith, director of Student Conduct.<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cThe facts are always unique, and the students are always unique, and we just have to make sure that we’re doing right on a holistic measure,\u201d Smith said.<\/span><\/p>\n Hartwig said the office has established numerous educational initiatives to raise awareness among students about hazing.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cWe have implemented mandatory [anti-hazing] training for all students who are joining student organizations,\u201d Hartwig said. \u201cThen, of course, we talk about [anti-hazing] a lot in our social event management training that we do with our students, as well as our council officer retreats that we hold. We do additional anti-hazing education with all of our council officers.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Susan Lipkins, a psychologist who specializes in hazing and authored the 2006 book \u201cPreventing Hazing: How Parents, Teachers and Coaches Can Stop the Violence, Harassment and Humiliation,\u201d said educational programs that target students are not going to change a Greek life culture that may revolve around hazing.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cThere are many, many, many signs of hazing, but most of the universities have not educated all those people who are being paid to do that security to crack down on it in a meaningful way,\u201d Lipkins said. \u201cSo, if you\u2019re asking me where we should be educating or changing, it\u2019s probably not the people doing it as much as the people who are being paid to prevent it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n For members of FarmHouse in 2022, it seems as though Sorority and Fraternity Life\u2019s educational hazing-prevention initiatives did not stick.<\/span><\/p>\n The September 2022 <\/span>anonymous report<\/span><\/a><\/span> outlined the events of initiation week \u2014 known as \u201cBuilder of Men\u201d week \u2014 at FarmHouse, describing how \u201cnew members [were] put in situations where their morals [were] compromised, their individuality diminished, and their limits [were] pushed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n \u201c[Initiation week] starts with a well meaning volunteering opportunity and other more pleasant things,\u201d the anonymous reporter wrote.<\/span><\/p>\n However, the following night, pledges were subjected to rigorous questioning on the history of FarmHouse, general knowledge of Greek life and the names of its active members.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cDuring this [pledges] are berated and distracted with pornography, people yelling, loud music, etc. for often several hours,\u201d the anonymous reporter wrote.<\/span><\/p>\n The next day of initiations involved vocal performances, with the expectation that new members memorize the tunes taught to them by existing members.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cThe new members [were] \u2018taught\u2019 new songs,\u201d the anonymous reporter wrote. \u201cAll of these new songs [were] vile \u2014 either crass or downright promoting the raping of women (even to the extent of raping members of sororities right next to their location).\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n According to the report, the initiation sequence\u2019s final night involved an all-nighter, which new members began by deep-cleaning the fraternity house. They were subsequently introduced to \u201cfrat games\u201d accompanied by non-alcoholic beverages.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_testimonial portrait_url=”http:\/\/placekitten.com\/200\/300″ quote_icon_color=”#000000″ quote_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” portrait_width=”1px” portrait_height=”1px” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” body_font_size=”20px” background_color=”#36454f” background_layout=”dark” animation_style=”fade” box_shadow_style=”preset3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Following these games, each new member was individually taken to sign their name in ATZ\u2019s \u201cblood book,\u201d according to the report. After signing, members were instructed to grab a utensil \u201cto draw their blood and seal their oath.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_testimonial][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n The reporter wrote that before the new members were able to draw blood on their own, they were restrained and pricked with a diabetic needle. They were then instructed to use their blood to cover their signature in the book.<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cUltimately the members retain the right to refuse, but the environment is constructed in such a manner that it is considered to be an expectation to assimilate,\u201d the anonymous reporter wrote.<\/span><\/p>\n Following the blood oath, trust activities took place, during which some members chose to brand themselves on their chests or the backs of their thighs.<\/span><\/p>\n Then, all members released \u201cdomesticated [waterfowl]\u201d into Mirror Lake, \u201canother longstanding tradition of the frat.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n After these activities, the members returned to the house, were offered a \u201cbreakfast beer\u201d and were later driven to a Bob Evans location for breakfast.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.thelantern.com\/projects\/files\/2025\/02\/FarmHouse-3.jpeg” alt=”In September 2022, the Student Conduct office within Ohio State\u2019s Office of Student Life received an anonymous report alleging hazing had taken place on the Alpha Tau Zeta fraternity’s property, specifically inside the fraternity\u2019s house at 154 E. 14th Ave. Credit: Carly Damon | Asst. Photo Editor” title_text=”FarmHouse 3″ align=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” height=”400px” box_shadow_style=”preset2″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”||on||||||” text_font_size=”12px” text_orientation=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n In September 2022, the Student Conduct office within Ohio State\u2019s Office of Student Life received an anonymous report alleging hazing had taken place on Alpha Tau Zeta’s property, specifically inside the fraternity\u2019s house at 153 E. 14th Ave. Credit: Carly Damon | Asst. Photo Editor<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_heading title=”The disciplinary process” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_font=”|600|||||||” title_text_align=”center” title_text_color=”#000000″ title_text_shadow_style=”preset2″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_heading][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Ohio State\u2019s Student Conduct reports reveal a consistent trend among Greek life organizations: No group has been permanently banned from campus, though some have faced temporary suspensions. From 2017-24, approximately 44% of Greek life organizations have encountered revocation, yet many eventually restarted their operations, despite serious violations.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n On Sep. 6, 2022, FarmHouse was placed on interim suspension pending a full investigation, during which \u201call new membership activities must cease during the period of Interim Suspension,\u201d according to a letter sent to members \u2014 which is included in the Student Conduct\u2019s <\/span>report<\/span><\/a><\/span> of FarmHouse \u2014 by Danny Glassmann, associate vice president for Student Engagement and Support and dean of students.<\/span><\/p>\n After an Oct. 7, 2022 administrative decision, FarmHouse sanctions included disciplinary probation until May 7, 2023, marking \u201ca heightened state of warning that does not otherwise control or direct [the] chapter\u2019s functioning.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Alongside probation, FarmHouse was assigned BuckeyeLearn Anti-Hazing Training, educational presentations, new member education, Builder of Men Week review and training on how to conduct initiation week. Additionally, the fraternity was required to have the presence of a FarmHouse International staff member at the chapter facility to assess and implement the new member plan and follow-up communication with Student Conduct.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.thelantern.com\/projects\/files\/2025\/02\/FarmHouse-4.jpeg” title_text=”FarmHouse 4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” max_width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” box_shadow_style=”preset2″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”||on||||||” text_font_size=”12px” text_orientation=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n In September 2022, the Student Conduct office within Ohio State\u2019s Office of Student Life received an anonymous report alleging hazing had taken place on Alpha Tau Zeta’s property, specifically inside the fraternity\u2019s house at 153 E. 14th Ave. Credit: Carly Damon | Asst. Photo Editor<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.thelantern.com\/projects\/files\/2025\/02\/Delta-Tau-Delta.jpeg” alt=”Ohio State’s chapter of the Delta Tau Delta fraternity, located at 67 E. 15th Ave. Credit: Carly Damon | Asst. Photo Editor” title_text=”Delta Tau Delta” align=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” box_shadow_style=”preset2″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”||on||||||” text_font_size=”12px” header_text_align=”center” header_font_size=”12px” text_orientation=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Fraternity Delta Tau Delta, located at 67 E. 15th Ave. Credit: Carly Damon | Asst. Photo Editor<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n When asked about the September 2022 hazing report, Brady Jacobs Bell \u2014 FarmHouse president at the time he was contacted in November 2024 and also a fourth-year in agribusiness \u2014 said in an email he was \u201cnot an active member\u201d at the time.<\/span><\/p>\n Former president of FarmHouse at the time of the report, Austin Borchers, said he was led to believe the anonymous report came from \u201ca disgruntled ex-member who left the chapter on rough terms in the spring semester following recurring violations of [the] chapter\u2019s conduct that he committed,\u201d per prior Lantern <\/span>reporting<\/span><\/a><\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cWe do not stand for the actions that were reported, and that does not represent the chapter and its members as a whole,\u201d Borchers said.<\/span><\/p>\n The fraternity was not subject to revocation, and it was not the only Greek life organization to face this exact outcome over the years.<\/span><\/p>\n Delta Tau Delta was not subject to revocation following a Sept. 26, 2020, <\/span>report<\/span><\/a><\/span> and subsequent disciplinary documents that detailed a party hosted by the organization. The event, which involved alcohol, was found to have violated social-distancing restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Jack Pott, president of Delta Tau Delta and a third-year in information systems, said in an email he was not aware of the specifics of the 2021 disciplinary probation that followed the 2020 hazing report, as it occurred before he joined the fraternity.<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cAs the current president, I can assure you we are working closely with the university and our national organization to foster a positive and respectful culture,\u201d Pott said.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Omega Gamma was not subject to revocation after a Sept. 9, 2022 <\/span>report<\/span><\/a><\/span> and related disciplinary documents revealed an initiation event where pledges were required to surrender their phones and consume \u201ca tower of provided alcohol\u201d before participating in a subsequent game.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Kappa Delta Rho was not subject to revocation after a May 5, 2023 <\/span>report<\/span><\/a><\/span> \u2014 supported by both disciplinary and police documents \u2014 described several serious incidents. These included members throwing \u201cbottles and cans\u201d from a balcony onto a public street, injuring an individual; providing alcohol to new, underage members; and directing members to participate in \u201cembarrassing activities,\u201d including a new member talent show, calisthenics and the consumption of unusual food combinations that could lead to \u201cill health outcomes.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n Omega Gamma and Kappa Delta Rho did not respond to The Lantern\u2019s requests for comment by the time of publication.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_heading title=”Sanctions: A case-by-case evaluation ” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_font=”–et_global_heading_font|600|||||||” title_text_align=”center” title_text_color=”#000000″ text_shadow_style=”preset2″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_heading][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Smith said giving sanctions to student groups rather than individual students is a difficult process.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n She referred to the Greek \u201cShip of Theseus\u201d paradox, a philosophical thought experiment that debates whether a ship remains the same object even if its components are replaced one by one. If a fraternity gets new members and a new executive board every few years, Smith said its past violations cannot be viewed at face value.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_testimonial portrait_url=”http:\/\/placekitten.com\/200\/300″ quote_icon_color=”#000000″ quote_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” portrait_width=”1px” portrait_height=”1px” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” body_font_size=”20px” background_color=”#36454f” background_layout=”dark” animation_style=”fade” box_shadow_style=”preset3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n \u201cWe may get a group, and we have their first conduct case, and we deliver some educational outcomes \u2014 those additional sanctions,\u201d Smith said. \u201cWe work with them very intensely, and [if] we have two years passed [where] we don’t have another violation, and then we do, but it’s a different exec board, and there’s different members, and they’re different folks, well, we have to start over. It’s a different ship.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_testimonial][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n The reasoning behind the university\u2019s relatively low revocation rate may be due to the constant reconstruction of these \u201cships,\u201d or fraternities, Smith said.<\/span><\/p>\n In contrast to the university\u2019s revocation rates, \u201cadditional sanctions\u201d are a frequent response to Greek life violations. These sanctions can encompass responses like repeating Collin\u2019s Law training \u2014 an anti-hazing training under a recently established state law \u2014 group presentations and work with Student Legal Services.<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cYou’ll see some of the same things we use over and over again, but we could develop something new that’s very specifically a recipe that we cook up just for that group based on their particular needs and circumstances, and it just gets all put under additional sanctions,\u201d Smith said.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Effective Oct. 7, 2021, Collin\u2019s Law \u2014 also known as the Ohio Anti-Hazing Act \u2014 \u201cmakes acts of hazing a second-degree misdemeanor and acts of hazing that include coerced consumption of alcohol or drugs or abuse that result in serious physical harm a felony of the third degree,\u201d according to the Hazing Prevention <\/span>webpage<\/span><\/span><\/a> of Ohio State\u2019s website.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Collin\u2019s Law also expanded the list of officials who are required to report hazing and requires universities to offer prevention education to students, employees and advisors, according to the <\/span>webpage<\/span><\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n Unlike disciplinary probation, revocation and additional sanctions, no fraternities have received an all-encompassing ban instructing them to never return to campus \u2014 at least, not during Smith\u2019s time at the university, she said.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Even after revocation, all Greek life organizations receive an opportunity to return to campus after a set time period if they follow certain conditions, said Dave Isaacs, communications and media relations manager for the Office of Student Life.<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cThere are conditions that they meet, especially from [Sorority and Fraternity Life] and the Governing Council in order to come back,\u201d Isaacs said. \u201cIt’s not an automatic; \u2018Oh, this day we\u2019re back.\u2019\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_heading title=”The mind games of hazing: Unpacking psychological forces at play” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_font=”|600|||||||” title_text_align=”center” title_text_color=”#000000″ title_font_tablet=”|600|||||||” title_font_phone=”|600|||||||” title_font_last_edited=”on|desktop” title_text_shadow_style=”preset2″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_heading][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Lipkins said there is no federally accepted definition of hazing. However, she views hazing as a group process used to psychologically or physically harm victims in order to maintain a social hierarchy.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s sort of like a microcosm of the group, but hazing in general usually has a beginning, a middle and an end, and the beginning is usually very soft or mild so that people think that this is no big deal,\u201d Lipkins said.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n This \u201csoft\u201d introduction to hazing lures new members into the organization, Lipkins said. The middle stage introduces the curve toward severe hazing activities \u2014 which differ based on specific organizations\u2019 historic traditions or geographic locations \u2014 and is typically embodied by Greek life during \u201cHell Week,\u201d a week-long culmination of extreme hazing for new members before official initiation into the organization.<\/span><\/p>\n Hazing activities, however, often vary based on fraternities or sororities, Lipkins said. Though hazing in sororities is more sexualized and typically involves some form of humiliation, fraternities involve more alcohol consumption or physical activity like calisthenics and sustenance deprivation. In both, servitude is consistently used, Lipkins said.<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cThe fraternities have a, I think, more detailed expectation of hazing on a day-to-day basis,\u201d Lipkins said. \u201cIn some fraternities, I\u2019ve seen it where it\u2019s almost like a business plan: \u2018Day one, we do this. Day two, we do this. Day three, we do this.\u2019 I think sororities may do that, but not to the extreme or the amount of stuff that I\u2019ve seen in the fraternities.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.thelantern.com\/projects\/files\/2025\/02\/Updated-hazing-graphics.png” title_text=”Updated hazing graphics” align=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” height=”560px” border_width_all=”5px” border_color_all=”#000000″ box_shadow_style=”preset2″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”||on||||||” text_font_size=”12px” text_orientation=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Credit: Brooke Tacsar | Senior Lantern Reporter<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.thelantern.com\/projects\/files\/2025\/02\/updated-graphic-2.png” title_text=”updated graphic 2″ align=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” height=”560px” border_width_all=”5px” border_color_all=”#000000″ box_shadow_style=”preset2″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”||on||||||” text_font_size=”12px” text_orientation=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Credit: Brooke Tacsar | Senior Lantern Reporter<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Kim Monteaux De Freitas, director of Sorority and Fraternity Life at Ohio State, said the reason Greek life organizations committed the majority of student conduct violations at the university from 2017-24 might be a result of the office\u2019s encouragement to student organizations to report any potential instance of hazing.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cWe spend a lot of time with our sorority and fraternity students talking about how to report,\u201d Monteaux De Freitas said. \u201cThere may be more reports in a male-identified community, but I also want to acknowledge we are a state with the newer anti-hazing law, and we have spent a lot of time trying to help our students know how to get help, how to ask for help, how to report.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n Smith said she has noticed a similar phenomenon within the Office of Student Conduct.<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cThat\u2019s been the case in a lot of things, where you put an emphasis on it to make reporting easier,\u201d Smith said. \u201cThe initial response is an uptick in the number of cases, and it doesn\u2019t mean that things are getting worse. It means that we are now getting reports on those at a higher rate than we might have been before.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n Lipkins, however, said observational learning \u2014\u00a0 a social process during which people learn and imitate new behaviors after watching others perform the same behavior \u2014 by new members who were hazed creates a \u201cblueprint of hazing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n \u201cYou come into an organization, so you\u2019re hazed,\u201d Lipkins said. \u201cThen, once you\u2019ve been hazed, you become a bystander, and you watch other people get hazed, and eventually, you have seen your status and now it\u2019s your turn to do unto others what was done to you, and you feel like you have the right and duty to pass on the tradition. And I believe that each time that tradition is passed on, the individuals usually want to leave their own mark, so they increase the tradition.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Smith said the Office of Student Conduct often looks at a given organization’s national chapter \u2014 the overarching governing body that represents all local chapters across universities \u2014 when determining sanctions.<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cThings we consider are, for example, what sort of support and partnership are we seeing with that headquarters?\u201d Smith said. \u201cIs this a group that is being well-supported and has a structure that we know can step in and provide the education and the support the group needs to be successful?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n Lipkins said, if anything, these national chapters preserve the hazing culture. <\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_testimonial portrait_url=”http:\/\/placekitten.com\/200\/300″ quote_icon_color=”#000000″ quote_icon_background_color=”#FFFFFF” portrait_width=”1px” portrait_height=”1px” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” body_font_size=”20px” background_color=”#36454f” background_layout=”dark” animation_style=”fade” box_shadow_style=”preset3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n \u201cThe college is all, \u2018Let this five-year gap happen, and then those traditions won\u2019t reoccur,\u2019 and that\u2019s not true,\u201d Lipkins said. \u201cThey do reoccur because it\u2019s a national thing, and the new organization, the new chapter, will grow up and learn the same [traditions].\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_testimonial][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n As a culture of hazing persists within Greek life, Lipkins said it can\u2019t be changed by focusing only on the individual students involved.<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cIn other words, if the colleges were doing their job in courts, then maybe the older systems, their systems for reporting, their security systems, their sanction systems, all of that really has to be the point of focus, rather than the students,\u201d Lipkins said.<\/span><\/p>\n Another way to potentially reduce hazing is to implement harsher sanctions, Lipkins said.<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cSociety at large, the legal system at large and the various colleges at large have not really done anything that would increase the anxiety [and] fear on the part of the perpetrators or potential perpetrators, and they have, from a psychological point of view, actually conditioned them to expect minor response to whatever they do,\u201d Lipkins said.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Notably, Lipkins said she feels universities\u2019 hiring of former \u2014 or current \u2014 Greek life members as employees creates a staff makeup that favors these organizations.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cWhen you look at who the colleges are employing, and what they\u2019re doing to stay in tune with the Greek organizations, one might question whether those kinds of people are the ones who should be policing the organization or connecting to them,\u201d Lipkins said.<\/span><\/p>\n Additionally, Lipkins said a symbiotic relationship exists between universities and Greek life organizations because they provide the school with a social milieu, alumni retention, donations and additional off-campus housing.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cThey like that symbiotic relationship,\u201d Lipkins said. \u201cSome might say they need the symbiotic relationships, but they haven\u2019t created an appropriate method of making sure that the behaviors that are engaged in are not risky and protect the lives of the students.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Smith disagreed. Though several workers within Sorority and Fraternity Life are affiliated with a chapter, Smith said investigations are left to the Office of Student Conduct, in which only one current staff member was formerly in a fraternity.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cThey would never be permitted to actually investigate a group that they ever had any affiliation with,\u201d Smith said. \u201cI think having that affiliation \u2014 I\u2019ve seen that as a bonus in the professional staff that I\u2019ve worked for \u2014 and I\u2019ll say in Student Conduct, generally across the field, that affiliation has been looked at as positive, as long as you take care to manage any potential conflicts, so I can get where maybe they\u2019re coming from.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_heading title=”Underground operations” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_font=”|600|||||||” title_text_align=”center” title_text_color=”#000000″ text_shadow_style=”preset2″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_heading][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n After a fraternity\u2019s status is revoked, it no longer receives benefits from the university, Monteaux De Freitas said.<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cWhen they are not recognized by us, we don’t get a roster,\u201d Monteaux De Freitas said. \u201cI’m not meeting with them regularly. My staff isn’t meeting with them regularly. They’re not coming to council meetings. They’re not getting Collin’s Law training in the same way.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n Even so, fraternities can still operate under their national or international organizations\u2019 charters.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n This is the case for two Ohio State Greek life organizations The Lantern has identified \u2014 Delta Kappa Epsilon and Alpha Epsilon Pi.<\/span><\/p>\n DKE\u2019s registration as a student organization was revoked Aug. 14, 2024 until Aug. 6, 2028 for hazing, endangering behavior and failure to comply with sanctions, according to Sorority and Fraternity Life\u2019s Organization Conduct History <\/span>webpage<\/span><\/a><\/span>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Similar to roughly 16% of Greek life organizations found to have committed repeat violations between 2017 and 2024 by The Lantern\u2019s data analysis, DKE committed previous violations May 22, 2023 and Feb. 7, 2023, according to the Conduct History <\/span>webpage<\/span><\/a><\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.thelantern.com\/projects\/files\/2025\/02\/Alpha-pic.jpeg” title_text=”Alpha pic” align=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” height=”440px” box_shadow_style=”preset2″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”||on||||||” text_font_size=”12px” text_orientation=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Alpha Epsilon Pi, located at 200 E. 17th Ave. Credit: Carly Damon | Asst. Photo Editor<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.thelantern.com\/projects\/files\/2025\/02\/6G6A0434_1-1.jpg” title_text=”6G6A0434_1 (1)” align=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” box_shadow_style=”preset2″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”||on||||||” text_font_size=”12px” text_orientation=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n The exterior of 1978 Iuka Ave., the off-campus house where the Delta Tau chapter of Delta Kappa Epsilon \u2014 or DKE \u2014 <\/span>held its fall rush, according to @ohiostatedke on Instagram. Credit: Sandra Fu | Photo Editor<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n AEPi\u2019s registration was revoked in 2018 \u2014 a year when 19.6% of all student conduct violations since 2017 occurred, according to The Lantern\u2019s analysis \u2014 for hazing, endangering behavior and alcohol, according to <\/span>Collin\u2019s Law Reports<\/span><\/a><\/span> published by Ohio State. Per prior <\/span>Lantern reporting<\/span><\/a><\/span>, AEPi was allowed to petition for reinstatement in 2023.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n