Innactive Status of Zeta-Psi

[Zeta-Psi 842]

Dear Brothers,

Dear Brothers,



At 6 pm West Coast time Friday the 26th of September The Grand High Zeta is declaring Zeta-Psi Zeta’s (Arizona State) charter innactive. We are pursuing many different strategies at the moment and we are requesting your help and support. It would be forever appreciated and remembered if you could send a letter or e-mail to Nationals in support of an appeal we have already filed. What follows is an account of the charges and reasons why nationals declared our chapter innactive. We are not maintaining our innocence in these matters rather we are calling the general fraternity on a breach of policy. We were not treated as Brothers, given our fair hearing, or allowed a comprehensive investigation owed to us. In addition we were directly mislead by members of the national general fraternity and in some cases lied to. It is in the best interest of not only our chapter but all chapters if our case is made known to the general assembly.



Zeta-Psi Zeta has been at Arizona State since 1951. Recently, we were the target of a lawsuit. The law suit was filed over two years ago before half the Brothers currently active in the chapter were in the house. The suit stemmed from an incident where a girl was crossing a street near our house and was struck by a drunk and drugged driver. The parents of the girl sued every possible individual or group that might have made the slightest contribution to their daughter’s death. We were named along with nationals. Their lawyers claimed that we had served Jessica Wooden alcohol on the night of the accident and that that was a factor. No proof ever surfaced that indicated that she had even been around the house. We remained resolved in our innocence and fought the suit.



The National Fraternity decided not to support our efforts and handled the claim in their own way. After two years of court hearings we as a chapter were exonerated of the charges and left with our lawyer’s fees. The National Fraternity chose to settle instead of fighting with us. The general fraternity settled for $150,000 with additional attorney fees.



Through this ordeal the chapter was placed on probation with the fraternity and with the school. This January we received letters from both parties removing us from probation. That brings us to this year. On the 22nd of August we were having a gathering of close friends. That evening we were paid a visit by two Greek life officials. The Greek life officials decided that the situation was becoming out of hand and asked us to shut things down. Our president agreed and the Brothers handled the situation. Then a few nights later on the 5th of September a similar situation developed. Aware of our responsibility, our president (Tim Morenzoni) sought assistance from police on his own accord. Again the situation was dealt with in a swift and professional manner. We as a chapter believed that that was the end of the matters as neither the University nor Greek Life wanted to pursue the issues further.



We soon learned however that Laura Klinker, an ASU Greek Life staff member, was in frequent communication with a general fraternity staff member by the name of Shane Foley. Laura had met with our president after the events in question and left Tim with the understanding that everything was alright because he had taken the appropriate action. However, she later relayed accounts of the events to nationals and claimed that we violated policy in having a party with out a guest list or security. Although we are not focusing on the charges it is also to be known that we had no intentions of having parties on the nights in question. The conditions rapidly developed into something we did not intend and in each case we took the responsibility to shut the night down in the most expeditious way possible.



That brings us to this week. We had been informed through nationals that we were the target of an investigation, although we were never questioned or saw anyone from nationals conducting an inquiry. Then we learned that the Grand High Zeta passed a ruling on Tuesday the 23rd. We were to be informed this Friday night by Eric Richards that we were losing our charter. Our president Tim revealed this to us on Thursday much to the astonishment of the Brothers.



We were denied any representation. We have been denied due investigation. They have denied our chapter a hearing. We ask nothing more than what is fair and just. As a Brother I thank you for you time and consideration in this matter. This is the most trying time in many of my Brothers’ lives thus far, and while it has been great to see through our actions what true Brotherhood is about it is devastating to find that the nationals don’t demonstrate it. If our voice is not heard in this matter it will set a dangerous precedent that may ripple though to your chapter in the future. Brotherhood is about more than insurance assessments and back room meetings. I am living it right now with our chapter and our bonds are etched deeper than ever.





Please notify every Brother possible and ask them if they will contact through e-mail Kip Zurcher of chapter operations. We are requesting that you ask him to please consider our appeal. Kip Zurcher: kzurcher@lambdachi.org





Yours in ZAX,



The Brothers of Zeta-Psi Zeta
our chapter site

[RACooper]

Has anyone here heard anything more about this? I'd love to here IHQ's side also before I judge....

[Tom Earp]

Brother Cooper, I too would also like to get more information about this situation.

But, I dont know if asking anyone at Hdq. will give us anymore than what we have been told!

If anyone will answer this who are monotoring this will have the nerve to put this out, I would also like to get a full explanation!

There seems to be differing of oppinions on this situatin!

This is not a secret to be kept quiet, if it is true, thny let us decide for our selves!

I think we as responsible Adults can make our own decisions!

Depending on the exact situation as my Chapter has been through this, not exactly the situation, I sometimes think that HDQ does a knee jerk reaction! But, still want to hear the full report!

Then maybe we as adults make our decision.

[john1082]

Local Phoenix / Tempe newspapers are silent regarding the closure. Some cities will publish a short blurb when a fraternity closes, but it is silent here. That seems odd in light of the serious incident that occurred at ASU.

[lifesaver]

My two cents, and I am being critical here, playing devils advocate...

I am not questioning the validity of the account, but if my chapter had just been in a lawsuit and the GF (General Fraternity) had to shell out $150,000 to settle, I would be on my best DAYMN behavior, having nothing more than cookies and milk on chapter property. Tempting fate is just foolish.

Second, I understand the casual nature of the internet, but if you are wanting to rally us to your cause, you could at least be correct in how we refer to our organization as a whole. It is known as the "general fraternity" or "international fraternity" not nationals. Its like you want us to come to your defense, yet you cant be bothered to use proper terms. Often its an indicator of poor fraternity education, which can be an indicator of other issues. (just telling you how the GF looks at it)

Third, its 3am and I dont feel like whipping out my constitution, but I think the GHZ absolutely has the power to close or suspend a chapter. Your due process is limited to your membership and individual member discipline. (member expulsion and suspension).

Finally, I agree, this has got to suck for you and your brothers but a few observations. You say this process has forged your bonds even tighter as brothers. Thats what its all about in the end, not how your chapter is when you leave, but how you are with those you were active with and such. Also, being a chapter 50+ years open and at a great greek system, you'll have a chapter back there in less than 2 years.

If you are that serious about protesting this, then take it to GA next summer. But dont expect us to do your work for you. Its your chapter, not mine. I am not going to do your work for you. Get the addresses of each chapter from the website and send letters asking for support to each chapter. Travel to the GA on your own dime and take it up there. Also, change your tactics. Present a plan for what you'd do different. Playing the victim will get you NOWHERE with undergraduates and ESPECIALLY nowhere with staff and the board of governors (the approx 70 alums who vote at GA and each one of their votes is equal to one chapters vote). Remember, damn near every chapter that gets closed petitions IHQ with about the same story; playing the victim and saying IHQ denied their rights. Their success rate isnt too good, so I'd try a different approach.

Just my opinion.

[boz130]

Any news on what's happening @ ASU?

[Tom Earp]

Emailed a member of the Grand High Zeta inquiring about the 2 situations, ASU and LSU. These were passed on to Tom Helmbock who then passed all of it along to Eric.
I received and email for Eric Richards Director of Chapter Services.

I will hold all further comments until I get an update from him.

I will be sure to let all of the Brothers here know!

I did voice my concern on behalf of the many Brothers who are advisors and working with their Zetas, that it would be beneficial if Alums were made more aware of all situations, whereby, we could pas them along to keep this hopefully not happening anymore.

Damn, they must cringe when I send an email to Int Hdq!

[Tom Earp]

I recieved and email from Eric Richards outlineing the reasons the ASU Zeta was suspended.

I wiah I was able to figure out how to transfer it on here.

Basicaly, they did have a chance to present to the Grand High Zeta and The Executive Commity why they should not be be suspended but because of several infractions (5 in 9) years it was decided that the Risk was to large to hold back any longer.

The chance for them to follow the rules was given and it seems that the Chapter could not control the situation.

We all mourn the loss of a Zeta, but at the same time, this letter stated that The Grand High Zeta is considering @ 60 new sites either re-opening or starting new Chapters.

We as Brothers can only hope for the best!

[lenoxxx]

Tom,

Please make your posts make a bit more sense.

( Proper Grammar, Complete Sentences etc. )

I'd like to read what Eric had to say, or a better summation at least.

Lenoxxx

[Tom Earp]

October 212, 2003

To the Undergraduate and Alumni Members of The Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity:

By an Order dated September 12, 2003, the Grand High Zeta of The Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity declared Zeta-Psi Zeta at Arizona State University inactive. By an Order dated October 18, 2003, after granting the Chapter an opportunity to submit additional information and to be heard, the Grand High Zeta reaffirmed that decision.

There has been much discussion among undergraduate and alumni members of our Fraternity, both at Zeta-Psi Zeta and at other Chapters, regarding the action taken with respect to the Chapter at Arizona State University. This open letter is offered to clarify the issues surrounding this action.

Procedural Background

The Grand High Zeta declared Zeta-Psi Zeta inactive by authority of Article XI, Section 6 of the Constitution, which states:

“The Grand High Zeta may declare a Chapter to be inactive where local conditions are such as to render the continuance of the Chapter questionable or impossible for a period of time, but where there is the intention of re-establishing operations when such unfavorable conditions are removed or are improved sufficiently to justify reactivation of the Chapter.”

On September 24, 2003, Zeta-Psi Zeta requested a reconsideration of that Order. This request was supplemented by additional materials dated October 3, 2003.

There is no right to appeal or to reconsider of a decision of the Grand High Zeta under our Fraternity Laws, other than the provision in Article XIII, Section 3 of our Constitution, which provides that “Orders of the Grand High Zeta may be revoked by a majority vote of the General Assembly.” Nevertheless, the Grand High Zeta agreed to review the application of Zeta-Psi Zeta to be sure the process leading to this decision had been fair to the Chapter and its members, and on the basis of the language in Article XI, Section 6 that provides for re-establishment of a Chapter “when such unfavorable conditions are removed or improved sufficiently to justify reactivation.”

Representatives of Zeta-Psi Zeta requested and received permission to attend a previously scheduled meeting of the Grand High Zeta on October 18, 2003. At this meeting, the Chapter was ably represented by its current High Alpha Tim Morenzoni and its immediate past High Alpha Michael Pullen. Each made a presentation to the Board and responded to numerous questions. Afterward, and after much discussion, the Grand High Zeta voted unanimously to reaffirm its earlier order. The representatives of the Chapter were advised of this decision by the Grand High Alpha immediately following the vote.

Factual Background

The facts giving rise to this decision are substantially undisputed, but a brief summary is appropriate to be sure all interested parties are fully-informedfully informed.

[Insert factual summary in bullet-point format]On August 18, 2001, the chapter conducted a social event that violated policy by allowing underage drinking, failing to follow BYOB policy, and distributing alcohol to guests. Immediately after leaving the event, a female guest, Jessica Woodin, was struck and killed by a drunk driver. As a result, the chapter was immediately placed on Stage 3 probation.
A suit was filed on April 17, 2002, against the General Fraternity and the local chapter.
In January 2003, the chapter was removed from probation for completing the required terms of the discipline.
In the spring of 2003, the chapter admitted liability for $1 million, and using local laws, transferred its rights to the plaintiff in an attempt to seek payout by the insurance company, Lloyds of London. Since the chapter had violated alcohol policies, it was excluded from coverage by the liability insurance policy and denied a favorable judgment.
In August 2003, the General Fraternity settled the remaining portion of the suit and was required to pay $150,000 of its deductible to be released from the lawsuit.
On August 22, 2003, the chapter hosted an event at which they failed to utilize a guest list, failed to ID guests, and failed to control the amount of alcohol brought into the chapter house.
On September 6, 2003, the chapter conducted an event at which approximately 100 people were present and the chapter failed to utilize a guest list, failed to ID guests, and failed to control the amount of alcohol brought into the chapter house. The chapter president called local police to assist in clearing out the chapter house.

Grand High Zeta Conclusions

The Grand High Zeta considered the entire factual record in making its determination. While no single factor was considered determinative, the following facts are instructive in understanding the current atmosphere at Zeta-Psi Zeta and on the Arizona State University campus:

· Zeta-Psi Zeta has been on probation five times in the last nine years.


· The Jessica Woodin event attracted national negative attention to the Fraternity and to the Greek system as a whole. The Chapter’s involvement in the events leading up to the Woodin event gave rise to a denial of coverage by our insurance carrier - a denial that was affirmed by the judge handling the case. A significantly heightened awareness of risk management issues among Chapter members should have resulted.


· The Arizona State University campus has been described - even by members of Zeta-Psi Zeta - as a “party school.” Four to five other Greek organizations have been caused to close Chapters at Arizona State University in recent years, and our insurance brokers have recommended strongly that we close the Chapter operations in Arizona because of risk management exposure and the negative Greek environment in the State - largely arising partly out of the Woodin eventincident.

· No individual members of Zeta-Psi Zeta have been singled out or disciplined by the Chapter for the events in August and September of 2003. It appears to be a problem systemic in the Chapter.


· The events outlined in the submissions by Zeta-Psi Zeta - describing two separate events in 14 days during which non-members (over 70 in one instance and over 100 in the next) entered side doors and climbed over gates in order to get to the Fraternity house and during which the police were called in at least one both instances - indicate an atmosphere in which adequate control will not be possible. The Chapter’s assertion that “we simply did not anticipate for our social gatherings to grow beyond our control” is chilling.


· During its most recent probationary period, the Chapter undertook to educated its members on risk management issues - a process that should have resulted in a sensitivity to the dangers presented by events like those in August and September of 2003. The conclusion is nearly unavoidable that the risk management educational process was ineffective and that the Chapter “just doesn’t get it.”

Upon in-depth review of the submission of Zeta-Psi Zeta, and after hearing the presentation by its representatives, the Grand High Zeta concluded that the process by which the original Order had been entered was fair and fully-informed, and that the unfavorable conditions that led to the decision to declare the Chapter inactive have not been removed or been improved sufficiently to justify reactivation. The vote of the Grand High Zeta was unanimous.

The members of the Student Advisory Committee were present at the Grand High Zeta meeting. Their views were actively solicited by the BoardThe Board actively solicited their views, and they participated extensively in the discussion of this issue. Their vote was not a required element of the decision-making process, but it must be noted that the members of SAC also voted unanimously in support of the Grand High Zeta’s decision.

Closing

We are not in the business of closing Chapters. In fact, at the same Grand High Zeta meeting at which the Arizona State matter was considered, we reviewed a list of __ 60 Chapter expansion opportunities, nearly half of which are on campuses where a Lambda Chi Alpha Chapter has existed previously. It is our sincere hope that, in the fullness of time and under conditions which give assurance that the atmosphere giving rise to recent events has improved sufficiently, our presence on the Arizona State University campus will be re-established.

Your Grand High Zeta has taken the unusual step of publishing this as an open letter to the members of all Chapters to educate them on the risks of hosting events and the consequences related to poor decision-making. Zeta-Psi Zeta has not been used as an example - the consequences of their actions are directly attributable to their unique situation. However, we believe all of our Chapters can learn from the Zeta-Psi experience and may take additional care to provide a positive social experience for our members in an environment consistent with our risk management policies.

Sincerely in ZAX,






Ted Grossnickle, Grand High Alpha
Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity

[Tom Earp]

Chip, thanks I was not sure if it would work or not!

Glad it did! So now, we can move along!

From what I understand about LSU, it is still up in the air and Hdq. is in a wait and see mode.

I am very interested in this one personally for a couple of reasons but will not say anymore until the out come!

I think, that the Zeta had their day in Court so to speak, but we may never know the true story, none of us were there. We have heard from both sides so the judgement is done. I hate to see it.

Maybe in the Future there will be a New LXA Zeta there!

[Tom Earp]

"BUMP"


This is something that I hope All will post to their respective Chapters.

I got a PM that was very disruptive to me about what this Chapter was also involved in from a member of ASU Campus.

While I cannot verify it, I think, that this Chapter should have been suspended until a later date for recolonization.

While just my opinion, it seems to be the same for many others.