The Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity could resurface at Ball State in two to three years, Kip Zurcher, chief operating officer of Lambda Chi Alpha's international headquarters said.
"It's always a disappointment and very unfortunate that we have to make the decision to close a group, but progress was not being made to improve," Zurcher said.
The fraternity closed the local chapter on Dec. 18 because it was not meeting the required minimum standards or showing signs of progress after being given a specific plan for improvement, Zurcher said.
The university worked with the local alumni in addressing the fraternity's problems, but the national chapter made the final decision, Lynda Wiley, director of Student Organizations and Activities, said.
However, the chapter was dealing with a number of problems that made improvement difficult, Sean O'Brien, former president of Lambda Chi Alpha, said.
"We had a lot of financial problems, the chapter numbers were so small, and I think we were unfairly treated last April," he said.
Police issued 87 minor consumption citations April 3 at a party at Lambda Chi Alpha's house. The large number of police cars there and Mayor Dan Canon's presence created an unnecessary scene, O'Brien said.
The party was the final blow after a series of minor violations, O'Brien said. In response, Ball State made a list of requirements the fraternity had to meet to stay on campus, including a member review process and making the house alcohol free. Although he said the university's response to the event was fair and deserved, Zurcher said some restrictions, such as the member review, contributed to the chapter's closing.
The member review is an interviewing process where members who don't meet standards are asked to leave the fraternity. After Lambda Chi Alpha finished its member review, the fraternity had 12 to 15 members left, Zurcher said. Lambda Chi Alpha had about 10 of the members living in the house, which accommodates 30 men.
Now that the chapter is closed, last semester's Lambda Chi Alpha members are considered alumni and can attend national conferences and other alumni events, Wiley said.
They are not allowed, however, to group together as Lambda Chi Alpha for social events or philanthropic work, Zurcher said.
Read More
Three Air Jam teams take home the win
October 12, 2012Nineteen teams shimmied, shook and flipped for a sold out John R. Emens Auditorium on Thursday night during the 25th annual Air Jam.
Bill Clinton Speaks at North Central High School
October 12, 2012Former President's Speech Could Have Effect on State Senate Race
