University of Utah terminates recognition of Sigma Nu fraternity citing ‘egregious’ hazing violations

SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) — A University of Utah fraternity chapter officially lost its recognition with the university after an investigation found it had “egregiously” violated the U’s anti-hazing policies.

According to a summary of the investigation, the Sigma Nu fraternity had engaged in all three types of hazing recognized by the University of Utah – subtle, harassment, and violent – during the Fall 2024 and Spring 2025 recruitment cycles.

The hazing allegations included several instances where new members of the fraternity were forced to drink alcohol or use illegal substances such as marijuana during the initiation process.

In one instance, new members were allegedly forced to sit in a circle and drink a large amount of beer and liquor. If the alcohol was not finished by the time it reached the last new member in the circle, they would be forced to drink the remaining amount alone.

Members were also allegedly given several new chores to complete in the early morning, requiring students to arrive at the chapter facility as early as 3 a.m. on school days to clean the entire facility.

The investigation also reportedly found that new members were forced to camp out in the chapter’s facility on the weekend of initiation week. During the time, new members were reportedly forced to sleep on the floor, required to clean and sing songs, with limited food provided.

In a letter addressed to the fraternity, Vice President for Student Affairs Lori MacDonald said the findings of the investigation were “undisputed,” adding that she did not have any confidence the chapter would follow policies laid out in a suspension.

“Therefore, termination of the university recognition of the chapter is warranted,” McDonald said.

Sigma Nu will not be able to reapply for recognition with the University of Utah until Summer 2031.

The Greek Council Executive Board responded to the termination, saying hazing is harmful, unacceptable and has no place in its community.

“The actions that led to this decision do not reflect the values or true purpose of Greek life. Greek organizations should stand for leadership, service, friendship and personal growth,” the Executive Board said. “As a council, we are committed to promoting education, accountability, and a culture where every member feels safe and respected.”

Since 2002, only three University of Utah fraternities have lost their official recognition from the institution. All three were later allowed to reapply and return to operations.

The most recent was Kappa Sigma, which was terminated after the school found the fraternity had held several events while on suspension for sexual assault allegations in 2022. Following its year-long termination, the University of Utah confirmed Kappa Sigma had successfully reapplied for official recognition.