A Statement from President Forsythe Regarding Westminster Sigma Chi Chapter

Last week, as a result of an on-going investigation, Westminster College and Sigma Chi International Headquarters (SCIH) jointly announced the suspension of the Delta Tau chapter of Sigma Chi at Westminster through the remainder of the academic year.

Earlier today, Westminster College received new evidence of offensive comments posted between Sigma Chi members on a private social media page. In light of this new information, Westminster and SCIH resolved to extend the chapter’s suspension indefinitely.

These comments are in direct conflict with everything Westminster College stands for, including our value of respect for others. Every day on our campus, we strive to educate our students to live according to our mission statement – committed to the values of integrity, fairness, respect, and responsibility – and I am deeply disappointed, saddened, and horrified by the deplorable attitudes expressed by a small group of young men on our campus.

These young men and their comments are in no way reflective of the Westminster community and are beyond excusable. We appreciate that this new information was brought to our attention today so that we may take every appropriate action.

In addition to the chapter suspension, the College and SCIH will continue their investigations, and the College will take swift and appropriate disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion from the College if necessary, toward any individuals who have violated campus policies. Our policies were developed to create and maintain an environment conducive to learning and free from harassment and discrimination.

In January 2015, SCIH placed the 20-member Sigma Chi chapter at Westminster on suspended status. At that time, SCIH began their investigation with full cooperation and support from Westminster.

We received a report last week from SCIH that substantiated violations related to failures in chapter leadership, academic performance, and hazing. We immediately began our investigation in preparation for appropriate disciplinary procedures. This new evidence adds to the list of violations.

Westminster remains a learning organization dedicated to our students, and we will do everything we can to help our campus heal and rise above the actions of this small group. The College will always operate according to the values it was founded on, values in alignment with human decency and respect for others.

Sincerely,

President Barney Forsythe