An ASU fraternity under investigation for hazing will be allowed to continue operations this semester, but its charter will be suspended.
Kappa Sigma's charter was withdrawn in October when a member of the fraternity was found vomiting into a garbage can because of consumption of significant amounts of milk.
Mic Wilson, executive director of Kappa Sigma's national office, said the board decided the activity was not considered hazing, since it was a voluntary act that did not involve any fraternity pledges.
The national headquarters met over the weekend to consider the fraternity's appeal. Kappa Sigma's charter will remain suspended, but the fraternity will still be allowed to operate under a trusteeship, Wilson said.
While under a trusteeship, Kappa Sigma must contact alumni before making any significant decisions regarding fraternity affairs.
"I think this decision is fair. The activity is not something we approve of, but it was a voluntary activity and did not involve hazing," Wilson said.
Because the incident did not involve hazing, ASU officials deferred further action to the national board, said ASU Greek Life Coordinator Mike Najor.
Kappa Sigma members remain confident their charter will eventually be returned.
"It is ridiculous that any charges were called hazing because no hazing was involved. What took place was a brotherhood activity and there were no pledges present," said Kappa Sigma member Kyle Maland, a political science junior.
"This incident has not affected our friendship or brotherhood and our fraternity continues to have a positive outlook," Maland said.
Reach the reporter at jourdan.rassas@asu.edu>.