Following a "thorough review of" Greek life at Texas State University due to the 2017 death of a fraternity pledge, university leaders have outlined new rules for Greek chapters Feb. 26.
Matthew Ellis was found dead Nov. 13 at an off-campus apartment. He is thought to have been at a fraternity party.
RELATED:
Shortly after his death, the university suspended all Greek activities.
A "Greek Affairs Advisory Task Force" consisting of 24 members was formed to participate in the review of Greek chapters at Texas State. They were asked to "determine best practices and actions that would develop a positive Greek culture" and to "present to the President recommendations and actions for chapters in good standing to be reinstated to the Texas State University Greek Affairs system."
Go here to look at the different "components, strategies, and practices" chapters in good standing must abide by.
The new requirements include an orientation and education plan for potential new members, required risk reduction events and leadership development, and a new report card and awards program.
Any chapter that commits to meet all the requirements by March 30th can resume activities for the rest of the spring semester.
"If a chapter decides they don't want to do all of those elements, then we are prepared to say they are no longer a part of the Texas State Greek Affairs Office," said Dr. Joanne Smith, the VP for Student Affairs at Texas State University. "And if members decides, I don't think I can do that or be involved in agreeing to those elements, then they need to take a look at whether or not they want to continue being a part of that particular chapter."
The "recommitment process" will begin after March 31 and must be completed by Sept. 1, according to Texas State's website.
Smith said all members of each chapter must sign the program. If a member chooses not to sign, then they will become inactive.