Baylor University Suspends Organizational Activities of Phi Delta Theta Fraternity
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Media contact: Tonya B. Lewis, (254) 710-4656
WACO, Texas (March 4, 2016) — The Baylor Chapter of Phi Delta Theta has been suspended from all organizational activities until a thorough investigation into the recent charges against the fraternity for underage drinking and sexual assault is completed. Baylor's Division of Student Life, working closely with the national office of Phi Delta Theta and Baylor's Title IX Office, took immediate action on this issue. Our priority has been and remains the safety of all students on our campus.
Our Title IX Office, along with Student Life, has worked tirelessly to develop processes that support students and ensure appropriate and necessary resources are activated as quickly as possible when needed. The Title IX staff continues to actively engage with student groups across campus to increase awareness and provide prevention education. Addressing and preventing sexual violence, in addition to other unlawful activity, in our campus community is a top priority for the University, and we will continue to focus on solutions and support for those affected.
Although federal privacy laws prevent us from addressing specific cases, we can provide information about the process we follow in all cases. When a report is brought to the attention of our Title IX Office, we work closely with the complainant to provide resources, support and information about campus and law enforcement processes. The University recognizes the seriousness of these situations and acknowledges the role that the criminal system has in these cases. The Baylor and Waco Police Departments have established a positive relationship that supports communication and helps them work cooperatively where there are parallel investigations of this nature.
ABOUT BAYLOR UNIVERSITY
Baylor University is a private Christian University and a nationally ranked research institution. The University provides a vibrant campus community for more than 16,000 students by blending interdisciplinary research with an international reputation for educational excellence and a faculty commitment to teaching and scholarship. Chartered in 1845 by the Republic of Texas through the efforts of Baptist pioneers, Baylor is the oldest continually operating University in Texas. Located in Waco, Baylor welcomes students from all 50 states and more than 80 countries to study a broad range of degrees among its 12 nationally recognized academic divisions.