University of Michigan bars fraternity, suspends sorority for damage at ski resorts

Sigma Alpha Mu fraternity barred for 4 years; Sigma Delta Tau sorority suspended for 2 years

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – The University of Michigan has barred a fraternity and suspended a sorority for members' involvement in thousands of dollars worth of vandalism during a weekend in January at two northern Michigan ski resorts.

The university announced Friday that the Sigma Alpha Mu fraternity will no longer be recognized as a student organization at the school for at least four years. The school says the fraternity has taken responsibility for the vandalism at Treetops Resort. Resort general manager Barry Owens said there was about $50,000 in damage to furniture, carpet, walls and ceilings. It happened during the weekend of Jan. 16-18.

Moreover, the Sigma Delta Tau sorority has been placed on disciplinary suspension for two years.

"Members of the Sigma Delta Tau sorority stood by at Treetops Resort and allowed others to vandalize the facility. This lack of action is unacceptable," a statement from the university reads.

The two fraternities and two sororities responsible for damages at Boyne Highlands have been issued a written reprimand and some activities are being restricted. These groups did not engage in malicious destruction of property and have taken full responsibility for their actions, according to the university.

"I hope the broader Greek community can learn from this experience so they can continue to participate in the many positive aspects of Greek Life while avoiding extreme, risky, and inappropriate behaviors. It's important that we allow this process to move forward," said university President Mark Schlissel in a statement.

Michigan State Police continue to investigate the vandalism.

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