Southern University has suspended the Beta Sigma chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. after reports of hazing and student misconduct surfaced, shaking up Greek life on the Baton Rouge campus. The university confirmed the suspension in a statement this week, saying all chapter operations have been halted while an internal investigation takes place. The move follows a cease and desist order that bans the fraternity from meeting, hosting events, or even wearing fraternity paraphernalia until further notice.
According to the order, members cannot assemble as a group, hold any public or private events, or display the Alpha Phi Alpha name, letters, or symbols anywhere on campus. The university emphasized that any violation of the suspension terms could lead to permanent removal of the chapter. Administrators say the decision was made to protect students and uphold the university’s zero tolerance policy on hazing, which remains one of the most serious violations under student conduct guidelines.
Southern University has not released specific details about the alleged incident but confirmed that the fraternity is being investigated for activities that may violate both school policy and Louisiana’s anti-hazing law. The state strengthened its hazing laws after the 2017 death of LSU student Maxwell Gruver, making it a criminal offense for any form of hazing or initiation that causes harm or distress.
This isn’t the first time Southern has dealt with fraternity controversies. Earlier this year, Omega Psi Phi was permanently removed from campus after a separate hazing investigation. The repeated cases have reignited discussion about the culture of Greek life at HBCUs, where rich traditions of brotherhood and sisterhood sometimes clash with modern expectations of safety and accountability.
Alpha Phi Alpha, one of the most respected and historically significant Black fraternities in the country, has a deep legacy of leadership and service. Founded in 1906, the organization counts Martin Luther King Jr., Thurgood Marshall, and W.E.B. Du Bois among its members. On college campuses across the nation, the fraternity is known for mentoring programs, voter registration drives, and community outreach. That history makes the news at Southern University particularly disappointing for many alumni who see this as a reminder that one chapter’s actions can damage an entire legacy.
The Beta Sigma chapter will remain on suspension until the investigation concludes. If found responsible for hazing or misconduct, the fraternity could face extended suspension, probation, or permanent expulsion from campus. If cleared, the university may allow reinstatement, but only after strict reforms and training measures are completed.
University officials say they will continue to analysis Greek life activities to ensure compliance with campus rules and state laws.
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