Cornell has announced that it has revoked official university recognition of the Sigma Pi fraternity chapter at Cornell in response to high-risk drinking behavior at the fraternity house on Nov. 17, 2007, that resulted in four freshmen being treated at Cayuga Medical Center, two of which required life-sustaining medical treatment.

"Cornell takes violations of its fraternity and sorority recruitment and anti-hazing policies extremely seriously, and the university will take strong action to address conduct that puts human life and well-being at risk," said Vice President for University Communications Tommy Bruce in a statement about the university's decision. "The decision to revoke official university recognition of Sigma Pi fraternity on Jan. 15 should serve as a clear message that Cornell will not tolerate such irresponsible, dangerous and illegal behavior."

The Sigma Pi chapter will not be eligible to apply for recognition until Jan. 1, 2009, and will be on probation for one year after approval of its application.

"While the chapter is not recognized, it must remain alcohol free and is prohibited from hosting any social event," continued Bruce's statement. "The fraternity and sorority system at Cornell has a rich history of community service and is a real asset to student social life. Normally, the Greek system is self-governing and addresses violations of university policy and law through its judicial process. However, in egregious cases such as this, where an individual chapter has jeopardized personal safety, the university will step in and review the propriety of continued recognition."