In 2006, a Sigma Phi Epsilon pledge ended up in the emergency room, his blood alcohol level a dangerous 0.49 percent -- more than six times the legal driving limit. The pledge recovered, but university officials rightly suspended Sigma Phi.

No one should have to die for such activities to stop. There has not been a hazing-related death at the Purdue unless you count the 1913 death that occurred during a "traditional battle under a water tank," according to Hank Nuwer, author of Wrongs of Passage: Fraternities, Sororities, Hazing, and Binge-Drinking. But hazing can kill. In 2005 a 21-year-old man died during a fraternity hazing at California State University, Chico. Cause of death? Water intoxication, which caused the swelling of his brain and lungs.   more >>

It was a night for memories and new beginnings -- a night for coming of age, and for ping tribute to traditions, manners and social graces. The occasion: Zeta Phi Beta Sorority's annual Debutante and Masters Ball. Twelve young women dressed in elegant white gowns, each escorted by a tuxedoed master, made their bows to society at the Hilton Airport Hotel in Fort Lauderdale.

The affair is more than a dinner dance. During a nine-week period, debs attend workshops and seminars that address issues that include social and table etiquette, walking, curtsying, dancing, and succeeding in job interviews. Masters -- the term assigned to the young men who escort them -- also attend classes.   more >>

The Kappas are seeking donations for a Summertime Santa program to run through July 20. The fraternity wants to know how to contact a deserving person or family, why they deserve a July Christmas, and a "wish list" that would make life easier on them.

But there's another thing: The Kappas want Summertime Santa recipients to help other needy people.

"It's a two-fold thing," said Kappa member Glenn Nelson, 31. "We want people to nominate families, but we want the recipients to help others."   more >>

An Ohio man has admitted providing prostitution services at fraternity gatherings across the United States.

Kevin Murphy pleaded guilty Monday in federal court in Toledo to five criminal charges, The (Toledo) Blade reported.

Investigators say Murphy used his ties to members of Alpha Phi Alpha, a fraternity that held its 100th-anniversary convention last year in Washington, to get business. Delegates were offered escort services provided by "Janelle's Sophisticated Ladies" and "Erotic Angels."   more >> 

Stepping is a known art form in black fraternities and sororities, but stepping also serves as a representation of Black History.

Senior Brandon Bartley, a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., places emphasis on how stepping has distinguished black culture for centuries.

"I think stepping is what separates us Black Greek-lettered organizations from other fraternities because it represents our past culture and the way we express ourselves as a race through song and dance," Bartley said. "That's what makes us unique."   more >>

A lawsuit filed for alleged hazing in August 2005 against the University has yet to reach a conclusion, although it could happen soon.

The University filed a motion for summary judgment May 24 and if the motion is approved, a judge will decide the case instead of a jury.

The lawsuit was filed by three SIUC students who claimed their constitutional and civil rights were violated through the Student Judicial Affairs process.  more >>