MORGANTOWN — Kappa Alpha Order issued a statement Friday saying WVU “knowingly published false and misleading information” about the organization and WVU’s chapter in its Sept. 27 statement regarding the ban of five dissociating fraternities.
The letter, signed by Communications Director Brent Buswell, says Kappa Alpha is demanding removal of the letter – written by President Gordon Gee, addressed to the campus community and posted on the WVUToday website – or correction of the alleged erroneous comments.
Buswell writes, “There is no evidence of hazing, alcohol violations, sexual misconduct, or disorderly misconduct by the KA chapter at WVU or its members. Gee and administrators knew that when WVU published its letter last week. It appears this is an attempt by WVU officials to support an anti-fraternity agenda against KA.”
Buswell cites the federal Clery report, which lists WVU campus crime statistics, including 188 drug arrests, 273 alcohol arrests, and 13 sexual offenses.
“These activities are certainly taking place on campus, but not at the KA chapter house,” he writes.
“KA alumni and the national organization have and continue to support the students and chapter for their unanimous decision to abandon recognition from WVU. … Vilifying his own students and making false statements is unbecoming of WVU and its president.”
Kappa Alpha is of the five fraternities that announced they are forming an Independent Fraternity Council – along with Alpha Sigma Phi, Phi Sigma Kappa, Sigma Chi and Theta Chi – and were banned for 10 years. Sigma Chi issued a statement on WVU’s actions on Thursday.
Buswell concluded, “The KA chapter at WVU is proud to be a founder of the Independent Fraternity Council which prioritizes students’ rights, health and safety, unity, justice, scholarship, and service.”
In response, WVU spokeswoman April Kaull said in an email, “The University stands behind its previous statements and has nothing further to add at this time.”
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