Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) fraternity has decided to cancel its annual fundraiser, Lily’s Classic, organized on the frozen Lake Mendota. This change follows new requirements from the University of Wisconsin-Madison that the fraternity felt were too much.
SAE’s philanthropy chair, Harrison Long, shared that the original plan was to hold a boot hockey tournament, but the fraternity is now shifting toward a private social gathering. They want to avoid any potential liability issues that could arise on the ice.
Initially, SAE proposed several safety upgrades, like extra fencing and more police presence, back in November. However, they didn’t receive detailed feedback until late January. After consulting with their national chapter, the fraternity decided that the final conditions outlined by the university were overbearing.
“This event is a big deal for Greek life here,” Long pointed out, noting that they raised nearly $18,000 last year. The fundraiser was also an opportunity to unite students from both Greek life and the wider campus community.
Concerns from the university included the impact on resources and safety risks associated with crowd control on the ice. After the university initially rejected the entire event, SAE offered to drop the hockey tournament, hoping to negotiate further. However, the alternative site offered by the university wouldn’t accommodate enough people, so it was turned down.
SAE members expressed frustration over the way negotiations unfolded. They felt that last-minute changes from the university hindered their plans. Long questioned why such a beneficial gathering was being stifled.
The university’s Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, Mark Guthier, emphasized that SAE would be held accountable for any damages or crowd issues. He noted that private security was expected to manage gatherings on the ice, but SAE argued that they could not enforce such measures.
Interestingly, SAE noted that a recent similar event, the Langdon Invitational, was allowed to proceed, raising questions about fairness and consistency in the university’s policies.
As a result of these changes, Long expressed worries that moving from a charity event to a social event might hurt their fundraising capabilities. This year’s cancellation echoes a similar situation in 2024 when hazardous ice conditions forced the event’s cancellation.
This ongoing discussion highlights the tension between student organizations and university administrations regarding safety, liability, and tradition. The cancellation of Lily’s Classic leaves many students disappointed, as it was more than just a fundraising effort; it was a chance to foster community spirit.
For more context on university regulations and student events, you can check this report.
As we navigate through these changes, it’s essential to support student initiatives that promote unity and philanthropy within the campus community.
