The University of Texas has paused all activities of the Texas Alpha Nu fraternity amid an investigation into serious hazing allegations. This decision follows a lawsuit from the parents of Sawyer Lee Updike, who tragically took his own life, reportedly after enduring intense hazing and exposure to illegal drugs.
The cease-and-desist notice came after the University received new information about the fraternity’s practices. In their lawsuit, the Updike family claims that these experiences led to a mental health crisis for their son. They are not only holding the Texas Alpha Nu chapter accountable but also the Sigma Chi International Fraternity, the Alpha Nu House Corporation, and five of its members.
A University spokesperson emphasized UT Austin’s commitment to a safe environment, stating that they do not tolerate hazing and that all allegations undergo thorough investigations. The University had previously found the Texas Alpha Nu Chapter guilty of hazing in 2024, resulting in a deferred suspension. Soon after, the Sigma Chi chapter was closed, and the group rebranded itself as Texas Alpha Nu, continuing its presence on campus even after the lawsuit, which prompted their Instagram account to go private.
Ted Lyon, the attorney for the Updike family, voiced his concerns, urging for greater accountability from the University and prevention of future incidents. He called for the fraternity to be permanently banned from campus, expressing hope that the situation would lead to meaningful changes.
Bill Johnston, another attorney in the case, echoed this sentiment, saying they welcome the University’s investigation. He hopes these efforts will lead to a safer atmosphere for all students at UT Austin.
It’s important to note that hazing is not a new issue in Greek life. According to the Hazing Prevention Coalition, around 55% of college students involved in clubs, teams, or organizations experience hazing. Efforts to combat this culture are ongoing, as highlighted by numerous institutions tightening regulations around fraternity and sorority activities.
For further reading about hazing prevention efforts, you can check out the Hazing Prevention Coalition.
