Alcohol-Free Housing Press Release

The Executive Committee of Phi Kappa Sigma International Fraternity unanimously approved a revision to its risk management policies that makes all Chapter houses, lodges and other facilities alcohol free by the year 2000. The policy as approved by the Executive Committee, states:

"Effective July 1, 2000, all existing Chapter facilities in Phi Kappa Sigma International Fraternity will be alcohol free. Alcoholic beverages will not be permitted in the Chapter facility or on any property at any time, or under any circumstance. All new colonies, re-colonizations, and any other Chapter without housing that may acquire a facility, will be alcohol free, effective August 31, 1997."

In making this decision, the Executive Committee cited several studies on alcohol use among college students. Statistics across the country have shown an increase in membership among alcohol free Fraternity Chapters.

"Our founders stressed teaching responsibility in scholarship, brotherhood, personal conduct, and leadership in the university and the community. In order for our undergraduate members to accomplish these objectives and reach their full potential, we believe an environment free from alcohol and unlawful drugs is imperative," said Peter J. Nichols, president of the Executive Committee.

Last year Phi Kappa Sigma introduced a voluntary program for its Chapters to work toward becoming an alcohol-free Chapter. This current decision is an extension of our existing program on alcohol education.

Phi Kappa Sigma is an international Fraternity founded at the University of Pennsylvania in 1850. The Fraternity currently has 69 active Chapters and colonies and approximately 37,000 living alumni and 2,500 undergraduate members.