NORTH ADAMS - Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts is investigating allegations of hazing involving sorority Pi Upsilon Omega, one of three sororities on campus.
Students who have been involved or indicated any interest in the sorority over the past two years have reportedly been called in to speak with college officials and campus security. Pi Upsilon Omega sisters apparently were called into a meeting with college officials in the Amsler Campus Center on Thursday to discuss charges of hazing, according to several students. Their parents were also called, said students.
MCLA officials declined to comment on the situation and the college released a brief statement:
"The college is concerned about recent reports of behavior not consistent with the code of student conduct. We are seeking to investigate the reports and recently have provided information sessions for students who may have a need to know their rights and responsibilities. We're also working on ways to distribute that information to parents."
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Members of Pi Upsilon Pi, brother fraternity to Omega that, together, are called the Pines, and various students protested Friday what they say is a violation of their rights and their sisters' rights.
Victor Joyner, a senior and vice president of Pi Upsilon Pi, said the Pines sisters were being threatened "emotionally."
"It's part of our student rights that you cannot threaten us with being thrown off campus - which they were all threatened on a very personal level - that if they did not cooperate with the school they would be thrown off," said Joyner.
According to fraternity members, one or two women had complained to the college about inappropriate treatment related to the sorority. Students told CBS6 News in Albany, N.Y., that the women said hot sauce had been smeared in their faces.
The Pines deny the charges, describing the investigation as a witch hunt.
Joyner and fraternity treasurer Scott Greenberg, a senior from New York City, said students were "grilled" by security and rooms in Hoosac Hall were searched. They also said the college was using the complaints to institute a widespread probe into other groups and teams on campus.
They and others at the rally were concerned that charges were being made but they weren't being given any details about what had allegedly happened.
Several of their Pines sisters watched from a distance. They were avoiding even the appearance of supporting the rally for fears of college retaliation, said Joyner.
According to the college handbook, hazing refers to "any conduct or method of initiation into a student organization ... which willfully or recklessly endangers the physical or mental health of any student or other person."
Among those dangers are whipping, beating, branding, forced calisthenics, exposure to weather and forced consumption of food, liquids or drugs. The principal organizers and participants are considered responsible.
Doran "Dory" Hamm of East Dummerston, Vt., isn't a Pines member but felt it important to join the protest. "We have the right to know what's going on with our fellow students."
He found the reach of the college's investigation disturbing and believed it was a violation of students' rights. "If we don't stand up to them, what's to stop them?"
The protesters urged fellow students to abandon their classes, but few did. A student contacted later in the day said about 30 to 40 students in all participated throughout the afternoon.
Greek life used to much more prominent on the public college campus but after a number of unsavory incidents more than a decade ago, frat houses and sororities began closing as the college cracked down. Today, Pi Upsilon Pi is the only fraternity on campus; the three sororities are Pi Upsilon Omega, Beta Lambda and Sigma Gamma Phi.
Just last winter, an article in the campus paper, the Beacon, told of how the sororities were breaking the stereotypes of Greek life by concentrating on academics. In fact, "library hours" were being instituted for Pines pledges.
The Pines have worked hard to make academics and campus and community involvement priorities for induction, said Joyner, pledge educator. He pointed to the T-shirts scattered around the ground touting the various campus groups Pines members belong to. He worried that the allegations would give the college a reason to toss out the remaining Greeks.
"They've taken the allegations of one student and negated everything we've worked for," said Joyner.
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this woman who is charging the sorority with hazing is the same woman who falsely claimed to be raped this doesn't pass the smell test.
As a former long standing resident of North Adams, and living in the college area, it is about time to see this action being taken by the college. Years ago there were many brawls and riots involving the Greek Organizations, which frightened and angered the residents. Many times these incidents caused damages to homes and property of the people. None of the Greek Organizations took responsibility for their involvement. Actually having the audacity to laugh at what they had done.
In reading this story this statement sticks out:
["The Pines have worked hard to make academics and campus and community involvement priorities for induction, said Joyner, pledge educator. He pointed to the T-shirts scattered around the ground touting the various campus groups Pines members belong to. He worried that the allegations would give the college a reason to toss out the remaining Greeks.
"They've taken the allegations of one student and negated everything we've worked for," said Joyner. '']
Well, that is all well and good, BUT regardless of what you do for the community, you must also take responsibility for your actions that cause damage and destruction. And, what could potentially cause harm to other students. It is time you take responsibility for your actions. Think first then act, don’t act before thinking!
As a former MCLA student and Pines Girl alumni, I believe that these complaints are ridiculous. This sorority has been around for years based on tradition and I can assure you that hot sauce smeared in the face is not one of them.
In response to previous comments on brawls years ago, that’s just it, years ago. The Greeks should not be punished for acts that happened in the past. I feel as though it has become a trend to blame Greeks. Residents and college officials often forget that Greeks are not the only ones living off campus, including Blackinton St. Frankly if it is such an issue, then try not living so close to a COLLEGE campus. It’s college people! Besides getting ready to embark on new careers, making connections and meeting new people, we all come to college to live a little and experience new things. Granted it is no excuse for petty fights, but like in the real world, it happens. However it has nothing to do with being Greek, it’s called being human. I am appalled with college officials for being quick to try and eliminate organizations on what seems to be here-say. These are organizations that not only do good for the community but also for the campus. Where is the proof? First of all, exactly what are the charges?
"Just last winter, an article in the campus paper, the Beacon, told of how the sororities were breaking the stereotypes of Greek life by concentrating on academics. In fact, "library hours" were being instituted for Pines pledges."
"The Pines have worked hard to make academics and campus and community involvement priorities for induction, said Joyner, pledge educator."
As a fellow alumnus and pines sister, graduating class of '97, there has always been liabrary hours. Academics, philanthropies, campus and community involvement have and are pretty much a prerequsite to become a member of PI UPSILON OMEGA! Oh and lets not forget the NUMEROUS FUNDRAISERS that we do. Us pines sister take pride in our program and the traditions that follow with it. I assure you that there is NO HAZING going on. We do not MAKE or FORCE any prospective members to do anything they do not want to. So to believe allegations of, what, 2 students over the hundreds of members of PI UPSILON OMEGA is completely LUDACRIS! There has to be some reason our sorority is still active at MCLA and has been since 1981.UNITED WE STAND DIVIDED WE FALL! Jenn aka - Wally S'93 (S'97 pledge mistress)
As a sister of Pi Upsilon Omega, I am very interested in this story. But I think it may be just that, A STORY. I see no clear report of anything that the college officials are accusing? Why do the college officials continuously decline to comment on this issue? I think everyone has a right to know what is going on, including all greek members on campus, as well as the entire student body. It is a very serious accusation that the college is making towards Pi Upsilon Omega, yet when do we get to hear the backup information? I'm confused.
I am horrified by this article! I am a proud sister of the Pi Upsilon Omega Sorority. Sorority and Fraternities are supposed to a bond of sisterhood and brotherhood. It's a huge responsibility to become a sister or brother and it seems like in this article people are taking things a little too far. I never had to deal with this my whole four years of being a sister. I have never heard such a crazy story in my life and being a sister I'm a little shocked and hurt by it all. A message to whoever is pledging and doing the pledging this season... pledging is all about the bond you share with your pledgemates and sisters. Its a lifelong bond that will never go away. there should be nothing negative to say about PI Upsilon Omega and Pi Upsilon Pi, we're the best, what can I say?
I would hope that the college would decline comment, to protect the integrity of the investigation, and potential criminal or student judicial charges.
As a parent, I would expect prompt, legal and thorough investigation into charges of hazing. That's why it's a law! Young adults have died or been seriously injured by hazing incidents. If it is not happening, the "sisters" should have no cause to be worried, or hide anything from full disclosure.
Wow, MCLA officials must be really bored....if your going to start looking at Greeks, better start looking at all clubs, lol and all their so called "stories", if we just looked at stories....bye bye MCLA
"As a former long standing resident of North Adams, and living in the college area, it is about time to see this action being taken by the college. Years ago there were many brawls and riots involving the Greek Organizations, which frightened and angered the residents. Many times these incidents caused damages to homes and property of the people. None of the Greek Organizations took responsibility for their involvement. Actually having the audacity to laugh at what they had done."
This local forgets to mention that every time a student was stabbed up there in the mid 90's (I remember 2 incidents) it was done by a kid from Pittsfield. As far as these brawls that frightened all the women and children, most occurred between students and North Adams locals who came to campus looking for it. The only riots I remember were at Burger King when the folks that camped out there all day couldn't get breakfast after 11am
It is very upseting to me to see that MCLA has taken another step in their mission to completely eliminate greeks from campus. It was happening when I went to school there, and I can see that not much has changed.
It is a sad day for not only greeks but for MCLA as a whole to lose an orginization that contributes so much to the college and the community.
So much attention is paid to the negative stigma that surrounds greek orginizations that the positive contributions made by these men and women are overlooked. While I was a student, greeks donated hundreds, if not thousands, of hours of their free time doing community service for the college and surrounding community which is often overlooked by administration.
Whether it is orginizing the annual Community Kids Day or the Variety Show to benifit MADD, participating in college and Community Clean-Up, and countless other philanthropies, the Greeks are a positive influence on the college and community. I don't see any other groups on campus raising THOUSANDS of dollars for Cystic Fibrosis, driving to Boston to drop off the check and RUNNING back to North Adams to raise awareness. Sounds like a destructive group of individuals to me. I would revoke their charter too.
As a Beta Lambda sister, and former Vice President of the Inter Greek Council, I cherish the memories I made while I was a student and I hate to think that other girls coming through the school may not have the oppertunity to be a part of an amazing Greek system at MCLA.
To the sisters of Pi Upsilon Omega, I hope you continue to stand up the the administration to keep your oppertunity in tact, and I hope your fellow students have enough backbone to stand behind you and support you. Reach out to alumni, there are a lot of us out here who would like to help is there is anything we can do,
As a response to "Jesus" you can tell all the stories you want about that happened years ago, even if your stories are true, people today shouldn't be punnished for the actions of people that graduated a decade ago, it is insane. I would like to hear specific examples of problems the Greeks are causing now.
Friday Front Porch Feature: A Charming House Like New
By Breanna SteeleiBerkshires Staff
The home prior to renovations.
NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Are you looking for a newly renovated home with great space? Then this might be the perfect fit for you!
Our Friday Front Porch is a weekly feature spotlighting attractive homes for sale in Berkshire County. This week, we are showcasing 100 Autumn Drive.
This three-bedroom, two-bathroom split level was built in 1965 and is 1,396 square feet on 0.32 acres.
The house was completely renovated recently. It includes a one-car garage, and comes with appliances including a dishwasher and stove/oven, and other major appliances.
The house is listed for $359,500.
We spoke with owners Michael Zeppieriand Chris Andrews, who did the renovations. Zeppieri is an agent with Alton and Westall Real Estate Agency.
What was your first impression when you walked into the home?
Zeppieri: I purchased this home to do a full renovation flip and saw tremendous potential in this mid-century split level home that had not been updated since it was built in the 1960s, in a great North Adams neighborhood.
Andrews: The house was a much different house when we first purchased it in 2022 (photo attached is from about 2010.) The interior was painted all in dark colors and we brightened it up with neutral colors. The transformation makes you feel like you are in a totally different house.
What were the recent renovations, any standout design features?
Zeppieri: The house has had a complete reconfiguration including new kitchen with high-end appliances, ceramic tiled baths, hardwood floors, new windows and roof ... just to name a few. All a buyer has to do is move in and enjoy.
Andrews: Yes, we renovated the entire house. New windows, new roof, all new custom black gutter system, new blacktop driveway, hardwood floors were installed through out the house. New kitchen and bathrooms as well as painting the exterior and interior of the house. New paver patio in the back yard.
What kind of buyer would this home be ideal for?
Zeppieri: The buyer for this home could be a first-time homebuyer or a retiree ... the location is close to attractions in North Adams ... and the property is located in Autumn Heights, which is a very small residential development with several long-term owners.
Andrews: This home is truly ideal for a variety of buyers. Whether a first-time homebuyer, a small family or even someone looking to downsize from a larger home.
What do you think makes this property stand out in the current market?
Zeppieri: The location, price and move-in condition of this home make it a true market leader in the North Adams Market.
Andrews: This house is completely renovated and in a desirable location of North Adams. The natural light in the home really makes the interior pop. And with all the upgrades the home stays quite cool in the summer months.
Do you know any unique stories about the home or its history?
Zeppieri: This home was built for the Gould family in 1969 and they lived there till 2010. It was always a family home during that time in which the Goulds had two children ... and Virgina Gould managed Mohawk Forest Apartments and was a very active resident of North Adams.
Andrews: Built in about 1965.
What do the current owners love about this home?
Zeppieri: As the current owner it was a fun project to transform this home and get it ready for its next adventure with a new family to enjoy for many years.
Andrews: No one has lived in the house since we purchased the home. The new owners would be the first to live in the house since the renovations have been completed.
What would you say to a buyer trying to imagine their life in this space?
Andrews: I would suggest seeing the house either on a sunny day or at twilight to really get a vision of how special the home feels.
You can find out more about this house on its listing here.
*Front Porch Feature brings you an exclusive to some of the houses listed on our real estate page every week. Here we take a bit of a deeper dive into a certain house for sale and ask questions so you don't have to.
The city has lifted a boil water order — with several exceptions — that was issued late Monday morning following several water line breaks over the weekend. click for more
The bridge had been closed to all vehicle traffic since March 2023 after being deemed structurally deficient by the state Department of Transportation. click for more
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Members of Pi Upsilon Pi, brother fraternity to Omega that, together, are called the Pines, and various students protested Friday what they say is a violation of their rights and their sisters' rights.
Victor Joyner, a senior and vice president of Pi Upsilon Pi, said the Pines sisters were being threatened "emotionally."
"It's part of our student rights that you cannot threaten us with being thrown off campus - which they were all threatened on a very personal level - that if they did not cooperate with the school they would be thrown off," said Joyner.
According to fraternity members, one or two women had complained to the college about inappropriate treatment related to the sorority. Students told CBS6 News in Albany, N.Y., that the women said hot sauce had been smeared in their faces.
The Pines deny the charges, describing the investigation as a witch hunt.
Joyner and fraternity treasurer Scott Greenberg, a senior from New York City, said students were "grilled" by security and rooms in Hoosac Hall were searched. They also said the college was using the complaints to institute a widespread probe into other groups and teams on campus.
They and others at the rally were concerned that charges were being made but they weren't being given any details about what had allegedly happened.
