‘It’s worrisome’: VCU students concerned by hazing allegations tied to suspended fraternity

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Virginia Commonwealth University is investigating multiple reports of hazing by an unrecognized fraternity.

According to a VCU Alert issued Tuesday, October 7, the alleged hazing incidents involved Theta Chi and occurred off campus at several locations between Oct. 3 and Oct. 6.

The alert said the reports were in relation to new members in the pledging process, and included forced alcohol consumption, extreme physical exercises, physical battery and mental degradation.

“My initial reaction to this is just feeling sad and sorry for the students that have been taken advantage of by this group that’s not even affiliated with our school,” said VCU student John Sundstrom.

VCU does not currently recognize Theta Chi after the fraternity was suspended in November 2024 for violating VCU’s Student Code of Conduct. The suspension is effective until September 1, 2028.

“It’s worrisome, like you don’t want to get hurt, you don’t want to get attacked by people who are supposed to be like your friends,” said Aspen Kofler, another VCU student.

For some on campus, the allegations bring back painful memories of the 2021 hazing death of freshman Adam Oakes, who died from alcohol poisoning at a Delta Chi fraternity party.

The tragedy led to the passage of “Adam’s Law,” which requires Virginia colleges and universities to provide hazing prevention education to all new and current members of student organizations.

"With the death of Adam Oakes, I think that really set the tone at VCU to have a more positive experience with pledging," Sundstrom said.

The national Theta Chi Fraternity issued the following statement addressing the hazing allegations:

"Theta Chi Fraternity is aware of Virginia Commonwealth University’s report of alleged hazing activities by VCU students. Theta Chi closed its chapter at VCU in February 2025 and does not operate or support a group on or off campus. Any group of VCU students purporting to operate a chapter of Theta Chi is doing so without authorization of the Fraternity. Theta Chi stands firmly against hazing, which has no place in the fraternity experience. Anyone with information related to hazing activities is urged to contact law enforcement and/or campus administrators."

In the VCU Alert, the university reminded students that an individual is unable to consent to any hazing activity.

They also warned of the risks associated with unrecognized student organizations. Hazing concerns can be reported using the University's hazing reporting form or by contacting VCU Police.