LETTER: ZBT Responds

The recent articles in The Daily Pennsylvanian concerning the alleged expulsion of a University student for rape require our comment. It is unfortunate that the DP has chosen to brand indirectly all ZBT brothers as rapists by repeatedly referring to the University student as a "ZBT brother." This repeated reference is unfair to the chapter and its members, which neither were under investigation, charged with any wrongdoing or disciplined in any fashion. This was not a matter where the chapter was collectively responsible and, in fact, the chapter's probationary status has been terminated. Obviously, had the facts been any different with respect to the chapter, additional sanctions would have been levied. Accordingly, we call on the DP to act responsibly and not directly or indirectly impugn the integrity of the chapter and its members. While we are constrained to comment further on the facts by the University regulations regarding the confidentiality of these types of matters, the University officials who have commented publicly and privately for the DP and The Philadelphia Inquirer apparently view their obligation imposed by the regulations differently. These comments were made in total disregard of the confidentiality rules, serve to undercut the integrity and effectiveness of the University judicial system and are unfair to the individuals -- the accuser and the accused -- involved in the process. Rather than applaud the so-called achievements of the University in this case, all University officials must maintain the confidence and confidentiality required of them by the regulations. Those University officials who are unable or unwilling to do so must be disciplined. To do otherwise will encourage further breaches in confidentiality, demonstrate that the students and University officials are treated differently and held to different standards, and breed a lack of trust and respect for University officials, which unfortunately already exists on campus. MATTHEW FEINSOD President Zeta Beta Tau Fraternity Wharton '92