Chi O cited for minor rush rule infraction

When it comes to the Panhellenic Council's annual rush, even seemingly innocuous actions can often come into conflict with the rules set by Panhel's Executive Council's. Panhel and the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Affairs investigated Chi Omega last week to determine whether one such action -- several sisters placing mints in rushes' jackets -- violated Panhel rush policies, according to outgoing Panhel President Jessica Lennon. The Phi Sigma Sigma sorority filed a complaint with Panhel alleging that Chi O had committed the minor rush infraction during an open house event January 13. Chi O received a minor sanction for its misconduct. Panhel's tightly structured rules prohibit sororities from attempting to gain any extra advantage in attracting rushes, said Lennon, a College senior. According to Panhel rules, sororities may not give the rushes any gifts to take with them. But several female rushes said they found mints inside their coats after leaving the Chi O rush event. One rush who requested anonymity said that at a subsequent rush meeting, one of the Rho Chis, or rush counselors, asked her group if anyone got anything from Chi O. The source said that at least 10 people, including herself, raised their hands. Lennon said a couple of sisters gave candy to rushes, but the sisters "misunderstood their actions." Lennon, a Panhel adviser and OFSA Assistant Director Tom Carroll met Friday with the presidents and rush chairpersons of Chi O and Phi Sig to discuss the issue. Usually, if an agreement cannot be reached in these situations, it goes to a judicial hearing, Carroll said. But after the situation was investigated, Lennon said the representatives met again Monday and resolved "what was declared to be a minor rush infraction in a positive and very friendly manner." The only sanction resulting from the infraction is that Chi O must implement positive educational workshops for Panhel. "With Panhel rush? there is a set of rules that is as fair and consistent as possible," said Carroll, adding that the purpose is "so that [the rushes] are getting to know the women [in the houses]." He added that "the purpose is not to hurt or damage chapters." "We believe it was a very unfortunate situation that was blown out of proportion," said Chi O President Meka Millstone, a College senior. "And we regret if any action was misinterpreted." Millstone added that Chi O's biggest concern is whether there are any hurt feelings. "We hope none of the rushees felt targeted if they did not receive a mint," she said. Millstone also stressed that the leadership of Chi O was neither aware of nor involved in the infraction, adding that Chi O and Phi Sig remain on good terms. Lennon added that she was pleased that the situation was worked out quickly and without animosity. "We were very happy because, especially during rush, we wanted to maintain Panhellenic spirit of sisterhood," she said.