Penn State University has suspended the Lambda Lambda chapter of Phi Beta Sigma fraternity for at least four years following a hazing investigation.

Penn State emphasizes its stance that hazing is unacceptable and highlights community efforts to promote respect, accountability, and safety among students.

The investigation revealed hazing activities starting in October 2024, involving physical and mental abuse of pledges.

One student has been held accountable for hazing actions, while another is no longer enrolled and pending the outcome of the conduct process.

The university remains committed to ensuring student safety and accountability, reaffirming that hazing has no place at Penn State.

The investigation, which began in March 2025, was triggered by credible reports of hazing involving physical abuse, mental abuse, and forced physical activity.

The university's Office of Student Accountability and Conflict Response launched the investigation in March, leading to the chapter's suspension on August 4, 2025.

The fraternity was placed on interim suspension since March 18, 2025, and this suspension has now been made official.

The chapter was initially placed on interim suspension, which has now been formalized, with a potential return contingent on a two-year probation period.

The fraternity violated university policies on student conduct and hazing, resulting in the loss of access to university resources, participation in campus activities, and support services.

Individuals and the organization face misdemeanor charges under Pennsylvania’s Timothy J. Piazza Antihazing Law, enacted after a previous hazing-related student death at Penn State.

Fraternity leaders Jacob Francis and Jayson Archer were charged in May with simple assault and hazing, and the chapter was later charged with conspiracy organizational hazing in July.