I am writing about the incident reported in The Dartmouth on Oct. 11 ("Police arrest 11 Kappa members Monday"). Many of us are very concerned about what happened, about the implications for student safety, and about what situations like this mean for our life as a community. To assist in constructive conversations, I would like to share some information about what reportedly happened and about some responses.
The incident occurred on the evening of Oct. 9 at the Great View Roller Rink in Enfield, N.H., following new-member recruitment activities. At some point, a number of students had too much to drink and, fortunately, someone called 911 for help. Three students were then hospitalized for intoxication, six students were admitted to Dick's House for intoxication, and two others (who were less impaired and did not require medical care) were evaluated and turned over to the care of sober friends in their residence halls. All of these individuals are affiliated with Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority, and all of them have recovered. It is also important to note that not all members of Kappa were participants in or were even aware of the activities that evening.
The Enfield and Hanover Police Departments, Kappa Kappa Gamma National Executive Officers and the Dartmouth College Undergraduate Judicial Affairs and Safety and Security offices are investigating. Because of the recent past record of Kappa Kappa Gamma (since January 2006, the organization was twice found to be in violation of the College's alcohol policy, and is currently on probation for the second violation), the Office of Residential Life has significant concerns about the organization's ability to manage social events responsibly. Therefore, as an interim measure, Dean Marty Redman has extended and expanded Kappa Kappa Gamma's current probation through the conclusion of the College's investigation and fact-finding. The members of Kappa have been informed of this.
A number of students have asked if the College's "Good Samaritan" policy applies to this incident, because someone indeed called for help for a particularly intoxicated student. The Good Samaritan policy states, in part, that students and/or organizations that seek assistance from Safety and Security or other recognized sources, the individual assisted and others involved will not be subject to College disciplinary action with respect to the alcohol policy. The policy also states it does not preclude disciplinary action regarding other violations of College standards, such as causing or threatening physical harm, sexual abuse, damage to property, harassment, hazing, etc., and that students should also be aware that this College policy does not prevent action by local and state authorities. Once further fact finding is done, the Dean of the College office will be able to make a determination about the applicability of the Good Samaritan policy and the appropriateness of disciplinary action with respect to Kappa and/or individual students.
The abuse of alcohol is not a valid Dartmouth tradition. While this situation was dangerous and upsetting, it should remind all of us about the importance of what is indeed one of Dartmouth's best and most important traditions and values -- our tradition of caring for one another. Care extends beyond calling Safety and Security when someone is inebriated and at risk (although that is certainly important). It includes conducting our social lives in ways that don't put anyone at senseless risk of harm. It includes determining how we sustain a community where people are respected, valued and able to experience the best that Dartmouth has to offer. I hope all of you will join the many students, including members of Kappa, in thinking and talking about your respective organizations, living situations and circles of friends and asking what type of environment exists and how you might make it better. I have faith in your ability to care for each other.
