CINCINNATI – Ohio University suspended all fraternities Thursday, citing a "growing concern elevated by allegations of hazing" against seven chapters made this week.

The decision comes about 11 months after Collin Wiant was found dead in the annex of Sigma Pi house, the fraternity he was pledging, according to the Columbus Dispatch. Wiant's parents filed a wrongful death suit earlier this year, accusing fraternity members of deadly hazing.

In a letter to all Interfraternity Council presidents to announce the suspensions, Dean of Students Jenny Hall-Jones wrote that the "troubling allegations" of hazing made this week "indicate a potentially escalating systemic culture within our (Interfraternity Council), and Ohio University will not put at risk the health and safety of our students."

Ohio University's Interfraternity Council is the governing body for 15 member fraternities and nearly 1,000 affiliated members, according to the school's website.

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Judson Horras, the president and CEO of the North American Interfraternity Conference, criticized the suspensions in an emailed statement to the Enquirer.

"Hazing is a serious societal issue, and we strongly believe in holding individuals accountable," he said. "However, Ohio University’s suspension that impacts students not accused of misconduct is not the right approach to address this critical issue. It disincentivizes students who are following the rules."

Horras implored the university to bring "all parties to the table to seek a path forward" while also respecting the "rights of those that live up to the standards of fraternal excellence."

Hall-Jones and Vice President for Student Affairs Jason Pina jointly made the decision to issue the suspensions at Ohio University.

The "proactive step" was taken so chapters could create a plan to foster a better environment, Hall-Jones wrote. Forums are planned to "support and engage in proactive dialogue" with fraternity members.

The suspensions mean all fraternity chapters are prohibited from holding new member events, council or chapter meetings, socials and other events. Sophomore members are allowed to remain as residents in fraternity houses, Hall-Jones wrote, but the only events members are permitted to attend are those planned by university officials.

"I know that all of you have the ability to meet our expectations by operating as values-based organizations," Hall-Jones wrote. "But we need to see action from every IFC chapter. ... We need your support in making clear that misguided and inappropriate behavior will not be tolerated."