Tau Kappa Epsilon Takes A Stand

Fraters,

I am writing during a difficult time for our organization. After 115 years of operation, TKE faces an internal challenge. As you have probably heard, a very small number of our 268 groups in the U.S. and Canada are being investigated for alleged conduct misaligned with TKE's values.

Among these allegations are underage drinking and the use of illegal substances. Other allegations involve satire beyond all bounds of decency. Most damning are accusations of sexual assault. I want to make it crystal clear on behalf of the leadership of Tau Kappa Epsilon, that illegal behaviors will not be tolerated. In each of the instances, groups have been suspended pending ongoing investigations. Members found guilty have been removed from the Fraternity. We will continue to show the Greek World, colleges, universities, and the general public that we take every allegation seriously and we will take immediate and appropriate action.

Currently, we offer educational training for all collegiate members of TKE. This reviews expected behaviors regarding illegal substances, underage drinking and sexual assaults. In showing our commitment as a leader in the fraternal world, all collegiate members will be required to complete this mandatory training. This interactive eCompliance tool can be found at eCompliance.tke.org. It can be accessed via computer, tablet, or mobile phone. Our team will have a digital record of everyone who undergoes the training and the date of that interaction. This instruction will be completed by all collegiate members of TKE by October 24, 2014. Fraters and candidates who do not participate will have their membership subject to removal.

With groups receiving increased media attention, it is a good time to remind everyone of TKE's media policy. All media inquiries should be referred to Frater Alex Baker, Chief Information Officer, who can be reached at abaker@tke.org or 317-872-6533 ext. 228.

TKE is full of amazing men. These men are great leaders, grandfathers, fathers, sons, and pillars of our communities. Whether raising great families or thousands of dollars for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, TKE members do great things each day. We have an obligation to uphold our bond and treat all those both inside and outside our organization with respect and dignity. I am proud to lead this fraternity and our team of professional staff, volunteers, alumni, and Grand Council will take a stand to build it back to what our founders envisioned with all of you!

Yours in the Bond,

Donald E. Aldrich
Chief Executive Officer
Tau Kappa Epsilon