UC Davis officials have issued an apology to the Theta Chi Fraternity after an investigation determined there wasn’t enough evidence to determine it held a “gathering” after a member tested positive for COVID-19.
About a week ago, members of the fraternity were put under quarantine after one of them contracted the coronavirus, apparently during a gathering of some type.
The Theta Chi Fraternity is located off the UCD campus at 501 Russell Blvd. As a result of the initial report, university and Yolo County health officials began contact tracing protocols with the affected student quarantined at their parent’s home while other members of the group were quarantined at apartments specifically set aside for such cases.
UCD officials reported there are 10 students living in the Theta Chi Fraternity house, which is off campus and not managed by the university.
Professional cleaners have since disinfected the house.
According to the initial report, the Theta Chi members held a gathering of between 10 and 20 people, which violated quarantine protocols and county and campus guidelines.
However, after the UCD Office of Student Support and Judicial Affairs completed its investigation, the office determined that the evidence was not sufficient to establish a finding that there was a gathering that included individuals outside the household.
“I want to express my appreciation for the Theta Chi students for helping with this investigation,” Chancellor Gary May said. “I know they feel unfairly targeted, and I apologize on behalf of the university for causing discomfort and embarrassment. I know they also appreciate that the gravity of the public health crisis cannot be overstated. Our students have made great efforts to help keep our cases low, and we continue to need everyone’s participation to make sure the broader community gets through this pandemic with as few cases as possible.”
Initially, May expressed disappointment about the actions of the students.
The university remains committed to fostering a healthy and safe community. It will continue to take appropriate action to prevent harm to the public, aligned with Yolo County Public Health, when the need arises.
The Zeta Xi Chapter of Theta Chi fraternity is reputed to be one of UC Davis’ oldest fraternities. It was founded in 1967, in part due to the endowment of its 501 Russell Blvd., location, according to the fraternity’s website. The house has been continuously inhabited by the fraternity since 1970, making it one of the “longest continuous run in a single location among all UC Davis fraternities.”
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