Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity returned to the Interfraternity Council (IFC) following its appeal to the Student Organization Appeals Board.

The fraternity was denied readmittance by a two-thirds vote at the February IFC President's Council meeting. However, after the fraternity presented its case to the Student Appeals Board in March, the IFC agreed to readmit it as a recognized fraternity last week.

"[Sigma Alpha Epsilon is] recognized now and they're given probationary status, meaning they have all the rights any other fraternity would have but they can't vote on any issue until a year from now when they will get full status," IFC president Steve DiOrio said. "The only thing I can say is that they don't have any restrictions that any other fraternity would have."

Members of the fraternity will not be able to vote for the next IFC president or any bylaw changes until their year of probation is complete, DiOrio said.

"We're excited about getting back in [to the IFC] and we're looking forward to becoming a positive member in the greek community again," said J.D. Parker, Sigma Alpha Epsilon president.

The fraternity had been removed from the IFC in January 2001 due to violations including drug charges, misallocation of Interfraternity Council/Panhellenic Dance Marathon funds and the use of chapter money to purchase alcohol.

The fraternity proceeded with the appeals process now so if it wasn't readmitted, members would be able to find housing in the fall, Scott Phelan director of fraternity and sorority life, said.

"I would imagine they are able to move into their house, but that would be up to the borough," Phelan said.

It is unclear whether the borough will allow members to move back into their house in the fall. Herman Slaybaugh, zoning officer for State College, was unavailable to comment.

Parker said his understanding was that Sigma Alpha Epsilon members would be permitted to move into the house at the beginning of next fall.

DiOrio agreed the members should be permitted to live in their house, 200 E. Beaver Ave., but stated the borough had the final say.

"Provided that the borough let them in again, they will be living in their house in the fall ... I'm assuming they are going to let them at this point," DiOrio said.

Chris Mundy, assistant executive director for the national chapter, said he was pleased with the outcome of the decision and the national chapter, alumni and house corporation members are planning on helping with fall 2003 recruitment.