DeKALB | The nation’s first black sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha, will return a chapter to NIU this year after a suspension from the university as a result of several incidents.

“Hazing is one of the many things,” said Larry Bolles, director of Judicial Affairs.

The organization was founded in 1908, according to their Web site. The Delta Omicron chapter at NIU was charted in 1959.

“About four years ago, we decided to shut the chapter down,” said Eugenia Reese, the supervising president on the Xi Nu Chapter, which will oversee the reopening process.

She said the chapter decided to close its doors because the existing members graduated.

“I’m expecting great things from them,” said Bolles. “They met the terms of their suspension and the administration is welcoming them back with open arms,” he said.

Reese explained that new members will be educated on the rules and regulations of the group, including the prohibition of hazing.

“We start by telling the girls who come to Rush; we tell them all the rules and regulations, and one of our main rules is that there is no hazing,” Reese said.

Though the women will learn through the pledging process about the stipulations they must follow, Reese expressed the inability of Greek organizations to control the actions of those who join.

“With fraternities and sororities we can’t control young people … we can only hope that the members follow them and of course we have some people who don’t,” she said.

According to the Greek Life Standards Document, “Chapters must be absolutely free from hazing, harassment and abuse of any individual or group.”

In order to keep up with this regulation, Greek organizations must create four workshops a year for their members that cover issues such as “alcohol policy/alcohol and drugs, hazing, sexual abuse, fire/health/safety, appreciation of diversity and prevention of violence.”

“There’s nothing we can do but continue to educate new people,” Reese said.