On July 7, Dartmouth College student Won Jang, 20, was found dead near the Connecticut River after attending a social event hosted by the Alpha Phi sorority. The student from Middletown, Delaware, was reported missing earlier after barriers were broken down by his fraternity brothers at the Beta Alpha Omega, where he was also a member. His untimely death has led to legal repercussions for the organizations involved, highlighting safety concerns within Greek life on college campuses.
Authorities, after conducting thorough investigations, have charged Alpha Phi sorority along with two fraternity members, Matthew Catrambone and Samuel Terry, both aged 21. Each faces misdemeanor counts related to providing alcohol to individuals under the legal drinking age. The charges arose from the party held on July 6, where multiple attendees consumed alcohol, which is believed to have played a significant role in the events leading up to Jang’s death. The party's attendees consisted mostly of underage students, as Jang himself was not yet 21 at the time of the gathering.
Following the conclusion of the party, attendees impulsively decided to swim in the river. Unfortunately, as the night progressed, the situation darkened—a sudden rainstorm scattered many partygoers, leaving Jang behind. Reports confirm he could not swim, which raises grave concerns about the circumstances. The Hanover Police stated he was last seen near the river's docks, and his body was later discovered 65 feet offshore.
Dartmouth College reacted swiftly to the incident by immediately suspending both Alpha Phi and Beta Alpha Omega fraternity from campus activities. This suspension remains enforced as investigations continue. Chief of Hanover Police, Charlie Dennis, emphasized to reporters the police investigation did not support the notion of hazing contributing to the drowning. Still, the overall concern for student safety has not been overlooked by the institution.
The alcohol content found in Jang's blood at the time of recovery stood at 0.167, significantly above the legal threshold. This fact underlines not only health risks associated with binge drinking but raises ethical questions about the responsibilities of student organizations to discourage high-risk behavior among peers. Jang's excitement for college life became intertwined with the very real dangers posed by excessive drinking and the need for greater oversight of campus parties, especially those organized by fraternities and sororities.
For many, the memory of Jang resonates deeply; he was remembered as someone who took part enthusiastically within the Dartmouth community. A valedictorian of his class at Middletown High School, Jang was pursuing studies in biomedical engineering, showcasing both potential and ambition cut short far too soon.
Internal investigations led by Dartmouth aim to promote standards of conduct and adherence to policies whereby Greek organizations can operate without compromising safety. The college issued statements blaming the incident on the failure of organizations to adhere to protocols, indicating these groups bear responsibility for ensuring safe environments.
Despite the gravity of the charges against fraternity members and the sorority, Dartmouth emphasized the importance of Greek life within the college experience, defining it as integral when conducted within ethical frameworks. The flipside of this perspective urges organizations to acknowledge the responsibility they hold for their members, especially with regard to alcohol consumption at social events.
The depth of this tragedy has spurred discussions around mental health resources for students on campus. Following Jang’s death, Dartmouth initiated measures to bolster support programs, including free swimming lessons and wellness programming meant to safeguard against future incidents. These programs aim to promote safer practices and healthier choices among students.
Jang’s passing continues to echo through the community, invoking calls for reflection and change. With investigations still underway, many hope for comprehensive reforms not only within Dartmouth but also throughout collegiate Greek life nationally as schools grapple with the hazards associated with unruly party cultures.
This incident at Dartmouth sheds light on broader trends concerning alcohol-related mishaps at educational institutions and emphasizes the urgency for improved policies. Ensuring student safety and well-being must be prioritized to honor the memory of those like Won Jang, who become victims of circumstances often within their control. Moving forward, stakeholders among academic communities, law enforcement, and student organizations alike will need to work collaboratively to cultivate environments where such tragedies are less likely to occur.
