UC Santa Barbara Dean of Students Joaquin Becerra has launched a formal review into a recruitment “bias incident” within the Alpha Phi sorority, following a controversy that has reportedly caused “deep impact” across campus. The dean's action comes amidst a “toxic racism scandal” that has led to intensified online backlash, chapter walkouts, and the university deploying 24/7 psychological counseling for students.
In an internal email, Dean Becerra informed the Panhellenic community that the review is being conducted under system-wide anti-discrimination policies. He also issued an urgent plea to halt an “escalating campus witch hunt” for an Alpha Phi International member who allegedly removed people of color from the list of potential new recruits. Becerra urged students to temper public hostility towards sorority members, stating, “I want to encourage us to be mindful that we do not shame or exclude members of our community as we move towards education and accountability.” To manage the unfolding situation, leadership has scheduled emergency meetings with Collegiate Panhellenic Council presidents.
The controversy initially erupted within the Alpha Phi house after active sisters confronted visiting national handlers. This confrontation concerned the “sudden, unexplained purging of minority recruits” during fall rush. The selection pool reportedly plummeted from 1,200 prospective members to approximately 250 in a single round, with active sisters of color allegedly sidelined from recruitment duties. When national representatives attempted to diffuse the tension by suggesting a “dance party,” Alpha Phi President Alana Nielsen refused and convened a chapter-wide meeting. This led to a “tear-fueled showdown” where sisters directly confronted recruiters.
Following this internal revolt, Dean Becerra clarified that administrative sanctions are being considered. He warned that “This type of behavior is in direct opposition with our campus’ values and Principles of Community,” adding that the incident is being reviewed as a “possible violation of the UC Anti-Discrimination Policy,” with any corrective actions to be managed by appropriate campus departments. The university confirmed its staff are “connecting with impacted parties” and has placed Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) on high alert to provide round-the-clock support. Becerra has also made himself personally available to students seeking answers.
Sky Achola, a Black sorority member and third-year political science major, reported arriving at the house on September 27 to meet prospective recruits, only to find she had been entirely left off the schedule. Despite weeks of national media attention, student walkouts, and administrative reviews, Alpha Phi International has yet to publicly address the allegations. This silence has reportedly caused “widespread anger and disappointment” across UCSB’s Panhellenic community. Alpha Phi President Nielsen previously stated, “Moving forward doesn’t mean moving on without accountability.” UCSB has confirmed that reports of discrimination remain under review by the university’s Office of Discrimination and Harassment Prevention and Student Conduct. Alpha Phi International has been approached for comment.
