Texas IFC Needs Your Help to Keep West Fest Safe 

To Whom It May Concern:

The Interfraternity Council (IFC) at The University of Texas at Austin governs UT Austin’s 22 member fraternities. Each year, the IFC oversees the coordination of West Fest (formerly Round Up). West Fest is an annual weekend of philanthropic social events, proceeds of which benefit the local Austin community. This year’s West Fest will occur on Friday, March 28th and Saturday, March 29th, 2025.

The IFC executive board wanted to reach out to stakeholders to inform everyone about this event and clear up expectations. West Fest is both a philanthropic and celebratory event intended for college students. In previous years, fraternities have used West Fest as a recruitment event by inviting high school students to attend and participate in the weekend activities. However, as West Fest has evolved, the IFC has been clear with organizations that West Fest should NOT be utilized as a recruitment opportunity. Attendance by students under 18 at West Fest events is an extreme safety concern and puts the chapters and Interfraternity Council at risk.

Individuals are not allowed to attend West Fest events without an IFC-issued wristband. Attendees must show a state-issued ID that will be verified by professional security to obtain a wristband. We want to make it very clear that any student under 18 will NOT be issued an IFC wristband under any circumstance. Fraudulent identification will be immediately rejected by security and/or government scanners.

Additionally, the IFC has been made aware of possible unsanctioned events hosted by non-IFC member groups. These events are NOT sponsored by the IFC, nor do they adhere to the same risk management training and policies as member organizations. A list of chapters affiliated with the Texas Interfraternity Council and recognized by the university can be found on the IFC’s website. If you are unsure about a chapter or event’s affiliation, please feel free to contact IFC leadership for confirmation.

The Texas IFC has implemented numerous risk management policies and procedures and has worked with each chapter hosting events to ensure that West Fest weekend is safe and fun for all attendees. We request your assistance in discouraging high school students from attending West Fest events. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact me, IFC President, Andrew Bohnsack, at president@texasifc.com.

Hook ‘em,

Texas IFC Executive Board