The graduate board of the A.D. final club announced Wednesday night--to the chagrin of some of its members--that the club's doors were being closed to non-members.

"It was a determination that was made by the graduate committee in consultation with the undergraduate officers that the club had become too open," said Patrick Grant Jr. '70, president of the club's graduate board. "We did not like that direction."

Luncheons or other traditional events that have taken place at the club for many years will be the only functions that will be exempted under the new policy, he said. The club has yet to decide whether it will continue to hold parties, and its decision could prompt other clubs to follow suit.

Grant called the club's decision a return to tradition, but it appears concern over legal liability was at least a factor. Meanwhile, most club members said they were socially accepting what will be a drastic change.

Kennesh II. Ahn '00, an A.D. member, said members first heard about the policy change two nights ago.

"Grads thought it was too much of a liability. Final clubs were not designed to accommodate people who came by after the [Crimson Sports Bar and] Grille," he said. "The discussion wasn't if we should do it. It was why we were doing it."

Dean of Students Archie C. Epps III-who has frequently conflicted with the final clubs in recent years, critiquing what he calls lax alcohol policies--said he believes it is a step in the right direction.

"I think I can understand. [The A.D. has] had a number of incidents involving non-members," Epps said.

While Grant denied that any specific occurrence prompted the new policy, citing instead a growing sense that the club had become too open, Epps noted an "incident" of last year involving a non-member.

"It must be self-protective on their part," he said.

A.D. undergraduate President John H. Heller '99 said the policy is in the best interest of the club.

Ahn said members of the club are not pleased with the policy change.

"It shocked everyone, but for the club's sake, it had to be done," Ahn said.

Keith L. Cynar '00, a member, said he believed the policy was still pending and that he is against the change.

"I would not be happy about it. It sucks," hesaid.

Contacted last night, Rev. Douglas W. Sears'69, president of the Interclub Council, said hehad not yet heard of the policy shift butexpressed support for it.