Hazing

1. Hazing is defined as any reckless or intentional act, whether occurring on- or off-University-controlled property, by one (1) or more students, which is directed against any other student or groups (regardless of their willingness to participate), that produces mental, emotional, or physical pain, discomfort, embarrassment, humiliation, or ridicule, that is required or expected for affiliation or initiation into a group or organization. This includes any activity, whether presented as optional or required, that places individuals in a position of servitude as a condition of affiliation or initiation.

2. Hazing is strictly prohibited by the University. Any individual or organization found responsible for hazing is subject to disciplinary action and/or criminal prosecution.
3. Retaliation against any person who reports or cooperates in the investigation of a hazing incident is strictly prohibited and will result in separate disciplinary action.

Reporting Hazing:

• If you are aware of an incident of hazing, you are required to report the incident to the Office of Community Standards. Reports can be made confidentially or anonymously. Reports may be submitted by email to the Office of Community Standards (conduct@lmunet.edu), or through the University's online incident reporting form.

Public Disclosure of Hazing Incidents:

• In compliance with federal law, the University will publicly report incidents of hazing annually on its website in the Annual Security Report, as well as, bi-annually in the Campus Hazing Transparency Report. The report will include the student organization name, a description of each incident, including whether the violation included the abuse or illegal use of alcohol or drugs, the findings of responsibility of any institutional investigations, and any sanctions imposed.

The Annual Security Report (ASR) and the Campus Hazing Transparency Report serve distinct purposes in promoting campus safety and accountability, but they focus on different types of conduct and reporting requirements:

Annual Security Report (ASR): Required by the federal Clery Act, this report provides detailed information on campus crime statistics, safety policies, and procedures related to emergencies, crime prevention, and victim support. Its primary purpose is to inform current and prospective students, employees, and the public about campus safety and security.

Campus Hazing Transparency Report: Mandated by state laws like the Stop Campus Hazing Act (if applicable), this report specifically discloses incidents of hazing reported to the institution, including dates, types of hazing, investigations, and outcomes. Its purpose is to increase public awareness and accountability regarding hazing incidents at colleges and universities.

Key Difference: The ASR covers a broad range of campus crime and safety information, while the Campus Hazing Transparency Report focuses solely on hazing incidents and their resolution.

Campus Wide Hazing Prevention Program

• In compliance with federal law, the University implements a campus-wide, comprehensive Hazing Prevention Program. An overview of the Hazing Prevention Program, in addition to a comprehensive overview of how Hazing Incidents are reported, investigated, and sanctioned, can be found here. 

Note: This policy complies with the requirements of the Stop Campus Hazing Act (P.L. 118-39).