Hazing

Hazing is prohibited by Michigan state law and Rochester College policy. The College is dedicated to a hazing-free environment for all of its student and college organizations. According to Michigan state law, “Hazing is defined as an intentional, knowing, or reckless act by a person acting alone or acting with others that is directed against an individual and that the person knew or should have known endangers the physical health or safety of the individual, and that is done for the purpose of pledging, being initiated into, affiliating with, participating in, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization” (Michigan penal Code Act 328 of 1931, addendum 750.411t.). All students and student groups are required to comply with Michigan’s requirements on hazing and the College’s regulations prohibiting hazing. Verbatim copies of the Michigan hazing laws and the College’s regulations prohibiting hazing can be obtained from the Center for Student Life.

Rochester College Guidelines and Philosophy of Hazing Policy

Although there is no exhaustive list of all the actions that could constitute hazing, organizations should only plan activities that intentionally and reasonably promote positive growth and development of its membership and organizational mission. Hazing may include (but is not limited to) activities such as: forced consumption of alcohol or other foods/beverages; paddling or striking in any form; those that would result in excessive fatigue or sleep deprivation; inhibiting a student’s personal hygiene regimen; forms of demerits for its membership; physical and psychological distress; quests; treasure hunts; wearing of public apparel which is conspicuous and not normally in good taste; engaging in public stunts and buffoonery (skits, songs, making a spectacle at Chapel, etc.); morally degrading or humiliating games and activities; and any other activities which are not consistent with social club regulations/organizational law, ritual or policy or the regulations and policies of this educational institution.

Hazing policies apply to all student organizations and athletic teams. It should be noted that planning, initiating, or participating in hazing (as an officer, member, new member or advisor) can result in disciplinary actions for both individuals and the entire organization under the Code of Conduct and the Student Organization Handbook, whether or not all of the organization’s membership condoned or were made aware of the activity in question.

It is the duty of the organization and officers to take whatever steps necessary for its membership to develop an understanding of the hazing policy and definitions as outlined in the Student Organization Handbook. Questions about events or policy and assistance in educational programming for your organization on hazing may be directed to the Dean of Students.