How You Can Help
Plan Your Activities
Many hazing activities occur as a result of poor planning or merely doing what was done in the past. As our understanding regarding what constitutes hazing is ever-evolving, so too must our traditions. Discuss with your leadership in advance what the membership intake process will be and what activities will and will not be allowed. Put this in writing to share with all members!
An extra step that may prove helpful is to communicate "What You Can Expect" to the new members in advance of the intake process--be specific and let the new members know what they can do if they have a concern (with whom they can speak, how they can report, etc.).
The staff in Student Leadership Development are available to assist in planning efforts or the development of materials for your group.
Evaluate/Audit Your Current Practices
Often times organizations continue to engage in activities and practices that have been part of the organization's history/culture for years. Without pausing to evaluate or audit the practices/activities and review them through the current environment and context on campus, these can sometimes become problematic activities/practices.
Hold Members Who Do Not Follow Your Policies Accountable
If you have a member who will not abide by your expectations regarding hazing, establish an internal accountability process and possible disciplinary consequences in advance. Of course if you do so, you must also be willing to follow through. If you wish to receive any guidance, please contact the Hazing Prevention Coalition, Office of Student Leadership Development, or the Office of Student Conduct.
Educate Your Alumni
As a community, our shared understanding of what activities constitute hazing is evolving. Often alumni from "another era" have not participated in these conversations with us. Educate your alumni regarding today's definitions of hazing--chances are some of the "traditions" that they endured are considered out of bounds today. You can work with Student Leadership Development to identify strategies to help alumni develop their understanding of our expectations.
Join the Hazing Prevention Effort
The university has a standing committee on Hazing Prevention that includes numerous student members. We encourage you to contact the members of the Committee with any questions, comments, or suggestions and to attend the ongoing programming and events offered by the university.
