Hazing Policies

Hazing is a fundamental violation of human dignity. It is strictly prohibited at the University of Maryland. The following conduct is defined as hazing when engaged in, whether on or off University premises, for the purpose of admission, initiation, or continued association with a group or organization:

Recklessly or intentionally:

1. engaging in or enabling an act or situation that subjects another person to the risk of

   1. physical harm

   2. emotional distress, humiliation, degradation;

   3. harm from unreasonable requirements which interfere with a student’s ability to function as a student, including financial requirements outside of membership dues;

   4. diminished physical or mental capacity, or

2. causing or encouraging another person to violate any law or University regulation.

The implied or express consent of another person is not a defense under this section. Aggravated violations of this policy, as defined in Part 2 (a) of the Code of Student Conduct, normally result in suspension or expulsion from the University, or revocation suspension or expulsion or registration for a student group or denial of recognition or registration for a student group or organization, even for a first offense. Individuals who participate in acts of hazing are personally accountable under this policy, and the Code of Student Conduct, regardless of the outcome of any related case brought against a student group or organization.

All members of the university community share the responsibility to challenge and make known to the Office of Student Conduct acts of apparent hazing.

Apathy in the presence of hazing, or acquiescence to hazing, are not neutral acts. Individuals who participate in acts of hazing as perpetrators or victims are personally accountable under this policy, and the Code of Student Conduct.

The state of Maryland defines hazing as "any act or causing any situation which recklessly or intentionally subjects a student to the risk of serious bodily injury for the purpose of initiation into a student organization of a school, college, or university." A person convicted of hazing is subject to a fine, and / or imprisonment. The consent of the student is also not a defense by the state.