Hazing
Hazing
Policy
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Document Number: GREEK--107 Revision #: 2.0
Document Owner: Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
Date Last Updated: 01/28/2021
Primary Author: Director of Residence Life and Greek Affairs
Date Originally Created: 11/10/2011
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General Description
Description: Policy on hazing in Greek organizations
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Policy Provisions
1. Hazing
Cumberland University follows the Tennessee State Law on Hazing. In addition, the University definition of hazing is as follows.
Hazing is defined as any act which endangers the mental, emotional, and physical health or safety of a student, or which destroys or removes public or private property, for the purpose of initiation, admission into, affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in a group or organization.
While including the statutory limitations of hazing above (i.e., student acts directed at students on or off campus), the University expands its definition of hazing to include any act that may produce, or is intended to produce, mental or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, or ridicule; or any acts that are humiliating, intimidating, or demeaning, or that endangers the health and safety of another person. Such acts include – but are not limited to – paddling in any form; inducement of excessive fatigue, or physical or psychological shocks; acts of personal servitude; implementing or participation in treasure hunts, scavenger hunts, or road trips that are not approved by a University department; publicly wearing apparel which is conspicuous and not normally in good taste; engaging in public stunts; morally degrading or humiliating games and activities; drinking games; late work sessions and other obligations which interfere with scholastic purposes of the organization; and any other activities inconsistent with the purposes of the organization’s constitution, by-laws, standing rules and policies, or University policy.
The express or implied consent of the victim will not be a defense. Apathy or acquiescence in the presence of hazing are not neutral acts; they are violations of this rule. Complaints involving allegations of hazing may be brought before the Dean of Student for review without regard to set disciplinary regulations.
Tennessee Hazing Law
49-7-123. Hazing prohibited
- As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires:
- “Hazing” means any intentional or reckless act in Tennessee on or off the property of any higher education institution by one (1) student acting alone or with others which is directed against any other student, that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of that student, or which induces or coerces a student to endanger such student’s mental or physical health or safety. “Hazing” does not include customary athletic events or similar contests or competitions, and is limited to those actions taken and situations created in connection with initiation into or affiliation with any organization; and
b. “Higher education institution” means a public or private college, community college or university.
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Subject Experts
The following may be consulted for additional information.
Director of Residence Life and Greek Affairs