Hazing Prevention, Reporting, and Transparency
Our institution is committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and inclusive campus environment. Hazing in any form is strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated.
What Is Hazing?
Federal Definition (from the Stop Campus Hazing Act / Clery Act)
Hazing is defined as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act committed by a person—whether individually or with others—against another person, regardless of the individual’s willingness to participate, that:
- Occurs as part of initiation into, affiliation with, or maintaining membership in a student organization; and
- Causes or creates a risk of physical or psychological injury beyond normal participation in campus activities.
Examples include, but are not limited to:
- Physical harm (e.g., whipping, beating, striking, or electronic shocking)
- Sleep deprivation, exposure to elements, confinement, or extreme physical activity
- Forced consumption of food, alcohol, drugs, or other substances
- Forced sexual acts
- Threats of bodily harm
- Criminal acts or coercion to commit criminal acts
Indiana State University additionally follows the State of Indiana Code 35-42-2-2.5 for definition of hazing as outlined in the Code of Student Conduct (3.3.3 Hazing)
Indiana State University Policy Library Student Organization Bylaws Statement (Policy 450.4.7)
The constitution/bylaws of any student organization must include a statement of non-hazing, to be worded exactly as follows: Hazing is strictly prohibited in connection with the activities of this organization. Hazing shall be defined as any conduct which subjects another person—physically, mentally, emotionally, or psychologically—to anything that may abuse, degrade, or intimidate the person as a condition of association with the organization, regardless of consent.
- What This Means Hazing is any activity expected of someone joining or participating in the organization that could harm, embarrass, pressure, or put them at risk—even if they agree to it or it is meant to be “in good fun.” If someone feels like they have to do something to belong, or they might be excluded, embarrassed, or punished if they don’t—that is likely hazing.
- Key Things to Remember
- Consent doesn’t make it okay. Even if someone says “yes,” it can still be hazing.
- Intent doesn’t matter. Even if the goal is bonding or tradition, it can still be hazing.
- Group pressure counts. If someone feels they can’t say no, it’s a problem.
- Risk matters. If an activity could cause physical harm, emotional distress, or safety concerns, it may be hazing.
Who This Applies To
Hazing policies apply to all students and student organizations, including but not limited to:
- Registered and unregistered student groups
- Fraternities and sororities
- Athletic teams
- Clubs, bands, and student leadership organizations
How to Report Hazing
If you experience or witness hazing, report it immediately:
- Emergency: Call 911
- Online Reporting Form: Sycamore Support Website Form
- Contact:
- Office of Student Support and Accountability: ISU-SSA@indstate.edu
- Campus Police: 812-237-5555
Reports can be made by students, faculty, staff, or community members.
What Happens After a Report Is Made
All reports are taken seriously and reviewed promptly by the Office of Student Support and Accountability. The process can be found in the Code of Student Conduct section 4.5.
The process may include:
- Investigation by appropriate university officials
- Interviews and evidence review
- Determination of policy violations
Possible outcomes may include:
- Disciplinary action for individuals
- Sanctions for organizations
- Collaborative action plan with organization headquarters
Prevention and Education
We are committed to preventing hazing through:
- Ethical leadership development
- Education for student organizations through meetings with students and advisors as well as online training modules.
- Campus-wide awareness initiatives
These efforts aim to promote healthy group dynamics and eliminate harmful behaviors.
Campus Hazing Transparency Report
In compliance with federal law, the institution publishes a Campus Hazing Transparency Report, which includes findings of responsibility for hazing violations by student organizations.
The report includes:
- Organization name
- Description of the violation
- Whether alcohol or drugs were involved
- Findings and sanctions
- Key dates related to the investigation
Good Faith Reporting Protections
Individuals who report hazing in good faith are considered under our Good Neighbor Exemption found in the Code of Student Conduct in Section 1.8.
Students are encouraged to call 911 (812-237-5555) on campus) for emergency assistance as needed, even at the risk of disciplinary action for their own conduct. The Good Neighbor Exemption provides students with the opportunity of an exclusion from University disciplinary action if a student risked revealing one’s own violation of the Code of Student Conduct to seek medical or other emergency assistance for another person in distress. The decision to provide the exception shall be at the discretion of the designated hearing officer. The Good Neighbor Exemption does not apply to any criminal charges that may be incurred because of an offense.
Additional Policies and Resources
- Code of Student Conduct
- Hazing Policy
- Prevent Zone – Hazing education tool (Single Sign On for current students, faculty and staff)
Commitment to Safety and Compliance
This institution complies with the Stop Campus Hazing Act and is committed to transparency, accountability, and the prevention of hazing.
Last Updated: April 14, 2026