Charters/Constitutions and Bylaws
Requiring or implying requirement to participate in any act that violates any of the following is prohibited:
- The University Code of Conduct;
- The Center for Student Involvement policies/guidelines for Recognized Student Organizations;
- The local/state/federal law;
- The student organization’s charter/constitution/by-laws;
- The constitution/by-laws of the National Pan-Hellenic Council, National Panhellenic Conference, National Multicultural Greek Council, or North-American Interfraternity Council
- The Division of Athletics, NCAA, sport clubs, or intramurals.
Concurrent Legal Charges
Many of the violations of the Code of Conduct are also violations of Ohio law. However, students are not generally charged with both the specific Code of Conduct and Laws & Statutes unless there is a possible law violation that is not covered elsewhere in the Code of Conduct. Students may find themselves charged through the criminal justice system for incidents that have also been attributed to violations at the University. In these cases the University will generally proceed with the Student Conduct System concurrently with the legal system. The University does not offer legal advice/counsel to students facing criminal charges.
Individual Student Charges
In cases where the activity is performed by an individual member of the student organization, the organization as a whole may be held responsible. Individual students may be charged through the conduct process as well. Delegating or requesting another group or individual to perform the act in your place will bring charges of hazing to the requesting group as well as the group or individuals performing the act, regardless of affiliation. Organizations who report incidents where an individual or small group of individuals conduct, participate, or engage in hazing or hazing-like activity may be eligible for the Student Organization Conduct Exemption Clause.
Safety Concerns for Students who Report Hazing
Students who report possible hazing incidents will not be subject to individual charges of policy violations by the University if those violations were a direct result/cause/effect of the hazing. Additionally, the University will work to make reasonable accommodations so that the reporting party can continue their academic pursuits. These accommodations include but are not limited to alternative housing, no contact orders, and academic accommodations. Any student who is concerned for their safety either due to ongoing hazing or in fear of retribution should consider speaking with a University staff member to gain an understanding of the services that can be made available in their situation.
All suspected incidents of hazing should be reported to the University immediately.