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 an activity is performed by an individual member, the student organization as a whole may still be held responsible, and individual students may be charged through the conduct process. Delegating or requesting another group or individual to perform a hazing act in your place will bring hazing charges to both the requesting group and the group or individuals performing the act, regardless of affiliation. Furthermore, individuals and organizations can be held responsible for complicity if they encourage, enable, facilitate, or assist others in hazing activities, including knowingly harboring violators or hosting a space where violations occur. Organizations that proactively report incidents where an individual or small group engages in hazing or hazing-like activity may be eligible for the Student Organization Conduct Exemption Clause.
Safety Concerns for Students who Report Hazing
Amnesty is extended to individuals who report violent crimes, including sexual misconduct, relationship violence, stalking, or hazing; these individuals will not face disciplinary action for personal alcohol or drug use related to the incident.
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.