Hazing Policy

Friends University Hazing Policy

I. Purpose and Summary Friends University is dedicated to fostering a safe and welcoming environment for its community members. The University strictly prohibits hazing in any form. Hazing poses significant risks to the health, safety, and well-being of individuals and has no place in the educational experience. This policy outlines the University’s commitment to preventing hazing and ensuring accountability for those who violate this policy.

II. Scope This policy applies to all students, faculty, staff, recognized student organizations, clubs, athletic teams, and other groups affiliated with Friends University, regardless of location. Every member of the University community is responsible for preventing hazing.

III. Definitions “Hazing” refers to any intentional, knowing, or reckless act committed by one or more persons, individually or in concert with others, against another person, that:

  • Is committed in connection with an initiation, affiliation, or continued membership in any organization affiliated with Friends University; and
  • Causes or creates a substantial risk of physical injury, mental harm, or personal degradation.

Examples of Hazing Include (but are not limited to):

  • Physical abuse, such as beating, paddling, or forced physical exertion.
  • Forced or coerced consumption of food, alcohol, drugs, or other substances.
  • Acts intended to cause humiliation, intimidation, or degradation.
  • Sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements, or confinement in a small space.

“Organization” refers to any athletic team, club, student organization, Fine Arts group, SGA, or other recognized campus group affiliated with Friends University.

“Student” refers to any individual enrolled at Friends University, accepted for enrollment, or intending to enroll within 12 months. Students remain subject to this policy until they graduate, transfer, or withdraw from the University.

IV. Legal Framework Friends University adheres to both federal and Kansas state hazing laws:

Federal Law: The Stop Campus Hazing Act, signed into law on December 24, 2024, amended the Higher Education Act of 1965 and redefined hazing under the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act. This law mandates:

  • The inclusion of hazing incidents in the Annual Security Report (ASR).
  • The development and publication of a Campus Hazing Transparency Report (CHTR) summarizing all confirmed hazing violations involving recognized student organizations.

Kansas State Law: Under Kansas Statute § 21-5418, hazing is defined as recklessly coercing, demanding, or encouraging another person to perform any act as a condition of membership in a student organization that could reasonably be expected to result in great bodily harm, disfigurement, or death. Violations are classified as a Class B nonperson misdemeanor, carrying potential legal penalties.

V. Policy

  • Hazing is strictly prohibited.
  • Soliciting, encouraging, aiding, or abetting hazing is also prohibited.
  • It is not a defense to a hazing violation that the victim consented to or voluntarily participated in the activity.
  • All University community members must take reasonable steps to prevent hazing when they are aware of potential violations.

VI. Reporting Procedures Any member of the Friends University community who witnesses or suspects hazing is required to report it immediately. Reports may be made via the following methods:

  • Online Reporting Portal: Submit an anonymous or direct report through the University’s reporting system.
  • In-Person Reporting: Visit the Office of Community and Residential Development or Campus Security.
  • By Phone: Contact Campus Security at 316-295-5911.
  • Emergency Reporting: In urgent situations, dial 911 for immediate assistance.

VII. Investigation and Disciplinary Process Upon receiving a report of hazing, Friends University will:

  • Promptly investigate the report following University procedures.
  • Maintain confidentiality where possible while ensuring a fair and complete investigation.
  • Impose appropriate sanctions if a violation is confirmed. Sanctions may include suspension, expulsion, removal of leadership privileges, or organizational derecognition.

VIII. Student Code of Conduct Process Friends University will follow the Student Code of Conduct in cases of suspected hazing violations. The process includes:

  1. Filing a Complaint: Anyone may file a complaint regarding hazing concerns with the Community and Residential Development Office or the Security Department.
  2. Initial Review: The university will conduct a preliminary assessment to determine if there is sufficient evidence to pursue an investigation.
  3. Investigation: If warranted, a designated investigator will gather evidence, conduct interviews, and compile a detailed report.
  4. Hearing Process: If evidence supports a potential violation, the accused student or organization will be notified and allowed to respond in a formal hearing.
  5. Decision and Sanctions: Upon the conclusion of the hearing, sanctions may be imposed, which may include:
    1. Disciplinary probation
    1. Suspension or expulsion
    1. Organizational suspension or derecognition
    1. Educational or restorative sanctions
  6. Appeals Process: Students or organizations may appeal decisions following the Student Code of Conduct guidelines.

IX. Consequences for Faculty and Staff Faculty and staff members who knowingly permit, authorize, or condone hazing are subject to disciplinary action in accordance with University policies and procedures.

X. Criminal and Emergency Reporting If a hazing incident presents an immediate threat or involves criminal conduct, the University will report the matter to law enforcement. This may include violations involving criminal homicide, sexual offenses, aggravated assault, burglary, or other serious threats to safety.

XI. Education and Prevention Friends University is committed to ongoing hazing prevention efforts. The University will:

  • Provide mandatory hazing prevention training for all students, faculty, and staff.
  • Develop educational programs focused on safe group activities, bystander intervention strategies, and promoting positive organizational values.

XII. Exemptions This policy does not apply to:

  • Customary public athletic events, contests, or competitions.
  • Activities that further legitimate educational, extracurricular, or military training programs.

XIII. Conclusion Friends University is committed to maintaining a safe, inclusive, and positive learning environment. Violation of this policy will result in serious disciplinary action. Together, we can build a community of respect, integrity, and accountability.

For questions or concerns, please contact: Friends University Office of Community and Residential Development| 316-295-5500
Friends University Campus Security | 316-295-5911

Download the Hazing Policy