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Campus Anti-Hazing Policy

Campus Anti-Hazing Policy

I. Purpose

This policy ensures that all students enrolled at Bethel University are afforded the rights and protections required under the Stop Campus Hazing Act and the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act. The purpose of this policy is to establish institutional standards and procedures for the prevention, reporting, and disclosure of hazing incidents, in compliance with the above acts. Bethel University is committed to maintaining a safe and inclusive environment where students can engage in academic and extracurricular activities free from hazing. Hazing may be reported to Student Life, Campus Security, or Bethel University's online reporting form: https://www.bethel.edu/people-culture/complaints-concerns/reporting-complaint-concern/submit-report

II. Policy Statement

Hazing is strictly prohibited at Bethel University. Any act of hazing, whether occurring on or off campus, within any student organization, club, athletic team, or other group will not be tolerated. The institution will investigate all reports of hazing and take appropriate disciplinary action against individuals or organizations found responsible.

III. Definition of Hazing

For the purposes of this policy, hazing means:

Any intentional, knowing, or reckless act committed by a person, individually or with others, against another person(s), regardless of the willingness of such person(s) to participate, that:

  1. Occurs in connection with an initiation into, affiliation with, or maintenance of membership in a student organization or group; and

  2. Causes or creates a risk, beyond the reasonable risk inherent in participation in the institution or organization, of physical or psychological injury.

Examples include but are not limited to: physical violence, forced consumption of substances, prolonged deprivation of sleep, acts of humiliation or degradation, and activities that interfere with academic obligations or personal safety.

IV. Reporting Hazing Incidents

Hazing is a Clery reportable crime, therefore can be reported directly to the Office of Safety and Security.

How to Report:

  1. Students, faculty, or staff may report suspected hazing to:

    1. Safety and Security: 651-638-6000 or safety-security@bethel.edu

    2. Online Reporting Form: https://www.bethel.edu/people-culture/complaints-concerns/reporting-complaint-concern/submit-report

  2. Anonymous Reporting:

    1. Reports may be made anonymously using this link: https://www.bethel.edu/people-culture/complaints-concerns/reporting-complaint-concern/submit-report. However, anonymous reports may limit the institution’s ability to investigate.

  3. Mandatory Reporting:

    1. All Bethel University staff members are required to report any known or suspected incidents of hazing immediately using any of the above methods upon becoming aware of the conduct.

V. Investigation Process

  • Upon receiving a report, the Office of Student Life will initiate a prompt, fair, and impartial investigation.

  • Investigations will include interviews, collection of evidence, and coordination with law enforcement when appropriate.

  • The institution will take interim measures to protect the safety and well-being of involved parties.

  • Findings and disciplinary actions will be documented in compliance with Bethel’s Student Handbook.

VI. Disclosure and Transparency Requirements

  1. Annual Security Report (ASR):

    1. Each year, Bethel University will include in its Annual Security Report:

      1. The total number of reported hazing incidents.

      2. Current institutional policies and definitions related to hazing.

      3. Procedures for reporting and investigating hazing.

      4. Applicable local and state laws regarding hazing.

      5. Information on prevention and awareness programs.

  2. Campus Hazing Transparency Report:

    1. Bethel will issue an annual Transparency Report any Hazing violations have occurred within the past year. The report will include:

      1. The organization’s name.

      2. The date of the violation.

      3. A description of the incident.

      4. Sanctions imposed as an institutional response to the incident.

VII. Prevention and Awareness Programs

  • The institution will provide ongoing hazing prevention and awareness education, including:

    • Training for student organization officers, coaches, and advisors.

    • Educational opportunities on the impact and prevention of hazing.

    • Bystander intervention and reporting education

VIII. Sanctions

Individuals or organizations found responsible for hazing may face disciplinary actions including, but not limited to:

  • Probation or suspension of the organization.

  • Revocation of campus recognition or privileges.

  • Disciplinary probation, suspension, or expulsion for individuals.

  • Referral to law enforcement for criminal prosecution when applicable.

IX. Applicability and Applicable Laws

This policy applies to all students, student organizations, faculty, staff, and volunteers affiliated with Bethel University.

  • MN Statute 135A.155 HAZING POLICY

  • Stop Hazing Campus Act (info about federal law)

X. Review and Revision

This policy will be reviewed annually by the Offices of Student Life and Safety and Security to ensure compliance with federal regulations and institutional best practices.

XI. Additional Resources about Hazing

 

Policy Contact: