Hazing Policy

New York State Penal Law (240.25.4) concerning hazing reads as follows:  “@120.16 Hazing in the first degree:  A person is guilty of hazing in the first degree when, in the course of another person’s initiation into or affiliation with any organization, he intentionally or recklessly engages in conduct which creates a substantial risk of physical injury to such other person or a third person and thereby causes such injury.  Hazing in the first degree is a class A misdemeanor.

“*120.17 Hazing in the second degree:  A person is guilty of hazing in the second degree when, in the course of another person’s initiation or affiliation with any organization, he intentionally or recklessly engages in conduct which creates a substantial risk of physical injury to such other person or a third person.  Hazing in the second degree is a violation.”

The following University policy on hazing was adopted in March 1963.  This policy was reaffirmed by the Board of Trustees in 1980-81.  Although the policy was written with Greek organizations in mind, it applies to all campus organizations.  New York State law requires that each campus organization include a written statement in its by-laws to the effect that the organization subscribes to the University policy on hazing.

Hazing of any kind, physical or psychological, cannot be part of a pledge training program.  For purposes of information the following definition supplied by the College Fraternity Secretaries Association (CFSA) are considered as official University policy.

The CFSA defines hazing as any action taken or situation created, intentionally, whether on or off fraternity premises, to produce mental or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, or ridicule.  Such activities and situations include paddling in any form; creation of excessive fatigue; physical and psychological shocks; quests, treasure hunts, scavenger hunts, road trips, or any other such activities carried on outside the confines of the house; wearing, publicly, apparel which is conspicuous and not normally in good taste; engaging in public stunts and buffoonery; morally degrading or humiliating games and activities; late work sessions which interfere with academic activities; and any other activities which are not consistent with fraternal law, ritual or policy, or the regulation and policies of the educational institution.

1. The Greek pre-initiation period shall be devoted to constructive purposes and programs in keeping with the modern aims and objectives of higher education.
2. No individual or group has the right to force anyone to do anything against his/her will, including drinking alcohol.
3. Each pledge is entitled to a minimum of six consecutive hours of sleep in  his own bed without interruption by fraternal obligation or from fraternity members (12 midnight to 6 a.m.).
4. Throughout the Greek pre-initiation period fraternity members are not allowed in a pledge’s place of residence after 12 midnight unless this is his/her official campus address.  Pledges are not allowed to remain in fraternity houses or elsewhere under the supervision of fraternity members between 12 midnight and 6 a.m.  Any Greek activity is strictly forbidden in residence halls.
5. Although hazing is usually construed as action to a pledge by a member of the organization, the reverse (hazing a member) is also prohibited.
6. Any violation or infraction of the above policy may result in:  (a) severe disciplinary action against the individual involved; (b) suspension of the fraternity house from operation for a period of time; (c) removal of the chapter from the campus for serious or repeated violations.