Hazing Definition and Policy
Policy Statement
ArtCenter College of Design is committed to fostering a safe and respectful campus environment free from hazing. Hazing is strictly prohibited and violates the values and principles of our institution. This policy applies to all students, faculty, staff, and guests.
Definition of hazing
Hazing is defined as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act committed against another person during initiation, affiliation, or membership in a student organization that creates a risk of physical or psychological injury beyond the reasonable risks of participation.
This includes, but is not limited to:
- Physical or brutal treatment, such as beating, branding, forced exercise, or forced consumption of substances.
- Threatening words or conduct that cause fear of bodily harm.
- Activities that harm mental health or dignity, such as verbal abuse, intimidation, or public humiliation, social media, text messages, email, forums, or other phycological digital means.
- Requiring participation in activities that violate the law.
- Causing sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements, confinement, or extreme exercise.
- Forcing sexual acts or enduring sexual brutality.
Scope of policy
This policy covers all forms of hazing, on or off campus, regardless of consent.
Reporting procedures
Anyone with knowledge of hazing is encouraged to report it to the Associate Director of Student Conduct who has been designated as the College’s Student Conduct Officer (Officer) to hear all matters relating to allegations that a student has engaged in prohibited conduct. This procedure follows the Student Handbook under Student Conduct.
Retaliation for reporting hazing is prohibited. Retaliation is an adverse action taken against anyone for reporting, supporting, or assisting in the reporting and/or adjudication of any of the behaviors prohibited in this policy.
Investigation and adjudication
Hazing reports will be investigated promptly and according to ArtCenter College of Design policy. After a report is received, ArtCenter College of Design will quickly review the submission and determine the next appropriate actions, including whether to notify Campus Security Services and/or law enforcement. The ArtCenter College of Design will also conduct its own investigation to prevent a recurrence of the alleged hazing and to determine if there are potential violations of the Student Conduct Code and/or any other applicable processes, depending upon the nature of the complaint.
Disciplinary sanctions
Violators of this policy may face severe disciplinary actions:
- For individuals: Warnings, counseling, education, suspension, expulsion, and potential criminal charges.
Prevention and education
The College promotes a culture of respect and provides education on hazing prevention and alternatives.
- This includes information on policy, reporting, investigation, and applicable laws.
- A Campus Hazing Transparency Report listing organizations found responsible for hazing and their sanctions will be published online twice a year and maintained for five years, as required by the Stop Campus Hazing Act.
State and federal law
This policy complies with the federal Stop Campus Hazing Act and relevant state laws, including California Penal Code 245.6.