Anti-Hazing Policy

Campbellsville University is committed to maintaining a campus environment where all students are treated with dignity and respect. In alignment with our core values and state law, the university strictly prohibits hazing in any form. This policy outlines what constitutes hazing, the consequences of violating the policy, and the steps students and employees can take to report concerns. Our goal is to foster a culture of inclusion, safety, and mutual support across all student organizations and activities.

 Consumer Information HEERF PROGRAM Non-Discrimination Policy Title IX

 

Hazing is defined as engaging in, permitting, or coercing another person, including the individual subjected to the act, to participate in any activity that poses a significant risk of causing mental, emotional or physical harm. Any activity that is forced or coerced and made a condition, whether directly or indirectly, for initiation, membership, or continued association with a university organization is also considered hazing. The voluntary participation of an individual in such activities cannot be used as a defense in cases involving hazing.

Possible Sanctions:

  • First Offense:
  • Probation
  • Loss of privilege
  • Fine of $350
  • Counseling costs for the victim
  • Suspension
  • Expulsion

Student Handbook

Campbellsville University will address all reports of hazing, as defined in this policy, in accordance with the procedures outlined in the Student Handbook. Any criminal investigation resulting from a report made to law enforcement will be handled by the appropriate law enforcement agency.

Students and/or student organizations are encouraged to report any suspected hazing through the University’s online reporting form or by contacting the Office of Student Services or the Dean of Students. All reports will be forwarded to the appropriate University officials for review and follow-up.

Reporting Link Coming Soon 

Hazing often persists because some people view it as a long-standing “tradition” or a “rite of passage” that supposedly brings a sense of belonging or recognition. In truth, hazing diminishes individuals and can cause serious emotional or physical harm—even death. It is rooted in power, coercion, and behavior that has no place in a healthy, supportive learning environment.

At Campbellsville University, we are committed to fostering a community built on respect, dignity, and personal growth. Hazing is incompatible with these values. While challenging harmful traditions can be difficult, every member of our campus community has the ability, and the responsibility, to help end these practices.

If you witness hazing or if you experience it yourself, you must report the incident. The Student Handbook provides additional guidance on recognizing the signs and forms of hazing.

How to Address Hazing Activities

  • Be aware of Campbellsville University’s hazing policies, along with the policies of any national organizations or affiliated groups (e.g., NCAA, NIC, etc.).
  • Educate members about alternatives to hazing and the consequences of participating in hazing activities.
  • Utilize campus resources such as faculty, advisors, coaches, and the Office of Student Services or other relevant offices.
  • Discuss hazing concerns openly within your organization and review current rituals and traditions to identify areas for improvement.
  • If hazing is part of your organization’s culture, work to change it by creating new, positive traditions and activities. New members will follow the example set by active members.
  • Be vigilant in detecting potential violations; pay attention to behaviors or comments that may signal hazing, and do not ignore them.
  • If a member jokes about hazing, address it immediately. This is an opportunity to correct behavior before someone is harmed or the issue escalates to formal intervention.
  • Take corrective action within your organization, hold individuals accountable for hazing behavior, and report concerns to the Office of Student Services, the Director of Athletics, or the Department of Public Safety.

In accordance with the Stop Campus Hazing Act (SCHA), Campbellsville University is committed to promoting transparency and accountability in all efforts to prevent hazing on our campus.

The University will publish public reports of confirmed violations of the anti-hazing policy, as required by the SCHA. These reports will be available on the University’s official website beginning with records from the 2024–25 academic year.

Reports will be updated twice each year, in January and August, to ensure that students, families, and the campus community have access to timely and accurate information.

 
Current Campus Hazing Transparency Report
 
H.R.5646 - Stop Campus Hazing Act

"Each institution must compile and publish on a prominent location of its public website a hazing transparency report that summarizes findings concerning any student organization found to violate the institution’s standards of conduct related to hazing. The report will include:

  • The name of the student organization.
  • A general description of the violation that resulted in a finding of responsibility; and
  • Related dates (the date of the alleged incident, the date of the initiation of the investigation, the date the investigation ended with a finding, and the date the institution provided notice to the organization of the finding)."*
*Clery Center. (n.d.).The Stop Campus Hazing Act: What You Need to Know. Retrieved November 25, 2025, from https://www.clerycenter.org/scha-what-you-need-to-know

 

2025-2026 Academic Year: There were no findings of hazing behavior during this time period.

2024-2025 Academic Year: There were no findings of hazing behavior during this time period.