Hazing Policy

Rivier University strictly prohibits hazing in any form.

Hazing is contrary to the University’s mission of fostering a respectful, inclusive, and safe learning environment and is a violation of both University policy and applicable law.

  1. Stop Campus Hazing Act
  2. N.H. State Law RSA § 631:7
  3. The Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act, 20 U.S.C § 1092(f) (2024)

Definition of Hazing

Any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, whether committed individually or in concert with others, against another person, regardless of their willingness to participate, that includes the following is considered hazing:

  • Is committed in connection with an initiation into, affiliation with, or continued membership in a student organization; and
  • Causes or creates a risk, above the reasonable risk encountered in the course of participation in the institution of higher education or the organization (such as the physical preparation necessary for participation in an athletic team), of physical or psychological injury including
  • whipping, beating, striking, electronic shocking, placing harmful substances on someone’s body, or similar activity.
  • causing, coercing, or otherwise inducing sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements, confinement in a small space, extreme calisthenics, or other similar activity.
  • causing, coercing, or otherwise inducing another person to consume food, liquid, alcohol, drugs, or other substances.
  • causing, coercing, or otherwise inducing another person to perform sexual acts.
  • any activity that places another person in reasonable fear of bodily harm using threatening words or conduct.
  • any activity against another person that includes a criminal violation of local, State, Tribal, or Federal law; and
  • any activity that induces, causes, or requires another person to perform a duty or task that involves a criminal violation of local, State, Tribal, or Federal law.”

Definition of Student Organization

An organization at an institution of higher education (such as a club, society, association, varsity or junior varsity athletic team, club sports team, fraternity, sorority, band, or student government) in which two or more of the members are students enrolled at the institution of higher education, whether the organization is established or recognized by the Institution.

Reporting Hazing

All members of the Rivier community are expected to report suspected hazing.

Hazing Reporting Form
Anonymous Hazing/Silent Witness Report

Prevention and Education

Rivier University is committed to proactive hazing prevention through education, leadership development, and community engagement. All students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to participate in prevention programs and workshops offered throughout the academic year.

Transparency and Accountability

In accordance with the Stop Campus Hazing Act, Rivier University will publish hazing statistics in its Annual Security Report and maintain a Campus Hazing Transparency Report summarizing findings of responsibility involving student organizations.

For more information, contact the Office of the Dean of Student Experience at deanofstudents@rivier.edu or 603-897-8244.

What Happens When a Hazing Report Is Filed?

  1. Initial Review: The report is reviewed by the Office of the Dean of Student Experience to assess the nature of the alleged hazing and determine whether immediate safety or support measures are needed.
  2. Risk and Safety Assessment: If the report indicates potential harm or ongoing risk, the University may initiate a risk assessment in collaboration with Public Safety, Residence Life, Athletics or other relevant departments.
  3. Referral for Investigation: Reports of hazing are referred to Public Safety for full investigation.
  4. Information Gathering: The investigator may conduct interviews, review documentation, and consult with relevant parties to determine whether a policy violation occurred.
  5. Interim Measures: As needed, the University may implement interim measures to protect individuals and the campus community. These may include no-contact orders, temporary suspension of student organizations, or changes to housing or class schedules.
  6. Resolution and Sanctions: If a violation is found, disciplinary action may be taken against individuals or organizations. Sanctions may include suspension, expulsion, or revocation of recognition for student organizations.
  7. Follow-Up and Support: The University provides ongoing support to affected individuals and monitors the situation to ensure compliance with any imposed sanctions or conditions.
  8. Documentation and Transparency: All actions and outcomes are documented. In accordance with the Stop Campus Hazing Act, hazing statistics and findings of responsibility will be published in the University’s Annual Security Report and Campus Hazing Transparency Report.

Notice Regarding Legal and Policy Definitions

The definition of hazing provided in this policy is consistent with both Rivier University policy and applicable federal and state laws, including:

  • New Hampshire State Law RSA § 631:7: Defines hazing as a criminal offense and outlines penalties for individuals and organizations involved in such conduct.
  • The Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act (20 U.S.C. § 1092(f)): Requires institutions of higher education to report campus safety statistics, including hazing incidents, in the Annual Security Report.
  • The Stop Campus Hazing Act (SCHA): Amends the Clery Act to mandate increased transparency, including the publication of hazing incidents involving student organizations and the implementation of prevention education.

In accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), the Campus Hazing Transparency Report will not include any personally identifiable information about students. All published findings will focus on organizational responsibility and institutional outcomes.

Contact

Dr. Paula Randazza

Assistant Vice President for Student Experience, Dean of Students