Stop Campus Hazing Act Policy

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Stop Campus Hazing Act Policy

Bryan College of Health Sciences is committed to providing a safe and healthy campus environment for all students, campus employees, and visitors. Consistent with state and federal laws, hazing is prohibited at Bryan College of Health Sciences. 

What is Hazing?

At Bryan College of Health Sciences, we believe everyone should feel safe, respected, and included. Hazing is not allowed here—period. Hazing means doing anything that hurts, embarrasses, or forces someone to do something they don't want to do as part of joining a group, regardless of willingness to participate. This includes both physical and emotional harm.

The Stop Hazing Act defines hazing as:

Any intentional, knowing, or reckless act committed by a person (whether individually or in concert with other persons) against another person or persons, regardless of the willingness of such other person or persons to participate, that--  

(I) is committed in the course of an initiation  into, an affiliation with, or the maintenance of membership in, a student organization; and

(II) 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. 

Consent is not a defense

Nebraska State Law states that “notwithstanding any provisions to the contrary, consent shall not be a defense” (Neb. Rev. Stat. § 28-311.07). This means that even if someone was ok with an activity, that doesn’t mean the activity wasn’t hazing.

This includes things like:

  • Physical harm: Forcing someone to exercise, hurt themselves, or do something dangerous.
  • Mental/emotional harm: Making someone feel humiliated, scared, or bullied.
  • Forcing substances: Making someone drink alcohol, take drugs, or eat things against their will.
  • Degrading acts: Making someone do something embarrassing, humiliating, or harmful to their self-esteem.

Why This is Important

We have this policy to make sure our campus stays a safe, supportive place for everyone. Hazing is also illegal in the State of Nebraska and is considered a Class II misdemeanor in Nebraska (Neb. Rev. Stat.  § 28-311.06) . In addition to criminal charges through the state, individuals and organizations can be held responsible by the College through the Student Code of Conduct. Hazing is harmful, and we take it seriously. This policy also follows federal guidelines, which aims to make sure campuses across the country are free from hazing, harassment, and violence.

Definition of a Student Organization

A student organization is defined as an organization at an institution of higher education (such as a club, society, association, or student government) in which two or more of the members are students enrolled at the institution of higher education, whether or not the organization is established or recognized by the institution.

What You Can Do If You See or Experience Hazing

If you see or experience hazing, we encourage you to speak up—you’re not alone, and your voice matters. Any individual who believes they have been the victim of hazing, or anyone who has knowledge or observes conduct that may constitute hazing, is required to report it immediately. Hazing can be reported via telephone, email, or to a Campus Security officer. You can report hazing:

We will keep your report private as much as we can. You won’t be punished for reporting hazing in good faith, and we don’t tolerate retaliation (being punished for speaking out).

What to Include in Your Report

When reporting, please provide as much detail as possible, including:

  • Name of the organization involved in hazing
  • Date, time, and location of the event(s)
  • Individuals involved and any witnesses (with contact information if available)
  • How you became aware of the incident(s)
  • A detailed description of the event(s)
  • Any documentation, videos, or photographs, if applicable
  • Your contact information (if not reporting anonymously)

If you wish to report anonymously, please include as much detail as possible. You may also request a meeting with a staff member without providing identifying information. The staff member will explain the process and, to the extent possible, record the information without including identifying details. Meetings can be conducted in person, via phone, or via email.

What Happens After You Report Hazing?

Once we get a report, we will:

  • Investigate: Upon receiving a report, the Vice President of Student Affairs, or their designee, will assess whether the behavior constitutes hazing under college policy. 
  • Discipline: If hazing is found, individuals  involved may face consequences like suspension, expulsion, or removal from student organizations. We’ll also provide support for victims of hazing.

Support for Victims of Hazing

If you’ve been affected by hazing, we are here to help you. We offer:

  • Counseling Services: Free, confidential mental health support.
  • Academic Support: Guidance and Advocacy when hazing interferes with academic success.
  • Other Resources as needed and determined on an individual basis.

Prevention and Awareness

Bryan College of Health Sciences is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all students and campus employees, free from hazing and any practices that degrade, humiliate, or endanger individuals. The anti-hazing policy promotes awareness that prevents behaviors and ensures that the BCHS campus community adheres to established expectations. BCHS will engage in a research-informed, campus-wide approach to hazing prevention to foster a culture of respect and inclusion of all students. 

Educational Programming

  • Orientation Awareness
  • Annual training with campus employees and student leaders
  • Social Norms Campaigns