Millersville University is committed to creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for all students. Hazing, in any form, is strictly prohibited on campus. To raise awareness and educate the community, the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life hosted a Hazing Prevention Fair on Sept. 23 in the Student Memorial Center (SMC) Atrium.
The event aimed to give students valuable information and resources on hazing prevention while connecting them with different campus organizations. Participating groups included the Office of Student Organizations and Leadership, Fraternity and Sorority Life, Student Conduct and Community Standards, and Athletics and Recreation. Students were encouraged to visit each group’s table to read educational materials, collect free items, and share experiences. They could also sign a banner to show their commitment to preventing hazing. After visiting all the tables, students received a ticket for free mini donuts.
MJ Brown, Assistant Director of Fraternity and Sorority Life, emphasized the importance of hazing prevention awareness on campus.
“There can sometimes be power dynamics or unfriendliness in organizations and chapters. We want everyone to be aware of their rights and the resources available to them. It’s important to know that joining a group is supposed to be fun and safe for everyone, no matter what,” said Brown.
Fraternity and Sorority Life describe hazing as knowingly coercing or forcing an individual into something harmful for the purpose of initiating with an organization or enhancing membership status. There are many different forms of hazing, so many incidents may go unrecognized or unreported.
Common examples of hazing include:
– Being forced to consume or drink something that risks emotional or physical harm
– Enduring physical brutality or harm
– Enduring mental brutality that causes embarrassment or degradation
– Participating in frightening, unlawful, or deceptive activities that cause pain
– Violating federal, state, or local laws, or university policies
Consequences of Hazing:
– For individuals: Violations range from probation to expulsion, fines, and withholding of diplomas or transcripts.
– For organizations: Consequences may include probation, mandatory activities, restitution, social limitations or suspension, intramural suspension, suspension of recognition, or withdrawal of university recognition.
Millersville University takes hazing and student misconduct seriously. Students are encouraged to speak up, report incidents, and help maintain a safe and enjoyable campus environment for all.
