Hazing Policies Definition of Hazing as indicated in the Massachusetts Community College Student Code of Conduct and adopted by GCC Hazing as defined by state or federal laws, including but not limited to any conduct or method of initiation into any student organization, whether on public or private property, which willfully or recklessly endangers the physical or mental health of any student or other person. Massachusetts law (M.G.L. Chapter 269 §17, M.G.L. Chapter 269 §18, M.G.L. Chapter 269 §19) prohibits hazing, defining it as any action that endangers the physical or mental health of a student or other person during an initiation into a student organization. This includes forced physical activity, consumption of harmful substances, and any treatment that causes extreme mental stress. Violators can face fines, imprisonment, or both, and may also face disciplinary actions from their educational institution. Massachusetts law defines hazing broadly as any activity that endangers the physical or mental well-being of a student or other person during an initiation into a student organization. Reporting & Investigation Hazing is reported through the GCC website (where other issues are reported including Title IX, AA/EO, and Academic Dishonest) under Student Code of Conduct Violation. Hazing is investigated through the Student Code of Conduct as a specific code of conduct charge as defined above. Students would go through the formal Student Code of Conduct process as outlined in the Code with options ranging from an administrative resolution to a Code of Conduct Hearing. Once responsibility is determined, the complaint is either dismissed or if found responsible the student is subject to sanctions including the following: Written Warning; Restrictions/Loss of Privileges; Educational Sanction; Restitution; Probation; Suspension; and Expulsion. Key Points of Massachusetts Hazing Law Definition of Hazing Massachusetts law defines hazing broadly as any activity that endangers the physical or mental well-being of a student or other person during an initiation into a student organization. Examples of Hazing The law specifically mentions whipping, beating, forced calisthenics, exposure to the weather, forced consumption of substances, and any other brutal treatment or forced physical activity. Criminal Penalties Hazing is a misdemeanor offense in Massachusetts, punishable by a fine of up to $3,000, imprisonment for up to one year, or both. Institutional Reporting Requirements Educational institutions are required to report hazing incidents and must certify that they have informed students about the law and have disciplinary policies in place. Institutional Disciplinary Actions Institutions can impose disciplinary actions, including suspension or expulsion, for hazing violations. Failure to Report Failure to report hazing incidents is also illegal. Beyond Initiation While focused on initiation rituals, the law's definition of hazing can extend to other situations where similar conduct is involved. Prevention Hazing Policy Reviewed at Orientation by the Dean of Students and included in Orientation materials Hazing Policy Posted on Website and distributed via email to all enrolled students by the Dean of Students at the start of the fall semester Hazing Policy Included in Student Code of Conduct on Website Hazing Policy Reviewed at Club and Organization Training (leaders and advisors) by the Coordinator of (Sara Title). Attestation (sign off on policy) All Club or Organization Advisors will provide and review the Hazing Policy to all members on an annual basis. All Club and Organization advisors will provide the Coordinator of (Sara) with a signed attestation stated the club received the Hazing Policy. The Dean of Students or their designee shall file, at least annually, a report with the regents of higher education certifying that Greenfield Community College has complied with the provisions of M.G.L. Chapter 269 §19 and also certifying that said school has adopted a disciplinary policy with regards to those organizers and participants of hazing. For further information, please contact the Dean of Students at nicholsonm@gcc.mass.edu.