UMGC Policy V-1.05 UMGC Policy on Anti-Hazing

Purpose and Applicability

The purpose of this policy is to establish UMGC’s prohibition against Hazing in all forms, outline expectations for student and organizational behavior, and comply with the requirements of the Stop Campus Hazing Act of 2024.

UMGC is committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and inclusive learning environment. Hazing is inconsistent with the University’s values, violates the Code of Student Conduct, and is strictly prohibited regardless of intent, affiliation, or location, including online or virtual environments.

This policy applies to all students, student organizations, teams, cohorts, and any group or individual participating in UMGC-affiliated activities, whether in person or online, domestic or abroad.

1. Hazing: Hazing includes creating (by telephone, in writing, through social media, or in person) a condition or requirement for involvement with a University organization or University-Sponsored Activity that causes mental stress, bodily harm, anxieties that demean, degrade, or disgrace any person, emotional, or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, or ridicule.
2. Student Organization: A student group operating in affiliation with UMGC’s name, membership, or programs (e.g., honor societies, cohort groups, student associations, academic teams, social groups, online clubs).

1. Hazing is prohibited at UMGC. No student, student group, or other individual may plan, participate in, encourage, or condone Hazing in any form.
2. UMGC will respond promptly to all reports of Hazing and may impose disciplinary actions under the Code of Student Conduct, or other appropriate enforcement mechanism, up to and including suspension, dismissal, and/or employment-related consequences. Hazing that violates state or federal law will also be referred to the appropriate external authorities.
3. UMGC will publish annual Hazing reports, offer evidence-based Hazing prevention and awareness programs, and maintain clear reporting mechanisms in compliance with the Stop Campus Hazing Act.

1. Reports may be submitted by any member of the UMGC community, anonymously or directly. Students and employees are strongly encouraged to report Hazing immediately if they witness or suspect it. Reports may be made through:
   1. UMGC Student Conduct Office: sacoc@umgc.edu
   2. UMGC Learner Resolution Services: resolution.management@umgc.edu
   3. UMGC Human Resources: HRER@umgc.edu
   4. Security or local law enforcement (for emergencies)
2. Retaliation against individuals who report Hazing in good faith is strictly prohibited.

University Response

Upon receiving a report, UMGC will:

1. Conduct a prompt, fair, and thorough review or investigation.
2. Implement interim protective or safety measures if necessary.
3. Determine whether violations of the Code of Student Conduct or university policy occurred.
4. Issue appropriate sanctions to individuals and/or organizations.

Prevention and Education

In compliance with the Stop Campus Hazing Act, UMGC will:

1. Provide annual Hazing prevention and awareness programming for students and student organizations.
2. Publish an annual Hazing Report containing violations, findings, and outcomes (consistent with privacy laws).
3. Include Hazing prevention content in relevant orientation, training, and student leadership modules.

1. Violations of this policy may result in sanctions, including, but not limited to:
   1. Written warning
   2. Educational assignments or mandated training
   3. Removal from student organization leadership
   4. Probation
   5. Suspension or dismissal from UMGC (enrollment and/or employment)
   6. Loss of organizational recognition
   7. Referral to law enforcement
2. Sanctions may apply to both individuals and organizations.

1. UMGC Code of Student Conduct
2. UMGC Policy on Acceptable Use
3. Annual Safety & Security Report
4. UMGC Policy on Non-Discrimination and Anti-Harassment