Hazing, or any activity that subjects a student to harassment, intimidation, physical exhaustion or mental distress, is entirely contrary to the Kean University Student Code of Conduct. University policy and state law forbid hazing by fraternities and sororities, athletes, individuals, or any other Kean University recognized student group.
Hazing is defined as any activity that endangers the physical safety of another person; or produces mental or physical discomfort; causes embarrassment, fright, humiliation or ridicule; or degrades the individual. Any organization suspected of hazing will be investigated and subject to judicial (refer to Student Code of Conduct) and criminal action.
Kean University complies with New Jersey State Law prohibiting hazing.
NEW JERSEY STATE CRIMINAL STATUTE
2C: 40 - 3 Hazing
a. A person is guilty of hazing, a disorderly persons offense, if in connection with initiation of applicants to members of a student or fraternal organization, he/she knowingly or recklessly organizes, promotes, facilitates or engages in any conduct, other than competitive athletic events, which places or may place another person in danger of bodily injury.
b. A person is guilty of aggravated hazing, a crime of the fourth degree, if he/she commits an act prohibited in subsection a, which results in serious bodily injury to another person.
2C: 40 - 4 Consent
Notwithstanding any other provision of Title 2C of the New Jersey Statutes to the contrary, consent shall not be applicable as a defense to a prosecution under this Act. (Added by L. 1980, chap. 169 (2); eff. 12/18/80).
2C: 40 - 5 Prosecution
Conduct constituting an offense under this Act may, at the discretion of the prosecuting attorney, be prosecuted under any other applicable provision of the Title 2C of the New Jersey Statutes. (Added by L.1980, chap. 169 (3); eff. 12/18/80.) *(Added by L. 1980, chpt. 169 (1); eff. 12/18/80.) (rev. ‘84) 141-a)
Hazing includes, but is not limited to:
- Actions that recklessly or intentionally endanger the physical and mental health or safety of students
- Forced or required consumption of any food, liquor, drugs or any other substance
- Forced or required participation in physical activities, such as calisthenics, exercises or so-called games
- Exposure to extreme weather conditions (i.e., snow, heat, rain, etc.)
- Excessive fatigue resulting from sleep deprivation, physical activities or exercises
- Assignment of activities that would be illegal or unlawful, or might be morally offensive to individual new members
- Physical brutality, including paddling; striking with fists, open hands or objects; and branding
- Kidnapping, unauthorized road trips, transporting a person against his/her will or stranding of individuals
- Verbal abuse, including “line-ups” and berating of individuals
- Forced or required conduct that could embarrass or adversely affect the dignity of the individual, including the wearing of apparel that is conspicuous or extraordinary, and the performance of public activities
- The intentional creation of clean-up work or labor for new members by active members or alumni;
- Denial of sufficient time to study
- Nudity or lewd behavior
- Walking on line
- Wearing of uniform
(adapted from the NASPA Journal, vol. 24, no. 4, spring 1987, in “Putting an End to Fraternity Hazing”)
REPORT HAZING
Members of the University community who are made aware of an alleged hazing incident, who witness a hazing incident, or who wish to make a claim of alleged hazing should contact the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs, Kean Hall, Room 124, (908) 737-7080 or email stophazing@kean.edu.
