The Stop Campus Hazing Act is a federal law signed on December 23, 2024, that amends the Clery Act to mandate transparent reporting, clear definitions, and prevention programs for hazing at colleges and universities. Information regarding the Stop Campus Hazing Act and information about hazing incidents for the 2025 and 2026 academic years can be reviewed here.
The Wesleyan University Hazing policy is listed below. If after you review it you believe that you witnessed or were informed of behavior that might in direct conflict with the policy below, please use this form to report the information to Public Safety and the Office of the Dean of Students.
Revised June, 2025
Consistent with state law, national fraternal policies, and athletic conference guidelines, hazing is prohibited at Wesleyan University. The term “hazing” shall mean any activity or method of initiation into any student organization, whether on public or private property, that could reasonably produce undue mental or physical discomfort, harassment, and ridicule or endanger the participants. An activity may be considered hazing regardless of consent or willingness to participate in the activity.
Consistent with the definition above, the following activities have typically been identified as hazing activities: use of alcoholic beverages or other drugs; paddling or branding; creation of excessive fatigue; physical or psychological shocks; quests, treasure hunts, scavenger hunts, or road trips; wearing of public apparel that is conspicuous and not in good taste; engaging in public stunts and buffoonery; degrading or humiliating games and activities; any other activities that are not consistent with University regulations and policies as well as local, state, and federal laws.
Because it is not always clear which activities are acceptable and which constitute hazing, students are encouraged to consult with staff from the Office of the Dean of Students prior to the activity.
Community members who have experienced hazing or have information about an alleged hazing incident should report any incidents to the Office of Public Safety or the Dean of Students. Reports will be investigated by public safety and incidents involving Wesleyan students that appear to violate the Hazing policy or other university regulations will be adjudicated by the Community Standards Board.
In the interest of preventing hazing from occurring, all students, faculty, and staff will receive information about the Hazing policy and prevention efforts through an online course beginning in the fall 2025. Staff and faculty will also receive Hazing prevention information annually. Additionally, in person greendot and hazing prevention training will be delivered to higher risk groups and organizations on campus each year.