Anti-Hazing Policy

Effective August 2022

PLU prohibits hazing by students and employees. Hazing prevention policies, and response procedures for hazing incidents, grow from and embody the institution’s mission. Membership in clubs, organizations, and other university-affiliated groups can increase leadership and service potential; provide athletic, recreational, intellectual and spiritual opportunities; and otherwise contribute positively to personal and social development of our students. Where membership is linked with involvement in hazing activities, the educational purpose of the endeavor is compromised and the safety of students and employees is endangered.

In conjunction with Washington State Law (RCW 28B.10.900, RCW 28B.10.901 and RCW 28B.10.902), PLU defines hazing as any act of recruitment, initiation, pledging, admission into, or affiliation with (committed by a person, whether individually or in concert with others) a student organization, athletic team or living group, or any pastime or amusement engaged in with respect to that organization or group with or without the consent of the participant(s), which:

  1. causes, or is likely to cause, bodily danger or physical harm, or serious mental, emotional or psychological harm to any student or other person; or
  2. may abuse, mistreat, degrade, humiliate, harass, ridicule, intimidate or endanger him or her, or which may in any fashion compromise his or her inherent dignity as a person; or
  3. subjects a student or other person to conduct or conditions which a reasonable person in the circumstances would find harmful, including but not limited to
    • excessive mental or physical discomfort
    • alcohol or drug abuse
    • physical confinement
    • abandonment
    • verbal or physical abuse
    • or substantial interference with the person’s educational pursuits; or

  4. otherwise involves a violation of a law or University policy or which encourages a student or other person to violate a law or University policy, including but not limited to the “Student Code of Conduct”, “Alcohol and Drug Policy”, and “Sexual Harassment Policy”.

Hazing also includes soliciting, directing, aiding, or otherwise participating actively or passively in such acts. Hazing occurs regardless of the consent or willingness of persons to participate in the activity. Hazing is prohibited no matter if it occurs on or off campus.

Any participation in hazing activities will be subject to disciplinary action.

Any employee or volunteer, including student employees, who experiences hazing or who has reasonable cause to believe that hazing has occurred, either as a result of observations or information received in the course of employment or volunteer service, must report the incident to Human Resources and/or the Dean of Students’ Office. Any person who makes such report in good faith will not be sanctioned or punished unless they are directly engaged in the planning, directing, or act of hazing reported.

Questions or concerns regarding hazing should be directed to Human Resources, and/or the Dean of Students’ Office.