OU announced it has implemented required guidelines to align with a new federal anti-hazing law in a mass email Wednesday.
The Stop Campus Hazing Act, which became public law in December, requires institutions that participate in federal student aid programs to report hazing incidents.
The new law considers hazing a federal campus safety issue and mandates universities to publish hazing violations online twice a year, including the names of the organizations found responsible.
The email lists reporting of hazing incidents, submitting a campus hazing transparency report, implementation of prevention programs, and online disclosure of hazing policies and violations as key requirements of the act.
Students are expected to complete yearly prevention and awareness training, including reviewing the OU Hazing Policy and Stop Hazing website, according to the law. Students may also request individual or group-based training through the Office of Advocacy and Education.
Hazing, as defined in OU’s policy, is any action taken or situation created that causes or risks physical or psychological harm, regardless of consent.
“As stated in our ‘Lead On, University Strategic Plan,’ the University is fully committed to empowering students for a life of success, meaning, and impact, including through fostering social and emotional growth eliminating barriers to success,” the email reads. “This policy is an important part of these commitments.”
This story was edited by Thomas Pablo and Natalie Armour.
