Student Organization Handbook
Hazing Policy
The University of Washington prohibits
student organizations and their members from engaging individually or collectively
in hazing activities. Hazing is defined as any activity that includes one or
more of the characteristics described below:
- Activities that expose personal values to compromise or ridicule.
- Activities that abuse the trust an organization is striving to build between
its members and prospective members.
- Stunts which have no meaningful relationship to the objectives of the organization.
- Activities that humiliate or subject individuals to circumstances with which
they are not comfortable, or of which they are fearful.
- Activities which are illegal or violate University policy.
- Activities which interfere with academic pursuits or normal life functions.
Some examples of prohibited activities are forced swallowing
of uncommon substances, forced consumption of alcohol or drugs, excessive exercise,
and sleep or sensory deprivation.
Questions or complaints regarding hazing may be referred to
the Office of the Vice Provost for Student Life, the Director of Student
Activities and Union Facilities, or the University Ombudsman.
Student organizations whose members participate in hazing activities
will be subject to appropriate University disciplinary action.
May 13, 1987 Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs
Risk and Liability
Some student organization events/activities, both on and off
campus, may involve potential for risk. A review of current case law suggests
that, in addition to the student organization as a group, individual members
and officers may incur some liability in the event of a claim. Registered student
organizations, particularly those involved in potentially hazardous activities,
are encouraged to investigate the purchase of liability insurance for their
club's activities.
Activities taking place on campus will be evaluated on a case
by case basis and student organizations may be required to purchase liability
insurance if it is determined that a campus event involves some degree of risk
or liability. Contact an adviser in the Student Activities Office for specific
information.
Modified: September 16, 2008 |
