Hazing Policy and Prevention


Definition of Hazing

Colorado State University prohibits all forms of hazing, defined as any expressed or implied action, activity, or expectation imposed on an individual seeking to join or participate in a group or student organization that humiliates, degrades, abuses, or endangers them—regardless of expressed willingness to participate. CSU’s definition also explicitly incorporates violations under the Student Conduct Code, Colorado state law, and federal definitions of hazing. Please see the full policy for more information.  

How to Report Hazing

Reports of hazing can be submitted by any individual, including students, employees, and community members. CSU encourages prompt reporting to help ensure student and employee safety and accountability. Reports can be made:

All Campus Security Authorities must report hazing for the purpose of reporting statistics in the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report, and to ensure the university can respond appropriately to hazing. Use the designated CSA Reporting Form available on the CSU Clery Compliance website.

Campus Security Authorities (CSAs) are required to report hazing incidents using the designated CSA Reporting Form (available on the Clery Compliance site) to ensure accurate data inclusion within Clery geography.

Investigation Process & Disciplinary Procedures

Students: All reports of alleged hazing by students or in student organizations are investigated by the Student Resolution Center, as follows:

  • Initial Assessment: SRC reviews the complaint to determine if the report falls under hazing.
  • Notification: Relevant individuals and organizations are notified of the
  • Evidence Collection: Includes interviews, written statements, and documentation review.
  • Evidence Review: The evidence will be reviewed to determine if the matter should proceed forward to a hearing.
  • Hearing (if applicable): A hearing officer reviews the evidence and conducts a hearing.

Findings Issued: The hearing officer provides a written outcome and issues sanctions, if applicable. If an individual or organization is found responsible for hazing, the following sanctions may apply:

  • Individual Sanctions:
    • Educational sanctions
    • Restorative justice actions
    • Probation, suspension, or expulsion from CSU
    • Referral to law enforcement for criminal investigation
  • Organization Sanctions:
    • Warning or probation
    • Loss of campus privileges
    • Revocation of official recognition
    • Dissolution or disbandment

Sanctions are imposed in accordance with the Student Conduct Code and relevant CSU policies.

Employees: Reports of alleged hazing by employees will be reviewed by Human Resources, in consultation with relevant campus partners, to determine appropriate next steps consistent with university policy and expectations in the workplace.

Students and employees can access our biannual Campus Hazing Transparency Report, which summarizes findings regarding recognized student organizations.

Applicable Laws and References

  • Hazing is explicitly prohibited under Colorado state law and is a violation of the Student Conduct Code. There are no tribal laws relevant to CSU jurisdiction. 

Prevention and Awareness Programs

CSU prioritizes hazing prevention and community education through ongoing programming, resources, and outreach, including:

  • Bystander Intervention Training
  • Workshops on Ethical Leadership and Group Cohesion
  • Online Modules on Hazing Awareness through United Educators open to everyone on campus
  • Educational Sessions for Student Organizations and Teams
  • Annual Hazing Prevention Week Events

To learn more about hazing prevention resources or to request a workshop or training, please visit the End Hazing website. Workshop requests are typically coordinated through the department or program with which the group is affiliated (e.g., Athletics, Sport Clubs, Fraternity and Sorority Life).

Next section: Crime Prevention and Security Awareness Programs

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