Hazing Policy (SAF 100-011)

1.0 Purpose

Baker College is committed to fostering a safe and inclusive environment where all students can participate in student organizations without the fear of hazing. As part of this commitment, the College strictly prohibits any form of hazing and promotes a culture of respect, safety, and accountability.

2.0 Definitions

Hazing –Any intentional, knowing, or reckless act committed by a person (whether individually or in concert with other persons) against another person or persons regardless of the willingness of such other person or persons to participate, that is committed in the course of an initiation into, an affiliation with, or the maintenance of membership in, a student organization; and causes or creates a risk, above the reasonable risk encountered in the course of participation in the institution of higher education or the organization (such as the physical preparation necessary for participation in an athletic team), of physical or psychological injury including: whipping, beating, striking, electronic shocking, placing of a harmful substance on someone's body, or similar activity; causing, coercing, or otherwise inducing sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements, confinement in a small space, extreme Calisthenics, or other similar activity; causing, coercing, or otherwise inducing another person to consume food, liquid, alcohol, drugs, or other substances; causing, coercing, or otherwise inducing another person to perform sexual acts; any activity that places another person in reasonable fear of bodily harm through the use of threatening words or conduct; any activity against another person that includes a criminal violation of local, State, Tribal, or Federal law; and any activity that induces, causes, or requires another person to perform a duty or task that involves a criminal violation of local, State, Tribal, or Federal law.

3.0 Scope

This policy applies to all members of the Baker College community, including students, faculty, staff, and student organizations.

4.0 Policy Statement

Baker College does not tolerate hazing in any form. All campus community members are expected to uphold a culture of dignity, respect, and accountability. Any reports of hazing will be taken seriously, thoroughly investigated, and addressed in accordance with college policies and applicable laws.

5.0 Procedures

If you witness or experience hazing, please take the following steps:

• Report the incident promptly to a Campus Security Authority or the local Campus Safety office.
• Campus Safety will conduct a preliminary review to assess the situation and determine next steps.
• If necessary, findings will be forwarded to the campus Director of Student Affairs for further investigation and appropriate action.
• Investigations will follow a "more likely than not" (preponderance of the evidence) standard to determine policy violations.
• Baker College will provide ongoing education, awareness programs, and prevention initiatives to promote a safe campus environment.
• Baker College will develop, maintain, and post a Hazing Transparency Report in a prominent place on the College's public-facing website in accordance with the law. The Transparency Report will be updated bi-annually in January an July. 
• Any findings of hazing will be reported in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

6.0 Responsibilities

Campus Safety

Receive and document reports of suspected hazing.

Conduct an initial review and follow all necessary reporting protocols.

Forward cases to the Director of Student Affairs for further review.

Update the Hazing Transparency Report bi-annually in January and July via the Marketing and Communications ticket process.

Director of Student Affairs

Receive, investigate, and adjudicate reports of Hazing received from Campus Safety

Campus Community

Be aware of hazing risks and prevention measures.

Report any concerns to Campus Safety or a Campus Security Authority.

Promote an environment of inclusion, respect, and accountability.

7.0 Citations & Related Information

Document A: Michigan law on Hazing, see MCL 750.411t.