At Marshall University, we believe in fostering a community grounded in respect, dignity, and belonging. Hazing—in any form—has no place in our campus culture. Whether it occurs within student organizations, athletic teams, or informal groups, hazing is a violation of university policy and West Virginia state law.
Hazing is any action taken or situation created, intentionally or unintentionally, whether on or off campus, that causes embarrassment, harassment, ridicule, physical or emotional harm, or violates a person’s dignity. This applies regardless of the individual’s willingness to participate.
Why it Matters
Hazing undermines trust, safety, and the values we uphold at Marshall University. It can have lasting physical, emotional, and psychological effects. Students deserve to join campus communities without fear or pressure to participate in harmful activities.
Hazing isn’t just against university policy; hazing is illegal under West Virginia Code §18-16-2. Those found responsible may face legal consequences in addition to university sanctions.
Marshall University Hazing Policy
Marshall University’s policy on hazing is outlined in Section 5.2.2.12 on Page 6 of the Student Rights and Responsibilities:
“Hazing: means to cause any action or situation which recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health or safety of another person or persons or causes another person or persons to destroy or remove public or private property for the purpose of initiation or admission into or affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in, any organization operating under the sanction of or recognized as an organization by an institution of higher education. The term includes, but is not limited to, any brutality of a physical nature, such as whipping, beating, branding, forced consumption of any food, liquor, drug or other substance, or any other forced physical activity which could adversely affect the physical health and safety of the individual or individuals, and includes any activity which would subject the individual or individuals to extreme mental stress, such as sleep deprivation, forced exclusion from social contact, forced conduct which could result in extreme embarrassment, or any other forced activity which could adversely affect the mental health or dignity of the individual or individuals, or any willful destruction or removal of public or private property: Further, the implied or expressed consent or willingness of a person or persons to hazing shall not be a defense.”
If you witness or experience hazing, we encourage you to report it immediately. Marshall University investigates all reports and protects the confidentiality of individuals involved when possible.
Retaliation against individuals who report hazing is strictly prohibited and will result in disciplinary action.
Ways to report hazing:
- Submitting an online report
- Contacting the Office of Advocacy & Accountability
- Calling the Marshall University Police Department (MUPD) at 304-696-HELP (4357)
- Speaking with a trusted faculty or staff member
In compliance with the Stop Campus Hazing Act (SCHA), Marshall University will publish a Hazing Transparency Report every January and August. This report will include information on violations of the university’s hazing policy by student organizations over the past five years.
The report will include:
- The name of the organization
- A general description of the incident(s)
- The date the conduct occurred
- The findings and outcomes of any investigations
These reports are part of our ongoing effort to promote accountability, awareness and safety within the Marshall University community.
Marshall University provides hazing prevention training for all student organizations, athletes, and leadership groups.
Individuals or student organizations can request hazing prevention training by contacting Alyssa Hager at hager135@marshall.edu
Alyssa Hager
Coordinator of Violence Prevention & Response
Memorial Student Center, 2W16-A
hager135@marshall.edu
304-696-5701
We also participate in National Hazing Prevention Week each September to raise awareness and promote safe, respectful community-building.
Check out our National Hazing Prevention Week video: https://youtu.be/En-fYvFAlmk?si=Q9qx7N9dDmK6qV29
Creating a culture of respect and responsibility starts with each of us. Join us in standing against hazing and supporting a safe, empowering student experience at Marshall University.