Hazing Prevention and Compliance
What is Hazing?
Under Collin’s Law (the Ohio Anti-Hazing Act, Ohio Revised Code §2903.31 and related provisions) and Miami University's policy, hazing is defined as:
Doing, requiring, encouraging, or coercing another person, including the victim, to do any act of initiation into, or as a condition of continuing or reinstating membership/affiliation in, any student organization, fraternity/sorority, athletic team, or other university-sanctioned group/activity that causes or creates a substantial risk of causing mental or physical harm to any person, including coercing another to consume alcohol or another drug.
Examples include (but are not limited to) activities that:
- Cause physical harm or risk (e.g., beating, paddling, forced consumption, excessive exercise).
- Create mental/emotional harm (e.g., humiliation, sleep deprivation, isolation).
- Involve coerced alcohol/drug use or dangerous tasks.
Report Hazing
Students who have witnessed or have knowledge of a possible hazing incident, should also report the incident immediately to the Office of Community Standards, Miami University Police, and/or local law enforcement. If emergency assistance is required, call 911. Miami University Police: 513-529-2222.
Office of Community Standards
Report Hazing
513-529-1417
CommunityStandards@MiamiOH.edu
EthicsPoint provides a confidential and anonymous method for reporting illegal or unethical conduct that violates Miami's policies at confidential reporting.
Hazing FAQs
What should I do if I suspect hazing?
Report it immediately—early intervention prevents harm. Anonymous reporting is available.
Is consent a defense to hazing?
No—consent does not excuse conduct that creates risk of harm.
How does Miami enforce anti-hazing rules?
Through the Code of Student Conduct, investigations by Community Standards, and collaboration with law enforcement when criminal acts are involved.