Hazing is strictly prohibited at Western Connecticut State University (WCSU). It has no place in our student organizations or campus community. Hazing refers to any activity that requires members or prospective members of an organization to take part in behaviors that harass, intimidate, physically exhaust, cause pain, or create mental or physical distress.

Prohibited behaviors include, but are not limited to:

• Activities that create a risk of physical injury
• Any form of physical or emotional abuse
• Practices that result in unnecessary fatigue or personal injury
• Actions that cause mental anguish, distress, panic, or psychological harm
• Forcing individuals to wear inappropriate or conspicuous clothing in public
• Requiring participation in humiliating or degrading acts
• Interfering with academic responsibilities or study schedules
• Any activity inconsistent with WCSU regulations and policies

Hazing is not tolerated under any circumstances.

Hazing Prevention Strategies

WCSU is committed not only to enforcing anti‑hazing policies but also to preventing hazing through education, awareness, and culture‑building. Effective prevention requires the active participation of students, advisors, coaches, and campus partners. Based on national best practices, research‑informed curriculum, and campus‑wide initiatives, CSI promotes the following prevention strategies for our clubs and organizations:

1. Education & Training

• CSI will provide annual training for student leaders, team captains, and organization advisors focused on recognizing hazing behaviors and understanding their impacts.

2. Clear Expectations & Transparent Policies

• CSI will communicate WCSU’s hazing policy at orientations, recruitment periods, and organizational meetings.
• CSI will ensure all organizations understand reporting procedures, investigation processes, and consequences.

3. Promote a Culture of Belonging

• CSI encourages team‑building activities that foster inclusion, psychological safety, and shared purpose—without requiring harmful or high‑risk behaviors reinforces that healthy relationships and mutual respect—not coercion—build strong organizations.

4. Environmental & Structural Prevention

• CSI will monitor organizational practices and traditions to identify high‑risk activities and environments.
• CSI will support organizations in redesigning events, initiation processes, or team rituals to align with safety and well‑being standards.

5. Empowerment & Leadership Development

• CSI will equip student leaders with tools to intervene, redirect harmful group norms, and model positive behavior.
• CSI will encourage leaders to use research‑supported strategies that disrupt hazing‑supportive environments.

6. Accessible, Encouraged Reporting

• CSI will foster a climate where students feel safe and supported in reporting concerns as well as remind all community members that reporting is both encouraged and required.

Reporting Hazing

Any student who has been hazed—or any community member who witnesses hazing—must report the incident immediately.

Additional Resources

Please refer to the links below for more policies and resources related to hazing at Western Connecticut State University.