Greek Life Policies
Hazing
Hazing is strictly forbidden by Wofford College and is a
violation of the South Carolina Code of Laws.
Hazing is defined as any action taken or situation planned or created,
on or off campus, that is demeaning to an individual; produces mental,
emotional, or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment or ridicule; or
which threatens or endangers the health, safety, and will being of any
person. Activities and situations
considered hazing include but are not limited to: pressure to use alcohol; paddling in any
form; creating excessive fatigue; physical or psychological shocks; quests,
treasure hunts, scavenger hunts, road trips; wearing of public apparel which is
conspicuous and not normally in good taste; engaging in public stunts; morally
degrading or humiliating games; or any activities which are inconsistent with
the fraternal law, ritual or policy or inconsistent with the regulations,
policies or the Code of Student Rights and Responsibilities of Wofford College. Students should report any hazing to a
college official.
Wofford College hazing policy: Causing or permitting a person, incident to initiation into or membership in a society, club, or similar organized group, to participate in any activity that subjects that person or others to risks of physical injury or mental distress or personal indignities of a highly offensive nature, whether or not such person has consented to participation in the activity, is prohibited.
Who Handles Cases
Individuals or organizations accused of hazing incidents are investigated by the Student Affairs Office.All allegations are reported to the chapter's advisor & their national headquarters. Groups found guilty of hazing are noted and kept on file with the Office of Greek Life.
Possible Penalties
Mandatory risk management education seminar for the chapter
Restrictions on new member period
College approval of all future new member programs
Chapter suspension for a specified period of time
Loss of college facilities
A record of the violation is kept for 3 years, to be used if further violations occur
Probation and suspension from Wofford College for individuals who violate the hazing policy
To report possible violations in the strictest confidence call the Office of Greek Life at 864-597-4048.
You do not have to give your name in order to report a hazing incident.
5 Questions to Ask to Determine if it's Hazing?
To determine if an act is hazing, simply ask the following questions.
1. Would you let a newspaper reporter see and report what you are doing?
2. Would you tell prospective members what they will go through?
3. Would you tell the parents of your members what you are doing?
4. Would you let Student Affairs know what you are doing?
5. Would you let your national headquarters know what you are doing?
If you hesitate on any of the above questions, then it’s hazing!
You should be proud of all the activities you ask your new members to do.
Therefore, you should not hesitate to let everyone know.
If you hesitate, that is telling you something.
Remember it is difficult to keep a secret in the Greek Community.
It’s usually only a matter of time before what your group is doing gets out!
To report hazing anonymously 24 hours a day, call 864-597-2222.
You will not have to reveal your identity at anytime.