- A report is submitted to the University.
- An investigator is assigned.
- An intake or fact-gathering meeting determines next steps:
- Close the case if insufficient evidence, or
- Move forward with charges.
Overview
McMurry University is committed to a safe, respectful campus environment where all students can thrive. Hazing—whether intentional or unintentional—is prohibited. This policy explains what hazing is, how to report it, how investigations are handled, and how the University meets state and federal requirements.
What Is Hazing?Hazing includes any action or situation created, on or off campus, that causes mental, physical, or psychological discomfort, degradation, embarrassment, harassment, or ridicule. It also includes acts that threaten student safety or involve the destruction of property for the purpose of:
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Examples of HazingActivities may include, but are not limited to:
Consent does not make hazing acceptable. |
Student Handbook
Reporting a Hazing Concern
McMurry encourages all students, employees, and community members to report hazing. This helps the University determine whether a student group or team has engaged in prohibited behavior.
Who Must Report?
Employees and student employees designated as Campus Security Authorities (CSAs) under the Clery Act must report hazing when they have reasonable cause to believe that it has occurred. Reasonable cause includes witnessing hazing, being a victim, or receiving credible reports.
Investigation Process
Step 1 – Report of Concern
Step 2 – Interview of Impacted Parties
Step 3 – Investigation and Hearing
Appeals
- Notice of investigation sent to group/team leadership.
- Interviews conducted.
- The case may be closed or charges issued based on the information gathered.
- Charges/violations noted.
- Hearing conducted by the Dean of Students or designee.
- Determination made based on the preponderance of evidence.
Organizations and teams may appeal decisions in accordance with the procedures outlined in the Student Handbook.
Student Handbook
More Information
Hazing Report
Texas law requires each institution of higher education to publish or distribute a list of registered student organizations that have been disciplined or convicted of hazing violations within the previous three years, whether the incidents occurred on or off campus.
In compliance with Texas Senate Bill 38, McMurry University will publish the names of student organizations found responsible for hazing in accordance with the Texas Education Code, Title 2, Subtitle G, Chapter 37, Subchapter F (Hazing), Sections 37.151–37.157 (including provisions in effect before September 1, 2019, and as updated by S.B. 38).
Texas Hazing Law
Texas Education Code Chapter 37, Subchapter F outlines the State of Texas hazing laws, including definitions, prohibited conduct, reporting requirements, and criminal penalties. The statute applies to hazing activities on or off campus and holds individuals and organizations accountable. It also addresses failure to report hazing and provides limited protections for good-faith reporting.
Positive Alternatives to Hazing
McMurry promotes activities that build group unity without harm, such as:
- Community service
- Social or athletic events
- Leadership development
- History sharing and alums engagement
- Workshops on communication and social skills
Lawsuits
Across the United States, courts have held organizations and individuals legally responsible for hazing activities that resulted in mental or physical harm. Numerous successful lawsuits have been filed in cases where hazing caused injury or distress to participants.
Legal action may be brought against the organization itself, its president and officers, the organization’s advisor, other individuals involved in the incident, and, in some cases, the University.
Advisors and organizational officers should understand that legal liability may extend directly to them. They are responsible for exercising appropriate oversight of organizational activities and taking prompt action to stop any conduct that could be interpreted as hazing. Failure to monitor activities or intervene when concerns arise may result in personal legal consequences.