Prevention. Definitions. Reporting.
Hazing is a serious public health problem that causes physical and mental harm to students at Cornell and nationwide. Consider the following university statements:
- President Martha E. Pollack's university statement announcing reforms for Greek Life at Cornell (December 18, 2019).
- President Martha E. Pollack's university statement about initiating reforms for Greek letter organizations (May 4, 2018).
- Vice President Ryan Lombardi's university statement about the health and safety risks of hazing (January 23, 2018).
This site is a resource for students, staff, faculty, alumni, parents and others interested in learning about hazing within student groups, teams, and organizations ... and what can be done to prevent it.
Highlights from this site include:
- Hazing is not an innocent rite of passage. It harms individuals, groups, and the University.
- Most students object to hazing: Overall, 91% of Cornell students believe "it's never okay to humiliate or intimidate new members."
- Hazing takes various forms, but typically involves physical risks or mental distress through humiliating, intimidating, or demeaning treatment. Review Cornell's hazing definition.
- Hazing has occurred in Cornell fraternities, sororities, athletic teams, performance groups, and other organizations.
- Hazing is a violation of Cornell University policy and New York State law.
- Groups can achieve commitment and solidarity through non-hazing means (pdf).