Cornell University

Hazing at Cornell

91% of Cornell students believe “it’s never ok to humiliate or intimidate new members.” See study

Hazing is not an innocent rite of passage. Cornell University recognizes hazing as a serious public health issue causing physical and emotional harm to individual students as well as to groups, teams, and organizations.

Prevention. Definitions. Reporting.

This site provides comprehensive hazing information for all members of the Cornell community — with special resources for group leaders, parents and families, and anyone seeking to examine hazing within student groups, teams, and organizations. Explore effective strategies to prevent or interrupt hazing; learn how to report suspected or witnessed hazing behavior to the university; and review adjudicated violations spanning two decades at Cornell, along with the corresponding sanctions. 

What is Hazing?

Hazing encompasses a range of practices and can take many forms, but often involves physical risks or mental distress through humiliating, intimidating, or demeaning treatment of individuals joining or continuing membership in a group, team, or organization. The impact of hazing on individuals can be severe, long-lasting, and even fatal. A violation of Cornell University policy and New York State law, hazing can occur in all types of groups, teams, and organizations.

Below are experts from Cornell leadership statements about the practice of hazing. 

“Hazing is a dangerous abuse of power and a violation of the values that define us as a community ...” 

- Ryan Lombardi, Vice President for student and Campus Life 

“Hazing exploits our innate desire for connection and belonging, often leading to lasting negative effects on individuals’ physical and emotional well-being ...” 

- Julie Edwards, Assistant Vice President for Student Health and Wellbeing

Review full leadership statements

Cornell's Hazing Prevention Model

Cornell takes a comprehensive, public health approach to hazing prevention (see Hazing Prevention Model). All members of the Cornell community have a shared responsibility in this effort. As a Health Promoting Campus, Cornell is dedicated to promoting the health and well-being of all students, staff and faculty as a means for academic, work, and life success. Hazing practices are directly at odds with Cornell’s core values of well-being and belonging and are not tolerated in our community. 

Prevention Resources

Joining a Group? Watch This!

All of us have a need to belong. And everyone deserves to be treated with respect within a group, team, or organization. Watch this 2-minute video to see how hazing looks in some settings and learn what to do about it.

You Can Intervene 

The bystander education film, "Intervene" depicts a student taking action to help a friend who is being hazed. Learn more about how to help. 

Positive Team-Building Activities 

Students enjoying Cornells Outdoor Education program

Healthy recruitment and positive group building can include elements of community service, philanthropy, service-learning, mentoring, outdoor challenges, learning about the group’s history and values, etc. Get additional Alternatives to Promote Group Bonding.  

Support for Those Who Are Hazed 

If you or someone you know has been hazed at Cornell, resources are available for support. For example, Cornell Health offers confidential medical, mental health services and Victim Advocacy.