Hazing

North Carolina Central University (NCCU) strictly prohibits hazing in any form, in alignment with the NCCU Student Code of Conduct, the Stop Campus Hazing Act, and other applicable laws. Hazing is antithetical to the values of respect, integrity, and community upheld by NCCU. All members of the University community, including students, student groups, student organizations, faculty, and staff, are expected to fully comply with this standard.

Hazing, as defined by the University in accordance with the Stop Campus Hazing Act (HR 5646/S 2901), refers to any intentional, knowing, or reckless act committed by a person, either individually or with others, against another person or group, regardless of their willingness to participate. This includes acts committed in connection with initiation into, affiliation with, or maintenance of membership in a student group or organization that cause or create a risk of physical or psychological harm beyond what is typically encountered through regular participation in university activities.

Examples include, but are not limited to whipping, beating, striking, electronic shocking, placing harmful substances on the body, or similar actions; causing or coercing sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements, impairment of physical liberties, kidnapping, extreme calisthenics, or confinement; inducing the consumption of food, liquids, alcohol, drugs, or other substances; pressuring or coercing sexual acts; placing someone in reasonable fear of bodily harm through threats or aggressive behavior; harassing, ridiculing, or intimidating another person in ways that result in severe emotional distress, humiliation, or degradation; engaging in actions that violate local, state (see N.C.G.S § 14-35), tribal, or federal law; and requiring or inducing others to perform tasks that involve criminal violations of such laws.

Report a suspected incident of hazing. You may also contact the university’s Student Conduct team.

Upon receipt of a report, the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards and/or the Department of Student Engagement and Leadership will conduct a preliminary investigation. If the findings support further action, formal charges will be issued in accordance with the NCCU Student Code of Conduct (Pol – 40.13.1), specifically Section 9 and Appendix I, which detail the disciplinary procedures for individual students, student groups, and student organizations. Allegations involving personnel-related hazing will be referred to the Office of Human Resources for review and resolution under applicable University policies.

Students, student groups, and student organizations found responsible for hazing may face a range of disciplinary actions, including probation, suspension, or permanent revocation of recognition. Sanctions will be applied in alignment with the NCCU Student Code of Conduct (Pol – 40.13.1, Section 10 and Appendix I, Section 7), and may include suspension or expulsion, among other outcomes deemed appropriate.

NCCU promotes hazing prevention through a coordinated, cross-departmental approach involving key campus partners. Educational efforts include the distribution of policies upon entry to the University, targeted outreach to student organizations and high-impact groups, awareness workshops, bystander intervention training, and ethical leadership programming.

Prevention education is also embedded into a variety of programs such as orientation, membership interest sessions, camps, new member education, leadership development, and other involvement experiences. Educational materials are available online and through in-person sessions throughout the year. While some training is required for specific populations, all efforts aim to foster a culture of accountability, safety, and mutual respect within the NCCU community.