Hazing

Campus Hazing Report

Hazing Prevention & Awareness

Union Commonwealth University strictly prohibits hazing in any form. The University is committed to fostering a campus environment rooted in safety, dignity, respect, and shared responsibility. All Union Commonwealth University students are responsible for knowing and complying with all policies outlined in the Student Handbook, which includes our hazing policy.


Hazing—regardless of intent, tradition, or perceived willingness to participate—is inconsistent with the values of Union Commonwealth University and is prohibited by University policy as well as state and federal law.


In accordance with the Stop Campus Hazing Act, the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act, and Kentucky’s Lofton’s Law, Union Commonwealth University maintains comprehensive policies, reporting procedures, prevention programs, and disciplinary processes to eliminate hazing and protect members of the campus community.

What is hazing?

Union Commonwealth University defines hazing as any behavior or activity in which a person is required to participate as a condition of joining, maintaining membership in, or affiliating with an organization, group, or team when the activity does not have a direct and reasonable relationship to the goals and purpose of the organization.


Hazing includes any action or situation created by a member of the University community and directed toward another individual for the purpose of group or organizational affiliation that:

  • Is negligent or reckless in nature
  • Humiliates, endangers, or causes physical or psychological harm
  • Unreasonably interferes with a student’s academic responsibilities or employment


Hazing may occur regardless of a person’s willingness to participate. Consent is not a defense to hazing.

Examples of prohibited hazing behaviors

The following behaviors may constitute hazing, including but not limited to:

  • Forced consumption of food, alcohol, drugs, or other substances
  • Paddling or physical striking in any form
  • Creation of unnecessary fatigue
  • Acts of personal servitude
  • Physical or psychological shocks
  • Requiring conspicuous or inappropriate attire
  • Degrading or humiliating games or activities
  • Sleep or food deprivation
  • Unreasonable exposure to extreme weather
  • Kidnapping or abandonment
  • Line-ups, verbal berating, or intimidation
  • Interference with academic or professional responsibilities
  • Requiring participation in illegal, lewd, or policy-violating activities

Reporting Hazing at Union COmmonwealth University

Any individual who experiences, witnesses, or becomes aware of hazing is strongly encouraged to report it immediately. Reports may be made at any time, including outside normal business hours.


Dean of Students
Stephanie Smith
310 College St, Barbourville, KY 40906
📧 sasmith@unionky.edu
📞 606-546-1259


Campus Safety
📞 606-546-1390


Confidential Reporting Options:

  • Union Commonwealth University Counseling Center
  • Union Commonwealth University Campus Minister
  • Campus Conduct Hotline: 866-943-5781

Reports may be submitted in person, by mail, by phone, or electronically.

Report A Hazing Incident

Possible Sanctions for Hazing

If an individual or group is found responsible for hazing, sanctions may include, but are not limited to:

  • Mandatory reporting to local law enforcement (as required by the Stop Campus Hazing Act)
  • Disciplinary action determined by the Dean of Students
  • Required mental health or medical evaluation
  • Fines up to $500
  • Community restitution
  • Loss of housing privileges
  • Dismissal or expulsion



Sanctions are determined based on the severity of the violation.