Hazing Policy and Prevention at URI
The University of Rhode Island is committed to cultivating a safe, respectful, and inclusive community where all students can thrive. Hazing, in any form, is strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated.
Hazing is a crime in the State of Rhode Island. Hazing in any form is prohibited at the University of Rhode Island in accordance with this policy and the University’s Standards of Conduct. The University is committed to maintaining a safe and inclusive community where Students can engage in academic, extracurricular, and social activities free from Hazing. No University Student, Employee, nor Student Organization shall engage in, participate in, condone, or permit Hazing activities. This prohibition applies to on-campus, off-campus, and virtual activities.
Definition of Hazing
Hazing is defined as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act committed by a person, whether individually or in concert with others, against another person or persons (regardless of their willingness to participate) that (1) is undertaken in the course of initiation into, affiliation with, or maintenance of membership in a Student Organization; and (2) causes or creates a risk (beyond the reasonable risks inherent in participation in the institution or the organization) of physical or psychological injury. Hazing may occur on or off campus, in person, or in virtual settings. The perception of the individual subjected to Hazing does not determine whether an act constitutes Hazing. Additionally, an individual’s failure to object or apparent willingness to participate does not negate the fact that Hazing has occurred.
Examples of Hazing Behaviors
- Prohibited Activities Activities prohibited by this policy include, but are not limited to, committing, causing, coercing, or otherwise inducing any of the following:
- Physical harm or threat of harm, including: whipping, beating, striking, paddling, branding, tattooing, forced calisthenics, burying in any substance, spraying, painting, pelting with any substance, exposure to the weather, or any brutal treatment or forced physical activity
- Forced consumption of food, alcohol, drugs, or any other substance, legal or illegal
- Destruction or removal of public or private property
- Acts of personal servitude or humiliation, including: nudity with the intent to cause embarrassment or wearing of apparel that is conspicuous and/or indecent
- Sleep deprivation or excessive physical activity
- Extended isolation, confinement in a small space, or kidnapping
- Coercion, intimidation, harassment, or any use of threatening words or conduct resulting in reasonable fear of bodily harm
- The obtainment or possession of items or completion of tasks in an unlawful manner (e.g., for a scavenger hunt) • Interrogation in an intimidating or threatening manner
- Acts relevant to a particular Student Organization (for example, practice or training activities), but in a manner that a reasonable person would consider excessive or dangerous
- Acts that involve violation of any federal, state, or local law or University policy, rule, or regulation (e.g,. Policy on Sexual Misconduct or Policy on Nondiscrimination)
Reporting Hazing
Anyone aware of hazing is required to report it. You may:
- Submit an online hazing report
- Call the Dean of Students Office: 401.874.2098
- Contact URI Police: 401.874.4910
Anonymous reports are accepted. Retaliation against reporters is prohibited.
Investigation & Sanctions
Reports are reviewed by the Dean of Students and relevant authorities. Investigations may result in interim actions.
- Suspension or dismissal (individuals/groups)
- Loss of recognition, privileges, or housing
- Criminal referral
- Employment or housing discipline
Prevention and Training
URI offers mandatory training and proactive prevention strategies, including:
- Hazing-awareness training for students and staff
- Bystander intervention & ethical leadership workshops
- Team-building alternatives for organizations
Public Reporting
Annual hazing data (starting in 2026) and a Campus Hazing Transparency Report (beginning December 2025) will be published to ensure accountability and compliance.
Legal Framework (Rhode Island)
| Type of Offense | Penalty |
|---|---|
| Hazing without injury | Misdemeanor – Up to $500 fine and 1 year in jail |
| Hazing with permanent disfigurement | Felony – 1 to 10 years imprisonment |
| Failure to report or prevent by school officials | Fines from $10 to $100 |