In accordance with the federal Stop Campus Hazing Act and the relevant provisions of the Code of Virginia (§18.2-56 and §23.1-822), Mary Baldwin University is firmly committed to maintaining a campus environment free from hazing in any form. Hazing endangers the physical and psychological safety of our students, undermines trust within our community, and is strictly prohibited under university policy and state and federal law.

Through the Student Code of Conduct and our reporting and response procedures, Mary Baldwin University promotes accountability, transparency, and education designed to prevent hazing and related misconduct. All members of the university community are expected to uphold these standards by reporting incidents, supporting those affected, and fostering a culture of respect and care.

Definition

Hazing is any act that endangers the health or safety of a student or students; inflicts physical or psychological harm; or destroys, damages, or removes public or private property — when such behavior is required for initiation, admission, affiliation, or continued membership in a student group or organization. Participation remains classified as hazing even if the student appears to engage voluntarily. Apathy or passive acceptance in the presence of hazing is not a neutral act and may constitute a violation of the Student Code of Conduct.

Policy

Mary Baldwin University maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy toward hazing. All forms of hazing are prohibited across student organizations, athletic teams, and university-affiliated groups. Violations of the university’s hazing policy may result in serious consequences, including disciplinary probation, suspension, or expulsion. Organizations found responsible for hazing may face sanctions ranging from probation to suspension or permanent loss of recognition.

All community members are expected to report suspected hazing promptly. Prompt reporting allows the university to respond swiftly to maintain a safe and respectful campus environment. Investigation of incident reports follows the process outlined in our Student Code of Conduct sections XVIII-XVIV.

To report hazing:

• Submit a hazing incident via the MBU Incident Report system
• Contact Campus Safety at 540-887-7000 or safety@marybaldwin.edu
  

Education and Training

Mary Baldwin University actively promotes hazing prevention through a variety of educational efforts. All students, faculty and staff are encouraged to complete the United Educators Online Hazing Prevention training, which provides foundational learning on how to recognize harmful behaviors, understand policies, and respond to incidents, thereby helping identify, address, and prevent hazing by individuals, cohorts, or other student groups. In-person educational sessions are also offered by the office of Student Engagement through orientation programming.  

Annual events such as National Hazing Prevention Week, peer-led campaigns, and leadership development seminars further reinforce the university’s expectations regarding hazing behaviors. 

Campus Hazing Transparency Report: Annual report will be publicly available by December 23, 2025.