Anti-Hazing Policy

Stop Campus Hazing Act Compliance

The Stop Campus Hazing Act (S.2901, H.R.5646), enacted on December 23, 2024, mandates strict measures to eradicate hazing and ensure student safety. This policy aligns with Iowa Code § 708.10.

Prohibition of Hazing

Buena Vista University (BVU) strictly prohibits all forms of hazing. Hazing contradicts BVU’s mission, values, and commitment to student safety. No student, organization, or BVU representative shall engage in, encourage, or assist in hazing. Any individual aware of hazing must report it immediately.

Definition of Hazing

Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act committed by a person (individually or in concert with other persons) against another person(s) regardless of the willingness of such other person(s) to participate, that is done in the course of an initiation into, an affiliation with, or the maintenance of membership in, a student organization of Buena Vista University, and that causes or creates a risk of physical or psychological injury above the reasonable risk in participation in the institution or the organization itself.

The term includes, but is not limited to, whipping, beating, striking, electronic shocking, placing of a harmful substance on someone's body, or similar activity; causing, coercing, or otherwise inducing sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements, confinement in a small space, extreme calisthenics, or other similar activity; causing, coercing, or otherwise inducing another person to consume food, liquid, alcohol, drugs, or other substances; causing, coercing, or otherwise inducing another person to perform sexual acts; any activity that places another person in reasonable fear of bodily harm through the use of threatening words or conduct; any activity against another person that includes a criminal violation of local, State, Tribal, or Federal law; and any activity that induces, causes, or requires another person to perform a duty or task that involves a criminal violation of local, State, Tribal, or Federal law. any brutality of a physical nature, such as whipping, beating, branding, forced consumption of any food, liquor, drug, or other substance or any other forced physical activity which could adversely affect the health and safety of the individual or individuals to extreme mental stress, such as sleep deprivation, forced exclusion from social contact, forced conduct which could result in extreme embarrassment, or any other forced activity which could adversely affect the mental health or dignity of the individual or individuals, or any willful destruction or removal of public or private property.

The term also includes “forced activity” as defined under Iowa Code § 708.10(1)(a), meaning any activity that is a condition of initiation or admission into, or affiliation with an organization, regardless of a student’s willingness to participate in the activity. Implied or expressed consent or willingness of a person or persons to hazing shall not be a defense, and any forced activity related to initiation or membership in an organization is prohibited.

Definition of a Student Organization

A student organization is defined as an organization at an institution of higher education (such as a club, society, association, varsity or junior varsity athletic team, club sports team, intermural, fraternity, sorority, band, choir, or student government) in which two or more of the members are students enrolled at the institution of higher education, whether or not the organization is established or recognized by the institution.

Reporting Procedures

Hazing can be reported through multiple channels, including both to the institution and to external authorities

Reporting to the Institution

Any individual who believes they have been the victim of hazing, or anyone who has knowledge or observes conduct that may constitute hazing, is required to report it immediately. Hazing can be reported via telephone, email, or in person to Buena Vista University’s Office of Campus Security. 

  • Reports can be made in person to the Campus Security Office located in the Student Success suite in the Harold Walter Siebens Forum in Room 205D
  • Calls can be made directly at 712.749.2500
  • The office can be emailed at security@bvu.edu

Phone conversations can be anonymous, but note that they require follow-up questions to obtain important information needed to move forward with an investigation. 

The following University personnel can also be contacted to report hazing:

  • Campus Security: 712.749.2500, security@bvu.edu, Student Success Office – Siebens Forum 205D
  • Associate Dean for Student Success & Residence Life: John Salazar, 712.749.2659, salazarj@bvu.edu, Student Success Office – Siebens Forum 204D
  • Vice President for Student Success: Dr. Jamii Claiborne, 712.749.2656, claiborne@bvu.edu, Student Success Office – Siebens Forum 205L
  • Director of Athletics: Amy Maier, 712.749.2254, santuccia@bvu.edu, Athletics – Siebens Fieldhouse 105
  • Assistant HR Director/Title IX Coordinator: Erin Heuton, 712.749.2061, titleix@bvu.edu, Human Resources Office – Dixon-Eilers 102

For confidential support, contact:

  • Counseling Services: 712.749.2123, Dixon-Eilers 208
  • Health Services: 712.749.1238, Dixon-Eilers 207
  • Chaplain: 712.749.2111, Student Success Office – Siebens Forum 

Anonymous Reporting Form

To report anonymously, visit the Campus Security website and use the form provided. To enable an effective response, please provide specific details, including the names of those involved, as well as the date, time, and location of the incident. 

Link to the anonymous reporting form:  https://www.bvu.edu/sites/default/files/2018-08/confidential-reporting-form.pdf 

Who Can Report

Hazing incidents can be reported by the victim, involved parties, faculty, staff, parents, friends, community members, or anyone concerned about a student, employee, group, or organization.

What to Include in Your Report

When reporting, please provide as much detail as possible, including:

  • Name of the organization involved in hazing
  • Date, time, and location of the event(s)
  • Individuals involved and any witnesses (with contact information if available)
  • How you became aware of the incident(s)
  • A detailed description of the event(s)
  • Any documentation, videos, or photographs, if applicable
  • Your contact information (if not reporting anonymously)

If you wish to report anonymously, please include as much detail as possible. You may also request a meeting with a staff member without providing identifying information. The staff member will explain the process and, to the extent possible, record the information without including identifying details. Meetings can be conducted in person, via phone, or via email.

Support for Victims 

The university provides resources, including counseling, academic accommodations, and trauma support, according to the nature and seriousness of the incident.

Reporting to the Law Enforcement

Individuals who believe they have been subjected to hazing are strongly encouraged to notify local law enforcement. To report hazing to local law enforcement, contact:

  • Emergency: Dial 911 
  • Storm Lake Police Department: 712.732.8010, 401 E. Milwaukee Avenue, Storm Lake, IA 50588, policedepartment@stormlake.org
  • Buena Vista County Sheriff’s Department: 712.749.2530, 411 Expansion Blvd., Storm Lake, IA 50588, bvso@bvsheriff.com

Reporting to law enforcement is not required for the University to initiate its own investigation or resolution process.

Retaliation

Victims of hazing may fear retaliation from individuals or organization members for reporting incidents. The university strictly prohibits retaliation against any individual who makes a good faith report of hazing or participates in an investigation, hearing, or court proceeding related to suspected misconduct.

Prohibition on Retaliation

Retaliation against individuals who report hazing is a violation of the University’s Student Code of Conduct/Community Standards and Employee Handbook. Students and employees who retaliate will face disciplinary action, up to and including termination for employees.

Investigation Process

1. Initial Review

  • Assessment of Incident: Upon receiving a report, university officials (e.g., Student Success, Residence Life, Human Resources, or Campus Security) assess whether the behavior constitutes hazing under university policy.
  • Safety and Immediate Actions: If necessary, the university may take immediate steps to ensure the safety of individuals, including the temporary suspension of individuals or organizations under investigation.

2. Investigation Process

  • Investigator Assignment: An investigator or team will be designated, with the possibility of an external investigator.
  • Evidence Gathering: Investigators collect relevant evidence, including: 
    • Interviews with the complainant, victims, witnesses, and suspects.
    • Physical evidence (e.g., videos, photos, social media content).
    • Statements from community members or organizations involved.
  • Documentation: All evidence and interviews are documented for transparency and accuracy.
  • If the investigation reveals that the allegations of hazing constitute a violation of the University’s Title IX policy, the Title IX Policy and procedure will be used.

3. Determination of Policy Violation

  • Policy Comparison: Investigators evaluate the evidence against university policies to determine if hazing occurred. Hazing typically involves actions that endanger physical or mental health or create unreasonable risks, cause humiliation, or are intended to initiate someone into a group.
  • Additional Violations: Investigators also assess if other university policies (e.g., alcohol, harassment, violence) were violated.

4. Resolution and Sanctions

  • Decision Making: After reviewing evidence, investigators submit reports to the conduct board (for students) or Human Resources (for employees) to determine violations and potential disciplinary actions. 
  • Sanctions for Individuals: Possible sanctions include: 
    1. Warnings, probation, suspension, expulsion.
    2. Fines, restitution, mandatory education, or counseling.
    3. Additional sanctions for students are listed below consistent with the BVU Code of Conduct.
  • Sanctions for Groups: Organizations found responsible may face: 
    1. Suspension or revocation of recognition.
    2. Loss of privileges, access to funding, or activity restrictions.
    3. Probation or mandatory training or counseling.
    4. Review of Organizational Practices: Involved groups may undergo a review and reform of their activities and culture to prevent recurring issues.

5. Appeals Process: 

  • Both the accused individual or organization and the complainant typically have the right to appeal the decision, or the sanctions imposed.
  • Appeals by Organizations or Entities: Organizations found in violation of this policy may appeal the decision and any sanctions to the Vice President for Student Success. Appeals must be submitted in writing within three business days of notification. The Vice President will review the appeal and provide a final, binding decision. This is the only avenue of appeal for hazing-related decisions and sanctions.

6. Public Communication and Transparency

  • Reporting to the Community: Depending on the severity of the incident, the university may disclose the outcome to the broader community, especially if public safety is at risk, through BVU Alerts.
  • Collaboration with Law Enforcement: If the hazing incident involves criminal behavior (e.g., physical assault, abuse, or illegal substances), the university may also report the incident to local law enforcement, who may conduct a parallel investigation.

The University is expected to handle hazing incidents swiftly and fairly while ensuring that all individuals’ rights are protected throughout the process. This process is crucial to balance transparency, due process, and the wellbeing of all involved students, faculty, and staff.

Disciplinary Sanctions

Students found responsible for hazing will face disciplinary actions, as outlined in the BVU Code of Conduct. Sanctions may include:

  • Disciplinary Warning: A written notice that a student's behavior violated the BVU Code of Conduct, with potential for more severe actions upon recurrence.
  • Disciplinary Probation: A probationary period where the student’s conduct is monitored. Violations during this time may result in suspension or expulsion. Probation may include restrictions such as:
  • Denial of participation in intercollegiate athletics, co-curricular activities, intramural sports, or social functions.
  • Financial restitution for damage to property.
  • Housing restrictions, including restricted access to certain on-campus residential living spaces or restriction from all residential living areas.
  • Suspension: Withdrawal from classes and campus for 6 to 12 months. A suspension is noted on the student’s transcript and may require conditions for reinstatement.
  • Expulsion: Permanent separation from the University. Expulsion is recorded on the student's transcript and prohibits access to campus without approval.
  • Legal Consequences: In the State of Iowa, a person who commits an act of hazing is guilty of a simple misdemeanor. A person who commits an act of hazing that causes serious bodily injury to another is guilty of a serious misdemeanor and will be referred to civil authorities for prosecution. BVU will report hazing violations to the appropriate authorities as required by law.

Prevention & Awareness Programs

Buena Vista University is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all students, staff, and faculty, free from hazing and any practices that degrade, humiliate, or endanger individuals. This policy is designed to promote awareness, prevent hazing behaviors, and ensure that all students, staff, faculty, and campus organizations adhere to the university's standards of conduct. The university will engage in a research-informed, campus-wide approach to hazing prevention, incorporating prevention strategies aimed at fostering a culture of respect and inclusion.

1. Educational Programming 

These strategies aim to address the cultural and environmental conditions that enable hazing.

  • Leadership Development: Student leaders will be taught about respect, inclusion, and ethical decision-making to promote positive group behavior.
  • Social Norms Campaigns & Bystander Intervention Training: Students and staff will be trained to recognize and intervene in hazing behaviors alongside educational booths for awareness.
  • Orientation Awareness: Posters about hazing awareness, prevention, and reporting will be displayed around campus. Information will cover the risks and consequences of hazing and emphasize the importance of bystander intervention.
  • RA Training: Students will receive training on identifying hazing behaviors, understanding its risks, and learning how to safely intervene.
  • Additional Information: For more information on hazing prevention and reporting, please visit: http://www.stophazing.org or http://www.hazingprevention.org.

2. Ongoing Assessment and Improvement

  • Program Evaluation: Hazing prevention programs will be reviewed annually, and improvements will be made based on feedback and data.

Buena Vista University is committed to eliminating hazing through research-based programs and prevention strategies. We aim to create a respectful and safe campus where all students are educated, supported, and held accountable for maintaining a welcoming environment.

Transparency & Reporting

Hazing Incident Reporting

Hazing incidents will be included in the Annual Security Report and Daily Crime Log, as required by the Clery Act. This law requires universities to disclose certain campus safety information, including hazing and sexual assaults.

  • The incident must be reported by a campus security authority or local police.
  • It must occur within the Clery Act’s defined geography.
  • The incident must meet the Clery Act's definition of hazing.

Campus Hazing Transparency Report

In accordance with university policy, a Campus Hazing Transparency Report is compiled and published on the university's website to provide transparency regarding any established or recognized student organizations found in violation of the institution’s hazing policy. The report will not include any personally identifiable information, including any information that would reveal personally identifiable information about individual students. This report includes the following information for each organization involved:

  • Name of the Student Organization
  • General Description of the Violation (*Must include whether the violation involved the abuse or illegal use of alcohol or drugs, the findings of the institution, and any sanctions placed on the student organization)
  • Relevant Dates 
    • Date the incident was alleged to have occurred 
    • Date investigation was initiated
    • Date investigation ended with findings of hazing violation
    • Date institution provided notice to organization of outcome
  • Findings for Determination of Responsibility
  • Sanctions Imposed

The Campus Hazing Transparency Report is publicly available below. This report will be updated two times per year and will summarize all findings related to student organizations that have violated hazing policies.

Campus Hazing Transparency Report: https://www.bvu.edu/transparency-report

 

Additional information can be found in the Annual Security Report. 

https://www.bvu.edu/annualcampussecurityandfirereport