Hazing Claims Shake Up Stillman College Fraternity Scene

Victims of hazing at a Stillman College fraternity are also being victimized by the school according to the parents of eight students who are banned this semester from the private HBCU in West End. They are being punished by the school for not reporting the alleged activity at the Omega Psi Phi fraternity. (A call to the

Studies reveal that 55% of college students involved in clubs, Greek organizations, and athletic teams have experienced hazing, roughly 95% do not report it out of fear of retaliation or because they consider it normal. Yet, Stillman, a school of 731 students considers not reporting, a punishable offense.

The school's hazing policy is addressed on page 48 of Stillman's Student Handbook, Student Code of Conduct. The policy states,

"Knowledge and failure of chapter, members, applicants, or candidates for membership to report immediately in writing any hazing violation by members, applicants, or candidates may also result in disciplinary action being taken against individuals and organizations.

 

"All members and individuals seeking membership in Greek-letter organizations must sign a form refusing to engage in or allow himself/herself to be subject to hazing. The form is obtained in the Office of the Vice President for Student Success or Office of Student Life. Chapter

 

"Presidents, Intake Coordinators, and Alumnus/Alumnae Advisors must sign the form indicating that they have read and understand the Hazing Policy and Intake/Initiation Practices, and that their signatures attest that their organization follows and adheres to the Policy and all local, state, and federal laws."

Reportedly, some of the students hazed were told by an adult fraternity advisor they could face criminal charges if the reported it to authorities despite the Code of Conduct requirement.

Hazing is such a concern of college campuses that the Stop Campus Hazing Act was passed to deal with it. The University of Alabama earlier this week announced the suspension of one fraternity and probation for four more due to hazing violations.

The fraternity's status on campus is not known at this time.