51�Թ�

Our Commitment

At 51�Թ�, we’re building a community where respect, inclusion, and safety are foundational—not optional. Hazing has no place here. Whether it’s labeled a “tradition” or “team bonding,” if an activity causes harm, humiliation, or pressure—it may be hazing.

We encourage all students, staff, and faculty to understand what hazing is, how to prevent it, and how to speak up if something doesn’t feel right.

What Is Hazing?

Hazing doesn’t have to be extreme to be serious. Hazing is any activity or behavior that someone uses to control, intimidate, or put others at risk as part of joining or being part of a group. It often hides behind traditions or “team-building,” but it can cause real physical or emotional harm. 

You might think hazing only happens in some undergrad groups, but it can happen to anyone— even grad students— in clubs, sports, academics, or any group where people hang out together.

Hazing isn’t about fun or bonding — it’s about power and pressure. And even if someone says “yes,” it’s still not okay.

Read our full Hazing Policy.

Examples You Might Not Realize Are Hazing

Here are some common examples that may cross the line:

• Secretive rituals or challenges
  Any activity that members are told to “keep quiet about” often signals a hazing risk. A healthy group doesn’t need secrecy to build pride or tradition.
• “Earning your place” through chores or servitude
  Requiring new members to clean, carry equipment, run errands, or “prove themselves” by completing tasks that full members don’t do is often a form of hazing.
• Sleep deprivation for the sake of bonding
  Keeping new members up all night, requiring late-night meetings, or assigning them tasks at unreasonable hours is harmful—even if everyone went through it before.
• Pressure to drink, smoke, or consume anything
  Forcing or encouraging members to drink alcohol or use substances—even as part of a “celebration”—can be dangerous and is a clear violation of hazing policy.
• Disorienting or unsafe transportation
  Blindfolding members, dropping them off in unknown locations, making them ride in unsafe places (like car trunks), or otherwise limiting their control or awareness during transportation creates fear and risk.
• Embarrassing costumes or dress codes
  Forcing new members to wear degrading or inappropriate outfits, especially in public, can cause shame and psychological harm.
• Verbal intimidation or social shaming
  Teasing that crosses into fear, name-calling, or public criticism framed as “toughening them up” is hazing.

How to Report Hazing

Whether you’ve seen something firsthand, heard about a questionable tradition, or participated in something that now feels wrong — you can take action.

There are several ways to report hazing, and you don’t need to have all the details or be certain it “counts” as hazing to speak up.

Your Options:

• Make a Formal University Report – If you believe hazing has occurred or want the university to look into a concern:
  • Submit the . This is for non-urgent concerns and may be submitted anonymously.
  • Call Campus Public Safety at 503-352-2230 to meet with an officer to make a report.
    • For emergencies, call Campus Public Safety at 503-352-2230 or 911 right away.
• Report to Law Enforcement
  • Forest Grove Police Department
    Emergency:  911
    Non-Emergency Phone: 503-629-0111
  • Hillsboro Police Department
    Emergency: 911
    Non-Emergency Phone: 503-629-0111
• Confidential Resources
  These are people you can talk to without triggering a university investigation. They’ll listen, offer support, and help you decide next steps — without sharing your name and what you report unless you say it’s okay.
  • Student Counseling Center
    • 24/7 Crisis and Support Line:  503-352-2999
    • Office Phone: 503-352-2191
  • Confidential Advocacy Network - Confidential Advocates are a small group of trained faculty and staff who provide private support if hazing involves sexual misconduct, gender-based violence, or identity-based harm.
• Non-Confidential Staff & Offices
  These folks (like RAs, faculty, or staff) can still offer support, but if they learn of serious concerns, they’re obligated to notify the university so safety concerns can be addressed.

Our Stance on Retaliation

51�Թ� strictly prohibits retaliation against anyone who reports hazing, participates in an investigation, or supports someone else in coming forward.

This means you cannot be punished, threatened, or mistreated for speaking up — even if the report doesn't lead to a formal conduct process.

If you experience or witness any form of retaliation, report it immediately. We take it seriously, and action will be taken to protect your rights and safety.

Building Belonging Without Hazing

Why do people turn to hazing?
Hazing often happens because groups want to create strong bonds and a sense of belonging. Sometimes, people think that “tough” or secret rituals prove loyalty or commitment. There can also be pressure to keep traditions alive—especially if older members say, “This is just how we do things.” But these kinds of activities usually rely on uneven power dynamics, where some members control or intimidate others. This can hurt people’s trust and damage the group’s true sense of community.

Why do it differently?
Healthy group culture is built on respect, inclusion, and shared values—not on fear, shame, or secrets. When group members feel safe, valued, and equal, relationships grow stronger and last longer. Teams and clubs thrive when everyone has a voice, and when new members are welcomed through positive, meaningful experiences—not by being put through uncomfortable or risky challenges.

Ask yourself before planning an activity:

• Are we only requiring new members to participate in the activity?
• Could anyone feel pressured, embarrassed, or unsafe?
• Are we creating a tradition that depends on secrecy or exclusion?
• Are we encouraging participants to break policies or laws?
• Could this activity create an unfair power imbalance between new and old members?

If you answer “yes” or even feel unsure about any of these, pause and take a step back. Talk with an advisor, staff member, or experienced leader to rethink the activity. There’s always a better way to build connection without causing harm.

Building strong organizational culture
The best organizations—on campus or beyond—build connection through shared purpose, respect, and inclusion. Here are some key practices that help build lasting, positive culture:

• Establish Shared Values Early
  Involve all members—new and returning—in conversations about what your group stands for. When everyone helps define the values, people are more likely to live them out.
• Create a Sense of Safety
  Members should feel safe to speak up, share ideas, and admit mistakes without fear of judgment or ridicule. Have current members role model this and give positive encouragement when members speak up. A healthy group encourages openness, not silence or secrecy.
• Promote Inclusive Leadership
  Leadership should rotate or be shared across members. Avoid creating inner circles that hold all the power. Give everyone a chance to lead, contribute, and feel ownership.
• Model Respect and Accountability
  Older members or leaders set the tone. When they treat others with kindness and fairness—and hold themselves to high standards—it builds a culture others will follow.
• Foster Connection Through Shared Experiences
  Have all members participate in activities that emphasize teamwork, collaboration, or service—things that build real relationships and shared memories without putting anyone in a vulnerable position.

By focusing on these kinds of group norms and practices, your organization can build deep bonds, real trust, and traditions people are proud to carry on. Strong culture doesn't come from control—it comes from connection.

Resources to Learn More

•  – Webinars and educational tools
• – Research, trainings, and prevention tools
  • : Hazing exists on a spectrum—from seemingly harmless traditions to serious abuse—and understanding that range helps you recognize red flags early and protect the well-being of everyone in your group.
  • : Learn more about hazing and what you can do to prevent it
• – UVA – Alcohol and hazing prevention, including videos
• Oregon Hazing Law (ORS 163.197)

Questions?

Email studentconduct@pacificu.edu or stop by the Office of Student Conduct.

Together, we can create a campus culture that values care over coercion and connection over control.