Accountability and Compliance

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Dear Campus Community, 

I am writing to express our ongoing commitment to a positive and healthy environment both in and out of the classroom. Many students turn to group activities to find a sense of belonging and it is critical that belonging does not come with a price. Hazing is not isolated to certain student groups - research shows that hazing occurs in all kinds of organizations. As members of the UCSB community, each of us has a responsibility to make a difference by being informed about hazing and committed to its prevention.

Too often, individuals excuse hazing as "tradition" or "bonding." Hazing behaviors (such as food challenges, running errands or completing tasks for current members, sleep deprivation, and more) do not build positive relationships, group unity, belonging, or trust. Rather, they undermine our institutional mission and can lead to damaged relationships, resentment, physical harm, and even death.

This year, we have even more reason to continue our diligence about responding to hazing. In December 2024, the federal government enacted the Stop Campus Hazing Act, which strengthens federal hazing legislation. Our campus will now be required to publish the names of groups found responsible for hazing and beginning this year, members of our campus community will receive comprehensive ethical leadership and hazing prevention training. 

With that in mind, here are some steps we all can take to prevent and address hazing within our own campus community:

• Visit our hazing prevention website to learn more about hazing, hazing prevention, and our institution’s hazing policies. Our policies prohibit hazing, defined as "any activity expected of someone joining or participating in a group that humiliates, degrades, abuses, or endangers them, regardless of a person’s willingness to participate." The website provides examples of hazing, resources to prevent it, and will soon include transparency reports regarding campus incidences of hazing. We are eager to work with organizations that may be hazing to reexamine their practices and provide education to restore them to good standing in our campus community. 

• Report incidents of hazing. If you know or suspect that hazing has occurred, you can report using this reporting form. Anonymous reports are accepted. Faculty, staff, and students who have concerns that a student may be experiencing hazing can also contact Dr. Emma Parker, Manager for Strategic Initiatives in the Dean of Students Office either via email or at (805) 893 - 5405.
• Seek help. Students who have been hazed are encouraged to seek support from campus counseling resources to address the physical, emotional, or psychological impact(s) of hazing. 
• Be a leader. Cultivating positive environments at UCSB is a shared responsibility. Student Engagement & Leadership (SEAL) offers workshops, training, and resources about group dynamics and leadership. You can also find specific suggestions at Leadership Development.

Finally, consider joining our campus' Hazing Prevention Coalition, which meets monthly to discuss prevention efforts and incidents of hazing in our community. We are eager to welcome new students, faculty, and staff to our group. No prior experience is required, only a desire to learn about hazing and how we can prevent it! Contact Dr. Emma Parker if interested.

Thank you for all you do to keep UCSB a safe and welcoming place to live, learn, and work.

Sincerely,

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Michael Miller

Interim Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs