Stop Campus Hazing Act
Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College (MGCCC) is committed to creating a sense of belonging and fostering a supportive and inclusive community where every individual feels valued and connected. Hazing undermines the values of MGCCC and poses significant risks to the physical and psychological health of students. In an effort to thwart hazing, the College prohibits hazing activities by all students, student organizations, and affiliated groups within the institution. Hazing activities are prohibited both on and off-campus and include actions by alumni and other associated individuals by any college organization in an effort to establish a safe and respectful environment for all students.
Definition of Hazing
An act in which a person or organization who, in the course of another person’s initiation into or affiliation with any organization, intentionally or recklessly engages in conduct which creates a substantial risk of physical injury or psychological abuse to such other person or to a third person. Hazing activities may include, but are not limited to:
- Physical abuse (e.g., whipping, beating, striking)
- Forced consumption of food, alcohol, drugs, or other substances
- Sleep deprivation or exposure to extreme conditions
- Psychological abuse, including threats or intimidation
- Any activity that violates local, state, or federal laws
Prevention And Education
The College implements comprehensive hazing prevention programs, including educational workshops, awareness campaigns, and training sessions for students and staff. These programs aim to foster a culture of respect and accountability. Programming efforts are coordinated by the Residence Life, Student Activities, and Compliance Department. Individuals interested in becoming involved in hazing awareness programs and educational programs may contact a representative on campus.
Reporting and Enforcement
Students and staff are encouraged to report hazing incidents to Campus Police or other college officials as soon as possible after the event, to ensure that the behavior is remedied and, to eliminate future occurrences. The College will investigate all complaints promptly and take appropriate disciplinary action against those found responsible.
Hazing violations can lead to severe consequences for both individuals and groups. These may include disciplinary actions up to expulsion for individuals and permanent loss of recognition for groups. Anyone who plans or intentionally helps with hazing is considered to be participating in hazing, even if they are not present during the activity.
MGCCC makes every effort to protect any individual who notifies the College of any prohibited conduct. Confidentiality will be maintained, except where a disclosure is required by applicable law or necessary for the conduct of any investigation, hearing, or proceeding related to this policy (Statement No. 717).
Campus Hazing Transparency Report
The Campus Hazing Transparency Report (CHTR) is a key component of the “Stop Campus Hazing Act”, which aims to enhance campus safety by increasing transparency around hazing incidents. The report requires colleges to publish the names of student organizations found responsible for hazing violations, along with summaries of the incidents. These summaries include details such as the nature of the violation, dates of the incident and investigation, and the sanctions imposed.
The CHTR is updated at least twice a year and is part of a broader effort to include hazing statistics in the annual security report.
As of June 27, 2025, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College reports zero hazing violations.