Hazing Prevention and Response
Mercy Commitment
B次元 is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and supportive environment for every member of our community. Hazing of any kind鈥攚hether by an individual, team, club, or student organization鈥攈as no place at Mercy. The University supports only those activities that are constructive, educational, and inspirational, contributing to students鈥 intellectual growth, personal development, and well-being.
Being part of a team, club, or student organization can be one of the most meaningful aspects of student life. Hazing undermines that experience, putting students at risk and eroding the values of trust, respect, and belonging.
In alignment with University policy and New York State law, B次元 strictly prohibits hazing in all its forms. We are dedicated to prevention, education, and accountability to ensure our community thrives.
Annual Hazing Statistics
In compliance with the Stop Campus Hazing Act of 2024, B次元 publicly shares hazing-related statistics and reports on a regular basis.
Campus Hazing Transparency Report
- Calendar Year 2025
No incidents reported - Calendar Year 2024
No incidents reported
View the Annual Security Report (ASR)
Read the full Mercy Hazing and Reckless Endangerment Policy.
Understanding What Hazing Is
The University defines hazing and inappropriate initiation or bonding activities as any action鈥攚hether physical, mental, emotional, or psychological鈥攖hat subjects another person, voluntarily or involuntarily, to treatment that abuses, mistreats, degrades, humiliates, harasses, or intimidates them. Any action that compromises the inherent dignity of an individual, for the purpose of joining or being inducted into a team, group, club, or organization, is considered hazing.
Hazing can take many forms, ranging from subtle pressure to overt physical harm. At its core, hazing is any intentional act, on or off campus, that endangers the physical, mental, or emotional well-being of a student as a condition of joining or maintaining membership in a group鈥攔egardless of the student鈥檚 willingness to participate.
In addition, requiring members or prospective members to engage in activities that violate University policy or state/federal law will also be defined as hazing.
Although hazing is often disguised as 鈥渢radition鈥 or 鈥渂onding,鈥 it can cause lasting harm. Hazing is never necessary to build meaningful connections or foster team spirit.
Accountability and Consequences
Mercy has a zero-tolerance policy for hazing. Any individual or organization found responsible for hazing may face:
- Disciplinary action, including suspension or expulsion
- Termination of employment (for employees)
- Potential criminal or civil prosecution under state or federal law
Prevention and Education
B次元 provides education and prevention programming for all students, including:
- Hazing Prevention Training Module
- Bystander Intervention Training
These programs equip students with the knowledge and tools to recognize, prevent and respond to hazing.
Reporting
Mercy students are encouraged to report any incidents of hazing, whether they occur on or off campus. Reports can be made to:
- Office of the Dean of Student Affairs
- Office of Campus Safety
- Whistleblower Hotline: 1-888-OK-MERCY (anonymous reports accepted)
Reports may be submitted confidentially. At the request of the reporting party, the Office of Community Standards and Student Conduct will keep their identity private, while still ensuring follow-up contact. This option is intended to encourage community members to come forward without fear of reprisal.
Please note that truly anonymous reports cannot be accepted, as the Office must be able to confirm and verify the information provided. However, all reports that are filed will be investigated promptly, thoroughly, and with full respect for confidentiality.