The system enables students to report incidents of hazing in all campus organizations
By David Robertson
Within its first semester of existence, McDaniel College’s Hazing Hotline was used about eight times. It has had no recent activity, according to Amanda Rose, assistant director of College Activities.
“This is very positive,” said Rose.
The Hazing Hotline was established by the Division of Student Affairs during Fall Semester 2006. After doing research of other colleges in our division, Rose said she thought it would be beneficial for McDaniel to have such a resource.
Maryland’s Annotated Code of 1957, Article 29, concerning Crimes and Punishments, defines hazing as “any act or causing any situation which recklessly or intentionally subjects a student to the risk of serious bodily injury for the purpose of initiation into a student organization of a school, college, or university.”
Located in Rose’s office, the Hotline answering service is an anonymous way for students or administrators to report incidents of hazing from athletics, Greek organizations or other student groups.
Rose reviews all of the voicemails and, if necessary, forwards them to Dean Beth Gerl.
“The Hotline has led to investigations of various groups on campus,” said Rose. The information left on the answering service is further explored before any actions are taken.
Once the information is received, “We have communication and conversations with the group involved,” said Rose.
After contacting a number of students, most are unaware of the hotline’s existence.
However, a short description of it warranted positive feedback for its availability to the McDaniel College community.
“The Hotline is a point of access for the campus community and gives administrators oversight for Greek organizations,” said junior Mary Beth Bounds. “It simply provides another channel of information.”
“Because it’s anonymous, students feel comfortable approaching the subject,” added Bounds.
Rose stated that the Hotline is not just focused on Greek organizations.
“Anywhere hazing occurs should be reported,” said Rose. “I want to stress that hazing is not just a fraternity or sorority issue.”
Students who know of any incidents that should be reported or warrant further investigation, should contact the hotline at (410) 871-3114, or by campus phone at extension 3114.