Title 20-A, Section 1004 of the Maine State Code defines hazing as “… any action or situation which recklessly endangers the mental or physical health of a student enrolled at an institution in this State.” The law further instructs the trustees of institutions in Maine to adopt rules, which expressly prohibit hazing by any individual or organization affiliated with the institution either on or off campus. At Colby, hazing is further defined as any action taken or situation created, whether on or off campus, to produce mental or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, or ridicule.

The College takes a very strong stance against hazing in any form. Penalties for those who engage in hazing may include, but not be limited to, suspension or expulsion for individuals and the disbanding of violating organizations.

At Colby, hazing activities and situations include, but are not limited to: paddling in any form, creating of excessive fatigue, physical or psychological shocks, quests, road trips, engaging in public stunts or buffoonery, morally degrading or humiliating games or activities, late work sessions that interfere with scholastic activities, and any such activities that are not consistent with regulations and policies of the College or of civil law. No student may waive protection against hazing.

Each student organization affiliated with the College must adopt and include such rules as part of its bylaws or other governing documents. The director of campus life will ensure that all student organizations comply with this directive. The director of athletics will ensure that all teams also comply.

Any organization that violates these rules shall lose all rights to conduct any activities or to receive any other benefit of affiliation with the College. Any student or any member of an organization found guilty of hazing will be subject to suspension or expulsion as well as possible civil or criminal prosecution.