9 Investigates statewide hazing prevention program at universities

ORLANDO, Fla. — A recently completed audit suggests the Board of Governors, which oversees the State University System, could be doing more to protect students from hazing incidents at colleges.

Investigative reporter Karla Ray went through the recommendations and found out why the board has rejected some of the ideas.

A statewide effort has been made to address hazing following the 2011 death of Florida A & M University drum major Robert Champion.

Since the spring 2015 semester, 18,000 students at the University of Central Florida have taken an online hazing module, which is required for all incoming freshmen.

“I think university officials are good at addressing it, in terms of the problem,” UCF sophomore Zachary Good said.

“Understanding what the law is, what our policies are, at the onset, can prevent a lot of behaviors from happening,” said Dr. Germayne Graham, who oversees UCF’s hazing prevention programs.

A just-completed state audit suggests student safety could be improved by developing anti-hazing policies and penalties for the entire State University System.
The BOG has rejected that idea, arguing each incident should be reviewed on a case by case basis.

“Activities related to drinking, name calling, belittling -- all those typical behaviors are similar -- but again, if you look at each campus, every circumstance might be very different,” Graham said.

At UCF, most hazing incidents have involved Greek life.
Since 2012, 25 hazing investigations have been done at UCF, resulting in seven fraternities and sororities being sanctioned.

In 2013, the University suspended all Greek life on campus following a hazing incident involving Sigma Chi pledges.

Currently, no student groups are under investigation for hazing at UCF.

“Students are aware there are issues of hazing on campus, and looking at the signs and how to handle the situation,” Good said.

The audit also calls for statewide reporting of hazing incidents.

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