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At Gateway Technical College, we are committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where every student can thrive. Hazing has no place in our community—it undermines our values of respect, collaboration and innovation. This page provides resources, policies and tools to help prevent hazing and foster a positive campus culture.

Join us in making Gateway Technical College a place where everyone belongs. Explore this page to learn more, report concerns or get involved in our prevention efforts.

Please watch this 10-minute video, Stand Up, Speak Out: Ending Hazing Together, to learn about hazing and how to prevent it here at Gateway.  

Understanding Hazing

Hazing is any activity expected of someone joining or participating in a group that causes physical, emotional or psychological harm, regardless of the person’s willingness to participate. It’s not just "harmless fun"—it can have serious consequences.

Examples of Hazing at College

  • Forcing new club members to consume excessive food or alcohol.
  • Requiring embarrassing or dangerous tasks, like public humiliation or physical endurance challenges.
  • Pressuring students to skip classes or neglect studies to prove loyalty.

Impact of Hazing

  • Physical injuries or health risks.
  • Emotional distress, anxiety or loss of confidence.
  • Academic struggles due to time demands or stress.

Myth vs. Fact

  • Myth: Hazing builds stronger bonds in teams or clubs.
    Fact: Hazing creates fear and division; inclusive activities build true unity.
  • Myth: If someone agrees to participate, it’s not hazing.
    Fact: Consent doesn’t make harmful actions acceptable or legal.
  • Myth: Hazing is just harmless fun and a tradition that builds camaraderie.
    Fact: Hazing often involves dangerous or humiliating activities that can lead to physical harm, psychological trauma or even death. It’s not a bonding exercise but a form of abuse that undermines trust and safety.
  • Myth: Hazing only happens in college fraternities and sororities.
    Fact: Hazing occurs across various groups, including high school clubs, sports teams, military units and workplaces, affecting people of all ages and backgrounds.

Our Commitment to Prevention

Gateway Technical College stands strongly against hazing of any kind. Our Anti-Hazing Policy (H-108 Hazing) outlines expectations for all students, staff and organizations. Violations may result in disciplinary actions, including suspension, expulsion, termination or loss of club privileges.

Reporting Hazing

  • Online Reporting: File a Maxient report.
  • In-Person Reporting: Contact the Campus Security Office for your respective campus.
    Elkhorn/HERO Center: 262-741-8208
    Kenosha/Horizon Center: 262-564-2208
    Racine: 262-619-6208
    iMET Center: 262-564-2007
  • Confidentiality: We prioritize your privacy and safety when handling reports.
  • Legal Implications: Hazing is illegal in Wisconsin. Violators may face criminal charges under Wisconsin Statute 948.51.

Building a Respectful Community

We believe prevention starts with education and action. Here’s how we’re working to stop hazing:

  • Training Programs: All staff and faculty receive mandatory annual training on hazing prevention. All incoming students receive a block of training in the Gateway to Success program. All current students have access to a training video and other resources on the campus hazing website. Also, keep an eye out for other events occurring in September for Hazing awareness month.  
  • Alternatives to Hazing: Try these team-building ideas instead:
    • Collaborative projects like escape rooms or scavenger hunts.
    • Community service projects that create a shared purpose for the group.
    • Social activities such as bowling or pot luck meals.
  • Faculty & Staff Role: Our instructors and advisors are trained to recognize hazing signs and promote positive group dynamics.

Get Help, Get Involved

Whether you’ve experienced hazing or want to prevent it, we’re here to help.

On-Campus Resources

External Resources

  • Stophazing.org: National resources and toolkits.
  • National Hazing Prevention Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293).