Mount Saint Vincent Investigating Alleged Hazing Incident by Men’s Soccer Team Members; Preliminary Sanction Imposed
8/4/2015
Riverdale, N.Y. – The University of Mount Saint Vincent is investigating allegations that members of the Men’s Soccer team pressured team members to consume alcohol on Thursday evening, September 3, in violation of the College’s anti-hazing policy. While none of the students suffered serious injury or required outside medical attention, the College has a zero tolerance policy for hazing. College administrators explained, “respect for persons” is our most basic value. The College’s anti-hazing policy is enforced without exception.
The Mount Saint Vincent Men’s Soccer team was subjected to an initial penalty the afternoon of September 4, based on preliminary information regarding the activities on Thursday evening. The College cancelled the team’s upcoming game on September 6, recording a “no contest” against Bard College. Administrators continue to work to determine the specific details of the incident and identify the individual participants.
Additional sanctions on individual students and the team will be imposed as the facts and circumstances warrant. If the team is found to have violated the College’s Code of Conduct, additional games may be forfeited, and individual team members could face probation or suspension.
According to the College’s Student Handbook, “Hazing in any form is prohibited. Hazing is defined as any action or situation which recklessly or intentionally endangers mental or physical health or involves the forced consumption of liquor or drugs for the purpose of initiation into or affiliation with any group or organization regardless of the individual’s willingness to participate.”
To contact the Office of Public Relations, please call (718) 405-3341. To contact the Office of Athletics, please call (718) 405-3413.
About the University of Mount Saint Vincent
Founded in 1847 by the Sisters of Charity, the University of Mount Saint Vincent offers nationally recognized liberal arts education and a select array of professional fields of study on a landmark campus overlooking the Hudson River. Committed to the education of the whole person, and enriched by the unparalleled cultural, educational and career opportunities of New York City, the College equips students with the knowledge, skills and experiences necessary for lives of achievement, professional accomplishment and leadership in the 21st century.