Dear USD Community,

Today I am writing to announce a national consortium of universities we have joined to help us address the rising problem of hazing on college campuses.

The University has partnered with Stop Hazing and is now a member of their Hazing Prevention Consortium, joining a cohort of schools including Harvard, Princeton, Arizona State, and Southern Methodist University. Stop Hazing is a nationally recognized organization that works with colleges and universities to ensure the most robust and effective anti-hazing policies, practices and prevention methods. Together with the other members of this cohort, USD will engage in a progression of activities over the next three years to build campus-wide resources aimed at safeguarding the best possible living and learning environment for our students.

As a Catholic university, we let our values guide us in establishing the rules and expectations of members of our community. We condemn hazing, bullying and other inappropriate behaviors. Those found responsible for violating policy will face disciplinary action. We also have a responsibility as an educational institution to help those involved learn and grow from these experiences.

With regard to the recent allegations concerning members of the USD football program, about which I first wrote to you in early September, the law firm Snell & Wilmer is well underway on an independent investigation that may result in further disciplinary action per our student code of conduct. In addition, anyone found responsible for hazing may also face consequences stemming from the ongoing San Diego Police Department inquiry.

In our vision statement we declare we will confront humanity’s challenges by fostering peace, working for justice and leading with love. USD is not immune from the struggles facing American higher education – but the strength of our community is demonstrated in the way we respond to them. Let us use this as a teachable moment as we lean into our vision for the future.

Peace,

James T. Harris III, DEd
President