Risk Reduction and Fraternal Organizations: Tort Liability, Legislation, and Suggestions for Practice

Abstract

Tort liability claims against colleges and universities in response to student-related injuries and deaths compel administrators to develop a complete understanding of the university-student relationship so that they may actively engage in risk reduction strategies. With several states enacting anti-hazing, alcohol, and risk management education legislation, universities have been driven to develop and implement strategies that address risk management concerns associated with fraternities, sororities, and other student organizations to support core institutional mission and values. In this manuscript the author reviews the emergence of tort liability on college and university campuses, critiques recent risk management legislation, provides examples and suggestions for crafting risk management policies and developing educational programming for fraternities, sororities, and other student organizations, and outlines recommendations for practice.