Hazing in the Lone Star State: A Comprehensive Guide for Cass County Families

The crisp Texas air hung heavy with nervous anticipation outside the off-campus house. Inside, a student from Cass County, perhaps home for Thanksgiving, stood with other pledges, eyes on the senior members of a fraternity known for its spirited, if sometimes intense, traditions. Chants echoed through the room, punctuated by the clinking of bottles. Then came the “challenge” – a handle of liquor, passed down the line, each pledge expected to take a monstrous gulp. The student, caught between a desperate desire to belong and a rising sense of unease, hesitated. Around them, phones flashed, recording. What happened next, whether a forced chug or a dangerous dare, could change their life forever, leaving them injured, humiliated, or worse, with potentially fatal consequences ignored by those around them, too afraid to call 911 for fear of “getting the chapter shut down” or “getting in trouble.” This isn’t just a hypothetical scenario; it’s a stark reality that unfolds far too often at Texas universities, impacting families in Cass County and across our great state.

This isn’t a sensational story designed to shock, but a comprehensive guide to understanding the profound and often hidden dangers of hazing. For families in Cass County and across Texas, this guide offers an in-depth look into a problem that continues to plague our college campuses, affecting even students from our close-knit communities who aspire to the traditions of higher education. We will help you understand:

• What hazing truly looks like in 2025, moving beyond outdated stereotypes.
• The critical legal framework, encompassing both Texas state and federal laws, designed to combat hazing.
• How harrowing national cases have shaped the fight against hazing and what these lessons mean for Texas families.
• The specific challenges and histories of hazing at prominent Texas institutions like the University of Houston (UH), Texas A&M University, the University of Texas at Austin (UT), Southern Methodist University (SMU), and Baylor University.
• What legal avenues are available to victims and their families in Cass County and throughout Texas to seek justice and accountability.

While this article provides vital general information, it is not a substitute for specific legal advice tailored to your unique situation. When hazing strikes close to home, involving a child from Cass County attending any Texas university, The Manginello Law Firm stands ready to provide experienced legal guidance. We serve families throughout Texas, including Cass County, ensuring that those affected by hazing do not have to face this challenge alone.

IMMEDIATE HELP FOR HAZING EMERGENCIES:

• If your child is in danger RIGHT NOW:

  • Call 911 for medical emergencies
  • Then call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
  • We provide immediate help – that’s why we’re the Legal Emergency Lawyers™.

• In the first 48 hours:

  • Get medical attention immediately, even if the student insists they are “fine.”
  • Preserve evidence BEFORE it’s deleted:
    • Screenshot group chats, texts, DMs immediately.
    • Photograph injuries from multiple angles.
    • Save physical items (clothing, receipts, objects).
  • Write down everything while memory is fresh (who, what, when, where).
  • Do NOT:
    • Confront the fraternity/sorority.
    • Sign anything from the university or insurance company.
    • Post details on public social media.
    • Let your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence.

• Contact an experienced hazing attorney within 24–48 hours:

  • Evidence disappears fast (deleted group chats, destroyed paddles, coached witnesses).
  • Universities move quickly to control the narrative.
  • We can help preserve evidence and protect your child’s rights.
  • Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate consultation.

Hazing in 2025: What It Really Looks Like

For Cass County families, understanding hazing today requires discarding old notions of “harmless pranks” or movie stereotypes. Modern hazing is far more insidious, ranging from subtle psychological manipulation to extreme physical and sexual abuse, often with tragic consequences. It’s a complex system of power, coercion, and dangerous rituals that prioritizes group loyalty above individual safety and well-being.

Hazing, in plain English, involves any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, by one person alone or with others, directed against a student, that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student, and occurs for the purpose of pledging, initiation into, affiliation with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members include students. A student saying “I agreed to it” does not automatically make the activity safe or legal, especially when peer pressure and power imbalances are at play.

Main Categories of Hazing: Beyond the Obvious

Hazing is not a monolithic activity; it manifests in various forms, often escalating in severity. These categories help clarify the spectrum of harmful behavior:

• Alcohol and Substance Hazing: This is a leading cause of hazing-related deaths. It involves forced or coerced drinking, such as chugging challenges, “lineups” where pledges consume multiple shots, or games designed for rapid, excessive alcohol consumption. It can also include pressure to consume unknown or mixed substances, or to drink to the point of blacking out. The core element is the removal of individual choice regarding substance intake.

• Physical Hazing: This category covers any act that causes physical pain, injury, or extreme exhaustion. Examples include paddling and beatings; extreme calisthenics, forced “workouts,” or “smokings” that push individuals beyond safe physical limits; severe sleep deprivation or food/water deprivation; and exposure to extreme cold, heat, or dangerous environments. The intent is often to “break down” pledges or “test their loyalty.”

• Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: These are among the most degrading forms of hazing. They involve forced nudity or partial nudity, simulated sexual acts, “roasted pig” positions, or other acts designed to sexually degrade or embarrass. This can also include forcing individuals to wear degrading costumes, participate in acts with racial or sexist overtones, perform demeaning acts for entertainment, or endure verbal abuse with slurs.

• Psychological Hazing: Often overlooked but deeply damaging, psychological hazing involves sustained manipulation, emotional abuse, and intimidation. This includes verbal abuse, threats, forced isolation from friends or family, and the creation of a hostile environment. Public shaming, whether online or in person, forced confessions, and tactics designed to break down self-esteem are also common.

• Digital/Online Hazing: A newer but rapidly evolving frontier, digital hazing leverages technology to perpetuate abuse. This includes demanding participation in group chat dares or challenges, public humiliation via social media platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, or TikTok, and pressure to create or share compromising images or videos. Constant monitoring and immediate response requirements through digital channels can also lead to severe sleep deprivation and anxiety.

Where Hazing Actually Happens: A Broader Problem

It’s a common misconception that hazing is exclusively a “frat boy” problem. For families in Cass County, it’s crucial to understand that hazing occurs across a wide array of campus organizations, permeating various aspects of college life. The common thread is often a culture of social status, tradition, and secrecy that allows these practices to persist, even when participants know they are illegal and harmful.

• Fraternities and Sororities: This includes Greek letter organizations spanning Interfraternity Council (IFC) fraternities, Panhellenic Council sororities, National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) historically Black Greek letter organizations, and various multicultural Greek groups.
• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups: These organizations, with their emphasis on strict hierarchy and discipline, can sometimes foster environments where hazing is disguised as “training” or “tradition.”
• Spirit Squads, Tradition Clubs, and Student Organizations: Groups like “spirit organizations,” tradition-laden clubs (such as those attempting to emulate the Texas Cowboys-type groups), and even some service or cultural organizations.
• Athletic Teams: From high school to college, hazing has been documented in various sports, including football, basketball, baseball, cheerleading, and even club sports. It often involves team-building rituals gone awry or forced acts to “earn” a place on the team.
• Marching Bands and Performance Groups: Even seemingly innocuous groups like marching bands, a cappella ensembles, or theater groups can engage in hazing practices.
• Academic and Professional Organizations: While less common for physical hazing, some academic or professional societies have seen instances of psychological hazing or subtle coercion.

The insidious culture of hazing thrives on young individuals’ desire for acceptance, belonging, and tradition. It exploits the vulnerability of new members, manipulating them into believing that enduring humiliating or painful acts is a necessary rite of passage. This underlying dynamic, coupled with the pressure to maintain secrecy and group loyalty, is what allows hazing to continue, causing profound and lasting damage to students across the diverse landscape of Texas college campuses.

Law & Liability Framework (Texas + Federal)

Understanding the legal landscape surrounding hazing in Texas is vital for families in Cass County. Both state and federal laws provide mechanisms for investigation, prosecution, and civil action, offering avenues for accountability that extend far beyond campus disciplinary proceedings. These laws aim to deter hazing by imposing criminal penalties on individuals and organizations, while also creating pathways for victims to seek compensation and justice.

Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

Under Texas law—which governs cases in Cass County and across the state—hazing is explicitly prohibited and defined in the Texas Education Code, Chapter 37, Subchapter F. This legislative framework is crucial for protecting students and holding perpetrators accountable.

The law defines hazing as: any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, by one person alone or with others, directed against a student, that:

• Endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student, AND
• Occurs for the purpose of pledging, initiation into, affiliation with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members include students.

This definition is broad and powerful:

• Location doesn’t matter: Hazing can happen on or off campus. An incident at a secluded off-campus house where a Cass County student is pressured into dangerous acts is just as illegal as one occurring in a university dorm.
• Mental or physical harm: The law recognizes both the physical dangers (like beatings or forced drinking) and the severe psychological toll (humiliation, extreme stress, or intimidation) that hazing can inflict.
• Intent and Recklessness: While intent to cause harm makes it hazing, mere recklessness is often sufficient. If participants knew the risk and proceeded anyway, they can be held liable.
• “Consent is NOT a defense”: Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that it is not a defense to prosecution for hazing that the person being hazed consented to the hazing activity. This is critical because it acknowledges the inherent power imbalance in hazing scenarios, where fear of exclusion or retaliation often makes true consent impossible.

Consequences Under Texas Law:

• Criminal Penalties:

  • Class B Misdemeanor: The default charge for hazing, carrying penalties of up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000.
  • Class A Misdemeanor: If the hazing causes bodily injury requiring medical attention.
  • State Jail Felony: If the hazing causes serious bodily injury (e.g., bone fractures, organ damage, severe burns) or death.
  • Failure to Report: Any officer or member of an organization who knows about hazing and fails to report it can also face misdemeanor charges.
  • Retaliation: Retaliating against someone who reports hazing is also a misdemeanor.

• Organizational Penalties:

  • Organizations (fraternities, sororities, sports teams, clubs) can be fined up to $10,000 if they authorized or encouraged hazing, or if an officer knew about it and failed to report.
  • Universities can also impose severe institutional penalties, such as withdrawing recognition, suspending operations, or permanently banning the organization from campus.

• Reporter Protections: Texas Education Code § 37.154 provides immunity from civil or criminal liability for individuals who report a hazing incident in good faith. This is designed to encourage witnesses and victims to come forward without fear of legal repercussions. Many university policies also offer amnesty for students seeking medical help for alcohol or drug-related emergencies.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Two Paths to Justice

It’s common for families to be confused about the different types of legal action related to hazing. In Texas, a hazing incident can lead to both criminal and civil cases, each with distinct goals and outcomes.

• Criminal Cases: These are initiated and prosecuted by the state (district attorney or prosecutor’s office) on behalf of the public. The primary goal is to punish individuals who have violated state laws. Penalties can include fines, probation, community service, or jail/prison time. Common hazing-related criminal charges include hazing offenses (as outlined above), furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, battery, and, in tragic cases, manslaughter or negligent homicide. A criminal conviction serves to uphold societal laws and deter future criminal acts.

• Civil Cases: These are initiated by the victims (or their surviving family members in cases of wrongful death) through a personal lawsuit. The primary goal of a civil case is to provide monetary compensation (damages) to the injured party and hold the responsible individuals and institutions accountable. Civil claims often involve allegations of:

  • Negligence or Gross Negligence: Failure to exercise reasonable care, or a conscious indifference to the safety of others.
  • Wrongful Death: When a person’s death is caused by the negligence or fault of another.
  • Negligent Supervision: When an organization or institution fails to adequately supervise its members or activities.
  • Intentional Tort: Assault, battery, intentional infliction of emotional distress.
  • Premises Liability: When property owners (e.g., fraternity house owners) are negligent in maintaining a safe environment.
  • Emotional Distress: Compensation for psychological trauma caused by the hazing.

Crucially, criminal and civil cases can proceed independently. A criminal conviction is not a prerequisite for filing a civil lawsuit, nor does a lack of criminal charges prevent civil action. In fact, many civil hazing cases are resolved through settlements, regardless of criminal outcomes.

Federal Overlay: Expanding Accountability

Beyond Texas state law, federal regulations impose additional responsibilities on colleges and universities, expanding the scope of accountability for hazing-related incidents.

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This landmark federal legislation, effective across the United States, greatly increases transparency and reporting requirements for institutions receiving federal funding. Among its key provisions, it mandates that colleges:

  • Publicly disclose all findings of hazing violations and disciplinary actions taken against organizations.
  • Provide accurate and comprehensive statistics on hazing incidents.
  • Offer clear reporting mechanisms for hazing.
  • Conduct and publish annual hazing prevention education and awareness programs for students and staff.
    This Act ensures that information about hazing is more accessible to incoming students and their parents, including families in Cass County, allowing for more informed decisions about campus life.

• Title IX: This federal law prohibits sex-based discrimination in any education program or activity receiving federal financial assistance. When hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, gender-based humiliation, or the creation of a hostile environment based on sex, Title IX obligations are triggered. Universities failing to adequately respond to such incidents can face federal investigation, loss of funding, and civil lawsuits.

• Clery Act (Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act): This law requires colleges and universities to disclose campus crime statistics and security information. Hazing incidents that involve crimes (like assault, sexual assault, or alcohol/drug violations) must often be included in these reports. While the Clery Act doesn’t specifically target hazing, it plays a role in overall campus safety and incident reporting.

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit?

In a civil hazing lawsuit, determining who is legally responsible is a complex but critical aspect of seeking justice. For families in Cass County, understanding the potential defendants helps illustrate the breadth of accountability possible.

• Individual Students: The students who directly participated in the hazing, planned it, supplied illegal substances, carried out harmful acts, or actively engaged in a cover-up can be held personally liable for their actions. This can include “pledge masters,” chapter presidents, or any member directly involved.
• Local Chapter/Organization: The specific fraternity, sorority, sports team, or club itself, if it is a legally recognized entity, can be sued. The chapter may be held responsible if it condoned the hazing, failed to prevent it, or if its officers were complicit.
• National Fraternity/Sorority (or Parent Organization): Many local chapters are part of larger national organizations. These national bodies can be held liable if they:
  • Knew or should have known about a pattern of hazing in that chapter or others.
  • Failed to adequately train local officers or advisors.
  • Failed to enforce their own anti-hazing policies (which nearly all national organizations have).
  • Retained their relationship with the local chapter despite repeated violations.
  • The deeper pockets of national organizations often make them key targets in litigation.
• University or Governing Board: The educational institution itself (e.g., the University of Houston, Texas A&M) or its governing board (e.g., the UH System Board of Regents) can be sued. Their liability often hinges on whether they:
  • Had a duty to protect students from foreseeable harm.
  • Knew or should have known about hazing within an organization they recognized.
  • Failed to enforce their own anti-hazing policies or consistently address past violations.
  • Were deliberately indifferent to widespread hazing.
  • For public universities in Texas, sovereign immunity can pose a challenge, though exceptions exist for gross negligence, willful misconduct, or certain federal claims (like Title IX).
• Third Parties: Depending on the specifics of the incident, other entities might also face liability:
  • Property Owners/Landlords: If hazing occurred at an off-campus house, the landlord might be liable if they knew about the dangerous activities and failed to act.
  • Venue Owners/Alcohol Providers: If an event was held at a commercial venue (e.g., a bar) that negligently served alcohol to minors or to an obviously intoxicated person who then caused harm (dram shop liability in Texas).
  • Security Companies or Event Organizers: If their negligence contributed to the incident.

Every hazing case is fact-specific, and the precise combination of liable parties will depend on the unique circumstances of each incident, the extent of the injuries, and the evidence available. An experienced attorney can meticulously investigate these layers of responsibility to ensure all accountable parties are identified.

National Hazing Case Patterns (Anchor Stories)

While the specifics of hazing incidents vary, national patterns emerge, driven by common organizational cultures and the tragic escalation of seemingly innocent “traditions.” These anchor stories, which have garnered national attention and often led to significant legal and legislative changes, provide critical lessons for families in Cass County about the grave consequences of hazing. They underscore the importance of holding individuals and institutions accountable, and demonstrate that such incidents are not isolated “accidents” but often stem from systemic failures and predictable risks.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death: A Repeating Tragedy

Forced alcohol consumption remains the most lethal form of hazing, leading to numerous deaths across the nation.

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State University, Beta Theta Pi (2017): In a case that shocked the nation, 19-year-old Timothy Piazza died after a “bid acceptance” event where he was forced to consume dangerous amounts of alcohol. Fraternity surveillance cameras captured Piazza falling repeatedly down a flight of stairs and suffering severe injuries, yet members delayed calling 911 for nearly 12 hours, fearing repercussions for their chapter. The subsequent criminal prosecution saw dozens of charges, including involuntary manslaughter, brought against fraternity members. Civil litigation, though details are confidential, resulted in significant settlements. This tragedy directly led to the enactment of the Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law in Pennsylvania, one of the strictest in the country. The takeaway for Texas families is clear: delayed medical care and a culture of silence amplify the legal and human devastation of alcohol hazing.

• Andrew Coffey – Florida State University, Pi Kappa Phi (2017): During a “Big Brother Night,” Andrew Coffey, 20, was pressured to consume an entire handle of hard liquor, a known hazing ritual. He died of acute alcohol poisoning. The incident led to multiple criminal charges, and Florida State University temporarily suspended all Greek life, prompting a statewide anti-hazing movement. This case highlights another tragic script: “tradition” drinking nights are often a deadly formula, repeated despite the known risks.

• Maxwell “Max” Gruver – Louisiana State University, Phi Delta Theta (2017): Max Gruver, 18, died after a “Bible study” drinking game where pledges were forced to drink heavily whenever they answered questions incorrectly. His blood alcohol content was a staggering 0.495%. The incident resulted in criminal charges and convictions, and led to Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act, a felony hazing statute. This case demonstrates how legislative change often follows public outrage and irrefutable proof of hazing’s lethal consequences.

• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): Stone Foltz, 20, died from alcohol poisoning after a mandatory fraternity event where he was forced to finish an entire bottle of alcohol. The case resulted in criminal convictions for several fraternity members and a $10 million settlement for his family from both the national fraternity and Bowling Green State University. This proves that universities, even public ones, can face substantial financial and reputational consequences alongside fraternities when hazing occurs.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing: Beyond Alcohol

While alcohol is a pervasive factor, hazing also inflicts severe physical and psychological harm through other means.

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013): Michael Deng, 19, died during a fraternity retreat in the Pocono Mountains after participating in a violent “glass ceiling” ritual. Blindfolded and weighed down, he was repeatedly tackled. Fraternity members delayed calling 911 for an extended period. This tragic case resulted in multiple criminal convictions, and the national fraternity itself was criminally convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter. Pi Delta Psi was subsequently banned from operating in Pennsylvania for 10 years and fined over $110,000. This case underscores that off-campus “retreats” can be as dangerous or more so than campus events, and national organizations can be held directly accountable for their chapters’ actions.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse: A Broader Issue

Hazing is not confined to Greek life; it is a pervasive issue in various campus organizations, including competitive sports.

• Northwestern University Football Hazing Scandal (2023–2025): Multiple former Northwestern football players alleged widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the program over many years. The ensuing scandal led to the firing of long-time head coach Pat Fitzgerald, who later settled a wrongful-termination lawsuit confidentially. Multiple lawsuits were filed by players against the university and coaching staff. This controversy highlighted that hazing extends beyond Greek life into major athletic programs, raising serious questions about institutional oversight and the duty of care owed to student-athletes.

What These Cases Mean for Texas Families

These national stories carry profound implications for any family in Cass County with a child attending a Texas college or university. They reveal several common threads: forced consumption of alcohol, physical violence, egregious humiliation, deliberate delays in seeking medical attention, and extensive efforts to cover up incidents.

Crucially, in nearly all of these high-profile cases, multi-million-dollar settlements or verdicts were awarded only after a tragedy occurred, highlighting the reactive nature of accountability without proactive prevention. These cases establish clear precedents that can be brought to bear in Texas courts, demonstrating that:

• Foreseeability is key: National organizations and universities often have a history of similar incidents, making it difficult for them to claim they “couldn’t have foreseen” potential harm.
• Institutional responsibility: The tide is turning, and courts are increasingly holding not just individual students, but also local chapters, national organizations, and universities liable for hazing.
• Legal intervention drives change: While devastating, these legal battles force policy reforms and prevent future tragedies.

For parents in Cass County whose children attend, or may attend, Texas universities like UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, or Baylor, these national lessons are indispensable. They demonstrate that while hazing is a global campus issue, experienced legal counsel can leverage these precedents to seek justice in Texas.

Texas Focus: UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, Baylor

For families in Cass County, whether your child attends a local university, studies in a nearby city like Houston, or ventures across the state, the issue of hazing demands your attention. While Cass County itself may not host major four-year universities directly tied to extensive Greek life or large athletic programs, students from our community frequently matriculate to prominent Texas institutions. The experiences and legal landscape at these larger universities are therefore directly relevant to protecting our children. For instance, many Cass County families send their children to the University of Houston or Texas A&M University for its renowned Engineering or Agriculture programs, or to University of Texas at Austin for its strong academics. Others might choose Southern Methodist University for its private school appeal or Baylor University for its faith-based education.

Let’s delve into the specific environments of these key Texas universities, examining their hazing policies, past incidents, and the unique challenges they present.

5.1 University of Houston (UH)

The University of Houston is a diverse, urban university that serves as a beacon of education for students across Texas, including many from Cass County drawn to its comprehensive programs. Its expansive campus reflects the vibrant city life of Houston, integrating a significant commuter population with a growing residential community. Greek life here is active, encompassing a wide array of fraternities and sororities under various councils, complemented by numerous other student organizations, cultural groups, and athletic clubs. This dynamic environment, while enriching, also presents a complex ecosystem for student conduct and hazing prevention.

5.1.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot (with Cass County Connection)

Located in the heart of Houston, a bustling metropolitan area, the University of Houston is a hub of innovation and diversity. For families in Cass County, UH represents a popular choice, accessible and offering a broad spectrum of academic and extracurricular opportunities. This proximity means that incidents occurring at UH directly impact our wider community, as students from Cass County and across the region comprise a significant portion of its student body. The university’s active Greek life, comprising IFC, Panhellenic, NPHC, and multicultural organizations, fosters a strong sense of community and provides social avenues for thousands of students.

5.1.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

The University of Houston maintains a strict policy explicitly prohibiting hazing, regardless of whether it occurs on-campus or off-campus. This policy covers a wide range of activities, including the forced consumption of alcohol, food, or drugs, sleep deprivation, physical mistreatment, and acts that cause mental distress as a condition for initiation or membership.

UH provides several avenues for reporting hazing incidents:

• Dean of Students Office: Serves as the primary point of contact for student conduct and welfare.
• Office of Student Conduct: Investigates reported violations of university policies, including hazing.
• UH Police Department (UHPD): For criminal acts or immediate threats to safety.
• Online Reporting Forms: Available on the university’s website for anonymous or identified reports.

The university also provides a general statement regarding hazing and, in some cases, publicly lists disciplinary information related to hazing violations on its website, aligning with evolving federal transparency mandates.

5.1.3 Example Incident & Response: A Precedent for Accountability

The Leonel Bermudez v. University of Houston / Pi Kappa Phi Lawsuit (2025): Our Firm’s Anchor Case

The tragedy of Leonel Bermudez stands as a central case for Attorney911 and highlights the severe risks of hazing at the University of Houston. In late 2025, Attorney911, represented by Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, filed a $10 million lawsuit on behalf of Leonel Bermudez against the University of Houston, its Board of Regents, the national Pi Kappa Phi fraternity, its Beta Nu housing corporation, and 13 individual fraternity leaders and members.

Bermudez, a transfer student and pledge to the Pi Kappa Phi Beta Nu chapter, endured severe hazing that culminated in acute kidney failure and rhabdomyolysis (a dangerous muscle breakdown). The hazing, which occurred at the Pi Kappa Phi chapter house, a former member’s residence, and Yellowstone Boulevard Park in Houston, allegedly included:

• Forced carrying of a “pledge fanny pack” with degrading contents.
• Mandatory, hours-long “study/work” blocks.
• Frequent late-night driving duties.
• Extremely strenuous physical activities like sprints, bear crawls, and 500 squats.
• Physical beatings and exposure to cold weather in underwear.
• Being sprayed with a hose in a manner “similar to waterboarding.”
• Forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, followed by immediate sprints.
• On November 3, 2025, after an intense workout involving over 100 push-ups and 500 squats, Bermudez was unable to stand. He passed brown urine, a classic sign of rhabdomyolysis, and was hospitalized for four days with critically high creatine kinase levels.

As Attorney911’s Ralph Manginello stated, referring to Bermudez’s condition, “His urine was brown.” Lupe Peña added, “If this prevents harm to another person…Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.” (ABC13: https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/). This case became extensively covered by local media, including Click2Houston (https://www.click2houston.com/news/local/2025/11/21/only-on-2-lawsuit-alleges-severe-hazing-at-university-of-houstons-pi-kappa-phi-chapter-fraternity/) and Hoodline (https://hoodline.com/2025/11/university-of-houston-and-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity-face-10m-lawsuit-over-alleged-hazing-and-abuse/).

On November 6, 2025, the national Pi Kappa Phi HQ suspended its Beta Nu chapter, which subsequently voted to surrender its charter on November 14, 2025. This case underscores a critical point: hazing can lead to severe, life-altering injuries and institutions will be held accountable for failing to prevent it.

5.1.4 How a UH Hazing Case Might Proceed (Cass County Jurisdiction)

When hazing occurs at the University of Houston, investigations can involve multiple entities. Since UH is located in Harris County, where Cass County residents might also travel for healthcare or other services, local authorities such as UHPD and/or the Houston Police Department would lead criminal investigations. Civil lawsuits, like the Bermudez case, would typically be filed in courts with jurisdiction over Houston and Harris County. Cass County families pursuing a case might interact with attorneys and courts primarily in Houston, leveraging its extensive legal resources.

Potential defendants in a UH hazing case could include:

• The individual students directly involved.
• The local chapter and its officers.
• The national fraternity or sorority headquarters.
• The University of Houston and its Board of Regents.
• Property owners (if hazing occurred off-campus).

5.1.5 What UH Students & Parents Should Do

For students at the University of Houston and their concerned parents from Cass County, taking proactive steps is crucial:

• Report Internally: If hazing is suspected or occurs, utilize UH’s official channels: the Dean of Students Office, the Office of Student Conduct, or UHPD. Online anonymous reporting forms are also an option.
• Document Everything: Immediately screenshot all relevant digital communications (texts, GroupMe, Snapchat) and photograph any physical injuries or hazing environments. This evidence can quickly disappear.
• Seek Medical Attention: Prioritize health. If injured, intoxicated, or experiencing psychological distress, seek immediate medical care through UH Student Health Services, urgent care, or a Houston emergency room. Be explicit about hazing as the cause.
• Consult Legal Counsel: Before engaging extensively with university officials or accepting any internal “resolutions,” contact a lawyer experienced in Houston-based hazing cases. They can help navigate the complex university systems and protect your child’s rights.

5.2 Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University, a storied institution known for its deep-rooted traditions and fiercely loyal alumni network, holds a unique place in Texas higher education. Many families from Cass County, particularly those with a history of military service or an interest in its highly regarded engineering and agriculture programs, send their children to College Station. The campus culture is largely defined by its traditions, epitomized by the Corps of Cadets and a robust Greek life. However, this fervent dedication to tradition can occasionally cross the line into dangerous hazing practices.

5.2.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Texas A&M’s identity is inextricably linked to its traditions, including the 140-year-old Corps of Cadets, one of the nation’s largest uniformed student bodies. This military-style environment, alongside a thriving Greek community, forms the social backbone for many students. For Cass County students attending A&M, the emphasis on belonging and shared experience is powerful, but this desire for unity can sometimes be exploited through hazing rituals presented as essential “bonding.”

5.2.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Texas A&M University maintains a comprehensive anti-hazing policy, strictly prohibiting any activities that endanger student health or safety for initiation or affiliation. The university’s hazing policy applies to all student organizations, including Greek-letter organizations, sports clubs, and the Corps of Cadets.

Reporting channels at Texas A&M include:

• Aggie Honor System Office: Responsible for enforcing the university’s rules of conduct, including hazing.
• Texas A&M University Police Department (UPD): For criminal activity or immediate threats.
• Corps of Cadets Leadership: Specific reporting mechanisms exist within the Corps hierarchy for cadet-related issues.
• “Stop Hazing” Website: A dedicated online portal for reporting concerns, often allowing for anonymous submissions.

5.2.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses: Greek and Corps Hazing

Hazing incidents at Texas A&M have unfortunately spanned both its Greek system and the venerable Corps of Cadets:

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) Hazing Lawsuit (circa 2021): This incident garnered significant attention. Pledges to the SAE chapter alleged being subjected to brutal hazing that included being covered in various substances, notably an industrial-strength cleaner. This caused severe chemical burns that necessitated skin graft surgeries. The affected pledges filed a lawsuit against the fraternity, which was subsequently suspended by the university.
• Corps of Cadets Hazing Lawsuit (2023): A former cadet filed a lawsuit alleging degrading hazing within the Corps. The allegations included being forced to engage in simulated sexual acts and being tied up in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth between beds. The cadet sought over $1 million in damages. Texas A&M, in its response, stated it had handled the matter according to its internal rules, underscoring the complexities of accountability within such a deeply traditional institution.
• Texas A&M University Sigma Alpha Epsilon (1997): Pledge Brian Sanders died from alcohol poisoning after a hazing incident, illustrating a long-standing pattern of alcohol-related risks within the Greek system.
• Texas A&M Corps of Cadets (1984): Cadet Bruce Dean Goodrich died from heatstroke during strenuous exercises at 2:30 a.m. This incident, while not alcohol-related, highlighted the dangers of physical hazing masked as “training.”

These incidents illustrate the university’s ongoing challenge to balance tradition with student safety, often leading to internal investigations, disciplinary actions, and sometimes, multi-million dollar lawsuits.

5.2.4 How a Texas A&M Hazing Case Might Proceed (Cass County Jurisdiction)

For hazing incidents at Texas A&M, investigations would typically involve the Texas A&M University Police Department and local Bryan/College Station law enforcement. Civil lawsuits would likely be heard in Brazos County courts, given the campus location. Families from Cass County pursuing legal action would benefit from legal counsel well-versed in both Texas hazing law and the intricacies of A&M’s institutional culture, which can be fiercely protective of its traditions.

Potential defendants in an A&M hazing case could include individual students, the local chapter (whether Greek or Corps-affiliated), the national fraternity/sorority, and potentially the university itself, particularly in cases where a pattern of negligence or deliberate indifference can be established.

5.2.5 What Texas A&M Students & Parents Should Do

Cass County families with students at Texas A&M should be keenly aware of the unique environment and take specific actions:

• Understand the Culture: Be aware that A&M’s strong traditions, while positive in many respects, can create unique pressures. Distinguish between respectful traditions and coercive, dangerous hazing.
• Vigilant Documentation: Due to the emphasis on secrecy in both Greek life and Corps activities, meticulously document everything. Screenshot group chats, emails, and any visual evidence. Photograph injuries and keep detailed notes.
• Direct Reporting: Utilize Texas A&M’s various reporting channels. For Corps-related issues, understand internal reporting structures but don’t hesitate to go outside them if necessary.
• Prioritize Safety: Encourage your child to prioritize their health and safety above loyalty to a group or tradition. If medical attention is needed for an alcohol overdose or injury, seek it immediately, remembering good-faith reporter protections.
• Engage Legal Experts: Navigating a hazing case at Texas A&M, especially involving the Corps, requires specialized legal knowledge. Attorneys experienced in hazing and institutional liability can assist in uncovering evidence and pursuing justice.

5.3 University of Texas at Austin (UT)

The University of Texas at Austin is the flagship institution of the University of Texas System, drawing students from every corner of Texas, including Cass County, and across the globe. Known for its rigorous academics, vibrant campus life, and passionate Longhorn spirit, UT has a large and influential Greek system, expansive club sports programs, and numerous student organizations. With such immense size and varied student activities, managing hazing remains a persistent challenge for the university.

5.3.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

For Cass County families, the University of Texas at Austin often represents a pinnacle of academic aspiration, a flagship public university known for its broad range of programs and dynamic student body. The campus is home to a massive Greek system, with dozens of fraternities and sororities contributing significantly to student social life. Beyond Greek life, spirit organizations, club sports, and academic societies all foster intense community and tradition. This bustling environment, while offering immense opportunities, can also create numerous avenues for hazing to occur, often fueled by competitive social hierarchies and a pervasive culture of “tradition.”

5.3.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

The University of Texas at Austin has a clear and stringent anti-hazing policy, strictly prohibiting any conduct that meets the Texas statutory definition of hazing. This policy applies to all registered student organizations and extends to off-campus activities.

UT provides multiple avenues for reporting hazing concerns:

• Dean of Students Office: Oversees student conduct and is the primary contact for hazing reports.
• UT Police Department (UTPD): For criminal behavior or immediate emergencies.
• “Stop Hazing” Page/Online Form: A prominent online resource for anonymous or direct reporting.
• Title IX Office: If hazing involves sexual harassment or gender-based discrimination.

Significantly, UT Austin is recognized for its relative transparency regarding hazing. It maintains a publicly accessible “Hazing Violations” page on its website, listing organizations, the dates of their violations, a description of the conduct, and the sanctions imposed. This public log is an invaluable resource for assessing institutional accountability and awareness.

5.3.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses: A Legacy of Recklessness

UT Austin’s public hazing log reveals a recurring pattern of violations across various types of organizations:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): This fraternity was sanctioned after new members were reportedly directed to consume milk and engage in strenuous calisthenics—clear acts of physical hazing. The chapter faced probation and mandatory hazing-prevention education.
• Texas Cowboys (2018): This spirit organization was sanctioned following allegations of alcohol-related hazing and general misconduct. Tragically, a new member of the Texas Cowboys died in 2018 in what was deemed a hazing-related incident involving sleep deprivation.
• Texas Cowboys (1995): The organization was previously involved in a hazing death when new member Gabriel Higgins drowned in the Colorado River after a hazing event. This established a long-standing pattern of high-risk behavior in this group.
• Delta Kappa Epsilon (1928): One of the earliest documented hazing deaths in Texas, pledge Nolte McElroy died from electrocution while undergoing a hazing ritual.
• Other Examples: UT’s public log includes numerous other fraternities, sororities, and spirit groups disciplined for forced alcohol consumption, sleep deprivation, physical exercise, and other forms of humiliating hazing, often leading to suspensions and probationary periods.

The existence of UT’s public log, while a positive step for transparency, concurrently highlights the persistent challenge of hazing, with repeated violations by many groups year after year.

5.3.4 How a UT Austin Hazing Case Might Proceed (Cass County Jurisdiction)

Hazing incidents at UT Austin would involve investigations by UTPD and/or the Austin Police Department, depending on the nature and location of the incident. Civil lawsuits would typically be filed in Travis County courts in Austin. For Cass County families, this would mean coordinating with legal counsel familiar with the Travis County legal system and UT’s specific administrative procedures.

Potential defendants could include the individual students, the local chapter, the national organization, and the University of Texas at Austin, particularly given the detailed history of hazing made public through their violations log. The very existence of this log can be powerful evidence in a civil suit, demonstrating the university’s awareness of specific organizations’ histories.

5.3.5 What UT Austin Students & Parents Should Do

For Cass County families with students at UT Austin:

• Review the Hazing Log: Before a student pledges or joins any organization, they and their parents should meticulously review UT’s public “Hazing Violations” page. This offers crucial insights into an organization’s history.
• Active Oversight: Maintain open communication with your child. Look for the warning signs of hazing, and explicitly discuss the dangers and illegality of hazing with them.
• Immediate Reporting: Emphasize the importance of reporting hazing directly to the Dean of Students Office, UTPD, or the Title IX Office (if applicable). Anonymity can be maintained through online forms.
• Evidence Preservation: The culture of digital communication means that evidence is often fleeting. Screenshot all relevant group chats, texts, and social media posts, and quickly document any physical injuries.
• Seek Experienced Legal Advice: If a hazing incident has harmed your child, contact a lawyer specializing in hazing cases immediately. They can interpret UT’s records, navigate the legal process, and ensure your child’s rights are protected while seeking accountability.

5.4 Southern Methodist University (SMU)

Southern Methodist University, nestled in the heart of Dallas, projects an image of academic excellence and vibrant campus traditions. As a private institution with a strong draw for students interested in its business, arts, and humanities programs, SMU holds significant appeal for many families, some of whom may hail from Cass County. The university is characterized by a prominent Greek life scene, which plays a central role in its social fabric. While SMU upholds high standards, its Greek organizations, like those at other universities, have faced scrutiny over hazing.

5.4.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

SMU is renowned for its beautiful campus, rigorous academics, and a social scene heavily influenced by its Greek-letter fraternity and sorority system. This system, integral to SMU’s identity, shapes many aspects of student life. For students from Cass County and beyond, the allure of joining Greek organizations at SMU is often tied to aspirations of social networking, leadership development, and traditional campus experiences. However, the prestige associated with some of these organizations can sometimes create intense pressure, occasionally leading to hazing practices designed to “earn” a place within the elite.

5.4.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Southern Methodist University has a clear and unequivocal policy against hazing, defining it in a manner consistent with Texas state law. The policy applies to all university-affiliated organizations, both on-campus and off-campus. SMU emphasizes a “zero tolerance” approach, aiming to foster a safe and respectful environment for all students.

Reporting channels at SMU include:

• Office of the Dean of Students: Manages student conduct and serves as a primary contact for hazing reports.
• SMU Police Department (SMU PD): For criminal incidents or immediate safety concerns.
• Online Reporting Forms: Available on the SMU website for anonymous or identified submissions.
• Office of Fraternity & Sorority Life: While dedicated to supporting Greek organizations, this office also serves as a point of contact for concerns, which can then be escalated as appropriate.

SMU also employs initiatives like Real Response, a platform designed to provide anonymous reporting mechanisms for students to share concerns about hazing or other misconduct.

5.4.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses: Private University Scrutiny

As a private institution, SMU’s internal disciplinary records regarding hazing are not typically as publicly accessible as those of public universities like UT Austin. However, incidents that result in severe sanctions or lawsuits often emerge into public view:

• Kappa Alpha Order Incident (2017): The Kappa Alpha Order fraternity chapter at SMU was suspended and placed under strict restrictions following a hazing investigation. Reports indicated that new members were subjected to physical hazing, including paddling, forced excessive alcohol consumption, and significant sleep deprivation. The chapter faced a several-year ban on recruiting new members and was placed on severe probation. This incident highlighted the deep-seated nature of hazing even within well-established private university Greek systems.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) Suspension (2019): SMU suspended the SAE chapter following reports of multiple hazing incidents, emphasizing a university-wide crackdown on various forms of student misconduct.

These past events underscore SMU’s ongoing efforts to curb hazing and the challenges inherent in enforcing policies within a robust Greek culture.

5.4.4 How an SMU Hazing Case Might Proceed (Cass County Jurisdiction)

Hazing incidents at SMU would typically be investigated by the SMU Police Department and, if criminal activity extends off-campus, by the Dallas Police Department. Civil lawsuits would generally be filed in Dallas County courts, given the university’s location. For Cass County families, selecting legal counsel familiar with Dallas County’s legal landscape and the specific nuances of managing a case against a private university is crucial.

Potential defendants in an SMU hazing case could include the individual student perpetrators, the local chapter, the national fraternity/sorority, and Southern Methodist University itself. As a private entity, SMU does not benefit from sovereign immunity, making it potentially more directly liable for negligence in specific circumstances.

5.4.5 What SMU Students & Parents Should Do

Cass County families with students at SMU should be particularly proactive:

• Engage with SMU Resources: Familiarize yourself with SMU’s anti-hazing policies and use their reporting systems, including the anonymous Real Response platform.
• Scrutinize Greek Life: Understand that the prestige and social standing of Greek organizations at SMU can sometimes mask deeper issues. Investigate an organization’s conduct history beyond just its immediate “reputation.”
• Document Vigilantly: Due to less public transparency for private universities, internal documentation by students and parents becomes even more vital. Preserve all digital communications and photograph any evidence.
• Protect Privacy (Strategically): While a private university may offer some discretion in internal discipline, severe hazing can still escalate to public attention. A lawyer can help navigate the balance between privacy and accountability.
• Seek Confidential Legal Guidance: If hazing has occurred, consult with an attorney experienced in hazing and institutional liability cases. They can advise on available legal options and strategies for navigating a private university’s internal processes alongside external legal action.

5.5 Baylor University

Baylor University, located in Waco, Texas, is the oldest continuously operating university in Texas. As a private Baptist institution, it attracts a significant number of students from faith-based backgrounds, including many from Cass County and across the state, who seek an education grounded in strong values. Baylor cultivates a spirited campus with deep traditions, robust athletic programs, and an active if smaller Greek life system compared to other Texas universities. However, like many institutions, Baylor has faced scrutiny over student welfare and campus culture, issues that also touch upon hazing.

5.5.1 Campus & Culture Snapshot

Baylor’s campus culture is unique, blending strong academic programs with a distinctive faith-based identity and an immense pride in its Big 12 athletic teams. For Cass County families, Baylor represents an environment where values and academic rigor are paramount. The university’s social scene is vibrant, encompassing everything from faith-based student groups to fraternities and sororities. The emphasis on tradition and community, while a positive force, has also, at times, created blind spots for accountability, particularly in areas like student conduct and hazing.

5.5.2 Official Hazing Policy & Reporting Channels

Baylor University unequivocally prohibits hazing, articulating a policy that mirrors and often expands upon Texas state law. Its definition of hazing covers any forced, coerced, or required activity that risks mental or physical health for initiation or membership. Baylor’s policy applies to all officially recognized student organizations, athletic teams, and other university groups, regardless of whether the activities occur on or off campus.

Baylor University provides several contact points for reporting hazing:

• Office of Student Conduct: The central office for investigating allegations of student misconduct, including hazing.
• Baylor University Police Department (BUPD): For any criminal acts or imminent dangers.
• Office of University Compliance and Risk Management: Oversees compliance with university policies and legal standards.
• Anonymous Reporting Hotlines/Online Forms: Available through the university’s website, including “Baylor Alert” for broader safety concerns.

Baylor also periodically releases general statements regarding its commitment to hazing prevention and a “zero tolerance” policy.

5.5.3 Selected Documented Incidents & Responses: Balancing Tradition and Oversight

Baylor, while not having the long hazing fatality record of some larger state universities, has faced its own challenges, especially regarding oversight of student groups and athletic programs:

• Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): A hazing investigation within the Baylor baseball program led to the suspension of 14 players. The suspensions were staggered to prevent a complete crippling of the team’s season, highlighting the university’s dilemma in balancing accountability with athletic continuity. While specific details of the hazing were not fully disclosed publicly, it underscored that such practices exist even in high-profile sports.
• Past Institutional Scrutiny: Baylor has previously faced intense national scrutiny and legal action regarding its handling of sexual assault cases within its football program earlier in the decade. This history, while not directly hazing, created a climate of heightened awareness regarding institutional oversight and the adequate enforcement of student conduct policies, issues that are directly transferable to hazing prevention.

These situations illustrate a broader pattern where universities must constantly evaluate their oversight mechanisms, especially when dealing with powerful or popular programs like Division I athletics.

5.4.4 How a Baylor Hazing Case Might Proceed (Cass County Jurisdiction)

Hazing incidents at Baylor University would typically involve investigations by the Baylor University Police Department and, if criminal acts occurred off-campus, the Waco Police Department and McLennan County authorities. Civil lawsuits would likely be filed in McLennan County courts in Waco. For Cass County families, a successful legal strategy would involve understanding both the local Waco legal environment and the nuances of litigation against a prominent private university.

Potential defendants in a Baylor hazing claim could include the individual students, the local chapter or athletic team, its national organization (if applicable), and Baylor University itself. As a private institution, Baylor does not have sovereign immunity, which can simplify some aspects of civil litigation compared to public universities, though its extensive legal resources mean such cases are always vigorously defended.

5.4.5 What Baylor Students & Parents Should Do

Cass County families with students at Baylor should be acutely aware of the university’s unique context:

• Understand Baylor’s Values and Rules: While Baylor emphasizes integrity, ensure that claimed hazing practices align with, rather than contradict, these values. Review the student handbook carefully.
• Utilize Reporting Systems: Encourage direct reporting through Baylor’s Office of Student Conduct or BUPD. Use anonymous hotlines if fear of retaliation is a primary concern.
• Document and Assert: In a private university setting, access to information may be more controlled. Meticulous personal documentation of all incidents, injuries, and communications becomes paramount.
• Seek Support and Legal Counsel: If hazing has occurred, prioritize immediate medical and psychological support. Then, consult with attorneys experienced in hazing and institutional liability. They can provide confidential guidance on navigating Baylor’s internal student conduct processes and pursuing legal remedies while protecting your child’s rights. The past institutional issues highlight the need for external legal oversight in ensuring true accountability.

5.6 Where Cass County Families Send Kids

Beyond these major Texas institutions, Cass County families also send their sons and daughters to a wide variety of public and private universities across the state. These include Texas State University in San Marcos, Texas Tech University in Lubbock, University of North Texas in Denton, and Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, all of which have extensive Greek life and student organizations susceptible to hazing. Each of these schools, along with many others throughout Texas, maintains its own policies and reporting procedures regarding hazing, which are consistently enforced with varying degrees of transparency and rigor. For a complete overview of all institutions in Texas, please refer to the comprehensive directory at the end of this article.

6. Fraternities & Sororities: Campus-Specific Histories & National Patterns

For families in Cass County, gaining insight into the national histories of fraternities and sororities can be profoundly educational. Most Greek-letter organizations at Texas universities like UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor are part of a larger national network. These national organizations, often founded on principles of scholarship, leadership, and community service, develop comprehensive anti-hazing policies precisely because they have repeatedly faced the tragic consequences of hazing at chapters across the country.

6.1 Why National Histories Matter: The Foreseeability Argument

Understanding the national context is critical for several reasons:

• Pattern of Behavior: When a local chapter in Texas engages in a hazing practice that mirrors incidents at other chapters of the same national organization, it establishes a powerful pattern of behavior. This pattern strengthens the argument that the national organization had foreseeable knowledge of the risks involved. They cannot credibly claim ignorance if similar incidents have occurred repeatedly among their chapters.
• Policy and Enforcement: National fraternities and sororities spend significant resources developing anti-hazing manuals, conducting training, and promoting risk management. The very existence of these policies implies an awareness of the dangers. When hazing occurs, a key question in litigation becomes: did the national organization meaningfully enforce its own policies, or were they mere “paper policies” ignored in practice?
• Centralized Responsibility: Despite local autonomy, national headquarters often collect dues, provide resources, appoint advisors, and exercise a degree of oversight over their chapters. This structural connection can establish a basis for national liability. If they benefit from the chapters, they also share responsibility for student welfare.
• Foreseeability as a Legal Concept: In negligence law, foreseeability is crucial. If an organization has been repeatedly warned about specific hazing rituals (e.g., forced alcohol consumption on “bid night”) through past incidents, disciplinary actions, or lawsuits, then future occurrences of similar hazing become “foreseeable.” This often means increased liability when those risks materialize into injury or death.

When a Texas chapter repeats the same dangerous scripts that have led to injuries, expulsions, or even deaths at other chapters in different states, it provides potent evidence of national negligence and can significantly impact settlement leverage, insurance coverage disputes, and the potential for punitive damages.

6.2 High-Incident National Organizations and Their Histories

Here, we will connect some of the major fraternities and sororities found at universities across Texas, where Cass County students attend, to their broader national histories of hazing. This is not to suggest that every chapter of these organizations engages in hazing, but rather to highlight the national patterns that inform legal arguments about foreseeability and organizational responsibility.

Pi Kappa Alpha (ΠΚΑ / Pike)

Pi Kappa Alpha is a prominent national fraternity with chapters at many Texas universities. Nationally, Pi Kappa Alpha has faced persistent scrutiny due to incidents related to alcohol consumption and hazing.

• Stone Foltz (Bowling Green State University, 2021): This tragic case involved the death of 20-year-old pledge Stone Foltz from alcohol poisoning during a “Big/Little” event. He was forced to consume an entire bottle of alcohol. The incident led to multiple criminal convictions for fraternity members and a $10 million settlement for his family, with nearly $7 million coming from the national fraternity. This case underscored a pattern of alcohol-related hazing within Pike despite national policies.
• David Bogenberger (Northern Illinois University, 2012): Another pledge death from alcohol poisoning during a fraternity event. The institution and legal proceedings resulted in a $14 million settlement for the family, divided among 44 fraternity and sorority members present.
• Texas chapters of Pi Kappa Alpha: Attorney911 has seen cases involving Pi Kappa Alpha chapters at Texas universities, including the University of Houston (a lacerated spleen incident in 2016, prior to the Bermudez case) and the University of Texas at Austin (disciplined in 2023 for forced alcohol consumption and calisthenics). These incidents, when viewed through the lens of national history, may indicate a foreseeable risk that the national organization has a duty to address.

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (ΣΑΕ / SAE)

Sigma Alpha Epsilon has historically been labeled “America’s deadliest fraternity” by Bloomberg News due to its high number of hazing-related deaths, many involving alcohol. SAE has chapters across Texas campuses.

• National Policy Shift: In response to a pattern of deaths, SAE announced in 2014 the elimination of its traditional pledge process nationwide, replacing it with a “True Gentleman Experience” program with immediate member status. However, hazing incidents have unfortunately continued.
• University of Alabama (2023): A lawsuit was filed against an SAE chapter alleging a pledge suffered a traumatic brain injury during a hazing ritual. This case, if proven, highlights the continuing severe risks associated with hazing activities.
• Texas A&M University (approx. 2021): An SAE chapter at A&M faced a $1 million lawsuit from pledges who suffered severe chemical burns after being covered in industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit during forced physical activity. This incident demonstrates that hazing can involve dangerous substances beyond alcohol.
• University of Texas at Austin (2024): An Australian exchange student is suing an SAE chapter for over $1 million after allegedly being assaulted and seriously injured (dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, broken nose) at a party. The chapter was already suspended for prior hazing/safety violations, further emphasizing a pattern of misconduct despite university intervention.

Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ)

Phi Delta Theta is a national fraternity with a history marred by deadly hazing incidents.

• Maxwell “Max” Gruver (Louisiana State University, 2017): Max Gruver died from extreme alcohol poisoning after a “Bible study” hazing game where pledges were forced to drink whenever they answered questions incorrectly. His family later won a $6.1 million verdict and lobbied for the Max Gruver Act in Louisiana, a felony hazing statute.
• Auburn University (1993): A pledge died from alcohol intoxication following a bottle exchange.

These cases suggest a pattern of alcohol-centric hazing challenges for the national organization.

Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ)

Pi Kappa Phi, the national fraternity involved in the Leonel Bermudez case at the University of Houston, has a national history that informed our firm’s legal strategy.

• Andrew Coffey (Florida State University, 2017): Coffey died from acute alcohol poisoning during “Big Brother Night” where pledges were given handles of hard liquor.
• Adrian Heideman (Chico State University, 2000): Died after being encouraged to drink heavily.
• The Leonel Bermudez case at UH (2025), detailed earlier, further solidifies a pattern of severe hazing allegations against Pi Kappa Phi chapters. The national organization’s suspension of the Beta Nu chapter just days before the lawsuit was filed, and the chapter’s swift decision to surrender its charter, indicate a recognition of the seriousness of the allegations and potential liabilities.

Kappa Alpha Order (ΚΑ)

Kappa Alpha Order is a national fraternity with a strong Southern tradition, and several chapters across Texas.

• SMU Chapter (2017): As mentioned earlier, the SMU chapter faced suspension and severe probation following allegations of physical hazing, including paddling, forced alcohol consumption, and sleep deprivation.
• University of Mississippi (1987): A pledge died following an alcohol-related “Big Brother-Little Brother” party.

Omega Psi Phi (ΩΨΦ)

Omega Psi Phi is a distinguished historically Black fraternity with a long history. Despite its esteemed legacy, some chapters have faced hazing allegations.

• University of Southern Mississippi (2023): Former student Rafeal Joseph filed a federal lawsuit against the university and the Nu Eta chapter, alleging severe hazing that included repeated beatings with a wooden paddle during “Hell Night.” He claimed extensive injuries requiring emergency surgery and months of rehabilitation. This case highlights the potential for physical hazing within NPHC organizations, despite national prohibitions.
• Bowie State University (1997): Joseph Snell endured severe beatings over a four-week period, including burns from a space heater, requiring hospitalization. He initially received a lowball settlement offer but ultimately secured a $375,000 verdict, establishing a precedent that both the international organization and local chapter can be held liable.

Other National Organizations

Many other national fraternities and sororities, present at Texas universities, have faced hazing allegations, settlements, or convictions:

• Beta Theta Pi: Notorious for the Timothy Piazza death at Penn State (2017), which led to significant criminal and civil actions.
• Phi Gamma Delta (FIJI): Responsible for the tragic Danny Santulli case at University of Missouri (2021), where a pledge suffered permanent brain damage from forced alcohol consumption, leading to multi-million-dollar settlements.
• Sigma Chi: Recently faced a $10 million+ verdict in a lawsuit at the College of Charleston (2024) involving alleged physical beatings, forced drug/alcohol consumption, and psychological torment. The University of Texas at Arlington chapter was also involved in an alcohol poisoning incident in 2020.
• Kappa Sigma: Has a history of incidents, including the Chad Meredith drowning death at University of Miami (2001), which resulted in a $12.6 million verdict and led to felony hazing laws in Florida.

6.3 Tying It Back to Texas Legal Strategy

For Cass County families, understanding these national patterns is not just about historical awareness; it’s a critical component of any legal action. When a similar incident occurs in Texas, the history of prior hazing within the same national organization strengthens the legal argument of foreseeability against the national entity, local chapter, and even the university.

• Foreseeability as Evidence: If a national fraternity was aware, or should have been aware, that a specific hazing ritual consistently leads to harm (e.g., alcohol poisoning during “bid night”), then their failure to prevent it at a Texas chapter makes their liability far more evident.
• Impact on Litigation: This pattern evidence can significantly impact:
  • Settlement Leverage: Defendants are more likely to offer substantial settlements when faced with a documented history of similar misconduct.
  • Insurance Coverage: It becomes harder for insurance companies to deny coverage if the risk was clearly foreseeable. Lupe Peña’s experience as a former insurance defense attorney is crucial here; she knows their tactics for denying claims and how to counter them.
  • Punitive Damages: In egregious cases, where an organization showed conscious indifference to known risks, pattern evidence can support claims for punitive damages, designed to punish wrongdoers and deter similar conduct.

By meticulously researching the national and local histories of organizations, Attorney911 builds a robust case, demonstrating that hazing is rarely a “one-off” incident but often a tragic consequence of systemic cultural issues that institutions and national organizations have failed to adequately address.

Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

The aftermath of a hazing incident can be chaotic and emotionally overwhelming for a family in Cass County. However, the strength of any legal case hinges on meticulous evidence collection and a strategic approach. Modern hazing leaves a digital footprint, and understanding how to capture and preserve this evidence is paramount. Furthermore, recognizing the full scope of damages, both economic and non-economic, is crucial for securing comprehensive recovery and meaningful accountability.

7.1 Evidence: The Cornerstone of Your Case

In 2025, winning a hazing case relies heavily on digital evidence. Fraternities and other student organizations plan, execute, and document their hazing activities through various digital channels. This digital trail, when properly collected and preserved, can be devastating to a defendant’s case.

• Digital Communications: These are often the most critical pieces of evidence, providing a direct window into the hazing. Cass County families should be aware that platforms like GroupMe, iMessage/SMS group texts, WhatsApp, Signal, Telegram, Discord, and even specific fraternity/sorority apps are used for planning events, issuing instructions, and communicating about pledges. Instagram DMs, Snapchat messages, and TikTok comments can also reveal hidden layers. Crucially, digital forensics experts can often recover deleted messages, but immediate screenshots (showing sender names, timestamps, and full context) are invaluable. Our firm’s video “Use Your Cellphone to Document a Legal Case” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) provides essential guidance on this.

• Photos & Videos: In the era of smartphones, virtually every hazing event is documented. This includes content filmed by members during events, footage shared in group chats or on social media, and even security camera footage from houses or venues. These visuals can capture the acts of hazing, the participants, and the victims’ distress.

• Internal Organization Documents: Via legal discovery, attorneys can uncover pledge manuals, initiation scripts, ritual “traditions” lists, and internal communications (emails, texts) from officers discussing planned activities or disciplinary actions. National policies and training materials, while often touted as anti-hazing measures, can reveal if those policies were mere window dressing.

• University Records: Public records requests and legal discovery can compel universities to release vital information, such as prior conduct files, probation records, suspensions, and warning letters related to the involved organization. Campus police incident reports, Clery Act reports on campus crime statistics, and internal emails among administrators can also expose a pattern of negligence or deliberate indifference.

• Medical and Psychological Records: These document the harm inflicted. Emergency room and hospitalization records, surgery and rehabilitation notes, toxicology reports (blood alcohol content, drug screens), and specific test results (like creatine kinase for rhabdomyolysis) are crucial. Mental health records from psychologists or psychiatrists can document PTSD, depression, anxiety, or suicidal ideation directly linked to the hazing, demonstrating the profound non-physical damages.

• Witness Testimony: The accounts of other pledges, current or former members, roommates, Resident Assistants (RAs), coaches, or bystanders provide critical context and corroboration. Identifying and interviewing these witnesses early, before memories fade or fear of retaliation sets in, is vital.

7.2 Damages: Recovering All Losses

Hazing can cause devastating and multifaceted harm. A comprehensive legal case seeks to recover damages for all losses, both quantifiable and subjective, experienced by the victim and their family in Cass County.

• Medical Bills & Future Care: This covers all costs associated with physical injuries: emergency room visits, ambulance transport, hospitalization (including ICU stays, surgeries), medications, and medical equipment. For catastrophic injuries like brain damage or organ failure, it also includes long-term care plans, ongoing therapy (physical, occupational, speech), and future medical interventions. Psychological counseling and psychiatric medication expenses for trauma are also included.

• Lost Earnings / Educational Impact: This category includes lost wages if the victim or a parent had to miss work due to the hazing incident. Critically, it also extends to the impact on the victim’s education and future career: tuition and fees for missed semesters, lost scholarships, delayed graduation, and, in severe cases, diminished future earning capacity if injuries result in permanent disability or psychological conditions that impair their ability to work.

• Non-Economic Damages: These subjective, yet legally recognized, losses represent the personal suffering caused by hazing. They include:

  • Physical Pain and Suffering: Both immediate pain from injuries and chronic pain from lasting conditions.
  • Emotional Distress and Psychological Harm: The profound and often long-lasting trauma of hazing, including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, humiliation, and loss of dignity.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: The inability to participate in activities once loved, social withdrawal, and the overall diminishment of quality of life due to the hazing.

• Wrongful Death Damages (for Families): In the most tragic hazing cases, where a student dies, surviving family members (parents, spouses, children) can pursue a wrongful death claim. Damages include funeral and burial costs, loss of financial support the deceased would have provided, and compensation for the immense grief, emotional suffering, and loss of companionship, love, and guidance experienced by the family. For more information, please visit our wrongful death claim lawyer page (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/).

• Punitive Damages: In cases involving particularly reckless, malicious, or consciously indifferent conduct, punitive damages may be sought. These are designed not to compensate the victim but to punish the defendants and deter similar future actions. Factors like ignoring prior warnings, egregious cruelty, or attempts to cover up the incident can support a claim for punitive damages.

Our video “What Is Fair Compensation for Pain and Suffering?” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LG07vbB4cdU) details how these subjective damages are valued.

7.3 Strategy: Navigating Complex Defense Playbooks

Hazing cases are rarely simple. Defendants, including national fraternities and universities, are powerful institutions with deep resources and experienced defense lawyers. They employ a range of tactics to minimize their liability, often attempting to shift blame or discredit victims. Our firm, led by Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, leverages its unique experience to counter these strategies.

• Challenging “Consent” Arguments: Defense counsel frequently argue that “the pledge consented” or “it was voluntary.” However, Texas law explicitly states consent is not a defense to hazing, recognizing the inherent power imbalance and coercion. We present evidence and expert testimony on group dynamics, peer pressure, and the desire for belonging, all of which negate true consent.

• Addressing “Rogue Chapter” Defenses: National organizations often claim they were unaware of local chapter hazing. We counter this by unearthing pattern evidence from other chapters and demonstrating that national had constructive notice through prior incidents, and that their anti-hazing policies were not meaningfully enforced. This is where Lupe Peña’s background as a former insurance defense attorney (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/) is invaluable; she understands how these entities try to minimize culpability.

• Overcoming “Off-Campus” Excuses: Hazing frequently occurs off-campus. Defendants claim they lack jurisdiction. We argue that universities still have a duty based on sponsorship and knowledge, and national organizations control their chapters regardless of event location. The tragedy of Michael Deng (Pi Delta Psi, 2013), who died at a remote off-campus retreat, resulted in a criminal conviction for the national fraternity, proving location does not negate liability.

• Fighting Sovereign Immunity (for Public Universities): Public universities in Texas often claim sovereign immunity. Our lawyers are experienced in finding exceptions to this immunity, such as cases of gross negligence, willful misconduct, or claims under federal statutes like Title IX. Even when immunity applies, universities often settle to avoid negative publicity and the costs of litigation.

• Navigating Insurance Coverage Disputes: Insurance companies for organizations or individuals may deny coverage for hazing claims, arguing that “intentional acts” are excluded. We meticulously analyze all potential insurance policies and aggressively challenge coverage denials, sometimes even suing insurers for “bad faith” if they wrongfully refuse to pay valid claims. Our understanding of the insurance industry is a major advantage in these complex negotiations.

This strategic approach, combined with tenacious investigation and preparation for trial, positions Attorney911 to effectively advocate for families impacted by hazing, ensuring comprehensive accountability and justice.

Practical Guides & FAQs

When hazing strikes, every family’s situation in Cass County is unique, but the immediate questions and need for guidance are universal. We offer practical advice for parents and students on how to navigate this challenging time, emphasizing safety, evidence preservation, and smart decision-making.

8.1 For Parents: Your Role in Combating Hazing

As a parent, your vigilance and informed response are crucial if you suspect your child is being hazed.

• Warning Signs of Hazing: Be alert to changes in your child’s behavior, physical health, and academic performance. Look for:

  • Unexplained physical injuries (bruises, burns, cuts) or repeated “accidents” with inconsistent explanations.
  • Extreme fatigue or sleep deprivation, often linked to late-night “mandatory” activities.
  • Drastic changes in mood, such as increased anxiety, depression, irritability, or withdrawal from friends and family.
  • Sudden secrecy around their organization’s activities, often accompanied by phrases like “I can’t talk about it” or “What happens in the house, stays in the house.”
  • Excessive phone use to monitor group chats, coupled with anxiety if a message is missed.
  • Declining academic performance due to time commitments, lack of sleep, or mental distress.

• How to Talk to Your Child: Approach the conversation calmly and empathetically.

  • Start with open-ended questions like, “How are things going with [Organization]?” or “Are you feeling good about the choices you’re making there?”
  • Reassure them that their safety and well-being are your top priorities, far above any organizational membership.
  • Emphasize that you will support them regardless of their decisions, stressing that loyalty to their safety comes first.
  • Listen without judgment. If they open up, thank them for their trust. If they shut down, don’t force it, but continue to monitor for warning signs and let them know you’re there.

• If Your Child is Hurt: Your immediate priority is their health and safety.

  • Seek medical attention immediately. Take them to a doctor, urgent care, or emergency room. Be explicit with medical staff that hazing is suspected, so it’s documented in their medical records.
  • Document everything. With your child’s permission, photograph any injuries from multiple angles and over several days to show progression of healing/bruising.
  • Preserve digital evidence. Help them screenshot all relevant texts, group chats, images, or videos. Store these securely.
  • Write detailed notes. While events are fresh, write down everything your child tells you, including dates, times, locations, names of individuals involved, and specific actions.

• Dealing with the University:

  • Document every interaction you have with university administrators, including names, dates, and what was discussed.
  • Ask direct questions about: prior hazing incidents involving the organization, the university’s response, and any disciplinary actions taken. Ensure you understand the university’s official process.

• When to Talk to a Lawyer: Consult with an experienced hazing lawyer immediately if:

  • Your child has suffered significant physical or psychological harm.
  • You suspect the university or organization is minimizing or attempting to cover up the incident.
  • You are unsure of your rights or need guidance on navigating complex university, criminal, or civil processes.

8.2 For Students / Pledges: Protecting Yourself

As a student or pledge, you are often caught in a difficult position, balancing the desire for belonging with concerns for your safety. Remember, your well-being comes first.

• Is This Hazing or Just Tradition? Ask yourself these critical questions:

  • Am I being forced or pressured to do something against my will?
  • Would I do this if my parents or a university official were watching?
  • Does this activity make me feel unsafe, embarrassed, or humiliated?
  • Will older members be doing this activity with me?
  • Am I being told to keep secrets or lie about this activity?
  • Does this activity interfere with my academics, sleep, or personal well-being?
  • If you answer “yes” to any of these questions, it is likely hazing, regardless of how it’s labeled.

• Why “Consent” Isn’t the End of the Story: Organizations often claim “everyone agrees to it.” However, true consent requires a free and uncoerced choice. Under intense peer pressure, a desire for acceptance, or fear of exclusion, your “consent” is not freely given. Texas law explicitly recognizes this by stating that consent is not a defense to hazing. You have the right to say no, to leave, and to be safe.

• Exiting and Reporting Safely:

  • Your safety is paramount. If you are in immediate danger (intoxicated, injured, threatened), call 911 or your campus police (UHPD, TAMUPD, UTPD, SMUPD, BUPD) immediately. There are “good faith reporter” protections in place that can shield you from penalties for alcohol/drug violations if you’re seeking help for a medical emergency.
  • You have the absolute right to leave any organization or activity at any time. There should be no negative repercussions from the university.
  • Before you leave, tell a trusted adult outside the organization (parent, RA, academic advisor, a non-Greek friend) what’s happening.
  • If you fear retaliation, report that fear to the Dean of Students or campus police; a lawyer can also assist in securing protections.

• Good-Faith Reporting and Amnesty: Texas law and many university policies encourage reporting hazing. If you call for help in an emergency, especially an alcohol or drug-related one, you will likely receive amnesty for participation in the hazing or underage drinking. This protection is designed to prevent tragic delays in seeking emergency medical care.

8.3 For Former Members / Witnesses: Breaking the Code of Silence

If you were once involved in hazing—whether as a participant or a witness—and now regret it or want to help prevent future harm, your actions can be incredibly powerful.

• Your Testimony Matters: Your firsthand account and any evidence you possess could be crucial in holding individuals and institutions accountable, potentially preventing future injuries or deaths. Even if you fear repercussions, consider that your voice could save someone’s life.
• Legal Protection: While your involvement means you might face some scrutiny, consulting with a lawyer first can help you understand your rights and potential protections. In some cases, cooperating with authorities can lead to leniency or immunity in exchange for truthful testimony.
• Making a Difference: Many former members express deep regret for their past involvement in hazing. Coming forward can be a vital step towards personal redemption and contributing to a safer campus environment for generations of students from Cass County and across Texas.

8.4 Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

Knowing what not to do is as important as knowing what to do. The early hours and days after a hazing incident are critical, and missteps can severely jeopardize any future criminal or civil case. Our video “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Injury Case” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY) offers more detailed guidance.

MISTAKES THAT CAN RUIN YOUR HAZING CASE:

1. Letting your child delete messages or “clean up” evidence.

   • What parents think: “I don’t want them to get in more trouble.”
   • Why it’s wrong: This looks like a cover-up, can be considered obstruction of justice, and makes proving your case significantly harder, if not impossible. The “embarrassing” content often contains the most crucial evidence of coercion and hazing.
   • What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, even embarrassing or seemingly minor content. Take screenshots, back them up.

2. Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly (parents or student).

   • What parents think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind.”
   • Why it’s wrong: This immediately puts the organization on alert. They will likely lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses, and prepare their defenses, making a future investigation far more challenging.
   • What to do instead: Document everything discreetly, then call a lawyer experienced in hazing cases before any confrontation.

3. Signing university “release” or “resolution” forms without legal review.

   • What universities do: They may pressure families to sign waivers or “internal resolution” agreements quickly, promising a quiet resolution.
   • Why it’s wrong: You may inadvertently waive your right to pursue further legal action. These internal settlements rarely reflect the true value of lifetime damages.
   • What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything from the university or an insurance company without an attorney reviewing it thoroughly first.

4. Posting details on social media before talking to a lawyer.

   • What families think: “I want people to know what happened.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Anything posted online can be used against you. Defense attorneys meticulously comb social media for contradictions or statements that can harm your credibility and legal arguments. It can also waive legal privileges.
   • What to do instead: Document privately for your legal team. Let your lawyer guide any public messaging.

5. Letting your child go back to “one last meeting” or “just to hear them out.”

   • What organizations say: “Come talk to us before you do anything drastic.”
   • Why it’s wrong: These meetings are often designed to pressure, intimidate, or extract statements from the victim that can later be used against them in legal proceedings.
   • What to do instead: Once you are considering legal action, all communication should go through your lawyer.

6. Waiting “to see how the university handles it” internally.

   • What universities promise: “We’re investigating, let us handle this internally.”
   • Why it’s wrong: The internal university process is different from legal action. Evidence disappears quickly (texts are deleted, witnesses graduate), and your legal window (statute of limitations) continues to run. The university’s primary goal is often to control its own narrative and liability, not necessarily yours.
   • What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW. Consult with a lawyer immediately. University disciplinary processes do not equal real, comprehensive accountability.

7. Talking to insurance adjusters without a lawyer.

   • What adjusters say: “We just need your statement to process the claim.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. Recorded statements can be twisted and used against you. Early settlement offers are almost always lowball.
   • What to do instead: Politely decline to speak directly with an adjuster and state, “My attorney will contact you.”

8.5 Short FAQ

• “Can I sue a university for hazing in Texas?”
  Yes, under certain circumstances. Public universities (like UH, Texas A&M, UT) have some sovereign immunity protections, but exceptions often exist for gross negligence, willful misconduct, or federal civil rights violations (e.g., Title IX). Private universities (like SMU, Baylor) generally have less governmental immunity. Every case depends on its specific facts and the evidence of institutional negligence, so contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a case-specific analysis.

• “Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
  It can be. While hazing is typically a Class B misdemeanor, Texas law elevates it to a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Individuals who are officers of an organization and fail to report hazing can also face misdemeanor charges.

• “Can my child bring a case if they ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”
  Yes, absolutely. Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts understand that students “agree” under immense peer pressure, fear of exclusion, and implicit threats, which negates true voluntary consent.

• “How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
  Generally, in Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death lawsuits is two years from the date of injury or death. However, complexities like the “discovery rule” (when the harm or its cause was reasonably discoverable) or fraudulent concealment can sometimes extend this period. Time is critical—evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, and records are purged. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately to ensure your rights are protected within legal deadlines. Our video “Is There a Statute of Limitations on My Case?” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c) provides more information.

• “What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
  The location of hazing activities does not remove an organization’s or university’s liability. Many major hazing cases (e.g., the Michael Deng death, which occurred at a private retreat) involved off-campus incidents. Universities and national organizations can be held liable based on their sponsorship, knowledge, continued oversight, and the foreseeability of hazing, regardless of property ownership.

• “Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
  Many hazing cases resolve through confidential settlements before going to trial, meaning the details, including the victim’s name, can remain private. We prioritize protecting your family’s privacy interests while pursuing full accountability. While public cases often drive change, personal details can often be shielded if desired.

About The Manginello Law Firm + Call to Action

When your family in Cass County faces the trauma of hazing, you need legal representation that understands not just the letter of the law, but the intricate cultural landscape of college campuses and the deep-pocketed defense strategies of powerful institutions. At The Manginello Law Firm, operating as Attorney911, the Legal Emergency Lawyers™, we bring a unique blend of experience, tenacity, and empathy to every hazing case.

Why Attorney911 for Hazing Cases: Our Unmatched Expertise

When your family faces a hazing case, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need attorneys who understand how powerful institutions fight back—and how to win anyway. This is especially true for families in Cass County, who may feel intimidated facing large universities or national fraternities.

• Insurance Insider Advantage: Our Associate Attorney, Lupe Peña (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/), brings a critical “inside baseball” perspective to your case. A former insurance defense attorney at a national firm, Lupe knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies evaluate (and undervalue) hazing claims. She understands their delay tactics, coverage exclusion arguments, and settlement strategies because she used to run their playbook. This unparalleled insight is a significant advantage in securing favorable outcomes for our clients.

• Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions: Ralph Manginello, our Managing Partner (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/), has a proven track record of battling and beating the odds against formidable defendants. He was one of the few Texas attorneys involved in the BP Texas City explosion litigation, taking on a global energy giant. His extensive federal court experience (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas) means we are not intimidated by national fraternities, universities, or their legions of defense teams. We’ve taken on billion-dollar corporations and won. We know how to fight powerful defendants.

• Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Experience: Hazing too often leads to tragic deaths or life-altering injuries. Our firm has a proven track record in securing multi-million dollar results in complex wrongful death (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/) and catastrophic injury cases. We work with leading experts, including economists and life care planners, to accurately value not just immediate medical costs, but also the lifelong impact of brain injuries, permanent disabilities, and lost earning capacities. We don’t settle cheap; we build cases that force comprehensive accountability.

• Criminal + Civil Hazing Expertise: Hazing is a crime in Texas. Our firm possesses a unique dual capability in both civil personal injury and criminal defense. Ralph’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) underscores our understanding of how criminal hazing charges intersect with civil litigation. This means we can advise on both criminal exposure and civil liability, offering comprehensive counsel that few firms can match. Our criminal defense lawyers page (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/criminal-defense-lawyers/) details our capabilities.

• Unrivaled Investigative Depth: Winning hazing cases demands a relentless pursuit of evidence, much of which is hidden or actively destroyed. We work with a network of experts—medical professionals, digital forensics specialists, economists, and psychologists—to uncover the full truth. We have extensive experience:

  • Obtaining hidden evidence, including deleted group chats, social media records, and incriminating communications.
  • Subpoenaing national fraternity records to expose patterns of prior incidents and internal warnings.
  • Leveraging legal tools like public records requests and discovery to access critical university files.

  We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does. Our video on using your cellphone to document a legal case (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) exemplifies our commitment to evidence-based advocacy.

• Empathy and Victim Advocacy: We know that a hazing incident is one of the hardest things a family can face. Our job is not just to secure compensation, but to get you answers, hold the responsible parties accountable, and help prevent this from happening to another family. We approach every case with profound empathy, prioritizing the victim’s healing and the family’s need for justice over bravado or quick settlements. Our focus is on thorough investigation and real accountability.

From our Houston office, we serve families throughout Texas, including Cass County and surrounding areas. We understand that hazing at Texas universities affects families in Cass County who send their children to these institutions. We know how fraternities, sororities, Corps programs, and athletic departments actually work behind closed doors, and we know how to force them to answer for their negligence.

Call to Action: Your Path to Accountability Starts Here

If your child from Cass County has been impacted by hazing at any Texas campus—whether it be the University of Houston, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, or any other institution—we want to hear from you. Families in Cass County and throughout the surrounding region have the right to answers and accountability. You don’t have to face this alone.

Contact The Manginello Law Firm for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. We will listen to what happened, explain your legal options, and help you decide on the best path forward. What to expect during your free consultation:

• We will listen to your story empathetically and without judgment.
• We will review any evidence you have, such as photos, texts, or medical records.
• We will explain your legal options clearly: whether to pursue a criminal report, a civil lawsuit, both, or neither.
• We will discuss realistic timelines and what you can expect during the legal process.
• We will answer your questions about costs; we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we don’t get paid unless we win your case. Our video “How Do Contingency Fees Work?” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc) fully explains this.
• There will be no pressure to hire us on the spot—you take the time you need to decide. Everything you tell us is confidential.

Whether you’re in Cass County or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you don’t have to face this alone.

Contact Attorney911 today.

• Call our emergency hotline: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
• Call direct: (713) 528-9070
• Call/text Ralph’s cell: (713) 443-4781
• Visit our website: https://attorney911.com
• Email Ralph: ralph@atty911.com

Hablamos Español: Please contact Lupe Peña directly at lupe@atty911.com for consultation in Spanish. Servicios legales en español disponibles.

Legal Disclaimer

This article is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC.

Hazing laws, university policies, and legal precedents can change. The information in this guide is current as of late 2025 but may not reflect the most recent developments. Every hazing case is unique, and outcomes depend on the specific facts, evidence, applicable law, and many other factors.

If you or your child has been affected by hazing, we strongly encourage you to consult with a qualified Texas attorney who can review your specific situation, explain your legal rights, and advise you on the best course of action for your family.

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC / Attorney911
Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, Texas
Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
Direct: (713) 528-9070 | Cell: (713) 443-4781
Website: https://attorney911.com
Email: ralph@atty911.com

Complete Texas University Directory

Attorney911 tracks every higher education institution in Texas. For reference:

• Abilene Christian University | Abilene, Taylor County | Private Non-Profit
• Abilene Christian University-Undergraduate Online | Addison, Dallas County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Sul Ross State University | Alpine, Brewster County, Texas | Public University
• American College of Acupuncture and Oriental Med | Houston, Harris County, Texas | Private For-Profit
• American InterContinental University-Houston | Houston, Harris County, Texas | Private For-Profit
• Amberton University | Garland, Dallas County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Angelo State University | San Angelo, Tom Green County, Texas | Public University
• Arlington Baptist University | Arlington, Tarrant County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• AOMA Graduate School of Integrative Medicine | Austin, Travis County, Texas | Private For-Profit
• Austin Community College District | Austin, Travis County, Texas | Public University
• Austin Graduate School of Theology | Austin, Travis County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary | Austin, Travis County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Southwest University at El Paso | El Paso, El Paso County, Texas | Private For-Profit
• Baptist Health System School of Health Professions | San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas | Private For-Profit
• Baptist Missionary Association Theological Seminary | Jacksonville, Cherokee County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Baptist University of the Americas | San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Baylor College of Medicine | Houston, Harris County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Baylor University | Waco, McLennan County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Brazosport College | Lake Jackson, Brazoria County, Texas | Public University
• Brite Divinity School | Fort Worth, Tarrant County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Chamberlain University-Texas | Houston, Harris County, Texas | Private For-Profit
• Chicago School of Professional Psychology at Dallas | Richardson, Dallas County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Christ Mission College | San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Collin County Community College District | McKinney, Collin County, Texas | Public University
• Concordia University Texas | Austin, Travis County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Criswell College | Dallas, Dallas County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Dallas Baptist University | Dallas, Dallas County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Dallas Christian College | Dallas, Dallas County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Dallas College | Dallas, Dallas County, Texas | Public University
• Dallas Theological Seminary | Dallas, Dallas County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Del Mar College | Corpus Christi, Nueces County, Texas | Public University
• DeVry University-Texas | Irving, Dallas County, Texas | Private For-Profit
• East Texas Baptist University | Marshall, Harrison County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Episcopal Theological Seminary of the Southwest | Austin, Travis County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Galen College of Nursing-Houston | Houston, Harris County, Texas | Private For-Profit
• Galen College of Nursing-San Antonio | San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas | Private For-Profit
• Galveston College | Galveston, Galveston County, Texas | Public University
• Gemini School of Visual Arts & Communication | Austin, Williamson County, Texas | Private For-Profit
• Grace School of Theology | Conroe, Montgomery County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Grayson College | Denison, Grayson County, Texas | Public University
• Hardin-Simmons University | Abilene, Taylor County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Hallmark University | San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Houston Baptist University | Houston, Harris County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Houston Graduate School of Theology | Houston, Harris County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Howard Payne University | Brownwood, Brown County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Huston-Tillotson University | Austin, Travis County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Jarvis Christian University | Hawkins, Wood County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• The King’s University | Southlake, Tarrant County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Lamar University | Beaumont, Jefferson County, Texas | Public University
• Laredo College | Laredo, Webb County, Texas | Public University
• LeTourneau University | Longview, Gregg County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Lone Star College System | The Woodlands, Montgomery County, Texas | Public University
• Lubbock Christian University | Lubbock, Lubbock County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• McMurry University | Abilene, Taylor County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Midland College | Midland, Midland County, Texas | Public University
• Midwestern State University | Wichita Falls, Wichita County, Texas | Public University
• North American University | Stafford, Fort Bend County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Oblate School of Theology | San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Odessa College | Odessa, Ector County, Texas | Public University
• Our Lady of the Lake University | San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Parker University | Dallas, Dallas County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Paul Quinn College | Dallas, Dallas County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Prairie View A & M University | Prairie View, Waller County, Texas | Public University
• Remington College-Dallas Campus | Dallas, Dallas County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Remington College-Fort Worth Campus | Fort Worth, Tarrant County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Remington College-North Houston Campus | Houston, Harris County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Rice University | Houston, Harris County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Saint Edward’s University | Austin, Travis County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Saint Paul School of Theology | Leawood, Johnson County, Kansas | Private Non-Profit
• Saint Mary’s University | San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Sam Houston State University | Huntsville, Walker County, Texas | Public University
• San Antonio College | San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas | Public University
• San Jacinto Community College | Pasadena, Harris County, Texas | Public University
• Schreiner University | Kerrville, Kerr County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• South Plains College | Levelland, Hockley County, Texas | Public University
• South Texas College | McAllen, Hidalgo County, Texas | Public University
• South Texas College of Law Houston | Houston, Harris County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Southern Methodist University | Dallas, Dallas County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Southwestern Adventist University | Keene, Johnson County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Southwestern Assemblies of God University | Waxahachie, Ellis County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Southwestern University | Georgetown, Williamson County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Stephen F Austin State University | Nacogdoches, Nacogdoches County, Texas | Public University
• Strayer University-Texas | Farmers Branch, Dallas County, Texas | Private For-Profit
• Tarleton State University | Stephenville, Erath County, Texas | Public University
• Texas A & M International University | Laredo, Webb County, Texas | Public University
• Texas A & M University-Central Texas | Killeen, Bell County, Texas | Public University
• Texas A & M University-Commerce | Commerce, Hunt County, Texas | Public University
• Texas A & M University-Corpus Christi | Corpus Christi, Nueces County, Texas | Public University
• Texas A & M University-Kingsville | Kingsville, Kleberg County, Texas | Public University
• Texas A & M University-Texarkana | Texarkana, Bowie County, Texas | Public University
• Texas A & M University-College Station | College Station, Brazos County, Texas | Public University
• Texas A & M University-System Office | College Station, Brazos County, Texas | Public University
• Texas Christian University | Fort Worth, Tarrant County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Texas College | Tyler, Smith County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Texas Health and Science University | Austin, Travis County, Texas | Private For-Profit
• Texas Lutheran University | Seguin, Guadalupe County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Texas Southern University | Houston, Harris County, Texas | Public University
• Texas State University | San Marcos, Hays County, Texas | Public University
• Texas Tech University | Lubbock, Lubbock County, Texas | Public University
• Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center | Lubbock, Lubbock County, Texas | Public University
• Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center-El Paso | El Paso, El Paso County, Texas | Public University
• Texas Tech University System Administration | Lubbock, Lubbock County, Texas | Public University
• Texas Wesleyan University | Fort Worth, Tarrant County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• The Art Institute of Austin | Bastrop, Bastrop County, Texas | Private For-Profit
• The Art Institute of Houston | Houston, Harris County, Texas | Private For-Profit
• The Art Institute of San Antonio | San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas | Private For-Profit
• The College of Health Care Professions-Northwest | Houston, Harris County, Texas | Private For-Profit
• The Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary | Fort Worth, Tarrant County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• The University of Texas at Arlington | Arlington, Tarrant County, Texas | Public University
• The University of Texas at Austin | Austin, Travis County, Texas | Public University
• The University of Texas at Dallas | Richardson, Dallas County, Texas | Public University
• The University of Texas at El Paso | El Paso, El Paso County, Texas | Public University
• The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston | Houston, Harris County, Texas | Public University
• The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio | San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas | Public University
• The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center | Houston, Harris County, Texas | Public University
• The University of Texas Permian Basin | Odessa, Ector County, Texas | Public University
• The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley | Edinburg, Hidalgo County, Texas | Public University
• The University of Texas at San Antonio | San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas | Public University
• The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center | Dallas, Dallas County, Texas | Public University
• The University of Texas at Tyler | Tyler, Smith County, Texas | Public University
• The University of Texas System Office | Austin, Travis County, Texas | Public University
• Trinity University | San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Tyler Junior College | Tyler, Smith County, Texas | Public University
• University of Dallas | Irving, Dallas County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• University of Houston | Houston, Harris County, Texas | Public University
• University of Houston-Clear Lake | Houston, Harris County, Texas | Public University
• University of Houston-Downtown | Houston, Harris County, Texas | Public University
• University of Houston-Victoria | Victoria, Victoria County, Texas | Public University
• University of Houston-System Administration | Houston, Harris County, Texas | Public University
• University of North Texas | Denton, Denton County, Texas | Public University
• University of North Texas at Dallas | Dallas, Dallas County, Texas | Public University
• University of North Texas Health Science Center | Fort Worth, Tarrant County, Texas | Public University
• University of North Texas System | Dallas, Dallas County, Texas | Public University
• University of Phoenix-Texas | Houston, Harris County, Texas | Private For-Profit
• University of St Thomas | Houston, Harris County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• University of the Incarnate Word | San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Wade College | Dallas, Dallas County, Texas | Private For-Profit
• Wayland Baptist University | Plainview, Hale County, Texas | Private Non-Profit
• Weatherford College | Weatherford, Parker County, Texas | Public University
• West Texas A & M University | Canyon, Randall County, Texas | Public University
• Western Technical College | El Paso, El Paso County, Texas | Private For-Profit
• Wiley College | Marshall, Harrison County, Texas | Private Non-Profit

Complete Texas Greek Organization Directory

Attorney911 tracks every IRS-registered fraternity and sorority in Texas:

• AGGIE ADPI FAMILY CLUB | EIN: 93-2357531 | CYPRESS, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• ALPHA DELTA | EIN: 81-2724215 | MCALLEN, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• ALPHA OMEGA EPSILON | EIN: 56-2652714 | BEAUMONT, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• ALPHA OMEGA EPSILON-BETA ALPHA CHAPTER | EIN: 47-3967233 | LUBBOCK, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 47-5370943 | HOUSTON, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 81-2525354 | COLLEGE STA, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 83-1418666 | KINGSVILLE, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 83-1418972 | CORPUS CHRISTI, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 47-5381060 | SAN MARCOS, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 81-5229133 | SAN ANTONIO, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 92-1490845 | HUNTSVILLE, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 87-2222906 | EL PASO, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• ALPHA TAU OMEGA HOUSING CORPORATION OF ETA IOTA CHAPTER | EIN: 30-0517788 | NACOGDOCHES, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• ALPHA UPSILON ZETA HOUSING CORPORATION | EIN: 81-1390772 | NEW YORK, NY | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• AMERICAN INTERCONTINENTAL UNIVERSITY-HOUSTON | EIN: 76-0221936 | Houston, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• ARLINGTON-GRAND PRAIRIE ALUMNI CHAP OF KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRAT INC | EIN: 23-2452759 | GRAND PRAIRIE, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• BETA NU PI KAPPA PHI FRATERNITY HOUSING CORPORATION INC | EIN: 46-2267515 | FRISCO, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• BETA UPSILON CHI | EIN: 74-2911848 | FORT WORTH, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• BETA BETA OF ALPHA DELTA PI HOUSE CCORPORATION | EIN: 20-8331059 | HIXSON, TN | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• BETA LAMBDA CHAPTER – ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY INC | EIN: 99-0483761 | HOUSTON, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• BUILDING CORPORATION OF DELTA CHAPTER OF ALPHA DELTA PI | EIN: 74-6047117 | AUSTIN, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• CHI EPSILON SIGMA INC | EIN: 45-1677063 | DALLAS, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• CHI OMEGA FRATERNITY | EIN: 75-6041410 | NACOGDOCHES, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• CHI OMEGA FRATERNITY | EIN: 74-0555581 | AUSTIN, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• CHI OMEGA FRATERNITY | EIN: 87-0440889 | SALT LAKE CTY, UT | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• DENTON-LEWISVILLE GUIDE RIGHT FOUNDATION | EIN: 86-1205340 | FLOWER MOUND, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• DELTA ALPHA SIGMA MULTICULTURAL SORORITY | EIN: 36-4806998 | DALLAS, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• DELTA PHI CHAPTER OF THETA CHI FRATERNITY ALUMNI HOUSING | EIN: 90-0239693 | DALLAS, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• DELTA PHI UPSILON FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 80-0209640 | HOUSTON, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• EPSILON NU HOUSING CORPORATION | EIN: 23-7359384 | LUBBOCK, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• EPSILON PI PHI EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT HONOR SOCIETY | EIN: 47-4643399 | ROUND ROCK, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• EPSILON TAU CHAPTER OF THETA CHI FRATERNITY | EIN: 75-6053083 | NACOGDOCHES, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• ETA KAPPA CHAPTER OF SIGMA SIGMA SIGMA HOUSE CORPORATION | EIN: 75-2935462 | FRISCO, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• ETA ALPHA HOUSE CORPORATION OF KAPPA DELTA SORORITY | EIN: 74-2930349 | COLLEGE STA, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• FIRST COMMAND EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION | EIN: 75-1973894 | FORT WORTH, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• FORT WORTH ALUMNI CHAPTER OF KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY INCORPORATED | EIN: 75-2755600 | FORT WORTH, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• FRANK HEFLIN FOUNDATION | EIN: 20-3507402 | CANYON, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• FRIENDSHIP-WEST MIZPAH FOUNDATION | EIN: 27-1863731 | DALLAS, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• FRISCO TX ALUMNI CHAPTER OF KAPPA ALPHA PSI INCORPORATED | EIN: 92-0575785 | FRISCO, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• GAMMA PHI DELTA CHRISTIAN FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 74-2893931 | FORT WORTH, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• GAMMA PHI HOUSE CORPORATION OF KAPPA ALPHA THETA FRATERNITY | EIN: 75-1283953 | LUBBOCK, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• GAMMA IOTA CHAPTER OF GAMMA PHI BETA SORORITY INC | EIN: 75-1225585 | WICHITA FALLS, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• GENTLEMEN OF AGGIE TRADITION | EIN: 88-0537463 | COLLEGE STA, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• GULF COAST ALUMNI ET OF OX INC | EIN: 45-2717861 | MEXIA, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 46-3831593 | AUSTIN, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 82-0644459 | LUBBOCK, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 38-3742830 | EL PASO, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 90-0293166 | COLLEGE STATION, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 26-3170920 | DENTON, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 35-2335400 | TYLER, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 90-0293167 | VICTORIA, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• IOTA ALPHA CHAPTER OF KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 51-0225632 | ARLINGTON, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY | EIN: 23-7279532 | PRAIRIE VIEW, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 45-3325054 | MANSFIELD, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• KAPPA EPSILON CHAPTER OF KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 75-1727080 | ARLINGTON, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• KAPPA SIGMA FRATERNITY | EIN: 75-6067776 | FORT WORTH, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• KAPPA SIGMA – MU CAMMA CHAPTER INC | EIN: 13-3048786 | COLLEGE STATION, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• KAPPA SIGMA – MU GAMMA CHAPTER INC | EIN: 27-3662583 | LUFKIN, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• KAPPA THETA PI – MU CHAPTER CORPORATION | EIN: 33-1294470 | FRISCO, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• LAMBDA CHI ALPHA FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 74-1130606 | AUSTIN, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• LAMBDA NU GAMMA FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 93-2103520 | CONROE, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• LAMBDA OMEGA EPSILON SORORITY INC | EIN: 86-1854073 | CONROE, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• LAMBDA ETA CHAPTER CHI ETA PHI SORORITY INCORPORATED | EIN: 75-2273565 | ARLINGTON, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• LELAND COLLEGE PREP PTO | EIN: 47-2160315 | HOUSTON, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• NATIONAL PAN-HELLENIC COUNCIL NORTH DALLAS SUBURBIA | EIN: 26-4080411 | CARROLLTON, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• OMICRON GAMMA GAMMA CHAPTER | EIN: 75-2819136 | ARLINGTON, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• OMICRON GAMMA SIGMA ALUMNI CHAPTER OF PHI BETA SIGMA FRATERNITY | EIN: 92-1672050 | IRVING, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• ONE CHAPTER ONE SHIELD | EIN: 92-1743777 | IOWA COLONY, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• PHI DELTA THETA FRATERNITY | EIN: 90-0927378 | SAN ANTONIO, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• PHI KAPPA PSI TEXAS EPSILON CHAPTER | EIN: 45-2729519 | NACOGDOCHES, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• PHI UPSILON ZETA OF LAMBDA CHI ALPHA FRATERNITY | EIN: 74-1016658 | SAN ANTONIO, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• PI KAPPA ALPHA FRATERNITY | EIN: 74-6064445 | NEDERLAND, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• PI KAPPA PHI DELTA OMEGA CHAPTER BUILDING CORPORATION | EIN: 37-1768785 | MISSOURI CITY, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• PSI UPSILON CHAPTER OMEGA PSI PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 73-6098977 | LAWTON, OK | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• PSI ZETA CHAPTER OF ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY INCORPORATED | EIN: 52-1345182 | FORT WORTH, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• REDWINE HONORS PROGRAM STUDENT COUNCIL | EIN: 84-5090974 | WICHITA FALLS, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• RHO DELTA CHI NATIONAL BOARD | EIN: 93-4247450 | SUGAR LAND, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• 9THD BROTHERS KEEPER | EIN: 93-4008573 | ROWLETT, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• SIGMA ALPHA OMEGA CHRISTIAN SORORITY INC | EIN: 85-1262394 | AUSTIN, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• SIGMA CHI FRATERNITY EPSILON XI CHAPTER | EIN: 74-6084905 | HOUSTON, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY | EIN: 74-6084912 | AUSTIN, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY | EIN: 36-4091267 | WACO, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY | EIN: 75-2609909 | COMMERCE, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• SIGMA LAMBDA ALPHA SORORITY INC | EIN: 90-0956019 | AUSTIN, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• SIGMA PHI EPSILON NEW YORK CHI ALUMNI ASSOCIATION INC | EIN: 26-2710856 | HOUSTON, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• SIGMA PHI EPSILON TEXAS GAMMA CHAPTER | EIN: 91-1981478 | FORT WORTH, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• SIGMA PHI EPSILON TEXAS ETA | EIN: 82-4398421 | RICHMOND, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA | EIN: 83-3053639 | CORINTH, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA ALPHA CHI CHAPTER | EIN: 86-3999517 | CORINTH, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA ALPHA PSI CHAPTER | EIN: 87-4252223 | CORINTH, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 82-3971493 | CORINTH, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 20-2203769 | CORINTH, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 20-1237505 | CORINTH, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 81-4575228 | CORINTH, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 26-0805977 | CORINTH, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 90-0657756 | CORINTH, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 32-0217610 | CORINTH, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 46-0766525 | CORINTH, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• SIGMA ALPHA EPSILON – TEXAS SIGMA INCORPORATED | EIN: 88-2755427 | SAN MARCOS, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• SOCIETY OF HISPANIC PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS INC | EIN: 76-0221936 | HOUSTON, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• SOUTH TEXAS COTILLON INC | EIN: 26-2378154 | BROWNSVILLE, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• SOUTHWESTERN REGION OF IOTA PHI LAMBDA SORORITY INCORPORATED | EIN: 51-0194762 | HOUSTON, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• STILLWATER DELTA TAU DELTA CORP | EIN: 73-1101672 | STILLWATER, OK | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• TKE OP HOUSING | EIN: 47-5033161 | LUBBOCK, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• TEJAS FOUNDATION | EIN: 74-6062730 | AUSTIN, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• TEXAS BETA PSI CHAPTER OF ALPHA DELTA KAPPA SORORITY INC | EIN: 74-6088185 | SHAVANO PARK, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• TEXAS EPSILON UPSILON CHAPTER | EIN: 76-0366414 | NEEDVILLE, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• TEXAS KAPPA SIGMA EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION INC | EIN: 74-1380362 | FORT WORTH, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• TEXAS RHO CHAPTER OF THE SIGMA PHI EPSILON FRATERNITY | EIN: 74-1942292 | WACO, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• TEXAS NU-PHI DELTA THETA FRATERNITY | EIN: 81-4123811 | COLLEGE STA, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• UPSILON ZETA BUILDING ASSOCIATION OF CHI OMEGA | EIN: 75-2290669 | AMARILLO, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• UTSA SIGMA CHI | EIN: 84-2643090 | SAN ANTONIO, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• ZETA BETA CHAPTER OF KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 23-7098953 | PRAIRIE VIEW, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• ZETA OMICRON ALUMNI ASSOCIATION INC | EIN: 90-0949447 | PONDER, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY INC | EIN: 61-1562040 | LEWISVILLE, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY INC | EIN: 52-1345951 | NOLANVILLE, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY INCORPORATED – SIGMA GAMMA CHAPTER | EIN: 39-2352450 | HOUSTON, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY INCORPORATED NU IOTA CHAPTER BAYLOR UNIVERSITY | EIN: 52-1346485 | WACO, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• ZETA SIGMA HOUSE CORPORATION OF KAPPA KAPPA GAMMA FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 75-2620706 | DALLAS, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)
• ZETA XI PEARLS EDUCATIONAL FUND INC | EIN: 88-3484848 | ROWLETT, TX | Type: Greek Organization (IRS B83)