A Comprehensive Guide to Hazing and the Law in Texas: What Cochran County Families Need to Know

The late Texas night is cool, but the atmosphere inside a dimly lit off-campus house is anything but calm. A young student from Cochran County stands with a dozen others, some shivering, some visibly anxious, while older members bark orders and hold bottles of cheap liquor. “Drink it all, pledge! Don’t be a [derogatory term]!” one shouts, thrusting a bottle into the student’s hands. The fear of being outcast—of losing the friends they thought they’d made, of failing to “make the cut”—mixes with the burning in their throat. They drink. Someone coughs, then vomits. Another is already slumped in a corner, barely conscious. No one calls for help. They all know what happens if the university finds out: “The chapter will get shut down, and it’ll be your fault.”

This isn’t a scene from a sensational movie; it’s a chillingly familiar reality playing out on campuses across the Lone Star State, from the sprawling urban universities of Houston and Austin to the traditional halls of Texas A&M. This scenario, or one strikingly similar, could easily involve a child from Cochran County attending one of Texas’s many colleges. Our community in Cochran County, though often focused on local life, sends its sons and daughters to institutions where these dangers regrettably lurk.

This comprehensive guide is designed for families in Cochran County and across Texas who need to understand the insidious world of hazing. We delve into:

• What hazing truly looks like in 2025, far beyond outdated stereotypes.
• The critical Texas and federal laws designed to combat these dangerous practices.
• Lessons learned from major national hazing cases and their direct relevance to Texas universities, including the University of Houston (UH), Texas A&M University, the University of Texas at Austin (UT), Southern Methodist University (SMU), and Baylor University.
• How the national histories of fraternities and sororities can shed light on local chapter conduct and institutional liability.
• The legal options available to victims and their families in Cochran County and throughout Texas.

While this article provides general information to empower and educate, it is not a substitute for personalized legal advice. The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, is committed to providing confidential, compassionate counsel to families navigating these traumatic experiences. We serve families throughout Texas, including Cochran County, and are here to help.

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 Cochran County families unfamiliar with the evolving landscape of campus life, hazing might still conjure images from movies of harmless pranks or mild inconveniences. However, the reality in 2025 is far more insidious and dangerous. Modern hazing involves intentional, knowing, or reckless acts that endanger the mental or physical health or safety of students, often as a twisted rite of passage for pledging, initiation, or maintaining group membership. It is not just “horseplay” or “boys being boys”; it is a systemic problem that can have devastating, lifelong consequences.

We understand that you and your children may encounter numerous student organizations, both officially recognized and informal, across Texas. It’s crucial to recognize the varied forms hazing can take to protect your child.

Clear, Modern Definition of Hazing

Hazing is any forced, coerced, or strongly pressured action tied to joining, keeping membership, or gaining status in a group, where the behavior endangers physical or mental health, humiliates, or exploits. This definition broadens traditional understandings to encompass psychological and digital harm, which are increasingly prevalent. The idea that “I agreed to it” does not automatically validate the activity or make it legal, especially when peer pressure, power imbalances, and the fear of exclusion remove genuine consent.

Main Categories of Hazing

Hazing manifests in various forms, often escalating in severity:

• Alcohol and Substance Hazing: This is arguably the most common and deadliest form of hazing. It involves forced or coerced drinking of excessive amounts of alcohol, often through games, “lineups,” or “bottle exchanges” where pledges are expected to consume a full bottle of hard liquor. Pressures to consume unknown or illicit substances are also part of this dangerous category. The outcome can be alcohol poisoning, permanent injury, or death.

• Physical Hazing: This category includes acts intended to inflict pain, exhaustion, or physical discomfort. Examples range from paddling and beatings to extreme calisthenics or “workouts” that push individuals beyond their physical limits, sometimes resulting in rhabdomyolysis—a severe muscle breakdown that can cause acute kidney failure, as seen in the recent Leonel Bermudez case at the University of Houston. Sleep deprivation, food and water deprivation, and exposure to extreme temperatures are also common forms of physical hazing.

• Sexualized and Humiliating Hazing: This particularly degrading form of hazing involves forced nudity or partial nudity, simulated sexual acts (often graphically detailed in federal lawsuits, such as the “roasted pig” position alleged in the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets case), degrading costumes, or acts with racial, homophobic, or sexist overtones. The goal is often to assert dominance and break down the individual’s self-respect.

• Psychological Hazing: Often overlooked but deeply damaging, psychological hazing encompasses verbal abuse, threats, forced social isolation, constant intimidation, and manipulative mind games. This can lead to severe emotional distress, anxiety, depression, and long-term psychological trauma, even without physical injury.

• Digital/Online Hazing: A growing and insidious trend, digital hazing leverages technology for abuse. This includes demanding participation in humiliating dares or “challenges” via social media platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, or TikTok, pressuring individuals to create or share compromising images or videos, and constant monitoring through group chats and messaging apps at all hours, leading to sleep deprivation and extreme anxiety. The constant barrage of messages and demands leaves little respite for victims.

Where Hazing Actually Happens

The misconception that hazing is limited to “frat houses” is dangerously false. While fraternities and sororities—including Interfraternity Council (IFC), Panhellenic, National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), and multicultural organizations—are frequently implicated, hazing permeates a wide array of student groups:

• Corps of Cadets / ROTC / Military-Style Groups: These organizations, prevalent at schools like Texas A&M, often have deeply entrenched “traditions” that masquerade as team-building but are, in fact, hazing. Allegations of physical and sexualized hazing have emerged from such groups.

• Spirit Squads and Tradition Clubs: Groups like the Texas Cowboys at UT or various “spirit organizations” at other universities, initially designed to foster school pride, can sometimes devolve into hazing. These traditions, passed down through generations, often become vehicles for abuse.

• Athletic Teams: From football and basketball to baseball, cross-country, and cheerleading squads, hazing in athletic programs is disturbingly common. It’s often disguised as “team bonding” or “toughening up,” but involves extreme physical abuse, sexualized rituals, and substance abuse.

• Marching Bands and Performance Groups: Even seemingly innocuous groups like marching bands or drama clubs have faced accusations of hazing, involving physical exhaustion, humiliating acts, or forced alcohol consumption. Robert Champion’s death at Florida A&M’s marching band is a stark reminder of this.

• Other Student Organizations: Some service, cultural, and academic organizations, under the guise of fostering camaraderie, have also engaged in hazing, proving that no group is inherently immune to such practices.

The common threads are the emphasis on social status, unquestioning tradition, and a code of absolute secrecy. These elements create an environment where hazing thrives, even when participants know deep down that it is wrong and illegal.

Law & Liability Framework (Texas + Federal)

Understanding the legal landscape surrounding hazing is crucial for Cochran County families seeking justice and accountability. In Texas, a comprehensive legal framework exists, reinforced by federal regulations, to address hazing.

Texas Hazing Law Basics (Education Code)

Texas has clear statutory prohibitions against hazing, primarily outlined in the Texas Education Code, Chapter 37, Subchapter F. This law defines hazing broadly to include any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, on or off campus, by an individual or a group, directed against a student for purposes of initiation, affiliation, or membership. Crucially, this act must endanger the mental or physical health or safety of a student.

• Criminal penalties: Hazing is a crime in Texas. The severity of the penalty depends on the level of harm caused:

  • By default, hazing is a Class B Misdemeanor, carrying potential fines and jail time.
  • If hazing results in an injury requiring medical treatment, it escalates to a Class A Misdemeanor.
  • Most significantly, if hazing causes serious bodily injury or death, it can be prosecuted as a State Jail Felony.
    Additionally, individuals who know about hazing and fail to report it can face misdemeanor charges. Retaliating against someone who reports hazing is also a misdemeanor.

• Immunity for Good-Faith Reporting: Texas law (Education Code § 37.154) offers legal protection to individuals who report hazing incidents in good faith to university officials or law enforcement. This provision aims to encourage reporting by removing the fear of legal repercussions for whistleblowers. Furthermore, many Texas universities and state laws include amendments for good-faith reporting in medical emergencies, protecting students who call for help, even if underage drinking was involved.

• Consent is Not a Defense: A critical aspect of Texas hazing law (§ 37.155) is that consent is explicitly not a defense. This means even if a student “agreed” to participate in a hazing activity, the involved parties can still be prosecuted or held liable. This provision acknowledges the inherent power dynamics and peer pressure that often negate true consent in hazing scenarios.

Criminal vs Civil Cases

When hazing occurs, Texas families may encounter two distinct types of legal actions:

• Criminal Cases: These are initiated by the state (prosecutors) to punish individuals or organizations for breaking hazing laws. In Texas, a hazing incident can lead to various criminal charges, ranging from misdemeanor hazing to felony charges (for serious bodily injury or death), as well as associated offenses like furnishing alcohol to minors, assault, or even manslaughter. The state’s goal is justice through punishment.

• Civil Cases: These are brought by the victims (or their surviving family members in cases of death) against the responsible parties. The primary aim of a civil lawsuit is to seek monetary compensation for the damages suffered and to hold individuals and institutions accountable. Civil hazing cases can involve claims such as:

  • Negligence and Gross Negligence: For failing to prevent foreseeable harm.
  • Wrongful Death: In cases where hazing results in a fatality.
  • Negligent Hiring/Supervision: Against universities or national organizations.
  • Premises Liability: Against property owners where hazing occurs.
  • Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress or Assault/Battery.

It’s important for Cochran County families to understand that criminal and civil cases operate independently. A criminal conviction is not a prerequisite for filing a civil lawsuit, and compensation can be sought even if criminal charges are not pursued or do not result in a conviction.

Federal Overlay: Stop Campus Hazing Act, Title IX, Clery

Beyond state law, federal regulations also play a significant role in addressing hazing, particularly at institutions receiving federal funding:

• Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024): This landmark federal legislation, set to be fully implemented by 2026, mandates greater transparency and prevention efforts from colleges and universities nationwide. Institutions receiving federal aid will be required to:

  • Publicly report hazing incidents in a clear and accessible manner.
  • Strengthen their hazing education and prevention programs.
  • Maintain comprehensive, publicly available data on hazing violations and disciplinary actions. This act will provide Cochran County families with more data to research institutions and organizations.

• Title IX / Clery Act: These established federal laws can indirectly impact hazing cases:

  • Title IX: Prohibits sex-based discrimination in education. If hazing involves sexual harassment, sexual assault, or creates a hostile environment based on gender, it can trigger Title IX obligations, requiring universities to investigate and respond.
  • Clery Act: Mandates that colleges and universities disclose information about crime on and around their campuses. Hazing incidents that involve assault, alcohol/drug violations, or other reportable crimes can fall under Clery reporting requirements, aiding transparency.

Who Can Be Liable in a Civil Hazing Lawsuit

Determining who is responsible for hazing can be complex, often involving multiple parties. In a civil hazing lawsuit, liability can extend to:

• Individual Students: Those who directly planned, participated in, carried out, or helped conceal the hazing acts. This can include fraternity/sorority members, pledge trainers, team captains, or other student leaders.

• Local Chapter / Organization: The specific fraternity, sorority, club, or team itself, particularly if it operates as a recognized legal entity. Officers may be held responsible for actions taken within their capacity.

• National Fraternity/Sorority: The national or international headquarters often bears significant liability. This is especially true if they have knowledge of prior hazing incidents within their chapters, if their anti-hazing policies are merely “paper policies” without proper enforcement, or if they continue to support a chapter known for problematic behavior.

• University or Governing Board: The educational institution may be liable if it acted negligently. This can involve failing to properly supervise student organizations, ignoring repeated warnings about hazing, having inadequate anti-hazing policies, failing to enforce existing policies, or demonstrating deliberate indifference to known dangers on campus. Public universities in Texas, like UH, A&M, and UT, have some sovereign immunity, but exceptions exist for gross negligence or when suing individuals in their personal capacity. Private universities, such as SMU and Baylor, typically have fewer governmental immunity protections.

• Third Parties: In some cases, liability can extend to property owners (including landlords of off-campus houses or event spaces), commercial establishments that negligently serve alcohol to minors (under dram shop laws), or even event organizers and security companies who fail in their duty of care.

Every case is fact-specific, and the identity of potential defendants will depend on the unique circumstances of the hazing incident. Identifying all responsible parties often requires a thorough and experienced legal investigation.

National Hazing Case Patterns (Anchor Stories)

When families in Cochran County consider the possibility of hazing impacting their children, it’s vital to recognize that these are not isolated incidents. A disturbing pattern of severe harm and tragic deaths across the nation underscores the seriousness of this issue. These national cases, while not occurring in Cochran County directly, set crucial legal precedents and expose the recurring dangers that Texas families must be aware of.

Alcohol Poisoning & Death Pattern

Forced alcohol consumption remains the leading cause of hazing-related fatalities. The tragic stories below highlight the devastating consequences of these “traditions.”

• Timothy Piazza – Penn State, Beta Theta Pi (2017): Timothy Piazza, 19, died after falling repeatedly and suffering traumatic brain injuries during a “bid acceptance” night involving extreme alcohol consumption. Security cameras within the fraternity house horrifyingly documented the nearly 12-hour delay by fraternity brothers in calling for medical help. The aftermath involved dozens of criminal charges against fraternity members, intense civil litigation, and the enactment of the Timothy J. Piazza Anti-Hazing Law in Pennsylvania. This case starkly laid bare how extreme intoxication, a callous delay in calling 911, and a pervasive culture of silence can lead to legally devastating outcomes for all involved.

• Andrew Coffey – Florida State, Pi Kappa Phi (2017): Andrew Coffey, a 20-year-old pledge, died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event. Pledges were given bottles of hard liquor and pressured to drink them. The incident led to criminal hazing charges against multiple fraternity members and prompted Florida State University to temporarily suspend all Greek life, overhauling its policies in response. Coffey’s death became a national symbol of how formulaic “tradition” drinking nights are a repeating script for disaster.

• Max Gruver – LSU, Phi Delta Theta (2017): Maxwell Gruver, 18, died with a blood-alcohol content of 0.495% after participating in a “Bible study” drinking game. Pledges were forced to drink heavily if they answered questions incorrectly. His tragic death directly led to the establishment of Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act, a felony hazing statute. This case serves as a powerful reminder that legislative change often follows public outrage and clear proof of systemic hazing practices. The family’s wrongful death lawsuit later resulted in a $6.1 million verdict against key individuals, on top of other confidential settlements.

• Stone Foltz – Bowling Green State University, Pi Kappa Alpha (2021): Stone Foltz, 20, died from alcohol poisoning after being forced to consume an entire bottle of whiskey during a “Big/Little” pledge night. Multiple criminal convictions followed, and the institution, Bowling Green State University, settled with the Foltz family for nearly $3 million, alongside other significant settlements with the national fraternity and individuals. This grim case demonstrated that even public universities can face severe financial and reputational consequences for hazing that occurs under their watch. The total settlement reached $10 million, with $7 million from Pi Kappa Alpha national and ~$3 million from BGSU.

Physical & Ritualized Hazing Pattern

Beyond alcohol, physical and ritualistic hazing can be equally deadly, proving that the abuse takes many forms.

• Chun “Michael” Deng – Baruch College, Pi Delta Psi (2013): Michael Deng, 19, died during a fraternity retreat in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania. He was blindfolded, weighted with a heavy backpack, and repeatedly tackled in a brutal ritual known as the “glass ceiling.” His fraternity brothers delayed calling 911 for over an hour after he became unresponsive. Ultimately, multiple members were convicted, and in a landmark decision, the national fraternity itself was criminally convicted of aggravated assault and involuntary manslaughter, fined over $112,500, and permanently banned from operating in Pennsylvania for 10 years. This case tragically illustrated that off-campus “retreats” can be as dangerous or worse than parties and that national organizations are not immune to direct criminal liability.

Athletic Program Hazing & Abuse

Hazing is not confined to Greek life; it is a pervasive issue within athletic programs, from high school to elite college teams.

• Northwestern University Football (2023–2025): A cascade of allegations emerged from former football players describing widespread sexualized and racist hazing within the program over many years. This scandal led to multiple lawsuits against Northwestern University and its coaching staff, the firing of long-time head coach Pat Fitzgerald (who later pursued a confidential wrongful-termination settlement with the university, settled in August 2025). This deeply troubling situation at a prestigious academic institution highlighted that hazing extends far beyond Greek life, permeating major athletic programs, and raising serious questions about institutional oversight and accountability.

What These Cases Mean for Texas Families

These national tragedies, far from being distant headlines, are deeply relevant to families in Cochran County and across Texas. They reveal several common, dangerous threads: forced drinking, extreme humiliation, escalating violence, a culture of delayed or denied medical care, and systematic cover-ups. Importantly, these cases also demonstrate that significant legal reforms, multi-million-dollar settlements, and real accountability often only occur after a tragedy has spurred persistent, aggressive litigation.

For Texas families experiencing hazing at universities like UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, or Baylor, the landscape of accountability has been shaped by these national lessons. These precedents prove that institutions and individuals can and should be held accountable when they fail to protect students from the foreseeable dangers of hazing.

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

For Cochran County families, our children attend universities throughout Texas, including some of the largest and most prominent institutions. Understanding the specific context of hazing at these major universities is crucial. While Midland doesn’t have major universities within city limits, families here typically send their children to Texas Tech in Lubbock, UT Austin, Texas A&M, or UTPB in nearby Odessa. Even for families whose children attend other schools, the patterns of hazing, the legal challenges, and the need for accountability remain consistent across the state. This section will delve into the hazing landscape at five key Texas universities.

5.1 University of Houston (UH)

The University of Houston, a vibrant urban campus with a diverse student body, is a significant hub for Cochran County students seeking higher education in a major city. Many families from our area consider UH an excellent option in our state. Located in the thriving city of Houston, approximately 320 miles southeast of Cochran County, UH is accessible for many of our graduates. Its blend of commuter and residential students, coupled with active Greek life and numerous student organizations, makes it a dynamic environment.

5.1.1 Campus & culture snapshot

The University of Houston is a large, public research university central to Houston’s academic and cultural landscape. It serves a diverse student body, offering a mix of on-campus residence life and a significant population of commuter students. Greek life at UH is robust, comprising various Interfraternity Council (IFC), Panhellenic, National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), and multicultural fraternities and sororities, all contributing to the campus social fabric. Beyond Greek life, the university hosts countless student organizations, sports clubs, and cultural groups.

5.1.2 Hazing policy & reporting

The University of Houston explicitly prohibits hazing, making a clear stance against these dangerous practices both on and off campus. Their policy aligns with Texas Education Code, banning any conduct that endangers mental or physical health for initiation or membership purposes. Prohibited acts include forced consumption of alcohol or controlled substances, sleep deprivation, physical mistreatment, branding, and any activity causing mental distress.

UH provides multiple reporting channels accessible through the Dean of Students office, the Office of Student Conduct, and the campus police (UHPD). Transparency is a priority, with UH publishing some hazing statements and disciplinary information on its website.

5.1.3 Example incidents & response

Unfortunately, even at a university with clear policies, incidents occur. A notable case involved Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike) in 2016. Pledges allegedly endured sleep, food, and water deprivation during a multi-day event, with one student reportedly suffering a lacerated spleen after being body-slammed. The local chapter faced misdemeanor hazing charges and university suspension.

More recently, the headline-grabbing case of Leonel Bermudez v. University of Houston / Pi Kappa Phi (2025) has brought UH hazing to the forefront. Attorney911 represents Leonel Bermudez, who pledged Pi Kappa Phi’s Beta Nu chapter in fall 2025. Bermudez experienced harrowing hazing rituals over several weeks, including:

• Being forced to carry a humiliating “pledge fanny pack” containing condoms, a sex toy, and nicotine devices, with threats of punishment for non-compliance.
• Engaging in physically extreme “Yellowstone Boulevard Park workouts,” involving 100+ push-ups and 500 squats, which caused him to lose the ability to stand.
• Being subjected to “waterboarding-like” hose spraying and threatened with actual waterboarding.
• Forced consumption of milk, hot dogs, and peppercorns until vomiting, followed by immediate sprints.
• Being ordered to lie in vomit-soaked grass.

These brutal acts led to Bermudez developing severe rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure, resulting in a four-day hospitalization with dangerously high creatine kinase levels and brown urine. The Beta Nu chapter was suspended by the university on November 6, 2025, and surrendered its charter on November 14, 2025. Attorney911 filed a $10 million lawsuit against UH, the UH Board of Regents, Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters, the local housing corporation, and 13 individuals. As Attorney Ralph Manginello stated, “His urine was brown. We’re almost in 2026. This has to stop.” Our co-counsel Lupe Peña added, “If this prevents harm to another person…Let’s bring this to light. Enough is enough.” (See 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/, ABC13: https://abc13.com/post/waterboarding-forced-eating-physical-punishment-lawsuit-alleges-abuse-faced-injured-pledge-uhs-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity/18186418/, and Hoodline: https://hoodline.com/2025/11/university-of-houston-and-pi-kappa-phi-fraternity-face-10m-lawsuit-over-alleged-hazing-and-abuse/).

5.1.4 How a UH hazing case might proceed

Hazing cases originating from the University of Houston can involve local law enforcement, including both the University of Houston Police Department (UHPD) and the Houston Police Department, especially if the incident occurred off-campus or involved criminal acts. Civil lawsuits will typically be filed in Harris County courts. Potential defendants in such a case could include the individual students involved, the local chapter, the national fraternity/sorority (like Pi Kappa Phi national in the Bermudez case), and potentially the University of Houston and its Board of Regents, as well as property owners or landlords.

5.1.5 What UH students & parents should do

Cochran County families with children at UH should:

• Familiarize themselves with UH’s hazing policies and reporting mechanisms.
• Understand that instances of hazing, even severe ones, have occurred at UH, necessitating vigilance.
• Report any suspicions immediately to UH’s Dean of Students or UHPD, or anonymously via the National Anti-Hazing Hotline (1-888-NOT-HAZE).
• If hazing leads to injury or death, contact a lawyer experienced in Houston-based hazing cases, such as Attorney911, to discuss legal options, as our firm is actively litigating hazing cases against UH and its associated organizations.
• Document everything, from strange requests and physical symptoms to changes in behavior and late-night activities.

5.2 Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University, a beloved institution for many Cochran County families, is approximately 250 miles east of our community. Known for its deep-rooted traditions and the revered Corps of Cadets, A&M draws many students from across Texas, including our region.

5.2.1 Campus & culture snapshot

Texas A&M University in College Station is renowned for its strong sense of tradition, including the iconic Corps of Cadets, which fosters a military-style environment and is highly respected. Alongside the Corps, A&M boasts a vibrant Greek life scene and numerous student organizations. The campus culture emphasizes loyalty, camaraderie, and a rich history, elements that can, unfortunately, sometimes be exploited in hazing rituals.

5.2.2 Hazing policy & reporting

Texas A&M has strict anti-hazing policies, clearly prohibiting any act that could endanger the mental or physical health of a student for initiation or membership purposes. Their policies extend to all student organizations, including fraternities, soror and the Corps of Cadets. Reporting channels are available through the Division of Student Affairs, the Department of Student Life, and the Texas A&M University Police Department (TAMU PD). The university also provides an online incident reporting form and aims to maintain transparency regarding hazing violations.

5.2.3 Example incidents & response

Despite rigorous policies, Texas A&M has faced significant hazing incidents:

• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) Lawsuit (around 2021): Two SAE pledges alleged severe hazing, claiming they were subjected to forced strenuous activity and had substances, including industrial-strength cleaner, raw eggs, and spit, poured on them. This resulted in severe chemical burns that required skin graft surgeries. The fraternity chapter was suspended by the university, and the pledges pursued a multi-million dollar lawsuit against the organization.
• Corps of Cadets Lawsuit (2023): A former cadet filed a lawsuit alleging degrading hazing within the Corps. The allegations included simulated sexual acts and being bound in a “roasted pig” pose with an apple in his mouth, reminiscent of an incident documented in Nuwer’s database from the 1999 Aggie Bonfire collapse investigation. Texas A&M stated it addressed the matter under its Code of Conduct, suspending the involved members and implementing disciplinary measures.

Such cases highlight that hazing at A&M can occur in both Greek life and within highly traditional organizations like the Corps of Cadets, where “tradition” is sometimes used to justify abuse.

5.2.4 How a Texas A&M hazing case might proceed

Hazing cases originating from Texas A&M would involve the Texas A&M University Police Department (TAMU PD) for on-campus incidents, or College Station Police Department for off-campus events. Civil lawsuits would likely proceed through courts in Brazos County. Due to its status as a public university, Texas A&M benefits from sovereign immunity, making lawsuits against the institution itself challenging but not impossible, especially in cases of gross negligence or Title IX violations.

5.2.5 What Texas A&M students & parents should do

For Cochran County families with Aggies, it’s vital to:

• Understand the unique dynamics of A&M’s strong traditional culture, especially within the Corps of Cadets, and how it can intersect with hazing.
• Report any suspected hazing to the Dean of Student Life or TAMU PD.
• As evidenced by prior lawsuits, even traditional organizations or those with strong alumni ties are not immune to hazing allegations.
• If severe injury or death linked to hazing occurs, immediately contact a Texas hazing attorney with experience dealing with public universities and large, well-funded institutions like Texas A&M.

5.3 University of Texas at Austin (UT)

The University of Texas at Austin, a flagship institution in the state, is approximately 200 miles east of Cochran County. UT is a highly popular choice for many Texas students, including those from our community eager to attend a top-tier public university.

5.3.1 Campus & culture snapshot

The University of Texas at Austin is a massive public university known for its academic rigor, vibrant campus life, and fierce school spirit. Its extensive Greek system comprises numerous fraternities and sororities from various councils, representing a significant portion of its social scene. Beyond Greek life, UT is home to countless spirit organizations, athletic clubs, and diverse student groups. Its dynamic and often intense environment can sometimes contribute to pressures that manifest as hazing.

5.3.2 Hazing policy & reporting

The University of Texas at Austin explicitly states its prohibition against hazing, defining it in alignment with Texas Education Code. UT’s policy covers all university-sponsored organizations, activities, and individuals, whether on or off campus. They emphasize that consent is not a defense. UT Austin stands out for its public Hazing Violations logging accessible on its website (hazing.utexas.edu), which details organizations, dates of incidents, conduct descriptions, and sanctions imposed. This transparency is a valuable resource for families in Cochran County.

5.3.3 Example incidents & response

UT’s public hazing log reveals numerous incidents, showcasing an ongoing struggle despite transparent policies:

• Pi Kappa Alpha (2023): This chapter was sanctioned after new members reported being directed to consume milk and other unusual drinks, followed by strenuous calisthenics. The university found this constituted hazing, placing the chapter on probation and mandating enhanced hazing-prevention education.
• Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) Lawsuit (January 2024): This chapter, already on suspension for prior hazing and safety violations, faced a multi-million-dollar lawsuit from an Australian exchange student. The student alleged assault at a fraternity party, resulting in severe injuries including a dislocated leg, broken ligaments, fractured tibia, and a broken nose.
• Texas Cowboys (2018): This spirit organization was suspended following the tragic death of a “new man” after a social event. While the proximate cause was a vehicle accident, the parent’s lawsuit alleged sleep deprivation and other hazing-related activities were contributing factors, leading to a distracted driver.

UT’s consistent reporting of violations demonstrates persistent challenges faced by the institution in eradicating hazing.

5.3.4 How a UT Austin hazing case might proceed

Hazing cases arising from UT Austin can involve the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD) or the Austin Police Department, especially if incidents occur off-campus in the city’s West Campus area. Civil lawsuits are typically filed in Travis County courts. As a public university, UT Austin benefits from sovereign immunity under Texas law, but as with other state schools, exceptions for gross negligence or constitutional violations can apply, allowing for civil remedies. The university’s public hazing log can be crucial evidence in civil cases, demonstrating a history of violations and the university’s knowledge of problematic organizations.

5.3.5 What UT Austin students & parents should do

Cochran County families with ties to UT Austin should:

• Regularly check UT’s public Hazing Violations page (hazing.utexas.edu) to stay informed about active sanctions against organizations.
• Be aware that despite transparency and penalties, hazing, especially alcohol-related, is an ongoing issue at UT.
• Report any hazing concerns to the Dean of Students, Student Judicial Services, UTPD, or the anonymous “Speak Up” reporting system.
• In the event of injury or death, contact a lawyer with experience in hazing litigation against public Texas universities to navigate potential sovereign immunity defenses and leverage UT’s public records.

5.4 Southern Methodist University (SMU)

Southern Methodist University, a private university in Dallas, is approximately 300 miles northeast of Cochran County. Given its strong academic reputation and vibrant campus life, SMU is a common destination for students from affluent communities across Texas, including some from our area.

5.4.1 Campus & culture snapshot

Southern Methodist University is a private, liberal arts university known for its beautiful campus, rigorous academics, and strong Greek life presence. Located in a prestigious Dallas neighborhood, SMU attracts a student population often characterized by affluence and a desire for social engagement. Greek letter organizations play a significant role in the campus social scene, hosting numerous events and recruitment activities. This environment, while fostering strong alumni networks, can sometimes create intense social pressures that contribute to hazing.

5.4.2 Hazing policy & reporting

SMU adheres strictly to Texas law and its own institutional policies prohibiting hazing. Their stance is clear: hazing is not tolerated and extends to all student organizations, whether officially recognized or not, and regardless of location (on or off campus). SMU encourages reporting through its Dean of Students office, the Office of Student Conduct, and the SMU Police Department. They also utilize various anonymous reporting systems, such as “Real Response,” to allow students to submit tips without fear of retribution.

5.4.3 Example incidents & response

SMU has taken action against numerous organizations for hazing violations:

• Kappa Alpha Order (2017): This chapter faced a significant suspension after allegations surfaced that new members were paddled, forced to consume alcohol, and subjected to sleep deprivation. The university and national organization imposed sanctions that restricted the chapter’s recruiting activities for several years.
• Additional Suspensions: SMU’s records indicate periodic suspensions and probations for fraternities and sororities found in violation of hazing policies, often involving alcohol misuse, undue physical exertion, and disrespectful treatment of new members. While SMU, as a private institution, does not publish a hazing log as detailed as UT’s, disciplinary actions are taken and communicated to the campus community.

5.4.4 How an SMU hazing case might proceed

Hazing incidents at SMU could involve the SMU Police Department and/or the Dallas Police Department for off-campus events. Civil lawsuits against SMU, its fraternities, or individual members would typically be filed in Dallas County courts. As a private university, SMU does not benefit from sovereign immunity, making it potentially more straightforward to pursue civil litigation against the institution directly for negligence or other claims. However, private universities often have powerful legal teams, necessitating experienced counsel.

5.4.5 What SMU students & parents should do

Cochran County families connected to SMU should:

• Review SMU’s anti-hazing policies available through the Dean of Students office.
• Be vigilant for signs of hazing, especially given the intense social environment often associated with SMU Greek life.
• Utilize SMU’s anonymous reporting systems like “Real Response” if direct reporting feels unsafe.
• Should hazing result in injury, a Texas hazing attorney can help uncover internal records and advise on legal recourse against the private institution and its associated organizations.

5.5 Baylor University

Baylor University, a private Christian university located in Waco, is approximately 230 miles northeast of Cochran County. Known for its strong spiritual values and robust academic programs, Baylor is a significant destination for many students from our community who seek a faith-based higher education.

5.5.1 Campus & culture snapshot

Baylor University cultivates a distinct culture rooted in its Christian mission, emphasizing community, service, and academic excellence. Its campus traditions are strong, often blending spiritual and collegiate pride. Greek life is present but may operate differently than at some other Texas universities, with unique traditions and student organizations playing a prominent role in social life. Baylor’s history includes periods of intense scrutiny regarding campus safety and accountability, particularly concerning sexual assault and athletic program governance.

5.2.2 Hazing policy & reporting

Baylor University maintains a strong zero-tolerance stance against hazing, clearly outlining prohibited activities that align with Texas Education Code. Their policies cover all university-affiliated groups and activities, whether on or off campus, emphasizing that “tradition” is no excuse for behavior that compromises student safety or dignity. Baylor provides channels for reporting hazing through the Dean of Students office, the Department of Student Activities, and the Baylor University Police Department (BUPD). Baylor also encourages anonymous reporting and offers resources for students to seek support.

5.2.3 Example incidents & response

Baylor’s commitment to anti-hazing has been tested by various incidents:

• Baylor Baseball Hazing (2020): Following an internal investigation, 14 members of the Baylor baseball team were suspended due to hazing violations. The suspensions were staggered to minimize disruption to the team’s season, but the incident highlighted that hazing behaviors persist even in high-profile athletic programs within the context of a faith-based institution.
• Prior Scandals: While not directly hazing, Baylor’s history with the widely publicized sexual assault scandal and issues within its football program underscore challenges in institutional oversight and accountability. These past events inform the university’s current approach to student safety and compliance.

These incidents demonstrate that even at a university with an emphasis on ethics, rigorous enforcement and constant vigilance are necessary to combat hazing effectively.

5.2.4 How a Baylor hazing case might proceed

Hazing incidents at Baylor University would typically involve the Baylor University Police Department (BUPD) for on-campus matters, or the Waco Police Department for off-campus incidents. Civil lawsuits against Baylor, its student organizations, or individuals would generally be filed in McLennan County courts. As a private university, Baylor does not possess sovereign immunity, making it potentially vulnerable to direct civil litigation for negligence, gross negligence, or other claims arising from hazing. However, private institutions often have significant resources dedicated to legal defense.

5.2.5 What Baylor students & parents should do

Cochran County families whose children attend Baylor should:

• Thoroughly review Baylor’s anti-hazing policies and understand how the university’s Christian mission informs its stance against such harmful practices.
• Be aware that hazing can occur in various student groups, including athletic teams, challenging the perception that it’s solely a Greek life issue.
• Utilize Baylor’s reporting mechanisms, including anonymous options, if they suspect hazing.
• In cases of severe injury or death due to hazing, contacting a Texas hazing attorney like Attorney911 is crucial to navigate the legal complexities of suing a private university and associated organizations.

5.6 Where Cochran County Families Send Their Children (Regional Universities)

While we’ve focused on the major Texas universities often attended by Cochran County students, it’s also true that many families from our area send their children to other excellent institutions across the state. These include Texas Tech University in Lubbock, our closest major university just 70 miles north; Tarleton State University in Stephenville, a popular choice; Angelo State University in San Angelo; and the University of Texas Permian Basin in nearby Odessa, just 80 miles southeast. Each of these schools has its own unique campus culture and Greek life presence, and their hazing policies are critical for Cochran County families to understand. Hazing incidents can, and do, occur at any institution, regardless of its size or location, and the state laws discussed here protect students at all Texas universities.

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

For Cochran County families concerned about hazing, understanding the specific organizations involved, and their broader national histories, is paramount. The culture and reputation of a local chapter are often deeply intertwined with its national organization’s past.

6.1 Why National Histories Matter

Many fraternities and sororities active at Texas’s major universities – including UH, Texas A&M, UT, SMU, and Baylor – are part of large national or international organizations. These national headquarters frequently have extensive anti-hazing manuals, detailed risk management policies, and dedicated staff solely because they have a painful history of members suffering severe injuries, brain damage, or even death in hazing incidents.

These national organizations often have deep institutional knowledge, based on years of legal battles and internal reviews, regarding specific hazing patterns:

• Formulaic forced drinking nights that lead to alcohol poisoning.
• Physical abuse, including paddling, forced calisthenics, and brutal beatings.
• Psychologically damaging and humiliating rituals.

When a local chapter in Texas repeats hazing behaviors that have led to harm at other chapters of the same national organization, it creates a powerful legal argument for foreseeability. This pattern evidence can demonstrate that the national organization knew, or should have known, about the inherent dangers of such activities within its system. Such knowledge significantly strengthens claims of negligence against the national entity, impacting settlement leverage and even the potential for punitive damages.

6.2 Organization Mapping: From Local Chapters to National Patterns

Here, we will connect the local presence of certain Greek organizations in Texas to their documented national histories of hazing. This connection illustrates how patterns of abuse sometimes recur within a national organization’s chapters, influencing institutional liability.

Pi Kappa Alpha (Pike)

Local Presence: Pi Kappa Alpha has chapters at various Texas universities, including active or historically present chapters at Texas Tech University, Texas State University, Stephen F. Austin State University, and the University of Houston.

National Hazing History: Nationally, Pi Kappa Alpha has faced devastating hazing incidents. The death of Stone Foltz at Bowling Green State University in 2021, where a pledge died from alcohol poisoning after a forced drinking ritual, resulted in a $10 million settlement against the national fraternity and the university. Another tragic incident involved David Bogenberger, who died of alcohol poisoning at Northern Illinois University in 2012, leading to a $14 million settlement paid by the fraternity members present. These cases reveal a national pattern of dangerous alcohol-related hazing within Pike chapters. Attorney911 notes that such a history can be used to show foreseeability when similar incidents occur at Texas chapters.

Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE)

Local Presence: Sigma Alpha Epsilon maintains a significant presence across Texas campuses, including chapters at the University of Houston, Texas A&M University, and the University of Texas at Austin.

National Hazing History: SAE has frequently been referred to as “America’s deadliest fraternity” by media due to its extensive history of hazing-related deaths and severe injuries nationwide. This tragic pattern led the national organization to eliminate its pledge process entirely in 2014, although hazing incidents continue to surface. Lawsuits against SAE have included a traumatic brain injury suit at the University of Alabama (filed 2023) and a chemical burns case at Texas A&M (2021) where pledges were exposed to harmful substances. In January 2024, an Australian exchange student sued the UT Austin SAE chapter for over $1 million after suffering severe injuries during an alleged assault at a party, while the chapter was already under suspension for prior violations. This national history means that when similar incidents occur at Texas SAE chapters, foreseeability and prior knowledge are strong arguments against the national body.

Phi Delta Theta (ΦΔΘ)

Local Presence: Phi Delta Theta has chapters at major Texas universities such as the University of Houston, Texas A&M University, and Baylor University.

National Hazing History: Phi Delta Theta’s national record includes the tragic death of Maxwell “Max” Gruver at Louisiana State University in 2017. Gruver died from extreme alcohol poisoning after a forced drinking game during a “Bible study” hazing ritual. His death resulted in multiple criminal charges, a conviction for negligent homicide, and a $6.1 million verdict against one of the fraternity members. This incident prompted Louisiana to enact the strict Max Gruver Act. Such national history is critical in arguing that the national fraternity was aware of the dangers associated with its chapters’ hazing practices.

Pi Kappa Phi (ΠΚΦ)

Local Presence: Pi Kappa Phi has established chapters at universities across Texas, most notably the Beta Nu chapter at the University of Houston, which is currently embroiled in our firm’s $10 million lawsuit related to Leonel Bermudez.

National Hazing History: Pi Kappa Phi’s national organization has also been linked to severe hazing incidents. The death of Andrew Coffey at Florida State University in 2017 highlights this, where he died from acute alcohol poisoning during a “Big Brother Night” event. While numerous criminal prosecutions followed for individual members, the incident triggered a system-wide overhaul of Florida State’s Greek life policies. The Leonel Bermudez case at UH marks a direct continuation of this pattern, where severe physical and psychological hazing resulted in acute kidney failure and rhabdomyolysis for our client. The Bermudez lawsuit seeks to hold Pi Kappa Phi national headquarters, along with other defendants, accountable for a pattern of dangerous initiation rituals.

Kappa Sigma (ΚΣ)

Local Presence: Kappa Sigma has chapters at many Texas universities, including a chapter at Texas Christian University (TCU) that faced scrutiny in 2018.

National Hazing History: Kappa Sigma has a national history of severe hazing, famously including the drowning death of Chad Meredith at the University of Miami in 2001. Meredith, an 18-year-old freshman, drowned after being coerced into a swim across a lake while intoxicated. His family was awarded a $12.6 million verdict in a wrongful death lawsuit. At Texas A&M, allegations have surfaced in 2023 regarding hazing resulting in severe injuries, including rhabdomyolysis—a condition also seen in our client Leonel Bermudez. These cases demonstrate a recurring national pattern of dangerous physical activities and forced high-risk alcohol consumption within Kappa Sigma chapters.

Alpha Phi Alpha (ΑΦΑ)

Local Presence: Alpha Phi Alpha, a historically Black fraternity (NPHC), has chapters at numerous Texas universities, including the University of Houston, Texas Southern University, and Prairie View A&M University.

National Hazing History: Alpha Phi Alpha has faced allegations and incidents of hazing nationally. A significant case involved Joel Harris at Morehouse College in 1989, who died after suspected physical hazing. Another incident at Cornell University in 1995 involved a pledge developing a life-threatening infection after being paddled. Such patterns highlight the continuous need for vigilance and enforcement of anti-hazing policies within the organization.

Kappa Alpha Order (KA)

Local Presence: Kappa Alpha Order is present at colleges across Texas, notably having had a chapter at Southern Methodist University (SMU) that faced suspension due to hazing.

National Hazing History: Nationally, Kappa Alpha Order has been involved in several hazing scandals. A case at the University of Mississippi in 1987 involved an alcohol-related fall after a “Big Brother-Little Brother” party, which, while officially deemed non-hazing, raised concerns about alcohol promotion during pledge activities. The SMU chapter’s suspension in 2017 for alleged paddling, forced drinking, and sleep deprivation highlights the recurring nature of these issues within the fraternity.

6.3 Tie Back to Legal Strategy

The documented national histories of these organizations are not mere anecdotes; they are crucial elements in a legal strategy to hold them accountable. When a Texas chapter engages in hazing that mirrors past incidents elsewhere, it provides powerful evidence that the national organization had prior knowledge of such dangers. It shows that these events are not isolated, spontaneous acts, but often part of a known script.

In civil litigation, this pattern evidence allows experienced hazing attorneys to argue that national organizations and universities had a foreseeable duty to prevent harm. It helps demonstrate that “we didn’t know” is often an untenable defense when their own records, or public records, show a history of similar violations. This understanding can:

• Increase settlement leverage by exposing the true extent of an organization’s liability.
• Be critical in insurance coverage disputes, as insurers may be held responsible if the organization acted with gross negligence, knowing the risks.
• Support claims for punitive damages in jurisdictions where recklessness or deliberate indifference can be proven.

For Cochran County families whose children have suffered due to hazing, connecting a local incident to a national pattern is a powerful way to argue for comprehensive accountability.

Complete Texas Greek Organization Directory

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

• ALPHA OMEGA EPSILON | EIN: 56-2652714 | BEAUMONT, TX
• AGGIE ADPI FAMILY CLUB | EIN: 93-2357531 | CYPRESS, TX
• NATIONAL PAN-HELLENIC COUNCIL NORTH DALLAS SUBURBIA | EIN: 26-4080411 | CARROLLTON, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 81-2525354 | COLLEGE STA, TX
• GENTLEMEN OF AGGIE TRADITION | EIN: 88-0537463 | COLLEGE STA, TX
• ETA ALPHA HOUSE CORPORATION OF KAPPA DELTA SORORITY | EIN: 74-2930349 | COLLEGE STA, TX
• TEXAS NU-PHI DELTA THETA FRATERNITY | EIN: 81-4123811 | COLLEGE STA, TX
• HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 90-0293166 | COLLEGE STATION, TX
• KAPPA SIGMA – MU CAMMA CHAPTER INC | EIN: 13-3048786 | COLLEGE STATION, TX
• SIGMA NU CORPORATION OF OKLAHOMA | EIN: 73-6098935 | COLLEYVILLE, TX
• SIGMA CHI FRATERNITY ZETA ETA | EIN: 75-6060974 | COMMERCE, TX
• SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY | EIN: 75-2609909 | COMMERCE, TX
• LAMBDA NU GAMMA FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 93-2103520 | CONROE, TX
• LAMBDA OMEGA EPSILON SORORITY INC | EIN: 86-1854073 | CONROE, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA | EIN: 83-3053639 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA ALPHA CHI CHAPTER | EIN: 86-3999517 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA ALPHA PSI CHAPTER | EIN: 87-4252223 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 82-3971493 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 20-2203769 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 20-1237505 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 81-4575228 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 26-0805977 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 90-0657756 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 32-0217610 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 46-0766525 | CORINTH, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 83-1418972 | CORPUS CHRISTI, TX
• CHI EPSILON SIGMA INC | EIN: 45-1677063 | DALLAS, TX
• DELTA ALPHA SIGMA MULTICULTURAL SORORITY | EIN: 36-4806998 | DALLAS, TX
• DELTA PHI CHAPTER OF THETA CHI FRATERNITY ALUMNI HOUSING | EIN: 90-0239693 | DALLAS, TX
• FRIENDSHIP-WEST MIZPAH FOUNDATION | EIN: 27-1863731 | DALLAS, TX
• KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY | EIN: 52-1278573 | DALLAS, TX
• ZETA SIGMA HOUSE CORPORATION OF KAPPA KAPPA GAMMA FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 75-2620706 | DALLAS, TX
• ALPHA EPSILON PI FRATERNITY | EIN: 26-2025321 | DENTON, TX
• HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 26-3170920 | DENTON, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 87-2222906 | EL PASO, TX
• HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 38-3742830 | EL PASO, TX
• DENTON-LEWISVILLE GUIDE RIGHT FOUNDATION | EIN: 86-1205340 | FLOWER MOUND, TX
• BETA UPSILON CHI | EIN: 74-2911848 | FORT WORTH, TX
• EPSILON MU CHAPTER OF THE SIGMA CHI FRATERNITY | EIN: 75-6203190 | FORT WORTH, TX
• FIRST COMMAND EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION | EIN: 75-1973894 | FORT WORTH, TX
• FORT WORTH ALUMNI CHAPTER OF KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY INCORPORATED | EIN: 75-2755600 | FORT WORTH, TX
• GAMMA PHI DELTA CHRISTIAN FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 74-2893931 | FORT WORTH, TX
• KAPPA SIGMA FRATERNITY | EIN: 75-6067776 | FORT WORTH, TX
• PSI ZETA CHAPTER OF ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY INCORPORATED | EIN: 52-1345182 | FORT WORTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI EPSILON FRATERNITY TEXAS GAMMA CHAPTER | EIN: 91-1981478 | FORT WORTH, TX
• TEXAS KAPPA SIGMA EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION INC | EIN: 74-1380362 | FORT WORTH, TX
• BETA NU PI KAPPA PHI FRATERNITY HOUSING CORPORATION INC | EIN: 46-2267515 | FRISCO, TX
• ETA KAPPA CHAPTER OF SIGMA SIGMA SIGMA HOUSE CORPORATION | EIN: 75-2935462 | FRISCO, TX
• FRISCO TX ALUMNI CHAPTER OF KAPPA ALPHA PSI INCORPORATED | EIN: 92-0575785 | FRISCO, TX
• KAPPA THETA PI – MU CHAPTER CORPORATION | EIN: 33-1294470 | FRISCO, TX
• ARLINGTON-GRAND PRAIRIE ALUMNI CHAP OF KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRAT INC | EIN: 23-2452759 | GRAND PRAIRIE, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 47-5370943 | HOUSTON, TX
• BETA LAMBDA CHAPTER – ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY INC | EIN: 99-0483761 | HOUSTON, TX
• DELTA PHI UPSILON FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 80-0209640 | HOUSTON, TX
• HELLENIC PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY OF TEXAS | EIN: 74-2020182 | HOUSTON, TX
• LELAND COLLEGE PREP PTO | EIN: 47-2160315 | HOUSTON, TX
• SIGMA CHI FRATERNITY EPSILON XI CHAPTER | EIN: 74-6084905 | HOUSTON, TX
• SIGMA PHI EPSILON NEW YORK CHI ALUMNI ASSOCIATION INC | EIN: 26-2710856 | HOUSTON, TX
• SOCIETY OF HISPANIC PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS INC | EIN: 76-0221936 | HOUSTON, TX
• SOUTHWESTERN REGION OF IOTA PHI LAMBDA SORORITY INCORPORATED | EIN: 51-0194762 | HOUSTON, TX
• ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY INCORPORATED – SIGMA GAMMA CHAPTER | EIN: 39-2352450 | HOUSTON, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 92-1490845 | HUNTSVILLE, TX
• ONE CHAPTER ONE SHIELD | EIN: 92-1743777 | IOWA COLONY, TX
• OMICRON GAMMA SIGMA ALUMNI CHAPTER OF PHI BETA SIGMA FRATERNITY | EIN: 92-1672050 | IRVING, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 83-1418666 | KINGSVILLE, TX
• ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY INC | EIN: 61-1562040 | LEWISVILLE, TX
• ALPHA OMEGA EPSILON-BETA ALPHA CHAPTER | EIN: 47-3967233 | LUBBOCK, TX
• EPSILON NU HOUSING CORPORATION | EIN: 23-7359384 | LUBBOCK, TX
• FARM HOUSE FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 75-1565336 | LUBBOCK, TX
• GAMMA PHI HOUSE CORPORATION OF KAPPA ALPHA THETA FRATERNITY | EIN: 75-1283953 | LUBBOCK, TX
• HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 82-0644459 | LUBBOCK, TX
• TKE OP HOUSING | EIN: 47-5033161 | LUBBOCK, TX
• KAPPA SIGMA – MU GAMMA CHAPTER INC | EIN: 27-3662583 | LUFKIN, TX
• KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 45-3325054 | MANSFIELD, TX
• ALPHA DELTA | EIN: 81-2724215 | MCALLEN, TX
• GULF COAST ALUMNI ET OF OX INC | EIN: 45-2717861 | MEXIA, TX
• PI KAPPA PHI DELTA OMEGA CHAPTER BUILDING CORPORATION | EIN: 37-1768785 | MISSOURI CITY, TX
• ALPHA TAU OMEGA HOUSING CORPORATION OF ETA IOTA CHAPTER | EIN: 30-0517788 | NACOGDOCHES, TX
• CHI OMEGA FRATERNITY | EIN: 75-6041410 | NACOGDOCHES, TX
• EPSILON TAU CHAPTER OF THETA CHI FRATERNITY | EIN: 75-6053083 | NACOGDOCHES, TX
• PHI KAPPA PSI TEXAS EPSILON CHAPTER | EIN: 45-2729519 | NACOGDOCHES, TX
• PI KAPPA ALPHA FRATERNITY | EIN: 74-6064445 | NEDERLAND, TX
• TEXAS EPSILON UPSILON CHAPTER | EIN: 76-0366414 | NEEDVILLE, TX
• ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY INC | EIN: 52-1345951 | NOLANVILLE, TX
• ZETA OMICRON ALUMNI ASSOCIATION INC | EIN: 90-0949447 | PONDER, TX
• KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY | EIN: 23-7279532 | PRAIRIE VIEW, TX
• ZETA BETA CHAPTER OF KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 23-7098953 | PRAIRIE VIEW, TX
• SIGMA PHI EPSILON TEXAS ETA | EIN: 82-4398421 | RICHMOND, TX
• EPSILON PI PHI EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT HONOR SOCIETY | EIN: 47-4643399 | ROUND ROCK, TX
• 9THD BROTHERS KEEPER | EIN: 93-4008573 | ROWLETT, TX
• ZETA XI PEARLS EDUCATIONAL FUND INC | EIN: 88-3484848 | ROWLETT, TX
• ALPHA EPSILON DELTA | EIN: 52-1850764 | SAN ANTONIO, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 81-5229133 | SAN ANTONIO, TX
• PHI DELTA THETA FRATERNITY | EIN: 90-0927378 | SAN ANTONIO, TX
• PHI UPSILON ZETA OF LAMBDA CHI ALPHA FRATERNITY | EIN: 74-1016658 | SAN ANTONIO, TX
• UTSA SIGMA CHI | EIN: 84-2643090 | SAN ANTONIO, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 47-5381060 | SAN MARCOS, TX
• SIGMA ALPHA EPSILON – TEXAS SIGMA INCORPORATED | EIN: 88-2755427 | SAN MARCOS, TX
• TEXAS BETA PSI CHAPTER OF ALPHA DELTA KAPPA SORORITY INC | EIN: 74-6088185 | SHAVANO PARK, TX
• THE ETHEL HEDGEMON LYLE FOUNDATION OF TEXAS | EIN: 76-0592907 | SPRING, TX
• RHO DELTA CHI NATIONAL BOARD | EIN: 93-4247450 | SUGAR LAND, TX
• GAMMA PHI BETA SORORITY INC | EIN: 16-1675890 | THE WOODLANDS, TX
• HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 35-2335400 | TYLER, TX
• HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 90-0293167 | VICTORIA, TX
• SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY | EIN: 36-4091267 | WACO, TX
• TEXAS RHO CHAPTER OF THE SIGMA PHI EPSILON FRATERNITY | EIN: 74-1942292 | WACO, TX
• ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY INCORPORATED NU IOTA CHAPTER BAYLOR UNIVERSITY | EIN: 52-1346485 | WACO, TX
• BETA ALUMNAE CHAPTER OF ALPHA SIGMA KAPPA WOMEN IN TECHNICAL STUDIES | EIN: 73-1568644 | WEATHERFORD, TX
• GAMMA IOTA CHAPTER OF GAMMA PHI BETA SORORITY INC | EIN: 75-1225585 | WICHITA FALLS, TX
• REDWINE HONORS PROGRAM STUDENT COUNCIL | EIN: 84-5090974 | WICHITA FALLS, TX
• BUILDING CORPORATION OF DELTA CHAPTER OF ALPHA DELTA PI | EIN: 74-6047117 | AUSTIN, TX
• CHI OMEGA FRATERNITY | EIN: 74-0555581 | AUSTIN, TX
• HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 46-3831593 | AUSTIN, TX
• LAMBDA CHI ALPHA FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 74-1130606 | AUSTIN, TX
• SIGMA ALPHA OMEGA CHRISTIAN SORORITY INC | EIN: 85-1262394 | AUSTIN, TX
• SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY INC | EIN: 74-6084912 | AUSTIN, TX
• SIGMA LAMBDA ALPHA SORORITY INC | EIN: 90-0956019 | AUSTIN, TX
• TEJAS FOUNDATION | EIN: 74-6062730 | AUSTIN, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 81-2525354 | COLLEGE STA, TX
• ETA ALPHA HOUSE CORPORATION OF KAPPA DELTA SORORITY | EIN: 74-2930349 | COLLEGE STA, TX
• GENTLEMEN OF AGGIE TRADITION | EIN: 88-0537463 | COLLEGE STA, TX
• TEXAS NU-PHI DELTA THETA FRATERNITY | EIN: 81-4123811 | COLLEGE STA, TX
• HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 90-0293166 | COLLEGE STATION, TX
• KAPPA SIGMA – MU CAMMA CHAPTER INC | EIN: 13-3048786 | COLLEGE STATION, TX
• BUILDING CORPORATION OF DELTA CHAPTER OF ALPHA DELTA PI | EIN: 74-6047117 | AUSTIN, TX
• CHI OMEGA FRATERNITY | EIN: 74-0555581 | AUSTIN, TX
• HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 46-3831593 | AUSTIN, TX
• LAMBDA CHI ALPHA FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 74-1130606 | AUSTIN, TX
• SIGMA ALPHA OMEGA CHRISTIAN SORORITY INC | EIN: 85-1262394 | AUSTIN, TX
• SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY INC | EIN: 74-6084912 | AUSTIN, TX
• SIGMA LAMBDA ALPHA SORORITY INC | EIN: 90-0956019 | AUSTIN, TX
• TEJAS FOUNDATION | EIN: 74-6062730 | AUSTIN, TX
• ALPHA OMEGA EPSILON | EIN: 56-2652714 | BEAUMONT, TX
• SOUTH TEXAS COTILLON INC | EIN: 26-2378154 | BROWNSVILLE, TX
• FRANK HEFLIN FOUNDATION | EIN: 20-3507402 | CANYON, TX
• NATIONAL PAN-HELLENIC COUNCIL NORTH DALLAS SUBURBIA | EIN: 26-4080411 | CARROLLTON, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 81-2525354 | COLLEGE STA, TX
• ETA ALPHA HOUSE CORPORATION OF KAPPA DELTA SORORITY | EIN: 74-2930349 | COLLEGE STA, TX
• GENTLEMEN OF AGGIE TRADITION | EIN: 88-0537463 | COLLEGE STA, TX
• TEXAS NU-PHI DELTA THETA FRATERNITY | EIN: 81-4123811 | COLLEGE STA, TX
• HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 90-0293166 | COLLEGE STATION, TX
• KAPPA SIGMA – MU CAMMA CHAPTER INC | EIN: 13-3048786 | COLLEGE STATION, TX
• SIGMA NU CORPORATION OF OKLAHOMA | EIN: 73-6098935 | COLLEYVILLE, TX
• SIGMA CHI FRATERNITY ZETA ETA | EIN: 75-6060974 | COMMERCE, TX
• SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY | EIN: 75-2609909 | COMMERCE, TX
• LAMBDA NU GAMMA FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 93-2103520 | CONROE, TX
• LAMBDA OMEGA EPSILON SORORITY INC | EIN: 86-1854073 | CONROE, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA | EIN: 83-3053639 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA ALPHA CHI CHAPTER | EIN: 86-3999517 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA ALPHA PSI CHAPTER | EIN: 87-4252223 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 82-3971493 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 20-2203769 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 20-1237505 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 81-4575228 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 26-0805977 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 90-0657756 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 32-0217610 | CORINTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI LAMBDA INC | EIN: 46-0766525 | CORINTH, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 83-1418972 | CORPUS CHRISTI, TX
• Aggie Adpi Family Club | EIN: 93-2357531 | Cypress, TX
• CHI EPSILON SIGMA INC | EIN: 45-1677063 | DALLAS, TX
• DELTA ALPHA SIGMA MULTICULTURAL SORORITY | EIN: 36-4806998 | DALLAS, TX
• DELTA PHI CHAPTER OF THETA CHI FRATERNITY ALUMNI HOUSING | EIN: 90-0239693 | DALLAS, TX
• FRIENDSHIP-WEST MIZPAH FOUNDATION | EIN: 27-1863731 | DALLAS, TX
• KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY | EIN: 52-1278573 | DALLAS, TX
• ZETA SIGMA HOUSE CORPORATION OF KAPPA KAPPA GAMMA FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 75-2620706 | DALLAS, TX
• ALPHA EPSILON PI FRATERNITY | EIN: 26-2025321 | DENTON, TX
• HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 26-3170920 | DENTON, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 87-2222906 | EL PASO, TX
• HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 38-3742830 | EL PASO, TX
• DENTON-LEWISVILLE GUIDE RIGHT FOUNDATION | EIN: 86-1205340 | FLOWER MOUND, TX
• BETA UPSILON CHI | EIN: 74-2911848 | FORT WORTH, TX
• EPSILON MU CHAPTER OF THE SIGMA CHI FRATERNITY | EIN: 75-6203190 | FORT WORTH, TX
• FIRST COMMAND EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION | EIN: 75-1973894 | FORT WORTH, TX
• FORT WORTH ALUMNI CHAPTER OF KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY INCORPORATED | EIN: 75-2755600 | FORT WORTH, TX
• GAMMA PHI DELTA CHRISTIAN FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 74-2893931 | FORT WORTH, TX
• KAPPA SIGMA FRATERNITY | EIN: 75-6067776 | FORT WORTH, TX
• PSI ZETA CHAPTER OF ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY INCORPORATED | EIN: 52-1345182 | FORT WORTH, TX
• SIGMA PHI EPSILON FRATERNITY TEXAS GAMMA CHAPTER | EIN: 91-1981478 | FORT WORTH, TX
• TEXAS KAPPA SIGMA EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION INC | EIN: 74-1380362 | FORT WORTH, TX
• BETA NU PI KAPPA PHI FRATERNITY HOUSING CORPORATION INC | EIN: 46-2267515 | FRISCO, TX
• ETA KAPPA CHAPTER OF SIGMA SIGMA SIGMA HOUSE CORPORATION | EIN: 75-2935462 | FRISCO, TX
• FRISCO TX ALUMNI CHAPTER OF KAPPA ALPHA PSI INCORPORATED | EIN: 92-0575785 | FRISCO, TX
• KAPPA THETA PI – MU CHAPTER CORPORATION | EIN: 33-1294470 | FRISCO, TX
• ARLINGTON-GRAND PRAIRIE ALUMNI CHAP OF KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRAT INC | EIN: 23-2452759 | GRAND PRAIRIE, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 47-5370943 | HOUSTON, TX
• BETA LAMBDA CHAPTER – ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY INC | EIN: 99-0483761 | HOUSTON, TX
• DELTA PHI UPSILON FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 80-0209640 | HOUSTON, TX
• HELLENIC PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY OF TEXAS | EIN: 74-2020182 | HOUSTON, TX
• LELAND COLLEGE PREP PTO | EIN: 47-2160315 | HOUSTON, TX
• SIGMA CHI FRATERNITY EPSILON XI CHAPTER | EIN: 74-6084905 | HOUSTON, TX
• SIGMA PHI EPSILON NEW YORK CHI ALUMNI ASSOCIATION INC | EIN: 26-2710856 | HOUSTON, TX
• SOCIETY OF HISPANIC PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS INC | EIN: 76-0221936 | HOUSTON, TX
• SOUTHWESTERN REGION OF IOTA PHI LAMBDA SORORITY INCORPORATED | EIN: 51-0194762 | HOUSTON, TX
• ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY INCORPORATED – SIGMA GAMMA CHAPTER | EIN: 39-2352450 | HOUSTON, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 92-1490845 | HUNTSVILLE, TX
• ONE CHAPTER ONE SHIELD | EIN: 92-1743777 | IOWA COLONY, TX
• OMICRON GAMMA SIGMA ALUMNI CHAPTER OF PHI BETA SIGMA FRATERNITY | EIN: 92-1672050 | IRVING, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 83-1418666 | KINGSVILLE, TX
• ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY INC | EIN: 61-1562040 | LEWISVILLE, TX
• ALPHA OMEGA EPSILON-BETA ALPHA CHAPTER | EIN: 47-3967233 | LUBBOCK, TX
• EPSILON NU HOUSING CORPORATION | EIN: 23-7359384 | LUBBOCK, TX
• FARM HOUSE FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 75-1565336 | LUBBOCK, TX
• GAMMA PHI HOUSE CORPORATION OF KAPPA ALPHA THETA FRATERNITY | EIN: 75-1283953 | LUBBOCK, TX
• HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 82-0644459 | LUBBOCK, TX
• TKE OP HOUSING | EIN: 47-5033161 | LUBBOCK, TX
• KAPPA SIGMA – MU GAMMA CHAPTER INC | EIN: 27-3662583 | LUFKIN, TX
• KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 45-3325054 | MANSFIELD, TX
• ALPHA DELTA | EIN: 81-2724215 | MCALLEN, TX
• GULF COAST ALUMNI ET OF OX INC | EIN: 45-2717861 | MEXIA, TX
• PI KAPPA PHI DELTA OMEGA CHAPTER BUILDING CORPORATION | EIN: 37-1768785 | MISSOURI CITY, TX
• ALPHA TAU OMEGA HOUSING CORPORATION OF ETA IOTA CHAPTER | EIN: 30-0517788 | NACOGDOCHES, TX
• CHI OMEGA FRATERNITY | EIN: 75-6041410 | NACOGDOCHES, TX
• EPSILON TAU CHAPTER OF THETA CHI FRATERNITY | EIN: 75-6053083 | NACOGDOCHES, TX
• PHI KAPPA PSI TEXAS EPSILON CHAPTER | EIN: 45-2729519 | NACOGDOCHES, TX
• PI KAPPA ALPHA FRATERNITY | EIN: 74-6064445 | NEDERLAND, TX
• TEXAS EPSILON UPSILON CHAPTER | EIN: 76-0366414 | NEEDVILLE, TX
• ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY INC | EIN: 52-1345951 | NOLANVILLE, TX
• ZETA OMICRON ALUMNI ASSOCIATION INC | EIN: 90-0949447 | PONDER, TX
• KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY | EIN: 23-7279532 | PRAIRIE VIEW, TX
• ZETA BETA CHAPTER OF KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 23-7098953 | PRAIRIE VIEW, TX
• SIGMA PHI EPSILON TEXAS ETA | EIN: 82-4398421 | RICHMOND, TX
• EPSILON PI PHI EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT HONOR SOCIETY | EIN: 47-4643399 | ROUND ROCK, TX
• 9THD BROTHERS KEEPER | EIN: 93-4008573 | ROWLETT, TX
• ZETA XI PEARLS EDUCATIONAL FUND INC | EIN: 88-3484848 | ROWLETT, TX
• ALPHA EPSILON DELTA | EIN: 52-1850764 | SAN ANTONIO, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 81-5229133 | SAN ANTONIO, TX
• PHI DELTA THETA FRATERNITY | EIN: 90-0927378 | SAN ANTONIO, TX
• PHI UPSILON ZETA OF LAMBDA CHI ALPHA FRATERNITY | EIN: 74-1016658 | SAN ANTONIO, TX
• UTSA SIGMA CHI | EIN: 84-2643090 | SAN ANTONIO, TX
• ALPHA SIGMA PHI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 47-5381060 | SAN MARCOS, TX
• SIGMA ALPHA EPSILON – TEXAS SIGMA INCORPORATED | EIN: 88-2755427 | SAN MARCOS, TX
• TEXAS BETA PSI CHAPTER OF ALPHA DELTA KAPPA SORORITY INC | EIN: 74-6088185 | SHAVANO PARK, TX
• THE ETHEL HEDGEMON LYLE FOUNDATION OF TEXAS | EIN: 76-0592907 | SPRING, TX
• RHO DELTA CHI NATIONAL BOARD | EIN: 93-4247450 | SUGAR LAND, TX
• GAMMA PHI BETA SORORITY INC | EIN: 16-1675890 | THE WOODLANDS, TX
• HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 35-2335400 | TYLER, TX
• HONOR SOCIETY OF PHI KAPPA PHI | EIN: 90-0293167 | VICTORIA, TX
• SIGMA GAMMA RHO SORORITY | EIN: 36-4091267 | WACO, TX
• TEXAS RHO CHAPTER OF THE SIGMA PHI EPSILON FRATERNITY | EIN: 74-1942292 | WACO, TX
• ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY INCORPORATED NU IOTA CHAPTER BAYLOR UNIVERSITY | EIN: 52-1346485 | WACO, TX
• BETA ALUMNAE CHAPTER OF ALPHA SIGMA KAPPA WOMEN IN TECHNICAL STUDIES | EIN: 73-1568644 | WEATHERFORD, TX
• GAMMA IOTA CHAPTER OF GAMMA PHI BETA SORORITY INC | EIN: 75-1225585 | WICHITA FALLS, TX
• REDWINE HONORS PROGRAM STUDENT COUNCIL | EIN: 84-5090974 | WICHITA FALLS, TX
• UPSILON ZETA BUILDING ASSOCIATION OF CHI OMEGA | EIN: 75-2290669 | AMARILLO, TX
• IOTA ALPHA CHAPTER OF KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 51-0225632 | ARLINGTON, TX
• KAPPA EPSILON CHAPTER OF KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY INC | EIN: 75-1727080 | ARLINGTON, TX
• LAMBDA ETA CHAPTER CHI ETA PHI SORORITY INCORPORATED | EIN: 75-2273565 | ARLINGTON, TX
• OMICRON GAMMA GAMMA CHAPTER | EIN: 75-2819136 | ARLINGTON, TX

Complete Texas University Directory

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

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

7. Building a Case: Evidence, Damages, Strategy

For Cochran County families confronting a hazing incident, the legal process can seem daunting. However, knowing what evidence is crucial, what damages can be recovered, and how an attorney strategizes can demystify the path to justice. Our firm, Attorney911, approaches these cases with a meticulous, data-driven strategy honed from years of complex litigation.

7.1 Evidence

In modern hazing cases, evidence is paramount, and it often lives in the digital realm. The timeliness of evidence collection can make or break a case. Attorney911’s video on using your cellphone to document evidence (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLbpzrmogTs) explains best practices for preserving screenshots and photos, a critical first step for families in Cochran County.

• Digital Communications:

  • GroupMe, WhatsApp, iMessage, Discord, Slack, Fraternity/Sorority Apps: These are often the “smoking gun” of hazing. They contain explicit instructions, humiliating directives, threats, plans for events, and real-time accounts of abuse. Screenshots of entire conversations, with timestamps and participant names clearly visible, are invaluable. Our firm utilizes digital forensics experts to recover deleted messages and data.
  • Social Media: Posts, stories, DMs on Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok can reveal events, injuries, or a culture of hazing. Even “private” accounts or stories can be uncovered. Geo-location tags, hashtags, and comments all provide context.

• Photos & Videos: Beyond screenshots, actual photos and videos captured by members or pledges during hazing events are incredibly powerful. This includes footage of physical acts, forced consumption, humiliating rituals, and the immediate aftermath of injuries. Security camera footage from houses or venues can also be vital.

• Internal Organization Documents: Through legal discovery, we can subpoena internal documents that shed light on hazing. This includes pledge manuals, initiation scripts, “tradition” lists, rules for new members, and communications between local chapters and national headquarters about planning or sanctioning events.

• University Records: These records—often obtainable through public information requests (FOIA) for public universities like UH, A&M, and UT, or through comprehensive discovery for private institutions like SMU and Baylor—can reveal a history of neglect. This includes prior conduct files, warnings, probations, and suspensions against the organization or individuals. Campus police reports and Clery Act disclosures can also uncover patterns of ignored warnings.

• Medical and Psychological Records: These are essential to document the extent of harm. This includes emergency room reports, hospitalization records, toxicology reports (for alcohol/drug-related incidents), imaging scans (X-rays, CT, MRI), and long-term treatment plans. Furthermore, records from psychologists or psychiatrists can document severe emotional trauma, such as PTSD, depression, or anxiety resulting from hazing.

• Witness Testimony: The accounts of other pledges, current or former members, roommates, resident advisors (RAs), coaches, and even bystanders are crucial. While pledges may be hesitant to come forward initially, a skilled attorney can provide a safe framework for them to share their experiences.

7.2 Damages

When hazing leads to harm, the law provides avenues for victims and their families in Cochran County to recover various types of damages. These aim to compensate for both the tangible losses and the profound, often invisible, suffering.

• Medical Bills & Future Care: This covers all costs associated with diagnosis and treatment, from emergency medical services to long-term rehabilitation. This includes ambulance services, ER visits, hospitalization (e.g., for rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney failure as in the Bermudez case), surgeries, medications, ongoing physical or psychological therapy, and, in severe cases, specialized long-term care for permanent injuries like traumatic brain injury.

• Lost Earnings / Educational Impact: Hazing can severely disrupt a student’s academic and career path. Damages can include compensation for lost tuition and fees due to withdrawal or medical leave, lost scholarships, and the delayed entry into the workforce. For injuries causing permanent disability, damages may cover diminished future earning capacity, calculated by forensic economists.

• Non-Economic Damages: These address the subjective, non-financial impacts of hazing:

  • Physical Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the pain resulting from injuries, and any chronic pain from lasting conditions.
  • Emotional Distress, Trauma, and Humiliation: This includes damages for mental anguish, intense fear, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and the profound humiliation suffered during hazing rituals.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Hazing can rob a student of their ability to participate in activities they once loved, enjoy social interactions, and experience the full richness of collegiate life.

• Wrongful Death Damages (for Families): In the most tragic cases, hazing results in death. Attorney911 has extensive wrongful death experience (https://attorney911.com/law-practice-areas/wrongful-death-claim-lawyer/), having recovered millions for families in catastrophic cases, and can help Cochran County families seek compensation for:

  • Funeral and burial costs.
  • Loss of financial support the deceased would have provided.
  • Loss of companionship, love, and emotional support to surviving family members (parents, siblings, and spouses).
  • The profound grief and emotional suffering of the family.

• Punitive Damages: These are not compensatory but punitive, aimed at punishing defendants for particularly egregious, reckless, or malicious conduct to deter similar actions in the future. Punitive damages may be sought when defendants showed extreme indifference to known risks or actively engaged in cover-ups.

7.3 Role of Different Defendants and Insurance Coverage

Holding powerful institutions accountable for hazing is often a battle against well-funded legal teams and complex insurance structures. National fraternities, sororities, and universities typically carry substantial insurance policies designed to protect them from liability. However, insurers will often try to deny coverage, arguing that hazing constitutes “intentional acts” (which are frequently excluded from policies) or that the policy does not cover specific defendants.

Experienced hazing attorneys understand how to navigate these challenges. Lupe Peña’s background as a former insurance defense attorney (https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/) is crucial for navigating fraternity and university insurance coverage disputes. We meticulously identify all potential sources of insurance coverage, challenge wrongful denials, and strategically frame negligence arguments to ensure that victims receive the compensation they deserve. Our approach is to anticipate the defense playbook and proactively build a case that forces accountability from all responsible parties.

8. Practical Guides & FAQs

For Cochran County parents and students grappling with hazing, immediate, actionable guidance is vital. Knowing what to watch for, how to communicate, and what steps to take can make a critical difference in safeguarding well-being and pursuing justice.

8.1 For Parents

Parental vigilance is the first line of defense against hazing. For Cochran County parents, being attuned to subtle and overt changes in your child can be life-saving.

• Warning signs of hazing: Look for unexplained injuries, constant exhaustion, drastic mood swings, sudden secrecy about group activities, defensive reactions when asked about their organization, or losing significant amounts of sleep. Your child might seem to spend an inordinate amount of time on their phone, constantly checking group chats, or become anxious at its notifications. Falsely vague explanations for injuries or late nights are also significant red flags.

• How to talk to your child: Approach conversations with empathy, not accusation. Emphasize their safety and well-being over any perceived loyalty to a group. Ask open-ended questions like, “How are things really going with your group?” or “Is there anything about joining that makes you uncomfortable?” Reassure them that you will support them regardless of their choices and that leaving a dangerous situation is always an option.

• If your child is hurt: Prioritize medical attention immediately. Document everything meticulously: take clear photos of any injuries (with a date/time stamp if possible), note down strange requests or experiences your child shares, and save the names of any members, dates, and locations mentioned.

• Dealing with the university: If you suspect hazing, engage with the university’s Dean of Students office or the Office of Student Conduct. Ask direct questions about prior incidents involving the specific organization and the school’s response. Document every communication you have with university officials.

• When to talk to a lawyer: If your child suffers significant physical or psychological harm due to hazing, or if you feel the university or organization is minimizing the incident, it’s time to seek legal counsel. An attorney can help investigate, gather evidence, and protect your child’s rights.

8.2 For Students / Pledges

As a student or pledge, recognizing when “tradition” crosses the line into hazing is crucial for your safety.

• Is this hazing or just tradition?: Ask yourself: Does this activity make me feel unsafe, humiliated, or coerced? Am I being forced to drink, endure pain, or perform degrading acts? Would I be comfortable doing this if my parents, a campus dean, or the public were watching? If it has to be kept secret, it is likely hazing. If veteran members don’t have to experience the same things as new members, it might be hazing.

• Why “consent” isn’t the end of the story: In environments with peer pressure and power imbalances, “agreeing” to an activity is often not true consent. You have the right to be safe, regardless of what others say is “expected.” In Texas, consent is not a defense to hazing.

• Exiting and reporting safely: You have the right to leave any situation that makes you uncomfortable or unsafe. If you want to leave an organization, inform a trusted adult, family member, or university official first. Communicate your resignation clearly, perhaps via email or text. If you fear retaliation, report those fears to the Dean of Students or campus police immediately. Many schools, and Texas law, offer amnesty for those who report hazing or call for help in good faith during an emergency.

8.3 For Former Members / Witnesses

If you’re a former member or a witness to hazing, your role can be pivotal in preventing future harm and ensuring accountability.

• Your impact: Your testimony and any evidence you possess can be vital in stopping hazing and leading to justice for victims. Coming forward, though difficult, can literally save lives.
• Seeking legal advice: If you were involved in or witnessed hazing, it’s advisable to seek your own legal counsel. An attorney can explain your rights and advise you on how your cooperation might impact any potential legal exposure you may have, especially if criminal charges are involved. Our firm has an intimate understanding of criminal matters and can advise on both tracks, as Ralph Manginello is a member of the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA), demonstrating our firm’s dual capability in criminal and civil law.

8.4 Critical Mistakes That Can Destroy Your Case

Navigating the aftermath of a hazing incident is fraught with emotional and legal complexities. Unfortunately, families often make innocent mistakes that can severely jeopardize their ability to seek justice. Attorney911’s video on client mistakes that can ruin your injury case (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY) is a vital resource for Cochran County families to prevent critical errors.

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 act can be interpreted as a cover-up, potentially leading to charges of obstruction of justice, and makes proving hazing significantly harder in court.
   • What to do instead: Preserve everything immediately, even content your child finds embarrassing. Digital evidence can disappear quickly, so screenshot and back up everything.

2. Confronting the fraternity/sorority directly:

   • What parents think: “I’m going to give them a piece of my mind.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Direct confrontation almost guarantees that the organization will immediately lawyer up, destroy evidence, coach witnesses, and prepare a defense, making your legal path much harder.
   • What to do instead: Document everything privately and call a lawyer like Attorney911 before any direct confrontation.

3. Signing university “release” or “resolution” forms:

   • What universities do: They may pressure families to sign waivers or “internal resolution” agreements to manage public relations and avoid external scrutiny.
   • Why it’s wrong: You could unknowingly waive your right to pursue legal action, and any “settlement” offered may be significantly less than your case’s true value.
   • What to do instead: Do NOT sign anything from the university without legal review by an attorney.

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: Public posts can be used by defense attorneys to scrutinize your child’s credibility, highlight inconsistencies, or even waive attorney-client privilege.
   • What to do instead: Document your experience privately and let your lawyer control public communication.

5. Letting your child go back to “one last meeting”:

   • What fraternities say: “Come talk to us before you do anything drastic.”
   • Why it’s wrong: Such meetings are often designed to pressure, intimidate, or extract statements that can be used against your child in a legal proceeding.
   • What to do instead: Once you are considering legal action, all communication with the organization should go through your lawyer.

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

   • What universities promise: “We’re investigating; let us handle this internally.”
   • Why it’s wrong: While the university investigates, critical evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, and the statute of limitations may approach. Universities’ internal processes are not designed for victim compensation.
   • What to do instead: Preserve evidence NOW and consult a lawyer immediately. University processes are separate from legal 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. Any statement you give can be used against you, and initial settlement offers are often low-ball.
   • What to do instead: Decline to give a statement and say, “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 exist for gross negligence, Title IX violations, and when suing individuals in their personal capacity. Private universities (like SMU, Baylor) generally have fewer immunity protections. Every case depends on specific facts—contact Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for case-specific analysis.

• “Is hazing a felony in Texas?”
  It can be. Texas law classifies hazing as a Class B misdemeanor by default, but it becomes a state jail felony if the hazing causes serious bodily injury or death. Individuals involved in hazing may also face criminal charges for failing to report hazing or for related offenses like assault or providing alcohol to minors.

• “Can my child bring a case if they ‘agreed’ to the initiation?”
  Yes. Texas Education Code § 37.155 explicitly states that consent is not a defense to hazing. Courts recognize that “consent” given under peer pressure, power imbalance, and fear of exclusion is not true voluntary consent.

• “How long do we have to file a hazing lawsuit?”
  Generally 2 years from the date of injury or death in Texas, but this “statute of limitations” can vary. The “discovery rule” may extend this if the harm or its cause wasn’t immediately known. In cases involving cover-ups or fraud, the statute may be tolled (paused). Time is critical—evidence disappears, witnesses graduate, and organizations destroy records. Watch Attorney911’s video on the statute of limitations here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRHwg8tV02c. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately.

• “What if the hazing happened off-campus or at a private house?”
  Location doesn’t eliminate liability. Universities and national fraternities can still be held liable based on sponsorship, control, knowledge, and foreseeability. Many major hazing cases (like the Pi Delta Psi retreat death of Michael Deng or the Sigma Pi death of Collin Wiant at an “unofficial” house) occurred off-campus and still resulted in significant judgments.

• “Will this be confidential, or will my child’s name be in the news?”
  Most hazing cases settle confidentially before trial. While some cases, like Leonel Bermudez’s case against UH/Pi Kappa Phi where our firm is involved, gain media attention due to the severity and public interest, many others are resolved privately. We prioritize your family’s privacy while pursuing accountability.

For anonymous reporting or prevention resources, consider the National Anti-Hazing Hotline (1-888-NOT-HAZE) or StopHazing.org (https://stophazing.org). These are valuable resources, though families seeking legal accountability and compensation should also contact an experienced hazing attorney like Attorney911.

9. About The Manginello Law Firm + Call to Action for Cochran County Families

When your family faces a hazing crisis, you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need tenacious attorneys who understand the complex and often clandestine world of hazing, who know how powerful institutions fight back—and, crucially, how to win anyway. This is where The Manginello Law Firm, operating as Attorney911, stands apart.

From our Houston office, we serve families throughout Texas, including Cochran County and surrounding areas. We understand that hazing at Texas universities impacts families in Cochran County and across the region, regardless of how far their children attend school.

Why Attorney911 for Hazing Cases

Our firm brings a unique blend of legal prowess and strategic insight to hazing cases:

• Insurance Insider Advantage (Lupe Peña): Associate Attorney Lupe Peña joined our firm after a distinguished career as an insurance defense attorney at a national defense firm. This means she knows exactly how fraternity and university insurance companies operate. She understands their delay tactics, their arguments for coverage exclusions, and their settlement strategies because she used to run their plays. Lupe Peña’s complete credentials and background are detailed at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/lupe-pena/.

• Complex Litigation Against Massive Institutions (Ralph Manginello): Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has over 25 years of experience taking on formidable opponents. He was one of the few Texas attorneys involved in the BP Texas City explosion litigation—a testament to our firm’s capability to challenge billion-dollar corporations. Our federal court admission in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, means we are not intimidated by national fraternities, universities, or their highly-resourced defense teams. Ralph Manginello’s extensive experience is detailed at https://attorney911.com/attorneys/ralph-manginello/.

• Multi-Million Dollar Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Experience: We have a proven track record, having secured multi-million-dollar results for families in catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases. We possess the expertise to collaborate with economists and life care planners to accurately value long-term care needs—a critical component in cases involving traumatic brain injury or permanent disability from hazing. We don’t settle cheap; we build cases that compel accountability and secure full compensation.

• Dual Criminal and Civil Hazing Expertise: Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) underscores our understanding of how criminal hazing charges interact with civil litigation. This dual capability allows us to advise on both criminal exposure for student defendants and the civil remedies for victims, providing comprehensive counsel tailored to the complex nature of hazing.

• Unwavering Investigative Depth: We don’t just take cases; we meticulously investigate them. Our network of experts includes medical specialists, digital forensics analysts, economists, and psychologists. We meticulously pursue hidden evidence—from deleted group chats and social media data to internal chapter records and private university files. We investigate like your child’s life depends on it—because it does.

At Attorney911, we know this is often one of the hardest things a family can face. Our mission is to listen, to uncover the truth, to hold the right people accountable, and to help prevent this from happening to another family. We balance legal precision with genuine empathy, ensuring comprehensive accountability—not just quick settlements. We are the Legal Emergency Lawyers™.

Call to Action for Cochran County Families

If you or your child has experienced the devastating impact of hazing at any Texas campus—whether it’s UH, Texas A&M, UT Austin, SMU, Baylor, Texas Tech, or any other institution—we want to hear from you. Families in Cochran County and throughout our surrounding region have the right to answers and accountability.

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 for your family.

What to expect in your free consultation:

• We will listen to your story with compassion and without judgment.
• We will review any evidence you have collected—photos, texts, medical reports.
• We will explain your legal options, including criminal reporting, pursuing a civil lawsuit, or internal university processes.
• We will discuss realistic timelines and potential challenges based on the specific facts of your case.
• We will answer your questions about costs; our contingency fee structure means we don’t get paid unless we win your case (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc).
• There is no pressure to hire us on the spot—we want you to make the most informed decision for your family.
• Everything you discuss with us is confidential.

You don’t have to face this alone. Whether you’re in Cochran County or anywhere across Texas, if hazing has impacted your family, you deserve powerful legal representation that understands the stakes.

Contact Attorney911 Today:

• Call: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
• Direct Line: (713) 528-9070
• Cell: (713) 443-4781 (Emergency line)
• Website: https://attorney911.com
• Email: ralph@atty911.com

Hablamos Español: Contact Associate Attorney Lupe Peña 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@atty91com