Speaker Brings Hazing Talk to College

02/14/2014 

It’s a hot topic of conversation that often finds relevance on college campuses — everywhere from locker rooms to Greek fraternity houses — and a national speaker will bring the discussion to SUNY Cortland Wednesday, Feb. 19.

“A Conversation about Hazing,” led by Tracy Maxwell, takes place at 7:30 p.m. in the Corey Union Function Room. It is free and open to the public.

The talk, which is part of the College’s Wellness Wednesday series, will share real stories of hazing, its harms and its impact on both hazers and their victims. The open discussion also will cover the definitions, laws and policies that relate to hazing.

Maxwell promises to take a deep look at the topic — not just explaining what the hazing is, but also ways to prevent it. Her presentation hits on hidden harms that can include psychological effects and the role of shame.

“The need to belong is so strong that students will do almost anything in order to be part of a group with status,” Maxwell writes. “… So then why do so many conversations about hazing prevention begin with the question, ‘Why do students allow themselves to be hazed?’”

This question and many more will come up in the conversation, potentially leading audience members to understand hazing is “the complete antithesis of all we proclaim ourselves to be.”

Trained as a journalist, Maxwell has spent the majority of her 20-year career working in higher education. She’s been involved with hazing prevention since 2004, establishing HazingPrevention.org and speaking regularly at college campuses around the country.

Her talk is co-sponsored by the College’s Health Promotion Office, Student Development Center, Campus Activities and Corey Union, and Greek Affairs.

For more information about Maxwell and her talk, visit her speaking website.