West Virginia University students will have the opportunity to learn the story of one man who changed a hazing culture at another university.

Erle Morring, one of the nation’s most popular keynote speakers, will speak on Wednesday (Oct. 19) at 7 p.m. in the Mountainlair Ballrooms.

“The message from Erle will be very important for our students to receive,” said Ron Justice, Director of WVU Student Organizations Services. “We are very happy to have one of the top speakers in the country come to the campus to provide the message to WVU students.”

The presentation called “Hazed and Confused” openly discusses the mistakes and bad choices he and his peers made, both as individuals and as chapter and council leaders, with regard to harmful fraternity traditions.

While in college at Auburn University, two pledges in Erle’s fraternity chapter died in a span of three months. Knowing more deaths were imminent, he decided to take initiative to change the culture in Auburn’s Greek system.

Erle’s story is serious, but his presentation is laid-back, interactive and practical. He believes that the answers to hazing will be found in the hearts and efforts of progressive, forward-thinking student leaders who find the courage to ask questions, confront their peers and set a new course.

Fraternity and sorority members will leave with tools, ideas and motivation necessary to address hazing and substance abuse on their campus.

“Erle Morring has become known as one of the top educators as to hazing issues, and our students will have a great opportunity to share ideas and learn about the dangers of hazing,” Justice said.

Erle received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Relations/Journalism and a Master of Arts degree in Communication from Auburn. He is a member of Sigma Nu Fraternity and for years has been active in the fraternity’s LEAD program for new members.

-WVU-

td/10/13/11

CONTACT: Ron Justice, Student Organization Services
304-293-4397, Ron.Justice@mail.wvu.edu

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