Penn State's Timothy J. Piazza Center for Fraternity and Sorority Research will share findings from ongoing studies and collaborative projects during several national speaking engagements this fall as part of the Hazing Prevention Network's National Hazing Prevention Week, set for Sept. 22-26.
The Piazza Center, housed at Penn State since 2019, conducts data-driven research that helps to inform policies and prevention strategies addressing hazing, dangerous drinking and related harms. By contributing evidence and analysis, the center supports institutions and organizations working to strengthen student safety initiatives.
"We are committed to being a national leader in hazing and hazardous drinking prevention research," said Stevan Veldkamp, executive director of the Piazza Center. "Our work at Penn State is focused on providing institutions across the country with the tools and evidence they need to create safer environments for students. Hazing prevention isn't a one-size-fits-all challenge, but research and data-driven practice can guide solutions that truly make a difference."
Piazza Center scholars that contribute to ongoing research projects will present during the following webinar sessions:
Igniting Cultural Transformation on Campus to Combat Hazing on Monday, Sept. 22, at noon
Summary: It's time for campus leaders to take a bold stand against hazing and dangerous drinking, viewing these challenges as opportunities for positive change that can uplift our student organizations and the entire community! Penn State's Piazza Center has laid out five dynamic strategies - Development and Learning, Prevention, Accountability, Compliance, and Change Management - that are not just words, but powerful tools to create safer environments and spark a safer culture. We can supercharge community engagement and empower students to confidently champion safety and step in when it matters most.
Breaking the Silence: Confronting Hazing in Varsity Athletics on Monday, Sept. 22, at 2 p.m.
Summary: Join us for an engaging panel discussion that dives into the complex issue of hazing in varsity athletics. This webinar will bring together experienced voices from the world of college sports to examine how hazing manifests in athletic environments, the impact it has on individuals and teams, and the practical steps coaches, administrators, and student-athletes can take to stop it. Panelists will share real-world insights on identifying harmful behaviors, overcoming the barriers to intervention, and building a team culture grounded in trust, respect, and accountability.
One Size Does Not Fit All: Tailoring Hazing Prevention Efforts to Fit Campus and Organization Needs on Tuesday, Sept. 23, at noon
Summary: This program highlights findings from the What Works Study on Hazing and Hazardous Drinking and demonstrates how institutions can customize their hazing prevention efforts using comprehensive data.
The Piazza Center's work extends beyond research. In partnership with the Hazing Prevention Network and other national organizations, the center collaborates on initiatives that strengthen prevention efforts across the country. These collaborations help amplify the impact of the center's research by working to implement evidence-based strategies in real-world contexts.
"Through partnerships with organizations like the Hazing Prevention Network, we are able to translate data into action," Veldkamp said. "These collaborations are critical to building safer student communities, strengthening prevention, and ultimately creating a culture where every student can thrive."
About the Piazza Center
Established in 2019, the Timothy J. Piazza Center for Fraternity and Sorority Research is dedicated to conducting interdisciplinary research that advances understanding of fraternity and sorority life and informs evidence-based strategies to prevent hazing and promote student well-being. The center partners with institutions and organizations across the country to create safer, more supportive student communities.
Penn State Student Affairs supports holistic student success through advocacy, education, engagement and care. With more than 30 programs and units, Student Affairs helps students thrive in and out of the classroom, discover community and belonging, build leadership skills and create lasting memories. All programs and events are open to all students, regardless of sex, gender, sexual orientation, race or other protected class. Student Affairs is committed to building a community of belonging for all. Learn more about Student Affairs programs at studentaffairs.psu.edu.
