Minneapolis — A new federal law, designated to counteract the perils of hazing on college campuses, was enacted this week by President Joe Biden. Named the Stop Campus Hazing Act, this legislation mandates higher education institutions to report hazing incidents and educate students on its dangers.
The law traces its inception to a tragic incident in 2021 involving Danny Santulli, an 18-year-old from Eden Prairie, Minnesota. Santulli suffered severe brain damage as a result of hazing rituals while pledging to the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity at the University of Missouri. Subsequently, Danny lost his ability to walk, see, and speak.
In response, Danny’s parents, Mary Pat and Tom Santulli, have actively advocated for heightened hazing awareness. “We’re sharing Danny’s story to highlight the reality and potential consequences of hazing. It’s vital that people recognize this can occur anywhere, to anyone,” Mary Pat Santulli expressed.
The newly signed legislation stipulates that colleges must include hazing in their annual safety reports and implement education programs about its hazards. Additionally, it compels organizations to create anti-hazing policies and maintain records of any infractions.
Tom Santulli stressed the secretive nature of many fraternities which can encapsulate new members, isolating them from outside support. He shared his own struggles to communicate with his son during Danny’s initiation period, describing it as a time when fraternity pledges are often told to withhold any negative experiences from family members.
Details leading up to Danny’s brain injury reveal that during his initiation, he was coerced into drinking an entire bottle of vodka, leading to alcohol poisoning and cardiac arrest. Initially, instead of calling emergency services, fraternity members transported him to the hospital in a private vehicle, delaying critical medical intervention.
Presently, Danny requires continuous care, yet his family remains hopeful about his recovery. “It’s a long journey, but we believe Danny’s story will not only raise awareness but also push forward positive changes in how these situations are handled,” said Tom.
Beyond federal efforts, the Santullis are also pushing for state-level changes with a proposal known as Danny’s Law, aimed at providing legal protection to individuals who seek medical help during hazing incidents.
Reflecting on the broader implications of their advocacy, Nick Santulli, Danny’s brother, highlighted the importance of prioritizing human life over organizational loyalty. “What matters more, preserving a fraternity’s image or saving a life?” he questioned.
The fraternity involved in Danny’s case has since been closed by the University of Missouri, and legal actions have followed suit. Notably, Ryan Delanty, a former member, faced a six-month jail term and six-month house arrest after pleading guilty to charges including hazing and supplying alcohol to minors.
This narrative serves as a poignant reminder of the potential devastation wrought by hazing and underscores the importance of the recent legislative measures intended to prevent such tragedies.
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