Hank Nuwer

Hank Nuwer is a journalist, social critic, and author recognized for his expertise on hazing in higher education and youth organizations. Nuwer began writing about hazing for Human Behavior Magazine, which marked the start of a career focused on investigating and addressing hazing culture. He has spent more than 30 years researching hazing on college campuses and has compiled a comprehensive database of hazing-related deaths dating back to 1838. Nuwer examines hazing as both an international human rights issue and a safety concern for U.S. high schools and colleges.

Nuwer has authored more than 18 books, including "Broken Pledges," which was adapted into the TV movie "Moment of Truth: Broken Pledges." His notable works include "Hazing: Destroying Young Lives," "Broken Pledges: The Deadly Rite of Hazing," "High School Hazing," "Wrongs of Passage," and "The Hazing Reader." "Hazing: Destroying Young Lives" is a collaborative effort with experts in Greek life, athletics, student affairs, and law, focusing on hazing prevention, recognition, and intervention across fraternities, sororities, bands, sports teams, and student clubs. In addition to his work on hazing, Nuwer is a historical novelist and journalist known for interviews with authors such as Kurt Vonnegut, James Dickey, Harry Crews, and Maurice Sendak.

Nuwer's research on binge drinking and hazing in educational settings has led to appearances as an expert on CNN and other national television networks. He has contributed articles and columns on hazing to publications including Sunday Times of India, Toronto Globe & Mail, Harper's Magazine, Orlando Sentinel, The Chronicle of Higher Education, and New York Times Sunday Magazine. His database of hazing deaths has been cited in legislative discussions related to federal hazing laws.

Nuwer has delivered educational talks on hazing at more than 120 schools, including University of Oregon, University of Texas, University of Illinois, Indiana University, Cornell University, University of Pennsylvania, and Dartmouth College. He has also lectured on hazing and writing at institutions in Poland, Spain, and Canada. The Hazing Prevention Network and Northeast Greek Association present annual Hank Nuwer Awards to recognize individuals and groups advancing hazing education and prevention.

Nuwer has taught journalism at Ball State University, Franklin College, Anderson University, Clemson University, University of Richmond, and serves as an adjunct instructor at University of Alaska, Fairbanks. He is a member of the Ball State Journalism Hall of Fame, holds an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree from his alma mater, and is a Distinguished Buffalo State Alumnus. The Alaska Press Club has recognized him with first place in the Best Columnist division. Nuwer continues to contribute to the field with ongoing research and writing, including a biography of Kurt Vonnegut for Indiana University Press and a forthcoming history of hazing.