Unless A Death Occurs: Hazing Examined  

  

An incisive documentary on the pervasiveness of hazing on America's high school and college campuses. In particular, this film traces the tragic steps of Walter Dean Jennings, a Plattsburgh State University freshman, who untimely paid the highest price for admittance into a fraternity banned by college authorities.  

  

Unless A Death Occurs order form (pdf format)  

  

The story, although grim and wrought with painful scenes of violence and humiliation, is also powerful testimony to a community's pledge not to let a death occur without sustainable intervention.  

  

Based on plea agreements structured by Richard Cantwell, District Attorney for Clinton County, NY the film is granted unprecedented access into normally secret events. Interviews conducted with 11 fraternity members responsible for the hazing death of Walter Dean Jennings provide firsthand account of the events. The result is an in-depth analysis of the conditions that sustain hazing behavior. 

  

Analysis is provided in part by two national experts in the field of hazing, Professor and journalist Hank Nuwer of Franklin College along with Professor Elizabeth Allen of the University of Maine. The DVD is supported by interviews with District Attorney Richard Cantwell, Officers of the Plattsburgh Police Department, William Laundry, Dean of Students at Plattsburgh State, and many others.  

  

The documentary reflects the effort of an entire community to face tragic facts, learn and caution others against similar behaviors. What emerges is a passionate and emotional argument toward ending hazing in America.  

  

Purchasing Information  

  

Media Lab at Mountain Lake PBS will process all orders and distribute purchased materials accordingly.  

  

1. Individual DVD: $29.95

  

2. Educational Package: $300

  

□        Groups and organizations purchasing the educational package will receive the licensing rights, allowing them to show the documentary as many times as desired, for three years 

  

□        Additionally, the educational package contains a study guide that can be used to facilitate discussions with students and members. The study guide was created by Hank Nuwer, a leading authority on hazing, who is also featured in the documentary  

  

Three Easy Ways to Order 

  

1. Call toll free at 1-800-836-5700 ext. 100
2. Go online at www.mountainlake.org/store/storefs.htm
3. Complete the order form and submit to Media Lab at Mountain Lake PBS

  

  

Unless A Death Occurs order form (pdf format)