In the fall of 2017, Max Gruver, a graduate of Blessed Trinity High School, arrived at Louisiana State University (LSU) with big dreams. Max, who had a passion for journalism and had written over 360 articles for Def Pen Radio out of New York, was set to major in communications. He was known for his easygoing nature and his ability to befriend everyone around him.
Tragically, his time at LSU was cut short when he was hazed to death by members of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity.
"Max’s death was completely preventable," Gruver shared, "Hazing should never be part of any organization in order for another person to be a part of a group or team. It is completely senseless.”
After Max passed away, his parents found comfort in their son’s words. They found a book of his writings and came across a message about blessings. "God works in mysterious ways. Sometimes He allows bad things to happen because they ultimately lead to good. Something bad may happen to you, but it may make you stronger. He allows bad things to happen to ultimately create good.”
Inspired by these words, they established the Max Gruver Foundation in 2018, with a clear mission to fight against the hazing culture and educate students about its dangers.
Since then, they have presented over 200 times and reached more than 150,000 students, primarily on college campuses. However, their mission has expanded to include high school students, recognizing that many are exposed to hazing before even stepping foot on a college campus.
They have developed three distinct programs: one for high school students preparing for college, one for parents to help them identify and discuss hazing, and a peer-to-peer program in collaboration with Phi Delta Theta that educates high school students about the risks of hazing.
"We will never know the true impact we have had from sharing Max’s story," his mother said, "but we know there is a huge impact in the stories and comments we receive. Changing one person’s mind about hazing, someone calling 911 or saving someone’s life is proof we are making a difference."
Looking ahead, they aim to fully implement their high school programs across the country, ensuring that funding is never a barrier to education.
“Because of Max’s words, we knew immediately we needed to make something good out of something bad,” Rae Ann reflected.
Their work is not only a tribute to Max’s life, but a vital effort to end hazing and keep kids safe.
For more information: maxgruverfoundation.com