MARCH 2026 NEWSLETTER
- Antonio Tsialas Foundation
- 21 hours ago
- 4 min read
FIND GROUPS TO ENHANCE YOUR LIFE
This time of year, on college campuses, many students are rushing fraternities and sororities they may wish to join. Other students, of all ages, are considering new clubs and teams. These organizations can enrich the students’ lives and build lasting friendships, or they can create toxic situations and dangerous hazing. So how can students find the right groups?
As human beings we all want to be part of something bigger than ourselves. We are wired for connection. We long to be in community because belonging to communities gives us meaning, creates powerful connections, and fosters shared purpose. But,that only happens when relationships are rooted in respect, safety, trust, and mutual care.
Research Groups Before Joining
Check campus records to see if the group you are considering has a history of hazing violations. Ask fellow students about the reputation of the group on campus. Review the video in this newsletter about selecting healthy groups to learn more about finding a group that will be a healthy match. LINK TO VIDEO HERE
Create Mindful Boundaries
Inclusion is not only about being welcomed into a group, but about staying connected to ourselves within it. Healthy belonging requires awareness of our values and the courage to honor our boundaries. While group culture can sometimes challenge personal boundaries, compassionate leadership reminds us that inclusion also involves a choice. We have the power to ask: Does this community respect who I am? Does it align with my values? Does it allow me to grow safely?
Make Plans for Safety
Before attending parties or events, consider how you will protect your safety. Who will attend the party with you? How can you agree to watch out for one another? How will you get home? What action will you take if you see another student in trouble? The key is to make these decisions before you leave home and then to stick to your plan.
Be Aware of Escalating Pressure
Understand that hazing often starts innocently, and escalates slowly to a dangerous level. Before you leave home, consider what behaviors are deal breakers for you. Then, if group dynamics aren’t aligned with your values and boundaries, claim your power…and leave.
When individuals understand their values and feel empowered to choose consciously, groups become spaces for encouragement and support rather than pressure. For compassionate leaders, inclusion means holding both our human need for connection and our responsibility to protect our dignity and well-being. Belonging should expand us, never silence us. Healthy group dynamics elevate individuals, unhealthy ones harm them. The core difference is whether we grow together or lose ourselves in the process.
Please watch the video on our website, created with the Gordie Center at University of Virginia, on how to identify healthy and unhealthy signs of groups. You deserve to be part of a group that respects you and helps you grow and thrive.
Empowered to Prevent Hazing: Understanding the Influence of Alcohol and Group Culture
Thank you to everyone who joined us this month for a discussion on hazing, alcohol and group culture with Jill Maurer from the Gordie Center at UVA.
We shared Antonio’s and Gordie’s stories and how forced alcohol consumption and hazing rituals contributed to their preventable tragedies.
Together we learned the PUBS warning signs of alcohol poisoning, explored safety strategies for college environments, and embraced compassionate leadership as a courageous alternative to harmful traditions.
Change begins with education. ONE Conversation at a time. Together as ONE, we lead with compassion!
ATLF Ambassadors’ Corner
Compassionate Leaders Embrace Responsibility
for Sophomores at Ransom Everglades
On February 3, 2026, as part of the compassionate leadership program at Ransom Everglades, our ambassadors Bella and Kaitlyn guided the sophomores through the Responsibility module with intention and excellence.
Students collaboratively engaged in designing responsibility blueprints for their teams, defining clear commitments, shared expectations, and actionable next steps. Watching them take ownership of their leadership roles was powerful. We are grateful to the Ransom Everglades leadership and advisory teams for their commitment to empowering students.
Join the Movement for Safer Campuses
On February 3, we joined attorney David Bianchi to speak about the dangers of hazing in the wake of another student's death. Please talk to your children about hazing, personal boundaries and choosing healthy groups on campus. Click the link below to see the interview.
Join our newsletter to learn about our programs and upcoming events.
Lives Remembered Futures Protected -
Hazing Prevention Research Campaign
During an online event last February, the Antonio Tsialas Leadership Foundation and the Hazing Prevention Research Lab shared the vision that inspired the Lives Remembered, Futures Protected campaign - and the urgent work underway to strengthen national hazing prevention. The parents of Antonio Tsialas, John Tsialas and Flavia Tomasello, invite you to join them in supporting the Lives Remembered, Futures Protected - Hazing Prevention Research Campaign. They are offering to match the first twenty (20) $100 gifts to amplify your impact!
Follow the link below to donate and be sure to mention the ATLF or check in honor/memory of Antonio Tsialas.
Thank you very much for your continued support.
Click here to help fund research that will guide the next era in hazing prevention. We will match your donation up to $100!
Lives Remembered Futures Protected - Hazing Prevention Research Campaign
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