POTSDAM -- This week marks the fifth annual National Hazing Prevention Week, and SUNY Potsdam is hosting several presentations as part of the observance.

The effort, started by HazingPrevention.org, is a united campaign for campuses, schools, communities, organizations and individuals to help educate and empower people to prevent hazing.

Tonight, Sept. 20, at 6 p.m., national speaker Rick Barnes will present a talk entitled "Hazing: When will it end?" in Kellas Hall Room 106.

On Wednesday and Thursday, Sept. 21 and 22, there will be additional sessions at 6 p.m. in Kellas Hall Room 104 on both nights, on the topics of "Prepare to take Action: Bystander Intervention Training," and "Hazing Alternatives," respectively.

SUNY Potsdam is also hosting an information table and pledge campaign in the Barrington Student Union during lunch hours from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for the entire week.

The College's National Hazing Prevention Week efforts have been coordinated by the SUNY Potsdam Hazing Awareness Initiative, whose members include Chris Bernard, Julie Dold, Jack Durham, Amanda Grazioso, Ashley Hazen, John Kaplan, Julie Rapczynski, Louise Tyo, Violet Wasburn and Erin Wilson.

The recognized Greek houses at SUNY Potsdam strive to share the common values of friendship, scholarship, community service and leadership. As recognized houses, members of those sororities and fraternities must work hard to uphold those values and challenge themselves to reach a higher standard, to meet the expectations of the College and the community.

For more information about Greek life at SUNY Potsdam, visit www.potsdam.edu/studentlife/greeklife.