The Devastating Toll of Hazing: A Father's Plea to 'Love Like Adam'

Adam Oakes' father, Eric, and cousin, Courtney White, urge colleges and young people to prioritize safety and kindness following the tragic death of Adam, a victim of fraternity hazing.

The horrors of hazing have once again been brought to the forefront after a former Florida State University student was sentenced to prison for punching a fellow student during a fraternity event. Eric Oakes, the father of Adam Oakes, a victim of hazing who passed away in 2021, has joined forces with Adam's cousin, Courtney White, to raise awareness about the dangers of this dangerous practice.

In an exclusive interview with 'Fox & Friends Weekend,' Eric Oakes lamented the tragic loss of his son and called upon universities and young people to prioritize safety and compassion. The "Love Like Adam Foundation," founded by Eric, seeks to promote love, unity, and respect among college students.

The Devastating Toll of Hazing: A Father's Plea to 'Love Like Adam'

White recounted the harrowing experience of her cousin, Nicholas Mauricio, who suffered a debilitating brain injury after being punched in the face during a fraternity's "Scumbag of the Week" event. Mauricio, once a vibrant and promising young man, has undergone years of rehabilitation and continues to struggle with the lasting effects of his injury.

"It's affected my whole family," said Mauricio. "We like the word survivor because it's an extension of being a victim, but you were able to persevere."

The Devastating Toll of Hazing: A Father's Plea to 'Love Like Adam'

The incident that injured Mauricio came just months after the tragic death of Andrew Coffey, another FSU student who died of alcohol poisoning after his fraternity brothers failed to seek immediate assistance. These incidents underscore the urgent need for universities and Greek organizations to take concrete steps to prevent hazing.

"The stories keep going out, and every year another student is injured or dies," said Michelle Mauricio, Nicholas' mother. "This is friends hurting friends."

The Devastating Toll of Hazing: A Father's Plea to 'Love Like Adam'

David Bianchi, a renowned hazing attorney who represented Mauricio, has expressed hope that prison time for offenders will serve as a deterrent to those who engage in such reckless behavior. However, he acknowledges that the message often fails to reach those who participate in hazing.

Nicholas Mauricio implored college-aged men considering joining a fraternity to speak up against any form of physical harm or underage alcohol consumption. "You have more power than them. You can tell them no, and you should tell them no," he advised.

The Devastating Toll of Hazing: A Father's Plea to 'Love Like Adam'

While Greek organizations and their members bear a significant responsibility in preventing hazing, universities have an equally important role to play. Mauricio and his mother believe that their story can educate other college students and fraternity members about the potentially devastating consequences of hazing.

"Universities have a lot of skin in this game," said Mauricio. "We should all be leaders more than we should be followers. You'll be able to prevent something bad from happening to you and keep your dignity intact."

The Devastating Toll of Hazing: A Father's Plea to 'Love Like Adam'

As the fight against hazing continues, the legacy of Adam Oakes serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of kindness, compassion, and the preservation of life. The "Love Like Adam Foundation" stands as a beacon of hope, urging everyone to reject violence and embrace a culture of respect and love on college campuses and beyond.