Recorded March 8, 2012 in Mayser Gymnasium.
James (Jamie) Widdoes P’12, is a current television director and producer and a former actor. As an actor, he was a lead in the 1978 movie Animal House, centered on life at a fictional college fraternity house.
In recent years he has become deeply involved with an organization called the Gordie Foundation, serving as a member of the board of trustees. The organization was formed after a dear friend, Gordie Bailey, passed away from alcohol poisoning as the result of fraternity hazing in 2004. James will discuss the culture of drinking in college from a unique perspective, combining the many, often opposing aspects of his life—three children who have attended college, his experience with Gordie, and Animal House.
He will speak to the issues raised by Gordie’s death and the movie. Although these stories are seemingly opposed, they each offer significant lessons regarding the social cultures of colleges. The questions brought on by the combination of these two personal and conflicting experiences are important to students, parents, faculty, and administration alike, as drinking has particular significance on a college campus.
Sponsored by F&M .08. This event is open to the public.
