Rae Ann and Steve Gruver Presented with The Order of the Sword & Shield Award for their Courageous Work to End Hazing
ATLANTA, GA – On June 21, 2025, during Phi Delta Theta’s 85th Biennial Convention, Rae Ann and Steve Gruver were surprised with Phi Delta Theta’s highest honor for a non-member: the Order of the Sword & Shield. This recognition is awarded only to individuals who have promoted the attainment of higher education, shown an appreciation for Greek letter societies, and exemplified the principles of Friendship, Sound Learning, and Rectitude. Through tireless advocacy, compassionate leadership, and a commitment to saving lives, Rae Ann and Steve Gruver have embodied the Fraternity’s cardinal principles more profoundly than anyone.
The Gruvers’ mission was born from tragedy. Following the loss of their son Max in 2017 due to a hazing incident, Rae Ann and Steve turned unimaginable heartbreak into a pursuit of student safety. By creating the Max Gruver Foundation, they became nationally recognized for their efforts speaking on hundreds of college campuses fostering safer campus cultures—shaping legislation, transforming education, and building partnerships that demand a culture of safety and accountability in Greek life.
Their advocacy has led to sweeping legislative reform. The Max Gruver Act, passed in both Louisiana and Georgia, has strengthened hazing prevention laws and increased transparency and accountability on college campuses. Most recently, the Gruvers played a pivotal role in the passage of the Stop Campus Hazing Act, signed into federal law in December 2024.
In 2020, Phi Delta Theta partnered with the Max Gruver Foundation to share Max’s story within the Fraternity and to engage directly with high school students across the country through educational programming. It had become apparent that anti-hazing conversations needed to begin before students entered college. As a result, Take Action: Building New Traditions was created.
“Rae Ann and Steve did not choose this mission,” said Phi Delta Theta CEO Sean Wagner during the award presentation. “But through it all, they chose a purpose. They chose to serve others. And in doing so, they’ve become a beacon of hope and change, ensuring that families and students are informed when selecting a Fraternity experience and that chapter leaders are aware and empowered to eliminate hazing. We are forever grateful for their choice.”
Before receiving their own surprise honor, Rae Ann and Steve were in attendance to present the 2025 Fly High Max Award to the Missouri Beta Chapter at Westminster College.
Awarded for the first time in 2024, the Fly High Max Award recognizes Phi Delta Theta chapters that have demonstrated an unwavering dedication to anti-hazing efforts and initiatives, reflecting the Fraternity’s commitment to creating a safer and more inclusive brotherhood. Recognizing chapters that have actively engaged in initiatives such as the Stop Hazing high school programming, anti-hazing education and advocacy, support of the Max Gruver Foundation, lobbying for anti-hazing legislation, and raising awareness about the dangers of hazing.
