Seth Vredenburg, junior in veterinary medicine, graduate of Simpson College and member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity, had his life turned upside down in 2001, when he fell asleep at the wheel and caused an accident that killed the other driver. His falling asleep was attributed to an exhaustion enhanced by alcohol he consumed earlier that night.

On July 17, 2003, Vredenburg was convicted of vehicular homicide and was sentenced to 10 years in prison. He has spent the last three and a half years in prison and is now on work release. Vredenburg has a powerful message to share, and, at the request of the victim’s family, he is sharing his message so that he can help make an impact on others. Vredenburg will be sharing his story with ISU students at 7 p.m. Tuesday in 1210 Lebaron Hall.

“Part of the reason for a presentation like this is to get people to see that the lives of ordinary people, just like themselves, can be greatly affected by one’s decision,” said John Bulcock, the Interfraternity Council graduate assistant and graduate student in educational leadership and policy studies. “Whether someone is the one who makes a decision or is the victim of a decision, lives can be flipped upside down.”

Initially, Vredenburg knew he wanted share his story with ISU students and spoke with John Bulcock about presenting to members of the greek community, but Vredenburg is hoping all ISU students will feel welcome to attend.

Mat Adrianse, junior in industrial engineering, and Peter Holleman, sophomore in civil engineering, are helping to coordinate the presentation. Both emphasized the importance of realizing the consequences of drinking and driving.

“When I first heard about the possibility of the presentation being offered to Iowa State students, I jumped at the opportunity to help organize it,” Adrianse said. “I felt the need to really get the word out to everyone in an effort to increase the community’s awareness and help the public make better decisions.”

Like Vredenburg, Holleman is also a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity.

“I thought that it would be great for Seth to have a brother represent him in what he wishes to accomplish,” Holleman said. “I also believe that Seth’s message is very valuable to today’s student. Many people do not realize the greater consequences of their actions until the worst finally happens to them. Hearing it first hand from someone who was recently in their situation – a college student, involved in many aspects of college life – will have a great influence on many people.”

Not only has Vredenburg’s and his family’s lives been impacted by the accident, the victim’s family, friends and fiance have also been greatly impacted. In addition to Vredenburg’s story, Mary Roche, whose family has experienced a drinking and driving tragedy, will share her experiences from the victim’s perspective.

“Mary and I are open to answering a lot of the hard questions,” Vredenburg said. “I am just hoping that in sharing our stories, other people will not have to go through what I went through.”