Campus Files Podcast Unveils Shocking Scandals in U.S. Higher Education

A new investigative podcast, Campus Files, dives deep into the shocking and often concealed scandals that have plagued U.S. higher education institutions. Produced by Audacy and hosted by seasoned journalist and documentary podcaster Margo Gray, this weekly series unearths both historical and contemporary controversies that have shaped the academic landscape.

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College: The Dream vs. The Dark Reality

For many, the college experience is glorified as “the best four years of their lives.” However, beneath the surface lies a web of hidden transgressions—including admissions fraud, academic dishonesty, corrupt athletics programs, hazing deaths, and even underground tribunals. Campus Files sheds light on these untold stories, exposing the intricate layers of deception in some of the country’s most prestigious institutions.

Scandals Unraveled: A Glimpse into the Episodes

Each episode of Campus Files examines a unique and gripping case from the past or present, uncovering corruption, discrimination, and shocking abuses of power. Some of the high-profile cases covered include:

1. The UNC Fake Classes Scandal: Keeping Athletes Eligible

The University of North Carolina (UNC) maintained its athletic dominance by offering fraudulent classes.
Athletes were enrolled in “paper courses” with minimal academic requirements to maintain eligibility.
A systemic loophole allowed the university to dodge academic integrity policies while preserving its sports empire.

2. Harvard’s Secret Court: The Hidden Persecution of LGBTQ+ Students

In 1920, Harvard University convened a clandestine tribunal known as the “Secret Court.”
The court investigated and punished students suspected of homosexuality.
The suppressed records were later uncovered, revealing a chilling chapter in Ivy League history.

3. Segregation in University of Alabama’s Greek System

Decades after the Civil Rights Movement, racial segregation persisted within the university’s Greek organizations.
Fraternities and sororities systematically excluded Black students, enforcing an unspoken racial divide.
Institutional resistance made reform efforts challenging despite student-led activism.

4. Dr. Carmen Puliafito: The Drug-Dealing USC Dean

Dr. Puliafito, the former dean of USC’s Keck School of Medicine, led a double life fueled by substance abuse.
Investigations revealed his involvement in drug use, parties, and connections with criminals.
Despite reports and warning signs, the university took little action until the scandal became public.

5. The Double Life of Joe Gow: A University Chancellor’s Shocking Side Business

Former University of Wisconsin-La Crosse Chancellor Joe Gow led a shocking double life.
Gow and his wife were found to be involved in adult content creation, raising ethical concerns within academia.
The revelation sparked debate about personal freedom versus professional integrity.

6. Cornell’s Hazing Tragedy: The Death of George Desdunes

In a tragic hazing incident, Cornell University sophomore George Desdunes lost his life.
The fraternity initiation involved forced drinking, leading to fatal alcohol poisoning.
The case exposed the dark realities of Greek life and the dangers of hazing traditions.

7. Columbia University’s Rankings Scandal: Falsifying Data for Prestige

Columbia University was found guilty of submitting manipulated data to U.S. News & World Report rankings.
Inflated statistics helped the institution climb the ranks in the prestigious college listings.
The scandal cast doubt on the reliability of university rankings and academic integrity.

Why Campus Files Is a Must-Listen

Audacy’s Vice President and Head of Original Podcasts, Maddy Sprung-Keyser, expressed enthusiasm about the new series, stating:

“As we continue to expand our slate of powerful and captivating originals, we’re thrilled to launch Campus Files. The compelling stories we cover highlight how college campuses serve as a fascinating microcosm of human nature and societal dynamics.”

With each episode meticulously researched and narrated, Campus Files promises to be an eye-opening journey into the underbelly of academia.

Where to Listen?

Campus Files premieres on January 29 and will release new episodes every Wednesday. The series is available on the Audacy app and all major podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify.