Drug and Alcohol Use

The Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act (DFSCA) of 1989 - also known as the Drug-Free Schools and Campuses Act - requires institutions of higher education to establish policies that address unlawful possession, use, or distribution of alcohol and illicit drugs. The DFSCA also requires the establishment of a drug and alcohol prevention program.

It is the intent of the University to establish practices and procedures that discourage irresponsible and unlawful uses of alcoholic beverages and ensure compliance with local, state, and federal laws. While the decision to use or not to use alcoholic beverages is a matter of individual choice among persons of lawful age under state statutes, the University will attempt to encourage an environment where individual choice is coupled with responsible behavior and respect for the rights of others. This will be accomplished by supporting the responsible and legal use of alcoholic beverages and by educating the students about the effects of misuse and abuse of alcohol.

In regard to the use of alcoholic beverages, the University community should be aware that:

Residence hall staff members must, if they discover underage drinking, take immediate steps to stop the activity, including presiding over the cessation of drinking and the disposal of alcoholic beverages.

Student organizations, their officers, and advisors are liable if underage students obtain alcoholic beverages at an organization-sponsored event regardless of where the event is held. Provision and/or distribution of or failure to control access to alcoholic beverages to underage students by those of legal drinking age is a violation of University regulations and may be a violation of local and state laws. 

URP 01.250: Alcohol Use

URP 01:255: Drug-Free Workplace Policy

Page last updated 8:23 AM, August 13, 2024