Substance Abuse Policy

As an educational institution, the College has an obligation to encourage those responsible behaviors that enable individuals to participate in learning opportunities. In recognition of the magnitude and seriousness of substance abuse in society, and of the harmful effects on individuals, families, and the community, this policy has, as its purpose, to influence attitudes through education, and to prohibit substance abuse. Abuse of alcohol and the use, possession or distribution of controlled substances, and the consumption of alcohol on campus (except where specifically permitted by law) are prohibited because of concern for the health and welfare of members of the College community, and about behavior that may violate the rights of others. While it is not the intent of this policy to regulate the conduct of persons not under the College’s control, it is the intent of this policy to regulate the conduct of all persons on campus or attending College-sponsored functions.

It is the College’s policy to prohibit the unlawful use, possession or distribution of legally controlled substances or the consumption of alcohol (except as provided by law), by persons on campus or at College-sponsored activities. It is also College policy to provide information to the College community about the detrimental effects of the use of drugs and the consumption of alcohol. Unlawful use, possession or distribution of any controlled substance is prohibited on campus or at any College-sponsored activity. Students who violate this policy will be governed by the College’s Code of Student Conduct and subject to disciplinary action up to and including suspension, expulsion, and referral for prosecution. Employees who violate this policy as subject to disciplinary action consistent with College policies, rules, regulations and employment agreements.  Any individual, including visitors, convicted of violating substance abuse laws may face local, state, or federal penalties including community service, fines, imprisonment, and loss of federal benefits including student financial aid.

The consumption of any alcohol is prohibited on campus. Any exception to this policy must be authorized in advance in writing by the president. When authorized, the consumption of alcoholic beverages is restricted to active participants in an educational or cultural conference on campus. Furthermore, the College representative in charge of any such activity on campus or any College-sponsored activity held off campus, may deny the right of any or all, persons to consume alcohol at such an activity when, in the discretion of such representative, the consumption of alcohol has become unreasonable.

Violation of this policy is subject to disciplinary sanction. This policy does not regulate the use of medication taken under the direction of a physician. The College hereby enacts this policy to conform with the Federal Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act of 1989 (20 U.S.C. §5145, Public Law 101-226).