Alcohol and Non-Medical Use of Drugs Policy
Berea College complies with the federal Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act and Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Regulations in prohibiting the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession, or use of a controlled substance on Berea College Campus.
Federal, state, and local laws prohibit non-medical use and trafficking in drugs, hallucinogens, and narcotics. Kentucky state laws prohibit persons less than 21 years of age from using or possessing alcoholic beverages. Providing alcohol to persons under 21 years of age is illegal. In Kentucky, operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or any other substance is against the law.
The use of drugs and alcoholic beverages is inimical to the aims and purposes of our educational community. It can also be detrimental to individual members of the community. For both these reasons, Berea College prohibits the use of drugs and the use or possession of alcoholic beverages on campus or other College-owned property or when engaged in College-related activities. Smoking tobacco is prohibited on campus grounds except in certain designated areas.
Policies and laws on drug use and use of alcohol on campus property apply to all students, faculty, and staff persons. Any student, faculty, or staff person found to be in possession of or using drugs or alcohol will be subject to judicial action through the appropriate judicial body or disciplinary personnel actions. One suspected to be in possession of illegal drugs might be detained until authorization is given to search. Students selling or trafficking these drugs are liable for the most serious judicial actions—dismissal from the College. Students, faculty, or staff persons who possess or use drugs in violation of state and federal laws are also in jeopardy of criminal prosecution.
Because of the serious problems which can arise from alcohol and drug use, the College provides educational programs on these matters. No person should hesitate to seek answers to questions relating to drugs or to seek help from the College’s counseling or medical services. Students who seek counseling or medical assistance on campus as a result of use of drugs or alcohol can do so with assurance that strict counseling and medical confidentiality will be observed. No campus disciplinary action will result from information which is disclosed within the bounds of mental health counseling or College Health Services medical confidentiality.
Effective Date:
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Approved by: Beverly Penkalski
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