Alcohol and Illegal Drugs

[Faculty Handbook Category #3]

St. Olaf College desires to have a campus free of alcohol and illicit drugs and to operate all of its academic and co-curricular programs accordingly. It does so out of the conviction that this freedom will

(a) enhance the atmosphere for study, learning, growth, work, and wellness;

(b) support members of the community affected by or concerned with the abuse of alcohol and illicit drugs;

(c) respect the decisions of those who choose not to use alcohol or illicit drugs; and

(d) promote a caring environment.

Since we recognize that members of the community may, within applicable national, state, and local law, choose to use alcohol, St. Olaf College will actively educate the members of the campus community about alcohol and drugs and provide help for those affected by substance abuse problems. In addition, the college will provide social activities that do not rely on alcohol or illicit drugs and will maintain a supportive climate for those who choose not to use these substances.

Employees who are convicted of a criminal drug-statute violation that occurred in the workplace are required to inform their supervisor or department head.

At the same time, the college realizes that employees may have a problem of substance abuse which they are not able to control, but would like to overcome. The college supports employees with substance abuse problems who seek treatment to overcome such problems. Employees who wish to seek assistance may discuss such plans with their supervisor or contact the Employee Assistance Program (EAP). The supervisor and the employee will meet with the Director of Human Resources to make arrangements for a leave for treatment if necessary.

Policy Statement

The possession, distribution, or consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited on the St. Olaf campus, on land owned by the college, and in college-owned honor and language houses. The consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited at all college-sponsored functions, no matter where located, that include students.

St. Olaf prohibits the unlawful possession, distribution, or use of illicit drugs and/or controlled substances on any property owned by the college or in any program or activity sponsored by the college in any location.

Anyone violating college policy regarding alcohol, illicit drugs, and/or controlled substances will be subject to disciplinary action.