Frequently Asked Questions - Alcohol & Other Drug Education

Why isn't hard alcohol permitted on campus?

Hard alcohol can be more dangerous than beer and wine. Whereas a person can rapidly consume a large number of shots in an hour and experience alcohol poisoning, it is less likely that a person can physically consume the same number of beers or glasses of wine at the same rate.

Isn't having on campus drinking inconsistent with the alcohol policy?

The University is not anti-alcohol. The Meadow's Coffeehouse provides an environment for the responsible, lawful use of alcohol. It is a social space (that happens to serve alcohol) designed to bring the community - students, faculty, and staff - together in an environment that accommodates both drinkers, of legal age, and non-drinkers of all ages. Patrons who are intoxicated will not be served, consistent with the University's commitment to promoting the responsible and legal use of alcohol among those who choose to drink.

By enforcing policy on campus isn't the University forcing students to drink off campus and be placed in dangerous drinking and driving situations?

No. St. Edward's University recognizes that each student bears responsibility for his or her voluntary choice to drink in any setting. The University is greatly concerned that some students might drive while under the influence of alcohol or accept a ride with the person "least drunk" within a group. The Alcohol & Other Drug Task Force will support efforts to educate students about these dangers and will continue to offer social opportunities for students on campus.

Why enforce the alcohol policy if a drinker isn't bothering anyone?

In reality, most students draw attention to themselves when they are consuming alcohol and this leads to the majority of conduct referrals. It is difficult to fairly pick and choose when and when not to enforce the alcohol policy on campus. The University chooses to enforce the policy consistently and views this as the fairest approach.

Why are parents notified about violations?

Quite simply, it works. Parental notification has proven to be extremely effective in curbing problem drinking behavior. Upon a second violation the University works with students to make parents aware of their student's status and ask parents to reinforce the importance of sound decision-making with their students. Because the third offense usually can lead to suspension or loss of housing privleges, parents have been very grateful to be informed and have been strong partners in dealing with student conduct.