The College of Mount St. Joseph seeks to provide an environment in which students may experience intellectual, emotional, physical, social, and personal growth. The development of the capacity to make informed decisions about drugs, including responsible choices about the consumption of alcohol, is a significant component of personal growth. The responsibility for making informed choices regarding drugs and the use of alcohol rests with all members of the College community: students, faculty, and staff.

A comprehensive drug and alcohol education program supports members of the College community in making informed and responsible decisions about drugs and alcohol. This program has three primary components: first, to provide members of the College community with education regarding the academic, social, legal, and health-related effects of drug and alcohol use and misuse; second, to provide access and referral for the assessment of and treatment for individuals with drug and alcohol-related problems in cooperation with community agencies; and third, to provide for individual freedom while promoting the health, safety, and welfare of all members of the College community. It is assumed that the College’s commitment to providing education in addition to health, counseling, and ongoing support services will be matched by responsible behavior with respect to alcohol and other drugs.

The College’s drug and alcohol policy applies to students and to student organizations conducting activities and events on and off campus and supplements, rather than replaces, the Student Life Standards and Disciplinary Policy and Procedure, including all policies, offenses, procedures and sanctions set forth therein. This policy also applies to a student’s misusing a drug prescribed to him or her by a physician.

The College of Mount St. Joseph prohibits the illegal use, possession, sale, manufacture, or distribution of drugs, including alcohol, and drug paraphernalia. In addition, the misuse of substances that present physical or psychological hazards to individuals is prohibited. It is the College’s intention that its policies comply with State and local laws governing the use, distribution, and consumption of alcohol.

This information is part of the College of Mount St. Joseph's Student Handbook.