Drug & Alcohol Abuse Prevention | Stevenson University

Introduction

Stevenson University is an innovative, coeducational, independent institution offering undergraduate and graduate students a career-focused education marked by individualized attention, civility, and respect for difference. In order to achieve our mission, the health and safety of members of the Stevenson University community are of primary concern to the institution. The main goal of Stevenson’s drug and alcohol program is to help all members of the community understand the health risks associated with the abuse of alcohol and illicit drugs and to provide appropriate support and resources for those members who may be struggling with their own usage. In order to fulfill this primary goal, Stevenson strives to develop, articulate and enforce clear policies for students and employees. Further, the institution seeks to provide relevant and effective educational programs for members of the university community, particularly students, surrounding the impact of abusing alcohol and illicit drugs.

Stevenson’s drug and alcohol program is guided by the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act (DFSCA), which requires that colleges develop a drug and alcohol abuse prevention program that includes (a) a written statement about its standards of conduct that prohibits the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students and employees; (b) a written description of legal sanctions imposed under federal, state, and local laws for unlawful possession or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol; (c) a description of the health risks associated with the use of illicit drugs and the abuse of alcohol; (d) a description of any drug or alcohol counseling, treatment, or rehabilitation or re-entry programs that are available to students and employees, and (e) a statement that the institution will impose disciplinary sanctions on students and employees for violations of the intuitions’ codes of conduct and a description of such sanctions. The drug and alcohol abuse prevention program must be distributed annually, in writing, to each employee and to each student who is taking one or more classes for any type of academic credit (except for continuing education units), regardless of the length of the student’s program of study.

On March 1, 2017, the Governor of Maryland declared a state of emergency in response to the heroin and opioid crisis. Maryland’s Opioid Operational Command Center serves as the primary coordinating office for the state’s response to the opioid and overdoes crisis. Comprehensive resources, and data, may be found on Maryland’s Before It’s Too Late website.

Stevenson continues to devote a specific section of this document to heroin and opioid education. Stevenson requires new full-time students to participate in heroin and opioid addiction and prevention awareness training during their first year at Stevenson. At our August 2022 new student orientation program, Mr. Tim Weber, Community Education Liaison in the Carroll County State’s Attorney’s Office, delivered a presentation to new students. Mr. Weber has delivered a similar presentation in previous years and he is scheduled to do so again at our August 2023 new student orientation. For those who do not attend an in-person training program, Stevenson has created an online program that these students must complete. Further, medical professionals in the Wellness Center, members of the University’s Incident Response Team, and all full-time Campus Safety Officers at Stevenson University have been trained on symptom recognition and medication administration procedures. In addition many of the part-time Campus Safety Officers have been trained as well and, in several cases, they received this training as part of their full-time work as firefighters and EMTs.

Finally, as part of our prevention efforts, we wish to highlight the institution’s Good Samaritan Policy as well as the State of Maryland’s Good Samaritan Law. Under Stevenson University’s policy, students who seek medical attention for themselves or their fellow students related to consumption of alcohol or other drugs will not be charged with a violation of Stevenson University policies and/or the Guidelines for Student Housing. Students, however, may be required at the discretion of the Dean of Students (or designee) to complete an alcohol assessment/alcohol education and/or a drug assessment/drug education program depending on the severity of the student’s situation. The purpose of Maryland’s Good Samaritan Law is to encourage any person, regardless of age, who experiences or observes a medical emergency caused by the ingestion or use of alcohol or other drugs, to seek medical assistance without fear of arrest or prosecution for: possessing or using a controlled dangerous substance; possessing or using drug paraphernalia; providing alcohol to minors.

Standards of Conduct Regarding Alcohol

The health and safety of members of the Stevenson University community are the primary concerns of the University. It is the University’s policy to uphold the alcohol laws of the State of Maryland. Possession and consumption of alcoholic beverages is permitted only by those who are at least 21 years of age. Alcoholic beverages are not to be furnished to or consumed by minors.

Members of the Stevenson community and guests are expected to accept responsibility for their actions, to obey the law, and to police their own behavior. Individuals who violate the law, in addition to being subject to criminal penalties, will be subject to University disciplinary measures. These specific policies that follow apply to Stevenson University events both on and off campus.

Except as permitted by the following paragraphs, the possession, use or distribution of alcohol by students, faculty, staff, and guests on University property or in connection with any University activity is strictly forbidden.
All University-sponsored events where alcohol is served, either on or off campus, must be approved by the Vice President, Student Affairs; Vice President, Human Resources; or Chief of Staff in the President’s office 30 days prior to the event. The Event Application Request for Service of Alcoholic Beverages will serve as a formal application for approval.

All individuals attending the event must be of legal drinking age. Student organizations may request an exception to this guideline if the primary purpose of the event is other than a social drinking party and the majority of the guests are of legal drinking age.
The organization’s adviser or an alternative faculty/staff member must be present for the duration of the event.
Security must be present for the duration of the event.

Alcohol may only be served by a licensed caterer trained to serve alcohol. Caterers must provide proof of license and training certification to the University prior to the event. A list of approved caterers is included with the Event Application Request for Service of Alcoholic Beverages.

Proper proof of age must be provided to the server.

Kegs, multi-liter containers, and pitchers used for the serving of alcohol are not allowed at student-sponsored events.

At events where alcohol is served, substantial food and non-alcoholic drinks must be provided. During late night events, the service of alcohol will stop one hour prior to the ending time of the event.

Under no circumstances may an employee, including a student employee, report to work or perform work on behalf of the University while impaired by alcohol. Suspicion of impairment while on duty may result in an immediate referral for blood-alcohol testing.

It is recognized that this document cannot address, in specific fashion, all possible social situations that may occur. Where these procedures are not specific on a particular point, individual and organizational hosts are expected to conduct their social events and themselves in the spirit of social responsibility consistent with these procedures

Rules Specifically Applicable to University Housing

Residents of legal drinking age may drink alcohol in their residence hall apartment or suite only if they are not in the presence of residents or guests who are under 21 years of age. Absolutely no alcohol is permitted in any shared space in a residence hall room/suite/apartment where underage students reside. Alcohol may not be served or consumed in any common areas of the University’s residential facilities including, but not limited to, hallways, lounges, quad areas, and parking lots. Guests are expected to abide by the University’s rules while visiting Stevenson housing.

Students will be held responsible for the conduct of their guests. The Residence Life staff will confiscate or require underage residents to dispose of alcohol they observe being brought or having been brought into the residences and to stop consumption of alcoholic beverages in all common areas. Kegs, beer balls, and other multi-liter containers are not permitted in Stevenson residence halls. The Residence Life staff will inform students of University policy, clarify if they are violating the University’s policy, and counsel them regarding the consequences of their behavior, both in terms of health and safety risks and legal consequences. Students in violation of the housing agreement or University policy will be held accountable. The Residence Life staff is to report offenders to the Office of Student Conduct. The students involved will meet with a Student Conduct representative to determine appropriate sanctions if warranted. Any student failing to meet with a Student Conduct representative upon request will be subject to termination of the housing contract for failure to comply with directions of a University official

Standard Sanctions for Alcohol Violations

Students
Students found in violation of this policy may be subject to disciplinary action, including but not limited to fine, alcohol/drug education, suspension, removal from residence, or expulsion from the University.

Employees
Employees found in violation of this policy may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination from employment.

Reporting Use and Misuse

Each member of the Stevenson community is encouraged to report all suspicions of unlawful possession, use or distribution of illicit drugs or alcohol, or of alcohol abuse, to the appropriate University authorities.

Standards of Conduct Regarding Unauthorized Drugs

The Stevenson University community affirms unauthorized drug use to be contrary to the goals of the University. The use, possession (including constructive possession), manufacture, distribution, dispensing, and solicitation of controlled substances, drug paraphernalia, look-alike drugs, unauthorized legal drugs, and over-the-counter drugs/medications or prescription drugs in excess of the recommended or prescribed dosage(s) is strictly prohibited on Stevenson University property, Stevenson sponsored travel, or in connection with any program or activity sponsored or endorsed by Stevenson University.

A list of controlled substances can be found on the website of the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (www.dea.gov). Regardless of whether a controlled substance has been legally approved by a state or locality, drugs that are federally controlled (including marijuana) are prohibited under this University policy.

Under no circumstances may an employee, including a student employee, report to work or perform work on behalf of the University while impaired by legal or illegal drugs. Suspicion of impairment while on duty may result in an immediate referral for drug testing.

Standard Sanctions for Unauthorized Drugs

Students

Students found in violation of this policy may be subject to disciplinary action, including but not limited to fine, alcohol/drug education, suspension, removal from residence, or expulsion from the University.

Employees

Employees found in violation of this policy may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination from employment.

Reporting Use and Misuse

Good Samaritan Policy

Stevenson University is committed to the health and safety of its students and strives to maintain policies that support this commitment. In an effort to maintain the health and safety of the campus community, the University has instituted this Good Samaritan Policy. Under this policy, students who seek medical attention for themselves or their fellow students related to consumption of alcohol or other drugs will not be charged with a violation of Stevenson University policies and/or the Guidelines for Student Housing. Students, however, may be required at the discretion of the Dean of Students or designee to complete an alcohol assessment/alcohol education and/or a drug assessment/drug education program depending on the severity of the student’s situation.

Stevenson University prohibits the use of alcohol on campus for those under the legal drinking age of 21 and the use of unauthorized drugs. Alcoholic beverages are not to be furnished to, possessed or consumed by those less than 21 years of age. Students of legal drinking age may drink alcohol in their apartments/suites only if they are not in the presence of residents or guests who are under 21 years of age. The University recognizes that due to these prohibitions, students may unwisely choose not to call for medical assistance when another student is experiencing alcohol intoxication or a potential overdose situation due to the sanctions that the University might impose upon them. Should a student become intoxicated or involved in a potential overdose situation, Stevenson University implores individuals, regardless of age, to seek medical assistance for themselves or others in an attempt to keep the campus community safe. This Good Samaritan Policy applies only to those students who seek emergency medical assistance in connection with an alcohol or other drug related emergency and does not apply to individuals experiencing an alcohol or other drug emergency who are found by University personnel (e.g., Campus Security, Residence Life, University administrators). Similarly the Good Samaritan Policy only applies to alcohol and other drug related emergencies and does not apply to other unacceptable forms of behavior such as assault, property damage, or distribution of illegal substances. Likewise, the Good Samaritan Policy does not prevent action by police or other law enforcement personnel who are required to abide by Maryland State law.

Stevenson University students are expected to act responsibly. In cases where repetitive violations of Stevenson University’s policies and/or Guidelines for Student Housing occur, the Dean of Students or designee reserves the right to take judicial action on a case-by-case basis regardless of the manner in which the incident was reported.

Smoking Policy

Stevenson University is committed to a policy of creating a smoke-free environment in all its facilities and in providing a healthy, comfortable environment for students, faculty, staff, and guests. Smoking or vaping of any substance in any way is not permitted in any building on campus. In order to create a healthier environment:

All areas within 15 feet of building entrances are designated smoke-free zones.
The space between the Dawson Academic Center and the Manuszak Center buildings on the Greenspring Campus will be designated smoke-free due to the close proximity of these two buildings.
Cigarette receptacles will be placed 15 feet from building entrances.
Proper signage will be posted indicating “Smoke-Free Zones”.

Enforcement will be by self-governance of the campus community.

Smoking reduction and cessation education will be offered during the academic year by The Wellness Center.

Legal Sanctions Under Federal, State, and Local Laws

Federal Trafficking Penalties

The below tables contain a description of federal penalties and sanctions for illegal trafficking and possession of a controlled substance. These charts were downloaded from Drugs of Abuse: A DEA Resource Guide, pages 38-39, on August 9, 2023.

FEDERAL TRAFFICKING PENALTIES

DRUG/SCHEDULE	QUANTITY	PENALTIES	QUANTITY	PENALTIES
Cocaine (Schedule II)	500–4999 grams mixture	First Offense: Not less than 5 yrs, and not more than 40 yrs. If death or serious injury, not less than 20 or more than life. Fine of not more than $5 million if an individual, $25 million if not an individual. Second Offense: Not less than 10 yrs, and not more than life. If death or serious injury, life imprisonment. Fine of not more than $8 million if an individual, $50 million if not an individual.	5 kgs or more mixture	First Offense: Not less than 10 yrs, and not more than life. If death or serious injury, not less than 20 or more than life. Fine of not more than $10 million if an individual, $50 million if not an individual. Second Offense: Not less than 20 yrs, and not more than life. If death or serious injury, life imprisonment. Fine of not more than $20 million if an individual, $75 million if not an individual. 2 or More Prior Offenses: Life imprisonment. Fine of not more than $20 million if an individual, $75 million if not an individual.
Cocaine Base (Schedule II)	28–279 grams mixture		280 grams or more mixture
Fentanyl (Schedule II)	40–399 grams mixture		400 grams or more mixture
Fentanyl Analogue (Schedule I)	10–99 grams mixture		100 grams or more mixture
Heroin (Schedule I)	100–999 grams mixture		1 kg or more mixture
LSD (Schedule I)	1–9 grams mixture		10 grams or more mixture
Methamphetamine (Schedule II)	5–49 grams pure or 50–499 grams mixture		50 grams or more pure or 500 grams or more mixture
PCP (Schedule II)	10–99 grams pure or 100–999 grams mixture		100 gm or more pure or 1 kg or more mixture
PENALTIES
Other Schedule I & II drugs (and any drug product containing Gamma Hydroxybutyric Acid) Flunitrazepam (Schedule IV)	Any amount 1 gram	First Offense: Not more than 20 yrs. If death or serious injury, not less than 20 yrs, or more than life. Fine $1 million if an individual, $5 million if not an individual. Second Offense: Not more than 30 yrs. If death or serious bodily injury, life imprisonment. Fine $2 million if an individual, $10 million if not an individual.
Other Schedule III drugs	Any amount	First Offense: Not more than 10 years. If death or serious injury, not more that 15 yrs. Fine not more than $500,000 if an individual, $2.5 million if not an individual. Second Offense: Not more than 20 yrs. If death or serious injury, not more than 30 yrs. Fine not more than $1 million if an individual, $5 million if not an individual.
All other Schedule IV drugs	Any amount	First Offense: Not more than 5 yrs. Fine not more than $250,000 if an individual, $1 million if not an individual. Second Offense: Not more than 10 yrs. Fine not more than $500,000 if an individual, $2 million if other than an individual.
Flunitrazepam (Schedule IV)	Other than 1 gram or more
All Schedule V drugs	Any amount	First Offense: Not more than 1 yr. Fine not more than $100,000 if an individual, $250,000 if not an individual. Second Offense: Not more than 4 yrs. Fine not more than $200,000 if an individual, $500,000 if not an individual.

FEDERAL TRAFFICKING PENALTIES – MARIJUANA

DRUG	QUANTITY	1^st OFFENSE	2^nd OFFENSE*
Marijuana (Schedule I)	1,000 kg or more marijuana mixture; or 1,000 or more marijuana plants	Not less than 10 yrs. or more than life. If death or serious bodily injury, not less than 20 yrs., or more than life. Fine not more than $10 million if an individual, $50 million if other than an individual.	Not less than 20 yrs. or more than life. If death or serious bodily injury, life imprisonment. Fine not more than $20 million if an individual, $75 million if other than an individual.
Marijuana (Schedule I)	100 kg to 999 kg marijuana mixture; or 100 to 999 marijuana plants	Not less than 5 yrs. or more than 40 yrs. If death or serious bodily injury, not less than 20 yrs. or more than life. Fine not more than $5 million if an individual, $25 million if other than an individual.	Not less than 10 yrs. or more than life. If death or serious bodily injury, life imprisonment. Fine not more than $8 million if an individual, $50 million if other than an individual.
Marijuana (Schedule I)	More than 10 kgs hashish; 50 to 99 kg marijuana mixture More than 1 kg of hashish oil; 50 to 99 marijuana plants	Not more than 20 yrs. If death or serious bodily injury, not less than 20 yrs. or more than life. Fine $1 million if an individual, $5 million if other than an individual.	Not more than 30 yrs. If death or serious bodily injury, life imprisonment. Fine $2 million if an individual, $10 million if other than an individual.
Marijuana (Schedule I)	Less than 50 kg marijuana (except 50 or more marijuana plants regardless of weight) 1 to 49 marijuana plants;	Not more than 5 yrs. Fine not more than $250,000, $1 million if other than an individual.	Not more than 10 yrs. Fine $500,000 if an individual, $2 million if other than individual.
Hashish (Schedule I)	10 kg or less	Not more than 5 yrs. Fine not more than $250,000, $1 million if other than an individual.	Not more than 10 yrs. Fine $500,000 if an individual, $2 million if other than individual.
Hashish Oil (Schedule I)	1 kg or less	Not more than 5 yrs. Fine not more than $250,000, $1 million if other than an individual.	Not more than 10 yrs. Fine $500,000 if an individual, $2 million if other than individual.

FEDERAL TRAFFICKING PENALTIES

DRUG/SCHEDULE	QUANTITY	PENALTIES	QUANTITY	PENALTIES
Cocaine (Schedule II)	500–4999 grams mixture	First Offense: Not less than 5 yrs, and not more than 40 yrs. If death or serious injury, not less than 20 or more than life. Fine of not more than $5 million if an individual, $25 million if not an individual. Second Offense: Not less than 10 yrs, and not more than life. If death or serious injury, life imprisonment. Fine of not more than $8 million if an individual, $50 million if not an individual.	5 kgs or more mixture	First Offense: Not less than 10 yrs, and not more than life. If death or serious injury, not less than 20 or more than life. Fine of not more than $10 million if an individual, $50 million if not an individual. Second Offense: Not less than 20 yrs, and not more than life. If death or serious injury, life imprisonment. Fine of not more than $20 million if an individual, $75 million if not an individual. 2 or More Prior Offenses: Life imprisonment. Fine of not more than $20 million if an individual, $75 million if not an individual.
Cocaine Base (Schedule II)	28–279 grams mixture		280 grams or more mixture
Fentanyl (Schedule II)	40–399 grams mixture		400 grams or more mixture
Fentanyl Analogue (Schedule I)	10–99 grams mixture		100 grams or more mixture
Heroin (Schedule I)	100–999 grams mixture		1 kg or more mixture
LSD (Schedule I)	1–9 grams mixture		10 grams or more mixture
Methamphetamine (Schedule II)	5–49 grams pure or 50–499 grams mixture		50 grams or more pure or 500 grams or more mixture
PCP (Schedule II)	10–99 grams pure or 100–999 grams mixture		100 gm or more pure or 1 kg or more mixture
PENALTIES
Other Schedule I & II drugs (and any drug product containing Gamma Hydroxybutyric Acid) Flunitrazepam (Schedule IV)	Any amount 1 gram	First Offense: Not more than 20 yrs. If death or serious injury, not less than 20 yrs, or more than life. Fine $1 million if an individual, $5 million if not an individual. Second Offense: Not more than 30 yrs. If death or serious bodily injury, life imprisonment. Fine $2 million if an individual, $10 million if not an individual.
Other Schedule III drugs	Any amount	First Offense: Not more than 10 years. If death or serious injury, not more that 15 yrs. Fine not more than $500,000 if an individual, $2.5 million if not an individual. Second Offense: Not more than 20 yrs. If death or serious injury, not more than 30 yrs. Fine not more than $1 million if an individual, $5 million if not an individual.
All other Schedule IV drugs	Any amount	First Offense: Not more than 5 yrs. Fine not more than $250,000 if an individual, $1 million if not an individual. Second Offense: Not more than 10 yrs. Fine not more than $500,000 if an individual, $2 million if other than an individual.
Flunitrazepam (Schedule IV)	Other than 1 gram or more
All Schedule V drugs	Any amount	First Offense: Not more than 1 yr. Fine not more than $100,000 if an individual, $250,000 if not an individual. Second Offense: Not more than 4 yrs. Fine not more than $200,000 if an individual, $500,000 if not an individual.

FEDERAL TRAFFICKING PENALTIES – MARIJUANA

DRUG	QUANTITY	1^st OFFENSE	2^nd OFFENSE*
Marijuana (Schedule I)	1,000 kg or more marijuana mixture; or 1,000 or more marijuana plants	Not less than 10 yrs. or more than life. If death or serious bodily injury, not less than 20 yrs., or more than life. Fine not more than $10 million if an individual, $50 million if other than an individual.	Not less than 20 yrs. or more than life. If death or serious bodily injury, life imprisonment. Fine not more than $20 million if an individual, $75 million if other than an individual.
Marijuana (Schedule I)	100 kg to 999 kg marijuana mixture; or 100 to 999 marijuana plants	Not less than 5 yrs. or more than 40 yrs. If death or serious bodily injury, not less than 20 yrs. or more than life. Fine not more than $5 million if an individual, $25 million if other than an individual.	Not less than 10 yrs. or more than life. If death or serious bodily injury, life imprisonment. Fine not more than $8 million if an individual, $50 million if other than an individual.
Marijuana (Schedule I)	More than 10 kgs hashish; 50 to 99 kg marijuana mixture More than 1 kg of hashish oil; 50 to 99 marijuana plants	Not more than 20 yrs. If death or serious bodily injury, not less than 20 yrs. or more than life. Fine $1 million if an individual, $5 million if other than an individual.	Not more than 30 yrs. If death or serious bodily injury, life imprisonment. Fine $2 million if an individual, $10 million if other than an individual.
Marijuana (Schedule I)	Less than 50 kg marijuana (except 50 or more marijuana plants regardless of weight) 1 to 49 marijuana plants;	Not more than 5 yrs. Fine not more than $250,000, $1 million if other than an individual.	Not more than 10 yrs. Fine $500,000 if an individual, $2 million if other than individual.
Hashish (Schedule I)	10 kg or less	Not more than 5 yrs. Fine not more than $250,000, $1 million if other than an individual.	Not more than 10 yrs. Fine $500,000 if an individual, $2 million if other than individual.
Hashish Oil (Schedule I)	1 kg or less	Not more than 5 yrs. Fine not more than $250,000, $1 million if other than an individual.	Not more than 10 yrs. Fine $500,000 if an individual, $2 million if other than individual.

* The minimum sentence for a violation after two or more prior convictions for a felony drug offense have become final is not less than 25 years imprisonment and a fine up to $20 million if an individual and $75 million if other than an individual.

State of Maryland Penalties and Sanctions Relating to Alcoholic Beverages and Controlled Substances

All members of the Stevenson University community are subject to the alcohol laws of the state of Maryland. A good source for reviewing Maryland’s underage drinking, fake ID, and impaired driving laws is Maryland’s Motor Vehicle Administration. For convenience, the following laws are highlighted below:

Underage Drinking: If you are under the age of 21 and found to have purchased, possessed or consumed alcohol, you face a fine of $500 for your first offense and $1,000 for your second or subsequent offense.

Fake ID Laws: If you are under 21 and in possession of a fake ID, you face a fine of up to $500 and up to 2 months in prison. Twelve (12) points will be assessed on your driving record, and your driver’s license may be suspended or revoked. If you are caught selling fake IDs, you face fines of up to $2000 and up to two years in prison for each fake ID sold. You are also subject to prosecution for violating federal and homeland security laws.

Impaired Driving: The state of Maryland aggressively enforces impaired driving laws. The penalties for being found guilty of Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol (DUI) are a $1,000 fine and up to one year in jail. Also, twelve points will be assessed on your driving record and your license may be revoked for up to 6 months. The penalties for being convicted of Driving while Impaired by Alcohol (DWI) is a $500 fine and up to two months imprisonment. Also, eight points will be assessed on your driving record and you face a 6-month suspension of your license. The penalties of violating either law are higher for a second offense and they are substantially higher if you are transporting a minor at the time of the offense or for a third offense. For additional information regarding these laws, students and employees should refer to Maryland’s Motor Vehicle Administration.

All members of the Stevenson University community should be aware that important changes to Maryland’s drunk driving laws went into effect on October 1, 2016. On this date, The Drunk Driving Reduction Act of 2016 (also known as Noah’s Law) took effect. Noah’s Law significantly expands Maryland’s Ignition Interlock Program and also significantly increases driver license suspension periods for immediate Administrative chemical test failure and refusals. For additional information, students and employees should refer to Maryland’s Motor Vehicle Administration.

Marijuana: All members of the Stevenson University community should be aware that while the state of Maryland has legalized recreational marijuana for adults age 21 and above in certain circumstances, the use and possession of marijuana continues to be prohibited at Stevenson University and would constitute violation of Stevenson’s Drug Policy.

Sanctioning guidelines for the state of Maryland, which were updated in July of 2023, may be found by accessing the following link provided by the Maryland State Commission on Criminal Sentencing Policy (MSCCSP): http://msccsp.org/Files/Guidelines/offensetable.pdf. Specific information related to alcoholic beverages may be found beginning on page 2 of the MSCCSP document. Information related to CDS & paraphernalia may be found beginning on page 9. Finally, information related to Prescription Drugs and Other Substances may be found on page 47. For convenience, the below chart provides a summary of sanctioning guidelines for selected offenses. However, students and employees are encouraged to review all the relevant sanctioning guidelines in the MSCCSP document.

Offense	Source	Felony or Misd.	Max Term	Fine
Alcoholic Beverages Intoxicated and endanger safety of person or property; or intoxicated or drink alcoholic beverage in public place and cause public disturbance	AB, §6-320	Misd.	90 Days	$100
CDS and Paraphernalia Manufacture, distribute, or dispense controlled dangerous substances near schools or on school vehicles, 1^st offense	CR, §5-627	Felony	20 Years	$20,000
CDS and Paraphernalia Manufacture, distribute, or dispense controlled dangerous substances near schools or on school vehicles, subsequent	CR, §5-627	Felony	40Y Mandatory Minimum = 5Y	$40,000
CDS and Paraphernalia Using minors for manufacture, delivery, or distribution of controlled dangerous substances.	CR, §5-628(a)(1)	Felony	20Y	$20,000
Prescription Drugs and Other Substances Harmful substances – distribution; possession with intent to distribute; instruction in the unlawful inhaling; or distribution of butane can to minor	CR, §5-709	Misd	18M	$1,000
Weapons Crimes – In General Possess, use, wear, carry, or transport a firearm in a drug offense, 1^st offense	CR, §5-621(c)	Felony	20Y MM = 5Y
Weapons Crimes – In General Possess, use, wear, carry, or transport a firearm in a drug offense, subsequent	CR, §5-621(c)	Felony	20Y MM = 10Y

Pertinent Baltimore County Maryland Code Provisions*

Public Consumption of Alcoholic Beverages – § 17-1-103

Students and employees should be aware that in Baltimore County, Maryland, a person may not possess an alcoholic beverage in an open container (1) On public property, property used by the public, or a highway; or (2) In a vehicle that is located on public property, property used by the public, or a highway. A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor. (1988 Code, § 20-2) (Bill No. 114-99, § 3, 7-1-2004)

Synthetic Cannabinoid –§ 17-1-118

“Synthetic cannabinoid” means a material, substance, compound, mixture or preparation in any form that would reasonably indicate under all circumstances to be synthetic marijuana, including but not limited to products known as Spice, K2, Scooby Snax, Potpourri, or any other name.

“Synthetic marijuana” means a psychoactive substance or compound created with man-made synthetic chemicals that, when consumed or ingested, mimics the intoxicating effects of marijuana THC, the psychoactive ingredient in the naturally grown marijuana plant.

A person may not purchase, use or possess a synthetic cannabinoid. A person may not distribute a substance: (i) That the person represents is any form of synthetic cannabinoid;

(ii) That the person intends for use or distribution as a synthetic cannabinoid; or
(iii) Under circumstances that one reasonably should know that the substance will be used or distributed for use as a synthetic cannabinoid. A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $500 or imprisonment not exceeding 60 days or both. Property seized in connection with enforcement of this section is subject to forfeiture in accordance with the drug asset forfeiture statute set forth in §§ 12-101 – 12-505 of the Criminal Procedure Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland. (Bill No. 77-10, § 1, 11-19-2010; Bill No. 78-13, § 1, 3-13-2014)

*Each of the above laws do allow for certain exceptions, though these exceptions are limited and may not apply to most students and employees. Those who may wish to view these exceptions are encouraged to refer to the Baltimore County Code.

Drug Conviction and Financial Aid Eligibility

Under the Higher Education Act, a student may become ineligible for federal student aid upon conviction of any offense involving the possession or sale of illegal drugs while receiving Title IV federal financial aid. Federal aid includes Federal Direct Loans, Federal Direct PLUS Loans, Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loans, Federal Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants, Federal Work-Study, and Perkins Loans.

Penalties for Drug Convictions

Possession of Illegal Drugs

First Offense: Ineligible to receive aid for 1 year from the date of conviction
Second Offense: Ineligible to receive aid for 2 years from the date of conviction
Third and Subsequent Offenses: Indefinite ineligibility from the date of conviction

Sale of Illegal Drugs

First Offense: Ineligible to receive aid for 2 years from the date of conviction
Second and Subsequent Offenses: Indefinite ineligibility from the date of conviction

How to Regain Eligibility
A student can regain eligibility for federal student aid funds by successfully completing a drug rehabilitation program. To be sufficient to reinstate financial aid eligibility, the program must include at least 2 unannounced drug tests AND be recognized as a Federal, State, or local government agency program. A student will regain eligibility on the date of successfully completing the program.

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Question 23 on the FAFSA form asks if the student has ever been convicted of a drug-related offense. Failure to answer this question will automatically disqualify the student from receiving Federal aid. Falsely answering this question, if discovered, could result in fines up to $20,000, imprisonment, or both.

Convictions During Enrollment According to the United States Department of Education, if a student is convicted of a drug offense after receiving Federal aid, he or she must notify the Financial Aid Department student will be ineligible for further aid and required to pay back all aid received after the conviction.

Standards of Conduct Regarding Tobacco

Stevenson University is committed to a policy of creating a smoke-free environment in all its facilities and in providing a healthy, comfortable environment for students, faculty, staff, and guests. Smoking is not permitted in any building on the Greenspring or Owings Mills campuses. In order to create a healthier environment:

All areas within 15 feet of building entrances are designated smoke-free zones.
The space between the Dawson Academic Center and the Manuszak Center Buildings on the Greenspring Campus will be designated smoke-free due to the close proximity of these two buildings.
Cigarette receptacles will be placed 15 feet from building entrances.
Proper signage will be posted indicating “Smoke-Free Zones”.
Enforcement will be by self-governance of the campus community.
The Wellness Center is available to meet with students and discuss referrals to the Baltimore County Health Department for smoking reduction and cessation education classes.

Health Risks Associated with the Abuse of Alcohol

The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) provides detailed information regarding the health risks associated with the abuse of alcohol. The information provided below was taken directly from their website and was retrieved on August 9, 2023.

The NIAAA provides the following information on how alcohol can affect your body:

Brain: Alcohol interferes with the brain’s communication pathways, and can affect the way the brain looks and works. These disruptions can change mood and behavior, and make it harder to think clearly and move with coordination.  

Heart: Drinking a lot over time or too much on a single occasion can damage the heart, causing problems including: cardiomyopathy (stretching and drooping of heart muscle); arrhythmias (irregular heart beat); stroke; and high blood pressure.  

Liver: Heavy drinking takes a toll on the liver, and can lead to a variety of problems and liver inflammation including: steatosis, or fatty liver; alcoholic hepatitis; fibrosis; and cirrhosis.

Pancreas: Alcohol causes the pancreas to produce toxic substances that can eventually lead to pancreatitis, a dangerous inflammation and swelling of the blood vessels in the pancreas that prevents proper digestion. 

Cancer: According to the National Cancer Institute: “There is a strong scientific consensus that alcohol drinking can cause several types of cancer. In its Report on Carcinogens, the National Toxicology Program of the US Department of Health and Human Services lists consumption of alcoholic beverages as a known human carcinogen.

Immune System: Drinking too much can weaken your immune system, making your body a much easier target for disease.  Drinking a lot on a single occasion slows your body’s ability to ward off infections – even up to 24 hours after getting drunk.

The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism has developed College Drinking: Changing the Culture, a valuable resource that provides comprehensive research-based information on issues related to underage drinking and binge drinking among college students.

References:
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (n.d.). Alcohol’s Effects on the Body. Retrieved from https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohols-effects-health/alcohols-effects-body on 2023, August 9.

Health Risks Associated with Opiods: Heroin, Fetanyl, and Prescription Opiods

On March 1, 2017, the Governor of Maryland declared a state of emergency in response to the opioid epidemic in Maryland. While detailed information is provided below, interested readers can learn more about how the state of Maryland is combatting the heroin and opioid crisis by visiting http://beforeitstoolate.maryland.gov/.

Maryland’s Crisis Hotline is available 24 hours/7 days a week to provide support, guidance and assistance on how to access Substance Use Disorder services, in addition to the current mental health crisis services provided by this hotline. Callers will also be given information about naloxone, recovery support and family services as available/appropriate in the individual’s local area.

Naloxone is a life-saving medication that can quickly restore the breathing of a person experiencing an opioid overdose. Opioids are a group of drugs that include heroin and prescription medications like oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine, fentanyl and methadone.

Click here for information how to administer naloxone and to find additional opioid overdoes information.

HEROIN

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) provide substantial information regarding heroin and the health risks associated with its use. The information provided below was taken directly from their website and was retrieved on August 9, 2023.

According to NIDA, heroin is an opioid drug made from morphine, a natural substance taken from the seed pod of the various opium poppy plants grown in Southeast and Southwest Asia, Mexico, and Colombia. Heroin can be a white or brown powder, or a black sticky substance known as black tar heroin. People inject, sniff, snort, or smoke heroin. Some people mix heroin with crack cocaine, a practice called speedballing.

Short-Term Effects: People who use heroin report feeling a “rush” (a surge of pleasure or euphoria). However, other common effects include dry mouth, heavy feelings in the arms and legs, and clouded mental functioning.

Long-term effects may include collapsed veins for people who inject the drug, infection of the heart lining and valves, abscesses, and lung complications.
Research suggests that misuse of prescription opioid pain medicine is a risk factor for starting heroin use.
A person can overdose on heroin. Naloxone is a medicine that can treat a heroin overdose when given right away, though more than one dose may be needed.
Heroin is highly addictive. Withdrawal symptoms – which can begin as early as a few hours after the drug was last taken – include severe muscle and bone pain, sleep problems, diarrhea and vomiting, and severe heroin cravings.
A range of treatments including medicines and behavioral therapies are effective in helping people stop heroin use. However, treatment plans should be individualized to meet the needs of the patient.

FENTANYL

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) provides substantial information regarding Fentanyl and the health risks associated with its use. The information provided below was taken directly from their website and was retrieved on August 9, 2023.

According to NIDA, Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is similar to morphine but is 50 to 100 times more potent. When prescribed by a doctor, fentanyl can be given as a shot, a patch that is put on a person’s skin, or as lozenges that are sucked like cough drops.

The illegally used fentanyl most often associated with recent overdoses is made in labs. This synthetic fentanyl is sold illegally as a powder, dropped onto blotter paper, put in eye droppers and nasal sprays, or made into pills that look like other prescription opioids.

Like heroin, morphine, and other opioid drugs, fentanyl works by binding to the body’s opioid receptors, which are found in areas of the brain that control pain and emotions.⁸ After taking opioids many times, the brain adapts to the drug, diminishing its sensitivity, making it hard to feel pleasure from anything besides the drug. When people become addicted, drug seeking and drug use take over their lives

Many drug dealers mix the cheaper fentanyl with other drugs like heroin, cocaine, MDMA and methamphetamine to increase their profits, making it often difficult to know which drug is causing the overdose. Naloxone is a medicine that can treat a fentanyl overdose when given right away. It works by rapidly binding to opioid receptors and blocking the effects of opioid drugs. But fentanyl is stronger than other opioid drugs like morphine and might require multiple doses of naloxone.

Because of this, if you suspect someone has overdosed, the most important step to take is to call 911 so they can receive immediate medical attention. Once medical personnel arrive, they will administer naloxone if they suspect an opioid drug is involved.

PRESCRIPTION OPIOIDS

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides information regarding the misuse of prescription opioids. The information provided below was taken directly from their website and was retrieved on August 13, 2020.

Prescription opioids can be used to treat moderate-to-severe pain and are often prescribed following surgery or injury, or for health conditions such as cancer. In recent years, there has been a dramatic increase in the acceptance and use of prescription opioids for the treatment of chronic, non-cancer pain, such as back pain or osteoarthritis, despite serious risks and the lack of evidence about their long-term effectiveness.

Anyone who takes prescription opioids can become addicted to them. In fact, as many as one in four patients receiving long-term opioid therapy in a primary care setting struggles with opioid addiction. Once addicted, it can be hard to stop. In 2016, more than 11.5 million Americans reported misusing prescription opioids in the past year.

Taking too many prescription opioids can stop a person’s breathing—leading to death.

In addition to the serious risks of addiction, abuse, and overdose, the use of prescription opioids can have a number of side effects, even when taken as directed including, but not limited to, the following: constipation; nausea, vomiting, and dry mouth; sleepiness and dizziness; confusion; and depression.

References:
Before it’s too late. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://beforeitstoolate.maryland.gov/naloxone/ on 2023, August 9.
Center for Disease Control and Prevention. (2017, August 29). Prescription Opioids. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/drugoverdose/opioids/prescribed.html on 2020, August 13.

NIDA. (2022, December). Heroin Drug Facts. Retrieved from https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/heroin on 2023, August 9.
NIDA. (2021, June). Fentanyl Drug Facts. Retrieved from https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/fentanyl on 2023, August 9.

Health Risks Associated with Cannabis (Marijuana)

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) provides substantial information regarding marijuana. The following information is part of a letter written by the Director of the NIDA and was retrieved on August 10, 2023.

Changes in marijuana policies across states legalizing marijuana for medical and/or recreational use suggest that marijuana is gaining greater acceptance in our society. Thus, it is particularly important for people to understand what is known about both the adverse health effects and the potential therapeutic benefits linked to marijuana.

Because marijuana impairs short-term memory and judgment and distorts perception, it can impair performance in school or at work and make it dangerous to drive. It also affects brain systems that are still maturing through young adulthood, so regular use by teens may have negative and long-lasting effects on their cognitive development, putting them at a competitive disadvantage and possibly interfering with their well-being in other ways. Also, contrary to popular belief, marijuana can be addictive, and its use during adolescence may make other forms of problem use or addiction more likely.

Members of the Stevenson community are encouraged to review the comprehensive information available on the NIDA website pertaining to cannabis (marijuana).

Reference:
National Institute on Drug Abuse (2020, July). Cannabis (Marijuana) Research Report: Letter From the Director. Retrieved from https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/marijuana/letter-director on 2023, August 10.

Health Risks Associated with Prescription Drug Misuse

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) provides helpful and relevant information regarding prescription drug misuse and abuse. The information provided below was taken directly from the NIDA website and was retrieved on August 13, 2020.

According to the NIDA, the misuse of prescription drugs means taking a medication in a manner or dose other than prescribed; taking someone else’s prescription, even if for a legitimate medical complaint such as pain; or taking a medication to feel euphoria (i.e., to get high). The term nonmedical use of prescription drugs also refers to these categories of misuse. The three classes of medication most commonly misused are:

opioids—usually prescribed to treat pain
central nervous system [CNS] depressants (this category includes tranquilizers, sedatives, and hypnotics)—used to treat anxiety and sleep disorders
stimulants—most often prescribed to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Prescription drug misuse can have serious medical consequences. Increases in prescription drug misuse over the last 15 years are reflected in increased emergency room visits, overdose deaths associated with prescription drugs, and treatment admissions for prescription drug use disorders, the most severe form of which is an addiction. Overdose deaths involving prescription opioids were five times higher in 2016 than in 1999.

Reference:
National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2020, June). Misuse of Prescription Drugs Research Report Overview. Retrieved from https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/misuse-prescription-drugs/overview on 2020, August 13.

Health Risks Associated with Smoking and Tabacco Use

The Center for Disease Control provides substantial information regarding smoking and tobacco use. The information provided below was taken directly from their website and was retrieved on August 11, 2023.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable disease, disability, and death in the United States
Smoking leads to disease and disability and harms nearly every organ of the body.
For every person who dies because of smoking, at least 30 people live with a serious smoking-related illness.

Smoking causes cancer, heart disease, stroke, lung diseases, diabetes, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis.
Secondhand smoke exposure contributes to approximately 41,000 deaths among nonsmoking adults and 400 deaths in infants each year.
Many adult cigarette smokers want to quit smoking. Helpful information for those who wish to quit smoking may be found here.

Reference:
Center for Disease Control and Prevention (2021, November 16). Smoking and Tobacco Use: Fast Facts. Retrieved from
https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/about/osh/index.htm on 2023, August 11.

Health Risks Associated with the Use of Synthetic Cannabinoids

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) provides helpful information regarding the adverse health risks associated with the use of synthetic cannabinoids. The information provided below was taken directly from the NIDA website and was retrieved on August 13, 2020.

Synthetic cannabinoids are human-made mind-altering chemicals that are either sprayed on dried, shredded plant material so they can be smoked or sold as liquids to be vaporized and inhaled in e-cigarettes and other devices. These products are also known as herbal or liquid incense.

These chemicals are called cannabinoids because they are similar to chemicals found in the marijuana plant. Because of this similarity, synthetic cannabinoids are sometimes misleadingly called “synthetic marijuana” (or “fake weed”), and they are often marketed as safe, legal alternatives to that drug. In fact, they are not safe and may affect the brain much more powerfully than marijuana; their actual effects can be unpredictable and, in some cases, more dangerous or even life-threatening.

People who have used synthetic cannabinoids and have been taken to emergency rooms have shown severe effects including: rapid heart rate; vomiting; violent behavior; and suicidal thoughts. Synthetic cannabinoids can also raise blood pressure and cause reduced blood supply to the heart, as well as kidney damage and seizures.

Reference:
National Institute on Drug Abuse (2020, June). Synthetic Cannabinoids (K2/Spice) Drug Facts. Retrieved from https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/synthetic-cannabinoids-k2spice on 2020, August 13.

Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug Programs Available to Students & Employees

Students

Stevenson provides alcohol and drug education to all new students through new student orientation and through the students’ required completion of the online educational program Vector Solutions: Smart Choices. Vector Solutions, which is a required component of the Stevenson University health profile, is developed for students of the University and provides honest and candid knowledge in an engaging, personalized format about health choices and risk education on the topics of alcohol and other drugs as well as sexual violence.

Throughout the academic year, Stevenson strives to supplement the programs delivered during new student orientation by offering programming and awareness campaigns on the topics of substance abuse. New student-athletes, for example, have received education on alcohol & other drug prevention through the NCAA’s Freshman Experience program. The Freshman Experience is an online health and wellness resource for first-year student-athletes that was developed by the NCAA’s Sport Science Institute. In addition, alcohol awareness is a mandatory component of the programs that students joining a fraternity or sorority must complete. Finally, Resident Assistants often create bulletin boards on their floors to share pertinent educational information related to alcohol and other drugs.

Stevenson University’s Student Conduct Office, in collaboration with the Wellness Center, requires alcohol education to students who are found responsible for violating the University’s Alcohol Policy. Similarly, students who violate Stevenson University’s Drug Policy, and who are permitted to remain enrolled at the University, are also required to participate in a University approved drug education class.

Stevenson has a Substance Awareness Task Force that meets on a monthly basis. The task force includes representatives from the faculty, staff, and student body. The mission of the task force is to support and promote healthy & safe life choices for all faculty, staff & students of the Stevenson community through educational resources, alternative programming and positive reinforcement.

Finally, there are numerous off-campus resources that students may wish to explore, including those noted below. Students may contact Stevenson University’s Wellness Center for assistance in evaluating these options.

SAMHSA, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, provides a Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator, which is a confidential and anonymous source of information for persons seeking treatment facilities in the United States or U.S. Territories for substance abuse/addiction and/or mental health problems.
SAMHSA also offers free and confidential information in English and Spanish for individuals and family members facing substance abuse and mental health issues, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To access SAMHSA’s National Helpline, call 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
Maryland’s Crisis Hotline is available 24 hours/7 days a week to provide support, guidance and assistance on how to access Substance Use Disorder services, in addition to the current mental health crisis services provided by this hotline. Callers will also be given information about naloxone, recovery support and family services as available/appropriate in the individual’s local area.  Call 211 and press 1 to access this crisis hotline.
Maryland’s Behavioral Health Administration offers valuable resources related to drug treatment and drug prevention.
For a free support and resource to stop smoking call 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669) or visit smokefree.gov/.
Students can contact Fonemed, Stevenson University’s supplemental phone line for physical and mental health advice. Fonemed’s caring and experienced staff of Registered Nurses handle each call, and then provide a summary to the clinical staff of the Wellness Center for follow-up during regular business hours. This information is confidential to Fonemed and the Wellness Center. Fonemed can be reached 24/7 at 1-800-245-4691, and there is no charge to students.

Employees

Employees may access alcohol and drug resources through Stevenson’s Employee Assistance Program which provides Stevenson employees free, confidential 24/7 support to help manage life’s challenges. Employees may access by the EAP by visiting https://portal.bhsonline.com and enter the username StevensonU to begin, or calling 1-800-327-2251. Employees seeking additional information on this confidential service are encouraged to contact the Office of Human Resources.

There are also numerous off-campus resources that employees may choose to explore, including those noted below.

SAMHSA, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, provides a Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator, which is a confidential and anonymous source of information for persons seeking treatment facilities in the United States or U.S. Territories for substance abuse/addiction and/or mental health problems.
SAMHSA also offers free and confidential information in English and Spanish for individuals and family members facing substance abuse and mental health issues, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To access SAMHSA’s National Helpline, call 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
Maryland’s Crisis Hotline is available 24 hours/7 days a week to provide support, guidance and assistance on how to access Substance Use Disorder services, in addition to the current mental health crisis services provided by this hotline. Callers will also be given information about naloxone, recovery support and family services as available/appropriate in the individual’s local area. Call 211 and press 1 to access this crisis hotline.
Maryland’s Behavioral Health Administration offers valuable resources related to drug treatment and drug prevention.
For a free support and resource to stop smoking call 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669) or visit smokefree.gov/.

Distribution of the Annual Notification

Stevenson University’s Drug and Alcohol Prevention program will be distributed to the entire Stevenson University community (all students, faculty and staff) in accordance with the below procedures. Stevenson University’s Associate Vice President for Student Affairs & Dean of Students will be responsible for ensuring the timely distribution of the Drug and Alcohol Prevention program.

Students

At the beginning of the fall and spring semesters, the entire Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention program will be emailed to all students (undergraduate and graduate/accelerated) enrolled in the institution. This email will be sent on the first day of the third week of the fall and spring semesters in order to allow for the completion of the add/drop period and thus ensuring all enrolled students receive this notification.
At the beginning of each non-traditional academic term, a separate email will be sent to new students enrolled in each of these terms in order to ensure they receive the Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention program. Examples of non-traditional terms at Stevenson University currently consist of “8-week 1”, “8-week 2”, “5-week 2”, “Winterim” and the various summer terms. Students who are enrolled in “8-week 1” will be included in the email that will be sent the first day of the third week of the fall and spring semesters as described in number 1 above. Students enrolled in the other non-traditional terms, and who were not enrolled when the email was sent during the third week of the fall/spring semester, will receive an email that includes the entire Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention program. These emails will be sent two-days after the conclusion of the add-drop period for each of these terms. The Dean of Students will collaborate with the Registrar’s Office in order to produce an accurate list of students who should be included on these additional distributions.
A webpage has been created on Stevenson University’s external webpage at www.stevenson.edu and the internal portal page (SUNow Portal) detailing Stevenson University’s Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention program. The direct link to the page on the external website is: www.stevenson.edu/alcohol-drugs. These webpages have been created to facilitate ease of access. All e-mail notifications will provide a direct link to the external webpage: www.stevenson.edu/alcohol-drugs.

Employees

At the beginning of the fall and spring semesters, the entire Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention program will be emailed to all employees employed at the institution. This email will be sent on the first day of the third week of the fall and spring semesters.
Employees will also receive information on where to access the Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention program and an overview of the program at their new employee orientation. By including this information in new employee orientation, Stevenson will ensure that employees who are hired at times following the distribution of the emails are informed of the Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention program. 3 A webpage has been created on Stevenson University’s external webpage at www.stevenson.edu and the internal portal page (SUNow Portal) detailing Stevenson University’s Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention program. The direct link to the page on the external website is: www.stevenson.edu/alcohol-drugs. These webpages have been created to facilitate ease of access. All e-mail notifications will provide a direct link to the external webpage: www.stevenson.edu/alcohol-drugs.

Biennial Review

Stevenson University is an innovative, coeducational, independent institution offering undergraduate and graduate students a career-focused education marked by individualized attention, civility, and respect for difference. In order to achieve our mission, the health and safety of members of the Stevenson University community are of primary concern to the institution. The primary goal of Stevenson’s drug and alcohol program is to help all members of the community understand the health risks associated with the abuse of alcohol and illicit drugs and to provide appropriate support and resources for those members who may be struggling with their own usage. In order to fulfill this primary goal, Stevenson strives to develop, articulate and enforce clear policies for students and employees. Further, the institution seeks to provide relevant and effective educational programs for members of the university community, particularly students, surrounding the impact of abusing alcohol and illicit drugs.

In accordance with the U.S. Department of Education’s Drug-Free School and Communities Act, combined with Stevenson’s primary interest in the safety of the members of the campus community, Stevenson University will complete a biennial review of its drug and alcohol abuse prevention program. The biennial review is conducted in order to: (a) Determine the DAAPP’s effectiveness and implement changes to the program if the changes are needed; (b) Determine the number of drug and alcohol-related violations and fatalities that occur on the institution’s campus (as defined in 20 U.S.C. § 1029(f)(6)), or as part of any of the institution’s activities and are reported to campus officials; (c) Determine the number and type of sanctions described above that are imposed by the institution as a result of drug and alcohol-related violations and fatalities on the institution’s campus or as part of any of the institution’s activities; and (d) Ensure that the sanctions required are consistently enforced.

The biennial review is conducted by the Office of Student Affairs in collaboration with Stevenson University’s Substance Awareness Task Force. The Substance Awareness Task Force is a committee chaired by Stevenson University’s Assistant Director & Psychologist, Wellness Center. The membership of the Substance Awareness Task Force includes the following: Dean of Students; Assistant Director & Nurse Practitioner, Wellness Center; Director of Campus Safety; Director of Residence Life & Housing; Student Conduct Coordinator; and at least one representative from each of the following campus constituencies: Faculty, Athletics, Student Life & Leadership, Human Resources, Admissions and Student Government.

Last Updated August 2023