Alcohol and Drug Abuse Policies and Educational Programs
Northern Kentucky University prohibits the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of drugs and alcohol on its property or as a part of its activities. A clear statement of unacceptable conduct and consequences related to substance abuse is found in the NKU student handbook, Code of Student Rights and Responsibilities, and is restated in this statement in Section I.
SECTION I
Students may be accountable to both civil authorities and to the University for acts which constitute violations of law and of this code. Those charged with violations are subject to University disciplinary proceedings pending criminal proceedings and may not challenge University proceedings on grounds that criminal charges for the same incident have been dismissed, reduced, or not yet adjudicated.
The following misconduct is subject to disciplinary action:
- unauthorized distribution or possession for purposes of distribution, or use of any controlled substance or illegal drug, as defined by Kentucky Revised Statutes, chapter 218A, on University premises or at University-sponsored activities.
- the use or possession of alcoholic beverages on University property except as authorized by University policy.
- appearing in a public place on University premises or at University-sponsored activities manifestly under the influence of a controlled or other intoxicating substance to the degree that there is danger to self, others, or property, or there is unreasonable annoyance to persons in the vicinity.
- aiding or abetting any conduct described above.
The legal drinking age in Kentucky is twenty-one. Individuals are personally responsible for knowing the laws applying to substance abuse in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. In particular, individuals should be aware of the legal consequences for violation of the legal age, use of false identification, drunk driving, and the sale or distribution of illicit drugs.
SECTION II
Recognizing that alcohol and drug abuse is a serious problem in our society, Northern Kentucky University offers a variety of educational and assistance programs to the student population:
- An alcohol and drug abuse awareness week is held bi-annually.
- The Department of Athletics has an alcohol/drug education and assistance program for athletes.
- Residence hall programs on drug and alcohol abuse are held annually.
- Alcohol and drug training sessions are held annually for residence hall assistants.
- Information, literature and presentations on substance abuse are available in the Counseling Office, Room 300, University Center. For more information call 859.572.5650.
- Students who may have alcohol or other substance abuse problems can be assisted by the campus health nurse and personal counselors for confidential evaluation and referral to appropriate community agencies.
Early recognition, intervention, and treatment for substance abuse are necessary to avoid compromises in physical and mental health. Health risks associated with substance abuse include, but are not limited to: physical dependence, psychological dependence, tolerance, alterations in the immune system, digestive problems, liver complications, neuropsychological complications, nutritional deficiencies, certain cancers, cardiovascular complications, nasal septal deterioration, respiratory complications, an increased risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases, placental transfer resulting in low birth weight, mental retardation, congenital malformation, and neonatal addiction.
In addition, moral deterioration and deterioration of personal relationships may result, as well as impaired learning, violence, injuries, accidents, drunk driving, acquaintance rape, and unwanted pregnancies.
Without early intervention and treatment, death may result.
For further information on substance abuse, contact:
Health, Counseling and Prevention
Services
University Center 300
859.572.5650