Purdue News

October 17, 2000 Purdue fights alcohol abuse by Martin C. Jischke President of Purdue University Thiw week is National Collegiate Alcohol Awareness Week. This observation offers an opportunity to reflect upon the tremendous progress we have made fighting alcohol abuse on college campuses and to focus on what can be done to continue these positive trends. Purdue has taken the initiative on several fronts in recent years. These include:  An alcohol awareness website.  An annual president's letter to parents of incoming freshmen. The parents also receive a brochure called "Parents, You're not Done Yet!" -- sponsored by Century Circle).  The BRAD (Be Responsible about Drinking) program, which sends a birthday card to students on their 21st birthday, encouraging responsible celebration.  The Grand Alternative -- a diverse group of students and staff working to provide activities without focus on drinking.  The Alcohol and Other Drugs Risk Reduction Ad Hoc Committee, led by the Student Wellness Office.  Treatment and court referral programs offered by Counseling and Psychological Services. These are just a few of the many activities going on here to deal with the issue of alcohol on campus. This kind of fact seldom makes headlines, but the reality is the percentage of college freshmen who say they drink beer frequently or occasionally is at its lowest level since record keeping began in 1966. In fact, two-thirds of college students drink on average less than one drink a day. The perception that abusive drinking is normal on campus simply is not true. Students who abuse alcohol create problems far disproportionate to their numbers. We need to deal with abusers, while at the same time reinforcing and recognizing the responsible behavior practiced by the majority. To that end, as part of its program to deal with student alcohol issues, this year Purdue is joining other members of the National Association of State Universities and Land- Grant Colleges (NASULGC) across the country in a campaign that tries to educate students by giving them the facts about college drinking. Sponsored by NASULGC, with support from Anheuser-Busch, the effort focuses on the positive behavior of the majority of students, rather than the negative behavior of a minority. Using this approach, we hope to ensure that students get the facts and understand that their peers are responsible drinkers, and in doing so, we can help influence individual behavior to fit these norms. Without question, there is still work to be done. However, the news is good. By working together, we all make a difference, and we can continue to make that news even better. To the Purdue News and Photos Page