In accordance with the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act of 1989 and in support of local, state and federal regulations pertaining to the illegal use of alcohol and other drugs, Eastern Mennonite University supports nonuse of alcohol, tobacco and illegal drugs as the most appropriate, responsible, and safechoice. The university cooperates with local authorities in dealing with alcohol and illegal drug issues. The possession or use of alcohol, tobacco and illegal drugs is prohibited from the EMU campus as well as all university-related functions.

The university believes that the use of alcohol, tobacco and illegal drugs is counterproductive to the educational process and contributes to behaviors that are offensive and disruptive to the campus community. Not only is the use of alcohol illegal for those under age 21, but alcohol by its nature can create unhealthy dependencies, generate behavior offensive to others, waste money, and take lives. Because of the significant personal and societal dangers associated with alcohol, tobacco and illegal drugs, the university chooses to take a strong stand against their use. For these reasons, Eastern Mennonite University supports non use as the most appropriate and responsible lifestyle choice.

Persons who use, obtain for others to use or distribute alcohol, tobacco, or illegal drugs on campus will be held responsible in accordance with the University policy. Students who misuse alcohol, tobacco or illegal drugs off campus will also be in violation of the university policy and should expect to be held responsible by the appropriate university officials. Misuse is identified as consumption that compromises the safety of oneself or others, underage drinking and/or drinking to excess, intoxication, illegal personal use and/or rowdiness, and damage or destruction of property.

NOTE on Self-Reporting/Amnesty for Alcohol and Other Drugs: Individuals who self-report consumption or potential misuse of alcohol and other drugs will not face university disciplinary action. In cases of self-reporting, a member of the student life staff will meet with the student to determine the best educational and/or recovery options available for the student, if needed. In cases of self-reporting, the university will offer its own resources as well as community-based resources to help.  

A number of services are available for persons dealing with addictions to alcohol or other substances. The following are treatment & rehabilitation programs and support services. The EMU Counseling Center (counselingservices@emu.edu) will assist any student in making contact with any of these agencies. Any such referral is confidential.