In 2013, the UT Police Department made 654 arrests for liquor law violations and 212 arrests for drug violations.
“College is the first time when students are living and learning independently of their parents and families,” said Laura Bryant, assistant director at the Center for Health Education and Wellness. “With the added responsibility of self-care, making and sustaining new friendships, getting involved and making good grades, students experience pressure to be successful both in and out of the classroom.”
In response to this prevalent issue, CHEW and UT’s Sorority & Fraternity Life collaborated to create the Alcohol & Other Drugs Program, which will address alcohol and drug use among college students and the behavioral stages of addiction. Former UT Medical Director Dr. Kip Winger and Webster Bailey from the Cornerstone of Recovery will visit campus Tuesday to put on an engaging program.
Adam Kowalski, the assistant director of Sorority & Fraternity Life, said the two organizations have spent the last two months planning the event after being contacted by a student’s parent inquiring about student drug and alcohol use.
Kowalski said he urges students to come to the event to learn more about the science behind alcohol and drug use and the negative consequences of abusing substances.
“I think students can expect a relaxed, yet educational atmosphere that will provide opportunities for learning through a relatable lens,” Kowalski said. “These presenters are experts in their respective fields, and this will be a great chance for students to understand the importance of being responsible for their body and the safety of their friends regarding alcohol and substance abuse.”
Although the event is largely organized by UT’s Sorority & Fraternity Life, Kowalski said the event is targeted at all student groups on campus. The more students who engage in the conversation of these topics, Kowalski said, the better chance they have of making educated decisions and creating a safer campus environment.
“No one single student group is being isolated as we recognize that the more educated the UTK community is, the safer it will be,” he explained. “Some students feel that engaging in these behaviors is a ‘rite of passage’ after being accepted to college, but they don’t know how damaging the effects can be before they carelessly participate.”
Bryant stated that alcohol and drugs often serve as a harmful social activity for many students or may be perceived as a way to relieve stress.
“What many students don’t recognize are both the short and long-term consequences that come with substance use, especially when alcohol and drugs are combined,” Bryant said.
Bryant said students can expect an engaging, interactive and non-judgmental presentation from two experts in the field of substance abuse and use. Winger and Bailey, she said, are nationally-recognized medical experts who are visiting campus to inform students and open a meaningful dialogue.
The Alcohol & Other Drugs Program discussion will take place tonight, in the University Center Auditorium at 7:00 p.m.
