Susan Bruce entered the University as an undergraduate in 1985 and during her college years she saw two friends' brothers die in alcohol-related incidents.
Since her time at the University, Bruce has taken up the cause to prevent substance abuse. Now, as the newly appointed director of the University's Center for Alcohol and Substance Abuse Education (CASE), she has the opportunity to spread the word even more.
Armed with several ideas to help curb binge drinking, she said she is excited about starting her new job.
Along with the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention Team (ADAPT), CASE will mail 21st birthday cards to students with a dual message: Celebrate, but "we want you to see your 22nd birthday," Bruce said.
With CASE's help, free non-alcoholic drinks will be available at some bars for designated drivers.
The intent is not to use scare tactics but rather to promote student involvement in a positive manner, Bruce said.
Student activism about drinking, she said, has changed a lot since her time as a student - a time when the legal drinking age was raised from 18 to 21. She said she was amazed by the environment she returned to when she began work this year.
"I have seen a lot of positive changes," Bruce said. "When I was a student I did not see as many students speak out against" alcohol abuse.
Bruce praised the increase in student advocacy for educating other students.
Mentoring and "working with a lot of student leaders" will help CASE direct itself toward progression and growth, she said, adding that she is enthused about the variety of programs supported and initiated by CASE, the administration, the Department of Student Health and various student groups.
She returns to Grounds as director of CASE after serving as the assistant director for health promotion at James Madison University.
"She will bring a very positive dimension to alcohol prevention," Dean of Students Penny Rue said.
Asst. Dean of Students Aaron Laushway said he is impressed with both Bruce's credentials and enthusiasm.
"She is very dedicated in helping improve the quality of life for all U.Va. students. We are very pleased she accepted the position," Laushway said.
Read More
Student Council passes appointment bill, approves new CIOs at final meeting of semester
By Arshiya Pant | 16 hours agoMendoza Gonzalez also said she will be meeting with Kenyon R. Bonner, vice president and chief student affairs officer, to discuss further strategies for the Student Council Endowment Fund.
Professors speak about leading productive dialogue on Israel-Hamas war
By Lexie Stadler | YesterdayThe event was hosted by the University’s Task Force on Religious Diversity and Belonging, which is designed to ensure that the University is welcoming to community members from all religions and cultures.
Honor Committee considers formal ban of AI detectors as evidence in trials
By Lexie Stadler | 2 days agoThe Committee also addressed balancing student perspectives with those of Committee representatives during panel discussions.
