In a move to promote more responsible drinking, the Alcohol Policy Review Committee at Duke University has recommended major changes to the school's alcohol policy. The policy may go into effect for next fall semester, upon approval by university officials.
Jim Clack, Duke's interim vice president of student affairs, said the recommendations are in response to excessive binge drinking on campus and a student alcohol-related death that occurred about 16 months ago.
The committee, which includes students, faculty and staff, started meeting in November 1999. In a report released March 13, the committee recommended making 16 changes to the current alcohol policy.
The proposals include requiring party hosts to establish supervised entrances to check students for drunkenness. Those over 21 would receive wristbands to designate their legal drinking status.
Another proposal orders deans to inform parents after a student violates alcohol policies. The University now enforces such a notification policy.
If the committee's recommendations are implemented, deans would receive a "broader number of ways to address a violation," Clack said.
For example, drunk drivers could lose their driving privileges, and those guilty of assault or disorderly conduct could face suspension, he said.
One recommendation also would require police presence at on-campus student parties, including those in residence hall common areas.
Clack said he supports most recommendations but he does not favor requiring police presence at parties. Under the recommendation, police would oversee parties only to prevent dangerous behavior. This would force them to overlook underage drinking, he said.
Many Duke students support the proposals. The changes will help "gain momentum towards a more favorable campus climate towards alcohol," said Jordan Bazinsky, student government president and a member of the committee.
"I think people are not happy with the status quo. They are looking for changes in some form," said Jasmin French, student government vice president for student affairs.
Duke junior Paul Easton agreed, noting the student death raised many questions about alcohol policies.
"I can understand how the administration wants to take a tougher line," Easton said. However, "a lot of policies they are proposing will be hard to implement."
Asst. Dean of Students Aaron Laushway said the situation does not pertain entirely to the University, pointing out that the committee is addressing concerns specific to the Duke campus.
"In contrast to Duke University, many of the social events [at the University] are not on University property nor in facilities operated by the University," Laushway said.
Organizations need permission from the Office of the Dean of Students to serve alcoholic beverages at any event sponsored by the University or held on any property owned or leased by the University that will be attended by underage students.
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