With more than 25 years of law-enforcement experience, I have seen the results of poor administration and enforcement of campus alcohol policies. These factors are responsible not only for loss of life but also for loss of academic eligibility, loss of self-esteem, and criminal and antisocial patterns of behavior. Alcohol abuse is a serious problem that enrolls every fall and does not graduate. It affects the quality of campus life and the reputation of the academic institution itself. We have not exercised proper leadership in guiding our institutions and in preparing our children for college.
Trustees have an important role to play.
Because alcohol abuse accounts for a high proportion of campus problems, including crimes against persons, property damage, academic failure, and student attrition, it should be a high-priority issue. Trustees also hold substantial responsibility from a risk-management perspective. Heightened public awareness of problems associated with irresponsible alcohol use and unenforced or unenforceable alcohol policy widens the window of civil exposure. As trustees, you must voice your concerns and see that they are addressed. You can make a difference.