The Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act (DFSCA) of 1989, also known as the Drug-Free Schools and Campuses Regulations, requires institutions of higher education to establish policies that address unlawful possession, use, or distribution of alcohol and illicit drugs. The DFSCA also requires the establishment of a drug and alcohol prevention program, notification and a biennial review.

 

Students, faculty, staff and visitors may request information about the Drug-Free Schools and Campuses biennial review by contacting Student Services or by reviewing online. All members of the Hill College community are encouraged to review information regarding DFSCA.

Standards of Conduct

The use, possession, control, manufacture, transmission, sale or being under the influence of illegal drugs and/or alcoholic beverages by College students, faculty, staff, or guests, is prohibited on or in College owned property and at all College sponsored activities.

 

The legal age for the consumption of alcohol is 21 years of age. Any underage student consuming alcohol is violating student conduct. Additionally, excessive alcohol use can lead to additional violations, such as driving while intoxicated or public intoxication.

Students living on the Hill Count Campus within residence halls should note that the Residence Life Handbook indicates a zero tolerance policy when it comes to illegal drug use or possession.

Health Risks

Specific serious health risks are associated with the use of alcohol and illicit drugs. Some of the major risks are listed below. For more information contact Student Services or refer to the Health and Wellness Services.

Major Risks

Addiction, accidents as a result of impaired ability and judgment, alcohol poisoning, overdose when used with other depressants, damage to a developing fetus, heart and liver damage.
Impair short-term memory, thinking, and physical coordination. Can cause panic reaction and increase the risk of lung cancer and emphysema. Can interfere with judgment, attention span, concentration, and overall intellectual performance. Impairs driving ability. May cause psychological dependence and compromise the immune system.
Addiction, cardiovascular system damage including heart attack, brain damage, seizures, lung damage, severe depression, paranoia, psychosis. Similar risks are associated with other stimulants, such as speed and uppers.
Tobacco smoke contains thousands of chemical compounds, many of which are known to cause cancer. Nicotine, which is a central nervous system stimulant, produces an increase in heart and respiration rates, blood pressure, adrenaline production and metabolism. People can rapidly become physically and psychologically dependent on tobacco. Compromises the immune system.
Inhalants are a diverse group of chemicals that easily evaporate and can cause intoxication when their vapors are inhaled. Most inhalants are central nervous system depressants. Use of these drugs slows down many body functions. High does can cause severe breathing failure and sudden death. Chronic abuse of some of these chemicals can lead to irreversible liver damage and other health problems.
Adverse reactions, dependency, withdrawal, and overdose.

Programs/Treatment Options

A variety of resources exist for alcohol and other drug prevention education, counseling and referral. For detailed information concerning these resources available from Hill College, students may contact Student Services or refer to the Health and Wellness Services web page.

Faculty and staff members may contact Human Resources.
Presentations on legal aspects of alcohol and other drug use and related issues.
Address Student Conduct, enforces policies and procedures, and provides students with resources necessary to resolve personal disputes.
Services, guidance, education, and training (faculty and staff), mandatory referrals, enforces policies and procedures for staff; assistance with disciplinary action for staff.

Disciplinary Sanctions for Violations

Individuals violating Hill College policies for illegal drugs and/or alcoholic beverages shall be subject to discipline for violations, including suspension, in accordance with policy. The penalties for misconduct range from reprimand to expulsion. Typically, students who have violated Student Conduct will be referred to the Dean of Students to complete an individualized education plan. A Dean of Students will meet with the student and complete training.

Faculty and staff sanctions are listed under the employee welfare and employee standards of conduct policies.

Safety