Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention and Policy
FIT’s people are its most valuable resource and their health and safety are matters of serious concern. The abuse of drugs and alcohol is potentially a grave danger to the college and its educational mission, and to the well being of the community as a whole. Because of our concern for the health and safety of our students and employees, our desire for an efficient and effective workforce, and our intent to comply with applicable federal, state, and local laws regarding substance abuse, the college has formulated the following policy.
FIT is committed to a drug-free environment in accordance with current statutory provisions. Unlawful manufacture, possession, distribution, dispensation, sale, or use of controlled substances (illegal drugs) on the campus is prohibited and will not be tolerated. Alcoholic beverages cannot be brought into or
consumed on the premises, except in connection with authorized college events. Under no circumstances are alcoholic beverages to be served to any students on campus or at campus-related functions. The college strictly enforces these policies. Violators are subject to dismissal and/or arrest.
Policy on Drugs and Alcohol
FIT is a dry campus. The possession, sale, use, or distribution of alcoholic beverages is prohibited. No alcohol may be served at any FIT function at which students may be present. The possession, sale, use, or distribution of illegal drugs or narcotics is a violation of federal law. Illegal sale or distribution of prescription drugs, controlled substances, or other legal drugs is not permitted.
Procedures for Student Events
Any individual who brings drugs or alcohol into an FIT sponsored student event will immediately be asked to leave by the appropriate Security and/or Student Life supervisor. The individual will be banned from the activity for the remainder of the semester, or the balance of the academic year. In addition, the individual will be subject to college disciplinary proceedings, which may jeopardize his/her status as an FIT student.
Students must be aware that the possession, use, and distribution of illegal drugs and unlawful use of alcohol can lead to suspension and/or expulsion from FIT as well as possible arrest. Any person under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be barred from entry into an event and may be banned from all events for the remainder of the semester.
Non-FIT students who attempt to bring drugs or alcohol into an FIT sponsored student event will be asked to leave immediately and will be barred from attending all subsequent FIT events. Any individuals already barred from the campus shall be subject to arrest for trespassing.
The names of individuals referred to above will be noted and kept on file in the Office of the dean for Student Development, as well as the Security and Student Life offices.
Student Sanctions
FIT must uphold the law and, at the same time, render assistance to students when needed. If a student is found to have violated the FIT Alcohol and Drug Policy, a formal written complaint should be submitted to the dean for Student Development, who will follow the judicial procedures in this publication.
Students who violate the FIT Alcohol and Drug Policy will be subject to disciplinary sanctions. Several factors will be considered when developing and applying sanctions for alcohol or drug violations. These include the seriousness of the violation, the intent of the offender, the effect of the conduct on the college community, and whether the student has violated FIT standards in the past. Possible sanctions include one or more of the following: written reprimand, mandatory drug and alcohol education, appropriate community service, referral and compliance with substance abuse treatment, parental notification, restitution to victims, or any other action the college deems appropriate.
The most severe sanctions, loss of on-campus housing, suspension from the college, or expulsion, will be imposed for the most serious violations—offenses that are violent, dangerous, or repeated. If the dean for Student Development sees justification for suspension or expulsion from the college, the Judicial Council Procedures in this publication will be followed. Residence hall students should refer to the Conduct and Judicial System in the Resident Handbook. If any student or non-student is found selling or distributing illegal drugs or narcotics, he or she will be reported immediately to the legal authorities and will be placed on indefinite suspension or dismissed from FIT. In the event of loss of residence, suspension, or expulsion, tuition and all other fees are non-refundable.
Federal Penalties And Sanctions For Illegal Trafficking And Possession Of Controlled Substances. Refer to Graph #2.
Health Risks and Effects Associated with the Use of Illicit Drugs and Alcohol
Alcohol consumption causes a number of marked changes in behavior. Even low doses significantly impair the judgment and coordination required to drive a car safely, increasing the likelihood that the driver will be involved in an accident. Low to moderate doses of alcohol also increase the incidence of a variety of aggressive acts, including domestic violence and date rape. Moderate to high doses of alcohol cause marked impairments in higher mental functions, severely altering a person’s ability to learn and remember information. Very high doses cause respiratory depression and death. If combined with other depressants of the central nervous system, much lower doses of alcohol will produce the effects just described.
Repeated use of alcohol can lead to dependence. Sudden cessation of alcohol intake is likely to produce withdrawal systems, including severe anxiety, tremors, hallucinations, and convulsions. Alcohol withdrawal can be life threatening. Long-term consumption of large quantities of alcohol, particularly when combined with poor nutrition, can also lead to permanent damage to vital organs such as the brain and the liver.
Mothers who drink alcohol during pregnancy may give birth to infants with fetal alcohol syndrome. These infants have irreversible physical abnormalities and mental retardation. In addition, research indicates that children of alcoholic parents are at greater risk of becoming alcoholics.
Resources for Assistance
All students are encouraged to seek early help if they feel they have a problem with alcohol and/or other drugs, and to learn how to assist others with substance abuse problems. With early assistance it is less likely that serious consequences will result from an alcohol or other drug problem. There are many resources on campus and in the community for assistance.
College resources such as the Counseling Center (Room A212; 212 217.4260) and Health Services (Room A402; 212 217.4190) are confidential and free of charge. In addition, non-college resources in the community are also available and information on these can be obtained in these offices.
Community/Self-Help Resources
Depression, suicide, and information and referrals for emotional and substance abuse programs
(24 hours per day, 7 days per week)
800 LIFENET (800 543.3638)
Self-Help Groups
Alcoholics Anonymous
www.aa.org
212 870.3400
Offers specific information on AA meetings in the FIT area.
Narcotics Anonymous Regional Helpline
www.na.org
212 929.626
Al-anon
www.al-alon.alateen.org
212 941.0094
For friends, relatives, and domestic partners who are coping with a loved one’s alcohol or drug use.
Alcohol and Other Drug Treatment (covered by FIT insurance plan)
Beth Israel Inpatient Detox/ Stuyvesant Square Outpatient Services
1-9 Nathan Perlman Place (15th Street between First and Second Avenues)
Bernstein Building, 6th Floor
212 420.4220 (inpatient detox)
212 420.4545 (outpatient services)
Hazelden New York
www.hazelden.org
322 Eighth Avenue
212 420.9522
The Addiction Institute of NY Roosevelt Division (formerly Smithers Alcoholism Treatment and Training Center)
www.addictioninstituteny.org
1000 Tenth Avenue (two blocks from Columbus Circle; building says Roosevelt Hospital)
212 523.6491
General Mental Health Services
St. Vincent’s Hospital
Behavioral Health Clinic
144 W. 12th Street (between Sixth and Seventh avenues)
Walk-in hours between 9 am and 4 pm (no appointment needed)
212 604.8220
For alcohol, drugs, and all other mental health issues.
Emergency Resources
FIT Security
212 217.7777 (24 hours a day)
NYC Police/Ambulance
911