2. Drinking

Q: Why did Dartmouth need a new alcohol policy?

A: Over the last ten years, the existing policy was made simpler or more complex from one year to the next, depending on the concerns of a given year. Given the change in state law and the national concern about alcohol consumption, we decided it was time to take a fresh look.

Another reason for looking at the issue were the implications of the state law regarding institutional liability.

Q: What are the policy's main points?

A: It regulates the activities of organizations that are recognized by the College. The policy stresses that if alcohol is going to be provided by a recognized campus organization, then these organizations must distribute the alcohol in a manner that is consistent with state law.

Secondly, we assume as our responsibility the need to inform students about the laws of the state and the students' individual responsibility before these laws: the new policy makes individuals responsible for their own choices. If a student chooses to drink, we as an institution assume responsibility for educating the student about alcohol. We leave for the student the responsibility for taking that education and using alcohol in a responsible manner.

Q: Critics say the policy will drive underage drinkers to private parties.

A: We are sensitive to the importance of developing a policy that speaks to our responsibilities as citizens and as an educational institution. We are not unaware of the fact that in developing these policies, we may enable another kind of activity that will be troublesome for us. We have to be vigilant about that and try, through education, to minimize any negative consequences of a change in policy. Our primary emphasis is working with students educationally; consequently we have one of the finest alcohol education programs in the country.