Mount Allison University supports and promotes responsible choices surrounding the consumption of alcohol, cannabis and other legal substances. This includes full support to anyone choosing not to use alcohol and other substances. Mount Allison's priority is to reduce harms associated with alcohol and other substance use.
The University advises all students to be aware of and adhere to the laws pertaining to alcohol and substance use in New Brunswick.
A quality harm reduction strategy involves the participation of a variety of stakeholders, including students, staff, faculty, and external partners. It requires large-scale recognition, education, support, and action.
University Operations and Regulations
Information on university regulations regarding liquor, including the on-campus sale, consumption, storage, service, and the adherence to the NB Liquor Control Act can be found in Policy 7602 - Liquor Control Policy as well as under section 5.7 in the Student Code of Conduct and under section 5.3 in the Residence Life Code of Conduct (for students living in residence).
Education, Training, Resources and Awareness
Students are provided evidence-based information on and access to several training and resources regarding alcohol and substances. Student Affairs provides training and resources during University Orientation and throughout the academic year through various platforms.
Training and resources provided cover a wide range of topics and support areas around alcohol, substance use, and related subjects (e.g. sexualized violence). This ranges from regular provision of general information through various means (e.g. posters, social media, etc.) to specific training on substance emergencies (e.g. Naloxone training, Bacchus maneuver, etc.)
Some Mt.A community members are required to complete training on alcohol and substance use. This includes but is not limited to Residence Assistants, Orientation Leaders, Event Security Staff (ESS), NavigateMTA, and bar services.
Substance-Free Events and Alternatives
Mount Allison fully supports students who choose not to consume alcohol or other substances, whether for health, religious, personal, and/or other reasons.
Orientation week on campus will be substance-free. The consumption of alcohol and/or other substances in residence or at University events during this period is prohibited and sanctionable under section 5.7 in the Student Code of Conduct and under section 5.3 in the Residence Life Code of Conduct (for students living in residence). Events where alcohol is served on campus may be wet/dry. At such events and non-alcoholic drink choices are made available.
During events or when significant alcohol and/or substance use is expected on campus, the University will work to provide dry alternatives to students who are not permitted or choose not to consume alcohol or other substances. These alternatives are advertised to students and may include movies, games, snacks, alcohol-free beverages, etc. The University will also work to make resources (e.g. water, snacks) available to all students on campus during such events.
Support and Treatment
Services and resources are advertised for students who struggle or who have struggled with substance use. Students may connect with the University Wellness Centre for support or connection to community resources or to the Meighen Centre for accommodation resources.
Students identified as at significant (but non-emergency) risk may be referred to the Student of Concern Case Team (SOCCT).
In an alcohol or substance related emergency, individuals are advised to call 911 and Mount Allison Security at 506-364-2228.
Community Collaboration
The University builds connections with local organizations and services, such as the RCMP, local hospitals, and businesses in the area. This collaboration allows for open communication, resource sharing, and joint efforts in supporting responsible alcohol and/or substance use of students.
Assessment
The University regularly conducts assessment of alcohol and substance use on campus, through the Canadian Post-Secondary Alcohol and Drug Survey (CPADS), the Canadian Campus Wellbeing Survey (CCWS), and other means.
Results of such assessments are used by Student Affairs staff to better understand alcohol and substance use among the Mount Allison student body and in implementing strategies to support students.
Enforcement, Response and Conduct
Students are subject to all local, provincial, and federal laws regardless of university involvement or action.
Students are subject to several conduct related codes and policies at Mount Allison. Specific information on student misconduct, sanctions, and reporting around the use of alcohol and substances can be found under section 5.7 in the Student Code of Conduct and under section 5.3 in the Residence Life Code of Conduct (for students living in residence).
Related codes and policies include:
- Sexualized Violence Prevention and Response Policy
- Anti-Racism Education and Response Policy
- No-Smoking Policy
- Student Code of Conduct
- Residence Life Code of Conduct
Good Samaritan Protocol
Mount Allison prioritizes the safety and wellbeing of students. To this end, students are advised to alert emergency services during any alcohol or substance use emergency. This includes when under the influence of any alcohol or substances. In the event of a student alerting emergency services, conduct issues related to the use of alcohol or substances on campus may be minimized or eliminated in good faith. This includes conduct identified under sections 5.7 and 5.8 of the Student Code of Conduct and section 5.3 of the Residence Life Code of Conduct.
Consultation and Review
Alcohol and Substance Use Committee
The Student Alcohol/Substance Use Advisory Committee has representation by students, staff, and faculty. The committee supports a harm-reduction approach to alcohol and substance use and advocates for a safe, responsible, and respectful environment at Mount Allison.
Committee Membership includes:
Director of Student Experience
Director of Accessibility and Student Wellness
Director, Athletics and Recreation
Vice-President Student Life (MASU)
Director of Entertainment and Activities (MASU)
Health Services Coordinator (MASU)
Health and Wellness Intern
Manager of Security and Ancillary Services
Indigenous Student Advisor
Mental Health/Harm Reduction Outreach Coordinator
Residence Life Coordinator
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Anti-Racism Advisor
Faculty Representatives (2)
This committee meets at least once each fall term and once each winter term. More information on this committee can be found here.
Review
This policy shall be reviewed after one year and every 3 years thereafter.