drug- free schools and communities act [edgar part 86 ...2015‐2016 biennial review committee was...

Drug- Free Schools and Communities Act [Edgar Part 86]

Biennial Review Academic Years 2016 – 2017 and 2017 – 2018

Compiled by:

Student Affairs Assessment

Division of Student Affairs

June, 2019

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Northern Illinois University Biennial Review 2016 - 2018

Updated 06/13/19

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

A. Introduction………………………………………………………………............ 3

B. Biennial Review Process ………………………………………………............ 3

C. Annual Policy Notification Process………………………………………….. 5

D. AOD Prevalence Rate, Incidence Rate, Needs Assessment,

& Trend Data……………………………………………………………………... 5

E. AOD Policy, Enforcement, & Compliance Inventory & Related Data….. 9

F. AOD Comprehensive Program/Intervention Inventory & Related Process

Outcomes/Data

a. Athletics…………………………………………………………………… 10

b. Counseling and Consultation Services……………………………… 10

c. Convocation and Stadium……………………………………………... 12

d. Employee Assistance Program………………………………………. 13

e. Health Services………………………………………………………….. 14

f. Housing and Residential Services…………………………………… 15

g. Holmes Student Center………………………………………………… 19

h. Orientation and Family Connections………………………………… 19

i. Police and Public Safety……………………………………………….. 20

j. Recreation and Wellness………………………………………………. 21

k. Student Conduct………………………………………………………… 26

l. Student Involvement and Leadership Development……………… 29

G. AOD SWOT Analysis……………………………………………………………. 33

H. Recommendation for Next Biennium………………………………………... 34

I. Appendices

a. Drug Free Schools and Communities Act………………………….. 39

b. Student Code of Conduct……………………………………………… 40

c. NIU Alcoholic Beverage Policy of the Board of Trustees………... 41

d. Alcoholic Beverages- Sale, Serving, and Consumption Policies.. 42

e. NIU Smoke-Free Campus Policy……………………………………… 44

f. Athletic Department AOD Testing Policy…………………………… 45

g. Employee Assistance Program Referral Policy……………………. 51

h. Football Game Tailgating………………………………………………. 53

i. Housing Handbook……………………………………………………… 54

j. Off-Campus Social Events Policy…………………………………….. 55

k. Title IX/Sexual Misconduct Policy and Complaint Procedures for

Employees and Students………………………………………………. 56

l. Amnesty/Responsible Action Protocol……………………………… 57

m. Annual Safety and Security Report………………………………….. 58

n. Orientation Leader Facilitation Guide……………………………….. 59

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INTRODUCTION

Drug‐Free Schools and Campuses Regulations [Edgar Part 86] Certification

Requirements

The Drug‐Free Schools and Communities Act requires institutions of higher education to

meet the following requirements as a condition of receiving any federal financial

assistance:

• Annually, notify, in writing, each employee and student of substance abuse

policies. This entails providing a description of consequences for violation of

federal, state, and local law and campus policy – up to and including expulsion or

termination of employment and referral for violations of standards of conduct;

providing a description of health risks associated with alcohol and other drug use

or abuse – including risk of dependence, possible short-term and long-term

effects and the effects of an overdose; and providing resource lists of available

treatment programs.

• Develop and implement programs to prevent the unlawful possession, use, or

distribution of illicit drugs or alcohol by students and employees.

• Prepare a biennial report on the effectiveness of its AOD programs and the

consistency of policy enforcement.

Biennial Review Objective

This Biennial Review describes Northern Illinois University’s (NIU) alcohol and drug

prevention activities for academic years 2016-2017 and 2017-2018. The purpose of this

Biennial Review is to (1) determine the effectiveness of the University’s comprehensive

alcohol and other drug prevention programs and implement changes to the programs

and policies, as needed; and (2) ensure that the disciplinary sanctions imposed

pursuant to the University’s program are consistently enforced.

BIENNIAL REVIEW PROCESS

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Overview

This Biennial Review covers the time period August 1, 2016, through July 31, 2018. On

a two-year basis, the University’s Biennial Review is conducted by a committee of

relevant University officials who are convened by the Assistant Vice President for

Students Affairs, within the Division of Student Affairs. The Annual Year (AY) 2017 and

AY18 Biennial Review Committee was comprised of representatives from the offices of:

Academic Diversity, Equity and Inclusion; General Counsel; Housing and Residential

Services; Human Resource Services (specifically, the Employee Assistance Program);

Intercollegiate Athletics; NIU Department of Police and Public Safety; Nursing Graduate

Studies; Recreation and Wellness; and Student Affairs Assessment. This report was

compiled and written by Evelyn Comber, Ph.D., L.C.P.C., Associate Director of Student

Affairs Assessment and Amy Franklin, Ed.D., Assistant to the Vice President, Office of

the Chief Student Affairs Officer and Dean of Students. In addition, the Committee

consulted with various University constituencies that included, but was not limited to:

Counseling and Consultation Services, Health Services, Holmes Student Center,

Housing and Residential Services, Intercollegiate Athletics, Orientation and Family

Connections, Police and Public Safety, Student Conduct, Student Involvement and

Leadership Development, and Recreation and Wellness.

Student Affairs Assessment accepted responsibility for data collection during the 2016-

2018 time period. In addition, needs assessment and collection procedures, along with

analyzing data, were also conducted through Recreation and Wellness and through the

Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) Education Work Group. Departments on campus

involved in alcohol and other drug abuse prevention efforts on campus tracked and

reported alcohol abuse prevention efforts and sanctions to the AOD Work Group;

Recreation and Wellness and Student Affairs Assessment.

The Review Report, and certifying letter signed by NIU’s president, will be shared with

and maintained by Northern Illinois University’s Office of General Counsel, as well as at

the Financial Aid and the grant office. Links to the report and certifying letter will be

available online on the Division of Student Affairs website. A paper copy can be

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received from the Division of Student Affairs. This Biennial Review Report will be

maintained for three years after the fiscal year in which the Review Report was created

per the EDGAR Regulations.

ANNUAL POLICY NOTIFICATION PROCESS

To notify all Northern Illinois University (NIU) students and employees of the Drug-Free

Schools and Communities Act Policy on campus, NIU sends the following email, with a

link to the policy (Appendix A), during the fall semester. New students and employees

receive the email and link to the policy during the following spring semester.

Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Drug-Free Workplace Act Policy Notification

NIU is community that cares. As part of our commitment to our proactive approach to

assist students in making well-informed decisions and in accordance with the federal

Drug-Free Schools and Communities Amendment Act of 1989 and the Drug Free

Workplace Act of 1988, NIU is required to disseminate this information to all students,

faculty and staff on an annual basis.

Questions from students concerning this policy, alcohol and other drug programs,

and/or interventions may be directed to Dr. Michael Stang, assistant vice president,

Student Affairs at [email protected] or 815-753-6170.

Questions from faculty and staff may be directed to Brian Smith, director, Employee

Assistance Program at [email protected] or 815-753-9191.

AOD PREVALENCE, INCIDENCE, NEEDS ASSESSMENT, AND TREND DATA

Prevalence

mailto:[email protected]

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Alcohol Use. The National College Health Assessment (NCHA) is NIU’s best source for

campus‐wide alcohol and drug use data. NIU has been participating in the NCHA every

second year since 1999 and conducting a campus survey every year between at least

1990 and 1999. According to our 2017 data, approximately 4% of NIU students

reported that alcohol use had affected their academic performance. Additionally, 2% of

NIU students reported driving after having five or more drinks in the last 30 days, and

14% reported driving after having any alcohol in the last 30 days. Twenty-eight percent

of the students reporting any alcohol consumption had five or more drinks the last time

they partied or socialized. Thirty-one percent consumed five or more drinks in a sitting

within the last two weeks.

Table 1 shows the 30‐day prevalence of alcohol use among NIU students, as well as

their perceptions of peers’ alcohol use. While only 65% of respondents report using

alcohol in the last 30 days, the perceived use by peers is 96%. Alcohol use was more

common among males than females.

Table 1

Students reported consuming alcohol, and reported believing the typical student

consumed, within the last 30 days:

Days 2015 Use 2017 Use 2015 Perceived 2017 Perceived

Never Used 18% 17% 5% 2%

Used, but not in the last 30 days 17% 18% 1% 2%

Used 1-5 days 8% 39% 14% 18%

Used 6-9 days 15% 13% 19% 22%

Used 10-19 days 10% 10% 31% 25%

Used 20-29 2% 1% 15% 15%

Used all 30 days <1% 1% 16% 17%

Table 2 shows the percent of NIU students reporting an adverse experience during the

past 12 months when drinking alcohol. The most common experiences included doing

something they later regretted, forgetting where they were or what they did, and having

unprotected sex.

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Table 2

Consequence 2015 2017

Did something you later regretted 28% 23%

Forgot where you were or what you did 24% 23%

Had unprotected sex 23% 24%

Physically injured yourself 11% 10%

Seriously considered suicide 3% 3%

Had sex with someone without giving your consent 2% 2%

Physically injured another person 2% 2%

Got in trouble with the police 2% 2%

Had sex with someone without getting their consent 0% 0%

On the positive side, 78% of NIU students reported using at least one harm reduction

practice most of the time or always when they partied or socialized during the last 12

months and 70% reported using at least three harm reduction behaviors most of the

time or always when they partied or socialized during the last 12 months (Table 3).

Table 3

Protective Factor 2015 2017

Stay with the same group of friends the entire time drinking 67% 72%

Use a designated driver 64% 67%

Eat before and/or during drinking 61% 66%

Keep track of how many drinks being consumed 47% 48%

Stick with only one kind of alcohol when drinking 38% 41%

Determined in advance not to exceed a set number of drinks 29% 30%

Have a friend know when you have had enough 28% 30%

Avoided drinking games 26% 28%

Alternated non-alcoholic with alcohol beverages 22% 31%

Pace drinks to one or fewer an hour 21% 25%

Chose not to drink alcohol 18% 18%

Drug Use. Drug use affecting academic performance has been reported by 2% of NIU

students. Table 4 shows the 30‐day prevalence of marijuana use and perceptions of

peers’ use. Perceived use (89%) was dramatically higher than actual use (21%).

Table 4

Days 2015 Use 2017 Use 2015 Perceived 2017 Perceived

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Never Used 57% 58% 8% 7%

Used, but not in the last 30 days 26% 20% 6% 4%

Used 1-9 days 11% 15% 37% 39%

Used 10-29 days 4% 4% 31% 33%

Used all 30 days 2% 3% 17% 16%

Students reported using prescription drugs that were not prescribed to them –

stimulants (10%), painkillers (7%), sedatives (5%), antidepressants (3%), and/or erectile

dysfunction drugs (<1%), Table 5 shows use of other drugs combined, excluding

alcohol, marijuana, tobacco from a water pipe, smokeless tobacco, cigars, little cigars,

clove cigarettes, and cigarettes, within the last 30 days.

Table 5

2017 Students surveyed reported having NEVER used the following drugs:

NCHA 2017 data Self Perceived others non-use

Methamphetamine 99% 51%

Other club drugs 95% 46%

Opiates 98% 48%

Anabolic steroids 99% 39%

Inhalants 98% 49%

Other illegal drugs 95% 40%

Sedatives 93% 35%

Cocaine 94% 40%

MDMA 93% 38%

Other amphetamines 93% 43%

Hallucinogens 92% 34%

Clery Act Crime Statistics

Number of On-Campus Reported Drug and Alcohol-Related Arrests and Judicial

Referrals

Category 2015 2016 2017 Alcohol 22 26 19 Drugs 72 51 12

Clery statistics are given for NIU DeKalb. The reported Clery statistics for other

campuses (Naperville, Hoffman Estates, Rockford, Lorado TAFT, and Chicago) were

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zero. Student Conduct violations may be found in the Student Conduct section of this

report.

The NIU Department of Police and Public Safety (NIU PD) reports that from July 1,

2016, until June 30, 2018, the number of drug and alcohol related incidents were:

• Alcohol Incidents: Providing alcohol to a minor, unlawful possession/consumption

= 303

• Drug Incidents: Possession of cannabis/controlled substance, drug paraphernalia

= 173

• Grand Total = 476

In addition, NIU PD reported that there were 49 alcohol and other drug related

ambulance transports that they were aware of during the time frame.

AOD POLICY, ENFORCEMENT & COMPLIANCE INVENTORY & RELATED DATA

Policy Inventory

Northern Illinois University maintained the following policies related to alcohol, tobacco,

and other drugs during this reporting cycle:

• Drug-Free Schools Communities Act (Appendix A)

• Student Code of Conduct (Appendix B)

• NIU Alcoholic Beverage Policy of the Board of Trustees (Appendix C)

• Alcoholic Beverages – Sale, Serving, and Consumption (Appendix D)

o Sodexo at Northern Illinois Athletics alcohol service security plan

o Holmes Student Center Alcohol Guidelines

• NIU Smoke-Free Campus Policy (Appendix E)

• Athletic Department Alcohol and Other Drug Testing Policy (Appendix F)

• Employee Assistance Program Referral Policy (Appendix G)

• Tailgating Policy (Appendix H)

• Residence Hall Handbook (Appendix I)

• Social Events Policy (Appendix J)

• Title IX (Appendix K)

• Amnesty/Responsible Action Protocol (Appendix L)

• Annual Safety and Security Report 2018-2019 Academic Year (Appendix M)

• Orientation Leader Facilitation Guidelines (Appendix N)

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AOD COMPREHENSIVE PROGRAM/INTERVENTION INVENTORY & RELATED

PROCESS OUTCOMES/DATA

Athletics

NIU’s Intercollegiate Athletics engaged in the following activities:

• Annually distributed the alcohol/drug policies, drug testing and Huskie

Experience program information to student athletes in a handbook and

documented their receipt of the handbook

• Each student athlete annually signed a form indicating they understand the

alcohol/drug policy and drug testing policy

• Annually met with each team (required) and coaching staff to review compliance

rules, alcohol/drug policies and drug testing, Huskie Experience and other

Athletics department requirements

• Annually met with each team and coaching staff facilitated by the Student

Conduct office as well as the police department to review NIU conduct policies

• Required student athletes to engage in a program called MyPlayBook and

AlcoholEdu and Haven (online alcohol/drug and interpersonal violence

prevention education programs)

• Required student athletes to attend a program on alcohol/drugs

• In addition to drug testing, Intercollegiate Athletics has provided educational

opportunities on drugs and alcohol to its student athletes. Via the Huskie

Experience program, it is the intention of the department to provide at least one

educational seminar per academic year on such topics as drug and alcohol

use/abuse.

Counseling and Consultation Services (CCS)

The mission of Counseling and Consultation Services (formerly Counseling & Student

Development Center) is to support the academic, emotional, social and cultural

development of students at Northern Illinois University. This includes student-centered

counseling, assessment, crisis response, outreach, consultation, training, and

educational services. As part of the services offered to students, CCS provides

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substance use consultation, assessment, counseling, and referral support. For FY17,

CCS offered individual substance use assessment (SUA) services to students. For

FY18, CCS transitioned to the Substance Use Intervention and Education Program

(SUIEP), which focused on providing short-term group counseling support to students

who presented with substance use-related concerns. The primary goal for these

services was to provide students psychoeducation about their use, identify harm-

reduction behaviors, and connect them to a higher level of treatment when indicated.

NIU students were referred to CCS for substance use services by other departments on

campus (e.g., Student Conduct or Housing and Residential Services) or self-referred to

address their concerns. All students completed an initial consultation appointment at

CCS to discuss their specific concerns and identify their counseling/treatment options,

including on-campus and/or off-campus resources. For FY17, students who attended an

initial consultation appointment and presented with substance use concerns that did not

require a higher level of treatment were referred to either a Level 1 or Level 2 SUA. A

Level 1 SUA is a briefer assessment given to a student who does not endorse

significant substance use, denies any significant psychological concerns, and denies a

history of negative consequence from substance use. A Level 2 SUA is a multi-session

diagnostic interview during which a counselor gathers a complete psychosocial history

regarding a student’s substance use. In both instances, students attend a feedback

session where the assessment information is reviewed, harm reduction strategies are

discussed, and possible treatment recommendations are provided. For FY18, students

who completed the initial consultation appointment were either referred to SUIEP group

counseling sessions at CCS or to a higher level of treatment in the community.

For FY17, CCS completed 79 Level 1 SUAs and 19 Level 2 SUAs. During the transition

to SUIEP services in FY18, a total of 79 students attended 159 SUIEP appointments.

From 2016-2018, CCS also provided outreach to the campus community on substance

use and addiction topics. A total of 279 people attended 29 outreach presentations over

this two-year period.

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CCS maintains a website that specifies the current substance use-related services

provided: https://www.niu.edu/counseling/services-offered/specialized-services.shtml.

CCS is not a licensed substance abuse treatment facility; therefore, they do not

complete substance use assessments that are required by court systems, nor do they

provide court-mandated drug or risk education. Students who are in need of court

ordered services or substance use treatment are referred to the appropriate community

resources.

At CCS, substance use services are also an important component of the doctoral

internship training program. The CCS internship program is accredited by the American

Psychological Association (APA). As part of the accreditation process, APA requires

that all doctoral interns complete some type of assessment training and this is partially

fulfilled by the substance use services provided. Doctoral interns are provided group

supervision one hour a week, attend didactic seminars, and provide substance use-

related services under senior staff supervision.

Convocation and Stadium

The concession and catering services for the general public at the NIU Convocation

Center and at Huskie Stadium are managed by Sodexo. Sodexo also manages

catering at the premium areas of Huskie Stadium and the Convocation Center including:

the Coaches Club, the Yordon Terrace, the Skybox, and the Nelson Club. Sodexo

launched a pilot program to sell beer on the west side of the stadium in September,

2015. The program will continuously evaluate security and the checking of IDs.

(http://www.niuhuskies.com/news/2015/9/11/NIU_Enhances_Football_GameDay_Murra

y_State_Game_Update.aspx?path=football). Their alcohol service security plan

includes: prevention of alcohol sales to visibly intoxicated patrons, prevention of alcohol

sales to minors, serving sizes and quantities, outside beverages, security and

disturbances, and alcohol management training requirements for employees.

Surveillance equipment is in place and maintained by NIU. See Appendix D for the

Sodexo policy.

https://www.niu.edu/counseling/services-offered/specialized-services.shtml

http://www.niuhuskies.com/news/2015/9/11/NIU_Enhances_Football_GameDay_Murray_State_Game_Update.aspx?path=football

http://www.niuhuskies.com/news/2015/9/11/NIU_Enhances_Football_GameDay_Murray_State_Game_Update.aspx?path=football

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Employee Assistance Program

Through Human Resources Services, Northern Illinois University maintains an

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to provide referral, linkage, support and advocacy

for employees who struggle with drug and alcohol problems. The Program’s website

can be found at: http://www.hr.niu.edu/hrs/work_life/employee_assistance/index.shtml.

The Employee Assistance Program provides confidential professional services to the

faculty and staff of the University and is one of the benefits for employees of the

institution. The EAP offers information; brief counseling; referral and linkage to

counseling services; support to access mental health and substance abuse services,

and eldercare; crisis intervention; post crisis intervention and support.

Additionally, the Employee Assistance Program offers customized training, consultation

and coaching for supervisors, employees and teams to enhance work group and

departmental functioning.

The Employee Assistance Program also provides work‐life information; groups and

workshops; co-sponsors an annual Health and Wellness Fair; coordinates annual flu

shots; and facilitates a series of “Hot Topic” wellness seminars each semester.

Finally, the Employee Assistance Program maintains a specific website dedicated to a

self‐assessment for alcohol or drug problems at:

http://www.hr.niu.edu/hrs/work_life/employee_assistance/resources/self_assessment/su

bstance_abuse.shtml

The Employee Assistance Program offers the following services in accordance with the

laws and policies governing alcohol and drug misuse in the workplace.

• Coordination and implementation of the Drug Testing Program between the Employee, the Drug Testing Provider, MRO, and the Employee Assistance Program

• Referral to an educational or rehabilitation program

http://www.hr.niu.edu/hrs/work_life/employee_assistance/index.shtml

http://www.hr.niu.edu/hrs/work_life/employee_assistance/resources/self_assessment/substance_abuse.shtml

http://www.hr.niu.edu/hrs/work_life/employee_assistance/resources/self_assessment/substance_abuse.shtml

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• Referral for fitness for duty evaluation

• Support services upon an employee’s return to work following any recommended or necessary leave of absence

Health Services

Education

Health Services practitioners completed Continuing Education Units (CEU’s) to maintain

their certification, as well as attended conferences and other programs concerning

student health. Each staff member who must maintain appropriate licensure tracks their

CEUs and any other related programs. When they have to recredential with their

licensing entity and/or Health Services, they must show proof of attendance. This is the

typical approach to CEU management within healthcare. Health Services also hosts a

staff development program each semester, and an all-staff meeting at the beginning of

each semester to provide information on various topics concerning student health.

The topics covered in these types of formats in the last two years included: (1) invited

professional development speakers, (2) patient safety, and (3) clinical care updates. A

number of colleagues from Health Services are members of professional organizations

and regularly distribute relevant information to all Health Services staff.

Psychiatric Services/Referrals

Psychiatric services are provided under the auspices of Health Services. Health

Services regularly updates its referral guide so that students have up-to-date

information of other psychiatrists in the community who can provide care. Health

Services has a referral coordinator who works directly with students in making

appointments with non NIU providers.

Student Involvement

The Student Health Advisory Council (SHAC) serves as a liaison between Health

Services and the student body, advising Health Services administration on topics of

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concern to the student body. SHAC participates in tabling events and creates bulletin

boards in Health Services waiting areas.

Documentation

Electronic Medical Record (EMR) is used to document alcohol, substance, and tobacco

use and/or abuse. These are standard, “templated” questions asked within each

appointment and then documented within the EMR.

Figure 1. Screen Shot of Electronic Medical Record

Housing and Residential Services

Housing and Residential Services (HRS) maintains appropriate policy statements on the

use or abuse of drugs and alcohol in the residence halls. Those statements can be

found in the Residence Hall Handbook (Appendix I), as well as in the Student Code of

Conduct (Appendix B). Housing and Residential Services also maintains a subset of the

University’s student conduct system in order to handle drug and alcohol violations that

occur directly in the residence halls. In this effort, HRS coordinates with Student

Conduct. HRS’ Community Advisors (CA) are responsible for monitoring policy

compliance in the residence halls. CAs record incidents that violate policies that are

documented in the Student Code of Conduct and the Residence Hall Handbook.

Training materials are used to assist the staff in learning and understanding their role

and responsibility as it pertains to the management of underage alcohol consumption in

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the residence halls. These resources are also used to train the staff on how to properly

confront and report incidents where the alcohol laws were being violated:

• Behind Closed Doors Scenarios trainings (August 2016, January 2017, August

2017, January 2018, August 2018)

• Know the Code Policies and Procedures Training Power Point Presentation (August

2016, August 2017, August 2018)

• Community Walk-Throughs and Incident Report Practice Simulations (August 2016,

January 2017, August 2017, January 2018, August 2018)

• Controlled Cannabis Burn (August 2016, August 2017, August 2018)

• Duty, Policies, Procedures, and Expectations for CAs and CDAs (August 2016,

August 2017, August 2018)

• Overview of the CA/CDA Contract (August 2016, August 2017, August 2018)

• CA Manual; located on Teams for CA’s (AY 2017-2018)

The following resources are examples of how CAs were trained regarding their roles

and responsibilities related to the management of underage alcohol consumption in the

residence halls. The resources also outline the CAs’ expectations in serving as role

models and upholding the laws themselves. Examples include CA Contract (FY17,

FY18) and the CA Competencies Progression Chart (2012). The following are

resources used by Community Advisors to educate on‐campus residents on alcohol

laws and policies:

• Floor Meeting Agendas in August 2016, 2017, 2018

• The Residential Curriculum and the role of the CA is as follows: The Community

Advisors were charged with creating strategies (programs, bulletin boards, floor

meeting, initiatives, facilitating one‐on one conversations, etc.) surrounding five

pillars that reflect the foundational values and mission of Northern Illinois

University

• One of the pillars focused on "Making Healthy Life Choices" which spoke directly

to students’ choices surrounding alcohol and other drugs. At each stage of a

student's development at the university, residential students are asked to reflect

upon how their choices impact other aspects of their life. The student's

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development is viewed in three stages that are reflected in Schlossberg’s

Transition Theory (Moving In, Moving Through & Moving On) and Marcia Baxter‐

Magolda and Patricia King's theoretical work regarding the Learning Partnership

Model. Specific areas of focus/competency are delineated within the learning

outcomes listed below. Student Learning Outcome: Identify and implement

healthy life choices (interpersonal, alcohol, nutrition, sexual, financial, etc.)

Moving In:

o Identify resources on campus

o Knowing Blood Alcohol Concentration & safe party tips

o Identify key concepts of financial responsibility

o Being able to identify negative, unhealthy influences

o Identify various individuals who factor into choices

Moving Through:

o Knowing how to remove one’s self from a potentially negative, unhealthy

environment

o Determine who should factor into one’s choices

o Utilizing resources on campus and seeking them out

o Understanding how/why certain individuals factor into one’s choices

o Utilizing methods to lower BAC and partying more safely

Moving On:

o Being able to assess one’s own maturity level and progressions since moving

in

o Distinguishing reliable/unreliable sources of information regarding healthy life

choices

o Understanding personal financial autonomy and managing finances

o Understand and encourage others regarding safe BAC/partying

o Understand one’s core values and how to implement these when making

choices and engaging in long‐term planning

As the residential students develop within these learning outcomes, the students

become citizen leaders ready to contribute to society in a greater manner.

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In addition to training of staff, Housing and Residential Services offers lifestyle housing

choices to students that included alcohol‐free environments. Housing and Residential

Services offered the following in alcohol‐free housing for the past three fiscal years:

2016: 3 floors with a capacity of 100; 1 cluster with capacity of 12 for a total of 112

2017: 1 cluster with capacity of 12

2018: 1 cluster with capacity of 12

Between 15‐30 alcohol‐free social events were held annually through NIU’s Housing

and Residential Services. Each of the five residence halls hosted signature events that

are open to the campus community. Examples include but are not limited to the

following:

• RHA Block Party

• Halloween events

• January Welcome Back event

• Game of Student Life in January

• Stevo Fest in April

• Project Red in Grant

• TuneFest in Neptune/Gilbert

• Valentine’s party, Arts & Crafts events

• Ice Cream Socials

• Movie nights

• Game nights In the 2017-2018 school year, CAs documented 33 events or interventions that they

completed. Of the 33, 20 were directly about alcohol information (including Reverse

Trick-or-Treating and bulletin boards). Additionally, there were four events that

presented residents with an alcohol alternative for the night, such as playing video

games. Each event/intervention had one of the following goals: identify and implement

healthy life choices; actively contribute to an inclusive climate within the community;

demonstrate habits that contribute to academic success; contribute responsibly to the

residential and greater communities.

Holmes Student Center

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The Holmes Student Center (HSC) serves as the center for campus life providing

educational, cultural, social, recreational and leadership programs and services that are

integral to the academic experience. The Holmes Student Center is designed to better

facilitate student and campus community engagement and to serve as better stewards

of student fees. These engagement opportunities expand on their partnership with

Campus Dining Services, which does serve alcohol. However, HSC and its staff does

not. The current alcohol policy for the HSC is “Prior approval to serve and/or sell alcohol

may be necessary. Sponsoring organizations, whether on or off campus, should contact

the Director of Risk Management or the Vice President for Administration and Finance

to determine what steps may be necessary prior to the service or sale of alcohol.”

Additionally, the Holmes Student Center has a hotel with 76 rooms. Guest are allowed

to consume alcohol only in their rooms. Holmes Student Center staff are taking time to

review and update policies in consultation with Risk Management, Environmental Health

and Safety, Student Involvement and Leadership Development, NIU Police and Public

Safety, and Student Affairs.

See guidelines Appendix D

Orientation and Family Connections

During First-Year Orientation sessions that take place in the summer, there is a

presentation called a “Being a Responsible Huskie.” The five following topics are

discussed in small groups, facilitated by Orientation Leaders, and then discussed as a

full group with a panel of professional staff from Student Conduct and Police and Public

Safety:

1. Sexual Assault

2. Drug Abuse

3. Alcohol Abuse

4. Unhealthy Relationships

5. Fighting

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After the small group discussions, there is a panel discussion. Campus partners from

NIU Police and Public Safety and Student Conduct inform parents and family members

about the support systems and programs that are in place at the university to assist

students if they ever find themselves or their friends in these situations.

Family Connections also sends e-newsletters to over 4,000 parents and family

members addressing a variety of topics, including those related to student health and

wellness. The April 2016, 2017, and 2018 e-newsletter discussed Sexual Assault

Awareness Month, which included various programs and services that were provided on

campus specifically for students during that month. There was also an article about

Title IX. The Family Connections publications continue the conversation about clear

communication with students in talking about reporting and healthy decision making.

For first-year students, Orientation Leaders facilitate small group discussions regarding

sexual assault, alcohol abuse, drug abuse, unhealthy relationships, and fighting. The

Orientation Leader Facilitation Guide for the referenced topics and for the Being a

Responsible Huskie event can be found in Appendix N.

Police and Public Safety

The NIU Department of Police and Public Safety (NIU PD) enforces all State drinking

laws, including underage drinking, and enforces all State and Federal drug laws. At the

time of this review, the NIU PD employs 47 sworn police officers, 12 telecommunicators,

10 security guards, and 16 residence hall attendants. The Department provides service

and protection to the campus community, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. All NIU

police officers receive advanced training beyond basic law enforcement training and are

required to be certified, (or will be certified), as emergency medical technicians. The

officers from the NIU PD obtain their police powers from State law (110 ILCS 685/30‐

45). Under that law, officers of the Department have jurisdiction within counties wherein

Northern Illinois University and any of its branches or properties are located when

required for the protection of University properties and interests, and its students and

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personnel, and otherwise, within such counties, when requested by appropriate State or

local law enforcement officials.

The NIU PD works closely with the DeKalb City Police Department (DPD) and other law

enforcement agencies to proactively reduce crime and address quality of life issues in

the DeKalb community. This collaboration has made a significant impact in our shared

efforts at community building. Specifically, NIU PD aides DPD in patrolling off-campus

areas where most of our students live, including the Greek housing areas.

The NIU Department of Police and Public Safety reports that from July 1, 2016 until

June 30, 2018, the number of drug and alcohol related incidents were:

• Alcohol Incidents = 303

• Drug Incidents = 173

• GRAND TOTAL: 476

* In addition, there were 49 alcohol and other drug related ambulance transports.

The NIU PD proactively conducts ID checks during tailgating festivities at home football

games. The NIU PD offers foot escorts on campus, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to

any person. The University also operates a safe ride program. The Huskie Safe Line

(HSL) is a fixed route, on/off campus ride system available to students, staff, faculty,

and persons with disabilities during overnight hours (11:00 PM – 5:30 AM) after the

Huskie Bus Line stops running. The service has a mobile device application and GPS

tracking system for HSL. NIU affiliates with an NIU OneCard can ride on the system and

bring a guest. There are 29 pick-up and drop-off locations.

Recreation and Wellness

In May 2017 some functional areas (including alcohol education) formerly part of

Wellness Promotion joined Campus Recreation as a result of the dissolution of the

Wellness Promotion department; the name of the department changed to University

Recreation and Wellness (RecWell). This new name reflects an expanded mission – to

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view college health promotion through a broader lens. This includes promoting positive

health behaviors to enhance the academic experience and success of NIU students.

The Wellness program area within RecWell provides leadership for alcohol and other

drug prevention and education for NIU, through group presentations, peer education

initiatives, social norms marketing, and efforts of NIU’s Alcohol Education Workgroup.

The goal is to support student personal and academic success.

The wellness program area is committed to the following concepts:

• Primary Prevention Focus: Initiatives primarily aimed at students who are

essentially “well” to prevent or reduce the risk of negative health outcomes

associated with academic impairment. Services also employ appropriate harm

reduction strategies.

• Population‐Based Services: Interventions focused primarily on natural groupings

of students (e.g., residence hall students, athletes, student organizations,

freshman, etc.) that allow the greatest impact on the greatest number of students

and allow for effective evaluation efforts.

• Socio‐Ecological Model: A comprehensive approach to health promotion and

prevention is characterized by the inter‐relatedness between individual

knowledge and skills, interpersonal relationships, community and societal

education, organizational practices, and/or policies that impact health issues.

The wellness program area follows the NIAAA College AIM which is an alcohol

intervention matrix designed to help schools choose interventions reasonably based on

individual and environmental evidence-based strategies, thereby enhancing the

chances for success in improving the health and wellness of students.

http://www.collegedrinkingprevention.gov/collegeaim/

The former department of Wellness Promotion, prior to joining Recreation and

Wellness, conducted the American College Health Association’s National College

Health Assessment (NCHA) since 1999. The results from recent NCHA surveys (2009,

http://www.collegedrinkingprevention.gov/collegeaim/

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2011, 2013, 2015, 2017) indicate that there is downward trend in alcohol consumption

overall (reported ‘Never Used’ or ‘Used, but not in the last 30 days’ – 2009, 24%; 2011,

30%; 2013, 27%; 2015 35%; 2017, 36%). Those who don’t drink or chose not to drink

during the previous two weeks is also steadily increasing (2009, 55%; 2011, 58%; 2013,

64%; 2015 66%; 2017, 69%). There was a decrease in public misconduct (e.g., did

something that was later regretted) due to alcohol or other drug use. However, there

was an decrease in some protective behaviors (e.g., staying with the same group of

friends, 2009 – 88% vs. 2017 – 72%; eating before and/or during drinking, 2009 – 77%

vs. 2017 – 66%) while other protective behaviors increased (e.g., alternating alcoholic

and non‐alcoholic beverages, 2009 – 19% vs. 2017 – 31%).

Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) Education Work Group (Environmental Strategy): This

initiative is being continued from Wellness Promotion. This is a working committee

tasked with ensuring that alcohol and other drug education initiatives across campus

are evidence-informed, consistent, educational, and empowering. Representatives

include Recreation and Wellness, Housing and Residential Services, Intercollegiate

Athletics, NIU Department of Police and Public Safety, Student Involvement and

Leadership Development, Counseling and Consultation Services, Orientation and

Family Connections, Student Conduct, Health Services, and students. All units shared

current educational initiatives and data associated with drinking in order to identify gaps

in prevention efforts.

AlcoholEdu (Individual Strategy): AlcoholEdu is an educational tool used to provide a

baseline of knowledge for all incoming students. The training is in two parts, part one

collects information about prior experience with alcohol and provides education on the

affects, how to be a positive bystander, and other important information. Part one of

AlcoholEdu is required for all new students (first-year or transfer) to NIU. This year 4065

completed part one. Part two of the training is available to be completed 30 days after

the student has completed part one. It contains a refresher of some of the original

information shared in part one and collects information about current drinking behaviors.

Only 1418 completed part two.

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BASICS (Brief Alcohol Screening and Intervention in College Students) (Individual

Strategy): Through Wellness Promotion, BASICS was a two‐session, alcohol‐use and

skills‐training program intended to reduce or eliminate alcohol misuse. Designed for the

underage drinker, BASICS used motivational interviewing to help students assess their

personal drinking patterns, BAC levels, negative consequences, and challenge

students’ positive expectancies. Students came to BASICS through self‐referral or as a

result of an alcohol violation. To complete BASICS, students took a self‐assessment

through eCHECK‐UP to Go‐alcohol. In FY17, 77 students were referred; in FY16, 228

students were referred. For students who completed the two sessions, data indicated

the following:

• 64% experienced decreased BAC levels between Session 1 and Session 2

(0.01‐1.01-point difference, with an average decrease of 0.11) [0.08 point

decrease with the 1.01 not counted in]

• 69% could explain the factors that affect BAC

• 70% could identify signs and symptoms of alcohol poisoning

• 80% stated a desire to help an intoxicated peer

• 85% articulated a desire to decrease drinking or engage in safer drinking

• 91% understood that time was the only way to sober up

Alcohol Education Programming: RecWell offers a variety of programs that cover

alcohol misuse prevention, education and awareness. These programs are a variety of

presentations that either focus on or touch on alcohol consumption. These programs

are made available for request by student organizations, Housing and Residential

Services, First and Second-Year Experience courses and any student or faculty/staff

groups as needed. These are fulfilled by Health Educators or Peer Health Educators

• Bystander Intervention Education (Individual Strategy and Environmental

Strategy for those who are required to participate): This 90‐minute interactive

workshop is designed to help students recognize clues that something may be

wrong, enhance the feelings of responsibility to safely intervene before imminent

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harm, and increase the commitment and sense of empowerment to act.

Scenarios involving interpersonal violence as well as alcohol and other drugs are

discussed and processed.

• Social and Safe (formerly GET HINTS) (Individual Strategy): The goal of this 90‐

minute program, offered by RecWell, is to reduce high‐risk drinking. This

program includes information on blood alcohol content, alcohol's effect on the

body, responsible drinking, hosting a party with alcohol, at‐risk behaviors,

distinguishing between signs of intoxication and alcohol poisoning, how to help a

friend, hazing information, bystander intervention, and NIU policies and Illinois

law related to underage drinking. In collaboration with Student Involvement and

Leadership Development all Greek Councils are required to send representatives

to this informational session which is offered regularly throughout the academic

year.

Peer Educators (Environmental Strategy): Nationally certified peer educators, trained

through Wellness Promotion and the BACCHUS Initiatives of NASPA, conducted

presentations, programs including Ride with Wellness, Public Service Announcement

creation and other strategies to promote safer social habits pertaining to alcohol use.

Social Norms Print Campaign (Environmental Strategy): RecWell has been actively

engaged in a social norms print media campaign. Posted around campus and available

24/7, the messages contain data from the 2017 National College Health Assessment

(NCHA) regarding normative and positive alcohol behavior by NIU students along with

protective behaviors should students choose to drink.

Student Health 101 e-zine (Individual Strategy): Student Health 101 is an online

magazine that contains health promotion articles including alcohol and other drug

misuse prevention and awareness information. The magazine was sent directly to

students via email.

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Web Presence for Alcohol and Other Drugs (Individual Strategy): The Wellness

program area has a Health Topics page on the RecWell website.

https://www.niu.edu/campusrec/programs/wellness/health.shtml Included on this page is

information regarding Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs. Specific information is shared

about:

• Alcohol, BAC, and the body

• How to be safer if you choose to drink

• When out with friends

• Alcohol intoxication and poisoning

• Policies and laws

• Consent and alcohol

Student Conduct

Students, or student organizations, who are found to be in violation of laws or policies

relating to the unlawful possession, use, sale, or distribution of drugs or alcohol can be

disciplined by the University. Discipline matters for the University are handled through

Student Conduct. Student Conduct assists students, staff, and faculty to maintain an

environment conducive to learning by promoting student engagement through learning,

responsible behavior, healthy, critical decision making, and upholding our community

standards. This is primarily done through coordinating the University’s student conduct

system.

The primary behavioral or conduct standards for students are found in the Student

Code of Conduct at http://www.niu.edu/conduct/Student_Code_of_Conduct/index.shtml

and are located in Appendix B of this document. This Code provides for standards of

conduct related to drug and alcohol use and abuse in the NIU community, as well as

appropriate sanctions for those violations. For the time frame of this review, the Code

of Conduct maintained relevant conduct violations for the inappropriate use or abuse of

alcohol, drugs, and cannabis, as well as also sanctions for appropriate violations of law.

https://niu.edu/conduct/student-code-of-conduct/index.shtml

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Underage students confronted by the institution for the consumption of alcohol will

face disciplinary sanctions ranging from a written warning to expulsion from the

institution. Most common sanctions for alcohol and drugs include: referrals to

Counseling and Consultation Services, Brief Alcohol Screening and Alcohol

Intervention for College Students (BASICS), a monetary fine, Community Service,

University Disciplinary Probation and Parental Notification (for those under the age of

21).

Students whose use of alcohol or drugs results in harm or the threat of harm to

themselves or others, or to property, regardless of the location of the incident, may

face disciplinary action by the University up to and including expulsion. While NIU does

not require testing for illegal substances as a sanction, testing for the presence of illegal

substances may be a condition of any probationary status imposed by the University for

violating a drug-related provision of policy. Furthermore, the Department of

Intercollegiate Athletics may require student athletes to undergo testing for the presence

of illegal substances. Testing for illegal drugs is performed using a urine sample

collected with a chain-of-custody and will include testing for the following substances:

cocaine, marijuana, opiates, amphetamines, methamphetamines, and phencyclidines.

All drug testing will include a review by a qualified Medical Review Officer (MRO) and

an "MRO Positive" result will be considered a positive result. Any student with a positive

result may face disciplinary action by the University up to and including expulsion.

Sanction Frequency

Additional Sanctions 233

Anger Intervention Assessment 74

Banishment 320

BASICS 193

Bystander Intervention Training 2

Community Service 127

Create a Program 8

Create a Sign 24

Deferred Sanction 36

Deferred Suspension N/A

Educational Sanction 28

Expulsion 13

Formal Warning 680

Loss of Privileges 24

Loss of Recognized Student Organization Status 7

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Student Conduct reports the following numbers of violations in relation to this review:

Violation Total Observed/Reported

Alcohol (Underage)

Consumption/Possession

584

Alcohol (Providing to a Minor) 74

Cannabis 478

Drugs 108

In addition, Student Conduct reported the following types and numbers of sanctions

administered by that office in relation to these violations:

Commonly Imposed Disciplinary Sanctions For On- or Off‐Campus Policy Violations: Policy Violation

Typical Monetary Sanction ‐ 1st Offense

Other Typical Sanctions ‐ 1st Offense

Typical Sanctions – 2nd Offense

Underage Possession of

Alcohol

$50 Alcohol Education

Program

Parental Notification if under 21, Monetary Sanction, Disciplinary Probation.

Open Alcohol In A Public Area $50 Alcohol Education Program

Monetary Sanction, Possible Disciplinary Probation.

No Contact 106

Parental Notification 280

Referral 25

Referral Success Specialist-Business 70

Referral Success Specialist-Education 16

Referral Success Specialist-Engineering 18

Referral Success Specialist-Health & Human Sciences 46

Referral Success Specialist-Liberal Arts & Sciences 69

Referral Success Specialist-Undecided 39

Referral Success Specialist-Visual & Performing Arts 12

Residence Hall Floor Transfer 4

Residence Hall System Expulsion 9

Residence Hall Transfer 12

Restitution 34

Student Conduct Fine 1081

Substance Use Assessment 312

Substance Use and Anger Intervention Assessment 9

University Disciplinary Probation 545

University Suspension 74

Write a Paper 163

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Possession of Kegs $50 Alcohol Education Program

Parental Notification if under 21, Monetary Sanction, Disciplinary Probation.

Single Incident of Possession of

Marijuana For Personal Use

$50 Disciplinary Probation, Drug Education Program

Suspension

Possession of More Than One Ounce of Marijuana

$50 Disciplinary Probation, Drug Education Program

Suspension or Expulsion

Possession of Any Amount of "Hard" Drugs (Cocaine, PCP, etc.)

$50 Suspension or Expulsion


Conveying Marijuana or A Controlled Substance To Another Person



Possession of Firearms or Other Dangerous Weapons (If used in a threatening manner)



The University also utilizes online assessment tools for on‐demand reports about

alcohol and marijuana use among its students. Those tools can be located through

the website for Student Conduct and are:

• e‐Checkup to Go Alcohol (formerly e‐Chug) is a short online survey that provides individuals with an accurate, detailed assessment of their alcohol use. It can be found at https://interwork.sdsu.edu/echeckup/usa/alc/coll/index.php?id=NIU&hfs=true

• e‐Checkup To Go Marijuana (formerly e‐Toke) is an online survey designed to give an individual personalized feedback on that person’s marijuana use. It can be found at https://interwork.sdsu.edu/echeckup/usa/mj/coll/?id=NIU&hfs=true

Student Involvement and Leadership Development (SILD)

Campus Activities Board (CAB) Efforts

Each semester, CAB plans and executes approximately 35 on-campus events alcohol

free – all with free admission for NIU students. These events range in size from 20

students to over 1,500 students, and this includes late night and weekend programs. In

https://interwork.sdsu.edu/echeckup/usa/alc/coll/index.php?id=NIU&hfs=true

https://interwork.sdsu.edu/echeckup/usa/mj/coll/?id=NIU&hfs=true

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this past biennium, more than 2,900 unique students participated in CAB events each

year.

Late Night & Weekend Programming

Campus Activities Board provides night and weekend programming to offer students an

alternative to events with alcohol during those time periods.

Events include the following:

• Glow in the Dark Dance Party occurs during the first weekend that students are on

campus at Northern Illinois University. Students are given a free t-shirt then

encouraged to write messages to each other that will glow underneath the black

lights set up around the room. Music and giveaways are provided at the event as an

alternative to events with alcohol.

• Pandemonium, which is an annual event that occurs the second or third week of

April. The event runs from 10pm – 3am and provides students with an entertaining

alternative to events with alcohol. This event includes inflatables, food, music, and a

basketball tournament for students to engage in.

Greek Life Efforts

• Mock Social Event Training

Every August, Fraternity and Sorority Life staff schedule trainings with groups of Greek

organizations, so each organization receives the training. The staff members go to

fraternity houses and review the social policy and do a setup and walk-through of what

a social event with alcohol should look like according to NIU policy. Students have the

chance to ask questions and learn through hands-on experience.

• All-Fraternity/Sorority Meetings

At the beginning of the fall semester, SILD staff hosts a mandatory training for all

members of fraternities and sororities. This meeting covers various topics including

sexual assault, social policy, and alcohol use. This meeting is held in conjunction with

Recreation and Wellness.

• New Member Trainings

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Every semester, staff members from Fraternity and Sorority Life facilitate mandatory

training sessions for all new members of fraternities and sororities from all councils.

These new member trainings are offered at least three times each semester on different

days of the week to accommodate as many student schedules as possible.

The following topics are addressed during New Member Training:

• Make-up of NIU's Greek community (four councils)

• Cultural awareness (Greek culture, college campus culture, multiculturalism)

• Huskie Link

• Perception of Greek life nationally and at NIU

• Values & expectations of NIU Greek students

• Social media use/misuse

• Hazing - definition and how to report

• Sexual assault/consent

• Alcohol & drug use/abuse

• Social events policy (on- and off-campus)

• Active Bystander Training

In partnership with Recreation and Wellness, SILD helps organize 4-6 bystander

training sessions specifically for students in fraternity and sorority life. The session

teaches students how to stand up against a situation they disagree with and offers tips

for reacting positively in a negative situation.

• CAHE 493 – Greek Leadership in the College Experience

Each spring semester, this 3-credit academic course is offered specifically for students

who are members of fraternities and sororities. The class covers topics relevant to

leadership in the collegiate experience, and beyond. Included in the course are units on

hazing, alcohol use, and overall Greek life culture.

• GreekLifeEDU

About 15% of the active fraternity and sorority chapters at NIU are using EverFi’s

GreekLifeEDU as an educational platform for their new members. For those

organizations using this tool, 100% of their new members must complete all the training

modules before they are allowed to be initiated formally into the organization.

➢ Member Training – Chapters

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100% of the Greek chapters at NIU require some form of risk reduction and safety

training for all their members. For most of the organizations, there is an alcohol

education component as part of the new member process when joining these

organizations.

➢ Mental Health Awareness

In partnership with Counseling and Consultation Services, SILD required all executive

board members of all 47 Greek chapters to complete the Kognito online mental health

training module. This included about 300 students.

Student Association Efforts

• Party Patrol

The NIU Student Association oversees a student-run program to do compliance checks

on off-campus organizational events where alcohol is present. Two students are

assigned to each weekend night, and they enter various parties to check that the events

are functioning in accordance with NIU’s off-campus social policy.

• Party Patrol Training

SILD staff members train Student Association executives, directors, and senators on the

proper methods of conducting party patrol checks. The training includes checklist

review, policy review, and protocols for making reports about specific events.

• Hazing Prevention Week

Every September, the Student Association sponsors National Hazing Prevention Week

on NIU’s campus. Throughout the week, students host events across campus to raise

awareness about hazing, what it is, and how to stand up against it. This includes

specific information about physical and mental abuse – including forced alcohol or drug

consumption. In 2016 there were over 500 students in attendance at the hazing

prevention keynote; in 2017, there were over 700 students.

Welcome Days

• Weekend of Events

The weekend before classes begin each fall, SILD and other campus partners host a

series of alcohol-free events on campus at all times of day to help new students

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acclimate to campus, and provide social outlets for all students. Some of the events

include RecFest and Involvement Fair. On average, more than 3,800 students

participate in one or more Welcome Days events each year.

Leadership Efforts

• Leadership Academy

This is a three-tiered self-paced leadership program for all students at NIU. Each

semester, LA hosts between 10-20 events with a total of 160+ attendees throughout the

semester.

• Lead Summit

SILD hosted its annual NIU Lead Summit and Leadership Week, which has six events

Monday-Friday in Fall 2016 and Fall 2017. More than 60 unique students participate

throughout the week each year.

Volunteer Efforts

• NIU Cares Day

On a Saturday each April, SILD hosts a campus-wide day of service in the greater

DeKalb community. On average, more than 600 students participate each year.

• Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week

SILD hosts five events throughout one week in November each year. Attendance in

unknown, but all events are alcohol-free opportunities to interact with other students and

community members.

Alcohol and Other Drug SWOT ANALYSIS

The Committee met on June 19, 2018 to conduct a SWOT (Strengths, weaknesses,

opportunities, threats) analysis of the AOD efforts. Here are the results:

Strengths:

• Require AlcoholEdu

• Dedicated training for Greek and Athletics and Housing

• Peer educators for programming

• Wellness program to create programming

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• Collection of data

• Orientation student life

• Mandatory education sanctions

• Substance use assessments (BASICS)

• Employee Assistance Program

• Alcohol workshop

• Decrease in AOD violations (greater than decreases in enrollment)

Weaknesses:

• Departmental representation

• Student input

• Process evaluations

• Students, faculty/staff believe myths

• High risk drinking at events and before

• Students don’t want the information

• Not programming for other drugs in special populations

Opportunities:

• Students believe in myths-marketing

• Tighten/clarify messaging

• Opioid conversations

• FSYE/Housing relationship/collaborative enhancement

• Academic Affairs-enhance understanding of ATOD issues and students

• Faculty/staff awareness

• Social media

Threats:

• Departmental representation/commitment

• Distribution of prescription drugs/meds (illegal, non-medical use)

• Inconsistent messaging

• Competing priorities

• Social media/pop culture

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR NEXT BIENNIUM

This Biennial Review reveals that Northern Illinois University continues to maintain a

strong drug and alcohol program that is carried out through several comprehensive and

individual mechanisms across the institution. Current policies, protocols, and practices

have been constructed by experienced and knowledgeable staff at the University. A

number of small functional units at the institution do a great deal of work in this area

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with diminished financial resources and staff. Departments strive for best practice in the

field of substance abuse prevention, education, intervention (treatment) and

policy/sanction enforcement.

Several areas for improvement have been identified. While the policies have been

updated recently as NIU created the Policy Library (https://www.niu.edu/policies/), the

policies should be reviewed as to how comprehensive and inclusive they are and

whether they include online and other NIU campuses. This presents an opportunity to

explore other delivery mechanisms like online and pre‐matriculation education programs

for students. Due to the ever‐increasing regulation of public institutions of higher

education by State and Federal authorities, such a policy review is sometimes driven by

legislative requirements, but should be driven by best practices, as well. Like most

areas across the university, financial support for these efforts has diminished over time.

Financial and human resource infrastructure should be improved to help meet the

needs of NIU students, faculty and staff and make the program sufficient and

sustainable for years to come.

The following represent recommendations for future review and consideration:

Recommendation 1 – The next Biennial Review should include other relevant

University entities or officials directly in this review process, as opposed to on merely a

consultative basis. The cooperation and support of each official or entity that contributed

to this review is appreciated. However, the review may be bolstered by the addition of

some of these officials directly in the review and analysis. Additional representation and

stakeholder involvement may be beneficial from Athletics, Clery staff, academic affairs

such as Health and Wellness Pathway in Academics-Plus, or representatives from

departments such as KNPE, FCNS, Nursing, or CAHC.

Recommendation 2 – It should be a goal of the University to increase awareness on

campus of the new policies, procedures, and protocols in this area that are developed.

For example, pursuant to State law, the Board of Trustees recently approved a new

https://www.niu.edu/policies/

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policy on getting approval to hold events where alcohol can be appropriately served and

sold in University facilities and locations. Increasing the knowledgebase of this new

policy should be a goal of the University, so that its community is aware of such policy

and protocol. Policy updates should be added to the University and Human Resource

Services websites and the Human Resource Services Policy Library. Increasing the

knowledge of the community may occur through channels such as any or all of the

following: NIU Today story, NIU Announcement, Policy notification in One Book,

inclusion in the Student Code of Conduct, Student Health 101 messaging platform for

students, the NIU Policy Library, and online publication of the Biennial Review Report

and certification letter online.

Recommendation 3 – While some of the University’s policies in relation to drug and

alcohol enforcement (like the Student Code of Conduct) are reviewed and appropriately

updated on a regular basis, other policies of the University in this area have not. The

Drug‐Free Schools and Communities Act Policy was last updated in 2014. This does

not presume that there is anything inherently wrong with policies that have not been

updated in some time, but it may be beneficial for the University to strive to perform

such policy reviews on a more timely basis, in order to be a leader in drug and alcohol

abuse prevention.

Recommendation 4 – The focus on this Biennial Review has been on illicit drug and

alcohol use and abuse, but smoking was addressed. In accordance with the Smoke-

Free Campus Act, which prohibits smoking on all Illinois state-supported higher

education institutions including public university and community college campuses, NIU

is smoke-free, effective July 1, 2015, http://niu.edu/smokefree/. The policy can be found

in Appendix E. The NIU Smoke-Free Policy was amended in summer 2016 to address

discriminating or retaliating against persons who complain or provide information to

the University about violations and to address punishment for violating the policy or law.

Recommend periodic review of the policy.

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Recommendation 5 – Following an external and internal review of Wellness

Promotion, the AOD Education Work Group and the Campus and Community AOD

Conversations Group were formed. It is recommended that these initiatives continue

and should be reviewed and analyzed in the next Biennial Review, including considering

student representation on these groups. Given departmental changes and the shift from

some areas of Wellness Promotion to RecWell, this will be important to revisit as the

newly formed department develops.

Recommendation 6 – Wellness Promotion launched a pilot online education module

for incoming students in the fall of 2014 called AlcoholEdu for College. This became a

mandated program for all incoming freshman and transfer students in the fall of 2015.

The effectiveness of this program, in relation to the University alcohol and drug

program, should be reviewed and evaluated for the next Biennial Review.

Recommendation 7 – Documentation at Health Services could be improved to: a)

better document CEUs, b) document referrals in EMR to external/internal agencies for

counseling pertaining to alcohol/substance abuse, and c) include more detailed social

history for patient’s first visit.

Recommendation 8 – The next Biennial Review should include a list summarizing the

Interventions Inventory, along with the current Program and Policy Inventories indicating

what data have been collected, what evaluations have been made, along with what

improvements have been implemented.

Recommendation 9 – The next Biennial Review should include information about

various communication strategies and specific message content that have addressed

AOD content across the university. It may be advisable to invite the AOD Education

Work Group, or other institutional group, to help identify consistent campus messages

regarding AOD that could be used more widely across the university, including

messages that address commonly held myths. In addition, more consistent alignment

with institutional messaging strategies should be explored.

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Recommendation 10 – While some of the University’s policies in relation to drug and

alcohol enforcement (like the Student Code of Conduct) are reviewed and appropriately

updated on a regular basis, other policies of the University in this area have not. The

Drug‐Free Schools and Communities Act Policy was last updated in 2014. This does

not presume that there is anything inherently wrong with policies that have not been

updated in some time, but the University should strive to perform such reviews on a

more timely basis, in order to be a leader in drug and alcohol abuse prevention.

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Appendix A

Drug-Free Schools Communities Act

https://www.niu.edu/policies/policy-documents/drug-free-schools-communities-act.shtml

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Appendix B

Student Code of Conduct

Or the direct link: https://www.niu.edu/conduct/_pdf/student-code-of-conduct.pdf

https://www.niu.edu/conduct/process/index.shtml

https://www.niu.edu/conduct/process/index.shtml

https://www.niu.edu/conduct/_pdf/student-code-of-conduct.pdf

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Appendix C

NIU Alcoholic Beverage Policy of the Board of Trustees

https://www.niu.edu/policies/policy-documents/alcoholic-beverage-policy.shtml

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Appendix D G-1

Sodexo at Northern Illinois Alcohol Service Guidelines

Prevention of alcohol sales to visibly intoxicated patrons

Certified Individuals are properly trained in the (4) Signs of Impairment and the (6)

Absorption Rate Factors as well as ID Training to prevent sales to impaired individuals. Anyone

under 30 years of age must provide their ID… if that as well as impairment fails, Sodexo will do

their best to offer alternatives or make sure the individual is not served at another location by

providing other workers the persons name (if available) as well as physical description.

Prevention of alcohol sales to minors

Sodexo cards any individual who appears under 30 years of age. All drinking individuals

– no matter the age – receive an ALC wristband placed on their right wrist. If they have a

wristband and still appear under 30, the person will still be asked to provide identification. The

(4) IDs Sodexo accepts are: State issues driver’s license or state ID card, US Issued Passport and

Military License.

Serving sizes and quantities

There is an arena wide policy of (2) drinks per person at each station and per transaction. If

someone is drinking an alcoholic beverage while at the location, they – if they are not showing

signs of impairment – will be served only (1) beverage. If someone is buying for another, that

person must be present with a valid ID. We serve 12oz and 16oz beers, 8oz of wine.

Alcohol sales cut-off time

Alcohol sales will cease with 10mins left in the 2nd half of the game (or last game if there is

more than one). Locations that sell more than alcohol will remain open, but will not sell any

alcohol. Huskie Stadium, cutoff is the beginning of the 4th Quarter.

Outside beverages

The Convocation Center allows (1) sealed bottled water in at point of entrance.

Security and disturbances

The Convocation Center provides applicable security for necessary disturbances that

are/are not Alcohol Related. Northern Illinois University Police are present during events and

will handle any escalated situations if needs be. At Huskie Stadium, Sodexo works with Luna

Security and Andy Frain Security to monitor any alcohol security issues. If issues arise, they are

addressed – and any high disturbance issues are brought to NIU PDs attention.

Alcohol management training requirements for employees

All Sodexo employees are trained via TEAM training as well as the Illinois required Basset

training – which is taught yearly for any new or expiring certified employees. Any employees,

who have not passed, are not serving alcohol. All training certificates are kept by management

for the appropriate time until expiration.

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Holmes Student Center Alcohol Guidelines

Northern Illinois University Holmes Student Center

DeKalb, Illinois 60115-2875

Alcohol Guidelines

Our liquor license allows us to serve alcohol as part of food events as long as food is

the major contracted purchase. Our goal is to make your event a success and keep all

guests safe following these guidelines:

General

o We will adhere to contracted hours of service. Continuous bar service may

not exceed 4 hours.

o Wine & Champagne bottles will be removed from tables 2 hours after they are

served

o "Shots" will not be served at any time

o In accordance with state alcohol serving regulations, bar staff can only

dispense 1 drink per person per time

o Bartenders have the right to slow down or cut off guests who are

drinking too fast or too much or who are already intoxicated

o Guests shall not bring alcohol into any facility. Any alcohol brought into

an event by a guest is subject to confiscation and guests may be asked to

leave.

o In accordance with state law on the transportation of alcohol, open bottles of

alcohol may not be removed from the banquet room even if the customer has

supplied them.

Unopened bottles supplied by the customer can be picked up the following business

day after an event

o Bars are not open during dinner

o We reserve the right to card all guests

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Conduct and cooperation

We ask that all guests comply with these regulations and we count on your assistance

in communicating these policies to all guests. In the event that a guest does not

cooperate with these guidelines, our staff will:

1. First seek your help or your designee's help in resolving the situation

2. If there is not prompt resolution, we will shutdown all bars

3. Finally. if necessary, we will ask for NIU Police intervention

4. No refunds or allowances will be given on alcohol service closed down for lack of

cooperation

I understand these guidelines and have reviewed and approve the attached alcohol

contract

Customer signature Date

Designee (if any otherwise same as above)

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Appendix E

NIU Smoke-Free Campus Policy

As of July 1, 2015, and in accord with the Smoke Free Campus Act (Public Act 098-

0985), smoking is prohibited on all Campus Property. Campus Property is defined as

property that is owned, leased, occupied or otherwise controlled by Northern Illinois

University, both indoors and outdoors and in university-owned vehicles. The advertising,

sale, or free sampling of tobacco products is also prohibited on campus property.

This policy applies to all individuals, including but not limited to students, faculty, staff,

other employees, contractors, subcontractors, vendors, volunteers, visitors, guests, and

members of the public. The policy is applicable 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The prohibition includes using and/or carrying any kind of lighted smoking materials.

Prohibited materials include but are not limited to any kind of pipe, cigar, cigarette,

cigarillo, bidi, kretek, hookah, atomizer, vaporizer, marijuana, weed, herb, and electronic

cigarette.

This prohibition does not include (1) smoking associated with a recognized approved

religious ceremony, ritual, or activity by American Indians and (2) smoking that is

exclusively conducted for the purpose of approved medical or scientific research.

No individual or campus unit may discriminate or retaliate against any person who

makes a complaint of a violation of this policy or the Illinois Smoke Free Campus Act or

furnishing information concerning a violation to the University or any other person,

campus or governing authority. Persons who violate this policy or the Illinois Smoke

Free Campus Act may be subject to fines or other disciplinary action. Violations by

students may be handled through the processes and procedures of Student Conduct.

Violations by employees may be handled through the processes and procedures of

Human Resource Services. This policy in no way prohibits the University from taking

other appropriate actions in order to respond to violations of this policy or the Illinois

Smoke Free Campus Act, which may include but is not limited to proper referral of the

matter to outside enforcement entities.

(Final Version - 5/1/15, Updated 6/15/16)

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Appendix F

Athletic Department Alcohol and Other Drug Testing Policy

The Intercollegiate Athletic Department for the university maintains substance abuse

policies and educational opportunities for student-athletes. In conjunction with the

established drug testing program from the NCAA (http://www.ncaa.org/health-and-

safety/policy/drug-testing), Intercollegiate Athletics maintains a drug testing program to

help insure the health and safety of the student athletes, but also to promote fair

competition in collegiate athletics within the MAC conference and throughout the nation.

If a student athlete tests positive per these testing procedures, he/she may face

sanctions from the NCAA as well as from the university. From the university’s

perspective, there is progressive discipline instituted for violations of the drug testing

policy which may have possible sanctions that range from a referral to available

counseling services for substance abuse problems, up to termination from the team,

depending on the severity or frequency of the violation(s). Intercollegiate Athletics has

updated the Substance Abuse policy for the 2016-2017 academic year.

(RETURN THIS PAGE WITH YOUR SIGNATURE TO THE NIU ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT)

SIGNATURE PAGE

THE 2019-2020 NORTHERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT

SUBSTANCE ABUSE POLICY

The acceptance of membership on an athletic team constitutes an agreement to comply with all

the regulations of Northern Illinois University and the athletic department and a voluntarily

consent to undergo and cooperate in the drug testing program as summarized on the following

pages.

In addition, I (print your name

____________________________SPORT______________________ Understand that I may be

temporarily or permanently suspended from a team or there may be a recommendation made

for non-renewal of my scholarship, if applicable, for violation of the substance abuse policy.

http://www.ncaa.org/health-and-safety/policy/drug-testing

http://www.ncaa.org/health-and-safety/policy/drug-testing

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I fully understand the penalties for a positive drug test and that TERMINATION of team

membership and recommended non-renewal of any athletic scholarship that I may have at that

time WILL occur on the THIRD POSITIVE TEST.

I certify that I have carefully read the following Northern Illinois University substance abuse

policies regarding testing frequency, collection methods and penalties, and that I have been

given an opportunity to have them explained to me.

I do understand and agree to comply with the Northern Illinois University Athletic Department

substance abuse policy.

SIGNED: _________________________________________ DATE: ______________________

PARENT (if needed): ______________________________DATE: ______________________

The misuse of drugs and alcohol is recognized as a potential problem for all students. The NCAA has an

established drug-testing program for student-athletes to help ensure the safety and health of student-

athletes while participating in athletics. In addition, a program to prevent the use of performance

enhancing drugs promotes fair competition in intercollegiate athletics. NIU’s intercollegiate athletics

ddrug testing program enhances that existing program. It is reasonable for the University to require

student-athletes to submit to drug testing as a condition of the privilege of participation in

intercollegiate athletics.

In order to facilitate a more positive decision making process for the student-athlete, the following drug

education and screening goals have been developed to educate the students on the physiological and

psychological dangers inherent in the misuse of drugs and alcohol; to protect the students, and others

with whom they compete, from potential injury as a result of the misuse of drugs and alcohol; to

provide a screening program to identify student athletes who are improperly using drugs or alcohol and

to assist them, through education and counseling, before they injure themselves or others, or become

physiologically or psychologically dependent; to be in compliance with the NCAA rules and regulations

regarding drug testing; to prevent the use and distribution of performance enhancing substances and

illegal drugs; and, to educate the student-athlete about the local, state and federal laws concerning

possession and use of alcohol and drugs, particularly as they relate to university campuses.

NCAA DRUG TESTING The NCAA conducts post season championship drug testing. In addition, it conducts year-round

unannounced on campus drug testing. Should a Northern Illinois University student athlete test

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positive in any NCAA drug testing session, not only will he/she face sanctions from the NCAA, but he/she

will be declared a “positive” (see below) under the Northern Illinois University program. The student-

athlete will be required to fulfill all of the requirements under the appropriate penalty, both from the

University and the NCAA.

NIU DRUG TESTING-Testing Procedures As part of this testing, a student-athlete may be asked to take a urine, saliva, or breath analysis test to

detect illegal drugs, non-prescribed drugs, alcohol, narcotics or steroids at such times and places as

directed by the Athletic Department.

The drugs to be tested for include, but are not limited to the following: ALCOHOL, AMPHETAMINES,

COCAINE, EPHEDRINE, MARIJUANA, SYNTHENTIC MARIJUANA, PCP, OPIATES, PHENCYCLIDINE,

METHAQUALONE, BARBITUATES, BENZOPAIN, PROPOXYPHENE, METHADONE, EXTASY, ANABOLIC

STEROIDS and masking agents.

Testing will be conducted for all student-athletes throughout the entire school year, or while they are

utilizing athletic department facilities. The drug-testing program will be administered by the athletic

training staff in conjunction with contracted drug testing agencies.

Unannounced testing may occur at any time of any day with no (zero) notice. The selection may be

based on random selection, a prior positive test as outlined below, suspicion of misuse/abuse or

other reasonable cause. The REFUSAL to provide a sample will be considered a positive test and will

include all of the sanctions of that positive level. Adulteration of a urine sample will result in a

positive test finding. Suspected adulteration may be reviewed by the MRO for confirmation.

ALL STUDENT-ATHLETES, INCLUDING CHEERLEADERS ON THE SQUAD LIST, MAY BE TESTED. THIS

INCLUDES STUDENT-ATHLETES ACTIVELY PARTICIPATING, STUDENT-ATHLETES WHO ARE MEDICALLY

DISABLED, AND THOSE WHO HAVE EXHAUSTED THEIR ELIGIBILITY.

All urine samples for testing will be collected in compliance with NCAA as well as United States

Department of Transportation drug testing guidelines. Supplies will remain under constant supervision

of athletic training staff or contracted drug testing agency employee prior to being shipped to the

testing facility. Identification information will remain under the constant supervision of the Athletic

Training staff until results are returned to the staff from the drug testing agency Medical Review Officer.

The results of the urine-testing program are considered to be confidential. Records and other

information shall remain in the confidential possession of the head athletic trainer or his/her designee

and may be released only as stated on the consent form or a set forth below in section VI. In the event

of a valid subpoena, wherever possible, the affected student will be notified before compliance with the

court order.

The Athletic Department will issue a positive test finding to a student-athlete found to have committed

or to have attempted to commit drug use or alcohol related offenses. Positive test findings are subject

to the disciplinary sanctions outlined below at the discretion of the Athletic Director.

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Drug and alcohol related offenses include but are not limited to: Driving under the influence (DUI, DWI),

Public Intoxication, Drunk and Disorderly Conduct, and other alcohol related offenses that could result in

potential for harm to self or others including underage possession. Use of drugs includes use,

possession, manufacture, or distribution of any illegal controlled substance including but not limited to

the following: cocaine, hashish, heroin, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), marijuana, methamphetamines,

or any legally controlled substance without a prescription issued by a licensed physician.

Any student-athlete who voluntarily seeks counseling prior to a positive drug test will not face automatic

testing but will be referred to the appropriate counseling service. The student-athlete will be

responsible for any costs that are incurred. The student-athlete will remain in the random testing pool.

ALL TEST RESULTS accumulate during the ENTIRE TIME that an individual is a student-athlete at Northern

Illinois University.

The determination (by an approved drug testing method) that a student-athlete has used any illegal

drug, any nonprescribed prescription drug, any narcotic, alcohol, or steroids may result in any or all of

the following as decided by the Director of Athletics after consultation with the Head Athletic Trainer

and the Medical Review Officer.

FIRST POSITIVE TEST RESULT Head Athletic Trainer and Athletics Director notified. Head coach will be notified.

Referral appointment for evaluation with Counseling and Student Development Center on campus.

Recommendations from CSDC as indicated. The student-athlete is responsible for any costs incurred for

these services.

Additional testing whenever Northern Illinois University Intercollegiate Athletics conducts testing over

the next twelve (12) months with no (zero) notice.

Mandatory conference call with parents, guardians, spouse, Head Coach, Head Athletic Trainer, and

Athletics Director or their designee.

SECOND POSITIVE TEST RESULT Head Athletic Trainer and Athletics Director notified. Head coach will be notified. Referral for private

counseling on or off campus. The student-athlete is responsible for any costs incurred for these

services.

Suspended immediately from all non-academic team related activities upon positive notification.

Suspension will be for a period of three (3) weeks and will also include suspension from contests

equivalent to 25% of the regular championship season (i.e., immediate, next regular or post-season

contests). The contest suspension may be served concurrently with the non-academic team

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suspension. Participation in any exhibition contests will be forfeited and not included in the 25%

suspension of the regular season (i.e., immediate, next regular or post-season contests) athletic

contests. If the positive finding occurs in the summer term or non-championship season of a particular

sport, the non-academic team suspension will be applied when determined most appropriate at the

discretion of the Athletics Director.

Additionally, zero notice drug testing may occur whenever Northern Illinois University Athletic

Department conducts testing for the remainder of the student-athlete’s eligibility.

Mandatory conference call with parents, guardians, spouse, Head Coach, Head Athletic Trainer and


Recommendations from counseling agency as indicated.

THIRD POSITIVE TEST RESULT

Head Athletic Trainer and Athletic Director notified. Head coach will be notified.

Referral for private counseling on or off campus. The student athlete is responsible for any costs

incurred for these services.

Termination of team membership.

Recommended non-renewal of Athletic Scholarship.

Mandatory conference call with parents, guardians, spouse, Head Coach, Head Athletic Trainer and


A student-athlete will be terminated from team membership upon conviction of trafficking/dealing in

any illegal substance. Termination will also include a recommendation for non-renewal of any athletic

scholarship.

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Appendix G

Employee Assistance Program Referral Policy

Human Resource Services Employees of Northern Illinois University are subject to laws and policies governing drug and alcohol misuse. Human Resource Services implements these laws and policies under the following circumstances:

• As a condition of pre-employment for a position requiring a CDL, individuals must submit to drug testing pursuant to the Department of Transportation’s Alcohol and Drug Testing Program.

• When the primary job functions should require such testing.

• For employees who are found to be in violation of laws or policies relating to the unlawful possession, use, sale, or distribution of drugs or alcohol.

• In accordance with policies and practices governing post-accident drug testing for individuals possessing a CDL.

An example of the application of the laws and policies would include a circumstance in 2013 when the University had its first and only positive drug test ever in that program since the testing began in mid ‐1990s. In that circumstance, the employee was terminated by NIU in 2014 as a result of an off‐campus, non‐work related “Driving Under the Influence” situation. In the event that the laws and policies are exercised, discipline may include, without limitation, the following:

• Referral to Human Resource Services’ Employee Assistance Program (See Below) for services.

• Employee discipline (including suspension or dismissal); and

• Referral for criminal prosecution.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Through Human Resources Services, Northern Illinois University maintains an Employee Assistance Program to provide referral, linkage, support and advocacy for Employees who struggle with drug and alcohol problems. The Program’s website can be found at the following:

http://niu.edu/hrs/work_life/employee_assistance/index.shtml.

http://niu.edu/hrs/work_life/employee_assistance/index.shtml

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The Employee Assistance Program provides confidential professional services to the faculty and staff of the University and is one of the benefits for Employees of the institution. The EAP offers information; brief counseling; referral and linkage to counseling services; support to access mental health and substance abuse services, and eldercare; crisis intervention; post crisis intervention and support. Additionally, the Employee Assistance Program also offers customized training, consultation and coaching for Supervisors, employees and teams to enhance work group and departmental functioning. The Employee Assistance Program also provides work‐life information; groups and workshops; co-sponsors an annual Health and Wellness Fair; coordinates annual flu shots; and facilitates a series of “Hot Topic” wellness seminars each semester. Finally, the Employee Assistance Program maintains a specific website dedicated to a self‐assessment for alcohol or drug problems. The Employee Assistance Program offers the following services in accordance with the laws and policies governing alcohol and drug misuse in the workplace.

• Coordination and implementation of the Drug Testing Program between the Employee, the Drug Testing Provider, MRO, and Human Resources Services

• Referral to an educational or rehabilitation program.

• Referral for fitness for duty evaluation.

• Support services upon an Employee’s return to work following any recommended or necessary leave of absence.

http://niu.edu/hrs/work_life/employee_assistance/resources/self_assessment/substance_abuse.shtml

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Appendix H

Football Game Tailgating

Are you planning on tailgating before the big game? Here are a few things you need to

know before you head over to the stadium:

• Tailgating is allowed as soon as the parking lots open. Donor lots and

Convocation Center lots generally open five hours prior to kick-off. Remote

parking lots W, O, and X are generally open three and a half hours prior to kick-

off. See the map for more information.

• Tailgating is not allowed past game time.

• Plastic bottles and cans are allowed. Glass containers, kegs and party balls are

strictly prohibited.

• Small grills are allowed but fryer and fire pits are not permitted.

• Beer can be brought into the tailgate area but not into the stadium.

• Please use the trash cans and used charcoal cans located in each parking area

to help keep the area clean.

• Personal music devices and radios are allowed at your tailgate party. They must

be confined to your tailgate area and must not interfere with others. DJs and

large speaker set-ups are not allowed in the parking lots. All portable music must

be turned off by game time.

• No tailgating can be done on any part of a vehicle higher than the bed of a pickup

truck and all equipment not placed on the ground must be secured so it cannot

fall off.

• NIU is a smoke free campus. However, smoking is permitted in your vehicle as

long as it does not impact others.

Tailgaters are encouraged to contact NIU Police at 815-753-1212 when another tailgate

party becomes a nuisance because of loud music or behavior that interferes with other

guests.

For more information on NIU football and Huskie athletics, visit www.niuhuskies.com.

http://niu.edu/visit/maps/interactivemap.shtml

http://www.niu.edu/publicsafety/about/contact-us/index.shtml

http://www.niuhuskies.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/072814aaa.html

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Appendix I

Housing Handbook

https://www.niu.edu/housing/halls/handbook/index.shtml

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Appendix J

Off-Campus Social Events Policy

https://www.niu.edu/studentinvolvement/_files/off-campus-social-policy.pdf

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Appendix K

Title IX/Sexual Misconduct Policy and Complaint Procedures for Employees and

Students

https://www.niu.edu/policies/policy-documents/title-ix-sexual-misconduct-policy.shtml

https://www.niu.edu/policies/policy-documents/title-ix-sexual-misconduct-policy.shtml

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Appendix L

Amnesty/Responsible Action Protocol (Found in Student Code of Conduct, Article IV,

Part G)

Amnesty: Northern Illinois University maintains a policy of amnesty for students who attempt to seek help for themselves and/or other students or non-students in need of medical attention due to alcohol or drug use. The Director of Student Conduct or designee shall determine if a student or Recognized Student Organization is eligible for amnesty under this provision. An organizational member or the student organization president or designee from a recognized student organization must attend the preliminary conference in order to request amnesty. If a student’s or recognized student organization’s actions furthered or facilitated the situation, no amnesty will be granted.

Amnesty aims to remove the barriers that may prevent an individual from reporting an

incident of sexual misconduct. If an individual reports an incident of sexual misconduct,

in good faith, the reporting party will not receive disciplinary action for a separate

University policy violation, such as underage drinking, that is revealed in the course of

the report. However, if the separate violation was egregious, including, but not limited

to, an action that places the health or safety of any other person at risk, amnesty may

not be afforded.

https://www.niu.edu/policies/policy-documents/student-code-of-conduct.shtml

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Appendix M

Annual Safety and Security Report

http://www.niu.edu/clery/annual_security_report.pdf

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Appendix N

Orientation Leader Facilitation Guide

Topic One: Alcohol

Your Goal: We want to engage in a conversation regarding ways students can go about drinking in a healthy and safe manner. It is your responsibility to encourage participation from every student. Points You Need To Cover:

• If you’re under 21, it’s illegal to drink and consume alcohol.

• Recognize that there are dangerous ways students consume alcohol.

• Students will take AlcoholEdu prior to the start of the fall semester—great way to learn about some safer drinking strategies.

o Talk about your personal experience with AlcoholEdu…what can they expect? Why is it important?

• Recognize that there are safer and healthy ways, if you choose, to consume alcohol.

o Alternating between alcohol and water o Eat before and during drinking o Walk home with friends

• Not all students choose to drink—there are other alternatives to drinking. o 27% of incoming new students don’t consume alcohol o Discuss other options other than drinking

• There are potential consequences to drinking underage o Between $125-250 in fines o Removal from Residence Halls o Take a substance abuse intervention course o Notify parents/guardians o Disciplinary Probation o Drinking ticket o Arrested

• Explain to the students, however, that the University Police are there to help you. You should NEVER feel scared to call 9-11. They are much more concerned with your safety.

• Student’s role as a bystander

• If a student is in the room with alcohol and if they are underage, regardless if they consumed alcohol, they can still be held responsible.

• If hall staff or NIU police ask for your ID, you need to give it to them. Resources available at NIU: Counseling and Consultation Services, University Police, Community Advisor, Student Conduct

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Topic Two: Drugs

Your Goal: We want to engage in a conversation regarding NIU’s policies about illegal drugs—specifically cannabis. It is your responsibility to encourage participation from every student. Points You Need To Cover:

• It’s illegal to use cannabis or any other illegal drugs at NIU or off-campus o Students may use cannabis with a medical marijuana card.

• There are potential consequences to using illegal drugs. o Between $125-250 in fines o Removal from Residence Halls o Take a substance abuse intervention course o Notify parents/guardians o Disciplinary Probation o Immediate suspension from the University o Cannabis ticket o Arrest

• Illegal drugs also includes non-medical use of prescription drugs.

• NIU Police handles each situation regarding illegal drugs differently.

• Explain to the students, however, that the University Police are there to help you. You should NEVER feel scared to call 9-11. They are much more concerned with your safety.

Resources available at NIU: Counseling and Consultation Services, University Police, Community Advisor, Student Conduct

Topic Three: Fighting

Your Goal: We want to engage in a conversation regarding NIU’s policies about fighting. It is your responsibility to encourage participation from every student. Points You’ll Need to Cover:

• There are potential consequences to fighting and any other abuse. o Suspension, expulsion, banishment from NIU o Arrested, jail

• Remember, you’re responsible for friends/guests (non-NIU students) you bring to campus.

• Discuss self-defense.

• This is your community---if you’re not feeling safe and someone is threatening you in your community, tell someone who can help you.

Resources Available at NIU: Counseling and Consultation Services, NIU Police, Residence Hall staff, Student Conduct, Office of the Ombudsperson

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Topic Four: Sexual Assault

Your Goal: We want to discuss potential sexual assault. It is important to note that sexual assault can happen in any type of relationship. Sexual assault can take place between any people regardless of gender. It is your responsibility to encourage participation from every student. Points You Must Discuss:

• In the state of Illinois you can’t consent to sex if you’re incapacitated.

• Students will take an online Title IX training course during their first semester. o Discuss your personal experience taking this…what can they expect?

Why is it important?

• What is consent o Consent: a freely given agreement to the act of sexual penetration or the

sexual conduct in question. Lack of verbal or physical resistance or submission by the claimant resulting from the use of force or threat of force by the respondent shall not constitute consent. The manner of dress of the claimant at the time of the offense shall not constitute consent. A person who initially consents to sexual penetration or sexual conduct is not deemed to have consented to any sexual penetration or sexual conduct that occurs after s/he withdraws consent during the course of that sexual penetration or sexual conduct. (720 ILCS 5/11-1.70(a)).

• Understand the importance of being an Active Bystander—college is full of new situations. It is important to be a positive, active bystander and if you see something wrong, say something.

o Here at NIU, we look out for one another. Even if you do NOT know that person…you should still speak up or intervene.

o Understand the consequences that come with sexual assault. o Not JUST a university “issue”

Resources available at NIU: University Police, Hall Director/Community Advisor, Advocacy Services, Counseling and Consultation Services, Affirmative Action and Equity Compliance Community Resources: Safe Passage

Topic Five: Unhealthy Relationships Your Goal: We want to highlight one symptom of an unhealthy relationship. It is your responsibility to encourage participation from every student. Points You Need To Cover:

1. Recognize the signs of an unhealthy relationship (romantic and friendship) Lack of Respect

o Personal property is not respected o Lack of trust o Friends are not respected

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Mood Swings o Emotional highs and lows are normal o Can be a red flag

Possessive/Jealous o Controlling what the person is wearing o Controlling who they are talking to or hanging out with o Insisting they are not spending enough time with them o Lack of independence

Abuse o Physical o Emotional/mental/verbal o Financial o Sexual

2. Understand the characteristics of a healthy relationship (between friends,

romantic partners, family, etc.) o Respect o Encourage independence o Expressed feelings o No abuse o Privacy respected o Communication

3. It is important to understand the importance of being an active bystander

within situations similar to these a. As someone’s friend it is your responsibility to speak up b. You CAN make a difference—all you have to do is say something

4. Understand the potential consequences that come with domestic violence, assault, etc.

a. Title IX b. Student Conduct c. Involvement with police

Resources available at NIU (for both victims and bystanders)—Counseling and Consultation Services (Advocacy Services), Community Advisor, NIU Police, Students’ Legal Assistance, Student Conduct, Affirmative Action and Equity Compliance

drug- free schools and communities act [edgar part 86 ...2015‐2016 biennial review committee was...

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