Use of Alcoholic Beverages and Prohibition of Other Drugs Policy

To All UVA Students and Academic Division Faculty and Staff:

The U.S. Department of Education requires that each institution of higher education annually distribute its alcohol and other drug policy, in writing, to every student and employee. Faculty and staff who supervise employees who do not have regular access to email, please print this message and distribute it to them. The following is a summary of the policy.

In accordance with federal law, the University's Use of Alcoholic Beverages and Prohibition of Other Drugs Policy regulates the sale and service of alcoholic beverages on University property and informs the University community of state and federal laws and penalties concerning unlawful substance use and misuse; health and behavioral risks of alcohol and other drug use and misuse; and resources for treatment and educational programming.

Of note, Virginia law was changed on July 1, 2019 to prohibit the purchase and possession of tobacco products, nicotine vapor products (e-cigarettes), and alternative nicotine products by anyone under 21 years of age (with the exception of active duty military personnel). Such products may not be sold to anyone under 21 years of age. The University does not tolerate or condone the use of these products by students or employees under 21 years of age. Students and employees who violate this law may be referred by University authorities for civil prosecution and appropriate University conduct procedures.

Approval to use alcohol at a public event on University property or at a University function in which University of Virginia students will be present requires written approval a minimum of five business days in advance using the online Approval Request for Use of Alcohol Beverages form.

The University of Virginia prohibits the illegal or otherwise irresponsible use of alcohol and other drugs. It is the responsibility of every member of the University community to know the risks associated with substance use and misuse. This responsibility obligates students and employees to know relevant University policies and federal, state, and local laws, and to conduct themselves in accordance with these laws and policies.

The University of Virginia assumes no responsibility for any liability incurred at any event not sponsored by the University where alcohol is served and/or sold. Students and members of Contracted Independent Organizations (CIO) or of organizations with a Fraternal Organization Agreement (FOA) are obliged to conduct themselves in accordance with the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia and assume full responsibility for their activities and events.

Any student found in violation of this policy is subject to the entire range of University Judiciary Committee sanctions described in the Statement of Students' Rights and Responsibilities, including suspension and expulsion. University personnel found in violation of this policy are subject to appropriate personnel sanctions.

Assistance with Substance Misuse and Recovery Support

WahooWell in Student Health’s Office of Health Promotion is a positive, free, and confidential resource that helps empower students to enhance their well-being by exploring strengths and self-selected goals.  WahooWell visits are a good way to check in on a variety of areas including stress, sleep, connection, substance use, and general well-being. (434-924-1509)

Hoos in Recovery
A social support network of University undergraduate and graduate students, staff, faculty, and alumni in recovery or considering recovery from substance use disorders. The group meets weekly in addition to social events. (434-924-1509)

Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) in Student Health provides assessment, counseling, medication management and referral assistance for students seeking help with substance use concerns. CAPS is also available to consult with staff, faculty, family members, and friends who may be concerned about a student’s substance use (434-243-5150).

Faculty and Employee Assistance Program (FEAP) — Through FEAP, the University offers employees and their families assessment, brief counseling, referral, and follow-up with common concerns at no cost to the employee. FEAP will also provide consultation to supervisors and managers to assist in addressing employee/team challenges (434-243-2643).

Liz Magill
Provost 

J.J. Davis
Chief Operating Officer 

Robyn S. Hadley
Vice President and Chief Student Affairs Officer