University leaders to try new approach to curb drinking

Fargo, ND (WDAY TV) - North Dakota continues to lead the nation in underage and binge drinking and after several NDSU athletes' run-ins with the law, university leaders believe a new approach may help curb the trend. Instead of trying to change the students, they'll change their environment, WDAY 6 Reporter Kelsey Soby explains.

He's normally the face of a Bison athletic tradition, but today the only Athletic Director to chair a drug and alcohol council is a face of change.

“When in trouble take personally.”

The council's campaign for long-term drug and alcohol use prevention has been in the works for two years and was scheduled for release this fall, but considering recent charges against several NDSU football players, the President's Council agreed now was the time.

The players may be the example, but the issue of alcohol abuse goes way beyond the field, impacting all students.

“It’s the greatest impediments to students succeeding.”

Laura says for the first time, the prevention plan focuses on campus culture. It provides more alcohol free activities, requires more drug education, especially for first year students and athletes, and offers incentives for teachers and students who research alcohol and drug related issues or who develop new prevention strategies.

“Next year won’t see 50 percent drop, we want slow lasting change.”

She says students will notice more alcohol free activities and related education opportunities. Several students were involved in the planning process.

University President Joseph Chapman provided 100-thousand dollars for the coming year, in addition to what was previously budgeted for alcohol and drug use prevention. For more details on the plan including a timeline and costs, visit www.ndsu.edu/alcoholinfo.

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