Alcohol and Drug Abuse Policy

Marygrove abides by the goals of the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act of 1986, as amended, and the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988. The College accepts the responsibility for providing a drug-free learning environment and does so through education, providing counseling and/or referral services, and protecting the rights of all members of the College community.

If you have any personal concerns or questions about drug or alcohol use, contact the office of Counseling, Student Development and the Women’s Leadership Institute at (313) 927-1474, or visit the office in the Student Center Building, room 232.

Marygrove expects that members of its community who serve or consume alcoholic beverages will do so in a responsible manner. The following guidelines shall be observed:

• Michigan state law and all local statutes regarding the sale, purchase, distribution, and consumption of alcohol must be observed
• Students or guests less than 21 years of age are not permitted to possess or consume alcoholic beverages on campus
• Only students 21 or older may hold social events on campus where alcohol is available. These events must be approved in advance by the Dean of Students for Student Affairs
• Consumption of alcoholic beverages should not be the main purpose of an event. Posters and other forms of advertisement should not create such an impression
• A Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC) license is required for any non-free event where alcohol is served or at any event at which alcoholic beverages are sold
• Consuming alcoholic beverages in public places is a violation of state law. Academic buildings, bathrooms, hallways, lounges and campus grounds are public places under state law and College policy
• Alcohol served at a licensed event may only be consumed in the area designated for the event. Alcohol may not be taken from or brought into the area by individuals
• When alcoholic beverages are served, non-alcoholic beverages and food must be served as well
• Consumption of alcohol will not excuse students from legal or disciplinary consequences resulting from disorderly or unlawful conduct, nor will it excuse irresponsible behavior by students
• Individuals must not be coerced to drink alcoholic beverages under any circumstances. Drinking games or events which encourage excessive alcohol consumption are prohibited
• The classroom is a learning environment, which requires student’s complete attention and respect. Students are not permitted to participate in classroom activities while under the influence of alcohol or illicit drugs. Such an influence could be very disruptive to the teaching/learning environment.

Violators of state law and College policy regarding illicit drugs or alcohol are subject to College disciplinary and/or criminal or civil court action. Possession, use, manufacturing or distribution of illicit drugs on campus may lead to immediate dismissal from the College and/or criminal prosecution.

Health Risks
Improper use of any drug or alcohol can seriously affect the health of students, impair their academic performance and endanger the well-being of others. Various health risks are associated with the use of illicit drugs and the abuse of alcohol. Addiction to alcohol or other drugs is a progressive disease which, if untreated, is fatal. Medical consequences of alcohol abuse include the following: liver damage and disease, gastrointestinal problems and brain damage. Abuse of alcohol and marijuana during puberty can result in an imbalance of sex hormones, resulting in reduced muscle mass and shrinkage of testicles in males and menstrual difficulties and infertility in females. One out of every 500 babies born has fetal alcohol syndrome, a form of mental retardation, caused by use of alcohol during pregnancy. The use of cocaine and amphetamines can result in heart attacks. Use of hallucinogens, especially PCP, can result in an irreversible drug-induced psychotic state and/or delusions that can be life threatening. Substance abusers often experience feelings of depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, guilt and loneliness.

Support, Counseling, Treatment
Students who need help in dealing with drug and/or alcohol abuse problems personally or in their household are encouraged to contact the Director of Counseling and Student Development (SC 232) or the Director of Athletic and Wellness Services (MC 049). While these departments provide counseling, assistance and workshops throughout the year, the following community agencies are at your disposal as well. Some services are free, based on a sliding scale, or covered by your insurance. If you are enrolled in an insurance plan, please review your policy for information on coverage. Marygrove does not endorse the use of any of the facilities listed below. A doctor’s recommendation should be taken when making a decision pertaining to health care provisions.

• Al-anon Family Groups; 26150 5 Mile Rd., Suite 19, Redford, MI 48239; (313) 242-0300
• Alcoholics Anonymous; (313) 831-5550
• Catholic Social Services of Wayne County; 9851 Hamilton Avenue, Detroit, MI 48202; (313) 883-2100; Services: individual, group and family therapy for alcohol and drug abuse; Children of Alcoholics
• Eastwood Clinic; 11542 Connor, Detroit, MI 48205; (313) 923-6830
• Henry Ford Health System Centers for Chemical Dependency; 6773 West Maple Road, West Bloomfield, MI 48322; (248) 661-6100
• National Counsel on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence; (313) 342-3606
• Sacred Heart Rehabilitation Center; 220 Bagley St. # 326, Detroit, MI 48226; (313) 961-6190