USC Revises Social Events Policy, Focuses On Alcohol
Comments (1)
USC released a revised Social Events Policy on Monday following a rise in alcohol-related incidents and hospitalizations involving students on or near the University Park campus during the past year.
Ainsley Carry, Vice Provost of Student Affairs/via USC
Dr. Ainsley Carry, the Vice Provost for Student Affairs, said in an emailed statement to Neon Tommy that the previous policy was outdated and "may have hampered efforts to provide healthy outlets for students to socialize."
"It has gotten out of control and we need to create an answer," Carry said about partying at USC last semester. "What is it about USC's environment that is making kids think they have to black out to have fun?"
The idea to seriously analyze and update USC's social events policy came after a sophomore student was found dead in his bedroom from possible alcohol poisoning last October. As of Jan. 13, 2014, the Los Angeles Coroner's Office says the cause of death is still under investigation, though the coroner's 90-day deadline to determine cause of death is quickly approaching.
SEE ALSO: USC Student Cause Of Death Possibly Alcohol Related
According to Carry, various student leaders and groups were consulted during the process, including student leadership at USG and GSG, the Interfraternity Council, Panhellenic Council, National Panhellenic Council, and Program Board.
"Policies should reward moderation and safety, make it easier for students to enjoy the social aspects of campus life and the city of Los Angeles, and allow groups to responsibly host lawful parties," Carry said.
The revised policy's scope will include activities where alcohol is present or there is amplified sound, and every University-recognized social event must be "scheduled following procedures of the University and all required clearances must be obtained." The policy also sets new parameters for events where alcohol is present.
From August to October 2013, almost 50 USC students were transported to the hospital because they were overly intoxicated and unresponsive, according to Department of Public Safety Captain Steven Alegre. That number does not reflect the number of alcohol-related incidents that did not result in transports, which average over 40 per month.
"The revised policy will contribute to an environment for the responsible social behavior we expect from USC scholars," said Carry.
Read USC's revised Social Events Policy in its entirety:
Read the announcement of the revised policy by Dr. Ainsley Carry:
Reach Executive Producer Colin Hale here. Follow him on Twitter. Reach Editor-in-Chief Brianna Sacks here
