Non-Drinkers

Each spring, approximately 600 Denison students are surveyed about their drinking. In our most recent survey, 27% of the students indicated they drank only once a month or less. If these percentages hold true for the rest of campus, this means over 500 students drink very infrequently or not at all. In addition, hundreds more students, while they may choose to drink, do not use it as the primary focus of their social lives.

On Denison's campus and among colleges nationally, the number of non-drinkers as well as the number of students who report non-problem drinking is increasing. It is important for non-drinkers and responsible drinkers to understand that annoyances associated with excessive drinking do not have to be an accepted part of everyday campus life. Problems such as noise, vomit, vandalism, and violence do not have to be tolerated. A number of organizations around the country are addressing problems associated with excessive drinking, like the organization Had Enough?

If you are experiencing these or other problems on campus, please talk with your RA/HR, Area Coordinator, faculty advisor, or the Office of Campus & Residential Life. 

Eight Rights of Campus Life

Too often, students living in residence halls believe they must accept disruptions, vandalism, and even harassment by intoxicated individuals as a part of college life. This is not true. A residence hall is everyone's home. Each student has the right to be treated thoughtfully, considerately, and respectfully. Sober or drunk, unacceptable behavior is unacceptable behavior.

You have the right to*:

• sleep without being disturbed by someone who is intoxicated.
• a study environment free of interruptions by an intoxicated person.
• refuse to 'baby-sit' a drunk friend.
• be free from unwanted sexual advances by an intoxicated person.
• have your property and living environment free from damage by someone who has been drinking.
• a clean healthy living space.
• never to be physically or verbally assaulted by an intoxicated person.
• be free from sexual assault or acquaintance rape.Being Drunk Is Not an Excuse. 

*Adapted from the Rights of Passage at the University of Notre Dame

More Information

To report a problem:

• Call the Area Coordinator, HR, or RA
• Security - 6482
• Office of Residence Life - 6271

To talk with someone:

• Rape Survivor Advocates - 6366
• Campus Climate Advocates
• Counseling Center - 6647