The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point will join more than 700 other college
campuses across the United States when it becomes a tobacco-free campus on Aug.
25.
This
decision was made after carefully considering the views of hundreds of
students, faculty, staff and community members through a student referendum, a
faculty and staff survey, several open forums and consultations with governance
groups.
“UW-Stevens Point has long been a leader in wellness initiatives,
and the tobacco-free policy is a great example of this,” said Jen Sorenson,
director of Student Health Service who is coordinating tobacco-free efforts on
campus. “While encouraging and supporting a healthier lifestyle, UW-Stevens
Point will also be protecting the health of students, visitors, faculty and
staff.”
Beginning
Aug. 25, no tobacco use will be permitted on UW-Stevens Point property. This
policy includes parking lots and sidewalks, and applies to all students,
faculty and staff members, contractors, vendors and visitors during and after
campus hours and during all campus events.
One
exception to the policy will allow additional implementation time. Because of
the location and setting of Treehaven in Tomahawk, a designated area for
tobacco use will be in place until fall 2015. The additional time for implementation
will provide notice to organizations that rent the facility.
Student
Health Service will offer cessation support to students including:
- Individual support and counseling with trained
health care professionals
- Support groups
- Free or reduced-cost nicotine-replacement
products including nicotine patches (also available through the Wisconsin
Tobacco Quit Line), nicotine gum and herbal (tobacco-free) snuff products
- Prescription medication to help smokers and
chewing tobacco users quit.
Students
may call Student Health Service at 715-346-4646 for appointments and more
information. Faculty and staff may contact their insurance providers or click
on “Cessation Resources” at the UW-Stevens Point Tobacco Free website, www.uwsp.edu/tobaccofree. Also
included on the site are frequently asked questions, a campus map and an
official copy of the policy.