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Alcoholic Beverages Policy

The Division of Student Life at Monmouth University is committed to the educational and social growth of students within the University’s community. On campus, students and their guests interact through a variety of programs and activities. The purpose of these events is to promote a healthy social experience on campus. The misuse and abuse of alcohol in whatever form is inconsistent with this purpose. The University encourages and supports students who abstain from the use of alcoholic beverages. It acknowledges that we live in a social environment which establishes by law a minimum age for the use of alcohol (21). Monmouth University does permit the consumption of alcohol on campus provided the guidelines established by the University, and departments within, are followed. 

This policy has been established to regulate the use of alcohol on Monmouth University property or in University-owned or -sponsored housing and to promote the responsible conduct of Monmouth University students and others with regard to such use. In addition, Monmouth University students are expected to follow the laws of the state of New Jersey off campus as well involving the use of alcoholic beverages. Students violating local and state alcoholic regulations off campus will be disciplined under the Student Code of Conduct. We recognize the need for order and regulation in this process and will not tolerate disruptive behavior or conduct that infringes upon the rights of those who wish to pursue their academic interests as responsible members of this community. The specific ramifications of violating this policy are outlined and specifically noted in the University’s Student Code of Conduct. 

The Basics 

A. New Jersey State Law 

  1. No one under 21 years of age may purchase, possess, or consume alcoholic beverages. 
  2. Transportation of open alcoholic beverage containers in any kind of vehicle on or off campus is a violation of state law. The transportation of alcoholic beverages by persons under 21 on campus is strictly prohibited. No person, regardless of age, may consume alcoholic beverages in public areas of the campus unless specifically approved by the Office of the Vice President for Student Life. 
  3. The attorney general has defined public areas as including residence hall entrances and lobbies, lounges, hallways and stairwells, or common grounds of a college or university to which the general public by specific or implied invitation has access, and in which an individual could have no expectation of privacy. 
  4. The sale or distribution of alcoholic beverages to persons under the legal drinking age is a serious criminal offense. Individuals can be held both criminally and civilly liable for the injury or death of any person resulting, either directly or indirectly, from the distribution of alcoholic beverages by them to a person under the legal drinking age.  

B. Definition of Alcohol 

  1. This policy has been designed to ensure a uniform application and understanding. The definition of “alcoholic beverage” is to be interpreted in the broadest sense. Therefore, alcohol and alcoholic beverages are defined as any beverage which has an alcohol content. This would include but not be limited to all forms of beer, wine, wine coolers, and distilled spirits. 

C. Health Risks 

The health risks most commonly associated with the use of alcoholic beverages are described below: 

  • Whether in the form of beer, wine, or liquor, alcohol is a mind-altering chemical, which has effects similar to barbiturates and narcotics. Alcohol acts as a depressant to the central nervous system. In small amounts, alcohol can produce mild relaxation and a feeling of well-being. In large amounts, alcohol can cause intoxication, sedation, unconsciousness, or death. 
  • Hangovers are probably the best known sign of too much alcohol in the body. They are caused by the body’s reaction to the toxic, or poisonous, effects of alcohol. Often those effects can occur at very low levels of drinking. 
  • Liver – 95% of all alcohol is metabolized by the liver. Because clearing alcohol out of the body is a “priority,” the other functions of the liver, such as regulating blood glucose levels, are slowed down. 
  • Stomach – Alcohol causes a surge in the flow of digestive acids, which can irritate the stomach lining. Nausea and vomiting frequently occur, while regular, heavy drinking can cause ulcers and chronic stomach problems. 
  • Nervous System – Alcohol suppresses almost every function causing problems such as slurred speech, coordination, loss of balance, and memory loss. 
  • Heart – Alcohol makes the heart work harder and less efficiently. Long-term heavy drinking is associated with heart muscle disease, irregular heartbeats, and an increased risk of coronary artery disease. 
  • Other Heart Problems – Heavy, prolonged or excessive drinking can lead to malnutrition, cancer, psychological problems, miscarriages, possible birth defects, and infertility in women, as well as impotency and sterility in men. 

D. University Resources and Programs 

Monmouth University has developed a multifaceted response to meet the needs of students who may be at risk for alcohol and other drug problems. Substance awareness programs are coordinated through the Office of Substance Awareness, in collaboration with the Office of Counseling and Prevention Services, Health Services, Judicial Affairs, Athletics, Residential Life, and Student Activities. 

Drug and alcohol counseling, treatment, or rehabilitation programs available to students: 

  • Confidential substance abuse assessments, short-term counseling, recommendations, and referrals are available from a licensed clinician. 
  • The Health Center staff of physicians and nurse practitioners can also assist with substance abuse concerns, especially if a health problem exists. Visits to the Health Center are confidential. The number is 732-571-3464. 

Educational Programs and Courses targeted at preventing drug and alcohol abuse: 

  • The HERO Campaign Committee is a group of students and employees who raise awareness of the dangers of drunk driving and promote the use of designated drivers. 
  • Monmouth provides an online alcohol education program for students. 
  • Substance abuse assessments are provided for violators of the alcohol/drug policy or any student requesting services. 
  • Presentations for student organizations, groups, or classes on alcohol and other drug issues are regularly scheduled, as well as hosting outside national speakers. 
  • The Substance Awareness Resource Center, located in the Health Center, contains pamphlets, schedules for 12 Step Meetings, brochures, videos, books, etc., that focus on a variety of substance awareness topics. 
  • Alcohol Awareness Month and National Alcohol Screening Day Events are held in the spring semester. 
  • National Collegiate Alcohol Awareness Week and Drunk Driving Awareness Month Events are held in the fall semester. 
  • Support services are available for students who are concerned about a family member or friend’s substance abuse or addiction. 
  • Students in recovery program and lounge which is located on the third floor of the Rebecca Stafford Student Center.  

E. Review of the Program 

In compliance with Federal Law, this policy will be reviewed biennially to determine the effectiveness of the University’s Alcohol and Drug Prevention Program; implement changes to the program as required and to ensure that disciplinary sanctions are consistently enforced. 

Appendix A 

USCS 11145G. DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE PREVENTION 

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, no institution of higher education shall be eligible to receive funds or any form of financial assistance under any Federal program, including participation in any federally funded or guaranteed student loan program, unless it certifies to the Secretary that it has adopted and has implemented a program to prevent the use of illicit drugs and the abuse of alcohol by students and employees that, at a minimum includes: 

  1. The annual distribution to each student and employee of –
    1. Standards of conduct that clearly prohibit, at a minimum, the unlawful possession, use or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students and employees on its property or as part of any of its activities; 
    2. A description of the applicable legal sanctions under local, State or Federal law for the unlawful possession or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol; 
    3. A description of the health risks associated with the use of illicit drugs and the abuse of alcohol; 
    4. A description of any drug or alcohol counseling, treatment or rehabilitation or entry programs that are available to employees or students; and 
    5. A clear statement that the institution will impose sanctions on students and employees (consistent with local, State and Federal law), and a description of those sanctions to, and including expulsion or termination of employment and referral for prosecution for violations of the standards of conduct required by paragraph 1.a; and 
  2. A biennial review by the institution of its program to –
    1. determine its effectiveness and implement changes to the program if they are needed; and 
    2. ensure that the sanctions required by paragraph 1.e are consistently enforced. 

F. Jurisdiction and Violations 

  1. The Alcoholic Beverages Policy shall apply to every function and event, including but not limited to receptions, banquets, dinners, picnics, or any outdoor event, social event, and campus-wide activity sponsored by organizations or individuals associated with Monmouth University. All events must be registered and regulated as outlined below. 
  2. This policy shall be in effect during all periods of the year including the summer. 
  3. Student violations of this policy will be reviewed under the jurisdiction of the Student Code of Conduct, and appropriate sanctions apply. Applicable sanctions are outlined within the Code of Conduct. Violations by other constituencies, within the University, will result in a loss of future approval for alcohol-related events for a prescribed period of time. 
  4. This policy shall apply to all Monmouth University students who violate New Jersey state law within local municipalities. 
  5. This policy shall apply to all University-owned or -sponsored housing. 

Restrictions on Quantity 

  1. Kegs, beer balls, and similar products are prohibited on University property. Kegs and beer balls as well as taps will be subject to confiscation by University officials should they be discovered. Kegs, beer balls, and taps will not be returned to the person(s) from whom they were confiscated. This applies to full as well as empty containers. 

Personal Consumption Within University Housing 

  1. Possession or use of alcohol in any form, including being in the presence of alcohol, is strictly prohibited in any University-sponsored housing by all students who are under the age of 21. This restriction applies to all students of Monmouth University, their guests, and members of their families. 
  2. Only students who are at least 21 years of age and their guests who are at least 21 years of age may possess or consume alcohol on campus in designated areas. Under no circumstances shall students who are at least 21 years of age possess or use alcoholic beverages in any form in any University housing designated for first-year students or as a “dry” hall. Students must present a valid ID to University personnel upon request. No alcohol is allowed to be consumed in the presence of roommate(s), apartment mate(s), and/or guest(s) under the age of 21. 
  3. Alcoholic beverages are permitted only in the assigned residence hall rooms or apartments of students 21 years of age or older. 
  4. Alcoholic beverage containers must be sealed and concealed from public view when transported on campus. 
  5. Intoxicated individuals may not be served alcoholic beverages and are subject to action under the Student Code of Conduct regardless of age if behavior warrants intervention.  
  6. All forms of excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, participating in or encouraging and/or coercing drinking games, alcoholic consumption against one’s will, and binge drinking. 
  7. The possession of and/or use of devices or engaging in activities designed for group and/or excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, punch bowls, beer pong, funnels, and/or shot blocks. 

Registration and Regulation of Events: Policy Implementation 

  1. Any event at which there will be alcoholic beverages must be authorized by the Vice President for Student Life or his/her designee.
    • An Application for Social Affair Permit must be submitted for approval to the Vice President for Student Life or his/her designee four (4) weeks in advance of the event to allow time to obtain approvals from the West Long Branch Chief of Police and the West Long Branch Clerk and submission to the State of New Jersey if there is a cost associated with the alcohol either based on an admission fee or a cash bar. A Monmouth University Alcohol Contract must be submitted for approval to the Vice President for Student Life or his/her designee two (2) weeks prior to the event if alcohol is being served without charging a fee. If University funds are being used for the purchase of alcohol, an Alcohol Approval Form must first be submitted to the area vice president then to the President for approval and signature two weeks in advance of the event. All individuals at an authorized event must be of the legal drinking age (21) to possess, consume, or transport alcoholic beverages. 
  2. All wine and cheese parties, theatre receptions, pre- and post-game activities, and all other events where the consumption of alcohol has been authorized must comply with all hosting responsibilities outlined in this policy. 
  3. Events involving alcohol will be permitted within University housing on the north side of campus, within the Quad, or other open areas on the north side of campus only with the approval of the Vice President for Student Life or his/her designee.  
  4. Unauthorized consumption, possession, selling or serving of alcoholic beverages is prohibited. 
  5. Any person who is authorized to host an event with alcohol must follow all guidelines established by this policy and adhere to the section entitled, “Hosting Responsibilities for an Event.” 
  6. The Vice President for Student Life may suspend the privilege of serving alcoholic beverages on the campus by any group or organization for any time period considered appropriate when there is evidence that the group or organization has failed to cooperate with the University in achieving the objectives of  
    this alcohol policy. 
  7. Events selling alcohol under the University’s liquor license are restricted to the following spaces:
    • Doherty Deck, Kessler Stadium 
    • Magill Commons (entire building) 
    • OceanFirst Bank Center (entire building) 
    • Pollak Theatre Lobby 
    • Pozycki Hall (first and second floors) 
    • Rechnitz Hall (first and second floors) 
    • Stafford Center (first and second floors) 
    • Great Hall (first floor and other portions of building) 

Hosting Responsibilities for an Event 

Any person(s) authorized to host an event is responsible for the following: 

  1. Make appropriate arrangements to obtain all applicable permits and complete and submit a Monmouth University Alcohol Contract. If University funds are being used to purchase the alcohol being served, an Alcohol Approval Form must be first submitted to the area vice president then on to the President for approval and signature two weeks prior to the scheduled event. A copy of the form is available on the shared drive under Public Forms. A copy of these materials must be submitted to the Vice President for Student Life at least two (2) weeks in advance of the event. 
  2. If alcoholic beverages are being served at an event, either through the cost of admission or on a cash basis, a Social Affairs Permit from the New Jersey State Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) will be required. The process to apply for a license must be started at least four (4) weeks in advance of the event by first contacting the office of The Vice President for Student Life for approval and further directions. The cost associated with obtaining such a license will be the responsibility of the host and due at the time of application. Once your event is approved by the Division of ABC you will be issued an event license that must be displayed at your event and a copy must be submitted to the Vice President for Student Life or his/her designee. 
  3. Provide adequate safety and security as determined by the Vice President for Student Life in consultation with the Chief of University Police and the event’s sponsor. 
  4. The consumption of alcoholic beverages will take place only during the timeframe authorized by the Vice President for Student Life or his/her designee, and within the designated area. The event must stop serving alcohol at least one half hour before the time that the event is scheduled to end. Any deviation from the established timeframe or designated area will be a violation of this policy. 
  5. Ensuring that provisions are made to regulate portions of alcoholic beverages that will be served during an event. Intoxicated persons should not be served. In addition, “drinking games” and shots are strictly prohibited. 
  6. The alcohol provided for the event must be acquired through a retail liquor sales establishment. The University’s Dining Service may not purchase alcohol on your behalf. They can assist in quantities ordered. 
  7. The host or host organization is responsible for the care of the facility and must make all arrangements to have the area cleaned.  
  8. It is the responsibility of the host to ensure that all state and local laws with regard to the possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages are being complied with. Failure to do so will result in disciplinary action against the host of the organization or the organization itself. 
  9. The host or a designee is responsible for being present at the event throughout the entire period that alcohol is being served or consumed. There are no exceptions to this policy. 

Prohibition of “Open” Events and Consumption 

  1. All University events on campus that involve the consumption of alcohol are limited to the members of the University and their invited guests. 

Education and Prevention 

The education and prevention regarding the use and misuse of alcohol is a responsibility that is shared by the entire campus community. To ensure an understanding of this policy and compliance, the University has established a variety of programs and mechanisms to promote responsible consumption of alcohol and provide for adequate education regarding the effects of alcoholic beverages. 

To accomplish this: 

  1. The prevention of behavior that violates this policy and the abuse of alcoholic beverages will be coordinated by the Division of Student Life. 
  2. The University will provide resources and time for the prevention of, and the education concerning, conduct that violates this policy. The University will provide information to deans, Student Life personnel, directors, student organizations, and staff regarding: student rights and responsibilities concerning this policy, the availability of personal counseling regarding alcohol abuse, and the opportunities for alcohol-free sponsored events and programs. 
  3. The University will provide training to those students who work in a variety of “peer helping” roles on the University’s campus that encompass referrals, resources, and methods for handling conduct covered in this policy. 

Amendments to this Policy 

All requests for amendments to this policy must be directed to the Office of the Vice President for Student Life for consideration. Any changes to this policy will be made in accordance with policy implementation as outlined in the Student Handbook. 

Read below under “Sanctioning Guidelines” for other information regarding disciplinary action. 

Sanctioning Guidelines for Violations of the Alcohol Policy 

The following sanctions will be in effect for students found responsible for violating the Monmouth University alcohol policy. 

The University reserves the right at any point in the range of offenses to impose sanctions deemed appropriate, in addition to or in place of sanctions listed below. Additionally, the University reserves the right at any point in the range of offenses to request students to seek a formal alcohol evaluation as deemed necessary by the Director of Counseling and Psychological Services, the Coordinator of Substance Awareness, and/or the Vice President for Student Life or their designee. In all cases, the University reserves the right to prosecute criminally for violation of policies concerning alcohol and drugs. 

Use, Possession, Distribution, and/or Being in the Presence of Alcohol for Those Individuals Under 21 Years of Age 

First Offense: 

  1. $35 educational fee. 
  2. Online alcohol education program.
  3. Possible educational or service work assignment.

Second Offense: 

  1. Educational assignment. 
  2. Residence hall probation for one semester.
  3. Possible meeting with counselor from the Office of Counseling and Prevention Services. 
  4. Possible ban from residence halls for non-residents.
  5. Possible parental notification

Third Offense: 

  1. Meeting with counselor from the Office of Counseling and Prevention Services.
  2. Disciplinary probation for a minimum of one semester.
  3. Parental notification. 
  4. Possible one semester suspension from the University.

Fourth Offense:

  1. One semester suspension from the university. Readmission contingent upon review by Student Life personnel in consultation with the Director of Counseling and Prevention Services. 
  2. Parental notification. 

Parental Notification: 

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) permits colleges and universities to inform parents/guardians of students under 21 years of age when their student has been found in violation of university alcohol and drug policies. 

Violations of the Alcohol Policy by Students 21 Years of Age or Over 

Consuming alcoholic beverages to the point of problematic behavior:

  • Sanctions determined on a case by case basis 

Consuming alcoholic beverages in public areas as defined in the Student Handbook: 

  • First Offense: Warning. 
  • Second Offense: Educational Assignment. 

Distribution to Individuals Under 21: 

First Offense:

  1. Disciplinary Probation for one full semester. 
  2. Educational Assignment.
  3. Possible loss of housing.

Second Offense:

  1. Disciplinary Probation for one full year. 
  2. Educational Assignment.
  3. Loss of housing.

Students who fail to comply with sanctions will have a HOLD placed on their records and registration and may be charged under the Student Code of Conduct for failure to comply with a University official.