Drug Policy

Wilmington University is committed to the creation of a wholesome, drug-free environment conducive to learning. In accordance with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 (Public Law 100690, 102 Stat. 4181), the University prohibits the manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, or use of a controlled substance in its facilities or on its campuses. Any employee convicted of violating a criminal drug law while on University property or at a University event must follow procedures and requirements outlined in the faculty and staff handbooks.

Any student convicted of similar violations on University property or at University-sponsored events must report that conviction to the Vice President of Student Affairs of the University within five days of that conviction. Convictions may be cause for suspension from the institution or for required completion of a drug rehabilitation program. Wilmington University will impose sanctions consistent with the law on students and employees violating local, state and federal statutes.*

The use of alcohol is permitted only by persons of legal drinking age and at University activities for which prior approval has been granted by the Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs or the Vice President of Student Affairs. The University prohibits the abuse of alcohol on its properties and at University sponsored activities.

While disciplinary guidelines are necessary to protect the welfare of the University community, it is the expectation of the President and Board of Trustees that the University’s disciplinary role will be secondary to prevention, awareness, and, where applicable, treatment. The University intends to assist its students in understanding the health, social, legal, and family-related risks associated with the use of illicit drugs and/or abuse of alcohol. Among these are damage to the brain and other organs, addiction, loss of employment, family dysfunction, incarceration, overdose, and death. The University seeks to provide ongoing education for its students through information provided in related courses and resource materials available throughout the University. Additionally, students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to avail themselves of free and confidential counseling/referral services offered through the Office of Student Affairs. The University seeks to implement ongoing educational programs aimed at discouraging substance abuse and encouraging healthy, self-directed, drug-free lifestyles.

In compliance with the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989 (Public Law 10 1 -226), the University conducts a biennial review of its drug prevention program to determine its effectiveness, implement any necessary changes and ensure the enforcement of sanctions.

* Legal sanctions under local, state, and federal law for unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol include imprisonment, fine, and possible loss of driving privileges. A listing of penalties for specific offenses can be found in the Delaware Code Annotated, Titles 4 and 16, available in the Wilmington University Library.