After a year-long transitional phase, St. Cloud State University is prepared to become a tobacco-free campus beginning August 1, 2012. We will become the sixth of the seven universities in the MnSCU system to adopt a tobacco-free policy.
In October 2010, I appointed a task force consisting of faculty, staff and students to review and research existing policy and public health information, keep the campus informed of findings and seek broad input through a variety of mechanisms. This was done in response to a Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (MnSCU) Board of Trustees resolution passed March 17, 2010, encouraging each college and university in the system to consult with its students and employees about additional steps their institutions might take regarding tobacco use.
After a year of campus-wide discussions, St. Cloud State transitioned to permitting tobacco use only in designated areas or private vehicles. Also during that time, the University offered education, awareness, support and cessation services to the campus community.
Exceptions for tobacco use during the transition and after the campus becomes tobacco-free will be allowed in accordance with the Minnesota Clean Indoor Air Act, which permits tobacco use in traditional Native American ceremonies, scientific studies and theatrical productions. Also, tobacco use will continue to be permitted inside private vehicles on University property as long as respect for individuals and the environment is demonstrated.
Efforts will be made via signage, print and other means of communication to inform the campus community and visitors of the policy. The campus will continue to use a variety of tools to make members of the campus community and visitors aware of this demonstration of our commitment to providing a safe, clean and healthy environment for all. This commitment, along with the wealth of research documenting health risks associated with tobacco use, the assessments of regional and national trends and input from the campus community have provided the rationale for this policy
Information about the review process, the complete policy and supportive resources are available at www.stcloudstate.edu/hwc/smokingpolicy/default.asp. The work of the Smoking Policy Review Task Force was supported by grant funds from Stearns County Human Services Public Health Division as part of the Statewide Health Improvement Program.
Our transition phase has been productive in working toward a tobacco-free campus that best serves our students and employees. Your cooperation is appreciated as we go forward as a tobacco-free campus.
Earl H. Potter III
President
St. Cloud State University
St. Cloud State University is an affirmative action/equal opportunity educator and employer.
St. Cloud State University is a member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system.
© 2012 St. Cloud State University