Beginning July 1, 2017, all properties owned, operated, leased, occupied, or controlled by Newman University will be tobacco free.
The policy was passed unanimously by the cabinet of Newman President Noreen M. Carrocci, Ph.D., — which includes the vice presidents for Academic Affairs, Enrollment Management, Finance and Administration, University Advancement, and Student Affairs — on Feb. 14, 2017.
This will eliminate the use of any tobacco product, including cigarettes, electronic cigarettes and other vapor products, smokeless tobacco, hookah, and cigars. Public events held in or at Newman University facilities are required to abide by the tobacco free policy.
Newman University joins more than 1,400 college campuses around the country that have adopted tobacco free policies.
According to Tara Nolen, Tobacco Control Coordinator for Sedgwick County, Newman is demonstrating a commitment to health by becoming a tobacco free campus. “We are excited to have Newman University join in the efforts to create a healthier environment for all students, faculty, staff, and visitors,” Nolen said.
Dean of Students Levi Esses said, “This has been an effort by our student leaders, several of which are pre-med and allied health majors, along with the Student Life Department to help create an even healthier environment at Newman. We were pleased to receive the full support of the cabinet and Dr. Carrocci.”
The Newman Student Government Association (SGA) led the tobacco free campus initiative following a survey in 2015, which showed a majority of students supported passing a policy. Newman applied for and was awarded a $25,000 grant from the Kansas Health Foundation to help implement the policy.
Tobacco cessation information will be available on campus to students, faculty and staff. For more information, contact Esses at 316-942-4291, ext. or by e-mail at [email protected].
