Message to Parents from President Weiss

President Daniel H. Weiss sent the following message to parents today:

Dear Parents:

In this difficult time of tragic loss, Lafayette parents have sent us messages of thanks for our updates and notes of concern about what we are doing to curb the use of alcohol on campus. Within the last ten years, the College has conducted significant studies on alcohol use, residential life, campus climate, public safety and Greek Life. These studies have resulted in the implementation of policies and practices designed to educate and protect our students. The safety and security of students and other members of the campus community is the College’s top priority.

As the Student Handbook says, the College embraces a broad educational mission that integrates intellectual, social, and personal growth. Recognizing that the abuse of alcohol and other drugs is detrimental to this mission, the College strives to educate students concerning the dangers of alcohol and drug abuse and the importance of making healthy and responsible choices. We do this before students arrive, with the required “Alcohol.edu” on-line program, and in frequent alcohol education programs during Orientation and throughout the year.

In addition to regulating the use of alcohol on its properties, the College encourages and supports the efforts of students and student organizations to sponsor non-alcoholic social events that are inclusive of the College community. In fact, All-College Day is a prime example of a non-alcoholic celebration with music, food, soft drinks and games on March Field. As with other “all-college events,” increased safety patrols are scheduled to enforce the law and College alcohol policies, and to help ensure a safe environment for all.

In addition to educating students about the dangers of alcohol and drug abuse, the College informs students about Pennsylvania laws and about the College’s Code of Conduct. The alcohol policy is spelled out in detail in the Handbook, as are disciplinary procedures and sanctions for alcohol-related and other violations of the Code of Conduct. The alcohol policy and other policies are reviewed on an ongoing basis for the purpose of increasing their effectiveness and maintaining a healthy and safe campus environment. This is part of the College’s practice of proactive, continuous assessment of all areas of campus life.

The Office of Public Safety is continuing to assist the Northampton County Coroner’s Office and the Easton Police Department in their on-going investigation into the cause of the death of Everett Glenn. We will share statements issued by the coroner and the police department when they are released and will continue to keep parents updated on related matters.

The Student Handbook is found here.

Sincerely,

Daniel H. Weiss

President