The standards of conduct at Bethel University clearly prohibit the use, possession, and/or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students and employees on Bethel premises during the school year. Additionally, because of the special community nature of the College of Arts & Sciences and the ages of the majority of its students, students in the College of Arts & Sciences will abstain from the use or possession of alcoholic beverages during the school year (on and off campus) or while participating in any Bethel-sponsored activity throughout the year. See the Covenant for Life Together expectations, university policies concerning alcohol and drug use, resources for rehabilitation and counseling, and disciplinary sanctions regarding this policy.
Use of these substances may lead to substance dependency, lack of productivity, chronic health problems, and even death in extreme cases. Information about health risks associated with the use of illicit drugs and the abuse of alcohol; about applicable sanctions under local, state, and federal laws; and about available treatment, counseling, and rehabilitation programs for drug users and alcohol abusers will be distributed yearly.
The university will impose sanctions on community members who violate laws and/or campus policy up to and including dismissal or expulsion and may refer them for prosecution under local, state, and federal law. Legal sanctions under applicable local, state, or federal laws may include incarceration, significant monetary fines, probationary terms, and other penalties.
Rehabilitation may become a condition of continuing association with the institution. Appropriate referral to counseling and health agencies will be made for individuals as needed. The Office of Student Life is available to provide support, additional information, and educational opportunities.