Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) Prevention and Policy Information

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and respectful campus environment by promoting awareness and responsibility regarding the use of alcohol and other drugs. Across all campuses, the University supports substance abuse prevention and student well-being through education, policy enforcement, and access to support resources. 

The Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act (DFSCA) of 1989, also known as the Drug-Free Schools and Campuses Act, requires institutions of higher education to establish policies that address unlawful possession, use, or distribution of alcohol and illicit drugs for faculty, staff and students. Embry-Riddle policies also address nicotine and other substances. Embry-Riddle faculty, staff and students are also subject to federal and state laws.  

The DFSCA requires the establishment of a drug and alcohol prevention program as well as the notification and distribution of the information below. All members of the Embry-Riddle community are encouraged to review the information on the linked pages. This information is also distributed on an annual basis via mass e-mail to faculty and staff from Human Resources, and to students from University Communications

The Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act requires that each institution distribute the following to all students and employees annually:  

  • Standards of conduct that clearly prohibit, at a minimum, the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol on school property or as part of any school activities for employees (Policy) or students (Code of Conduct);  
  • A description of the applicable legal sanctions under federal, state, or local law for the unlawful possession or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol;  
  • A description of the health risks associated with the use of illicit drugs and the abuse of alcohol;  
  • A description of any drug or alcohol counseling, treatment, rehabilitation, and re-entry programs that are available to employees or students;  
  • A clear statement that the institution will impose disciplinary sanctions on students and employees (consistent with federal, state, or local law), and a description of those sanctions, up to and including expulsion or termination of employment and referral for prosecution, for violations of established standards of conduct.  

Embry-Riddle promotes substance abuse awareness by sponsoring educational programs and communicating available resources. Students are encouraged to seek assistance when facing issues related to substance use. Support may be accessed through University Health Services, Counseling Services, and the Dean of Students offices. Services may include: 

  • Substance abuse prevention education 
  • Referral to counseling or health services 
  • Educational workshops and outreach programs 

Code of Conduct and Sanctions Violations of the Alcohol and Drug Policy or any behavior that endangers the safety or well-being of others may result in disciplinary action as outlined in the Student Code of Conduct. Sanctions may include: 

  • Educational programs or assignments 
  • Restrictions from leadership roles or participation in activities 
  • Verbal or written warnings 
  • Conduct probation 
  • Suspension or dismissal from the University 

Sanctions are determined based on the nature and severity of the violation. Suspension and dismissal are the most serious disciplinary actions and require unanimous committee approval. 

Reporting Requirements All Embry-Riddle students and employees have a duty to immediately report any behavior that may threaten the safety of the community or any possession of dangerous weapons. Reports should be made to local or military law enforcement as applicable. 

Additional Conduct Violations Related to AOD Use Violations related to alcohol and drug use may also fall under other categories of misconduct, including but not limited to: 

  • Abusive, threatening, or bullying behavior 
  • Disorderly conduct 
  • False representation or forgery 
  • Criminal violations 
  • Unauthorized entry or vandalism 

For full details on behavioral expectations, prohibited conduct, and disciplinary procedures, students should review the University’s Student Code of Conduct.