TOLEDO -- A day after the University of Toledo's president addressed students on the importance of understanding the connection between alcohol, drugs, and violence, the institution's alcohol prevention program has reportedly taken a hit.
The Independent Collegian has reported that the position of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug Prevention Specialist has been removed. Alexis Blavos, who currently serves in that position, will remain until April 3 when the program is expected to be reorganized.
"The last decade has been a challenging time for higher education funding across the nation and as a result, UT is constantly working to find ways to provide the same or improved services to students in a more efficient way," Dr. Kaye Patten Wallace, Senior VP for the Student Experience, said in a statement to WNWO.
On Tuesday, the university held a town hall meeting to discuss the on-going investigation into the Dec. 19 fatal stabbing inside a campus residence hall, and the current state of campus safety. Officials stressed, during the open forum, that the university is a safe environment and that the Dec. incident was an isolated one.
When asked by a student if alcohol and/or drugs played a factor in the homicide, UT Police Chief Jeff Newton said toxicology tests will be examined, but that the two students involved were "good citizens" exhibiting out of the ordinary behavior.
"I am glad there is an association that causes you to ask the question," said Jacobs. Not speaking in reference to the Dec. 19 incident, Jacobs stressed the dangers of alcohol and drug use. "It is tremendously important that all of you see this connection between violence, rape, accidental death, and drugs and alcohol."
Yet, a day later, the campus newspaper reported Blavos had been told of her position elimination the previous week. The job was to educate students on alcohol/drug related issues through the organization of substance-free events, presentations, and working with students directly to oversee substance-abuse protocols. The program provides students who are faced with substance-abuse issues, whether it is themselves or a a friend, the opportunity to get help.
Patten Wallace confirmed there are no plans to replace the position; however, drug, alcohol, and tobacco prevention programming will continue by educating staff on warning signs and through literature. She said students will have access to information they need in order to make smart decisions. "We're continuing our commitment...There's a lot of evidence that students learn just as well and often better from people their own age and peer delivery programs at UT ranging from student wellness to academic tutoring to mentoring have been successful."
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