I am writing in response to the April 7 article on the President’s Commission on Substance Abuse Prevention (“Students give opinions on task force”) and to share some current information on the Medical Amnesty/Call for Help program. The program began in September of 2008. In its first year, 36 students were awarded amnesty. In the fall of 2009, 46 students were awarded amnesty. So far this semester (spring of 2010), only 10 students have applied for and received amnesty.

There are very few students who have applied for amnesty more than once. Consequently, there is no indication that students are abusing the program. On the contrary, we believe that all of the work the AARO leaders and student affairs staff did last year to make students aware of the program may have contributed to the rise in numbers in fall 2009.

The Medical Amnesty program encourages responsible behavior by asking students to call for medical assistance with the promise of amnesty from the conduct system. Students should never think twice about calling for help immediately if a friend or fellow student is in need.

A group of student leaders participated in a focus group in the Dean of Student Life office on April 7. The Medical Amnesty program was one of the issues discussed. We are interested in hearing students’ thoughts on the program and any recommendations you have for change. I welcome your input and invite you to contact me directly at [email protected] or at 214-768-4564 to share your thoughts.

The Medical Amnesty/Call for Help program is here for you. We have received positive feedback from students about the program, but there is always room for improvement. I look forward to hearing from you.

–Lisa S. Webb
Associate Vice President of Student Affairs
Dean of Student Life