Statement of Care

The New England College believes that individual choices involving the use of alcohol have an impact on both the individual and the community. National studies have found that alcohol use is closely linked to sexual assault, declining academic performance, violent crime and alcoholism among college students. For these reasons, the college’s alcohol policy demonstrates a strong ethic of care and establishes healthy standards for the community in relation to the responsible and legal use of alcohol. As a residential college, NEC students have the opportunity to learn within a group of individuals who make up their community. A part of the learning that takes place is social in nature. Responsible and legal alcohol use is a part of that educational process. Development of individuals and social choices can have long-term effects on behaviors, attitudes and values. Learning to know one’s limits and to care about the impact of one’s actions on the community is a part of the residential experience. Students are expected to use caution in choosing to use alcohol and are responsible for their behavior at all times. Being a part of the NEC community means individuals are also responsible for others. Taking action to care about and confront inappropriate alcohol use among one’s peers makes the community stronger. New England College will intervene when inappropriate behavior regarding the use or abuse of alcohol is demonstrated. Students, whether of legal age or note, will be held responsible and accountable for their actions.