#  Federal Drug Free Schools and Communities Act 

 



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In accordance with the Drug Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989, the Divinity School adheres to the Harvard University policy on alcohol and other drugs.

Additional information about alcohol and other drug policies can be found in Harvard’s [Annual Security Report](https://www.hupd.harvard.edu/annual-security-report) issued by the Harvard University Police Department, at [Alcohol and Other Drug Policies](https://www.hupd.harvard.edu/drug-and-alcohol-policy), and incorporated here by reference.

Harvard expects its students and employees to maintain an environment for learning that is safe and healthy and encourages responsible conduct. The University is not, and cannot be considered, a sanctuary from existing federal, state, and local laws. The unlawful possession, sale, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students and employees on Harvard property or as a part of any Harvard activities is a violation of University rules as well as the law. Possession, use, or distribution of certain nonprescription drugs, including marijuana, amphetamines, heroin, cocaine, and nonprescription synthetics; procurement or distribution of alcohol by anyone under 21 years of age; and provision of alcohol to anyone under 21 years of age are violations of the law and Harvard policy.

Although Massachusetts law now permits adults aged 21 or older to possess and consume marijuana under certain circumstances, federal law prohibits the possession, use, or distribution of marijuana, including for medical purposes, on Harvard property or as part of a Harvard activity. Thus, even if possession or use of marijuana would be permitted under Massachusetts law, it remains prohibited on campus.

The University holds its students and employees responsible for the consequences of their decisions to use or distribute illicit drugs, or to unlawfully serve or consume alcohol. Additionally, the misuse of prescription drugs (sharing, buying, or using in a manner different than that prescribed) is a violation of University policy. Students who violate these rules will be subject to discipline.

Students who receive Pell and certain other federal grants also should be aware that they must report any conviction of a drug-related offense to the U.S. Department of Education within ten days of the conviction if the offense occurred during the period covered by the grant.

When alcohol is served at any Divinity School event, the sponsoring department, individual, or organization will be held responsible for maintaining the laws appropriate for such occasions. Persons wishing to be served alcoholic beverages by the School or its agents must be able to demonstrate proof of minimum drinking age. Non-alcoholic beverages and food must always be available when alcohol is served. The School and its agents will not serve or provide alcoholic beverages to any individuals who are or appear to be intoxicated.

Any student or employee who knowingly makes a false statement about their age, who transfers or abuses the University ID card, or who makes alcohol legally obtained from the School available to someone underage is subject to disciplinary action. The Administrative Board will take serious action, ordinarily probation or requirement to withdraw, in any case involving the possession in quantity or the sale or distribution of drugs, or when cases of drug and alcohol use engender danger to individuals or to the community at large. The Administrative Board will also take action in cases in which a student is involved in the falsification of identification with the intent of obtaining alcohol.

Help for students having drug problems or difficulties controlling their use of alcohol is available on a confidential basis from staff in Student Services in the Divinity School. Medical and psychiatric services are available at the Harvard University Health Service (Primary Care: 617.495.5711; Harvard University Counseling and Mental Health Services: 617.495.2042, 24/7) and [HUHS Center for Wellness and Health Promotion](https://wellness.huhs.harvard.edu/alcohol-substance-use).