ECU alcohol/drug abuse prevention named among top programs in the USA

GREENVILLE, NC  —   East Carolina University’s efforts to prevent alcohol and drug abuse by fraternity and sorority members have been recognized as among the top in the nation.

ECU’s Greek Risk Management program was one of four finalists, nationwide, for the Outside the Classroom Prevention Excellence Award for Greek Life, an award given by the Students Affairs Administrators in Higher Education and Outside the Classroom, a company that designs and provides research based online drug and alcohol education programs for colleges and universities.

The award recognized the risk management program designed and implemented by Bob Morphet, and Peter Romary in conjunction with the ECU Office of Greek Life . It builds upon ECU’s existing student safety and substance abuse prevention programs.

“Today’s college student is faced with so many new challenges such as stress, body image and financial problems, as well as significant social and academic anxiety and too many times they perceive drugs and alcohol as a viable solution,” said Morphet, program coordinator and member of ECU’s Center for Counseling and Student Development.

“As student affairs educators we are committed to educating our students about the potential dangers to them physically, mentally and academically, with the hope they don’t end up going down a wrong road,” he said.

Morphet works closely with Romary in Student legal Services, Keith Tingley, director of Greek Life and members of the Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs Committee to raise awareness and educate students about the dangers of abuse.

“We spend a lot of time visiting Greek houses and attending meetings to deliver alcohol/drug prevention messages as well as identify resource and services on campus for the students to utilize in times of crisis,” said Romary.

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