FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

When, where, why, how, and with whom did the initiative begin?

The Student Government Association initially called for a tobacco-free campus. Faculty and Staff Senates passed similar resolutions. The SGA later amended its stance to that of limiting the use of tobacco on campus.

How was the final policy decided?

As part of the University’s Centennial, President Shirley Raines appointed a committee to create a Healthy New Century Campus Plan. This committee advocated a three-pronged program: move more, eat healthier and be tobacco-free.

Who was on the committee?

The original committee included Dr. Ralph Faudree, provost; Dr. Rosie Bingham, vice president for Student Affairs; Maria Alam, AVP/chief Human Resources officer, Dr. Lisa Klesges, dean of the School of Public Health; Dr. Stephen Petersen, dean of Students; Dr. Linda Finch, associate dean for Undergraduate Programs, Loewenberg School of Nursing; and Steven Whistler, assistant director, Campus Recreational Services. These committee members then appointed a sub-committee that became the catalyst for Memphis Healthy U.

What changes in on-campus tobacco use will take place?

There are designated areas on all U of M campuses where tobacco can be used. Smoking is prohibited on other areas of campus.

Will people be allowed to possess tobacco on campus, e.g., in their pockets, in their purses, in their cars, or in their rooms, if they don’t actually use it?

Yes.

Who does the policy apply to?

The policy applies to anyone who is on campus, including vendors, alumni and visitors.

When does the policy take effect?

October 1, 2012

How will the new policy be enforced?

The success of this policy depends on the thoughtfulness, consideration and cooperation of tobacco users and non-users. Discipline policies applicable to students, faculty and staff may be invoked, if necessary, to secure compliance with this policy.

How will infractions be handled?

• Violations by faculty and staff should be brought to the attention of the employee's supervisor and/or Human Resources, as appropriate 
• Violations by students should be brought to the attention of Student Affairs
• Violations by visitors should be brought to the attention of Police Services
• Violations by contractors should be brought to the attention of the department for whom the contractor is working or Physical Plant, as appropriate

Any violator of the policy who refuses to comply, or who becomes abusive toward the responsible party, will be referred to Police Services.

How will the policy be communicated?

Appropriate signage will be displayed and all receptacles for discarding smoking materials will be removed from areas where smoking is prohibited. Human Resources will inform faculty and staff. Student Affairs will notify students. Additionally, U of M contractors will be notified by the U of M departments for which they are doing work.

Where can I find the policy?

By visiting http://policies.memphis.edu/UM1738.htm

Is it possible that the campus will go totally tobacco free in the future?

At this time, there are no plans to go tobacco free.

Why are e-cigarettes included in the new policy?

The FDA has issued a warning based on its analysis of two popular brands of e-cigarettes. The study found nicotine and traces of carcinogenic and toxic chemicals within the e-cigarettes. The full study can be found on the FDA Web site: http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/PublicHealthFocus/ucm172906.htm.