OHIO's Tobacco-Free Commitment

Message from Dr. Roderick McDavis, Twentieth President of Ohio University (2004 – 2017)

The New Year is a time for change. A time to choose goals that will guide the coming year. A time when many of us commit to action. In addition to individual resolutions, the Ohio University community also has collective goals. Among these is a commitment to be a tobacco-free campus.

Personal and environmental wellness are the basis for Ohio University’s tobacco-free initiative, which has been in effect since August 2015. The initiative prohibits the use of all tobacco and smoking products on Ohio University grounds and facilities while offering cessation support to tobacco users who wish to overcome their addiction. It is one of many ways that Ohio University is encouraging wellbeing within our campus community.

While tobacco use and litter have reportedly decreased since the implementation of OHIO’s tobacco-free policy, there is much room to improve. More than half of respondents in a recent campus survey reported that they still occasionally witness tobacco use on campus. This is where I need your help.

We all have a responsibility to ensure a cleaner, greener environment at Ohio University. If you see someone on campus lighting up, gently remind them of our tobacco-free guidelines and request their adherence. Moreover, encourage them to take the next step toward personal wellness by seeking out Ohio University’s cessation resources. Together, we can make Ohio University a cleaner, greener and healthier place to live and learn.

I ask that you join me in pledging to improve the wellness of our campus community by supporting OHIO’s tobacco-free initiative. Ready to change! Ready to choose! Ready to commit!

Cordially,
Roderick J. McDavis
Ohio University President, 2004 – 2017