Skip to main content
x

Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program

Hawaiʻi Community College (Hawaiʻi CC) is committed to maintaining a drug free learning environment and workplace for our Campus Community. The use of illegal drugs and unauthorized consumption of alcohol at our main campus outreach centers interferes with this mission and is strictly prohibited. The various federal and state laws and regulations applicable to students and employees of Hawaiʻi CC include: Federal Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988, the Drug-Free schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989 (Public Law 101-226), and Hawaiʻi Revised Statutes.

The Drug Free Schools and Campus Regulations (34 CFR Part 86) of the Drug Free Schools and Communities Act (DFSCA) require an institution of higher education (IHE) such as Hawaiʻi Community College to certify it has implemented programs to prevent the abuse of alcohol and use or distribution of illicit drugs both by Hawaiʻi CC students and employees, both on its premises and as a part of any of its activities.

At a minimum each institution of higher education must annually distribute the following in writing to all students and employees:

Standards of conduct that clearly prohibit the unlawful possession, use or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students and employees;

  • A description of the legal sanctions under local, state, or federal law for the unlawful possession or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol;
  • A description of any drug or alcohol counseling, treatment, or rehabilitation or reentry programs that are available to employees or students; and
  • A clear statement that the institution will impose sanctions on students and employees and a description of those sanctions, up to and including expulsion or termination of employment and referral for prosecution, for violations of the standards of conduct.

The law further requires that the institution conduct a biennial review of its program with the following objectives:

Determining the effectiveness of the policy and implementing changes to the alcohol and other drug programs if they are needed; and

To ensure that the sanctions developed are enforced consistently.

UH Official Notice Regarding Drug-Free and Alcohol Free Workplace Policies

2021 UH Annual Notice Drug and Alcohol Policy

Hawaiʻi CC Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program

Hawaiʻi CC Drug and Alcohol Policy

Hawaiʻi Community College is committed to providing students, faculty, staff, and visitors a safe campus and workplace. The College recognizes the health risks associated with controlled substance use and alcohol misuse and is committed to supporting students and employees who seek treatment for these conditions.

The College also recognizes that controlled substance use and alcohol misuse diminish workplace and campus safety and undermine the campus’ ability to fulfill its mission of providing quality education for all students in an atmosphere that promotes intellectual pursuit, spiritual growth, and social, personal responsibility. Compliance with this policy is considered a condition of employment and attendance at Hawaiʻi CC and monitored by the Administration. All employees and students have been notified of this policy by print publication and on our website.

Hawaiʻi CC Biennial Review Report

A committee composed of the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, the Vice Chancellor for Administrative Services, Dean for Liberal Arts & Sciences/CARE Team, Counseling Department, Compliance Coordinator is currently conducting an assessment of Hawai’i CC’s DAAPP. The Biennial Review Report for 2018-2019 and 2019-2020 Academic Years will be available by February 26, 2021.

Biennial Review Report for 2018-2019 and 2019-2020

Compliance with Drug Free Schools and Communities Act

Hawaiʻi Community College strives to remain in compliance with the requirements of the Drug Free Schools and Communities Act. The institute has adopted and implemented programs to prevent the abuse of alcohol and use or distribution of illicit drugs both by students and employees both on its premises and as a part of any of the College activities. Hawaiʻi CC has a written policy on alcohol and illegal drugs distributed to students during orientation, through access to the online Catalog. The Employee Manual also contains the Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Policy. The materials are located on our website contain the following:

Standards of conduct that prohibit unlawful possession, use or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol on school property or as a part of its activities;

  • A description of the health risks associated with the use of illicit drugs and abuse of alcohol;
  • A description of counseling or treatment programs.
  • A clear statement and description of the disciplinary sanctions the institution will impose on students and employees.
  • The federally mandated policy about alcohol and other drugs will be discussed in more detail with students during orientation. In addition, the alcohol and drug policy will be presented to all employees with the distribution of the Employee Handbook.

Student Life Summary

All Hawaiʻi Community College students are responsible for complying with Hawaiʻi State laws and policies of Hawaiʻi CC. These guidelines establish that:

  • No person under 21 years of age may use or be in possession of alcoholic beverages.
  • Alcoholic beverages may not be available to minors.
  • Misrepresentation of age for the purpose of purchasing alcoholic beverages is a violation of state law.
  • Personal possession and consumption of alcoholic beverages is not permitted at social events attended by students, on campus grounds.

Compliance with Drug Free Schools and Communities Act

Hawaiʻi Community College strives to remain in compliance with the requirements of the Drug Free Schools and Communities Act. The institute has adopted and implemented programs to prevent the abuse of alcohol and use or distribution of illicit drugs both by students and employees both on its premises and as a part of any of the College activities. Hawaiʻi CC has a written policy on alcohol and illegal drugs distributed to students during orientation, through access to the online Catalog. The Employee Manual also contains the Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Policy. The materials are located on our website contain the following:

Standards of conduct that prohibit unlawful possession, use or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol on school property or as a part of its activities;

  • A description of the health risks associated with the use of illicit drugs and abuse of alcohol;
  • A description of counseling or treatment programs.
  • A clear statement and description of the disciplinary sanctions the institution will impose on students and employees.
  • The federally mandated policy about alcohol and other drugs will be discussed in more detail with students during orientation. In addition, the alcohol and drug policy will be presented to all employees with the distribution of the Employee Handbook.

Campus Summary

Students are prohibited from consuming, transporting, and distributing alcohol; possessing or being in the presence of alcohol while on campus; or exhibiting disruptive behavior caused by alcohol consumption.

Alcohol found by staff will be disposed of immediately. Persons found in violation of this policy will be subject to administrative or disciplinary sanctions listed in the Student Code of Conduct:

  1. Written Warning—A notice in writing to the student that the student is violating or has violated institutional regulations and a copy of the warning letter is placed in the student’s disciplinary file.
  2. Counseling – Meeting with the assigned counselor.
  3. Probation—Probation is for a designated period of time (which may include the remainder of their enrollment at Hawaiʻi CC) and includes the probability of more severe disciplinary sanctions if the student is found to violate any institutional regulation(s) during the probationary period. This sanction may require the student to meet with the VCSA (or his or her designee) upon request.
  4. Loss of Privileges—Denial of specified privileges for a designated period of time.
  5. Restitution—Compensation for loss, damage, or injury. This may take the form of appropriate service and/or monetary or material replacement.
  6. Discretionary Sanctions—Work assignments, essays, service to Hawaiʻi CC, Community Service or other related discretionary or educational related assignments.
  7. Hawaiʻi Community College No Contact Orders—No unnecessary contact between the Respondent and the Complainant, witnesses, or other individuals (when appropriate).
  8. Suspension—Separation of the student from Hawaiʻi CC for a definite period of time (usually 1 year or less) after which the student is eligible to return. Conditions for readmission may be specified. Suspensions may be effective immediately or deferred.
  9. Dismissal—Separation of the student from Hawaiʻi CC for more than 1 year. The student may be eligible for return. Conditions for readmission may be specified. Dismissals will be effective immediately unless otherwise stated.
  10. Expulsion—Separation of the student from Hawaiʻi CC permanently. Expulsions will be effective immediately, unless otherwise stated.
  11. Revocation of Admission and/or Degree—Admission to or a degree awarded from Hawaiʻi CC may be revoked for fraud, misrepresentation, or other violation of Hawaiʻi CC standards in obtaining the degree, or for other serious violations committed by a student prior to graduation.

Intoxication from, or the use, display, or possession of alcoholic beverages or any controlled substance (drug) is prohibited unless the student has a valid prescription for the use of the controlled substance. Furthermore, intoxication from, or the use, display, or possession of alcoholic beverages or any controlled substance (drug) on any area of the Hawaiʻi CC campus is prohibited. This includes the presence of empty or full alcoholic beverage containers.

Intervention

Hawaiʻi Community College has several options available for students and staff members who need to address alcohol and other drug abuse issues. The Institute works with local community health organizations to provide counseling for students and staff members.

Handbook and Hawaiʻi Community College Catalog each year

  1. The unlawful manufacture, distribution, possession or use of a controlled substance is prohibited by Hawaiʻi CC on any property owned, leased, or controlled by Hawaiʻi CC or during any activity conducted, sponsored, authorized by, or on behalf of Hawaiʻi Community College. A controlled substance shall include any substance defined as a controlled substance in Section 102 of the Federal Controlled Substance Act (21 U.S. Code 802).
  2. Hawaiʻi Community College has and shall maintain a drug free awareness program to inform employees concerning the following:
    • The dangers of drug abuse in the workplace
    • Maintenance of a drug ­free workplace
    • Drug counseling and rehabilitation programs
    • Possible penalties for drug abuse and rehabilitation violations.

Health Risks and Effects

Alcohol and drug usage causes a number of marked changes in behavior. Even low doses significantly impair the judgment and coordination required to drive a car safely. Low to moderate doses of alcohol also increase the incidence of a variety of aggressive acts, including domestic violence and date rape. Moderate to high doses of alcohol cause mark impairments in higher mental functions, severely altering a person’s ability to learn and remember information. Very high doses cause respiratory depression and death.

Repeated use of alcohol and drugs can lead to dependence. Sudden cessation of alcohol intake is likely to produce withdrawal symptoms, including severe anxiety, tremors, hallucinations, and convulsions. Long term consumption of large quantities of alcohol and drugs, particularly when combined with poor nutrition, can also lead to permanent damage to vital organs such as the brain and the liver.

Resources for assistance

All students and employees are encouraged to seek early help if they feel they have a problem with alcohol and/or other drugs, and to learn how to assist others with substance abuse problems. With early assistance it is less likely that serious consequences will result from an alcohol or other drug problem. There are resources on campus and in the community for assistance. Questions should be directed to Administration.

If you are experiencing an emergency or believe you are a danger to yourself and/or others, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

  1. Hilo Medical Center, (808) 932-3000, 1190 Waianuenue St, Hilo, HI 96720
  2. Urgent Care, (808) 969-3051, 670 Kekuanaoa St, Hilo, HI 96720
  3. Hale Hoʻola Hamakua, (808) 932-4100, 45-547 Plumeria St, Honoka‘a, HI 96727
  4. Ka‘u Hospital, (808) 932-4200, 1 Kamani St, Pahala, HI 96777
  5. North Hawaiʻi Community Hospital, (808) 885-4444, 67-1125 Mamalahoa Hwy, Kamuela, HI 96743
  6. Kohala Hospital, (808) 889-6211, 54-383 Hospital Road, Kapa‘au, HI 96755
  7. Kona Community Hospital, (808) 322-9311, 79-1019 Haukapila St, Kealakekua, HI 96750

 

24/7 Crisis Hotlines:

Aloha House, Inc.
1-800-753-6879

SAMHSA’s National Helpline
1-800-662-HELP(4357)

National Suicide Prevention Life Line
1-800-273-8255

 

Hawaiʻi Island resources available:

Big Island Substance Abuse Council (BISAC)
Hilo - Phone: (808) 935-4927
West Hawaiʻi - Phone: (808) 322-3100
136 Laukona Street
Hilo, HI 96720
Web page: www.bisac.org

Hawaiʻi Island Recovery
Phone: (866) 390-5070
75-170 Hualalai Road
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
Web page: www.bisac.org

Ku Aloha Ola Mau - Hilo
Phone: (808) 961-6822
900 Leilani Street
Hilo, HI 96720
Web page: www.kualoha.com

Lokahi Treatment Centers
Hilo - Phone: (808) 969-9292
Pahoa - Phone: (808) 965-5535
Kona - Phone: (808) 331-1175
Honokaa - Phone: (808) 775-7707
1685 Waikoloa Road
Waikoloa, HI 96738
Web page: www.kualoha.com

 

Statewide resources available:

Alcohol and Drug Abuse Division
State of Hawai‘i Department of Health
601 Kamokila Blvd., Room 360
Kapolei, HI 96707
Phone: (808) 692-7530
Web page: www.state.hi.us/health/resource/drug_abuse.html

Center on the Family
College of Hawai‘i
2515 Campus Road, Miller 103
Honolulu, HI 96822
Phone: (808) 956-4132
E-mail: cof@ctahr.Hawaiʻi.edu
Web page: www.usfamily.Hawaii.edu

Coalition For A Drug Free Hawai‘i
Hawai‘i State RADAR Network Center
1130 N. Nimitz Hwy., Suite A259
Honolulu, HI 96817
Phone: (808) 545-3228
Toll free 1-800-845-1946
E-mail: cdfh@pixi.com
Web page: www.drugfreeHawaii.org

Western Center for the Application of Prevention
Technologies (West CAPT)
841A Kainui Drive
Kailua, HI 96734
Phone: (808) 261-2232
E-mail: hicapt@lava.net
Web page: www.unr.edu/westcapt

 

National resources:

Alcoholics Anonymous ­http://www.aa.org
Al­Anon http://www.nycalanon.org

Narcotics Anonymous http://www.na.org
Focus on Recovery Helpline (alcohol/drugs)
1­-800-­374­2-800 or 1­-800­-234­-1253

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
1­-800­-SUICIDE (784­2433)

National Alliance for the Mentally Ill
1­-800-­950-­6264

Programs:

National Substance Abuse Prevention Month (October): an observance to highlight the vital role of substance abuse prevention in both individual and community health and to remember those who have lost their lives to substance abuse.

  • Millions of Americans suffer from substance abuse, which includes underage drinking, alcohol dependency, non-medical use of prescription drugs, abuse of over-the-counter medications, and illicit drug use.
    • Young Americans aged 12 to 20 account for 11 percent of the country’s monthly alcohol consumption.1
    • Approximately 23 million people aged 12 or older used illicit drugs in 2010.2 Prevention strategies targeting the root of the problem are essential to curb drug use and help people lead healthier lives. Early intervention helps prevent substance abuse and reduce the negative consequences of addiction before they occur. Through community-based efforts involving youth, parents, educators, and government officers, we can strengthen the support systems that deter our Nation’s young people from drug consumption and improve both academic performance and workforce readiness.

Drug and Alcohol Programs Available at Hawaiʻi Community College

The College’s Drug-Free Workplace Policy recognizes that rehabilitation of employees and students for drug and alcohol violations is preferred to discipline.

The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is available to Hawaiʻi Community College employees seeking information, support, and/or treatment for drug and alcohol abuse. Employees may contact the Human Resources Office at (808) 934-2525 or go to https://www.hawaii.edu/ohr/benefits-leave/benefit/employee-assistance-program-eap/ for more information.

Students seeking information, support, and/or treatment for drug and alcohol abuse may contact Kate De Soto, MSW at the Mental Wellness and Personal Development Office at (808)934-2706 or mwpd@hawaii.edu.

CARE Team: The safety and success of students at Hawaiʻi CC is of critical importance to all of us. To this end, Hawaiʻi CC has developed a team whose central mission is to provide early identification of at-risk behaviors that impact one's ability to be successful and safe on campus. The team receives concerns from the larger community and then ensures that the individual is connected with the appropriate resources. The team works collaboratively and proactively to provide early intervention and assistance to any member of the Kauhale who needs help. The CARE Team accepts and encourages referrals from anyone connected to Hawaiʻi CC directly or indirectly, including students, faculty, staff, friends, family, and community members. At-risk behaviors may be academic, physical, behavioral, emotional, or social, for example, threatening others, intoxication, suicidal talk, bizarre or disruptive behavior, or significant deterioration in academic work. Behaviors requiring referral include but are not limited to the following:

  • Frequent interruption of the professor and asking non-relevant, off-topic questions
  • Use of alcohol or other substances in class
  • Racist or sexist comments or other fixated thoughts
  • Bullying or threatening others
  • Sudden and prolonged absence from class
  • Self-injurious behavior
  • Throwing objects or slamming doors
  • Arrogant, rude, or objectifying language
  • Psychotic, delusional, or rambling speech or writing
  • Disrespectful talk or behavior

You may make a referral to the CARE Team by emailing care@hawaii.edu

In cases where a Hawaiʻi CC student is found responsible for a violation of the Hawaiʻi CC Student Conduct Code, Hawaiʻi CC will impose discipline that is consistent with the impact of the offense on the Hawaiʻi CC community.

Alleged violations of the Hawaiʻi CC Student Conduct Code should be reported to the Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs (VCSA).

Christine Quintana
Interim Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs
Phone: (808) 934-2509 Email: cdamate@hawaii.edu