Your Oct. 5 editorial on drunk driving is both perplexing and hopeful: perplexing in that some information is inaccurate and hopeful in that the writer challenges students to address irresponsible alcohol use among their peers.

The piece states that the ‘university administration seems relatively unconcerned’ about drunk driving. To the contrary, alcohol abuse in all its forms-including impaired driving-is a subject of ongoing student education throughout the academic year. Even before new students arrive on campus for their first year of study, they are required to complete AlcohcolEdu, an online program that gives students the knowledge base to make healthy choices. And, for students who choose to drive while their ability is impaired by alcohol, the standard sanction within the university judicial system is a minimum suspension for one semester, regardless of whether or not the student has been arrested for this behavior.

Other educational programs offered to students throughout the academic year include: virtual intoxication golf cart navigation, which is specifically designed to simulate impaired driving and its consequences; first-year forums on alcohol abuse; risk reduction week; and National Alcohol Screening Day.

Syracuse University is a national leader in alcohol abuse prevention among college students and will continue to address substance abuse and impaired driving as inconsistent with our vision for a healthy community of learners. Alcohol abuse prevention and education is indeed a shared responsibility among students, staff, and faculty, and we welcome students to become more involved in our efforts. We also call upon The Daily Orange to continue engaging its readership in this issue.

For more information, or to become part of our ongoing educational programming, contact the Office of Prevention Services at 443-4234. Best wishes for a healthy and safe semester.

Susan A SchollAssociate director, Office of Prevention Services