We are pleased to announce that on Friday, May 31, we officially will be a tobacco-free campus! This date has been purposefully chosen to coincide with World No Tobacco Day, a 24-hour abstinence from tobacco created by the World Health Organization in 1987 and celebrated annually around the globe. The following questions and answers may be helpful, and additional resources can be found here.
What does it mean to be a tobacco-free campus?
No tobacco products (cigarettes, cigars, or chew) are allowed on campus. This includes not only the building, but the parking lot and grounds, as well.
Can I smoke in my car?
No. As long as the car is located in the parking lot, this is part of our campus, and no smoking is allowed.
Where can I use tobacco?
You may go out onto Montpelier Road or anywhere past the stop sign once you are off campus.
Why are we becoming a tobacco-free campus?
While we support every person’s right to choose to use tobacco, we are a university that is dedicated to improving health and wellness. To this end, because second-hand smoke is a detrimental agent, we seek to protect all of our community members.
What if I see someone smoking or using tobacco on our campus?
If you see people smoking or using tobacco on our campus, please kindly remind them of our tobacco-free status, and ask them to put out their cigarette or dispose of their tobacco product. If they refuse to stop, please report this to the front desk ambassador.
What resources are available if I want to quit smoking or if I am having trouble getting through the school or work day without smoking as often?
We have several support resources available for those who wish to reduce or quit smoking:
- All students, staff, and faculty are able to take advantage of free acupuncture detox sessions at Laurel Wellness, located in Room 10 on the 2nd floor, every Tuesday and Thursday from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Spaces are limited and are available on a first come, first served basis. You may come at any time during those two hours and no appointment is needed. Please allow at least 15 minutes for your treatment. For more information about Laurel Wellness, please contact Rhonda Armero at .
- Staff and faculty also may contact Mutual of Omaha’s Employee Assistance Plan (EAP) to speak to a professional who can provide support and referrals to other helpful resources, if needed. For information about the EAP, please contact Liz Smock or Fredrick Smock at .
Where can I get more information about our tobacco-free status?
Official policies and literature are currently being finalized, and will be posted on our website. For questions, feel free to contact Jen Yocum, Health, Compliance, and Safety Coordinator, at or 410-888-9048 ext. 6682.