REALITY-BASED DRUG EDUCATION NEEDED

Sara Waldron, associate dean of students, should be commended for
addressing drug and alcohol use on campus ("Drug survey tests
students" from Feb. 7, 2005). However, I urge Waldron, when
confronting the drug and alcohol problem, to provide nonbiased and
accurate information about all the effects of use and abuse.

As a D.A.R.E. graduate, I can tell you that "Just Say NO!" is not only
an ineffective method, but also a dangerous one. I recommend Waldron
to adopt a program that encourages students to "Just say KNOW!" We
must realize that we cannot eliminate drug and alcohol use on campus;
however, we should work with students to protect their safety and
reduce the harms associated with drinking and drug use. I advise
Waldron to encourage honest and open discussion about drug and alcohol
use to make our campus a safer, trusting environment.

Heather Kumer

CAS