As stated in the College’s mission, Hillsdale College strives to provide social and moral instruction that will best “develop the minds and improve the hearts of the students.” Hillsdale College encourages responsible and upright behavior at social gatherings and parties that is consistent with the College’s mission, Honor Code, policies, and is in keeping with local and state laws.
The College allows some room for the appropriate and legal consumption of alcohol. Typically this allowance is managed by the College where students 21 years and older are permitted to consume alcohol on campus at an organized function where the alcohol is provided by a state-licensed vendor. Official student organizations such as the Student Activities Office may request permission to host a party with alcohol, when all proper policies and laws are followed. Such events or parties are typically reserved for the weekends so as to not interfere with the academic aims outlined in the College’s mission.
Students who live off campus in non-College-owned residences do not have to request permission to host a gathering or a party; however, students are expected to uphold the mission and policies of the College as well as local and state laws regarding alcohol and hosting responsibilities.
The following guidelines are established to encourage the appropriate use of alcohol and to protect the well-being of Hillsdale College students. Failure to follow these guidelines violates Item 12 of the Regulations for Proper Student Conduct and may result in disciplinary actions.
The following are not permitted:
- All common or open sources of alcohol, such as kegs, punch bowls, and gelatin or other dessert shots.
- Games or activities that facilitate or encourage the rapid consumption of alcohol.
- Selling alcohol; this includes the selling of tickets or tokens and pooling funds for purchasing alcohol.
- Providing alcohol to a minor.
- Spiking or tampering with another person’s drink.
- Use of alcohol that harms or disrupts the pursuits of the College’s shared purposes or the well-being of an individual or group.
Brief Summary of Michigan Law Regarding Alcohol
- It is illegal to purchase, consume or possess alcoholic beverages unless one has attained the age of 21.
- It is illegal to furnish alcoholic beverages to or to provide false identification for a person under the age of 21.
- It is illegal to serve alcoholic beverages to individuals who are visibly intoxicated.
It is each student’s responsibility to review and refer to Michigan laws regarding alcohol. For further information, one can visit www.legislature.mi.gov/ and review the various laws; for example, MCL Section 436.1703.