VSU substance abuse education program named in national publication

Valdosta State University's Drug and Alcohol Education program is gaining national recognition.

"We are now a model substance abuse education prevention program in the United States of America," said Randy Haveson, coordinator of alcohol and other drug education at Valdosta State.

VSU's curriculum has been spotlighted in the 1997-98 edition of the handbook "Promising Practices: Campus Alcohol Strategies." The sourcebook serves as a reference guide for drug and alcohol education coordinators at colleges and universities around the country.

The handbook chronicles Valdosta State's multi-tiered approach to substance abuse education that incorporates a variety of approaches, from peer counseling to social events that promote responsible decision-making.

The "Promising Practices" publication is sponsored by The Century Council, a national, not-for-profit organization committed to combating all forms of irresponsible drinking. The 300-page booklet, supervised by experts from George Mason University and Rutgers University, identifies 35 institutions with comprehensive programs.

"Promising Practices" is available online: www.promprac.gmu.edu