News releases

Here is a statement from University of Wisconsin-Madison Provost John D. Wiley, who is leading the effort to bring changes in attitude and policy that will help curb binge drinking among university students:

"The recent survey of the drinking patterns of college students only reinforces the importance of changing the community norms that foster a culture of high-risk drinking on our campuses.

"Over the past two years the university has learned a great deal about the phenomenon of high-risk drinking. As a result, at the University of Wisconsin-Madison we are focusing primarily on changing the environment, not individuals, as a way of reducing this problem.

"We have forged new collaborations between the campus and the community, meeting with tavern owners and community leaders to identify common issues and discuss roles in changing the culture that supports high-risk drinking.

"To this end, the university have taken an active role in city government deliberations over alcohol licenses, including renewals, for the campus area. In addition, the university has had some success in negotiating directly with tavern owners to encourage more responsible alcohol consumption.

"And to provide an alternative to the bar scene, the university have devoted significant resources to providing alcohol-free events on campus, including dances, music performances and late-night recreational activities that are well-attended by students."