Substance & Alcohol Use Prevention Program
Policy Statement
Manna University is committed to maintaining an alcohol- and drug-free campus and workplace. As an institution of higher education, Manna University recognizes the importance of establishing a drug and alcohol awareness program to educate faculty, staff, and students about the dangers of substance abuse.
This policy is implemented in compliance with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 and the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act of 1989.
The sale, purchase, use, transfer, possession, and/or manufacture of illegal drugs, including marijuana (medical or otherwise), and alcohol are strictly prohibited on university property. This includes classrooms, offices, parking lots, and all other areas.
Employees may not unlawfully possess, consume, or be under the influence of alcohol while working, attending Manna University events, or being present on university property.
As mandated by federal regulations, Manna University conducts a Biennial Review of its alcohol and drug policies and prevention initiatives.
Health Risks of Alcohol and Drug Abuse
Abuse of alcohol and drugs carries serious health risks, including illness, disability, and death. Immediate consequences may include overdose, accidents, and impaired judgment. Long-term abuse can lead to chronic diseases, mental health conditions, and dependency.
Examples include:
Alcohol:
Alcohol consumption causes a number of changes in behavior. Even low doses significantly impair the judgment and coordination required to drive a car safely, increasing the likelihood that the driver will be involved in an accident. Low to moderate doses of alcohol also increase the incidence of a variety of aggressive acts. Moderate to high doses of alcohol cause marked impairments in higher mental functions severely altering a person’s ability to learn and remember information. Very high doses cause respiratory depression and death. If combined with other depressants of the central nervous system, much lower doses of alcohol will produce the effects just described. Repeated use of alcohol can lead to dependence. Sudden cessation of alcohol intake is likely to produce withdrawal symptoms, including severe anxiety, tremors, hallucinations and convulsions. Long-term consumption of large quantities of alcohol can also lead to permanent damage to vital organs such as the brain and the liver. Mothers who drink during pregnancy may give birth to infants with fetal alcohol syndrome. These infants have irreversible physical abnormalities and mental retardation. In addition, research indicates that children of alcoholic parents are at greater risk than others of developing alcohol related problems.
Marijuana:
Marijuana use can lead to a number of long term and short term physical and psychological effects. Marijuana use leads to a substantial increase in the heart rate, impairs short term memory and comprehension and motivation can be altered.
Stimulants (e.g., cocaine, amphetamines):
Health risks may include changes in body temperature and blood pressure as well as heart and breathing rates. Even small amounts may cause the body to exceed its own limits, sometimes resulting in death. Snorting cocaine may severely damage nasal tissue and the septum. Smoking cocaine may damage the lungs. Someone using cocaine may experience muscle twitching, panic reactions, anxiety, numbness in hands and feet, loss of weight, a period of hyperactivity followed by a crash, a runny or bleeding nose, and depression. Other symptoms of cocaine use may include nausea, vomiting, insomnia, tremors, and convulsions. Chronic users may become paranoid and/or experience hallucinations.
Hallucinogens (e.g., LSD, PCP, psilocybin):
PCP, or angel dust, interrupts the part of the brain that controls the intellect and keeps instincts in check. PCP blocks pain receptors. Violent episodes, including self-inflicted injuries, are not uncommon. Chronic users report memory loss and speech difficulty. Very large doses produce convulsions, coma, heart and lung failure, or ruptured blood vessels in the brain. LSD, mescaline, peyote, etc. cause dilated pupils, elevated body temperature, increased heart rate and blood pressure and tremors. Someone under the influence of PCP might appear moody, aggressive, or violent. Sleeplessness, confusion, anxiety, and panic, and may report perceptual distortions, and flashbacks may occur.
Counseling and Support Services
Manna University encourages individuals struggling with alcohol or drug use to seek help. Resources include:
- Alcoholics Anonymous (AA): www.aa.org or (910) 486-0738
- Al-Anon and Alateen: www.al-anon.org or 1-888-425-2666 available Mon–Fri, 8 am–6 pm (919) 787-1653
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): 1-800-662-HELP (4357), www.samhsa.gov
- North Carolina Addiction Hotline (24/7) 866-210-1303
- NC Peer Warmline (peer support for mental health/substance use) 855-399-7556
- Local resources in North Carolina, including counseling and rehabilitation centers, are also available.
Sanctions for Violations
Violations of this policy will result in disciplinary action consistent with federal, state, and local laws.
- Students may face sanctions including required counseling, probation, suspension, or expulsion.
- Employees may face corrective action up to and including termination of employment.
- In all cases, violations may also result in referral for prosecution under applicable North Carolina law.
Federal and North Carolina Laws
Manna University complies with all federal, state, and local laws regarding alcohol and controlled substances. Examples include:
- Federal Law (Controlled Substances Act, 21 U.S.C. § 812): Classifies drugs into Schedules I–V and prohibits unauthorized possession, use, or distribution.
- North Carolina Law:
- It is illegal for anyone under 21 to purchase, possess, or consume alcohol.
- Driving while impaired (DWI) is prohibited and carries severe penalties.
- Possession, sale, or distribution of marijuana and controlled substances is illegal, with penalties ranging from fines to felony charges depending on the amount and intent.
Compliance
By enrolling as a student or accepting employment at Manna University, all individuals agree to comply with this policy. The university reserves the right to notify law enforcement agencies when appropriate.
This policy was reviewed and approved by the President’s Cabinet September 8, 2025