University of Missouri, Rolla
Chancellor
Gary Thomas of the University of Missouri, Rolla (UMR) has served as a leader
in his commitment to confronting student alcohol abuse on his campus. Since
beginning his chancellorship at UMR, alcohol awareness and education activities
have increased, with special programs developed to target freshman and transfer
students at orientation and other campus events. A campus coalition has been
formed to strategically confront the environmental factors that contribute
to high-risk drinking on the UMR campus. Working closely with this coalition,
Chancellor Thomas was instrumental in the development of a parental notification
policy, as well as a social norms marketing campaign implemented throughout
the campus. In an effort to promote a healthy campus environment, UMR offers
a variety of alcohol-free social events, participates in Alcohol Awareness
Week, and offers risk management training workshops for fraternities and sororities.
Chancellor Thomas has also begun to work with the Missouri statewide initiative
grantee, Partners in Prevention.
In light of his efforts to promote a safe and healthy student environment at UMR, and throughout the state of Missouri, Chancellor Thomas continues to be a valued member of the Presidents Leadership Group.