Relevance:  The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) report frequent use and misuse of alcohol and substance among college students. Key trends and data regarding alcohol and substance misuse among this population are concerning. Several studies show that nearly half of college students meet the criteria for at least one substance misuse disorder and the 2024 Monitoring the Future survey found historically high levels of cannabis, vaping, and hallucinogen use among young adults aged 19-30.

Response:  In light of the growing concerns about alcohol and substance misuse among college students, coalitions across numerous states have been developed to work toward fostering safer, healthier environments on higher education campuses through strategic partnerships and evidence-based prevention efforts. Multi-campus partnerships work together to address student wellness, receive technical assistance and training, and utilize the coalition to build capacity within their own units. States that have adopted this model include Tennessee, Ohio, Missouri, and Montana to name a few. Most of which have been initiated through state government mandate and funding.

 Results:  While not Kentucky-specific, national data sources on alcohol and substance misuse show trends that are mirrored in Kentucky among college students. In recognition of the concerning issue, the Kentucky Distiller’s Association launched the Kentucky Coalition for Responsible Alcohol and Substance Misuse Education, housed and coordinated through the University of Kentucky. One million dollars over the course of 3-years was provided to pilot a coalition program similar to those modeled in other states. This past fiscal cycle marks the start of the coalition work. A coalition executive director was hired to initiate and coordinate partnerships as well as provide technical and training support across participating schools. Together, we have been working to navigate administrative processes and strengthening partnerships to develop the coalition. Eleven colleges and universities have all signed membership agreements to commit their time and efforts toward improving the health and well-being of students on their campus as well as assist other coalition members in doing the same. These 11 partners have also agreed to conduct a national survey on their campuses and share the data with the coalition, which will be the first dataset representative of Kentucky college students once collected.

Public Value Statement: Creating a coalition of higher education student success professionals to address alcohol and substance misuse will help reduce harm on campuses, initiate early intervention toward prevention and provide a supportive environment needed for students to thrive.