Feb. 15, 2005

GW Snuffs-Out Smoking in Residence Halls

Beginning fall semester 2005 all GW residence halls will adopt a no-smoking policy. The Residence Hall Association (RHA) made the case that any indoor smoking puts students at risk for health problems from second-hand smoke, endangers security due to false fire alarms from cigarette smoke, and accelerates damage to facilities from smoke damage to carpet, furniture, and paint.

“Smoking within the halls is not an individual’s issue; rather, it is largely a community concern,” said Daniel Miller, president of RHA. “We are pleased with the administration’s decision to implement no smoking in the residence halls.”
Staff with the Office of the Associate Vice President and Dean of Students is working to codify the policy, which will be incorporated into the Residential Community Conduct Guidelines and Administrative Policies. The no-smoking policy will foster a safe and secure setting for students and staff in all the residence halls. GW also will evaluate additional locations for smoking and the need for ashtrays, plants, and other facilities enhancements to accommodate students who smoke.

Send feedback to: bygeorge@gwu.edu