Webster University: Alcohol Policy

Alcohol Policy

These policies and procedures apply to Webster University students enrolled at the St. Louis Campus. Some of the policies may also apply at the extended campuses. In some cases the policies have to be customized for each extended campus.

Updated: 9/24/06

Webster University expects its students to observe all federal, state, and local laws, including those related to the possession and consumption of alcoholic beverages. Persons under the age of 21 are prohibited from possessing or consuming alcoholic beverages. Students who are 21 years of age or older may consume alcoholic beverages. See the Housing Handbook for more detailed policies on the use of alcohol in campus residential facilities.

Students 21 years of age and older may also consume alcohol at sanctioned events. Webster University students and their guests are expected to act responsibly in their use of alcoholic beverages. Drinking games are prohibited on campus, whether at events or in residential facilities. Additional University policies and procedures are available in the Office of Student Affairs and at the University Center front desk.

Off-Campus Behavior

While off-campus, students are expected to uphold the policies of the Student Code of Conduct. Behavior that is detrimental to the University or members of the campus community is governed by this Code. Webster reserves the right to take actions that address the violations through educational intervention or sanctions.

Party Guidelines

Student-sponsored events at Webster University are for the benefit of Webster students. Groups that sponsor such events assume the responsibility to plan and implement safe, well-ordered events.

Though alcoholic beverages may be served under the conditions described below, the central purpose of these events is entertainment, not the consumption of alcohol.

Any student organization that is planning a program including alcohol must make an appointment with the Director of the University Center and Student Activities. A Party Permit must be completed, approved, and returned at least 72 hours in advance to the Assistant Director of the University Center and Student Activities.
At least three members of the sponsoring organization must attend one of four "Party Successfully" workshops that are held throughout the academic year.
Alcohol must be purchased through a Webster-approved licensed caterer, and a licensed bartender must also be hired to serve the alcohol. Alcoholic beverages are restricted to beer and wine. The number of drinks per patron will be limited to the number of hours for the event. No alcoholic beverages may be brought into or removed from the party area.
The licensed bartenders stop serving alcohol 1/2 hour before the end of the event, and will not serve alcohol past 1:00 a.m.
The sponsoring group must provide an adequate amount of non-alcoholic beverages and a reasonable amount of food. Food can be purchased through the campus food services or from an off-campus source.
For events with alcohol or more than 100 people, the group must hire a Public Safety officer for events. In addition, Student Activities staff must be assigned through the Director of the University Center and Student Activities. The Student Activities staff work the entrance to handle the cover charge, if any, check IDs, and monitor the event for adherence to this policy.
The sponsoring group must have approximately six volunteers to aid in the smooth functioning of the event. The actual number is to be determined by the Director of the University Center and Student Activities. These volunteers must arrive 15 minutes prior to the start of the event and are responsible throughout the course of the event. These individuals help to monitor the entrances and exits of the event, and inform the Student Activities staff or the Public Safety officer if any concerns arise. The group is also responsible for cleanup of the party area.
Advertising for the event should be limited to Webster University, unless special authorization is obtained from the Director of the University Center and Student Activities. Advertising for events with alcoholic beverages must focus on the event, and not promote the usage of alcohol. Any advertisement that makes reference to alcohol must be approved by the Director of the University Center and Student Activities.
Unless special permission is obtained, entrance to the event is limited to Webster University community members and their guests. Webster University students, faculty, and staff are responsible for their own behavior and for the behavior of their guests.
The sponsoring group is liable for damages and cleanup charges, to be assessed by the departments of the University Center and Student Activities, Food Service, Maintenance, and the Dean of Student Affairs Office.
Any group that violates these guidelines or whose events become chronic problems is subject to suspension of party privileges and its members are subject to individual judicial charges.
Outdoor events must end by 9 p.m., ordinarily, in deference to the neighborhood. Music at the event must be kept at an acceptable volume level. Exceptions to the 9 p.m. end time must be approved by the Dean of Students after consultation with the proper city officials.

For additional information about appropriate use of alcohol at Webster events, consult the Student Organization Handbook or contact the Director of the University Center and Student Activities.