Igniting a Spark: Tips for Building Tobacco-Free Campus Support

Schneider, Keri

Wednesday, August 15, 2012

Exhibit Hall (Kansas City Convention Center)

Mrs. Keri Schneider, Bachelor of Science in Community Health Education , American Lung Association, Brookfield, WI

Ms. Kathy Staats, Bachelors of Arts & Sciences- Public Communication , Spark/American Lung Association, Brookfield, WI

Tana Feiner, Bachelors of Science in Business, Edgewood College, Wisconsin , Wisconsin Tobacco Prevention and Control Program, Wisconsin Department of Health Services, Madison, WI

Learning Objectives

At the conclusion of this presentation attendees will be able to:

1. Recognize the importance of assessing the social and political landscape of each target campus so that their unique needs can be met.
2. Describe the benefits of an entirely tobacco-free campus versus other options that other schools have chosen (smoke-free, designated smoking areas, etc.)
3. Demonstrate knowledge of the steps necessary for building a student coalition, drafting a tobacco-free campus policy, and educating key campus officials and organizations.

Cross Cutting Program Area(s): Tobacco Control Movement – Skills Building and Youth

Audience: Tobacco Prevention and Control staff working with or hoping to work with local campus officials, college students and/or staff.

Key Points: The presentation will take participants through the history of Wisconsin’s involvement with the 18-24 year old population, our efforts in working with Wisconsin campuses, and tobacco-free campus initiatives around the country.

Educational Experience: Wisconsin Tobacco Prevention and Control Program and Spark staff will provide strategies for collaborating with campus communities to determine a policy focus and action plan. This process includes analyzing factors such as campus administration, community neighbors, student support, message reception, and available resources. A role play activity will give participants firsthand experience in analyzing campus climates that play a role in shaping a tobacco-free campus initiative strategy.

Benefits: Working towards a tobacco-free campus policy takes time, effort, and effective communication. This presentation will provide helpful tips to states beginning or maintaining tobacco-free campus initiatives. With a solid plan and a good baseline of knowledge, campuses and communities can create a policy that will change the culture and unhealthy habits of their students forever.

256 Igniting a Spark: Tips for Building Tobacco-Free Campus Support