Southern Methodist University’s president, Gerald Turner, announced yesterday that the school will accept and implement most recommendations of a panel of students, professors, and campus leaders in order to curtail drug and alcohol abuse among SMU students. After three student deaths last year, the university is seeking an aggressive approach to change the school’s image and encourage responsible behavior.

One suggestion not on SMU’s "to do" list is opening a campus pub. As a graduate of SMU (MBA ’85), I disagree. I admit it sounds counter-intuitive to combat drinking by opening a pub, but begin with the panel’s reasoning. The current culture at SMU is this – the Greek community (sorority and fraternity members) have all the parties and all the fun. Non-greeks don’t feel a part of campus life. Many greeks wonder why all these other kids even bother to show up if they aren’t in a fraternity. Campus cameraderie among students of diverse backgrounds is lacking – some argue non-existent. The panel suggests that permitting students to enjoy socializing (including having a beer while watching sports on TV) fosters a relaxed atmosphere and teaches that it’s not about drinking in order to get drunk. The on-campus pub was suggested to lessen students’ impression that enjoying social life is limited to joining a fraternity and getting drunk until you pass out four nights a week. The lesson is that having an occasional brew with your campus mates is a better lifestyle choice.

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