Dear Penn State Community,

Thank you for your interest in the Commission for Substance Abuse Prevention (CSAP)! CSAP has many responsibilities but in the end our ultimate charge is to help campuses create healthy learning and working environments throughout the Penn State system.

CSAP is privileged to have a very active and engaged membership (PDF), which consists of students, staff, faculty and administrations from numerous Penn State campuses. The membership works with Penn State colleagues systemwide to evaluate the efficacy of present University programs, policies and practices to ensure that all Penn State campuses provide students an environment which supports the legal and low-risk use of alcohol, tobacco and other substances.

CSAP also researches and recommends initiatives which foster an academic and work environment that values healthy lifestyle choices concerning alcohol, tobacco, and other substances. In addition, CSAP serves as the University's liaison to the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board and helps to identify PLCB funding opportunities, for initiatives at all campuses.

CSAP is recognized systemwide for its successful mini-grant program. Over the past four years, CSAP has awarded more than $100,000 in mini-grants to campuses other than University Park to help campuses to meet the challenges of reducing high-risk drinking and preventing tobacco and drug use among students. This year, CSAP is introducing a new awards program to recognize Penn State community members who demonstrate exemplary actions which foster an environment that values healthy lifestyle choices concerning alcohol, tobacco, and other substances. The "Exemplary Actions in Substance Abuse Prevention Awards” will recognize outstanding contributions to this University effort in two categories — individual and group recognition and outstanding campus initiative.

Again, thank you for your interest in CSAP. If you are a student or if you work at a campus other than University Park and are interested in joining CSAP, or if you would simply like more information, do not hesitate to contact me.

Best regards,

Brian Mauro
Chair, Commission for Substance Abuse Prevention