The start date for the smoke-free campus initiative has been postponed from this fall to Jan. 1.
The new date will allow current smokers a less stressful transition period and program sponsors more time to finalize details and provide resources, said Michele Guerra, the director of the U. of I. Wellness Center.
Guerra said publicity for the smoke-free campus initiative ramped up in September and will culminate in the American Cancer Society’s Great American Smokeout event in November.
The initiative was announced by Chancellor Phyllis M. Wise last October, following a student senate vote calling for the exploration of becoming a smoke-free campus.
In addition to reducing the second-hand smoke, the campus will have less tobacco litter, Guerra said.
Guerra said Facilities and Services has developed a map to show which areas are campus-owned.
“There is a complex mix of ownership on campus,” she said, with the U. of I., and the cities of Urbana and Champaign splitting street ownership almost in thirds. “The map will be available this fall to help clarify which areas are part of the smoke-free campus.”
The website also has a section with answers to common questions. For example, smokers will not be allowed to smoke in personal vehicles on campus, electronic cigarettes are not allowed, and tobacco used in pre-approved native rituals is excluded from the initiative.
The campus will expand its cessation resources offered to students and employees.
