Ohio Valley University strongly discourages the use of alcohol, especially in order to get drunk. The University prohibits students from using alcohol within existing legal parameters, and enforces its policy to the full extent that the law allows.

Specifically, the Ohio Valley University community is alcohol-free, which means that members of the community should not possess or consume alcoholic beverages while on campus or while taking part in any University-sponsored activities. Additionally, members of the OVU community should not be on campus or at University-sponsored activities while under the influence of alcohol. Finally, members of the OVU community should not host, attend, or in any way assist or promote a gathering that includes underage drinking or drunkenness.
A person may be deemed to be under the influence of alcohol if he/she exhibits any of the conditions and degrees of intoxication associated with alcohol use, including but not limited to the following: alcohol on the breath; impaired physical capacity; offensive, disruptive, hazardous, destructive, and/or vulgar conduct during or following the consumption of alcoholic beverages; and deprivation of the clearness of mind and self-control that one would otherwise possess.

If a student is suspected of using alcohol, he/she may be required to submit to sobriety testing. Refusal to submit to sobriety testing may be considered an admission of alcohol use. Similarly, possession of empty alcohol containers may be considered strong evidence of alcohol use.

In West Virginia, it is illegal for persons under 21 years of age to purchase, sell, or drink alcohol. Ohio Valley University may inform local authorities about underage alcohol purchasers, sellers, and/or consumers.

The University also may take action against students who commit other criminal offenses related to alcohol regardless of where those offenses were committed. Alcohol criminal offenses include, but are not limited to, driving under the influence of alcohol, providing alcohol to minors, and public intoxication.
Students who need alcohol counseling, treatment, rehabilitation, or information concerning the health risks associated with alcohol use may talk with the Director of Health & Wellness.

Violations of the Alcohol-Free Community policy may result in the following disciplinary responses:

1st Offense = Minimum of 3-day Suspension + Individualized Action Plan

2nd Offense = Minimum of 5-day Suspension + Individualized Action Plan

3rd Offense = Suspension for remainder of semester + Re-application to enroll in subsequent semesters