Early lessons from Community Transformation Grant: Implementation of tobacco-free colleges and universities

Tobacco use and onset of use among 18-24 year olds and industry targeting of this population is an ongoing concern. Austin has over 100,000 students at its colleges and universities. With roughly half of college smokers being “social smokers,” these individuals may not identify themselves as “true” smokers, but may use smoking to facilitate social interaction. However, over the course of a four-year college period, one in five of these “social” smokers became daily smokers, and over one in three remain occasional smokers.

Methods ATCHHSD worked with 3 institutions of higher learning to adopt tobacco-free campus policies: The University of Texas at Austin, Huston-Tillotson University, and Austin Community College. Prior to policy implementation campus wide surveys and held numerous outreach events were conducted and available cessation resources were promoted. ATCHHSD staff provided technical assistance and sample policy to each institution assisting with implementation timelines, FAQ's and signage. The expanded summary includes additional details.

Results/Outcomes As a result at UT over 51,000 students, 24,000 faculty and staff and an immeasurable number of visitors; ACC's 4,500 employees and student body of 60,100; and Over 1000 HTU students, faculty and staff will benefit from a cleaner, tobacco-free environment.

Conclusions Tobacco-free policies implemented at Huston-Tillotson University (which is the largest Historically Black University in the Nation to pass a tobacco-free policy), the University of Texas, and Austin Community College will change social norms and will protect this vulnerable population.