Experiences in Effective Prevention

Since 1999, the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Safe and Drug-Free Schools has recognized effective alcohol and other drug abuse prevention programs at college and university campuses across the nation. In grant competitions held in 1999, 2000, 2001, and 2004, the Department identified model programs at 22 institutions of higher education. Each campus received an award to maintain, improve, further enhance, and evaluate its prevention efforts and to disseminate information about its program to other campuses.

To capture the experiences of these colleges and universities, the Department’s Higher Education Center staff and consultants visited those grantees, interviewing program staff, faculty, administrators, students, and community members to learn what contributed to the success of the model program or policy.

This publication reviews and synthesizes information gained from the site visits to identify the characteristics that are common to model programs that can be adapted for other campuses. Chapters 4 and 5 discuss those core elements—exercising leadership, building coalitions, choosing evidence-based programs, implementing strategic planning, conducting a program evaluation, working toward sustainability, and taking the long view.

On request, this publication is available in alternate formats, such as Braille, large print, audiotape, or computer diskette. For more information, please contact the Department’s Alternate Format Center at 202-260-9895 or 202-205-8113.