Drug and Alcohol Prevention
Drug & Alcohol Prevention
Making Healthy Choices
Garden City Community College is committed to providing a safe, healthy, and supportive learning environment. We encourage students to make informed decisions about alcohol and drug use by providing education, prevention programs, and confidential support services.
GCCC complies with the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989 and maintains a drug- and alcohol-free campus and workplace.
Prevention & Education
Throughout the year, GCCC offers programs and resources to help students make healthy choices and understand the risks associated with alcohol and drug use.
Students can take advantage of:
- Alcohol- and drug-free campus events and activities
- Extended recreation opportunities in substance-free environments
- Educational programs on the effects of alcohol and drug use
- Wellness resources available through CampusWell
- Student-led prevention efforts through Resident Assistants, Student Government Association, and other campus organizations
- Nonalcoholic beverage options at campus events
Counseling & Support
If alcohol or drug use is affecting your health, relationships, or academic success, help is available.
Free Confidential Counseling
GCCC provides free and confidential counseling for students, faculty, and staff through Genesis Family Health, located in the Beth Tedrow Student Center.
Students who need additional support or have questions about alcohol or drug use may also contact:
JoAnn Garrier, Licensed Counselor
Student and Community Services Center (SCSC) - 2nd Floor
Phone: 620-276-9635
Students who violate the College's alcohol or drug policies may be required to complete an alcohol and drug assessment as part of the student conduct process.
Employees may also be referred to assistance or rehabilitation programs through the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), when appropriate.
Why It Matters
Alcohol and drug misuse can have serious impacts on your health, safety, and academic success.
According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA):
- Approximately 1,500 college students ages 18–24 die each year from alcohol-related injuries.
- About 1 in 4 college students report that alcohol has negatively affected their academic performance.
- Nearly 31% of college students report symptoms associated with alcohol misuse.
- Approximately 110,000 students ages 18–24 are arrested each year for alcohol-related violations.
- Each year, nearly 700,000 college students are assaulted by another student who has been drinking.
Marijuana use has also been linked to:
- Lower academic performance
- Reduced motivation and concentration
- Increased participation in other high-risk behaviors
- Impaired judgment and decision-making
- Negative impacts on physical and mental health
Need Help?
If you have questions about alcohol or drug use, or if you're concerned about yourself or a friend, confidential help is available. Reaching out is a positive first step, and we're here to support you.
JoAnn Garrier, Licensed Counselor
Student and Community Services Center (SCSC) - 2nd Floor
Phone: 620-276-9635
Email: joann.garrier@gcccks.edu