OSU To Go Tobacco Free

Tuesday, August 28th 2007, 2:43 pm

By: News On 6

STILLWATER, Okla. (AP) _ Oklahoma State University is going tobacco free on its main campus in Stillwater, with the exception of a few outdoor areas, school officials announced Tuesday. The campus will become tobacco free on July 1, 2008, except for the few areas which will be identified as designated tobacco-use areas, said interim OSU President Marlene Strathe. OSU plans to phase out those areas over time.

``This is a significant step in creating a healthier environment for our students, employees and visitors,'' Strathe said. "This change is in response to recommendations from students, faculty and staff, as well as input from our wellness and health experts.â€

Strathe said the university will work to prepare the campus, community and visitors for the change and provide cessation programs and other support for those who want to give up tobacco.

The OSU Seretean Wellness Center was awarded $500,000 in 2006 from the Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust to decrease tobacco use among college students. That money will help fund education and cessation efforts, according to university officials.