(Note: OLPM sections on this page may be cited following the format of, for example, "UNH.III.K.1.1". These policies may be amended at any time, do not constitute an employment contract, and are provided here only for ease of reference and without any warranty of accuracy. See OLPM Main Menu for details.)
1. The University is committed to establishing and maintaining an environment that fosters mutually beneficial interpersonal relations and a shared responsibility for the welfare and safety of others. Because alcohol can have a significant effect on that environment, the University has adopted this policy for governing alcohol use by students, staff, faculty, visitors, and guests. While University policy permits responsible consumption of alcohol at some places and times, the consumption of alcohol should never be the primary purpose or focus of an event. Alcohol-free social events are encouraged.
2. A request for approval to serve alcoholic beverages form must be submitted to Conferences and Catering for each function being planned where alcohol, beer or wine will be served. This form must be submitted 30 days prior to the event. All bar service must be provided by Conferences and Catering, as holder of the Liquor License. If requests are received with less than 30 days notice, Conferences and Catering has the right to deny approval and service will not be granted.
3. The acquisition, distribution, possession, or consumption of alcohol by members of the UNH community must be in compliance with all local, state, and federal laws.
4. Non-alcoholic beverages must be provided at events where alcoholic beverages are served.
5. Institutional restrictions on alcohol use on UNH property vary by location, and, in some cases, by time.
5.1 University residence halls and apartment complexes. Residents of legal drinking age may consume alcohol in their rooms or apartments. Alcohol may not be consumed in common areas such as lounges, hallways, etc.
5.2 Dining halls. During periods when dining halls are not open to students and are assigned to workshops or conferences, alcohol may be served and consumed.
5.3 MUB, Hamel Recreation Center, Field House. Alcohol may not be consumed in these facilities.
5.4 Whittemore Center Arena, skyboxes, and skybox lounge. As a "sports/ entertainment complex," state law imposes special restrictions on alcohol consumption in the Whittemore Center arena, its skyboxes, and skybox lounge. For more information, contact the Manager of Centerplate Concessions.
5.4.1 Arena and skyboxes. As required by law, no alcoholic beverages may be sold or consumed in arena or skybox seating at any intercollegiate or interscholastic event. Furthermore, this policy prohibits distribution, possession, or consumption of alcohol in the arena or skyboxes at any event either sponsored by a student organization or which attracts a substantial number of audience members who are under the legal drinking age. Consistent with the foregoing restrictions, alcohol may be served and consumed at a limited number of approved events in the arena and skyboxes.
5.4.2 Skybox lounge. Alcohol may be served to private groups at approved events in the skybox lounge.
5.5 The President's Residence. Alcohol may be served and consumed in compliance with all local, state, and federal laws.
5.6 Academic, administrative, and classroom buildings (any UNH building not included in the previous categories). Consumption of alcohol is permitted only as part of an approved event, such as a reception for a visiting scholar or a celebration of a special accomplishment. The dean or vice president who is sponsoring the event must give the required approvals.
5.7 UNH grounds. Consumption of alcohol is permitted only as part of an approved event. The Assistant Vice President for Business Affairs must give the required approval.
6. UNH has an interest in off-premise events held in its name. If alcohol is used illegally or inappropriately at such events, the University may take steps to protect its interests.
7. Any request for variation from this policy must be submitted to Conferences and Catering.
8. This policy is effective as of July 1, 2011.