The East Lansing City Council recently commended the Residence Halls Association for providing alcohol-free programs on campus to MSU students.
RHA's on-campus programs include Campus Center Movies shown at Wells Hall, special events including concerts and lectures and various Health and Safety programs.
"I believe it's important to show that this university is more than just getting drunk and partying," RHA President Ernest Drake said.
Drake said the commendation is a pat on the back for the organization.
"It gives RHA members recognition for the hard work that they've done," he said.
Councilmember Bill Sharp said it was the work of the association that merited the commendation.
"Number one, they came forward and had a lot of nonalcoholic entertainment on campus," he said, adding some programs were a result of a task force formed after the March 30, 2003, riot, in which some 2,000 people caused about $40,000 in damage.
Sharp said since many students living on campus aren't of legal drinking age, there should be programs available that don't involve alcohol.
Telecommunication, information studies and media sophomore Aaron Strong said he attends concerts on campus and often sees movies in Wells Hall.
"With nothing to do, people get messed up easier and faster. It's definitely nice to have something different from the normal routine," he said.
Councilmember Beverly Baten said not every student who consumes alcohol does so irresponsibly, but the university still should offer alcohol-free events.
"There are some that go out and have a good time. Those that don't, need to understand what can happen. Those (events) are the kinds of things young students need to know are available," she said.
Education sophomore Mary Vliek said she likes RHA's programs because they are free to on-campus students. Her roommate in Snyder Hall, interior design freshman Meghan Bennett, said she enjoys such programming as an alternative to the off-campus party scene.
"When you go to a party, you're kind of expected to drink. (On-campus programs) are a good option," Bennett said.
