UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — As the student-created drinking event State Patty’s Day approaches, Penn State and State College Borough are working together to enhance safety measures and mitigate excessive drinking and its associated risks. This year’s event is expected to take place Feb. 28 to March 2.
Penn State University Police and Public Safety will coordinate with the State College Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police and other local law enforcement agencies to maintain an increased presence throughout the weekend.
State College Borough Manager Tom Fountaine and Penn State Vice President for Student Affairs Andrea Dowhower have asked members of the State College Tavern Owners Association to treat the weekend as any other, discouraging promotions or activities that could contribute to high-risk behaviors. The request includes refraining from offering drink specials, extending hours or hosting themed events related to the weekend.
“Keeping the community safe and welcoming is always one of the borough's top priorities,” Fountaine said. “By taking proactive steps, we can reduce the strain on community resources, including Mount Nittany Medical Center, local law enforcement and emergency medical services.”
Additional safety measures implemented by Penn State and the borough include:
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Greek-letter organizations have been encouraged to voluntarily limit social events with alcohol throughout the weekend.
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Residence halls will enforce a one-guest-per-room policy to minimize large gatherings.
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Off-campus property managers have been asked to discourage parties and increase staff presence to monitor their properties and report any illegal activity.
Penn State students found in violation of laws or policies during the weekend — whether on or off campus — will be referred to the Office of Student Accountability and Conflict Response for disciplinary action. Students also are reminded of Penn State’s Responsible Action Protocol and Pennsylvania’s Medical Amnesty Law, which protect individuals from prosecution for underage drinking if they seek medical help for a peer experiencing alcohol-related distress.
"Our primary focus is maintaining the safety and well-being of our community," Dowhower said. "Through our continued collaboration with students and local partners, we hope to minimize the disruptive impacts of this event and encourage responsible decision-making. Our goal is for everyone to have a safe and enjoyable weekend."