Area community-college campuses go smoke-free
Jul 2, 2012, 6:31 AM
PHOENIX — One of the largest community college systems in the
country is smoke- and tobacco-free on campus.
Chancellor Rufus Glasper announced the change last fall, which is now
in effect for the Maricopa County Community College District. That
includes Glendale Community College, Mesa Community College,
Paradise Valley Community College and Phoenix College among others.
“We recognize it will mean a change in behavior in a significant number
of students, faculty and employees,” Glasper said. “This is a bold move
for us but it’s the right move.”
Some anonymous students support the ban.
“I’m sure for the nonsmokers like me it would be better for us if we’re
not around the smoking.”
But when the tobacco ban was announced last fall, another student told
Cronkite News they will defy the ban and take their chances.
“I’d still smoke cigars. If you give me a ticket, I’ll deal with it.”
With the ban, Maricopa Community Colleges join about 500 similar institutions that are tobacco-free.
