The Southern University System and Communities of Color Network (CoC) is commemorating one year of a healthier, tobacco-free campus on which to live, work and learn.

On Jan. 2, 2012, the SUS Board of Supervisors approved the 100 percent tobacco-free campus policy. This unprecedented measure prohibits smoking or the use of tobacco products in any building, administrative facility, dormitory or on campus grounds, including athletic fields and parking areas.

The successful implementation was initiated and led by Communities of Color Network, an affiliated program of The Louisiana Public Health Institute and The Louisiana Campaign for Tobacco-free Living. CoC Network serves as the infrastructure for educating constituents, building capacity, coordinating, organizing and executing tobacco prevention and control programs and activities targeting African-Americans – statewide.

In an effort to celebrate the accomplishment, CoC will implement some of the following activities statewide throughout the month — informational booth displays to include policy handouts, tobacco awareness workshops and an anniversary celebration for students, faculty and staff.

“Southern University at New Orleans’ family is thrilled to be a part of the Southern University System efforts in creating a 100 percent tobacco-free campus policy,” said Shirley B. Simon, who serves constituents in Orleans, Jefferson, St. Charles, St. John, St. James, St. Mary and Assumption parishes.  “Orleans parish communities have responded positively to help bring this effort to fruition. We owe this celebration to our diligent partners and collaborators throughout the state of Louisiana.”

Linda Early Brown, director of Communities of Color Network at the Southern University Ag Center, said, “The Southern University System and CoC are very excited about this life-altering and awe-inspiring opportunity for the students, faculty and staff statewide. We are equally motivated to continue to educate our constituents during the implementation stages of the 100 percent tobacco-free policy.”

Congratulations are extended to the regional coordinators statewide, namely Shirley Simon, Shawntell Lewis-Harrell, Urina Holt, Latonya Owens, and Frankie Poland for their strategic efforts in educating and creating healthier communities; and the leadership of Linda Early Brown, Chancellor  Leodrey Williams and Vice Chancellor Gina Eubanks.

For information on tobacco educational awareness and/or how your organization can make a difference, contact Ms. Simon at (504)-286-5000 or (225) 200-1636.