Alcohol consumption remains common on college campuses, including at UNC-Chapel Hill. In 2024, 95% of Carolina students surveyed reported consuming alcohol in the past year, and 75% reported drinking in the past month. Many students perceive alcohol use as the campus norm: 93% believe the average UNC student drank in the past month, which is notably a higher number than actually reported drinking.
At the same time, Carolina students express strong support for safer, more inclusive social environments. In 2024, 86% said they support offering non-alcoholic drink options when hosting a party.
This Digital Toolkit features three student-informed, evidence-based communications campaigns designed to shift social norms and promote a culture where all students can safely experience everything UNC has to offer. Each campaign includes ready-to-use digital and print materials, plus suggested dissemination strategies for campus partners.
Using the Toolkit
All materials are free to download and share. Campus departments, student organizations, and community partners are encouraged to incorporate these campaigns into their communication channels to support healthier social norms around alcohol.
For questions, collaboration opportunities, or customizable materials, please contact Melissa Cox: [email protected].
Together, we can help every Tar Heel make informed choices and feel supported in any social setting.
Carolina Happenings
Artistic map of UNC and Chapel Hill, showing all the different recreational activities that students can do instead of exclusively drinking-focused activities
Purpose: Feature a wide variety of social opportunities on and around campus, specifically including a large number of non drinking-focused activities.
Materials:
- Digital and print versions of the Carolina Happenings map
Suggested Platforms:
- Facebook, websites, newsletters, etc.
- Digital advertising screens
Printed posters (recommended size: 11″ x 14″)
Click here to preview the full poster.
From a Tar Heel
A 21-part student-voiced, peer-to-peer campaign that shares safer drinking tips in a personal and casual way. Shares real student perspectives paired with relevant campus data to reshape perceptions of alcohol use.
Purpose: To help incoming students navigate drinking culture in a safer way with information framed from peers. To normalize limited drinking.
Materials:
- 21 digital and print quotes featuring student voices and campus statistics
Suggested Platforms:
- Social media (Instagram story and feed post formats)
- Digital advertising screens
- Napkin holders
- Print flyers
- Stickers
- Bookmarks
Your Guide to Staying Safe While Going Out
A harm reduction resource that provides guidance for when things go wrong, offering steps students can take to ensure safer outcomes. Highlights common scenarios students may face while navigating drinking culture and outlines next steps that promote safety, wellness, and balance.
Purpose: To provide guidance for making safe, informed decisions regarding scenarios that may occur while going out and drinking.
Materials:
- Digital and print versions of Your Guide to Staying Safe While Going Out
Suggested Platforms:
- Social media
- Digital newsletters
- Print flyers (recommended double-sided printing for handouts, or two single sheets for hanging up for displays)
Click here to preview the full poster.