Responsibly Managing Gatherings

Utilize the Good Samaritan/Medical Amnesty Program

The health and safety of each student is a priority for The Catholic University of America community. All members are called to offer help and assistance to others in need. The Office of the Dean of Students recognizes the potential for disciplinary action could unnecessarily deter students from seeking assistance for themselves and/or others in cases of alcohol or other drug-related emergencies. Therefore, the Good Samaritan/Medical Amnesty Program has been designed to remove this barrier that might prevent students from seeking medical attention.

Through the program, students who actively seek assistance for another person in need of medical attention (Good Samaritan) or students who actively seek assistance for themselves (Medical Amnesty) will be exempt from the University Student Conduct process, as outlined in the Code of Student Conduct. Instead, these situations will be addressed as a health and safety concern.

In order to be considered for this program, students are expected to:

• Contact emergency officials:
  • For an off-campus incident, dial 911.
  • For an on-campus incident, contact the Department of Public Safety at (202) 319-5111 or a Residence Life staff member.
• Remain with the individual(s) needing treatment as long as it is safe to do so.
• Meet with a staff member in the Office of the Dean of Students following the incident.
• Agree to and complete educational and/or health interventions as a condition of deferring student conduct sanctions.

Keep the Size Reasonable and Know Your Guests

If the party spills outside, there is an increased chance a complaint will be made. Limit the amount of guests to what your living unit can handle appropriately.

Guests who know and respect you will ensure a more manageable gathering. A friend who feels comfortable monitoring the guests and size of the party may be a helpful tool.

Refrain from hosting an “open” party. This is often how irresponsible partygoers gain access to your party and ruin the event, sometimes causing property damage, theft, etc. If uninvited guests will not leave or the situation gets out of hand, call 911.

If the Police or Public Safety Arrive at Your Property

Always speak to them genuinely, with respect and understanding. The police are looking out for the safety of you, your housemates, and the community. They ensure the party is safe and respectful to the community. Be compliant, polite, and honest when talking to them.

If they tell you to turn down the music, do so. Noise complaints will keep the Metropolitan Police Department coming back. If they tell you to end the party, do so.

If you need assistance in breaking up a party, call the Metropolitan Police Department in an emergency at 911 or Public Safety at 202-319-5111.