By Kathryn Engelsdorfer 

October 23, 2009

While homecoming is notorious for underage drinking Executive Director of Campus Security Jeff Kedrowski says that this year at least at Elmhurst College “Homecoming was fairly peaceful.”

However, the biggest bust on student drinking this year actually took place just recently at the Terrace Apartments.

“There was a large party at one of our units at the Elmhurst Terrace Appartments…which resulted in 38 underage possession/consumption arrests…Certainly a bigger number than you’d typically see around here,” said Kedrowski.

Flyers have gone up to try and educate students on a recent change in Illinois law concerning underage drinkers.  “If a student is caught with alcohol underage, even if there is no car involved your license is suspended,” says Kedrowski. “We’re not trying to use it as a scare

For the most part, Elmhurst’s students are a relatively well-behaved crowd.

“With the increased population,” says Kedrowski, “we’re seeing an increase in the reports, but the severity of crimes is going down.” He attributes much of this to the good sense of students who call in to inform security of possible threats.

This decrease in alcohol use this homecoming may have been attributed to the "No Alcohol Permitted" signs that were stuck into the ground at every entrance to the Alexander Parking lot this year. The parking lot is a popular place for parents, alumni and students to tailgate before the football game, but this year alcohol was banned for fans, regardless of age.

Despite homecoming this year being tame, Campus security urges students to realize necessary actions for their own protection in the future.  “Call us early before a little problem becomes a big problem…We’re partners in this; you’ve got to do your part.”