Floyd College will become a tobacco-free campus beginning Jan. 1, 2004, President Randy Pierce announced today.

The new policy will prohibit the use of tobacco products on Floyd College property. Smoking by individuals entering college property will be confined to their personal vehicles. The motion to begin this policy was passed this month by the college’s Presidential Cabinet and with the endorsement of the Student Engagement Council and the College Environmental Health and Safety Committee.

In 1994 Floyd College banned the use of all tobacco products on its campuses in an attempt to eliminate the effects of second-hand smoke. The use of tobacco products was confined to designated smoking areas just outside of the buildings. Those entering the buildings were ultimately subjected to second-hand smoke.

“Because of our continued concern for the health and safety of our faculty, staff, students and guests on our campuses, we are modifying the current policy to include not just the buildings, but also all grounds,” states Dr. Randy Pierce.

“With the use of tobacco products on the rise, particularly among our younger populations, we feel this is an opportunity to emphasize our commitment to best health practices and a cleaner and healthier environment.”

In an effort to promote healthy living, the college has posted information on agencies that assist with the cessation of tobacco usage around the campuses, and the college encourages anyone who is interested in stopping smoking to contact the onsite cessation counselor, Ken Weatherman, at 706-295-6353 for an appointment. Individuals may also visit the American Cancer Society’s website at for more information.

Floyd College is an associate-degree granting institution of the University System of Georgia serving more than 3,500 students on sites in Rome, Cartersville, Acworth and Haralson County.