The UPEI Panthers and the PEI LCC want you to “Keep it Social”
Research shows most university students believe their friends drink a lot more than they actually do. This leads to the perception that alcohol is a key ingredient to student life. UPEI Athletics and Recreation and the PEI Liquor Control Commission (PEI LCC) are partnering on the Keep it Social campaign to promote responsible alcohol consumption and harm reduction among students.
“UPEI is proud to be a member of this partnership, helping students make smarter choices when it comes to drinking,” said Jackie Podger, Vice-President Administration and Finance at UPEI. “I think it’s exciting that the next phase will put the message and direction of the campaign in the hands of students themselves. I want to thank the PEI LCC for their support.”
In this next stage of Keep it Social, student-athlete ambassadors will keep their eyes and ears on campus, relaying feedback and discovering opportunities to amplify the campaign. The participation of student-athletes is crucial, so that the direction and messaging of the campaign is student-led and student-approved.
A partnership that originated between the Nova Scotia Liquor Commission and Nova Scotia universities, Keep it Social will soon be Atlantic Canada-wide, with expansion to New Brunswick and Newfoundland and Labrador. The addition of Atlantic University Sport (AUS) as a partner means Keep it Social messaging will appear at sporting events across the region.
“I am excited about the partnership we have created with the PEI LCC and our shared goals of promoting both the Keep it Social and the Don't Drink and Drive campaigns,” said Chris Huggan, Director of Athletics and Recreation at UPEI. “It was an exciting launch on Friday night as we kicked off our home opener surrounded by Keep it Social promotional material and give-aways. I am pleased that we have student athletes who are stepping up to be ambassadors for these initiatives.”
As Keep it Social continues, students will be encouraged and empowered to make their own decisions around alcohol consumption.
Keepitsocial.ca provides broader information around responsible use and behaviour and the web address appears on each of the printed and digital products used in the on-campus advertising campaign. During phase one of the partnership, advertising material was placed in the UPEI residences, at the campus pub, The Wave, and throughout the W.A. Murphy Student Centre.
The University of Prince Edward Island prides itself on people, excellence, and impact and is committed to assisting students reach their full potential in both the classroom and community. With roots stemming from two founding institutions—Prince of Wales College and Saint Dunstan’s University—UPEI has a reputation for academic excellence, research innovation, and creating positive impacts locally, nationally, and internationally. UPEI is the only degree granting institution in the province and is proud to be a key contributor to the growth and prosperity of Prince Edward Island.
