Ohio Northern University will become a tobacco-free campus beginning Aug. 17. ONU joins more than 1,500 higher education institutions nationwide that are smoke-free, tobacco-free or both.

The move to become a smoke-free campus was a recommendation from the ONU Sustainability Committee, which researched and reviewed similar policies across the nation. The committee worked with campus groups, including the health services advisory committee, University Council, faculty, Class V Council and Student Senate.

Ohio Northern University, like other campuses, recognizes this step as important in addressing the serious health and environmental issues associated with tobacco use.

Individuals can visit www.onu.edu/tobaccofree for information about cessation programs and to read the entire policy.