| The Institute is dedicated to providing educational and research opportunities including certificate and seminar programs, symposiums, round tables, travel experiences, and other interactive functions promoting the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management and its interests to members of the international, national, state, regional, and local Hospitality, Tourism and Travel Industry communities, students, and graduates of the School. The goal of these programs is continued professional development and a life-long learning experience for those involved with the School, the Institute, and its programs. Near MMC is the Engineering Center, FIU’s 40-acre major research facility. Dedicated to education, innovation and service, the Center graduates 900 BS/BA, MS and Ph.D. students each year. The Florida International University (FIU) Board of Trustees recently approved a regulation that will make the university smoke- and tobacco-free, effective in January 2011. Smoking and the use of tobacco products will be prohibited on all university-owned properties, including Modesto A. Maidique (South) Campus, Biscayne Bay Campus, Engineering Campus, recreational facilities, residential facilities, and parking lots and garages. Tobacco use in vehicles that are on FIU-owned properties also will be prohibited. “This regulation is truly a reflection of our commitment to environment and health,” said Rosa Jones, vice president for Student Affairs. “The smoke and tobacco-free initiative will help us build a healthier university.” Jones noted that enforcement of the regulation should come after a six to eight-month period of giving support to students, faculty and staff, that will incorporate smoking cessation services and resources.
With the vote, FIU becomes the second public university in the state to implement a tobacco-free initiative. University of Florida enacted such a policy earlier this year. In approving the regulation, FIU joins a growing national trend. There are now at least 420 universities around the country with smoke-free campuses, including residential housing where it exists, according to the American Nonsmokers’ Rights Foundation.
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