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NAPLES, Fla. – November 27, 2017 – On January 1, 2018, Hodges University will become one more university in the state of Florida to join the tobacco-free movement, providing a safe and healthy environment for its students, faculty, staff and campus visitors. Hodges’ Tobacco-Free Committee, which is comprised of faculty, staff and representatives from Tobacco Free Florida and Tobacco Free Collier, will continue to oversee the development and implementation of the campaign, which includes developing cessation resources and educational programs, marketing initiatives and an implementation plan. “Hodges University wants to promote a campus environment that instills a healthy lifestyle. A current smoker who quits can reduce future health care costs, serve as a positive influence on other family members and friends, and will benefit from the additional money saved,” said Carol Morrison, senior vice president of student and support services at Hodges University. Currently, Hodges University prohibits smoking or any other tobacco or “smokeless” cigarettes use in enclosed indoor spaces, and the university has designated areas for students, faculty, staff and visitors to smoke. According to a survey conducted in June 2016 of students, faculty, staff, alumni and university-affiliated organization members, 42 percent of students, 24 percent of employees and only 8 percent of university-affiliated members use some form of tobacco. Approved by the university’s board of trustees in June 2017, the policy, which will become effective January 1, 2018, states, “Hodges University is a tobacco-free campus. The use, promotion, distribution or sale of any form of tobacco is prohibited in all Hodges University facilities, on all properties owned or leased by the university, or in publications produced by the university, with no exception. This includes all indoor and outdoor areas and properties. This policy applies to all faculty, staff, students, vendors, lessees and visitors.” About Hodges University: Hodges University, a private, nonprofit institution of higher learning, was founded in Naples, Florida in 1990 as International College. In 2007, International College was renamed Hodges University in honor of its benefactors, Earl and Thelma Hodges, long-time residents of Naples and supporters of Hodges University. Hodges’ mission is to provide transformation learner-driven educational opportunities. To accomplish this mission Hodges’ schools offer a variety of academic programs online and on the Fort Myers and Naples campuses. Hodges University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate, bachelor's and master's degrees.