AMS Participates in Red Ribbon Week

Last week, AMS celebrated Red Ribbon Week. This is a nationally recognized campaign committed to promoting a safe, healthy and drug-free lifestyle to students. Red Ribbon Week began in 1988 in honor of DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration) Agent Enrique "Kiki" Camarena, who lost his life after he uncovered a multi-billion dollar drug scam. People started to wear the red ribbons in honor of him. The campaign is designed to create awareness about dangers related to the use of tobacco, alcohol and other drugs. It also supports the decision to live a healthy, drug-free lifestyle.

Throughout the week, AMS had several activities to help raise awareness of the dangers of alcohol and drug use. Red ribbons were distributed to all students and staff at the beginning of the week. Students and staff were encouraged to wear these red ribbons all week to show their support. Those “caught” with their ribbon still on towards the end of the week received a prize. Monday was “Team Up Against Drugs Day”. Students and staff wore their favorite sports apparel. On Tuesday, everyone was encouraged to wear red. On Wednesday, everyone wore their sweats for “Staying Drug Free is NO Sweat, Wear Your Sweats Day”. On Thursday, the students dressed like faculty and faculty dressed like students for “Don’t Let Drugs Switch Up On You Day”. Students also showed their support on Friday for “Say Boo to Drugs Day” by wearing their Halloween costume. During lunch, students played a myth vs. fact game about drugs, alcohol and vaping. They also participated in a matching game about healthy coping skills that the faculty use when they are stressed.