Due to the rise of food allergies on campus, the Bone Student Center, Marketplace at Linkins, and Watterson Dining Commons now house EpiPens.
Vice President for Student Affairs Levester “LJ” Johnson recently recommended that Event Management, Dining, and Hospitality (EMDH) add the potentially life-saving devices to key locations, emphasizing the importance of safety and care for university students and guests.
“Student safety will always be our top priority at Illinois State. Providing EpiPens in the student center and dining centers is yet another way that we are intentionally taking measures to ensure the safety of our students, specifically those with food allergies,” said Johnson.
EpiPens were recently installed next to automated external defibrillator (AED) devices at Marketplace at Linkins and Watterson Dining Commons, as well as the first and second floors of the Bone Student Center.
“EMDH remains committed to improving student experiences to the very best of our ability. We fully understand the severity of allergic reactions, and timely administration of epinephrine is imperative,” explained Bill Legett, director of Event Management, Dining, and Hospitality (EMDH). As a result, staff members working at each location have been trained on how to use the device in an emergency.
Individuals with significant allergies are still encouraged to carry their own EpiPens with them at all times.
For additional information, contact EMDH at (309) 438- 8351 or EMDH@IllinoisState.edu.
