Interfraternity Council and UAPD Team Up for Distracted Driving Awareness

April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month and the Interfraternity Council at the University of Arkansas is kicking off a social media campaign on its Instagram account.

"I think it's really important for IFC to raise awareness on texting and driving. As a council we have the opportunity and resources to reach a large audience on campus and with that comes the responsibility to do so," said Bradley Saad, IFC president. 

IFC chose the week of April 22-26 to spread awareness on the issue. The week will kick off with a social media campaign pushed out from the IFC Instagram account (@uark_ifc) and each IFC chapter social media accounts. On Wednesday, April 24 the IFC Executive Board and Chapter Presidents will be tabling outside the Union Mall from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. During that time the men will be handing out information on how to turn mobile devices on do not disturb mode while driving, and providing thumb rings to wear as a reminder to not text and drive.

"The responsibility of keeping people in the community safe from distracted driving has traditionally been thought of as a "Police" responsibility. As technology and our population of busy people moves faster and faster, I would like to make this a "Community Effort," at least here on campus," said Allen Porter, corporal with the University of Arkansas Police Department.

IFC is thrilled to be teaming up with UAPD to help provide information on the consequences of getting caught texting and driving. Later in the evening on Wednesday, IFC along with UAPD will be hosting a presentation 6 p.m. in the Union's Verizon Ballroom to engage the U of A student community on the dangers of distracted driving.  

IFC's goal with the texting/distracted driving was not only to aim the information towards the U of A community, but also the Fayetteville community. IFC and UAPD will be doing a presentation to students of Fayetteville High School on Thursday, April 25, during the school day to talk about the dangers of distracted driving. 

"We're extremely excited to work with UAPD to provide a credible and impactful message to Arkansas students and Fayetteville High School students," Saad said. Thursday evening will conclude with IFC hosting an appreciation dinner for UAPD for all they do to help keep the community safe and partnering with Greek Life.

The week will wrap up with a social media push from individuals to share the information about distractive driving. Individuals who share the information from the IFC account and tag three friends in the post will be entered into a drawing for a free pair of Lululemon shorts.

"This is a great collaborative opportunity for our campus community. I am proud of fraternity men for stepping up to send a message to their peers, as well as partnering with local law enforcement to make a difference in the lives of others," said Parice S. Bowser, director of Greek Life.