How Campus Bars Handle Underage Drinking and Over-Consumption

The CSU RamSkeller: A Legacy of Community, Responsibility, and Excellence

The CSU RamSkeller Pub and Grub is a beloved campus venue that has been serving students, faculty, staff, and visitors for over five decades. Nestled in the heart of the Lory Student Center, the RamSkeller is more than just a bar—it’s a cornerstone of campus life and tradition. As an all-ages venue, it caters to a diverse clientele, offering a welcoming atmosphere where patrons can enjoy freshly prepared food, non-alcoholic beverages, and responsibly served alcoholic drinks. By fostering a space for relaxation, connection, and camaraderie, the RamSkeller has become an integral part of the CSU community.

Despite its success, the RamSkeller’s 55-year history has not been without its challenges. Operating as an on-campus Pub and Grub comes with unique responsibilities and expectations. Over the years, the RamSkeller has faced its share of criticism, often being used as a scapegoat for broader societal issues, such as alcohol-related accidents, academic struggles, and substance misuse among students. Some have accused the venue of promoting drinking over academics—a claim far from the truth. These misconceptions overshadow the venue’s true mission: to provide a safe, inclusive, and responsible environment for the CSU community. Today, the RamSkeller continues to set the record straight by prioritizing safety and education, reaffirming its commitment to responsible service and community values.

The Foundation of Responsibility: Policies That Safeguard the RamSkeller

The RamSkeller’s operations are guided by strict university and state regulations that go beyond the typical requirements of an off-campus bar. One of the most important aspects of the RamSkeller’s role is its liquor license, which is not only essential for the venue itself but also supports other campus operations, including Catering, the Aspen Grille, and even the Fermentation Science major. This interconnected structure underscores the high stakes involved in maintaining compliance. A single misstep—such as failing to properly ID patrons or allowing underage drinking—could jeopardize the livelihoods of these programs, making vigilance a top priority.

One key policy that sets the RamSkeller apart is its unwavering commitment to ID verification. Unlike other establishments where older patrons may not be carded, the RamSkeller enforces a universal ID check for every alcohol purchase. This consistency eliminates ambiguity and ensures compliance with university regulations. It’s not just about following rules; it’s about creating a culture of responsibility that protects the entire campus community.

Another policy unique to the RamSkeller is its stance on tobacco products. As part of a federal building, the venue prohibits the open display or use of tobacco products. This isn’t an arbitrary rule—it’s a legal requirement that reflects the venue’s commitment to maintaining a safe and lawful environment. Additionally, the RamSkeller enforces a one-drink-per-purchase policy to promote moderation. Patrons aren’t allowed to have multiple drinks in front of them; instead, staff will hold additional beverages behind the bar until the first drink is finished. This approach ensures that everyone enjoys a safe and positive experience without the risk of overconsumption.

Perhaps the most critical rule is that no alcohol may leave the RamSkeller. Patrons attempting to take drinks outside risk severe consequences, including removal from campus, arrest, or even expulsion. This policy is in place to uphold university standards and maintain a safe campus environment. While these rules may seem strict, they are essential for safeguarding the RamSkeller’s operations and preserving its legacy as a responsible and welcoming space.

Empowering Students Through Comprehensive Training

At the heart of the RamSkeller’s commitment to safety is its dedication to training student staff. Twice each academic year—at the beginning or end of the fall and spring semesters—staff members participate in rigorous alcohol safety training, transitioning from TIPS to ServSafe Alcohol certification. These sessions provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to ensure the safety of patrons and the integrity of the venue.

The training begins with a history lesson, offering valuable context about the RamSkeller’s legacy and its occasional role as a scapegoat for alcohol-related incidents on or near campus. Students learn about the venue’s impact on the broader CSU ecosystem, including its vital role in supporting Catering, the Aspen Grille, and the Fermentation Science major. This historical perspective helps students understand the stakes involved in their roles and the importance of upholding strict policies.

Next, the training dives into university policies, connecting them to the RamSkeller’s mission and history. Staff members are also educated on Colorado’s dram shop law, which states that businesses and individuals can be held liable if they serve alcohol to someone who then causes harm to themselves or others. It is reiterated to our staff that negligence in this area could result in not only the university being held accountable but also personal liability for them as servers. For this reason, we emphasize that if someone enters the RamSkeller appearing inebriated, they must not be served. Instead, staff should focus on seeing if they can help the individual get a safe ride home. This approach not only ensures compliance with the law but also demonstrates our commitment to the well-being of our patrons and the community.

To reinforce these principles, staff members watch educational videos that depict real-world scenarios, such as identifying sober versus inebriated patrons and handling situations where service must be declined. These videos highlight both professional and unprofessional approaches to cutting someone off, helping staff develop the confidence to act responsibly. Personal stories from experienced staff members further reinforce these lessons, making them relatable and easier to apply.

Innovative Security Measures for a Safe Environment

The RamSkeller employs additional measures to prevent underage drinking and fraudulent activity. One such strategy is its unique stamp system, which features designs exclusive to the venue and rotates daily. Stamps are placed only on the left hand, allowing staff to quickly identify whether someone has attempted to copy or transfer a stamp onto someone else’s hand. This simple yet effective system complements the rigorous ID checks and IntelliCheck technology, ensuring a high level of accountability.

If staff members ever feel uncomfortable addressing a situation—whether it’s cutting someone off or confronting problematic behavior—they are encouraged to escalate the issue to upper management or call CSU PD. Mentioning CSU PD typically encourages patrons to comply with the rules, but having these additional layers of support reassures staff and helps maintain a safe environment.

Ultimately, no one is allowed to serve alcohol at the RamSkeller without completing TIPS or ServSafe Alcohol training. This certification is non-negotiable and ensures that every staff member is equipped to handle their responsibilities professionally and confidently. By investing in ongoing education, advanced verification tools, and innovative security measures, the RamSkeller sets a gold standard for campus venues.

Fostering a Culture of Responsibility

The RamSkeller’s dedication to responsible service also extends to its role as an educational resource. By teaching staff about alcohol safety and equipping them with real-world skills, the venue supports professional development for student employees. These experiences often serve as a foundation for careers in hospitality, management, or related fields, giving students an edge in the workforce. Beyond professional skills, the RamSkeller’s practices foster a culture of care, reminding everyone that their actions can have a broader impact.

The RamSkeller’s commitment to responsible service goes beyond the immediate confines of its venue; it contributes to fostering a safer and more inclusive campus culture. By consistently implementing rigorous training programs, adhering to strict policies, and utilizing advanced tools like IntelliCheck and ID reference guides, the RamSkeller sets an example for other campus establishments. These efforts not only protect patrons but also reinforce the university’s dedication to maintaining a safe and respectful environment for everyone.

One of the most significant impacts of the RamSkeller’s practices is its influence on student behavior and awareness. By modeling and enforcing responsible drinking habits, the RamSkeller helps to educate patrons about moderation and the importance of making safe choices. For many students, the RamSkeller is their first introduction to alcohol service in a professional setting. Experiencing a bar that prioritizes safety and compliance over profits can leave a lasting impression, shaping how they approach alcohol consumption in their personal lives.

The RamSkeller’s proactive measures also extend to the broader community. By preventing underage drinking, curbing over-consumption, and identifying potentially fraudulent IDs, the venue plays a crucial role in reducing risks associated with alcohol use, such as impaired driving, alcohol poisoning, and other related incidents. This commitment aligns with CSU’s overarching mission to promote student well-being and success, creating a ripple effect that benefits not only the campus but also the surrounding Fort Collins community.

Finally, the RamSkeller’s role in fostering responsibility contributes to a more connected and supportive campus culture. By holding patrons and staff to high standards, the venue emphasizes the importance of accountability and respect for others. This ethos extends beyond the RamSkeller’s walls, encouraging students to take these values into their everyday lives. As a result, the RamSkeller is not just a bar—it’s a place where safety, community, and education intersect to create a lasting positive impact.