The application for the award starts off with the phrase: "What a difference a year makes!" recognizing that twelve months ago the group had been formed out of a SADD chapter, viewed as too "preachy" for WPI. Three members went to a General Assembly for B ACCHUS chapters and were impressed with the success stories from other chapters in the country.
After returning to Worcester they felt ready to work to improve the way of life for everyone in the WPI community. According to a recent survey, 68% of underage students on campus drink regularly, yet 48% of WPI students would prefer not to have alcohol i nvolved in campus activities.
In a year, BACCHUS has more than tripled in size and had a tremendous impact, hosting Rock the Hall parties, the Around the Campus Party, Midnight Breakfast and Mocktails at many event such as Quadfest.
They also have an effective peer education program which is growing and "once it is fully developed, will enhance BACCHUS' image and ability to affect the campus and the social atmosphere."
State Representative, Kevin O'Sullivan, presented the organization with a certificate from the Massachusetts Legislature along with a comment about the fact that college drinking is perceived as a growing problem and that he is encouraged to see programs like BACCHUS working.