A deal that could allow alcoholic beverages to be served on parts of Arkansas State University's Jonesboro campus was approved Friday by the board of trustees.
ASU said the board voted unanimously in favor of a decade-long lease agreement with nonprofit NEA Sports Club that will allow it to serve alcohol at some campus locations if it successfully obtains a permit from the Arkansas Alcoholic Beverage Control Board.
NEA Sports Club's revenue from alcohol sales would be dedicated to the Red Wolves Foundation, which raises funds for the school's sports teams.
“We’re taking steps to be responsive to requests of our patrons at special events while being cautious and responsible," System President Charles L. Welch said in a news release. "If NEA Sports Club is successful with its application, then an additional agreement will be executed regarding operations of the club at our facilities.”
Welch said ASU's policy on alcohol will be "more restrictive than most" and will include requiring additional security and extra training for employees.
If the application is approved, the deal would NEA Sports to serve alcohol at locations including Centennial Bank Stadium, the Convocation Center, Cooper Alumni Center and the A-State Pavilion.