The University of Texas at Arlington School of Social Work’s Studying Alcohol and Related Risks (STARR) Lab hosted its “Saddle Up Soda Bar” on March 3, offering students an interactive way to explore nonalcoholic drink options while learning strategies for safer decision-making in social settings.
Held in the School of Social Work Commons, the event invited students to create their own sodas and mocktails while engaging with practical, evidence-based harm reduction resources.
STARR Lab directors and professors at the UTA School of Social Work, Dr. Melissa Lewis and Dr. Dana Litt, spoke about the intent behind the event.
“The Saddle Up Soda Bar was inspired by STARR Lab’s focus on real-world substance use behaviors and practical, evidence-based harm reduction strategies,” said Litt. “Rather than focusing only on whether students drink, our work looks at how they navigate those decisions in social settings.”
A UTA School of Social Work student creates a nonalcoholic mixed drink. (Photo by Jaelon Jackson)
Organizers said the event was designed to create a welcoming, alcohol-free environment that helps normalize social connection without drinking.
“Creating a relaxed, social environment without alcohol helps normalize the idea that you can have fun and connect with others without drinking,” Lewis said. “Paired with harm reduction tips, it helps students feel more confident navigating real social situations.”
In addition to offering nonalcoholic drink recipes, the event provided students with practical tools for making safer choices in environments where alcohol may be present. Those strategies included pacing drinks, alternating with nonalcoholic options and planning ahead for safe transportation.
“Awareness alone often isn’t enough to change behavior,” Lewis said. “By offering nonalcoholic options alongside practical strategies, we move beyond ‘don’t do this’ messaging and provide realistic tools students can actually use.”
Beyond the interactive experience, organizers said they hope students left with a deeper understanding of how to approach social situations in ways that align with their personal goals and well-being.
“We hope students walk away with a better understanding of how to make informed choices that align with their goals and well-being, whether that’s recognizing high-risk situations, setting boundaries or exploring alternatives to drinking,” Litt said.
The event also reflected the School of Social Work’s broader commitment to student well-being and community-centered care.
“This event reflects the School of Social Work’s commitment to meeting students where they are and supporting their well-being in practical, inclusive ways, grounded in care, harm reduction and community,” Litt said.