2013–2014
Residential Living Handbook
Mission Statement
The mission of the Office of Residence Life is to serve a diverse population of residential students by supporting the missions of Elmhurst College and the Office of Student Affairs. The Office of Residence Life is dedicated to creating a meaningful, involving community that is conducive to developing humane values, selfsufficiency, and responsible citizenship through: 1) Maintaining safe, clean and comfortable environments for all students for the purpose of academic success, sleep, and the development of healthy relationships; 2) Enhancing the academic environment through co-curricular experiences that challenge and support students in the discussion of significant and meaningful ideas and issues; 3) Fostering a community that promotes understanding, sensitivity, respect, and appreciation of diversity as integral parts of the interaction between individuals and groups; 4) Empowering students to take initiative in all levels of decision making and in self-discipline through active participation in their residential community. 5) Providing professional and paraprofessional staff who are trained and committed to providing a positive co-curricular living-learning experience through the integration of student service, student learning, and the developmental needs of residents; 6) Developing and exercising sound fiscal and operational practices while keeping costs at a regionally competitive price level and generating adequate funds to meet current and future needs.
The values of Elmhurst College provide the foundation for all our academic, student and community programs and activities.
Core Values
Intellectual Excellence We value intellectual freedom, curiosity, and engagement; critical and creative inquiry; rigorous debate; and intellectual integrity in all endeavors. We are committed to the meaningful integration of liberal learning and professional preparation and to learning as a life-long pursuit. Community We are committed to cultural diversity, mutual respect among all persons, compassion for others, honest and open communication, and fairness and integrity in all that we do. Social Responsibility Mindful of humanity’s interdependence and the dignity of every individual, we are committed to social justice on local, national and global levels. We will act on our social responsibilities and call others to do the same. Stewardship We are committed stewards of the human, fiscal and physical resources entrusted to us. We are accountable to one another for the quality of our community, the strength of our finances, and the utility and beauty of our campus as a place of intellectual engagement and personal growth. We pursue innovations which respect the environment and foster sustainability in the management of our resources. Faith, Meaning and Values We value the development of the human spirit in its many forms and the exploration of life’s ultimate questions through dialogue and service. We value religious freedom and its expressions on campus. Grounded in our own commitments and traditions as well as those of the United Church of Christ, we cherish values that create lives of intellectual excellence, strong community, social responsibility and committed stewardship.
Table of Contents
3 4 5 6 8 9 12 17 19 32 38
Welcome Expectations Golden Rules for Living The Residence Life Community Residence Life Staff Directory Frequently Called Telephone Numbers Services Opportunities Residential Policies Residential Conduct Process Appendix Roommate Agreement Roommate Bill of Rights Student Room Repair/Replacement Charges Community Repair/Replacement Charges 1
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August 2013
Dear Resident:
Welcome to the Elmhurst College residential living community! We are pleased you have chosen to become a member, and look forward to assisting you in making your experience as educational and comfortable as possible. The residential life staff has three concrete goals for you as a member of the community in order to provide you with a holistic experience: 1) succeed in your academic curriculum and excel to your potential; 2) be a “responsible participant� in your living community and take an active role in shaping your residential environment, especially through peer discussion and interaction; and 3) develop healthy relationships with those around you by participating in activities and opportunities within the halls and College community. We believe that by engaging in the residential experience, you can truly enhance your academic success and experience a true liberal arts education within a residential setting. Again, welcome to the Elmhurst College residential community. We wish you the best for the upcoming year. The Residence Life staff is ready to assist you in making the most of your experience.
Sincerely,
Christine J. Smith Associate Dean of Students Director of Residence Life
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Expectations
Living on campus means you are residing in a community of adults with certain expectations conducive to a living-learning environment. Residents must be able to reside in an environment conducive to personal growth, sleep, study, privacy, and safety. The guidelines and policies here are designed to protect the rights of each resident and balance the interest of the community. We encourage residents to exercise their right to set adult expectations of each other: that they will be courteous and considerate; that they will respect individual differences and tastes; and that they will demonstrate respect for their community. Mature behavior and adult interaction are the foundation of these expectations. As a member of the on-campus community, you have freedom of choice in decision making and the responsibility that comes with that freedom. Hopefully, these decisions will be a result of critical thinking, close examination of valuable information, and careful thought. Your behavior and conduct should never hinder, or prevent, the College or residence life staff from accomplishing or making progress toward established educational goals. Therefore, residents of Elmhurst College and their guests and visitors are expected to abide by the College Code of Conduct and policies established by the Office of Residence Life. Like any community, residential facilities have certain policies governing the care of the facilities, safety, and protection of rights of all. The intent of these policies is to promote optimal residential community living, and is meant to be educational and not punitive or controlling. Living in a college residential facility is a privilege offered to students and carries with it responsibilities for fulfilling the terms and conditions of the license. This guide is part of your License Agreement. By signing a license, you have agreed to abide by the
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stipulations governing the residential community. Our expectation is that you will comply with the stipulations explained to you and with those in the E-Book: The Student Handbook and this handbook. It is expected that residents will comply with these policies. The resident(s) assigned to the space will be held responsible for all activities occurring in his or her space regardless of his or her presence. Any questions that you have about your license agreement should be directed to an Assistant Director, Residence Life Coordinator or the Office of Residence Life.
Golden Rules for Living by Miriam Hamilton Keare
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If you open it, close it. If you turn it on, turn it off. If you unlock it, lock it up. If you break it, admit it. If you can’t fix it, call in someone who can. If you borrow it, return it. If you value it, take care of it. If you make a mess, clean it up. If you move it, put it back. If it belongs to someone else, get permission to use it. If you don’t know how to operate it, leave it alone. If it’s none of your business, don’t ask questions.
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The Residence Life Community
An Involved Community
As an office committed to a student-centered approach, we expect residents to become active participants in shaping their community, experiences, and skills, thus preparing them for success following graduation from Elmhurst College. Involvement and leadership opportunities include participation in hall councils, Residence Hall Peer Review Board, the Residence Hall Association, and many more! Community members actively organize exciting social events and informative educational programs with their resident adviser. These involvement opportunities often lead to leadership positions within the hall or College.
A Learning Community
Elmhurst College is committed to the total educational experience of its students, which encompasses the learning that takes place outside of the formal classroom setting. The residential community is an integral component of this process by providing challenging yet supportive environments for the students who live on campus. In support of the College’s efforts to foster a community of learners, the Office of Residence Life and its staff members design and implement programs and policies that promote personal, cultural, and social growth while supporting the pursuit of academic goals. The academic climate and search for excellence in higher education make the right to study and rest fundamental to living in your community. Opportunities for recreation and interaction are numerous, but remember that study and rest always take priority. Given the educational mission of the College, we see intercultural education as a necessary and integral component of the curriculum. We are dedicated to infusing an intercultural agenda into every aspect of the residence life program: services and programs that are provided, policies and procedures that are in place, staffing practices, and our daily interactions with members of the College community. Inherent in this dedication are the ideals of fairness and equity. Consequently, we do not discriminate against any member of the community.
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The Residence Life Community Commitment to Interculturalism
The residential students and staff at Elmhurst College dedicate themselves to fostering communities in which intellectual and social environments encourage multiple perspectives, the open exchange of ideas, and mutual respect. Fear or ignorance is not an excuse, rationale, or motivation for acts of intolerance related to ability, sexual orientation, national origin, race, religion, gender identity, social status, physical appearance, political affiliation, and veteran’s status. As the residence life community at Elmhurst College, we are committed to our core values of Intellectual Excellence, Community, Social Responsibility, Stewardship, and Faith, Meaning, and Values. In honoring these core values we commit to the following: • We will learn more about our personal heritage while we look to understand and celebrate others’ commonalities and differences. • We recognize that education is our most powerful tool and that we must vigorously pursue knowledge related to identities outside of our own. • We will not tolerate any form of bigotry, harassment, intimidation, hate, threat, or abuse, whether verbal or written, physical or psychological, direct or implied. Any attempt, intentional or not, to oppress any individual or group is oppressive to everyone in the community. By living in the residential communities at Elmhurst College, we commit to taking initiative and responsibility for our own learning and awareness in order to maintain an environment where innovation, individuality, trust, and civility are maintained.
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Residence Life Staff Directory 2013-2014
name
room number
phone extension
Christine Smith Associate Dean of Students Director of Residence Life
3150
Jillian Denny Assistant Director of Administration and Assignments
3281
Sharon Barsotti Office Coordinator
3150
Janet Carroll Conduct Coordinator and Technology Support Specialist
3261
Cureton Hall Residence Life Coordinator Intercultural Initiatives Coordinator 1st Floor R.A. 2nd Floor South R.A. 2nd Floor North R.A. 3rd Floor South R.A. 3rd Floor North R.A.
114 214 251 314 351
3305
2094 2814 2224 2215 2332
name
room number
Schick Hall Residence Life Coordinator Staff Training and Development Coordinator Lower Level R.A. 1st Floor West R.A. 1st Floor East R.A. 2nd Floor West R.A. 2nd Floor East R.A. 3rd Floor West R.A. 3rd Floor East R.A.
012 112 125 212 224 312 321
Stanger Hall Residence Life Coordinator Programming Initiatives Coordinator
phone extension 3303
2413 2230 2686 2278 2001 2310 2287
3304
208 221 308 321 408 421
2380 2437 2199 2403 2526 2602
West Hall Assistant Director of Programming and Education
3364
120A 140B 220A 220B 320A 340B
2880 2881 2883 2885 2886 2888
2nd Floor East R.A. 2nd Floor West R.A. 3rd Floor East R.A. 3rd Floor West R.A. 4th Floor East R.A. 4th Floor West R.A.
Dinkmeyer Hall Residence Life Coordinator Student Staff Selection Coordinator
3301
014 114 203 212 302
2139 2297 2467 2338 2027
1st Floor North R.A. 1st Floor South R.A. 2nd Floor South R.A. 2nd Floor North R.A. 3rd Floor South R.A. 3rd Floor North R.A.
Niebuhr Hall Residence Life Coordinator Leadership Initiatives Coordinator
3302
111 201 216 301 316
2159 2146 2161 2112 2052
Elm Park and Prospect Apartments, Elmhurst Terrace Apartments and College Houses Assistant Director of Staffing 3271 and Operations
Lower Level R.A. 1st Floor R.A. 2nd Floor East R.A. 2nd Floor West R.A. 3rd Floor R.A.
1st Floor R.A. 2nd Floor West R.A. 2nd Floor East R.A. 3rd Floor West R.A. 3rd Floor East R.A.
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Apartment R.A. Apartment R.A. Apartment R.A. Apartment R.A. Apartment R.A. Apartment R.A.
ET 315C ET 323E ET 493F ET 503H ElmPark 8 Prospect 3
8861 8862 8863 8864 8865 8866
Frequently Called Telephone Numbers
name
phone extension
Academic Advising
3450
Academic Affairs
3051
Admission Office
3405
Art Department
3554
Athletic Office
3140
Biology Department
3798
Bookstore (Book Cellar)
3185
Campus Security
3000
Center for Business and Economics
3099
Center for Professional Excellence (CPE)
3460
Intercultural Studies Program
3341
International Faculty Development
3341
International Education and Off-campus Programs
3604
International Student Services
3296
Chaplain
3025
Chemistry Department
3203
Communication Arts and Sciences Department
3007
Communications & Public Affairs
3390
Dining Service
3183
Dining Hotline (Daily Menu)
3663 (FOOD)
Education Department
3545
Elms (Yearbook)
3307
English Department
6483
Events on Campus (Major Events)
6100
Financial Aid
3076
Fitness Center, Tyrrell
3411
Frick Center Information Desk
3500
Geography and Geosciences Department
3597
Help Desk
3767
History and Political Science Department
3073
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name
phone extension
Intercultural Student Affairs
3207
Instructional Media
3253
Kinesiology Department
3139
Leader (Newspaper)
3320
Learning Center
3155
Math
5376
Reading
3753
Library, A.C. Buehler (Circulation)
3159
Mail Services/Receiving
3194
Math and Computer Science
3578
Mill Theatre
3005
Music Department
3515
Niebuhr Center for Faith and Action
3492
Nursing Education, Deicke Center for
3345
Patterson Center for Health Professions (PCHP)
5393
Philosophy Department
3582
Physics Department
3293
Political Science Department
3073
President of the College
3100
Print Services
3126
Psychology Department
3589
Public Affairs
3390
Registration and Records
3250
Religious Studies Department
3557
Residence Life
3150
Sociology and Criminal Justice Department
3712
Speech-Language-Hearing Clinic
3555
Sports Information
3380
Student Accounts
3014 or 3015
Student Activities
3058
Student Affairs
3187
Student Government Association (SGA)
6496
Telecommunications Hotline (Phone, cable, and data problems)
5678 (LOST)
Union Board
3230
Urban Studies Program
3712
Wellness Center
3565
Counseling Services Student Health Service World Languages, Literatures & Cultures
3103
Department WRSE-FM (Radio)
10
3220 or 4093
Services
Cable Television
The residence halls, and Prospect and Elm Park apartments are equipped to accommodate cable television. Basic cable is available. Residents will not receive an additional bill as this is part of your room and board fees. We strongly encourage the use of cableready televisions. Connector cables are not supplied and may be purchased at the campus bookstore or a store of your choice. Should a resident have difficulty with service, please call “L-O-S-T” at extension 5678. Residents in College-owned houses and Elmhurst Terrace Aparments are free to make their own arrangement with a service provider of their choice. Residents in houses and at Elmhurst Terrace are not assessed a resident technology fee.
Computer/Data Hookup
A data jack is provided for each student in a residence hall room and is located next to the telephone and cable outlet. Resident students may gain access via the data jack by having a Network Interface Card (NIC) in his or her computer. The residence halls and Prospect and Elm Park apartments offer wireless Internet access. The College does not supply the necessary computer equipment nor does the College install NICs. Technology account and password information may be obtained through Academic Technology Services located in Daniels Hall. Residents in College-owned houses and Elmhurst Terrace Apartments are free to make their own arrangements with a service provider of their choice.
Dining Service
Chartwells operates the dining service to provide students, faculty, and staff cafeteria meals and special catering. It is located in the Frick Center and is a great place to meet friends for a meal or snack and to socialize. Please assist the dining service staff with maintaining a clean dining environment by busing your trays and cleaning up after yourself. This will ensure a clean and positive dining atmosphere for everyone, and keep your meal plan rates down. Should you wish to hear the day’s menu, please call “F-O-O-D” at extension 3663. Plant-bond (environmentally friendly) take-out containers are also available should you wish to purchase food “to go.” Should you have special dietary needs or need more information about dining services, call the Director of Dining Service, at extension 3183.
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Environmental Tours, Safety and Security Checks
Inspections for maintenance, fire safety, and security will be made throughout the school year. These will be conducted during break periods, before closing, and/or following an announcement from the Office of Residence Life. The Elmhurst Fire Department makes fire safety inspections monthly without notice and immediately following a fire alarm.
Heating/Cooling
Keeping your windows closed and vents uncluttered will help keep your room warmer (or cooler when the air conditioning is on). Before you report a problem with your room heating system, make sure you have not overlooked an open window or blockage of air circulation through the radiator. To better regulate the temperature, please do not block vents with furniture. If you wish to make your environment more personalized, please consider the use of humidifiers, dehumidifiers, or fans. Space heaters are strictly prohibited.
Insurance
Elmhurst College is not responsible for personal possessions in residential spaces. You are strongly encouraged to obtain renter’s insurance, either through your parents’ policy or through a commercial carrier. You may contact the Office of Residence Life for further information.
Jaypass (Student ID) Residence Hall Meal Plan
This card is credited for residence hall students at the beginning of the Fall, January, and Spring terms for the full amount of the meal plan. Details are in the Residence Living and Meal Plan License, which outlines this program. Changes to your plan should be done on MyHousing in the Office of Residence Life as outlined in the License.
Kitchenettes
Each residence hall offers some type of cooking facility, from microwave ovens to full kitchenettes. It is the responsibility of every resident to keep these facilities clean. Failure to do so will result in custodial charges and possibly these facilities being locked or removed.
Laundry Facilities
For your convenience, each hall and apartment complex has laundry rooms equipped with card swipe and/or coin-operated washers and dryers. Residence hall students may set up a laundry account on their Jaypass in the Office of Student Accounts. You can obtain quarters from the Frick Center Information Desk. The washers and dryers are provided by an outside vendor to the College. In the event of equipment malfunction, please inform the hall staff, or call the number on the machine to report maintenance repairs. The College is not responsible for loss of or damage to personal property. Please do not leave your laundry unattended. Refunds may be obtained by completing a refund form available through the staff.
Learning Communities
The First-Year Residential Experience (FYRE) Community is a living and learning environment that is dedicated to the personal and academic growth and development of first-year students. The program is developed around Elmhurst College’s five Core Values and offers students additional engagement opportunities with faculty and residence life staff, including leadership workshops, service learning, teambuilding activities, and off-campus social events.
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The First-Year Honors Program Community will consist of coed first-year students living and learning together in a residence hall. This learning community will offer a unique experience for distinguished first-year students in the Honors Program committed to the pursuit of academic excellence. This community will have interaction with faculty and staff members in the residence hall and have programs tailored to Honors Program students. The community will foster leadership skills and promote service-learning and civic engagement opportunities. The Sophomore Achievement, Involvement, and Leadership Community (S.A.I.L) is designed to meet the needs of second-year students. Sophomores will engage with their peers, faculty, and staff members about academic excellence, campus involvement and leadership, and career exploration in this coed community. S.A.I.L will allow students to enhance and gain key life skills to help navigate toward future goals. The Green Living Community will include 26 residents who will live in an upper division hall. This community will allow students to foster their passion in the area of sustainability and share their knowledge with the West Hall and Elmhurst College community. The Green Living community will paticipate in composting, recycling efforts, work with faculty and lead service projects in the area of sustainability.
Lounges
Each hall has lounge areas available for your use. These lounges are generally designated as TV, recreation, and relaxation areas. They can also be used as places to study. The furniture and fixtures in these areas cannot be taken out of the room. Lounges may be reserved for programs or special events by student groups through the respective building Assistant Director or Residence Life Coordinator.
Mail Service
Your personal mailbox is located in the Bluejays’ Roost of the Frick Center. Your friends and relatives should address letters or packages to you as follows: Your Name Campus Mailbox Number Elmhurst College 190 Prospect Avenue Elmhurst, IL 60126-3296 Stamped U.S. mail may be dropped at the mailroom in the Frick Center. A stamp machine is available in the Frick Center. Campus mail will be delivered free of charge by the College mail service. A drop box is located at the mailroom.
Maintenance/Repairs
Report any room repair needs in detail to your RA. He or she will request the appropriate carpentry or electrical work. Repairs necessitated by normal wear and tear are paid for by room costs. If repairs are needed beyond this, the student will be billed. Please do not attempt to make the repairs yourself.
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College maintenance personnel will only enter your room when: • You or a College official has requested maintenance service; • There is an apparent emergency; or • Entry has been previously announced. Meal Plans
Students who live in a residence hall are required to participate in a College meal plan. They can choose from three different meal plans. Any unused portion of the meal plan will be forfeited at the close of each term. House and apartment residents may purchase an optional Apartment Meal Plan. This Plan is for the full academic year, and it must be used up by the end of the academic year or any unused portion of it will be forfeited at the close of the Spring Term. All residents may add points to their meal plan in the Office of Student Accounts. Please refer to the License Agreement or go online to MyHousing for meal plan change deadlines or cost.
Pest Control
You can help keep unwanted pests such as roaches and ants out of your room by following some common-sense tips: • Empty your trash can on a daily basis. Do not discard uncovered food and let it sit for days. This invites infestation. • Keep the floor free of crumbs and food. • Keep food sealed. • Keep kitchenette areas clean and free of dirty dishes. Common areas are sprayed for bugs once a month. Individual rooms are sprayed as needed through resident work-order requests. To request pest control, file a work order with the residence life staff. Elmhurst Terrace residents should file work orders with the management office.
Recycling
Recycling is expected in designated and college-approved receptacles. Bins are in each residence hall room and apartment. Houses have mandatory recycling containers for curbside pick-up.
Resident Adviser Duty
In the residence halls, a Resident Adviser is on duty nightly from 6:00 p.m. until 7:00 a.m. to assist you. The name of the staff member on duty is posted in each hall. In the apartments and houses, an Apartment Resident Adviser is on call nightly from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. to assist you. Information on contacting the staff member was provided at your check-in. On rare occasions, such as intersessions and break periods when an RA may not be on duty, please contact Campus Security, ext. 3000, for emergencies.
Security
Security is the sum of the cooperation of students, Residence Life staff, and Campus Security officers. Interior and exterior stairwell doors are locked at all times. Residence hall students have access cards or keys to enter their assigned hall. Contact the Residence Life staff immediately if you become aware of: • Unlocked or propped doors, • Unescorted strangers, • Suspicious activity or potential problems. 15
Be alert, avoid dangerous or unlighted areas, and be conscious of what is going on around you. Specifically, do not let people in the building who are not your guests. Remember you are responsible for the behavior of your guests, including anyone you let into the building. You must share the responsibility for safety in your campus community: • Lending out your keys and/or access card is not only a violation of policy but also jeopardizes the security of the entire community. • Keep your doors locked when you are out or asleep. • You, not the College, are responsible for your possessions. Check with your parent(s) or guardian(s) to see if your belongings are covered by their insurance policy. If not, you may be able to be added or purchase secondary renter’s insurance from a commercial vendor. If a theft does occur, report it immediately to hall staff and Campus Security. Special Housing Options
Gender Inclusive Housing Community: Recognizing the diverse needs of students, assignment options are available for transgender students, students who do not wish to be assigned any gender, students who feel uncomfortable rooming with members of the same sex, and/or students who feel they would be more comfortable with a roommate of a different gender. Quiet Community: Students will live in a unique environment where each member of the community agrees to support an atmosphere that is conducive to sleep and study at all times during the day and night. Quiet housing options are located in West Hall (3rd floor), Cureton (2nd floor) and Schick (3rd floor west). During the room sign-up process, you will be able to indicate an interest in this community, and will be required to sign a lifestyle option agreement.
Storage
Due to lack of available space, the Office of Residence Life is not able to provide storage.
Telephone
Each student in the residence halls has a phone that will allow local calls and campus calls. Maintenance concerns should be directed to the RA.
Vacuums
Vacuums are available in the residence halls through your RA by presenting your Jaypass (student ID). The best time to borrow the vacuum is when the RA is on duty.
Voice Mail
Each student room telephone extension offers voice mail. Materials will be offered to teach you how to operate the system. Please see your Resident Adviser for details. Service needs should be reported to “L-O-S-T” at extension 5678. Abuse of the voice mail system may result in a loss of service, fines, and conduct action.
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Wellness Center
Counseling Services In the event of a personal or psychological concern, contact Counseling Services to make an appointment. It is located on the lower level of Niebuhr Hall (east end) and is open Monday through Friday. The phone extension is 3565. For additional information on Counseling Services and specific office hours, see the E-Book. For serious or life-threatening emergencies, dial 9-911 from any campus phone. Emergencies In the event of any serious or life-threatening emergencies, dial 9911 from any campus phone. In addition to the appropriate City of Elmhurst service, Campus Security and Office of Residence Life staff will respond as necessary and appropriate. Student Health Service In the event of a health concern, contact the Student Health Service to make an appointment. It is located on the lower level of Niebuhr Hall (east end) and is open Monday through Friday. The phone extension is 3565. For additional information on the Student Health Service, see the E-Book. For serious or life-threatening emergencies, dial 9-911 from any campus phone. Hospital If a student needs to go to Elmhurst Memorial Hospital and 1) is not so ill as to warrant an ambulance or 2) does not have a friend to drive him or her, a medi-car is available through Campus Security for a small fee. The fee may be charged to the student account. Students should take any insurance information or card to the hospital.
Opportunities
Conference Housing Staff
During the summer, the Office of Residence Life is responsible for the operations of the conference housing program. This program offers students the opportunity to gain valuable customer service skills and experience with a wide variety of external organizations contracting to use Elmhurst College facilities. Conference housing staff live on campus during their specified period of employment. For further information, contact the Office of Residence Life.
Hall Councils
Hall councils are residence hall organizations that aid in the development of students and the communities in which they live. The councils provide ways for students to gain leadership and programming skills. Being involved in hall council will also enhance your interpersonal skills by teaching you how to deal with people while completing a task efficiently. Examples of programs held in the halls are scavenger hunts, theme dances, building Olympics, band showcases, community service projects, and barbecues. Meetings are held in each hall on a regular basis as determined by the respective hall council. During these meetings, new ideas, programs, and policy recommendations are discussed. Any resident can be a member of a hall council — just see your hall staff for details. 17
Residence Hall Association
The Residence Hall Association (RHA) is an organization composed of residents from all five residence halls. RHA members participate in fund-raising efforts, make recommendations regarding residence life policy, and plan programs for the entire residence community.
Residence Hall Peer Review Board
Student representatives, including alternates, from each residence hall are selected as members of the board. The Residence Hall Peer Review Board (RHPRB) is responsible for hearing conduct cases involving the residence halls. This is a great opportunity to help establish community expectations and standards from a peer point of view.
Residence Life Job Fair
Each fall, the Office of Residence Life hosts a Job Fair highlighting all available leadership positions and student employment opportunities within the department. Staff will be available to discuss ways to become involved with Hall Councils, Residence Hall Association, Residence Hall Peer Review Board as well as to share information on the hiring processes for positions as a Resident Adviser, Summer Resident Adviser, Conference Housing Staff, or an Office Assistant. For more information, contact the Assistant Director for Staffing and Operations.
Resident Adviser/ Academic Year
This is an educational leadership position within the residential community. As a Resident Adviser and role model, you will have the opportunity to plan and implement many social and educational programs, develop your area community, work with a staff group, develop leadership skills, promote a well-balanced and healthy environment in the residential community, and be an adviser for other members in the community. As a Resident Adviser, you are a member of the student staff of the Office of Residence Life. You will have the opportunity to represent the office during many College functions including orientation, recruitment of prospective students, and many more sponsored events. Selection is on-going throughout the year with a formal process occurring in the spring to fill positions for the following academic year. If you are interested, contact the Office of Residence Life.
Resident Adviser/Summer
The Summer Resident Adviser assists with the opening and closing of the summer housing community in the apartments, as well as creates social and educational programs and other opportunities for summer residents. The Summer Resident Adviser is responsible for the administration and distribution of college and community-related events and notifications, and also for upholding and enforcing college and residence life policies and procedures.The Summer Resident Adviser assists in the Office of Residence Life, providing support for administration.
Student Employment
The Office of Residence Life has various employment opportunities for students eligible for College work-study and non-College work-study students. If you are interested, check with the Office of Residence Life or Financial Aid Office. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis in the fall semester to be considered for any opening positions during that academic year. Selection for the next academic year occur in the previous spring semester.
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Residential Policies
It is the student’s responsibility to intervene or notify staff of behavior that is not consistent with College expectations, including reporting violation of College policy to the appropriate authorities.
Abandonment
Failure to claim or remove all belongings will result in the items being considered abandoned property. One attempt will be made to locate the owner of the items and they will be subsequently stored for no longer than two weeks. The owner of such property will be charged a minimum fine of $75 for removal of items.
Air Conditioners
Window units and free standing air conditioners are not to be used in rooms under any circumstances. The only exceptions granted will be those of a medical nature and will be approved at the discretion of the Director of Residence Life.
Alcohol
Students and guests who are not of legal drinking age (21 years) are not permitted to possess or consume alcohol in the residential facilities. No alcoholic beverages may be sold or furnished to persons under the age of 21. Those students and guests who are of legal drinking age may bring alcoholic beverages into the residential facilities, but only in covered, non-transparent packages. Students and guests who are of legal drinking age may consume alcohol only in the residential facilities of a legal-aged assigned resident with the door closed and not with underage persons, other than the assigned roommate(s), present. No alcohol whether in open or unopened containers is permitted in the lounges, hallways, or other public areas. Kegs, party balls, beer bongs, shot glasses and similar large containers or amounts of alcohol, including empty bottles/cans, are not permitted and will be confiscated. Drinking games, real or simulated, are not permitted. Abusive consumption of alcohol, including drinking games resulting in public intoxication, disorderly conduct or vandalism will result in disciplinary action. Should you be found in a room where this policy is being violated, you may be subject to disciplinary action.
Amplified and Other Instruments
Any amplified or musical instruments such as drums, guitars, or keyboards cannot be played in the residential facilities.
Appliances and Amenities
Computers, radios, stereos, and television sets are allowed, provided they do not use an outside antenna. Televisions may not be attached to the walls. Provided they are used safely, the following are permitted: irons, hair dryers, fans, electric razors, coffee pots (four
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cups or less), hot pots, and air popcorn poppers (provided that they have no exposed heating coils and are U.L. [Underwriters Laboratories] approved). Refrigerators and small appliances are allowed in student rooms with the following conditions; They must not draw more than 1.5 amps. This information is usually found on a small tag secured to the back or inside of the unit. There may not be more than one refrigerator per resident per room. In light of the seriousness of electrical and fire safety, the following items are not permitted in the residence halls. Any item that has an exposed heating coil as well as: Air conditioners Live Christmas trees Ceiling fans
Microwaves (residence halls)
Grills (indoor and outdoor)
Space heaters
Halogen lamps
Toasters & toaster ovens
Hot plates
Waterbeds
You are encouraged to plug your appliances into an outlet strip with a breaker that is U.L.–approved. Illegal cooking appliances will be confiscated until they can be removed from the campus. The College is not responsible for damage to appliances due to power outages or surges. We recommend the purchase of a surge protector for computer and stereo equipment. Bathrooms
Only individuals of the same gender are allowed to use the bathroom facilities designated for that gender. Public bathrooms are available on the first floor of every building for guests. See your hall staff for gender inclusive bathroom facilities.
Bicycles
Bicycles are to be stored outside and secured to the provided bicycle rack. Residents are responsible for providing appropriate security/lock mechanisms. Residents at Elmhurst Terrace Apartments are to store bicycles in designated laundry rooms and secured to the provided bicycle rack.
Break Period Housing
This is the period during which classes are not in session or final exams have concluded. This may or may not coincide with the College being open or closed for official College holidays. This usually includes, but is not limited to, Thanksgiving, Winter Break, Spring Break, and transition to or from summer housing. Residence halls will be closed during College breaks. Students anticipating break housing needs (Thanksgiving, Winter and Spring Breaks) are strongly encouraged to apply for apartments and houses. This will minimize the need to temporarily relocate if approved to stay. Residence hall students who have a legitimate need to be housed during break periods (i.e., international students, out-of-area students, student athletes engaged in post season or tournament play, and student athletes outside commutable distance for practices) may apply for break period housing through residence life. Residence hall students approved to stay should anticipate temporary assignments in alternative housing arrangements for the break period. Break period housing will only be approved for those students who can demonstrate a legitimate need to stay as the residence halls will be closed. Guests are not permitted during the break period. Campus/ residence life services are limited or closed during this time, 20
including dining service, custodial, maintenance, etc. Failure to abide by any established College or Residence Life guidelines may result in loss of the privilege to stay during current and/or future break periods. Candles and Open Flames
For fire safety purposes and consideration for the community, burning candles or incense is prohibited. Students are prohibited from using open flames. Candles are not permitted under any circumstances.
Ceilings
Items may not be secured to ceilings due to the potential fire hazard. This includes the hanging of flags, posters, paper light covers, stickers, holiday lights, or any item affixed to the ceiling. Any questions should be directed to a member of the hall staff.
Check Out
You will need to properly check out of your space for an approved assignment change, summer, mid-year or graduation. In order to avoid any surprises we encourage you to plan ahead. Here are some things you should remember. • Checkouts must occur within 24 hours of your last final exam or by the closing date and time, whichever comes first. • Set up your appointment with your Resident Adviser a minimum of 24 hours in advance of the time you wish to depart. • Plan well in advance on how you will get your belongings moved out. • Your room, apartment, or house must be clean when you check out. • You must be physically present at the time of your checkout and all of your belongings must be out of your room (not in the hallway). Failure to be present at the checkout or to sign up 24 hours in advance, or not following checkout procedures, will result in a $25 improper checkout fee. • Be prepared to turn in all original keys and an access card (residence halls) issued upon check out. Failure to do so will result in appropriate replacement and lock change costs being assessed. Copies of keys will not be accepted. • The condition of your room and furniture will be assessed and documented on your Room, Apartment, or House Condition Report (RCR, ACR, or HCR) that you sign upon check in. • All facilities are subject to review by the area supervisor for final assessment. • See your Residence Life staff for express check-out availability.
Claiming Your Space/License Termination
All residents must check into their respective assignment by 4 p.m. on the first day of classes. Those who fail to do so will be considered no-shows, and their licenses may be terminated with penalty if they are not registered for classes, unless prior notice is given as established in the license agreement with the Office of Residence Life.
Common Area Charges and Vandalism
Public areas, such as hallways, lounges, stairwells, laundry rooms, elevators, and washrooms, are the responsibility of the residents. If your floor or building incurs damages, thefts of 21
community property, or excessive litter in your hallway, your community will be held responsible. Residents will be held responsible, as individuals and as a community, for unacceptable damage or excessive mess. Common area charges will be posted weekly and billed at the end of each term or when a student checks out of his or her space. The best way to combat vandalism is to hold your peers and community members accountable for their actions. Anyone may call a floor meeting to address this issue with the other members of the community. Charges associated with vandalism, common area cleanliness, or excessive and unnecessary messes are punitive and take away from the attention to regular maintenance and custodial operations for the community. Common and Public Areas
Except in rare instances deemed necessary by the Office of Residence Life, public areas must remain open to residents. Sleeping in public areas and locking doors to these public areas are not permitted. Please take advantage of the kitchenette or microwave provided by the College in your lounge. Students who use these facilities are responsible for their upkeep. Please be aware of your responsibilities and clean up after your use. Failure to maintain cleanliness of the cooking area will result in common area charges to the community.
Damage/Vandalism
When damage, vandalism or theft are attributable to specific individuals, they are subject to the conduct process for their behavior. Any monetary damage is not charged to Common Area Charges but is the responsibility of the individual(s).
Drugs and Paraphernalia
The unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs or drugrelated paraphernalia, such as pipes, bongs, hookahs, grinders, etc., is prohibited on College premises or as part of any College activities. Anyone found in violation of this policy or in a room where this policy is being violated is subject to disciplinary action up to and including license termination, suspension and/or dismissal from the College, and referral to other appropriate authorities. The confirmed aroma of marijuana will be considered a violation of the drug policy.
Elevator Emergencies
All elevators are equipped with emergency call buttons and manual alarms. Misuse of alarm bells or false alarms is not permitted. If you find yourself trapped in an elevator, please notify emergency staff immediately and share any relevant information about your medical condition or injuries.
Emergencies
In the event of any serious or life-threatening emergencies, dial 9911 from any campus phone. In addition to the appropriate City of Elmhurst service, Campus Security and Office of Residence Life staff will respond as necessary and appropriate.
Failure to Comply with Staff
Staff includes, as well as other officially designated College officials, all student and professional staff of the Office of Residence Life. Any student who fails to present an Elmhurst College I.D. (Jaypass), fails to comply with a reasonable request of a staff member acting in performance of his or her duties, or withholds information when reasonably requested is subject to disciplinary action. The resident host is responsible for the action of his or her guest(s) and/or visitor(s) at all times. See Guest and Escort policy. 22
False Information
Any student who provides incomplete or false information when reasonably requested is subject to disciplinary action. The resident host is responsible for the action of his or her guest(s) and/or visitor(s) at all times. See Guest and Escort policy.
Finals Week
Residents are to check out within 24 hours after their last examination or by the official closing date, whichever comes first. Residents may be asked to leave earlier if they fail to maintain behavior that is conducive to finals week, and is consistent with College policy. 23-Hour Intensive Study Hours (23 hours per day) go into effect at 7 p.m. on the Friday prior to the week of finals and run through Saturday after finals week until noon. A daily relief hour, 9-10 p.m., coincides with the 23-hour Intensive Study Hours. 23-Hour Intensive Study Hours prohibit sustained or intermittent noise that can be heard outside a resident’s room in any direction. Relief Hour prohibits noise that can be heard outside the building or one door down in the halls or stairways. Residents engaging in behavior that is not conducive to successful preparation for final exams, including but not limited to committing serious or repeated violations of the finals week policy (including noise), during this week may be required to vacate any and all buildings as soon as possible and/or not later than the end of the working day or equivalent. These actions may be taken administratively at the recommendation of the residence life staff with the approval of the Director of Residence Life. Such action will be taken administratively, without a conduct meeting, and may be taken regardless of whether or not the individual has completed final examinations.
Fire Evacuation
Any time the alarm sounds all students and guests are expected to evacuate. Following an alarm, the hall staff will key into all rooms to verify proper evacuation. Occupants may only re-enter upon clearance from College officials. In the event of fire situations, follow these procedures to ensure your own safety: If you see or smell smoke: • Pull the nearest fire alarm pull station. • Exit by the nearest stairwell or door. If • • • •
you are in your room when the alarm sounds: Put on your shoes; take a towel and grab a coat, if necessary. Take your keys, Jaypass, and lock your door. Evacuate the building by the nearest emergency exit or stairwell. Use fire extinguisher only if necessary to clear an exit for yourself.
If • • •
you are trapped in your room by fire or smoke: Keep your door closed. Seal the crack around your door with clothes, tape, or sheets. Open your window slightly; if there is no smoke outside, open the window at the top to vent smoke or at the bottom to let fresh air in. Tie a wet cloth over your nose and mouth to aid breathing. Stay low where air is fresher. Signal rescue personnel by waving a sheet, brightly colored clothing or a light from the window. Do not jump.
• • • •
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When re-entering a building: • Cooperate with staff members, College officials, and emergency personnel. • Present your Jaypass when requested. Note: guests without proper identification will be denied re-entrance. Fire Safety/Room Capacity
All fire equipment, fire extinguishers, fire hoses, pull stations, and heat and smoke detectors are there for your safety. Tampering with any fire equipment will result in disciplinary action and possible termination of the offender’s license agreement and referral to appropriate authorities, including pressing criminal charges. Fire doors leading onto hallways are also there for your safety. Propping of these doors is not permitted. For safety purposes, no more than three times the normal occupancy of an assigned residential facility (room lounge, etc.) is permitted at any time. Do not overload electrical outlets. The College recommends only one appliance per outlet, especially in the older historical buildings; students may not use more than two electrical appliances per outlet. Only UL-approved electrical devices, extension cords, and power strips with an internal fuse/overload protection (such as those used for computers) are allowed. These items should have a grounded, 3-prong plug, and have a minimum of #14 gauge wire (as indicated on the cord). The following are not permitted due to fire hazards: multiple outlet “octopus” plug adapters, ungrounded (two-prong) and/or lightweight extension cords without fuse/overload protection, plugging a power strip of any type into another one (“piggy-backing”), running extension cords across doors, floors or under rugs.
Furniture
All furnishings in the residential facilities are to remain there. You are free to rearrange any furniture. College furnishings may not be removed from the lounge areas or other rooms for private use. If property is found in a student’s room, the student will need to return the item to its appropriate place or be charged for Facilities Management to remove it. The individual in possession of the lounge furniture will be billed for any damage that has occurred to it as a result of it being in that student’s possession. Each resident is responsible for any College property damaged or missing from his or her residential facility. Residents will be assessed fees for repairing or replacing damaged room furniture. Lofts constructed from lumber or other materials are not permited. Only Collegeissued furniture may be lofted as designed.
Guest and Escort
Anyone who is not an assigned resident of a building is considered a guest. As a host, you must escort your guest at all times, including both in and out of the building. Guests who are not escorted by their hosts will be asked to leave the residential facility at any time. The resident host is behaviorally and financially responsible for the behavior of his or her guest at all times, including informing guests of all applicable College and residential facility policies. Please see Fire Evacuation and Safety policies for further guidelines. Visitation is a privilege for the resident(s) and guest(s) of the residential community. Abuse of the guest, escort, or visitation policies may result in loss of privileges. No guests are allowed during break periods (Thanksgiving, Winter Break, Spring Break, Summer Intersessions, etc.). 24
Hall Games and Sports
Any activity that involves the throwing, tossing, rolling, kicking bouncing or dribbling of an object is not acceptable. All sports or activities that may result in injury or damage are considered unacceptable conduct in living areas.
Harassment and Intimidation
To succeed personally and academically, an individual must be able to live free from unnecessary emotional stress caused by others. Physical or emotional harassment will not be tolerated in a residential community. Therefore, it is the policy of Elmhurst College and the Office of Residence Life that all students, employees, and student staff should be able to enjoy and work in an educational environment free from harassment and intimidation. Harassment and intimidation includes conduct (oral, written, graphic, or physical). Harassment of any person or group of persons on the basis of ability, sexual orientation, age, beliefs and values, economic class, ethnicity, gender, personal experience, national origin, physical appearance, race, religion, social status, or veteran’s status, as those terms are defined by applicable state and federal law, is a form of discrimination specifically prohibited in the College and residential community. Harassment of any person, discriminatory or not, is not tolerated. Additionally, no person shall exhibit behavior that harms or threatens to harm another person or another person’s property. Any student, employee, or person privileged to work or study in the residential community who violates this policy will be subject to permanent removal from the residential community and evaluation of employment or student status.
Hazardous Materials
For the safety and security of individuals and the residential community, hazardous materials are prohibited. Hazardous materials include, but are not limited to laboratory chemicals, fireworks, explosives, ammunition, gasoline, kerosene or petroleum-based solvents, propane or natural gas cylinders, smoke-emitting devices, spray paint, some art supplies, and any substance that emits a flammable vapor or noxious fumes.
House Basements
Residents of College houses are not permitted to store any personal belongings in the basement, nor are they permitted to host any social gathering in the basement. House residents may have a washer and dryer installed in the basement pending approval from the area supervisor and Facilities Management.
Illegal Items and Activities
The Office of Residence Life upholds federal, state, and local laws and will enforce accordingly.
Immunization Requirements
The State of Illinois College/University Immunization Law (77ILL.ADM. CODE 694) requires all college students born after 1956 to submit immunization information before registration unless you have a medical or religious exemption. If you do not submit documentation showing your immunizations, the College is required to place you on medical hold. This will delay your registration. Here is what you need to know to complete this process:
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• You probably already have received the required immunizations. To obtain documentation of prior immunizations, contact one of the following sources: (1) your family physician, (2) your high school or previous college, (3) your branch of military service. Please ask the source to fax or send the records to us. • If you cannot obtain records of prior immunizations, you will need to make an appointment with The Wellness Center, or with another healthcare provider, to complete the immunization process. You then can meet the Illinois law in one of two ways: 1) You may be revaccinated with two (three-in-one) doses of measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), given at least one month apart, and one dose of tetanus-diphtheria (Td) or tetanusdiphtheria-pertussis (Tdap) if you have not received one within the past 10 years. 2) You may have a blood titer drawn to show your immunity to measles, mumps, and rubella, and obtain a dose of tetanus-diptheria if you have not received one in the past 10 years. Please Note: Vaccines and blood titers are available in The Wellness Center. If you would like further information or need an appointment please call (630) 617-3565 or Ext. 3565. The Center is located in Niebuhr Hall, Room 010, Lower Level, East Entrance. Incomplete Sanctions
Failure to fulfill sanctions will result in additional conduct sanctions, and may include a hold on course registration.
Keys and Access Cards
Each resident is issued a room/apartment/house key, stairwell key, and access card (residence halls only) for entrance into his or her own building. Elmhurst Terrace apartment residents are also issued a mailbox key. The keys and access cards are your responsibility. It is a violation of policy to loan your keys out to others to gain access to any part of the building; guests must be escorted at all times. Should any of the above keys be lost, contact a staff member immediately so the lock can be changed and new keys issued at once. You will be charged for the replacement cost of lost or stolen keys. It is also a violation of policy to have keys duplicated.
Lockouts
To preserve the security and integrity of resident and public areas, residents are expected to retain possession of keys at all times. Lockouts are not a service and staff will respond as soon as available. See also Keys and Access Cards. Should a resident be locked out of his or her space, the following procedure should be followed: 8 a.m.—4 p.m. • Contact any of the Resident Advisers or the Residence Life Coordinator of the hall.
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• If unable to reach any building staff members, go to the Office of Residence Life, ext. 3150. Check out a lockout key by presenting your Jaypass. The lockout key will be issued for a period of 30 minutes. When returning the key, the room key must be verified as proof that the key has not been lost. • As lockouts are not a service, each lockout will cost $2.00 to be paid upon return of the key. Lockouts after 10:00 p.m. will cost $3.00. • For security purposes, failure to verify the residential facility key will result in a lock change and a charge to the resident’s student account. 4 p.m.—6 p.m. • Contact any building staff member. If unavailable, then contact the Residence Life Coordinator on call (via Campus Security.) 6 p.m.—7 a.m. (RA duty hours) • Contact the RA on duty to request a lockout. The RA will verify Jaypass and room assignment. • Following the lockout, the resident must verify the originally issued key with the RA. For security purposes, failure to verify the key will result in a lock change and a charge to the resident’s student account. • Apartment (Elm and Prospect) and house residents should contact the Apartment RA on call first, then the Residence Life Coordinator on call (via Campus Security). Elmhurst Terrace residents must work with the management office for lock-outs. Call (630) 832-7600 to speak to their staff. After hours lock-outs at Elmhurst Terrace are $50.00. Noise
Sound carries very easily. Voices, stereos, and televisions in your room often can be heard in other rooms or other floors. While you have a right to listen to music, etc., other residents have the right to sleep and study without disturbance. Failure to respond to a reasonable request may result in disciplinary action. You may be asked by residents or staff to compromise by adjusting the sound/ noise level in your room. Placing your stereo speaker(s) in your windows for purposes of hearing the music outside is strictly prohibited. The following are helpful hints. • 24-hour courtesy hours are observed at all times; see Quiet Hours policy. • Get to know your neighbors and decide what type/volume of sound can be disturbing. • You are encouraged to address the concern first yourself in an appropriate manner. Communication is the key.
Nuisance
No student shall create a nuisance to members or guests of the residence hall, apartment, or neighborhood community or obstruct/disrupt any activity.
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Offensive Odors
The use of any substance that creates a nuisance odor is prohibited, including incense, and other strong substances.
Parent Notification Policy
In accordance with federal law (FERPA), officials of Elmhurst College may disclose to a parent or legal guardian of an Elmhurst College student, information regarding a student’s violation of any federal, state, or local law, or of an Elmhurst College rule or policy, governing the use or possession of alcohol or a controlled substance, regardless of whether that information is contained in the student’s education records, if the student is under the age of twenty-one (21), and if it is determined that the student has committed a violation with respect to such use or possession. In addition, personal identifiable information from a student’s education records may be released to appropriate parties to address a health or safety emergency as determined by College officials in accordance with federal laws. Information may also be released to a parent when the student is the parent’s dependent for tax purposes. The College must be provided with a copy of the parent’s most recent tax return before any covered information may be disclosed. • An attempt will be made to communicate to the student prior to notification to a parent/guardian. • The Dean of Students or designee has the authority to determine when and by what means to notify a parent/guardian. • Law enforcement records are not covered by federal law; therefore, Campus Security may contact the parents of a student who has been arrested on campus or in connection with an investigation. Please see the E-Book for the complete Parent Notification Policy.
Pets
Fish are the only pets allowed. Spot inspections will be made if there is a probable cause to believe that animals other than fish are living in the residential facilities.
Posting
Posting applies to all public areas of residential facilities, including the exterior of student room doors. • Posting should be confined to areas designated for posting. The administrator for each building can outline these. • Posting may not conceal or obscure any other posting/information underneath. • Posting which may be deemed as offensive in nature or not in support of the missions of the College and Office of Residence Life will be removed. • Postings displaying or referencing alcohol and/or other drugs are not permitted as they are not in support of the spirit of the mission of the College and the Office of Residence Life. • Postings may not cover a window or door or any entryway so as to prevent exit in case of fire. • Posting should be done in a neat and orderly fashion. • Only painter’s tape should be used to post items on surfaces other than bulletin boards. It makes removal much easier, doesn’t damage painted surfaces, and is less expensive. Staples should be used on bulletin boards only. 28
• Posting/advertising must be removed by the organization within 24 hours after the conclusion of the event. • Any creative or unusual advertising or promotions should be discussed with the Residence Life Coordinator of the hall. • Postings that are determined by staff to create a hostile living environment or workplace (e.g. nudity) or have a potential to incite violence are strictly prohibited. Quiet Hours
Quiet hours prohibit sustained or intermittent noise that can be heard outside a resident’s room/apartment/house in any direction. Established quiet hours are Sunday –Thursday, 10 p.m. –8 a.m. and Friday –Saturday, 1 a.m. –9 a.m. Courtesy hours are in effect 24 hours a day. Courtesy hours prohibit noise that can be heard outside the building or one door down in the halls or stairways. See also Finals Week. The established hours in the quiet lifestyle communities (3 west in Schick, 2nd floor in Cureton and 3rd floor in West) are Sunday– Thursday from 8 p.m.–10 a.m., and Friday–Saturday from 1 a.m.–9 a.m. Failure to abide by lifestyle policies, or repetition of misconduct, will result in reassignment.
Residence Hall Network
The residence hall network, including the internet service, is to be used in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct and Academic Computing’s Acceptable Use Agreement. Any misuse can result in the loss of network use privileges for the remainder of the term, academic year or may jeopardize a student’s residential status. The resident may be held responsible for all fines associated with the misuse.
Roofs and Balconies
The roofs of all buildings are off limits to students at all times.The balconies at Prospect Apartments may have patio furniture. Storing items on porches at Elm Park and Elmhurst Terrace is prohibited.
Room/Apartment/House and Common Area Condition Inventory
Prior to your arrival, your room/apartment/house and floor were inspected and the condition noted on a Room, Apartment, or House Condition and Common Area Report. You are given a copy of this upon check-in. You and your roommate(s) will be given the opportunity to make any additions to this form that may have been overlooked. Failure to return the form will result in the condition being assessed in relation to College records. This inventory will be used at the time of check-out. We will compare the condition noted on the form to the condition at checkout. Any damages not attributed to normal wear and tear are the responsibility of you and your roommate(s). It is therefore imperative that you carefully examine your room and the copy of the condition report. Any damages or mess in the community are the responsibility of the community.
Room Changes
No room changes are permitted until after the two-week freeze period during the Fall (all residents) and Spring (new residents) terms as appropriately designated for current and newly assigned residents. Current resident room changes for the Spring Term will occur in December prior to the end of the Fall Term. If you wish to change rooms after that time, contact your Residence Life Coordinator for proper procedures. All room changes must be approved by the building administrator. Any resident creating an 29
environment that would prohibit a new roommate from moving in, failing to accept a roommate, or failing to move at the request of the Residence Life Coordinator, will be removed from the assigned room and possibly campus housing. Room changes, outside of the posted schedule, requested as a result of conflict may not be considered if residents have not completed the roommate agreement as required. Changes from the apartments and houses (independent living) to residence halls (community living) are not permitted. Unapproved room changes will result in a fine of $25.00 per student. Room Entry
No student or guest shall enter the room/apartment/house of another without being invited to do so. Authorized campus personnel will enter your room: (1) if maintenance service has been requested, (2) if there is an apparent emergency, (3) fire alarm evacuation is required, (4) when notification of entry has been announced or posted, (5) when routine health and safety checks are conducted by Residence Life staff, (6) when there is probable cause to believe that a violation of any campus policy has occurred or is taking place, or (7) when there is damage to, or theft of, building or community furniture or equipment. The College reserves, without restrictions, the right to allow authorized personnel to enter student rooms. When such entry is deemed necessary, the College will seek within all reasonable bounds to protect the student’s privacy. Such actions, when they are warranted, are taken on behalf of all residents to guarantee both their safety and welfare. Authorized College personnel may remove items that are in violation of federal, state, or College regulations. A reasonable effort shall be made to have occupants present if their rooms are to be searched. The student will always be informed as soon as possible after such entry is made and advised if staff has discovered any violations.
Roommates
All students are expected to conduct themselves in a mature adult manner. All students are required to complete a roommate agreement when they are assigned a roommate or when facilitating a roommate conflict.
Roommate Conflict
The Office of Residence Life strongly urges roommates to resolve conflicts between themselves. Roommates also may use the Roommate Bill of Rights and Roommate Agreement available from a hall staff member to resolve conflicts. Any resident creating an environment that would prohibit a new roommate from moving in, failing to accept a roommate, or failing to move at the request of the Residence Life Coordinator will be removed from the assigned room and possibly campus housing. In situations where roommates are unable or unwilling to resolve conflicts, it is the prerogative of the Residence Life Coordinator to relocate one or more residents to other available spaces. This alternative is considered when it appears that a roommate(s) is an aggressive party or the person(s) being harassed refuse(s) to pursue a referral to the Residence Life Coordinator, or when both roommates are violating the other’s rights and unable to solve the conflict. The following steps should be used as a guide when dealing with a roommate conflict:
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• Review the roommate agreement completed at move-in. • Talk to your roommate about your specific concern. • Speak with your RA about your concern. • Mediate the conflict through your RA. • Speak to your Residence Life Coordinator. • Mediation through your Residence Life Coordinator or another designated college official. • Mediating conflicts is expected in demonstrating mature, adult behavior. Smoking
Smoking is prohibited in all residential facilities. Smoking is not permitted on the balconies or landings of any residential facilities. Any smoking must be at least fifteen feet away from any campus building. The LEED certification of West Hall stipulates smoking must be at least twenty-five feet from the building (this includes windows). The use of hookahs for tobacco is also prohibited; hookahs are not permitted in campus housing.
Telephone Misuse
The misuse of the phones may cause your license to be cancelled and/or cause an administrative fine. In the event of the telephone or voice mail being misused the student will be billed accordingly. Students caught abusing the phone and/or voice mail system jeopardize usage of this privilege for the remainder of the year/term and/or their status as a resident student and may be held responsible for all fines associated with the misuse.
Theft
Theft of any property of the College or of another member of the College community will not be tolerated. Such a violation will result in severe conduct action up to and including removal from the community.
Visitation
Visitation is permitted at any time of the day for the purpose of active study, discussion, and socializing. Visitation is permitted provided the roommate’s rights are respected. Visitation is a privilege for both the resident(s) and guest(s) of the community. No other person(s), other than the assigned roommate(s), is permitted to live in the room. Abuse of the guest, escort, or visitation policies may result in loss of privileges and/or reassignment to another space. Non-residents of an assigned residential facility may not stay more than 72 hours in a seven-day period, and only with the permission of the roommate(s), apartmentmate(s), housemates, and suitemates.
Weapons, Firearms, Explosives
All firearms, BB guns, pellet guns, explosives, knives, fireworks, bows and arrows, ammunition, or any other types of weapons are not permitted. Any object that could potentially inflict injury or cause harm that is used in a threatening, careless, or aggressive manner will be considered a weapon. Violations of this nature may lead to immediate removal from the residential community.
Windows
Safety screens must be in place at all times. Hanging, dropping, or throwing anything out of an open window, including using the window for entry or exit purposes, will result in severe conduct action. For safety and security purposes, the upper window pane in Stanger Hall rooms is not to be opened. Failure to have screens properly secured will result in a $50.00 fine. Neon/lighted signs are not permitted. For fire rescue, material may not cover more than one quarter of the windowpane. 31
Residential Conduct Process
Philosophy
The Office of Residence Life uses an educational approach in addressing violations of Residence Life policies and procedures. The purpose is not to unduly punish students, but to assist them in understanding what is appropriate behavior and that inappropriate behavior is unacceptable in the residential community. Hearing officers and the Residence Hall Peer Review Board seek to impose the least possible sanction that will create an appropriate and desirable change in the behavior.
Conduct Authority
The President of the College bestows authority for student conduct on the Dean of Students, who in turn bestows authority on the Associate Dean of Students/Director of Residence Life to handle all issues within the residential facilities. Each Assistant Director and Residence Life Coordinator is appointed to be the primary conduct officer for his/her respective community by the Associate Dean of Students/Director of Residence Life.
Incident Report
An Incident Report is written by a staff member or resident any time an activity takes place that may warrant special attention. An Incident Report does not necessitate a conduct hearing, rather, it is a means by which activities in the community are documented and communicated to the professional staff.
Judicial Hearing Committee
The Judicial Hearing Committee is a campus-wide board composed of faculty, administrators, and student representatives, and is convened by the Dean of Students. The purpose of this board is to hear cases outside of the residential facilities, academic cases, and other incidents that warrant referral to this committee by the Dean of Students. This process is separate from that of the Office of Residence Life.
Policy Violations
Violation of residential or College policies and procedures will be addressed through the procedure outlined below. Because review is individualized, each student will receive an individual sanction. The purpose of any sanction is to encourage appropriate behavior required by the special conditions of residential living. A member of the Residence Life staff will confront policy violations and communicate the violation to the administrator of that building. The Residence Life administrative staff appropriately processes the compaint(s) as outlined in the procedures on the following page. All actions are documented and kept in the Office of Residence Life files for a period of ten years from last attendance. As of the 2012-2013 academic year, these records are maintained electronically. Similarly all communications with students are electronic.
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Residence Hall Peer Review Board
The Residence Hall Peer Review Board operates under the following principles: • To regard each student as an individual, deserving individual attention, concern, and respect; • To consider the facts fully and carefully before reaching a decision; • To provide an atmosphere where candid and honest communication can take place; • To hold each student to a high standard of responsibility, to protect both the community and the individual; • To recognize the reality of human fallibility, as well as stresses associated with collegiate life, and to demonstrate compassion and understanding. Students from each residence hall are selected for positions on the Peer Review Board through an application and interview process. Students who demonstrate fairness, objectivity, and good judgment are chosen for these leadership positions. This group hears cases regarding student violations and makes appropriate decisions. This board also gives students the opportunity to impact their community by making recommendations to the Associate Dean of Students/Director of Residence Life on aspects of the residence hall environment. If you wish to apply for a position on this board, see your RA or Assistant Director/Residence Life Coordinator.
Residence Life Conduct Procedures
The Residence Life conduct procedures are as follows: • Any member of the residential community may file a complaint against any other student for misconduct. • The staff may make a preliminary investigation to determine if the charges can be disposed of informally by mutual consent without the initiation of conduct proceedings. Such disposal will be final and there shall be no subsequent proceedings or appeals. • The student shall receive advance written notice stating the initiation of formal action and the complaint(s) against him or her. • A pre-hearing meeting will be conducted by a designated member of the Office of Residence Life, usually the area administrator, in which the responding student is presented with a statement of allegations, his or her rights, and options for resolution of the complaint. The administrator may choose another staff member as a hearing officer or send a case to the Residence Hall Peer Review Board (residence halls only). A student alleged to have violated residence life and/or College policies may request to have one of the following by mutual consent:
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Residence Hall Options Conduct Meeting—This is an informal process conducted by the administrator or his or her designate. This process may be a continuation of the pre-hearing and does not involve witnesses. Decisions and sanctions are not subject to appeal. Residence Hall Peer Review Board (RHPRB) Hearing (when classes are in session) —This is a hearing process by a board of students from each residence hall. This process allows for witnesses and is scheduled as an additional hearing after the pre-hearing. Decisions and sanctions are subject to appeal according to guidelines. Apartment/House Living Option Conduct Meeting—This is an informal process conducted by the administrator of the area or his or her designee. This process may be a continuation of the pre-hearing and does not involve witnesses. Decisions (not responsible/ responsible) resulting are not subject to appeal or subsequent proceedings. Conduct Meeting Procedures • The student is responsible for scheduling a pre-hearing meeting within the established amount of time. Should the student fail to respond to a notice of complaint, or to appear at a scheduled prehearing or residence hall Peer Review Board hearing, the hearings will be conducted without prejudice regardless of the student’s absence. Such an absence is not grounds for appeal. • Incidents during the last week of classes and finals week (Fall, January, Spring) will be handled administratively without a conduct meeting. The student shall receive a summary of the allegations and written notice of the decision of responsibility or nonresponsibility. Incidents during this period may result in removal for the remainder of the academic term. • When two or more cases involving common occurrences or the same student(s) are pending simultaneously, the designated staff member may decide to consolidate the hearings of such cases or hear them separately. • The accused student shall receive written notification of the decision no later than five working days following the completion of hearings for all individuals involved in an incident. • The student is responsible for complying with any sanction(s). Failure to comply with sanction(s) will result in contempt and lead to further conduct action. • The Associate Dean of Students may place an administrative hold on the records of any student who withdraws prior to the resolution of pending conduct action or if levied sanctions are not completed.
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Residence Hall Peer Review Board Hearing Procedures • The student is responsible for reviewing the official complaint, his or her rights, and procedures. • The accused student has the right to: 1) Advance notification in writing of the alleged violations against him or her. 2) Appear alone or with any College-affiliated person of his or her choice as a silent adviser to assist him or her in the hearing. The student must notify the adviser of the RHPRB at least 48 hours prior to the scheduled hearing if an adviser will be attending. 3) Present any evidence or witness on his or her behalf. 4) Question witnesses. 5) Submit a written response to allegations. • All proceedings of the hearing are to be conducted in an informal manner so long as such informality does not hinder or obstruct the basic fact-finding function of the hearing. The student is responsible for his or her actions before, during, and after the hearing. Harassment of witnesses, the hearing officer, or RHPRB members, dishonesty, or disruptive behavior will be grounds for further conduct sanctions.
Appeal Procedures Written appeals must be submitted to the Office of Residence Life within ten working days of the decision. Appeals may be made based upon: 1) Procedural errors that unfairly biased the hearing, 2) Inconsistency of sanction, and/or 3) The discovery of new and relevant information. Sanctions
In all cases of conduct, an attempt will be made to arrive at an action that will assist the student in achieving a greater degree of maturity. A student found responsible for any policy violation may be assigned one or more of the following. • Admonition. An oral statement to a student that he/she is violating or has violated institution rules. • Censure. A written reprimand for violations of specified regulations, including the possibility of more severe sanctions in the event of the finding of a violation of any institution regulations within a stated period of time. • Educational tasks. As a means to educate, a student may be required to participate in or complete a specific exercise related to his or her conduct sanction such as, but not limited to: 1) Topical bulletin boards 2) Research and/or reflection paper 3) Topic-specific marketing materials 4) Goals development 5) Career interets inventories 6) Student organization membership 7) Online substance use/abuse course preparation
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If the online eCHECKUP TO GO alcohol and/or the eCHECKUP TO GO marijuana course is assigned, there is a $50.00 fee per course that will be charged to the student’s account. • Community service. The student may be required to participate in community service as deemed appropriate and consistent with the policy violation(s) and/or behavior. • Fine. An appropriate monetary penalty, charged to the student’s account, can be levied. • Loss of privileges. A loss of privileges (i.e. visitation privileges, guest privileges in a community, etc.) and/or exclusion from activities. Activities may include residence life-sponsored programs, organizations or break period housing for a specified period of time. • Meeting with a College official. Meet with the designated official to discuss a specific topic. • Restitution. When deemed appropriate, restitution for damages that occur or other payment for expenses incurred as a result of the student’s behavior will be required. • Reassignment from assigned space. Removes the student from his or her current space and reassigns the student to a different space. Specific restrictions with regard to participation in events or visitation may also be included. Reassignment includes forfeiture of priority in the reassignment process. • Residential probation. A very strong written warning to the student in response to more serious or frequent violations of College policies. Probation is given for a stated period of time and may include specific restrictions on the student. Violations committed during this probationary period may result in more serious action, including removal from campus housing. Those students on probation will forfeit priority in the reassignment process. • Removal from campus housing. Prohibits the student from residing in any residential building. This action may be for a stated period of time, after which a student may reapply for housing unless otherwise stipulated. Specific restrictions in relation to the campus housing may also be invoked. • Persona non grata. Student is not welcome to enter the residential facilities at any point in time, unless otherwise stipulated by the Office of Residence Life. • Written Warning. A formal warning that the behavior is in stated violation of Residence Life or College policies. Further involvement in incidents that violate policies will be treated with more serious disciplinary action.
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Appendix
Roommate Agreement
Remember that you and your roommate(s)/apartmentmate(s)/housemate(s) are talking about preferences and not everyone can have it “their way.” If you keep in mind and abide by the three C’s of roommate survival —communication, compromise, and cooperation— this agreement will prove beneficial. Feel free to mutually add to or change the agreement as needs of roommate(s)/apartmentmate(s) /housemates change . Following are some topics you are expected to discuss: • Alcohol use • Borrowing/lending • Dating relationships • Laundry • Medical issues/allergies • Neatness/cleanliness of the room • Noise in the morning/evening • Pet peeves • Religious practices • Sleep schedules • Study arrangements • Visitors/overnight guests Each roommate/apartmentmate/housemate is to keep a copy in his or her room and refer to it throughout the year to help resolve disagreements should they arise. The remaining copy is to be turned in to your RA and will be kept on file to aid the staff in working with you. Your RA is available to assist you with possible alternatives.
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Roommate Bill of Rights
This document is intended to serve as a suggested form for an agreement between roommates/apartmentmates/housemates to ensure that each individual’s rights are respected. Your level of enjoyment and satisfaction from residential living will depend to a large extent on the thoughtful consideration you demonstrate for one another. As roommates/apartmentmates/housemates, you should mutually determine the stipulations of this behavioral contract and endorse it. Your Resident Adviser is available if you need additional assistance. The Basic Rights of Roommates/ Apartmentmates/Housemates Include: • The right to study free from undue interference (noise, stereo, guests, etc.) in one’s room. • The right to sleep without disturbance from noise, guests, roommate(s)/ apartmentmate(s)/housemates, etc. • The right to expect that roommate(s)/apartmentmate(s)/ housemates will respect one another’s belongings. • The right to a clean living environment. • The right to free access to one’s room and facilities without pressure from one’s roommate(s)/apartmentmate(s)/housemate(s). • The right to personal privacy. • The right to expect that any and all disagreements will be discussed in an atmosphere of openness and mutual respect, and that it is acceptable, when any roommate(s)/apartmentmate(s)/housemate(s) feels it is necessary, to involve a Residence Life staff member in such discussion. The purpose of this contract is to deal with behaviors. While completing the agreement, concentrate on actions and not on moral values or beliefs.
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Student Room Repair and Replacement Charges Note: costs may change due to materials and vendor product offerings
item Access Card Blinds
cost $25.00 TBD
Carpet, removal (piece)
75.00
Closet Door, re-hang
50.00
Closet Door, re-track
120.00
Dart Hole, repair
30.00
Desk Light
67.00
Door, refinish
100.00
Door, replace
420.00
Door Lockset, replace
420.00
Door Frame, paint
50.00
Floor, refinish
75.00
Floor, sweep
23.00
Furniture Bed Frame
355.00
Bed End (each)
140.00
Bookcase
250.00
Bunking Pins
5.00
Chair
225.00
Chair Pad
100.00
Desk
362.00
Drawers, small (each)
127.00
Drawers, large (each)
147.00
Dresser
450.00
Ladder
169.00
Mattress
142.00
Mattress Cover
45.00
Organizer/Hutch
287.00
Pencil Drawer
107.00
Tack Board
60.00
Furniture, clean
23.00
Furniture, removal (each)
75.00
Keys, core change
45.00
Keys, stairwell (each)
15.00
Mirror, removal
25.00
Nail Hole, repair
35.00
Overhead Light Lens, replace
42.00
Peep Hole, replace
35.00
Recycle Bin
25.00
Screen, installation
45.00
Screen, repair
50.00
Screen, replace
120.00
Sink, remount
84.00
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item
cost
Tape/Sticker Residue, removal Tape, removal (carpet) Telephone Cord Telephone Set Towel Rack, replace Trash, removal Wall, wash (one) Wall, wash (all) Wall, paint (one or ceiling) Wall, paint (all four) Window, replace Univents (Stanger), clean contact paper Univents (Stanger), paint
23.00 23.00 12.00 75.00 60.00 23.00 23.00 59.00 113.00 213.00 TBD
37.00 54.00
There are common area charges associated with unnecessary mess and repair, or replacement, of equipment or facilities. These charges may be identified as the responsibility of a floor, wing, or residential community. Vandalism and unnecessary messes are not considered normal wear, nor acceptable community behavior, and will be charged as follows:
Community Repair and Replacement Charges
charges
cost
Body Fluid, clean up Board Decorations, ripped down Bulletin Board, repair/replacement (minimum) Ceiling Light, replace Ceiling Tile, replace (each) Door Closer, replace Excessive Mess (minimum) Exit Sign, repair Exit Sign, replace Fire Extinguisher, clean-up Fire Extinguisher, recharge Fire Extinguisher, replace Fire Safety Signs, replace (each) Floor Signs, replace Furniture, replace (lounge) Graffiti, removal (minimum) Paper Towel Dispenser, replace Soap Dispenser, replace Toilet Paper Dispenser, replace
$50.00 30.00 TBD TBD
15.50 150.00 23.00 100.00 200.00 75.00 91.00 134.00 50.00 30.00 TBD
23.00 77.00 77.00 77.00
The way to keep a clean, comfortable, and healthy community is to take responsibility and/or hold others accountable for unacceptable behavior. Please see the Damage/Vandalism policy for further information. Note: this list is not exhaustive and therefore may include other items as behavior or conditions within a community warrant.
Office of Residence Life 190 Prospect Avenue Elmhurst, Illinois 60126-3296
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