Orientation Guide - Summer 2024

WELCOME FROM THE PRESIDENT

Welcome, new Gannon Knights. We are excited you are here on campus with us to take your first of many important steps throughout your journey at Gannon University.

Gannon is a place where your life experience is more than your academic studies. It is where you will meet and form lifelong friends, where you will create memories engaging in campus events and traditions, competing with teammates or cheering on your peers in your best maroon and gold gear, where you will gain new experiences giving back to the community, and more. Today’s Orientation programming is just a sneak peek at what you will experience throughout your time here. Gannon is often referred to as a family, and today, we welcome you into ours. Our community is here to provide you the support, resources and inspiration you need to make the most of your Gannon experience and achieve your personal, academic and career goals.

I am looking forward to meeting you today, and to your return to campus during Welcome Week in August when we will share in the long-standing tradition of your class photo under Gannon’s iconic arch and taking those first steps together as official Gannon Knights.

There is much to look forward to throughout today’s Orientation programming and in the coming weeks as we anticipate the start of your journey at Gannon University and the 2023-2024 Academic Year.

Welcome home, Knights.

God Bless,

Walter Iwanenko, Ph.D. President, Gannon University

WELCOME TO ORIENTATION

Orientation is a whirlwind of people, places, and activities designed to welcome you to the Gannon family. You may have feelings about Orientation: uncertainty, anxiety, and excitement. But don’t worry! We have planned a program to ease the transition to college and introduce you to your classmates, professors, and the many Gannon community members who are here to support you over the next four or more years. You will learn about the many opportunities that you will have during your time at Gannon, but it’s up to you to make the most of them. Gannon makes it possible. You make it happen.

FIRST YEAR EXPERIENCE

Congratulations! You can officially say you are a part of the Gannon Family. As an incoming student at Gannon University, you are about to embark on one of the most significant and memorable phases of your life.

Gannon’s First Year Experience is designed to foster an undergraduate student experience that focuses on your positive transition to college, actively inspires you to explore your passions and interests, as well as supports the beginning of your adult life of learning and development.

FYE also connects you with people, places, and programs so that you can begin creating a vision of what you want your Gannon experience to be.

The programs below collectively make up your First Year Experience:

Accepted Student To-Do List

Use your personalized checklist to track everything you need to complete before the semester begins.

This check list includes items like signing your Master Promissory Note, Applying for Housing and a Meal Plan, submitting your Health Forms, etc. You can find the whole checklist at gannon.edu/ accepted

New Student Orientation

A one-day transition program in the summer designed to connect you with people, places, and programs, learn what it takes to be a successful Gannon student, and leave with a clear understanding of how to customize that vision for success.

Welcome Week

This extended orientation is a transition period between move-in day and the first day of class. This program is designed to help you settle into campus, build connections with the Gannon community, find opportunities that match your interests, and develop a sense of belonging on Gannon’s campus before classes start.

Gannon 101

This first year course will include experiential and collaborative learning that supports you through your transition to Gannon University in your first semester. This course will be facilitated by a Gannon staff or faculty member as well as an upper-level student Transition Guide.

Our priority is to ensure that you have everything you need to be successful which includes information, resources, connections, and a sense of belonging at Gannon.

ACCEPTED STUDENT TO-DO LIST

ACADEMICS

Review your course schedule

Purchase your textbooks

Send in any AP Scores or Transfer Credit requests

ENGAGEMENT:

Learn about opportunitiesengagement

Register for orientation

Download the Corq app

HEALTHAND WELL-BEING:

Submitstudenthealthforms DownloadtheLiveSafeapp

BASIC NEEDS:

Identify your network ID

Confirm your requirementstechnology

Apply for housing and a meal plan or connect with commuter life

Submit you photo for your Gannon ID

FINANCES:

Explore financial aid

Pay your enrollment deposit

DownloadtheTimelyCareapp Submityourvaccinationrecords andkeepacopy

Sign your responsibilityfinancialagreement

Pay your tuition

(note:healthcenter,academicprogram,andathleticrequirementsall differthereforeassociatedformsareallseparateandunique)

Have AP or Transfer Credits you need to be evaluated?

Official AP scores or college transfer courses should be submitted directly to the Registrar's Office from College Board or the previous university attended. Schedules are changed after AP scores are received in July, so continue to check your schedule throughout the summer. While most credits can be granted for AP scores of at least a 3, some require a score of 4 or 5. For questions about AP credit practices, contact Undergraduate Admissions at 814-871-7240, or the Registrar at 814-871-7611.

MEET YOUR TRANSITION GUIDES

Transition Guides are here to help you with your transition to college. They are students who will guide you through orientation and welcome week and introduce you to campus resources and opportunities. They are also assigned to your Gannon 101 class in the fall so they will be with you during your first semester at Gannon. They are here to help and excited to meet you!

Meet the Transition Guides who you will see today at Orientation.

The Campus Engagement Interns work all year to help prepare for your Orientation and Welcome Week experiences as well as engagement throughout the school year.

Meet the Interns who you will see today at Orientation

Courtney King

Luluwah Aziz

Julia Krznaric

Emily Lemmon

Haylee Brewer

Madi Kostial Anthony Nunez

Alexa Tofel

Jeanalex Namuswe

Lexa Yankauskas Matt Sayban

Grady Smith

Kaitlyn Marriott

Matthew Thompson

Sara McCormick

TRANSITION GUIDE TOP 10 TIPS FOR FIRST YEAR STUDENTS

Try new things right away! Whether it is hanging out in the Commuter Corner, attending an Residence Life program, participating in Welcome Week with your Gannon 101 group, or going to Campus Ministry’s First Year Retreat – find something you want to try right away, it’s the best time when everyone is also trying to make new friends!

Pack Light! Trust us - you don’t need to pack everything you own. Be mindful of the size of your room and that you are sharing it with at least one other person. For your closet, only bring the clothes you will need for that season or things you can layer easily. It’s a critical skill to have when living in Erie!

Trust the orientation process. Orientation is intentionally designed to introduce you to people, places, and programs on campus that will make your years at Gannon great. Participate in all the sessions and be open to making new friends in your small group.

Ask for help as soon as you think you need it. You’re not expected to know everything, and we are here to help you! Professors love getting to know their students during office hours, and the library is full of people and resources to assist you. We know what its like to be in your shoes and want to do everything we can to help you succeed. Don’t be afraid to ask for help; everyone does it!

Use a planner or calendar. College classes are scheduled much differently than high school, so you may be tricked into feeling like you have a lot of “free time” during the day. Organize your free time well so you can get your work done and have time to participate in campus activities and relax. Stop by the Student Success Center (SSC) for helpful tips to use a planner effectively.

Don’t feel too anxious about fitting in – there is a place for everyone at Gannon! But if you do feel anxious, know that many other students are feeling the same way right now. It may not happen on the first day, but you will find your place on campus. All you have to do is be yourself. We’re excited to get to know you exactly as you are!

Allow time to adjust to your new normal. It’s different for everyone, but it will take some time to figure out a good routine, make new friends, and feel comfortable in your new home. Take some time to check in with yourself. If you’re feeling stuck, reach out to your Transition Guide, advisor, Gannon 101 Facilitator, Resident Assistant, Commuter Advisor, Campus Ministry, your coach, or the counseling staff. They are here to help you through your transition.

Things might not always go as planned – and that’s great! You may be coming into college with a four-year plan or no plan at all. Either way, be open to the new experiences and new interests that arise. Try to have a positive outlook toward change and know that you’re always learning and growing, even when things are different than you expected.

Find what you are passionate about. From clubs and organizations to research opportunities, student leadership roles, taking an interesting class or just going to a campus event, sometimes the best experiences in college are found when you’re trying something new. At the same time, remember to keep a balanced calendar and don’t stretch yourself too thin.

Remember to take care of yourself. Healthy eating, good sleep and hygiene habits and self-care routines often go out the window when students come to college. You can’t be at your best if you forget to take care of yourself. A healthy sleeping and eating schedule make all the difference in your well-being. Also remember to take advantage of our on-campus health center if you're not feeling well. We want to help you get better quickly, and can provide you with a care package and some TLC.

BONUS TIP: Read your Gannon email!

FALL SEMESTER DATES TO KNOW

Arrival Day August 16

Welcome Week August 16 - 20

IgKnight Fair August 20

First Day of Classes August 21

Last Day to Add/Drop Classes August 27

Labor Day – No Classes September 2

GIVE Day September 21

4-Week Grades are due September 17

Homecoming/Family Weekend

Gannon READS Speaker Event

Fall Break

Mid-Term Grades are due

Advising Day

Thanksgiving Break

Finals

October 3 - 6

October 30

October 9 - 13

October 14

November 12

November 27 - December 1

December 9 - 13

Final Grades are due December 15

HEALTH & WELL-BEING

Health Services

Through our dedicated Campus Health Center, our health services team promotes health and well-being by educating students about the importance of addressing health needs, adopting healthy lifestyles, and preventing disease and illness through the participation in wellness activities; as well as by treating our students’ minor illnesses and injuries on-site. Having a healthy body, mind, spirit, and comprehensive well-being allows our students to focus energy on and conserve time for their class work, studies, and extra-curricular activities. Our team is comprised of a director, nurse practitioner, clinical nurse manager, a team of registered nurses, and an office coordinator. Students can receive care throughout the year M-F 8-12 or 1-4:30 often on a same-day basis by walking into the health center or by making an appointment (via phone (814) 871-7622, email health@gannon.edu, or through the Health Questionnaire in the LiveSafe app explained more on page 12), other than on university holidays. Most services in the health center are free of charge and costs for medications, point-of-care testing, and medical supplies are nominal. Additionally, through our collaboration with TimelyCare, our students have access to telehealth services 24/7/365, from anywhere in the US, through the TimelyCare app or by visiting timelycare.com/gannon.

Counseling Services

The Counseling Center supports and fosters the psychological development and emotional/mental wellbeing of students by providing holistic, inclusive, affirmative, and trauma-informed mental health services. These services include: individual and group counseling; crisis intervention; educational/preventative outreach programming; and consultative services. As licensed psychologists, counselors, and social workers, the staff honor and adhere to the legal and ethical principles and standards of their state boards and professional associations to provide quality mental health care to students.

Students seek counseling for a variety of reasons, including: anxiety, stress, depression, family issues, past trauma, relationship concerns, anger issues, body image concerns, and many other life challenges and stressors. The Counseling Center triages all students seeking services and formulates an individualized treatment plan for each, which may include: brief therapy on-campus; a referral off-campus for more specialized/more frequent/longer-term services; and/or a referral to psychiatry. Limited psychiatric services are offered in the Counseling Center during the academic year. The Relaxation Room is available to all students and includes a heated massage chair, aromatherapy, guided breathing exercises, and mindfulness tools. Students can reserve the room online for 50 minute sessions. All currently-enrolled students may utilize the services in the Counseling Center free of charge. To initiate services or ask questions, please email counseling@gannon.edu, and a therapist will respond promptly during normal business hours.

In addition to these on-campus services, students have free access to video/audio ondemand and scheduled counseling sessions via the TimelyCare app or website.

TimelyCare Services

TimelyCare is part of the university’s ongoing efforts to prioritize the health and wellbeing of our student community. TimelyCare technology lets Gannon students access a 24/7 extension of Gannon’s Health and Counseling Center resources with as much ease and convenience as making a video/phone call.

Via a TimelyCare app on your phone or device, and the use of your Gannon email address, students can select from a wide-ranging menu of virtual care options from licensed physicians and counselors in all 50 states – at no cost to you and without the hassle of traditional insurance.

There are several services available:

• MedicalNow: unlimited on-demand access to a medical provider who can treat a wide range of common illnesses like cold and flu, sinus infection, allergies and more

• Scheduled medical: unlimited scheduled medical appointment option to speak to a medical provider

• TalkNow: 24/7 on-demand, unlimited access to a mental health professional to talk about anything at anytime

• Scheduled counseling: scheduled options to speak to a licensed counselor (limited visits)

• Health coaching: access to a nutritional specialist to help students adopt healthier lifestyle behaviors related to sleep issues, weight management and more

• Psychiatry: scheduled sessions with a psychiatrist to discuss medication options; need a referral from the campus Counseling Center to access this service

• Self-Care Journeys: personalized resources for stress, relationships, yoga, mindfulness.

• Peer Support Community: seek and provide support to your peers via a message board format

Recreation and Wellness Center

The Recreation and Wellness Center is a fusion building designed to provide a stateof-the-art venue for recreation, wellness, athletics and academics. This student-run facility serves Gannon University student, faculty and staff, as well as the greater Erie community and provides rich opportunities for the development of student leaders and the engagement of all.

The Recreation & Wellness Center features nearly 250,000 square feet of indoor space for year-round athletic, intramural, open recreation and fitness activities, including an 80-yard indoor field house and a Human Performance Lab (HPL).

In addition, new locker rooms and a healthy refreshment snack bar are quicklyhelping to establish a culture of health and wellness at Gannon University.

POLICE AND SAFETY

Police and Safety

Gannon Police & Safety is located on the west side of the lower level of the Harborview Apartments. The Police & Safety office employs 12 full-time Police Officers. There are three full-time and two part-time Switchboard operators who also serve as the police dispatchers.

Campus Police and Safety operates 24-hours a day, every day of the year, which includes someone on the switchboard to answer phone calls and dispatch police officers. We also have an Office Manager and a Parking Assistant who handle the parking assignments, Card IDs, and a wide array of other duties.

We are committed to the safety of the Gannon community, anyone visiting our campus, and to those that travel through or live in our jurisdiction. Gannon University has more than over 600 cameras, 12 call boxes and a panic button on the LiveSafe App which all help us deter crime and solve investigations. Officers patrol on foot, in marked police vehicles, and on bicycles.

Knight Watch

Police and Safety oversees a van shuttle service called Knight Watch. This shuttle service is driven by student workers and operate the van in our general area to provide safe transportation for our students at night.

This van is available Sunday through Thursday 7:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. with extended hours on Friday and Saturday operating until 3:00 a.m. You can call the Knight Watch service through Gannon’s LiveSafe app.

LiveSafe

Gannon uses the LiveSafe app as a campus safety platform. Students, faculty and staff have been able to use the app for emergencies, to report suspicious activity and to hail the Knight Watch van for rides home. It also allows students and staff to virtually walk each other home for safety, a panic call option, a campus directory, and campus map.

STUDENT SUCCESS CENTER

The Student Success Center (SSC) provides support services, including academic advising, career counseling, tutoring, programming, and resources for students at Gannon University. The SSC serves as the primary resource for academic support and referral and is committed to assisting students with resolving academic concerns, meeting educational and career goals, and connecting to campus resources. The SSC offices work together to help students thrive within the University community.

The Student Success Center includes the following offices:

Academic Advising Center:

The Academic Advising Center (AAC) is committed to the holistic development and growth of each student who seeks academic services and resources from the AAC. The AAC utilizes a student-centered approach to supporting students when providing academic assistance. All Gannon University students are assigned an academic advisor who support students’ success and persistence to graduation.

Career Exploration and Development:

The Career Exploration and Development team helps students connect their coursework with career possibilities through advising, outreach, professional events, internships, and other experiences. Through partnerships with university colleagues, alumni, and employers, the department is committed to helping develop students into career-ready professionals. Any student seeking additional information or to schedule an appointment with a career advisor can contact us at career@gannon.edu.

Office of Accessibility Services:

Gannon University’s Office of Accessibility Services (OAS) offers accommodations to qualifying students with documented disabilities. The Office assists eligible students in receiving reasonable accommodations pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act. Students seeking information or assistance in any matter regarding qualification, accessibility or reasonable accommodations should contact the OAS at oas@gannon.edu or call 814-871-5522.

TRIO Student Support Services:

The Student Support Services (SSS) Program is a federally funded program designed to assist, support, and advise eligible students to successfully navigate the college experience and to increase retention and graduation rates of its participants. To be eligible for the program, a student must be officially enrolled at Gannon University, be a citizen or permanent resident of the United States, and must meet federal income eligibility guidelines, be a first generation college student, or have a documented disability. Each student involved with the program is assigned a TRIO (SSS) advisor.

NASH LIBRARY AND STUDENT LEARNING COMMONS

The Msgr. Wilfrid J. Nash Library and Student Learning Commons is a dynamic and engaging learning environment that provides resources, spaces, and support to students at Gannon University to foster learning and academic success. The building contains spaces for quiet study as well as spaces for collaborative work. There are 49 study rooms of a variety of sizes and configurations designed to accommodate 2 to 10 students. Urban Brew, a new café with its own distinctive menu, is also located in Nash.

Nash Library’s collections contain over 200,000 book volumes and more than 5,000 audiovisual items. Special collections include the University Archives. The library provides online access to over 45 databases, 50,000 periodicals, and 175,000 eBooks. Other learning resources such as laptops and anatomical models are also available for checkout. Research assistance and information literacy instruction are also integral components of the library’s educational mission.

STEM Center

The STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Center provides free one on one and group tutoring opportunities for courses within the Morosky College of Health Professions and Sciences and the College of Engineering and Business, and supports related coursework from the College of Humanities, Education, and Social Sciences. (Specific areas include mathematics, statistics, physics, chemistry, biology, health professions, engineering, and business.) The STEM Center is staffed by a director and trained peer consultants.

Writing & Research Center

The Writing & Research Center (WRC) is staffed by professional and trained peer consultants who reflect our respect for the individual writer. The Writing & Research Center team has a strong commitment to service and regards language as fundamental to the holistic development of the student. We offer one-on-one conferencing, both in-house and online, for students of all abilities, including speakers of other languages. Undergraduate and Graduate students should visit the Writing & Research Center at any stage of the writing process, from any discipline.

In addition, the WRC provides tutoring for all CHESS courses, as well as support for the College of Communication and the Arts. The WRC also houses the CHESSMate Program, which aims to foster academic engagement and reinforce learning outcomes in CHESS courses through embedded peer mentorship and supplemental sessions.

To schedule an online or in-person appointment at the STEM Center or Writing and Research Center, students can visit http://gannon.mywconline.com.

CAMPUS MINISTRY

Everything Campus Ministry does is geared towards transformation through an encounter with the Love of God and love of neighbor. They do this by forming relationships with students that encourage them to become the best version of themselves. Campus Ministry seeks to serve students of all backgrounds: those who consider themselves religious, those who do not consider themselves religious, and those who are not sure. They offer a wide variety of events and programs that give students ample opportunity to connect with Campus Ministry.

The Campus Ministry team consists of full-time and part-time Campus Ministers, a part-time Music Ministry Coordinator, and over 40 student-leaders! Campus Ministry has full-time Resident Campus Ministers who serve in the first-year residence halls and continue to support students as they become upperclassmen.

To learn more, follow us on Instagram at @gucampmin, or go to https://knightsgannon.sharepoint.com/sites/CampusMinistry

CENTER FOR SOCIAL CONCERNS

The Center for Social Concerns (CSC) equips students to engage with Gannon’s communities, both local and global, through purposeful service, exploration, and action for the common good. Office programming includes service and community engagement opportunities (i.e. GIVE Day), advocacy and awareness programs, and service and cultural immersion programs. The Alternative Break Service Trip (ABST) program provides opportunities for students to develop as socially responsible global citizens through service, learning, and cultural immersion. These non-credit bearing, one to two week-long, small group travel experiences provide students with the opportunity to serve and encounter the world, grow personally and professionally, and build relationships with our Gannon Family during group meetings and formation prior to and during their travels.

Alternative Break Service Trip

ABSTs are student led, small group, service and learning immersions rooted in four pillars of service, simplicity, community, and reflection. Student leaders cultivate inclusive community among their student participants and faculty/ staff accompaniers through intentional group formation, relationship building, and meaningful dialogue during meetings and 1 on 1s prior to their trip. Each ABST culminates in a week-long service immersion and cultural encounter during spring break or in May. Groups travel to destinations across the United States, Canada, Mexico, Guatemala and Jamaica.

LEARNING ABROAD

The Office of Learning Abroad takes students out of the classroom, off Gannon’s campus, and often out of the country, to experience first-hand different cultures and ways of life. Students will take concepts learned in the classroom and experience them in the real world, exposing them to new cultures, broadening their outlooks, and providing them with a unique experience that will undoubtedly have an impact on their future, all with academic credit attached.

Semester Exchange

Gannon students are provided an opportunity to continue their academic experience and earn credit by spending a semester abroad at one of our partner institutions. These exchanges operate on a tuition exchange basis: students will pay their tuition to their Gannon University while paying their housing fees to their chosen partner university. By participating in an exchange program, students can use their Gannon University scholarships and financial aid during their semester abroad. Students may choose from partner universities located in Australia, England, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, New Zealand, and Spain.

GIFT Courses

GIFT Courses are courses taught by Gannon faculty that fulfill Liberal Studies Core requirements, major/minor requirements, and/or electives. These courses include 1-4 weeks of international or domestic travel to provide firsthand experience of or application to concepts learned during the course as well as facilitate the development of students’ cultural competencies. Students can enroll in GIFT Courses as early as the second semester of freshman year and will travel with Gannon faculty and their fellow classmates. All GIFT Courses are taken for academic credit.

Summer Study Abroad

Students can participate in summer study abroad options all over the world. Students may choose to partake in programs offered by our partner universities or through our affiliate providers. Summer study abroad programs range in length from 2-12 weeks and students can take courses to satisfy Liberal Studies Core requirements and/or major/minor requirements.

International Credit-Bearing Internships

In partnership with CISabroad, the Office of Learning Abroad offers students credit-bearing internships around the world. Students will be interviewed by CISabroad and individually placed at appropriate sites related to students' majors and career goals. Students can work with their Program Directors to arrange for credit received for these experiences.

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT AND CAMPUS ENGAGEMENT

In the office of Leadership Development and Campus Engagement (LDCE), our purpose is to transform lives and inspire transformation by helping students find their belonging through authentic connections, identity groups, engagement opportunities, and developmental experiences.

When students are engaged in a variety of programs and organizations on campus, they gain a better understanding of themselves, their interests and what they want to do in life. Gannon offers a full spectrum of opportunities, services, and support to assist students with creating a personalized and successful college experience that will help transform them into leaders in their communities.

Clubs and Organizations

Gannon currently has around 100 active clubs and organizations on campus and are always willing to support new students in creating new ones. You can find an active list of all organizations on EngageU at engageu.gannon.edu.

Fraternity and Sorority Life

Fraternity and Sorority Life (FSL) at Gannon is made up of four national sororities and five national fraternities. Gannon FSL is a student led, valuesbased community, dedicated to philanthropy, service, academic excellence, and personal growth and development. Gannon University Fraternity and Sorority Life values genuine connections between brothers and sisters who engage in inclusivity while embodying our values of service and philanthropy.

Fraternities

• Delta Chi

• Delta Sigma Phi

• Phi Beta Sigma

• Pi Kappa Alpha

• Tau Kappa Epsilon

Sororities

• Alpha Gamma Delta

• Alpha Sigma Alpha

• Alpha Sigma Tau

• Sigma Sigma Sigma

ARMY ROTC AND MILITARY SCIENCE

The Military Science Program is open to all students. Freshman and sophomores incur NO OBLIGATION to the U.S. Army by enrolling in the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program Basic Course. Additionally, military science courses are free of charge to all full-time students (minimum of 12 credits, excluding military science courses) and earn academic credits which may apply towards graduation requirements. Those who desire to earn a commission as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Army, Army Reserve, or Army National Guard must sign a contract no later than the second semester of their junior year in the program. All students who graduate with their undergraduate degree and fulfill all commissioning requirements are eligible to earn the Leadership Studies Minor on top of their respective academic major.

The primary purpose of the Department of Military Science is to develop the future officer leadership of the United States Army and to motivate young people to become better citizens. Students enrolled in the ROTC Program receive instruction in the fundamentals of leadership with emphasis on loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity and personal courage.

During classes, leadership labs, physical training and field training exercises, students learn firsthand what it takes to lead others, motivate groups and conduct missions as an Officer in the United States Army.

ROTC merit based scholarships are available that pay full tuition and fees, a $1,200 annual book allowance, plus $420 per month non-taxable subsistence allowance for ten months each school year. Scholarship recipients may also qualify to receive a room and board incentive. Scholarships are available on a competitive basis to include grade point average, physical fitness, medical condition and legal record.

For additional information on ROTC and scholarship opportunities, visit our offices in Palumbo Room 1053 or contact us at 814-871-7682.

COMMUTER LIFE

The Office of Commuter Life provides a “home away from home” for commuter students with a lounge which includes amenities such as a microwave, sink, refrigerator, and coffee pot for your use. The Commuter Corner is are a place to meet fellow commuters, find support from upper-class students, and learn about opportunities for involvement and leadership on campus. Programming allows students to grow and become more connected to Gannon. There are also lockers commuters can use for free during the academic year. They are located in Palumbo and can be signed out in August. Simply bring in your own lock and fill out a form and the locker is yours.

Commuter Advisors

The Commuter Advisors (CA) are student leaders who provide support and guidance to their peers. The CAs provide various programs and events, help get students, involved in various activities, and keep them informed about Commuter Life and campus events.

Commuter Advocates

The Commuter Advocates are faculty and staff that represent various academic programs at Gannon. If you ever have any questions about majors or classes, you now have someone specific to reach out to in your field of study.

COMMUTER PARKING

Gannon University offers discounted parking spaces for commuters and off-campus students in three Erie Parking Authority ramps (the two adjacent to the Palumbo Academic Center and the one directly across from it). The fee is $199 each semester plus a $10.00 deposit for the pass card (which you get back when you return the card). A lottery is held in early August for all full-time undergraduate commuters who complete the on-line application. Many students take advantage of being able to ride the "e", Erie's public bus, for free. Other options include the Erie Metropolitan Transit Authority’s Park n’ Ride program (park free at the Bayfront Highway and Liberty Park lots and take the free shuttle up State Street), meter or street parking available within walking distance of the campus, or various privately owned lots surrounding campus.

Please note that first year resident students are not permitted to bring a car their first year on campus.

RESIDENCE LIFE AND DINING SERVICES

As a residential college, Gannon recognizes that creating the right living environment is essential to providing a superior education opportunity. Gannon is committed to making your transition from living at home to residential life at college as smooth as possible. Look forward to meeting your Resident Assistant (RA), Resident Director (RD), attending residence life programs, learning new skills and making new friends.

Gannon University requires all students who are within their first 4 semesters to live in university-owned housing to encourage engagement with the Gannon community and provide support to students transitioning to college life. Students who reside with a parent/guardian whose permanent residence is within 25 miles of the University are exempt from this requirement. All incoming students will reside in either a traditional two-person room in Finegan Hall or in a suite-style room in North Hall. When students enter their second year at Gannon University, they can move into a wide variety of university-owned apartment buildings, residence halls or other small properties.

Residential Meal Plans

First and second year residents living in traditional halls are required to purchase one of the following meal plans.

Unlimited access to cafeteria ONLY for small snack or full meals, 20 premium Chick-Fil-a swipes + 5 guest swipes available

Both options include 277 swipes per semester with unlimited swipes per day + 5 guest meals

Both options include 19 swipes per week with a maximum of 3 swipes per day

Monday-Friday and 2 swipes per day

Saturday & Sunday + 7 guests passes per semester.

Both options include 15 swipes per week with a maximum of 3 swipes per day

Monday-Friday and 2 swipes per day

Saturday & Sunday + 5 guest swipes per semester.

150 swipes for use throughout the

75 swipes for use throughout the semester.

GU Gold

The student ID card also acts as your GU Gold card. GU Gold funds can be used for a variety of purchases on and off campus. Deposits can be made any time during the year. Once funds are deposited, they cannot be withdrawn as cash or used to pay balances on a student’s tuition account. Funds remain on account from one semester to the next until the student graduates or withdraws. At that time, a refund can be requested. Visit www.gannon.edu/gugold for more information.

Mailroom/Packages

The mailroom is located on the bottom floor of Palumbo Academic Center. All students living on campus are assigned a personal mailbox at the start of their time at Gannon and will receive their mailbox keys during move-in. A student is notified about any packages they receive through email.

Mail and packages should be addressed as follows: Student First & Last Name (NO NICKNAMES)

PMB #

824 Peach Street Erie, PA 16541

If students are ordering from a delivery service such as GrubHub, Instacart, pizza, or other food services they should use the physical address of their residence hall building and greet the delivery driver at the entrance of their building upon arrival.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SERVICES (ITS)

Help Desk

The Gannon ITS Help Desk located in the Palumbo Academic Center, provides walk-in, phone, and online assistance for students with questions or issues regarding technology. Hours are flexible with technicians available during regular business hours and phone support available in the evenings and weekends to meet students’ needs. You can contact the Help Desk at helpdesk@gannon.edu or at 814-871-7501.

Computer Access and Resources

ITS provides more than 150 student access computers through all our academic buildings. Extended hours are provided in several locations for late night study. Computers provide access to university resources as well as specialty software. Students have access to print and copy devices around campus with a quota of 600 pages per semester.

Personal Computer Requirement and Software

Gannon students are encouraged but not required to have personal computers on campus. Gannon students may purchase desktops and laptops through any vendor provided they meet minimum standards.

Minimum Requirements to Connect to the University Wi-Fi:

• Windows 10 / 11 or MacOS 13 Ventura

• Wireless 802.11 n/ac

• Up-to-date approved anti-virus software (Windows and Mac)

Recommended Minimum Requirements:

• Windows 8 or MacOS 10.14

• Dual core Intel i5 - 2GHz

• 256 solid state HD

• 8 GB Memory (RAM)

• Up-to-date anti-virus software

• Microsoft Office (free license while a student at Gannon)

• Wireless 802.11 n/ac

• 3-year warranty plus on-site labor and accidental damage protection for laptops

Software packages from Microsoft, Adobe, and others are available to students at a discount from JourneyEd. All Gannon students are required to have working, up-to-date anti-virus software on their personal computer to authenticate to the Gannon Wi-Fi. Free anti-virus software can be provided by contacting the Help Desk.

COMMON QUESTIONS

How about a tablet or Chromebook? - We DO NOT recommend tablets or Chromebook as your primary computing device.

Windows versus Mac - Gannon fully supports both and each features some advantages over the other. We suggest you get what you have used and what you are comfortable with. Changing from one OS to something new can just add unnecessary stress and be a distraction from your academic work.

LIBERAL STUDIES CORE CURRICULUM

Foundational courses should be taken during the first-year but can be taken in any order in either fall or spring.

There is no specific sequence for the Integrative core courses or the additional requirements (wellness and writing intensive). They may be taken at any time during your time at Gannon. All requirements have multiple options to choose from so make sure to check Self-Service to see all the possibilities!

The Wellness and Writing Intensive requirements can be met within major courses, attached to other Liberal Studies requirements, or taken as general electives as long as they are identified as the correct requirement.

Vocational core courses should be taken your junior or senior years.

FOUNDATIONAL CORE (9 CREDITS)

3 cr. Foundational English

3 cr. Foundational Philosophy

3 cr. Foundational Theology

VOCATIONAL CORE 6 CREDITS

FOUNDATIONAL CORE 9 CREDITS

CATHOLIC INTELLECTUAL TRADITION

INTEGRATIVE CORE 21 - 28 CREDITS

INTEGRATIVE CORE (21 TO 28 CREDITS)

3 cr. Integrative Communication

3 cr. Integrative English

3 cr. Integrative History

3 cr. Integrative Philosophy

3 cr. Integrative Theology

3 cr. Global Citizenship

3 cr. Quantitative Reasoning*

3 cr. Aesthetic Reasoning*

3 to 4 cr. Scientific Reasoning*

VOCATIONAL CORE (6 CREDITS)

3 cr. Professional Communication

3 cr. Professional Ethics/Leadership

REQUIREMENTS

Wellness

Writing Intensive

* Per university learning outcomes, all students at Gannon must have courses in quantitative reasoning, scientific reasoning, and aesthetic reasoning. Up to two of the three reasoning requirements may be met in major.

FINANCIAL AID

We are committed to offering you the best financial assistance package possible. We want your Gannon education to be exceptional and affordable. More than 90 percent of Gannon students qualify for financial assistance. We offer a variety of scholarships, grants and awards that recognize academic and athletic accomplishments, outstanding talents and demonstrated need. While income is an important part of financial strength, many other factors are examined when determining the amount and type of financial aid you will receive, such as family size and assets.

We advise all students, no matter their income level, to complete the Gannon Net Price Calculator and the online FAFSA form so they can be considered for every available resource.

The Gannon FASFA code is 003266.

PAYING YOUR TUITION BILL

There are several ways to pay your tuition bill when the time comes. The Cashier’s Office can accept a variety of payment methods including payment plans.

• Check, Cashier’s Check or Money Order

• Online Payment:

• E-Check and Credit Card payments can be made using GU Self Service in Student Finance or at www.gannon.edu/epayment.

• ACH (E-check) payments are accepted

• A service fee is assessed on credit card transactions.

• Cards accepted: VISA, MasterCard, Discover and American Express.

• Payment Plan:

• Semester Plan A semester payment plan is available through GU Self service. More information can be found under Student Finance or at commmerce.cashnet.com.

CAMPUS CIVILITY

In keeping with its Catholic Intellectual Tradition, Gannon University offers a comprehensive, values-centered learning experience that emphasizes faith, leadership, inclusiveness and social responsibility. Gannon pledges to maintain a civil campus climate in which students, employees and visitors can experience a safe, mutually supportive, academically encouraging, egalitarian and tolerant community.

Gannon University expects all students, faculty, and staff members and groups to exercise civility. Gannon does not tolerate the subjection of another person, group or class or person to inappropriate, abusive, threatening or demanding actions.

Title IX (1972) is a landmark federal civil rights law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in educational programs and activities. Title IX prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, which can include:

• Gender-based discrimination

• Sexual harassment

• Sexual violence

• Discrimination based on pregnancy

Gannon University takes these matters seriously, not just to comply with the law, but also to provide a safe and enriching campus for all our students. We have programs in place to educate our student body and provide preventative training.

Colleges must take immediate action to address and prevent sexual discrimination on their campuses. Anyone student or faculty member wishing to file a complaint may contact:

• Campus Police and Safety

• Title IX Coordinator

More information regarding Title IX and sexual prevention and response can be found online at www.gannon.edu/about-gannon/title-ix/ or in the Student Handbook.

FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT (FERPA)

FERPA governs the disclosure of –and access to – education records maintained by an educational institution. Once a student of any age enters college, the student owns their education record; and parents may only access it if the student chooses to provide written permission. The student can complete this permission through the Registrar office at Gannon University.

If you have questions about FERPA or need help with the form, please contact Registrar Office at registrar@gannon.edu

ONLINE RESOURCES

Campus Map

https://bit.ly/3xuqdh2

Downtown Erie Walking Map

https://bit.ly/3xvkHe5

University Social Media @GannonU

Social Media Directory

https://www.gannon.edu/socialdirectory.aspx

Campus Directory

https://www.gannon.edu/about-gannon/campus-directory/

Upload Your Completed Health Form

https://www.gannon.edu/uploadedFiles/Content/Student_Life/Services_ for_Students/Health_and_Wellness/HealthForms_2023_PGS%20(1).pdf

Deposit GU Gold Card Funds

https://www.gannon.edu/Student-Life/Services-for-Students/GU-GoldCard/

NEXT UP: WELCOME WEEK

welcome week2024

Resident Move-In* Last Name - A-J 8 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Last Name - K-Z 10:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. (required for resident students only) Family

APPS TO DOWNLOAD

LIFESAFE

8:30 a.m.

ORIENTATION SCHEDULE

Student Guests

Registration

Waldron Campus Center

Student Athlete Meeting

Waldron Campus Center

Welcome

9:30 a.m.

10 a.m.

11 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

12:30 p.m.

1:30 p.m.

2:30 p.m.

3:30 p.m.

Yehl Alumni Ballroom

Academic Meeting Various Locations

Commuting to Campus or Living on Campus

Waldron 219 or Yehl Alumni Ballroom

Life as a Knight Various Locations

Supporting Your Student Through Their First Year Yehl Alumni Ballroom

Lunch & Course Schedule Review

Beyer Dining Hall & The Deck

Life as a Knight Various Locations

Let's Get Down to Business Yehl Alumni Ballroom

Well-being Panel

Yehl Alumni Ballroom

Optional Sessions

Choose sessions that fit your interests:

• Resource Fair

• Residence Hall Tours

• Commuter Corner

• Bookstore • Photo IDs • Ice Cream