This handbook is provided to students and applicants for their general information and guidance only. It does not constitute a contract, either express or implied, and is subject to revision at the University’s discretion.
CONTENTS
Introduction 6
Academic Information 10
Discrimination, Sexual Harassment and Sexual Assault Policies 24 Financial Aid and Business Office Policies 28 Health, Wellness, and Safety 36
Information Technology Policies 52 Student Activities 56 Student Records 76
Student Services 82
Student-University Relations 96 Student Code of Conduct 102 Directory 120 Index 124
Building Abbreviations 130
ADMINISTRATION
Mary A. Papazian
Marianne Kennedy
President
Peter F. Troiano
Executive Vice President
Pablo Molina
Interim Vice President for Institutional Advancement
Robert G. Sheeley
Associate Vice President for Academic Student Services
James E. Blake
Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
Gregg Crerar
Interim Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students
Kimberly M. Crone
Chief Information Officer Associate Vice President for Capitial Budgeting and Facilities Operations
DonnaJean A. Fredeen Dean, School of Arts and Sciences Deborah A. Newton
Ellen D. Durnin
Gregory J. Paveza
Interim Dean, School of Education Dean, School of Business Dean, School of Health and Human Services Interim Dean, School of Graduate Studies
W
DEAR STUDENTS: elcome to Southern Connecticut State University! As the great writer Oliver Wendell Holmes once said: “A mind stretched by a new idea can never go back to its original dimensions.” You are about to embark on a journey through higher education, one that will offer you every opportunity to stretch your mind and pursue your dreams through a wide array of intellectual, social and creative opportunities. Here at Southern, you will find a diverse and dynamic campus in the midst of exciting change, both academic and physical. We offer a challenging and rich array of academic offerings--one that has grown and evolved to keep pace with the changing needs of our students and the greater community. A university is a place where students who work hard can make their dreams come true. We will encourage you not only to apply yourself to your studies, but also to reach out beyond the campus to the larger community. You will see how helping others can enrich your own experience. Giving back to the community is not a cliché — it is a way of seeing the world. You will also find countless opportunities to broaden your perspective with lectures, plays, concerts, workshops and more. Off campus, discover New Haven, the cultural capital of the region, offering you the chance to take in the performing and visual arts, an array of culinary delights and, of course, the most celebrated pizza in the state! We are glad that you have made the decision to join our vibrant campus community — a community ready to provide you with the support, the guidance, and the inspiration to realize your goals. I wish you the very best for this new academic year and for those that lie ahead.
Sincerely,
Mary A. Papazian, Ph.D. President
4
O
DEAR STUDENTS: n behalf of the faculty and staff of Southern Connecticut State University, I would like to welcome you to the University community!
This Student Handbook includes much of the essential information you will need to make the most of your experience at Southern Connecticut State University. As an SCSU student, you have earned certain rights and you have assumed certain responsibilities. The University is committed to protecting the rights of every member of the SCSU community and to treating its members with dignity and positive regard. In return, the University expects each member of the campus community to be respectful of one another’s difference and to make a positive contribution to the life of the campus. The policies outlined in this Student Handbook are designed to promote a supportive community in which everyone’s rights are respected and everyone’s educational goals can be achieved. The Student Handbook organizes the University policies under the following sections: Academic Information; Discrimination, Sexual Harassment and Sexual Assault Policies; Financial Aid and Business Office Policies; Health, Wellness and Safety; Information Technology Policies; Student Activities; Student Records; Student Services; Student-University Relations; and the Student Code of Conduct. Please be sure to read through the Student Handbook very carefully and use it as a reference throughout your time at SCSU. Become familiar with the many services and programs that can enhance your college experience, and as you pursue your academic goals make time to participate in co-curricular activities. Involvement in the life of the campus will provide you with opportunities to learn from people of varied backgrounds, to examine new philosophies and worldviews, to develop new intellectual interests and technological skills, and to prepare yourself for active, creative participation in the rapidly emerging global society. Congratulations on joining Southern Connecticut State University! I wish you a safe, productive and prosperous journey as you pursue your academic aspirations. Have a great year!
Peter F. Troiano, Ph.D. Interim Vice President for Student and University Affairs
5
INTRODUCTION Welcome to Southern Connecticut State University, a flourishing community of more than 11,000 students located less than three miles from downtown New Haven, near the artsy and historic Westville Village section of the city. This Student Handbook, which complements the University Catalog, contains information about campus life. The handbook is provided to students and applicants for their general information and guidance only. It does not constitute a contract, either express or implied, and is subject to revision at the university’s discretion. It is prepared and published by the Office of Student Affairs in cooperation with the Office of Public Affairs. Southern Connecticut State University reserves the right to change announcements, procedures, and regulations whenever necessary. The Student Handbook can also be found online at handbook.SouthernCT.edu.
6 INTRODUCTION
SCSU History Life began for Southern Connecticut State University on September 11, 1893, when three teachers and 84 students met at the old Skinner School in New Haven to create a two-year teacher training school, New Haven State Normal School. By 1937, Southern had grown into a four-year college with the power to grant bachelor's degrees. Ten years later, Southern teamed up with Yale University's Department of Education to offer a master of science degree. In 1954, the State Board of Education authorized the institution — then known as New Haven State Teachers College — to assume complete responsibility for this graduate program. In 1959, six years after the institution had moved to its present location on Crescent Street, state legislation expanded Southern's offerings to include liberal arts programs leading to bachelor's degrees in the arts and sciences. At the same time, New Haven
State Teachers College became Southern Connecticut State College. For the next 24 years, Southern grew, modernized, and diversified, expanding its undergraduate and graduate programs and opening up entirely new fields of study and research. But March 1983 brought even greater changes: Southern Connecticut State College was rechristened Southern Connecticut State University, and made part of the Connecticut State University System (ConnSCU), along with Central Connecticut State University in New Britain, Eastern Connecticut State University in Willimantic, and Western Connecticut State University in Danbury.
Southern Today Today’s Southern is a vibrant, culturally rich and ethnically diverse environment. In addition to its extensive academic offerings, Southern hosts lectures, workshops in literature and dance, art exhibits, performances by professional and student artists, conferences, and institutes on a variety of topics that enrich, instruct, and delight. Through offering courses on part-time, day and evening bases, Southern has been innovative in providing access to a high quality education to a wide range of students. The campus clinics provide diagnosis and treatment of learning disabilities and speech, hearing, and reading problems. As a busy university with a strong identity and a rich history, Southern looks ahead to a future as varied, dynamic, responsive, and responsible as its past.
Building for the New Century Southern is in the midst of the first phase of a master plan to transform the center of campus. We are doubling the square footage of the Hilton C. Buley Library and upgrading the technology research tools. Engleman Hall has been vastly expanded, with more space devoted to academics, and in September we will break ground for a 98,332-square-foot, fourlevel academic and laboratory science building. Situated adjacent to Jennings Hall, the current home for the sciences, the new building will enhance the ongoing expansion of Southern’s science programs
and the university’s capacity to educate more students in the STEM disciplines — science, technology engineering and mathematics. The next decade will see Southern continue to evolve, meeting the challenges and seizing the opportunities a new century brings.
Fast Facts about Southern Academics 433 full-time faculty 79 – percentage of full-time faculty with the Ph.D.or other terminal degree 615 part-time faculty 69 undergraduate degree programs 47 graduate degree programs 15:1 – ratio of students to faculty Athletics 8 athletic programs for men 11 athletic programs for women 2 NCAA Division for Southern athletics 10 National NCAA Division II team titles 76 individual championships won by Southern athletes Campus 78 miles to New York City 136 miles to Boston 171 – acres Southern spans 260 – millions of dollars invested in campus renovations 125,000 – square feet in the new Student Center (three times the size of the old one) 6.4 – approximate number of miles from campus to Long Island Sound in West Haven Students 11,117 students at Southern 8,525 undergraduate students 2,592 graduate students 1:1.8 – ratio of male to female students residence halls 2,636 students live on campus 65 campus clubs INTRODUCTION 7
Above: The library and reading room at Southern’s original campus on Howe Street in New Haven, circa 1923. Below: A study area in the renovated Buley library.
8 INTRODUCTION
Above: The Michael J. Adanti Student Center, at the center of the Southern campus. Below: Founder’s Gate, next to the Lyman Center, displays the letters of the former New Haven State Teacher’s College.
INTRODUCTION 9
ACADEMIC INFORMATION All students are expected to know and understand the University’s academic policies and procedures, including academic standards and requirements governing students’ academic work both in their major and as part of their degree requirements. Information contained in this section of the Student Handbook is listed alphabetically. For a detailed description of all academic programs and courses of study, please consult the University undergraduate catalog at SouthernCT.edu/ undergraduatecatalog.
Academic Standing Policy All students shall demonstrate their ability to do college level work. The University requires a minimum cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.0 to be eligible for a bachelor’s degree. Any student with a cumulative GPA of 2.0 shall be considered in Good Standing by the university (some programs may have additional GPA requirements). 10 ACADEMIC INFORMATION
Students who fall below the required 2.0 shall be placed on academic discipline. The three categories of academic discipline are: Academic Warning: Students shall be placed on Academic Warning the first semester in which their cumulative GPA falls below 2.0. Students on Academic Warning shall be allowed to register for a maximum of 15 credits and shall register prior to the first day of the semester. Academic Probation: Students who are on Academic Warning and fail to raise their cumulative GPA to a minimum 2.0 in the following semester shall be placed on Academic Probation. Students on probation shall be allowed to register for a maximum of 14 credits and shall register prior to the first day of the semester. Students on Academic Probation shall be allowed to continue at the University, but shall remain on probation provided their semester GPA is at least a 2.3. Once the cumulative GPA reaches a 2.0, the
student shall be removed from Academic Probation and shall be placed in Good Standing. Students shall have three (3) semesters to raise their cumulative GPA to 2.0. If the cumulative GPA is below 2.0 after the third semester of probation, the student shall be academically dismissed. Academic Dismissal: Students on Academic Probation shall be Academically Dismissed if (1) their semester GPA is below a 2.3 and cumulative GPA is below a 2.0, or (2) their cumulative GPA remains below 2.0 after the third semester of probation. Students who are Academically Dismissed from Southern Connecticut State University shall not be allowed to register for the subsequent semester. If students choose to appeal for reinstatement, they may do so during or subsequent to the semester in which they are off. All appeals shall be made to the Academic Standing Committee. Students shall be permitted to appeal for reinstatement only once.
Application for Readmission See Readmission to the University, Page 19
Change of Address Students must have a current address on file in the Registrar’s Office. Any change of address must be reported in writing immediately to the Registrar’s Office. Students shall be responsible for any university communication sent to the address last given to the Registrar’s Office, and may not claim indulgence on the basis of having moved and, therefore, not having received the communication.
Class Absences Faculty outline the class attendance policy in each course syllabus, and, typically also inform students of the portion of the final course grade that will be determined by class attendance/participation. In an instance where the student knows in advance of a critical need to miss class, the student should, in advance of the absence, discuss the upcoming absence with the faculty member and explore arrangements that need to be made to make up missed work.
Students who miss class because of unforeseeable circumstances should contact the faculty member(s) as soon as feasible after the missed class, to inform the faculty member and, if deemed appropriate by the faculty member, to learn what the student might be able to do to make up for the missed work. Students who are absent from class(es) for six or more consecutive days for physical or mental health reasons are advised to consult with the Dean of Students office. In these instances, the student must present documentation from the off-campus treating physician or off-campus mental health provider. In the case of physical health issues, the documentation must be provided to the Health Services; in the case of mental health issues, the documentation must be provided to the Counseling Center. Each request is reviewed on a case-by-case basis. The directors of health services and counseling center provide verification of the illness to each faculty member, who may, if the facts merit it, make adjustments to course requirements. In cases where a significant portion of coursework has been missed and it may be difficult to make up all the coursework, students should confer with the Dean of Students Affairs or designee or a representative in the Registrar’s Office to consider their various options.
Class Attendance Students are expected to attend class regularly. Freshmen, in particular, should attend all class sessions to develop proper study habits as they begin their college education. Instructors may set mandatory class attendance as a course requirement. When attendance is mandatory, the instructor will announce in writing during the first week of the semester the effect that absences will have on the student’s evaluation. Students are responsible for material presented in the class whether they are present or not. Unless there are extenuating circumstances such as illness, students should not expect to use future class time or private tutoring by their instructors to make up work missed during their absences.
ACADEMIC INFORMATION 11
Instructors will announce in writing their policy for exams during the first week of the semester. Policies include any penalty for missed exams or arrangements for make-up exams. In all courses, students must take announced exams at the time they are given. Students should expect to be penalized for missing announced exams unless there is an acceptable reason for the absence.
Class Cancellation Advisory Students should be aware that courses may be canceled due to low enrollments and other reasons. Students will receive notification from the appropriate department if a course is canceled; however, it is a good idea for students to check their schedules prior to the start of classes to ensure that all registered courses will be offered. Students should check the Web for up-to-date course information. The following policy statement was formulated in conjunction with the academic deans and serves to guide the university's decision-making with respect to class cancellations during the regular academic semesters and during the summer and winter sessions: Fall and Spring Semesters: Under normal circumstances, after consultation with department chairs, academic deans will cancel classes for low enrollment, 10 days before the first day of classes. Summer and Intersession: Under normal circumstances, after consultation with department chairs, academic deans will cancel classes for low enrollment, 10 days before the first day of classes. Dean’s Discretion: In all sessions, the dean may take into consideration the discipline, the rotation of courses within the degree program, the needs of students to graduate on time, etc., and may choose to run sections of classes with enrollments less than those stated above.
00–29 credits — Freshman Class 30–59 credits — Sophomore Class 60–89 credits — Junior Class 90 or more credits — Senior Class
Course Audit Audit status is a reasonable alternative for a student who wants to take a particular course, but does not have the proper background. Students who audit a course pay the same tuition and fees they would if they opted for a grade. However, they receive no academic grade or grade points, and the course may not be included in the 12 credits needed for full-time status. Although no final grade is submitted, students do have the right to take exams, write papers, and have them evaluated. Students may register as auditors, or change from credit to audit, anytime before the end of the third week of classes. However, the deadline for changing back to a traditional grade is the end of the period for adding or dropping courses. Prior to auditing, students must discuss with the instructor the criteria for a successful audit and receive the written approval of the instructor. Forms for this purpose are available in the Registrar’s Office and at SouthernCT.edu/registrar, and must be returned to the Registrar’s Office by the deadline.
Dean’s List Students are recognized for their high academic achievement by being placed on the Dean’s List of their respective schools. In order for the undergraduate students to qualify for the Dean’s List, students must complete 12.0 or more credits in Fall or Spring and earn a semester GPA of 3.5 or better. These requirements apply to all undergraduate students, regardless of their academic class (i.e. freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior.)
Class Designation
Degree Application
Students are assigned to a class according to the number of their earned credits thus far.
Degrees are conferred three times a year, in January, May, and August (fall, spring, summer). There is no formal commencement at the end of the
12 ACADEMIC INFORMATION
fall or summer terms. Students completing graduation requirements who have filed an online application will have their diplomas mailed to their permanent address. Degree applications are available at SouthernCT.edu/registrar. Undergraduate students should click on the Undergraduate Students link, and graduate students should click on the Graduate Students link to apply. Students eligible for graduation must complete an application by the appropriate deadline. Deadlines are at SouthernCT.edu/registrar. Students who do not meet the published deadlines must apply for the next degree cycle. Students seeking certification must also obtain and submit an Application for Certification.
Degree Requirements Students are responsible for fulfilling the requirements for their degree programs. They should be acquainted with the Degree Program section of the Undergraduate Catalog, and with the requirements for their choice of major in the Programs and Courses section of the Undergraduate Catalog. They should also be aware of any official changes in degree requirements or major requirements. If there is any doubt or question concerning degree requirements, the student should contact their departments.
First-Year Experience First-Year Academic Program The First-Year Experience Program (FYE) introduces first-year students to the demands of academic and social development by fostering intellectual inquiry, encouraging community involvement, and instilling in them a passion for lifelong learning. At the heart of the FYE is the notion of Learning Communities. All first-year students take part in one of two learning communities during their first year at the University: Inquiry, or for selected students, the Honors College Learning Community.
Inquiry Learning Community First-year students are brought together in a critical thinking course and a 3-credit first-year seminar course (INQ 101), designed to assist small groups of students in becoming academically engaged members of the University. All sections meet in a series of common objectives. For more information, contact Jan Jones in the FYE office at (203) 392-6671 or visit SouthernCT.edu/fye. Honors College The Honors College is a four-year program designed for a small group of exceptionally wellprepared students. Incoming first-year students interested in joining this learning community must apply to the University no later than January 1st and complete the Honors College application process. Transfer students and already matriculated students with fewer than 30 credits and strong academic performance may also apply. More information about the application process is available at SouthernCT.edu/honorscollege.
Fresh Start Option The purpose of the Fresh Start Option is to retain and offer support to students who experience a poor start and were dropped from matriculated status or withdrew from the University. (However, this option is not available to education majors.) This option allows them to be readmitted to the University and to disregard their previous record in calculating their Grade Point Average. All courses and grades will remain on the students permanent record and the date the Fresh Start Option was invoked will also be entered on the student’s permanent record. The student will receive credit for courses taken before that date in which he or she received a grade of “A”, “B”, or “C.” (This does not include C- grades). The GPA will be calculated solely on the basis of courses taken after that date. The option is available only once, only to students who are not education majors, and only to students who have completed the following conditions. • had a GPA below 2.0 and status changed ACADEMIC INFORMATION 13
to non-matriculated; • have been non-matriculated for at least one year; • since being made non-matriculated, have completed 9-12 credits and earned a 2.75 GPA (If credits are from another university or college, please have official transcript sent to Southern Connecticut State University Registrar’s Office, Wintergreen Building); • have not reached junior status (60) credits, including the 9-12 credits referred to above; • not an education major. (The School of Education does not endorse the Fresh Start Option.) Applications for the Fresh Start Option may be obtained from the Registrar’s Office, Wintergreen Building.
Grade Appeal Procedures I. Assumptions A. The awarding of grades1 is the responsibility of the instructor of the course. B. A grade shall be changed only with the consent of the instructor of the course and with the approval of the provost or appropriate dean, except for cases that are specified in this document. C. In order to protect academic freedom, promote
14 ACADEMIC INFORMATION
academic integrity, and to avoid possible negative implications for faculty evaluations, all grade appeals must be based on a claim of palpable injustice. A palpable injustice occurs when a faculty member has been demonstrably inconsistent and unfair to the student. Palpable injustice represents a clear and blatant violation of a reasonable evaluation procedure, regardless of whether that procedure is stated or implied. Palpable injustice is NOT warranted when other faculty members simply disagree with the grade, would have graded differently, would have rounded off to the next highest grade, or would have preferred a different evaluation procedure. For example, the Department Grade Appeal Committee or University Grade Appeal Committee is not justified in changing a “WF” to a “WP” by considering the circumstances for the withdrawal. The issue is whether the faculty member applied the policy appropriately. D. These procedures apply only to the change of a grade under conditions specified in section 4.2.2.2 of the Collective Bargaining Agreement. They may be implemented after a final grade has been submitted or after a request for a late withdrawal has been denied
by the instructor, and any change may be upward or downward. E. These procedures may be implemented at any time during the academic year subject to II A below. F. The week of Spring Break shall not be counted when determining how long the grade appeal has been in process. II. Procedures A. Grade appeals must be initiated on an individual basis. A student must submit a written and signed rationale to the instructor (no electronic submissions permitted) stating the reason for the grade appeal and the grade s/he feels should have been received anytime after receipt of the grade until the end of 3rd week of the semester2 (called hereinafter the appeal semester) following the date on which a grade was awarded. Grade appeals for work during summer, winter and spring break sessions must be made according to the schedule for the next full semester. See the section on deadlines below. The student and the instructor shall then attempt to settle the matter in good faith. B. If it is impossible for the student to contact the instructor (with the help of the instructor’s chair if needed), or if the student and instructor cannot reach an agreement, the student must report this to the instructor’s chair or the program director (in the case of courses in interdisciplinary programs) by the end of the 5th week of the appeal semester. C. If the instructor can be contacted, and the student and instructor disagree, the following shall take place: 1. Working in good faith, thechair/director,
the instructor, and student shall attempt to settle the matter. 2. If the student, the chair/director and instructor are unable to reach an agreement, then the chair/director has until the end of the 7th week of the appeal semester to do one of the following: A. Convene a committee3 elected by the department (hereinafter called the Department Grade Appeal Committee or DGAC) which shall, in consultation with the instructor and student, decide whether a palpable injustice has occurred. The DGAC must reach its decision by the 10th week of the appeal semester, or the appeal goes directly to the University Grade Appeal Committee (UGAC). The student or the faculty member has the right of appeal to the (UGAC). In such instances, the UGAC must reach its decision by the last day of the finals’ week of the appeal semester. B. Refer the matter to the UGAC, which shall, in consultation with the instructor and student, decide whether a palpable injustice has occurred. C. Decide not to convene a DGAC or to refer the matter to the UGAC, only if the chair/director determines that the grade appeal has no merit. 3. If the chair/director decides not to convene a DGAC nor refer the matter to the UGAC,the student may refer the matter to the UGAC, but must do so by the end of the 9th week of the appeal semester. 4. The DGAC or the UGAC shall make a decision with reference to the grade
Notes: 1
By grade refers to any of the grades specified in the university Undergraduate or Graduate Catalogs. Semester means the January to May or the September to December sessions of classes. 3 The composition of this committee and its election procedures shall be determined by each department, subject to ll F. 2
Revised 2008
ACADEMIC INFORMATION 15
appeal following consultation with the instructor, student, and others whom it deems appropriate. The meetings of the DGAC or UGAC shall consist of the respective committee members, and others,only if invited by the DGAC or the UGAC. A grade change may take place when the DGAC or the UGAC decides that a palpable injustice has occurred, and the new grade will be based on the evidence presented. The DGAC or the UGAC shall treat each student as a separate case. The DGAC’s or UGAC’s decision shall include a written rationale for each decision signed by the committee members. The student, the instructor, the department chair/director, and the chair of the DGAC (when applicable) shall be notified in writing of the committee’s decision. If a grade change has been made, the registrar shall also be notified in writing. THE DECISION OF THE DGAC CAN BE APPEALED TO THE UGAC BY EITHER STUDENT COMPLAINANT OR AFFECTED FACULTY MEMBER, AND THE DECISION OF THE UGAC SHALL BE FINAL. 5. If a student or instructor appeals a DGAC decision, the appellant takes the matter directly to the UGAC by the end of the 12th week of the appeal semester. The UGAC will entertain an appeal on the basis of a palpable injustice that should or should not have been determined by the DGAG, or if the student, instructor, chair/director, or DGAC did not follow correct procedure. THE DECISION OF THE UGAC SHALL BE FINAL. D. If it is impossible to contact the instructor, 16 ACADEMIC INFORMATION
or the instructor refuses to participate, the procedure in II C is followed without the presence or involvement of the instructor. E. Deadlines and deadline extensions. 1.“By the 3rd week” means 3 weeks (21 calendar days) into the semester, starting with the 1st day of classes. Other deadlines are to be interpreted similarly. 2. A dean of the appropriate school may extend any grade appeal deadline only at the appellant’s request and only if the appellant provides written evidence that physical or mental incapacitationled to the missed deadline. The request must be made, in writing, no later than the end of the first week of classes following the original grade appeal semester. F. Structure of the Grade Appeal Committee. The GAC shall consist of three department or program members, excluding the instructor, the chair, non-tenured faculty and those on leave. In cases of hardship (when too few department/program members are available), the chair will follow the same procedures as those for convening a hardship DEC. G. Structure of the University Grade Appeal Committee. The UGAC shall consist of seven members, including six university-wide elected members who serve a term of three years each, plus one member of the affected department/program, and one university-wide elected alternate who fills in as needed. Two elected members will be from the school of Arts and Sciences; the other four schools shall have one member each. No more than one elected member per department is permitted. Any grade appeal decision shall not be made by fewer than three UGAC members. The instructor whose grade is being appealed cannot serve on UGAC for that appeal.
III. Amendments A. This document may be amended by two-thirds vote of the Faculty Senate with the concurrence of the university President. IV. Interpretation A. This section may not be invoked with respect to the interpretation of any item of the Collective Bargaining Agreement. If an issue develops concerning interpretation of this document, whether initiated by the senate, a faculty member, or any member of the administration, a binding decision on such an issue shall be made: 1. by agreement between the President of the University and a majority of the Executive Committee of the Faculty Senate or, failing to obtain agreement on an issue by this method, 2. by a committee consisting of one member selected by the Senate Executive Committee, one selected by the President of the University, and one selected by the first two committee members, who, by a two-thirds vote shall decide such an issue.
V. Implementation A. This document shall take effect upon approval by a two-thirds vote of the Faculty Senate with the concurrence of the President of the university.
Grading System The following grades are used on academic records: Grade Point Average To determine a student’s grade point average (GPA), also referred to as Quality Point Ratio (QPR), letter grades are assigned grade points as follows: A+ = 4.0
A = 4.0
A- = 3.7
B+ = 3.3
B = 3.0
B- = 2.7
C+ = 2.3
C = 2.0
C- = 1.7
D+ = 1.3
D = 1.0
D- = 0.7
F=0 The numerical weight given each grade is then multiplied by the number of credits (semester hours) assigned to each course. Thus, a grade of C in a three-credit course merits six quality points (2 x 3). ACADEMIC INFORMATION 17
The grades of “I,” “P,” “S,” “W,” “W/F,” “W/P,” and “Z” carry no quality points, and the credits for those courses are not considered in the total credits attempted, so they have no effect on the GPA. A student’s GPA is determined by dividing the total number of quality points by the number of credits attempted. • Excpetional – A+, A, A• Superior – B+, B, B• Average – C+, C • Passing – C-, D+, D, D• Failure – F • Incomplete – I • P = Pass in a course where all students receive P or F • S = Pass in a course taken for Pass-Fail Option • Z = Satisfactory Audit of classes Certain codes are used to indicate unusual situations: • N = Student never attended • R = No grade reported by instructor • W = Officially withdrawn • W/F or W/P = Late withdrawal: withdrawn failing or withdrawn passing If a course is repeated, both grades will appear on the permanent record and will be used in determining the cumulative GPA. Credits for both attempts will be counted toward credits attempted, but the credits will be earned just once. The GPA of a transfer student is based solely on courses taken at SCSU.
Honors Undergraduate students who have maintained a 3.5-3.69 GPA are graduated cum laude; 3.7-3.89 magna cum laude; 3.9-4.0 summa cum laude. The GPA is computed from the student’s entire collegiate record. Transfer students who have taken at least 60 credit hours at SCSU and have attained a 3.5 GPA or higher in these courses will be eligible for academic honors. Only earned grades at Southern 18 ACADEMIC INFORMATION
will be tabulated when determining academic honors.
Honors Thesis Juniors and seniors with exceptional motivation and potential in their chosen disciplines may choose to pursue a rigorous path to graduation with departmental honors. Students wishing to participate should contact the chairperson of the University Honors Committee. The production of a high-quality thesis or performance completes the requirement for departmental honors.
Incomplete Courses A temporary grade of “Incomplete” (I) is recorded when a student has a valid reason as determined by the instructor for not meeting a partial requirement in a course prior to the termination of the semester. The student requests Incomplete status from their instructor. If granted, the Incomplete must be removed not more than 30 days after the next semester begins. If the student fails in his responsibility to complete the work, the grade automatically becomes a failure, “F”. If the instructor is giving the student longer than the 30-day period to complete coursework, then the instructor must file an Incomplete Extension Form with the Registrar’s Office. Students should be aware that a grade of incomplete may impact financial aid.
Independent Study Students who wish to pursue special research or other projects may request independent study in any department in the university. Forms for application for independent study are available in the offices of the academic deans.
Information Requests The Registrar’s Office does not release academic information about any student unless the student makes a request in writing.
Internships The University provides a diverse internship
program to give students the chance to get on-thejob professional training while earning college credit. Students can serve semester-long or academic-year internships in federal, state, and local government agencies, departments, and offices, or with private firms. Interested students should contact their departmental chairperson or dean.
Midterm Grades As part of the course evaluation process, students will receive a midterm grade for most courses directly from their instructors. The midterm grade will be given to the student either online or in writing during the eighth week of classes for full semester courses, and by the end of the fourth week for eight-week courses. A student who has not received a midterm grade by these times should confer with the instructor. If this meeting does not result in the student’s receiving a midterm grade, the student should contact the chairperson of the department in which the course is offered. For additional information the student is advised to consult with the appropriate academic dean. Any student, especially a freshman who is doing unsatisfactory work (“D” or “F”) at the time of midterm grade reporting, is encouraged to initiate conferences with their instructor and academic advisor.
Minimal Standards Students dropping below a cumulative 2.0 GPA at the end of a semester are, depending on accumulated credit hours, subject to either academic probation or removal from full-time status. Students who have all the coursework for their degree, but do not have a cumulative 2.0 GPA will be ineligible to graduate.
New England Regional Student Program Southern Connecticut State University is a participant in the New England Higher Education Compact. This offers residents of other New England states the opportunity to enroll at SCSUfor academic programs not available at public institutions in their home state, at the Connecticut resident tuition rate
plus 50 percent. Other fees are also required. Similarly, Connecticut residents can avail themselves of programs offered by public schools in the other New England states that are not available in Connecticut public institutions. For more information about the New England Regional Student Program, contact the New England Board of Higher Education, 45 Temple Place, Boston, MA 02111; Phone: (617) 357-9620; online at nebhe.org; or contact the Registrar’s Office of Southern Connecticut State University at (203) 3925301.
Proficiency Policy Any entering student who places into the noncredit bearing course, MAT 095 — Elementary Algebra, must complete it within the first 24 load credits of university work. If a student fails to complete this course within 24 attempted credits of course work, he or she will not be allowed to register for courses at any Connecticut State University System institition. This policy reflects a resolution passed by the Board of Trustees for the Connecticut State University System on July 16, 2003.
Readmission to the University A student who leaves the university in Good Standing and does not attend another institution can apply for readmission through the Office of the Registrar, Wintergreen Building. Once readmitted students are held to the academic requirements in effect at the time of their readmission. These requirements are outlined in the Undergraduate Catalog. A student who leaves the university while on Academic Warning/Probation and does not attend another institution can apply for readmission through the Office of the Registrar, Wintergreen Building. If readmission is granted the student will be placed on Academic Probation and will adhere to the requirements outlined in the University’s Academic Standing Policy. Any student who has been dismissed from the University must take a minimum of one semester off ACADEMIC INFORMATION 19
and appeal for reinstatement through the Academic Standing Committee. Reinstatement is not guaranteed. Readmission for the fall semester begins March 1 and continues through the Friday prior to the first day of classes. Readmission for the spring semester begins October 1 and continues through the Friday prior to the first day of classes.
Registration Registration occurs during November and December for the following spring semester and April and May for the following fall semester. The full schedule of courses, as well as up-to-date information regarding course openings and closings, can be accessed at SouthernCT.edu. All undergraduate matriculated students are required to meet with their advisers prior to making course selections for the upcoming semester. Petition for Irregular Schedule A petition for irregular schedule is defined as a schedule in which a student is requesting to enroll in greater than 18 undergraduate (UG)/15 graduate (GR) credits or less than 12 UG/9 GR credits while maintaining full-time student classification, or registering for a graduate course as an undergraduate student for either graduate or undergraduate credit. Students requesting to enroll in more than 18 UG/15 GR credits must have a GPA greater than or equal to 3.00 and be prepared to pay additional monies. Students requesting to enroll in less than 12 UG/9 GR credits while maintaining full-time student classification must meet the requirements set forth in the CSU Board of Trustees Resolution BR-03-05. The form is available on the Registrar’s Office website and must be signed by the student’s adviser and appropriate dean prior to being submitted to the Registrar’s Office. Pass-Fail Option The Pass-Fail option is open to students who have completed 45 or more credits. The courses for which 20 ACADEMIC INFORMATION
the Pass-Fail option is used may not be applied to the Liberal Education Program or to the requirements of a major or minor. Students may take a total of only five courses on a Pass-Fail option, with only one taken in any given semester. Students have three weeks into the semester to change their option either back to a grade or from a grade to a Pass-Fail. The Pass-Fail option is “blind” in that the instructor is not aware of the student’s use of the Pass-Fail option until after the grades are submitted. An “S” grade is recorded on the student’s transcript for passing a course taken on a Pass-Fail option. Special Pass-Fail option forms, which must be signed by the student’s adviser, are available during the registration period and up to three weeks into the semester at the Registrar’s Office in the Wintergreen Building. Semester Credit Load A normal undergraduate course load is 15 to 18 credits per semester. A student must carry a minimum of 12 credits to be considered a full-time student.
Registration Procedures Continuing Students must register through Banner Web Services (MySCSU). Students will receive Registration information through their Southern e-mail in March for fall registration and October for spring registration. Matriculated undergraduate students must meet with their adviser and obtain an alternate pin number prior to registering. Add/Drops Students may add/drop courses through the first week of the semester via the Web. Full-time undergraduate students should not drop below 12 credits and full-time graduate students should not drop below 9 credits. Full-time and part-time students may withdraw from a full semester course prior to the tenth week of classes; for an eight-week course prior to the sixth week of classes. Such a withdrawal is recorded as a W on the transcript. Each faculty member should provide some kind of formal evaluation so that each
student will know their class standing prior to the end of the period for course withdrawals. A student can withdraw from a course through Banner Web Services (MySCSU) prior to the end of the withdrawal period. It is understood that every student should confer with his or her instructor and academic adviser in order to ensure proper faculty advisement before withdrawing from a course. The deadline for students to change their status to part-time is at the end of the period for adding and dropping courses as listed in the Schedule of Classes. Withdrawals after the ten-week period (or after five weeks for eight-week courses) must be done with the consent of the instructor. Late course withdrawals are to be viewed as exceptions to the general policy. In a case where the instructor feels a late withdrawal is justified, the instructor should obtain and fill out a Late Course Withdrawal Form available in the Registrar’s Office. At this time the instructor will assign a grade of either “WP” (Withdrawn Passing) or “WF” (Withdrawn Failing). The Late Course Withdrawal Form must be approved and signed by both the instructor and the department chairperson. In the event that the instructor teaching the course is the department chairperson, then the dean must also sign the original form. The entire form is then submitted to the Registrar’s Office. No late course withdrawals will be allowed after the last scheduled class. No late course withdrawals will be allowed during the final exam period. Debts, Fines and Obligations Students who have outstanding debts in the Business Office, unpaid library fines, outstanding parking fines, unpaid housing fees, violations of Financial Aid Office rules, or have not submitted required forms to Health Services shall have a block placed against their registrations. Students will not be permitted to register until they clear these obligations with the appropriate offices.
Replacement Grade Option If a student wishes to retake a course for a different grade, they can register for the course
again as a “Replacement” course. Although both grades will appear on the student’s transcript, the replacement course grade will be used to calculate the student’s University GPA instead of the old grade. The student receives credits for the course only once. If the student has already taken the course more than once, the replacement grade will be used in place of the lowest previous grade for the course in order to calculate the student’s GPA. Students are required to meet with their academic advisers before pursuing a replacement grade. Conditions and Restrictions • A student must complete the “Replacement Course” form on the Registrar’s Office Web site to indicate that s/he intends the course to be a “Replacement.” This form must be completed prior to the last day of the add/drop period; otherwise, both the new grade and the old grade will be calculated into the GPA. • Once a course is designated a “Replacement” course, the new grade received will replace the old grade, regardless of whether it is higher or lower than the old grade. • The “Replacement” course grade cannot be undone, other than by withdrawing from the course before it is over. If the student withdraws, they cannot register for the same replacement course a second time. • The “Replacement” option can only be pursued once per course, and only for a total of 15 credits. • If a course taken as a writing intensive “W” course is retaken without a W designation, the new grade will still replace the old grade for GPA purposes, and the original “W” can still be used to fulfill “W” requirements, as long as the student received a passing grade for the course. • Some SCSU programs may be required to calculate both grades for GPA purposes. Students are required to meet with their
ACADEMIC INFORMATION 21
academic advisers before pursuing a replacement grade. • Once awarded a degree, a student may not go back and replace individual courses within that degree.
ROTC (Reserve Officer Training Candidate) Students may earn a commission in the United States Army through the ROTC program at the University of Connecticut, Storrs, or Air Force through the ROTC program at Yale. A two- or fouryear sequence of courses may be selected. Interested students should inquire about the ROTC Scholarship Program. For Army ROTC call (860) 486-4538; for Air Force ROTC call (860) 486-2224.
Selection of a Degree Program A matriculated student can select a degree program by filling out a Selection of Degree Form, which can be found online at SouthernCT.edu/ registrar/forms. Print and complete form, have it signed by the chair and an adviser in the department selected, and then submit the signed form to the Registrar’s Office. Application to a Department Students who wish to pursue a major in professional fields where certification is required must apply to a department during the first half of their fourth semester at the university. Students who seek a BA degree in the arts and sciences should also apply to the department of their intended major. Assignment to an Academic Adviser Course advisement begins at the time of the first registration period and continues throughout the student’s academic career at Southern. Every student must be assigned an academic adviser. Students who elect a major will be assigned an adviser by their department. Students who are not ready to elect a major will be assigned to the Academic Advisement Center located in the Wintergreen Building. An academic adviser is a faculty or staff member who discusses, advises, and guides a student in 22 ACADEMIC INFORMATION
planning and/or selecting a program to obtain a degree in a particular subject area. Students are reminded, however, that having an adviser does not exempt them from the responsibility of carefully reading the Undergraduate Catalog and other advisement publications in order to understand the requirements of their programs. Problems or Questions Because academic advisers are teaching professors, they are available to students only during posted office hours. Students who have schedules incompatible with their advisers should report to the department office to be assigned a new adviser (if they have elected a major) or to the Academic Advisement Center (if they have not elected a major). Students should plan to see their adviser regularly during the academic year. They should also make an appointment with their academic adviser to discuss their selection of courses as soon as they receive registration information.
Taking Courses at Other Institutions Matriculated students in good standing (2.0 GPA or higher) who plan to take courses at other institutions must obtain prior approval from the Registrar’s Office in order to apply this course work toward the degree requirements of the University. The approval forms are available in the Registrar’s Office in the Wintergreen Building.
Transfer Students The Admissions Office mails transfer students an official evaluation of courses and credits accepted for transfer after students have been admitted to the university and upon receipt of their official transcripts from the colleges they previously attended. When applying to a department, transfer students should have the official evaluation form with them to aid their advisers in planning a program. If questions or problems arise after they arrive on campus, transfer students should contact the transfer admissions coordinator in the Admissions Office or the Academic Advisement Center.
Transcripts Current students must request official University transcripts for graduate schools, prospective employers, and other institutions using Banner Web Services. On-line requests submitted through Banner Web Services are printed and mailed on the same day that they are requested. Instructions can be found at SouthernCT.edu/registrar.
Transcripts – Emergency You may request an Emergency Transcript at the Registrar’s Office in the Wintergreen Building Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. Emergency Transcripts are $15 each and only one emergency transcript may be requested per day. Emergency Transcripts must be requested in person, by the student with a valid picture ID.
Waiver Examinations Waiver examinations are available to students who, as the result of previous experience, already have proficiency in subject areas. Examinations are given in all basic freshman and sophomore subjects required for graduation or as prerequisites to advanced courses in certain disciplines. A mark of A or B waives the course and earns three credits; a “C” earns a waiver without credit. A lower grade usually indicates the need to take the course. Waiver credits are not considered when tabulating a student’s GPA. Waiver examinations are given in the fall and spring of each year. Students who want to take these two-hour examinations must make arrangements with the appropriate department.
Withdrawal Policy A student who wants to withdraw officially from the university should consult with a representative from the Registar’s Office in the Wintergreen Building. This representative will discuss the withdrawal with the
student and will also make a preliminary evaluation of readmission possibilities. The student then completes an official withdrawal form. Students who are withdrawing should carefully note the following: • Readmission at a later date is not automatic. Application for readmission may be made in the Registrar’s Office in the Wintergreen Building. • Students readmitted to the university are held to the academic requirements in effect in the catalog at the time of their readmission. • For students who withdraw from the university before the last scheduled class, a grade of “W” will be assigned for all courses taken that semester. • Students who do not officially withdraw but cease to attend classes will be considered enrolled and will receive failing grades. • Students who plan to complete the semester but do not intend to return the following semester should complete their withdrawal forms prior to the their last final examination, dated effective after the end of the semester. • A leave of absence may be discussed with a representative from the Registrar’s Office. A leave of absence is designed for students who have a specific time frame in which they plan to return to Southern. • The refund policy, if applicable, may be found in the Fees and Expenses section of the Undergraduate Catalog. Reminder: Failure to withdraw officially from the university may result in failing grades being recorded on your transcript. It may also lead to problems with debt to the university and affect future financial aid awards.
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DISCRIMINATION, SEXUAL HARASSMENT AND SEXUAL ASSAULT POLICIES Discrimination and Sexual Harassment Prevention Policy Statement It is the policy of Southern Connecticut State University to prohibit discrimination based on all protected classes including, but not limited to, race, color, religious creed, age, sex, marital status, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, sexual identity, and sexual orientation. Discrimination includes harassment on any basis mentioned above, and sexual harassment as defined in the Connecticut General Statutes, U.S. EEOC Guidelines of Sexual Harassment, and in Title IX of the Higher Education Amendments of 1972. Discrimination or harassment will not be tolerated at Southern Connecticut State University, whether by faculty, students or staff, or by others while on property owned by or under the control of the University. The purpose of this policy is to help prevent acts
of discrimination/harassment and to offer students and employees who believe they have experienced discrimination or harassment a means to promptly redress any such claim. The University's goal is to end the discrimination or harassment and promote a learning and working environment free of discrimination and harassment. Any employee, student, or applicant for employment or admission to the University, who believes that he or she has been discriminated against or harassed as defined by this policy may file a complaint by following the Procedures for Discrimination and Harassment Complaints available at SouthernCT.edu/diversityequity. Inquiries regarding the university’s compliance with state and federal laws regarding discrimination may be directed to the Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Diversity and Equity Programs at (203) 392-5492 or (203) 392-5491 at Southern
24 DISCRIMINATION, SEXUAL HARASSMENT AND SEXUAL ASSAULT POLICIES
Anyone who has a complaint alleging an act of violence or harassment based on race, religious creed, gender, sexual orientation, disability, ethnicity or cultural origin should contact the Office of Diversity and Equity Programs at (203) 392-5491.
Connecticut State University; the Commission of Human Rights and Opportunities, West Central Region Office, 55 West Main St., Suite 210, Waterbury, CT 07602 (203) 803-6530; or the Office of Civil Rights, United States Department of Education, 8th Floor, 5 Post Office Square, Boston, MA 02109-3921, (617) 289-0111, ocr.boston@ed.gov.
Pluralism Policy Statement Southern Connecticut State University’s policy statement on pluralism forbids acts of violence or harassment reflecting bias or intolerance based on an individual’s race, religious creed, gender, sexual identity, sexual orientation, disability, ethnicity or cultural origin. The university has procedures for investigating complaints of acts of intolerance brought by students and staff. Southern Connecticut State University endorses the Connecticut State University Policy regarding Racism and Acts of Intolerance. That Policy is as follows:
A complaint against a university employee alleging a violation of this policy should be filed in either the Office of Diversity and Equity (Buley Library 207) or the University Police Department, Granoff Hall. Any complaint filed against a university employee must be filed within 60 days of the alleged violation.
Sexual Assault Sexual assault is a crime of violence motivated by the need for power and control. Sex is used as a weapon to humiliate and degrade the survivor. Sexual assault is sexual contact or penetration against a person’s will. It includes rape, attempted rape, same-sex assault, incest, and child sexual abuse.
The Connecticut State University declares: Institutions within the Connecticut State University have a duty to foster tolerance; The promotion of racial, religious creed and ethnic pluralism within the university is the responsibility of all individuals within the university community: Every person within the university community should be treated with dignity and assured security and equality; Individuals may not exercise personal freedom in ways that invade or violate the rights of others; Acts of violence and harassment reflecting bias or intolerance of race, religious creed, gender, sexual orientation, disability, ethnicity or cultural origins are unacceptable: and The university shall take appropriate corrective action if such acts of violence or harassment occur.
Reporting Sexual Assault Rape, all forms of sexual assault and intimate partner violence are crimes under Connecticut General Statutes and also a violation of the institution’s rules and regulations. SCSU provides educational programs on campus to promote awareness of rape, acquaintance rape and other sex offenses. These programs take place regularly in the Student Center, in residence halls and elsewhere on campus. Requests for police participation in these pro-grams are coordinated through the Women’s Center, Office of Residence Life, University Counseling Center, Department of Health Services, Social Work Department, Nursing Department, women’s studies program and others. If you become a victim of or witness to a sex offense, report it immediately to the SCSU Police Department by calling 911 or (203) 392-5375, 24hours a day, seven days a week or contact any on-duty officer on campus. Your identity as a victim
DISCRIMINATION, SEXUAL HARASSMENT AND SEXUAL ASSAULT POLICIES 25
will be kept confidential by law. It is extremely important that sex offenses be reported immediately so that the crime scene and any evidence of the crime can be preserved and secured as soon as possible. It is also critical that you seek prompt medical attention so that a sexual assault evidence collec-tion kit can be administered immediately and you can be screened for sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy. Support services are available for the victim through the SCSU Sexual Assault Response Team (SART), the University Police Department at (203) 392-5375 or the Women’s Center at (203) 3926946. Trained members are available to assist a victim 24 hours a day. Victim Assistance The dean of student affairs may change the victim’s academic schedule if requested by the victim to avoid contact with the accused. If the victim lives on campus, the Office of Residence Life will, at the victim’s request, change the victim’s living situation to whatever extent is possible and reasonable, to avoid an encounter with a student(s) accused of the crime. Other accommodations are available and may be provided as needed. Judicial Action The SCSU Office of Judicial Affairs is responsible for ensuring a fair, just and impartial judicial process for students charged with violation of a law in connection with conduct that also violates the provisions of the Student Code of Conduct. The office also provides education and resources to foster respect and civility among all members of the university com-munity. For information, call (203) 392-6188 or visit SouthernCT.edu/judicialaffairs/ scsucodeofconduct. University Disciplinary Procedures Regarding Sexual Assault In cases of an alleged sexual offense, when the accused is a student, both the victim and the accused
are entitled to have others present during a judicial disciplinary hearing. You may: 1. Be accompanied to any meeting or proceeding by an advisor or support person of your choice, provided that the advisor or support person does not cause a scheduled meeting to be delayed or postponed 2. Present evidence and witnesses on their behalf 3. Be informed in writing of the results of the disciplinary proceeding no later than one business day after it concludes and retain the right to appeal the decision in accordance with disciplinary procedures. 4. Have their identities kept confidential, except as necessary to carry out a disciplinary pro-ceeding or as permitted by state or federal law. You have the right to request that disciplinary proceedings begin promptly and know that the proceeding must be conducted by an official trained in issues relating to sexual assault and intimate partner violence. The judicial process will use the “preponderance of evidence standard” (i.e., whether it is more likely than not that the alleged incident occurred.) Following a final determination of responsibility when the allegation involves a rape or other sexual offense, the university judicial officer may impose any sanction or combination of sanctions, including expulsion. Disciplinary proceedings under this Code may be carried out before, during or after civil or criminal court proceedings against the accused student. Sexual Violence Education and Support Beginning with Freshman Orientation, Southern Connecticut State University takes an active continuous role in raising awareness and creating a safe space for open dialogue and action. We do so through the use of educational programs which are coordinated by the Women’s Center, University Police, the Office of Residence Life, and Counseling Services. These programs are designed to define the
26 DISCRIMINATION, SEXUAL HARASSMENT AND SEXUAL ASSAULT POLICIES
problem, explain the laws and university procedures, and teach sexual violence awareness, prevention, intervention, reporting options and confidentiality should an assault occur. The SCSU Women’s Center provides information, educational programming, referrals, victim advocacy and services on issues related to violence against women. The Center also maintains a resource room with information on sexual assault, stalking, domestic violence, dating violence, sexual harassment, women’s health, body image, eating disorders and drugs known to be used in facilitating assaults. The Women’s Center is located in Schwartz Hall and is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Response to Sexual Assault: SART The SCSU Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) provides a collaborative victim-centered team response to sexual assault that ensures a transition from victim to survivor for every individual whose life is affected by sexual violence. SART team members representing the Women’s Center, University
Counseling Center, Health Services Department, Office of Student Affairs, Office of Student Life, Multicultural Center, Office of Judicial Affairs, Public Health Department and Office of Residence Life provide a survivor with many supportive options including counseling, medical attention, judicial services, advocacy, referrals and general information regarding sexual assault. If a survivor chooses to file a police report, the University Police Department and the Women’s Center staff will assist that person with the reporting process, empowering the survivor to make their own decisions by providing on- and offcampus re-sources and offering support as needed. The SART members can assist you in obtaining an order of protection, applying for a temporary restraining order, or seeking enforcement of an existing order. Southern Connecticut State University shall not disclose the identity of victim or the accused, except as necessary or as permitted under state or federal law. For more information, visit SouthernCT.edu/sexualassaultresponse.
DISCRIMINATION, SEXUAL HARASSMENT AND SEXUAL ASSAULT POLICIES 27
FINANCIAL AID AND BUSINESS OFFICE POLICIES The Financial Aid Statement of Rights and Responsibilities and the policies governing financial obligations, financial aid and scholarships are outlined for students in this section of the Student Handbook. Also included is information about the SCSU Bursar’s Office which is responsible for student billing and revenue collection.
Bursar’s Office The Bursar’s Office is responsible for student billing and revenue collection. In addition to collecting and posting payments on student’s accounts, the Bursar’s Office oversees monthly payment plans, financial aid refunds, Perkins Loan accounts, and the collection of past due tuition. The Bursar’s Office also processes refunds from overpayments, class withdrawals, university withdrawals, and status changes. The Cashier’s Office is a part of the Bursar’s Office and is located in the main lobby of the Wintergreen Building. 28 FINANCIAL AID AND BUSINESS OFFICE POLICIES
The hours of operation for the Bursar’s Office are Monday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Tuesday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. After hours, payments can be made online at SouthernCT.edu/bursar by clicking on Pay Bill, Payment Plan Sign-Up, and View E-Statement. Financial Obligations Southern Connecticut State University expects students to be prepared to meet their financial obligations to the university. Planning for those obligations and literally “taking care of business” well in advance of any semester permits students to focus their energies on the academic challenges of university life. The information provided below is intended to be a guide to help students understand the university’s billing policy so that they can be better prepared to meet their financial obligations. Students who fail to meet their financial obligations to the university will be suspended and denied
permission to register in succeeding semesters until the obligations have been satisfied. Students who register for a course and neither complete the course nor officially withdraw according to published procedures will receive a grade of “F” in the course and will be responsible for all financial obligations associated with the course. For further information on costs, refunds, payment deadline dates, or for any financial questions, please visit SouthernCT.edu/bursar. Student Account Billing Policy FALL AND SPRING SEMESTERS 1. Payment for full-time matriculated students is due in full approximately 4-6 weeks prior to the first day of classes. For specific due dates, please visit southernct.edu/bursar/ important dates 2. Payment for part-time non-matriculated students AND ALL students registering after the bill due date is due at the time of registration. INTERSESSION, SPRING BREAK, and/or SUMMER SEMESTERS 1. Payment for ALL students registering for courses offered in intersession, spring break, and/or summer semesters is due AT THE TIME OF REGISTRATION. Payments may include financial aid, scholarship(s), third party payments, payments from personal resources or enrollment in a payment plan (see next page). eBill is Southern Connecticut State University's official method for sending student account billing statements. Students will not receive paper statements (or bills) through the postal service; rather Students and Authorized Users will receive email notification when new statements are available online through the eBill + Payment Suite; student account billing statements — showing all charges and payments are available through this secure online system. To view your student billing statement or make a payment, visit myscsu.SouthernCT.edu/ cp/home/login, Click on Banner Web, select
Student Services, click “View EBill or Make Payment” and then click the “View bills and make payment” button. You will be redirected to the Southern eBill Student Account page; from there you can click on the Payments tab from the menu options on the top of the page. For detailed information regarding the eBill+ Payment Suite features such as setting up an Authorized User, creating an eRefund account, or enrolling in a payment plan online please visit ebill.SouthernCT.edu. SCSU Payment Plans All students may enroll in one of SCSU's deferred payment plans that allows payments to be made throughout the semester/year. Students can self enroll in a payment plan online at eBill + Payment Suite or call the Bursar's office at (203) 392-6140 for assistance. Students are eligible to enroll in a payment plan at the time of registration for classes as long as all previous semesters have been paid in full. A non refundable $45 enrollment fee and the first payment are due at the time of enrollment in the payment plan. *Note: While the payment plan agreement allows for a 10 day grace period, the grace period is only applicable to the assessment of a $50 late fee therefore your account will be considered past due if your installment payments are not paid on the scheduled due dates. If you do not pay the installment amount due on the scheduled due date your account will be considered past due and a Hold will be placed on your account and if applicable, you may be prevented from moving into your residence hall. Additionally, a $50 late fee will be assessed for this installment payment if the full installment “Amount Due” is not paid within the 10 day grace period from the due date. Acceptable forms of payment for deferred payment plans Installment payments for deferred payment plans may be made online through eCheck (automatic withdrawal from a PERSONAL checking account),* FINANCIAL AID AND BUSINESS OFFICE POLICIES 29
a charge against a credit or debit card, or may be paid in person at the Bursar's office in the form of cash, check, debit card, or money order. *Note: It may take up to five business days for a newly designated account to be verified and available for eCheck payment. Home equity lines of credit, trust accounts, 527 Educational Saving accounts, and credit card checks cannot be used as eCheck payments. Penalty for late and non-payment A full or part time matriculated student's account is considered “past due” after a 10 day grace period from the due date. Any part-time student and/or any full-time student who registers after the semester due date and does not pay upon registration is also considered past due. Past due student accounts are subject to a $50 Late fee, having a hold placed on them, and/or having their class schedule canceled and if applicable, their housing assignment canceled. Holds placed on accounts may prevent students from registering for subsequent semesters, restrict access to transcripts and grades, and/or their class schedule will be canceled. Special circumstances may be reviewed on a case by case basis. Collection of debt. Students with past due balances are subject to the University’s collection process; students failing to pay past-due accounts or make adequate payment arrangements will be assigned to a collection agency. Collection agency fees will be charged to the student and their past due balance will be reported to the credit bureau(s)
Financial Aid The university awards a limited amount of financial aid to matriculated students who can demonstrate financial need. The priority date for the submission of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is March 15. The basic premise for financial assistance is to assist a student in meeting their university charges. Please note that an application for financial aid (FAFSA) does not guarantee that the student will receive enough aid to cover all university costs. It is the student’s 30 FINANCIAL AID AND BUSINESS OFFICE POLICIES
responsibility to ensure that all semester charges are paid by university deadlines. Applicants who file their FAFSA after the priority date decrease their chances of receiving gift aid (state/federal grants). Incomplete applications will not be considered for financial aid. All students who want to be considered for financial aid for the upcoming academic year should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) via the Web at fafsa.ed.gov. This application will serve as the university application for financial aid. If the FAFSA is selected for verification by the federal processor, students will be asked, via their SCSU email account, to submit any requested documentation. Private Scholarships Students receiving outside scholarships must submit a copy of their scholarship notification as soon as possible to the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships, which is located in the Wintergreen Building. Veterans’ Benefits Veterans should contact the Coordinator of Veterans’ Affairs in Engleman Hall, Room B018, (203) 392-6822, to determine if they are eligible for educational veterans’ benefits.
Financial Aid Statement Of Rights And Responsibilities A. Student Rights Regarding Financial Aid 1. The student has the right to know what financial aid programs are available at the university. (SouthernCT.edu/financialaid) 2. The student has the right to know the deadlines for submitting applications for each of the financial aid programs available. (SouthernCT.edu/financialaid) 3. The student has the right to know how their financial need was determined. This includes how costs of tuition and fees, room and board, travel, books and supplies, personal and
miscellaneous expenses, etc., are considered in his/her budget. (SouthernCT.edu/financialaid) 4. The student has the right to know what resources (such as parental contribution, other financial aid, assets, etc.) were considered in the calculation of his/her need. (SouthernCT.edu/financialaid) 5. The student has the right to know how much of their financial need as determined by the institution has been met. (SouthernCT.edu/financialaid) 6. The student has the right to know the university’s refund policy. (SouthernCT.edu/registrar) 7. The student has the right to know what portion of the financial aid s/he was awarded must be repaid and what portion is gift aid. If the aid is a loan, the student has the right to know what the interest rate is, the total amount that must be repaid, the repayment procedures, the length of time the student has to repay the loan and when repayment is to begin. (SouthernCT.edu/financialaid) 8. The student has the right to know how the school determines whether s/he is making satisfactory academic progress (SAP) and what happens if s/he is not making SAP. (SouthernCT.edu/financialaid) B. Student Responsibilities Regarding Financial Aid 1. The student must complete the FAFSA accurately and it is recommended to submit it to the federal processor prior to the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships (OFAS) priority date to be considered for financial aid before bills are due. 2. The student must provide correct information to the federal processor. The student must inform the Office of the Registrar of any change in name or address. In most instances, misreporting information on the federal application is a violation of law and may be considered a
criminal offense, which could result in indictment under the U.S. Criminal code. 3. The student must return all additional documentation, verification, corrections, and/or new information requested by either OFAS within 10 business days. 4. The student is responsible for reading and understanding all the forms that is asked to sign and for keeping copies of them. 5. The student must accept responsibility for all agreements that they sign. 6. The student must perform the work that is agreed upon in accepting a Federal Work Study award. 7. The student must be aware of the university’s refund procedures. 8. First-time borrowers must complete an entrance interview session required by federal regulation when requesting a Federal Direct Student Loan. The entrance interview emphasizes the seriousness and importance of repayment obligations the borrower is assuming. 9. The student must attend an exit interview required by federal regulations for each Federal Direct Loan they have received. The exit interview emphasizes the seriousness and importance of repayment obligations the borrower is assuming when they graduate, withdraw from the university, or drop below half-time status.
Financial Aid Withdrawal Policy What is a withdrawal? • Official Withdrawal — student who notifies the university registrar’s office that s/he will not be attending the university for a term. The student needs to submit a withdrawal form to the registrar’s office. • Unofficial Withdrawal — student who stops attending all of their courses resulting in a zero grade point average for a term.
FINANCIAL AID AND BUSINESS OFFICE POLICIES 31
Title IV Withdrawal Policy The law specifies how Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU) must determine the amount of Title IV program assistance that a student earned if s/he withdraws from school. The Title IV programs that are covered by this law are: Federal Pell Grants, Iraq Afghanistan Service Grants, Academic Competitiveness Grants, National SMART grants, TEACH Grants, Stafford Loans, PLUS Loans, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOGs), and Federal Perkins Loans. When the student withdraws during a payment period or period of enrollment, the school is required to perform a withdrawal calculation which determines the amount of financial aid the student has earned. If the student received (or SCSU or parent received on your behalf) less assistance than the amount that was earned, the student may be able to receive those additional funds. If the student received more assistance than s/he earned, the excess funds must be re¬turned by SCSU and/or the student to the appropriate Title IV financial aid. The amount of assistance that a student earns is determined on a prorata basis. For example, if the student completed 30% of the payment period or period of enrollment, the student earned 30% of the assistance that was originally scheduled to receive. Once the student completed more than 60% of the payment period or period of enrollment, the student has earned all the assistance that was originally scheduled to receive for that period. If the student did not receive all of the funds that s/he earned, may be due a Post-withdrawal disbursement. If the Post-withdrawal disbursement includes loan funds, SCSU must get the student’s permission before it can disburse them. The student may choose to decline some or all of the loan funds so that s/he don’t incur additional debt. SCSU may automatically use all or a portion of the Postwithdrawal disbursement of grant funds for tuition, fees, and room and board charges (as contracted with the school). SCSU needs the student permission to use the Post-withdrawal grant disbursement for all other school charges. If s/he does not give 32 FINANCIAL AID AND BUSINESS OFFICE POLICIES
permission, the student will be offered the funds. However, it may be in the best interest to allow SCSU to keep the funds to reduce the debt at the school. There is some Title IV funds that the student was scheduled to receive that cannot be disbursed to the student once s/he withdraw because of other eligibility requirements. For example, if the student is a first-time, first-year undergraduate student and have not completed the first 30 days of the program before s/he withdraw, the student will not receive any FFEL or Direct Loan funds that s/he would have received had the student remained enrolled past the 30th day. If the student receives (or SCSU or parent receives on the student’s behalf) excess Title IV program funds that must be returned, SCSU must return a portion of the excess equal to the lesser of: 1. the student’s institutional charges multiplied by the unearned percentage of your funds, or 2. the entire amount of excess funds. SCSU must return this amount even if it didn’t keep this amount of the Title IV program funds. If SCSU is not required to return all of the excess funds, the student must return the remaining amount. Any loan funds that must be return, the student (or the student’s parent for a PLUS Loan) repay in accordance with the terms of the promissory note. That is the student makes scheduled payments to the holder of the loan over a period of time. Any amount of unearned grant funds that the student must return is called an overpayment. The maximum amount of grant overpayment that the student must repay is half of the grant funds s/he received or was scheduled to receive. The student does not have to repay a grant overpayment if the original amount of the overpayment is $50 or less. The student must make arrangements with SCSU or the Department of Education to return the unearned grant funds. The requirements for Title IV program funds when the student withdraws are separate from any refund policy that SCSU may have. Therefore, the student may still owe funds to SCSU to cover unpaid
institutional charges. SCSU may also charge the student for any Title IV program funds that the school was required to return. If the student does not already know what the school’s refund policy is, s/he can ask the Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships for a copy. SCSU registrar’s office can also provide the student with the requirements and procedures for officially withdrawing from school. For more information about the Title IV program funds, call the Federal Student Aid Information Center at 1-800-4-FED-AID (1-800-433-3243). TTY users may call 1-800-730-8913. Information is also available on Student Aid on the Web at studentaid.ed.gov. Withdrawal Policy for State, Institutional, and other financial aid If a refund balance still remains after the Title IV withdrawal calculations has been performed, the school will perform a withdrawal calculation to determine what portion of the state, institutional or other financial aid the student has earned. All of the unearned funding will be refunded in the following sequence: Connecticut Aid to Public Schools Grant, Connecticut State University Grant, and any general institutional or scholarships programs the student may received.
Residence Status Any student classified as an out-of-state resident who feels that they qualifiy as a bona fide resident of Connecticut may request a change of classification. However, the student should be aware that the law is very clear in stating the following: • The domicile of any unemancipated person is that of their parent; • The establishment of a new domicile in the state by an emancipated person has not occurred until they have resided in this state for a period of not less than a year; • No emancipated person shall be deemed to have gained residence while attending college in this state as a full-time student in the absence of a clear demonstration that they have
established domicile in the state (domicile: denotes a person’s true, fixed, and permanent home and place of habitation. It is the place where they intend to remain and to which they expect to return when they leave without intending to establish a new domicile elsewhere); • The domicile of any emancipated person receiving regular financial assistance from their parent, or whose parents’ income was taken into account by any private or governmental agency furnishing financial educational assistance to such person, including scholarships, loans, or otherwise, is that of their parent; • The spouse of any person who is classified as an in-state student shall likewise be entitled to classification as an in-state student; • Foreign students in temporary United States government status (visa-holders) cannot establish permanent domicile in Connecticut. In consequence of these provisions of the law, before reclassification can take place, the registrar will require the following: • A notarized statement from the student’s parent stating that the student has attained the age of 18 and that the parent has “entirely surrendered the right to care, custody, and earnings of such person and is no longer under an legal obligation to support or maintain such student.” In the absence of any of these, the student shall be considered “unemancipated.” • Clear demonstration of the establishment of a permanent domicile in this state. A one-year lease on an apartment is acceptable; a school year (September to May) lease or what is clearly “off campus housing” is not. • Verification by the Financial Aid Office that no form of financial aid or loan is dependent either on the income of the parent or on out-ofstate residence. Students who feel that they can meet these criteria are welcome to apply for change of classification. FINANCIAL AID AND BUSINESS OFFICE POLICIES 33
The CSU System Residency Reclassification Affidavit is available in the Registrar’s Office in the Wintergreen Building.
Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy at Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU) The Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) policy is based on federal guidelines that require each college and university to ensure that student aid applicants are progressing through their academic programs at an acceptable pace while maintaining an acceptable cumulative grade point average. The policy is separate and apart from other academic policies at the university. Students failing one or more of the SAP standards are ineligible to receive financial aid from the programs managed by the Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships for the entire academic year (i.e., summer, fall and spring semesters). The SAP policy affects student eligibility for the following federal and state financial aid programs: • Federal Pell Grant • Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant • Federal Perkins Loan • Federal Direct Stafford Loan (subsidized and unsubsidized) • Federal Direct PLUS Loan • Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan • Federal Work Study • Connecticut Aid to Public Schools Grant • Connecticut Assistance for Public Colleges for Work Program • Connecticut State University Grant • State Scholarship and Grant Programs • Other Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards • Grade Point Average (Qualitative): Undergradu-
ate students are expected to maintain a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0 at SCSU and graduate students are expected to maintain a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0. 34 FINANCIAL AID AND BUSINESS OFFICE POLICIES
• Credit Completion Rate (Quantitative): Undergraduate and graduate students are expected to successfully complete at least 67% of the credits attempted at SCSU. Incompletes (I), withdrawals (W, WF, and WP), course repetitions, non-credit remedial courses and grades not reported by a professor (R) will be included in this assessment. Transfer credits will be counted as attempted and earned credits in the calculation for determining SAP. See Sample: Summer 2011 Fall 2011 Fall 2011 Spring 2011
3 credits 15 transfer credits 15 credits 15 credits
The student transferred and registered for a total of 48 credits during summer, fall and spring. Based on 48 credits, the student needs to pass a minimum of 32 credits (48 attempted credits multiply by 67% = 32 credits) to successfully complete the credit completion rate. • Maximum Credit Hours: A student may receive financial aid for attempted credits in their program of study; however, the number of attempted credits cannot exceed 150% of the university’s published credit hours for the educational program in which the student is enrolled. This includes transfer credits. For example: Student needs 122 credits to complete the undergraduate degree. If the student is unable to complete the degree in 122 credits then the student has up to 150% maximum time frame to complete the degree (122 multiply by 150%) which is 183 credits. A student who transfers 90 credits to SCSU and completes 95 credits at SCSU will not be eligible for financial aid (90 transfer credits plus 95 registered credits = 185 credits) because the student exceeded the 150% maximum time frame of 183 credits. After grades are posted in June, students who have not met the SAP standards will be notified in writing of their ineligibility to receive financial aid at SCSU.
If extenuating circumstances exist which caused the student to fail one of the SAP standards, the student can submit an appeal for reinstatement of his/her financial aid as determined by SCSU. SAP appeals may be based on factors such as: (1) the death of a relative; (2) an injury to or illness of the student; or (3) other special circumstances. To file an appeal, the student must complete the SAP Appeal Form and attach a written statement that addresses why he/she failed to make SAP and what has changed that will allow him/her to meet the SAP standards during the next academic year. The SAP Appeal Form, written statement and supporting documentation must be submitted to the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs in Engleman Hall, Room A106 for review and resolution. The SAP Appeal Form is available online at SouthernCT.edu/ financialaid.
The Dean of Student Affairs office will review each appeal and determine the following: • The student’s appeal may be denied thus making him/her ineligible for any Title IV funding and most other financial assistance for the next academic year. In this case, the student must regain eligibility without financial aid before consideration of a second appeal; or • The student’s appeal may be approved. This will allow the student to receive financial aid contingent upon the successful completion of the requirements set forth in the SAP contract. The student will be placed on financial aid probation. Financial aid probation is a status a school assigns to a student who is failing to make SAP and successfully appeals. Eligibility for aid may be reinstated for one semester.
FINANCIAL AID AND BUSINESS OFFICE POLICIES 35
HEALTH, WELLNESS AND SAFETY Southern Connecticut State University is committed to the health, wellness and safety of all members of the university community. The following pages provide detailed information on the policies, regulations and procedures designed to provide a safe and healthy environment conducive to academic and personal growth. This section, arranged alphabetically for your convenience, includes descriptions of the university offices that address all campus health, wellness and safety issues.
Alcohol And Drug Policies As a condition of receiving Federal funds, the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act of 1989 requires Southern Connecticut State University and other institutions of higher education throughout the country to adopt and implement a drug and alcohol prevention program. This notice is published pursuant to the requirement of the act. The university recognizes that the misuse of 36 HEALTH, WELLNESS AND SAFETY
alcohol or the use of illegal drugs represents a serious threat to the physical and mental well-being of its students and the entire community. Our common goal is to foster a university community where the intellectual development of students is free from the harmful effects of alcohol and drugs. Each person has a responsibility to help safeguard the community health by respecting university policy and intervening in situations of abuse. Addressing the drug and alcohol problem in our society and community requires caring, cooperation and support of every member of the university community. Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act: Parental Notification The university reserves the right as permitted by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) to notify parents/guardians if their son or daughter, under 21 years of age, has been determined to have violated the university’s Alcohol and Drug Policy.
Program Review The university will conduct a biennial review of these programs and policies to determine their effectiveness, make changes where necessary and ensure that sanctions and interventions are consistently enforced. The following is intended to provide clear guidelines for members of the university community: Alcohol • Campus policy permits the possession and consumption of alcoholic beverages at Southern Connecticut State University under controlled conditions at registered special events. • All students of the university shall observe the laws of the State of Connecticut concerning alcoholic beverages. • As adults, all students of the university are expected to take personal responsibility for their own conduct. • The possession and consumption of alcoholic beverages shall be restricted to those persons who have reached the legal drinking age. The university reserves the right to request proper proof of age or identification from any person. Those attending a function must be members of the Southern Connecticut State University community or their escorted guests. • Students are expected to consider the rights of others and use mature and responsible judgment concerning the use of alcoholic beverages. • Alcoholic beverages may not be served at any time without the prior approval of the appropriate designated agent. • Student clubs and organizations are not permitted to sponsor an event, on-or offcampus, where alcoholic beverages are served or provided unless the event is registered and approved by the Dean of Student Affairs. • University-recognized student organizations are prohibited from sponsoring “bring your own” events (on or off campus) at which
individuals carry their own alcoholic beverages into the facility. An exception may be made for Parents Day/Homecoming, which is the major university-sponsored event involving alumni, parents and students. • The possession and consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited in academic buildings, out-of-doors on any part of the campus and at any intercollegiate or intramural athletic activity unless the event is registered and approved by the Dean of Student Affairs. • State law prohibits the unlicensed sale of alcoholic beverages on the campus. Therefore, no financial arrangements between the sponsor of an event and guests are permitted whenever alcohol is to be served, (i.e., no admission fees can be charged, donations accepted or tickets sold.) • Food and non-alcoholic beverages must be available at all times during an approved special event involving the consumption of alcoholic beverages. • Any person or organization violating state law or these regulations will be subject to disciplinary action by the university and/or referral to the appropriate civil authorities. Drugs • The possession, distribution and consumption of illicit drugs and the abuse of prescription and over-the-counter drugs and anabolic steroids are prohibited. • The university recognizes that drug problems are complex, and it will make every effort to assist students who have a problem. However, students must understand that, apart from the professional resources of the university, drug problems revealed or uncovered in the normal course of administrative operations will be treated as disciplinary matters in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. • Students found guilty of violations of this policy shall be subject to university disciplinary action that may include suspension or expulsion. In HEALTH, WELLNESS AND SAFETY 37
addition to the penalties that may be imposed by campus authorities, criminal prosecution may also be initiated.
Alcohol and Drug Education And Prevention Programs Individual Counseling and Referral Students can talk to a licensed professional about personal issues concerning their own use of alcohol or other drugs or that of a friend or loved one. All services are confidential and free of charge to registered students. Please contact the Drug and Alcohol Resource Center at (203) 392-5087 to set up an appointment. Drug and Alcohol Resource Center (DARC) The Drug and Alcohol Resource Center (DARC) staff provides free and confidential screening, evaluation and counseling to those concerned about their own substance use and those in violation of the university alcohol and drug policies. In addition, the DARC office serves as a storehouse of information on alcohol, tobacco and other drugs with pamphlets, books, journal articles and other materials available to students, faculty and staff. For more information, visit the office in Schwartz Hall or call (203) 3925087. Southern Task Force On Prevention (STOP) This is a committee made up of students, faculty, staff and members of the New Haven community who are committed to reducing high-risk drinking and other drug abuse. STOP develops and coordinates prevention, education, intervention and treatment services for the campus community. STOP also promotes healthy and safe lifestyles and encourages personal responsibility. STOP is always looking for student representatives to serve on the committee or volunteer for projects. Please call (203) 392-5087 if you are interested in getting involved.
38 HEALTH, WELLNESS AND SAFETY
Anti-Drinking and Driving There are a number of opportunities for students to get involved in anti-drinking and driving educational programs and prevention activities. Please call (203) 392-5087 for more information or to get involved. Self-Help Groups For more information about Aloholics Anonymous, Al-Anon, and Narcotics Anonymous, please contact the Drug and Alcohol Resource Center at (203) 392-5087.
Alcohol and Drug Health Risks Although most students don’t engage in high-risk drinking (drinking to high blood alcohol levels, drinking to the point of blacking out, etc.) and illicit drug use, alcohol and drug abuse does have profound effects on the body. Such use may result in impaired judgment and coordination; physical and psychological dependence; damage to vital organs such as the heart, stomach, liver and brain; inability to learn and remember information; psychosis and severe anxiety; injury and death. (Thirty-eight to 50 percent of all fatal accidents involve alcohol.) Sexuality Because judgment, reasoning, communication and perception are all affected by alcohol and other drugs, one’s substance choices may lead to such things as sexual exploitation, unwise choice of partners, unwanted pregnancies and the increased risk of sexually transmitted diseases, including AIDS. Drinking and Driving In Connecticut, a person is legally intoxicated when their blood alcohol content (BAC) reaches 0.08 percent. If you are arrested for operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, your license will be suspended for 90 days. Drivers between 16 and 24 have twice as many fatal crashes per mile as older motorists. When alcohol is involved, younger drivers are much less likely to use seatbelts, and their fatal crash rate is almost three times greater than older drivers.
Alcohol and Drug Legal Sanctions The university campus is subject to State and Federal laws concerning use and possession of alcohol and drugs. Individuals must be aware of and abide by these laws or face legal prosecution. Alcohol: Section 30- 89(a) of the Connecticut General Statutes states that it is unlawful for a minor (under the age of 21) to purchase or attempt to purchase or to make a false statement in connection with the attempted purchase of alcohol. The 1st offense is a $136.00 infraction and the 2nd & subsequent offenses result in fines ranging between $200.00 and $500.00. Section 30- 89(b) states that possession of alcohol by a minor on a street, highway or public place is illegal. The 1st offense is a $136.00 infraction and a 30-day suspension of an individual’s driving license. The 2nd and subsequent offenses result in fines ranging between $200.00 and $500.00 and may result in the suspension of an individual’s driver’s license.
Drugs: The Connecticut General Statutes cover a wide range of drug offenses, including the offer, the sale, the possession with intent to sell, the gift and the mere possession of various drugs. [21a CONN. GEN. STAT. Section 277, 278, 279 (1988)] Among other provisions, the state laws create the following mandatory minimum prison sentences for first-time offenders who are not “drug-dependent” persons: • Five years for the manufacture or sale or possession with intent to sell of one ounce or more of heroin, methadone or cocaine or onehalf gram or more of cocaine in a freebase form or five milligrams or more of LSD; • Five years for the manufacture or sale or possession with intent to sell of any narcotic, hallucinogenic or amphetamine-type substance or one kilogram or more of a cannabis-type substance, including marijuana; • Five years for the offer or gift of any of the above drugs in the respective amounts.
HEALTH, WELLNESS AND SAFETY 39
Conviction for the possession of drugs carries no mandatory minimum sentence but the following maximum sentences do exist for first-time offenders: • Seven years or $50,000.00 or both for possession of any quantity of a narcotic, including cocaine and “crack,” morphine or heroin; • Five years or $2,000.00 or both for possession of any quantity of a hallucinogen (such as LSD or peyote) or four ounces or more of a cannabis-type substance (which includes marijuana); • One year or $1,000.00 or both for possession of less than four ounces of a cannabis-type substance or any quantity of a controlled drug, such as amphetamines or barbiturates. Actual sentences depend on the severity and the circumstances of the offense and the character and background of the offender. Federal law also penalizes the manufacture, distribution, possession with intent to manufacture or distribute and simple possession of drugs (“controlled substances”) Controlled Substances Act 21 U.S.C. Section 841, 843[b], 844, 845, 846 (1988). The law sets the following sentences for first-time offenders: • A minimum of ten years and a maximum of life imprisonment or $4,000,000.00 or both for the knowing or intentional manufacture, sale or possession with intent to sell, of large amounts of any narcotic, including heroin, morphine or cocaine (including “crack”) or of phencyclidine (PCP) or of LSD or of marijuana (1,000 kilograms or more); • A minimum of five years and maximum of 40 years or $2,000,000.00 or both for similar actions involving smaller amounts of any narcotic, including heroin, morphine or cocaine (which includes “crack”) or phencyclidine (PCP) or of LSD or of marijuana (100 kilograms or more); • A maximum of five years or $250,000.00 or both for similar actions involving smaller
40 HEALTH, WELLNESS AND SAFETY
amounts of marijuana (less than 50 kilograms), hashish, hashish oil, PCP or LSD or any amounts of amphetamines, barbiturates and other controlled stimulants and depressives; • Four years or $30,000.00 or both for using the mail, telephone, radio or any other public or private means of communication to commit acts that violate the laws against the manufacture, sale and possession of drugs; • One year or $1,000.00 or both for possession of any controlled substance (the gift of a “small amount” of marijuana is subject to the penalties for simple possession). Penalties may be doubled, however, when a person at least 18 years old [1] distributes a controlled substance to a person under 21 years of age and (a term of imprisonment for this offense shall not be less than one year) or [2] distributes, possesses with intent to distribute or manufactures a controlled substance in or on or within 1,000 feet of, the real property comprising a public or private elementary, vocational or secondary school or a public or private college. Any attempt or conspiracy to commit one of the above federal offenses, even if unsuccessful, is punishable by the same sentence proscribed for that offense. A first-time offender may receive only probation and later have the charge dismissed. Although in some cases the federal penalties seem somewhat lighter, it is not possible to “trade” a state charge for a federal one. State and Federal law thus make crimes of many different activities involving drugs. Simple possession, giving or merely offering drugs is illegal, as are such offenses as the manufacture or sale of drugs.
Bicycles, Rollerblading, and Skateboarding In the interest of public safety, bicycles should be securely chained and locked in the bicycle racks available on campus. Bicycles are prohibited from being secured to light poles, railings, benches, etc. Bicycles are prohibited from being parked or stored in university buildings, residence halls, on sidewalks and
driveways, or in motor vehicle parking spaces. They must be parked so as not to obstruct free passage of vehicles and pedestrians. The University Police reserve the right to remove bicycles in violation of this policy and should such removal be required, the university shall not be held liable by the student for damage to the bicycle or the device used to secure it. Rollerblading and skateboarding are prohibited on all parking areas.
Counseling Services SCSU Counseling Services, located in Engleman B 219, is a support resource for accepted and enrolled students who request emotional support while at SCSU. This confidential brief treatment is available free of charge to students between the hours of 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. The Center is staffed with licensed counselors, social workers, a psychiatric nurse practitioner and advance practice graduate students. There is a crisis counselor available from 8:30-4 p.m. weekdays for triage of crisis on a walk-in basis or by appointment/referral. These appointments are typically 20 minutes and are used to stabilize the student and determine a treatment/support plan. The Center provides support and therapy groups upon interest and request. Students interested in group counseling should call
for more information. The Center also provides psycho-educational programming, classes, life coaching and other forms of holistic mental health support. Because SCSU Counseling Services is a brief treatment center, students currently in ongoing treatment are strongly encouraged to stay under the care of their existing psychiatrist and/or therapist, and strongly discouraged from discontinuing any form of medication or treatment without direct consultation with their mental health provider. The SCSU community is committed to wellness and suicide prevention. If a student is or knows of another student who has expressed suicidal thoughts, intentions or plan should contact a professional staff/faculty member or University Police at x911 immediately. During the business day, a counselor is available for consultation about how to help a distressed student. Counseling Services can be reached at (203) 392-5475 between the hours of 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Emergency Medical Assistance Emergency medical assistance is initiated with a call to 911. Emergency personnel will obtain a brief description of the emergency and send an officer to the scene. In case of a life-threatening situation (e.g. HEALTH, WELLNESS AND SAFETY 41
apparent heart attack, breathing difficulty, state of unconsciousness, etc.), emergency personnel will call simultaneously for an ambulance and arrange for an escort for the ambulance to the exact campus location. In all cases, Health Services will be notified of the action taken.
Food And Beverages The consumption of food and beverages by members of the university community in classrooms, laboratories and in the public areas of Buley Library is not permitted.
personnel or to the University Police Department by means of an office or interior emergency telephone. • Faculty, staff and students shall not re-enter the building until directed to do so by University Police or Fire Department personnel. The alarms may be silenced to facilitate communications with emergency personnel once the building is essentially evacuated. This is not the signal to re-enter. Police and Fire Department personnel will announce when it is safe to re-enter a building.
Fire Evacuation Procedures
Health and Wellness Center
To ensure the safety and welfare of the university community, all persons must evacuate a building when the fire alarm sounds. When an emergency evacuation of a building is required, the following procedures must be followed: • All persons must evacuate the building to a safe distance, approximately 300 feet. Those persons unable to vacate the building for any reason shall do the following: 1. Notify someone who is leaving the building or call University Police with their specific location. Anyone receiving this information shall ensure that it is passed to the University Police or responding New Haven Fire Department and/or Hamden Fire Department Units, to facilitate search and rescue, if required. 2. Protect themselves as well as possible. For example, they should close the door to the room they are located in, place a coat or similar material under the door to restrict the passage of smoke, seek refuge in stair towers (while not blocking the stairs) or seek refuge inside another room.
Granoff Student Health and Wellness Center is located in Granoff Hall on Wintergreen Avenue. The Center is staffed by a physician, nurse practitioners, registered nurses, health educators and support personnel. The Center provides ambulatory care services to students by appointment; urgent care is available on a walk-in basis. With two campuses of Yale New Haven Hospital in close proximity, referrals in emergency situations can be done expeditiously. The Center maintains resources on many topics, including stress management, life balance, sexual responsibility, healthy eating and physical activity. Students desiring guidance in any health problem should feel free to consult the Health & Wellness staff. The following services (based on availability) are provided by the Health & Wellness Center for an additional fee, and are subject to change without notice: ● Annual Flu shots: $15.00 ● Hepatitis B antibody testing: $22.00 ● Hepatitis B vaccination: $35.00 ● MMR, Meningitis, Tetanus/Tdap, Varicella, HPV vaccinations: $20.00* *(These vaccinations are only offered to un-or underinsured individuals.) ● Measles antibody testing: $20.00 ● Monospot: $5.00 ● Mumps antibody testing: $22.00 ● Plan B (emergency contraception): $25.00 ● Rapid Strep: $10.00
• Persons noticing any dangerous conditions or problems during evacuation (i.e. persons unable to evacuate, fire or smoke) must report this information to responding emergency 42 HEALTH, WELLNESS AND SAFETY
● Rubella antibody testing: $22.00 ● Tuberculin skin testing (PPD): $10.00 ● Urine pregnancy testing: $5.00 ● Varicella antibody testing: $30.00 The Health Center telephone number is (203) 392-6300. If you are unable to reach a staff member at this number, please call University Police at (203) 392-5375 or call 911 in an emergency. For more information about the Health Center visit SouthernCT.edu/healthservices. The Wellness Center is a non-judgmental and confidential place for the Southern community to come for information, conversation and referrals on topics related to health and wellness. The Wellness Center collaborates with other departments on campus and in the community to provide comprehensive programs and services for students, faculty and staff. The Wellness Center maintains resources on many topics, including stress management, life balance, sexuality, healthy eating and physical activity. The Wellness Center is located in Granoff Hall, Room 47. For more information call (203) 3926526, e-mail wellness@SouthernCT.edu, or visit SouthernCT.edu/wellness.
Health Immunization Requirements All full-time undergraduate and matriculated part-time undergraduate and graduate students must have properly completed health forms on file at the Granoff Student Health & Wellness Center prior to registration. Connecticut State Statutes require each full-time student as well as matriculating students to provide proof of 2 doses of MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine. The doses should be separated by at least 28 days with dose number one given on or after the first birthday. All incoming freshmen will also be required to show proof of 2 doses of Varicella (chicken pox) vaccine. The doses should be separated by at least 28 days with dose number one given on or after the first birthday. The only
exceptions are the following: • Those born before January 1, 1957 for MMR, and those born in the United State before January 1, 1980 for Varicella. • Those with a valid medical exemption signed by their healthcare provider. • Those who provide documented laboratory proof of immunity to Measles, Mumps, Rubella and Varicella. • Those who provide a written statement that immunization is contrary to their religious beliefs. • Those with documentation from a physician or director of health that the student has had a confirmed case of such disease. • Students who graduated from a Connecticut high school in 1999 or later and were not exempt from MMR vaccinations (does not apply to varicella requirement). • Those enrolled in on-line courses only. Adequate immunization Measles (Rubeola): one injection at 12 months of age or older and on or after January 1, 1969, and a second injection after January 1, 1980. Mumps: one injection after 12 months of age or older and on or after January 1, 1969, and a second injection after January 1, 1980. German Measles (Rubellla): one injection after 12 months of age. Chicken Pox (Varicella): proof of two injections: dose number one on or after 12 months of age and the second dose at least four weeks apart. Individuals born prior to January 1, 1980 are exempt from this requirement. Additional Requirement for On-Campus Residence Students Connecticut State Statutes also require all students living in on-campus housing to be vaccinated against Meningococcal Meningitis with meningococcal conjugate vaccine (a booster is recommended if the first dose was given before age 16 years). The only exceptions are the following: • Those with a valid medical exemption signed by their healthcare provider. HEALTH, WELLNESS AND SAFETY 43
• Those who provide a statement that immunization is contrary to their religious beliefs. Documentation must be submitted to the University Health Service prior to moving into campus residence facilities. The university reserves the right to deny registration and campus housing to any student not in compliance with the above health requirements. Questions may be directed to: Granoff Student Health & Wellness Center Southern CT State University Phone: (203) 392-6300; Fax (203) 392-6301 healthservices@SouthernCT.edu SouthernCT.edu/healthservices Health Assistance Off-Campus The Health Center web site maintains a list of after-hours providers and various off-campus agencies that are accessible to students by referral. If any student has a question about a service that cannot be provided on campus, they are encouraged to contact a member of the health center staff.
Health and Accident Insurance Accident insurance is part of the General Fee paid by all full-time students. Besides accident coverage, the university also requires a sickness insurance plan to cover surgical expenses and hospitalization costs. All full-time students will be automatically enrolled in and billed for the sickness insurance plan unless they file a waiver at aetnastudenthealth.com indicating equivalent coverage. Part-time matriculated students taking a minimum of six credits are also eligible to purchase the university policy and must do so to participate in campus clubs/organizations. Parental Notification Guidelines Southern Connecticut State University adopted these parental notification guidelines for student misconduct in 2000. • Whereas excessive, abusive, illegal and/or repetitive use of alcohol and/or drugs is 44 HEALTH, WELLNESS AND SAFETY
inconsistent with the educational mission of the university; • Whereas unauthorized use and/or possession of alcohol or drugs generally represent violations of law for persons under the age of 21; • Whereas excessive, abusive, illegal and/or repetitive use or possession of alcohol and/or drugs threatens the well-being of persons and property and tends to diminish students’ prospects for personal and intellectual development and academic success; • Whereas student’s parents or guardians are respected for their roles as partners with the university in supporting the students’ personal and intellectual development and academic success; Under the supervision of the Vice President for Student and University Affairs, the Dean of Student Affairs or their designee has the authority to determine when and by what means to notify parents or guardians when students under the age of 21 are found to have committed serious or repeated violations of university policies related to the possession, use or distribution of alcohol or drugs. Notification of parents is indicated when the following conditions occur: 1. The violation involved harm or threat of harm to persons or property. 2. The violation involved an arrest in which the student was taken into custody. 3. The violation resulted in or could result in the student being suspended from the university and/or dismissed from the residence halls. 4. The student has shown a pattern of violations, even if the student is not a minor. Two or more violations associated with drug or alcohol use would be reasonable cause for notice. 5. The student who committed the violation became physically ill and/or required medical intervention as a result of consumption of alcohol or drugs. Furthermore, Nothing in these guidelines shall prevent university officials from notifying parents or guardians of health or safety emergencies,
regardless of the judicial status of the student. Nothing in these guidelines should preclude the university from notifying parents or guardians when students under the age of 21 are involved in a group activity off campus in which the student’s organization is found to have violated university policy with respect to the use and/or consumption of alcohol or drugs. The Dean of Student Affairs may delegate the notification of parents to other officials under the Dean’s supervision. Whenever possible, students will be informed that parental notification will take place prior to their parents’ receiving notice. Safety Procedures For Students With Severe Medical/Emotional Problems If, due to severe medical or emotional problems, a student: engages or threatens to engage in behavior that poses a danger of causing physical harm to others, then the following procedures will be implemented: 1. University Police are to be contacted immediately. An officer will be dispatched immediately to the scene. If the officer determines that further action is needed, University Police will contact the ambulance service and the student will be transported to the hospital by ambulance to be evaluated. 2. The Dean of Student Affairs or their designee shall notify the parent(s) of students, the spouse or other close relative. The Dean will inform the appropriate party that they must take custody of the student and will describe the procedure needed to gain re-entry into the university and/or university housing. 3. If the Dean of Student Affairs determines that the student poses a threat to others, an interim administrative withdrawal will be imposed. A student subject to an interim withdrawal will be notified and will not be permitted to return to the university without a written evaluation by a psychiatrist. 4. Based on this written evaluation, the Dean will, in consultation with appropriate staff,
determine whether the student may: a. return to the university and/or university housing; b. return to the university and/or university housing under certain prescribed conditions; c. be withdrawn from the university and/or university housing.
Indoor Safety The university is committed to providing a safe learning and working environment. Ball playing and the use of skateboards, roller skates, roller blades, bicycles and other recreational items are prohibited inside all buildings. Individuals using wheelchairs or similar mechanical devices must be mindful of the speed at which they travel through hallways.
Pets On Campus For reasons of health, sanitation and pest control, no companion animals or other animals are permitted on campus. The only exception to this policy will be assistance animals with prior approval, and therapy pets with the approval of the Dean of Students office. Fish and limited aquatic animals are permitted with an aquarium agreement on file in advance.
Search And Seizure Policy Southern Connecticut State University, as a state institution of higher education, recognizes a need for balance between its right to maintain an orderly educational environment and its students’ constitutional right to privacy. The Search and Seizure Policy is designed to reflect the principle of due process and fairness found in the Constitution of the United States and criminal law; it complements the university’s health and safety searches provided for in the Guide to OnCampus Housing, and it reflects the university’s concern for protection of the rights of all members of the academic community. The following procedure will be followed: A. All residence hall room searches, except those HEALTH, WELLNESS AND SAFETY 45
conducted by law enforcement officers, must be authorized by the President. If such a search is deemed necessary by the Dean of Student Affairs, they will request authorization from the President. This written request must specify the applicant(s) requesting the search, date, the reason for the search; the material to be seized; the room(s) to be searched; the name(s) of the occupant(s) and the names of the person(s) other than the occupant(s) of the room who will be present during the search. B. A room may be searched only if there is probable cause to believe that a student is using their room in violation of federal, state or local laws or university regulations. Probable cause is defined as facts and/or circumstances sufficiently strong to warrant a prudent person to believe beyond mere suspicion that the room is being used for such a purpose. C. If the President thinks such probable cause exists, they will authorize in writing an administrative search warrant specifying the room(s) to be searched, its occupant(s), and the material to be seized and those authorized to conduct the search. D. In conducting a search, every reasonable effort shall be made to have the occupant(s) of the room present. If present, the occupant(s) shall be: 1. given the reason for the search and the material to be seized; 2. presented a copy of the administrative search warrant; and 3. informed that any material found may be used both in a university judicial hearing and in a court of law. If the occupant(s) is not present, the search may be conducted and the occupant(s) shall be notified of the search and the outcome. E. All room searches will be conducted by a professional member of the Student Affairs staff who will serve as a witness of the procedures followed and will make a record of the items located and confiscated during the search. 46 HEALTH, WELLNESS AND SAFETY
F. The search will be conducted, when possible, in the presence of: 1. the Residence Hall Director; 2. the Inter-Residence Council President or, in their absence, any officer of the executive board; 3. the Resident Adviser of the floor, if available, or any other Resident Adviser of the hall. G. Should the search for specified material uncover other material indicating illegal activity or violation of university regulations, it also will be seized. All illegal items obtained during the search will be turned over immediately to the University Police. H. Search and seizure for purposes related to suspected violation of civil or criminal law of the state may be deferred to the University Police or to the civil authorities. Such authorities have the right to search the premises and possessions of any student by following the ordinary procedures and requirements for lawful search. Any information discovered through such a search may be used as evidence in any civil or criminal proceedings and by university officials when violations of the Student Code of Conduct occur.
Smoking Policy: Smoke Free Campus Southern Connecticut State University is a smokefree campus. Smoking is prohibited inside all buildings including State and University owned vehicles. This restriction applies to all indoor space, including private faculty and administrative offices and dining facilities. Smoking is banned in all classrooms, offices, building entrances, hallways, stairwells, reception areas, restrooms, work and eating areas, elevators, meeting rooms, lounges, and all common areas (CGS 31-40q). This policy applies equally to employees and visitors. The thoughtfulness, consideration, and cooperation of all members of the University community is needed.
Student Center Regulations
Shuttle Bus Service
Willful or careless damage to the Michael J. Adanti Student Center property or equipment shall necessitate replacement by the responsible group or individual. Furniture and equipment are not to be removed from the building or from room to room without prior approval in writing from the Student Center Office. Lounge furniture is not to be removed, rearranged or defaced. Meetings held in the center are to adjourn at least 15 minutes before the scheduled building closing time, unless approval for extended hours has been secured in advance from the Director of the Student Center.
The university provides shuttle bus services contracted by First Transit Group Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. – 3:00 a.m., and Fridays from 7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. All shuttles are fully airconditioned and will pick-up and drop-off passengers at the designated bus shelters located in lot #1 near Davis Hall, lot #2 near Pelz Gym, the Main Faculty and Staff lot at Morrill Hall, at the Adanti Student Center, at lots #8 and 9, at North Campus and in front of Hickerson Hall. All the shuttles are handicapped accessible and equipped with a lift gate and tie downs to accommodate wheelchairs and motor scooters. Students who require this service should call First Transit at (203) 281-5470 at least 20 minutes prior to pickup. Weekday shuttle services to and from New Haven's Union Station run Monday-Thursday from 7:15 a.m. until 9:00 p.m., and Fridays from 7:15 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. A late-night shuttle (running Monday-Thursday 11:00 p.m. – 3:00 a.m.) provides on-campus shuttle services after hours. The shuttle can be easily accessed in front of Hickerson Hall or
Health and Sanitation Everyone must wear shoes in the student center. No animals are permitted in the student center. Student Dress Students are expected to dress in good taste and in appropriate attire for classroom and campus activities. Bare feet are not acceptable in academic or food service buildings on campus
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by calling First Transit at (203) 281-5470 until 1:30 a.m., and University Police at (203) 392-7287 between 1:30 a.m. and 3:00 a.m. There is also weekend shuttle bus service for residential students. There are two routes, one to the Hamden Plaza, downtown New Haven and Union Station and the other route to Westfield Mall in Milford, CT. The pick-up location is at the shuttle bus stop outside of Hickerson Hall. This service is from 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, with the route being repeated every hour on the hour with the last departure from Hickerson Hall at 8:00 p.m. First Transit also provides shuttle dispatcher services from 7:00 a.m. to 1:30 a.m. on Monday – Thursday and on Friday 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Students should call (203) 281-5470 for shuttle questions or concerns during these times. Monday – Thursday from1:30 a.m. – 3:00 a.m. call (203) 3927287. For the shuttle schedule please visit SouthernCT.edu/universitypolice/shuttles.
Traffic and Parking Regulations Providing adequate parking facilities and the proper supervision of campus traffic is a major problem on university campuses throughout the United States. This is especially true at institutions like Southern Connecticut State University, where a large part of the student body commutes daily. To protect students and visitors to the university from automobile accidents, as well as to provide security for motor vehicles parked on campus, the following rules and regulations must be observed. Failure to comply may lead to the issuance of a university parking ticket and/or a State motor vehicle infraction, the towing of the vehicle at the owner’s expense and when warranted, disciplinary action by the university. The university reserves the right to tow or impound any vehicle that is illegally parked or parked in a way that constitutes a serious hazard, impedes vehicle or pedestrian movements, or impairs the operation of emergency equipment and/or the 48 HEALTH, WELLNESS AND SAFETY
making of repairs. Owners will be required to pay all costs involved in removing and impounding vehicles. In a spirit of cooperation with the New Haven and Hamden communities, students are asked not to park their vehicles on city streets in residential areas adjacent to the campus. Vehicle Registration 1. All vehicles operated or parked on campus at any time must be properly registered by the Department of Motor Vehicles in the state in which the license plate is issued. All vehicles operated or parked on campus at any time must properly display a Southern parking decal. Vehicle owners and operators must register their vehicles at the University Police Department. Only one decal per person will be issued. 2. Persons seeking a decal must present, at the time of application, a current, valid student I.D. and operator’s license, and a current, valid vehicle registration. Students must also present their class schedule as proof of their registration. 3. Any false or incorrect information given at the time of registration will automatically render the decal void. 4. The registration for student vehicles is complete only after the decal is permanently affixed inside the driver’s side of the front windshield. 5. A parking decal is no guarantee of a parking space. Each vehicle operator is responsible for finding a legal parking space. Lack of space is not a valid excuse for violating any parking regulation. 6. Decals must be removed from vehicles that are being sold or no longer used on the campus. Outdated parking decals should be removed when a new decal is issued. A remover tool is available at the University Police Department. Any transfer, exchange, sale, misuse, or reproduction of a decal is unauthorized. All violators will have their decals removed and their vehicles towed at their own expense.
7. A special parking permit for students who have temporary disabilities is available from the University Police Department. The applicant must first provide a written verification of disability status to the university physician in the Student Health Center, who will determine the extent of the disability and the expected period of disability. Faculty and staff who have a temporary disability must notify Human Resources, and parking will be arranged as needed. 8. If you drive a vehicle without a decal you must obtain a day pass at University Police before attempting to enter a restricted area. Regulations 1. Residence hall and commuter students must park their vehicles only in designated lots. All student-parking areas are designated for specific groups indicated below. Only vehicles with appropriate decals are permitted in these areas. Eligible Residence Hall Students: First-time residential students will not be permitted to park a motorized vehicle on campus. a. Residence Hall Students: Lots #4, #4A, #4B, and the resident garage. Lots #10 and #11 are available to Schwartz Hall residents. North Campus parking is located at 180 Pine Rock Avenue and can accommodate vehicles with North Campus decals on a first-come firstserved basis. All resident overflow parking is allowed in the resident parking garage. All parking decals are issued on a first-come first-serve basis. All visitors must have a visitor or overnight parking pass. All visitors with an overnight parking pass must park in the dogleg area of Lot #9. b. Commuter Students: Lots #3, #8 and #9, 12A, and the second, third and fourth floors of the garage are available to commuters. The University Police
Department issues decals to all commuting students. Decals must be affixed to the windshield on the driver’s side. The first floor of the parking garage located on Lot #1 will be reserved for faculty, staff and handicapped parking. No vans will be permitted above the first level. The remaining upper levels will be accessible to all students on a first-come basis. 2. No students will be allowed to park in faculty/staff areas. 3. Faculty, staff and special decal holders must park their vehicles in Lots #1, #2, the main faculty/staff lot (EN), #5 or #12. 4. Graduate students may park in Lot #2 all day, or #5 or #12 between 4:30 pm and 11:00 pm. They are also permitted to park in the main faculty/staff lot (EN) between 4:30 pm and 11:00 pm. Graduate students may park in the upper levels of the parking garage. Graduate students are prohibited from using parking facilities behind Davis Hall. 5. A speed limit of 10 miles per hour will be enforced on all campus roadways, parking lots and garages. 6. Pedestrians must use crosswalks and sidewalks at all times. Pedestrians should not walk in parking lots unless they are going to their vehicles. a. Vehicles must yield to pedestrians in all crosswalks. 7. Approved areas for picking up or discharging passengers are inside Lot #2 on Fitch Street and the roadway and turnaround area leading to Engleman Hall off Crescent Street. Drivers must remain with their vehicles. 8. Drivers who need to pick up or deliver heavy educational materials at Earl Hall may park at the rear of the building for a maximum of 15 minutes. 9. Motorcycles must be parked in parking areas designated “Motorcycle Parking.� HEALTH, WELLNESS AND SAFETY 49
10. Students are responsible for informing their guests of university parking regulations. 11. The university reserves the right to close temporarily a parking area for repairs or for special events. 12. No vehicles are to be parked on the campus between the hours of 11:00 pm and 7:00 am unless prior arrangements are made with the University Police Department. Faculty, staff and non-residence hall students who wish to leave their vehicles on campus overnight while they attend a conference or participate in a university-sponsored trip must park their vehicles in the first two rows closest to Fitch Street in Lot #2 and also give their license plate number to university police. 13. Neither the university nor any of its employees assumes responsibility or liability for loss from theft or damage to cars parked in university parking lots. 14. Vehicles violating the following regulations will be issued a university parking ticket and/or a State motor vehicle infraction and towed at the owners’ expense: • Parking in a designated handicapped parking space without displaying a valid Department of Motor Vehicle (Handicapped) permit • Parking within 10 feet of a hydrant • Disobeying a University Police Officer’s instructions • Connecticut Motor Vehicle Laws Fines are as follows for parking in: • Faculty/Staff space: $25.00 • Reserved space: $25.00 • Restricted space: $25.00 • Grassed Areas: $25.00 • Fire Lane: $50.00 • Handicapped space: $100.00 • Driveway: $25.00 • Sidewalk: $25.00 • Failure to Display Current Decal: $15.00
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• Impeding Maintenance Operations: $25.00 • Outside of Stall Lines: $25.00 • Snow Ban: $25.00 15. The upper-level of Lot #12 adjacent to Seabury Hall is reserved for parking for people with disabilities only. Enforcement 1. Southern Police will monitor the parking areas and enforce the above regulations. University fines for traffic and parking violations are $25 and fines for parking in fire lanes $50 and in areas designated by the state of Connecticut for people with disabilities are $100 for each infraction. Failure to display current decal is $15. 2. Fines must be paid at the Bursar’s Office in the Wintergreen Building within 14 days of the date the ticket was issued. Checks must be made payable to Southern Connecticut State University. Failure to make payment within the required time will result in the doubling of the fine. Also, a hold will be placed on a student’s record who fails to pay the amount owed. 3. A portion of the fines collected for the violation of campus parking and traffic regulations are placed in a scholarship fund to assist students at the university and for traffic enforcement supplies and equipment. Traffic And Parking Appeals Committee The Traffic and Parking Appeals Committee hears appeals of penalties assessed for parking or traffic violations. Anyone may appeal a university parking ticket within 14 calendar days of the date of issuance by completing an appeals form available in the University Police Department. Filing the appeals form will suspend the penalty until disposition of the appeal is made by the committee. Following its decision, the committee will notify both the appellant and the University Police Department in writing of its decision. The appeal form can be found at SouthernCT.edu/universitypolice.
University Police • Routine on-campus: x25375 • Routine off-campus: (203) 392-5375 • Emergency, on-campus: 911 The University Police Department, open 24 hours a day, is located in Granoff Hall. Police officers are responsible for the safety and protection of the campus and its personnel, as well as for enforcing parking regulations and conducting investigations. Students should promptly report thefts or other incidents on campus directly to the University Police Department. The department provides lost and found services for the entire campus. All University Police officers are state certified. All officers are trained and have the same authority as members of a municipal police department. The department also has male and female officers trained to handle cases of sexual assault. Blue emergency lights are strategically located throughout the university parking lots and mounted on buildings. By pressing the button, you will automatically dial University Police. Silver wallmounted telephones are strategically located inside buildings. Picking up the receiver connects you automatically to University Police. If the telephone is not a direct dial telephone, University Police can be contacted at x25375. The University Police Department offers many programs on crime prevention throughout the year. Students are invited to stop by the department or call (203) 392-5375 for more information.
Walking Escort Service The University Police Department provides 24hour walking escort service to accompany students, faculty, and staff to parking lots, residence halls, and other on-campus locations. Call (203) 392-5375 from any telephone or x25375 from telephones on campus. Shuttle service escorts are available until 3 a.m. Monday through Thursday.
Weather-Related Closing Of The University On days when snow and ice are threatening, the best way to check if there will be a delayed opening,
if classes will be canceled or if the university will be closed is to check your Southern email or the university Home Page – SouthernCT.edu. Announcements are also posted on the University’s Facebook page; on the WeatherChek line (203) 392-SNOW (7669) and via text message through the SCSUAlert emergency communication system (To sign up for SCSUAlert, visit SouthernCT.edu/scsualert. • Morning classes by 6 a.m. • Early Afternoon classes by 10 a.m. • Late Afternoon and Evening classes by 2 p.m. Please note: Although the university also uses radio stations and television to issue weather-closing announcements, there is sometimes a delay before these reports are aired.
Wellness Center See Health and Wellness Center, Page 40
Women’s Center The Women’s Center is a place for women and men to gather together to explore and celebrate the richness and diversity of their lives. The center provides information, educational programming, training, referrals, advocacy, and services to foster education, safety, and equity on issues related to feminism, women, men, and gender. The center organizes events of interest to women and men such as discussion groups, a speaker series, workshops, conferences, festivals, and films. The center also maintains a resource room with information on sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, healthy relationships, sexual harassment, stalking, body image, eating disorders, and women’s health. The Coordinator of the Women’s Center is the University’s Sexual Assault Response Team (S.A.R.T.) Coordinator and also provides advocacy for victims in cases of sexual misconduct. The Women’s Center is located in Schwartz Hall. For more information, call (203) 3926946 or visit SouthernCT.edu/womenscenter.
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INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY POLICIES Important information regarding computers and computer usage at Southern Connecticut State University is outlined in this section of the Student Handbook, including policies governing the student use of university computers, systems and networks.
Office of Information Technology-Support Services (OIT) The Office of Information Technology (OIT) supports all computing related to Southern coursework. The administrative offices are located in Office Building 1 with the primary computer labs operating in both Buley Library and Jennings Hall.
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The equipment consists of up-to-date PC and Macintosh computers loaded with current versions of popular software, as well as software required for coursework. A Hoot Loot card is required for printing in any of the labs. Black-and-white and color printing is available for a fee, with payment via Hoot Loot card only. Students will need their network ID username and password to access this equipment, and university e-mail and campus portal services. If you do not know your ID and password, or they need to be changed, please bring your student ID to either Buley Library or Jennings Hall lab rooms or contact the Help Desk at (203) 392-5123. The
staffed hours of operation during the regular semester for Jennings Hall and Buley Library are Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The labs are open additional hours without staff. For more information, please contact Director John Young at (203) 392-6279.
Student Software Ownership And Software Developments It shall be the policy of the state system of higher education that the end product of any work done by a student from any of the state's public colleges or universities to convert, modify, or update state-owned software shall be owned by the state. If a student from any college or university receives monetary remuneration from the state for creating software, including source code and/or documentation, it shall belong to the state. Software belongs to the student but shall be licensed gratis to the state for use/or modification under the following conditions: (a) the state, at the inception of the project, informs the student in writing of the state's intention to use the software; and/or (b) the student uses state computer resources to create software. The state shall not have any other rights to such software. Any software developed by a student, unless it is 1.) covered under policy statements above or 2.) produced under the provisions of a grant or an agreement with an outside funding agent, is owned by the student.
Student Use Of Computer Systems And Networks A. Policy Statement University computer systems and networks are provided for student use as a part of the university academic program. Students are encouraged to become proficient in the use of computers as a means of enhancing their educational experience. However, widespread student use also necessitates certain rules of computer conduct. Computer
misconduct can result in restrictions on or revocation of computer access privileges. University computer systems and networks constitute an expensive and valuable resource. The capacity of this resource to fulfill all the legitimate academic and administrative needs of students, faculty and staff is limited. Student users have a responsibility to use university computer resources in an efficient, ethical and lawful manner. The university has a right and a duty to protect its valuable computer resources and to restrict student access to uses that are strictly related to the students’ academic programs as well as reasonably limited in time. The university reserves the right to define what are unauthorized student uses. The Chief Computer Administrator or their designee(s) at each university in the Connecticut State University System and at the System Office may monitor student user accounts, files and/or login sessions for appropriate management purposes. Such purposes include, but are not limited to, performing archival and recovery procedures, evaluating system performance and ensuring system integrity and security. Upon identifying a violation of this policy that constitutes an immediate, clear danger to the university’s computer systems or networks, the Chief Computer Administrator or their designee(s) at each university and in the System Office may immediately limit or suspend a student’s access to university computer resources with immediate notification of charges and actions to the appropriate Chief Student Affairs Administrator or their designee(s). This emergency suspension of computer use will then follow the student judicial procedures for “Interim Suspension,” as provided in the Student Code of Conduct. Violations of university computer policy that do not constitute an immediate, clear danger to the university computer systems or networks will be referred to the regular student disciplinary process.
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B. Student Offenses The following offenses are included in the Student Code of Conduct found in the Connecticut State University Student Rights and Responsibilities and Judicial Procedures Document: The unauthorized use of university computers and/or peripheral systems and networks; unauthorized access to university computer programs or files; unauthorized alteration or duplication of university computer programs or files; any deliberate action to disrupt the operation of university computer systems that serve other members of the university community, including all networks to which university computers are connected; use of university computer systems and networks for committing crimes, violating civil laws or violating university rules. The following are uses of university computer systems and networks that are not authorized. This
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list includes but is not limited to the following: 1. Computer games that are not assigned course work. 2. Development or transmitting of chain letters. 3. Sharing one’s own computer account with others or using another person’s accounts. 4. The entering or transmitting of obscene material. 5. The entering or transmitting of commercial advertisements or solicitations. 6. The entering or transmitting of political campaign material relating to elections to be held outside the university. 7. Sexual harassment or other forms of harassment aimed at others or otherwise threatening others. 8. Violation of copyright laws or using copying software in ways that violate the terms of the license.
9. Entering or transmitting computer viruses or any form of intentionally destructive programs. 10. Intentional disruption of network services. 11. Connecting any device to the network without permission. 12. Copying, modifying, replacing or deleting any other user’s account or any software used for system management.
13. Harming university computer equipment. 14. Uses that violate rules developed at each university that are necessitated by facilities limitations or other circumstances unique to each university.
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STUDENT ACTIVITIES Students are encouraged to become engaged in campus life, both inside and outside the classroom, to make the most of their college experience. The University offers many opportunities for students to become actively involved in the life of the campus. Look here for information on the polices, regulations and procedures that govern student clubs and organizations, events that take place on campus and official university sponsored events at off-campus locations. The university’s student club and organizations and the student councils and governing organizations are described here, as well.
Academic Clubs Many organizations have grown from the natural interest of students majoring in a variety of disciplines. Although these students have given the groups impetus, the clubs are open to all interested undergraduate students. Depending on the nature of the organization, the activities often extend beyond the classroom to include films, field trips, workshops and speakers. 56 STUDENT ACTIVITIES
The following subject-oriented organizations are currently available to students interested in specialized academic areas: • Accounting Society • American Marketing Association (SC-AMA) • Anthropology Club • Biology Club • Bookmarks English Club • Botany Club • Chemistry Club • Computer Club • Earth Science Club • Economics Club • Exercise Physiology Club • Financial Management Association • French Club • Geography Club • History Club • Information & Library Science Club • Japanes Language Club • Management Association • Mathematics Club
• Media Studies Club • National Student Nurses Association • Philosophy Club • Physical Education Club • Pre-Health Professional Society • Pre-Law Society • Psychology Club • Public Health Society • Recreation and Leisure Club • Social Welfare Organization • Society of Physics Enthusiasts (S.O.P.E.) • Society of Professional Journalists • Sociology Club • Southern Future Teacher’s Organization • Sports Medicine Club For more information about any of these organizations, contact the Office of Student Life, Adanti Student Center, Room 212.
Accessibility To Campus Sponsored Events Consistent with the requirements of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act, Southern Connecticut State University is firmly committed to ensuring that persons with disabilities, including students, faculty, staff and the general public, have access to university-sponsored meetings, seminars, workshops, conferences, programs and activities on-or-off campus. All registration materials and flyers announcing events should state that the event is accessible to people with disabilities. It is suggested that you ask participants to request accommodations or to identify their needs well in advance of the event so that you can arrange for services to meet their needs. If no request has been made, you are not required to provide disability-related accommodations. (For example, if no advance request is received for accessible transportation or a sign-language interpreter, you do not have to provide this service.) You must, however, provide physical access to your event or activity, ensuring that individuals with mobility impairments can attend. The authorized representative of the sponsoring
organization or department shall be responsible for implementing this policy and arranging for other requested accommodations. The Disability Resource Center will coordinate the provision of sign language interpreters. To ensure the availability of interpreters, you must contact the DRC at (203) 392-6828 no less than two weeks in advance of your event. All registration materials and program notices shall provide space for registrants to indicate whether they have disability-related needs and require reasonable accommodations, as well as the name and phone number of the contact person for your organization. Sample of the kind of notice that should be placed on every flyer: A sponsored event: This event is wheelchair accessible. Individuals needing sign-language interpreters, large print or Braille material or any other accommodation should contact (the contact person for your organization and phone number) as early as possible. A sponsored trip: To arrange for accessible transportation, please contact (the contact person for your organization and phone number) as early as possible. Questions concerning the university’s policy should be directed to: Office of Diversity and Equity Programs Schwartz Hall (203) 392-5899 (TDD service available)
Athletics A member of the National Collegiate Athletic Association’s Division II, Southern recognizes the value of competition in individual and team sports and maintains a comprehensive program of intercollegiate athletics for men and women. Intercollegiate teams for men include football, soccer, cross country, basketball, swimming and diving, baseball and track and field. Women’s intercollegiate athletic teams include field hockey, volleyball, cross country, basketball, gymnastics, swimming and diving, softball, track and field, soccer and lacrosse. An incoming first-year student with no previous STUDENT ACTIVITIES 57
college attendance must be certified as eligible to compete by the NCAA Eligibility Center. Once accepted, a student-athlete must be enrolled full-time in a minimum of 12 semester hours to be eligible to practice and compete during that semester. Each fall after the initial year of enrollment, the student must maintain satisfactory academic progress toward a degree. This includes, but is not limited to, satisfactory completion of 24 semester hours of acceptable degree credits since the previous fall or an average of 12 credits for each semester of fulltime enrollment, and the maintaining of good academic standing, with a corresponding GPA.
Club Sports Club sports operate through the Office of Campus Recreation, ASC Room 227. Club sports allow students to participate in intercollegiate competition without the demands of playing on the varsity level. Clubs compete with other schools, and many are part of a collegiate league of play. Each club was created in response to student interest and is run by students. Southern offers the following club sports: • Cheerleading Team • Colorguard • Dance Team • Drumline Drill Team • Golf Club • Ice Hockey Club • Karate Club • Men’s Lacrosse Team • Men’s Rugby Club • Paintball Club • Ski & Snowboarding Club • Steppin’ Up Drill Team • Symphonic Pulse Dance Company (SPDC) • Ultimate Frisbee Club • Volleyball Club • Women’s Rugby Club
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Councils And Governing Organizations Student Government Association The Student Government Association (SGA) is the primary organization of student governance on Southern’s campus. Voting membership is comprised of 25 full-time students who are elected by the student body. Student Government serves as the voice of the student body. SGA also lobbies and advocates on behalf of the students, ensuring that their experience is preserved and protected. Members of the SGA play vital roles on numerous campus committees and have representation on search committees for executive level administrative positions within the university. In addition, SGA provides support and structure for three major campus commissions: service, leadership, and programming. For more information on how to get involved or to speak to someone about your interests or concerns, or for a copy of the Student Government Association Constitution, please contact SGA, located in the Adanti Student Center, Room 218 at (203) 392-6937 or via e-mail at SCSU.SGA@ owls.SouthernCT.edu. Residence Hall Association The Residence Hall Association (RHA) is comprised of representatives from each of the nine residential communities who meet weekly to discuss funding, programming, and hall governance. RHA also supports the University’s social and educational programming initiatives for residential students. Hall Councils are established in each respective hall community to approve funding from social fees, to plan programs for their community, and address student concerns. All students residing in a particular community are a part of that hall council. Programs Council Programs Council (ProCon) is responsible for student programming initiatives. ProCon coordinates and schedules concerts, films, lectures, coffee houses, exhibits, special events and late night programs. Committee membership is open to any student who
organization to adhere to these policies shall result in the cancellation and/or limitation of the event. The Vice President for Student and University Affairs must approve any exception to these policies in writing no less than two weeks before the event.
wants to become involved in co-curricular program planning. Greek Life Council The Greek Life Council, composed of two members from each fraternity and sorority, is the governing body for all social Greek-lettered fraternities and sororities on campus. The council recommends policies to the university, coordinates university and community service projects and sponsors campus-wide Greek events such as Recruitment and Greek Week. Class Governments Each class elects its own leadership, consisting of the president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, and class representatives. Class committees, appointed by the officers, coordinate social and programming activities of their respective class.
Events By Recognized Student Organizations The purpose of this policy is to reaffirm and establish procedures related to events sponsored either on-or-off campus by officially recognized student organizations. Failure of a student
I. Contracts for Services A. A contract is defined as any oral or written agreement between two or more parties where payment or goods are made for services rendered. B. Students and/or advisers are not permitted to sign or agree to contracts for any services or facilities. C. Any officially recognized student organization that wishes to sponsor an off-campus event must obtain a written contract from the management of the facility. The contract, which shall be reviewed and signed by the Vice President of Student and University Affairs, must stipulate all of the conditions under which the facility will be used (e.g., liability, beginning and ending time of the event, security and control, exclusivity of usage, maximum occupancy, controlled access to alcoholic beverages, cancellation and penalties, billing arrangements, etc.). D. The university will not be liable for any contract signed by a student(s), adviser, or any other person besides the Vice President of Student and University Affairs and/or their designee. II. Reservation Procedures for On-Campus Facilities A request for use of University facilities must be made through the Facility Administrator: • Connecticut Hall or Adanti Student Center – Eric Simms, Associate Director of the Adanti Student Center, SimmsE1@SouthernCT.edu, 25503, ASC 325 D – Janet Klicsu, Assistant Director of the Adanti Student Center, KlicsuJ1@SouthernCT.edu, 25513, ASC 325 C STUDENT ACTIVITIES 59
• Lyman Center for the Performing Arts – David Starkey, Associate Director of Lyman Center, StarkeyD1@SouthernCT.edu, 26163, LY 121 • Moore Fieldhouse, Pelz Gymnasium, Athletic Fields, Jess Dow Stadium and Tennis Courts – Anthony Aceto, Coordinator of Athletic Facilities, AcetoA1@SouthernCT.edu.edu, 26003, MFH 211 • University Residence Halls and the Residence Hall Quadrangle – Robert De Mezzo, Director of Housing and Residence Life Services DemezzoR1@SouthernCT.edu, 25886, SZ 100 C • All Other Facilities and Campus Grounds – Janet Klicsu, KliscuJ1@SouthernCT.edu, 25513, ASC 325 C • All Academic Buildings – Arlene Lucibello, Lyman Center Scheduling Office LucibelloA1@SouthernCT.edu, 26165, LY 116
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Room requests can also be made by downloading the form at SouthernCT.edu. Search “Facilities Usage Form.” III. Planning Off-Campus Events A. Student organizations that intend to sponsor an off-campus event must complete a Facilities Usage Form and a Travel Authorization Form. These forms can be obtained in the Office of Student Life, Adanti Student Center, Room 212. Forms must be signed by the faculty adviser, organization president, and all appropriate authorities, including the adviser’s immediate supervisor if needed, and returned to the Office of Student Life, together with the proposed contract and, if applicable, an Alcohol Policy Addendum for review and approval. B. If a student organization wishes to use Student Affairs’ vans, a Van Reservation Request must be filed electronically. Southern faculty, staff, graduate interns or students who have
completed the Driver Safety Program and are cleared by DAS may serve as drivers. Maximum occupancy for each van is 10 passengers. IV. General Policies for Events A. Attendance shall be limited to the capacity of the facility. B. For events held both on-and-off campus, the faculty adviser shall ensure that student ID cards are checked prior to admission. For public events, all escorted guests (nonSouthern students) may be required to present identification and list their names and addresses together with the names of their hosts, prior to admission. Students and guests may be required to have their hands stamped or wear plastic wrist bracelets. The university reserves the right to limit the number of escorted guests. Consistent with the Student Code of Conduct, university students are responsible for the actions of their guests. C. The faculty adviser is responsible for being in attendance from the start of the event to its conclusion as deemed by the Office of Student Life. D. The admission and readmission cut-off time is normally 11:30 p.m. for any evening campus event. Exceptions to this policy must be approved by the Office of Student Life and published prior to the start of the event. E. Individuals who have been denied admission or readmission will not be permitted to congregate outside a campus event. F. The University Police shall have the authority to monitor and to terminate an event in the interest of personal safety and the protection of university property. It shall be the duty of those responsible for the event to cooperate with and assist the University Police and/or other university officials if the event has to be closed. Similarly, the faculty adviser has the authority and responsibility to terminate any off-campus event for reasons of safety or where, in their
judgment, the management of the facility has failed to fulfill the conditions of the contract. G. Events held both on-and-off campus shall not go beyond 1:00 a.m. The faculty advisor and the officers of the student organization are responsible for ensuring that all persons leave the contracted facility at the conclusion of the event. H. If the student organization wishes to have alcoholic beverages available at an event, the Alcohol Policy Addendum should be attached to the Facilities Usage Form. I. Advertising shall not begin or invitations extended until after the proposed event has been approved by the Director of Student Life. The Facilities Usage Form becomes official when, and only when, the signed copy of the form is received by the faculty advisor. J. Any event involving the raising of funds by a student organization must receive prior approval in writing from the Office of Student Life, ASC, Room 212. Fund raising forms must be filed online. (See Fund-Raising Activities.) K. Student organizations shall be responsible for the cost of repairing any damage to the facility incurred during an event and repairing or replacing any equipment damaged during an event. L. Within three class days following the event, the student organization is responsible for providing the Office of Student Life with an accounting of money collected and the number of tickets sold/unsold. All money must be deposited in the organization’s account within 24 hours (one business day) after the collection of the funds. The organization must also ensure that prompt payment of all costs related to the event occurs. M. All security arrangements will be made through the Facilities Usage Committee and University Police.
Fundraising Activities All activities involving the collection of money by STUDENT ACTIVITIES 61
recognized organizations are defined as fundraising activities. Fundraising activities include the selling of printed materials, political materials, studentproduced goods, and student-provided services; the selling of tickets and/or the charging of admission to public activities or events; the soliciting of voluntary contributions; the collection of dues and the selling of other goods and services. Recognized student organizations wishing to conduct a fundraising activity must file an online application for approval by the Office of Student Life. The following procedures and policies apply to all fundraising activities: A. Procedures 1. Application forms for approval to conduct fundraising activities are available online at SouthernCT.edu/officeofstudentlife and must be filled out in their entirety, at least 15 days prior to the proposed fund raising activity. 2. To reserve space or to register an off-campus activity, the appropriate facility usage form or Student Center Online Reservation form must be filled out and submitted. 3. Organizations are not encouraged to accept personal checks as payment for goods and services. The sponsoring organizations will assume full responsibility if a loss is incurred due to checks being returned to the university for insufficient funds. Checks must be made out to SCSU. 4. No expenditures are to be made from cash collected. All money collected through the fund-raising activity must be deposited in the organization’s account, located in the Bursar’s office, within 24 hours or by the next business day. 5. A completed financial report and a copy of the deposit receipt must be filed with the Office of Student Life within three class days following the fundraising activity, indicating the amount of money collected and deposited and the number of tickets sold/unsold. Financial reports can be found at 62 STUDENT ACTIVITIES
SouthernCT.collegiatelink.net. 6. Organizations planning fundraising activities off-campus should research pertinent local, state, and federal laws. B. Criteria used for Consideration of a Fundraising Request 1. The fundraising activity shall be consistent with the educational mission and public responsibilities of the university. 2. The fundraising activity must not interfere with existing university contracts and must not violate related local and state laws. 3. The fundraising activity must be sponsored by a recognized organization of the university. 4. The fundraising activity will be considered on the basis of the purpose(s) stated by the sponsors. 5. The fundraising activity will be given consideration based on the anticipated benefits to the sponsors as well as the anticipated benefits to the general student body and the university. C. General Policies for Fundraising 1. Use of university facilities for fundraising activities is limited to prevent exploitation of the members of the university community and to avoid overcrowding and interference with those using an area for other purposes. 2. In general, fundraising activities will not be permitted for the personal benefit of an individual or for commercial enterprises. 3. The use of the campus e-mail for purposes of fundraising is prohibited. 4. Student organizations sponsoring a fundraising activity will be required to pay out of their proceeds all expenses, including any special services fees (e.g., custodial, security), that might be incurred in conducting the fund raising activity. 5. The establishment of booths and/or tables for the sale of permitted goods, and services and
for the solicitation of voluntary contributions will be approved by the university subject to necessary regulation of the use of limited available space. 6. At all locations, solicitors must be members of the organization conducting the fundraising activity. 7. Fundraising activities may be conducted outside of campus buildings, provided they do not interfere with the use of streets, sidewalks, building entrances, classes, or other educational activities. The group would be required fo file a facilities usage form to secure approval of space. 8. No room-to-room soliciting will be permitted at any time in classes or residence halls. Solicitation of faculty or staff members in their offices will not be permitted. 9. Commercial enterprises will not be permitted to solicit business on university grounds or within campus buildings. Exceptions may be made if the activity is conducted by a recognized student organization, academic unit, or administrative unit of the university; if comparable goods or services are unavailable at the university; if the financial reliability of the applicant can be verified; and if there is a benefit to the student body or university community. 10. An explicit statement clearly identifying the sponsor of the fundraising activity and the organization or cause that will benefit from the activity must be displayed and visible to contributors. 11. Organizations selling printed or political material deemed contrary to local, state, or federal law do so on their own responsibility and may subject themselves to arrest and prosecution by public authorities. 12. Organizations may not harass, embarrass, or intimidate the person or persons being solicited. 13. Revocation of fundraising privileges or freezing an organization’s assets of up to one
calendar year will be used as a penalty for willful violation of stated procedures and policies.
Hazing Policy Statement Although hazing practices are normally associated with social fraternities and sororities, the university’s Hazing Policy Statement shall apply to all organizations, groups and individuals. As a condition of recognition by the university, all clubs and organizations including fraternities and sororities, must agree that they and their members will not engage in any action or situation that produces mental or physical discomfort or endangers the safety of an individual for the purpose of initiation or admission into or affiliation with their organizations. In addition, they must agree that they and their members will not engage in any action or situation that causes an individual to suffer indignity, embarrassment, humiliation or ridicule at the hands of others. Organizations that are accused of violating the Hazing Policy Statement may be interim suspended immediately while allegations are investigated. Organizations found responsible for hazing will be sanctioned. Individuals who are found responsible for hazing will be charged with violating university policy and will be referred to the university disciplinary process. All organizations, groups, clubs, sports teams, fraternities and sororities must understand that hazing in any form is prohibited. Both organizations and or individuals alleged to have violated the University’s Hazing Policy will be referred to the Office of Judicial Afairs for disciplinary action. If found responsible, they may be subject to suspension or expulsion from the university.
Honor Societies Students who excel academically may be invited to join one or more of the following honors organizations: • Alpha Kappa Delta National Honor Society for Sociology majors STUDENT ACTIVITIES 63
• Delta Mu Delta National Honor Society for Business Administration majors • Gamma Theta Upsilon International Honor Society for Geography majors • Golden Key National Honor Society National Honor Society for juniors and seniors in the top 15 percent of their class • Iota Iota Iota National Honor Society for Women Studies undergraduate and graduate students • Kappa Delta Pi National Honor Society for Education majors
• Lambda Pi Eta National Honor Society for Communication majors
• Phi Alpha Theta National Honor Society for History majors
• Pi Sigma Alpha National Honor Society for Political Science majors
• Psi Chi National Honor Society for Psychology majors • Sigma Tau Delta National Honor Society for English majors
• Zeta Delta Epsilon Honorary Service Organization
Intramural Sports Intramural sports provide all students with an opportunity to stay active on campus at a competitive and recreational level. A variety of sports and activities are offered and participants of all skill levels are welcome. There is no fee for all undergraduate students to participate. In the fall semester, the outdoor season runs from September to October and includes flag football and softball. The indoor season is from November to December and includes indoor soccer, dodgeball and 3-on-3 basketball. The spring semester features an indoor season from February to March, followed by an outdoor season from March to May. The indoor season 64 STUDENT ACTIVITIES
consist of 5-on-5 basketball, volleyball and floor hockey while the outdoor season includes softball and outdoor soccer. In addition to intramural sports leagues, there are also a variety of intramural tournaments held throughout the year. Intramural sports are coordinated by the Office of Campus Recreation, located in the Adanti Student Center Room 227, and at SouthernCT.edu/campusrecreation.
International/Multicultural Groups Fostering an understanding and appreciation of other cultures, their people, and customs is the goal of these organizations: • African Student Association • Asian Culture Society • Anime Society • Black Student Union • Chinese Student Association • CIAO! Italian Club • Organization of Latin American Students • People to People Club • West Indian Society
Media Board The student media are recognized as valuable aids in establishing and maintaining an atmosphere of free and responsible discussion and of intellectual exploration on campus. They are the means of bringing student concerns to the attention of the faculty and institutional authorities, formulating student opinion on various campus and world issues and informing the student body of events on the campus and around the world. Institutional authorities, in consultation with students and faculty, have a responsibility to provide written clarification of the role of the student media, the standards to be used in their evaluation and the limitations on external control of their operation. Policies shall provide sufficient editorial freedom for the student media to maintain their integrity of purpose as vehicles for free inquiry and free expression in an academic community. At the same
time, freedom from censorship and editorial freedom entail corollary responsibilities to be governed by the canons of responsible journalism, such as the avoidance of libel (according to current legal definitions), obscenity (according to current legal definitions), undocumented allegations, invasion of privacy, attacks on personal integrity and the techniques of harassment and innuendo. In addition, the student media should avoid expression that creates a material interference and substantial physical disruption of educational activities. The student media should reflect standards of professional and educational conduct and scholarship that help to maintain a climate suitable to an academic community.
The student media shall be free of censorship and advance approval of copy. Editors and general managers of the student media shall be free to develop their own editorial policies and news coverage. They shall be responsible for the form, content and staff of their respective student media. Editors and general managers of the student media shall be protected from arbitrary suspension and removal because of student, faculty, and administrative or public disapproval of editorial policy or content. Only for proper and stated causes (misfeasance, malfeasance or nonfeasance) shall editors and general managers be subject to removal, and then only by orderly and prescribed procedures that guarantee all the protections of due process. STUDENT ACTIVITIES 65
The Student Media Board shall be a standing committee that shall decide and act upon all policies and procedures concerning the student media on the campus of Southern Connecticut State University. All student media shall operate in accordance with standards approved by this board. The Student Media Board shall be responsible through the Office of Student Affairs to the President of the university. Any action of the Student Media Board may be appealed to the Office of Student Affairs. The Student Media Board shall be composed of one student appointed by the Student Government Association, one student appointed by the chairperson of the English Department, one student appointed by the chairperson of the Journalism Department, one student appointed by the chairperson of the Communication Department, the editor or general manager of each student medium, the adviser(s) of each student medium, two representatives from the community selected by the members of the Student Media Board and one administrator appointed by the Dean of Student Affairs. The students appointed by the Student Government Association and the chairpersons of the English, Journalism and Communication departments may not be members of a student medium. The terms of office are Sept. 1 to June 30. Members may serve more than one term. The Student Media Board shall meet at least once a month during the academic year. It shall establish its own parliamentary procedures. A simple majority of the Student Media Board shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. All members of the board shall be voting members. The chairperson of the board shall be elected each year by the majority vote of the members. The Student Media Board shall have the following responsibilities: • Review and recommend general policies and procedures related to the student media that are funded and/or recognized by the University. • Promote/support activities in connection with the presentation, publication and maintenance of student media. 66 STUDENT ACTIVITIES
• Ascertain that each student medium is complying with its own general statement of policy and operating procedures. • Recommend policies regarding the publication of special editions or supplements. • Encourage wide student participation and faculty support of the student media. • Recommend the approval of new student media to the Student Government Association and Office of Student Affairs. • Recommend to the Office of Student Affairs the termination of a student medium that no longer serves the student body and the university. • Meet with editors, general managers and advisers to review their annual evaluation of their media. Editors, general managers and advisers, in consultation with the Student Media Board, shall establish written guidelines for these evaluations. • Each spring, select an editor or general manager for each student medium. Each medium shall establish written procedures and criteria in consultation with the Student Media Board that shall be used in the selection of an
editor or general manager. These written procedures and criteria shall be made available to any member of the academic community. • Meet with editors, general managers and advisers for a semi-annual review of the performance of the editors and general managers on the basis of written evaluation criteria established by the editors, general managers and advisers for their media. • Establish an orderly procedure for hearings to consider written charges of substance and severity against an editor, general manager or member of a student medium and conduct hearings when the charges merit this action. Such procedures and hearing shall provide for all the protections of due process. • Upon request, review publications and/or printed material distributed on campus and recommend action, when warranted, to be taken by the university. • Select recipients of student media awards based on written procedures and criteria. This document may be amended by a two-thirds vote of the total membership of the Student Media Board and approved by the Office of Student Affairs.
Media Groups Students may gain experience in publishing or broadcasting by joining Folio, Southern News, Southern TV, or WSIN Radio. No previous experience is necessary. • Folio is the campus literary magazine. The staff accepts poetry, fiction, essays, photography, and art from students. Folio is a great place to get your creative work published. • Southern News is the weekly campus newspaper, publishing stories about campus news, sports, and entertainment. Students can write, edit, shoot photos, do layouts, or sell advertising. • Southern TV, the campus television station, gives students the opportunity to take part in live broadcasts, go behind the scenes, and
learn about production. • WSIN Radio broadcasts to the campus at 1590 AM and online at wsinradio.org. Be a disc jockey, news reporter, talk show host, music director, or produce and sell commercials.
Performing/Creative Arts Groups Students interested in theater may join the Crescent Players, a group that stages performances in The Lyman Center and the Robert Kendall Drama Laboratory. Scripts are selected to provide the widest experiences in acting, costumes, scenery and production. The Arts League sponsors frequent workshops and demonstrations on enameling, sketching, ceramics, sculpture and other media. Such events provide experiences that broaden cultural horizons and provide an outlet for self-expression. Additional performing and creative arts clubs: • Crescent Players • Fearless Lovers of Word (F.L.O.W.) Poetry Club • Film Society of Southern Connecticut State University • Fortissibros • SCSU Drumline • Southern Harmony • Student Arts League
Political Action/Advocacy Groups These clubs and organizations represent political parties, advocate for minority and special interest groups and/or lobby and debate for the rights and beliefs of their respective constituencies: • Active Minds • American Sign Language and Deaf Awareness Club • Amnesty International • College Democrats • College Republicans • Environmental Futurists • HOPE - Helping Others Peer Educators • LGBTQIA Prism • Men About Business STUDENT ACTIVITIES 67
• NAACP • Operation Smile • Outreach Unlimited • Peer Mentors United • Students for a Sensible Drug Policy • Veterans Association
Posting Policy The purpose of this policy is to set forth university guidelines for the general posting of announcements and publicity materials. Publicizing organization’s events and programs is a necessary part of ensuring their success. It is expected that all such materials meet the accepted standards of free speech, adhere to the university policy on pluralism and not be libelous, obscene (as defined under Connecticut General Statute 53a-193), or incite imminent lawless action. Commercial advertising by private business is permitted only on designated bulletin boards in the University Student Center and on the general purpose kiosks located around campus. Such advertising is also allowed in the student newspaper and on the broadcasts of the campus radio station. Posting areas are defined below. Please note: Material may not be attached to windows, doors, walls, sidewalks, trees, bus shelters, mirrors, light fixtures, building exteriors, stairwells, trash receptacles, doorknobs, automobiles, furniture or to any other structure or part of the university campus. Bulletin Boards and Showcases Certain bulletin boards and showcases are maintained by academic or administrative units and are so designated. Unauthorized material will be removed. Certain student and university organization bulletin boards and showcases are maintained by those organizations and are so designated. Use of these areas is limited to recognized student and university organizations and material must indicate the sponsoring organization. Unauthorized material will be removed. Recognized clubs and organizations may leave copies of a desired flyer in the Office of Student Life 68 STUDENT ACTIVITIES
where student workers can assist in posting throughout campus. General Purpose Kiosks Outdoor informational kiosks are available for general posting. As with the general public, recognized student and university organizations may use the outdoor kiosks to advertise their events and activities. Table Tents Table tents may be placed on tables in food service areas. Contact the Director of Housing and Residence Life for use of Connecticut Hall tables or the Director of the Adanti Student Center for use of the Student Center tables. Residence Life To post in Residence Life areas, drop off material in the Department of Housing and Residence Life, Schwartz Hall 100. Members of the Department of Housing and Residence Life staff will hang materials.
Religious Services Policy The holding of religious services on campus is permitted provided they are voluntarily requested and sponsored by student organizations recognized by the university, are extracurricular, are voluntary as to attendance and to time and mode of worship, are scheduled in accordance with available space and are in conformance with institutional rules and regulations applicable to all student organizations and activities.
Recognition Of New Student Organizations Students bring to the university a variety of interests previously acquired and develop many new interests as members of the academic community. Student organizations must be established for purposes that are legal and consistent with the broad educational mission of the university. Organizations wishing to be recognized by the university must form and operate in compliance with university policies and procedures. Organizations that are recognized
by the university are required to abide by all applicable local, state and federal laws, including Title IX and university policies, rules and regulations. The recognition of a student organization by the university does not constitute an endorsement of the objectives, policies or practices of that organization, nor does the university assume sponsorship of or responsibility for any of the programs or activities of that organization. As adults, all students of the university are expected to take personal responsibility for their own conduct, including participation in extracurricular activities. The recognition procedures that follow were established by the university to ensure that all student organizations can, on an equitable basis, obtain those rights and privileges that are normally associated with formal recognition. Students interested in forming a new student organization should contact the Office of Student Life, Adanti Student Center, to discuss the type of organization desired and the procedures that must be followed. I. Recognition Procedures A. A student club or organization seeking university recognition must be composed of undergraduate students currently registered at the university. B. A university organization seeking university recognition may be composed of undergraduate and graduate students currently registered at the university and may extend membership to teaching faculty, administrators and staff members. C. A student group interested in organizing and applying for recognition may be granted a 30-day permit to use campus facilities for the purpose of completing required procedures and for recruiting interested members. It will not be allowed to sponsor speakers, programs or events; sponsor fund-raising activities; or use the name of the university until it has been formally recognized. 1. Proposals may be submitted to the Office
of Student Life, Adanti Student Center, Room 212, and are available on the Student Life website. Proposals must contain the following information: a. Name of the proposed organization. b. A statement of purpose. c. A statement explaining the potential benefits of the proposed organization to the university and members of the student body. d. A statement of the membership policy. e. Names of those interested in forming the organization. f. Evidence of faculty/staff sponsorship. A student organization is required to have a faculty adviser who is a member of the teaching faculty, administration or staff. Faculty members may be recommended by the organization, and are appointed by and serve at the discretion of the university. g. A copy of the proposed constitution. h. An organization desiring university recognition that is affiliated with a state and/or national organization must submit a copy of the state and/or national constitution and bylaws. These shall be reviewed as part of the recognition process. 2. Student Government Association Board of Constitutional Review will review the proposal and work with the Office of Student Life in issuing approval. D. An organization will be granted provisional status for two full semesters. After two full semesters of provisional status, the organization may apply for full recognition. The Board of Constitutional Review will review the organization’s status and make recommendations to the SGA that full STUDENT ACTIVITIES 69
recognition be approved or denied. During the provisionary period, the Board of Constitutional Review, in consultation with the Office of Student Life, may terminate a club that does not comply with university policies or regulations or with applicable local, state or federal laws or violates the rules and procedures governing the use of Student Activity Funds. E. A recognized organization that wishes to revise or amend its approved constitution can obtain the appropriate forms from the Office of Student Life, Adanti Student Center, Room 212, or via the website. The Board of Constitutional Review shall review the revised constitution and approve with the consultation of the Office of Student Life. F. Student groups wishing to benefit from the 70 STUDENT ACTIVITIES
advantages of recognition for a limited period of time without the intent of becoming a permanent student organization should meet with the Director of Student Life to discuss specific group plans and objectives. II. Rights and Privileges of Recognized Organizations A. Use of certain university facilities, equipment and services. B. Right to schedule meetings and programs in campus facilities. C. Right to publicize group meetings and other events on campus. D. Right to disseminate information and literature on campus. E. Eligible to establish financial accounts, with the exception of a few national organizations,
student organizations must maintain their financial accounts with SCSU. F. Right to raise funds or make other permissible solicitations on university property in accordance with written university policies. G. Right to invite membership. H. Opportunities to participate as a group in university events and other activities. I. Right to invite speakers to campus. J. Right to receive assistance from a faculty adviser. K. May be granted permission to use the name of the university in connection with its approved programs and activities. No organization, however, shall advertise or promote its programs or activities in a manner that suggests that the university sponsors the function. III. Funding of Undergraduate Student Organizations There are two student committees that work in conjunction with the Director of Student Life that are responsible for the allocation of Student Activity Fees used to support the social, cultural, recreational and educational activities. The Student Government Association Board of Finance is responsible for allocating annual budgets to clubs and organizations that meet the criteria for funding. Additionally, the Board of Finance reviews and allocates funds to clubs and organizations proposing to travel to regional and national conferences and to other venues that support their clubs mission. The Student Activity Fee Allocation Committee (SAFAC), made up of members from governing organizations, is responsible for allocating Student Activity funds to programming initiatives proposed by clubs, organizations, departments and offices on campus. IV. Withdrawal of Recognition A. All recognized organizations must register with the Office of Student Life each semester.
Should any organization fail to register within the prescribed period, it shall automatically lose its recognition and all the rights and privileges associated with formal recognition. It is the organization’s responsibility to keep this information accurate and up-to-date. B. Any organization that fails to comply with its own constitution; fails to abide by all applicable local, state and federal laws and university policies, rules and regulations; engages in unlawful activities; or violates the rules and procedures governing the use of Student Activity Funds is subject to disciplinary action including, but not limited to, probation, suspension or withdrawal of university recognition by the Office of Student Life, and/or the Student Government Association. C. Disciplinary action may be initiated by the Student Government Association and/or the Office of Student Life. A recognized organization subject to disciplinary action that may result in the termination or suspension of recognition shall be guaranteed the right to a hearing and all the protections of due process. D. An organization whose recognition was terminated or suspended may petition the Vice President for Student and University Affairs or their designee for reinstatement. The Vice President for Student and University Affairs may set terms, conditions and/or restrictions that the organization must adhere to before and after its recognition is reinstated by the university. E. Disciplinary action involving suspension or withdrawal of university recognition may be appealed to the President of the university. The decision of the President will be final and binding. V. Responsibilities of Student Organizations In addition to the rights and privileges that formal recognition carries, responsibility is placed on each organization, including its officers and individual members, to conduct its affairs within the framework STUDENT ACTIVITIES 71
of university policies, rules and regulations and the provisions stated in the constitution of the organization. A. Organizations have the responsibility to take reasonable steps to ensure that all programs and activities sponsored by the organization comply with all applicable local, state and federal laws and with university policies, procedures, rules and regulations. B. Officers of an organization shall be held accountable and responsible for the programs and activities sponsored by the organization in the event that the organization and/or its members violate established university policies, procedures, rules or regulations. C. An organization shall be responsible for its members’ behavior when they are acting as members of the organization (with or without official approval) rather than as individual students; when an event is held (officially or unofficially) in the name of the organization; and when the actions or activities of individual students draw attention to the organization rather than to themselves as individuals. D. An organization shall have an up-to-date copy of its constitution, a Directory Information form, beneficiary form and equipment and supply inventory forms on file with the Office of Student Life, Adanti Student Center, Room 212. E. Organizations have the responsibility to ensure that all students within the university community, including those with disabilities, are able to participate in and benefit from all programs and activities sponsored by the organization. All publicity for approved trips must include information on accessibility needs. F. Organizations have the responsibility to supervise their events and ensure the safe operation of their programs and activities. G. Organizations accept responsibility for any destruction of or damage to university property, equipment or facilities and any costs related to the use of university property, 72 STUDENT ACTIVITIES
equipment or facilities. H. Organizations accept responsibility for assuring that facilities are used for the purpose for which they were scheduled. I. An organization accepts responsibility for any of its programs and activities that interfere with the rights of any member of the university community, with another student organization and/or its guests or with the normal operation of the university. J. Organizations have the responsibility to ensure that all funds, including Student Activity Funds and money raised through fund-raising are maintained and expended according to the rules and procedures established by the Student Board of Finance. K. Organizations must register with the Office of Student Life each semester by the advertised deadline, in order to maintain their recognition status. L. Organizations take responsibility for maintaining contact with their approved faculty adviser and meeting their responsibilities to their faculty adviser as described in section VII of this policy. VI. Adviser’s Responsibilities The faculty adviser has the following responsibilities to an organization: A. To be knowledgeable about the purpose and program of the organization. To help the organization pursue its goals. To encourage students to take an active role within the organization. To assist in identifying roles and responsibilities for the club/organization’s members and officers. B. To assist the officers and members of the organization in becoming familiar with University and Student Life policies, rules, and procedures. To encourage officers and members to attend workshops and training sessions regarding policies, procedures, and rules. C. To help ensure the organization completes all
necessary paperwork required by the Office of Student Life and Student Government Association to remain active each semester. D. To make time available for club/organization members to discuss club/organization matters, assist with administrative matters, and to guide students in achieving their goals. E. To attend regularly scheduled and special meetings at the request of the club/ organization and attend a minimum of two regularly scheduled meetings each semester to provide guidance and advice on meeting decorum, group facilitation, and general leadership. F. To assist the organization in electing officers and organizational leadership according to the procedures stated in the organization’s constitution. G. To have a general understanding of the rules and procedures governing student activity fee expenditures and fund-raising policies established by the Student Government Association Board of Finance, Office of Student Life, Southern Connecticut State University and the state of Connecticut. H. To be actively involved in the management of
club/organization finances by guiding, advising, and assisting students in maintaining active records and abiding by university and state policies. I. To require the club/organization to process all purchase order requests, and financial requests through the advisor. J. To actively participate in the planning of on- and off-campus events as well as advising the club/organization regarding potential risks and policies. K. To attend and supervise all activities, programs and events sponsored by the organizatio on- and off-campus as deemed by the Office of Student Life. These events include but are not limited to large events open to the general public, all out-of-state and/or overnight trips, and events which garner a higher level of risk. The advisor is expected to be in attendance from the start of an event to its conclusion. L. To assist the organization in transitioning leadership at the end of each semester and the end of each year. M. To immediately inform the Office of Student Life when the organization is disbanded or becomes inactive.
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VII. The Organization’s Responsibilities to the Adviser The organization has the following responsibilities to its adviser: A. To meet with the adviser on a regular basis and to keep the adviser informed of the overall program and activities of the organization; B. To inform the adviser well in advance of the schedule (date, time and location) of all meetings, activities, programs and events sponsored by the organization; C. To process requests for university services or appeals of administrative decisions through the faculty adviser; D. To give the adviser an opportunity to express an opinion on issues that affect the welfare of the organization and the interest of the university.
Recreational/Social Clubs • Extreme Wilderness Survival Society • Gamers Club • Sci-Fi Club
Religious Organizations There are five recognized religious organizations on campus: • Campus Crusade for Christ • Hillel Jewish Student Organization • Intervarsity Christian Fellowship • Muslim Student Association • Newman Society
Student Petitions And Referendums A. Petition Procedures 1. Recognized student organizations wishing to petition must file a written request with the Office of Student Life, ASC 212. 2. Each petition must have the desired referendum question printed in full at the top of each signature page. 3. The referendum question and the petition form must clearly indicate which portion of the 74 STUDENT ACTIVITIES
student population would be affected by the referendum question. 4. Petition forms must be dated when received. Those sponsoring a petition for a referendum will have 10 consecutive class days to obtain sufficient signatures, defined as 15 percent of the population, that would be affected by the referendum. Example: If a referendum would affect full-time undergraduates and there are 7,000 full-time undergraduates, the petition for a referendum would have to consist of the signatures of 1,050 full-time undergraduates. 5. Petition sponsors will be granted tables in the University Student Center, the Engleman Hall Rotunda and the Connecticut Hall Lobby during class hours for the 10 consecutive class days authorized for the petitions. Approval for additional locations may be requested from the Dean of Student Affairs. The Dean must approve at least one additional location and may approve two or more additional locations, as appropriate. Petition activities are limited to sponsors seated at tables in these locations. Posters, fliers, radio and/or newspaper advertising on petition issues are permitted. Opposing viewpoints may be permitted utilizing the same methods. 6. Petition activities (at appointed tables) must be carried out by members of the sponsoring organization who are also members of the SCSU student population. 7. All petition forms must be submitted to the Office of Student Life by 4:30 pm on the tenth day of the allotted petition time. 8. Signatures and student identification numbers on petitions will be verified by the Office of Student Life in conjunction with the Student Government Association, who shall certify the signatures as valid. Certification must occur within two weeks of the presentation of signatures. 9. If the sponsoring organization has submitted petitions with 15 percent or more of the verified signatures of the target population, the
Student Government Association with assistance from the Office of Student Life shall conduct a referendum under the established referendum procedures. B. Referendum Procedures 1. The referendum vote must occur within one month of the date of certification. 2. Notification concerning the referendum must be disseminated through student media and print prior to student balloting. The exact wording of the referendum question shall be provided, together with a list of the dates, times, locations and conditions of balloting. 3. Students shall submit their ballots electronically. 4. The ballot shall consist of the referendum statement and a space for their vote to be recorded. 5. Lobbying activities shall not be permitted within 100 feet of any Southern Connecticut State University computer lab which, for the purpose of a referendum, shall be considered official balloting locations. 6. The results of the referendum shall be presented to the President of the university. 7. Once a referendum question has been submitted for balloting, it may not be resubmitted until a 12-month period has elapsed.
Service Organizations The following organizations are dedicated to serving both the university community and surrounding communities: • Best Buddies • Colleges Against Cancer • Council for Exceptional Children • Habitat for Humanity • Service Team • Zeta Delta Epsilon
Social Fraternities and Sororities Fraternities and sororities provide a supportive group of friends during college and beyond. Opportunities for academic excellence, leadership training, and the development of interpersonal skills are readily available through fraternities and sororities. These opportunities enrich an individual’s college experience, as well as prepare them for career challenges after college. Throughout the academic year, fraternities and sororities sponsor a variety of educational programs, attend national and regional workshops and conferences, participate in fundraising activities on behalf of charitable organizations, and provide volunteer service to community outreach programs. Membership is open by invitation to those undergraduate students meeting the necessary qualifications. Southern supports the Greek new member process by holding workshops exploring the university’s zero-tolerance policy on hazing. The Greek system at the university is currently composed of the following national fraternities and sororities: • Alpha Phi Delta Fraternity • Alpha Sigma Alpha Sorority • Delta Phi Epsilon Sorority • Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity • Lambda Alpha Upsilon Fraternity • Lambda Pi Upsilon Sorority • Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority • Tau Kappa Epsilon Fraternity • Zeta Phi Beta Sorority In addition to national Greek organizations, Southern also offers the following local fraternities and sororities: • Beta Mu Sigma Fraternity • Omega Zeta Pi Sorority
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STUDENT RECORDS Southern Connecticut State University follows established policies for maintaining student records that support the University’s educational mission. The types of records maintained, the policies governing their maintenance, and the offices that maintain them are described in this section of the Student Handbook. Student records are necessary if both faculty and administrative staff are to understand better the individual student and assist him/her in achieving their educational, vocational, and life goals. The university further acknowledges that the development of each student’s full potential is better served when confidential information about the student is not made available to persons other than those who have a legitimate responsibility for the student’s 76 STUDENT RECORDS
personal welfare. In accordance with these principles and with state and federal laws, the policy of Southern Connecticut State University with respect to student records is set forth in the following paragraphs: I. Definition of Student Records A. Student — As used in this policy, a “student” hereafter refers to any person who is enrolled or was formerly enrolled at Southern Connecticut State University. It does not, however, include a person who has applied for admission to the university but has not been accepted. B. Student Records — The term “student records” means those educational records, files, documents, and other materials maintained by the university in
any medium that contains information directly related to a student. The term does not include records made by faculty and administrators for their own use and are not accessible to others. II. Types of Student Records Maintained A. Admissions Records 1. Records compiled and evaluated by the Admissions Office include the following: student’s application, test scores, high school transcript(s), college transcript(s) and, in some instances, although they are not requested, letters of recommendation. The admission records of students accepted to the university are transferred to the Registrar’s Office upon enrollment. B. Academic Records 1. The Registrar’s Office compiles and maintains the official academic record of each student. A record containing dates of attendance, courses completed, grades earned, and the date of withdrawal or graduation from the university is kept on every student currently enrolled or formerly enrolled at the university. For those students who have matriculated (i.e. been accepted into a degree program), a permanent folder is maintained. This folder contains the admissions application, test scores, letters of recommendation for admission, official communications, course withdrawal forms and student teaching evaluations and, where applicable, forms for Social Security benefits. 2. The academic record of a student is retained indefinitely; however, at the time of graduation, the permanent folder is kept intact for five years. 3. Transcripts are released to persons and agencies outside of the university only at the written request of the student or upon court order. 4. If a student has any outstanding obligations to the university, a notice is placed on the student’s academic record until the
obligation is met. In such cases, the student will not be eligible to register or receive a transcript. C. Disciplinary Records All disciplinary action is recorded and maintained in a confidential file in the Office of Judicial Affairs and remains there for five years. The records reflect the nature of the charge, the penalty assessed, and any other pertinent information. *Note: If disciplinary action resulted in suspension or expulsion, the file will be retained indefinitely. D. Financial Records Current student financial aid applications, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and all other supporting documentation are processed in the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships (OFAS). The financial aid records of students who are recipients of aid are retained by OFAS per State of Connecticut record retention requirements for five years from the end of the period for which the financial aid was awarded. Once the five-year term expires, files are shredded annually per university approval and oversight. E. Health Records Health records for all full-time students and matriculated undergraduate and graduate students are maintained in the Health & Wellness Center. These records include the pre-entrance health form, notes on any followup visits to the health center, and the results of laboratory tests. A copy of the medical record is released upon the written request of a student. When a student withdraws or graduates from the university, the medical record is stored in an inactive file. If there are records other than the pre-entrance health form, they are maintained in the Health & Wellness Center for seven years. F. Counseling Records In accordance with the State of Connecticut Public Health Law, Southern’s Counseling Center maintains records with regard to the following STUDENT RECORDS 77
state statute: Department of Public Health - Public Health Code 19a-4-40 Medical records, definition, purpose. 19a-14-42. Retention Schedule: Unless specified otherwise herein, all parts of a medical record shall be retained for a period of seven years from the last date of treatment, or, upon the death of the patient, for three years. Accordingly, Southern’s Counseling Center shall: 1. Maintain a full record for seven years after the last user contact or the completion of services, whichever is later. 2. See that all records shall be shredded after seven years. G. Residence Hall Records Various kinds of information are maintained by Residence Life. These records include the following: Housing Records: The original housing record is kept in a secure database. Copies of housing records are maintained in the hall office in which the student resides. When the student leaves university housing, the copy of the housing record is destroyed. Previous years housing records and copies of the database are maintained by the Office of Residence Life in a secured location for a period of up to 1 year. Student Incident Records (non judicial): Pertinent original student incident records are maintained by the Office of Residence Life in a secure location. Copies of student incident records are maintained in the hall office in which the student resides. When the student leaves University housing the copy of the student incident record is destroyed. Previous year’s incident records are maintained by the Office of Residence Life in a secured location for a period of one year. Student Incident Records (judicial): Disciplinary records are maintained in a secured database. Incidents originating in university housing are forwarded to the Office of Judicial Affairs. A copy of the disciplinary record may be kept in a secured location in the hall in which the 78 STUDENT RECORDS
student resides. The copy of the disciplinary record maintained by the Residence Life office is destroyed when the student leaves housing. Previous year’s incident records are maintained by the Office of Judicial Affairs. Student Employment and Candidate Records: Original student employment and candidate information is maintained in the Office of Residence Life. Copies of a student’s employment record are maintained by the supervisor while the student is employed. Copies of student employment records are destroyed at the end of the student’s employment. Database and paper employment and candidate records are maintained in a secured location for a period of three years after application or end of employment. H. Computer Center Records/ Student Information System The University maintains an electronic record on each student enrolled at the university. This record contains personal data, academic information, billing and fee payment, demographic information and biographic information. The records are stored securely in the Banner student information system and are accessible to students via their password protected MySCSU account on the World Wide Web. It is recommended that students periodically review their records for accuracy. In addition, various required reports for statistical and archival purposes are generated from the computer databases. Throughout any procedures, measures are strictly followed to maintain confidentiality and security of all student data. III. General Policies A. No record shall be made or retained unless there is a demonstrable need in relation to the basic educational aim of Southern Connecticut State University. B. All policies and practices dealing with acquiring, maintaining, or processing information about students shall be formulated
with due regard to the student’s right to privacy. C. Evaluations and/or information contributed to student record systems at Southern Connecticut State University shall be prepared only by qualified professional staff or agencies. D. A student shall be permitted to include confidential letters, statements or recommendations in their records after submitting a statement waiving right of access. E. Persons within the university having a legitimate need for information concerning students as a result of their duties at the university shall be permitted access only to those records directly related to their duties and functions. F. With the exception of any financial information furnished by parents, a student shall have the right to inspect and review their records in the presence of a professional staff
member of the university, who will assist in interpreting their contents. While the academic transcript of grades earned at Southern Connecticut State University may be viewed in the Registrar’s Office, a student interested in inspecting any other record to which they have access must contact the particular office where the record is maintained for an appointment with a professional staff member. All requests, which must be made through presentation of a university ID card, will be met as expeditiously as possible. G. If a student feels that information contained in their record is misleading, inaccurate, inappropriate, or in violation of their privacy or other rights, they shall be afforded an opportunity with the appropriate university official to challenge its content. (Note: A student may not challenge the accuracy of the recording of the grade.)
If after hearing, it is determined that the STUDENT RECORDS 79
information in the record is not inaccurate and thus will not be changed, then the university shall notify the student of their right to insert explanatory comments into the record. H. Personal information about a student obtained by members of the professional staff of the university in the discharge of their respective responsibilities will be treated in the confidential manner proscribed by professional ethics. I. The university will not record or retain records of a student’s religious or political beliefs or membership in any organizations other than honorary organizations without their knowledge or consent. J. Personally identifiable information other than
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that listed below will not be released to any person or agency outside the university for any purpose without the written consent of the student. 1. Name 2. Sex 3. Dates of attendance, including full-or part-time status 4. Major field of study 5. Date of graduation 6. Participation in officially recognized activities and intercollegiate sports 7. Members of athletic teams: ages, class status, weight, height, high school, and hometown 8. Honors, degrees, and awards received
9. Previous school most recently attended and a photograph A student, however, shall be allowed to request in writing that any or all of the above information not be released without their prior consent. Such request must be filed with the custodian of the record during the first two weeks of each academic semester. K. Access to or the release of a record or personally identifiable information without the student’s written consent shall be limited to the following: 1. Faculty and staff members at the university who can demonstrate a legitimate educational interest. 2. Other educational institutions in which the student intends to enroll. (Note: In all such cases, the student shall be notified of the transfer of information, receive a copy of the records, if desired, and have an opportunity to challenge the contents of the record.)
3. Government officials such as authorized representatives of the United States General Accounting Office, the Department of Education, and the Department of Health and Human Services. 4. In connection with the student’s application for, or receipt of, financial aid. 5. State and local officials or authorities where required by state law. 6. Organizations conducting studies for, or on behalf of, educational agencies or the university for the purpose of developing, validating or administering predictive tests, administering student aid programs, and improving instruction, provided these studies
are conducted in a manner that will not permit the personal identification of students by persons other than representatives of such organizations. Such information must be destroyed when no longer needed for the purpose for which it is obtained. 7. Accrediting organizations in order to carry out their accrediting functions. 8. Parents of a student who is dependent upon such information for federal income tax purposes. 9. In compliance with judicial order or pursuant to any lawfully issued subpoena, provided the university makes reasonable effort to notify the student of the order or subpoena in advance of its compliance. 10. To appropriate persons in connection with an emergency, if the knowledge of certain information is necessary to protect the health or safety of a student or the other persons or property. L. With the exception of its own authorized personnel, the university shall maintain records of all individuals and organizations that have either requested or obtained access to the student’s records. This record of access, which shall include a statement identifying specific records to be released, the reasons for such release, and to whom was given, shall remain permanently with a student’s record. Where the consent of a student is required for the release of records, a copy of these records shall be provided to the student upon written request. M. The university shall not release personal information about a student except on the condition that the party to whom the information is being sent will not permit any other party access without the written consent of the student.
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STUDENT SERVICES The University offers a full range of programs and services for students through the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs, Disability Resource Office, Multicultural Center, Office for International Students, Women’s Center, and many more. An introduction to the University offices that support student learning and development is included here. For a more detailed description of offices, programs, and services, visit SouthernCT.edu or specific offices around the campus.
Academic Computer Center
class instructor can make equipment requests for delivery to classrooms. The AV/TV Department requires two business days to reserve or pick up any equipment. For off-campus or overnight use, permission must be obtained from the coordinator of the AV/TV Department. Each person is responsible for the care, handling, use and prompt return of all equipment. Faculty/staff who need instructions for the proper use of the equipment should contact the AV/TV Department at (203) 392-5400. Equipment will not be issued unless the individual can demonstrate its proper use.
See Information Technology Policies, Page 52
Bookstore Audio Visual/Multi-Media Services Located in EN B 017C, the Audio Visual/MultiMedia Department (AV/TV) provides instructional services to the entire campus community. Equipment (with some exceptions) will be delivered to the designated classroom by AV/TV personnel. Only the 82 STUDENT SERVICES
Southern’s Barnes and Noble Bookstore is located on the ground floor of the Michael J. Adanti Student Center. The bookstore provides new textbooks, used textbooks (at 25% off new) as well as textbook rentals and digital titles that can save 50% off the new textbook price. Along with a wide range of
school supplies, electronics, recycled notebooks, dorm room accessories and greeting cards are also available. Students can view and order course books by accessing the bookstore’s website at southernCT.bkstore.com. The Bookstore conducts book buybacks everyday to recycle textbooks on campus. Up to 50% of the selling price is paid for textbooks needed for the upcoming semester. The bookstore also carries general and reference books, discounted campus bestsellers, bargain books, computer supplies as well as laptops to purchase, Southern clothing and gifts, backpacks, greeting cards, magazines, health and beauty aids and convenience snacks and beverages. The Bookstore’s fall and spring semester hours are Monday through Thursday, 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Friday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Saturday 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. These hours are extended at the beginning of each semester. The summer hours are Monday through Thursday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The Bookstore accepts cash, personal checks (with picture ID), MasterCard, Visa, Discover, American Express, the SCSU Hoot Loot Card and Barnes & Noble gift cards. Textbooks may be returned for a refund with a sales receipt within the first week of classes (two days from start of class during the summer session). Openings for part-time employment are available at the Bookstore. Applications are preferred a month before the semester starts, but are welcome at all times. To contact the Bookstore, call (203) 392-5270; fax (203) 392-5278, visit Southern-CT.bkstore. com, or email bkssouthctst@bncollege.com.
Bus Service Bus service to New Haven and the vicinity is provided by Connecticut Transit, which makes regularly scheduled stops on Fitch Street near the Alumni Bridge. For more information, visit cttransit.com
Campus Tutorial Center Located in Engleman Hall A 014, the center offers individual and small-group assistance for many introductory-level courses. Tutorials are offered throughout the semester, and the services are free. For information regarding subjects and schedule, call Tom Ferrucci at (203) 392-6824 or e-mail ferruccit1@SouthernCT.edu. For additional information, visit SouthernCT.edu/ tutorialcenter.
Campus Writing Center Located in Engleman Hall A 012, the Campus Writing Center provides general consultation and assists students in finding ways to address writing concerns with the goal of promoting confident, selfreliant student writers. This is a free service. For information or appointments, call Tom Ferrucci at (203) 392-6824 or e-mail FerrucciT1@ SouthernCT.edu. For more information, visit SouthernCT.edu/writingcenter.
Center for Career Services The Center for Career Services, located in Wintergreen 118, offers comprehensive career resources for all students and alumni. A range of innovative programs enables students to explore, define, prepare for, and realize their career objectives. Job opportunities are available to students for full-time and part-time positions during their college tenure. All on-campus student employment is coordinated through the Center for Career Services. National and regional employers representing all fields actively recruit students through JOBSs (Job Opportunities Benefiting Southern students), an online job board available 24/7 to students and alumni looking for full- and part-time positions, co-ops, internships, and on-campus student employment. Cooperative Education integrates study with related professional experience. Undergraduate students have the opportunity to earn money and up to 12 academic credits while gaining valuable career-related experience. STUDENT SERVICES 83
Career Development Programs include career counseling, individual consultation regarding career options, resume writing, cover letters, and job search strategies with professional staff; workshops on all career-related topics; and speakers from various businesses and organizations discussing their career fields, occupations, industries, and career opportunities. FOCUS is a Web-based assessment tool that can help students find out more about majors and careers that suit their interests and skills. A Career Fair is held in the spring semester and attracts more than 75 employers, representing all fields, seeking students and graduates for full-time, part-time, and cooperative education positions. The Majors Expo, held in the fall semester, gives students the opportunity to explore majors and minors, while providing information about related career opportunities. Career Resource Computer Lab offers comprehensive technical resources to all students for rĂŠsumĂŠ creation, career exploration, company information, and job searches. For more information, visit careers. SouthernCT.edu.
Center For Adaptive Technology Through the use of adaptive applications, as well as reading and writing aids, the Center for Adaptive Technology (CAT) helps students with visual, physical, and learning disabilities to become independent computer users. The CAT’s professional staff provides computer access evaluations and training in a supportive, accessible environment. During open lab hours students may use adaptive technology to complete coursework, access emails, print documents, and utilize the internet. Adaptive technology is also provided in other campus locations, including the library and some of the general computer labs. Call (203) 392-5799 or visit cat.SouthernCT.edu for the latest information and schedules.
Childcare Reimbursement Program The Division of Student and University Affairs sponsors a childcare reimbursement program for a limited number of both undergraduate and graduate student parents. The program offers a modest reimbursement of up to $500 per family per semester to help student parents cover childcare expenses, whether the services are provided through a licensed daycare center or through babysitting services. The reimbursements are awarded to those students who meet all of the eligibility requirements with priority based upon financial need. All applications will be reviewed by the Child Care Reimbursement Program Committee. For more information, call (203) 3926946, or visit SouthernCT.edu/womenscenter and click on Work-Life Balance. The Early Learning Center, a licensed day care at Gateway Community-Technical College, 20 Church Street, New Haven, provides year-round care for children ages 3-5. As part of a Connecticut higher education institutional collaboration between Southern and Gateway, special discounted rates are available for the childcare tuition of children of Southern students. Sliding scale tuition is available for New Haven residents. For information about the program and rates, call (203) 285-2131. For daycare services for children under three years of age, call the Connecticut Care Infoline at 1-800-203-1234 to receive referrals for statelicensed infant care centers throughout Connecticut.
Community Hour To strengthen a sense of campus community and to allow participation in campus events, the university has set aside two-and-a-half hours each week, from 1:05 to 1:55 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, as Academic Community Hours. During these times, student organizations, academic departments and administrative units of the university are encouraged to sponsor programs and activities.
Commuter Student Services Students who do not live in university residence halls are considered off-campus and/or commuting 84 STUDENT SERVICES
students. The university is committed to meeting the unique needs of commuting students by providing information, resources, programs, outreach and advocacy. The office encourages students to become active members of the Southern community through involvement in one or more student clubs or organizations. Student involvement and the education gained outside the classroom are fundamental to student success. Commuter students are encouraged to visit the Student Center daily to relax, connect, study and eat. The office strives to make the Adanti Student Center a safe and comfortable environment, realizing that it is a home away from home during a student’s time on campus. The following are some of the services that are provided at the student center: campus information center, food court, game room, computer lab, fitness center, lockers, Tyco Copy Center, Barnes & Noble Bookstore, televisions, lounges, and Wepawaug Federal Credit Union banking services.
Dining Services Hours of service in each of the following venues are subject to change.For up-to-date information on all dining services, visit SouthernCT.edu/ food_services.
Adanti Student Center Food Court The Food Court of the Adanti Student Center, which officially opened in the fall of 2006, provides a comfortable environment for commuters, residential students, faculty and staff to grab a bite to eat or to meet with friends between classes. It features Dunkin’ Donuts, 2Mato, Mondo Subs, Nathan’s, Blue Agave, and soup. Hours of the Food Court vary throughout the year, based on the academic calendar and are posted at the location and at SouthernCT.edu/food_ services/hours. Purchases can be made with cash, debit card, credit card, Food Loot, and Hoot Loot. Connecticut Hall Connecticut Hall is the main resident dining facility on campus, featuring full hot vegetarian and non-vegetarian entrees, daily specialty salads, salad bar, deli bar, soups, pizzas, pasta, made-to-order omelets, beverages and desserts. A studentorganized Food Service Advisory Committee works closely with the dining service management team to assure that the dining program is meeting the dining needs of students. Connecticut Hall is open Monday–Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 midnight, and Saturday and
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Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 midnight. There are three full meal plans offered — Platinum Meal Plan, Gold Meal Plan, and Silver Meal Plan. The program is the Pulse On Dining Program. The meal plans are based on unlimited access to all- you-careto-eat, with the addition of Anywhere Meals, Guest Meals, and Food Loot dollars. Residential students who live in non-kitchen units are required to be on one of the three full meal plans. Commuter students can also purchase any of the full meal plans. In addition, there are three different Commuter Block Plans offered for students that commute. Special Note: A valid Hoot Loot ID Card must be presented to gain access to the dining room. This card is not transferable and is for the exclusive use of the purchaser. Violations of this policy will result in confiscation of the card and referral to the University Judicial Officer for disciplinary action. The Bagel Wagon, located in Engleman B wing, is a convenient place to pick up light snack food, beverages and pre-made sandwiches and to hang out in comfortable surroundings between classes. Hours vary throughout the year, based on the academic calendar, and are always posted at the location and at the food service website. During the fall and spring semesters the hours are: Monday - Thursday: 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. Friday: 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. Saturday & Sunday: Closed The Davis Hall Kiosk offers a wide variety of marketfresh deli sandwiches, wraps, and gourmet salads for your enjoyment. Hours are Monday-Thursday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The North Campus Market is located on the first floor of North Campus Residence Complex. Available Items are “grab-and-go” favorites, including our famous warm cookies. Hours are Sunday-Thursday from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m.
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Dean Of Student Affairs The Office of Student Affairs empowers students to reach their full potential by providing programs and services that nurture the intellectual, psychological, physical, cultural, and social development of students, and by promoting initiatives that encourage students to become engaged and effective leaders in the community and the region. It also sponsors university-wide events that foster an appreciation of cultural, ethnic, and individual differences and promote a life-long commitment to wellness, learning, and community service. The Assistant Vice President and Dean of Student Affairs oversees key areas of student services and assists the Vice President for Student and University Affairs with projects and initiatives designed to enhance student success. He serves as a sounding board for student ideas, needs, and issues and refers students to appropriate university offices. The dean is available to help solve student dilemmas. If you have questions, ideas, or concerns, stop by the Student Affairs Office, which is located in Engleman Hall A106.
The Disability Resource Center Located in Engleman Hall C 105, the Disability Resource Center (DRC) works to fulfill Southern’s longstanding commitment to the full inclusion and equal educational opportunity for all persons with disabilities. The DRC provides services and support that promote educational equity for students with disabilities. Assistance includes arranging accommodations and auxiliary aids necessary for students with disabilities to pursue their academic careers, both in and outside of the classroom. The DRC serves all students with documented disabilities that substantially impact them in educational settings. Students with documented disabilities, visible or hidden, qualify for services. Categories of disability include, but are not limited to the following: mobility/orthopedic disabilities, learning disabilities, attention deficit disorders, vision, deafness and hard of hearing, acquired head injuries, psychological disabilities, autism spectrum
disorders, and chronic health-related disabilities. DRC services include arranging course and testing accommodations; providing accessibility information; arranging for sign language interpreters, readers, and note-takers; providing help with recruitment of personal assistants; assisting with the development of compensatory skills, such as time management, organization, and study skills. The DRC provides access to assistive technology through the CAT lab, and alternate formats for texts. Students interested in obtaining more information should contact the DRC, located in Engleman C 105, by calling (203) 392-6828, 392-6131 TTY, (203) 392-6829 FAX or by visiting SouthernCT.edu/drc. NOTE: Only one classroom on campus is inaccessible to persons with mobility limitations. If a course is scheduled in Davis 102, students are urged to inform the DRC as soon as possible to ensure relocation of the class to an accessible location by the start of the semester.
Identification Card: Hoot Loot Card The Southern Hoot Loot ID Card is the primary university identification card, mandatory for all students. In addition, the card provides access to residence halls, meal plans and computer labs and functions as your library card. The card also contains your unique eight-digit university identification number. Students currently registered (or paying the continuous enrollment fee) may obtain the Southern Hoot Loot ID Card by visiting the University Card Office, located in the Wintergreen Building. Students should bring proof of registration or enrollment (a current bill printout) and another form of photo ID for verification. Normal hours of operation are Monday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Tuesday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; and Friday, 8 a.m.–4 p.m. The Southern Hoot Loot ID Card can also act as an optional campus debit card, allowing students additional privileges and services at Southern. With use of this campus debit account, students can deposit money into their Hoot Loot account to make purchases at various locations on and off campus. If they choose to do so, they can enjoy the convenience
of purchasing from the following: • Southern Barnes & Noble Bookstore • On-campus snack and soda machines • Laundry services (for residents) • Bus trips and other campus activities • Participating local stores and restaurants Students who have questions about Hoot Loot or who would like to add money to their Hoot Loot accounts over the phone, should call (203) 392-7077. For additional information about Hoot Loot or to add money to the Hoot Loot Card from a secure website, visit hootloot.SouthernCT.edu/ Report lost or stolen cards to the University Card Office during normal business hours by calling (203) 392-7077. After business hours, report lost or stolen cards to the University Police at (203) 392-5375. There will be a $10 fee for the first replacement card and a $20 fee for each additional card thereafter.
Inter-Faith Office The Inter-Faith Office considers spiritual growth an important part of personal development. Several chaplains are active on campus, enabling students to make appointments. Students may also stop by the Inter-Faith Office, Adanti Student Center Room 228, for assistance.
International Students Located in Engleman Hall, B222, the International Office provides immigration, academic and personal advising services to students from all over the world. It serves as an informational center to undergraduate and graduate foreign students on their legal responsibility to the federal government, the State of Connecticut, and Southern Connecticut State University. This office also helps provide the multinational and multi-cultural flavor intrinsic to the university’s mission by fostering international friendship and understanding. For more information, call Aliya Amin at (203) 392-6821 or (203) 3926947, or AminA1@SouthernCT.edu.
Lactation Room To help students balance the demands of their studies and parenthood, the university now provides STUDENT SERVICES 87
a Lactation Room. The Lactation Room is located in the Women’s Lounge in Connecticut Hall on the first floor. This private room contains a rocker and a wash area. Students who need a quiet, welcoming space in which to pump breast milk may use the Lactation Room. Students interested in using the Lactation Room should call Catherine Christy, Women’s Center, at (203) 392-6946, or e-mail christyc1@SouthernCT.edu, for room registration details.
Library The Hilton C. Buley Library is the hub of learning activity on campus. Library resources total more than 600,000 items, including books, periodicals, DVDs, CDs, government documents, curriculum and instructional materials. Viewing/listening stations are available for library patron use. Headsets can be checked out at the Circulation Desk. The Library’s Special Collections includes a collection of books, papers and documents on the state’s history. The Hilton C. Buley Library home page is library.SouthernCT.edu. Circulation Library patrons, who are currently enrolled or conducting research for a thesis or course completion, can check out material using their Hoot Loot card. The loan period is normally four weeks, with two renewals. Materials can be renewed by telephone (203) 392-5756 or at library. SouthernCT.edu. Enter your network campus username and password to access the online patron record. Fines and Overdue Materials Students should be aware of the return date for each item they check out. Policies on fines and lost material are available on the library’s website. Borrowers who lose an item should report its loss immediately and are responsible for its replacement, including a non-refundable processing fee. All library charges for lost or overdue books must be paid as they occur or a block will be placed, 88 STUDENT SERVICES
preventing a student’s future registration privileges and requests for transcripts. Interlibrary Loan Students may request materials from any of the other CSUS libraries through our online CONSULS catalog. These inter-campus loans can usually be picked up within 3 to 5 days. The library also participates in an interlibrary loan network that borrows most material not available in the CSUS libraries through an international database (ILL). Students need to create a personal profile online at SouthernCT.illiad.oclc.org/illiad and will then have access to the ILL forms. Allow sufficient time for locating and receiving material. Library Hours During the fall and spring semesters, the library is open Mondays through Thursdays, 8 a.m.-11 p.m.; Fridays, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.; Saturdays, 9 a.m.5 p.m.; Sundays, 1 p.m.-11 p.m. Hours during the summer, holiday and intersession periods vary and are posted on the library home page. Library Instruction Librarians teach classes and workshops to aid students in conducting research. Presentations are offered on search strategies and selection of appropriate research information using both print and online resources. Formal presentations in specific subject areas are arranged by teaching faculty for individual classes. General orientation tours of Buley Library are offered as requested. Periodicals The library maintains over 970 journal subscriptions and provides access to more than 76,000 unique e-journal titles. Current issues of print subscriptions are shelved around the perimeter of the Ground Floor Periodicals Reading Room. Back issue content is available either in bound volumes, microfilm/microfiche format or digitally, as noted in the Connectucut State University Library System online catalog (CONSULS). Microform
reader/printer/scanners are available for using micro-format materials, including journals, thesis and historic literature, and newspaper collections.
network campus username and password to access electronic reserves material.
Lockers Photocopiers Photocopiers are located on ground and first floors of the library, and use Hoot Loot only. Library users are expected to observe copyright laws. Reference and Information Services The main floor of Buley Library features a professionally staffed Reference Desk where librarians provide research assistance in utilizing CONSULS (the Connecticut State University Library System online catalog), more than 150 online research databases, the Internet and the 40,000volume reference collection. Library Reserve Materials Reserve materials are available in both print and electronic formats. Most print reserve materials circulate for an hour at a time and may be requested at the Circulation Desk. Some reserve materials can be checked out overnight and should be returned by 9 a.m. the next day. Electronic reserves are available at consuls.org/search/p and can be accessed 24/7 from on or off-campus. Enter your
Lockers in the Adanti Student Center are available for commuter students on a first-come, firstserved basis. Students must provide their own locks. Commuter students can reserve a locker through the Adanti Student Center room 325 at the start of the semester. For more information, call the ASC Main Desk at (203) 392-5500.
Lost and Found The university is not responsible for the loss of personal property. The lost and found service is located in the University Police Department. Such articles should be turned in or claimed at this office.
John Lyman Center for the Performing Arts The Lyman Center is a 1500 seat theatre that presents events for the University and public. The venue is also available for use by recognized SCSU student organizations. Please contact the Lyman Scheduling Office at (203) 392-6165 to inquire about scheduling an event and the associated costs of holding this activity in the Lyman Center. For STUDENT SERVICES 89
upcoming performances information offered at the Lyman Center please contact the box office at (203) 392-6154 or visit SouthernCT.edu/lymancenter.
Mail Both campus and out-going mail can be left at the Mail Services Department in the Wintergreen Building. Messages for faculty members can be left in their mailboxes located in each department office. Only residence hall students are assigned mailboxes. Stamps can be purchased at the book store in the Adanti Student Center.
Multi-Cultural Center The Multi-Cultural Center serves as a resource for the university and the community, promoting an awareness and appreciation of cultural diversity. It sponsors outreach programs with area schools and conducts art exhibitions, film programs, lectures and conferences. In addition, the center houses an extensive book and video library. The Multi-Cultural Center, located in the Adanti Student Center, is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
more college credits. Although transfers may be familiar with the college environment, we recognize that experiences can vary from one institution to the other. The transfer student orientation focuses on the issues and resources that are most relevant to transfer student success.
Non-Traditional Students Located in Engleman Hall B 018, the Office for Non-Traditional Students offers personal and career counseling, academic advisement, and a peer support program for non-traditional students. Included in this category are older students ranging in age from 22 to 60, those returning to college after raising a family, and those looking to change their careers. For information, call Jack Mordente at (203) 392-6822 or e-mail MordenteG1@SouthernCT.edu.
Notary Public A notary public is available to students in the Adanti Student Center Main Office, room 325. Please call (203)-392-5500 for hours.
Office of Study Skills Enrichment New Student Orientation Orientation is designed to provide new students with information they will need to have a successful first year at Southern. First-time college students (freshmen), and transfer students who have earned less than 15 credits who will be attending Southern Connecticut State University in the fall semester must attend one of five New Student Orientations sessions scheduled during the summer. These sessions will provide students with information critical to their academic success, allow new students to network with professional faculty and staff, socialize with their peers, and to finalize registration for their fall courses. In addition, students learn the value of a liberal education, experience the history and culture of the university, and have an opportunity to learn from our Orientation Ambassadors, who are extensively trained student leaders. Transfer Student Orientation is a one-day program intended for students transferring 15 or 90 STUDENT SERVICES
Located in Engleman Hall B 018 and C 016, the Office of Study Skills Enrichment is open to all Southern students regardless of enrollment status. Each semester, staff members provide a series of workshops designed to help students develop their study skills and scholastic habits to promote academic success. The Office of Study Skills Enrichment provides additional services such as assistance with academic planning, individual assessment, follow-up, and referrals. Materials are available in the form of reading resources, selfassessment tools, and videotaped workshops. The staff of the Office of Study Skills Enrichment develops and presents scheduled workshops for the campus community. For more information, call Tom Colby at (203) 392-6818 or ColbyT1@SouthernCT.edu.
Office of Sustainability The Office of Sustainability at SCSU connects students, faculty, and staff with the information, people, and tools they need to make our campus
more sustainable. We encourage and welcome ideas and participation by the entire campus community. We provide a wide range of opportunities to participate in, including Campus Conservation Nationals, Recyclemania, the Campus Community Garden, Plant It Forward, presentations by guest speakers, and much more. The Office of Sustainability also tracks progress toward meeting greenhouse gas and waste reduction goals of the Presidents Climate Commitment. For more information, call (203) 392-7135 or visit SouthernCT.edu/campus_sustainability.
Records/Registrar’s Office The Registrar’s Office, located in the Wintergreen Building, is responsible for registration add/drops, withdrawals, and the maintenance of official academic records. The office also compiles the Dean’s List, processes transcripts and certification for teachers, and handles Social Security and other government forms. Forms for change of address, certification, transcripts, and applications for a degree are available in the office and on the Web.
Recreational Facilities Recreational facilities available to university students include the Adanti Student Center, Pelz Gymnasium, Moore Fieldhouse, and various athletic fields. Information and brochures describing recreation activities, intramural offerings, and club sports may be obtained in the Student Life Office, room 212, Adanti Student Center. See Adanti Student Center section, page ??, for details on joining the Southern Fitness Center located on the second floor of the Adanti Student Center.
Recycling Southern Connecticut State University is committed to being a good citizen, and part of being a good citizen is environmental stewardship. Look for the “Give a Hoot, Please Recycle” logo on recycling containers throughout the Southern Campus. Make a commitment to do your part to separate recyclables from non-recyclable materials. For information
regarding the recycling program, visit SouthernCT.edu/recycling or contact Heather Stearns, Recycling Coordinator, at (203) 392-6931.
Residence Life The purpose of the residential program at Southern is to provide a comfortable and safe living environment for full-time students which supports their academic and personal pursuits. To aid in this purpose, residents are encouraged to become involved in hall and campus activities; develop friendships; and participate in a multitude of programs and experiential learning opportunities to connect classroom learning and real-life application. Residence halls at Southern are staffed by fulltime professional Hall Directors who supervise a staff of trained Resident Advisors who live on each floor and Desk Attendants who manage the 24-hour Welcome Desk. Residence Life staff members provide support in the residence halls in a number of ways, including: referrals to campus resources, developing community among the residents, responding to emergencies, and providing social and educational programming. Southern offers several styles of living, including traditional double and triple rooms; suites; and STUDENT SERVICES 91
apartments. West Campus, Neff, Hickerson, Farnham, Chase, and Wilkinson Halls offer double and triple rooms with community bathrooms and lounges for first and second year students. Alcohol is prohibited in these communities West Campus and Brownell offer suite-style rooms with bathrooms. Residents living in any of these communities are required to purchase a meal plan which can be used at Connecticut Hall (main cafeteria-style facility), the Adanti Student Center, and convenience stores located around campus. Alcohol is prohibited in the West Campus Residence Complex. Schwartz Hall and the North Campus Midrise and Townhouses offer two, four or six person apartments with private bathrooms and full kitchens. Students living in these communities are required to purchase a $300 declining balance. Residence hall amenities include: fully furnished rooms, internet access, digital cable, microfridge units in rooms and suites; and refrigerators, stoves, and microwaves in the apartments. Selected locations offer common area lounges, computer labs, and air conditioning. 92 STUDENT SERVICES
Students who decide to live on campus are expected to abide by the terms of the Residential Student Rights and Responsibilities, the Residence Hall Contract, and the University Code of Conduct. Students may request on-campus residence by contacting the Office of Residence Life located in Schwartz Hall 100, by email at reslife@SouthernCT. edu, by phone at (203) 392.5869, or visit SouthernCT.edu/residencelife.
R.I.D.E.S: Reducing Individual Dangers and Encouraging Safety R.I.D.E.S. is a safe rides program designed to offer students a responsible mode of transportation when needed. R.I.D.E.S. is available 24 hours a day and can be used for any reason, no questions asked. It is especially designed for circumstances when a student might lack cash, but need to get out of an unsafe or uncomfortable situation. For more information on the program, contact the DARC office at (203) 392-5087.
Sexuality and Gender Equality (SAGE) Center The Sexuality and Gender Equality Center
(SAGE) — Southern’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer, questioning and allies (LGBTIQQA) center — provides positive academic and cultural support for all persons of sexual diversity including students, faculty, staff, alumni/ae and university guests. To achieve that goal, the center provides a safe communal space, personal support, resource information, relevant programming and positive acknowledgement of the LGBTIQQA community and its equality in the world today. The SAGE Center works to create a campus atmosphere of tolerance and understanding that is open and accepting — and free from the oppressive forces of homophobia, heterosexism and gender bias. Programming events include lectures, discussions, social events, films and other presentations throughout the academic year. For more information, call (203) 392-6532.
Scheduling Office for Non-Class Programs and Events The Scheduling Office coordinates scheduling and support services for classroom space and outdoor areas for non-class programs and events. The staff is available to meet with prospective users to discuss support services and/or fees associated with any of the available facilities. The office is located in John Lyman Center for the Performing Arts, room 116. For information, call (203) 3926165.
Scholarships, Alumni Association There are more than 180 Southern scholarships that cover a variety of majors, extracurricular interests, community activities and financial need. Contact the Alumni Relations Office at (203) 3926500 with questions or visit SouthernCT.edu/ alumni/scholarshipprogram.
Speech/Hearing Clinic The Center for Communication Disorders assists any student who needs help with a speech, voice, language or hearing problem or who wants to
improve their proficiency in spoken English. Located in DA 012, the center is open from Monday through Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The center is staffed by licensed, certified speech-language pathologists and audiologists and by graduate student clinicians from the Department of Communication Disorders. Appointments can be made in person or by calling (203) 392-5955.
Student Center The Michael J. Adanti Student Center is a modern,125,000-square-foot, multi-purpose facility located on the corner of Crescent and Fitch Streets, easily accessible from the Alumni Footbridge. With fantastic views of West Rock and the campus, large sun-filled atriums and outdoor patios, the four-story building is the hearth and home of campus life, a place where students, faculty and staff can meet on common ground. The Adanti Student Center provides educational, cultural, social and recreational programs that complement education outside the classroom. Equally exciting, the center provides an opportunity to strengthen ties to off-campus entities such as corporations, arts organizations and civic and professional groups through conferences, exhibitions and similar collaborative events. The Adanti Student Center is the home of a stateof-the-art fitness center, a fireplace, quiet study lounge, a grand ballroom, a 200-seat movie theatre, the Barnes & Noble Bookstore, a computer lab, a game room, a Dunkin’ Donuts and four dining establishments: 2Mato, Nathan’s, Blue Agave, and Mondo Subs. The center has multiple lounges and meeting rooms, the Wepawaug-Flagg Federal Credit Union banking service and a satellite station for campus police, as well as office space for clubs and organizations. In addition, the student center offers an Information Center and access to e-mail terminals and wireless services. The Adanti Student Center offers meeting rooms to suit every need, whether the occasion is a casual, small-group gathering or a formal dinner and
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reception. The student center also accommodates large conferences as well as break-out sessions. All rooms feature upscale furnishings, state-of-the-art audio-visual components and wireless/computer accessibility. The ballroom is 7,000 square feet of space that provides an elegant yet versatile venue for signature events such as academic and business conferences, formal dances or dinners. It is also the perfect setting for activities that attract a large gathering, from career fairs and open houses to religious services. To make a reservation, contact the Michael J. Adanti Student Center at (203) 392-5500 or visit vems.SouthernCT.edu. All clubs and organizations must reserve their space early. The center ask that users plan their scheduled meetings one semester in advance. Reservations will be available in October for the following spring semester and in March for the fall semester. Student Center Hours of Operation Monday-Thursday, 7 a.m.–11 p.m. Friday, 7 a.m. – 10 p.m. Saturday, 8 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Sunday, 2 a.m.–10 p.m. Fitness Center The Southern Fitness Center is a 7,500- squarefoot facility located on the second floor of the Michael J. Adanti Student Center. It is designed to provide a positive environment for members to engage in moderate exercise and improve or maintain their desired level of personal fitness. Use of the facility is limited to current members. Facility includes: • Variety of cardiovascular equipment and selectorized weight machines. • Plate-loaded machines and free weights ranging from two to 100 pounds. • Accessory equipment including stability balls, jump ropes, resistance bands, etc., are also available. • A stretching/abs space as well as a cycling room and a group exercise room allow for a complete workout for members. 94 STUDENT SERVICES
Membership All current Southern students, faculty, and staff are eligible to purchase a membership for the Fitness Center. Memberships include unlimited use of the Fitness Center during operational hours, a fitness orientation, and access to group exercise classes as well as incentive programs. Other services may be available at an additional cost. For the most up-todate information on cost of membership, hours of operation, policies, and procedures, and how to join, visit SouthernCT.edu/fitnesscenter.
Student Membership on University Committees Students in good academic standing are eligible to serve as representatives on student-faculty committees. These joint membership committees focus on significant areas of university community life and share in policy development. Interested students should consult with the Student Government Association, Adanti Student Center, Room 218, or with the Office of Student Life, Adanti Student Center, Room 212, for information regarding membership on a committee.
Telephones/Public Phones/Courtesy Phones Southern provides five public phones on campus from which local calls can be made by members of the university community and the general public for FREE. They are located at the following campus sites: John Lyman Center for the Performing Arts (one courtesy phone is located in the main lobby near the box office sales window, and another is located in the back hallway outside of the Kendall Drama Lab); the Connecticut Hall lobby; the Adanti Student Center info desk, and the Schwartz Hall lobby.
University Access Programs EOP (for admitted students) The Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) improves the access, retention, and graduation of students who are economically and/or educationally disadvantaged. The EOP helps ease the transition to Southern by providing comprehensive academic
support services in admissions, financial assistance, orientation, as well as academic and personal advising. For more information,contact Dawn Stanton-Holmes in Engleman B222 at (203)-3926812 or HolmesD3@SouthernCT.edu. GEAR-UP (Gaining Early Awareness & Readiness for Undergraduate Programs; for seventh graders) GEAR-UP is designed to increase the number of students prepared to enter and succeed in postsecondary education and to provide scholarships for eligible high school seniors. Southern provides early and ongoing academic planning, counseling and assessment, as well as tutoring and mentoring activities for academic improvement. Information sessions on college admissions, financial aid, career exposure, job shadowing, and college field trips are offered, as well as outreach activities for parents. For more information, contact Marvis Brown in Engleman B006 at (203)-392-5575 or BrownarnolM1@SouthernCT.edu. Southern Academy (for middle school students) Southern is committed to improving educational standards and opportunities to bridge the achievement gap, and help fourth-graders realize that college is an attainable dream. Students attend an intensive 5-week summer program and receive tutoring and mentoring during the school year. For more information, contact Chaka Felder-McEntire in Engleman B 018 at (203)-392-6899 or FelderC2@SouthernCT.edu.
University Access Programs (for admitted students) University Access Programs (UAP) formerly known as ConnCAS) is a joint effort between the Department of Higher Education and Southern, serving students who may not have access to a higher education. The target population is geographically, ethnically, and socio-economically diverse. Each candidate has experienced difficultly in one or more academic areas in high school. Students chosen for this program show promise for success in college. For additional information, contact Sasha Benjamin in Engleman B 018 at (203)-392-5009 or BenjaminS1@SouthernCT.edu
Veterans Services Located in Engleman Hall B 018, this office provides veterans with counseling, academic advisement, guidance on the GI Bill, tuition waiver certification, and assistance in dealing with the Veteran’s Administration. The university urges all veterans attending Southern to visit this office and take advantage of its many services. For more information, call Jack Mordente at (203) 392-6822 or e-mail mordenteg1@SouthernCT.edu.
Voter Registration for Students Southern Connecticut State University is committed to supporting the voting process by assisting with campus voter registration drives and by encouraging student participation in the election process. Information regarding voter registration can be found at ct.gov/sots/site/default.asp Voter registration forms are available on campus in the SCSU Multicultural Affairs Office, Michael J. Adanti Student Center, room 234, or can be printed from ct.gov/sots/LIB/sots/ElectionServices/ ElectForms/electforms/ed671.pdf All students are urged to take advantage of this convenient registration service and exercise their rights and duties as citizens by becoming registered voters. For more information, please call the SCSU Multicultural Affairs Office at (203) 392- 5888.
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STUDENT-UNIVERSITY RELATIONS Students are granted many rights and responsibilities through the University’s Academic Honesty Policy and the Student Bill of Rights. Students should know their rights and responsibilities, as well as the procedure for filing grievances when a violation occurs.
Academic Honesty Academic honesty is the cornerstone of higher education. An honest approach to one’s work is the only approach—in the laboratory, in research or in examinations. Cheating of any kind is, and must be, condemned by all members of a college community. Violations Behavior that falls under the heading of academic dishonesty includes the following: A. The use of illicit aids during examination periods; B. The giving and receiving of aid on any examinations; 96 STUDENT-UNIVERSITY RELATIONS
C. Copying from another student’s examination, term paper, laboratory report, etc.; D. The falsification of work or records; E. The theft of course materials; F. Plagiarism: Plagiarism is using the words or ideas of another writer and presenting them as your own. It is a kind of academic theft and is therefore dishonest. Once your name appears on an essay or term paper, you are stating that the ideas and language in the paper that are not attributed to another are entirely your own and that the reader assumes that these are your work. An obvious form of plagiarism is copying the exact words from your source without providing quotation marks and without giving credit to the source, usually in a footnote. A less obvious but equally dishonest form of plagiarism is the changing of a few words (paraphrasing) or using of an author’s original idea without properly introducing and documenting that change or usage. The ideas,
interpretations and words of an author belong to the author. They are the author’s property. They are protected by law, and they must be acknowledged whenever you borrow them. Alleged violations of academic misconduct are handled through processes outlined in the Student Code of Conduct.
with their studies in order to understand fully the nature of the material presented. There shall be a means established for student evaluation of course and instruction. Amendments Amendments to this Bill of Rights must be ratified by the Student Government, the Faculty Senate and the Administration.
Student Bill Of Rights Southern Connecticut State University exists to communicate knowledge, to encourage scholarship, to develop responsible students, to contribute to the worth and dignity of humankind, to add to the general well-being of society and, ultimately, to advance the pursuit of truth. To accomplish these goals, Southern has created an atmosphere in which education extends beyond the formal classroom situation—an atmosphere that encourages individual development within a strong but flexible structure. With this structure as their common base, the student and the university work together to educate and develop the student to their fullest capacity. As citizens, students enjoy the freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of Connecticut and have the same duties and responsibilities as other citizens. Academic Evaluation and Instruction Each student has the right to be evaluated entirely on the basis of their academic performance and to have this right guaranteed by orderly, clearly defined procedures. Students have the right of access to the evaluation of their performance so they can know their strengths and weaknesses. It is the student’s responsibility to maintain academic standards, to understand the procedures for evaluation and to function accordingly. Each student has the right to expect a professor to present course content that is relevant to their academic discipline. Moreover, each student has the right to expect a professor to be adequately prepared for class and to be accessible for individual conference. It is the responsibility of the student to seek individual help when needed and to keep up
Association Students bring to the campus a variety of interests and, as members of the academic community, they shall be free to develop new interests. They shall be free to organize and to join associations in accordance with university policies to promote their common interests. 1. The membership, policies and actions of a student organization shall be determined by vote of only those members who are currently registered at the university. 2. Student organizations that have acquired institutional recognition shall be free to affiliate with any university and non-university organization with which the student organization shares common interests and goals, providing that such organizations do not contradict the Student Bill of Rights and abide by the rules and regulations of the university. 3. Each student organization shall be free to recommend a faculty adviser. Faculty advisers shall be members of the university and shall advise organizations in the exercise of their responsibilities as they function in line with their purposes, but they shall not have the authority to control the policy of such organizations. 4. Student organizations organized in accordance with university policies shall be required to submit for approval a statement of purpose, criteria for membership, rules of procedure, a current list of officers and members to the Office of Student Life, ASC 213. STUDENT-UNIVERSITY RELATIONS 97
Classroom Each student is free to take reasoned and reasonable exception, without interference to data and views presented in any course and to reserve judgment in matters of opinion. The learning process involves more than mastering course content; it should also involve development of motivation to learn and guidance in independent study while encouraging students to develop to their fullest potential. The student’s concurrent responsibility is to exercise their freedom of expression in an orderly manner that reflects thought, scholarly analysis, courtesy and knowledge of the course material. Curriculum Revision and Evaluation All members of the university (faculty, students and administrators) shall be free to present proposals for curricular revisions and evaluation. Each of the above three must recognize that curricular revision and evaluation entails perceiving the scope of the entire university. The Undergraduate Curriculum Committee—composed of students, faculty and administrators—shall channel proposals to the appropriate office or department. Discrimination All students shall be assured that university rules, regulations and policies (including classes, athletics, facilities, student housing and student organizations) will be in full compliance with state and federal legislation granting equal protection of the law regardless of religious creed, race, color, ancestry, national origin, gender, age, sexual orientation or disability. Governance Students may serve on various official university boards and committees. Through this participation, students perform the invaluable function of improving communications between the student body and the university faculty and administration. These student representatives bring the opinions and concerns of the entire student community into focus on particular areas of committee responsibilities, so as to define 98 STUDENT-UNIVERSITY RELATIONS
and achieve the goals of the university as a whole and enrich the individual lives of all its members. Privacy Each student has the right to privacy, and this right shall not be violated by other occupants, employees or administrative personnel. Although it is recognized that administrative personnel may supervise and inspect for cleanliness, health, safety and maintenance, they shall not engage in any search of personal possessions of students. If such a search is deemed necessary by the Dean of Student Affairs, it shall first be authorized by the university President. Prior to any such search, every effort shall be made to notify the student concerned. If it is not possible to inform the student of the search and/or if they are not available to be present, the student should be immediately informed of its outcome. Protest Southern students and student organizations shall have the right to examine and discuss all questions of interest to them, to express opinion publicly and privately and to support causes by orderly means. They may organize public demonstrations and protest gatherings and utilize the right to petition. Students do not have the right to deprive others of the opportunity to speak or be heard, to damage the property of others, to invade the privacy of others, to disrupt the regular and essential operation of the university or to interfere with the rights of others. Policy Resolution on Campus Freedom and Order by the Board of Trustees for the Connecticut State University Be It Resolved That the Board of Trustees: • Affirms and supports for the university the concepts of freedom of thought, inquiry, speech and lawful assembly; • Affirms the right of individuals and groups in the university to assemble, to dissent, to picket and to demonstrate on the university campuses within the limits of administrative guidelines or regulations; and
• Affirms the right of all individuals and groups at all times to pursue their normal activities within the university and to be protected from physical injury or property damage. Be It Further Resolved: That the Board of Trustees for the Connecticut State Universities hereby declares that the following are forms of conduct contrary to the purposes and well-being of the Connecticut State Universities and are prohibited. Such conduct provides grounds for disciplinary proceedings leading to probation, suspension or expulsion and to resort to enforcement agencies when necessary. 1. Interfering with the freedom of any person to express their views, including invited speakers; 2. Disrupting the orderly conduct of instruction, research, administration, disciplinary proceedings or other university activities; 3. Interfering, in any manner whatsoever, with the access to or exit from any university campus or the buildings, classrooms, libraries, meeting rooms, offices or other premises that
are duly open to members of the campus community or to other persons; 4. Occupying or utilizing without authorization any building or facility or portion thereof; 5. Damaging or destroying property or removing or using such property without authorization; 6. Possessing of firearms or detaining any person or removing such person from any place where they are authorized personnel; 7. Physically restraining or detaining any person or removing such person from any place where they are authorized or otherwise free to remain and; 8. Failing to comply with direction of Southern officials acting in performance of their duties. The News Media Student publications and other news media are recognized as a valuable aid in establishing and maintaining an atmosphere of free and responsible discussion and of intellectual exploration on the campus. It is a further recognized function of such
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publications and other news media to serve as a vehicle for exposition of opinions of the university community. Students have the right to express opinions in campus publications and via other news media without fear of reprisal. 1. The amount of financial support given each publication and other news media shall be recommended by the Student Media Board and approved by the Dean of Student Affairs. 2. Having cognizance of the requirement for truth and accuracy in whatever is published or reported, the student news media shall be free of censorship. The right to freedom of expression must be governed by the rules of responsible journalism and reporting and shall be recognized as a requirement for each publication or other news media. Included in this basic tenet of journalism are: (1) the obligation to present accurate and correct information; (2) the opportunity for expression by all members of the university; (3) the right of “equal time” for all sides of an issue.
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Speakers and Topics Student organizations shall be allowed to invite and to hear any person of their own choosing. The university’s control of campus facilities and the allocation of funds for guest speakers shall not be used as a device of censorship. Any routine procedures required before a guest speaker is invited to appear shall be designed only to ensure that there are no conflicts in the scheduling of speakers or facilities, that proper facilities are used, that there is adequate preparation for the event and that the occasion is conducted in a manner appropriate to an academic community. It shall be made clear to the academic and larger community that sponsorship of guest speakers does not necessarily imply approval or endorsement of the views expressed, either by the sponsoring group or by Southern Connecticut State University. Student Records and Disclosure Southern Connecticut State University shall have a carefully considered policy as to the information that shall be a part of a student’s
permanent educational record and as to the conditions of its disclosure. To minimize the risk of improper disclosure, academic and disciplinary records shall be separate and the conditions of access to each shall be set forth in an explicit policy statement. Data from disciplinary and counseling files shall not be available to unauthorized persons on campus or to any unauthorized persons off campus without the express consent of the student involved, except under lawful compulsion or in cases where the safety of persons or property is involved. 1. Academic records are permanently on file at Southern Connecticut State University. No records shall be kept that reflect the political activities or political beliefs of students. Provision shall also be made for routine destruction of disciplinary records at a specific time after graduation. Administrative staff, student personnel officers and non-professional staff shall respect the confidential information about students that they acquire in the course of their work.
2. Students shall be aware that persons given for personal reference or recommendations are legally free to give any relevant information required by the reference. 3. Personal and disciplinary records of students who leave the university without graduating may be saved for reference in the event a student applies for re-admission to Southern Connecticut State University.
Student Grievances Definition of Grievance A student grievance shall be defined as a violation of a student’s rights as set forth in the Student Bill of Rights contained in this handbook. It is further defined as a difference, complaint or dispute resulting from alleged administrative or academic injustice or regarding the interpretation and application of university policy and/or procedures. Academic injustice is not to be construed to include the change of a student’s grade. Procedures for grade appeals are outlined on pages 14-17.
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STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT CONTENTS
Preamble 104
Introduction 104
Part A: Definitions 104
Part B: Application, Distribution and Adminstration of the Student Code of Conduct and Statement of Disciplinary Procedures 106 Part C: Scope of Disciplinary Authority 106 Part D: Prohibited Conduct 107 Disciplinary Procedures 111
Part A: Academic Misconduct 111
Part B: Non-Academic Misconduct 112
Part C: Interim Suspensions and Residence Hall Separations 115 Part D: Disciplinary Sanctions 116
1. Sanctions Which May be Imposed for Violations of the Code 117
2. Revocation of Admission and/or Degree 118
3. Sanctions Which May be Imposed for Failure to Comply with Duly Assigned Sanctions 119
4. Sanctions Which May be Imposed upon Student Organizations 119
Part E: Disciplinary Records 119
Part F: Interpretation and Revision 119
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STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT 103
The Student Code of Conduct presents a clear statement of students rights and responsibilities established by the Connecticut State University System. It defines prohibited conduct, the disciplinary process for violations, and potential consequences for violations.
Preamble Academic institutions exist for the transmission of knowledge, the pursuit of truth, the development of students and the general well being of society. In line with this purpose, the University has the duty to protect the freedoms of inquiry and expression and furthermore has the responsibility to encourage all of its members to develop the capacity for critical judgment in their sustained and independent search for truth. The Connecticut State University System has certain self-defined institutional values. Principal among these values is respect for the dignity, rights, and individuality of each member of the University Community. The opportunity to live, study, and work in an institution which values diverse intellectual and cultural perspectives and encourages discussion and debate about competing ideas in an atmosphere of civility is a basic component of quality higher education. All members of the University Community must at all times govern their social and academic interactions with tolerance and mutual respect so that the men and women who pass through the University’s doors are enriched by these experiences and are prepared for full and enlightened participation in a multi-cultural society. Because of the University’s commitment to principles of pluralism, mutual respect, and civility, certain activities are not acceptable on the University’s campus. Acts of intolerance, of hatred or violence based on race, religion, sexual orientation, disability, gender, age,
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or ethnic background are antithetical to the University’s fundamental principles and values. It is the University’s responsibility to secure the students’ right to learn by establishing an environment of civility. The disciplinary process is intended to be part of the educational mission of the CSU System. Student disciplinary proceedings are not criminal proceedings and are not subject to court rules of procedure and evidence. This Student Code of Conduct and Statement of Disciplinary Procedures can also be found at SouthernCT.edu/codeofconduct and SouthernCT.edu/judicialaffairs.
Introduction This Student Code of Conduct (hereinafter the “Student Code”) is intended to present a clear statement of student rights and responsibilities established by the Connecticut State University System (“CSU”) and to charge the Chancellor with developing procedures to protect those rights and address the abdication of those responsibilities in collaboration with the four Universities. The Student Code describes the types of acts that are not acceptable in an academic community. Students must be aware that, as citizens, they are subject to all federal and state laws in addition to all University regulations governing student conduct and responsibilities. Students do not relinquish their rights nor do they shed their responsibilities as citizens by becoming members of the Connecticut State University Community.
PART A: Definitions The following list of defined terms utilized throughout this Student Code is provided in an effort to facilitate a more thorough understanding of the Code. This list is not intended to be a complete list of
all the terms referenced in the Student Code that might require interpretation or clarification. The Vice President for Student Affairs or his or her designee shall make the final determination of the definition of any term found in the Student Code. For purposes of interpretation and application of the Student Code only, the following terms shall have the following meanings: 1. “Accused Student” means any student accused of violating this Student Code. 2. “Appellate Body” means any person or persons authorized by the Vice President for Student Affairs or his or her designee to consider an appeal from a determination by a Hearing Body that a student has violated the Student Code. 3. “Reporter” or “Reporting Party” means any person who submits a charge alleging that a student violated this Student Code of Conduct and Statement of Disciplinary Procedures. 4. “Disciplinary Officer” or “Conduct Administrator” means a University official who is authorized to determine the appropriate resolution of an alleged violation of the Code, and/or to impose sanctions or affect other remedies as appropriate. Subject to the provisions of this Code, a disciplinary officer or conduct administrator is vested with the authority to, among other duties: investigate a complaint of an alleged violation of the Code; decline to pursue a complaint; refer identified disputants to mediation or other appropriate avenues of 6. “Hearing Body” means any person or persons authorized by the Vice President for Student Affairs to determine whether a student has violated the Code and to impose sanctions as warranted, including a hearing officer, hearing board, or hearing panel. 7. “Instructor” means any faculty member,
teaching assistant, or any other person authorized by the University to provide educational services, including, but not limited to, teaching, research and academic advising. 8. “Member of the University Community” means any person who is a student, a University official, or any other person who works for the University, either directly or indirectly (e.g., for a private enterprise doing business on the University’s campus). 9. “Policy” means the written regulations, standards and student conduct expectations adopted by the University and found in, but not limited to, the Student Handbook, the Residence Life Handbook, the housing contract, the graduate and undergraduate catalogs, and other publicized University notices. 10. “Prohibited Conduct” means the conduct prohibited by this Code, as more particularly described in Part I-D of this Code. 11. “Student” means any person admitted, registered, enrolled or attending any University course or University-conducted program, whether full-time or part-time, and whether pursuing undergraduate, graduate or professional studies. Persons who are not officially enrolled for a particular term but who have a continuing relationship with the University are considered “students” for purposes of application of this Code. 12. “Student Code” or “Code” means this Student Code of Conduct and Statement of Disciplinary Procedures. 13. “Student Organization” means an association or group of persons that have complied with the formal requirements for University recognition. 14. “Support Person” means a person, who STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT 105
accompanies an Accused Student, a Reporter, a witness, or a victim to a hearing for the limited purpose of providing support and guidance. A support person may not directly address the Hearing Body, question witnesses, or otherwise actively participate in the hearing process. 15. “University” means the CSU System University where the alleged violation of the Code occurred. 16. “University Affiliates” means individuals and/or entities with whom or with which the University has a contractual relationship. 17. “University Calendar Days” means the weekdays (Mondays through Fridays) when the University is open. 18. “University Official” means any person employed by the University to perform assigned administrative, instructional, or professional responsibilities. 19. “University Premises” means all land, buildings, facilities, and other property in the possession of, or owned, used, and/or controlled by, the University, either solely or in conjunction with another entity. 20. “Shall” and “will” are used in the imperative sense. 21. “May” is used in the permissive sense.
PART B: Application, Distribution and Administration of the Student Code of Conduct 1. Application of the Student Code: The Student Code shall apply to the four Connecticut State Universities: Central Connecticut State University, Eastern Connecticut State University, Southern Connecticut State University and Western Connecticut State University. An alleged
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violation of the Student Code shall be addressed in accordance with the procedures agreed to by the Universities, even if the accused Student has withdrawn from the University prior to the completion of the disciplinary procedures. The Student Code shall apply to Students and to Student Organizations. The term “student” shall generally apply to the student as an individual and to a Student Organization as a single entity. The officers or leaders of a particular Student Organization usually will be expected to represent the organization during the disciplinary process. Nothing in this Student Code shall preclude holding certain members of a Student Organization accountable for their individual acts committed in the context of or in association with the organization’s alleged violation of this Code. 2. Distribution of the Student Code: The Student Code shall be made available electronically and/or in a printed publication to students, faculty and staff. The Office of Student Affairs will distribute and make available to students, faculty and staff, electronically and/or in a printed publication, any revisions to the Code. 3. Administration of the Student Code: The Vice President for Academic Affairs shall be the person designated by the University President to be responsible for the administration of the Academic Misconduct portion of the Student Code. The Vice President for Student Affairs shall be the person designated by the University President to be responsible for the administration of the Non- Academic Misconduct portion of the Student Code.
PART C: Scope of Disciplinary Authority A Student who is found responsible for engaging in conduct that violates the Student Code on any
Connecticut State University campus or on property controlled by the University or by any University Affiliate shall be subject to the sanctions described in this Code. Students who attempt to engage in conduct that violates this Code, who knowingly encourage, aid or assist another person in engaging in such conduct, or who agree with another person, explicitly or otherwise, to engage in such conduct, may also be subject to disciplinary action. Off-campus misconduct may be subject to the jurisdiction of the University and addressed through its disciplinary procedures if one of the following conditions is met: (i) a Student engages in prohibited conduct at an official University event, at a University-sanctioned event, or at an event sponsored by a recognized Student Organization; or (ii) a Student engages in prohibited conduct under such circumstances that reasonable grounds exist for believing that the Accused Student poses a threat to the life, health or safety of any member of the University Community or to the property of the University. The decision to extend the University’s jurisdiction to off campus conduct shall be made by the Vice President for Student Affairs at each University on a case by case basis based on the above conditions.
PART D: Prohibited Conduct The following list of behaviors is intended to represent the types of acts that constitute violations of this Code. Behaviors which are prohibited by this Code may be categorized into four broad areas: violations involving personal integrity; violations involving the rights of other individuals; violations involving health and safety of the university community; and violations involving the on-going activities and/or processes of the university. Although the list is extensive, it should not be regarded as all-inclusive.
Violations Involving Personal Integrity 1. Academic misconduct, which includes, but is not limited to, plagiarism and all forms of cheating. Plagiarism may be defined as occurring when “a writer … uses someone else’s language, ideas, or other original (not common knowledge) material without acknowledging its source.” (Council of Writing Program Administrators, 2003.) It includes, but is not limited to, the use, by paraphrase or direct quotation, of the published or unpublished work of another person without full and clear acknowledgment. It also includes the unacknowledged use of materials prepared by another person or agency engaged in the selling of term papers or other academic materials. Cheating includes, but is not limited to: (i) use of any unauthorized assistance in taking quizzes, tests, or examinations; (ii) use of sources beyond those authorized by the instructor in writing papers, preparing reports, solving problems, or carrying out other assignments; (iii) the acquisition, without permission, of tests or other academic material belonging to a member of the University faculty or staff; and (iv) engaging in any other such behavior specifically prohibited by a faculty member in the course syllabus. 2. Acts of dishonesty, including but not limited to the following: a. Misuse of University documents, including, but not limited to, forging, transferring, altering or otherwise misusing a student fee card, student payroll card, identification card or other University identification document, course registration document, schedule card, transcript, or any other University-issued document or record. b. Knowingly furnishing false information to
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any University Official, faculty member or office. 3. Theft of property or services, or damage to, defacement or destruction of, or tampering with, real or personal property owned by the State of Connecticut, the University, or any member of the University Community. Violations Involving Other Individuals 4. Actual or threatened physical assault or abuse, threatening behavior, intimidation or coercion. 5. Sexual assault; sexual misconduct, which is defined as any unwanted or unwelcome physical contact of a sexual nature; or sexual harassment, which is defined as any unsolicited, unwelcome, and unwanted sexual advance or other conduct of a sexual nature which has the effect of interfering with an individual’s performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment. Sexual assault or misconduct may include a sexual act directed against another person when that person is not capable of giving consent, which shall mean the voluntary agreement by a person in the possession and exercise of sufficient mental capacity to make a deliberate choice to do something proposed by another. 6. Sexual Exploitation, which is defined as taking non-consensual sexual advantage of another person, including but not limited to, electronic recording, photographing, or transmitting intimate or sexual expressions, sounds, or images without knowledge and consent of all parties; and distributing intimate or sexual information about another person without consent. 7. Violations of privacy, including, but not
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limited to, voyeurism and the use of web-based, electronic or other devices to make an audio or video record of any person without his or her prior knowledge, and without his or her consent, when such a recording is intended or likely to cause injury or distress. This includes, but is not limited to, surreptitiously taking pictures or videos of another person in spaces such as sleeping areas, bathrooms, gymnasiums, locker rooms, and changing areas. Publicizing or threatening to publicize such records will also be considered a violation of this Code. 8. Hazing, which is defined as an act which endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a Student, or which destroys, damages, or removes public or private property, for the purpose of initiation or admission into, affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in, a group or organization. The express or implied consent of the victim will not be a defense to an allegation of hazing. Consenting to the activity by remaining silent or not objecting in the presence of hazing is not a neutral act and is also a violation of this Student Code. 9. Stalking, which is defined as repeatedly contacting another person when: a. The contacting person knows or should know that the contact is unwanted by the other person; and b. The contact causes the other person reasonable apprehension of imminent physical harm or the contacting person knows or should know that the contact causes substantial impairment of the other person’s ability to perform the activities of daily life. As used in this definition, the term “contacting” includes, but is not limited to,
communicating with (including internet communication via e-mail, instant message, on-line community or any other internet communication) or remaining in the physical presence of the other person. 10. Harassment, which is defined as conduct which is abusive or which interferes with a person’s pursuit of his or her customary or usual affairs, including, but not limited to, such conduct when directed toward an individual or group because of race, ethnicity, ancestry, national origin, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, physical attribute, or physical or mental disability or disorder, including learning disabilities and mental retardation. 11. Conduct that is disorderly, lewd or indecent (including, but not limited to, public nudity and sexual activity in areas generally open to members of the campus community); breach of peace; or aiding, abetting or procuring another person to breach the peace on University Premises or at functions sponsored by, or participant in by, the University or members of the University Community. Violations Involving Health and Safety of the University Community 12. Behavior or activity which endangers the health, safety, or well-being of oneself or others. 13. Unauthorized possession, duplication or use of keys to any University Premises, or forcible and/or unauthorized entry into and/or unauthorized presence in University Premises. 14. Starting fires, causing explosions, falsely reporting the presence of fire, bombs,
incendiary or explosive devices, or falsely reporting an emergency. 15. Unauthorized or improper possession, use, removal, tampering or disabling of fire and/or safety equipment and warning devices, failure to follow standard fire and/or emergency safety procedures, or interference with firefighting or emergency response equipment or personnel. 16. Use, possession, purchase, sale or distribution of alcoholic beverages, except as expressly permitted by law and University regulations. Alcoholic beverages may not, under any circumstances, be used by, possessed by, or distributed to any person under twenty-one (21) years of age. 17. Use, possession, purchase, sale, distribution or manufacturing of narcotics, controlled substances and/or drugs, including, but not limited to, marijuana and heroin, or drug paraphernalia, except as expressly permitted by law. 18. Use, possession or distribution of firearms, ammunition for firearms, other weapons or dangerous instruments, facsimiles of weapons or firearms, fireworks, explosives or dangerous chemicals. A dangerous instrument is any instrument, article or substance that, under the circumstances in which it is being utilized, is capable of causing death or serious physical injury. The possession of a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument on campus is strictly prohibited, even if such item is legally owned. 19. Gambling, including, but not limited to, promoting, wagering, receiving monies for wagering or gambling for money or property, on University premises.
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Violations Involving the Ongoing Activities and/or Processes of the University 20. Disruption or obstruction of any University function, activity or event, whether it occurs on or off the campus, or of any non-University function, activity or event which is authorized by the University to occur on its premises. 21. Intentional obstruction of the free flow of pedestrian or vehicular traffic on University Premises or at University-sponsored or supervised functions or interference with entry into or exit from University Premises or with the free movement of any person. 22. Failure to comply with the directions of University officials or law enforcement officers acting in the performance of their duties and/or failure to identify oneself to these persons when requested to do so. 23. Conduct that violates published University policies, rules, and regulations, including, but not limited to, residence hall rules and regulations. 24. Conduct prohibited by any federal, state, and/or local law, regulation or ordinance. 25. Unauthorized use of University property or the property of members of the University Community or of University Affiliates. 26. Theft, unauthorized use, or abuse of University computers and/or peripheral systems and networks, including, but not limited to: a. Unauthorized access to University computer programs or files; b. Unauthorized alteration, transfer or duplication of University computer programs or files; c. Unauthorized use of another individual’s identification and/or password; d. Deliberate disruption of the operation of University computer systems and networks;
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e. Use of University computing facilities and resources in violation of copyright laws (including unauthorized peer-to-peer file sharing of copyrighted material, including, but not limited to, copyrighted music, movies, and software); f. Use of computing facilities and resources to send obscene messages (which are defined as messages which appeal mainly to a prurient, shameful or morbid interest in nudity, sex, excretion, sadism or masochism, go well beyond customary limits of candor in describing or representing such matters, and are utterly without redeeming social value); and g. Violation of the Connecticut State University System Policy Statement on Student Use of University Computer Systems and Networks and/or any applicable University computer use policy. 27. Abuse of the University disciplinary system, including but not limited to: a. Failure to obey the notice from a Hearing Body or University Official to appear for a meeting or hearing as part of the Student Conduct system; b. Falsification, distortion, or intentional misrepresentation of information to a Disciplinary Officer or Conduct Administrator, or before a Hearing Body; c. Institution of a disciplinary proceeding knowingly without cause; d. Disruption or interference with the orderly conduct of a disciplinary proceeding; e. Attempting to discourage an individual’s proper participation in, or use of, the disciplinary system;
f. Attempting to influence the impartiality of a Disciplinary Officer, Conduct Administrator or member of a Hearing Body prior to, and/or during the course of, the disciplinary proceeding; g. Harassment (verbal or physical) and/or intimidation of a Disciplinary Officer, Conduct Administrator, or member of a Hearing Body prior to, and/or during the course of, the disciplinary proceeding; h. Failure to comply with the sanction(s) imposed under the Student Code; and i. Influencing or attempting to influence another person to commit an abuse of the disciplinary system.
Procedures for Implemeting the Student Code of Conduct PART A: Disciplinary Procedures – Academic Misconduct The procedure for the purpose of addressing allegations of academic misconduct as defined in section D, item 1, must be established by the University Senate, in agreement with the President, in each University. Below are a set of principles to which University procedures must adhere. 1. Instructor’s Role: a. Instructors shall inform all students in every section taught of course-specific requirements and the penalties which may be imposed for academic misconduct in the course syllabus. b. The instructor of record shall notify the student of the allegation and save any evidence of such allegation. In addition, the instructor shall
not transmit a final grade to the registrar until the matter is decided finally. c. Any procedure developed shall include an adequate timeline for student notification, discussion of the charge, and for the student to request a hearing. 2. Complaint by Person other than Student’s Instructor: Any member of the University Community may file a complaint against a Student alleging academic misconduct. 3. The Academic Misconduct Hearing Board: There shall be an academic misconduct hearing board convened by the University’s Disciplinary Officer to consider allegations of academic misconduct lodged against a Student. The University’s disciplinary officer shall be a non-voting member of the board and act as convener. 4. Hearing Procedures: The hearing procedures governing allegations of academic misconduct shall include appropriate notice, as well as a record of the proceedings. Both parties must have an opportunity to be heard. The decision of a hearing board must be communicated in writing. 5. Sanctions: If the academic misconduct hearing board determines that the Accused Student is "Not Responsible," the board shall not impose any sanctions. The board shall so advise the Student’s instructor and the instructor shall reevaluate the student’s course grade in light of the Board’s determination. If the academic misconduct hearing board determines that the Accused Student is "Responsible", the instructor’s academic sanction shall be imposed as noted as the penalty for academic misconduct in the course syllabus. The academic misconduct hearing board may make a recommendation to change the academic
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sanction imposed by the instructor on the basis of its hearing of the evidence of academic misconduct. Upon consideration of the Accused Student’s record of misconduct and/or the nature of the offense, the academic misconduct hearing board may impose additional non-academic sanctions in proportion to the severity of the misconduct. These sanctions may include the following: warning, written reprimand, discretionary sanctions, suspension and/or expulsion, as described in Section II, Part D of this Student Code of Conduct. 6. Appeals: The decision rendered by the academic misconduct hearing board may be appealed to the Provost/Academic Vice President, who shall review the record of the hearing, including any and all documents presented to the academic misconduct hearing board. An appeal shall be in writing and shall be delivered to the Provost/Academic Vice President within Three (3) University calendar days of receipt of the academic misconduct hearing board’s written decision. An appeal may be brought on three grounds: (a) a claim that error in the hearing procedure substantially affected the decision; (b) a claim that new evidence or information material to the case was not known at the time of the hearing; (c) a claim that the non-academic sanction(s) imposed were not appropriate for the violation of the Code for which the accused student was found responsible; and/or a claim of palpable injustice. The Provost/Academic Vice President shall have the right to deny an appeal not brought on proper grounds. The decision rendered by the Provost/Academic Vice President shall be final and there shall be no further right of appeal.
PART B: Disciplinary Procedures – Non-Academic Misconduct The following procedures shall be followed in
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hearing cases involving alleged violations of standards of conduct outlined in Section I, Part D, items 2 through 27. 1. Filing of a Complaint: Any member of the University Community may file a complaint against a Student or a Student Organization alleging a violation of the Student Code. A complaint must be made in writing and submitted to the University’s Disciplinary Officer or Conduct Administrator. 2. Disciplinary Proceedings Against a Student Charged with a Violation of Law and a Violation of the Code: University proceedings may be instituted against an Accused Student who has been charged with a violation of state or federal law for conduct which also constitutes a potential violation of this Code (that is, if both possible violations result from the same factual situation) without regard to the pendency of civil or criminal litigation in court or criminal arrest and prosecution. Proceedings under this Student Code may be carried out prior to, simultaneously with, or following the institution of civil or criminal court proceedings against the Accused Student. Determinations made or sanctions imposed under this Student Code shall not be subject to change because criminal charges arising out of the same facts giving rise to violation of University rules were dismissed, reduced, or resolved in favor of or against the criminal law defendant. 3. Pre-Hearing Investigation and Administrative Disposition: The Disciplinary Officer or Conduct Administrator may conduct an investigation to determine if the charges have merit and/or if they can be disposed of administratively by mutual consent of the Accused Student and the Disciplinary Officer or Conduct Administrator. Such disposition shall be final and there shall be no subsequent proceedings. If the charges are not admitted and/or cannot be disposed of by mutual consent, the
Disciplinary Officer or Conduct Administrator may also present the case for the University at any subsequent hearing, but if he or she does, he or she shall not serve as a member of the Hearing Body. 4. Hearing Bodies: A Student accused of misconduct has the right to be heard by an impartial Hearing Body. Any dispute surrounding the impartiality of the Hearing Body or any member thereof will be referred to the Vice President for Student Affairs or his or her designee, who will review the matter and make a determination. 5. Hearing Procedures: a. Notice of Hearing: Normally, a hearing will be conducted within ten (10) University Calendar Days of the Accused Student being notified of the charges. Notice may be provided to the Accused Student by in-hand delivery, by registered mail, by University email, with delivery receipt attached, and/or by certified mail, return receipt requested, or by overnight delivery, with signature of recipient required. Notice shall be sent or delivered to the Accused Student at his or her campus email address, campus address, if any, or at his or her home address on file with the University, whichever is appropriate. Should the Accused Student refuse to accept in-hand delivery, a written statement of the attempted delivery of the notice signed by the person attempting to make such delivery shall constitute notice. Should the Accused Student refuse to sign for registered or certified mail, the postal document indicating such refusal shall constitute notice. Delivery of notice via University email shall constitute notice regardless of whether the Accused Student has opened and read the email itself. The notice shall advise the Accused Student of
each section of the Student Code alleged to have been violated and, with respect to each such section, a statement of the acts or omissions which are alleged to constitute a violation of the Code, including the approximate time when and the place where such acts or omissions allegedly occurred. The Accused Student shall be afforded a reasonable period of time to prepare for the hearing, which period of time shall not be less than three (3) University Calendar Days. The Accused Student, the Reporter and/or any alleged victim may request a delay of the hearing due to extenuating circumstances. Any decision to postpone the hearing shall be made by the Disciplinary Officer or Conduct Administrator or by the Hearing Body, or by the designee of the Vice President for Student Affairs. b. Hearing: Hearings shall be closed, but the Hearing Body may, in its discretion, admit any person into the hearing room. The Hearing Body shall have the authority to discharge or to remove any person whose presence is deemed unnecessary or obstructive to the proceedings. The Accused Student, the Reporter and any alleged victim shall have the right to be present at all stages of the hearing process except during the private deliberations of the Hearing Body and the presentation of sanctions. In hearings involving more than one Accused Student, the Hearing Body may determine that, in the interest of fairness, separate hearings should be convened. c. Record of Hearing: When expulsion or suspension from the University or residence hall separation is a possibility, the University shall make a
STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT 113
recording of the hearing. The recording shall be the property of the University. No other recordings shall be made by any person during the hearing. Upon request, the Accused Student may review the recording in a designated University office in order to prepare for an appeal of the decision rendered by the Hearing Body. Further disclosure of the recording shall be governed by applicable state and federal law. d. Opportunity to Present a Defense: The Accused Student shall have the full opportunity to present a defense and information, including the testimony of witnesses, in his or her behalf. The Reporter and the Accused Student may question the statements of any person who testifies in a manner deemed appropriate by the Hearing Body. The Reporter and the Accused Student may make concluding statements regarding the charges made and the information presented during the hearing. The Hearing Body may question the Accused Student and the Reporter, any witness presented by the Accused Student or the Reporter, and any other witnesses the Hearing Body may choose to call to testify. e. Accused Student Can Choose Whether or Not to Testify in His or Her Own Defense: The Accused Student who is present at the hearing shall be advised by the Hearing Body that he or she is not required to testify, to answer questions, or to make any statement regarding the complaint or the allegations set forth in the complaint. Refusal to do so shall not be considered by the Hearing Body to constitute evidence of responsibility. f. Non-Appearance of Accused Student at Disciplinary Hearing: 114 STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT
If an Accused Student does not appear at a disciplinary hearing, the Hearing Body shall enter a plea of “not responsible� on behalf of such student and the hearing shall proceed in the normal manner of hearing evidence, weighing facts, and rendering judgment. The failure of an Accused Student to appear at the disciplinary hearing shall not be considered by the Hearing Body to constitute evidence of responsibility. g. Support Persons: The Reporting Party, any alleged victim and the Accused Student shall each have the right to be accompanied by a Support Person. A Student should select as a Support Person one whose schedule allows attendance at the scheduled date and time for the disciplinary hearing because delays will not normally be allowed due to the scheduling conflicts of a Support Person. h. Presentation of Evidence: Only evidence introduced at the hearing itself may be considered by the Hearing Body. i. Evidence of Prior Convictions or Disciplinary Actions: Evidence of prior criminal convictions or University disciplinary actions may be presented to the Hearing Body only after a determination of responsibility has been made and only for consideration in connection with determining the sanction. j. Accommodation of Witnesses: The Hearing Body may accommodate concerns for the personal safety, well-being, and/or fears of confrontation of the Reporter, Accused Student, and/or other witness during the hearing by providing separate facilities, by using a visual screen, and/or by permitting participation by telephone, videophone, closed circuit television, video conferencing,
videotape, audio tape, written statement, or other means, where and as determined in the sole judgment of the Hearing Body to be appropriate. k. Written Notice of Decision: The Accused Student shall receive written notice of the decision of the Hearing Body that shall set forth the decision rendered, including a finding of “responsible”or “not responsible,” and the sanctions imposed, if any. The decision of the Hearing Body, as well as the sanction(s) imposed, if any, generally will not be released to third parties without the prior written consent of the Accused Student. However, certain information may be released if and to the extent authorized by state or federal law. 6. Appeals: The decision of the Hearing Body may be appealed by the Accused Student to the Vice President for Student Affairs or his or her designee. A request for review must be made in writing to the Vice President for Student Affairs or his or her designee within three (3) University Calendar Days of the Student’s receipt of the written notice of decision. For good cause shown, the Vice President for Student Affairs may extend the three-University Calendar Day limitation on filing appeals. A Student may request only one review of each decision rendered by the Hearing Body. A decision reached as a result of an Administrative Disposition may not be appealed. a. Grounds for Appeal: The Accused Student has the right to appeal the decision of the Hearing Body on the grounds that: (i) the procedures set forth in this Code were not followed and, as a result, the decision was substantially affected; (ii) the sanction(s) imposed were not appropriate for the violation of the Code for which the Accused Student
was found responsible; and/or (iii) new information, sufficient to alter the decision, or other relevant facts were not brought out in the original hearing because such information and/or facts were not known to the Accused Student at the time of the original hearing. The appeal shall be limited to a review of the record except as required to explain the basis of new information. b. Appeal Procedures: In order to prepare for the appeal, the Accused Student may review the recording of the original hearing in a designated University office but will not be permitted to remove the recording from that office or make copies. The appeal will not be heard by anyone involved in the initial hearing. The appeal shall be reviewed and a decision rendered within 10 working days of the student’s appeal. If an appeal is not upheld, the matter shall be considered final and binding upon all involved. c. Status of Student Pending Appeal: All sanctions imposed by the Hearing Body shall be and continue in effect pending the outcome of an appeal. Any request to delay the commencement of sanctions pending an appeal must be made by the Accused Student, in writing, to the Vice President for Student Affairs or his or her designee.
PART C: Interim Suspension and Residence Hall Separation In certain circumstances, the Vice President for Student Affairs, or his or her designee, may impose an interim suspension or residence hall separation on an Accused Student prior to the hearing before the Hearing Body.
STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT 115
1. Basis for Imposition of Interim Suspension or Residence Hall Separation: An interim suspension may be imposed upon an Accused Student only: (i) to ensure the safety and well-being of members of the University Community or preservation of University property; (ii) to ensure the Student’s own physical or emotional safety and well-being; or (iii) if the student poses an ongoing threat of disruption of, or interference with, the normal operations of the University. A residence hall separation may be imposed if a Student’s continued presence will disrupt the academic and social well-being of the residential community. Residence hall separation is the removal of a student from the University residence hall in which he or she resides. Such separation may include a restriction of access to all or designate University residence halls. During the period of the separation, the removed Student shall not be permitted to enter the designated hall(s) as a guest of another resident. An interim suspension or residence hall separation is not a sanction and will continue in effect only until such time as a hearing on the alleged violation has been completed. 2. Effect of Interim Suspension or Residence Hall Separation: During the interim suspension or residence hall separation, the removed Student shall be denied access to the residence halls and/or to the campus (including classes) and/or all other University activities or privileges for which the Student might otherwise be eligible, as the Vice President for Student Affairs, or his or her designee, may determine to be appropriate. 3. Procedure: The Accused Student shall be notified, either orally or in writing, of the pending imposition of an interim suspension or residence hall separation. Whenever possible, prior to the imposition of the interim suspension or separation, the affected Student will be afforded an opportunity 116 STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT
to meet with the Vice President for Student Affairs, or his or her designee. Otherwise, the meeting will be held on the first University Calendar Day that the Student is available. At that meeting, the Accused Student will be advised of the misconduct charges made against him or her and the information upon which the determination that the Student has engaged in conduct warranting an interim suspension or residence hall separation was based. If the Student denies the charges, he or she will be advised of the nature of the evidence supporting the charges and of the identity of the witnesses against him or her. At that meeting, the Accused Student will be given the opportunity to challenge the reliability of the information concerning his or her conduct, present his or her version of the events giving rise to the charges, and challenge the determination that he or she has engaged in conduct warranting an interim suspension or residence hall separation. Any Student placed on an interim suspension or residence hall separation will be given an opportunity to appear at a formal hearing on the misconduct charges lodged against him or her in accordance with Section II Part B-5 of this Code within ten (10) University Calendar Days of being placed on such suspension or separation, or as soon as practical after the Accused Student is prepared to participate in such a hearing.
PART D: Disciplinary Sanctions Sanctions which may be imposed for violations of the Student Code are listed below. In determining appropriate sanctions, the Hearing Body may take into consideration any and all prior violations of the Code for which the Accused Student was determined to be responsible. The Hearing Body shall have the authority to defer the imposition of any sanction when deemed appropriate. The University may
withhold awarding a degree otherwise earned until the completion of the process set forth in this Student Code, including the completion of all sanctions imposed, if any. 1. Sanctions Which May Be Imposed for Violations of the Code: The following sanctions may be imposed, individually or in various combinations, on any student found to have violated the Student Code, and will be entered into the Student’s disciplinary records. Notation of disciplinary sanctions shall be on file only in the appropriate office in the Division of Student Affairs and shall not be released without the written consent of the Student except to appropriate University enforcement personnel, University police, staff and administrators, or as required by law. a. Warning: A disciplinary warning is a written notice to a Student advising him that specific behavior or activity constitutes a violation of the Code and that the repetition of such behavior will likely result in the commencement of more serious disciplinary action by the University. b. Written Reprimand: A written reprimand for violation of specified regulations. c. Probation: Disciplinary probation is a designated period of time during which a Student is given the opportunity to modify unacceptable behavior and/or to complete specific assignments in an effort to regain full student privileges within University Community. Disciplinary probation may involve the imposition of certain restrictions and/or conditions upon the Student including, but not limited to, financial restitution, community service, fines, referral for professional services such as counseling, participation in educational programs, parental notification under limited
circumstances, and ineligibility to participate in University activities or events. Periodic contact with a designated member of the University Community or non-college professional may be required. If the Student fully complies with the terms and conditions imposed in connection with the disciplinary probation, full student privileges will be restored to the student upon termination of the probationary period. Failure to comply with the terms and conditions of the probation constitutes prohibited conduct that is separate from and in addition to the conduct for which the probation was imposed. A Student accused of violation of probation will be given due notice of the alleged violation and the procedures set forth in this Code shall be followed. d. Loss of Privileges: Denial of specified privileges for a designated period. e. Restitution: Compensation for loss, damage to real or personal property. This may take the form of appropriate service and/or monetary or material replacement. f. Discretionary Sanctions: Work assignments, essays, service to the University, or other related discretionary assignments, referral for professional services such as counseling, participation in educational programs, parental notification under limited circumstances, and ineligibility to participate in University activities or events. Periodic contact with a designated member of the University Community or non-college professional may be required. g. Residence Hall Warning: A residence hall warning is a written notice to a Student advising him or her that specific behavior or activity constitutes a violation of the Code and that the repetition of such behavior will likely STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT 117
result in the commencement of more serious disciplinary action by the University. h. Residence Hall Probation: Residence hall probation is a designated period during which an Accused Student is given the opportunity to modify unacceptable behavior and/or to complete specific assignments in an effort to regain full student privileges within the residence hall in which the Student resides. Residence hall probation may include restrictions and/or conditions on the exercise of residence hall activities and privileges. Periodic contact with a designated member of the residence hall staff or professional may be required. If the Accused Student fully complies with the terms and conditions imposed in connection with the residence hall probation, full residence hall privileges will be restored to the Student upon termination of the probationary period. Failure to comply with the terms and conditions of the probation constitutes prohibited conduct that is separate from and in addition to the conduct for which the probation was imposed. A Student accused of violation of probation will be given due notice and the procedures set forth in this Code shall be followed. i. Residence Hall Suspension: Separation of the Student from the residence halls for a definite period of time, after which the Student is eligible to return. Conditions for readmission may be specified. j. Residence Hall Expulsion: Permanent separation of the Student from the residence halls. k. Suspension: Suspension is temporary disciplinary separation from all universities within the Connecticut State University System and the denial of all student privileges. Suspension shall be effective on the date that 118 STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT
notice of the suspension is provided to the Accused Student, or later, if so stated in the notice, and shall prescribe the date and conditions upon which the Student may petition for readmission to the University. A Student separated from all universities within the CSU System by suspension may under the terms of the suspension be excluded from the premises of all CSUS universities when in the judgment of the suspending authority the Student’s continued presence would constitute a danger to persons or property or a threat to the academic process. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the suspending authority of the suspended Student’s home University or his or her designee may authorize a suspended student who has been excluded from all University premises to enter the premises of the student’s home University for designated purposes. l. Expulsion: Expulsion is permanent disciplinary separation from all universities within the Connecticut State University System and the denial of all student privileges. Expulsion shall be effective on the date that notice of expulsion is provided to the Accused Student, or later, if so stated in the notice. A student separated from all universities of the CSU System by expulsion may under the terms of the expulsion be excluded from the premises of all CSUS universities when in the judgment of the expelling authority the Student’s presence would constitute a danger to persons or property or a threat to the academic process. 2. Revocation of Admission and/or Degree: Upon the recommendation of the Hearing Body, admission to or a degree awarded from the University may be revoked by the University, acting
through its President (or his or her designee) for fraud, misrepresentation, or other violation of University standards in obtaining the degree.
recognition. Conditions for future recognition may be imposed by the hearing body.
PART E: Disciplinary Records 3. Actions which May be Administratively Imposed for Failure to Comply with a Duly Assigned Sanction: Failure to comply with sanctions which have been assigned through a formal judicial process may lead to one or more of the following consequences: a. Denial of access to certain university services, including, but not limited to housing and parking; b. Denial of access to administrative processes, including, but not limited to, course add/drop, pre-registration, registration and room selection; and/or c. Withholding of the privilege of participation in university sponsored activities and/or public ceremonies, or formal disciplinary charges under Section II Part B hereof. 4. Sanctions Which May Be Imposed on Student Organizations a. Sanctions: Those sanctions listed in subsection 1, a through f, of this Section II Part D. b. Loss of recognition: Loss of recognition for a specified period of time results in loss of privileges, such as the use of university space, access to student activity fee funding, and/or the loss of the privilege to function as a student organization. Loss of recognition for more than two (2) semesters shall require that an organization reapply for University
A Student’s disciplinary record shall be maintained separately from any other academic or official file maintained by the University. Disciplinary Records will be maintained for a period of seven (7) years from the date of the incident, except that the sanction of expulsion shall be noted permanently. Information contained in the disciplinary record will be released only in accordance with applicable federal and state laws and regulations.
PART F: Interpretation and Revision Questions regarding the interpretation of this Code shall be referred to the Vice President for Student Affairs, or Vice President for Academic Affairs at each University (CCSU, ECSU, SCSU, WCSU) in the case of academic misconduct, or his or her designee for final determination. The interpretation accorded by the Vice President for Academic or Student Affairs or his or her designee shall be binding. The Disciplinary Procedures for Implementing the Student Code of Conduct (Part II of this document) outlined herein shall be reviewed and revised, if and as necessary, by the universities’ Vice Presidents for Academic and Student Affairs, every two (2) years as designated by the Chancellor of the Connecticut State University System.
STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT 119
DIRECTORY Absences, Class Your instructor Absences, Extended Medical Counseling Office/B 219 • 25475 Dean of Students Office/EN A106 • 25556 Academic Advisement Frank Ladore/WT 154 • 28888 LadoreF1@SouthernCT.edu AMS Lewis DeLuca/WT• 28862 Accidents Emergency 911
Billing; Business Office Mark Waters /WT • 27078 WatersM1@SouthernCT.edu Career Services Pat Whalen/WT • 26536 WhalenP1@SouthernCT.edu Catering Services Jennifer Herndon/CO • 26987 jennifer.herndon@compass-usa.com Change Of Name Or Address Registrar’s Office/WT • 25301 Class Advisers
University Police/GR • 25375
Denise Bentley-Drobish/ASC • 25782
Health Services/GR • 26300
BentleydroD1@SouthernCT.edu
Accounts Payable WT • 26844 Adaptive Technology Bogdan Zamfir/ENB017A • 25798 ZamfirB1@SouthernCT.edu Adding Courses Registrar/WT • 25301 Alumni Association Michelle Johnston/WT 170 • 26500 JohnstonM1@SouthernCT.edu Athletics, Intercollegiate MFH 203 • 26047 • SouthernOwls.com Audio/Visual Equipment EN B 17 C • 25400 Auditing Course Registrar’s Office/WT • 25301 Barnes & Noble Bookstore Larry Gal/ASC Bookstore • 25270 SouthernCT@bkstore.com SouthernCT.bkstore.com
Closing University Weather Check (203) 392-SNOW(2-7669) (203) 392-5520 Clubs And Organizations Sal Rizza/ASC • 25168 RizzaS1@SouthernCT.edu Club Sports Eric LaCharity/ASC • 25782 LacharityE1@SouthernCT.edu College Prep Program Awareness Marvis Brown/EN B0006 • 25575 BrownarnolM1@SouthernCT.edu CLEP Exams Monica Raffone/WT • 26194 RaffoneM1@SouthernCT.edu Commencement Information Patrick Dilger/WT • 26588 DilgerP1@SouthernCT.edu Communication Disorder Center Patricia McMahon/DA 12 • 25954 McmahonP1@SouthernCT.edu Kevin McNamara/DA 12A • 25982
120 DIRECTORY
McnamaraK2@SouthernCT.edu
Counseling Services EN 219A 25475 Credits Transferred Registrar’s Office/WT • 25301 Dean’s List Academic Affairs/EN A112 • 25350 Degree Requirements Registrar’s Office/WT • 25301 Dining Services Chartwells • 26976 Directory Information Directory Assistance • 25200 or 392-5201 Disability Resource Center Goldie Adele/EN C105 • 26828 AdeleG1@SouthernCT.edu Discipline, Student Chris Piscitelli/EN B 116 • 26188 PiscitelliC1@SouthernCT.edu Diversity And Equity Programs Paula Rice • 25491 RiceP1@SouthernCT.edu Dropping Courses Registrar/WT • 25301 Discrimination Issues Paula Rice • 25491 RiceP1@SouthernCT.edu Emergencies: Police Fire Medical Telephone 911 Public Telephone 392-5375 Employment, Off-Campus Career Services/SZ 102 • 26536 SouthernCT.edu/services/career_services Employment, On-Campus Career Services/SZ 102 • 26536
Connecticut Hall: Eric Simms/ASC • 25503 SimmsE1@SouthernCT.edu Lyman Center: Dave Starkey/LY 105 • 26163 StarkeyD1@SouthernCT.edu Student Center: Eric Simms/ASC • 25503 SimmsE1@SouthernCT.edu Financial Aid WT • 25222 Fitness Center Jessica Scibek/ASC 264 • 28971 fitness@SouthernCT.edu Food Service Operations Brad Crerar/ASC • 25505 CrerarB1@SouthernCT.edu Fund Raising, Clubs Denise Bentley-Drobish/ASC • 25782 BentleydroD1@SouthernCT.edu Good Morning Southern Dawn Stanton-Holmes/ASC 308 • 25500 HolmesD3@SouthernCT.edu Grade Change Your Instructor Grades, Problem with Registrar’s Office/WT • 25301 Graduate Student Affairs Committee Arlene Lucibello/LY 116 • 26165 LucibelloA1@SouthernCT.edu Graduation, Application For Records Office/WT • 25301 Health Services GR • 26300 SouthernCT.edu/services/granoff Hearing Evaluations James Dempsey/DA 12G • 25955 DempseyJ1@SouthernCT.edu
Facilities, Use Of Athletic Facilities: MFH 211 • 26003 Classrooms: LY 116 • 26165
DIRECTORY 121
Honors College
Multicultural Affairs
Terese Gemme/EN B 225A • 25499
Dian Brown-Albert/ASC 209 • 25879
GemmeT1@SouthernCT.edu
BrownD2@SouthernCT.edu
Honors Thesis Sandra Bulmer/OBI 101 • 26993 BulmerS1@SouthernCT.edu Housing, On-Campus Robert DeMezzo/SZ 100 • 25886 DemezzoR1@SouthernCT.edu Identification (ID) Cards (Hoot Loot) WT • 27077 Independent Study Academic Dean Insurance, Student Bursar’s Office/WT • 26140 WatersM1@SouthernCT.edu International Students Aliya Amin/ASC 231 • 26821 AminA1@SouthernCT.edu Intramural Sports Eric LaCharity/ASC 227 • 25792 LacharityE1@SouthernCT.edu Learning Resource Center BU 313 • 25713 Liberal Studies Program Christine Barrett/WT 131 • 26195 BarrettC1@SouthernCT.edu Loans, Student Federal Perkins Loan • 25222 Federal Stafford Loan • 25222 Lost And Found University Police/GR • 25375 Mail WT 143 • 25268 Medical Claim Forms Health Services/GR • 26300
Musical Activities EA 120A • 26625 New England Regional Program Registrar’s Office/WT • 25301 New Student Orientation Denise Bentley-Drobish/ASC • 25782 BentleydroD1@SouthernCT.edu Notary Public Janet Schneider/ASC 308 • 25500 SchneiderJ3@SouthernCT.edu Jan Pettie/ASC 231 • 27068 PettieL1@SouthernCT.edu Parking Permits (Off-Campus Students) University Police/GR • 25375 Personal Problems Counseling Office/EN B 219A • 25475 SouthernCT.edu/services/counseling Police Walking Escort Services University Police/GR • 25375 Programs Council Denise Bentley-Drobish/ASC 212 • 25782 bentleydroD1@SouthernCT.edu Recreation Activities Eric LaCharity/ASC 227 • 25792 LacharityE1@SouthernCT.edu Refunds Bursar’s Office/WT • 25328 Registration Registrar’s Office/WT • 25301 Religious Services Interfaith Office/ASC 228 • 25331 Residency Status Registrar’s Office/WT • 25301 SAGE Center SZ2 • 28989 Sagecenter@SouthernCT.edu
122 DIRECTORY
Scholarships, Alumni Association Doreen Gilhuly/WT • 26500 Senior Citizen Services Frank Ladore/WT • 28888 LadoreF1@SouthernCT.edu Sexual Assault University Police/GR • 25375 Sexual Harassment Paula Rice • 25491 RiceP1@SouthernCT.edu Shuttle Bus Service University Police/GR • 25375 Southern News ASC 225 • 26928 Sports Information/Publications MFH 210 • 26005 Student Government SGA Office/ASC 222 • 26937 Student Media Board Jeff Mock/EN D241 • 25527 MockJ1@SouthernCT.edu Study Abroad Eric Heidkamp/EN B129 • 26756 HeidkampE1@SouthernCT.edu Teacher Certification DA 103 • 25906 Thefts University Police/GR • 25375 Tuition And Fees Business Office/WT • 26140 Tutorial Center Tom Ferrucci/EN A014 • 26814 FerrucciT1@SouthernCT.edu Tyco Copy Center ASC 25549 University Access Services Chaka Felder/EN BO18 • 26824
University Police Joe Dooley/GR • 25375 DooleyJ1@SouthernCT.edu Vending Machines, Food Brad Crerar/ASC • 25505 CrerarB1@SouthernCT.edu Verification Of Enrollment Registrar’s Office/WT • 25312 Veterans Services Jack Mordente/EN B018 • 26822 MordenteG1@SouthernCT.edu Waiver Examinations Joan Conte/WT • 25307 ConteJ4@SouthernCT.edu Weather Emergency Weather Chek (203) 392-5520 (203) 392-SNOW Wellness Office GR 47 • 26526 SouthernCT.edu/services/wellness Withdrawal, Courses Registrar’s Office/WT Withdrawal, From University Monica Raffone/WT • 26194 RaffoneM3@SouthernCT.edu Women’s Center Catherine Christy/SZ • 26946 ChristyC1@SouthernCT.edu Work-Study Program John Giordano/WT • 25222 GiordanoJ1@SouthernCT.edu WSIN Radio Station WSIN Office/ASC 253 • 26930 Radio.SouthernCT.edu Writing Center Tom Ferrucci/EN A012 • 26824 TerrucciT1@SouthernCT.edu
FelderC2@SouthernCT.edu DIRECTORY 123
INDEX A Absences From Class 11 Academic Adviser: See Selection of a Degree Program: Assignment to an Academic Adviser 22 Academic Clubs 56 Academic Computer Center: See Office of Information Technology – Support Services (OIT-SS) 52 Academic Evaluation: See Grading System 17 Academic Groups and Organizations 56 Academic Honesty 96 Violations 96 Academic Probation 10 Academic Programs 10 Accessibility to Campus Sponsored Events 57 Adanti Student Center Food Court 85 Adaptive Technology: See Center for Adaptive Technology 84 Adding/Dropping Courses: See Registration Procedures: Add/Drops 30 Administration 3 Admissions: See Fresh Start Option 13 Admissions: See New England Regional Student Program 19 Admissions: See Applications for Readmission 11 Adviser’s Responsibilities 81 Alcohol and Drug Policies 36 Alcohol 37 Drugs 37 Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act — Parental Notification 36 Legal Sanctions 39
124 INDEX
Appeals Committee for Traffic and Parking 50 Appeals: See Grade Appeal Procedures 14 Application, Readmission 11 Application to a Department 22 Athletics 57 Attendance in Class 11 Audio Visual/Television/ Multi-Media Services 82 Auditing Courses: See Course Audit 12
B Bagel Wagon 86 Bicycles 40 Bill of Rights, Students 104 Bookstore 82 Block Placed Against Registration: See Debts, Fines and Obligations 21 Bursar’s Office 28 Business Office: See Bursar’s Office 28 Bus Service 83
C Campus Parking and Traffic Regulations 48 Enforcement 50 Traffic And Parking Appeals Committee 50 Traffic And Parking Regulations 48 Vehicle Registration 48 Campus Tutorial Center 83 Campus Writing Center 83 Car Registration. See Vehicle Registration 48 Career Services 3 Career Development Programs 84 Career Fairs 84 Career Resource Computer Lab 84 Cooperative Education 83
Center for Adaptive Technology 84 Change of Address 11 Childcare Reimbursement Program 84 Class Cancellation Advisory 12 Class Designation 12 Class Government: See Councils and Governing Organizations: Class Governments 58 Closing of the University 55 Club Sports 58 Code of Conduct, Student 102 Collection of Debt 86 Community Hour 84 Commuter Student Services 52, 84 Computer Systems Use: See Student Use of Computer Systems 53 ConnCAS: See University Access Programs: ConnCAS 95 Connecticut Hall 85 Contracts for Services 59 Cooperative Education: See Career Services: Cooperative Education 83 Councils and Governing Organizations 58 Class Governments 59 Greek Life Council 59 Programs Council 58 Residence Hall Association 58 Student Government Association 58 Counseling Services 41 Course Audit 12 Courses at Other Institutions, Taking 22 Course Withdrawals 23 Debts, Fines, and Obligations 21 Credit Load: See Semester Credit Load 20 Criteria used for Consideration of a Fund-Raising Request 62 Crosswalks: See Traffic and Parking Regulations 49
D Day Care Service: See Childcare Reimbursement Program 84 Dean’s List 12 Dean of Student Affairs 86 Debts, Fines, and Obligations 21 Degree Application 12 Degree Program: See Selection of a Degree Program 22 Degree Requirements 13 Dining Services 85 Disability Resource Center 86 Discrimination and Sexual Harassment Policy 24 Dropping a Course: See Add/Drops 30 Drug/Alcohol Education & Prevention Programs 30 Anti-Drinking and Driving 38 Drug & Alcohol Resource Center (DARC) 38 Individual Counseling and Referral 38 Self-Help Groups 38 Southern Task Force On Prevention (STOP) 38
E Educational Opportunity Program: See University Access Programs: EOP 94 Emergency Medical Assistance 41 Escort Service: See Walking Escort Service 51 Events by Recognized Student Organizations 59 Events, General Policies 59
F F.E.R.P.A. (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) 36 Financial Aid 28 Private Scholarships 30 Veterans’ Benefits 30 Financial Aid Withdrawal Policy 31 Financial Aid Statement of Rights and Responsibilities 30
INDEX 125
Financial Aid Statement of Rights and Responsibilities 30 Financial Obligations: See Bursar’s Office 28 Fines: See Debts, Fines and Obligations 21 Fire Evacuation Procedures 42 First Year Experience 13 Fitness Center 94 Food and Beverages 42 Food Services/Connecticut Hall 85 Fraternities and Sororities, Social 45 Fresh Start Option 13 Fundraising Activities 61 Criteria used for Consideration of a Fundraising Request 62 General Policies for Fundraising 62 Procedures 62 Funding of Undergraduate Student Organizations 79
G GEAR UP: See University Access Programs: GEAR UP 95 Grade Changes: See Grade Appeal Procedures 14 Grade Point Average 18 Grading System 17 Greek Life Council 59 Grievances, Student 101
H Hazing Policy Statement 63 Health and Sanitation 47 Health and Wellness Center 42 Additional Requirement for On-Campus Residence Students 43 Health and Accident Insurance 43 Health Assistance Off Campus 43 Health Immunization Requirements 43 Health Risks 38 126 INDEX
Drinking and Driving 38 Sexuality 38 History of the University: See Introduction 6 Honor Societies 63 Honors 18 Honors College 13 Honors Thesis 18 Hoot Loot (Identification Card) 87 Housing: See Residence Life 91
I Identification Card (Hoot Loot) 87 Immunization: See Health Center: Health Immunization Requirements 43 Incomplete Courses 18 Independent Study 18 Indoor Safety 45 Information Requests 18 Information Technology Support Services 52 Inquiry 101 3 Insurance: See Health Center: Health and Accident Insurance 44 Sports and Recreation Clubs 74 Inter-Faith Office 87 International and Multicultural Groups 64 International Students 87 Internships 18 Intramural Sports 64 Irregular Schedule, Petition for: See Registration: Petition for Irregular Schedule 20
J Job Opportunities 83 John Lyman Center 89
L Lactation Room 87 Legal Sanctions 39 Letter of Welcome 4 Letter of Welcome, Interim Vice President for Student and University Affairs 5 Library 88 Circulation 88 Fines & Overdue Materials 88 Interlibrary Loan 88 Library Hours 88 Library Instruction 88 Periodicals 88 Photocopiers 89 Reference and Information Services 89 Reserve Materials 89 Lockers 89 Lost and Found 89 Lyman Center 89
M Mail 90 Media Board 64 Media Groups 67 Medical/Emotional Problems: See Safety Procedures for Students with Severe Medical/Emotional Problems 45 Midterm Grades 19 Minimal GPA Standards: See Minimal Standards 19 Multi-Cultural Center 90 Multi-Cultural Groups 64
N New England Regional Student Program 19 New Student Organizations: See Recognition of New Student Organizations 68 News Media 99 New Student Orientation 94
Non-Discrimination Policy: See Discrimination and Sexual Harassment Policy 24 Non-Traditional Students 90 Notary Public 90
O Off-Campus Events: See Planning Off-Campus Events 60 On-Campus Events: See Reservation Procedures for On-Campus Events 59 Organizations: See Recognition of New Student Organizations 68
P Parental Notification: See Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act 36 Parental Notification Guidelines 44 Parking and Traffic Regulations 48 Parking Appeals Committee 50 Pass-Fail Option 20 Penalty for late and non-payment 30 Performing and Creative Arts Groups 67 Personal Information: See Information Requests 18 Petitions and Referendums, Student 74 Petition Procedures 74 Referendum Procedures 75 Pets on Campus 45 Planning of On-Campus or Off-Campus Events: See Events by Recognized Student Organizations 59 Contracts for Services 59 General Policies for Events 61 Planning Off-Campus Events 60 Reservation Procedures for On-Campus Facilities 59 Pluralism (Statement On) 25 INDEX 127
Police. See University Police 60 Political Action and Advocacy Groups 67 Posting Policy 68 Bulletin Boards and Showcases 68 General Purpose Kiosks 68 Residence Life 68 Table Tents 68 Private Scholarships 30 Probation, Academic 10 Proficiency Policy 19 Programs Council 58
Q Quality Points: See Grade Point Average 17
R Readmission to the University: See Application for Readmission 11 Recognition of New Student Organizations 68 Adviser’s Responsibilities 72 Funding of Undergraduate Student Organizations 71 Recognition Procedures 69 Responsibilities of Student Organizations 71 Rights and Privileges of Recognized Organizations 70 The Organization’s Responsibilities to the Adviser 74 Withdrawal of Recognition 71 Records: See Student Records 76 Records/Registrar’s Office 91 Recreational Facilities 91 Recreational/Social Clubs 74 Recycling 91 Registrar’s Office 91 Registration 20 Petition for Irregular Schedule 20 Pass-Fail Option 20 Semester Credit Load 20 128 INDEX
Registration Procedures 20 Add/Drops 20 Religious Organizations 74 Religious Services Policy 68 Replacement Grade Option 21 Reservation Procedures: See Planning of On-Campus or Off-Campus Events by Recognized Student Organizations 59 Reservation Procedures for On-Campus Facilities 59 Residence Hall Association 58 Residence Life 91 Residence Status 33 Responsiblities of Student Organizations 71 R.I.D.E.S. 92 Rights and Privileges of Recognized Organizations 70 Rollerblading 40 ROTC (Reserve Officer Training Candidate) 22
S Safety: See Indoor Safety 45 Safety Procedures for Students with Severe Medical/Emotional Problems 45 SAGE Center 92 Satisfactory Academic Progress to Maintain Financial Aid Eligibility 34 Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards 34 Scheduling Office for Non-Class Programs and Events 93 Scholarships, Alumni Association 93 Scholarships, Private 30 Search and Seizure Policy 45 Selection of a Degree Program 22 Self-Help Groups 38 Semester Credit Load 20 Service Contracts: See Events by Recognized Student Organizations: Contracts for Services 59 Service Organizations 75
Sexual Assault 25 Sexual Harassment Policy And Procedure: See Discrimination and Sexual Harassment Prevention Policy 24 Sexuality and Gender Equality (SAGE) Center 92 Shuttle Bus Service 47 Skateboarding 40 Smoking Policy 46 Software Ownership and Developments 53 Sororities and Fraternities 75 Southern Academy 95 Speakers and Topics100 Speech/Hearing Clinic 93 Sports: See Athletics 57 Student Account Billing Policy 29 Student Bill of Rights 97 Academic Evaluation and Instruction 97 Amendments 97 Association 97 Classroom 98 Curriculum Revision and Evaluation 98 Discrimination 98 Governance 98 News Media 99 Privacy 98 Protest 98 Speakers and Topics 100 Student Records and Disclosure 100 Student Center 93 Student Center Food Court 85 Student Center Regulations 47 Student Code of Conduct 102 Student Dress 47 Student Government Association 58 Student Grievances 101 Student Information Requests 18 Student Membership on University Committees 94 Student Offenses 54 Student Organizations 58 Student Petitions and Referendums 74 Student Records 76
Definition of Student Records 76 General Policies 78 Types of Student Records Maintained 77 Student Software Ownership and Software Developments 53 Student Use of Computer Systems and Networks Policy Statement 53 Study Skills Enrichment 90
T Taking Courses at Other Institutions 22 Telephones/Public Phones/ Courtesy Phones 94 Title IV Withdrawal Policy 32 Traffic and Parking Regulations 49 Traffic and Parking Violations and Fines: See Enforcement 49 Transcripts 23 Transfer Courses: See Taking Courses at Other Institutions 22 Transfer Students 22 Tutorial Center 83
U University Access Programs 95 University Police 51 University Student Center Regulations Health and Sanitation 47 Use of Computer Systems and Networks 53
V Vaccinations: See Health and Wellness Center 42 Vehicle Registration 48 Veterans Benefits 30 Veterans Services 95 Voter Registration 95
W Waiver Examinations 23 Walking Escort Service 51 INDEX 129
Weather Related Closing of the University 51 Welcome from the Interim Vice President and Dean of Student Affairs 5 Welcome from the President 4 Wellness Center 40 Withdrawal of Recognition: See Recognition of New Student Organizations: Withdrawal of Recognition 71
Withdrawal Policy 32 Withdrawal from a Course: See Course Withdrawal 23 Withdrawal from the University: See Withdrawal Policy 23 Women’s Center 51 Writing Center: See Campus Writing Center 83
BUILDING ABBREVIATIONS AH
Admissions House
MFH
Moore Fieldhouse
ASC
Adanti Student Center
MO
Morrill Hall
BR
Brownell Hall
NH
Neff Hall
BU
Buley Library
NC
North Campus Residence Complex
CH
Chase Hall
OR
Orlando Health Sciences House
CO
Connecticut Hall
OSC
Old Student Center
DA
Davis Hall
PE
Pelz Gym
EA
Earl Hall
PP
Power Plant
EN
Engleman Hall
SB
School of Business
FH
Farnham Hall
SZ
Schwartz Hall
GR
Granoff Student Health Services
TE
Temporary Buildings
HI
Hickerson Hall
WC
West Campus
JE
Jennings Hall
WI
Wilkinson Hall
LA
Lang Social Work House
WT
Wintergreen Building
LY
Lyman Center
130 INDEX
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