2015 2016 student handbook final 8 11 15

2015/2016 STUDENT HANDBOOK

Undergraduate Student Handbook 2015-2016 Edition The mission of Vanguard University is to pursue knowledge, cultivate character, deepen faith, and equip each student for a Spirit-empowered life of Christ-centered leadership and service.

Truth ď † Virtue ď † Service Student Life exists to shape campus culture, promote community, and foster student success.

Welcome to Vanguard University. Let me congratulate and thank you for choosing a University that will permanently shape the direction of your life and vocation. The experiences and relationships which emerge during your time at Vanguard will sharpen you as a person and will clarify God’s calling on your life. At Vanguard, we value hearing your story and learning about you. Entering into this community requires allowing yourself to be known and respecting the community values.

Being part of the Vanguard community, like any community, has certain standards, requirements, and responsibilities that facilitate University life. These expectations reflect our affiliation with the Assemblies of God denomination and help to facilitate a strong Christian community. This handbook is your guide to understanding the community life experience at Vanguard. It is expected that all students will read through this material and refer to it as necessary. I hope you are able to enter into the vibrant programs, relationships and ministries available to you this year.

At Vanguard you will encounter rigorous academic programs, intentional learning opportunities and faculty, administration, and staff who desire to mentor you. This strong liberal-arts education will help to develop you holistically and help you to become the person God created you to be.

I pray that you choose to take advantage of all the resources and relationships in the Vanguard community. Your life will forever be changed by the dynamic community life and the spiritual vitality that you experience this year at Vanguard.

Dr. Tim Young Vice President for Student Life

Vanguard reserves the right to make changes and periodic updates to this document at any time. It is the responsibility of each student to become familiar with the contents of the Student Handbook and to abide by the academic, social, and spiritual responsibilities of the members of the University community. Please consult the student handbook online for current updates at http://www.vanguard.edu/studentlife/student-handbook/ .

Table of Contents Academic Services Student Learning Outcomes

4 4

Academic Policies and Procedures

4

Professional Studies Degree Programs

5

Office of Global Education and Outreach

7

Veterans Benefits

7

Leave of Absence Policy

8

Medical/Compassionate Leave of Absence Policy

8-9

Withdrawal from the University Refund Policies

9 9

Grading System

9

Academic Probation & Disqualification

11

Degree Requirements

12

Academic Integrity and Dishonesty

13

Campus Public Safety Clery Act Notification Crime Awareness and Campus Security Act of 1990

15 15 15

Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act of 1989 (Public Law 101-336)

16

Public Notification Policy

16

Emergency Procedures Fire Drill Instructions

16 18

Vehicle Registration

18

Bicycles on Campus Community- Who is Vanguard Responsibilities of Vanguard Community Membership

19 19 20

Community Expectations General Expectations of the Vanguard Community

20 20

Rules, Restraints, and Responsibilities (Student Code of Conduct)

21

Appearance

23

Computer Dishonesty

23

Computer Usage Guidelines

24

Confidential Reporting

25

Dancing Policy

25

Drug & Alcohol Testing Policy

26

Fireworks

26

Hazing Policy

26 2

Internet Material

26

Office of Student Engagement Parking Enforcement

27 29

Personal Property

30

Pregnancy Policy for Unmarried Students

30

Residence Life Policies and Procedures Sales Policy for Students

30 38

Spiritual Formation Department

38

Spiritual and Social Expectations

38

Responsibility of the Spiritual Formation Department

39

Chapel

39

Student Discipline Process

41

Foundations for Student Discipline

41

Overview of the Student Discipline Process

42

Written Documentation

43

Hearings

44

Sanctions

44

Appeal Process

46

Commuter Students

47

Copy Center Services Dining Commons (Food Service)

47 47

Diversity Policy

50

FERPA

51

Grievance Process Health Services

52 52

Information Technology

53

Mail Center Services

54

Missing Student Policy

55

Title IX Policy for All Students

56

Student I.D. Cards

75

Student Life Staff

76

Student Frequently Used Contact Information

77

Summary of Handbook Changes for 2015-2016

78

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Academic Services Student Learning Outcomes The college is committed to a broad education in the liberal arts, an objective requiring study in a variety of academic disciplines that is fulfilled in part by its core curriculum in general education. The core curriculum is designed to fulfill the following student learning outcomes: Integration of Faith and Learning Understand and develop a biblical world view informed by a Pentecostal perspective, integrating faith with learning, as demonstrated through entrance and exit self-reporting (in the first and last of required religion Core courses) and integrative essays.

Cultural Competency and Citizenship Understand how to be an effective local, national and global citizen, expanding knowledge of and respect for diverse cultures, measured through entrance and exit attitudinal surveys, course work in diversity enriched and government courses, reflective essays on international educational experiences, local community service, and field research.

Communication Develop effective, college-level-appropriate communication skills, focusing on writing in response to texts and on oral presentations, as evidenced by the MAPP entrance and exit exam, and graded or panel-judged essays and oral presentations in the Core Curriculum and in academic majors.

Critical Thinking Develop qualitative and quantitative critical thinking skills as measured by the MAPP entrance and exit exam and student coursework.

Holistic Living Establish a holistic view of health and living as measured by nationally-normed surveys and the final exam in the required Lifetime Health and Fitness Core course and by other student coursework.

Information and Technology Develop foundational technology skills that allow one to locate and evaluate the integrity of information, and to understand the ethical uses of information, as measured through the assessment of guided library projects, training sessions and exams on plagiarism, and research papers and projects.

By establishing links between different disciplines, relating the past to the present, and increasing awareness of contemporary challenges, the core curriculum classes should open new vistas for all students and encourage a lifelong pursuit of knowledge.

Academic Policies and Procedures Academic Calendar Vanguard University operates on a two-semester academic calendar system.

Fall Semester—the semester normally is scheduled from late August to just before the Christmas Holiday. A normal load for this session is twelve to eighteen units.

Spring Semester—the semester normally is scheduled from early January to early May. A normal load for this session is twelve to eighteen units.

Summer Sessions—the summer term, which normally is scheduled from mid-May through early July, is divided into three sessions.

Registration Registration dates are specified on the calendar at the beginning of the University Catalog as well as on the Registrar’s website.

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Students will receive credit only for those courses in which they are formally registered. No registration is complete until tuition and fees have been paid or a satisfactory arrangement has been made with the Office of Accounting Operations. Late fees may be charged to students who do not complete the registration process prior to the published deadlines.

Students may not receive credit for concurrent enrollment at any other institution without prior approval by the Registrar. Further, the University reserves the right to cancel any scheduled course in which the enrollment is less than ten.

Student Academic Load in the College A normal academic load is from twelve to eighteen units per semester. Students taking less than twelve units are considered parttime. Students who are employed for more than three hours of work daily may find that twelve units is a sufficient load. Students contemplating participation in Commencement with provisional honors should consider carefully the paragraph on “Honors” that appears later in this section.

Students who wish to register for more than eighteen units must have a cumulative “B” average and must secure advance written approval from the Department Chair of their major. Ideally, a student should budget two hours of preparation for each class hour.

The following persons must maintain twelve or more units per semester: international students possessing a student visa (F-1 status), Social Security dependents, students receiving Cal Grants, students who participate in intercollegiate athletics, and students whose extra-curricular programs dictate.

Special Class Enrollment Options Conference Courses—Junior or Senior students, who for good reason cannot enroll in a listed catalog course when it is regularly scheduled, may request to take a conference course. To have a conference course approved, a student must (1) receive permission from the professor offering the course, the appropriate Department Chair, and the Registrar; and (2) pay a fee in addition to the regular tuition. No more than four conference courses may be credited toward graduation.

Individual Studies Courses—Junior or Senior students with at least a 3.0 grade point average may pursue specifically designed courses of individualized study within their major for up to three units per semester and for a total of twelve units applicable to graduation. Such courses are initiated by the student, who must secure an appropriate sponsoring faculty member to supervise and evaluate the project. A written prospectus of the nature of the proposed study, its objectives, resources, procedures, requirements, and basis for evaluation—as devised by the professor or by the student in consultation with the professor—must be submitted to the appropriate Department Chair and Registrar for approval. Individual studies carry an additional fee beyond regular tuition.

Pass/Fail Courses—Outstanding seniors and juniors may enroll for one course each semester on a Pass/Fail basis. A maximum of two courses taken on a Pass/Fail basis may be credited toward graduation. The request for such a grade must be made at the time of registration. These courses may not be used to meet core, major, or professional requirements with one exception: With the permission of the Provost, seniors maintaining a GPA of at least 3.25 may use an upper division course to meet a core curriculum requirement. A grade of “C” must be earned in order to be granted a “Pass” grade for the course. A grade of “C-” or below will result in an “F” grade recorded on the transcript. A grade of “P” does not affect the grade point average, but a grade of “F” does. If an “A” grade is earned, it will be recorded on the transcript.

Residence Courses—Residence courses are those taken during regularly scheduled sessions on the VU campus as distinct from extension, online, or other special courses.

Professional Studies Degree Programs Cross Registration between Traditional Undergraduate (TUG) Degree Programs and Professional Studies (PS) Degree Programs in the School for Graduate and Professional Studies (SGPS) Students enrolled in the Traditional Undergraduate (TUG) degree program may enroll concurrently in classes in Professional Studies (PS) Degree programs according to the following criteria: 1.

Students are considered on a case-by-case basis and will be assessed as to fit for the PS program.

2.

Students must obtain “cross-registration” approval from the (a) Assistant Director of Student Success for the Professional Studies programs; (b) the student’s TUG Academic Advisor; (c) the office of Accounting Operations; and (d) the Dean of the College (TUG) if the student does not meet all criteria. Approval may be granted in highly unusual circumstances, such as a course is needed by a senior level student for graduation in his/her final semester.

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3.

Students must possess a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher and have at least 88 cumulative units (i.e., senior status) to be eligible to take both major and general education/core courses. Students who have not achieved senior status may request to cross-register, however, they must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.33*. Students not meeting either requirement must complete a Cross Registration Petition provided by the Cross Registration Coordinator.

Students may not cross-register for more than six cumulative units*.

Students will be enrolled in PS Degree programs as “student-at-large” (not eligible for Financial Aid).

Students will pay the prevailing PS tuition rate.

Students wishing to cross-register in PS Degree programs must request a cross-registration application form from the Graduate and Professional Studies Admissions Office.

Additional signatures may be necessary for students who wish to have PS courses satisfy major and/or core curriculum requirements. Consultation with the TUG Department Chair (major requirement) or the TUG Core Curriculum Chair (core requirement) is recommended prior to registration. *Students receiving veteran’s benefits are exempted from GPA, class level, and maximum units allowed requirements upon approval from the Dean of the College (TUG).

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

PS Degree Program students at VU may enroll concurrently in classes in VU’s traditional college according to the following criteria: 1.

Students are considered on a case by case basis.

2.

Students must obtain cross-registration approval by the Dean of the College (TUG).

3.

Students will be enrolled in the College as “student-at-large” (not eligible for Financial Aid).

4.

Students will pay the prevailing traditional undergraduate tuition rate.

5.

Students wishing to cross-register in traditional coursework must request a cross-registration application form from the Undergraduate Admissions Office.

Policy Regarding Transfer from Undergraduate to Professional Studies The University desires to establish a clear process for students who have been deemed a good fit and are thus eligible to transfer from the Traditional Undergraduate (TUG) program to the Professional Studies (PS) programs within the School for Graduate and Professional Studies (SGPS).

In order to determine fit and eligibility students first need to meet with a Professional Studies Admissions Counselor. During this meeting the counselor will explain the requirements in the Professional Studies program, the financial aid options available, and the steps involved in transferring, as well as the items needed to complete the transfer petition process. At this meeting the counselor will provide the student with the Transfer Petition form. Once the student has obtained the Transfer Petition form, the student must complete the following steps: 1.

Schedule a meeting with the TUG Academic Advisor or Department Chair to obtain approval to transfer to the PS program. (Signature Required)

2.

Schedule a meeting with the Office of Student Success and Retention to obtain approval to transfer to the PS program.

(Signature Required)

3.

The student will then schedule a meeting with the appropriate Professional Studies Program Chair to obtain approval to transfer to the PS program. (Signature Required)

4.

After obtaining the aforementioned signatures, the student must meet with a PS Admissions Counselor to submit their Transfer Petition items and review the following application requirements: a.

b.

Approved Transfer Petition form with all necessary signatures and required documents i.

Resume ii.

Academic record iii.

Statement of purpose Application to the Professional Studies program

c.

Critical thinking essay (prompt provided by a PS admissions counselor)

d.

One business reference

e.

One personal reference

f.

Current transcripts for those schools not already on file with the Registrar’s Office

g.

Work experience petition (if applicable)

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5.

Once all application materials have been received by the PS Admissions Counselor, the student’s admissions interview will be scheduled with the appropriate PS Student Success Coordinator.

6.

After evaluating the student’s Transfer Petition and PS Admissions items, the Admissions Committee will make a decision regarding the student’s eligibility for the program and will notify the student of their admittance or denial via US Post letter.

Office of Global Education and Outreach VU understands that as essential as academic excellence is, a life of Christian discipleship filled with generosity, service, and love for our neighbors is just as important. The Office of Global Education and Outreach (GEO) focuses on university efforts in the areas of local outreach, global outreach and study abroad efforts.

Outreach GEO works to connect VU students to the local and global community to learn, love and serve as an expression of the work of the Kingdom of God. Partnering with multiple organizations, students have the opportunity to participate in relationships and service to those in regular proximity to VU community and those overseas. These partnerships also help students discover where they are most passionately committed to see transformation and renewal in the lives of those around them. No matter the major, there are domestic and international efforts that can deepen your Christian walk while advancing your academic and professional goals.

Study Abroad Academic credit for college-sponsored study trips conforms to WSCUC guidelines. One unit hour is granted for each week of study, with an additional unit hour possible if academically warranted. All college-sponsored study trips and semester abroad programs must be approved by the Office of Global Education and Outreach, as well as the Undergraduate Studies Committee.

Some academic departments restrict the number of unit hours earned from study trips which students may count toward their major.

Students should consult with their academic advisor, Department Chair, and study abroad personnel for counsel on either Vanguard or off-campus study abroad programs. Please see the "Off-Campus Study Programs" section of the University Catalog for more detailed information on study abroad programs offered through VU. Students wishing to study abroad through an institution other than Vanguard should contact the Office of Global Education and Outreach for appropriate paperwork and approval.

Veterans Benefits Vanguard University is approved for training of veterans and eligible persons under the provisions of Title 38, United States Code.

Upon acceptance into the University, individuals eligible for veterans’ benefits may apply for benefits through the Veterans Resource Center. Vanguard University is a full Yellow Ribbon Institution. The Yellow Ribbon application can be downloaded at the Veterans resource center homepage http://www.vanguard.edu/veterans/. In addition, the veteran must submit a certified copy of their separation papers (FormDD-214), along with their Certificate of Eligibility and any appropriate application form(s). For details, or to obtain a hard copy of the Yellow Ribbon application, please visit Vanguard University Veterans Resource Center.

Vanguard University recognizes and uses the ACE Guide to the Evaluation of Educational Experiences in the Armed Services in determining the value of learning acquired in military service, and awards credit for appropriate learning acquired in military service at levels consistent with ACE Guide recommendations when applicable to a service member’s program. Undergraduate students accepted into the College or the School for Graduate and Professional Studies will be awarded one physical education unit (to a maximum of 8 units) for every six months of active service completed, provided an honorable discharge was received as indicated on Form DD-214. Vanguard University grants up to 30 units for certain types of military experience and educational training. The Veteran must provide an official military transcript to the Office of the Registrar.

To claim full GI Education Benefits, it is the students’ responsibility to request certification with the Veterans Resource Center each semester. The student must indicate their semester’s enrollment on an Enrollment Certification Form. To complete this form, please visit www.vanguard.edu/financialaid/.

Students receiving Veterans benefits will be put on Probation if their cumulative GPA drops below the graduation requirement for the program being attended as outlined below. Students who are placed on probation or fail to make academic progress towards graduation risk having their VA benefits denied or delayed.

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2.00 (C average) The College 2.00 (C average) Professional Studies 2.67 (B- average) M.T.S. degree in the Graduate Programs in Religion 3.00 (B average) M.A., M.S., or MSN degree in the Graduate programs Probationary status will continue until the student has raised his/her cumulative GPA to the minimum requirement. An individual will have his/her veterans benefits terminated if he/she remains on Probation for two consecutive semesters.

Credit by Testing and Extension Vanguard University grants a maximum of twenty-four units from Advanced Placement (AP), College Level Examination Program (CLEP), International Baccalaureate (I.B.), other testing organizations, or from non-VU extension and correspondence programs. VU grants credit to students who receive a grade of “3” or higher on tests administered in the AP program of the College Entrance Examination Board. Credit for exams taken through CLEP will be awarded based on recommendations by CLEP and the appropriate department. Typically a minimum score of 50 is required. VU grants credit to students who receive a score of “4” or higher on the higher-level exams in the I.B. program. Work taken through any regionally accredited extension, online, or correspondence program may be recognized for fulfilling graduation requirements.

Change of Class Schedule Students are responsible for the individual program they select upon registration. Changes may be made online during designated online registration time periods, and thereafter must be made by the filing of an add/drop form in the Office of the Registrar. A class dropped during the first two full weeks of the semester is not entered on the transcript; however, one dropped subsequently up to the end of the eighth full week will appear on the transcript with a grade of “W.” Classes dropped after the eighth week will receive a grade of “WF” unless the professor, aware of extenuating circumstances beyond the control of the student, is willing to grant a “WP”; however, the student must be earning a minimum grade of “C” in the course to warrant a “WP.” All classes added after the second full week of classes must be approved by the professor and the Dean of the College.

For those courses that are offered on an unusual calendar, withdrawals received in the Office of the Registrar during regular business hours prior to the end of the first eighth of the total number of class hour sessions offered in the course will have no entry made on the transcript; withdrawals received in the Office of the Registrar during regular business hours prior to the end of the second quarter of the total number of class hour sessions will receive a “W” on the transcript; withdrawals received in the Office of the Registrar during regular business hours prior to the last class hour session will receive a grade of “WF” unless the professor, aware of extenuating circumstances beyond the control of the student, is willing to grant a “WP.” Leave of Absence Policy Students taking a leave of absence are not regarded as having permanently withdrawn from the University and need not apply for readmission through the Admissions Office. There are three types of Leaves: Academic, Medical, and Compassionate. A leave of Absence is not intended for students wishing to withdraw during the current semester (see Medical and Compassionate Leave sections for exceptions), and does not apply to those who wish to attend another institution or take a semester off. Any student granted a leave during the add/drop period (as outlined in the University Catalog) for the semester will be dropped from any classes that the student is enrolled in. If the leave is granted after 75% of the semester the student may, with faculty approval, receive an Incomplete for one or more courses. If an Incomplete is not deemed appropriate, a grade of “W” will be issued. No refund of charges will be made for courses in which an Incomplete is given. No credit is earned for any course in which a “W” is issued. Refunds, if any, will be granted based upon the University’s refund policy as found in the University Course Catalog.

Academic Leave of Absence Policy An academic leave of absence is designed for students who wish to participate in an off campus internship, practicum, or study abroad program in which academic credit is not being awarded through Vanguard. The policy does not apply to those students who wish to attend another institution or simply take a semester off. An academic leave of absence is typically for one semester, but may be given for up to one academic year. To qualify students must be in good academic standing, and apply in advance of the time period they wish to be on leave. A request for an academic leave of absence may be made with the Office of the Registrar.

Medical Leave of Absence Policy The University recognizes that students may experience a physical or mental health medical situation that significantly limits their ability to function successfully or safely in their role as students. In such situations, students should consider requesting a medical leave, which permits students to take a break from University life and their studies, so that they may receive treatment and later return to the University with the opportunity to achieve their academic and co-curricular goals.

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A request for a medical leave of absence must be made with the Disability Services Office. Each medical leave request is individualized, and handled on a case-by-case basis, based on the needs of the student. Upon exit and reinstatement to the University, the student must have adequate medical documentation from a licensed health care or mental health care provider. A medical leave can be granted for up to two consecutive semesters.

Compassionate Leave of Absence Policy A compassionate leave of absence request may be made and considered for compelling reasons for students who find it necessary to interrupt their studies temporarily. A compassionate leave may be taken for circumstances related to the care of a seriously ill parent, child or spouse, financial or academic difficulties, or other situations that may prevent the student from continuing in classes. A request for a compassionate leave of absence must be made with the Disability Services Office. Each compassionate leave request is individualized, and handled on a case-by-case basis, based on the needs of the student.

Withdrawal from the University The University desires to establish a clear process for students who choose to withdraw from the University. In order to do so, the student must complete the following steps: 1.

2.

Schedule an exit interview with the Office of Student Success.

Upon completion of the exit interview, student must complete a “Notice of Intent to Withdraw” form (provided at exit interview) which includes obtaining signatures from a number of departments.

3. Once all signatures have been obtained and the “Notice of Intent to Withdraw” is complete, the student must return the application to the Office of the Registrar in order for it to be processed and the withdrawal process completed.

Upon complying with this procedure, the student is then entitled to a refund in keeping with the refund policy found in the Financial Information section of the University Catalog.

Refund Policies For refund policies for all programs, see the appropriate section of the University Catalog.

Tuition Refunds Tuition refunds will be generated for withdrawal from the University or course load reduction when an official withdrawal form or an official add/drop form is filed with the Registrar’s Office. Refunds will be based on the date of receipt of the official forms by the Registrar’s Office according to the following tuition refund schedule: Prior to the First Class Session 100% Through the Second Week of the Semester* 100% Through the Fourth Week of the Semester 50% Through the Eighth Week of the Semester 25% After the Eighth Week of the Semester -0The refund schedule applies to all tuition, fees, and room and board changes. Students who withdraw or are expelled from the University may have their financial aid or a portion of their financial aid returned to the various aid programs. Any student who wishes to withdraw from the University must notify the Registrar’s Office of the “intent to withdraw”. The amount of financial aid returned for the student will be calculated based on this date. Federal aid will be returned based on the number of days the student attended/completed during the semester. State and institutional aid will be returned based on the refund percentage applied to the student’s institutional charges. See the Financial Aid Office for specific calculations. *Both fall and spring semester classes follow a regular five-day business week. Other class schedule formats are prorated accordingly.

Grading System Grade A AB+ B BC+

Significance Exceptional

Grade Points 4.00 3.67 3.33 3.00 2.67 2.33

Good

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C CD+ D DF W WP WF CR I P AU

Satisfactory

Poor Failure Withdrawal Withdrawal Passing Withdrawal Failure Credit Incomplete Pass (Granted for “C” or higher) Audit

2.00 1.67 1.33 1.00 0.67 0.00 Not Applicable Not Applicable 0.00 Not Applicable Not Applicable Not Applicable Not Applicable

A grade point is a numerical value assigned to a letter grade. Each unit with a grade of “A” is assigned four grade points. Each unit with a grade of “B” is assigned three grade points, etc. Thus, for example, a three-unit course with a grade of B is assigned a total of nine grade points. A grade point average (GPA) is determined by dividing the total number of grade points by the number of units attempted for which grade points are assigned.

The term “current grade point average” refers to the GPA earned in the last session of enrollment. The term “cumulative grade point average,” on the other hand, refers to the average of the total of grade points accumulated divided by the total of all units earned in the College. The cumulative GPA is calculated and then entered on the transcript of the student’s academic record at the end of each session or semester.

While courses are transferred from other colleges, grade point averages are determined only on the basis of courses completed at VU. Incomplete Grades Faculty may assign a grade of “I” (Incomplete) to students when they warrant additional time to complete coursework due to situations beyond their control (i.e. serious illness, accident, or death of a family member). They may only be awarded when the student’s grade would have otherwise been an “F”. Incomplete work must be made up no later than six calendar weeks following the last day of the term (or other academic session). If the work is not made up by this time a grade of “F” will automatically be assigned. Extensions to the six week limitation are made only with the approval of the Dean of the College. Faculty are under no obligation to assign an incomplete grade or to administer a make-up exam.

Grade Change Policy Grades submitted by faculty to the Office of the Registrar are considered final. Students who believe a grade was assigned in error must contact the professor of the course to review his/her records. Submission of a grade change to the Office of the Registrar can be made by the faculty member no later than two semesters following the term in which the grade was originally assigned.

Requests for exceptions to this policy must be made to the Provost.

Grade Dispute Procedure Students who wish to dispute a grade assigned by a professor must file a petition with the Dean of the College. Both the student and professor will have opportunity to present their case. The decision made by the Dean of the College is considered final; however, either the student or the professor may appeal the decision to the Provost.

Course Repeat Policy Academic courses offered at VU are not repeatable unless specifically noted in the catalog. Those students who wish to retake a course due to a low or failing grade are permitted to register again for the same course during any given semester. All grades will appear on the student’s permanent academic record (transcript). When a course is repeated, both grades will remain on the transcript, but only the higher grade is computed in the grade point average. In the case that both grades are the same, only the most recent grade will be included in the G.P.A. Class Attendance Regular and punctual class attendance is expected and is essential to optimum academic achievement. Students in lower division classes are given an “F” for any course in which they have been absent more than one-fifth of the scheduled class meetings.

Attendance requirements in upper division classes are established by each professor. Professional Studies (PS) students should refer to the PS portion of the University Catalog for class attendance policies.

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Absences occasioned by participation in a college-approved activity (e.g. field trips, athletic contests) are governed by the following: 1.

Students are responsible for initiating the process of makeup work. Work must be submitted when due whether or not the student is present.

2.

Scheduled events (games, concerts, tournaments) constitute an excuse to miss class; however, practices do not.

3.

Students should clear their class schedules with coaches or directors before registering for classes to minimize potential conflicts.

4.

Missed classes for authorized events will count toward the one-fifth absence allowance. Student athletes and others affected by excused absences should be particularly careful not to miss other class sessions for unauthorized reasons.

5.

Students shall not be penalized for missing class for authorized college activities by loss of attendance points. On the rare occasion it would be impossible to make up a missed class or lab; the student should miss the activity and not be penalized by the coach or director.

Class Standing Class standing, which classifies students for both academic and social activities, is determined on the basis of the accumulated number of units applicable toward graduation at this college in keeping with the following chart: Freshman 0-26 Sophomore 27-56 Junior 57-87 Senior 88 + Faculty Offices Faculty offices are in various locations on the campus. Faculty members post individual hours on their office doors. Students are encouraged to meet with their professors for their counsel and assistance.

Irregular Exams The offering of irregular examinations is at the discretion of the individual faculty, and they are responsible for making the arrangements for proctoring the exams. If an individual professor is not available to proctor his/her examination, then arrangements for a proctor will be made with the departmental secretary.

Academic Probation “Academic probation” is a term used to designate a period of close academic supervision, generally including reduced allowable activities, imposed to improve unsatisfactory academic performance. Students on academic probation may not register for more than twelve units excluding physical activity courses during the probation period. Such students shall not hold a student body office and must curtail extracurricular work and activities as recommended by their faculty advisor. In certain cases, eligibility for participation in intercollegiate sports may be forfeited per action of the Athletic Committee.

A student’s official transcript will reflect academic probation following any full semester in which a student’s current or cumulative grade point average drops below a “C” average (2.0). This designation will remain on the transcript unless the student receives a change of grade prior to the end of the withdrawal period of the following semester.

Academic probation will continue for the student until the current and cumulative GPA’s are raised to 2.0.

Academic Disqualification A student is academically disqualified when there are two consecutive semesters of current or cumulative GPA below “C” (2.0).

Students academically disqualified are precluded from further enrollment unless, in the judgment of the faculty advisor and the Dean of the College, significant academic improvement has been made in the last probationary semester. A disqualified student may appeal for re-entry by petition.

Honors The Academic Honors list, published at the end of each semester, honors all degree-seeking students with twelve or more units who have earned a GPA of 3.5 or above for that semester.

Students who have completed, by the end of the fall semester, no less than 36 units (bearing letter grades) at Vanguard may be eligible to participate with provisional honors in the Commencement ceremonies ahead of actual completion of all courses required for graduation. The deadline for having honors designated at the Commencement Ceremonies is the end of the fall semester. Any grades and/or grade changes subsequently affecting the GPA will not be indicated for Commencement, but will be reflected in the honors posted with the degree on the transcript and diploma. Students official honors will be based upon their GPA at the completion of all coursework required for graduation and will be indicated on the permanent transcript and on the

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diploma. Students must complete a minimum of 45 units at Vanguard to have honors recorded on their transcript and diploma.

Students who have maintained a cumulative GPA of 3.500—3.699 will graduate cum laude. Those achieving a GPA of 3.700— 3.899 will graduate magna cum laude. The level of summa cum laude will apply to an average of 3.900 and above.

Student Honor Societies Student honor societies exist to recognize superior academic performance, provide academic enrichment to the Vanguard community, and to provide opportunity for students to gain greater exposure to academic disciplines. Undergraduate students may be accepted into the University’s chapter of the following honor societies: Alpha Zeta Lambda Alpha Lambda Pi Eta Phi Alpha Theta Pi Sigma Alpha Psi Chi Sigma Tau Delta Delta Kappa

Sociology Anthropology Communication History Political Science Psychology English University Service

Degree Requirements Candidates for the Bachelor of Arts, Music, or Science degrees in the University’s traditional undergraduate programs must meet the following requirements: 1.

A minimum of 124 units and a cumulative grade point average of 2.0.

A minimum of forty units must be upper division work, and twenty-four units must be taken in residence at VU. 2.

A minimum of twenty-four of the last thirty units must be earned at VU. 3.

A major in a department must be completed as prescribed by the University Catalog. At least one-half of the major must be completed at VU. 4.

A minor in a department or subject is optional. If a minor is not declared, a student will complete the required units for graduation by taking elective courses.

5.

An Application for Graduation must be filed in the Office of the Registrar. See “Application to Graduate” for more information.

6.

Students must complete the core curriculum program of fifty-two – fifty-four units.

Application to Graduate Students nearing completion of all requirements for their degree must submit an Application for Graduation no later than the second week of the semester in which they intend to complete. The Application should be submitted to the department of their major who will then forward it on to the Office of the Registrar. A late fee may be assessed to Applications received after this time. The Application will be reviewed by the Office of the Registrar and the student will be notified of their clearance to graduate and participate in Commencement ceremonies. Traditional undergraduate students may only participate in Commencement ceremonies in May if they have no more than 4 units outstanding to complete their degree. These units must be completed in the summer immediately following the Commencement ceremonies in which they participate.

Release of Student Records A student may not graduate, nor receive any diploma, certificate, transcript, or letter of recommendation until all financial obligations have been satisfied in accordance with policies described in the University Catalog under “Costs and Payment Policies.” Any diplomas, certificates, transcripts, or letters of recommendation shall be retained by the University until all such obligations are satisfied. Release of any such student records prior to or subsequent to any default by the debtor shall not be considered a binding precedent or modification of this policy.

Students who have left the University without completing their degree may reactivate their academic file in order to ascertain those requirements that remain unfulfilled. They may do so by submitting a “Request to Reactivate Student Record” form to the Office of the Registrar. A fee will be due and payable at the time of the request if more than one academic year has passed since the date of last attendance at Vanguard. The file will be considered open for one calendar year from the time of reactivation.

A Second B.A./B.S. Degree A second Bachelor’s degree may be awarded to a student who applies providing a minimum of thirty units beyond the units required for the first Bachelor’s is achieved. A second Bachelor’s degree may be pursued concurrently with the first one providing no units are applied to both degrees (with the exception of Core Curriculum courses), including the total number of units needed for the first degree (124). The second Bachelor’s must be in a major significantly different from the first Bachelor’s, and a minimum grade point average of 2.0 must be maintained. Requirements for both degrees must be fully

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satisfied. No more than six units may be transferred toward the second degree’s major – no more than six units may be lower division. A student desiring to be considered for a second Bachelor’s must be enrolled at VU in the final semester in which graduation requirements are to be met and an “Application for Graduation” must be submitted to the Office of the Registrar no later than the second week of the semester in which graduation is anticipated.

Students may complete a second major at VU and have the second major indicated on the transcript and diploma; however, only those students who have achieved a second Bachelor’s degree will be awarded a second diploma and be permitted to participate in the Commencement ceremonies for a second time.

Interdisciplinary Studies The Liberal Studies major is an interdisciplinary program which provides an opportunity for students to seek a broad liberal arts education rather than to concentrate in a single academic discipline.

The Liberal Studies major is the approved academic program for those seeking a California Multiple/Single Subject Teaching Credential. Those students seeking a teaching credential should consult the Graduate Program in Education, Department of Liberal Studies, for specific requirements.

Declaring a Major All students are urged to declare a major no later than the end of their third full semester of work. Students are aided in this determination by consulting with departments of interest or an Undeclared Advisor. Formal declaration of a major or a change of major is made by filing a “Change or Declaration of Major" form in the Office of the Registrar.

Declaring a Minor A minor consists on average of twenty units in a single subject area. Students cannot receive minors in the same department as their major. A student who desires to develop a departmental minor should consult the chair of the appropriate department.

Minors are not formally declared in the Office of the Registrar until the student applies to graduate.

Appeals Procedure A student seeking a variance from any stated academic policy in the University Catalog should consult with the department of the course/policy in question. Academic Policy Exception forms are available online or may be picked up in the Office of the Registrar. The final appeal in all student academic matters is to the Provost, who serves as the chief academic officer of the University.

Academic Integrity and Dishonesty Vanguard University is a community of Christian scholars. When students join our college community, they are expected, as apprentice scholars, to search for truth with integrity and accuracy. This quest requires humility about our abilities, respect for the ideas of others, and originality in our thinking. Since Vanguard University is a Christian community, the integrity of our scholarship is rooted in the integrity of our faith. We seek to be followers of Christ in the classroom, in the library, and at the privacy of our computers.

Academic dishonesty is considered a serious breach of trust within the Vanguard community, as it both violates the regard for truth essential to genuine learning and Christian consistency, and disadvantages those students who do their work with integrity.

It demonstrates a deep disrespect for fellow students, the faculty, the University, and one’s own commitment to the integrity that should mark the life of the practicing Christian. Academic dishonesty may consist of plagiarism, cheating, or falsification.

I. PLAGIARISM Students have a responsibility to understand plagiarism and to learn how to avoid it. They should refuse to allow fellow students “to borrow” or to use an assignment without proper citation, encourage fellow students to do their own work, and refrain from completing assignments for their fellow students. If a student helps another plagiarize in these or other ways, he or she is equally guilty of academic dishonesty.

A. Definitions To plagiarize is to present someone else’s work—his or her words, line of thought, or organizational structure—as our own. This occurs when sources are not cited properly, or when permission is not obtained from the original author to use his or her work.

By not acknowledging the sources that are used in our work, we are wrongfully taking material that is not our own. Plagiarism is thus an insidious and disruptive form of dishonesty. It violates relationships with known classmates and professors, and it violates the legal rights of people we may never meet. Another person’s “work” can take many forms: printed or electronic copies of computer programs, musical compositions, drawings, paintings, oral presentations, papers, essays, articles or chapters, statistical data, tables or figures, etc. In short, if any information that can be considered the intellectual property of another is used without acknowledging the original source properly, this is plagiarism.

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At Vanguard University, we define three levels of plagiarism: 1.

2.

3.

Minimal plagiarism includes, but is not limited to, doing any of the following without attribution: a. inserting verbatim phrases of 2-3 distinctive words; b. substituting synonyms into the original sentence rather than rewriting the complete sentence; c. reordering the clauses of a sentence; d. imitating the sentence, paragraph, or organizational structure, or writing style of a source; e. using a source’s line of logic, thesis or ideas.

Substantial plagiarism includes, but is not limited to, doing any of the following without attribution: a. inserting verbatim sentences or longer passages from a source; b. combining paraphrasing with verbatim sentences to create a paragraph or more of text; c. repeatedly and pervasively engaging in minimal plagiarism.

Complete plagiarism includes, but is not limited to, doing any of the following without attribution: a. submitting or presenting someone’s complete published or unpublished work (paper, article, or chapter); b. submitting another student’s work for an assignment, with or without that person’s knowledge or consent; c. using information from a file of old assignments; d. downloading a term paper from a web site; e. buying a term paper from a mail order company or web site; f. reusing or modifying previously submitted work (e.g., from another course) for a present assignment without obtaining prior approval from the instructors involved.

B. Consequences Minimal plagiarism. When instances of minimal plagiarism are detected, the instructor can use these situations as an educational opportunity to discuss with the student the nature of plagiarism and the values of a scholarly, Christian community.

At the professor’s discretion, assignments may be rewritten and resubmitted, with or without a grade penalty. Repeated instances of minimal plagiarism may, at the professor’s discretion, be treated as substantial plagiarism.

Substantial plagiarism. For a first offense, the student typically receives a failing grade on the assignment that has been plagiarized, and a Report of Academic Dishonesty is submitted to the Associate Provost/Dean of the College. For a second offense, the student typically receives a failing grade in the course, and a Report of Academic Dishonesty is submitted to the Associate Provost/Dean of the College. For a third offense, the student typically is recommended for expulsion from the University. The final appeal in all student academic matters is to the Provost, who serves as the chief academic officer of the University.

Complete plagiarism. For a first offense, the student typically receives a failing grade in the course, and a Report of Academic Dishonesty is submitted to the Associate Provost/Dean of the College. For a second offense, the student typically is recommended for expulsion from the University. The final appeal in all student academic matters is to the Provost, who serves as the chief academic officer of the University.

II. CHEATING Cheating is obtaining or helping another to obtain credit for work accomplished by deceptive means. Cheating includes, but is not limited to: a. b. c. d. e. f. g.

talking or communicating through signals with another student during a quiz or exam; using unauthorized materials such as electronic devices or cheat sheets to obtain information for a quiz or exam; copying or sharing information during a quiz or exam; taking, using, sharing or posting an exam or answers to a quiz or exam (before, during or after the quiz or exam); leaving during a quiz or exam in order to obtain information; claiming credit for work not accomplished personally; giving false data about the procedure used to take a quiz or exam or complete an assignment.

III. FALSIFICATION Falsification is the alteration of information, documents, or other evidence in order to mislead. Examples of this form of academic dishonesty include but are not limited to:

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a. b. c. d. e.

fabrication or falsification of data, analysis, citations or other information for assignments, exams, speeches or any other academic work; forgery or unauthorized alteration of official documents, credentials, or signatures; misrepresentation of one’s academic accomplishments, experiences, credentials, or expertise; withholding information related to admission, transfer credits, disciplinary actions, financial aid, or academic status; submitting the same work in more than one class without the authorization of the instructors.

Consequences for cheating and falsification 1.

2.

3.

4.

If a student has been dishonest in any way in completing an academic assignment, the student typically receives a failing grade in the exercise and a Report of Academic Dishonesty is submitted to the Office of the Associate Provost/Dean of the College.

The above is understood to be a minimal degree of discipline. A faculty member may, if he or she has announced the policy, give the student an F in the course for any type of academic dishonesty.

A second violation or instance of dishonesty in the same or different course may result in expulsion from the university.

A student who feels that he or she has been unfairly accused or unjustly treated may appeal to an ad hoc committee comprised of the Associate Provost/Dean of the College, the Chair of the Department of the student’s major, and an additional resident faculty member of the student’s choosing. The final appeal in all student academic matters is to the Provost, who serves as the chief academic officer of the University.

Campus Public Safety Campus Public Safety helps preserve public peace and order and protects all University personnel, students, and property from crime and safety hazards. Campus Public Safety Officers are trained according to California P.O.S.T. Reserve Level III standards and registered through the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services. Staff members' power of arrest is outlined in the State Penal Code as private persons’ arrest. In their attempt to maintain a safe environment for all members of the University community, it is important that respect and courtesy be given to the staff members as they perform their duties in a routine, professional, and efficient manner. In addition to helping maintain a safe environment, Campus Public Safety and the Residence Life Department reserves the right to enter any facility, including on campus student residences, at any time there is reasonable cause to do so.

Contacting Campus Public Safety Telephone Ext. 6799 Emergency Cell Phone (714) 966-6799 In addition, the Campus Public Safety website provides students with resources for routine and emergency safety needs at http://www.vanguard.edu/services/campus-public-safety.

Clery Act Notification Vanguard University, in Compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act of 1990 (formerly the Campus Security Act), provides prospective employees, students and their parents access to its Annual Security Report. The report describes the University’s safety and security services and procedures and provides crime and disciplinary referral statistics for the three previous years.

To obtain a copy of this report, please go to our website at http://vanguard.edu/services/campus-public-safety. Students may also obtain a copy of this report by phoning (714) 668-6161, or mailing a request to: Campus Public Safety Director Vanguard University 55 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 Crime Awareness and Campus Security Act of 1990 Public law 101-883, The Student Right-to-Know and Campus Crime Act requires colleges and universities receiving federal funds to make available yearly campus security policies, crime prevention programs, and specific campus crime statistics to current students and employees, as well as to any applicant for enrollment or employment, upon request. This includes making the

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community aware of crimes committed on campus within a reasonable amount of time. When crimes do occur, the campus community will be notified by one or more of the following methods: Campus Public Safety Alert Notices posted at all common building entry points, chapel announcements, and e-mail. In addition, all these policies and statistics are available at Campus Public Safety.

A copy of the most current report is available at the following web site: http://vanguard.edu/services/campus-public-safety.

Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act of 1989 (Public Law 101-336) The University annually distributes to all students and employees policies, programs, and procedures regarding its prohibition against the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of drugs, drug paraphernalia, or alcohol by students and employees in conformity with this Act. Public Notification Policy Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act In accordance with the Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act (CSCPA), California’s Megan’s Law and in conjunction with Costa Mesa Police Department, this policy will be the guiding factor in notifying the Vanguard University community of registered sex offenders associated with Vanguard University.

All persons required to register with a local law enforcement agency as a sex offender, according to California Penal Code 290, who enroll in class, make deliveries, or work on the Vanguard University campus 30 days or more in one year, must register at the Costa Mesa Police Department (CMPD) as being associated with Vanguard University.

CMPD will evaluate the classification of the offender according to California’s or Serious Sex Offender, CMPD will inform the Campus Public Safety Department of the registration.

According to CSCPA and California’s Megan’s Law, Vanguard University will notify the campus community of the sex offender’s registration. This notification will include the name of the offender, and may include a photo and a summary of the offender and prior convictions. Vanguard University will make an effort to contact and inform the offender of the intent to notify the community before notification is made. Notification to the community may be made by using copies of flyers supplied by CMPD, flyers developed by the University, campus wide email, flyers in campus mailboxes, establishing a web page on Vanguard’s intranet, and or the Vanguard University newspaper. All persons who wish to view the registered sex offender information may call CMPD at (714) 754-5079 to make an appointment.

The purpose of the notification is not to cause undue hardship to a student seeking an education at Vanguard University or to create a hostile work environment. The purpose of this policy is to keep the Vanguard University community informed for their safety, and to comply with local and federal law.

Emergency Procedures The emergency procedures listed below serve as a minimum explanation of the emergency procedures for the campus. For more detailed instructions please refer to the Campus Public Safety webpage under emergency procedure (http://vanguard.edu/services/campus-public-safety) or reference a red Emergency Preparedness Binder located across campus.

Step #1: Call the appropriate emergency number depending on the situation.  911 (from residence hall room, must dial 9-911)  Campus Public Safety ext. 6799, 714-966-6799.  When the dispatcher answers, state: “THIS IS AN EMERGENCY.”  Be prepared to give the dispatcher your name, location, and the phone number you are calling from Step #2: Respond according to the type of emergency listed: Medical  Do not move the victim, unless unavoidable.  If you are trained and certified, and comfortable to do so, administer First Aid.  If the person is suicidal or shows signs of suicidal tendencies, contact Campus Public Safety.

Fire  

If you hear a fire alarm, evacuate the building immediately.

Do not use an elevator.

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        

Walk, don’t run!

If you discover a fire, activate the nearest fire alarm. Check doors for heat (top and bottom) with back of hand. If hot, do not open! Wait for emergency personnel to respond. Open window if available to do so. Yell for help.

Fire extinguishers are located in all buildings. Familiarize yourself to their locations prior to emergencies.

Do not attempt to fight large fires.

For small fires (wastebasket size) only—use a fire extinguisher.

If fire grows larger, alert others and move away from the fire. Close (but do not lock) all doors behind you as you move away.

If trapped in heavy smoke, drop to your hands and knees and crawl toward the nearest exit.

If you are trapped by a fire, place cloth material around/under the door. Retreat and close as many doors as possible between you and the fire. Be prepared to signal from a window.

If your clothing catches fire, DO NOT RUN! STOP—DROP—ROLL!

Earthquake  DUCK, COVER, AND HOLD. Do not use an elevator. Remain calm, do not rush outside.  During the shaking: o If inside, take cover under a desk or table near an interior wall. o If outside, move away from windows, tall objects and overhead lights.  After the shaking stops: o Do not use telephones except for life-saving situations. o If you smell gas, evacuate the building immediately.

Crime in Progress  Do not interfere with the criminal, except for self-protection or the protection of others.  If possible, get a good description of the criminal, weapon, method, and direction of travel.

Bomb Threat  Take all threats seriously. Evacuate and contact authorities.  After the threat, if you see a package or unknown object in an unusual place, DON’T TOUCH IT! Gas Leak  Open the windows. Do not light matches or turn on lights.  Leave building.  Notify Campus Public Safety, RD, or Facility Services immediately.

Chemical Spills  Do not attempt to clean up a spill yourself. Be prepared to evacuate the building.  Call Facility Services.

Active Shooter   

Run – Evacuate the premises if there is an accessible escape route. Call 911 when you can.

Hide – If evacuation is not possible, find a place to hide where the active shooter is less likely to find you.

Fight – As a last resort, and only when your life is in imminent danger, attempt to disrupt and/or incapacitate the active shooter.

More detailed information is available: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5VcSwejU2D0

Safety Tips  Be familiar with emergency procedures and all possible exit routes in a building.  Keep hallways clear and door locked.  Do not overload electrical circuits.  Report problems with smoke detectors or fire alarms to your Resident Director.

Crime Prevention Tips  Avoid walking in isolated areas.  Do not open residence hall room doors to strangers.  Keep all doors closed and locked. Do not leave doors propped open.  Do not leave valuables in room.

Earthquake Preparedness  Be familiar with emergency procedures, evacuation routes, and potential hazards to avoid.  Identify the phone number of a contact person outside Southern California.

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 

Put together a personal emergency kit (contact Campus Public Safety for guidelines).

Maintain an earthquake-safe environment: o Move heavy objects down from high shelves. o Secure tall bookcases and cabinets. o Anchor desktop computers down with anchor pads or Velcro. o Relocate beds and furniture away from windows.

Fire Drill Instructions Residence Facilities: Fire drills are conducted at intervals during the school year. When the alarm sounds, each student should leave the residence facilities immediately and go to designated evacuation areas: locations are posted at floor exits. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO USE ELEVATORS. Exits should be kept clear at all times.

Fire lanes must be kept clear of vehicles. If a vehicle is parked in a fire lane, the violators are subject to a fine or tow-away of their vehicle.

Classrooms: If a fire alarm sounds when students are in class, students and employees are required to evacuate the building and remain at a safe distance from the building until recalled.

Sounding a false fire alarm is both dangerous and illegal. Offenders will be suspended, turned over to the Costa Mesa Police Department for prosecution, and assessed any charges attributable to the false alarm.

Vehicle Registration All students (on campus and commuting students) are required to register cars, motorcycles, motor scooters, and other motorized vehicles at the time of class enrollment. Students are allowed to register only two vehicles. The permit issued must be displayed in the passenger side corner of the front windshield no later than two weeks from the first day of classes each semester. The permit is assigned to the registered owner. A $15.00 charge will be assessed through the Office of Accounting Operations for lost permits. Students may only have one vehicle on campus at a time. Trailers and off-road vehicles are not permitted on campus.

Any vehicle not displaying a valid parking permit will be issued a parking citation and fined the appropriate amount for the violation and is subject of being towed.

The registration of vehicles is required to be completed on-line via the Campus Public Safety web page at: http://services.vanguard.edu/vehicle-registration-form-2/. The person to whom the permit is registered will be responsible for all violations issued to the vehicle displaying the permit. The parking permit is the property of VU and must be returned to VU upon request or when the student or employee leaves the University.

Temporary parking permits are available to students and employees when a rental or non-permitted vehicle must be driven on campus. Temporary parking permits are available in the Campus Public Safety Office. Guests should obtain a temporary parking permit at their earliest opportunity.

The State of California has a financial responsibility law. It is the vehicle owners' responsibility to maintain proper insurance coverage. Out-of-state students are required by law to secure a California Driver's License and register their vehicle with the State of California within 10 days if the student registers to vote, or establishes residence and secures off campus employment in California.

Vehicles must have current license plates and be in running order to be parked on campus. Any vehicle not meeting these standards will be towed at the registered owner's expense regardless of whether the vehicle has a valid University permit or not.

Students may not leave their vehicles parked on campus during the summer unless they are residing in campus housing.

Temporary vehicle summer storage may be available if the student is a member of a mission trip sponsored by Vanguard University. The vehicle owner must make storage arrangements with the Director of Campus Public Safety.

Due to the limited parking spaces on campus, motorcycles are to be parked in designated areas on campus. Owners are responsible for providing covering to protect the cycles from the elements. Recreational Vehicles (RVs) may not be used as personal vehicles except by prior approval.

Lot Designations & Restrictions The following is a listing of parking lot designations and restrictions. Restrictions are enforced Monday–Sunday, 24/7 "Open" indicates that spaces are available for any vehicle displaying a valid Vanguard permit. "Staff”, "Visitor" or NMC indicates that some spaces in the lot are restricted.

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Lot A

Open Parking

Lot B

Open Parking

Lot C

NMC Parking Green Marked Stalls & Open Parking

Lot D

Open Parking

Lot E

Staff Parking & Visitor Parking

Lot F

Staff Parking Only

Lot G

Open Parking

Lot H

Open Parking

Lot I

Open Parking

Lot J

Open Parking

Lot K

Open Parking

Lot L

Open Parking

Lot M

Visitor Parking & Open Parking

Bicycles on campus For security purposes, all bicycles should be secured with a U-bolt locking device. Vanguard University provides designated areas where bicycles are to be parked or stored. Motorized scooters may not be parked in these areas. Bicycles are not permitted in buildings, passageways or unapproved living areas by order of the Costa Mesa City Fire Department. Bicycles in unauthorized areas will be removed and the owners will be assessed a $15 fine ($25 repeated offense).

The University is not responsible for the loss, damage or theft of bicycles. The Costa Mesa Municipal Code requires all bicycles to be registered. Students should visit the Campus Public Safety Office to register any bicycles. Campus Public Safety will register bikes and forward the application to the Costa Mesa Police Department. All bikes on University property must be registered and display a proper bicycle license.

All unclaimed bicycles at the end of the semester without a bike permit will be impounded as abandoned and will be disposed of in accordance with California Law.

Community- Who is Vanguard About Vanguard University The mission of Vanguard University is to pursue knowledge, cultivate character, deepen faith, and equip each student for a Spirit-empowered life of Christ-centered leadership and service.

Vanguard University is a community of thoughtful Christians dedicated to honoring Christ and serving his church. As an evangelical comprehensive university within the Pentecostal tradition, VU is committed to providing an educational experience that integrates faith, learning, and living, and to preparing students for a lifetime of learning and service in a variety of vocations and ministries.

The University believes that a liberal arts education illuminated by Christian truth fosters the intellectual and spiritual development that prepares and challenges students to take an active role in shaping their culture and their world.

The vision that guides the VU community is rooted in the University's heritage as an institution of the Pentecostal tradition which was birthed out of the Azusa Street Revival in Los Angeles, California, at the turn of the twentieth century. From its inception, the movement generated a multicultural, multiracial, and gender-inclusive community of Spirit-empowered Christian believers who were committed to peacemaking and reconciliation. With global consciousness, these foremothers and forefathers of a renewed Christian faith carried the good news of the gospel around the world.

A strong commitment to cultural diversity, racial reconciliation, and gender equality is a consequence of VU being deeply grounded in the faith tradition that brought the University into existence. Moreover, these core values continue to define the

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institutional vision that pulls the VU community forward toward its mission and educational targets and goals. Within this Christian context of inclusiveness, the University aims to provide a quality educational experience marked by the pursuit of truth, the cultivation of character, and the desire for service.

These three basic pursuits inherent in the VU educational experience-truth, virtue, and service-are enshrined in the University motto and embossed on its official seal. "Truth, Virtue, and Service" summarizes the institution's educational vision.

Responsibilities of Vanguard Community Membership Biblically Speaking The goal of Vanguard University is to understand and interpret every aspect of the VU community from a biblical point of view.

To love God with our whole beings and to love our neighbor as ourselves are foundational principles of the Lordship of Christ practiced by every responsible VU member. The responsibilities of membership at VU include: 

To love God and all members of the VU community (Matt. 22:37-40).



To practice righteousness and justice in dealing with one another, to help those in need and to seek reconciliation when personal differences arise. (Micah 6:8, Matt. 18:12-17).



To fulfill one's potential for spiritual growth by active, regular participation in worship opportunities within the community, including but not limited to chapel and soul care opportunities.



To be willing to confront, in love, a fellow student whose lifestyle conflicts with that of the expectations of the community.



To accept the responsibility of the Great Commission (Matt. 28:19-20) by participating in and supporting the global and community integration ministries of the community.



To develop conscientiously one's academic potential.



To practice discretion and restraint in the choice of television programs, music, movies, theater, social dancing, printed matter, electronic media (including the internet) and other public programs; as well as organizations with which one associates.



To observe the Lord's Day in worship, rest, Christian fellowship, and service.

Responsible Freedom VU recognizes that while the Scriptures do not provide specific teaching regarding all social and moral practices, they do advocate self-restraint in situations that may be harmful or offensive to others. Therefore, all members of the community need to exercise their freedom responsibly in relationship to the various communities of which we are a part, and with loving regard for the sensitivities of others.

Loving Involvement Love not only means understanding and support for one another, but also requires a willingness to confront others whose behavior is harmful to themselves and to the community. Love, in both regards, provides the environment of positive influence conducive to learning and to the energizing presence of the Spirit of the Lord.

While the University reaches out with love and understanding, it would not be faithful to its responsibility to the student, other members of the community, nor to those who support it and look to it for graduates, if it did not appropriately respond to those whose behavior is unacceptable. The University believes that redemptive discipline should be: 

A meaningful, learning experience that encourages responsible behavior.



Based on the scriptural concepts and educational principles of love and justice.



Consistent and balanced with the best interests of both the individual and the University community.

Community Expectations General Expectations of the Vanguard Community Voluntary Commitment These expectations apply to each student while he or she is enrolled in a University program or residing in University approved housing. Each student is expected to exercise restraint in these matters even when he or she is not under direct University

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jurisdiction. These rules apply to on and off campus behavior and for the whole academic year, from the beginning of the fall semester or as soon as a student moves into on-campus housing or participates in university activities, until the completion of the spring semester including all vacation periods (Thanksgiving, Christmas, Spring break, etc.). The same expectations apply for all summer programs, such as summer courses, outreach trips, summer housing, etc.

Compliance with the Law As Christians and members of society, all students are expected to comply with local, state, and federal laws when enrolled in a VU academic program, living in University housing, or engaged in any University sponsored activity. Students should expect the University to cooperate with law enforcement agencies and to initiate disciplinary proceedings when violations of such laws occur, if the infraction also violated VU behavioral and community standards. Students arrested or charged with a crime while enrolled or residing at VU must report this information to the Vice President for Student Life within 72 hours.

Church Attendance Even though Vanguard seeks to be a Christian community, it is not, nor can it substitute for, the Church. Therefore, students are encouraged to identify with a local church of their choice and to attend church services regularly.

Rules, Restraints, and Responsibilities (Student Code of Conduct) The following behaviors are to be avoided:  Non-Compliance. Failure to comply with an appropriate request of a University official or representative. This may also include the following behaviors: o Failure to obey the summons of a university official. o Failure to fully disclose all information to a university official during an investigation or the disciplinary process. o Falsification, lying, hiding, distortion or misrepresentation of information relevant to or requested in connection with and during an investigation or the disciplinary process. o Disruption or interference with the orderly conduct during an investigation or the disciplinary process. o Attempting to influence another person in order to obstruct an investigation during a disciplinary process. o Engaging in harassment or intimidating behavior of a community member involved in an investigation or in the disciplinary process. o Failure to comply with any and all sanctions imposed as a result of the disciplinary process. 

Misrepresentation. Misrepresentation of oneself, or an organization, to an agent of the University.



Forgery. Forgery, alteration or misuse of campus documents, records, or identification or knowingly furnishing false information to campus officials.



Knowing Presence Contribution. Students may be held accountable for an incident if they indirectly participated in a violation. Students must refrain from being in an environment in which other students are violating community standards (such as consuming alcohol) or local, state, and federal laws.



Unauthorized Use. Unauthorized entry into, unauthorized use of, or misuse of property in the possession of, or owned by, the University or a member of the campus community.

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Vandalism/Pranking. Unauthorized alteration of property from its original condition, placement and/or presentation, including graffiti, paint, alteration to landscaping, etc.

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Theft. Taking property belonging to someone else without their permission.

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Failure to Evacuate. Failure to evacuate a campus building immediately upon the sound of an alarm, or failure to follow specific prescribed procedures, including the on-site directives of a campus representative.

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Breaching Security Systems. Jeopardizing or interfering with the safety and security systems established within the campus community, including the propping of locked doors, altering locking devices, permitting unauthorized access to another, etc.

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Misuse or Tampering with Emergency Equipment. Illegitimately engaging alarm pull stations, discharging fire extinguishers, disengaging smoke detectors, hanging or wrapping objects from fire sprinkler systems, or removing fire protection devices. Individuals misusing or tampering with emergency equipment may be subject to criminal charges.

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Fighting, Violence, or Harm to Others. Any conduct or behavior which threatens or endangers the health, physical or emotional safety of an individual.

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Disruption to the Community. Students may not engage in behavior that causes significant mental or emotional damage to other members of the community or jeopardizes the educational process of others. A violation may include a simple disruptive act or ongoing acts and will usually involve complaints from students, faculty, or staff.

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Threats. Any threatening or intimidating actions, language, and/or behaviors whether acted upon or not which threatens or endangers the health, physical and/or emotional well-being of an individual.



Harassment. Intimidating another individual through the threat of physical or emotional harm, by means of an unwelcome advance, verbal abuse, written or verbal threat, telephone call, internet message, or text message, etc. Continued harassment might be considered “stalking”, and may be subject to criminal charges by California law. Hostility or aversion toward an individual based upon race, color, gender, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation or any other basis protected by federal or states laws is considered harassing behavior. Harassment could also be considered as the creation of a hostile environment through oral, physical, written, graphic or visual conduct that is offensive or discriminatory based on the previously stated attributes.



Unauthorized Recording. No student may make an audio or video recording of any person(s) on University premises in bathrooms, showers, bedrooms, or other premises where there is an expectation of privacy with respect to nudity and/or sexual activity. Students are also expected to respect the reasonable expectations of privacy of other individuals within the University community. Accordingly, students are not permitted to make an audio or video recording of private, nonpublic conversations and/or meetings on University premises, without the knowledge and consent of all participants subject to such recordings.



Gambling. Any activity that involves betting, wagering, or games of chance for which there exists the potential of personal or financial loss. (“Drawings” are permitted when entry into the drawing is free, an entry fee is optional, or a gift of equal or greater value is received upon paying an entry fee).



Alcohol. Refrain from the possession, purchase, or use of alcoholic beverages.

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Social Dancing. Social dancing is not allowed on Vanguard University’s campus; it is however, permitted at Universitysponsored off-campus events. See the Dancing Policy for further details.

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Tobacco. Refrain from smoking on or off campus; refrain from use and possession of all forms of tobacco, including, but not limited to, cigarettes, cigars, snuff, pipe tobacco, chewing tobacco, and hookah. This policy also pertains to ecigarettes.



Prohibited Drug Use. Refrain from the use of all illegal drugs and non-medical narcotics or hallucinogenic drugs, and the possession of drug paraphernalia. Students, who possess, distribute, and/or use narcotics (including medical marijuana, misuse of prescription drugs, Salvia, any form of hallucinogens, etc.) or other intoxicants may be subject to the disciplinary process. Students present on campus while under the influence of narcotics are subject to disciplinary process, even if their consumption was off campus. Although California State law permits the use of medical marijuana, i.e., use by persons possessing lawfully issued medical marijuana cards; federal laws prohibit marijuana use, possession, and/or cultivation at educational institutions and on the premises of other recipients of federal funds. The use, possession, or cultivation of marijuana for medical purposes is therefore not allowed.



Housing Gatherings Involving Alcohol or Drugs. Persons who host or in any way assist or promote a gathering (on or off campus) that includes alcohol or illegal drug usage will be subject to the discipline process. Those living at the location where the party is held may be held responsible as hosts regardless of who provides the alcohol.



Inappropriate, Lewd, Indecent, or Obscene Behavior or Language. Inappropriate, lewd, indecent, or obscene behavior, language, music, or dress will not be tolerated. This includes but is not limited to the possession of display of pornographic and/or sexually suggestive material, and derogatory racial/ethnic material in any form on university-owned or leased premises, or personal property (e.g. vehicles, electronic devices, clothing, tattoos, etc.).



Biblical standards. Students shall not participate in or associate with practices known to be morally wrong by Biblical standards.



Cohabitation. Student cohabitation with a member of the opposite sex, including but not limited to spending the night together and/or living together in the same residence, is not permitted, both on and off campus. This provision does not prohibit students from living with family members.



Same-Sex Relationships: Individuals may not engage in a romanticized same-sex relationship.



Sexual Misconduct. Sexual misconduct includes, but is not limited to: sexual sins such as adultery, homosexual behavior, sexual assault, sexual harassment, sexual exploitation, unmarried sexual behavior, inappropriate sexual behavior, nonconsensual sexual contact (or attempts to commit same).



Nonconsensual Sexual Contact: Nonconsensual sexual contact is: any intentional sexual touching, however slight, with any object, by a man or a woman upon a man or a woman, without effective consent.



Nonconsensual Sexual Intercourse: Nonconsensual sexual intercourse is: any sexual intercourse (anal, oral, or vaginal), however slight, with any object, by a man or woman upon a man or a woman, without effective consent.



Sexual Exploitation: Sexual exploitation occurs when an individual takes or attempts to take nonconsensual or abusive sexual advantage of another for his/her own advantage or benefit, or to the benefit or advantage of anyone other than the one being exploited, and that behavior does not otherwise constitute one of other sexual misconduct offenses.

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Activism: Activism against Vanguard University community standards is a violation.

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Attitudes: Guard against attitudes such as greed, jealousy, pride, bitterness, needless anger, an unforgiving spirit, harmful discrimination and prejudice such as that based on race, sex, or socioeconomic status.

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Addictive Behavior: Student conduct discipline process may be adjusted regarding addictive behavior at the university’s discretion if the student is genuinely pursuing assistance. In some cases, students will be required to be under the supervision of a licensed healthcare professional and the student may need to sign a release of information allowing university officials to access this information.



Weapons: Firearms, BB guns, switchblades, air soft guns, replica weapons, paintball guns, toy guns in the shape or form of actual weapons, and other weapons described in the California Penal Code (Part 4, Title 2, Sections 1200012601, Section 626.9, 626.10(b), and Section 653K), or any other weapon deemed inappropriate, are not allowed on campus. Water guns and handmade play weapons must be decorated with bright colors so they can be identified from a distance as safe. Use of these weapons is limited to outside recreation. They are not permitted in academic or administrative areas of the campus. If one of these items is perceived as dangerous or intimidating by a member of the community, Campus Public Safety Officers, or an administrator will ask the owner to remove it from the public areas of the campus. Any fixed blade knife over 2 inches on Vanguard University is a violation of state law. All weapons should be turned over to the Director of Campus Public Safety or his designee and registered for safekeeping. These weapons will be temporarily stored until the owner is able to remove them from campus or will be turned over to the Costa Mesa Police Department if illegal. Students who are found to be in possession of forbidden weapons on campus will be subject to disciplinary action.

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Inappropriate Media: Students are to avoid media that is degrading to gender, ethnicity, and sexuality. Media containing excessive violence, sexual content, nudity, profane language, and degrading humor is not recommended for the spiritual and emotional development of VU students and must conform to Vanguard community life standards.

Appearance It is necessary to maintain some minimal regulation consistent with respect for one another and in conformity with civic health and safety codes. Students may be shoeless on lawns or in residence halls, but not in the Library, classrooms, administrative offices, or the Café. Swim wear is limited to water and Gymnasium and shirts are to be worn in public settings. Students' casual and formal attire should reflect good taste and modesty.

Computer Dishonesty Plagiarism There are three forms of plagiarism involving the use of computers and electronic storage of text. 

Printing two or more copies of the same research paper which are used to fulfill the requirements for more than one class without the consent of the professor(s). Some professors permit multiple submissions of papers, but others require that a paper be unique and original for each course. Submitting a paper previously used in another class, submitting a duplicate copy of a paper being used in another class or revising a paper used in an earlier class or used in another class during the same semester is unacceptable, unless students have obtained the express permission of his/her professor(s).

Students who are not sure about their professor's policy on the use of papers for more than one class should ask permission from their professors rather than turn in work based upon an assumption of what will be accepted.



Using material from another student's paper. Block copying allows the transportation of whole sections or paragraphs of one paper to be merged into another paper. Plagiarism is the use of someone else's words or ideas without crediting that person, with or without the permission of the original writer to use his/her ideas. All material borrowed verbatim must be put in quotation marks and credited appropriately, regardless of the source. All ideas borrowed and turned into the student’s own words must also be credited appropriately. Students are prohibited from transporting whole sections of text from another student's paper into their own paper, regardless of how much revision is done to the copied material.



Two or more students handing in copies of the same research paper or assignment, with each student claiming individual credit for the work. To avoid the accusation of collaboration in plagiarism, a student should not lend his/her disks to another student who might copy an assignment from the disk.

Violation of Copyright Copyrighted programs, songs, movie files, and printed documentation may not be copied, downloaded, distributed to others, or used on any machine outside of the computer labs, unless permitted under the terms of the software licenses between VU and the software manufacturers. Unauthorized copying and downloading is theft. Moreover, students with personal computers on campus are expected to not participate in software pirating or use pirated software. This includes downloading copyrighted digital media (mp3’s, etc.).

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Invasion of Privacy The files and programs of other people are private property. It is unethical for students to read, alter, or copy such private programs or files, unless they have explicit permission to do so by the owner.

Disciplinary Procedures If any student violates any of the above guidelines, disciplinary action will be taken. The University reserves the right to monitor traffic on the network, including contents, and to examine files on any systems that are connected to the network.

The IT Department will investigate incursions and discipline will be handled through the Student Care Committee of the office of the Vice President for Student Life. Depending upon the seriousness of the offense, the following sanctions may be applied: 

Completion of community service.



Payment of a designated fine. If computer equipment is damaged, students will be required to pay for replacing the damaged equipment in addition to any fine imposed.



Revocation of computer privileges temporarily or permanently.

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Loss of credit for an assignment, test, or even the entire course.

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Dismissal from the University.

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In serious cases, a police report may be done including any participating student’s names and a description of the violation(s). California Penal Code Section 502 considers certain computer abuse a crime, and penalties can range up to a $10,000 fine and up to three years in prison.

Students may appeal any decision of the Student Care Committee following the discipline appeal process as laid out in the Student Discipline Process section of this handbook.

Computer Usage Guidelines General Use Guidelines As an educational institution, VU is firmly committed to the discovery of truth, the life of the mind, and the free interchange of ideas. The University recognizes that in order for the best learning to take place, students will be exposed to hostile, offensive, and even subversive ideas, so that the students can confront and wrestle with the whole range of ideas and philosophies in the intellectual marketplace. It is therefore the position of the University that students should use maturity and self-discipline in accessing potentially offensive material.

At the same time, VU is more than just an educational institution. It is a spiritual community committed to nurturing its members, providing them with good values and an atmosphere as positive and wholesome as possible.

The Information Technology Department, therefore reserves the right to regulate or prohibit access to obscene, pornographic, and unlawful materials (such as by way of the internet) and distribution of such materials over the campus network.

Students using University computing and network resources are required to use them in a manner consistent with the University's standard of conduct. The framework of responsible, considerate, and ethical behavior expected by the University extends to cover the use of campus facilities and network resources and networks throughout the world to which electronic access has been provided by the University. Computing and network resources and user accounts are owned by the University and are to be used for university-related activities only. Computer equipment and accounts at VU should be used for legitimate instructional, research, and administrative or other approved purposes. By enrolling at the University students agree to abide by the guidelines listed herein and in the official Technology Use Policy.

Student Computing and Network VU makes available computing and network resources for use by the University's students. VU students have certain privileges.

They include: 

Use of Campus LAN, Wireless LAN, and intranet



E-mail



Use of internet

Campus Printer Kiosks Vanguard University provides several print kiosk stations on campus that feature high quality laser printers. Print transaction can be made via the http://print.vanguard.edu website from either the wired or wireless network anywhere on campus by uploading supported documents to the Web Print tab and selecting the kiosk location desired. Documents will not be charged or printed until they are released by logging in to the kiosk or remotely under the Jobs Pending Release section of http://print.vanguard.edu.

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This allows students to print from their room or wirelessly and not worry if their print job will be accidentally removed by another student. For kiosk locations please visit the web page at http://it.vanguard.edu/print-kiosks/.

Student Responsibilities To protect the quality and reliability of computing and network resources, students must observe the following responsibilities.

This list is not comprehensive, but it includes the responsibilities that students accept whenever they choose to use the University's computing resources and/or network, which the University provides: 

Student use of the campus network, the internet, and e-mail must be consistent with the mission and character of VU. VU's information technology resources may not be used for any unauthorized purpose or for any activity that is harmful, illegal, obscene, or harassing.



Students must not apply for a user-ID under false pretenses. Once a student has received a user-ID for access to the VU network, e-mail and computer systems on that network, he/she is solely responsible for all actions taken when that user-ID is used.



Students must not share or use another person's user-ID, password or e-mail account. Students should never leave a terminal or PC while logged on and leave it unattended for more than a few minutes. Students should never write down their user-ID and password. Students should also change passwords frequently.

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Students must not intentionally seek information about, browse, copy, or modify a file belonging to another person, whether at VU or elsewhere, unless that student has been granted explicit permission by the owner of the file.



Students are authorized to use only computer resources and information to which they have been granted access.

Students who encounter or observe a gap in system or network security should immediately report the gap to the manager of that system. Abuse of a discovered gap rather than reporting it can result in disciplinary action.



Students that are not certain they have permission to copy, compile or manipulate software or data should assume that they do not have permission.

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The University's policies on harassment apply equally to electronic displays and communications as they do to more traditional means of display and communication. Students must not display or transmit images, sounds or messages that could create an atmosphere of discomfort or harassment for others.



Messages, sentiments, and declarations sent as electronic mail or postings must meet the same standards for distribution or display as printed documents.

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Students are not permitted to send spam e-mail to faculty, staff, or students on campus. Email regarding official VU business or events must receive approval through the IT Department and be routed through the division or department sponsoring the event.

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Use of the network folder is a privilege for academic purposes. Students are expected to stay within the space limits posted in the main lab.

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Students must not degrade computing or network performance in any way that will prevent others from meeting their educational or university business goals. Academic work by students takes precedence over personal usage.

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Students must not create or willfully disseminate computer viruses. All students should be sensitive to the ease of spreading viruses and should take steps to ensure all files are virus-free.

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Students must not install any additional software on VU computer equipment.

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Equipment and supplies for VU labs should be treated with care. Any student who abuses equipment or takes supplies from the labs will lose lab privileges and be charged the cost of repair or replacement. Any student who steals equipment will be prosecuted under the law.

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Members of the VU university community are expected to observe federal, state and local laws which govern computer and telecommunications use, as well as the University's own regulations and policies as outlined in the Student Handbook.

Confidential Reporting If a student becomes aware of a violation of the community standards committed by a VU student or is generally concerned about the health, welfare, safety or well-being of a student, they are encouraged to confidentially report this information to the Residence Life Office at OfficeofRL@vanguard.edu.

Dancing Policy Social Dancing is not allowed on Vanguard University’s campus; it is however, permitted at University-sponsored off-campus events. These dances are permitted granting that the host has filled out the proper Dance Proposal Form and has been approved by the Director of Leadership Development and Student Engagement (DLDSE).

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The DLDSE is responsible to communicate University standards and expectations to all groups that request to sponsor a dance.

The DLDSE will act as a guide in this approval process. Helpful guidelines have been established to ensure that campus dances are consistent with the Student Handbook and uphold the high standards we have for University events.

Dance Proposal Forms are available in The Bridge and must be submitted to the DLDSE at least one month before the intended event date. This time period allows for adequate review of all proposals including evaluation of conflicts with the University Tiered Events Committee. The dance proposal form includes guidelines for staff attendance, musicians and DJs, general atmosphere, and other dance-planning procedures to uphold the spirit of the guidelines in the Student Handbook. The responsibility to uphold these guidelines and confront breaches of those guidelines falls under the sponsoring organization as well as the staff or faculty member advising the organization.

Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy Students who are suspected of using an illegal substance, including marijuana, may be subjected to mandatory drug-testing in order to demonstrate their compliance with student disciplinary contracts and university regulations. These tests will be paid for by the student. Students who are suspected of being under the influence of alcohol while they are enrolled at the University may be subjected to an alcohol blood-level screening test.

Fireworks Fireworks or other explosive devices are not allowed on the University campus. Violators will be subject to disciplinary actions and possible prosecution in accordance with Municipal or State Codes.

Hazing Policy Hazing means any method of initiation or pre-initiation into a student organization or student body, whether or not the organization or body is officially recognized by an educational institution, which is likely to cause serious bodily injury to any former, current, or prospective student of any school, community college, college, university, or other educational institution in this state. The term hazing does not include customary athletic events or school-sanctioned events.

Hazing is not permitted at Vanguard University and is a criminal offense in violation of California law. Regardless of motive or intent, any student participating in a hazing/prank type activity, which potentially endangers or adversely affects the physical and emotional well-being of another member of the community, can expect immediate and serious disciplinary action.

Vanguard’s policy is based upon the proposition that students are entitled to be treated with consideration and respect. Vanguard regulations on hazing are synonymous with state law as stated below (Calif. Penal Code §245.6): 

It shall be unlawful to engage in hazing, as defined in this section.



A violation of this section that does not result in serious bodily injury is a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine or imprisonment.

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Any person who personally engages in hazing that results in death or serious bodily injury as defined in paragraph (4) of subdivision (f) of Section 243 of the Penal Code, is guilty of either a misdemeanor or a felony, and shall be punished by imprisonment.



The person against whom the hazing is directed may commence a civil action for injury or damages. The action may be brought against any participants in the hazing, or any organization or which the student is seeking membership whose agents, directors, trustees, managers, or officers authorized, requested, commanded, participated in, or ratified the hazing.



Prosecution under this section shall not prohibit prosecution under any other provision of law.

Internet Material All members of the VU community are encouraged to practice discretion and restraint in the materials that they access over the internet. Obscene, pornographic, or unlawful materials accessed over the internet are neither educationally nor spiritually purposeful and therefore should be avoided.

Student use of the internet is a privilege which can be revoked for cause. Students should consider the character and mission of the University, together with issues of public perception, before accessing material on the World Wide Web.

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Office of Student Engagement Office of Student Engagement Vanguard University is committed to assisting students discover, nurture, and utilize their talents, abilities, and spiritual gifts. The Office of Student Engagement is a place where relationships and programs serve to support and challenge students in our community. The Office of Student Engagement encourages students to integrate their faith, learning, and living. The department provides intentional training and practical experiences to help accomplish the University's educational mission. Students are encouraged to use their leadership gifts and talents to serve the community and to make a positive difference for the Kingdom of God. Goals of the Office of Student Engagement include: 

To promote communication among student organizations and between the University and the student body.



To create effective programs that will provide continuity and maintain the momentum developed from year-to-year in student organizations.

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To encourage faculty involvement in leadership development and co-curricular activities.

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To encourage recruitment and retention of students with demonstrated leadership potential and to provide more effective support mechanisms for student leadership campus-wide.



To provide an atmosphere that challenges the student leader and provides him/her with the best possible leadership experience.

The Office of Student Engagement is located in The Bridge.

Director of Leadership Development & Student Engagement The offices of the Director of Leadership Development & Student Engagement, Coordinator of Student Programming, Coordinator of Intramurals & Recreation, and Student Life Administrative Assistant are located in The Bridge at the bottom of Huntington Hall. The Director and Coordinators work with student organizations in order to provide the mechanisms for successful and meaningful programs and to ensure that students are represented at VU. Student Government Association (SGA) Associated Student Body Every undergraduate student at VU is a member of the Associated Student Body (ASB). Active membership is limited to students with seven (7) or more units.

Associated Student Body Government The Student Government Association (SGA) is made up of four functioning branches: the Executive Board, Student Senate, Program Board, and Marketing and Communications. All SGA offices are located in The Bridge. The function of the SGA as stated in its Constitution is as follows: “We, the students of Vanguard University, wishing to provide a more spiritually, intellectually, and socially enriching environment, as well as provide a medium for an organized student voice that we may change our world for Christ.”

Executive Board The Executive Board serves as the direct connection between the University Administration and the Students. The Executive Board consists of the President, Executive Vice President, Vice President of Student Programming, and Vice President of Marketing and Communications. Executive Officers are elected during the spring semester. The SGA President is the Chief Executive Officer of the Associated Student Body.

Student Senate The Senate is the representative body for students. The Senate is made up of the SGA President, Class Senators, and Student Representatives and is presided over by the Executive Vice President. Sophomore, junior, senior class officers and student representatives are elected/hired during the spring semester. Freshmen class officers are elected at the beginning of the fall semester. Student representatives represent students living in the various residence facilities on campus, as well as commuter students. All students are encouraged and welcome to attend the Senate meetings held Thursday evenings at 6pm in The Bridge.

Dates for open meetings will be posted in The Bridge.

Under the Senate, each class has a Class Council which is chaired by its class senator. Each Class Council consists of the senator and program director. Students are welcome to attend various Class Council meetings. Class Council meeting times will be publicized by the class senators.

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In addition to representing the needs of the students, the Senate also provides leadership opportunities and coordinates the selection of students to serve on various University committees. Please contact a Student Senate Officer, Executive Board Officer or the Director of Leadership Development if you are interested in serving in any of these areas.

Student Senate: Commuter Senator (1) Two Facilities Senators (2) Multicutural Senator (1) Senior, Junior, Sophomore, and Freshman Class Senators (4) Program Board The Program Board is a group of student leaders who plan and coordinate on and off-campus activities. The Program Board consists of program directors, including each class program director, who individually plan and coordinate student activities. The Vice President of Student Programming chairs the Program Board. The primary goal of the Program Board is to provide quality social and spiritual activities for students. Students or Student Organizations wishing to have an event or activity on campus must submit a proposal for approval to the Director of Leadership Development.

Program Board Members All School Program Director (1) Class Program Directors (4) Marketing and Communication Team The Marketing and Communication Team is a group of student leaders who manage the publicity, social media and marketing for all Senate, Program Board and Executive Board initiative and events. The Vice President of Marketing and Communications chairs this section.

Marketing and Communications Team Members Marketing Directors (3) Student Organizations All members of the student body are members of their respective class organizations. All student clubs must be registered with the Student Government Association. In addition to these, there are many co-curricular organizations and activities on campus such as: Student Organizations All Nations Alpha Phi Asian Pacific Islander Club Divine Dancers El Puente Enactus International Club Invisible Children Live 2 Free Mosaic Club Student Affiliates in Natural and Technological Sciences (SAINTS) Synecdoche Vanguard Surfing Club Veterans Club Student Organization Advisors Each organization must have an advisor who is a member of the administration, faculty, or staff. The Director of Leadership Development and Student Engagement (DLDSE) must approve the advisor. All activities sponsored by classes or clubs should adhere to the following procedures: 1)

Clear dates and functions with the Program Board and DLDSE.

2)

Arrange for use of campus facilities through the DLDSE.

3)

Plan program with the advisor.

4)

In case of an all-school function, the program should be presented in writing and cleared with the DLDSE.

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To join co-curricular organizations, the advisor or organization president should be contacted. Only VU students are eligible to be members of these organizations.

Formation of Student Organizations Students who wish to form a Student Organization must obtain an application for Student Organization Charter from the Office of Student Engagement located in The Bridge. Once completed and returned to the Coordinator of Student Programming, the student organization charter will be reviewed to be approved or denied. Such approval shall be based upon the purpose and need for such an organization and the degree to which it aligns with the total University program and policy.

Regulations for Student Organizations Membership in student organizations must be open to all students without regard to ethnicity, gender, age, ability, or social status.

Compliance of each member with the University co-curricular organization requirements is important (see section on student participation in co-curricular activities.) The purpose, activities, and name of the organization should align with the overall objectives of the University. Where funds are handled, procedures prescribed by the Office of Accounting Operations should be followed.

Student Participation Student participation in co-curricular and extra-curricular activities requires a cumulative GPA of 2.0. Students on academic probation are ineligible to hold a student body office and advised to limit themselves to only one co-curricular or extra-curricular activity. Some student leadership assignments and student organizations require higher GPA standards and full-time student status for membership appointment/election. Refer to the organizational constitution or policy statements for such guidelines.

Honor Societies Many departments have honor societies. Please contact the academic department of interest for more information.

Fundraising Policy for students Students who desire to raise funds for approved student organizations (class office, ministry teams, student government, etc.) must complete a fund-raising application available in The Bridge and receive approval from the Director of Leadership Development and Student Engagement (DLDSE) and the Office of University Advancement prior to any fund-raising activities.

Occasionally, the parking lots may be used by approved student organizations to raise funds on weekends and during the Orange County Fair. Interested persons should contact the DLDSE for details.

Fund-raisers must not compete with any Vanguard University vendors, including but not limited to Bon AppĂŠtit, Founders Bookstore, and Pepsi. As decided by the administration, off-site vendors selling phone cards or cell phones or offering credit cards will not be approved to solicit at Vanguard University.

Parking Enforcement Parking on campus is considered a privilege, which can be revoked if the University's rules and regulations are not observed. In order to provide an effective, fair means for encouraging observance of the University’s parking regulations, the following fines for violations have been set: Improper parking /In road 15 minute parking violation Loading zone violation Parking with no permit Fire lane violation Disabled parking violation Reckless driving (may include speeding) Failure to stop No parking zone Designated reserved parking Other: as indicated by issuing Officer 72 hour tow notice abandoned

$60 $35 $40 $45 $75 $250 $75 $60 $50 $50 $40 $50

A Parking Citation Petition for a violation may be submitted to the Hearing Officer within seven (7) calendar days of receiving the ticket. If the appeal is denied, a student may request a review of the appeal by the Director of Campus Public safety. The Director of Campus Public Safety will have the final decision for Parking Citation Petitions.

The speed limit for all parking lots has been set at 15 MPH. Please be considerate of other drivers and pedestrians. Those found to be driving recklessly and placing others at risk of injury may have their driving privilege revoked.

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A copy of the VU Parking and Traffic Regulations are available in the Campus Public Safety Office or on-line via the Campus Public Safety web page at http://vanguard.edu/services/campus-public-safety. Vehicle owners are responsible for the information contained within the regulations.

Personal Property VU is not liable for the loss of money or personal belongings by any person or for damages done to property belonging to any individual. Liability coverage does not extend to personal property. Personal property coverage is available under most homeowners' or renters' insurance policies. Students should consult with their parents to determine appropriate coverage. The University is not liable for any injury which occurs during an unsupervised activity.

Pregnancy Policy for Unmarried Students If a student becomes pregnant, she, or someone she knows, is encouraged to talk with a Vice President, Director, Resident Director or other Student Life staff member. The Student Life office is ready to help and offer support to those involved and effectively work through the complexity of needs that a pregnancy presents. Additional confidential support through the Vanguard Counseling Center and other campus services are available, along with academic support. While some students in these circumstances may choose to leave the university temporarily, it is our hope that any student who chooses to continue in classes during the pregnancy will find this to be a supportive and redemptive community.

Residence Life Policies and Procedures The University is committed to providing a quality residential experience in a Christ-centered environment that encourages the personal development of students. The residence life experience provides students with the opportunities to: 

Pursue their academic goals



Test their judgment and reflect on their behavior



Evaluate information regarding contemporary issues in light of scriptural principles



Develop interpersonal skills through cooperative living in a community setting



Identify university resources and receive assistance from appropriate personnel



Develop quality relationships



Develop acceptance, understanding, and appreciation for diverse cultural backgrounds



Assess attitudes, values, interests, and goals so that appropriate choices can be made



Know and integrate the Bible with all areas of life

Residence Life Personnel The Director of Residence Life (DRL) supervises the Residence Life Department. Resident Directors (RDs) are full-time University staff members whose chief task is to facilitate community life in the residence facilities. Resident Coordinators (RCs) are University staff members who also work and live in the residence facilities. RDs and RCs are available for informal counseling and seek to build and strengthen the personal development and interpersonal relations among resident students. Each RD and RC has the concern that VU residence living will be a pleasant and meaningful experience.

The Housing Coordinator is a member of the Residence Life Staff and oversees all housing assignments for University residences. The Housing Coordinator and other Residence Life Staff reserve the right to assign and re-assign rooms and roommates as necessary to fill vacancies in University housing. Attempts are made to satisfy resident student preferences for housing and roommate assignments; however, this is not always controllable.

Resident Assistants (RAs) are student leaders who live in the residence facilities and are present to assist the Resident Directors.

RAs facilitate peer communications and see that a positive living/learning environment exists as free as possible of disturbing elements, which can hamper residence living.

Residence Life Requirements All single freshman and sophomore students under 21 years of age and who are not living at home with their parent(s) or legal guardian(s) are required to live in residence to the extent that rooms are available. Students who are 21 years of age or older, including juniors and seniors, may also be required to live on campus if they are on disciplinary probation. Housing is not guaranteed for junior and senior students. It is intended that Residence Life shall serve to develop Christian character, selfcontrol, and thoughtful consideration of the rights of others. Students in residence agree to abide by all regulations in effect.

All students wishing to live off-campus must receive prior authorization from the Residence Life Office by submitting an OffCampus Housing Petition each year. Students are advised not to enter into a lease agreement before obtaining approval for off-

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campus status. Having a lease in place will not be a factor for consideration of a request. On and off-campus students may not live with a member of the opposite gender other than their spouse and/or sibling (as long as sibling does not have another roommate of same gender). All resident students (and their guests) are required to observe the “Rules, Restraints, and Responsibilities” of community membership at Vanguard University, found in the “Community Expectations” section in this handbook. For more information about housing at Vanguard, please visit http://studentlife.vanguard.edu/residence-life/.

Part-time Undergraduate Students During fall and spring semester at least seven (7) units must be maintained in order to receive priority consideration for oncampus residency, though full-time undergraduate students receive priority consideration.

Graduate and Professional Studies (PS) Students Housing in the campus apartments (Vanguard Centre) may be made available to single, graduate and PS students on a spaceavailable basis. Rooms are double or quadruple occupancy. PS and graduate students are not offered the option of reserving rooms in undergraduate housing but may apply to be put on a waiting list for space-available in undergraduate housing facilities for the upcoming year. All Graduate and PS students interested in Vanguard housing should contact the Residence Life Office for availability.

Housing Term Vanguard University housing operates on an academic year housing contract. Students wishing to live on campus will sign a housing contract each year during Housing Registration during the spring semester. The amount of $300 must be paid as a deposit to secure a space in campus housing.

On-Campus Residential Areas Huntington and Laguna Halls, Newport Hall, Balboa Hall, Catalina Hall, and Vanguard Centre are the official residence areas of the University. The University reserves the right to assign a new occupant to fill a vacancy, to make changes in room assignments, and to re-assign a student in the residence facilities. Please read the section on Vacancies for further information.

Huntington Hall and Laguna Hall Huntington Hall primarily houses single males who are freshmen and sophomores and who are traditionally-aged students. The Laguna Hall's residents are single females who are freshmen and who are traditionally aged students. The Halls are connected by a spacious lobby on the ground floor which is a comfortable meeting place for students.

Catalina Hall Catalina Hall houses single female undergraduate students in spacious rooms. Each room is air-conditioned and has a private bathroom and a large closet. The second, third, and fourth floors are each equipped with a laundry facility and a study room.

Residents can take advantage of the spacious and decorative lobby on the first floor.

Newport Hall and Balboa Hall Newport and Balboa Halls are designed to house single students, male and female of at least junior status or nontraditionallyaged students. Each room has a private bath and a large closet. Each building is also equipped with laundry facilities and study rooms. Returning students in good standing are given priority in these facilities.

Vanguard Centre Vanguard Centre are campus apartments located near the University. The apartments house male and female students of at least junior status or nontraditionally-aged students. Each apartment has a private bath, closet, and kitchen facility. Returning students in good standing are given priority in this facility.

Floor Meetings and Residence Hall Rallies Each residence hall RD and RA Staff are required to hold mandatory floor meetings two times per semester. These meetings are mandatory for all resident students of Vanguard University, and are held throughout the fall and spring semesters. There is a $40 fine for unexcused absences from these meetings.

Health Insurance for Students All traditional undergraduate students enrolled in at least seven units are required to participate in the Vanguard University Student Health Insurance Plan unless proof of comparable coverage is demonstrated. The waiver form must be submitted online at studentcenter.UHCSR.com/vanguard. Once the waiver is completed and approved, the insurance charge will be reversed.

Students who do not complete the waiver will be enrolled and charged for the VU Student Health Insurance Plan for the semester. For questions, please contact healthinsurance@vanguard.edu.

On-Campus Housing Process Secure an On-Campus Housing Application from the Office of Admissions (new applicants) or online at http://studentlife.vanguard.edu/residence-life/ (returning students).

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

Housing applicants are required to remit a $300 room reservation deposit. This deposit must accompany the initial residence application to reserve university housing each year. This deposit will be credited towards the student’s housing costs. The deposit is refundable to applicants who decide to not utilize campus housing, if the Residence Life Office receives written notification of withdrawal/cancellation of their housing application on or before May 1 for the fall semester and December 31 for the spring semester. If housing cancellations are received after May 1 (fall) or December 31 (spring), the housing deposit is non-refundable. When registered, an additional $150 cleaning/damage deposit will be assessed to the student's account. Should damages occur to the student's room or common area in excess of the $150 deposit, an additional fee will be charged to his/her account to cover the expense of the damages.



Return Housing Application and receipt of payment to the Admission Office (new applicant) or the Residence Life Office during Housing Registration Week each year (returning student).



Room assignments will be made by August 1 for students with completed Housing Applications.

Check-In Procedures Students may move into their room assignment only on their designated move-in day. Upon arrival, students will complete a Check-In/Out Form, which the student must sign in agreement to the condition of the room at the time of check-in. The key will be issued at this time.

Each resident is responsible for all damages to the room they occupy (and common areas) as a result of unexpected wear. It is important that the condition of the room and furnishings be indicated accurately on the Check-In/Out Form. Failure to complete the form will result in liability for any cleaning, repairs, and /or replacement costs incurred at the time of check-out. All repair charges will be billed equally to room occupants unless otherwise noted after Facilities Services personnel inspects the room upon check-out of undersigned resident.

Check-Out Procedures Non-graduating residents must vacate residence rooms no later than 7:00 PM the Friday following the last day of final exams.

Graduating seniors must vacate residence rooms no later than 5:00 PM the Saturday following Commencement ceremonies. The only exceptions are those who have been approved for Christmas housing or summer housing. Exceptions must be cleared by the Housing Coordinator or Director of Residence Life. Students who fail to meet this deadline will forfeit $40 of the cleaning/damage deposit and will be assessed $15 per hour until they properly check out of the room. If the check-out procedure is not followed, $40 of the cleaning/damage deposit will be forfeited. In checking out, follow these steps: 1)

The student should sign-up for a check-out appointment 24 hours prior to checking out of the residence hall.

2)

Clean the room.      

All personal belongings must be removed from the room.

The room needs to be vacuumed and dusted.

All furniture must be clean and in place.

Everything from the walls must be removed Kitchen appliances and private baths must also be clean.

Students are responsible to ensure that the common areas are clean

3)

The Check-In/Out Form, completed when the student moved in, will be reviewed and signed by the Resident Assistant, Resident Director and Facility Services technician. The student is required to also sign the form.

4)

Keys should be returned to the Resident Assistant. A replacement fee of $75 will be assessed to the student's account for non-returned or copied keys.

5)

The cleaning/damage deposit of $150 will be refunded subject to completion of the check-out procedure and subject to payment of losses or damage (if any) to VU property. The deposit may also be used to repair common area damages in which individuals are not identified as responsible. Failure to properly clean the room will result in a $75 room cleaning charge against the cleaning damage deposit. The cost of repairing damages beyond the amount of the deposit will be charged to the student's account. Roommates are jointly responsible for any financial liability stemming from room abuse. Returning students who have a "zero" balance on their student accounts may request their cleaning/damage deposit be returned to them, or it may remain on their account as a cleaning/damage deposit for the following year. Cleaning deposits will be returned no later than July 1st. Resident students should contact the Office of Accounting Operations for procedures to have the deposit returned.

6)

Any personal belongings left behind after the resident students officially checks out of housing, or is left in the room or common areas beyond the approved housing agreement provisions, may be discarded by the University.

Changing Rooms Possible room changes may be discussed with the Housing Coordinator ten days after the semester has started and must be approved by the appropriate Resident Directors prior to any move. A Room/Roommate Change Request Form must be completed

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and submitted to the Housing Coordinator. If the change is approved, follow the check-out procedure on the old room assignment and the check-in procedure on the new room assignment. The University reserves the right to assign a new occupant to fill a vacancy, to make changes in room assignments, and to re-assign or remove a student from the residence facilities.

Vacancies After the deadline for Room/Roommate changes (10 days into the semester) in order to maintain occupancy in a room, students can choose to exercise the Vacancy Purchase Option. This option is available only if there is no waiting list for the given hall/floor and if the student(s) agree to pay the additional 30% charge to “purchase” the vacant space. Regardless of purchase of any vacancy, all furniture must remain in the room. 

Students who choose not to purchase the vacancy should be prepared to receive another roommate at any given time within the discretion of the Residence Life Office.



All vacancies are given equal priority for roommate placement. No priority will be given to protect any vacancy.



Any resident that makes it impossible/undesirable for a newly assigned roommate to stay in the vacancy will be considered to have purchased the vacancy and will be billed retroactively to the date the space became available. This policy pertains not only to the moving of personal belongings but also may pertain to the attitude of current residents of the room.



Students that choose to move into an empty room after filing a Room/Roommate Change Form will be required to purchase the room at the additional 30% charge.

Cancellations The housing contract is for the entire academic year. Students who cancel housing between the fall and spring semester must pay the equivalent of one month’s prorated rent. Students who cancel housing during the semester will be refunded according to the refund schedule in the Course Schedule.

At Housing Registration for the academic year during the spring semester (returning undergraduate students), a $300 housing deposit must be paid in order to secure a spot, as explained in the section On-Campus Housing Process. In order for the deposit to be refunded, the Residence Life Office must receive notice of cancellation from the student in writing by May 1 st. Students that choose to cancel housing after this deadline will not receive the refund of the housing deposit. No exceptions.

Students that cancel housing after being checked-in to a room must follow Check-Out Procedures with the Resident Assistant.

Refunds will be given based on the refund chart published in the Course Schedule. See the Housing Coordinator in the Residence Life Office for the schedule (contact the Housing Coordinator at ext. 5273 or housingoffice@vanguard.edu). Students must move out of housing within 24 hours of termination of the Housing Contract unless written agreement is obtained by the Residence Life Office.

Room Decor In the fall months students will find themselves calling this residence area home. Students should remember that this "home" can be more than a storehouse for (much used) text books, a bed to sleep in, or a desk to work at on that last minute term paper.

Students are encouraged to make it attractive and comfortable; however, the room must be left in the same condition as when it was first moved into. 

Residents may not paint or wall paper walls.



Residents may not intentionally alter any university furniture.



Residents may not use nails or their equivalent in any University property (including room walls and/or furniture).

Adhesive hangers that do not remove or strip paint can be used quite effectively for hanging most decorative items. If the adhesive hanger does remove paint or damages the walls in any way, the occupants of the room will be assessed a damage fine.



Residents may not stack university furniture on top of each other unless it is designed to be securely stacked.



Residents may not stack university furniture on top of any other object unless it is approved by Facility Services.



All damages to the room are the responsibility of the occupants assigned to the room.



Residents may not hang anything from the fire sprinkler systems, including sprinklers and pipes.

There is to be no baking, frying, or boiling of any food items in residence facility rooms, unless they are equipped with full kitchen facilities (such as Vanguard Centre apartments and some rooms in Balboa Hall).

Alcohol, alcohol containers, and/or drug paraphernalia are not to be used for room decorations.

What is allowed and not allowed in the residence hall rooms:

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What to bring

What NOT to bring

Optional (popular items)

Linens (extra-long twin)

Candles

Portable refrigerator (under 4.5 cu ft.)

Pillow

Incense or wax burners

Personal computer

Blankets/comforter

Pets

iPod/MP3 player/stereo

Towels

Toaster /Toaster Oven/Hotplates

Television & DVD player

Toiletry Items

Open-flame appliances

Small coffee maker

Alarm clock

Illegal drugs or alcohol

Fan

Multiple outlet surge protector

Firearms or weapons

Beach Chair

Cleaning supplies

Fireworks

Board games & cards

Cell phone/ telephone

Drums (in rooms)

Sports equipment (tennis, volleyball, Frisbee, etc.)

Desk lamp

Chairs, desks, or beds (rooms are furnished)

Extra storage units (such as under the bed boxes)

Laundry detergent

Large refrigerator (over 4.5 cu. ft.)

Laundry bag or basket

Halogen lamps Extension Cords

Room Furniture Each room is fully furnished to meet the needs of students. Beds, mattresses, desks, desk chairs (except in Vanguard Centre), and a dresser are provided in each residence hall room. Furniture is not to be removed from the room or the student will be charged a fine of $25 per furniture item (and a replacement cost if not returned). The beds provided by the University are designed to sleep one person only. Bed rails for bunk beds will be provided upon request of the student (request to be made to the RA or RD.) Lounge Furniture Furnishings in the lounge areas are not to be removed. Any person violating this policy will be fined $25 per piece (and replacement costs if not returned).

Satellite TV and Air Conditioning Units Personal satellite TV dishes and/or air conditioning units may not be secured to University property, nor shall the installation of such systems obstruct egress routes from residence halls, cause a safety hazard, or alter the intended design and construction of the facility. This condition applies to other appliances not described herein, but are deemed a risk, hazard, or in violation by University officials. Students may keep a free-standing air conditioning unit in their residence hall room for an additional charge of $50 per semester to defray energy expenses.

Storage Vanguard University does not provide extra storage space, other than the space within the resident student’s assigned room, and appropriate resident storage closets (NH & BH). Students may not store personal belongings in rooms and closets over the summer break.

Appliances & Cooking Most on-campus rooms were designed as sleep-study areas, not full housekeeping units. Only appliances such as popcorn poppers, coffee pots, blenders, and compact refrigerators and microwaves are allowed in student rooms. Hot plates, toasters, potpourri burners, electric skillets, electric saucepans, broiler ovens, sandwich grills, toaster ovens, full-size refrigerators or other such electrical appliances are not acceptable. “George Foreman” style grills are allowed in kitchenette rooms and areas specifically designed for food preparation. For fire safety and health sanitary reasons, there is to be no food preparation in the residence facilities, except for where kitchenette-style space is provided. Vanguard Centre, limited rooms in Balboa Hall with full kitchen facilities are an exception to this rule.

Refrigerators in Rooms At this time, Vanguard University does allow for resident students to keep refrigerators in University rooms; however, there are some restrictions: 

Refrigerator can be no larger than 4.5 cubic feet.



No more than two refrigerators per room.

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

Residence Life reserves the right to require students to remove refrigerators if these restrictions are not observed. Also, the University reserves the right to require residents to remove/unplug refrigerators if they disrupt electrical power to the residence halls.

Fire Hazards Students are expected to be alert to fire hazards and to use good judgment when potential hazards exist. It is impossible to list all fire hazards, but the following represents an effort to address the basic safety regulations in the residence hall.

Common hallways/areas must be free of clutter and/or obstacles that could potentially hinder evacuation routes. For example, bikes, surfboards, furniture, and other large objects cannot be stored in hallways or common areas.

Electrical appliances must be UL approved. The burning of candles or incense; the use of kerosene or propane lanterns or lamps; and the storage of combustible fuels, paints, or oils is not permitted in residence halls and is subject to a $50.00 fine. Students should not tamper with existing electrical equipment, lighting, wiring, and switches. Room decorations should consist of fire retardant materials. Exceptions must be approved by the Resident Director.

Students are required to observe all fire alarms and evacuation procedures. Failure to respond appropriately to fire alarms (including fire drills) is subject to disciplinary fines.

Hanging personal belongings from fire sprinklers or pipes in residence halls is prohibited and is a fire code violation. Students may be held responsible for damages caused by hanging items from fire equipment.

Room Inspections Since residence hall living involves sharing facilities with other students, a broad sense of responsibility must be maintained. The University reserves the right to make periodic health and safety inspections. The University also maintains master keys to all residence halls and reserves the right to inspect rooms by authorized personnel at any time without prior notice.

Right to Enter VU reserves the right for authorized personnel to enter any unit at any time for purpose of inspection, repairs, or other official business of which the resident will be informed at time of entry, if present. Tours for guests or prospective students may be necessary on very brief notice. If at any time there is reasonable cause to believe that an occupant is using his/her residence room in a manner inconsistent with appropriate University regulations, a search may be made by a University representative to gather evidence for use in disciplinary proceedings. The University maintains master keys to all residence halls and reserves the right to inspect rooms by authorized personnel at any time without prior notice.

Guest Privileges Occasionally a resident may wish to have an overnight guest. Permission to do so must be obtained in advance from the Resident Director. Any guest with permission from the Resident Director to stay more than two nights will be expected to pay $20 per night. Arrangements for payment are to be made in the Residence Life Office with the Assistant Director of Residence Life and verification shown to the Resident Director. Guests should make arrangements with Campus Public Safety for a temporaryparking permit if necessary. Hosts will be held financially responsible for any guest behavior that would result in fines or damages to University or private property. Guests are not permitted to have in their possession a key to the resident host’s assigned room. Campus Public Safety Officers do not unlock residence hall doors for non-student guests.

University officials reserve the right to require non-student guests to vacate campus property.

Restricted Areas University policy does not allow any individual to enter the living area (halls or rooms) of those of the opposite sex except for designated times such as Open House Visitation. Occasionally, University personnel may do so, but only after announcing their intention to enter.

In the interest of student safety, Campus Public Safety personnel may patrol residence facility hallways. After 11:00 PM, Campus Public Safety will not announce their presence to avoid disturbing sleeping residents.

City Hall Property Students are prohibited from walking, riding skateboards, bicycling, parking their vehicles or in any other way utilizing City Hall parking lots or property and are subject to fines if they do so.

Roofs of Buildings Students known to have been climbing on buildings without proper authorization or known to have been involved in defacing them will be assessed the cost of repairs and subject to severe disciplinary action (suspension). This includes unauthorized access to roofs of all buildings.

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Open House Policy Members of the opposite sex are only permitted in residence hall rooms during open house hours. During open hours, the residence life rules must be followed at all times. Open House visitation hours for each residence hall are communicated to resident students at the mandatory floor meeting and are posted in various places in the residence halls. Each resident student is responsible to become familiar with the Open House visitation hours.

Open House Visitation The University supports healthy, informal interaction between men and women and provides Open House opportunities to accomplish this goal. Open House is a privilege afforded to all residents in good standing. Open House refers to those predetermined times when members of the opposite sex may visit together in the residence facilities. Open House should generally be used for study, fellowship, and social events (such as birthday and Christmas parties, residence hall events, etc.).

The Residence Life staff monitors Open House. Violations of Open House policies may result in fines, forfeiture of housing, suspension, or other disciplinary action.

Open House Expectations:  Room doors must be completely open when members of the opposite sex are together in a residence hall room during Open House Visitation hours or if a member of the opposite sex is in an opposite sex room by himself or herself during open house hours (Laguna Hall, Huntington Hall, Balboa Hall, Newport Hall, and Catalina Hall). 

Member of the opposite sex may not lie together on/in a bed or couch. If on the bed, students (and or student and guest) must be sitting or in upright position.



Resident students are responsible to keep track of the time for when open house visitation hours is over. Open house visitation ends at the time specified—this is not the time to begin the process for leaving the floor/room/quad.

Open House Visitation hours: The Open House visitation hours for each residence hall are communicated to resident students at the mandatory floor meeting and Residence Hall Rally (first week of each semester) and are posted in various places in the residence halls. Each resident student is responsible to attend the mandatory floor meeting and Residence Hall Rally and become familiar with the Open House Visitation hours.

Open House Hours for Laguna, Huntington, Catalina, Balboa, and Newport Halls Tuesdays: Huntington Hall

7:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Thursdays: Laguna Hall

7:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Monday-Thursday: Catalina Hall

7:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Fridays (all rooms/halls)

4:00 PM – 12:00 AM (Midnight)

Saturdays (all rooms/halls)

4:00 PM – 12:00 AM (Midnight)

Sundays (all rooms/halls)

4:00 PM – 12:00 AM (Midnight) 12:00 PM (Noon) –12:00 AM (Midnight)

Everyday in Balboa and Newport Open House Hours Vanguard Centre

11:00 AM – 1:00 AM

Everyday

Throwing Objects For safety purposes, no objects (including liquids) may be thrown from a residence facility. Throwing objects from any residence facility window, roof, or balcony will result in a $100 fine and possible removal from the residence hall.

Skate Boards/Roller Blades/Bikes Due to the potential for property damage and in the interest of safety and comfort of all University members, the use of roller blades, roller skates, bikes, scooters, and skateboards is prohibited inside campus buildings and elevators, including residence facilities and lobbies. Limited use of such is permitted on driveways, parking lots, and sidewalks (with the exception of those around the residence halls and within ten feet of a building). Use of courtyards (for example, Needham Chapel, Scott Academic Center) is prohibited.

Riders shall refrain from riding on railings, benches, or otherwise damaging University property. Riders are responsible for the damages they cause to any persons or University property. Riders should use caution, maintain a safe speed and distance from buildings and people, and are encouraged to wear head and body protection when riding on campus. The University is not responsible for injuries suffered while riding roller blades, roller skates, bikes, scooters, or skateboards on campus. Failure to abide by these policies may result in disciplinary action.

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Pets University rules preclude the keeping of pets in any residence facility or on-campus, except for fish in tanks of 5 gallons or less.

Residents with fish must take proper care of the tank, and all roommates must consent to having the tank in the room. Tank owners will be held responsible for all damages that occur if the tank breaks. Residents found in violation of the pet policy are subject to fines and will be required to remove the pet from University residence. First offense is a $50 fine; second offense is $100 fine and possible removal of student from University housing. Removal of non-approved pets in the residence halls is expected in 12 hours of official notice from University officials. If the pet is not removed in this time frame, the violation becomes a second offense.

Lost Key Students who have lost their keys may request a replacement from the Residence Life Office. A $75 replacement charge will be assessed to the student’s account. Loss of master key will result in a $100 fine to offset the cost of re-keying, if necessary.

Room Unlocks Occasionally, students may become locked out of the residence room. A student who has become locked out of their room should first contact his/her Resident Assistant to gain entrance into the room. Any student that is unable to locate his/her Resident Assistant may contact Campus Public Safety at ext. 6799 or 714-715-2829. The CPS officer will request to see some identification and will verify that the student is the listed occupant in the room before unlocking the door. Students may be assessed a $5 fee for an RA or a CPS room unlock.

Quiet Hours There are some responsibilities which students living in an academic community have to each other. The close proximity of living quarters requires that certain hours be regarded as quiet hours. These hours are 11:00 PM to 11:00 AM daily. Students should refrain from playing loud music, playing musical instruments, or engaging in loud behavior during quiet hours. In addition to these quiet hours, it should be understood that the unique needs of each facility require the mutual respect of every student's privilege to a comfortable residence area. Drums and amplified musical instruments should not be played at any time in the residence facilities.

It is hoped that students will be able to work out between themselves any breach of this mutual respect for each other in the residence areas. The residence staff is also available to facilitate this process.

There is no enforced residence hall curfew. However, if a student’s overnight activities (employment included) adversely affects the student’s academics and/or behavior, the University may strongly encourage the student to observe a curfew.

Housing Assignment Changes from On-Campus Residency to Off-Campus at Semester Students living in campus housing that would like to apply to move off-campus for the spring semester must submit an OffCampus Petition to the Residence Life Office. Approval must be received by the Housing Coordinator and Resident Director before the student can check-out of campus housing. Students must pay the equivalent of one month’s prorated rent to break the housing contract signed for the academic year.

Christmas Break Housing The University desires to provide a quality living experience for students needing to remain in campus housing due to job or living requirements. Students desiring to live in campus housing during the first week of Christmas Break must formally apply for this opportunity through the Residence Life Office by December 1st. However, Vanguard Centre will remain open during Christmas Break at no extra charge. Students may be required to relocate to another room or accept a temporary roommate during the Christmas Break housing period at the discretion of the Housing Coordinator and Resident Director. Fall semester housing concludes at 7:00 PM on the Friday of finals week.

On campus residence facilities will be closed beginning at 7:00 PM the Friday of finals week and will re-open at 12:00 PM, the Saturday prior to classes resuming for the spring semester. Students should inform their Resident Director before the end of the fall semester if they are unable to secure housing during this period to see if assistance can be provided.

There is no official food service plan provided during the Christmas Break period. However, there may be times when the Dining Commons is available for food service. Resident students in Christmas Break housing should inquire about food service through contacting a representative of the Dining Commons.

Spring Break Housing Housing facilities will not close during spring break, so students may continue to live in the residence halls if they choose. One Resident Assistant per facility along with one Resident Director will be available to students during this time.

Summer Housing Limited housing is available during the summer months with priority assigned to students enrolled during the summer sessions.

Students not enrolled in the subsequent fall semester are not eligible for summer housing. Summer housing brochures are available in the Residence Life Office in March. Applications are received during the registration week in April. There is a

37

deadline for Summer Housing Applications. First month’s rent must be paid in the Office of Accounting Operations prior to the student being able to relocate to summer housing.

Work Request Policy for Residential Buildings Occasionally, it may become necessary for maintenance to be performed in residence rooms. Student residents who are in need of a repair should follow these steps: 1)

Go to the VU website at www.vanguard.edu.

2)

Click on Maintenance Work Request Form and submit completed form.

3)

If submitted by email, the resident will be informed of the completed work order via an email containing a satisfaction questionnaire. Most plumbing and other emergency requests are addressed the same day. All life safety (exposed wire, sparks, etc.) will be completed within same work day.

Policies Resident rooms are not entered before 9am unless requested or for an emergency. Technicians will announce themselves upon entering any female floor and will always knock before entering a room or using a key. Residents do not need to be in their rooms when the technician works. Doors are kept open while our technicians are within a room and a blue notice of work completion or status will be left visibly when the technician leaves. Our policy is to lock any door behind us if a room will be left unoccupied.

Emergency Work Requests The Facility Services office is open from the hours of 7:00am to 5:00pm during which requests may be submitted by phone, web, email or walk-in, as described above. After these hours and on weekends, students may call the emergency on-call technician at (714) 222-9352. Students should also locate the RA or RD On-Duty at (714) 713-5089. If a student is unsuccessful in either attempt, he/she may contact Campus Public Safety at (714) 966-6799. NOTE: The after-hours number is for emergency requests only (i.e. flooding toilet, power outage, etc.) and not for basic work orders.

Sales Policy for Students 

Off-Campus product salespersons are not permitted to solicit or sell in any of the campus buildings (including Residence Halls) unless approved by the Director of Auxiliary Services.



Student selling of a product on campus is permitted provided that the student obtains permission from the Director of Leadership Development and Student Engagement. Students may not sell non pre-packaged food items due to health and safety concerns.



Storage of products may only occur in the student's room and must not infringe upon the reasonable living rights and comfort of a roommate.



Door-to-door selling, phone solicitation, and vehicle flyers are prohibited.



All contact for purchasing must be initiated by the consumer.



Advertisements may be placed on campus bulletin boards once they have been approved via stamp in the Residence Life Office.

Spiritual Formation Department Spiritual and Social Expectations All undergraduate students enrolled at Vanguard University are required to read and sign the following statement. We encourage and expect students to thoroughly read the material below as they are committing to these expectations upon their admittance to the university.

Vanguard University is a Christian academic community that encourages individual integrity and responsibility in accordance with a biblical understanding of Christian discipleship and its social and ethical implications. The Vanguard Community understands the primary call of the Christian faith—as expressed by Jesus—to seek to love God with our whole being and to love our neighbor as ourselves. Men and women who enter this community are expected to pursue this call through the cultivation of a virtuous character, developing intellectual and constructive participation in the life of the university.

Undergraduate students will abide by basic community standards consistent with a virtuous Christian life as well as other rules appropriate to the university’s aims and goals. The university recognizes that a student’s personal commitments and lifestyle may

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differ from these standards; however, every student is expected to comply with these community standards while they are enrolled. These requirements include, but are not limited to the following: 

Abstaining from any practices that violate the biblical standard for Christian living: such as drunkenness, gluttony, stealing, causing dissention amongst community members, slanderous or profane language, dishonesty, occult practices, premarital sex, adultery, the use of pornography, and other sexual sins.



Refraining from the possession or use of alcoholic beverages, all forms of tobacco, non-medical narcotics, and hallucinogenic drugs (including marijuana).



Using discretion and restraint in conduct relating to the media, arts, internet, language, social dancing, as well as organizations with which one associates.

It is important that students become familiar with the contents of the Student Handbook so that they may understand and abide by the academic, social and spiritual standards expected of them. To read more regarding student policies visit http://studentlife.vanguard.edu/residence-life/.

If a student has concerns about any of these commitments, please feel free to contact the Undergraduate Admissions Office (new students) or the office of the Vice President for Student Life (current students).

By enrolling at VU students accept the above statement of responsibilities.

Responsibility of the Spiritual Formation Department As a university intimately connected with the Christian church, Vanguard is an institution dedicated to the formation of disciples as part of the mission of the church. It is, then, the responsibility of the Spiritual Formation Department (SFD) to oversee and facilitate these basic practices of discipleship—in partnership with other university departments—in an effort to foster spiritual development and maturity. It is the university’s aim to help students establish vision and practices for life-long spiritual growth and equip them with disciplines, relationships, and tools that empower them to pursue transformation and maturity in Christ through the various seasons of life. ‘Spiritual Formation’ is another way of understanding the journey that each Christian endeavors as they pursue the fullness of the call of discipleship. The Vanguard community pursues these ends through, among other things, communal worship, teaching scripture, prayer and service (giving).

These four communal practices have been markers of the Christian community since the birth of the Church (Acts 2:42-47) and function as unifying expressions for each gathering of Christ followers. The university provides weekly opportunities for these communal interactions through the VU Chapel and Outreach programs:

Chapel Chapel is an integral part of the VU community and foundational to the spiritual, intellectual, and social development that students will experience during their time at VU. Chapel services are designed to allow the VU community to pursue God together and learn to respond to His leading through the power of the Holy Spirit. 

Goals of the Chapel Program To encourage appreciation, familiarity and love for the Word of God.



To cultivate a heart of gratitude and nurture community through regular corporate worship.



To foster a habit of participation in communal worship.



To grow in the discernment and response to the work of the Holy Spirit.



To empower and train the VU community to live as Christ’s disciples in whatever context they operate within.



To provide first-hand leadership experience for those called to ministry within the Christian church.

VU chapels occur 5 times per week (3 morning and 2 evening services) with numerous additional Alternative Chapels occurring monthly. As an undergraduate, with 12 or more units, students are required to attend 30 chapels per semester—unless approved for a chapel credit reduction through the chapel petition process. In addition to the VU chapels (and other events that meet the chapel credit criteria), there are regular worship, prayer and study groups meeting at various times on-campus providing further occasions for discipleship and development.

Weekly chapel services occur during the following times:

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Mondays – EXCAVATE

8:00-8:50PM

Needham Chapel

Tuesdays

9:30-10:20AM

NMC Worship Center

Wednesdays

10:00-10:50AM

NMC Worship Center

Wednesdays – SHINE

9:30-10:30PM

NMC Worship Center

Thursdays

9:30-10:20AM

NMC Worship Center

Excavate is a weekly evening Bible study.

Shine is a student-led worship service.

Chapel Attendance Chapel attendance is tracked through the Student ID Card which is scanned at the beginning and end of each chapel service.

Students will be given credit for chapel attendance if they arrive within 10 minutes of the posted start-time. Attendance information is posted in the MyVU portal which offers easy access for all chapel information. Each student is responsible for monitoring their own chapel attendance and informing the SFD of any potential errors.

Full-time students are required to complete at least 30 chapel credits each semester. One chapel service is equivalent to one chapel credit. In the event of a conflict in work, class schedule, or commuting distance, a chapel petition may be filed with the Spiritual Formation Department at the beginning of each semester. Seniors in their final semester are encouraged to attend chapel, but they have no chapel credit requirement. Graduate and SPS students are excused from required chapel credits, but are welcomed and encouraged to attend.

A respectful attitude is expected at all chapel gatherings. Students should turn off their mobile phones, and refrain from loud talking, homework, texting, or other disruptive behavior. Food and drink are prohibited in the NMC worship center.

Chapel Petitions In order to petition for a reduction of chapel credit requirements, a student must show that they are unable to attend 2 of the 5 chapels each week or demonstrate other reasons why a reduction should be granted. Petitions will be submitted during the first four weeks of each semester and will only be received after the published due date if there are work schedule or living arrangement changes.

Reasons for Petitioning: 1. Student lives outside of a 10-mile radius from the Vanguard Campus.

2. Students with verified employment during morning or evening chapel hours.

3. Students with class outside VU, a disability accommodation, or a family emergency.

If a petition is denied and the student wishes to appeal that decision, they may do so by submitting new information to the Spiritual Formation Department for reconsideration.

Reasonable Disability Accommodations for Spiritual Formation Credits Students who are experiencing a physical or psychological disability are encouraged to meet with the Disability Services Coordinator in the Counseling Center located on the second floor of the Scott building in the Student Services Center. The Student Services Center may assist with reasonable accommodations for both long-term and temporary disabilities that may include a modification of Spiritual Formation chapel credit requirements. Proper documentation of disability is required.

Methods of Appeal If circumstances result in unexpected absences from chapels, students may submit a late petition to the Coordinator of Chapel and Discipleship providing dates and reasons for absences. Each petition will be considered on a case-by-case basis and will take into account the unique circumstances of the petition.

Inaccurate or false claims presented in a chapel petition as well as premature departure from chapel events are considered conduct violations and may require further disciplinary sanctions.

Chapel Accountability If a student does not fulfill their requirement and has not been approved for a chapel petition, they have the option to write a Reflection Paper for each missing chapel credit (no more than 50% of their total chapel requirement). To complete this paper, students will listen to a prerecorded VU Chapel and write a two-page summary and reflection of the chapel recording. Papers must follow the guidelines detailed in the ‘Reflection Paper Guidelines’ and submitted to the Spiritual Formation office before

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5:00 pm on the Monday after finals week. If the papers are completed and submitted by the deadline provided, students will not incur any penalties.

If a student fails to meet their chapel requirement and does not submit the Reflection Papers on time, then a penalty of $350.00 will be charged to the students account on the Tuesday after finals week.

All required forms and guidelines (Reflection Paper Guidelines, Downloadable MP3’s of Chapel services) are available online at www.vanguard.edu/sfd Vanguard University students are expected to fulfill the chapel credits with diligence and integrity in the same way they would for all academic requirements.

Spiritual Formation Offices Offices for Spiritual Formation are located on the first floor of Laguna Hall.

Student Discipline Process Foundations for Student Discipline Model of Christian Community Discipline Because we are a community, our behavior affects others. Because we are a Christian community, a breach of community standards must be confronted in case others are led to believe that such behavior is acceptable.

There are two fundamental biblical principles which direct the exercise of discipline within a Christian community (Eph. 2:19-22; l Cor. 12:12-31; l Cor. 5): 

Christian discipline seeks to maintain the integrity of the community.



Christian discipline seeks to be redemptive toward the offender.

Using the Scriptural model, we assume that most students will conduct themselves properly by practicing the highest form of discipline, that of self-discipline. Students who have violated University behavioral policies are encouraged to quickly and voluntarily confess and seek the advice and counsel of his/her Resident Director, Resident Coordinator, Director of Residence Life, or the Vice President for Student Life. This will allow a truly repentant student to voluntarily discuss his or her violation and may keep disciplinary action to a minimum. In some cases, the counseling session will result only in rehabilitative action. If that fails, then members of the Residence Life staff, faculty, the Student Care Committee, and the Vice President for Student Life will assume the responsibility to confront anyone falling short of the community's expectations.

Student Life Mission for Student Discipline Vanguard University provides a community approach to student violations of community behavioral standards and expectations.

VU’s goal in a disciplinary response to an infraction is to assist in the social, behavioral, and spiritual development of students through evaluation in the context of an evangelical Christian worldview.

Student Life Discipline Process Philosophy All students at VU are members of the campus community which upholds specific community behavioral guidelines and expectations. These are designed to serve the best interest of both the individual and the community. Therefore, each individual is accountable to other community members in highly significant ways. Discipline committees exist to provide constructive and consistent confrontation with students who have violated University guidelines.

This approach is consistent with the model found in Matthew 18:15-17, which states that individuals need to be “shown” their “fault” through a peer group motivated by love and concern, in an effort to bring about growth. In addition, the discipline committees use a redemptive and developmental framework aimed at reconciliation.

The following principles apply to the student care process as a whole at Vanguard University: 

Developmental and Educational: The student discipline process is ultimately developmental and educational in purpose. Students, staff, faculty, and administrators who serve on discipline committees use this principle as an overarching motive. Whether making decisions on appropriate consequences, or developing parameters for consequences, they realize the need to make the disciplinary process a learning and growing experience for all those involved.

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

Christian: The student discipline process is Christian in character. VU is concerned with the inner spiritual life and wise decision-making which exemplifies Christ. Further, genuine concern and love serve as the motivation for maintaining a discipline process that is redemptive in nature.



Student Individualization: One important goal in the disciplinary process is to affirm that all students are equal, uphold the same value, and should be directly involved in supporting and upholding community standards that are willfully agreed upon by all students upon enrollment in the University. VU’s goal is to provide a fair and objective framework from which to guide disciplinary procedures. However, individual sanctions assigned to students may be different based upon the student’s response and circumstances.



Institutional Integrity: The reputation of an organization draws on the integrity of each person. An institutional value stands behind every decision a discipline committee makes. This principle includes the ability of an institution to be honest and trustworthy through the efforts of its people. This will in turn create a discipline process which is undivided in aim and purpose.



Constant Evaluation: While the process in place has been developed, tested, and tried, and is binding regarding institutional policy, as a human creation, the discipline process is imperfect. Accordingly, all parts of the system must remain open to growth through the process of group discussion and decision-making. To this end, the Student Care Committee meets to evaluate guidelines for consequences at the end of each academic year to determine if revisions are necessary.



Quality Service: This principle stresses the University’s obligation to provide services in a timely and affirming manner.

It is also based on group ownership of the discipline process, which in turn enables all members of the Student Care Committees to give input concerning the discipline process in order to maximize VU’s overall effectiveness. This quality of an organization is a practical outgrowth of group ownership because diverse perspectives yield efficiency.



The Student Handbook: Among other helpful information, VU’s Student Handbook contains specific information about behavioral guidelines and consequences. It outlines the student discipline and appeal process. A copy of the Student Handbook is available on Vanguard University’s website at http://studentlife.vanguard.edu/student-handbook/.

Student Discipline for On-and Off-Campus Students The student discipline process has been developed to support VU’s community standards as stated in the Student Handbook and Vanguard University Catalog, under the University’s mission and “Responsibilities of Vanguard Community Membership” sections. The student discipline process has been created to respond to violations of community standards for on and off-campus students and to respond appropriately within the boundaries outlined in this manual. All decisions of the various discipline committees are considered University responses to violations of community standards. The committees assigned to hear discipline cases are “The Student Care Committee” (SCC) and “The Student Affairs Conduct Committee” (SACC). This section of the student handbook is divided into the following sections: 1)

Overview of the student discipline process

2)

Discipline Process

3)

Sanctions

4)

Appeals Process

Overview of the Student Discipline Process It is also important to note that in respect to disciplinary proceedings, formal rules of evidence are not followed, and past conduct may be considered in the discipline process. The standard used is “preponderance of evidence” which means that the incident was more likely than not to have occurred. VU will attempt to structure the procedures so as to facilitate a reliable determination of the truth and be fair and reasonable. SCC and SACC meetings may be recorded by Vanguard for accuracy.

When the staff becomes aware of an alleged violation of community standards for on or off-campus students he/she will consult with members of the SCC as needed and will refer the case to be handled by the appropriate individual or committee.

The SCC will usually be comprised of at least two people for each hearing. Members of the SCC may include, but are not limited to, the following: 

Director of Residence Life



Student Life Representatives



Resident Assistant (as student representatives as needed)



Appointed faculty or staff member

When assigned to hear a case by the DRL, the Student Care Committee (SCC) will confront behaviors of on and off-campus students that are not in compliance with community standards. This Student Care Committee will hear the majority of all student

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infractions reported to them by members of the community. An SCC Summons and an SCC Disciplinary Contract with sanctions may be used by this committee.

Disciplinary contracts and sanctions are used to provide a framework in which to make a decision that addresses the situation, and attempts to produce growth and behavior changes in the life of the student.

Student Affairs Conduct Committee Meeting (SACC): The main function of the SACC is to assume initial responsibility for cases that are of a more serious nature. The SCC may refer a student to the SACC if a student has serious or multiple violations of any kind.

The SACC is chaired by the Vice President for Student Life, or an individual designated by the Vice President for Student Life, and will include at least two other individuals. An SACC hearing will be comprised of two people appointed by the chair for each hearing. Members of the SACC may include, but are not limited to, the following: 

Student Life Staff members



Appointed staff or faculty members

Appointment of SACC for original jurisdiction over discipline The Director of Residence Life will determine if a community violation should be referred to SACC. If a hearing is required, a written summons will be given to the student at least two days prior to the hearing. The student will be required to appear before SACC for a hearing to determine if a community standards violation has occurred and, if so, the extent of the violation. SACC will arrive at a disciplinary decision within 10 working days. For students found in violation of community standards, a Disciplinary Contract with sanctions will be created and a written copy will be given to the student. An SACC Appeal Request form will accompany any Disciplinary Contract.

Disciplinary Process When a violation of community standards is reported to the Student Life Staff, the Director of Residence Life will initiate the disciplinary process. The disciplinary process is divided into four sections: 1)

Documentation

2)

Hearings

3)

Sanctions

4)

Appeal Process

Written Documentation Incident Report: Often disciplinary situations begin with an “Incident Report,” which requires as much information as possible.

Any community member may complete this document. Typically, RAs who observe possible violations of University behavioral standards will complete an Incident Report and forward it to the Residence Life staff.

Action in Writing: At times an incident will not require a formal meeting but will simply require a letter of warning, reprimand, etc., which will be placed in the student’s disciplinary file and given to the student via campus mail or email. A student is able to appeal this action by turning in the appropriate appeal request within 5 business days.

Summons: A member of the Residence Life staff will contact the student(s) involved to inform them of an alleged violation with 2 days’ notice to schedule an appointment for a meeting or hearing if necessary. This contact may take the place of the written summons or email. The summons is a written document that includes a description of the infraction, and a notice of action to take, i.e. meeting with RD, SCC, or SACC. Only Student Life staff may issue a summons and this process will be conducted in a manner that promotes confidentiality. Failure to adequately respond to a conduct summons may result in further disciplinary consequences. Each student involved in an incident should be advised of the date, time and place of any hearings, as well as the general nature of the charges against him or her.

Student Care Plan: At times, the Residence Life staff may choose to communicate an action plan for student care outside of the conduct process. Student Care Plans will either be developed by a Residence Life staff member with the student or at the sole discretion of the Residence Life staff. The purpose of the Student Care Plan is to identify areas of student growth based on particular behaviors and to recommend action items for students to make progress towards the desired areas of development.

Failure to comply with a recommended Student Care Plan may result in the student being summoned to attend the Student Care Committee.

Student Care Committee: Disciplinary Contract: When the Student Care Committee (SCC) conducts a hearing and makes a discipline decision; a student will receive an SCC Disciplinary Contract that will be distributed to: a) the student(s) involved; and b) placed in the student’s file to be viewed by Residence Life staff as needed. If students found in violation of community

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standards are involved in leadership programs, athletics, and/or clubs and organizations within the University community, the student can expect that their faculty or staff advisors may be notified of a disciplinary decision as well.

Student Affairs Conduct Committee: Disciplinary Contract: Students will be notified of a SACC hearing via an SACC Summons and will be required to be present for the hearing. The SACC will conduct a hearing with written notification 2 days in advance and may determine appropriate sanctions after review of all information. The decision of the SACC will be communicated to the student by an appointed committee member both verbally and in writing. The verbal communication will take place in private, both to ensure confidentiality and to facilitate a redemptive environment.

Hearings It is expected that all persons appearing before the conduct committees will present information that is both true and correct.

Behaviors, active or passive, intended to impede the discipline process, including failure to appear, the misrepresentation of information, attempts to influence the testimony of another, failure to comply with a sanction, etc., may result in serious disciplinary action. Hearings may be tape recorded for the purpose of documentation of the hearing proceedings.

In all disciplinary circumstances the student(s) should be reminded that the developments of self and personal integrity are primary goals of the disciplinary process. Also, the corrective measures are intended to assist each student become a responsible and positively contributing member of the VU community. Each hearing will include information about a student’s right to appeal the decision. If a Disciplinary Contract is issued, it will be completed within ten (10) business days.

Besides the SCC or SACC members and the student(s) involved in an incident, the student has the option of requesting an advisor or witnesses to be present. This request must be made in writing to the Director of Residence Life at least 48 hours prior to the hearing.

Advisor: The student shall also have the right to choose anyone from the University community to serve as an advisor. The advisor may not act as a witness, either of the incident or as a “character” witness. The advisor may only address the committee to clarify the questions directed to the student and to clarify the hearing processes. The advisor does not speak for, or in place of, the student.

Witnesses: The student has the right to call witnesses on his/her behalf following this guideline: witnesses are limited to those persons who have firsthand knowledge of the behavior/incident in question (i.e. eye and ear witnesses). Both the student and the various committees have the right to call witnesses. “Character” witnesses are generally not allowed to participate in committee hearings. The committee shall rule on allowing any “character” witnesses to offer their testimony. Witnesses may not participate in the council hearing except for an orientation and to give their testimony. The committee shall rule on the admissibility of all evidence.

Role of Attorneys and/or Legal Counsel: It is also important to note that in respect to disciplinary proceedings, formal rules of evidence are not followed, and past conduct may be considered in the discipline process. If the student wishes to have legal representation he/she needs to discuss this with the Vice President for Student Life in writing prior to the hearing. Legal counsel has limited roles in private university disciplinary proceedings and would serve as an advisor.

Sanctions A violation of University policies and Community Standards may result in the imposition of one or more sanctions. A sanction is a disciplinary action that requires the student to meet certain expectations and/or complete specific requirements within a stated time frame. The goal of sanctions are to promote change in the individual, provide opportunity for restitution to individuals and the community (in case of theft, loss, and/or damages), and to restore the individual back into the community where possible.

Sanctions affecting the conduct of students are based on general principles of fair treatment. Sanctions will take into account the intent of the accused, the effect of the conduct on the victim and/or the Vanguard community, the student’s disciplinary history, whether sanctions such as education and community service are likely to change the student’s conduct, and the student’s needs and prospects for improvement. While attempting to be consistent in its disciplinary decisions, the University also seeks to be fair and sensitive to the facts and circumstances of each individual case. Some sanctions may need to be more punitive due to the seriousness of the offense. Sanctions that may be imposed are not limited to those listed.

Student Care Committee sanctions may include, but are not limited to:  Warning: A restatement of the community standards is made to the student, together with an official warning concerning future behavior. May include loss of or restriction from certain activities or privileges. 

Fines: The student is expected to make a payment of charges for violation of regulations. These charges will be added to a student’s account. These vary according to the violation.



Probation: The student is expected to show a development in responsible actions toward Vanguard and members of the community for a specified period of time. May include limitations in or restriction from certain activities or privileges.

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

Citizenship Probation: The student may not participate in any VU activity except for academics for the duration of this sanction. This includes but is not limited to forensics, theatre, athletics, student leadership, or other extra-curricular activities of any kind.



Loss of Privileges: Some students may lose privileges such as visitation, leadership opportunities, living on campus, campus employment, co-curricular activities, parking, etc., appropriate to the violation of the Student Standards of Conduct.



Restitution: In certain circumstances, sanctions may include payment of financial compensation for loss, damage or injury. Failure to pay such charges may result in additional sanctions (including, but not limited to, denial of reenrollment or refusal to release official transcripts and records).



Interim Suspension: In certain circumstances, the Vice President for Student Life or a designee may immediately impose a University or residence hall suspension. Interim suspension may be imposed: o

To ensure the safety and well-being of members of the Vanguard community or preservation of University property.

o

To ensure the student's own physical or emotional safety and well-being.

o

If the student poses a credible threat of disruption of or interference with the normal operations of the University.

During the interim suspension, the student may 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 Life or the designee may determine to be appropriate. The interim suspension shall extend only until such time as the SACC hearing can be completed and other sanctions (if any) imposed.

Student Affairs Committee sanctions may include, but are not limited to the S.C.C. sanctions listed above. The S.A.C.C. may also impose the following sanctions: 

Deferred Suspension: Deferred suspension is a formal warning that a minimum one semester suspension will result from another serious violation. Students may be placed on deferred suspension for 1 or 2 semesters. The student’s academic adviser will be notified of the deferred suspension status, as well as the student’s parent(s) if he/she is claimed on the parent’s tax return.



Suspension: The student is voluntarily separated from the University for a specified length of time. Absences from classes and chapels are not excused and academic work that is missed may not be made up.



Administrative Withdrawal: The student is required to withdraw from the University without the privilege of returning until a time specified by the SACC.



Expulsion: The student is permanently separated from the University with a notation of the reasons for the termination in his/her file. No refunds are made and the student will suffer the academic consequences of his/her actions.

When students are suspended or expelled for disciplinary reasons, there will be no refund of tuition or room/board charges for the semester and financial aid may be canceled. Upon permanent separation from University housing, students may apply for a check request for any credit on the student account through the Office of Accounting Operations.

The Vice President for Student Life will make the final determination for the University on a sanction that involves suspension and expulsion. In certain limited situations, the Vice President for Student Life may impose a sanction but suspend or postpone its actual implementation.

Sanctions for Student Organizations Student groups and organizations may be charged with violations of these Community Standards. A student group or organization and its officers may be held collectively and/or individually responsible when violations of this code occur either during an event sponsored by the organization or by an individual representing or associated with that organization or group. The following sanctions may be imposed upon groups or organizations: deactivation, warning, reprimand, probation, fines, loss of privileges, restitution, and other educational sanctions. Deactivation includes loss of all privileges, including University recognition, for a specified period of time. Individual students are subject to other sanctions as described above.

The University reserves the right, for educational purposes, to review actions taken by civil authorities regarding any student or student organization. It is also important to note that in respect to discipline, a private college, such as Vanguard University, does not follow civil rules of evidence (i.e. proven beyond a reasonable doubt). In determining whether or not a violation has occurred, the standard "more likely than not" (referring to an alleged violation) is applied.

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The University is not required to impose the same discipline in all situations involving the same violation of community standards; however, to honor consistency, the various judicial councils attempt to impose the same sanctions for various violations. Consideration will be given to the specifics of the incident and to the previous behavior of the student(s) involved.

More serious disciplinary action will be taken in situations involving repeated violations. The University will assess each case based on the responsibility for membership expectations, and impose appropriate sanctions.

Appeal Process When the sanctioned student disputes the outcome of a disciplinary procedure, that student may request, through the Vice President for Student Life, that an Appeal Committee review the decision. Sanctions may or may not be postponed or suspended pending the outcome of this appeal at the discretion of the Vice President for Student Life.

The appeal is not a re-hearing of the original conduct meeting and the role of the appeal officer is not to substitute his or her own judgment for the judgment of those who rendered the original decision. The role of the appeal officer is to determine whether a new decision is warranted due to a procedural error, the availability of new information or the imposition of excessive sanctions.

Therefore, a student’s appeal must be based on one or more of the following grounds:  



A process or procedural error that was made that was significantly prejudicial to the outcome of the student conduct meeting as it affects the student appealing.

New information that was not available or known to the student appealing at the time of the student conduct meeting has arisen which, when considered, may materially alter the outcome. Note: Information that the appealing student chose not to present at the time of the hearing is not considered new information.

The sanctions imposed are so unfair – considering the nature of the violation, student attitude, previous history, impact of the students’ behavior on the community and other specific circumstances – that they demonstrate an abuse of discretion by the student conduct officer or review body.

It is not enough to simply assert one of the grounds for appeal. The written statement accompanying the appeal form must provide information that supports grounds upon which the student bases the appeal. For example; if the student asserts that a procedural error occurred; he or she must name the procedure with specificity and explain how the error affected the decision made.

To initiate an appeal hearing, the Appellant is to submit an Appeal Request form in writing, to the Vice President for Student Life within three days of receiving the SCC or SACC contract.

Review of Appeal The appeal officer will grant or deny review of decisions rendered in student conduct meetings based on the student’s written appeal.

Review Denied Appeal officers will not review an original decision based on an appeal that fails to meet the criteria outlined above. In such cases, the appeal officer will make no inquiry beyond the written material submitted and the original decision and any sanctions imposed will stand.

Review Granted If the student’s appeal satisfies the appeal criteria, the appeal officer will consider material and/or testimony previously presented or a written summary of the previous proceedings. The appeal officer may also meet with the student, any witnesses and/or the original decision makers prior to making a decision.

If an appeal request is accepted by meeting the criteria outlined above, the Vice President for of Student Life may modify the original sanction assigned, or may form an Appeal Committee made up of one of the remaining members of the SCC or SACC not directly involved in the disciplinary process, along with two faculty/staff members selected by the Vice President for Student Life. If no remaining members of the SCC or SACC are available, the Vice President for Student Life may select a replacement from Vanguard faculty or staff.

The Appeal Committee will, within 15 working days of the receipt of the appeal request, review and evaluate the original hearing and decision, as well as the information that the student has presented. Based on the nature of the appeal, the Appeal Committee has the discretion whether or not to call the student and/or his/her witnesses to appear before the Appeal Committee. If the student and/or the witnesses will be called, they will be notified at least two (2) days in advance of the appeal hearing date. The Appeal Committee may tape-record the appeal hearing.

The Appeal Committee will issue its decision in writing to the student(s) involved within a reasonable time (usually within 10 working days) of the conclusion of the appeal process. The decision of the Appeal Committee will be final and no further appeal is possible. The appeal committee may modify, uphold, or revise the original SCC or SACC decision.

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It is also important to note that in respect to appeal proceedings, formal rules of evidence are not followed, and past conduct may be considered in the appeal process. No particular model of procedural process is required; however, the Appeal Committee will attempt to structure the procedure so as to facilitate a reliable determination of the truth and be fair and reasonable.

During periods other than regular semesters (summer, spring break, Christmas break), the Vice President for Student Life reserves the right to alter the timing of the appeals process as necessary, due to faculty/staff/student availability.

Non-Disciplinary Policy Students struggling with difficult issues in their personal lives are encouraged to seek out a Student Life staff member for help at any time. Except in situations where the university is required by law to take appropriate disciplinary action (e.g. harassment, sexual assault, etc.), students who come to a Student Life professional staff member for help related to lifestyle behaviors (e.g. alcohol, drug use, tobacco dependency, sexual issues, etc.) prior to staff becoming aware of a violation of university policy may be offered support and help outside of the regular student conduct process.

Commuter Students Commuter Students As a commuter student, you are an important part of our community. We encourage you to acquaint yourself with the many resources, programs, and staff available to assist you by dropping by the Commuter Life Office located in the Bridge. Check out more information online at www.vanguard.edu/studentlife/commuter-life/ , or contact the Associate Director of Commuter Life at commuterlife@vanguard.edu.

Copy Center Services The Copy Center generates copies and provides digital printing services for the University. Examples of services include:  Color and/or black & white printing  Stapling  3-hole punching  Laminating  Binding  Cutting  Scanning (Vanguard email accounts only) Pastel, neon, cardstock, and glossy photo paper are available. Acceptable forms of payment are cash or check.

How to request copies:  Bring hard copies to the IT Help Desk and fill out a yellow order form; or  Submit electronically to copycenter@vanguard.edu  Please allow 24 hours for completion of your request Hours: 8am-5pm, Monday-Friday 714-662-5296

Food Service The Café Sharing time with friends on campus is an important way to build community. Students are encouraged to frequent the Café and Outtakes to enjoy the full benefits of residential life at Vanguard.

The University has created a meal plan program that is designed to meet the diverse and demanding needs of today's college residential students. This program can be used at either the Café or Outtakes. The Café offers “all-you-care-to-eat” in the dining room, or to-go meals daily. Outtakes offers coffee, snacks, beverages, and meal equivalency packaged food to go.

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Meal Plans The 15-16 Vanguard meal plan has many options to fit students’ schedules and offers the flexibility to enjoy meals at students’ own pace. If a student uses all of their meals for the week they are able to use their Dining Dollars to purchase additional meals.

All meal plans include various levels of Dining Dollars that will enable students to purchase food and beverages at Outtakes with the swipe of their VU ID card. Any student who is running low on his/her Dining Dollar amount may add additional money at the Cashier Office. Weekly meals begin on Monday morning and end on Sunday evening.

Meal Plans: Flexible Spending Included: Any 19 meals per week + $100 Dining Dollars per semester Any 15 meals per week + $150 Dining Dollars per semester Any 12 meals per week + $175 Dining Dollars per semester Any 10 meals per week + $200 Dining Dollars per semester Convenience Meal Plans To help facilitate a greater community experience, non-residents and commuter students also have meal plan options that may be purchased through the Office of Accounting Operations.

Café Hours for 15-16 Academic Year Dining hours are posted at the entrance door to the Café: Monday through Friday Breakfast 7:00 AM to 9:30 AM Lunch 11:00 AM to 1:30 PM Dinner 4:30 PM to 7:00 PM Saturday-Sunday Brunch 10:30 AM to 1:00 PM Dinner 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM Resident Dining Calendar for Fall 2015 - Spring 2016 Friday, August 14th Friday, August 21

Open at Breakfast

st

Welcome BBQ

Monday, September 7

th

Wednesday, November 25 Monday, November 30th th

Friday, December 11

Wednesday, January 6

th

th

Monday, January 18

Monday, February 15th th

Friday, March 11

Sunday, March 20 Friday, March 25 Friday, May 6th

th

th

Labor Day th

Thanksgiving Break-Wednesday through Sunday Return from Thanksgiving Break

Brunch/Dinner Schedule Closed Open at Breakfast

Christmas Break Begins

Closed

Spring Semester Begins

Brunch/Dinner Schedule

Martin Luther King Holiday

Brunch/Dinner Schedule

President's Day

Brunch/Dinner Schedule

Spring Break Return from Spring Break Good Friday End of the Academic Year

Close after Lunch Open at Brunch Brunch/Dinner Schedule Close after Dinner

Outtakes at the Cove Dining on the run or late at night? Students can stop by Outtakes to pick up a freshly made salad, sandwich, or hot entrée.

Outtakes offers flexible and quick options without sacrificing quality food or service.

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Outtakes Service Hours are set in cooperation with SGA and are subject to change. Service hours for Outtakes will always be posted on the entry doors.

Samson’s Café – New Venue at the Scott Academic Center This new Café with ample outdoor seating will have an inviting atmosphere and be a place for the community to gather. The Café will be open to students, faculty, and staff and will welcome local city employees in for a steaming hot hand-crafted espresso drink, iced coffee-house beverage or a quick bite to eat. The menu will be comprised of freshly prepared artisan sandwiches and salads, perfectly packaged to grab and go.

Service hours for Samson’s Café will always be posted on the entry doors.

General Meal Plan Guidelines  Meals are not transferable. Meals are only to be used by the Vanguard University ID cardholder and cannot be transferred for use by another person. 

The person whose name and photo appear on the Vanguard University ID must be present in order for the card to be used to obtain meal(s).



Members of the campus community may not loan and/or borrow student identification cards.



Participants may use their Dining Dollars to purchase additional meals for guests, but may not use meals in the meal plan for guests.



Failure to present a valid student identification card may result in denial of service.



Meal plans are used to serve as a community dining experience. Meal plan participants are allowed only one (1) meal per meal period.



Meal plans are not for the purpose of stocking groceries in the dorm room. Dining Dollars may be used in Outtakes to purchase groceries, snack items or a hot entrée, when available.



Meals will reset at the end of each week (Sunday) and any unused weekly meals are lost.



Dining Dollars carry over from fall semester to spring semester, but zero out at the close of spring semester.



Campus Cash, which can be purchased through the Office of Accounting Operations, carries over from semester to semester. Reimbursement may be requested through the Office of Accounting Operations upon separation from the university.

Dining Etiquette  Shirt and shoes must be worn at all times. 

Our program is “all-you-care-to-eat” meals while in the Cafe. Students are welcome to leave with one (1) dessert or one (1) piece of fresh fruit; anything more than that, and students will be asked to eat it in the Café.



In the interest of keeping a clean Café, guests are responsible for bussing their own tables and taking them to the dish return.



Service ware (glasses, mugs, flatware, plates, trays, etc.) may not be removed from the Café.



Dining courtesy is expected at all times.

To-Go Meals  Meals to-go can be requested Monday-Friday (lunch and dinner only) and Eco Friendly containers are available. Meals to-go will not be available for breakfast or on weekends.

Guidelines for To-Go Meals: 

Take out containers are available at the cashier.



The containers are for times the students are not eating in the Café, not “doggie boxes” to take out extra food.



Students may not fill their own containers with juice or soda, only water can be filled into personal drinking containers.



Only plastic utensils and to go containers are to be taken from the Café.



If a student is unable to make any of the meal periods due to a work schedule conflict, they should contact the Café manager to obtain a "to-go" sack meal. Advance notice must be given.

Meal Plan Accommodations and Exemptions Meal plan accommodations are provided by the Office of Disability and Learning Services. Meal plan accommodations and exemptions may be granted if a student provides a written medical doctor's statement which includes a medical diagnosis and a dietary plan indicating specific food requirements. Medical reasons are defined as a medically diagnosed health condition. The

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Café will make every effort to provide reasonable food accommodations to meet the student’s dietary request. Students requesting meal plan accommodations will be required to first meet to request accommodations with the Office of Disability and Learning Services. Then, an appointment with the Café Manager will be arranged to discuss appropriate food and meal choices.

If the Café cannot accommodate your request, you will meet with Disability and Learning Services a second time to determine an appropriate accommodation.

If a complete food plan exemption is granted, the student will be required to live in a residential room that has cooking facilities.

Rooms with kitchen facilities are very limited in number; therefore, the granting of an approved meal plan exemption does not automatically guarantee a room with a kitchen. Those students who plan to request an exception must do so prior to the beginning of each semester so that room accommodations can be made where necessary. Other absences from meals (because of being home on weekends, not eating breakfast, schedule of work, etc.) are considered personal preferences of the student and are not valid reasons for exemption from the food plan.

Diversity Policy Racial and Ethnic Tolerance in Community Life Jesus summed up the whole of the Old and New Testaments in the twin commandments of loving God with the whole being and loving one's neighbor as oneself. Paul frequently teaches that rebirth in Christ supersedes national or racial identity. His finest expression of this idea is: "For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus." (Gal. 3:27-28) In the Christian society, as in no other, the ultimate purpose in community experience is achieved when people from a variety of racial and ethnic origins celebrate together through Christ their joys and sufferings. A healthy Christian society provides opportunities for and encourages such sharing. The laws of the nation that now prohibit any sort of racial or ethnic discrimination are a fulfillment of these ideas.

VU, in obedience to Scripture, in keeping with the noble ideas of great civilizations, and in compliance with federal law, subscribes to and encourages the equal right of all to pursue excellence in their lives without racial or ethnic inhibitions. The University abides conscientiously to nondiscriminatory practices in hiring and promotions. The University expects all members of the community to remove from their behavior and speech habits, as well as from their thinking, as much as lies within them, all indications of racial or ethnic bias. Racism in any form will not be tolerated in community life on this campus. The University's statement on racial and ethnic diversity is as follows: Statement on Diversity Vanguard values were built upon the Judeo-Christian tradition and the VU community affirms the biblical view that God is creator and sovereign over all the earth, and that all people are equally valuable in God's sight.

Vanguard embraces the Bible as the authoritative rule for faith and practice and affirms the prophetic concept of justice which combines personal piety with social justice. Personal piety refers to that aspect of character and behavior, consistent with biblical morality, which seeks to be in right relation with God. Social justice refers to the state of social, political, and economic relationships in which all people are treated equitably. Because justice is rooted in the character of God, it should flower in the community of faith. One ought to seek justice because God seeks justice. VU affirms that the pursuit of justice raises perennial issues that recur wherever social groups assert competing claims for resources and competing understandings of fair and equitable treatment. These difficulties we understand to be inherent in the human condition. Yet it is also important to note an apparently inevitable tendency of human cultures to resolve issues of justice in fragmented and self-serving ways. By contrast, VU wishes to affirm that the Christian's pursuit of justice is rooted in the character of God Himself and that it, therefore, differs profoundly from the mandate of our prevailing pluralistic culture.

VU, as a community of Christians, affirms that the unity within the Body of Christ transcends any differences which might divide people (Gal. 3:28), including differences of culture, race, physical ability, sex, socio-economic status, and generation. This unity summons students, faculty, administrators and staff to seek fair and equitable treatment for all members of our community. For this reason, VU seeks to create an environment in which competing cultural perspectives are given fair hearing, and in which individuals from different cultural and ethnic backgrounds are given equitable and fair access to resources. Vanguard believes this to be an expression of Christian holiness.

VU, as an evangelical community, recognizes that the world-wide mission of the Church inevitably involves the challenge of cultural diversity. For this reason, Vanguard seeks to create an environment in which students learn the importance of balancing respect for other cultures with a healthy acknowledgment of the strengths and limitations of their own.

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VU, as a Pentecostal community, believes that the source for the transformation of all human experience ultimately lies in the movements of the Holy Spirit. For this reason, Vanguard seeks to create an environment in which the charismatic movement of the Holy Spirit leads students, faculty, administrators and staff toward evermore thoughtful treatment of each other.

FERPA Student Privacy Rights The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect to their education records.

They are: 1) The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the University receives a request for access. 

The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes is inaccurate or misleading.

2) 

Students may ask the University to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the University official responsible for the records, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading.



If the University decides not to amend the record as requested by the student, the University will notify the student of the decision and advise the student of his or her right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.

The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.

3)

4)

Students should submit to the registrar, dean, head of the academic department, Vice President, or other appropriate Official, written requests that identify the record(s) they wish to inspect. The University official will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. If the records are not maintained by the University official to whom the request was submitted, that official shall advise the student of the correct official to whom the request should be addressed.



Disclosure without consent to University officials with legitimate educational interests is permitted. A University official is a person employed by the University in an administrative, supervisory, academic or research, or support staff position (including Campus Public Safety personnel and health staff); a person or company with whom the University has contracted (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent); a person serving on the Board of Trustees; or a student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks.



A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.



Other exceptions that permit disclosure without consent are: o

To authorized representatives of the Controller General of the United States; the Attorney General of the United States (for law enforcement purposes); the Secretary of the Department of Education of the United States; and state and local educational authorities.

o

To parents of dependent students, as defined in section 152 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.

o

To a parent or a legal guardian in connection with a health or safety emergency.

o

To a parent or a legal guardian of a student regarding the student’s violation of any Federal, State, or local law, or of any rule or policy of the institution, governing the use or possession of alcohol or a controlled substance if the student is under the age of 21 and the institution determines that the student has committed a disciplinary violation with respect to that use or possession.

o

If a parent or eligible student initiates legal action against the University, the University may disclose to the court, without a court order or subpoena, the student’s education records that are necessary for the University to defend itself.

o

The disclosure is in connection with a disciplinary proceeding conducted by the University against a student who is an alleged perpetrator of a crime of violence.

The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by Vanguard University to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is: Family Policy Compliance Office U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20202

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The University may release public directory information concerning students. Such information includes, but is not limited to, the student’s name, address, email address, student identification number, telephone listing, date and place of birth, major field of study, dates of attendance, class level, enrollment status (e.g., undergraduate or graduate; full-time or part-time; enrolled or withdrawn), participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, photograph, degrees, honors and awards received, and the most recent educational agency or institution attended. The above designated information is subject to release by the campus at any time unless the campus has received a prior written objection from the student specifying information which the student request not be released.

As of January 3, 2012, the U.S. Department of Education’s FERPA regulations expanded the circumstances under which education records and personally identifiable information (PII) contained in such records, including Social Security Number, grades, or other private information, may be accessed without the student’s consent. First, Federal and State Authorities may allow access to student’s records and PII without consent to any third party designated by a Federal or State Authority to evaluate a federal or state supported education program. The evaluation may relate to any program that is “principally engaged in the provision of education,” such as early childhood education and job training, as well as any program that is administered by an education agency or institution. Second, Federal and State Authorities may allow access to education records and PII without consent to researchers performing certain types of studies, in certain cases even when we object to or do not request such research. Federal and State Authorities must obtain certain use-restriction and data security promises from the entities that they authorize to receive PII, but the Authorities need not maintain direct control over such entities. In addition, in connection with Statewide Longitudinal Data Systems, State Authorities may collect, compile, permanently retain and share without consent PII from education records, and they may track participation in education and other programs by linking such PII to other personal information about students that they obtain from other Federal or State data sources, including workforce development, unemployment insurance, child welfare, juvenile justice, military service, and migrant student records systems.

Grievance Process Students who feel they have been unfairly dealt with in any area of the University are encouraged to contact the Vice President for Student Life (ext. 5488, or email OfficeVPSL@vanguard.edu.) for Student Life issues or the Vice President for Academic Affairs office (ext. 5427, or email OfficeoftheProvost@vanguard.edu) for an issue that is academic in nature. In the event that informal procedures fail to resolve the problem the student will indicate in writing the nature of the grievance, the evidence upon which it is based, and the redress sought. The grievance can be filed on a General Petition form which can be obtained in the office of the Vice President for Student Life. The Vice President for Student Life will act to bring formal resolution to the stated grievance in the matter of Student Life issues. If satisfactory action is not achieved, the appeal may be directed to the President.

The final appeal in all student academic matters is to the Provost, who serves as the chief academic officer of the University.

An individual may contact the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education for review of a complaint. The bureau may be contacted at 2535 Capital Oaks Drive Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95833, www.bppe.ca.gov, Phone: (916) 431-6959, Toll Free: (888) 370-7589, Main Fax: (916) 263-1897.

Students can also file a complaint through WASC (http://www.wascsenior.org/comments) if they feel the University is not in compliance with the Standards of Accreditation and Commission policies.

Health Services Health and Emergency Medical Services Any staff or student who is facing a life-threatening emergency should dial 911 (or 9-911 if a campus phone) and give the nature of the emergency, the location on campus, and stay in contact with the emergency operator and the injured person until help arrives. Anyone assisting with an emergency situation or injured person should also dial Campus Public Safety at ext. 6799, or (714) 966-6799, to alert them to an emergency and the activation of Emergency Medical Services.

Vanguard University has a small Health Center located on the first floor of the Laguna Hall (x6471). The purpose of the Health Center is to supplement the Student’s existing health care plan. The facility is open from 10:00am-5:00pm Monday through Thursday, 10:00am-12:00pm on Friday, and is closed on school holidays. The following services are provided to all undergraduate students (regardless of insurance):     

Diagnosis and treatment of common general medical conditions and provision of prescriptions for medication when indicated Administration of diagnostic tests including quick strep tests, urinalysis tests, influenza tests, and TB tests.

Administration of flu vaccinations Diagnosis and treatment of common acute and chronic musculoskeletal injuries including sprains, strains, muscle spasms, contusions, tendinitis, and bursitis.

Administration of appropriate care for open and closed wounds and referral when necessary.

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  

Administration of basic rehabilitation and exercises to decrease swelling and enhance range-of-motion, strength, and proprioception after musculoskeletal injuries.

Counsel of students on a number of health and wellness topics including nutrition, regular exercise, stress reduction, women’s health, and weight management.

Consultation and referral for a number of allied health professionals and facilities covered by the student’s existing medical insurance.

The Health Center’s nurse practitioner, Mrs. Mary Darden, M.NP, is qualified to diagnose and treat a variety of general medical conditions.

In the event of illness or serious injury, students will be advised to seek treatment in accordance with their health insurance guidelines. The following medical facilities are local to Vanguard University.

Hoag Urgent Care 1190 Baker Street @ Fairview Costa Mesa, CA 92626 714-668-2500 8am-8pm, Monday-Friday Closed Weekends Hoag Hospital Emergency Room One Hoag Drive Newport Beach, CA 92663 949-764-4624/24 hour daily care

Kaiser Urgent Care 3401 S. Harbor Santa Ana, CA 92704 888-988-2800

Kaiser Medical Hospital 6640 Alton Parkway Irvine, CA 92618 949-932-5000

Directions to these facilities are posted on the wall outside of the Health Center and are also available on the Health Center Website at http://www.vanguard.edu/health-center.

Guidelines and Procedures Relating to AIDS and a Positive HIV Antibody Test VU is a Christian community committed to a historical evangelical interpretation of Scripture. This community therefore believes it is the obligation of all persons to abstain from sexual intercourse outside of a monogamous heterosexual marriage.

Some pre-marital conduct seeks to circumvent normal sexual activity reserved for marriage relationships. Such activity places the participants at extreme risk. In an effort to responsibly advise members of this community about the health hazards of such conduct, the guidelines and procedures relating to AIDS and a positive HIV antibody test recommended by the American University Health Association have been adopted by the University and are available from the Vice President for Student Life.

The guidelines are not an endorsement of any of the activities discussed therein. What is commonly referred to as "safe sex" does not address the ethical, moral and biblical issues present in a Christian community or the requirement to accept responsibility for the consequences of our behavior.

The University urges all members of its community to practice an exemplary lifestyle which honors the human body as a temple of the Holy Spirit and glorifies Christ.

Information Technology Computer Labs There is a computer lab in the University library. All students are welcome and encouraged to make use of these computers for school-related assignments.

Printing Fees There is a $.08 per page charge for black & white printing and a $.15 per page charge for color print jobs. Students will be credited $11.00 each semester for printing. Once that credit has been depleted, students will no longer be able to print. Students can always check the amount of funds they have via a dialog box at their workstation. Payment for additional printing can be made in the IT Department and in the Library during regular working hours. Each student’s student computer user account will be credited the amount they choose to pay.

Vanguard E-Mail Accounts All traditional students will be automatically given a VU email account. This is the centralized means of communication on campus and students are encouraged to check their accounts regularly. Use of Vanguard email accounts must conform to the community life standards and may be revoked if misused. Vanguard alumni retain their email accounts for life.

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Mail Center Services The Mail Center (MC) processes and delivers incoming mail and packages, and acts as a full-service shipping center for the entire University. The MC strives to meet the office and logistical needs of students, faculty, and staff in an efficient, economical and courteous manner.

Overview of services:  Sending and receiving mail and packages. The Mail Center works with all major couriers (USPS, FedEx, UPS, etc.).

Packages pre-prepared with printed shipping labels may be dropped off for pickup by designated courier.  Faxing (0.25/page).  Stamps and envelopes (padded and regular) of various sizes are available for purchase.  Boxes: Are free, but limited to what is on hand. A box specialist can assist you by making a box to fit your item, at no charge.  Letter folding for 8.5”x11”, 8.5”x14”, and 11”x17” (free).

Mailbox availability:  Campus mailboxes are optional, with priority given to undergraduate students living on campus. New students are preassigned at the beginning of each semester. Late arrivals are sorted based on the availability of remaining boxes.  Due to the limited number of mailboxes, students living off-campus are encouraged to receive mail at their place of residence.  Classwork is sorted into mailboxes as it arrives. Work from students living off-campus is sorted into a separate alphabetical by last name file and may be retrieved upon request.  Incoming packages are sorted daily. On average, all incoming mail is completely processed by 12:00pm. Large packages will be held inside the Mail Center and a notification slip will be placed inside the student’s mailbox. Please bring this slip to the Mail Center to claim your package.  Please note: The mailboxes are designed for self-service. If you are having difficulty opening your box and/or have forgotten your combination, the Mail Center will be happy to assist you.

Tips for prompt and accurate mail delivery:  [First name] [Last name] Vanguard University 55 Fair Drive [Your mailbox number here] Costa Mesa, CA 92626  Remember to include your full name AND box number on all correspondence. This will ensure prompt delivery.

Please do not use nicknames.

Summer mail forwarding:  To set up Summer Forwarding, fill out the online form located at http://services.vanguard.edu/mail-forwarding/.

Please note: it may take up to two additional weeks to receive your forwarded mail.  Only USPS First Class mail can be forwarded. This does not include Presorted Standard mail (i.e. magazines, general advertisements, etc.). Any mail that cannot be forwarded will be held in your box or, in the event that you have graduated, discarded.  Forwarding begins one week after the end of the spring semester and stops two weeks before the beginning of the fall semester.

Upon leaving or graduating from Vanguard:  Please fill out the online Change of Address form, located at http://services.vanguard.edu/change-address/  After a student has graduated, the Mail Center will forward a student’s mail for a period of six months. This should give you ample of time to notify the businesses and acquaintances of your new address. Any mail received after this six month period will be returned to sender.  The Mail Center strongly encourages graduated students to notify relevant parties (i.e. phone companies, credit card companies, vendors, insurance agencies, etc.) of any change of address immediately.

Contact us:  Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm. Year Round!!! Not including Observed Holidays.  All prices and services are subject to change. Additional services are available upon request.  Call 714-662-5298 or email, mailcenter@vanguard.edu.

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Missing Student Policy In the event that Campus Public Safety receives a report of a student that is considered missing, the Director of Campus Public Safety shall be notified as soon as possible. If, after a brief investigation, it is determined that the student is in fact missing, the Vice President for Student Life will be notified along with the Costa Mesa Police Department. If the student is under 18 years old, the parent or guardian will be notified. If a student is over 18 years old, the person designated as a contact will be notified.

Campus Public Safety will cooperate with the police department by providing any information they may need to launch a missing person report and investigation.

Definition of Missing Student During Welcome Week, VU Campus Public Safety will inform students residing in on-campus housing that Vanguard will notify either a parent or an individual selected by the student not later than 24 hours after the time the student is determined to be missing. This information will include the following: 

Students have the option of identifying an individual to be contacted by VU not later than 24 hours after the time the student has been determined to be missing. Students can register this confidential contact information through the Housing Office.



If the student is under 18 years of age, and not an emancipated individual, VU is required to notify a custodial parent or guardian not later 24 hours after the time that the student is determined to be missing.

Process for notification when a student is missing: When a member of the faculty, staff or students realizes that a student may be missing, they should follow the following procedure: 1)

Contact Campus Public Safety and report that the student might be missing.

2)

Campus Public Safety will then:

3)

a.

Initiate an investigation to determine the validity of the missing person report.

b.

Contact the Director of Residence Life to make a determination as to the status of the missing student.

If the student is determined to be missing, Campus Public Safety will: a.

Notify the individual identified by the missing student as the emergency contact within 24 hours of making the determination that the student is missing.

b.

If the missing student is under the age of 18, notify the student’s custodial parent or guardian as contained in the records of the University within 24 hours of the determination that the student is missing

c.

Notify the Costa Mesa Police department within 24 hours after determining that the student is missing.

d.

Notify the Vice President for Student Life who will initiate whatever action he or she deems appropriate under the circumstances in the best interest of the missing student.

Peaceful Assembly Policy It is the desire of the University to promote appropriate expression of views that do not conflict with the mission/identity of our unique Christian higher education community. To accomplish this, provision is made for peaceful assemblies and forums by members of the Vanguard community, rather than protests or demonstrations.

The time, manner, and place for peaceful assembly is subject to the approval of the office of the Vice President for Student Life or designee. The policy of Vanguard with respect to peaceful assembly and forums is as follows: 

Time: Limited between the hours of 8:00 AM and 8:00 PM Monday-Friday (excluding Chapel periods; T-W-TH 9:3011:00 AM).



Place: The walkway between the Scott building and Needham Chapel (or other approved locations) upon submission of request and written permission from the Vice President for Student Life or designee.



A request by a Vanguard student group to assemble or hold any event that could be otherwise construed as an assembly or forum must be submitted (form is available on the Student Life website).



Written approval from the office the Vice President for Student Life must be in possession of those in charge at the time and at the location of the assembly/forum.



Only sound amplification that is officially authorized is permitted.

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Such activities may not interfere or disrupt the orderly conduct of university business, events, or infringe on the rights of others.

If an activity becomes disruptive, the University will take appropriate action to limit or terminate the activity. In the event the area is not restored to its original condition, the organizer will bear fiscal accountability.

Persons who are not students of Vanguard or otherwise affiliated with the University may not participate in such assemblies or forums on campus. Assemblies or forums that do not conform to these provisions may subject participants to temporary or permanent suspension from the University or other sanctions as outlined in the Student Handbook.

Title IX Policy for all Students PURPOSE The Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 enacted by Congress prohibits sexual discrimination in any education program or activity receiving any type of federal financial aid. Title IX requires colleges and universities to provide enhanced, improved, sustained and consistent response to sexual violence on campus and if a college or university if found to be out of compliance with federal regulation, each violation can be assessed a fine of up to $35,000 if the Office of Civil Rights (OCR) determine that the institution did not adequately respond to reports of sexual violence. The Campus Sexual Violence Elimination (SAVE) Act adds to what must be reported annually on the Clery report, expanding the definition of sexual violence to include domestic violence and stalking, mandating that colleges and universities provide prevention, bystander awareness training, clear policies and a clear process for reporting. California standard SB 967 was signed into law on September 28, 2014 changing the “Yes Means Yes” standard from requiring having to say “No” to sexual activity to requiring an affirmative consent and requiring colleges and universities to set this as the standard for conduct.

POLICY STATEMENT The Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 enacted by Congress prohibits sexual discrimination in any education program or activity receiving any type of federal financial aid. Title IX requires colleges and universities to provide enhanced, improved, sustained and consistent response to sexual violence on campus and if a college or university if found to be out of compliance with federal regulation, each violation can be assessed a fine of up to $35,000 if the Office of Civil Rights (OCR) determine that the institution did not adequately respond to reports of sexual violence. The Campus Sexual Violence Elimination (SAVE) Act adds to what must be reported annually on the Clery report, expanding the definition of sexual violence to include domestic violence and stalking, mandating that colleges and universities provide prevention, bystander awareness training, clear policies and a clear process for reporting. California standard SB 967 was signed into law on September 28, 2014 changing the “Yes Means Yes” standard from requiring having to say “No” to sexual activity to requiring an affirmative consent and requiring colleges and universities to set this as the standard for conduct.

REVIEW The Board of Trustees maintains the right to revise this policy at any time. Any recommendation for changes and/or additions to this policy should be presented to the Vice President for Student Life for review and discussion with the University President.

APPROVAL Upon review by the University President, final recommendation for changes and/or additions to this policy will be presented to the Board of Trustee for approval, via the Student Life Committee. The Board of Trustees reserves the right to submit this policy to legal counsel for review. All authority for adoption of this policy is set forth in the minutes of the Board of Trustees.

SCOPE This policy applies to any person on Vanguard’s campus including the Board of Trustees, administration, faculty, staff, students, visitors and guests.

DEFINITIONS TITLE IX Title IX is a clause in the 1972 Education Act stating that “No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any educational program or activity receiving federal financial assistance.”

CLERY ACT The Clery Act is a federal statute requiring all colleges and universities that participate in federal financial aid programs to keep and disclose information about crime on and near their respective campuses.

VAWA Violence Against Women Act is a broad-based law created in response to increasing violence against women in America. It includes a wide range of provisions from funding of domestic-violence programs to new civil rights remedies for women who were victims of gender-based attacks.

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ADA The Americans with Disabilities Act prohibits discrimination and ensures equal opportunity for persons with disabilities in employment, State and local government services, public accommodations, commercial facilities, and transportation.

COMPLAINANT A person bringing a formal complaint or accusation against another or group of persons.

RESPONDENT A person or persons responding to a formal complaint or accusation.

COMPONENTS OF THE POLICY:

POLICY AND PROCEDURES: Nondiscrimination

Equal

Opportunity,

Harassment

and

Vanguard University affirms its commitment to promote the goals of fairness and equity in all aspects of the educational enterprise. All policies below are subject to resolution using the University’s Equity Grievance Process, as detailed below. The Equity Grievance Process is applicable regardless of the status of the parties involved, who may be members or non-members of the campus community, students, student organizations, faculty, administrators and/or staff. The University reserves the right to act on incidents occurring on-campus or off-campus, when the off-campus conduct could have an on-campus impact or impact on the educational mission of the University.

The Director of Residence Life serves as the Title IX/Equity/AA Coordinator/504 Grievance Coordinator and oversees implementation of the University’s Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity plan and the University/College’s policy on equal opportunity, harassment and nondiscrimination. Reports of discrimination, harassment and/or retaliation should be made to the Title IX/Equity/AA Coordinator or Deputies promptly, but there is no time limitation on the filing of grievances. All reports are acted upon promptly while every effort is made by the University to preserve the privacy of reports. Anonymous reports may also be filed either by phone or online, using the Lighthouse Services toll free number (855-636-0005) and/or website access (http://www.vanguard.edu/about/lighthouse). Confidential reporting is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for use by staff, faculty, and students. Reporting is addressed more specifically in Section 7, below. Reports of discrimination by the Title IX Coordinator should be reported to the University President at OfficeofthePresident@vanguard.edu.

This policy applies to behaviors that take place on the campus, at university-sponsored events and may also apply off-campus and to actions online when the Title IX Coordinator determines that the off-campus conduct affects a substantial University interest.

A substantial University interest is defined to include: Any action that constitutes criminal offense as defined by federal or California state law. This includes, but is not limited to, single or repeat violations of any local, state or federal law committed in the municipality where the University is located; Any situation where it appears that the accused individual may present a danger or threat to the health or safety of self or others; Any situation that significantly impinges upon the rights, property or achievements of self or others or significantly breaches the peace and/or causes social disorder; and/or Any situation that is detrimental to the educational interests of the University.

Off-campus discriminatory or harassing speech by employees may be regulated by the University only when such speech is made in an employee’s official or work-related capacity.

Inquiries about this policy and procedure may be made internally to: Lexy Benoit Gioielli Title IX Coordinator Location/Address: 55 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 (714) 556-3610 Email: VUtitleIX@vanguard.edu Inquiries may be made externally to:

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Office for Civil Rights (OCR) U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington,DC202202 Customer Service Hotline #: (800) 421-3481 Facsimile:(202)453-6012 TDD#: (877) 521-2172 Email: OCR@ed.gov Web: http://www.ed.gov/ocr Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) Contact: http://www.eeoc.gov/contact/

1. University Policy on Nondiscrimination Vanguard University adheres to all federal and state civil rights laws banning discrimination in private institutions of higher education. Vanguard will not discriminate against any employee, applicant for employment, student or applicant for admission on the basis of race, hearing status, personal appearance, color, sex, pregnancy, political affiliation, source of income, place of business, residence, ethnicity, national origin (including ancestry), citizenship status, physical or mental disability, age, family responsibilities, gender, veteran or military status (including special disabled veteran, Vietnam-era veteran, or recently separated veteran), predisposing genetic characteristics, domestic violence victim status or any other protected category under applicable local, state or federal law, including protections for those opposing discrimination or participating in any grievance process on campus or within the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or other human rights agencies.

Regarding employment and related matters, on a Federal level, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 allows churches and religious organizations to prefer co-religionists in their employment decisions. In other words, the portions of Title VII that apply to hiring, promotion and separation do not apply to ". . . a religious corporation, association, educational institution, or society with respect to the employment of individuals of a particular religion to perform work connected with the carrying on by such corporation, association, educational institution, or society of its activities." This preference exception also allows Vanguard to maintain and enforce community standards tied to our Religious affiliation for purposes of discontinuing employment of faculty and staff who have expressly violated those standards. In addition, California's Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) contains an exemption for non-profit religious associations or corporations under Government Code Sections 12926(d) and 12940(j)(4)(B) whereby Vanguard is not subject to laws relative to aforementioned employment matters.

Furthermore, under the Free Exercise Clause of the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States and various relevant statutes, Vanguard University may lawfully discriminate on the basis of religious and confessional criteria in employment and educational practices, including admission to the University.

This policy covers nondiscrimination in employment and in access to educational opportunities. Therefore, any member of the campus community, guest or visitor who acts to deny, deprive or limit the educational, employment, residential and/or social access, benefits and/or opportunities of any member of the campus community on the basis of their actual or perceived membership in the protected classes listed above is in violation of the University policy on nondiscrimination. When brought to the attention of the University, any such discrimination will be appropriately remedied by the University according to the procedures outlined below.

2. University Policy on Accommodation of Disabilities Vanguard University is committed to full compliance with the Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which prohibit discrimination against qualified persons with disabilities, as well as other federal and state laws pertaining to individuals with disabilities. Under the ADA and its amendments, a person has a disability if he or she has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits a major life activity. The ADA also protects individuals who have a record of a substantially limiting impairment or who are regarded as disabled by the institution whether qualified or not. A substantial impairment is one that significantly limits or restricts a major life activity such as hearing, seeing, speaking, breathing, performing manual tasks, walking or caring for oneself.

The Title IX Coordinator has been designated as the ADA/504 Coordinator responsible for coordinating efforts to comply with these disability laws, including investigation of any grievance alleging noncompliance.

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a. Students with Disabilities Vanguard University is committed to providing qualified students with disabilities with reasonable accommodations and support needed to ensure equal access to the academic programs and activities of the University.

All accommodations are made on a case-by-case basis. A student requesting any accommodation should first contact the Assistant Director of Disability Services who coordinates services for students with disabilities. The coordinator reviews documentation provided by the student and, in consultation with the student, determines which accommodations are appropriate to the student’s particular needs and academic programs.

Assistant Director of Disability Services: Phone: (714) 619-6483 Email: DisabilityServices@vanguard.edu 504 Grievance Coordinator: Phone: (714) 556-3610 x5271 Email: VUtitleIX@vanguard.edu b. Employees with Disabilities Pursuant to the ADA, Vanguard University will provide reasonable accommodation(s) to all qualified employees with known disabilities, where their disability affects the performance of their essential job functions, except where doing so would be unduly disruptive or would result in undue hardship.

An employee with a disability is responsible for requesting an accommodation in writing to the Director of Human Resources and provide appropriate documentation. The director will work with the employee’s supervisor to identify which essential functions of the position are affected by the employee’s disability and what reasonable accommodations could enable the employee to perform those duties.

3. University Policy on Discriminatory Harassment Students, staff, administrators, and faculty are entitled to a working environment and educational environment free of discriminatory harassment. Vanguard University’s harassment policy is not meant to inhibit or prohibit educational content or discussions inside or outside of the classroom that include germane, but controversial or sensitive subject matters protected by academic freedom. The sections below describe the specific forms of legally prohibited harassment that are also prohibited under University policy. a. Discriminatory and Bias-Related Harassment Harassment constitutes a form of discrimination that is prohibited by law. Vanguard University will remedy all forms of harassment when reported, whether or not the harassment rises to the level of creating a hostile environment. When harassment rises to the level of creating a hostile environment, the University may also impose sanctions on the harasser. The University’s harassment policy explicitly prohibits any form of harassment, defined as unwelcome conduct on the basis of actual or perceived membership in a protected class, by any member or group of the community.

A hostile environment may be created by oral, written, graphic, or physical conduct that is sufficiently severe, persistent, pervasive and objectively offensive that it interferes with, limits or denies the ability of an individual to participate in or benefit from educational programs or activities or employment access, benefits or opportunities.

Offensive conduct and/or harassment that does not rise to the level of discrimination or that is of a generic nature not on the basis of a protected status may not result in the imposition of discipline under University policy, but will be addressed through civil confrontation, remedial actions, education and/or effective conflict resolution mechanisms. For assistance with conflict resolution techniques, employees should contact the Director of Human Resources and students should contact the Director of Residence Life.

Vanguard condemns and will not tolerate discriminatory harassment against any employee, student, visitor or guest on the basis of any status protected by university policy or law.

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b. Sexual Harassment Both the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the State of California regard sexual harassment as a form of sex/gender discrimination and, therefore, as an unlawful discriminatory practice. The University has adopted the following definition of sexual harassment, in order to address the special environment of an academic community, which consists not only of employer and employees, but of students as well.

Sexual harassment is:  unwelcome, sexual or gender-based verbal, written, online and/or physical conduct.1 Anyone experiencing sexual harassment in any University program is encouraged to report it immediately to the University’s Title IX Coordinator or to one of the Deputies (see attached chart).

Sexual harassment creates a hostile environment, and may be disciplined when it is: 

sufficiently severe, persistent/pervasive and objectively offensive that it, o has the effect of unreasonably interfering with, denying or limiting employment opportunities or the ability to participate in or benefit from the university’s educational, social and/or residential program, and is o based on power differentials (quid pro quo), the creation of a hostile environment or retaliation.

POLICY EXPECTATIONS RELATIONSHIPS

WITH

RESPECT

TO

CONSENSUAL

All Vanguard University faculty, staff, and volunteers are expected to perform their responsibilities in a manner that is consistent with the mission and values of the University. Consensual romantic relationships can lead to conflicts of interest and become potentially exploitive when they involve colleagues in the workplace and those teaching or in mentoring relationships. Therefore, romantic relationships are not permitted between University faculty/staff and students, or between supervisors and nonsupervisorial staff or faculty members.

Romantic relationships may include, but are not limited to, a pattern of exclusivity between two individuals, physical touching that implies romantic intention or desire, actual physical intimacy, or written communication or other action that implies or directly shows a sign of romantic interest. c. Sexual Misconduct State law defines various violent and/or non-consensual sexual acts as crimes. Additionally, Vanguard University has defined categories of sexual misconduct, as stated below, for which action under this policy may be imposed. Generally speaking, Vanguard considers Non-Consensual Sexual Intercourse violations to be the most serious, and therefore typically imposes the most severe sanctions, including suspension or expulsion for students and termination for employees. However, the University reserves the right to impose any level of sanction, ranging from a reprimand up to and including suspension or expulsion/termination, for any act of sexual misconduct or other gender-based offenses, including intimate partner or relationship (dating and/or domestic) violence, non-consensual sexual contact and stalking based on the facts and circumstances of the particular grievance. Acts of sexual misconduct may be committed by any person upon any other person, regardless of the sex, gender, sexual orientation and/or gender identity of those involved.

Violations include: i.

Sexual Harassment (as defined in section b above)

1

 

A professor insists that a student have sex with him/her in exchange for a good grade. This is harassment regardless of whether the student accedes to the request.

     

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ii.

Non-Consensual Sexual Intercourse Defined as:  any sexual penetration or intercourse (anal, oral or vaginal)  however slight  with any object  by a person upon another person  that is without consent and/or by force Sexual penetration includes vaginal or anal penetration by a penis, tongue, finger or object, or oral copulation by mouth to genital contact or genital to mouth contact.

iii.

Non-Consensual Sexual Contact2 Defined as:  any intentional sexual touching  however slight  with any object  by a person upon another person  that is without consent and/or by force Sexual touching includes any bodily contact with the breasts, groin, genitals, mouth or other bodily orifice of another individual, or any other bodily contact in a sexual manner.

iv.

Sexual Exploitation Sexual Exploitation refers to a situation in which a person takes non-consensual or abusive sexual advantage of another, and situations in which the conduct does not fall within the definitions of Sexual Harassment, Non-Consensual Sexual Intercourse or Non-Consensual Sexual Contact. Examples of sexual exploitation include, but are not limited to:  Sexual voyeurism (such as watching a person undressing, using the bathroom or engaged in sexual acts without the consent of the person observed)  Taking pictures or video or audio recording another in a sexual act, or in any other private activity without the consent of all involved in the activity, or exceeding the boundaries of consent (such as allowing another person to hide in a closet and observe sexual activity, or disseminating sexual pictures without the photographed person’s consent)  Prostitution  Sexual exploitation also includes engaging in sexual activity with another person while knowingly infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or other sexually transmitted disease (STD) and without informing the other person of the infection, and further includes administering alcohol or drugs (such as “date rape” drugs) to another person without his or her knowledge or consent

v.

Consent3 Vanguard University seeks to provide a safe and caring environment which is set apart by the mission and values of the University. Each person who has chosen to engage in Vanguard University’s community has affirmed that he or she is willing to uphold the community standards. These standards may be found in the Student Handbook (http://www.vanguard.edu/studentlife/student-handbook/), and the Code of Conduct

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Policies and Procedures for Faculty and Staff members. This policy does not serve to nullify the community standards, rather it is intended to protect and guide those affected by sexual misconduct and discrimination.

Consent is knowing, voluntary and clear permission by word or action, to engage in mutually agreed upon sexual activity. Since individuals may experience the same interaction in different ways, it is the responsibility of each party to make certain that the other has consented before engaging in the activity. For consent to be valid, there must be a clear expression in words or actions that the other individual consented to that specific sexual conduct.

A person cannot consent if he or she is unable to understand what is happening or is disoriented, helpless, asleep or unconscious for any reason, including due to alcohol or other drugs. An individual who engages in sexual activity when the individual knows, or should know, that the other person is physically or mentally incapacitated has violated this policy.

It is not an excuse that the individual responding party of sexual misconduct was intoxicated and, therefore, did not realize the incapacity of the other. Incapacitation is defined as a state where someone cannot make rational, reasonable decisions because they lack the capacity to give knowing consent (e.g., to understand the “who, what, when, where, why or how” of their sexual interaction). This policy also covers a person whose incapacity results from mental disability, involuntary physical restraint and/or from the taking of incapacitating drugs.

Consent to some sexual contact (such as kissing or fondling) cannot be presumed to be consent for other sexual activity (such as intercourse). A current or previous dating relationship is not sufficient to constitute consent. The existence of consent is based on the totality of the circumstances, including the context in which the alleged incident occurred and any similar previous patterns that may be evidenced. Silence or the absence of resistance alone is not consent. A person can withdraw consent at any time during sexual activity by expressing in words or actions that he or she no longer wants the act to continue, and, if that happens, the other person must stop immediately.

In California, a minor (meaning a person under the age of 18 years) cannot consent to sexual activity. This means that sexual contact by an adult with a person younger than 18 years old is a crime, as well as a violation of this policy, even if the minor wanted to engage in the act.

4. Other Civil Rights Offenses, When the Act is Based Upon the Status of a Protected Class    

  

Threatening or causing physical harm, extreme verbal abuse or other conduct which threatens or endangers the health or safety of any person on the basis of their actual or perceived membership in a protected class Discrimination, defined as actions that deprive other members of the community of educational or employment access, benefits or opportunities on the basis of their actual or perceived membership in a protected class Intimidation, defined as implied threats or acts that cause an unreasonable fear of harm in another on the basis of actual or perceived membership in a protected class Hazing, defined as acts likely to cause physical or psychological harm or social ostracism to any person within the University community, when related to the admission, initiation, pledging, joining, or any other group-affiliation activity (as defined further in the hazing policy) on the basis of actual or perceived membership in a protected class; hazing is also illegal under California State law and prohibited by University policy Bullying, defined as repeated and/or severe aggressive behavior likely to intimidate or intentionally hurt, control or diminish another person, physically or mentally on the basis of actual or perceived membership in a protected class Violence between those in an intimate relationship to each other on the basis of actual or perceived membership in a protected class (this includes romantic relationships, dating, domestic4 and/or relationship violence)5 Stalking6, defined as a course of conduct directed at a specific person on the basis of actual or perceived membership in a protected class that is unwelcome and would cause a reasonable person to feel fear 7

The State of California defines domestic violence as when a person’s current or former spouse, boyfriend/girlfriend, someone who have a child in common with, someone you live(d) with or someone you are related to through blood or marriage does one of the following: causes or attempts to cause the person physically injury, assaults the person; makes the person or another person fear they are in immediate danger of serious, physical injury, molests attacks, strikes, batters (uses force), or stalks the person; threatens or harasses the person-either in person or through phone calls, email, etc.; destroys personal property; and/or disturbs the peace,, which is applicable to criminal prosecutions for domestic violence in California, but may differ from the definition used on campus to address policy violations.

4

5

 

Employee A has been in an intimate relationship with Employee B for over a year; Employee A punches Employee B in the face during an argument (Dating Violence).

Student A has been in an intimate relationship with Student B for over a year; Students A & B live together. During an argument, Student A shoves Student B to the ground (Domestic Violence).

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

Any other University rules, when a violation is motivated by the actual or perceived membership of the victim on the basis of sex or gender or in a protected class, may be pursued using this policy and process.

Sanctions for the above-listed “Other Civil Rights Behaviors” behaviors range from reprimand up through and including expulsion (students) or termination of employment.

5. Retaliation Retaliation is defined as any adverse action taken against a person participating in a protected activity because of their participation in that protected activity. Retaliation against an individual for alleging harassment, supporting a party bringing a grievance or for assisting in providing information relevant to a claim of harassment is a serious violation of University policy and will be treated as another possible instance of harassment or discrimination. Acts of alleged retaliation should be reported immediately to the Title IX Coordinator or to a member of the Equity Grievance Panel (see page 13) and will be promptly investigated. Vanguard is prepared to take appropriate steps to protect individuals who fear that they may be subjected to retaliation.

6. Remedial Action Vanguard University will implement initial remedial and responsive and/or protective actions upon notice of alleged harassment, retaliation and/or discrimination. Such actions could include but are not limited to: no contact orders, providing counseling and/or medial services, academic support, living arrangement adjustments, providing a campus escort, academic or work schedule and assignment accommodations, safety planning, referral to campus and community support resources.

Vanguard will take additional prompt remedial and/or disciplinary action with respect to any member of the community, guest or visitor who has been found to engage in harassing or discriminatory behavior or retaliation. Procedures for handling reported incidents are fully described below. Deliberately false and/or malicious accusations of harassment, as opposed to grievances which, even if erroneous, are made in good faith, are just as serious an offense as harassment and will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action.

7. Confidentiality and Reporting of Offenses under This Policy Vanguard has decided to adopt a policy that defines all employees as mandatory reporters. If you learn about sexual harassment, discrimination or sexual assault, you are expected to promptly contact the campus Title IX Coordinator, Deputies or the Director of Human Resources. The Title IX Coordinator will take responsibility for informing appropriate university officials and activating the process. Other serious crimes covered by the Clery Act (defined in Attachment 1) must be reported to the Department of Campus Public Safety.

The Clery Act requires that CSA’s Campus Security Authorities report all Clery Act crimes to the Campus Public Safety office.

The definition of “Campus Security Authority”, according the federal law, is as follows: “An official of an institution who has significant responsibility for student and campus activities, including, but not limited to, student housing, student discipline, and campus judicial proceedings.” For example, a dean of students who oversees student housing, a student center, or student extracurricular activities, has significant responsibility for student and campus activities. Similarly, a director of athletics, team coach, and faculty advisor to a student group also have significant responsibility for student and campus activities. A single teaching faculty member is unlikely to have significant responsibility for student and campus activities, except when serving as an advisor to a student group. A physician in a campus health center or a counselor in a counseling center whose only responsibility is to provide care to students are unlikely to have significant responsibility for student and campus activities. Also, clerical staff is unlikely to have significant responsibility for student and campus activities.

6

The State of California defines stalking as willfully, maliciously and repeatedly following or harassing another person; making credible threats against that person with the specific intent to place that individual in reasonable fear for his/her safety or for the safety of his/her immediate family; that a protective order was in effect at the time of the alleged illegal conduct, prohibiting from engaging in such conduct, which is applicable to criminal prosecutions for stalking in California, but may differ from the definition used on campus to address policy violations.

7

 

Employee A recently ended an intimate relationship with Employee B. For the past three weeks, B has been sending A 100 text messages per day and waits by A’s car at the end of each day to beg and plead with her to take him back. When she refuses, he loses control, makes threatening gestures, and tells her she will regret this. Employee A indicates she is fearful of what B might do to her (Stalking).

Mark is a student on campus who has always been fascinated by women who dye their hair. One day, he notices MaryLou, whose hair is dyed a very bright purple. He follows her home to see where she lives, and begins to track her history, actions and movements online. His fascination increases to the point where he follows her frequently on campus, takes pictures of her without her permission, and spies through her window at night with a long-range camera lens. He wants to have her beautiful purple hair for his own, so that he can stroke it whenever he wants.

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When reporting sexual harassment or discrimination or sexual assault, the reporter may initially be able to omit personally identifiable information (the name of the complainant the name of the respondent and other identifying details about witnesses, location, etc.). The Title IX Coordinator, Deputies or Director of Human Resources will guide the reporter with regards to how much detail is needed in an initial report. Subsequent to an initial report, the Title IX Coordinator, Deputies or Director of Human Resources may need additional information in order to fulfill the university’s obligations under Title IX. In taking these subsequent actions, the university will always be guided by the goals of empowering the complainant and allowing the complainant to retain as much control over the process as possible, but no employee (other than counselors and health care providers) can or should promise confidentiality. Licensed counselors providing counseling services, health service providers and the Dean of Spiritual Formation are voluntary reporters, not mandated by law, but university policy creates an expectation to report non-personally identifiable information unless the reporter believes doing so would cause harm to the complainant. The following describes the three reporting options at Vanguard: a.

Confidential Reporting If a reporting party would like the details of an incident to be kept confidential, the reporting party may speak with oncampus counselors working in the university’s counseling center, the Dean of Spiritual Formation, the Employee Assistance Program (for employees), off-campus local rape crisis counselors, domestic violence resources, local or state assistance agencies who will maintain confidentiality except in extreme cases of immediacy of threat or danger or abuse of a minor. On campus resources are available free of charge and can be seen on an emergency basis during normal business hours. These individuals will submit anonymous statistical information for Clery Act purposes unless they believe it would be harmful to their client, patient or parishioner.

b.

Private Reporting Those seeking to report misconduct may seek advice from the Title IX Coordinator, Deputies or the Director of Human Resources to determine the appropriate response. If a reporting party is unsure of someone’s duties and ability to maintain privacy, ask them before talking to them. They will be able to explain and help a reporting party to make decisions about who is in the best position to help. If personally identifiable information is shared, it will be shared with as few people as possible and all efforts will be made to protect privacy to the greatest possible extent.

c.

Formal Reporting Options Parties bringing a grievance are encouraged to speak to University officials, such as the Title IX Coordinator, Vice President for Student Life, or Campus Public Safety, to make formal reports of incidents of sexual misconduct. Parties bringing a grievance have the right, and can expect, to have grievances taken seriously by the University when formally reported, and to have those incidents investigated and properly resolved through these procedures. Formal reporting still affords privacy to the reporter, and only a small group of officials who need to know will be told. Information will be shared as necessary with investigators, witnesses and the responding party. The circle of people with this knowledge will be kept as tight as possible to preserve a party bringing a grievance’s rights and privacy. Additionally, safe and anonymous reports, which may or may not trigger an investigation based upon the information provided, can be made by victims and/or third parties either by phone or online, using the Lighthouse Services toll free number (855-6360005) and/or website access (http://www.vanguard.edu/about/lighthouse). Confidential reporting is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for use by staff, faculty, and students.

8. Federal Timely Warning Obligations Complainants of sexual misconduct should be aware that University administrators must issue timely warnings for incidents reported to them that pose a substantial threat of bodily harm or danger to members of the campus community. The University will make every effort to ensure that a complainants name and other identifying information is not disclosed, while still providing enough information for community members to make safety decisions in light of the potential danger.

The issuing of timely warnings about Clery Act crimes which pose a serious or ongoing threat to students and employees.

Institutions must provide timely warnings in a manner likely to reach all members of the campus community. Timely warnings are limited to those crimes an institution is required to report and include in its Annual Security Report (ASR). There are differences between what constitutes a timely warning and an emergency notification; however, both systems are in place to safeguard students and campus employees.

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EQUITY GRIEVANCE PROCESS FOR RESOLVING GRIEVANCES OF HARASSMENT, SEXUAL MISCONDUCT AND OTHER FORMS OF DISCRIMINATION Vanguard University will act on any formal or informal grievance or notice of violation of the policy on Equal Opportunity, Harassment and Nondiscrimination, that is received by the Title IX Coordinator, a member of the Equity Grievance Panel, or a member of the administration.

The procedures described below will apply to all grievances involving students, staff or faculty members. Redress and requests for responsive actions for grievances brought involving non-members of the community are also covered by these procedures.

1. Equity Grievance Panel (EGP) Members of the EGP are announced in an annual distribution of this policy to campus, prospective students, their parents and prospective employees. The list of members and a description of the panel can be found at www.vanguard.edu/EGP. Members of the EGP are trained in all aspects of the grievance process, and can serve in any of the following roles, at the direction of the Title IX Coordinator:      

To provide sensitive intake and initial counseling of grievances To serve in a mediation role in conflict resolution To investigate grievances To act as advisors to those involved in grievances To serve on hearing panels for grievances To serve on appeal panels for grievances

EGP members also recommend proactive policies, and serve in an educative role for the community. The President, in consultation with the Title IX Coordinator, appoints the panel, which reports to the Title IX Coordinator. EGP members receive annual training organized by the Title IX Coordinator including a review of University policies and procedures, so that they are able to provide accurate information to members of the community. All EGP members are required to attend this annual training.

The Equity Grievance Panel includes:      

One Chair One Administrative Hearing Officer who is an ex officio member and serves as Chair of grievance panel hearings for grievances involving student responding parties [Vice President for Student Life or designee] At least 1 member of the academic administration At least 3 members of the faculty At least 6 members of the staff At least 1 representative from Athletics

Panel members are usually appointed to three-year terms. Appointments to the EGP should be made with attention to representation of groups protected by the harassment and non-discrimination policy. Individuals who are interested in serving on the EGP are encouraged to contact the Title IX Coordinator.

2. Filing a grievance Any member of the community, guest or visitor who believes that the policy on Equal Opportunity, Harassment and Nondiscrimination has been violated should contact the Title IX Coordinator or a member of the EGP. It is also possible for employees to notify a supervisor, or for students to notify an administrative advisor or faculty member, or any member of the community may contact Campus Public Safety. These individuals will in turn notify the Title IX Coordinator. The University website also includes a reporting form at www.vanguard.edu/EGPGrievanceForm which may serve to initiate a grievance.

All employees receiving reports of a potential violation of University policy are expected to promptly contact the Title IX Coordinator, within 24 hours of becoming aware of a report or incident. All initial contacts will be treated with the maximum possible privacy: specific information on any grievances received by any party will be reported to the Title IX Coordinator, but, subject to the University’s obligation to redress violations, every effort will be made to maintain the privacy of those initiating a report of a grievance. In all cases, Vanguard will give consideration to the party bringing a grievance with respect to how the

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grievance is pursued, but reserves the right, when necessary to protect the community, to investigate and pursue a resolution when an alleged victim chooses not to initiate or participate in a formal grievance.

3. Grievance Intake Following receipt of notice or a grievance, the Title IX Coordinator8 will communicate the process to the complainant.

Normally, within two (2) business days, an initial determination is made whether a policy violation may have occurred and/or whether conflict resolution might be appropriate. If the grievance does not appear to allege a policy violation or if conflict resolution is desired by the party bringing a grievance, and appears appropriate given the nature of the alleged behavior, then the grievance does not proceed to investigation.

A full investigation will necessarily be pursued if there is evidence of a pattern of misconduct or a perceived threat of further harm to the community or any of its members. The University aims to complete all investigations within a sixty (60) calendar day time period, which can be extended as necessary for appropriate cause by the Title IX Coordinator with notice to the parties.

4. Investigation If a party bringing a grievance wishes to pursue a formal grievance or if the University, based on the alleged policy violation, wishes to pursue a formal grievance, then the Title IX Coordinator appoints EGP members to conduct the investigation, usually within two (2) business days of determining that a grievance should proceed. Investigation of grievances brought directly by those alleging harm should be completed expeditiously, normally within ten (10) business days of notice to the Title IX Coordinator. Investigation may take longer when initial grievances fail to provide direct first-hand information. The University may undertake a short delay (3-10 business days, to allow evidence collection) when criminal charges on the basis of the same behaviors that invoke this process are being investigated. University action will not be altered or precluded on the grounds that civil or criminal charges involving the same incident have been filed or that charges have been dismissed or reduced. All investigations will be thorough, reliable and impartial, and will entail interviews with all relevant parties and witnesses, obtaining available evidence and identifying sources of expert information, if necessary.

5. Interim Remedies If, in the judgment of the Title IX Coordinator, the safety or well-being of any member(s) of the campus community may be jeopardized by the presence on-campus of the accused individual or the ongoing activity of a student organization whose behavior is in question, the Title IX Coordinator (or designee) may provide interim remedies intended to address the short-term effects of harassment, discrimination and/or retaliation, i.e., to redress harm to the alleged victim and the community and to prevent further violations. These remedies may include referral to counseling and health services or to the Employee Assistance Program, education to the community, altering the housing situation of an accused student or resident employee (or the complainant, if desired), altering work arrangements for employees, providing campus escorts, implementing contact limitations between the parties, offering adjustments to academic deadlines, course schedules, etc.

The University may interim suspend a student, employee or organization pending the completion of EGP investigation and procedures. In all cases in which an interim suspension is imposed, the student, employee or student organization will be given the opportunity to meet with the Title IX Coordinator prior to such suspension being imposed, or as soon thereafter as reasonably possible, to show cause why the suspension should not be implemented. The Title IX Coordinator has sole discretion to implement or stay an interim suspension under the policy on Equal Opportunity, Harassment and Nondiscrimination, and to determine its conditions and duration. Violation of an interim suspension under this policy will be grounds for expulsion or termination.

During an interim suspension or administrative leave, a student or employee may be denied access to University housing and/or the University campus/facilities/events. As determined by the Title IX Coordinator or designee, this restriction includes classes and/or all other University activities or privileges for which the student might otherwise be eligible. At the discretion of the Title IX Coordinator or designee, alternative coursework options may be pursued to ensure as minimal an impact as possible on the accused student.

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6. Grievance Resolution During or upon the completion of investigation, the investigators will meet with the Title IX Coordinator. Based on that meeting, the Title IX Coordinator will make a decision on whether there is reasonable cause to proceed with the grievance. If the Title IX Coordinator decides that no policy violation has occurred or that the preponderance of evidence (i.e., whether it is more likely than not that the respondent committed each alleged violation) does not support a finding of a policy violation, then the process will end unless the party bringing a grievance requests that the Title IX Coordinator makes an extraordinary determination to reopen the investigation or to forward the matter for a hearing. This decision lies in the sole discretion of the Title IX Coordinator.

If there is reasonable cause, the Title IX Coordinator will direct the investigation to continue, or if there is a preponderance of evidence of a violation, then the Title IX Coordinator may recommend conflict resolution, a resolution without a hearing or a formal hearing, based on the below criteria. a.Conflict Resolution Conflict resolution is often used for less serious, yet inappropriate, behaviors and is encouraged as an alternative to the formal hearing process to resolve conflicts. The Title IX Coordinator will determine if conflict resolution is appropriate, based on the willingness of the parties, the nature of the conduct at issue and the susceptibility of the conduct to conflict resolution. In a conflict resolution meeting, an EGP member will facilitate a dialogue with the parties to an effective resolution, if possible. Sanctions are not possible as the result of a conflict resolution process, though the parties may agree to appropriate remedies. The Title IX Coordinator will keep records of any resolution that is reached, and failure to abide by the accord can result in appropriate responsive actions. b. Resolution Without a Hearing Resolution without a hearing can be pursued for any behavior that falls within the policy on Equal Opportunity, Harassment and Nondiscrimination, at any time during the process. The Title IX Coordinator will provide written notification of a grievance to any member of the University community who is accused of an offense of harassment, discrimination, or retaliation. The Title IX Coordinator [together with the investigator(s)] will meet with the responding individual to explain the finding(s) of the investigation. Once informed, the responding party may choose to admit responsibility for all or part of the alleged policy violations at any point in the process. If so, the Title IX Coordinator will render a finding that the individual is in violation of University policy for the admitted conduct, and will normally proceed to convene a formal hearing on any remaining disputed violations. For admitted violations, the Chair of the EGP will recommend an appropriate sanction or responsive action. If the sanction/responsive action is accepted by both the party bringing a grievance and responding party, the Title IX Coordinator will implement it, and act promptly and effectively to remedy the effects of the admitted conduct upon the victim and the community. If either party rejects the sanction/responsive action, an EGP hearing will be held on the sanction/responsive action only, according to the EGP procedures below, (except in the case of at-will employees for whom findings and responsive actions will be determined by the Director of Human Resources based on the results of the investigation). c. Formal Hearing For any grievances that are not appropriate for conflict resolution and which are not resolved without a hearing, the Title IX Coordinator will initiate a formal hearing or for employees for whom no hearing process is available, will refer his/her findings to the Director of Human Resources for implementation.

7. Formal EGP Procedure a. Hearing Panels The Title IX Coordinator will appoint a non-voting panel Chair (either one of the EGP co-chairs or the Administrative Hearing Officer, depending on whether the responding party is a faculty member, other employee, or student and three members of the EGP to the hearing panel, none of whom have been previously involved with the grievance. EGP members who served as investigators will be witnesses in the hearing of the grievance and therefore may not serve as hearing panel members. Hearing panels may include both faculty and non-faculty employees. The panel will meet at times determined by the Chair. b. Notification of Charges At least seven business days prior to the hearing, or as far in advance as is reasonably possible if an accelerated hearing is scheduled with the consent of the parties, the EGP Co-chair will send a letter to the parties with the following information.

Once mailed, emailed and/or received in-person, notice will be presumptively delivered. The letter will contain:  A description of the alleged violation(s), a description of the applicable procedures and a statement of the potential sanctions/responsive actions that could result.

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 



The time, date and location of the hearing and a reminder that attendance is mandatory, superseding all other campus activities. If any party does not appear at the scheduled hearing, the hearing will be held in their absence. For compelling reasons, the Co-chair may reschedule the hearing.

The parties may have the assistance of an EGP panel member, or other advisor at the hearing. Typically, advisors are members of the campus community, but the Title IX Coordinator may grant permission for an outside advisor upon request. The advisor may be a practicing attorney only if they are acting in the capacity of advisor and not legal counsel. The parties may have only one advisor present in the hearing room. The parties to the hearing are expected to ask and respond to questions on their own behalf, without representation by their advisor. The advisor may consult with the advisee quietly or in writing, or outside the hearing during breaks, but may not speak on behalf of the advisee to the panel.

Hearings for possible violations that occur near or after the end of an academic term will be held immediately after the end of the term or during the summer, as needed, to meet the resolution timeline followed by the University and remain within the sixty (60) day goal for resolution.

c. Hearing Procedures EGP Hearings will be convened, usually within one to two weeks of the completion of the investigation, and will be conducted in private. The EGP has the authority to hear all collateral misconduct, meaning that it hears all allegations of discrimination, harassment and retaliation, but also may hear any additional alleged policy violations that have occurred in concert with the discrimination, harassment or retaliation, even though those collateral allegations may not specifically fall within EGP jurisdiction. Accordingly, investigations should be conducted with as wide a scope as necessary.

Participants will include the non-voting Chair, the three members of the panel, the investigator(s) who conducted the investigation on the grievance, the party bringing a grievance and responding party(ies) (or three organizational representatives in a case where an organization is charged), advisors to the parties and any called witnesses. The Chair will exchange the names of witnesses the University intends to call, all pertinent documentary evidence and any written findings from the investigators between the parties at least two business days prior to the hearing. In addition, the parties will be given a list of the names of each of the EGP panel members at least two business days in advance of the hearing. Should either (any) party object to any panelist, he/she must raise all objections, in writing, to the Chair immediately. Panel members will only be unseated if the Chair concludes that their bias precludes an impartial hearing of the grievance.

Additionally, any panelist or Chair who feels he/she cannot make an objective determination must recuse himself or herself from the proceedings when notified of the identity of the parties and all witnesses in advance of the hearing.

The Chair, in consultation with the parties and investigators, may decide in advance of the hearing that certain witnesses do not need to be physically present if their testimony can be adequately summarized by the investigator(s) during the hearing.

All parties will have ample opportunity to present facts and arguments in full and question all present witnesses during the hearing, though formal cross-examination is not used between the parties. If alternative questioning mechanisms are desired (screens, Skype, questions directed through the Chair, etc.), the parties should request them from the Chair at least two (2) business days prior to the hearing.

Once the procedures are explained and the participants are introduced, the investigator will present the report of the investigation first, and be subject to questioning by the parties and the EGP. The investigator(s) will be present during the entire hearing process, but will only be present during deliberations at the request of the Chair. The findings of the investigation are not binding on the panel, though any undisputed conclusions of the investigation report will not be revisited, except as necessary to determine sanctions/responsive actions. Once the investigator(s) is/are questioned, the EGP will permit questioning of and by the parties, and of any present witness. Questions may be directed through the panel at the discretion of the Chair.

Formal rules of evidence will not apply. Any evidence that the panel believes is relevant and credible may be considered, including history and pattern evidence. The Chair will address any evidentiary concerns prior to and/or during the hearing, may exclude irrelevant or immaterial evidence and may ask the panel to disregard evidence lacking in credibility. The Chair will determine all questions of procedure and evidence. Anyone appearing at the hearing to provide information will respond to questions on his/her own behalf.

Unless the Chair determines it is appropriate, no one will present information or raise questions concerning: (1) incidents not directly related to the possible violation, unless they show a pattern, or (2) the sexual history of or the character of the

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complainant/party bringing a grievance.

There will be no observers in the hearing. The Chair may allow witnesses who have relevant information to appear at a portion of the hearing in order to respond to specific questions from the panel or the parties involved. The panel does not hear from character witnesses, but will accept up to two letters supporting the character of the individuals involved.

In hearings involving more than one responding individual or in which two parties bringing a grievances have accused the same individual of substantially similar conduct, the standard procedure will be to hear the grievances jointly; however, the Title IX Coordinator may permit the hearing pertinent to each responding party to be conducted separately. In joint hearings, separate determinations of responsibility will be made for each responding party.

Proceedings are private. All persons present at any time during the hearing are expected to maintain the privacy of the proceedings, subject to University consequences for failure to do so. While the contents of the hearing are private, the parties have discretion to share their own experiences if they so choose, and should discuss doing so with their advisors.

Hearings are recorded for purposes of review in the event of an appeal. EGP members, the parties and/or the persons who initiated the action, and appropriate administrative officers of the University will be allowed to listen to the recording in a location determined by the Title IX Coordinator or designee. No person will be given or be allowed to make a copy of the recording without permission of the Title IX Coordinator. Persons given access to the recording will be required to sign an agreement confirming that they will protect the privacy of the information contained in the recording. d. Decisions The EGP will deliberate in closed session to determine whether the responding party is responsible or not responsible for the violation(s) in question. The panel will base its determination on a preponderance of the evidence (i.e., whether it is more likely than not that the responding individual committed each alleged violation). If an individual responding party or organization is found responsible by a majority of the panel, the panel will recommend appropriate sanctions to the Title IX Coordinator.

The Chair will prepare a written deliberation report and deliver it to the Title IX Coordinator, detailing the finding, how each member voted, the information cited by the panel in support of its recommendation and any information the hearing panel excluded from its consideration and why. The report should conclude with any recommended sanctions. This report should not exceed two (2) pages in length and must be submitted to the Title IX Coordinator within two (2) days of the end of deliberations.

The Title IX Coordinator will inform the responding individual and the party bringing a grievance of the final determination within 2-3 business days of the hearing, without significant time delay between notifications. Notification will be made in writing and may be delivered by one or more of the following methods: in person; mailed to the local or permanent address of the parties as indicated in official University records; or emailed to the parties’ University-issued email account. Once mailed, emailed and/or received in-person, notice will be presumptively delivered. e. Sanctions Sanctions or responsive actions will be determined by the EGP. Factors considered when determining a sanction/responsive action may include:  The nature, severity of, and circumstances surrounding the violation  An individual’s disciplinary history  Previous grievances or allegations involving similar conduct  Any other information deemed relevant by the EGP  The need for sanctions/responsive actions to bring an end to the discrimination, harassment and/or retaliation  The need for sanctions/responsive actions to prevent the future recurrence of discrimination, harassment and/or retaliation  The need to remedy the effects of the discrimination, harassment and/or retaliation on the victim and the community i. Student Sanctions The following are the usual sanctions that may be imposed upon students or organizations singly or in combination:

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

    

Warning: A formal statement that the behavior was unacceptable and a warning that further infractions of any University policy, procedure or directive will result in more severe sanctions/responsive actions.

Probation: A written reprimand for violation of the Code of Student Conduct, providing for more severe disciplinary sanctions in the event that the student or organization is found in violation of any University policy, procedure or directive within a specified period of time. Terms of the probation will be specified and may include denial of specified social privileges, exclusion from co-curricular activities, non-contact orders and/or other measures deemed appropriate.

Suspension: Termination of student status for a definite period of time not to exceed two years, and/or until specific criteria are met. Students who return from suspension are automatically placed on probation through the remainder of their tenure at University. This sanction will be noted as a Conduct Suspension on the student’s official transcript.

Expulsion: Permanent termination of student status, revocation of rights to be on campus for any reason or attend University-sponsored events. This sanction will be noted as a Conduct Expulsion on the student’s official transcript.

Withholding Diploma. The University may withhold a student's diploma for a specified period of time and/or deny a student participation in commencement activities if the student has a grievance pending, or as a sanction if the student is found responsible for an alleged violation.

Revocation of Degree. The University reserves the right to revoke a degree awarded from the University for fraud, misrepresentation or other violation of University policies, procedures or directives in obtaining the degree, or for other serious violations committed by a student prior to graduation.

Organizational Sanctions. Deactivation, de-recognition, loss of all privileges (including University registration), for a specified period of time.

Other Actions: In addition to or in place of the above sanctions, the University may assign any other sanctions as deemed appropriate.

ii. Employee Sanctions Responsive actions for an employee who has engaged in harassment, discrimination and/or retaliation include warning, required counseling, demotion, suspension with pay, suspension without pay and termination. f. Withdrawal or Resignation While Charges Pending Students: The University does not permit a student to withdraw if that student has a grievance pending for violation of the policy on Equal Opportunity, Harassment and Nondiscrimination, or for charges under the Code of Student Conduct.

Should a student decide to leave and not participate in the investigation and/or hearing, the process will nonetheless proceed in the student’s absence to a reasonable resolution and that student will not be permitted to return to University unless all sanctions have been satisfied.

Employees: Should an employee resign while charges are pending, the records of the Title IX Coordinator will reflect that status, as will University responses to any future inquiries regarding employment references for that individual. The Title IX Coordinator will act to promptly and effectively remedy the effects of the conduct upon the victim and the community. g. Appeals All requests for appeal considerations must be submitted in writing to the Title IX Coordinator within three (3) business days of the delivery of the written finding of the EGP. A two-member panel of the EGP designated by the Title IX Coordinator who was not involved in the grievance previously will consider all appeal requests. Any party may appeal, but appeals are limited to the following:   

A procedural error or omission occurred that significantly impacted the outcome of the hearing (e.g. substantiated bias, material deviation from established procedures, etc.).

To consider new evidence, unknown or unavailable during the original hearing or investigation, that could substantially impact the original finding or sanction. A summary of this new evidence and its potential impact must be included.

The sanctions imposed are substantially disproportionate to the severity of the violation [or better: The sanctions fall outside the range of sanctions the University has designated for this offense].

The appeals panel of the EGP will review the appeal request(s). The original finding and sanction/responsive actions will stand if the appeal is not timely or is not based on the grounds listed above, and such a decision is final. When any party requests an appeal, the other party (parties) will be notified and joined in the appeal. The party requesting appeal

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must show that the grounds for an appeal request have been met, and the other party or parties may show the grounds have not been met, or that additional grounds are met. The original finding and sanction are presumed to have been decided reasonably and appropriately.

Where the EGP appeals panel finds that at least one of the grounds is met, and proceeds, additional principles governing the hearing of appeals include the following:  

   

Appeals decisions by the EGP panel are to be deferential to the original decision, making changes to the finding only where there is clear error and to the sanction/responsive action only if there is a compelling justification to do so.

Appeals are not intended to be full rehearings of the grievance. In most cases, appeals are confined to a review of the written documentation or record of the original hearing, and pertinent documentation regarding the grounds for appeal. Appeals granted based on new evidence should normally be remanded to the original hearing panel for reconsideration. Other appeals may be remanded at the discretion of the Title IX Coordinator or heard by the three-member panel of the EGP. Sanctions imposed are implemented immediately unless the Title IX Coordinator or designee stays their implementation in extraordinary circumstances, pending the outcome of the appeal.

The Title IX Coordinator will normally, after conferring with the EGP appeals panel, render a written decision on the appeal to all parties within 2-3 business days from hearing of the appeal.

All parties should be informed of whether the grounds for an appeal are accepted and the results of the appeal decision.

Once an appeal is decided, the outcome is final: further appeals are not permitted.

h. Failure to Complete Sanctions/Comply with Responsive Actions All responding parties are expected to comply with conduct sanctions/responsive/corrective actions within the time frame specified by the Title IX Coordinator. Failure to follow through on conduct sanctions/responsive/corrective actions by the date specified, whether by refusal, neglect or any other reason, may result in additional sanctions/responsive/corrective actions and/or suspension, expulsion and/or termination from the University and may be noted on a student’s official transcript. A suspension will only be lifted when compliance is achieved to the satisfaction of the Title IX Coordinator. i. Records In implementing this policy, records of all grievances, resolutions, and hearings will be kept by the Title IX Coordinator indefinitely in the Title IX Coordinator database. j. Statement of the Rights of a Party Bringing a Grievance             

To be treated with respect by University officials.

To take advantage of campus support resources (such as Counseling Center, the Office of Spiritual Formation, and University Health Center for students, or EAP services for employees).

To experience a safe living, educational and work environment.

To have an advisor during this process.

To refuse to have an allegation resolved through conflict resolution procedures.

To receive amnesty for minor student misconduct (such as alcohol or drug violations) that is ancillary to the incident.

To be free from retaliation.

To have grievances heard in substantial accordance with these procedures.

To full participation of the injured party in any EGP process whether the injured party is serving as the party bringing a grievance or the University is serving as party bringing a grievance.

To be informed in writing of the outcome/resolution of the grievance, sanctions where permissible and the rationale for the outcome where permissible.

Refer to law enforcement and have assistance.

Housing and living accommodations.

No contacts.

k. Statement of the Rights of the Responding Party 

To be treated with respect by University officials.

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    

To take advantage of campus support resources (such as Counseling & Psychological Services, the Spiritual Formation Office and University Health Center for students, or EAP services for employees).

To have an advisor during this process.

To refuse to have an allegation resolved through conflict resolution procedures.

To have grievances heard in substantial accordance with these procedures.

To be informed of the outcome/resolution of the grievance and the rationale for the outcome, in writing.

8. Revision These policies and procedures will be reviewed and updated annually by the Title IX Coordinator. The Title IX Coordinator may make minor modifications to procedure that do not materially jeopardize the fairness owed to any party. However, the Title IX Coordinator may also vary procedures materially with notice (on the institutional web site, with appropriate date of effect identified) upon determining that changes to law or regulation require policy or procedural alterations not reflected in this policy and procedure. Procedures in effect at the time of its implementation will apply. Policy in effect at the time of the offense will apply even if the policy is changed subsequently, unless the parties consent to be bound by the current policy.

USE AND ADAPTATION OF THIS MODEL WITH CITATION TO THE NCHERM GROUP/ATIXA IS PERMITTED THROUGH A LICENSE TO VANGUARD UNIVERSITY. ALL OTHER RIGHTS RESERVED. ©2013. THE NCHERM GROUP, LLC/ATIXA

HISTORY This policy and procedure was approved by the Board of Trustees on March 27, 2015 (via electronic vote) with implementation to take place immediately upon approval.

Attachment 1 CLERY ACT According to federal law, specifically The Student Right to Know and Campus Security Act of 1990 (re-named the Clery Act in 1998), Vanguard University Campus Public Safety is required to report “statistics concerning the occurrence of certain criminal offenses reported to the local police agency or any official of the institution who has “significant responsibility for student and campus activities”.

The criminal offenses that the university is required to report are murder/non-negligent manslaughter, negligent manslaughter, sex offenses (forcible and non-forcible), robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, motor vehicle theft, arson, liquor law violations, drug violations, illegal weapons possession, domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence and stalking.

The university is also required to report statistics for hate (bias) related crimes for the following classifications: murder/non-negligent manslaughter, negligent manslaughter, sex offenses (forcible and non-forcible), robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, motor vehicle theft, arson, liquor law violations, drug violations, illegal weapons possession, domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence and stalking.

Vanguard University Campus Public Safety is required to report offenses that occur on campus, in residence facilities, in non-campus property and on public property.

DEFINITIONS FOR CLERY ACT REPORTABLE CRIMES Murder/Non-Negligent Manslaughter: the willful (non-negligent) killing of one human being by another. NOTE: Deaths caused by negligence, attempts to kill, assaults to kill, suicides, accidental deaths, and justifiable homicides are excluded.

Negligent Manslaughter: the killing of another person through gross negligence.

Robbery: the taking or attempting to take anything from value of the care, custody or control of a person or persons by force or threat of force or violence and/or by putting the victim in fear.

Aggravated Assault: an unlawful attack by one person upon another for the purpose of inflicting severe or aggravated bodily injury. This type of assault usually is accompanied by the use of a weapon or by means likely to produce death or great bodily harm. It is not necessary that injury result from an aggravated assault when a gun, knife or other weapon is used which could or probably would result in a serious potential injury if the crime were successfully completed.

Burglary: The unlawful entry of a structure to commit a felony or a theft. For reporting purposes this definition includes: unlawful entry with intent to commit a larceny or a felony; breaking and entering with intent to commit a larceny; housebreaking; safecracking; and all attempts to commit any of the aforementioned.

Motor Vehicle Theft: The theft or attempted theft of a motor vehicle. (Classify as motor vehicle theft all cases where automobiles are taken by persons not having lawful access, even though the vehicles are later abandoned - including joy riding) Arson: The willful or malicious burning or attempt to burn, with or without intent to defraud, a dwelling house, public building, motor vehicle or aircraft, or personal property of another kind.

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Weapon Law Violations: The violation of laws or ordinances dealing with weapon offenses, regulatory in nature, such as: manufacture, sale, or possession of deadly weapons; carrying deadly weapons, concealed or openly; furnishing deadly weapons to minors; aliens possessing deadly weapons; all attempts to commit any of the aforementioned.

Drug Abuse Violations: Violations of state and local laws relating to the unlawful possession, sale, use, growing, manufacturing, and making of narcotic drugs. The relevant substances include: opium or cocaine and their derivatives (morphine, heroin, codeine); marijuana; synthetic narcotics (Demerol, methadone); and dangerous non-narcotic drugs (barbiturates, Benzedrine).

Domestic Violence: Domestic violence can be defined as a pattern of abusive behavior that is used by an intimate partner to gain or maintain power and control over the other intimate partner. Domestic violence can be physical, sexual, emotional, economic, or psychological actions or threats of actions that influence another person. This includes any behaviors that intimidate, manipulate, humiliate, isolate, frighten, terrorize, coerce, threaten, blame, hurt, injure, or wound someone.

Sexual Assault: Sexual assault can be defined as any type of sexual contact or behavior that occurs by force or without consent of the recipient of the unwanted sexual activity. Falling under the definition of sexual assault is sexual activity such as forced sexual intercourse, sodomy, child molestation, incest, fondling, and attempted rape. It includes sexual acts against people who are unable to consent either due to age or lack of capacity.

Dating Violence: Dating violence is defined as violence committed by a person who is or has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with the victim; and where the existence of such a relationship shall be determined based on a consideration of the following factors: The length of the relationship, The type of relationship, The frequency of interaction between the persons involved in the relationship.

Stalking: Stalking can be defined as a pattern of repeated and unwanted attention, harassment, contact, or any other course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to feel fear.

Attachment 2 VAWA Violence Against Women Act – Reauthorization Executive Summary Purpose of This Regulatory Action: On March 7th, 2013, President Obama signed the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013 (VAWA) (Pub. L. 113-4), which, among other provisions, amended section 485(f) of the HEA, otherwise known as the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act). The Clery Act requires institutions of higher education to comply with certain campus safety- and security-related requirements as a condition of their participation in the title IV, HEA programs. Notably, VAWA amended the Clery Act to require institutions to compile statistics for incidents of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking and to include certain policies, procedures, and programs pertaining to these incidents in their annual security reports. We are amending § 668.46 of title 34 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) to implement these statutory changes. Additionally, we are updating this section by incorporating provisions added to the Clery Act by the Higher Education Opportunity Act, enacted in 2008, deleting outdated deadlines and cross-references, and making other changes to improve the readability and clarity of the regulations. We have published 34 CFR 668.46 in its entirety at the end of these regulations for our readers' convenience.

Summary of the Major Provisions of This Regulatory Action: The final regulations will—  Require institutions to maintain statistics about the number of incidents of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking that meet the definitions of those terms;  Clarify the very limited circumstances in which an institution may remove reports of crimes that have been “unfounded” and require institutions to report to the Department and disclose in the annual security report the number of “unfounded” crime reports;  Revise the definition of “rape” to reflect the Federal Bureau of Investigation's (FBI) updated definition in the UCR Summary Reporting System, which encompasses the categories of rape, sodomy, and sexual assault with an object that are used in the UCR National Incident-Based Reporting System;  Revise the categories of bias for the purposes of Clery Act hate crime reporting to add gender identity and to separate ethnicity and national origin into separate categories;  Require institutions to provide to incoming students and new employees and describe in their annual security reports primary prevention and awareness programs. These programs must include: a statement that the institution prohibits the crimes of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking, as those terms are defined in these final regulations; the definitions of these terms in the applicable jurisdiction; the definition of “consent,” in reference to sexual activity, in the applicable jurisdiction; a description of safe and positive options for bystander intervention; information on risk reduction; and information on the institution's policies and procedures after a sex offense occurs;  Require institutions to provide, and describe in their annual security reports, ongoing prevention and awareness campaigns for students and employees. These campaigns must include the same information as the institution's primary prevention and awareness program;

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 

  

 

Define the terms “awareness programs,” “bystander intervention,” “ongoing prevention and awareness campaigns,” “primary prevention programs,” and “risk reduction;” Require institutions to describe each type of disciplinary proceeding used by the institution; the steps, anticipated timelines, and decision-making process for each type of disciplinary proceeding; how to file a disciplinary complaint; and how the institution determines which type of proceeding to use based on the circumstances of an allegation of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking; Require institutions to list all of the possible sanctions that the institution may impose following the results of any institutional disciplinary proceedings for an allegation of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking; Require institutions to describe the range of protective measures that the institution may offer following an allegation of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking; Require institutions to provide for a prompt, fair, and impartial disciplinary proceeding in which: (1) Officials are appropriately trained and do not have a conflict of interest or bias for or against the accuser or the accused; (2) the accuser and the accused have equal opportunities to have others present, including an advisor of their choice; (3) the accuser and the accused receive simultaneous notification, in writing, of the result of the proceeding and any available appeal procedures; (4) the proceeding is completed in a reasonably prompt timeframe; (5) the accuser and accused are given timely notice of meetings at which one or the other or both may be present; and (6) the accuser, the accused, and appropriate officials are given timely and equal access to information that will be used during informal and formal disciplinary meetings and hearings; Define the terms “proceeding” and “result”; and Specify that compliance with these provisions does not constitute a violation of section 444 of the General Education Provisions Act (20 U.S.C. 1232g), commonly known as the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA).

Costs and Benefits: A benefit of these final regulations is that they will strengthen the rights of victims of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking on college campuses. Institutions will be required to collect and disclose statistics of crimes reported to campus security authorities and local police agencies that involve incidents of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking. This will improve crime reporting and will help ensure that students, prospective students, families, and employees and potential employees of the institutions will be better informed about each campus' safety and security procedures. Ultimately, the improved reporting and transparency will promote safety and security on college campuses.

Institutions are likely to incur two types of costs under the final regulations: Paperwork costs of complying with the regulations, and other compliance costs that institutions may incur as they take required steps to improve security on campus.

Institutions will incur paperwork costs involved in: Changing the reporting of crime statistics to capture additional crimes, categories of crimes, differentiation of hate crimes, and expansion of categories of bias reported; and the development of statements of policy about prevention programs and institutional disciplinary actions. Institutions will also incur additional compliance costs. Costs to improve safety on campus will include annual training of officials on issues related to dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking as well as training on how to conduct disciplinary proceeding investigations and hearings. The final regulations are not estimated to have a significant net budget impact on the title IV, HEA student aid programs over loan cohorts from 2014 to 2024.

Attachment 3 Staffing Chart Title IX Coordinator  Lexy Benoit Gioielli, Director of Residence Life Deputies  Paul Turgeon, Department of Campus Public Safety (Students)  Joe Baffa, Director of Human Resources (Staff)  Stephanie D’Auria, faculty member (Faculty) Investigators  RD, Balboa/Newport (Students)  RD, Catalina Hall (Students)  Director of Diversity (Students)  Director of Student Engagement (Students)  Staff member (Staff)

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  

Staff member (Staff) Faculty member (faculty) Faculty member (faculty)

Investigations: 1) Title IX incident comes to the Title IX Coordinator 2) Coordinator follows Title IX investigation flow chart 3) If determined an investigation is necessary, Title IX Coordinator will consult with deputies and identify the best people to investigate Training: 1) Deputies and Investigators will help be a part of the Title IX team which provides training for faculty, staff and students 2) Title IX Coordinator & Deputies develop an annual training plan 3) Implement as necessary with appropriate faculty and staff, includes Investigators Investigators: 1) Selected by Cabinet, Faculty Senate, and Staff Directors Council 2) Trained for a period of 2 years

Student I.D. Cards Student ID cards will be made shortly after the students’ arrival to campus. The staff in the Information Technology Department will take student pictures and print an I.D. card in the Technology Services building. Hats, sunglasses, poses, and friends in the picture are not permitted for Student I.D. pictures. It is not recommended to put the I.D. card on a key chain, as the keys may damage the card.

The Student I.D. card, serves as identification to activities, athletic games, and other University-sponsored events. As a true “smart card”, the I.D. card can also be used in the Café, Outtakes, Library, Chapel, Computer Lab, University Book Store, and entry into dorms. The card should be in the student's possession and shown to Campus Public Safety Officers or other school officials upon request.

The replacement cost of a Student I.D. card is $25.00 dollars. This fee will be charged to the student’s account through the Office of Accounting Operations for Student Receivables. The Student I.D. card is not transferable.

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Student Life Staff Name

Area of Responsibility

Office Location

Ext.

Vice President for Student Life

Scott 3

5488

Executive Assistant to the VPSL

Scott 3

5487

Director of Residence Life

Huntington Hall

5271

Housing Coordinator

Huntington Hall

5275

Residence Life Administrative Assistant

Huntington Hall

5273

Joshua Houston

Resident Director

Huntington Hall

5274

Dannae Rushing

Resident Director

Catalina Hall

5276

Chelsea De Luca

Resident Director

Laguna Hall

5279

Jeremy Pedron

Resident Director

Balboa Hall/Newport Hall

5277

Kayla Holtz

Resident Coordinator

Balboa Hall/Newport Hall

5280

Jonathon Murillo

Resident Coordinator

Vanguard Centre

5270

Amanda Lebrecht

Associate Director of Student Success

Scott 2

6486

Coordinator of Orientation & Transitions

Scott 2

6487

Tutorial & Math Center Coordinator

Scott 2

6479

Lauren Walker

At Risk Program Coordinator

Scott 2

6623

Ryan Moyher

Director of Leadership Development & Student Engagement

Bridge

5253

Ellie Kaiser

Student Life Administrative Assistant

Bridge

5255

Rachael Lund

Assistant Director for Commuter Life

Bridge

5252

Megan Mickelsen

Coordinator of Student Programming

Bridge

5254

Coordinator of Intramurals & Recreation

Bridge

5268

Dean of Spiritual Formation

Laguna Hall

5260

Senior Administrative Assistant to the Dean of SF

Laguna Hall

5262

Associate Director of Chapel & Discipleship

Laguna Hall

5261

Coordinator of Performing Arts Ministry Teams

Laguna Hall

5263

Scott 2

5265

Dr. Tim Young Diane Griffo Lexy Benoit Gioielli Nicole Givenrod Christine Stephens

Shelley Youd Tom Shirey

Jon Krapivkin Jonathan Allbaugh Christina Wollin Bryan Rouanzoin Lehua Coley Kayli Hillebrand

Director of Global Education & Outreach

Sero Ku

Outreach Administrative Assistant

Scott 2

5282

Dr. April Harris

Director of Diversity & Inclusion

Scott 2

5281

Arianna Yates

Diversity Administrative Assistant

Scott 2

5258

Coordinator of HSI

Scott 2

5264

Assistant Director for Disability & Learning Services

Scott 2

6483

Brian Burlingame

Veterans Resource Coordinator

Scott 2

5447

Doug Hutchinson

Director of Counseling Center

Smith 1

6481

Associate Director of Counseling Center

Smith 1

6480

Counseling Center Administrative Assistant

Smith 1

6482

Nurse Practitioner

Laguna Hall

6459

Cyndi Pinto Kerry Kimble

Dr. Michele Robison Elizabeth Banks Mary Darden

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Student Frequently Used Contact Information Department

Location

Extension or Direct Phone 714-556-3610

Web or Email www.vanguard.edu

5486

http://vanguard.edu/services/accounting/

714-966-5486

accountsreceivable@vanguard.edu healthinsurance@vanguard.edu

Accounting Operations Office (Enroll in VU Insurance)

1st floor of Scott

Admissions

1st floor of Scott

Athletics

Gymnasium

6605

Bookstore

Near the CafĂŠ and attached to the Cove

6722

5496 714-966-5496

admissions@vanguard.edu athletics@vanguard.edu

bookstore@vanguard.edu 6145

Box Office (Lyceum)

Lyceum Theater

boxoffice@vanguard.edu 714-668-6145

Campus Public Safety (Security)

Attached to Needham Chapel

6799

Career Services

2nd floor of Scott

6474

paul.turgeon@vanguard.edu

714.966.6799 http://vanguard.edu/career/ careerservices@vanguard.edu

Copy Center

Building 14 Technology Services

Counseling Center

1st floor of Smith

Disability Services

2nd floor of Scott

Diversity Offices

2nd floor of Scott

Facility Services/Maintenance

The Central Plant/Maintenance between the Library and Information Technology

Financial Aid

1st floor of Scott

714-662-5296

copycenter@vanguard.edu

5256

http://vanguard.edu/services/counseling-center/

714-662-5256

counselingcenter@vanguard.edu

6483 714-619-6483

disabilityservices@vanguard.edu

5281

diversity@vanguard.edu

5431

http://vanguard.edu/services/maintenance-andfacility-services/ katherine.smith@vanguard.edu

714-966-5431

MaintenanceWorkRequests@vanguard.edu

4252

http://vanguard.edu/financialaid/

714-966-5490

financialaid@vanguard.edu SYoud@vanguard.edu

Frontline

2nd floor of Scott

6487/4822

Health Center

1st floor of Laguna Hall

6471

Housing/Meal Plans

1st floor of Huntington Hall

5275

VU Insurance Questions

UHCSR

800-767-0700

714-916-6471

HealthCenter@vanguard.edu housinginfo@vanguard.edu https://www.uhcsr.com/vanguard customerservice@uhcsr.com

Information Tech. (IT/IS)

Building 14 Technology Services

6500

helpdesk@vanguard.edu

Leadership Development & Student Engagement

1st floor of Huntington Hall

5253

rjmoyher@vanguard.edu

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Extension or Direct Phone 714-556-3610

Web or Email www.vanguard.edu

O. Cope Budge Library

5474 Direct Line (after 5PM) 714-966-5474

http://vanguard.edu/library/

Building 27

5298

Department

Location

Library

Mail Center

MailCenter@vanguard.edu

(Behind the Bookstore)

714-662-5298

Newspaper (Vanguard Voice)

Meets during class (COMM-319)

714-966-6331

http://www.vanguarduniversityvoice.com/

Outreach (Global Education)

2nd floor of Scott

5265

globaloutreach@vanguard.edu localoutreach@vanguard.edu

Registrar/Records/Transcripts

1st floor of Scott

5200/5209

records@vanguard.edu

1st floor of Huntington Hall

5273

http://vanguard.edu/studentlife/residence-life/

Residence Life

714-662-5273

officeofRL@vanguard.edu

st

Spiritual Formation

1 floor of Laguna Hall

5262

spiritualformation@vanguard.edu

Tutorial Center-Math

2nd floor of Scott

6479

tutorial@vanguard.edu

Veterans Resource Center

2nd floor of Scott

6124

brian.burlingame@vanguard.edu

Weddings

Event Relations in Smith Hall

5292

Writing Center

Heath Building 2nd floor room 214

Stuart.shevchenko@vanguard.edu

714-662-5292 4774

writingcenter@vanguard.edu

Reference Quick-list for Modifications to 2015-2016 Student Handbook 

     

School for Graduate and Professional Studies o Page 5 – Updates made to Cross Registration and Transfers between Traditional Undergraduate & Professional Studies programs Academic Services o Page 7 – Office of Global Education and Outreach added Campus Public Safety o Page 19 – Lot Designations & Restrictions added Community Expectations o Page 29 – Parking enforcement violations updated Residence Life Policy & Procedures o Page 38 – New Work Request policy listed Health Services o Page 52 – Flu vaccinations and diagnostic tests are services now available at the Health Center Title IX Policy for all Students o Page 55 – New Title IX Policy added.

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