Student Success Programs A GUIDE FOR FACULTY AND STAFF 2013-2014
Greetings! I am happy to introduce you to the 2013-2014 edition of Student Success Program: A Guide for Faculty and Staff. You will agree that making a difference in the lives of our students is at the core of our University and at the heart of our services. We have an abundance of resources and support for our students and an eager and committed community anxious to guide our students to the programs, services, and personnel they may need during their undergraduate years. If you can’t find what you need in this guide or would like additional assistance, don’t hesitate to call, email or stop by Parenzo 101. Best wishes for an exciting academic year. Maureen McCartney, Associate Dean Academic Achievement
WELCOME 2 4
Academic Affairs The Department of Academic Achievement 6 9 12 14 16
18 20 22 24 26 30 31
Academic Advising Center (AAC) Banacos Academic Center TRiO Student Support Services Reading and Writing Center Urban Education Program
Student Affairs Career Center Student-Athlete Affairs Counseling Center Residential Life STAT – Student Threat Assessment Team Clery Act
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Academic Affairs Who We Are Academic Affairs includes the Vice President of Academic Affairs, Dean of Undergraduate Studies, Dean of Faculty, Dean of Education and Dean of Graduate and Continuing Education who provide primary support for the mission of the University – emphasizing teaching, advising, and student engagement in the life of the University and the community. The Division serves as the umbrella for 24 academic departments and a wealth of resources and programs that enhance the academic experience, including the Academic Achievement Department (Academic Advising, the Banacos Academic Center, Reading and Writing Center, TRiO Student Support Programs and Urban Education), International Programs, Civic Engagement and the Honors Program. Other important components to the work of the Division include the Center for Teaching and Learning, Faculty Center, Graduate and Continuing Education, Grants and Sponsored Research, Civic Engagement, Information Technology, Institutional Research and Assessment, the Library, and Registrar/Academic Records. The Division also oversees Commencement, First-Year and Senior Convocations, Dean’s List, Academic Probation, Retention, Academic Conduct, FERPA, First-year initiatives and related areas.
What Support We Offer The Dean of Undergraduate Studies is available to assist faculty and staff in managing academic and curricular issues. The Dean serves on the Student Threat Assessment Team (STAT), the Committee on Academic Standing and the University Curriculum Committee and oversees Grade Appeals and Academic Honesty processes. In general, much of the Dean’s Office focuses on academic success and opportunities, course offerings and enrollments and program building. The Dean of Faculty assists faculty with classroom student conduct. The Dean is available to provide advice about options for managing or referring students for assistance and intervention. The Dean may also help with developing classroom behavior contracts if such an action is needed. The Dean of Faculty provides oversight for Grants and Sponsored Research, Institutional Research and the Guest Lecture Program. The Dean of Education, through the Teacher Education Council, provides leadership for the University teacher licensure programs. The Dean oversees the accreditation process for the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESC) and and National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). The Dean coordinates the Westfield Professional Development Network, partnerships which include our teacher in residence program and other collaborative activities with five Westfield public Schools. Dean of Graduate and Continuing Studies oversees graduate and part-time programs as well as non-degree, non-credit, certificate and summer programs.
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Dr. Elizabeth Preston, Vice President of Academic Affairs (413) 572-5214 Lynette Konig, Academic Affairs Office (413) 572-5213 Dr. Marsha Marotta, Dean of Undergraduate Studies (413) 572-5374 Jean Placzek,Undergraduate Dean’s Office (413) 572-5638 Dr. Steve Adams, Interim Dean of Faculty (413) 572-5394 Susan Davignon, Academic Affairs Office (413) 572-8296
Dr. Cheryl Stanley, Dean of Education (413) 572-5321 Audrey Antosz, Dean of Education Office (413) 572-5326 Dr. Lisa Plantefaber, Associate Dean of Research and Assessment (413) 572-5733 Maureen McCartney, Associate Dean, Academic Achievement (413) 572-8801 Nancy Goodniss, Academic Achievement Office (413) 572-5561 Cynthia Siegler, Director of International Programs (413) 572-8545
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The Department of Academic Achievement Parenzo 101 | (413) 571.5561 or (413) 572-8801
westfield.ma.edu/AcademicAchievement
Who We Are The department, under the leadership of Maureen McCartney, Associate Dean of Academic Achievement, oversees several key Academic Support Programs, including the Academic Advising Center, Banacos Academic Center, Reading and Writing Center, TRiO Student Support Services, and the Urban Education Program. The department also coordinates many of the First-Year initiatives. Our goal is to provide students with the tools to explore academic opportunities as well as to plot strategies for continued growth. The staff within the Department of Academic Achievement has the growth and development of the students the primary mission and serves the needs and concerns of the students with the utmost priority. The Department of Academic Achievement is home to the: Academic Advising Center Banacos Academic Center
Reading and Writing Center TRIO Student Support Services
Urban Education Program
Support We Provide The Department supports a wide range of programs and services designed to help Westfield students achieve academic success. Progress or early grade reports are issued from the Department mid-semester. Academic reports are requested for students enrolled in the Banacos Academic Center, Urban Education, first year athletes and students on academic probation. Quick Tips For Faculty Are you concerned about a student? Not sure where to start? Call us first at 572-5561. We will be happy to help or refer you to the appropriate campus resource to address the particular student need. You can also send an alert through Westfield 360.
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Maureen McCartney, MSW, M.Ed., Associate Dean mmccartney@westfield.ma.edu (413) 572-8801
Westfield360 Available on the MyWestfield faculty tab Send an Alert This allows you to complete an Early Alert referral form for one student. The alert should be used to give a detailed report on concerns that affect a student. For example, you can send an alert on a student who is struggling with academic, career, family or social issues. The Early Alert coordinator will look at this referral, decide what Care Area is best suited to handle the issue and forward the referral to the appropriate staff. My Students This allows you to fill out an abbreviated referral on multiple students in your class or group. These referrals are specifically organized around one issue. For example, you might choose to fill out a Grade Check referral or a Social Connection referral on several students in your class. Feedback Requests With feedback requests you can respond to a set of questions that are being asked about a specific student. Usually, this is an effort by University support services to gather more information about a student that has already
been referred or is already receiving assistance. When an evaluation request has been made, a number will show-up indicating the number of evaluations you need to complete. Surveys or Progress Reports Early academic intervention can make a significant difference! Mid-semester, we will reach out to our faculty with a brief survey/questionnaire. Students who may be ‘at-risk� for a number of reasons are referred for attention. We include students in the Banacos Academic Center, Urban Education, students on academic probation and first year athletes. You can respond here to this brief set of questions about particular students in your classes. Staff receives these progress reports and discuss your feedback with individual students. Your time and attention is appreciated. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have questions, (413) 572-8801.
Maureen joined the University in 1983, and has served the University in various administrative roles including Assistant to the President, Director of the Career Center, Executive Director of Career Services and Experiential Education, and most recently as the Associate Dean of Academic Achievement. She also serves as Liaison for the Washington Center Internship Program, working with more than 350 Washington D.C. Interns over the past ten years. Nancy Goodniss, A.S., Administrative Assistant ngoodniss@westfield.ma.edu (413) 572-5561 Nancy has been with the Department since 2002. She provides administrative support for all units as well as general information and referrals to campus resources. Nancy coordinates the Accuplacer placement-testing program for incoming students.
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Academic Advising Center Parenzo Room K/L | (413) 572-5563
westfield.ma.edu/AcademicAdvising advising@westfield.ma.edu firstyear@westfield.ma.edu
Who We Are The Academic Advising Center is a hub for an array of academic advising services. All students are welcome to drop in or schedule an appointment with one of the professional advisors. A team of trained Peer Advisors round out the staff to assist with course selection and pre-registration. Support We Provide Academic advising plays an integral role in the success of a student’s academic career. The Academic Advising Center (AAC) provides a warm and supportive environment for students to explore academic opportunities. The following services are provided to Day Division students: Assistance with course selection, the registration process, and other academic concerns for students who have not declared a major Help students with the exploration of academic majors and, advising for those pursuing a double major in Education and Liberal Studies Assistance for students who are returning/re-enrolling to the University, those on academic probation and transfer students Guidance for students exploring strategies for academic success Review student academic progress and course needs Determination of course equivalence for courses students want to transfer to the University Peer Advising Program The Peer Advising Program is designed to supplement advising practices that currently exist within individual undergraduate academic departments.
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Peer Advisors assist first-year students by offering academic advising from a student’s perspective. The Peer Advising Program seeks to develop connections with faculty, staff, and others, both on and off campus. Peer Advisors participate in an intensive training program, which prepares them to advise students on various aspects of college life. Peer Advisors assist students in understanding options for majors, minors, common core, online registration procedures, and tutoring services. Students are pre-advised by Peer Advisors. Professional staff reviews the advising plan for accuracy prior to referring the student to their departmental advisor for academic advising, faculty signature, and registration pin number.
Transfer Transition The Transfer Transitions Office (TTO) assists students in making a seamless transition for a more successful Westfield State experience. TTO provides preadmission and transition advising and connections to the campus community. The TTO also provides the additional information, support and advocacy needed to ensure a successful first semester and beyond. The AAC Staff will: Complete unofficial transcript evaluations for common core courses Assist students with general questions and serve as a resource for general academic questions Refer and connect transfer students to appropriate advisors in their chosen majors Make appropriate referrals to other campus offices Assist transfer students with the transition to the University Academic Probation Day Division students placed on academic probation are required to work with an advisor (in addition to their departmentally-assigned faculty advisor) within the Academic Advising Center in an effort to improve their own academic performance. Students on academic probation may be required, at the advisor’s discretion, to: meet for individual advising appointments on a regular basis, meet to review mid-semester progress reports, respond to communications from the AAC throughout the semester, follow any conditions mutually agreed upon between the advisor and the student or those set by the Committee on Academic Standing when approving an appeal for a dismissed student to return on probation.
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Quick Tips For Faculty If you have a student in one of your classes you feel would be a good fit for our Peer Advising Program, please refer them to Nicole West at (413) 572-8191. Prerequisites to becoming a Peer Advisor are: overall academic achievement in all areas with a minimum G.P.A. of 2.8 and good judicial standing with the University. Also, two letters of recommendation (one recommendation must come from a faculty member within the department) are required. For general advising questions, please contact Laurie Simpson, the Academic Advising Center’s (AAC) Director, at (413) 572-5563.
Laurie Simpson, M.A., M.S., N.C.C., Director, Academic Advising Center (AAC) lsimpson@westfield.ma.edu, (413) 572-5563 Laurie has been counseling with the Academic Advising Office since 1994. She is a three-time graduate of Westfield State University holding a B.S. in Criminal Justice, an M.A. in Psychology and an M.S. in Criminal Justice. She is currently pursuing an Ed.D in Education Leadership at Liberty University. Contact Laurie Simpson with any advising questions or concerns for native and/or transfer students. Nicole West, M.Ed., Staff Assistant, Peer Advising Coordinator nwest@westfield.ma.edu, (413) 572-8191 Nicky is a graduate of Westfield State (‘07) and Springfield College (’09). She was a member of the first Peer Advising team during her undergraduate years at Westfield. She is currently coordinating the AAC Peer Advising Program. Contact Nicole with questions about our Peer Advising Program. Alain Akasa, M.B.A., Staff Assistant aakasa@westfield.ma.edu, (413) 572-5677 Alain joins the Academic Advising Center as a Staff Assistant/Advisor. He earned an M.B.A from Assumption College. Alain is no stranger to the University, having earned his Bachelor of Science in Business in 2008. He served as a Peer Advisor during his undergraduate years. Alesia Brennan, M.Ed., Staff Assistant
abrennan@westfield.ma.edu
Alesia joins the Academic Advising Center as a Staff Assistant/Advisor. She recently earthed an M.Ed. From the University of Massachusetts, Amherst in Higher Education Administration. She completed several graduate assistantships with the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences and the Commonwealth Honors College.
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Banacos Academic Center Tutoring Center, Disability Services & Learning Disability Program Parenzo Hall’s Banacos Center
westfield.ma.edu/BanacosCenter banacos@westfield.ma.edu examroom@westfield.ma.edu tutor@westfield.ma.edu
Who We Are The Banacos Academic Center is home to three important academic services: The college-wide Tutoring Center, Disability Services and the Learning Disabilities Program.
SUPPORTS WE PROVIDE Disability Services Disability Services is committed to supporting students as they learn to self-advocate and negotiate the campus and academics at the University. The program provides a wide array of reasonable and appropriate accommodations for students with learning, physical, psychological, or medical challenges. Students are expected to provide current documentation of their disabilities. The Learning Disabilities Program The Learning Disabilities Program is committed to providing a fulfilling educational experience to qualified students with documented learning differences through comprehensive and individualized support services. The program has had a distinguished record of success since its founding in 1979 and provides services to approximately 550 students each academic year. Students must apply and be accepted into the program. All programs and services are elective, so it is the responsibility of the student to take advantage of these services. Due to the individualized nature of learning differences, appropriate accommodations and services are determined on an individual basis. The Tutoring Center The Tutoring Center provides free academic assistance for undergraduate students at the University. Tutoring is available in most areas of the curriculum. Tutors are generally juniors and seniors (or exceptional underclass students) with a 3.0 minimum GPA who have been recommended by faculty to tutor courses in their area of expertise. Tutors are required to have earned a minimum of a B+ in any course that they tutor. Assistance is available for all students to enhance their academic skills and strategies in workshop settings.
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Quick Tips for Faculty and Staff At the beginning of each semester, you will receive a notification of reasonable accommodations approved for each student in addition to a letter listing our students with disabilities who are enrolled in your classes and have elected to disclose that they have a disability. We ask that you keep the identity of our students confidential. If you have any questions about a particular student or the reasonableness of a particular accommodation as it pertains to your course, please feel free to contact us at any time. Progress Reports/Surveys. Mid-semester, you will receive an electronic request for progress reports on our students. These are found on WSU360 located in the myWestfield portal. The Progress Reports/Survey is very helpful in identifying students who may be ‘at risk’ for one or more reasons. We would appreciate your cooperation in completing these brief reports. Exam Accommodations. Many of our students require extended time, readers, scribes, or a reduced distraction environment for examinations in order to fully demonstrate their knowledge. To assist you, we administer examinations in the Banacos Center. We ask that you deliver the exams by hand or by email to the exam room at examroom@westfield.ma.edu. Exams are carefully proctored and expeditiously returned to you. Fax: (413) 572-8774; examroom@westfield.ma.edu Tutoring. If a student in your class is experiencing academic difficulty, please encourage the student to come to the Tutoring Center. We would be happy to pair the student with a tutor for one-on-one assistance. If you have particularly talented and personable students who have received a B+ or above in your class, have a 3.0 GPA, and you think they would be good tutors, please send a recommendation for these students to tutor@westfield.ma.edu – a list of these students indicating the courses they could tutor would be welcome. Our staff will invite these students to become tutors. Students may also approach you for recommendations to be tutors. For your information, tutors are paid $10.00 per hour for their services. Since tutoring is by appointment, students can also arrange their tutoring schedules to fit their classes and other commitments.
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Syllabus statements. To encourage students to identify themselves early to the Banacos Academic Center Disability Services, we ask that you include a statement directing students to the Center if they will need reasonable accommodations in the classroom. Additionally, in an effort to protect the privacy of students with disabilities, the Center suggests that faculty who have restrictions on use of computers, consumption of food and beverages or other restrictions include an exceptions clause such as: “any exceptions must be approved by the professor.” This format allows for flexibility and does not, by default, expose students with disabilities to forced disclosure (i.e., the only student allowed to use a computer to take notes is the one with an accommodation because of a disability).
Sarah E. Lazare, M.Ed., JD, Director
slazare@westfield.ma.edu, (413) 572-8789
Sarah joined the Banacos Center in 2012 as the director. Before assuming this position, Sarah coordinated disabilities services as dean for student academic resources at Wesleyan University for six years. Earlier in her career, she developed tutoring, study skills and mentoring in the sciences support programs for the Smith College campus. Sarah holds a B.A. from Smith College, an M.Ed. in Higher Education Administration from the University of Massachusetts, and a J.D. from CUNY. Susan Krieg, M.A., Assistant Director, Program Advisor
skrieg@westfield.ma.edu, (413) 572-5783
Sue began working at the Banacos Center in the fall of 1988 as a graduate assistant and now serves as the Assistant Director, working with students who are part of the Learning Disabilities Program. She provides academic and personal support to program students and also coordinates the Learning Disability Program admissions process. Sue holds a B.A. from the University of Bridgeport and a Master of Arts in Psychology from Westfield State University. Kristie Knotts, Ph.D., Staff Associate, Program Advisor
kknotts@westfield.ma.edu, (413) 572-5544
Kristie joined the Banacos Center full-time in 1999. She works as a Program Advisor with students in the Learning Disabilities Program. She works with students with learning, physical and psychological disabilities. In this she provides reasonable accommodations, offers guidance with writing tasks and serves as an undeclared major advisor. She holds a Ph.D. in English from the University of Tennessee and teaches part-time for the English Department. Sigrid Stevens, M.A., Staff Assistant, Program Advisor
sstevens@westfield.ma.edu, (413) 572-5787
Sigrid has been working at Westfield State University since the Fall of 2003, beginning as a graduate assistant in the Exam Room. Shortly after, she began her career as a Program Advisor in the Learning Disabilities Program supporting students with academic accommodations, advising and assistive technology. She holds a Master’s degree in English and a Massachusetts teaching license. Michelle Rizk-Jarvis, M.A., Staff Assistant, Program/Access Advisor
mrizkjarvis@westfield.ma.edu, (413) 572-8379
Michelle has worked at the Banacos Center since 2006. She began as a graduate assistant managing the Exam Room and currently serves as a Program Advisor in the Learning Disabilities Program and an Access Advisor for Disability Services as needed. She has a strong background in working with students with mental health concerns and she facilitates a weekly social group for students on campus. Michelle holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Psychology, both from Westfield State University. Laura A. Cummings, M.Ed, Staff Assistant, Access Advisor
lcummings@westfield.ma.edu, (413) 572-5789
Laura joined the Banacos Center in the Fall of 2012 as an Access Advisor in Disability Services. Laura served as an advocate at the Hearing, Speech and Deafness Center, in Seattle, WA, where she worked with clients to build life skills including self-advocacy, and effective communication and navigation of systems. Laura has served as Administrative Support Coordinator at the University of California, Northbridge. She is fluent in American Sign Language.
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TRiO Student Support Services Parenzo 104 | (413) 572-5793
westfield.ma.edu/sssp sssp@westfield.ma.edu
Who We Are The TRiO Student Support Services Program (SSSP) is a U.S. Department of Education federally funded TRiO Program providing ongoing support throughout a Westfield student’s undergraduate career. TRiO SSSP offers program participants free, comprehensive academic and personal support designed to assist with persistence to graduation and preparation for graduate or professional school. All TRiO participants are assigned a Program Coordinator to determine their learning strengths and challenges and devise an Academic Success Plan outlining the most appropriate assistance. Students can become a program participant at any point in their undergraduate program and remain in TRiO until graduation. The TRiO SSSP serves 160 students with academic need from a diverse cross-section of the Westfield State University’s body. This includes students who: Demonstrate economic need Are first-generation college students Have documented physical and/or learning disabilities In compliance with the U.S. Department of Education, two-thirds of Program participants must be first- generation college students from low-income families, or students with disabilities. In addition, one-third of the participants with disabilities must be low income. Program students must be a citizen or national of the United States or meet the residency requirements for federal financial assistance, be enrolled at the University or accepted for enrollment to the University. Support We Provide A wide range of free academic and personal support services are available to program students: Academic Support Professional tutoring services Preliminary advising Academic workshops on topics such as study skills and graduate school Academic resources for loan, such as laptops, graphing calculators and reference books
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Personal Support One-on-one counseling around issues affecting academic performance Workshops on adjusting to college, stress management, and life after graduation Peer support, guidance and community building via Peer Mentor Program Financial Support FAFSA filing assistance Assistance with scholarship application and research Workshops on student loan repayment, making a budget, and understanding credit Cultural Activities Regular cultural events provide an opportunity to connect with other program participants and build a community within TRiO and the university Foster understanding of diverse social and cultural backgrounds Quick Tips For Faculty and Staff Students can be referred to the program at any time during the academic year and in their academic career. Students in the program must demonstrate academic need and meet the eligibility criteria. Consult the Director with any questions. Please send students to Parenzo 104 to complete an application and determine eligibility. Students can also email us to receive an application or download at www.westfield.ma.edu/sssp
Celeste Donovan, Ph.D., Director cdonovan@westfield.ma.edu, (413) 572-5462 Celeste’s experiences in education range from mentoring adult GED learners and high school students, extensive training in Writing Across the Curriculum pedagogy, and teaching undergraduate courses in Art History. Celeste is the appropriate person to contact if you have any questions about faculty updates with TRiO, the supports TRiO provides, or a specific program student. Charlotte Capogna-Amias, M.Ed., Staff Associate/Program Coordinator ccapogna@westfield.ma.edu, (413) 572-5460 Charlotte has over ten years experience in higher education. She aims to support students’ individual learning needs and empower them while developing new skills to help them be successful. Charlotte is the appropriate person to contact if you have any questions about TRiO Tutoring Services or the support TRiO provides. Felicia R. Lundquist, M.Ed., Staff Assistant/Program Coordinator flundquist@westfield.ma.edu. (413) 572-8833 Felicia grew up as a low-income, first generation woman of color and serves as a conduit for these populations. She is a sister of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Felicia is the appropriate person to contact if you have questions about the Peer Mentor Program or the supports TRiO provides. Shakira Alvarez-Ferrer, M.Ed., Academic Counselor salvarezferrer@westfield.ma.edu, (413) 572-5601 Shakira is a bilingual and bicultural educator with 13 years experience working with youth and families. She worked as a Case Manager with Big Sisters of Hampshire County and coordinated their “Kids to Campus” youth mentoring program at UMASS. Kathy Pitoniak, Office Manager kpitoniak@westfield.ma.edu (413) 572-5793 Kathy brings to the TRiO Program many years of experience ensuring that programs serve clients professionally and efficiently with personal attention and care leading the way. Kathy is the appropriate person to refer students to in order to complete a program application or if you have any general program questions.
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The Reading and Writing Center Parenzo 218 | (413) 572-5569
westfield.ma.edu/ReadingWritingCenter rwc@westfield.ma.edu
Who We Are The Reading and Writing Center provides assistance on all issues related to reading, writing, and critical thinking. The Center has a staff of four professionals specializing in reading and writing to work with students, faculty, and staff. The Center helps students of all ability levels on all types of reading and writing assignments. The Center works with students from all departments and from all years, including graduate students. The Writing Center also works with faculty and staff from all fields who want to more effectively use reading and writing with their students. Supports We Provide The Center holds free, 45-minute individual sessions with students and conducts workshops on special topics. Appointments can be made online at www.westfield.ma.edu/reading. Professional tutors work with students on essays and research papers, lab reports, resumes and cover letters, essays for scholarships, graduate school applications, and creative writing. Professional tutors help students develop strategies to more effectively read and understand textbooks, journal articles, websites, and literature. Professional tutors also help students preparing to take the Communication and Literacy portion of the MTEL teacher certification exam. Supports for Faculty and Staff Professional staff can meet individually with faculty and staff to develop in-class workshops on particular topics and to offer suggestions for improving reading and writing assignments. Peer Tutors Peer writing tutors will offer drop-in hours in the Ely Library Monday, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays from 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm. They also offer Text-a-Tutor services, available by texting (413) 459-1151.
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Catherine Savini, Director (413) 572-8310
Quick Tips For Faculty and Staff The easiest way for students to work with our tutors is to make an online appointment using our online appointment system. Go to www.westfield.ma.edu/reading/ and click “Make an Appointment.” Students can be helped on a drop-in basis if there is an opening. Faculty and staff can most easily work with staff by calling or emailing us.
Contact Catherine with questions regarding the RWC and for support in designing and/or redesigning writing assignments, grading rubrics, integrating low-stakes writing and/or peer review, and providing feedback and assessing student writing. She is both the director of the RWC and the Writing Across the Curriculum (WAC) coordinator. Beverly Army Williams, M.F.A., Interim Director, Spring Semester (413) 572-8294 Beverly is the person to contact if you would like help in more effectively using writing with your students. She is the university’s writing-across-the-curriculum- specialist. Katy Milford, M.A.L.S, Staff Associate kmilford@westfield.ma.edu (413) 572-8140 Marc Black, Professional Tutor mblack@westfield.ma.edu (413) 572-5569 Josephine Polnack, B.A., Professional Tutor jpolnack@westfield.ma.edu (413) 572-5569
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Urban Education Program Parenzo 108 | (413) 572-5389
westfield.ma.edu/UrbanEd urbaned@westfield.ma.edu
Who We Are Retention and recruitment of first-generation college students comprises the primary focus of the Urban Education Program (UEP). The program celebrated serving 40 years in the Commonwealth in 2008 by awarding the first ever “Urban Education Joan E. Fuller Scholarship.” Who We Serve The Urban Education Program serves the University as a recruiter of high school students from diverse educational, linguistic, ethnic, religious, and cultural backgrounds. The program enrolls students who meet eligible criteria [i.e. 1st generation college or financial aid eligible, second language learners, or students with disabilities], retain them to graduation and facilitates their entrance into graduate and professional schools. First-year students admitted to the Urban Education Program must participate and successfully complete the five-week summer “bridge” program to gain full matriculation. Acceptance into the Urban Education Program is competitive. The “bridge” experience includes intensive academic instruction and leadership development through peer-mentorship. The Urban Education Program objectives are: To provide comprehensive efforts to retain students to graduation which include, but are not limited to: intensive academic and personal counseling, coursework with a strong emphasis on research methods, expository writing, time management, critical thinking, and analytical skills To provide students the academic and personal guidance they need to earn a baccalaureate degree in their chosen field at Westfield State University To refer and facilitate students’ utilization of the University’s programs, services and resources necessary for the development of their academic, career, social and leadership skills To play an assertive role, overall, in the step-by-step process that leads to academic success, graduation, job placement and/or graduate study To develop and promote student leadership and academic excellence Summer Program For most students, the Program begins during the summer after graduation from high school. First-year students are accepted into the college on a “conditional” basis and must successfully participate and complete a five-week summer “bridge” program to gain full matriculation into the University.
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Joan E. Fuller, C.A.G.S., M.Ed., Director jfuller@westfield.ma.edu (413) 572-5389
Fall and Spring Semesters Academic, personal and career counseling and referral services are available during the academic year. As an integral part of the program, an innovative academic and personal counseling program is offered to help students: Develop leadership abilities and opportunities Learn effective decision-making procedures Collect and analyze relevant information pertaining to decisions in and out of the college experience. Become more aware of personal strengths, interests, and aptitudes. Observe and interact with the academic environment in a positive and effective manner. Access financial assistance available through the Office of Financial Aid. The program has a strong alumni network that serves as a basis for mentors and internship opportunities. As a testament to the success of the Urban Education Program, many UEP alumni feel a deep sense of gratitude and respect for the opportunities that the program has provided them. Many of them give back by remaining active in the University community and Urban Education Program activities by serving as mentors, teachers and volunteers.
An alumna of WSU and the Urban Education Program, Joan began employment at the University in November 1978 as an Urban Education Program/Counselor/Recruiter. She earned a B.A. from Westfield State University and a M.Ed. and C.A.G.S. from Springfield College. Joan was a participant in the 2001 Higher Education Resource Services (HERS) Management Institute. Azanda Seymour, M.Ed., B.A., Assistant Director aseymour@westfield.ma.edu (413) 572-8802 Azanda joined Westfield State University in the Academic Advising Center in August 2008 and transitioned to Urban Education in 2011. A Westfield State University and Urban Education alumna (’92), Azanda holds a B.A. in Communication from Westfield State University and a graduate degree in Higher Education Administration from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. She is currently pursuing her Doctorate of Education (Ed.D) in Educational Leadership at the University of Hartford. Contact Azanda with concerns about students you believe to be at risk academically or to discuss student progress and progress reports. Chaitali J. Brahmbhatt, M.Ed., B. S., Staff Assistant/Counselor cbrahmbhatt@westfield.ma.edu (413) 572-5453 Since 2003, Chaitali has contributed to the University’s community as a Residence Director, First Year Experience Instructor, lead player in a NCAA Choices grant, advisor to the class of 2011, Third World Organization and Ben Speaks. Chaitali studied at Springfield College where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling with a concentration in Mental Health and Substance Abuse and a Masters Degree in Education.
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Student Affairs Who We Are The Vice President for Student Affairs and the Dean of Students provide overall leadership and management to the Student Affairs division which includes the departments and special programs of Athletics, Campus Center, Career Center, Counseling, Health Services, Public Safety, Residential Life, Student Conduct, Orientation and Commuter Student Services. What Support We Offer The Dean of Students is available to assist faculty and staff in managing student issues. The Dean of Students serves as the Chair of the Student Threat Assessment Team (STAT). If a faculty or staff member has reason to believe that a student may be at risk to him/herself or others, you are expected to contact the Dean to report your observations. These observations may include classroom behavior, thoughts expressed through writings and artwork, direct threats and violent statement made to others, or other visible clues that someone is experiencing distress. In addition to at-risk behavior, the Dean of Students is also available to consult on behavior management issues. Whether in the classroom or in the residence halls, students may present disruptive behavior. The Dean is available to provide advice about options for managing or referring students for assistance and intervention. She may also help with developing classroom behavior contracts if such an action is needed. The Dean’s office is responsible for sending notices out around student absences from class. If a student is absent for only one or two classes, the Dean’s Office will usually not get involved. It is up to the faculty member and student to discuss minor absences. If a student is absent for a prolonged period of time, the student may be referred to the Dean to verify the absence and notify faculty. Whether or not a student is allowed to make up class work is entirely at the discretion of the faculty. The Dean’s note only serves to verify information not provide an excuse for absence – only the faulty member makes the decision around excusing absences. In general, much of the Dean’s Office work is to troubleshoot issues that arise relative to students in order to address behaviors and concerns and assist students to stay on a successful track toward completing their degree. If you are not sure who to call about a student issue or whether to call about a student you are concerned about, please do not hesitate to pick up the phone and talk with us. Susan J. LaMontagne Dean of Students Ely 209 572-5421/5425
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Carlton Pickron, Vice President,Student Affairs (413) 572-5272 Kim Morgan, Student Affairs Office (413) 572-5400 Susan Lamontagne, Dean, Student Affairs (413) 572-5425 Cheryl Guimond, Student Affairs Office (413) 572-5421 Richard Lenfest Jr, Director, Athletics (413) 572-8229 Michelle Gannon, Athletics Office (413) 572-5405 Junior Delgado, Director, Career Center (413) 572-5546 Sharon King. Career Services Office (413) 572-5206
Patricia Berube, Director Health Services (413) 572-5415 Tina Avery, Health Services Office (413) 572-8135 Michael Nockunas, Public Safety (413) 572-5262 Jon Conlogue, Executive Director, Residential Life (413) 572-5402 June Tanski, Residential Life Office (413) 572-5402 Amy Szlachetka, Director, Campus Center (413) 572-5443 Maureen Halloran, Campus Center Office (413) 572-5648 Shannon Broderick, Student Life (413) 572-5403
Tammy Bringaze, Director, Counseling Center (413) 572-5790 Lisa Campbell, Counseling Center Office (413) 572-5790
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The Career Center Lammers Annex | (413) 572-5206
westfield.ma.edu/careercenter careers@westfield.ma.edu
Who We Are A team of enthusiastic professionals with extensive experience working effectively with students and alumni in the area of academic, personal and career development is the staff of the Westfield State University Career Center. The staff reaches out to the community, creating partnerships with non-profit employers to develop career and experiential education opportunities consistent with the needs and interests of our students and alumni and in support of the mission of the University. Support We Provide Services are available at no cost. Appointments may be necessary for most services. Professional assistance with career exploration and advising Academic major/career advisement On-line Job Postings and Resume Referral On-Campus Recruiting and Networking Events Career Fairs and Professional Development Programs
Career Resource Library: Professional Guides, Magazines and Career Literature Graduate School Advising Community Service Internship Advising and Experiential Education Database
Quick Tips For Faculty and Staff Students seeking career counseling have three options to schedule an appointment, visit , call or email the Career Center - (413) 572-5206 or careers@westfield.ma.edu. Faculty and staff can refer students for appointments but not schedule for a student. Professional staff is always available to provide consultation to faculty during the Career Center’s hours of operation. For more information about the services, feel free to visit the Career Center website at careers@wsestfield.ma.edu
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Junior Delgado, M.Ed., B.A., Director, Career Center
jdelgado@westfield.ma.edu, (413) 572-5206
Junior provides career counseling and and is the primary contact for office policy and procedures. He is responsible for two large scale career fairs on campus and works with employers to network and provide opportunities for students. He joined the University in 2000 after working as a Spanish teacher in local schools and in higher education as an Admissions Officer. He earned his B.A. from Clark Univeristy and an M.Ed in Educational Administration from Westfield State University. Giselle Abed, M.Ed., B.A., Assistant Director, Coordinator of Experiential Education
gabed@westfield.ma.edu, (413) 572-5206
Giselle provides career counseling and is the primary contact for the cooperative education program and student teacher seminar programs. Another key responsibility is updating the Career Center website. She joined the University in 2007. She earned her B.A. in English Education from Hartwick College and her Master of Education in Higher Education Administration from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Dino Innarelli, B.A., Staff Assistant, Coordinator of Alumni Career Services
dinnarelli@westfield.ma.edu, (413) 572-5206
Dino coordinates career-related alumni activities and provides career and graduate school advising. One of his major responsibilities is the Post Graduate Survey. Dino joined the Career Center in November 2010 with over twenty years of career counseling and workforce development experience. He received his bachelor’s degree from Western New England University and is presently pursuing his Master of Public Administration. Tricia Raiti M.S., B.S., Part-Time Career Counselor
traiti@westfield.ma.edu, (413) 572-5206
Tricia is responsible for career counseling programming and graduate school advising. One of her main responsibilities is logistics and assistance with on campus career fairs. Tricia has been a part-time member of the Career Center since 2011. She has over five years of career development experience. Tricia received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from St. Lawrence University in NY and Master of Science in College Student Personnel from Miami University in Ohio. Sharon King, Administrative Assistant /Office Manager
sking@westfield.ma.edu, (413) 572-5206
Sharon King is responsible for assisting students and scheduling appointments. She manages the Career Center databases and assists in coordination of employer events. She joined the University in 1999. Lori Putnam, Clerk IV
lputnam@westfield.ma.edu, (413) 572-5207
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Student-Athlete Affairs Woodward 246 | (413) 572-5515
nbals@westfield.ma.edu westfieldstateowls.com
Who We Are Student-Athlete Affairs refers to Athletic Department programs that provide student-athletes with information that enhances their growth while at Westfield State University, in order to be prepared for life after the University. Who We Serve Varsity Student Athletes Supports We Provide The program provides each student-athlete the opportunity to achieve success by focusing on academic excellence, athletics excellence, community service, personal development and career development. First year student-athletes attend study hall for seven weeks while in their sport season. The Athletics staff monitors the academic progress of first year student-athletes using Pharos360. Each year, student-athletes are required to attend workshops and presentations on leadership, diversity, alcohol education, nutrition, and other relevant topics. Athletic Department Mission Intercollegiate athletics are a vital component of the total educational process. The responsibility of the athletics department is to provide the opportunity for all student-athletes to succeed both academically and athletically, with the goal of academic success and graduation. The athletics department is committed to initiating, stimulating, and improving intercollegiate athletics by promoting physical fitness and sports participation. Leadership development and teaching social responsibility and citizenship are also priorities. Commitment to Personal Development and Commitment to Service NCAA Division III Discover | Develop | Dedicate Westfield State University supports the mission of NCAA Division III to govern in a fair, safe, equitable and sportsmanlike manner, and to integrate intercollegiate athletics into higher education so that the educational experience of the student-athlete is paramount “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, it not an act, but a habit.� — Aristotle
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Richard Lenfest, Jr. became the Athletic Director in 2005. He earned his B.S. from the University of Massachusetts and his M.B.A. from American International College. Dick oversees 21 varsity sports, club sports, the intramural program, Woodward Center, and Alumni Field(s). In 2013, Westfield State led the Massachusetts State Collegiate Athletic Conference (MASCAC) with the most student-athletes named to the MASCAC All-Academic Team. Student-athletes graduate at a rate of 70%, significantly higher than the general student body. In 2012-13, over 1500 hours of community service were performed by student-athletes. In four of the last seven years Westfield State won the Smith Cup, awarded to the MASCAC institution with the most points based on the placement of each of its programs competing in the 15 league championships. In 2012-13, two teams qualified for the NCAA tournament and two individuals earned All-American status.
Nancy Bals, Associate Athletics Director, came to Westfield State University in 1996. Nancy holds degrees from Springfield College (M.S.) and Eastern New Mexico University (B.S.). Nancy oversees the Student-Athlete Affairs program and supervises the Graduate Assistant who coordinates the study hall program. Mickey Curtis, Associate Athletic Director, received his M.Ed. from Westfield State University and his B.A. from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Mickey has been at Westfield State since 1987 and has responsibilities for Sports Information, Owls website, team photos, publicity requests. Andrea Bertini, Assistant Atheltic Director. Head Women’s Basketball coach, graduated from Westfield State in 1996. She holds a M.S. from Springfield College. Andrea is responsible for NCAA Compliance and student-athlete eligibility declaration. Dr. Diana Schwartz, Professor, Movement Science, Sports and Leisure Studies Department, and Faculty Athletics Representative has a B.S.E. from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, a M.S., and D.P.E. from Springfield College. Dr. Schwartz assists Student-Athletes and faculty when they experience academics and varsity sport conflicts.
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Counseling Center Lammers Annex A | (413) 572-5790
westfield.ma.edu/counseling
Who We Are The Counseling Center is staffed by licensed mental health professionals who provide short-term counseling, consultation and programming for University students. The Center provides short-term counseling and programming for students. The staff is also available to the larger Westfield State community for consultations, trainings and programs related to student mental health needs. Support We Provide Direct services to students; consultations, trainings, and programs related to student mental health concerns to the larger community: Individual counseling and couple counseling Suicide Risk Assessment Crisis counseling and intervention Substance abuse evaluation and treatment Nutritional counseling Quick Tips For Faculty and Staff Students seeking counseling must first come in the Counseling Center to fill out paperwork in order to provide important personal information before being scheduled for counseling. In case of crisis, students may be seen that day.
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Faculty and staff may not take appointments for students. However, as trusted advisors to students, they may accompany students to support them in the process of obtaining counseling services. If accompanying a student to the Counseling Center, please call us in advance if possible, in order to reduce potential wait time and so that we can make arrangements to have a counselor available.
Limited psychiatric services as approved and authorized by the counseling staff Substance education programming Other programming Training for staff and students in paraprofessional counseling and referral
A triage counselor is available each day for walk-in emergencies and faculty/staff calls and consultations. Despite peak times in the semester, which may result in a longer wait for regular counseling, crisis counseling is always available on a daily basis. For more comprehensive information on referring students for counseling, refer to the Faculty as a Helping Resource link on the Counseling Center website. One or more professional staff is always available to provide consultation to faculty during the Counseling Center’s hours of operation.
Tammy Bringaze, PhD., N.C.C., L.M.H.C., Director
tbrignaze@westfield.ma.edu (413) 572-5491
In addition to providing counseling services, Tammy is the appropriate person to contact for all official information regarding the Counseling Center policy and procedures. She is the primary consultant to the WSU community at large regarding student mental health related concerns. Suzanna Adams, M.A., N.C.C., L.M.H.C., Associate Director
scadams@westfield.ma.edu (413) 572-5493
In addition to providing counseling services, Suzanna is the appropriate person to contact if the director is unavailable. She is the coordinator of the Counseling Center website and outreach information concerning the Counseling Center. She also workds with clinical intern training and supervision. As well, she is available for general consultation for faculty and staff concerns about students as well as information about Counseling Center services. Brian Cahillane, J.D., M.S.W., L.M.S.W., Assistant Director
bcahillane@westfield.ma.edu (413) 572-5401
In addition to providing counseling services, Brian is the appropriate person to contact for anything related to substance abuse prevention, policy, and treatment. Brian is available for general consultation for faculty and staff concerns about students as well as information about the Counseling Center’s Services. JoAnn Churchill, M.A., N.C.C., L.M.H.C., Assistant Director
jchurchill@westfield.ma.edu (413) 572-8095
In addition to providing counseling services, JoAnn is the appropriate person to contact for general consultation for faculty concerns about students as well as information about the Counseling Center’s services. She also provides training and supervision to the Center’s clinical interns. Counseling Interns: Graduate Interns(2), who are in the final stages of completing their advanced degree, also provide counseling services to students and are under the direct supervision of professional staff members. Lisa Campbell, Secretary
lcampbell@westfield.ma.edu (413) 572-5790
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Residential Life OUR MISSION: RESIDENTIAL LIFE PROMOTES PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT AND CIVIC ENGAGEMENT Who We Are Students spend about 90% of their time at Westfield State University outside the classroom. For resident students, much of this time will be spent in and around the residence halls. With this in mind, Residential Life staff members tailor our services, programs, individual interactions and group activities to: Be an integral part of residents’ educational experiences; Promote students’ educational, personal and social development; and Serve as a vital resource to increase student awareness, persistence, satisfaction and graduation. Support We Provide On the programming side, we offer hundreds of in-hall activities each year including large-scale social and educational programs and smaller, section-oriented events. Many of these programs, whether sponsored by our department or other departments, are eligible for Owl Advantage Program credit. Owl Advantage is an institution-wide, out-of-classroom programming effort developed by Residential Life in cooperation with other campus offices, organizations, and academic departments. By attending a range of targeted, educationally-focused programs, students can earn rewards for participation such as gift certificates, flex dollars and other prizes. Students who attend 18 programs this academic year are entered in a drawing for larger prizes at the end of the academic year. Programming areas include leadership development, sexual assault awareness, alcohol and other drug workshops, safety and security, community service, and diversity education; initiatives targeted toward global issues such as sustainability; and social and recreational events. We are proud to have been able to over 100 events featuring faculty in the residence halls last year – and we’d love to have all faculty meeting with resident students over the course of the year for programs, activities and informal discussions.
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Crisis Intervention - The wide range of emotional, physical, academic and adjustment issues generated by 3,000 residents creates a constant stream of issues to manage. As these of psychological, medical, criminal and other incidents often happen on evenings and weekends, Residential Life staff members are often ‘first responders,’ providing crucial follow-up and support for our students and the community. Overall campus trends over the last several years reflect lower rates of vandalism and serious student conduct issues even as occupancy levels have been at record highs. Common incidents include noise complaints, alcohol violations, and occasional ‘crimes of opportunity’ such as thefts from unlocked student rooms. More serious situations, such as medical or psychological emergencies, assaults or other violent crimes, are far less frequent but require skilled responses when they arise. New Student and Parent Orientation - Valerie Turco (who is also the Apartment Complex Residence Director) coordinates this major campus program. Each year, these programs draw over 90% of first-year students and 80% of transfer students, as well as an increasing number of parents and family members. Included under this program are several Welcome Week activities each September. The heart of the orientation program consists of four, 2-day sessions for first-year students and their parents conducted in mid-June, as well as a one-day Transfer Orientation program.
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Dr. Jon Conlogue, Executive Director, Residential Services and Campus Life jconlogue@ westfield.ma.edu 413 572-5572
Jessi Hufnagle, Assistant Director of Residence Education jhufnagle@westfield.ma.edu (413) 572-8053
Jon provides central office staff training and supervision; manages budget and capital projects; serves on the Special Committee on University Planning, Enrollment Management Committee, and campus Emergency Response Team. He also provides emergency response procedure oversight including Administrator on Call duties and contact with parents for serious incidents. Jon oversees food service and new Student Orientation programs.
Jessi oversees residential education efforts and the Owl Advantage Program; coordinate the department’s assessment of student learning outcomes; and recruit and oversee summer residential conferences. She also serves as Administrator on Call.
Dr. Joshua Hettrick, Assistant Director for Housing jhettrick@westfield.ma.edu (413) 572-5649 Josh coordinates housing assignments and room changes, data management, revenue programs, break and summer housing coordination and also serves as Administrator on Call for the entire campus. Jennifer Gould, Assistant Director for Staff Development jgould@westfield.ma.edu (413) 572-8120 Jen is responsible for all aspects of in-hall staff selection, training, development and evaluation and serves as Administrator on Call.
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Valerie Turco, Coordinator of New Student orientation and Apartment Complex Resident Director vturco@westfield.ma.edu (413) 572-5453 Dawn Whitehill, Accountant dwhitehill@westfield.ma.edu (413) 572-5663 Dawn provides fiscal and administrative support for Residential Life, Orientation, hall councils and other related accounts; works with revenue programs; oversees R.A. and other student staff payroll and provides supervision and support for student office employees. June Tanski, Secretary jtanski@westfield.ma.edu (413) 572-5402 June provides supervision and support for student office staff and overall office management. She also works with Assistant Director on housing issues.
In-Hall Staff Residence Directors (9)- Each residence is managed by a full-time, live-in R.D. Each R.D. supervises 4-11 R.A.s; advises hall council; works with students on personal, social, academic, roommate, policy and other issues; and provides duty coverage for the entire on-campus population on evenings and weekends. Eight of our nine R.D.s hold Master’s degrees. We always have one or more Residence Life professional staff on duty (24 hours a day, 7 days a week) to provide crisis response and staff guidance whenever students are here. Special Projects Coordinators (4) - Four part-time staff members with bachelor’s degrees who work in the Residential Life central office on residence education efforts, New Student Orientation, housing operations and staff training. SPCs also provide evening and weekend duty coverage. Staff Development Assistants (9) and Resident Assistants (61) - These sophomore, junior and senior student staff members serve as peer counselors and resources. All must meet academic requirements and demonstrate leadership ability and a sincere desire to help other students and serve the campus.
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Student Threat Assessment Team (STAT) Contact Susan Lamontagne, Dean of Students
(413) 572-5425
Who We Are In the aftermath of tragedies involving violence, colleges across the nation have been creating plans to be as prepared as possible to respond to such incidents. At Westfield, our work includes maintaining a campus team to review and evaluate reports of threatening or potentially dangerous behaviors by students. The team’s task is to take a proactive approach to the rapid and accurate identification of students whose actions pose a threat to the safety of the campus community, and to intervene where appropriate. The Student Threat Assessment Team – STAT – asks you to report any student behaviors that have the potential for harm to self or others, and to refer students who may need assistance. During business hours, reports should be made to the STAT Chair, dean of Students Susan LaMontagne (x5421). After hours, reports should be made to Public Safety (x5262). Imminent situations should always be reported to the Public Safety office, which is open 24 hours. The Student Threat Assessment Team includes representatives from Academic Affairs, Public Safety, Counseling Center, Student Conduct, and Residential Life. Additional departments and resources are called upon depending on the nature and circumstances of the behaviors that are reported. Combining the knowledge of key campus units, the University resource team meets regularly to coordinate responses to students in distress and to manage intervention with student behavioral concerns. The team is charged with reviewing protocols, consulting with faculty and staff, and developing a coordinated action plan to assist individuals and ensure campus safety. The team meets regularly to receive reports, conduct threat assessments, determine a response, and conduct ongoing assessment of situations as needed. STAT serves Westfield State University students. Issues related to employee concerns or behaviors should be reported immediately to Human Resources by contacting Rafael Bones, Director of Human Resources at (413) 572-8106. Members of the WSU community (faculty, staff and students) are expected and encouraged to report concerns regarding threatening behavior exhibited by students or behavior that has potential for danger or harm. Support We Provide
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The Student Threat Assessment Team is responsible for receiving and reviewing reports of potentially threatening, violent or alarming behaviors by any student of the University. Behaviors that should be reviewed to the team, include, but are not limited to: violent writings, drawings, or other forms of individual expressions causing a person to be fearful or concerned
STAT TEAM Dean of Students, Academic Affairs, Public Safety, Counseling Center, Student Conduct and Residential Life. Behaviors that intimidate or threaten individuals or cause serious disruption to the campus community Explicit threats or verbal statements that are threatening in nature Suicide risk or risk of other life threatening conditions. The STAT will maintain the privacy of information within the scope of applicable state and federal laws. Any risk of harm of self or others, however will need to be investigated and possible intervention may necessitate sharing information with additional appropriate officials. Clery Act Crime Reporting Policy 1. Westfield State University regards crime prevention and the protection of life and property on campus as a priority. Crime reporting and notification policies at Westfield State University flow from an emphasis on education, crime prevention, and safety. The University does not regard a crime as “reported” to the University unless and until it has been reported to the Department of Public Safety, which is responsible for law enforcement, security, and emergency response. While members of the campus community should report crimes promptly, the Department of Public Safety encourages reports at any time following an incident. 2. Under the Federal Crime Awareness and Campus Security Act (CACSA) of 1990, the Department of Public Safety is responsible for documenting and investigating crimes that occur on the campus or off campus in buildings owned or leased by the University. Officers of the Department of Public Safety are available 24 hours a day. The department is staffed by trained professional police officers. 3. All members of the community have a responsibility to notify the Department of Public Safety about campus crime. The Department of Public Safety can accept crime information without the victim’s name being given (a third-party report). The University recognizes the importance of confidentiality issues; nonetheless, it is required by federal law to record and act upon certain information affecting the safety of the entire University. 4. Recipients of crime information should encourage victims to report crimes to the Department of Public Safety and should also advise them of the campus resources available to assist them, e.g., the Counseling Center, Judicial Affairs, or Residential Life staff. Despite any implied confidentiality, all University staff, except when restricted by law, should report criminal incidents that are brought to their attention to the Department of Public Safety. 5. The Department of Public Safety will provide as much information as possible to inquiries about campus crime, where such information will not impede an ongoing investigation or affect an individual’s right to privacy. The Director of Public Safety will work with the Director of Public Affairs to disseminate public safety information appropriately. The Director of Public Affairs will be the official University spokesperson regarding campus crime information and all inquiries should be directed initially to the Director of Public Affairs. The Director of Public Safety will provide necessary information to the Director of Public Affairs. In the absence of the Director of Public Affairs, the President will designate an appropriate official.
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(Continued from previous page) In accordance with the federal Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act (Higher Education Amendments of 1998), statistical information will be published annually regarding the number of occurrences of the following: Murder and non-negligent manslaughter, negligent manslaughter, sex offenses (forcible and non-forcible), robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, motor vehicle theft, arson; and arrests or persons referred for campus disciplinary action for liquor law violations, drug related violations, and illegal weapons possession. Crimes described in above (5b,i) and other crimes involving bodily injury to any person in which the victim is intentionally selected because of actual or perceived, race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, ethnicity, or disability of the victim that are reported to campus police, which data shall be collected and reported according to category of prejudice. Information published annually outlining campus crime reporting policies and procedures is accessible via the college web site www.westfield.ma.edu under Quick Links see “Safety Tips� and made available upon request to the campus community, prospective employees, and students. Police logs are available as provided by law. 6. The Department of Public Safety will issue information in a timely manner regarding incidents that may be a threat to the campus community. These security alerts are the responsibility of the Director of Public Safety who will consult the Vice President of Student Affairs where appropriate. Each bulletin will contain information regarding the date, time, general location, and nature of the incident. Bulletins will include recommended precautionary measures that should be observed by members of the university community. Bulletins will be posted at designated areas across the campus and distributed to faculty, staff, and students through campus e-mail. Bulletins will also be broadcast in residence halls on the on-campus cable television message center.
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Quick Reference of Resources for Students Academic Affairs Academic Achievement Academic Advising Banacos Academic Center Tutoring Program Examination Room Disability Services Career Center Counseling Center Dean of Undergraduate Studies Dean of Students TRiO Reading and Writing Center Residential Life Student-Athlete Affairs Student Threat Assessment Team Urban Education
572-5213 572-5561 572-8191
ngoodniss@westfield.ma.edu advising@westfield.ma.edu
572-8789 tutor@westfield.ma.edu 572-8378 examroom@westfield.ma.edu 572-5789 banacos@westfield.ma.edu 572-5206 careers@westfield.ma.edu 572-5790 572-5638 mmarotta@westfield.ma.edu 572-5400 slamontagne@westfield.ma.edu 572-5793 sssp@westfield.ma.edu 572-5569 csavini@westfield.ma.edu 572-5402 jconlogue@westfield.ma.edu 572-5405 nbals@westfield.ma.edu 572-5425 slamontagne@westfield.ma.edu 572-5389 urbaned@westfield.ma.edu
Compiled by Maureen McCartney, Associate Dean, Academic Achievement Suggestions for the 2014-20145 edition welcomed. Contact Maureen at mmccartney@westfield.ma.edu, (413) 572-8801