Updated August 17, 2011
Disclaimer:
At the time this publication went to print, all the information contained in it was updated. Since this document is a printed version and prepared in advance of the academic year, changes may be necessary after publication. If this occurs, students will be notified electronically and the online version will be updated on the University website. Students are encouraged to always reference the online version for the most up-to-date information.
Saint Leo University is committed to policies that ensure that there is no discrimination on the basis of age, gender, race, color, creed, religion, national origin or disability. The University is an Affirmative Action Equal Opportunity employer.
DIVISION OF STUDENT SERVICES
CAMPUS LIFE
The Campus Life Department is made up of the offices of Residence Life and Student Activities. The Residence Life Office is located in deChantal Hall at (352) 588-8268. A professional staff member is on call for emergencies from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. daily. He/She may be reached through Campus Safety or through a Resident Assistant. Resident Assistants are on duty 8:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. Sunday through Wednesday and 9:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. Thursday through Saturday. The Student Activities Office is located on the first floor of the Student Activities Building, and includes the areas of campus activities, student government union, clubs and organizations, Greek Life, international students, multicultural affairs, new student orientation, leadership development, and the student community center. Every month, a student activities calendar is posted on campus so students can take advantage of a variety of programs. For further information, contact the Student Activities Office at (352) 588-8992.
CAMPUS SECURITY AND SAFETY
With concern for the safety and well-being of its community, Saint Leo University maintains a 24-hour, seven-days-a-week Office of Campus Security and Safety. In order for the campus safety officers to better perform their services, it is important for every member of the community to cooperate in every possible way. There will be disciplinary consequences for infractions of safety policies. For further information, contact the Office of Campus Security and Safety at (352) 588-8432.
CAREER PLANNING
The Career Planning Center, located in St. Edward's Hall suite 102, provides information on career planning, internship and summer job opportunities, current job vacancy listings, employer publications, and an extensive selection of graduate school catalogs. Individual career counseling is available for students with career concerns or who need help choosing an academic major. Workshops and programs are offered throughout the year. Appointments are required for individual counseling sessions and may be scheduled by contacting the Office of Career Services at (352) 588-8346.
CENTER FOR VALUES, SERVICE AND LEADERSHIP
The Center for Values, Service and Leadership promotes student involvement and retention by creating a welcoming atmosphere for students. The Center offers high quality programs such as Students Engaged in Relevant Volunteer Experiences (SERVE), Samaritans, study abroad opportunities, and other activities. Guest speakers, fund raiser activities, community service groups such as the Rotaract Club, and other area community partnerships are made accessible to the faculty, staff, and student body. For further information, contact the Center at (352) 588-8018.
COUNSELING SERVICES
Working closely with various departments throughout the campus community, Counseling Services, located in deChantal Hall, provides a setting where students can explore individual concerns, knowing that the content of their visit is held in the strictest confidence. Students can participate in individual, couples', or group counseling. Students seek individual counseling for a variety of reasons such as anxiety, academic stress, relationship problems, depression, loneliness, alcohol and substance abuse, issues of sexuality, and concerns related to college adjustment. To schedule an appointment, call the Office of Counseling Services at (352) 588-8354.
DINING SERVICES
Dining Services, located in the Student Community Center, offers a wonderful array of dining experiences for resident and commuter students. The dining hall offers a wide variety of food items. For further information concerning health, nutrition, or other aspects of dining services, contact the Office of Dining Services at (352) 588-8361.
FIRST YEAR EXPERIENCE
The Office of First Year Experience (FYE) offers a variety of programs and resources to fully engage first-year students in their lifelong educational journey while assisting them in making a successful transition to campus. In collaboration with other campus offices, our goal is to help students integrate the learning that takes place through the academic mission of the University and engage students fully in the campus community. Through the focus of synthesizing the curriculum, student development and leadership development, our office strives to ease your transition into the University while helping first-year students become responsible leaders who recognize the dignity, value, and gifts of all people. For further information, please call (352) 588-8499.
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
The Office of Leadership Development coordinates the LEAD Scholar Program, as well as, The Society for Leadership & Success. The department works with students both inside and outside the classroom by offering a variety of curricular and co-curricular programs. For further information, contact the Office of Leadership Development at (352) 588-8853.
STUDENT GOVERNMENT UNION
The Student Government Union (SGU) is the governing body for all recognized student organizations. Meetings are held bi-weekly and all students are encouraged to attend. The Student Government Union sponsors many programs and events both on and off campus. For further information, contact the Student Government office at (352) 588-8844 or by visiting the SGU office on the 1st floor of the Student Activities Building.
VETERAN STUDENT SERVICES
The Office of Veteran Student Services (VSS) is committed to supporting our veteran students' academic and personal success. With a long history in educating service members and their families, Saint Leo University is devoted to serving those who have served. Our office works collaboratively with all university departments and community organizations to best meet the needs of our students in order to ensure the opportunity to accomplish individual goals. For further information, please call (352) 588-8234.
DIVISION OF CONTINUING EDUCATION AND STUDENT SERVICES
For further information about the University's student services policies and regulations or the disciplinary system, students should contact the Office of Student Services, 352-588-8992.
DISABILITY SERVICES
The Office of Disability Services, located on the 2nd floor of the Student Activities Building, provides services for students diagnosed with a disability, including learning disabilities, hearing and/or visual impairments, physical limitations, speech/language disorders, or ADHD. Students can receive a range of testing accommodations, note takers, textbooks on tape, and a variety of other services. For further information, contact the Office of Disability Services at (352) 588-8464.
LEARNING RESOURCE CENTER
The Learning Resource Center is available for any student who would like assistance with basic study skills such as time management, note taking and taking exams. The LRC also has peer and professional tutors for most SLU courses. Appointments can be made for individual tutoring or other services by contacting the Learning Resource Center at (352) 588-8307 or by visiting the LRC on the 2nd floor of the Student Activities Building.
CODE OF CONDUCT
STUDENT'S RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
As members of the Saint Leo University community‚ students can expect to be afforded certain basic rights and can also expect to be held accountable for certain basic responsibilities. Therefore, to maintain standards that contribute to the intellectual, spiritual and moral development of students that ensure the welfare of the University community, Saint Leo University establishes our Code of Conduct.
PREAMBLE
Saint Leo University is an educational environment dedicated to fostering intellectual achievement, personal development, and social responsibility. The disciplinary system is an integral part of our educational process. While a University education is primarily academic and intellectual in nature, it also includes the development of Core Values that translate into responsible behavior. Students are expected to display respect for individuals and their rights within the Saint Leo University community setting. Persons at Saint Leo University locations are expected to express themselves through conduct, which does not deny other individuals the freedom to express their own individuality socially, emotionally, intellectually, and spiritually, and does not deny other individuals their rights. Saint Leo University maintains the right to dismiss or suspend any student for reasons that the administration deems to be in the best interest of the University.
ARTICLE 1: DEFINITIONS
- The term "University" means Saint Leo University (University campus, on-line, and Centers).
- The term "student" is defined as any person who is admitted, enrolled or registered for study at Saint Leo University (University campus, on-line, and Centers) for any academic period. Persons who are not officially enrolled for a particular term but who have a continuing student relationship with, or an educational interest in Saint Leo University are considered "students". A person shall also be considered a student during any period while the student is under suspension from the University or when the person is attending or participating in any activity preparatory to the beginning of school including, but not limited to, orientation, LEAP and residence hall check-in.
- The term "University official" includes any person employed by the University, performing assigned administrative or professional responsibilities or a Residence life student staff member.
- The term "member of the University community" includes any person who is a student, staff member, faculty member, or a University official.
- The term "University premises" includes all land, buildings, facilities, and other property in the possession of or owned, used, or controlled by the University.
- The term "organization" means any athletic team, service organization/trip or any group/association of persons who have complied with the formal registration requirements for (the) University.
- The term "Administrative Hearing Officer" means a University official designated on a case-by-case basis by the Associate Vice President for Student Services to adjudicate alleged infractions in an Administrative Hearing. Nothing will prevent the Associate Vice President for Student Services from authorizing the same Administrative Hearing Officer to impose sanctions in all cases.
- The term "Appellate Board" means any person or persons authorized by the Associate Vice President for Student Services to consider an appeal from an Administrative Hearing Officer's determination that a student has violated University policy or from the sanctions imposed.
- a. Decisions of Administrative Hearing Officers may be appealed to the Associate Vice President for Student Services or designee. When appropriate, a faculty member will also be selected to act in an advisory capacity to the Associate Vice President for Student Services. If the Associate Vice President for Student Services acted as the Administrative Hearing Officer, the Vice President for Continuing Education and Student Services will consider the appeal.
- The term "policy" is defined as the written regulations of the University as found in, but not limited to, the Code of Conduct, Guides to Residence Hall living, and the Catalog.
- The term "residence hall" is defined as any University owned/operated student housing facility.
ARTICLE II: UNIVERSITY CORE VALUES
Saint Leo University offers a practical, effective model for life and leadership in a challenging world. As such our community has adopted six steadfast moral Guidelines to help us recognize the dignity, value, and gifts of all people. We encourage all members of our community to use and embrace the following values in their day-to-day lives in order to strengthen our commitment to each other, our University, and to God.
Excellence – Saint Leo University is an educational enterprise. All of us, individually and collectively, work hard to ensure that our students develop the character, learn the skills, and assimilate the knowledge essential to become morally responsible leaders. The success of our University depends upon a conscientious commitment to our mission, vision, and goals.
Community - Saint Leo University develops hospitable Christian learning communities everywhere we serve. We foster a spirit of belonging, unity, and interdependence based on mutual trust and respect to create socially responsible environments that challenge all of us to listen, to learn, to change, and to serve.
Respect – Animated in the spirit of Jesus Christ, we value all individuals' unique talents, respect their dignity, and strive to foster their commitment to excellence in our work. Our community's strength depends on the unity and diversity of our people, on the free exchange of ideas, and on learning, living and working harmoniously.
Personal Development - Saint Leo University stresses the development of every person's mind spirit, and body for a balanced life. All members of the Saint Leo University community must demonstrate their commitment to personal development to help strengthen the character of our community.
Responsible Stewardship – Our creator blesses us with an abundance of resources. We foster a spirit of service to employ our resources to university and community development. We must be resourceful. We must optimize and apply all of the resources of our community to fulfill Saint Leo University's mission and goals.
Integrity – The commitment of Saint Leo University to excellence demands that its members live its mission and deliver on its promise. The faculty, staff, and students pledge to be hon-est, just, and consistent in word and deed.
ARTICLE III: JUDICIAL AUTHORITY
- The Associate Vice President for Student Services is responsible for the disciplinary system at Saint Leo University.
- The Associate Vice President for Student Services, in consultation with University governance shall develop Policies for the administration of the disciplinary program and procedural rules for the conduct of hearings that are consistent with provisions and Core Values of University.
- Administrative Hearing decisions accepted by the Associate Vice President for Student Services shall be final, pending the normal appeal process.
- The Associate Vice President for Student Services may designate a University official to act as his/her designee.
ARTICLE IV: PROSCRIBED CONDUCT
A. JURISDICTION OF THE UNIVERSITY
Although the University is not responsible or liable for student off-campus events or behavior, it does reserve the right, in the interest of protecting students from harm, to take action in response to behavior off campus that violates University expectations, Core Values and Policies and when the University's interests as an academic community are clearly involved. University Policies govern students participating in Saint Leo or Saint Leo-affiliated study abroad.
B. CONDUCT- RULES AND REGULATIONS
As responsible members of the Saint Leo University community, students are expected to maintain the University's highest ideals of academic and social conduct and are responsible for knowing and abiding by University policy and reporting violations to Campus Safety, Residence life or any member of the Student Services staff.
B1. ABUSE (Physical, Mental, or Verbal)
Values: Community, Respect, Integrity
Physical, mental, or verbal abuse of any person is prohibited. No student shall cause harm to another or aid in commission of an act that causes physical or emotional harm to others or which intimidates, degrades, demeans, threatens, or otherwise interferes with another per-son's rights or comfort.
B2. ACADEMIC HONESTY
Values: Excellence, Respect, Integrity
Please consult the Catalog for Academic Policies. The policy on Academic Honesty is repeated here, given its vital importance in the Saint Leo community.
As members of an academic community that places a high value on truth and the pursuit of knowledge, Saint Leo University students are expected to be honest in every phase of their academic life and to present as their own work only that which is genuinely theirs. Unless otherwise specified by the professor, students must complete homework assignments by themselves (or if on a team assignment, with only their team members). If they receive outside assistance of any kind, they are expected to cite the source and indicate the extent of the assistance. Each student has the responsibility to maintain the highest standards of academic integrity and to refrain from cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty.
Academic dishonesty is representing another's work as one's own, active complicity in such falsification, or violating test conditions.
Plagiarism is stealing and passing off the ideas and words of another as one's own or using the work of another without crediting the source.
The University will hold students responsible for safeguarding their work against plagiarism by others. For example, papers left on hard drives or flash drives are easily copied, and when two or more students submit papers that are essentially the same, it is often impossible to determine which version was written first and which was plagiarized. In cases of this nature, the actions of all involved will be reviewed by the appropriate Academic Standards Commit-tee, and appropriate sanctions may be awarded to one or all students.
Questions of academic honesty are of great importance to Saint Leo University. Infractions are addressed by the Office of Academic Affairs. When there is a reason to suspect that a student has violated either the University's policy on academic honesty or the faculty member's specific codes as outlined in the course syllabus, the faculty member must discuss the charges and the evidence with the student. Without taking any punitive action, the faculty member will as soon as possible submit a written report of the suspected violation as follows:
For students enrolled in University College, the report goes to the Academic Standards Committee.
- For students enrolled in the Graduate Programs, the report is sent to the Vice President for Academic Affairs, who in turn forwards it to the Graduate Academic Standards Committee.
- For students enrolled in the Division of Continuing Education and Student Services, the report goes to the Center Director.
- For students enrolled in the Center for Online Learning, the report goes to the Director of the Center for Online Learning.
The report of the faculty member will normally include these points:
- The faculty member's charge against the student.
- The evidence supporting the faculty member's charge.
- A summary of the discussion between the student and the faculty member, including any admission or denial of guilt by the student.
- A copy of the course syllabus.
Upon receipt of the faculty member's report, the Undergraduate Academic Standards Committee, the Graduate Academic Standards Committee, or an ad hoc committee appointed by the Continuing Education Center Director will schedule a hearing and inform the student, in writing, of the date and time of the hearing. The Committee also will enclose copies of the faculty member's report. A student is not permitted to withdraw from a course while the infraction is under investigation. The student is required to attend the hearing. If the student does not attend the hearing, the Committee will render a default judgment with appropriate sanctions.
After reviewing the evidence and hearing the argument of both parties, the Committee will render a decision on the charge and determine any sanctions that are appropriate. The sanctions for academic dishonesty such as cheating on an examination, plagiarism, forgery of academic documents (including signing another's name), copying of computer programs or information and similar offenses, are as follows:
- The minimum sanction for the first offense is a zero for the test or assignment, but the usual sanction is an "F" in the course in which the violation took place. No provision will be made for the student to receive a "W."
- The minimum sanction for the second offense is an "F" in the course, but the usual sanction is suspension or dismissal of the student from Saint Leo University.
The student may appeal the decisions of the Committee to the Vice President for Academic Affairs, who may accept or modify any finding, conclusion, or suggested sanction in the Committee's recommendation and issue the final decision of the University as soon as practical. The final authority rests with the Vice President for Academic Affairs. It is the personal responsibility and obligation of each student to uphold the Academic Honor Code. Students are required to report any observed instance of academic dishonesty to the faculty member.
A new Online Academic Honor Code reporting system will be piloted in fall 2007 for University Campus students where instances of academic honesty may result in sanctions applied by the faculty member in the classroom. Students will be notified via the Online Academic Honor Code reporting system, and they will have the opportunity to appeal the allegation and/or decision. More information will be distributed at the opening of the school year.
PROTECTION OF THE ACADEMIC ENVIRONMENT:
Disruption of academic process is the act or words of a student in a classroom or teaching environment which in the reasonable estimation of a faculty member: (a) directs attention away from the academic matters at hand, such as noisy distractions, persistent, disrespectful or abusive interruptions of lecture, exam or academic discussions, or (b) presents a danger to the health, safety or well being of the faculty member or students. Education is a cooperative endeavor – one that takes place within a context of basic interpersonal respect. We must therefore make the classroom environment conducive to the purpose for which we are here. Disruption, intentional and unintentional, is an obstacle to that aim. We can all aid in creating the proper environment, in small ways (such as turning off beepers and cell phones, and neither chatting nor sleeping in class), and in more fundamental ways. So, when we speak in class, we can disagree without attacking each other verbally, we wait to be recognized before speaking, and no one speaks in a manner or of off-topic content that disrupts the class. Any violation of this policy may result in disciplinary action. Please refer to the Student Handbook for further details.
B3. ALCOHOL Values: Community, Respect, Personal Development, Integrity
Excessive drinking and intoxication will not be tolerated. Members of the Saint Leo community who choose to drink will be held fully responsible for their behavior while under the influence of alcohol. Drinking games designed for the purpose of the irresponsible consumption of alcohol are prohibited. Loss of control due to intoxication does not excuse or justify violation of State Law, University regulations, or the rights of others.
- Any violation of Florida State laws regarding alcohol will be considered grounds for University disciplinary action. These include:
- a. Possession and/or consumption of alcoholic beverages if under the age of 21 (including alcohol-based drinks, e.g. FourLoko).
- b. Selling, giving, or serving, alcoholic beverages or permitting alcohol to be served to persons under 21.
- c. Misrepresenting or misstating one's age or using altered identification for the purpose of procuring alcoholic beverages.
- d. Consuming or possessing open containers of alcoholic beverages including secondary containers, while in municipal parks, playgrounds, sidewalks, or streets or being found in the state of intoxication on a street or in a public place. This open container law applies on and off campus. This includes the consumption/possession of open alcohol in residence hall corridors, lounges, and any public areas.
- e. Common sources of alcohol, including but not limited to, kegs and party balls (empty or full) are prohibited, except as outlined in the Social Event Guidelines.
- f. Devices and games designed for the rapid consumption of alcohol, including but not limited to, beer pong, funnels and beer bongs are prohibited.
- g. Driving with a blood alcohol level of 0.08% or more. (Individuals arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs face a suspension of driver's license for 6 months, fines of up to $500.00, a minimum of 50 hours of community service, and imprisonment for up to six months.) The State of Florida will suspend drivers licenses for those under 21 driving with a blood alcohol level of .02 percent. <
- h. Possession and/or consumption of alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited on campus before the start of classes regardless of age. Campus is considered "dry" for new and returning students during Orientation (Summer and Fall) or other students who have been approved to return early. This includes approved athletic teams participating in vacation housing.
- Minimum Guidelines for sanctions associated with violations of the alcohol policy are listed below. If warranted, the University reserves the right to impose more severe sanctions. Parental notification will occur through the Administrative Hearing Officer or designee when appropriate.
- Written Warning
- Participate in and successful completion of an on-line course designed to assist students with alcohol-related topics and healthy lifestyle choices. There is a fee associated with this course.
- Parental Notification, if appropriate (required on second infraction)
- Coach Notification, if appropriate
- 2 points
B4. ALCOHOL AND NON-ALCOHOL SOCIAL EVENT GUIDELINES
Values: Community, Respect, Personal Development, Integrity
The University is committed to providing an environment that includes policies and educational elements to encourage healthy, low-risk, and safe choices for the use or non-use of alcohol for those of legal age. Furthermore, the University believes in the importance of alcohol education programs for all members of the University community. It is upon this and the education-oriented philosophy of the University that the following alcohol social event policy is based.
The alcohol social event policy at Saint Leo University is based in compliance with Florida State Statute, and the use of alcohol in moderation and under appropriate circumstances. This policy applies to all student organizations, and those groups and individual students, holding events on University property or in association with the University, including off campus events. In the case of visitors/guests violating the policy, the host may be held responsible and depending on the violation, the visitor is also subject to arrest.
- Policies
- All events on campus or during an organization event, in any situation sponsored or endorsed by the University and/or individual, and organization, or in any event an observer would associate with the organization, including off-campus events must be in compliance with the stated guidelines below unless otherwise granted permission by the Associate Vice President of Student Services:
- All students and student organizations at Saint Leo University must observe Florida State Statutes
- Prohibits any person under the age of 21 from possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages
- The selling, giving, or serving of alcoholic beverages to persons under the age of 21 by any person or organization
- Any person from misrepresenting or misstating his/her age
- Open containers of alcohol.
- All events with alcohol must have a Third Party Vendor, properly licensed by appropriate local and state authorities, with a million dollar liability insurance policy. All sales of alcohol must be on an individual drink by drink basis and staffed only with employees of the Third Party Vendor.
- All events that have alcohol present must be in a location properly zoned for the distribution and consumption of alcoholic beverages.
- Outside events will be approved on a case-by-case basis and must follow Saint Leo Town noise ordinances.
- With the exception of licensed, third party vendors, no kegs, or other common source alcohol containers (such as punch, party balls, etc.) are permitted.
- Student organization funds or money generated from student activity fees or admission fees collected at the event may not be used for the purchase of alcohol (this includes "passing the hat").
- No event shall include drinking contests, drinking games, or have alcohol as prizes to any contests.
- Open parties, meaning those with unrestricted access by non-members of the sponsoring organization without specific invitation are prohibited. All events with alcohol must have a guest list that is generated and finalized 48 hours prior to the event with each guest's full name, student identification, and host if not a member of sponsoring organization and turned into the Student Involvement Office. An actual list of everyone in attendance to the function must be submitted to the Student Activities office at the time of follow-up meeting.
- No organization or individual may co-sponsor an event with alcohol, with an alcohol distributor, charitable organization or tavern (business generating more than 50% of annual gross sales from alcohol). No funds, privileges, endorsements, charitable contributions or other special considerations shall be granted to an organization from the host site.
- No organization, or individual may hold an event with alcohol during or 48 hours preceding final examination period, at organizational recruitment induction, or initiation events, at any campus recreation event, intramural event, or NCAA event, or during the academic week (Monday-Thursday), unless granted an exception by the Associate Vice President for Student Services.
- General Procedures
- The following must be turned into the Student Activities Office with the "Event with Alcohol Form" for approval:
- List of monitors (one trained monitor for every 25 guests) charged with remaining sober (not drinking at all), regulating the event and enforcing policy.
- Proof that the Organizational Officer planning the event has attended a risk management training session and passed the alcohol quiz to be eligible to hold an event with alcohol.
- Approval by the Director of Student Activities or designee is subject to the above guidelines.
- Any prior publicity (including but not limited to posters, banners, newspaper advertisements, t-shirts, electronic advertisements such as Facebook and Myspace etc. ) must not contain phrases emphasizing alcohol being served or manner it will be consumed (i.e. "Drink and Drown" , "All you can Drink", etc.). Publicity must also mention the availability of non-alcoholic beverages. The following statement must be included all publicity:
- Participants at the event must be prepared to present two forms of age identification, one containing a photo. Participants must be 21 years of age or older in order to consume alcohol.
- The final guest list must be submitted to the Student Activities Office 48 hours prior to the event.
- Guests over the age of 21 must be given a wrist band at the door and must have it on at all times to be served.
- Food and non-alcoholic beverages will be made available to all participants. If the non-alcoholic food and beverages run out the alcohol sales will stop.
- A sign must be displayed at all times that states "We Do Not Serve Minors. We re-serve the right to refuse service to anyone who appears to be intoxicated, or who appears to be underage and cannot provide acceptable identification." Students are responsible for staffing the event and will be responsible, in working along with security. A birthday list of all students is to be used at the entrance. Students will be asked to present a picture form of identification. (Invited guests who are not Saint Leo students will be required to show two forms of picture identification.)
- The serving of alcoholic beverages is to be discontinued one half hour before the end of the event.
- Alcoholic beverages are to be served in a container noticeably different than non-alcoholic beverages.
- Length of event to be approved by Student Activities office.
- Procedures for On Campus events with Alcohol
- An Event form must be completed with all appropriate signatures and handed into the Student Activities Office at least fourteen (14) days prior to the scheduled activity. This form requires the signature of the Director of Student Activities or designee. Other signatures will include that of the Executive Director of Campus Security and Safety, Director of Dining Services or other manager, and the organization's advisor before final approval is given.
- All organizations approved to hold an event with alcohol must use Dining Services as their vendor unless a waiver is received from Dining Services and approved by the Director of Student Activities.
- The amount and manner of distribution of alcoholic beverages to be served will be determined prior to the event by the sponsoring organization, in conjunction with the Director of Student Activities, and the Assistant Vice President for Student Services will make the final approval process.
- The Executive Director of Campus Security and Safety will determine the number of officers to be present to check age identification for those entering the designated drinking area and/or to assist with crowd control. This number of officers will be figured in accordance with the number of persons expected to attend the event, the nature of the event, and past history (if any) of the event. Whenever possible, the Department of Campus Security and Safety will provide off-duty University officers for events. The sponsoring organization is responsible for the cost of the off-duty officers. If it is not possible for University officers to staff the party it shall be the sponsoring organization's responsibility to obtain appropriate alternatives in conjunction with the Executive Director of Campus Security and Safety. All student monitors must be trained through the University sponsored program.
- If damage occurs, the proper authorities will make an effort to seek out the responsible individual(s) and refer them to the appropriate, disciplinary process. However, when this is not possible, the sponsoring organization(s) is/are responsible for any damage or extra costs incurred and will be turned over to the Student Disciplinary Process. A thorough damage assessment will be made by the Director of Student Activities or designee and a student representative before and after the event at the facility utilized.
- A follow-up event meeting will be held between the event coordinator of the sponsoring organization(s) and the Director of Student Activities or designee who gave final approval of the event to evaluate the event. This meeting shall take place within five (5) working days after the event.
- The organization's faculty/staff advisor or approved designee must be present throughout the entire event.
- Procedures for Off Campus Events with Alcohol
- Registration and approval process
- An Event with Alcohol Form must be completed and submitted to the Student Activities Office fourteen (14) days prior to the scheduled event with time, date and location of the event. This form must contain the signature of the groups' advisor.
- Proof of the Third Party Vendor license and insurance policy must be included with this form for approval.
- Proof of licensed security personnel (not members of sponsoring organization) to be present at event. This will be reviewed by the Executive Director of Campus Security and Safety for approval.
- Organizations must attend a risk management training session and pass a quiz to be eligible to hold an event with alcohol.
- A post event meeting will be held between the event coordinator of the sponsoring organization(s) and the Director of Student Activities or designee who gave final approval of the event to assess the event. This meeting shall take place within five (5) working days after the event.
B5. CAMPUS FACILITY USE
Values: Community, Respect
Access to Saint Leo University facilities is limited to Saint Leo students, faculty, staff and authorized visitors. Student Organizations must be registered with the Office of Student Activities in order to access facilities without being charged. Classroom and administrative buildings are normally open on weekdays during daytime hours and locked on evenings and weekends. Unauthorized or illegal use of the facilities is prohibited.
Residential facilities are locked 24 hours daily. Campus Security and Safety routinely patrols all campus facilities, including campus residences to check for unsafe conditions.
B6. COMPUTER & OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICE MISUSE
Values: Excellence, Community, Respect, Integrity
- Computer Misuse:
- Theft or other abuse of computer time includes, but is not limited to:
- Unauthorized entry into a file, to use, read, or change the contents, or for any other purpose.
- Unauthorized transfer of a file.
- Unauthorized use of another individual's identification and password.
- Use of computing facilities to interfere with the work of another student, faculty, member or University Official.
- Use of computing facilities to interfere with normal operation of the University computing system.
- Use of computing facilities to violate or document violations of Federal, State or local laws or University policy.
- Electronic Device Misuse:
- Saint Leo students, faculty, staff and visitors are expected to uphold high standards of academic integrity and personal conduct while using camera phones and other electronic recording devices, such as film, digital and web cameras, etc., on campus. Saint Leo strictly prohibits the use of camera phones and other recording devices in any manner which violates or compromises academic integrity, University Core Values, or the expectation of privacy that individuals have a reasonable right to assume on campus. Those who violate this policy may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment, academic dismissal, removal from campus, and/or criminal prosecution/civil liability.
B7. DAMAGE TO PROPERTY
Values: Community, Respect, Responsible Stewardship, Integrity
Damage and vandalism to personal property of others or University property is prohibited.
B8. DISCRIMINATION & HARASSMENT
Values: Community, Respect, Integrity
The University values a community atmosphere that is free of all forms of discrimination and harassment, and will endeavor to prevent discrimination because of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, handicap, or military service. The University prohibits conduct which prevents free academic interaction and opportunities or which creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive study or work environment.
STATEMENT ON HATE MOTIVATED VIOLATIONS
Saint Leo University defines hate motivated offenses as conduct (harassment or physical acts) directed at an individual(s) on the basis of age, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or disability with intention to intimidate or injure an individual(s), physically, mentally, or emotionally. Hate motivated offenses compromise the integrity of the Saint Leo University community and may constitute violations of the Saint Leo University Code of Con-duct. Harsher sanctions may be imposed when behavior is proven to be motivated by hate. Students found responsible for such violations are subject to a range of disciplinary sanctions including University Dismissal. As in all cases of misconduct, including hate motivated offenses, both the accused student and the complainant have rights that are observed throughout the University's judicial process. These rights are contained in their entirety in the Code of Conduct.
Saint Leo University seeks to foster a safe environment conducive to learning and the free exchange of ideas. As such, Saint Leo University does not limit constitutionally protected speech. Saint Leo University; however, is steadfast in its intolerance for hateful behavior that is directed at an individual(s) with the motivation of causing harm. This position is a constitutionally permitted exercise of the University's authority to educate and discipline its students.
Members of the Saint Leo University community affected by hate motivated offenses are strongly encouraged to report the incident. Reporting hate motivated offenses does not in itself constitute a formal complaint nor compel one to file a formal complaint of misconduct. Such offenses can be reported (formally/informally) to a variety of offices on campus including, but not limited to: Campus Security and Safety, Counseling, Residence Life, Student Activities and Student Services.
B9. DISRUPTIVE BEHAVIOR
Values: Excellence, Community, Respect, Integrity
Any behavior that infringes on the rights, privileges, or property of others, or which impedes the safety of community members or the educational process is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to: disruption or obstruction of teaching, research, administration, disciplinary proceedings, other University activities, including its events or community service functions on or off campus, or other authorized non-University activities, when the act occurs on University premises.
Disruptive class behavior is unacceptable. Disruptive class behavior is behavior which, in the judgment of the instructor, impedes other students' opportunity to learn and which directly and significantly interferes with class objectives. Should such behavior occur, the instructor may request the student to leave class and will refer the matter to the Associate Vice President for Student Services or designee. Permission to return to class will be granted only after the student meets with the Associate Vice President for Student Services or designee. Instructors are encouraged to refer to this policy in syllabi and to establish clear classroom behavior expectations. This policy may not be used to inhibit legitimate classroom dissent or discussion with the course instructor or other students.
B10. FALSIFICATION
Values: Excellence, Respect, Personal Development, Integrity
Falsification of any University records, including, but not limited to, records of admission, registration, financial aid, housing, student disciplinary, academic, health, and parking decals is prohibited. The University vigorously pursues allegations of deliberately providing false information to any campus official or providing false, altered, or forged academic records. This includes, but is not limited to, registration and drop/add forms.
B11. FIRE SAFETY
Values: Community, Respect, Integrity
Students are expected to act with due regard for the health and safety of others. Violations of this standard would include, but are not limited to, such behaviors as: failing to evacuate a building or failing to cooperate with authorities during a fire alarm or drill; deliberate or negligent activation of a false alarm; tampering with fire safety equipment; creating a safety hazard, starting a fire or causing an explosion. Students will be held financially liable for the fines imposed by the Fire Department, applicable expenses (clean up, recharging a fire extinguisher, etc.) and will be subject to disciplinary action.
B12. FIREWORKS, EXPLOSIVES, WEAPONS & OTHER DANGEROUS ITEMS
Values: Community, Personal Development, Integrity
The possession, use, or sale of weapons, ammunition, combustibles, fireworks, explosive devices or any other substance or devices designed to harm or incapacitate is prohibited on campus. "Weapons" are defined and include, but are not limited to, rifles, pistols, BB guns, paintball guns, pellet guns, stun guns, chemical weapons, knives (over 10 inches in length), slingshots, bows and arrows, and martial art weapons. Students who bring weapons to cam-pus must register and store the weapons with the Campus Security and Safety Office.
B13. HANDBILLS & NOTICES
Values: Community, Respect, Responsible Stewardship, Integrity
Posting of handbills, notices, and signs on University property is a privilege, not a right. All individuals, student organizations, businesses and vendors must receive permission from the Office of Student Activities to post on the Saint Leo campus. Posting is restricted to certain designated bulletin boards. Posting outside of these areas, including common areas, benches, trees, utility poles, walls, and in residence halls, is prohibited unless specific permission is granted by the Office of Student Involvement. Approved information to be posted within the residence halls should be brought to the Office of Residence Life to be disseminated to staff members. Event promotional materials are prohibited from using direct or indirect references to alcohol. (See Social Event Guidelines)
B14. HAZING
Values: Excellence, Community, Respect, Personal Development, Integrity
Saint Leo University prohibits hazing. In the State of Florida, "Hazing means any action or situation which recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of initiation or admission into or affiliation with any organization operating under sanction of a university or college [Hazing] shall include, but not be limited to, any brutality of a physical nature, such as whipping, beating, branding, forced calisthenics, exposure to the elements, forced consumption of food, liquor, drug, or other substance, or any other forced physical activity which could adversely affect the physical health or safety of the individual, and shall include any activity which could subject the individual to extreme mental stress, such as sleep deprivation, forced exclusion from social contact, forced conduct which could result in extreme embarrassment, or any other forced activity which adversely affects the mental health or dignity of the individual. Any activity as described above upon which the initiation or admission into or affiliation with a university or college organization is directly or indirectly conditioned shall be presumed to be forced activity, the willingness of an individual to participate in such activity notwithstanding." [Florida Statute 240.262]
Effective July 1, 2005 - the Chad Meredith Act makes dangerous hazing a crime in Florida. The bill, named for a University of Miami freshman who drowned in a campus lake while trying to join a fraternity in 2001, makes hazing that results in serious injury or death a felony punishable by up to five years in prison, even if the victim consents. Florida is now one of eight states that makes some types of hazing a felony.
B15. IDENTIFICATION CARDS
Values: Excellence, Respect, Integrity
An identification card is issued to each student and shall be carried at all times while on campus. Students living in certain Residence Halls on campus will need the card for entrance to the facility. The card is used for checking books out of the library, purchasing food in the dining hall, admission to athletic contests, and making purchases at the University Bookstore and the Convenience Store (Lion's Lair). Lending this card for any purpose to anyone, failure to present it when requested by a University official or falsification/alterations of identification card is prohibited.
The possession, use, manufacture or sale of government issued identification cards is strictly prohibited. The State of Florida considers fake identification cards as felony offenses.
B16. ILLEGAL SUBSTANCES
Values: Excellence, Community, Respect, Integrity, Personal Development
Saint Leo University disapproves of both the illegal use and the distribution of drugs. The University expects all members of the community to comply with state and federal laws pertaining to illegal drugs. The sale, purchase, manufacture, possession, distribution and illegal use of controlled substances, K2, bath salts, drugs and drug paraphernalia, including hookahs, are prohibited. Saint Leo accepts Florida statutory definitions of drugs and drug paraphernalia.
The University responds to the issue of substance abuse in three ways: education for the University community about drug use and its consequences, confidential counseling for those with personal problems related to illegal substance abuse/use, and disciplinary action. As a corporate citizen of the community, and in the spirit of our Core Values, the University must pursue all means possible to support the laws regarding illegal drug use. The campus is not a sanctuary from Law Enforcement Agents.
- Disciplinary Action
- The Associate Vice President for Student Services or designated Student Services staff(s) will investigate and conduct an administrative hearing with students charged with violating the University policy regarding illegal drugs and/or drug paraphernalia. Minimum guidelines for sanctions associated with illegal use of drugs are listed below. If warranted, the University reserves the right to impose more severe sanctions. Parental notification will occur through the Administrative Hearing Officer or designee when appropriate.
- The sanction for the first offense possession and/or use of a small quantity of marijuana (as defined by Florida statutes) or drug paraphernalia will be
- Community probation and Deferred Suspension, and/or possible Suspension from the University (without financial refund)
- 8-11 points
- Community Service 15 hours
- Mandatory Drug Counseling
- Parental Notification
- Coach Notification (if applicable)
- Participate in an on-line course designed to assist students with marijuana-related topics and healthy lifestyle choices. There is a fee associated with this course.
- Illegal Substance Use/Dependency Evaluation. Additionally, students found in possession of marijuana (excludes paraphernalia) will be required to be evaluated for drug use and dependency. Such evaluation will be at the student's expense and the student must agree to release the results of that evaluation to the designated University official. The student will be required to follow through on any treatment plan the evaluator deems appropriate. Failure to follow this agreement may result in the suspension from the University.
- The sanction for a second offense will be a minimum of an immediate two semester suspension (without financial refund) from Saint Leo University.
- The sanction for possession and/or use of any other illegal substances or large quantities of marijuana will be an immediate two semester suspension or permanent dismissal (without financial refund) from the University Campus of Saint Leo University.
- The sanction for intent and/or sale, manufacture or distribution of any illegal sub-stances will be an immediate separation from the University Campus of Saint Leo University without the opportunity for readmission or financial refund.
- Education
- Courses, programs, workshops and training sessions developed and coordinated by various departments will be presented throughout the academic year. Additional programs will be presented throughout the year to the general student population and student leaders (SGU, Orientation Leaders and/or Residence Life staff).
- The Office of Student Services will work cooperatively to provide information sessions throughout the academic year. Major campus events will be sponsored during theme weeks (e.g., National Collegiate Drug Awareness Week, etc.)
- Counseling
- The Office of Counseling Services provides confidential, personal counseling. The office is staffed with two licensed mental health counselors with substance abuse treatment backgrounds. Off-campus referrals will be made on a request basis or if deemed appropriate. These services are confidential and follow the ethical standards and guidelines of the American Counseling Association.
- Residence Hall Searches
- Campus Security and Safety Officers and a Student Services professional staff (typically Associate/Assistant/Hall Director, Residence Life) may obtain verbal approval from the Associate Vice President for Student Services or designee to search a student room or common area when:
- Drug paraphernalia is observed by a University Official or,
- It is reasonably determined by a Campus Security and Safety Officer and/or a professional member of the Student Services staff (typically an Associate/Assistant/Hall Director, Residence Life) that the odor of an illegal substance is emanating from a particular room.
- In all instances, both a Campus Security and Safety Officer and a professional member of the Student Services staff (typically the on-duty Associate/Assistant/Hall Director, Residence Life) will conduct the search. Written notice of the search authorization will be provided to room occupants within 72 hours after the search, as stipulated in the Guides to Residence Hall Living - 19. Room Search.
In accordance with the Higher Education Act (20 U.S.C. 1091- r), the following notice is being provided:
"A student who is convicted in a court of law of any offense under any Federal or State law involving the possession or sale of a controlled substance for conduct that occurred during a period of enrollment for which the student was receiving any federal grant, loan, or work assistance . . . shall not be eligible to receive any federal grant, loan, or work assistance . . . from the date of that conviction for the period of time specified in the following table:
If convicted of an offense involving:
The possession of a controlled substance:
First offense: 1 year ineligibility
Second offense: 2 years ineligibility
Third offense: Indefinite ineligibility
The sale of a controlled substance:
First offense: 2 years ineligibility
Second offense: Indefinite ineligibility"
B17. LAWS (FEDERAL, STATE & LOCAL)
Values: Excellence, Community, Respect, Personal Development, Responsible Stewardship, Integrity
Students are responsible for compliance with all public laws. Any act which could constitute a violation of public laws may establish cause for legal and/or disciplinary action by the University. The campus is not a sanctuary from Law Enforcement Agents. Law Enforcement Agents have jurisdiction on campus and, when possessing proper documents, may legally make arrests or search any room or building without prior notice to University officials. Moreover, the University cannot intervene to protect an accused person from the consequences of their arrest or conviction, on or off campus.
B18. MOTOR VEHICLES
Values: Community, Respect, Personal Development, Integrity
Students are expected to register motor vehicles with the Campus Security and Safety Office and to operate motor vehicles in accordance with Saint Leo University Parking and Traffic Regulations and county and state laws. Copies of Saint Leo University Parking and Traffic Regulations are available at the Campus Security and Safety Office.
B19. REQUESTS OR ORDERS
Values: Excellence, Community, Respect, Personal Development, Integrity
Students are required to comply with reasonable requests or orders by authorized University officials or representatives acting in behalf of the University, including Residence Life student staff. Violations of this requirement include, but are not limited to, reasonable requests for appointments in administrative/faculty offices and:
- Failure to attend a scheduled hearing with an Administrative Hearing Officer.
- Falsification, distortion, or misrepresentation of information before an Administrative Hearing Officer.
- Disruption or interference with the orderly conduct of a judicial proceeding.
- Attempting to discourage an individual's proper participation in, or use of, the judicial system.
- Attempting to influence the impartiality of an Administrative Hearing Officer prior to,
and/or during the course of, the judicial proceeding.
- Harassment (physical, mental or verbal) and/or intimidation of an Administrative Hearing Officer prior to, during, and/or after a judicial proceeding.
- Failure to comply with the imposed sanction(s).
- Influencing or attempting to influence another person to commit an abuse of the judicial system.'
B20. RESIDENTIAL LIVING
Students who live in campus residence halls are expected to comply with the
Guides for Residential Living. All students in a room will be held responsible for behaviors or objects in that room, regardless of whether they were participating in the behavior, were in possession of the items, or how long they may have been in the room. When a student enters a room where a violation is taking place, under the "implied consent" policy, the student is putting themselves at risk of disciplinary action.
All students residing in University owned housing MUST provide proof of the meningitis and hepatitis B vaccines (recorded on the Immunization Form), unless proof of medical or religious exemption are provided, before a housing assignment is issued.
B21. SEXUAL MISCONDUCT
Values: Excellence, Community, Respect, Personal Development, Integrity
The following behavior is considered to be sexual misconduct and is prohibited by Saint Leo University, whether or not it constitutes a violation of law. (Note: This list is not intended to be exhaustive of prohibited sexual activities).
Sexual Harassment: Any conduct which emphasizes the sexuality or sexual identity of a person in a manner which prevents or impairs that person's full enjoyment of educational benefits, climate, or opportunities. In cases involving alleged sexual harassment, students should contact the Associate Vice President for Student Services. Complaints of sexual harassment should follow the procedures outlined in Section C7 of the Code.
- Sexual Imposition: Sexual touching or requests for sex when the offender knows that such behavior is offensive to the victim or when the victim's judgment is im-paired.
- Public Indecency: Exposing one's body in such a manner that it may be seen by someone who could be offended.
- Voyeurism: Trespassing, spying, or eavesdropping for sexual arousal.
- Sexual Battery: Sexual conduct when the victim does not consent, or when there is force or the threat of force; or when the victim's judgment is impaired.
Definition for the purposes of this policy: Impaired is defined as temporary incapacity to eval-uate or control conduct, because the person is unconscious, asleep, intoxicated or under the influence of other drugs or for any other reason physically unable to communicate consent. Consent is defined as intelligent, knowing, and voluntary agreement.
B22. SMOKING
Values: Community, Respect, Personal Development
Florida Clean Indoor Air Act (s.386.205-209 and 386.211) stipulates that there be no smok-ing in any educational facility in the state. This includes residence hall rooms and balconies adjacent to student rooms. Additionally, a minimum distance of 25 feet from a building en-trance/exit has been established before designating a smoking area. A fine structure is imposed for the first three infractions after which alleged infractions will be forwarded for judicial action.
B23. SOLICITATION
Values: Excellence, Community, Respect,
Responsible Stewardship, Integrity
The University prohibits solicitation, sales, or door-to-door canvassing by students or non-students on University property except with permission of the Director of Student Activities or designee. No concession for profit will be operated on University property without the written permission of the Director of Student Activities or designee.
Solicitation in the Residence Halls by anyone requires approval of the Associate Director of Residence Life. The following guidelines will be used:
- No door-to-door solicitation of any type will be permitted in any residential living unit.
- Presentations by nonprofit organizations in common areas will be permitted pending written approval by the Office of Student Activities. These presentations may not infringe in any way upon the rights of the residents living in that building.
- "Home Shows" hosted by students in their rooms with the intent of promoting or selling a company's products MUST be registered in advance with the Office of Student Activities. The office has the right to research the company for legitimacy.
B24. THEFT OR UNAUTHORIZED POSSESSION
Values: Excellence, Respect, Integrity, Community, Responsible Stewardship, Personal Development
The taking, sale, or possession of property without the expressed consent of the owner is prohibited.
B25. USE OF SAINT LEO UNIVERSITY NAME OR SYMBOLS
Values: Excellence, Integrity
No individual, group or organization may use Saint Leo University name, seal, symbols, log-os, slogans, or songs without the written authorization of the Director of Student Activities and the Office of University Communications except to identify institutional affiliation.
B26. VISITORS
Values: Community, Respect, Integrity
Students are welcome to bring visitors to the campus but must assume responsibility for the conduct of their visitors. Students choosing to have their guest stay with them on campus must comply to the following:
- Residents may have a guest stay in campus housing a total of three days in a semester. In special circumstances, the Office of Residence Life may grant per-mission to extend a stay to seven days in a semester. A guest is defined as an individual not residing within this particular room/building.
- Guests staying in excess of three days in any semester must be registered with the Office of Residence Life.
- Guests are not permitted unless all roommates consent to their presence.
- A student host is responsible for the actions of his or her guest while they are on campus. Therefore, a student host will be held accountable through the judicial system for individual policy violations by their guests. Guests must be escorted and are expected to abide by all campus regulations. Students are prohibited from inviting or hosting a person in their room, residence hall, or on campus when the student knows that that person has been barred from campus by the law enforcement or other University official. Any student or person who knowingly violates this section may be subject to all applicable University policy violations, civil and criminal penalties.
C. OTHER UNIVERSITY POLICIES/PROCEDURES
C1. ASSEMBLY, INQUIRY & EXPRESSION
In support of and within the parameters of the University Core Values, students are free to examine and discuss all questions of interest to them and to express their opinions publicly and privately. Students are free to support causes in any orderly manner, including organized protests which do not disturb the normal and essential functions of the University and that support the University Core Values. These policies are designed to ensure that every student be given the opportunity and freedom to learn.
- Invited Speakers/Performers
- Students and registered student organizations may invite and hear any person of their own choosing, subject to supporting the University Core Values and the re-quirements for use of institutional facilities and funds.
- Protesting on Campus
- The right of peaceful protest is recognized within the institutional community. Orderly picketing and other forms of peaceful protest are not to be prohibited on the institutional premises, however, reasonable conditions may be imposed to regulate the timeliness of requests and to determine the appropriateness of the space.
- Interference with ingress and egress at institutional facilities, interruption of classes or institutional operations or damage to property exceeds permissible limits of behavior and will not be permitted.
- Even though remedies are available through local enforcement bodies, the institution may choose instead to impose its own disciplinary sanctions in cases of disorderly picketing and unpeaceful protests. Every student has the right to be interviewed on campus by any legal organization which is recruiting at the institution. Reasonable conditions may be imposed to regulate the timeliness of requests and to determine the appropriateness of the space. Any student, any group, or any registered organization may protest against such organization provided that protest does not interfere with any other student's rights to have such an interview.
- Student Media
- The student press, radio, and TV station are to be free to express ideas and viewpoints in support of the University Core Values. The editors and managers shall not be arbitrarily prohibited from establishing and expressing editorial views because of student, faculty, administration, alumni, or community disapproval of content. This freedom entails a corollary obligation under the canon of responsible and applicable regulations of the Federal Communications Commission and Associated Press. All student communication shall explicitly state in the publication or broadcast that the opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the institution or its student body.
- All student media are required to be registered with the Office of Student Activities on an annual basis. Organization registration of all media groups must include: an organization constitution or statement of purpose and stylebook (including safe harbor and FCC guidelines for TV/radio), editorial, advertising/underwriting, and business policies. All policies must be in compliance with University Core Values, FCC laws, Associated Press journalistic practices, and University policies and pro-cedures.
- The University believes that the student media contribute to the educational mission of the institution, although the views and ideas presented may not represent the institutional perspective. Advisers provide input and feedback to aid the deci-sion-making process while allowing for free press. Decisions with regards to the internal policies and practices within each organization are based on the Mission and Core Values of the University.
C2. CAMPUS ORGANIZATIONS
Students are encouraged to organize and join associations that promote their common inter-ests. A group shall become an organization when registered by the institution through the Office of Student Activities. The institution believes in the co-curricular experience and its potential contribution to building community. The institution recognizes leadership skill development opportunities present in co-curricular life and their contribution to the edu-cational mission. Institutional registration of an organization does not indicate endorsement by the University of the aims, objectives, or policies of that organization.
Specific requirements for registration include: organization constitution, national policies where appropriate, agreement of a full-time Saint Leo faculty and/or staff member to serve as adviser, and a membership roster. All constitutional documents of students' organizations, such as charters, constitution bylaws, regulations, policies, etc., are subject to administrative review and approval by the Office of Student Activities. Campus organizations will be required to register annually in order to facilitate institutional communication with organization officers when necessary. A formal registration will be required at the time of formation. Annual registration after the formation shall include a list of newly elected officers, update membership roster and any changes to the organization's constitution or statement of purpose.
Campus organizations are responsible for adhering to the University policies and Core Val-ues. Violations by a campus organization will result in an administrative hearing by the Associate Vice President for Student Services or designee. Secret societies are prohibited.
Social fraternities and sororities will be governed by the Interfraternity Council and the Saint Leo Panhellenic Association. The Director of Student Activities will serve as the adviser to each of these governing bodies. Each national organization and/or local organization affili-ated with either of these governing bodies is required to provide the Office of Student Involvement with a copy of its national as well as local constitution and insurance policy when applicable. Nationally affiliated groups that wish to organize on the Saint Leo University campus must be approved by the appropriate governing body and the University. The Saint Leo Panhellenic Association and Interfraternity Council must have their extension procedures on file with the Office of Student Activities.
The Saint Leo Student Government Union (SGU) will serve as the student voice in institu-tional decision making. The student voice is critical to the educational mission of the Univer-sity. The SGU Executive Board shall be elected by a simple-majority vote among the full-time University Campus students annually each Spring term. The Assistant Vice President for Student Services or designee shall serve as the adviser to the Student Government Union. The adviser serves as a liaison between the institution and students on issues including the institutional decision-making processes and encouraging active student participation in academic and campus life. To ensure democratic practice, all Student Government Union meetings must be open to the public.
C3. CRIME REPORTING
In compliance with the Crime Awareness and Campus Security Act of 1990: Public Law 101-542, a detailed report may be found on-line. A complete copy of the law is available in the Student Services office located in the Student Activities Building, first floor and the Campus Security & Safety Office.
Members of the Saint Leo community are encouraged to be alert for suspicious or criminal activity and to accurately and promptly report criminal action and other emergencies which occur on the Saint Leo University campus. Emergency phones are located throughout the Saint Leo University campus for the safety and convenience of students, faculty, staff, and visitors.
C4. DISABILITY POLICY
Saint Leo University is committed to equal access and does not discriminate unlawfully against persons with disabilities in its policies, procedures, programs or employment processes. The University recognizes its obligations under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 to provide an environment that does not dis-criminate against persons with disabilities.
A disability is defined as: a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activities such as caring for one's self, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing hearing, speaking, breathing, learning, or working. Individuals with a history of such an impairment or who are regarded as having such an impairment are covered under these procedures.
If students believe that they require an accommodation, they must provide the following information:
- They must identify themselves as persons with a disability, and
- They must identify the nature of the accommodations desired, and
- They must provide adequate medical or other appropriate documentation of the disabilities and the desired accommodations. Such documentation must be no more than 3 years old.
- The Director of Disability Services will coordinate all accommodations for the University. Specific documentation and accommodation guidelines may be ob-tained from the Office of Disability Services
- If a student is dissatisfied with the accommodation offered, he or she may appeal to the Director of Academic Student Support Services or designee.
- For information regarding ADA Housing Accommodations, please refer to the Guides to Residence Living section 22. ADA HOUSING ACCOMMODATION POLICY.
C5. DRUG FREE SCHOOLS AND COMMUNITIES ACT
In compliance with the Drug Free School and Communities Act of 1989, the philosophy and educational services provided by Saint Leo University are located in the Code of Student Conduct under the Illegal Substance policy. All members of the academic community -- students, faculty, administrators and staff members -- share in the responsibility for protecting and enhancing an environment committed to the pursuit of this objective, while maintaining the highest standards of professional and personal conduct. The illegal and/or abusive use of drugs or alcohol by any member of the academic community adversely affects the educational environment. Saint Leo University is therefore committed to having a campus that is free of illegal drug use and drug or alcohol abuse.
C6. HOSPITALIZATION
Saint Leo University cares deeply about the physical and mental health of its students. Therefore, health and counseling services are available on campus. At times however, a student may experience such extreme medical or psychological conditions that the ability to function successfully or safely in the role of a student is significantly impaired. Students are encouraged to prioritize their health and safety and take steps toward recovery, even if academic progress must be delayed. The University will support student-initiated self-care plans and/or initiate action that considers the welfare of the individual student and the Uni-versity community. In order to address these issues, the university has in place a Student Health Committee (SHC). The SHC is comprised of, but not limited to, the Associate Vice President for Student Services (convener), Assistant Vice President for Student Services, Administrator for Academic Advising, and Directors of Counseling Services and the Health & Wellness Center. All medical withdrawals follow the tuition and fee reimbursement policy as outlined in the Catalog.
Procedures
Medical Interim Suspension
The SHC may invoke a medical interim suspension for up to one week upon a student's medical or psychological hospitalization, emergency, or during a medical evaluation period. Students who are medically suspended for any health reason are temporarily not allowed to participate in any University activities, attend classes, reside in or visit on-campus student housing, and may not be on campus except to attend a meeting or hearing related to his/her case. This interim period allows time for a student to receive the needed medical and/or psy-chological care, and for all parties to consider an evaluation of readiness to return to the University. The student must follow the clearance procedures listed below before returning. Students who are medically suspended will be notified in writing and will have the opportunity to address the basis for the decision by contacting the Associate Vice President for Student Services. Faculty will be notified of student absence from class (but not the cause of absence) so that the student will be able to continue to make appropriate and adequate academic progress.
Voluntary Medical Withdrawal
Students are encouraged to request a voluntary medical withdrawal when they believe their physical or mental health problems are preventing successful engagement in and completion of, academic course work; when safety is in question; or when the demands of college life are interfering with the ability to recover from, or adjust to a significant physical or mental health challenge. Students interested in pursuing a voluntary medical withdrawal may wish to discuss this option with providers at the Health & Wellness Center or the Counseling Services Office, or they may independently initiate the process through the Associate Vice President for Student Services' office. After the voluntary withdrawal is approved, the person is no longer considered a student and must immediately leave campus and, if applicable, officially check out of on-campus housing. Students who make this choice must follow the clearance procedures listed below.
Involuntary Medical Withdrawal
In rare circumstances, the SHC may determine that a student must be involuntarily medically withdrawn. Those who are medically withdrawn for any health reason are not allowed to participate in any University activities, attend classes, reside in or visit on-campus student housing, and may not be on campus except to attend a meeting or hearing related to his/her case. Examples of situations that might result in an involuntary medical withdrawal include the following:
- Professional evaluations following a medical interim suspension do not support a student's readiness to return;
- A student fails to complete the required assessment during a medical interim sus-pension;
- Contagious disease or infection;
- A known condition has deteriorated (e.g., a student with an eating disorder), rendering the student to be in possible imminent danger and/or incapable of functioning as a student. In most cases, these situations can be handled through voluntary medical withdrawals; however, if the student is unwilling to pursue a voluntary withdrawal, the SHC may invoke its right to involuntarily withdraw a student. The SHC will recommend assessment and/or treatment conditions needed to return to Saint Leo University. The student must follow the clearance procedures listed below.
Clearance Procedures
Any student who has been transported to the hospital (for any reason regardless of severity), and/or placed on a medical interim suspension or an involuntary medical withdrawal will need to complete the following clearance procedures before being allowed to return to the Univer-sity. The following steps are designed to ensure that a health emergency no longer exists and a treatment plan for continuing good health and safety is in place. Note: Depending on the situation, students may complete these procedures on different timelines. Some students may complete these steps within hours/days of the incident or medical interim suspension notice while others may wait several months before pursuing a return to the University.
- The student must be assessed by an appropriate outside professional, whose opinions will be advisory to the University. The professional, who is selected by the student, must be a licensed psychologist or psychiatrist if evaluating mental health concerns, and must be a licensed physician if the evaluation is regarding other medical concerns. Further, all providers must be unrelated to the student and must have specialty/credentials appropriate for the condition of concern (e.g., an eating disorder or substance abuse specialist). To make an accurate assessment, before conducting the evaluation the provider must be given information related to the precipitating events that led to the leave.
This typically would involve the student signing a release allowing the University (e.g., the Health & Wellness Center, Counseling Services Office, or Associate Vice President for Student Services) to share information regarding relevant incidents or concerns, and if applicable, recent hospital records. The student will be responsible for any cost incurred by the evaluation.
- The outside mental health or medical professional, with the student's written per-mission, must provide directly to the University an assessment of current functioning of the student and provide written recommendations regarding:
- given the precipitating events, the student's readiness to return to the ac-ademic and co-curricular demands of University life;
- the student's readiness to live in the on-campus residential community;
- ongoing treatment or testing needs
- any conditions or restrictions that the University should impose; and
- the student's readiness to return to competitive sports, if the student is a collegiate athlete. Note: The University team physician, in consultation with the Saint Leo University Director of the Health & Wellness Center and/or Counseling Services Office, will ultimately make the decision regarding athletic involvement but will consider this outside evaluation in making such a determination.
- After the evaluation results and treatment documentation have been provided, the student must meet with a SHC representative (typically the Assistant Vice President for Student Services or directors of the Counseling Services Office or Health & Wellness Center). The evaluation and the student's own perception regarding readiness to return, needs, and plans for treatment will be discussed. Additionally, the representative will consider how the outside evaluator's recommendations fit with the realities of student life at Saint Leo University and services that are available on campus or in the community.
- The SHC will meet and consider a number of factors about the student's ability to return to Saint Leo University. These factors include the outside evaluator's recommendation and the results of the student's meeting with the SHC representative to inform its re-entry decision. Students will receive written notification of the SHC's decision about clearance return to the University.
C7. MAIL ROOM
All student mail is available in the Campus Mail Room. Student mail will be in mailboxes for pickup by 11:00am Monday – Friday, except on University Holidays when the University is closed. Only students living on campus may be issued a key and mailbox. Students are responsible for accessing their own mailbox. Mail Room staff is not permitted to check mailboxes and/or distribute mail through the window. As with all University owned keys, there will be a replacement charge for any lost mailbox key of $100.
DHL, FEDex, UPS, & USPS deliver daily to the University and packages will be available for pickup between the hours of 8:00 AM & 5:00 PM, Monday thru Friday, except on holidays recognized by the University. Student packages are delivered to the Mail Room and will receive a package notification slip in their mailbox after the package has been checked in, please allow for 30 minutes of processing time after arrival. Students must present University or picture I.D. and package slip to receive their package. Students wanting to send packages UPS, FEDex, and DHL may do so at the Campus Mail Room with credit card only.
All mail/packages being shipped to a student must be addressed as follows:
Student Name
Saint Leo University
P.O. Box 5555 MC#______
33701 State Road 52
Saint Leo, FL 33574
Please Note: Any mail incorrectly addressed may be refused by the United States Post Office due to insufficient address and not reach its final destination. It is the student's responsibility to supply sender's the correct address and failure to do so may result in lost or undeliverable mail.
C8. STUDENT GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES
A discrimination grievance is a complaint or report of an injury, injustice or wrong in which the grounds for complaint are based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or sexual orientation.
Saint Leo University is committed to creating and maintaining a community in which students, faculty, and administrative and academic staff can work together in an atmosphere free of all forms of harassment, exploitation, or intimidation. Specifically, every member of the University community should be aware that Saint Leo is strongly opposed to discrimination, sexual harassment and inappropriate behavior of any kind, and that such behavior is prohibited both by law and by University policy. It is the intention of the University to take whatever action may be necessary to prevent, correct, and, if necessary, discipline for behavior, which violates this policy.
Eligibility and Time for Filing
All students may use this procedure for discrimination related grievances, except those involving grade appeals. Faculty and staff must use the procedures outlined in the appropri-ate handbook. Grievances should be reported immediately upon occurrence of the events leading to the complaint, injury or wrong, and in any event must be reported within 180 days of such event unless the University determines that good cause for an extension has been established.
Overview
Many complaints can be resolved through open discussion between the parties involved. Individuals are encouraged to engage in direct consultation with each other so the problem can be solved through conciliation, if possible. An individual is in no way required to directly approach an offender, and may initiate the grievance procedure by reporting to the Associate Vice President for Student Services. The Director of Human Resources (or its designee) will act as resource for the Associate Vice President for Student Services and may take part in the investigation of the complaint. The Director is also available for questions and information about discrimination and harassment. When a student believes the Associate Vice President for Student Services is involved in the alleged discrimination, the student must report the actions to the Vice President for Continuing Education and Student Services. In the event a grievance is filed with the Vice President for Continuing Education and Student Services, then the Vice President for Continuing Education and Student Services or designee will take the role of the Associate Vice President for Student Services described herein.
If a student seeks the advice of the Associate Vice President for Student Services on a matter of sexual harassment, sexually inappropriate behavior or any kind of discriminatory behavior, the Associate Vice President for Student Services must report this behavior to the Vice President for Continuing Education and Student Services. Every effort will be made to ensure the confidentiality of the complainant. No student shall be disciplined for filing a good faith grievance or report of discrimination or inappropriate behavior.
Any student who believes that (s)he is the victim of discrimination or inappropriate behavior may elect to follow the procedures detailed below. If a student files a complaint under a procedure other than the Discrimination Grievance Procedure, (s)he cannot elect to have the same complaint heard under the Discrimination Grievance Procedure. However, if a student believes (s)he has been discriminated against on the basis of race, gender, color, religion, national origin, disability, age, military service, marital status, or sexual orientation during the process of a complaint other than under the Discrimination Grievance Procedure, (s)he may file a complaint under the Discrimination Grievance Procedure.
If a student exercises his/her rights to file a complaint with a government agency or files a court action, the University reserves the right to terminate the grievance process. In the event that a student has already commenced his/her grievance procedure at the time the student files a complaint with any governmental agency including a state or federal court, the student shall notify the Assistant Vice President for Student Services of that fact. If the University chooses to terminate the grievance process, the Assistant Vice President for Student Ser-vices will notify all parties involved. Files on the grievance procedure maintained by the Associate Vice President for Student Services will only be released to others with the written permission of the Vice President for Continuing Education and Student Services.
Burden of Proof
In all cases, the burden of proof rests with the complaining party. The Associate Vice President for Student Services will be available to assist in fact finding but in no way will be responsible for proving the complainant's charge.
Mediation
Students may elect to utilize the Mediation Program. This program is designed to help resolve disputes in a more informal way than through the grievance process. It facilitates solutions without having to file a formal grievance. A mediation does not impose any solution but helps parties reach a mutually agreed upon solution.
Mediation is a non-adversarial process that does not guarantee a resolution but is a good way to discuss disputes. Participation in a mediation process does not mean that an indi-vidual gives up any rights to file a grievance or any other formal procedure. Further, both parties must agree to mediate a dispute. No one can be forced into mediation. Mediation is not a process that imposes punishment, determines facts or decides who is right or wrong. Mediation is a process whereby miscommunication can be cleared up, individuals agree on solutions and people are empowered to make changes.
If mediation between the parties is (a) not appropriate or (b) not possible, or (c) does not lead to resolution, the Associate Vice President for Student Services shall proceed to investigate the report or complaint. Mediation does not preclude the University from conducting an investigation of a complaint or taking such disciplinary action as it determines is appropriate or necessary.
Grievance Investigation
When a grievance is filed, the Associate Vice President for Student Services will notify the person named in the complaint ("Respondent") and provide the Respondent with a copy of the complaint. The Respondent may submit to the Associate Vice President for Student Services a written response to the complaint within five (5) working days, and the appropriate Dean will send a copy to the complainant.
As soon as is practical, the Associate Vice President for Student Services, or an individual(s) appointed by the Associate Vice President for Student Services, will initiate an investigation of the complaint and where possible, attempt to reach conciliation between the parties. During this period, the Associate Vice President for Student Services will have access to all information pertinent to the case, may meet with any individual with information related to the case, and will inform the Vice President for Continuing Education and Student Services. Upon the conclusion of the investigation, assuming all reasonable efforts to conciliate have been exhausted, the Associate Vice President for Student Services will present a report to the Vice President for Continuing Education and Student Services. The Associate Vice President for Student Services shall make a recommendation for resolution to the Vice President for Continuing Education and Student Services who will strive to make a final determination within thirty (30) working days. All the time limits here may be extended at the discretion of the Associate Vice President for Student Services.
Appeals
If the Associate Vice President for Student Services' determination is not acceptable to either the Complainant or Respondent, the decision may be appealed within ten (10) working days to the Vice President for Continuing Education and Student Services. The Vice President for Continuing Education and Student Services will then convene a grievance committee.
The grievance committee shall be formed as follows. The Vice President for Continuing Edu-cation and Student Services, with the assistance of the Associate Vice President for Student Services will select a list of 6 faculty, staff or student members. A list of these 6 individuals will be provided to the Complainant and Respondent. The grievance committee shall consist of one individual chosen by the Complainant, one individual chosen by the Respondent, and a third chosen by mutual agreement of the two parties. If mutual agreement is not reached, the Vice President for Continuing Education and Student Services will select the third member of the grievance committee. The grievance committee shall review the complaint, any response, any report of the Associate Vice President for Student Services or his/her agent, any documents provided by Complainant or Respondent, and all other documents it deems appropriate. The grievance committee shall also have the option, but not the obligation, to schedule a hearing and take testimony from the parties and other witnesses. Upon conclusion of its review and/or investigation, the hearing committee will deliberate and shall make a written report, including its conclusions and recommendations to the Vice President for Continuing Education and Student Services. The Vice President for Continuing Education and Student Services shall then have the option of amending his determination based on the recommendations of the grievance committee. The Vice President for Continuing Education and Student Services determination shall then be final.
Both Complainant and Respondent shall have the option of assistance by an Individual of their choice from the University faculty, staff or student body during all portions of the Grievance procedure, provided that the chosen faculty, staff or student is willing to participate in the process. Third parties shall not be allowed to participate.
C9. STUDENT RECORDS
Saint Leo University adheres to the rights accorded to students with regard to their educa-tional records as set forth in the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974 and as subsequently amended. This federal legislation protects the confidentiality of students' records. It also affirms the student's rights to inspect the contents of his or her educational records, to seek to have the records amended, and to have some control over the disclosure of information from the records. Educational records are maintained in the offices of the Student Services, Student Records, Bursar, and Student Financial Planning.
Saint Leo University reserves the right to release "directory information" as defined by the Family Educational Right and Privacy Act. Saint Leo University releases the following directory information: name, class, hometown and state, email address, major field of study, par-ticipation in the officially-recognized sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees, awards and honors achieved in the curricular and co-curricular life of the University, the most recent previous educational institution attended by the student, and individually identifiable photographs of the student solicited by or maintained directly by Saint Leo University as part of the educational record.
A full copy of the University policy with regards to FERPA and forms for consent to release, dependency status, and request to withhold release of directory information are available in the Office of the Registrar. Students have an opportunity to complete these forms during the check-in process every Fall and may request in writing to release or withhold specific infor-mation annually.
This policy is subject always to the provisions of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 and as subsequently amended.
C10. COPYRIGHT, PATENT, AND INVENTION POLICIES
The following policy is reproduced from the University Policy Manual on Copyright, Patent, and Invention Policies:
2.7.1 Copyright Guidelines
It is Saint Leo University's policy to comply with United States copyright law, including the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) and the Technology, Education and Copyright Harmonization Act (TEACH). The University further acknowledges that copyright law applies to digital resources and that any unauthorized distribution or redistribution of music, movies, text, software, or other protected media may be a violation of the law. The University's values encourage all members of the University community to exercise individual stewardship in understanding and upholding the provisions of the copyright law and respecting the copy-rights of others.
2.7.1.1 The TEACH Act
The Technology, Education, and Copyright Harmonization Act (TEACH) was signed into law on November 2, 2002. The Act updates copyright law in the area of digital distance educa-tion and, if numerous requirements are met, facilitates the use of copyrighted materials in digital distance education efforts without having to obtain prior permission from the copyright owner. It is an effort to simulate fair use as allowed by copyright law.
However, TEACH imposes certain requirements on the use of copyrighted materials in distance education. TEACH is more restrictive than the law allowing face-to-face instructional use of copyrighted materials. For uses that fall outside the scope of TEACH, the user should seek permission or evaluate the use under the fair use exemption of the copyright law.
TEACH is a compromise between the needs of academe to make free use of copyrighted materials as an efficient and effective teaching tool, and the needs of copyright holders to protect the value of their work effort. Most of the TEACH requirements are designed to allow transmission of copyrighted works (or parts thereof) to a legitimate student audience for a limited time, without permission or license fees, while preventing dissemination that could undermine the market for the works.
In general, faculty who want to incorporate works into digital transmissions for instructional purposes pursuant to TEACH must:
- Not use unlicensed commercial works that are sold or licensed for purposes of digital distance education.
- Not use pirated works or works where the faculty member otherwise has reason to know the copy was not lawfully made.
- Limit the use of works to an amount and duration comparable to what would be displayed or performed in a live physical classroom setting. TEACH does not authorize the digital transmission of textbooks or course packs to students.
- Faculty should interactively use the copyrighted work as part of a class assignment in the distance education course. It should not be an entertainment add-on or passive background/optional reading.
- Use software tools provided by the University to limit access to the works to students enrolled in the course, to prevent downstream copying by those students, and to prevent the students from retaining the works for longer than a "class session."
- Notify the students that the works may be subject to copyright protection and that they may not violate the legal rights of the copyright holder.
Use the Teach Checklist (See Appendix 2.7.1.1) to make sure all requirements have been met.
2.7.1.2 Fair Use
The University seeks to encourage the fair use of copyrighted materials, balancing the re-search needs of faculty, students, and staff while respecting the intellectual property rights of copyright holders and abiding by the pertinent laws governing usage of copyrighted mate-rials. According to Title 17, Chapter 1, Section 107 of the U.S Copyright law:
In determining whether the use made of a work in any particular case is a fair use the factors to be considered shall include:
- The purpose and character of the use, including whether such use is of a commercial nature or is for nonprofit educational purposes;
- The nature of the copyrighted work;
- The amount and substantiality of the portion used in relation to the copyrighted work as a whole; and
- The effect of the use upon the potential market for or value of the copyrighted work. The fact that a work is unpublished shall not itself bar a finding of fair use if such finding is made upon consideration of all the above factors.
For a more complete set of guidelines, see Fair Use Guidelines for Educational Multimedia developed by The Consortium of College and University Media Centers.
2.7.1.3 Peer to Peer Filing Sharing
Campus computer networks are often used to reproduce and distribute copyrighted music, movies, television shows, pictures, and software through the use of peer-to-peer (P2P) net-works. P2P file sharing applications allow a computer to connect to a P2P network, and once connected, make it possible to download and share files with other users on the network. When Saint Leo University receives a complaint from a copyright holder, the University notifies the individual involved and passes along any information received from the copyright holder to that individual. The University does not supply any information to the copyright holder about the individual involved unless a valid subpoena is presented.
2.7.1.3.1 Legality of Peer-to-Peer Filing Sharing
P2P technologies have many legitimate uses. For this reason, Saint Leo does not ban "P2P" programs from its network. The University believes, however, that the primary use of P2P technology has been copying of commercial music and video files, without the copyright holder's permission, for personal enjoyment. It is that type of activity that generally violates the Copyright Law.
2.7.1.3.2 Penalties for Violation of Copyright
University Disciplinary Action: Copyright infringement can subject a student to disciplinary action under the Student Code of Conduct, since violation of law or University policy is grounds for discipline. First offenses will result in a notice from Computing Services to cease illegal activity. Failure to comply or further incidents of infringement may result in further dis-ciplinary action including by not limited to suspension and loss of network access for the infringing computer. Sanctions may include suspension of network access (meaning loss of Saint Leo email account and course web site access) and formal University disciplinary action.
Civil Liability: Persons found to have infringed may be held liable for substantial damages and attorneys' fees. The law entitles a plaintiff to seek statutory damages of $150,000 for each act of willful infringement.
Criminal Liability: Copyright infringement also carries criminal penalties under the federal No Electronic Theft Act. Depending on the number and value of the products exchanged, penal-ties for a first offense may be as high as three years in prison and a fine of $250,000. Saint Leo is not the police; however, Saint Leo will cooperate with the law enforcement agencies when required.
2.7.1.3.3 Obtaining Digital Music and Movie Files Legally
Some music, movies and television shows can be legally obtained through online subscription services or from sites officially permitted by the copyright holders to offer certain downloads. Some of the "pay for play" services from which these files can be legally obtained are listed below.
Music
- Apple iTunes Music Store
- Rhapsody
- eMusic
- MP3.com
- Movies/TV
- AtomFilms
- CinemaNow
- MovieFlix
- Movielink
- NetFlix
2.7.1.4 Resources
For additional reading on intellectual property issues, and copyright in particular, see these online resources.
- The American Library Association;
- Bitlaw on technology law;
- Digital Millennium Copyright Act at EDUCAUSE;
- Intellectual property law at www.intelproplaw.com; and
- U.S. Copyright Office.
ARTICLE V: JUDICIAL POLICIES
A. CHARGES AND HEARINGS
Any member of the University community may file charges against any student for miscon-duct. Charges shall be prepared in writing directed to the Office of Residence Life. All charges should be submitted as soon as possible after the event takes place, preferably within twenty-four hours of the incident. The Office of Residence Life may conduct or initiate an investigation to determine if the charges have merit and/or if they can be disposed of administratively. Such disposition shall be final and there shall be no subsequent proceedings.
The accused individual or organization is notified by e-mail of the charges and scheduled to attend a timely hearing. The accused student/organization representative is expected to be present during the hearing. If the student or group chooses not to attend the hearing they may be charged with a violation of Article IV, B19. Requests or Orders in addition to their original alleged violations of University policy and the hearing it will be held in their absence. The student or organization would also lose the ability to appeal this decision on the basis of new evidence or other relevant facts not brought out in the original hearing.
The Administrative Hearing Officer shall conduct hearings according to the following guide-lines:
- Hearings will be conducted in private.
- Admission of any person to the hearing shall be at the discretion of the Administrative Hearing Officer.
- In hearings involving more than one accused student, the Administrative Hearing Officer may choose to hold separate hearings.
- The accused student is entitled to select a Saint Leo University student, faculty, or staff advisor to assist in preparation of the hearing. The adviser may accompany the accused student to the hearing and may consult with the accused student prior to or during the course of the hearing, but may not address the Administrative Hearing Officer. Advisers may contact the Associate Vice President for Student Services prior to the hearing to clarify questions or concerns. Parents and attorneys are not permitted in and may not "represent" the student at the administrative hearing without the approval of the Administrative Hearing Officer. If permitted, however, they may not address the Administrative Hearing Officer or "represent" the student.
- A member of the Office of Residence Life may contact the accused student to explain the charges, students' rights, obtain a plea to the charges, discuss all aspects of the disciplinary process, and offer support and assistance in preparing for the hearing.
- Persons to be present at hearings may include the Administrative Hearing Officer, accused student, student's adviser, and if deemed appropriate, witnesses relevant to the case. Relevant witnesses shall be present only during their own testimony, subject to questions from the Administrative Hearing Officer; however, they may be required to remain available for the duration of the hearing. Additionally, if necessary, relevant witnesses will be interviewed by the Administrative Hearing Officer outside of the formal hearing.
- Pertinent records, exhibits and written statements may be accepted as evidence for consideration by the Administrative Hearing Officer at their discretion.
- All procedural questions are subject to the final decision of the Administrative Hearing Officer.
- After the hearing, the Administrative Hearing Officer shall determine whether the student has violated University policy.
- The Administrative Hearing Officer's determination shall be made on the pre-ponderance of presented evidence of whether it is more likely than not that the accused student violated University policy.
At the discretion of the Administrative Hearing Officer, there may be a single verbatim record, such as a tape recording or equivalent, of the hearing. The record will not include delib-erations and will be used only for the appellate process. The record shall be the property of the University and destroyed following the final adjudication of the case.
Except in the case of a student charged with failing to attend a scheduled judicial hearing, no student may be found to have violated University policy solely because the student failed to appear before a judicial board or Administrative Hearing Officer. Any hearing may be post-poned, recessed or continued at the discretion of the Administrative Hearing Officer.
The University recognizes the impossibility of anticipating every circumstance under which disciplinary authority of the University must be exercised. The University also recognizes the possibility that compelling circumstances may require that certain procedures normally af-forded students be suspended. To facilitate the prompt adjudication for a campus disciplinary matter under such circumstances, the Assistant Vice President for Student Services, or designee, shall hold an administrative hearing. The student's procedural rights shall remain in effect.
In accordance with the 2008 Higher Education Opportunity Act, Saint Leo University will, upon written request, disclose to the "alleged victims of any violent crime" or next of kin if the victim dies as of a result of the crime (as defined in 18 U.S.C. S 16) or a "non-forcible sex offenses" a copy of the outcome of any University proceedings against the alleged perpetrator.
B. SANCTIONS
- The following sanctions may be imposed upon any student found to have violated Uni-versity policy. In the event that a student fails to complete their assigned sanction(s), by the deadline, a Student Services Hold will be placed on their student account until the assigned sanction has been completed. A point system (0-12 points) has been established to maintain a consistent sanctioning guideline. Specifics of the determined sanction will be provided to the individual in a written and/or electronic document.
- More than one of the sanctions listed below may be imposed for any single violation.
- Disciplinary sanctions are part of the student's educational record. Therefore, a student's judicial record may affect participation in University affiliated programs such as Internships, Service Trips and Study Abroad programs.
- Student's educational record is typically maintained for 5 years after graduation or permanent separation from the University. A student may, upon graduation or permanent separation, submit a written request to the Associate Vice President for Student Services, asking that minor disciplinary actions may be expunged. The decision of the Associate Vice President for Student Services is final.
- The following sanctions may be imposed upon groups or organizations:
- Those sanctions listed below in Article V, B. SANCTIONS.
- Suspension - Loss of all privileges, including University recognition, for a specified period.
- Dismissal - Permanent loss of all privileges, including University recognition.
- The Administrative Hearing Officer or designee will advise the accused student/organization in writing of its findings, sanctions and appeal process in a timely fashion.
SLU01-Article Review
A written review of journal articles on a specific topic designed to assist the student to explore the violations in question. The review must include appropriate citations and use appropriate language, grammar, and spelling.
SLU02-Letter of Apology
A written apology reflecting an understanding of the inappropriateness of actions and the impact it had on the letter's recipient.
SLU03-Newspaper Article
A reflective letter to be submitted for approval to the Office of Residence Life and then may be anonymously submitted to the student newspaper for possible publication. This letter should reflect an understanding of the inappropriateness of actions and the impact on self and the University community.
SLU04-Personal Journal
A written daily journal for a designated period that addresses various questions each day as outlined in sanction letter. Each daily entry is to be no less than 250 words in length (typed, double-spaced). Completed journals must be submitted for approval to the Office of Residence Life by the stated sanction date.
SLU05-Reflection Paper
Reflective paper on a specific incident and its impact on the community. Specific guidelines will be outlined in the sanction letter.
SLU06-Research Paper
Research paper on a specific topic citing at least three sources. Specific guidelines will be outlined in the sanction letter.
SLU07-Restitution
Compensation for loss, damage, or injury. This may take the form of appropriate service and/or monetary or material replacement.
SLU08-Educational Community Service
Completion of a determined number of hours of educational community service with an of-fice/agency approved by the Administrative Hearing Officer. Specific guidelines and hours will be outlined in the sanction letter.
SLU09-Probationary Review Meetings
Scheduled meetings with the Associate or Assistant Vice President for Student Services to discuss appropriate responses to events or difficult situations in the student's life. Specific guidelines will be outlined in the sanction letter.
SLU10-Contact Restriction
Restriction of personal contact with another individual or group for a stated period of time.
SLU11-Computer Privileges Restriction
Loss or restriction from University computer mainframe access or privileges for a stated period of time.
SLU12-Resident Assistant Duty
Participate in the nightly on-call, duty rotation for a specified period of time of the student Residence Life staff. Once completed a reflective paper must be submitted to the Office of Residence Life for approval by the sanction due date.
SLU13-Behavioral Agreement
A signed behavioral agreement to live responsibly within the Saint Leo University community outlining specific behavior guidelines that must be followed.
SLU14-Educational Bulletin Board
Design, research, and create a bulletin board on a specific topic.
SLU15-Program Presentation
Plan, implement, and evaluate an educational program on a specific topic.
SLU16-Alcohol and/or Drug Education
An on-line course designed to assist students with healthy lifestyle choices. Additionally, there is a fee and a required personal reflection journal associated with this sanction.
SLU17-Substance Use Evaluation
A required substance use evaluation. Students are responsible to make arrangements for this evaluation in accordance with the outlined terms in the sanction letter. Students are required to meet the recommendations of the certified treatment professionals as indicated in this evaluation. Results must be released to appropriate University officials as per sanction letter.
SLU18-Other Restrictions
Loss of specific privileges including, but not limited to, attendance at athletic and social events; organization participation; and housing for a designated period.
SLU19-Written Warning
A notice in writing to the student that he or she is violating or has violated University policy and that continuation or repetition of similar misconduct, within a prescribed period of time, may be cause for further disciplinary action and more severe sanctions.
SLU20-Disciplinary Probation
Disciplinary Probation is for a designated period and includes the probability of more severe disciplinary sanctions, which may include suspension from the institution if the student is found violating the specified policy during the probationary period.
SLU21-Community Probation
Community Probation is for a designated period and includes the probability of more severe disciplinary sanctions, which may include suspension or dismissal from the University if the student is found violating any policy during the probationary period.
SLU22-Residence Hall Probation
Residence Hall Probation is for a designated period and includes the probability of expulsion from campus housing and/or revocation of privileges to live in campus housing if the student is found violating any policy during the probationary period
SLU23-Residence Hall Dismissal
Immediate and permanent removal from the residence halls without refund.
SLU24-Suspension
Separation of the student from the University for a definite period, after which the student is eligible to return. Conditions for readmission may be specified
SLU25-Dismissal
Permanent separation of the student from the University.
SLU26-Disciplinary Fine
Appropriate monetary penalty.
SLU27-Parental and/or Coach Notification
Written notification to parent/guardian and/or coach concerning a specific incident, outcome and appropriate sanction. Notification will be in accordance with FERPA regulations.
SLU28-Deferred Sanction
When significant mitigating factors are present one or more sanctions may be deferred for implementation. Additional sanctions may be imposed for any new violations which occur during the deferred period.
SLU29-Counseling
An assessment or specified number of counseling sessions either at the University Counseling Center or an approved community mental health provider may be required as part of a sanction.
C. SUMMARY SUSPENSION
In certain circumstances, the Associate Vice President for Student Services, or a designee, may impose a University or residence hall suspension prior to a judicial hearing.
Summary suspension may be imposed:
- To ensure the safety and well-being of members of the University community or preservation of University property
- To ensure the student's own physical or emotional safety and well-being
- If the student poses a threat of disruption of or interference with the operations of the University
- A pending criminal case, or in the event of an ongoing investigation of a serious nature.
- During the summary suspension, students shall be denied access to the residence halls and/or to the campus (including classes) and/or all other University activities or privileges for which the student might otherwise be eligible unless written permission is obtained from the Associate Vice President for Student Services. Summary suspensions may be appealed to the Vice President for Continuing Education and Student Services or designee by the designated date in the suspension letter.
D. APPEALS
A student wishing to appeal a decision must do so in writing to the Associate Vice President for Student Services, within 24 hours.
This letter must include the student's name, charge(s) being appealed, and the grounds for the appeal. The only acceptable grounds for an appeal are new evidence or errors in the disciplinary procedures. The grounds, including the nature of any new evidence, must be specifically stated in the appeal letter. After consultation with the Administrative Hearing Officer, the Associate Vice President for Student Services or designee will determine if the grounds are acceptable.
If the Associate Vice President for Student Services or designee determines that there are sufficient grounds for an appeal, the Associate Vice President for Student Services or de-signee will set the time, date, and place for the appeal hearing. Only new evidence or evidence pertaining to the failure to follow established procedures will be acceptable at the appeal hearing. A suspended student may be required to leave campus and/or be sus-pended from classes until the appeal is heard. Permission to make up work during the suspension period will be the decision of the Administrative Hearing Officer body hearing the appeal and/or faculty member.
V. DISCLAIMER/UPDATES
At the time this publication went to print, all the information contained in it was updated. Since this document is a printed version and prepared in advance of the academic year, changes may be necessary after publication. If this occurs, students will be notified electronically and the online version will be updated on the University website. Students are encouraged to always reference the online version for the most up-to-date information.
GUIDES TO RESIDENCE LIVING
1. HOUSING AGREEMENT
All residential students are bound by the terms and conditions of the Residence Hall Housing Agreement and specific building guidelines/requirements. Students must be enrolled as full-time students to live on campus. Students falling below the full-time level may be required to leave the residence halls. Full-time is defined by a minimum load of twelve semester hours. Additionally all students residing in University owned housing MUST provide proof of the meningitis and hepatitis B vaccines (recorded on the Immunization Form), unless proof of medical or religious exemption are provided, before a housing assignment is issued.
2. OCCUPANCY
- All University campus students with fewer than 90 credit hours must live on campus. Exceptions to the policy include:
- Senior status, defined as completion of 90 semester hours, or four years of full-time enrollment.
- 23 years of age or older - (Note: Saint Leo's residence halls are designed for traditional age students no older than 28 years of age. All requests for housing made by a student older than 28 are reviewed by the Assistant Vice President for Student Services.)
- Married
- Military Veteran with two years of active service
- Registered for fewer than 12 credit hours
- Living at home with legal parent(s) or legal guardian(s)
- Living in family owned property
- Students found in violation of this policy will automatically be billed for the cost of a standard double room and the standard meal plan.
- Students who are released from their housing agreement within the first week of class will be charged for one week of room occupancy. After the first week of classes, full room charges will apply. Meal charges will be prorated through the fifth week of class. Meal refunds are not issued after fifth week of class.
3. MEAL PLAN ASSIGNMENT
Students residing in the following buildings are required to have an Unlimited Meal Plan: Marmion, Snyder, Villas, Henderson, Benoit, Roderick, and Alumni. Students residing in the following buildings have an option of a 5, 10, or Unlimited Meal Plan: Apartments 1-4. Students residing on East Campus are not required to have a meal plan. Please note that students residing in these buildings are automatically assigned to the Unlimited Meal Plan unless a specific meal plan is requested. Commuter students are permitted to purchase the 5, 10, or Unlimited meal plan through TRANE Stop. Please be advised that meal plans for commuter students do not carry over from Fall to Spring semester and must be requested/purchased each semester.
4. ROOM ASSIGNMENT POLICY
Initial room assignments for entering students are made by the Office of Residence Life. Attempts are made to honor mutual roommate requests and hall preferences; however, in accordance with the residence hall agreement, housing staff reserve the right to change room assignments when necessary.
5. ROOM CONSOLIDATION POLICY
In order to accommodate requests for campus housing, students living alone in double rooms/suites may be required to move together into one room/suite. If space is not needed, the option to keep this room with a vacancy for the current semester only will be offered at an increased rate. The Office of Residence Life will help you to determine the nature of available space. If it is determined by the Office of Residence Life that residents are rejecting all potential roommates regardless of compatibility, students will either be billed an increased rate or consolidated.
6. ROOM CHANGES
a. Room and roommate change applications are available from the Office of Residence Life 14 days after the first day of classes; prior to that time, no room changes are permitted. It is the responsibility of the student who initiates the room change to inform his/her roommate that she/he would like to move. You must first speak with your RA before requesting a form. No room changes will be approved until this occurs.
- Pick up a room transfer request form from the Office of Residence Life.
- Complete the form and secure the appropriate signatures to indicate that the move is mutually agreeable. The Office of Residence Life will assist in locating available space.
- Turn the completed form into the Office of Residence Life. If approved, notification of transfer approval will be given to the resident.
- Make the move within 48 hours after receiving transfer approval. The move entails checking out of your current room with your Resident Assistant, completing the room condition report and turning in your room key into the Office of Residence Life within 48 hours.
- After the first room change in an academic year, there is a $50.00 administrative charge for subsequent changes.
- Students who do not follow this procedure may have their requests for a room transfer denied. Students who transfer rooms without written approval of the Office of Residence Life may be required to move back to their original rooms, and a $75.00 fine in addition to the administrative charge and/or disciplinary action will occur. End-of-the-semester room transfers must be completed BEFORE the students leave for vacation. If this is not done, the request for a room transfer will be denied.
- Students may be reassigned to a new room as a result of a judicial sanction.
7. QUIET HOURS POLICY
- Consideration of others and mutual respect are among the most important ingredients for successful residence hall living. Noise levels which negatively affect study, sleep, or other activities will not be tolerated regardless of the time of day. It is the responsibility of all residents to be considerate of fellow students living in close quarters so that an environment conducive to academic success and personal happiness is maintained.
- Minimum Quiet Hours have been established between 10:00 p.m.- 8:00 a.m. Sunday - Thursday, and 12:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. Consideration Hours are in effect during the periods not designated as Quiet Hours. Resident groups, in conjunction with the residence hall staff may decide to impose more restrictive Quiet Hours as the need/interest arises. 24 hour Quiet Hours are in effect during final exam periods.
- Musical instruments (electric guitars, drums, etc.) are not to be played in residence hall rooms at any time.
- Perpetual offenders, after notification from the Associate Director of Residence Life may have their housing privileges revoked immediately for further violation of the noise policy.
8. FIRE SAFETY
- Student rooms are equipped with individual smoke detectors. If you hear a smoke detector activated in a student room, contact Campus Security and Safety immediately (x8333) to investigate the alarm. Hot air, smoke, or aerosols directed toward the detector will set off the alarm. Power tools are not permitted to be used indoors. With the exception of apartments with kitchens, electrical kitchen appliances including popcorn poppers, hot plates, frying pans, toasters/ovens, and indoor grills (e.g. "George Foreman" type) are not permitted. The only UL approved cooking/kitchen appliances that are permitted in the residence halls without kitchens are microwave ovens, coffee makers, hot air popcorn poppers, and blenders. All residence halls are furnished with either a micro-fridge or refrigerator and microwave. Although you may bring your own, the University supplied appliances must remain in your room and may not be stored elsewhere. Illegal devices will be confiscated until they can be removed from campus.
- Devices using an open flame such as candles with wicks (flameless candles are permitted), camping stoves, grills, fondue pots, incense, and gas lanterns are not permitted in or around the residence halls.
- Students responsible for false alarms, either through negligence, vandalism, or a prank will be responsible for the fine imposed by the Fire Department, a $100 University fine, applicable expenses (clean up, recharging a fire extinguisher, etc.) and subject to disciplinary action.
- No containers of flammable liquids or volatile toxic materials like gasoline or kerosene are permitted in residence halls.
- When a building alarm sounds, all residents must vacate the residence hall. Rooms may be inspected by Campus Security and Safety, Residence Life, and Emergency Personnel. No one may reenter the hall until the official present has secured the building and given permission for residents to return. In conjunction with the Fire Department and Campus Safety, scheduled fire drills will occur at least once each academic year.
- No student may disengage or reset any alarm enunciator panel. This is the responsibility of the University official present.
- No student may tamper with and/or misuse any fire safety equipment including, but not limited to, alarms, alarm covers, hoses, and extinguishers. Due to the seriousness of this offense (felony), all reported cases of misuse will be reported to local law enforcement. Students found responsible of these offenses may be subject to Residence Hall Dismissal.
- Nothing may be hung from the fire suppression system (sprinklers) due to flooding ha-zards. Students will be held financially responsible for any repairs, replacement or cleaning of University and student property for negligence.
- Items, including furniture and lofts, may not interfere with access to room doors, win-dows, and fire suppression systems (sprinklers).
- Flammable items such as paper, drapes, or tapestries may not be used as wall and/or ceiling coverings. Students who want to personalize their room with their own curtains may do so only if the curtains are made of or treated with flame retardant material.
- Halogen floor lamps are not permitted as they pose a severe fire safety risk due to the intense heat generated by the high wattage bulb.
- Decorations, including Holiday trees/branches, shall be of such materials that they will not continue to burn or glow after being subjected to the flame of an ordinary match or must be treated with flame retardant material. Due to fire hazard, only artificial holiday trees are permitted in the residence halls. All holiday decorations must comply with all fire safety guidelines and should not cause permanent damage to buildings, fixtures, or furnishings. All holiday decorations must be removed prior to hall closing at the end of the semester.
- The Florida Fire Prevention Code and State of Florida Electrical Code only permit extension cords with integrated UL approved surge protectors (internal breaker or GFI) for use within the residence halls. All other types of extension cords are prohibited.
9. DECORATION OF ROOMS
- Students may not paint their room.
- Waterbeds are not permitted in the residence halls due to the weight and the high risk of water damage.
- University furnishings may not be removed from any student room.
- Room care and general housekeeping are the responsibility of room residents, and reasonable care of the rooms and University furniture is expected. Fines for room changes or housing agreement termination may occur for careless or deliberate mistreatment of University furniture or uncleanliness.
- Room modifications including, but not limited to, the installation of window air-conditioning units, ceiling fans, dimmer switches, door locks, or removal of University carpet is prohibited.
- University-owned, loftable furniture must be left in standard form bed configuration upon check out.
- With the exception of the supplied loftable furniture, constructed lofts are not permitted in residence halls. All bed frames and mattresses MUST be kept in the room and may not be removed from the room or stored anywhere outside the room. Students having unapproved lofts in their room and/or students who have removed any University furnishings from their room will be subject to a minimum $100 fine per resident, removal of the loft, replacement of missing furniture, and disciplinary action.
- Decorative alcoholic container collections (i.e. empty bottles, cans) are not permitted in any student room or apartment.
10. WINDOW POLICY
- Window screens and blinds are not to be unhooked or removed from the windows for any reason. All windows must remain closed when air conditioning units are operating in the residence halls.
- Alcohol beverage containers, signs, posters, flags, etc. that can be seen from outside the building are not permitted on residence hall windows/sills.
- Signs, posters, flags, and other items referencing alcohol, drugs and/or determined to be inconsistent with the University's Core Values may not be visible from or hung outside residence hall windows.
11. PETS
Pets other than fish in small aquariums (limited to 20 gallons) are not allowed in the residence halls. Pets are a problem inside a residence hall because of sanitation, pest control, allergies, and noise. An initial $100 fine will be assessed and if the pet is not removed immediately a $25.00/each additional day will be assessed. Students who fail to comply with the initial request to remove the pet will be referred to the Office of Residence Life for disciplinary action. Students are also responsible for the actions of their guest and will be held accountable if a guest brings a pet inside a residence hall. Responsible resident(s) will be responsible for any extermination costs incurred.
Domestic, exotic, and poisonous pets are prohibited including, but not limited to: cats, dogs, rodents, reptiles, birds, etc. A separate pet policy exists for full-time, professional staff members who are required to live on campus.
12. PERSONAL PROPERTY
The University is not liable for damages to or theft/loss of personal property, for the failure/ interruption of utilities or for injury to persons. Students must provide their own personal property insurance or make sure they are covered under their parents' homeowner's insurance policies. The University will not issue refunds for the failure or interruptions of utilities.
13. UNIVERSITY FURNITURE AND BUILDINGS
- University furnishings may not be removed from any student room/apartment. Violators will be fined a minimum of $100 for each missing item, required to return the furniture within 24 hours to the room and be subject to disciplinary action. Upon re-inspection, any student who has missing room furniture will be charged for replacement furniture at the current market value (regardless of condition).
- University-owned furniture has been placed in the lounges and common areas for use by all residents and guests of the University and may not be removed for personal use. Any student who has University-owned lounge/common area furniture in his/her room/apartment will be fined $100 and charged for replacement furniture at the current market value and may keep the furniture that was moved into their room (regardless of condition).
- Students are not permitted on any roof of any campus building.
- Students/Organizations are not permitted to do any renovations, construction, or modification to any buildings or surrounding grounds without prior approval from the Residence Life and Plant Operations Offices.
14. SAFETY
- All entrance/exit doors of all residence halls will be kept locked 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Security violations, including propping open doors to residence halls and/or interior fire doors, are serious offenses because they jeopardize the safety and security of the residence hall. Violators will be subject to disciplinary action and possible immediate termination of their housing agreement. In cases of abuse or excessive problems, upon posted notification, building common damage account will be assessed $50.00 per infraction for propped doors.
- Students should lock their doors for their own safety and security of personal belongings. Thefts do occur, and unlocked doors contribute to theft. The University has installed peep holes and dead bolt locks in all student room doors for your safety. Students should always carry their room and entrance keys/ID with them. Lost or stolen keys/ID should be reported to the offices of Residence Life and Campus Security and Safety immediately. Students should make arrangements to meet delivery personnel at the entrance of their building. Additionally, students should not open doors or allow entry to individuals who do not possess an entrance key/ID.
15. ROOM KEYS
- Lost/stolen keys should be reported IMMEDIATELY to the offices of Residence Life and Campus Security and Safety. Lending/giving keys is prohibited. Students will be charged a fee for core lock change and new keys.
- Lost/stolen ID cards for the Card Access system need to be reissued by Trane Stop. Trane Stop charges for a replacement card.
Residential students are allowed two lock-outs per academic semester. A lock-out fee of $5.00 for each time thereafter will be assessed to that residential student account.
16. ROOM CHECK OUT PROCEDURES
- Residents must leave their rooms "broom clean" and free of any trash or other personal belongings/furniture/lofts when they move out of a room (during or at the end of the year).
- Students who have room damages, fail to properly clean their rooms and/or fail to return their keys at time of departure will be billed by the Office of Residence Life. When appropriate, bills will be split between roommates.
- Specific instructions for the end-of-semester and/or end-of-year check out are distributed to all resident students before closing. A Residence Life Staff member must inspect your room prior to your departure. Failure to adhere to these guidelines will result in a minimum of a $75.00 improper check-out fine.
17. DAMAGES, REPAIRS, AND BILLING PROCEDURES
- Damage to residence halls and individual residence hall rooms should be reported to the Office of Residence Life.
- Students are responsible for locking their doors after final check out to ensure there are no thefts/vandalism in their rooms after they leave.
- Students will be financially responsible for any and all furnishings missing or damages in their rooms after they move out.
- If damages are found in a student room, the bill will be sent to the University Cashier's Office and will be split between roommates (where applicable).
- Students are responsible for care of assigned rooms and furnishings. Charges may be assessed for damages to, unauthorized use of, or alterations to rooms, furnishings or buildings and for special cleaning necessitated by improper care of rooms or furnishings.
- Students are responsible for care of public areas and furnishings. Public areas are defined as hallways, stairwells, lounges, kitchens, bathrooms, etc. "Common-Billing" charges may be made to residents of a section, wing, floor, or entire building (as appropriate) for damages and/or vandalism, to public areas of a residence hall. Common damage charges will be divided equally amongst residents of a particular area. This is part of the Housing Agreement. Information on damages and vandalism in a residence hall should be given to a member of the Residence Life staff.
- Billing will occur within three (3) weeks of the end of each semester (last day students permitted on campus), where the Residence Life Office will be posting damage charges to students' accounts.
18. ROOM ENTRY
When the appropriate University Officials plan to seek access to a student room in a residence hall for improvement or repair, attempts will be made to notify occupants in advance, although there may be entry without notice where life, limb or property are jeopardized, or there is reasonable suspicion that University policy or law is being or has been violated. All visible violations of State, Local, and Federal Laws or University policy will be documented.
19. ROOM SEARCH
- Nothing in the residence hall agreement may expressly or implicitly give the University officials authority to consent to a search of a student's room by police or other government officials without a search warrant authorized by law.
- The Associate Vice President for Student Services or designee may authorize a search of a student's room in a residence hall by members of the University to determine compliance with federal, state, and local criminal law or University regulations where there is a reasonable basis to believe that a violation has occurred or is taking place.
- The Associate Vice President for Student Services, or in his/her absence, his/her de-signee, shall authorize the search in writing. The student(s) involved will receive written notice within 72 hours after the search. At the time of the search the University official must state the reason. Any search authorization may subsequently be reviewed by the Vice President for Continuing Education and Student Services or designee upon the request of the involved student(s). The purpose of such review is (a) to determine that the individual's rights were observed, and (b) to ensure that the authorization was well-founded. For example, authorization to search a room for stolen property would be considered well-founded and would not prevent punitive measures being taken on the basis of evidence accidentally uncovered which revealed another offense. If the Vice President or designee determines that the authorization was improper, nothing uncovered or seized during the search shall be used as evidence before the Administrative Hearing Officer, although stolen property will be returned to the rightful owner(s).
- When a search of a student's room has been authorized, it should be done in the presence of that student or the students in question.
- In the absence of the student, a note will be left inside the room informing the student of the room search and directing them to contact the Campus Safety and Security Office immediately upon their return.
- Both a Campus Security Officer and a professional member of the Student Services staff (typically an Associate/Assistant Director, Residence Life) will conduct the search.
- Searches may be verbally authorized under the Illegal Substance Policy.
- Life Safety Inspections will be conducted periodically throughout each semester. Every residence hall room must be checked for potential health and safety violations by a member of the Residence Life staff. Staff will post signs stating the date and time of these inspections at least 24 hours in advance of the inspection. Staff, however, are (is) authorized to conduct Life Safety Inspections in the absence of the residents.
20. WET ROOM AGREEMENTS
In accordance with the University's alcohol and guest policies, students may apply for and agree to the terms and conditions of a "wet room" agreement when all the occupants of the room are over the age of 21. Additionally, alcohol may only be present if everyone (residents/guests) in the room/suite/apartment are 21. "Wet room" agreements must be obtained and approved by the Office of Residence Life, and must be displayed in the room (typically students place on refrigerators). Violation of the "wet room" agreement may result in the termination of this privilege.
21. IMPLIED CONSENT
All students within a room/direct vicinity where a violation of University policy, laws, or other regulations is taking place, will be held responsible for behaviors or objects (alcohol, drugs, etc) in that room/direct vicinity, regardless of whether they were participating in the behavior, in direct possession of the items, or the duration of time present.
22. ADA HOUSING ACCOMMODATION POLICY
Saint Leo University Office of Residence Life is committed to achieving access and does not discriminate against persons with disabilities. This policy derives from the University's commitment to non-discrimination for all persons in employment, access to facilities, student programs, activities and services and addresses reasonable accommodations.
The appropriate recipient of accommodations is defined as one who has a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activities, such as walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, performing manual tasks, or learning.
The Office of Residence Life will assign students with documented disabilities to appropriate housing (single room, modified room/bathroom, etc.) as such space is available in residence halls and apartment settings If reasonable accommodations cannot be immediately satisfied due to capacity/facility design/availability/etc., the Office of Residence Life will prioritize this request before handling others. These accommodations will be provided within the basic guidelines to follow, with the understanding that students with disabilities may require unique housing accommodations and these needs will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
Roommates will be assigned to students with disabilities occupying modified rooms in the same manner as other residential students. Rental rates for students with documented disabilities shall be set at the same rate as any other student at Saint Leo University.
Determination of Need for Reasonable Accommodations:
Students who request reasonable housing accommodations must be prepared to provide documentation of the disability by a qualified professional on a yearly basis. Documentation must provide sufficient information to assist the institution in determining what difficulties the student would encounter in a normal residence hall living environment. Although formats may vary, the following critical data should be included in any documentation in support of a request for a reasonable accommodation.
- Student's name, dates of examination/testing, examiner's name and credentials.
- Identification of problem(s) or reason for referral.
- In cases of learning disabilities, a list of the tests administered, including the names of test and version used.
- An analysis or interpretation of test results.
- Diagnostic summary with a brief composite of the entire assessment process. The summary needs to address the concerns raised in the section on reasons for the referral
- Recommendations for housing accommodations (single room, modified room/bathroom, etc)
The provided information will be kept confidential and shared only with those involved in arranging the reasonable housing accommodation.
Requesting Reasonable Housing Accommodations:
In order to be considered for reasonable housing accommodations students must supply the above information to the appropriate University Office (Learning Resource Center, Director of Disability Services) by the following dates:
- Returning Students: April 1
- New Students: June 1
Requests received after the above dates will be considered on a space available basis only, however, these requests will receive priority over other unmet housing requests. The appropriate Office above in consultation with the Office of Residence Life shall assess requests for reasonable housing accommodations. Each request will be reviewed on its own merits and verified by objective documentation about the effect of the specific documented disability on the ability to learn and live in the requested housing accommodation. It is the student's responsibility to identify themselves on a yearly basis (by the above deadline) in order to be considered for a reasonable housing accommodation for the following year. No special housing accommodations will be made to any student who has not completed the process outlined above.
Finally, students who have a documented disability may elect not to disclose the disability and not seek/need reasonable housing accommodations.
Appeal Process:
If a student with a documented disability believes that he/she has not be provided with a reasonable housing accommodation, the student should direct their concern to the Assistant Vice President for Student Services or designee. The student must provide, in writing, documentation of the disability, the nature of the concern and any other relevant information. The decision of the Assistant Vice President for Student Services or designee is final.
23. MISSING STUDENT POLICY/PROCEDURE
Upon being notified that a student has not been seen or heard from for an unusual period of time a University Official will conduct an investigation to determine the following:
a. If the student is in their Residence Hall room
b. If the student attends the next scheduled class
c. If the student is accessible via phone/text/email/social media sites
d. The last verifiable location the student was known to be.
e. The last person(s) to be in contact with the student.
The University Official will notify the Executive Director of Campus Safety and the Office of Residence Life to apprise them of the situation. It is at this time that University Officials will determine whether or not to contact the student’s family members for additional information and to notify them of the situation
After these steps have been taken, and the student is not able to be contacted or located, the Sheriff’s Office will be contacted to assist in the investigation.
24. MISCELLANEOUS
- Outdoor TV/Radio antennas or dishes are not permitted. Tapping into cable TV/dish systems is considered as theft and will be dealt with as such. Students will be fined a minimum of $100 per person and disciplinary action will occur.
- Signs, posters, etc. must be hung on bulletin boards and not on doors, walls, windows, etc., inside or outside residence halls. Residents may hang items on their room walls with putty adhesive or masking tape. Nails, tacks and mounting tape are prohibited.
- Bicycles must be stored in student rooms or bike racks. Bicycles stored, locked or abandoned in public areas (stairwells, hallways, lounges, etc.) will be removed and stored at the owner's expense.
- Skateboards, roller blades, and cleats need to be removed prior to entering a residence hall. These items cause uneven wear and damage the floors and carpets. Additionally, skateboard use is prohibited on the external hallways of Roderick and Alumni Halls.
- Metal-tipped darts and dartboards are prohibited.
Saint Leo University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, age, gender, disability or veteran status in administration of its educational policies, admission policies, scholarship and loan programs, athletic and other school-administered programs.