The information in this book was the best available at press time. Watch for additional information and changes. ©2008 School Datebooks, Inc. All rights reserved. 2880 U.S. Hwy. 231 S., Suite 200 http://www.schooldatebooks.com • sdi@schooldatebooks.com ___________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________ In case of emergency, please notify: _____________________ Phone #: ______________________ Each student is given a copy of this handbook when he or she enrolls in the University. Additional copies may be obtained from the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs. A PDF version is available on line at www.savstate.edu/sls.htm. At the time of this printing, every effort has been made to accurately describe the services, rules, regulations, policies, and laws pertinent to students; however, the University does not assume any responsibility for editorial or printing errors. Savannah State University reserves the right to change the contents of this document subject to circumstances or changes in the rules and regulations within the University, changes in policy of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia, and changes in public law. CODE OF STUDENT RIG RE TABLE OF CON ................................................................................................................................... MESSAGE .................................................................. MESSAGE ................................ ADMINISTRATIVE ............................................................................ TELEPHONE ..................................................................... BRIEF ........................................................ SAVANNAH ............................................................................... SAVANNAH ........................................................................................................ STUDENT ............................................................................................................................ The ....................................................................................... ................................................................................................................................ Academic ......................................................................................................................... The ........................................................................................................ Intellectual ...................................................................................................................... Electronic ....................................................................................... Participation ......................................................................................... TRADITIONS, ............................................................................... Alma ............................................................................................. Clifford .............................................. ............................................................................................................................. Founder’s .......................................................................................................... .................................................................................................................................. Honors ............................................................................................................... Leadership ............................................................. Martin ...................................................................... Midnight ........................................................................................................................ Miss ............................................. New ................................................................................................ Outstanding ................................................ President’s ..................................................................................................... Statement ........................................................... Student .............................................................................. Student ..................................................... Student STARTING ................................................. WHAT ................................................................................................................... ANNUAL ..... REQUIREMENTS ....... Policy ............................................................................................. Membership ............................................................. University-Sponsored ...................................................................................... POLICY .... POLICY STATEMENT REGARDING GUIDELINES FOR ON-CAMPUS SOCIAL EVENTS ... 22 ..................... INTRAMURAL ............................................................ LEISURE ...................................................... GUIDELINES ........................................ Student ........................................................................................................................ Emergency ..................................................................................................... Reporting ................................................................................... Student .......................................................................................................... Higher ............................................................................................................... General ................................................................................................... General ........................................................................ Inspection ................................................................................ Searches .................................................................................. .................................................................................... Storm ......................................................................... SSU ................................................................................................................ Crisis ........................................................................................... ............................................................................................................................................... A ............................................................................................................ Standards ..................................................................................................................... Criminal ..................................................................................................................... Parental/Guardian ...................................................................................................... GENERAL ................................................................................... Cellular .................................................... Change ......................................................................................................................... Civil ............................................................................................................................... Dressing ...................................................................................................................... Lost .............................................................................................................................. Posting ..................................................................................................... Student ........................................................................................................................... STUDENT ......................................................................... Division ............................................................................................................ Other ................................................................................................................... CODE ...................................... Student ........................................................................................................................................ Clubs ................................................................................................................ Discrimination ..................................................................................................... Guest ..................................................................................................... Notification .................................................................................................................... Participation ......................................................................................... Peaceful ......................................................................... Policy .................................................................................................. Release .................................................................................................. Right ....................................................................................... Rights of Students Student Organizations Accused of Violating the Code of Student Ethics .......... 41 .............................. Student Student ............................................................................................................................. CODE .................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................ CONDUCT .............. ADJUDICATION ...................................................... Mental ............................................................................................................. JUDICIAL ............................................................................................................. Coordinator ........................................................................................................ Board ................................................................................................................. Student ................................................................................... Hearing ............................................................................................................................. Residence ..................................................................................................... Residence ............................................................................................... JUDICIAL HEARING DISCIPLINARY .................................................................................................... JUDICIAL ................. SEXUAL ..................................................................................................................... FAMILY ...................................... .............................................................................................................................. Savannah ................................................................................................................................ MAP ........................................................................... The Division of Student Affairs is pleased to provide you with the 2008-2009 edition of the student handbook. This handbook is indicative of our commitment to a “student centered” philosophy that puts students at the heart of what we do as a University to promote success. The handbook serves as a resource for many important University matters, including institutional traditions, student activities, strategies that promote student development was developed through the cooperation of faculty, staff, students, the Division of Student Affairs, the Student Affairs Committee of the Faculty Senate, and the President’s Cabinet. You are encouraged to become familiar with the information contained in this handbook The handbook is intended to introduce students to their obligations and responsibilities as members of the University community and will supplement other Savannah State publications that more completely address all policies, procedures, and regulations for every area of the University. You are strongly encouraged to use the University’s Undergraduate General Catalog, Residential Living Handbook, and other published an informed, knowledgeable, and successful “Tiger.” We acknowledge the use of pertinent papers and other materials of professional organiza tions, the University System of Georgia, state and federal agencies, and publications from Finally, we wish you well in your academic, social, and personal pursuits. During your time at Savannah State University be sure to strike the right balance between academic and out of class activities, as the quality of your experience depends on how well you accept As a Savannah State University student, you will be afforded every opportunity to learn, grow, and develop. While the student and the University are partners in student learning and development, it is up to you to take advantage of all that is offered. Have a great year! Randy Gunter, Vice President for Student Affairs M TH ITY PR As you receive this student handbook at the start of a new academic period, or for some of you, as you begin your collegiate career, I welcome you to this wonderful and historic institution. For over a century, Savannah State University has provided a high-quality education and a grand beginning to professional and academic life for many. A major component of the success of our graduates has been the impact of the learning community that constitutes campus life at Savannah State University. Student growth and development are always a function of both academic We want you to grow, learn inside and outside of the classroom, form quality and long-lasting relationships, have multiple opportunities to learn, to exercise leadership, pursue meaningful service to the campus and the larger community, and yes, we want you to have fun. To enable The rules, programs, and opportunities enclosed herein are designed to provide for your and collectively. Please know that violence in any form will not be acceptable on this campus or anywhere by members of this campus community. Also, please know that the presence of drugs, alcohol, and hallucinogens is considered a very serious violation of the purposes of the University environment. Threats, harassment, intimidation, and other negative interpersonal We urge you to explore the full diversity of association and opportunities available on the campus and to become fully engaged in student life activities. Please read the handbook carefully. It contains important information for your life as a student here. You will be expected to be fully aware of all rules, laws, and policies. Best wishes for a great academic year. Earl G. Yarbrough, Sr., M TH T AFFA You have chosen a great University to pursue your post-secondary education. At Savannah State University, we work hard to deserve your presence. Yet, we expect you to work equally as hard to prepare for each course and ultimately graduation. Academic honesty and integrity are absolute Take advantage of the vast opportunities Savannah State University has to offer. Remember Use this great University as your training ground for leadership and career development. Familiarize yourself with advising, registration, and all academic policies. Declare a major as early as possible. Further, I encourage you to select a mentor and follow the wise counsel of your mentor throughout your collegiate career. Being in good academic standing is a pre-requisite for participation in all clubs and organizations. Keep academics in the forefront of all you do. We believe in you! Mary Wyatt, Vice President for Academic Affairs V ANNA A T A TIV ................................................................................................. Earl G. Yarbrough, Sr. Vice President for Academic Affairs Mary Wyatt Vice President for Business and Finance Vice President for Student Affairs Vice President for Institutional Advancement Larion Williams Vice President for Administration Chief Information Officer Jeff Delaney Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs Associate Vice President for Student Affairs ..................................................................... ............................................................................................. College of Business Administration College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences College of Sciences and Technology ................................................................................................. Center for Teaching, Learning and Academic Support ................................................................................... V ANNA A T RTI RT RVIC Academic Affairs ................................................................................................................. ...................................................................................................... ................................................................................................................... Fiscal Affairs ........................................................................................................... Campus Activities Board (CAB) Cashier’s Computer Services & Information Technology ................................................................................................ .............................................................................. Center for Teaching Learning and Academic Support Educational Talent Search Financial Aid ...................................................................................................... ............................................................................. .......................................................................................... ...................................................................................... Post Office President’s Office ..................................................................................................................... ............................................................................... 353-3112 Student Affairs Student Government Association ....................................................................... ........................................................................................... Student Programs & Organizations Title III University Advancement ........................................................................................................... University Village ................................................................................................. .................................................................................................. Staff Directory at RY ITY Savannah State University was founded when enabling legislation was passed by The Georgia General Assembly on November 26, 1890, creating a normal school for the training of Black citizens. The fledgling institution, known as the Georgia State Industrial College (GSIC) for Colored Youths, began its first session in June 1891, in the Baxter Street School Building in Athens, Georgia, with Richard R. Wright, Sr., as principal, and was considered a part of the University of Georgia. Religious and educational leaders such as Professor John McIntosh, Reverend E.K. Love, James Simms, Alexander Harris, and others met in 1891, in the basement of the First African Baptist Church and developed a proposal that convinced Judge Peter W. Meldrim, chair, and other white members of the Georgia State Industrial College Board of Commissioners to locate the new Black institution in Savannah. The College was established as a result of the Second Morrill Land Grant Act of August 30, 1890, which had specific wording mandating the development of Black land grant colleges in the southern and border states. The early educational paradigm of the College was based on the Talented Tenth philosophy of W.E.B. DuBois, the vocationalism of Booker T. Washington, and the model of the New England College espoused by Richard R. Wright, Sr., as a result of his education under the American Missionary at Atlanta University. The early curriculum had normal, agricultural, and college programs. The College opened in Savannah on October 7, 1891, with Richard R. Wright, Sr., as principal, five students from Ware High School in Augusta, and a foreman for the farm. Richard R. Wright, Jr., received the first baccalaureate degree from the College in June 1898. During Wright’s presidency, Presidents William McKinley (December 1898) and William Howard Taft (May 1, 1912) visited the campus. During Cyrus G. Wiley’s (GSIC Class of 1899) tenure (192 1-26), women were admitted as boarders, and the College was established as a federal agricultural extension center. Under President Benjamin F. Hubert (1926-1947), the entire academic program was reorganized. The high school and normal departments were discontinued and the school became a four-year college. In 1931, when the University System was placed under a Board of Regents, the College began to offer additional bachelor’s degree programs with majors in English, the natural sciences, social sciences, and business administration, as well as in agriculture and home economics. President James A. Colston (1947-49) modernized the campus of Georgia State College. He built the first student center, established the first office of public relations, initiated the Campus Chest Program, and installed a campus-wide telephone system. In 1949, the College’s land-grant status was transferred to Fort Valley State College. It was during Colston’s administration that the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) accredited Savannah State. After President Colston acting president. By 1950, Payne was named president. In September 1950, the Institution’s name was changed to Savannah State College. The first major building program of the modern era began during President Payne’s tenure when Richard R. Wright Hall, Colston Hall, Wiley Gymnasium, and B.F. Hubert Technical Sciences Center were constructed. Payne died during his term of office in August 1963, and was succeeded by Dr. Howard Jordan, Jr., in September 1963.President Jordan spearheaded a major building program at the College, which resulted in the construction of a modern student union, new football stadium, fine arts building, Payne Hall, and new dormitories for men and women. White students were admitted to the College after the Civil Rights Act of 1964 was passed, and the first white faculty was hired during this time. In 1968, Savannah State College founded Savannah’s first graduate program in education. The program soon received NCATE accreditation. Dr. Jordan resigned from the College in 1971 to become the first Black vice chancellor for the central office of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia. In 1971, Dr. Prince A. Jackson, Jr., became the second Savannah State College graduate to become president of the Institution. His administration was responsible for the development of the Naval Reserve Officers Training Program, the establishment of WHCJ-FM Radio Station, and the institutionalization of the Title III program, SACS accreditation, and construction of new buildings. Dr. Jackson was succeeded by Dr. Clyde W. Hall (197 8-80), a Savannah State graduate and professor of technical sciences. As acting president, Dr. Hall developed plans for a new administration building and health center, and initiated improvements to the infrastructure of the College. Dr. Wendell G. Rayburn (1980-1988), eighth president of Savannah State College, led the institution through its first major building program since the 1970s. His administration worked through the Desegregation Plan of the Board of Regents and completed the building of the marine biology facilities, Jordan College of Business Administration, the president’s house (later named William E. Gardner Hall), and Harris-McDew Health Services Center. In 1988, Dr. Rayburn resigned to become president of Lincoln University in Jefferson City, Missouri. Dr. Wiley S. Bolden succeeded him as acting president from 1988-1989. Dr. Bolden was instrumental in leading the College to continue its existence as a historically Black institution. Dr. William E. Gardner, Jr., (1989- 199 1) was selected as the ninth president of the College in September 1989, and presided over a period of unprecedented enrollment growth for the Institution. He successfully led the College to SACS accreditation for a ten-year period (1990-2000). During his tenure, Dr. Gardner established a Teacher’s Certification Program in collaboration with Armstrong Atlantic State University, then Armstrong Atlantic State College. Additionally, Dr. Gardner was responsible for the replica of the Navy jet flown by Commander Donnie L. Cochran, U.S. Navy “Blue Angels” demonstration flying team, being placed in front of the McGlockton NROTC Building. He also spearheaded the Centennial Celebration of Savannah State and the restoration of Adams Hall as the College’s archives building and established the Advanced Water Technology Center. Dr. Gardner died suddenly in the office in 1991, and was succeeded by Dr. Annette K. Brock, a Savannah State College graduate, and professor and chair, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences. Dr. Brock served as acting president from 1991 until 1993. As the College’s first woman president, she continued the successful work of the previous administration. During her administration, the Pathways to Teaching Program and the College’s archives were established, the latter with the support of Title III funding. Dr. John T. Wolfe (1993-1997) became the tenth president of Savannah State College. During his administration, the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia elevated Savannah State College, along with twelve other regional state colleges, to the status of state universities (1996). Also during Wolfe’s administration, graduate programs in public administration and social work were returned to the University. Dr. Carlton E. Brown (1997- 2006) became the University’s eleventh president. During Dr. Brown’s tenure, the University experienced enormous growth in many sectors such as an expanded curricula and academic programs. recognition by accrediting bodies such as the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) Commission on Colleges, the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), the American Association of Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) International and access to high quality leadership programs and facilities such as the Tiger Arena, which opened in 2000, the University Village in 2001 and the Freshman Living and Learning Center in 2003. In July 2008, Dr. Earl G. Yarbrough, Sr., became the 12th President of the University. ITY HYM Our Alma Mater, S.S.U. Thine honor, pride and eminence, We raise in prayerful reverence. Guide us still from day to day. Be Thou mindful lest we lost our way; We adore each beauteous scene and hall, Our all we pledge to Thee! In our hearts we’ll build a shrine for You We hail Thee, S.S.U! Lyrical Revision by Ms. LaGina M. Frazier During the 2002 Spring Semester, a group of students participated in the inaugural Rites of Passage Leadership Program. The program, spearheaded by the Center for Leadership & Character Development and the Leadership Education & Development Fund, was a leadership retreat designed to focus on the distinctive values, beliefs, attitudes, and practices that men and women at the University are expected to commit to during their collegiate experience. As a historically Black institution with a rich heritage of educating the whole person, the university’s culture or its ethos must be characterized by a set of principles. It was primarily for this reason men and women elected to participate in the retreat at the Penn Center on St. Helena Island, SC on April 12-14, 2002. The outcome of the program was a Statement of Ethos for Men and for Women. The students who developed the ethos statements encourage all students to dialogue and incorporate the principles daily. The University wishes to acknowledge the students who spent a substantial amount of reflective, critical, and analytical time developing the statements for their fellow students. Several retreat speakers helped students conceptualize the ethos statements: (1) Dr. Na’im Akbar, professor of psychology at Florida State University; (2) Muhammed Akil, president & chief executive officer of Lost Link Enterprises, Inc.; (3) Dr. Rubye Braye, a decision scientist and president of JIL Group; (4) Rev. Tyrone Crider, former coordinator of voter registration for the 1984 and 1988 Jesse Jackson presidential campaigns; (5) Dr. Lee Jones, associate dean of the College of Education at Florida State University; (6) Mrs. Jessica and legal counsel at Savannah State University. tatement of thos for Men was written by: Olamide Aina, Zikiar V. Alvin, Khamisi Campbell, Faron Ellison, Timi Fagbohun, Melvin Hackett, Jermaine James, Villareal Johnson, Landrell Latimore, Jon M. Lattimore, Torriel Lewis, Jeremy McMullen, Christopher Moyo, Obiora Onyemelukwe, Shawn Parker, D’Andre Phillips, Jason Sanders, Ranaldo Smith, Umoja Spaulding, and Rahsheim Wright. Mr. Irvin Clark, director of residential services & programs, served as the men’s coordinator. The tatement of thos for Women was written by: Aiesha Bridges, Tiffany Brown, Deandra Burke, Sherella Davis, Leona Dillion, Jessica Green, Sherrlyn Hall, Kenya Hollingshed, Wequita Moss, and Ebony Walker. Ms. Tonia Brown-Dickerson, assistant to the Vice President for Student Affairs, served as the women’s coordinator. T State University our mission has been predestined in a history of great men to strive for excellence, both academic and personal. Further, we recognize that we are often defined by our actions; as such, we hold fast to that which is good. As we strive to emerge triumphantly, through the challenges that life may bring, our pride will be a result of the path that we have chosen. Specifically, we commit ourselves to the following: Recognizing that diverse peoples, cultures, and views will enhance the educational experience. Therefore, in refusing to commit to failure, but in accepting our pronouncement to revolutionize our social establishments with humility, we shall strive for spiritual perfection and greater service and be an instrument for the dissemination of knowledge. We, the men of Savannah State University, pledge ourselves to these words with integrity and in good faith. Furthermore, we will diligently carry out all that is expected of us and to finally remember and give gratitude to our great alma mater. T R W Savannah State University has a community of women who are committed to excellence in all areas. The women of Savannah State University are expected to: Present themselves in a modest and respectable manner and understand that certain · Create a stimulating and intellectually challenging environment by committing to help a fellow sister excel in academic study sessions and by helping others communicate in a mature manner. Being accountable for our actions by demonstrating responsibilities for the choices we make; Encouraging spiritual renewal by setting, practicing, and promoting high moral standards; Acknowledging social change by practicing the appreciation of other cultures and beliefs; Encouraging and supporting all in the community, especially men, as a way to nurture Encouraging individualism, self-pride, and the mental stability to handle the challenges that we encounter. Finally, we submit that the following words describe women at Savannah State University 11 T RT T I T The experts in the area of student affairs suggest that the typical undergraduate student – one 18-22 – spends approximately 15 hours per week in the classroom. Although the bulk of the remaining 153 hours is typically spent on personal matters and with peers, Savannah State University expects that students will devote a considerable amount of this time to academic pursuits. After all, the purpose of institutions of higher education is the pursuit of knowledge and truth and the development of critical, analytical, reflective, and other skills. The University also recognizes that important student development takes place outside the classroom and laboratory for interpersonal, social, cultural, and recreational activities. Inasmuch as Savannah State University will provide the facilities, resources, programs, and activities for these learning and developmental opportunities to occur, it is ultimately up to the student to take advantage of what is provided. The effectiveness of student life – the 153 hours or so spent outside of the classroom is directly linked to the extent to which students are engaged in quality co-curricular events, whether informally or formally and whether student-or University-provided. This section of the handbook describes certain areas of student life. Students are encouraged to become The Savannah State University Undergraduate Catalog provides you with the latest academic information. Your personal copy may be obtained from the Registrar’s Office or view a copy at: http://www.savstate.edu/UCat.ht Each semester the Registrar’s Office also publishes a schedule of courses which informs you of the time, place and instructor of each course offered during a particular semester and contains information about registering for courses, dropping a course, withdrawing from the College and other pertinent academic information. You are urged to read both publications with care since you are responsible for knowing all academic regulations and requirements. Certain academic regulations are listed in these pages and in the Student Handbook. You are expected to know them and refer to them when the occasion dictates. GRITY Academic integrity is founded upon and encompasses the following five values: honesty; trust; fairness; respect; and responsibility. Supporting and affirming these values is essential to promoting and maintaining a high level of academic integrity. If knowledge is to be gained and properly evaluated, it must be pursued under conditions free from dishonesty. Deceit and misrepresenta tions are incompatible with the fundamental activity of this academic institution and will not be tolerated. Members of the academic community are expected to foster their own work in the spirit of academic honesty and not to tolerate its abuse by others. Responsibility for academic integrity lies with individual students and faculty members of this community. A violation of academic integrity is an act harmful to all other students, faculty and, ultimately, the institution. Throughout the semester, students remain in their Dean’s To acknowledge publicly the high scholastic achieve ment of its students, Savannah State follows the traditional practice of publishing at the end of each semester a Dean’s List. Placement on this list is merited by a minimum of 12 hours enrollment with a semester average of 3.5. Part-time students qualify provided they have completed 15 semester hours with an accumulative average of 3.5 for no less than two courses and six semester hours. Students doing their student teaching are eligible for the Dean’s List if they have a 3.5 in course for that one semester and if they have been on the Dean’s List for the two semesters immediately preceding the semester of student teaching. dding or Dropping a Course If you change your mind about the classes you registered for, don’t panic. During the first two days of each semester you can drop or add a class in the Registrar’s Office. A student withdrawal form. The date of withdrawal is not the day the student stops going to class but the student who fails to comply with this regulation will receive an “F” for all courses for which he/she has registered and forfeit all claims to tuition refunds. Any student who reduces his/her Once a grade has been reported to the Registrar, it can be changed only under either of the The instructor presents to the dean of the college conclusive, documentary evidence that 2 a change, and the Vice President Academic Affairs accepts that recommendation. R TR CRIPT The purpose of the Co-Curricular Transcript is to help keep a written, cumulative record of student involvement at Savannah State University. The need for such a program is to encompass all volunteer work, community service, and service learning activities in a centralized and organized way via the Banner Student Information System. The intent of this program is to Student Affairs and Savannah State University. Students would enjoy having their entire academic as well as non- academic information on their official university transcript. As such, a Co-Curricular Transcript would be of value to students when applying to graduate schools DIV Savannah State University provides an intellectually diverse learning and living environment that enables students and all who come under its influence to become innovative and critical thinkers, problem solvers, and responsible citizens. Believing, as stated by the American Council of Education that “intellectual pluralism and academic freedom are central principles of American higher education,” the university supports the rights of faculty to academic freedom as set forth by the American Association of University Professors (AAUP and the principles of “Academic Rights and Responsibilities, a statement issued by the American Council on Education on behalf of 30 higher education organizations . In the learning and living environment at Savannah State University, the rights and responsibilities of xpectations and Responsibilities of Teachers In classrooms and in all academic and related venues, students and teachers are encouraged to engage in the discussion and free exchange of ideas in an environment that is free of retribution Teachers will not use their classes as vehicles to propagate their personal views or to Teachers will have a mastery of their subject matter and provide an environment in which Teachers will permit students to challenge prevailing dissident ideologies, thoughts, and beliefs that are relevant to the subject under discussion. The expression and discussion of divergent points of view will occur in an environment of civility and mutual respect. At the beginning of each semester, teachers will provide students with the policies, proce their final grades. Grading policies will reflect that students’ grades are not adversely affected because of their expressions of different perspectives. All course syllabi will include a statement of the university’s policies with regard to intellectual diversity and will provide instructions for filing grievances when the policies Evaluations of teachers by students will include items to assess intellectual diversity in 7. When/if teachers determine that the university is not honoring its commitment to intellectual diversity, they are obligated to report such to the university’s Compliance Officer. S In an environment that is free of intimidation or other disadvantage, students have the right to learn and inquire, including opportunities to express opinions, ideas, and/or ideologies that may be different from those of the teacher. At all times, students are expected to comport themselves in an orderly and respectful manner. To this end, the following specific rights It is the right of every student to know, at the beginning of each semester, all of the policies and that teachers will be open to discussions of varying points of view, perspectives, and/or Students have the right to classes that are not used by teachers to propagate their personal When students believe their rights have been violated, they have the right to seek redress following established and published procedures that are available to all members of the university family. The goal of the university is to resolve conflicts at the lowest level. Students who believe that their academic rights have been violated should first seek redress via discussion with the offending party. If the offender is the teacher, the student should first discuss his/her discontent with the teacher, followed by the department chair, the dean, and the Vice President for Academic Affairs. Should satisfactory redress still not be achieved, the student should contact the University Compliance Officer to seek mediation or to file When/if students determine that the university is not honoring its commitment to intellectual diversity, they are obligated to report such to the University Compliance Officer. Savannah State University accepts its responsibility to ensure intellectual diversity beyond the classroom. To this end, the university commits to the following: The award of federal financial aid funds and institutional scholarships will be made in accord with guidelines that prohibit discrimination of the basis of race, creed, color, religious, University-sponsored academic and extra-curricular activities, such as the selection of speakers or other forums, will reflect a diversity of ideologies and will not be subject to of divergent ideologies will not be used as a means to incite disruptive behavior. In accordance with university and journalistic policies and guidelines, Savannah State University will protect the rights of students that are inherent in the concept of “freedom of the press.” The goal of intellectual diversity will be included in all university policies The Alternative Dispute Resolution Policy will be posted on the university’s website and Sessions on intellectual diversity, including procedures for filing grievances, will be included in orientation sessions for students and faculty. Annual surveys will be conducted to assess perceptions of intellectual diversity. The University Compliance Officer will be charged to serve as the university’s intellectual diversity ombudsman. (Ref. FVSU Academic Affairs website.2008) & TIG munication. We recognize that it allows and promotes timely delivery of information to our students and assists us in achieving our strategic objective by linking students and faculty members and fellow students and staff. Students can expect important notices about deadlines, upcoming events, and other information to be sent electronically to their e-mail accounts. Students are expected to regularly check their accounts for activity. Mass electronic mailing to students will be accomplished through the use of a Postmaster, which is administered by the Vice President for Student Affairs or his/her designee. Computer e-mail accounts are available to all Savannah State students and employees, and are issued automatically to new students. Students holding computer accounts are required to follow all Savannah State University policies and procedures governing the use of Savannah State University and the University System of Georgia computer resources. Computer use must be in accordance with all applicable laws, regulations, and policies, including but not limited to the Georgia a user ID and password for their personal use only and must not cause them to be known or used by any other person. Access to any university computer resource is a privilege granted by Savannah State University and account holders are solely responsible for the security of the assigned user ID(s) and password(s). Official e-mail correspondence will have tate University TIGERMAIL’ as the subject. Because this subject line denotes an official university communication, subject lines containing should not be W T CH CK Y UR TIG Just click on the WEBMAIL icon on your Savan nah State homepage, www.savstate.edu . Enter your username and password. In addition, the Student Affairs website, www.savstate.edu/adm/sa/index.ht includes additional important RTICIP T P ICY ITY Savannah State University holds two formal commencement ceremonies each year in May and December for students scheduled to graduate at the end of the spring and fall semesters. Candidates for degrees may participate in the graduation ceremony only after they have academic requirements pertinent to the degree to which they aspire. This includes satisfactory Candidates for degrees must show that they have met all general University requirements for such matters as registration, payment of fees (e.g., library, financial aid, housing) and special requirements of the college or school in which they have been registered. Accordingly, failure to meet these require ments will disqualify a candidate from participation in commencement ceremonies as well. summer semester to participate in commencement will be in the fall (December) commencement The University expressly reserves the right to deny participation in commencement and withhold the degree of any student who has completed all academic requirements, when disciplinary charges are pending or when there is a pending disciplinary action equivalent to suspension or expulsion. SSU makes every attempt to inform degree candidates prior to commencement if they have matters related to commencement (including the commencement program) does not waive or change the requirements stated above and a candidate will be excluded from participation Participating in the ceremony, moreover, is not a guarantee of graduation . However, Savannah State University is committed to doing O The nature of a college or university is as much a matter of its culture – its traditions, ceremonies, customs, and practices – as its organizational structures, policies, and practices (Kuh and Associates, 1991). Savannah State University has a particularly rich culture. Through cultural perspectives, such as ceremonies, traditions, customs, and practices, one may better understand the uniqueness of the university. Below are certain cultural artifacts of Savannah State University. More exist and others will be created as the University continues to TH The alma mater is the institution’s revered hymn. Through song, it conveys what is ideologically special about Savannah State University. Given its importance, during the alma mater, students and others are expected to stand and to be respectful by acting in civil and non-disruptive manners. Men are expected to remove their hats during the alma mater. T TH Y The Clifford E. Hardwick III Student Organization of the Year Award is meant to bring signifi cant honor to a university-recognized student club or organization that has made an exceptional and distinctive impact on its members, the university, and the community. The University will recognize up to two clubs/organizations for the award annually. The club/organization selected for the award will be announced at the Outstanding Student Leadership & Service Recognition program and will have its name engraved on a plaque for permanent display at the University. The criteria for the award are available in the Office of Student Affairs. T A revered formal ceremony, commencement exercises are held twice each year during the all of the criteria to receive a degree from Savannah State University. Y C The University formally celebrates its founding during the Founder’s Day Convocation. Founder’s Day Convocation, which is typically held during the week-long series of Homecom ing activities, honors the founding of Savannah State University and the people important to Homecoming is celebrated at Savannah State University during the fall semester. A week-long series of events, Homecoming culminates with a fierce intercollegiate football competition, usually followed by a rousing concert. During this spirited event, alumni, students, faculty, staff, and friends of the university gather together for the parade, reunions, tailgate parties, and other fun activities. Y C Savannah State University recognizes the scholastic achievements of its students throughout the academic year. One such time is the Honors Day Convocation, which is typically held during the spring semester. A formal ceremony, academic awards are presented to students The Leadership Education and Development (LEAD) Program, a program coordinated by the Division of Student Affairs and in collaboration with the Center for Leadership & Character Development, stimulates character- and values-based leadership skills for students through a series of leadership experiences, including retreats, seminars, mentoring, and a resource center. RTI RV Y Y The University recognizes the humanitarian and social justice achievements of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. through an observance day assembly. Typically held on the week prior to Dr. King’s national holiday, students, faculty, staff, and community members gather to reflect upon IGHT FAS T Midnight Breakfast is an annual tradition when faculty, staff, and administrators volunteer to prepare and serve students breakfast items from 9:00 PM to midnight in the dining hall during the first day of final exams. The event is symbolic of the University’s commitment to student excellence and a student-centered philosophy. ITY (MI URT Each academic year, students elect Miss Savannah State University (Miss SSU) and attendants based on talent and certain qualifications as articulated in the Student Government Association Constitution. She is presented formally to the University community in a coronation, which is W T & P T At the beginning of each academic year, various University offices and programs collaborate to present a New Student & Parent Orientation program. The program is designed to introduce new students and their families to the University. Typically a three-day event, the program consists of formal and informal activities to indoctrinate students to the University’s history, T HIP & RVIC Because student leadership, service, and volunteerism is explicitly valued and promoted at Savan nah State University, a campus-wide Outstanding Student Leadership & Service Recognition Program is held in the spring. The purpose of the program is to publicly honor the outstanding contributions that students have made to the University, community, and the organizations in which students are involved. The Office of Residential Services & Programs’ Resident Assistants Program, The Office of Student Programs and Organizations, Student Orientation Leaders, and the Student Government Association are among the organizations that present awards. Any registered student club or organization can self-nominate and select up to two individuals to publicly honor for the outstanding contributions the individuals have made to the organization, community, or the University. Each registered student group is asked to complete and return the Outstanding Student Leadership & Service Recognition Form to the Office of Student Affairs. The President’s Second Mile Award is meant to bring significant honor to a graduating senior who has exemplified stellar and meritorious character and values in both leadership and community service. The University will recognize up to two students. The recipient will be announced at spring commencement and will have his or her name engraved on a plaque for permanent display at the University. The criteria for the award are available in the Office of Student Affairs. ITY C The colors of Savannah State University are blue and orange. Students are encouraged to wear these colors to university intercollegiate activities, pep rallies, appropriate Homecoming ITY M T “Tiger” is the official mascot of Savannah State University. Typically, the “Tiger” can be spotted at certain intercollegiate events. Beware, as the Tiger is ferocious! EN T ON PR HI IT D TR DITI ONS , CU , & PR CTIC ES Savannah State University recognizes that the above-referenced and other traditions, customs, and practices, add value to the collegiate experience. These traditions are welcomed and encouraged. The University, however, strictly prohibits and will not tolerate traditions, customs, and practices that involve hazing of any kind, that interfere with the academic and personal development of students, that are anti-social, or that compromise students’ safety and well-being. that engage in underground and clandestine activities and groups that are developed for the purpose of initiation into a club or organization. Students who engage in such activities as well as any form of hazing are subject to suspension from the University, regardless of classification, status, or length at the University. Suspension in these and all other matters, when the sanction is imposed, takes effect immediately. T Section 704.021 paragraph four of the University System of Georgia Board of Regents Policy by the President, using proper administrative procedures, which shall include the advice and counsel of an advisory committee composed of at least 50% students. Students shall be appointed by the institution’s student government association. The Student Activities Allocations Board (SAAB) at Savannah State University is a twelve- member board made up of students, faculty and staff. Representatives from the student body are appointed by the Student Government Association and represent 50% of the board. The SAAB nominates a student representative to serve as chairperson to preside over the allocation processes. The SAAB will define the allocation process for student fees and make recommendations for allocations of student activities fees to the President. The Student Government Association and the Office of Student Programs and Organizations will ensure that this process occurs annually. TUD EN T RG AN IZ TI ONS & CTIVITI ES R ESO URC ES BOA RD ( SOA R) Organizations not funded by student activity fees may request funds to assist with certain events or programs. The organization must be registered with the Office of Student Programs & Organizations and present a program beneficial to the student body. Participation in the programs must be open to all students. The program must also have sufficient value to warrant funding and promote the University’s mission of providing services and experiences that foster a more enriched collegiate environment. The Student Organizations and Activities Resources (SOAR) Board is composed of 15 to 20 students, faculty, and staff from a cross population of the campus community. Their job is to review and hear proposals submitted before the board for special allocations. If allocations are made, the organization must agree to adhere to the T PU Savannah State University students publish The Tiger’s Roar (paper copy and online version), the official student newspaper, with supervision and oversight from the Department of Mass Communications. The publication is funded through student activity fees, subject to allocations by the Student Activities Allocations Board. Involvement in this publication offers practical experience and expands students’ understanding of the University. RTI W T Consistent with the University’s view that involvement in educationally and socially purposeful out-of-class experiences enhance the collegiate experience, students are encouraged to establish meaningful student clubs and organizations that are consonant with the goals and objectives of the University. That said, requests to create a new student organization must include: 3 The Vice President for Student Affairs will appoint a New Student Organization Committee (NSOC), with the Director of Student Programs and Organizations serving as chairperson. Consistent with institutional practices related to appointments to university committees, the NSOC will be comprised of faculty, staff, and students. The NSOC will: Receive requests through the Office of Student Programs and Organizations; organizations; and Upon the positive recommendation of the committee, the Vice President for Student Affairs will grant university recognition. New student organizations are required to abide by guidelines that govern student clubs and organizations. T Y D T W UT P RTICIP T C Involvement in a student club or organization tends to enhance the collegiate experience. Meaningful involvement in such out-of-class experiences is likely to provide opportunities for the development of self-governance, leadership, decision-making, and planning skills. The following is a listing of nearly all of the student clubs and organizations at the University. Guidelines are described below for students wishing to establish a new student club or organization. (Students may contact the Office Student Programs and Organizations for an up-to-date listing of student clubs and organizations.) Honor Beta Sigma Gamma Business Honor Society; Kappa Kappa Psi Honorary Band Fraternity; Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Professional Behavioral Analysis Student Association Iota Phi Lambda Business and Professional Sorority, Inc Mass Communication Student Association Master of Social Work Association Mathematicians in Training Political Science Association Social Workers of Tomorrow T C TI In order to receive university recognition as a current student club or organization, each group must register with the Office of Student Programs and Organizations by the third week of class during the fall semester. The Office of Student Programs and Organizations has a document with the university. The forms require the following. Each group must provide a roster of current officers, members, and advisors, with addresses, Each group must provide a calendar of proposed educational, community, social, and Each group must provide a copy of the organization’s current constitution and bylaws as well as any current policies prescribed by its national organization, if applicable. 4. Each group must provide the organization’s cumulative GPA, which must be a minimum of 2.50. In cases where the cumulative GPA of the group falls below 2.50, the organization will be placed on probation for one semester. If at the end of the semester of probation the organization’s cumulative GPA has not reached 2.50, recognition, as a student organization will be withdrawn until such time as the group cumulative average of 2.50 has been regained. The Vice President for Student Affairs, with the approval of the university President, may prescribe additional reasonable provisions for recognition of student organizations. Society for the Advancement of Management Achievers of Today and Tomorrow, Inc. The Tiger’s Roar Caribbean Student Association The Women’s Circle Way of Real Discovery Wesley Foundation College Democrats of America Wesleyan Gospel Choir Graduate Student Association International Students Association Model Organization of African Unity NAACP College Chapter National Council of Negro Women, Inc. Non-Traditional Student Association Sophia/Students Seeking Wisdom SSU Pre-Alumni Association SSU Varsity Cheerleaders Student Government Association Young Visionaries HIP I C TI Students are free to reasonably join and associate with clubs and organizations of their choosing, consistent with the membership requirements of such groups. The University, however, does not condone nor expect student clubs and organizations to discriminate on the basis of race, or cultural lifestyle in the selection of its members, except in cases where sex or physical condition are bona fide qualifications. Inasmuch as students may join and associate with groups of their choosing, the University has developed certain requirements for membership. These requirements are not intended to be unfair or heavy-handed; rather, the University is concerned with the personal learning and development of students and in assisting in making the experience in these groups educationally and socially purposeful. Thus, the University requires that in order to become a member of a student organization: Each student must meet the academic requirements set forth by the respective organization, department, college, or the University(2.00 GPA or higher); Each student must be free of disciplinary sanction (e.g., social probation) at the time he or Each student who seeks a position in the Student Government Association (SGA) must consecutive semesters and must have earned at least 30 credit hours. Transfer students must be enrolled on a full-time basis with 30 credit hours, 12 of which must be from Savannah State University. Furthermore, each student must have earned a minimum GPA requirement, the higher must have been earned as a condition of membership. Freshmen who seek membership in a non-freshman club or organization (reference Club/ Organization Constitution and Bylaws) must have been in residence at the University for one semester and must have earned at least 12 credit hours. Freshmen who seek membership in a ALL Freshman Club or Organization in their first semester of enrollment are exempt A leadership position in a recognized student club or organization at Savannah State University includes all positions defined in the club or organization’s constitution for executive board or officer positions. To be eligible to hold a leadership position, a student of election or appointment and during term of office, the student must be enrolled as a full-time student (12 credits per semester); must have/maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.3 8. Membership and leadership requirements are monitored by the Office of Student Programs & Organizations on a regular basis. Any exceptions to these requirements must be requested in writing and reviewed and approved by the Director of Student Programs & Organizations. ICY C RY GR 1. No student organization may sponsor or support an auxiliary group in any form. An auxiliary group is viewed as a supplemental group to an organization in which, for whatever reason, the participants are ineligible to become full members of that organization. These include, but are not limited to the following: little sisters, big brothers, favorites, friends of the chapter, etc. Under no circumstances will a rush, or recruitment activity, be held to recruit individuals for auxiliary organizations. This includes recruiting non-members to do things for the organization in exchange for some type of honor or recognition. Individuals who affiliate with auxiliary groups are also in violation of this policy and can HIP I F T AN Savannah State University has had (and seeks to have) a long relationship with its collegiate social fraternities and sororities. The first social Greek-letter organization was established at the quality of student life by providing a range of meaningful opportunities for individual growth and development. The University will seek to embrace such groups as integral student organiza tions when their principles and practices are consistent. Upon receiving written approval from conduct its membership intake activities in strict compliance with both University and national rules and regulations. The following are guidelines that govern membership intake: 1. Each organization will ensure that prospective members are not subject to any forms of hazing during periods that precede, throughout the program, and that follow membership intake activities. Students are expected to adhere to Georgia law on hazing and the directives and regulations of each respective organization regarding membership intake and hazing prohibi tions. (Recall that per the Annual Registration of Student Clubs and Organizations, each member of a social Greek-letter organization must attend and complete a risk management seminar before membership intake activities are permitted.) Additionally, all aspects of the Code of Student Ethics govern the behavior and practices of members of all organizations. Each organization is required to submit to the Office of Student Programs and Organizations the national policies and regulations that govern membership intake at least two months prior Each organization must be in strict compliance with the stated rules and regulations of its parent organization regarding membership intake. Each organization must ensure that all membership intake forms are completed and returned to the Office of Student Programs and Organizations prior to beginning the processes related Each organization must ensure that all membership intake activities be supervised by the organization’s chapter advisor. No membership intake activity may take place without the 6. Each organization is prohibited from engaging in membership intake activities during mid- semester and final examination periods. All intake activities MUST be completed one week before the final exam period starts. This includes any type of new members show(s). Each prospective member must have been in residence at the University for two consecu tive semesters and must have earned at least 30 credit hours. Transfer students must be enrolled on a full-time basis with 30 credit hours, 12 of which must be from Savannah State University. Furthermore, each student must have earned a minimum institutional cumulative Each student must be free of disciplinary sanction (i.e., social probation) at the time he or Each organization is subject to additional reasonable guidelines as may be issued by the Vice President for Student Affairs and with the approval of the University president. ITY- TRIP Off-campus trips that are sponsored by the University or are activities of University clubs and organizations complement the educational experience. Students and the accompanying faculty and/or staff are required to complete a Student Waiver for Educational & Cultural Trips one week prior to departing the University and secure the approval of the Vice President for Students Affairs or designee. The purpose of the waiver is to express that typically the student available in the Office of Student Programs and Organizations, the Office of Student Affairs and on the Student Affairs Website (Forms) . University-sponsored or related trips require that a member of the faculty or staff accompany students. Students must abide by all instructions provided by the University representative throughout the duration of the trip. Traveling on group. One-way travel is not permitted, unless the Vice President for Student Affairs grants prior approval. More importantly, throughout the trip students are expected to demonstrate RVI T The Division of Student Affairs, through the Office of Student Programs and Organizations, is primarily responsible for the execution and supervision of student activities. In particular, the Office of Student Programs and Organizations assists students in establishing and maintaining student clubs and organizations and in planning and evaluating events and activities. In order for a student club or organization to receive institutional recognition, an on-campus advisor must be selected to help guide the organization in meeting its goals and objectives. The Office of Student Programs and Organizations houses the forms necessary to establish and to annually register all student clubs and organizations. Given the value the University places on involvement in customs, practices, or behavior that involve hazing of any kind, that interfere with the academic and personal pursuits of students, that are anti-intellectual or anti-social, or that compromise the institution’s or student’s well-being. To help stimulate positive self-government, promote academic scholarship and positive interpersonal relationships, and create optimal conditions 1. Student organizations or members affiliated with student organizations must adhere to the Code of Student Ethics. The University reserves the right to withdraw institutional recognition of student clubs and organizations should such groups engage in practices or behaviors that work against the educational mission of the institution, including hazing. Student clubs and organizations must also be cognizant that the university itself does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, physical disability, national origin, sex, marital status, political affiliation, or age. The University has high expectations that student clubs and organizations will align themselves with the institution in adhering to this policy. ICY T R FO The University takes seriously its commitment to create a pleasant campus environment 1. The advisor of record or his/her designee must be present at the social event from start to finish. All Savannah State University students must show a valid student identification card at 3. Non-SSU students must be invited guests of the organization sponsoring the event. It is preferable that the sponsoring organization develops a guest list, which should be available at the entry point to the event. Once it has been determined that the individual is indeed a guest, he or she must present a picture identification card and log his or her name on a roster. The guest will be required to provide his or her driver’s license number and/or social security number. (The log containing such information is to be treated confidentially, monitored by the advisor, and delivered to the Office of Student Programs and Organizations on the first business day following the event.) Prior to each social event, student clubs and/or organizations are responsible for arranging for the appropriate presence of police officers through the Department of Public Safety. This should be arranged at least two weeks before the event is held. The Department of Public by the anticipated number of attendees; the costs for hiring such police personnel will be incurred by the club or organization sponsoring the event. 5. All participants are required to pass through a metal detector, which will be monitored by a law enforcement officer. Hand-held metal detectors may be used in lieu of a metal detector portal. This provision will require each organization to hire an additional law enforcement official. Participants are not permitted to congregate outside or near the location of the social event, With the exception of members of the Savannah State University community, individuals In the event that disorderly behavior manifests itself during the social event, the event will end immediately. The University will exercise “zero tolerance” for fighting and other Campus organizations that do not adhere to any particular aspect of these guidelines could CY 406.01 - T other illegal or dangerous drugs constitutes a serious threat to the public health, welfare, and academic achievement of students enrolled in the University System of Georgia. Therefore, all similar groups of students which are affiliated with, recognized by, or which use the facilities under the jurisdiction of institutions of the University System, are hereby charged with the responsibility of enforcing compliance with local, state and federal laws by all persons attending or participating in their respective functions and affairs, social or otherwise. As provided by the Student Organization Responsibility for Drug Abuse Act, any such student organization which, through its officers, agents or responsible members, knowingly permits, authorizes or condones the manufacture, sale, distribution, possession, serving, consumption or use of marijuana, controlled substances, or other illegal or dangerous drugs at any affair, function, or activity of such student organization, social or otherwise, is hereby declared to be in violation of the laws of this state and shall have its recognition as a student organization withdrawn and, after complying with the constitutional requirements of due process, shall be expelled from the campus for a minimum of one calendar year from the date of determination of guilt. Such organization shall also be prohibited from using any property or facilities of the institution for a period of at least one year. Any lease, rental agreement or other document between the Board of Regents or the institution and the student organization which relates to the use of the property leased, rented or occupied shall be terminated for knowingly having permitted or authorized the unlawful actions described above. All sanctions imposed by this policy shall be subject to review procedures authorized by the Board of Regents (Article VIII of the Bylaws). An appeal to the Board of Regents shall not defer the effective date of the adverse action against the student organization pending the Board’s review unless the Board so directs. Any such stay or suspension by the Board shall expire as of the date of the Board’s final decision This Policy amendment is intended to implement The Student Organization Responsibility for Drug Abuse Act of 1990 (Ga. Laws, 1990, p. 2033), http://www.usg.edu/regents/policymanual/400.phtm RT & W The University encourages students to get involved in campus intramural and recreation activities. The University’s Intramural and Wellness Program provides activities for students who enjoy a structured approach to recreational activities. Intramural activities include flag football, basketball, volleyball, swimming, horseshoe, 3 on 3 basketball, billiards, softball and table tennis. Because the University is affiliated with the National Intramural and Recreation Sporting Association, students at Savannah State University are eligible to compete in regional and national intramural competitions against other colleges and universities. Through the Wellness Programs, students have access to health and wellness programming that includes weight training, aerobics, jogging, and health assessments. Additional activities may be added according to student interests. Open recreation hours provide opportunities for students to participate in activities on an informal basis. Wilcox-Wiley Gymnasium, Wright Stadium, the Tiger Arena Athletic Recreation Complex, swimming pool and the tennis courts are some of the venues for such leisure activities. A valid student identification card is required for access into these facilities. TH The Felix Alexis Circle is an ideal place for leisure and informal activities, though it is occasionally used for formal programs and events. The University encourages students to take advantage of it for both informal and formal gatherings. In cases when students and/or student and submitted to the Office of Student Programs and Organizations. Grilling activities are only Student Programs and Organizations. The University assumes no liability for any injuries or accidents associated with grilling. Students are encouraged to exercise great care and caution. The Felix Alexis Circle is the property of the Board of Regents. Inasmuch as there are Greek- the circle. All students and visitors to the University have FULL access to benches, shaded areas, and other locations throughout the Felix Alexis Circle. Fraternities and sororities that have designated plot areas must be registered with the University and must keep the area free & TIP T TY The University takes seriously the safety and well being of members of the University community and guests and visitors of the University. It complies with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act of 1990, which require, in part, the University to report certain crimes to both students and the U.S. Department of Education. The Department of Public Safety is the unit responsible for public safety, though everyone is encouraged to work collaboratively to ensure the campus is a safe and comfortable environment. Below are some guidelines and practices to enhance safety efforts. T Inasmuch as the University considers nicknames as informal terms of endearment, students are strongly urged to learn the first and last names of their friends and acquaintances. There are instances when knowing a student’s “real” name can help properly identify the student to campus police, emergency medical personnel, or residence hall staff. CY C Emergency call boxes are located around the campus to provide direct immediate communication links with the Savannah State University Department of Public Safety at any time of the day or night. Emergency call boxes are identified by a blue light and red EMERENCY lettering on each side. RTI All crimes as well as any suspicious activity that occur on the campus of Savannah State emergencies as well as routine telephone and radio communications through a radio dispatcher. Utilizing radio communication with the local 911 center, the department provides prompt response to medical, fire and other emergencies. The telephone numbers for contacting the 911 or 356-277 NON ........................... I TI .................................. Confidential and anonymous information can be reported to (912) 356-2018 (Savannah State University Department of Public Safety) or local-based Campus Crime Stoppers at (912) 234-2020. Should an assault occur, particularly of a sexual nature, contact the Department of any evidence that could be used to pursue the case for a successful adjudication in court. The When reporting crimes or suspicious activity, be sure to provide the following information: Your name and address for police record; Weapons, if any; and Any other pertinent information you feel is important or necessary. T ID Upon enrolling in the University, new students will receive a valid student identification card through the Office of Residential Services & Programs. Returning students must have their University-issued identification card validated each semester. The student identification card must be visibly displayed at all times, presented upon request by University officials, and reported immediately if lost. The validated identification card enables students to gain access to University services (e.g., library, health center, dining hall, athletic events). A replacement fee is charged if a duplicate identification card is lost. Students are responsible for transactions on their identification cards unless otherwise specifically stated in writing by the University. Misuse of the student identification card is addressed in the Code of Student Ethics section of the handbook. Savannah State University offers the Higher One tm system for student refund management. Higher One tm provides refund management services to higher education institutions. Higher One tm provides students with more choices and better service for receiving financial refunds. Higher One also offers the OneAccount, a no minimum bal ance, no monthly fee checking account with the convenience of MasterCard® Debit with exclusive features. Contact the Office of Student Accounts for additional information. TY TIP . Always take your possessions with you when moving about in the library, cafeteria, classrooms, or offices. When walking on-or off-campus after dark, employ the “buddy system” and walk with time. This alerts them if you are overdue and gives them a reference point to locate you. Park your vehicle in a lighted parking area designated for students. lock your vehicle. Never leave valuables visible inside your vehicle; instead, secure such items in the vehicle trunk. If you are planning to be away from your vehicle for an extended period, never transfer valuables to the trunk in the presence of others. Always remember to remove RTM T TY TIP Campus residents should purchase property insurance. Property and Renter’s Insurance information is available in the Office of Residential Services and Programs or have your Campus residents are strongly urged to have certain property items engraved through the another room within the hall or the community, make sure the door is properly closed and Do not admit unauthorized or uninvited persons into residence hall or apartment rooms or Use only authorized doors. Doors with alarms should only be used during emergencies. diately. After business hours (i.e., after 5:00 PM), report maintenance deficiencies to the made to the Office of Residential Services and Programs at 356-2324. RTM The University reserves the right for its officials to make fire safety, health, and energy conservation inspections of University owned and/or leased residence hall rooms, apartments, RTM In cases where the Vice President for Student Affairs has “reasonable cause to believe” that there is activity occurring in a University owned and/or leased residence hall room, apartment, or common area that contravenes the mission and purpose of the institution, a warrant-less for Student Affairs or his or her designee. Students are guaranteed the rights of any citizen and therefore will not be subject to unreasonable searches and seizures. The courts, however, have recognized the right of the University to conduct reasonable inspections, searches and seizures in order to enforce University regulations. Savannah State University reserves the right to conduct such inspections, searches and seizures within limits of the law. (1) The University reserves the right to inspect rooms for possible damage, health and safety concerns. The University reserves the right to enter rooms or other facilities at reasonable hours. The University reserves the right to enter rooms or other facilities at any time it has reason earch The University reserves the right to conduct searches of individual rooms and lockers in a residence hall or other facility on the campus if there is reason to believe that a University Law enforcement officials may search facilities with or without authorization from the Efforts will be made to have the student available when a facility is searched. Evidence seized during a search will normally not be used in a court of law unless a search warrant has been issued authorizing the search. However, such evidence can be used in eizure earch Procedure/Guidelines The need for a search must be established by a University housing staff member (suspicion the student to search the room. If the student denies the request, the University Police may If consent to search the room is granted by the student, the University Police will conduct the search produces evidence that is not considered to be a felony, it will be the judgment a search warrant. If a warrant is granted by judicial order, the University Police will search evidence that constitutes a felony, the student will be arrested. (7) If a search warrant is not granted to the University Police by a judicial order, Housing staff mem bers may request permission to search a room from the Vice President for Student Affairs. If permission to search a room is authorized by the Vice President for Student Affairs, a During a search authorized by the Vice President for Student Affairs, the Campus Police R V Students who desire to park motor vehicles on the campus are required to purchase a parking decal. Students without parking decals or those improperly parked are subject to towing at the owner’s/operator’s expense. Towing charges are subject to the appropriate towing company’s fees. Students and their guests who drive vehicles are required to obey all parking and traffic regulations. During restricted hours, students may park only in their designated zone/lot. Parking Review A The Parking Review Board (PRB) is an essential component in the Department of Public for efficient resolution of parking complaints. The duties and responsibilities of the PRB are Any student, faculty, or staff member who receives a parking citation from the Department reviewing, investigating, and rendering a final decision to either uphold or dismiss the citation. The PRB is composed of five (5) members: (1) Sworn Police Officer of the rank of Corporal or Sergeant, the Student Government Association President, the Sophomore Class President, one (1) Staff member, and one (1) Faculty member. Only a faculty or staff member is eligible The PRB shall require the attendance of two (2) committee members exclusive of the Chair or designee in order to convene for business for any appeal. The PRB Committee shall convene on the second (2nd) Tuesday of each month at 11:00am to assess and investigate appeals. The PRB shall conduct all investigations pursuant to Federal and State Laws, Board of Regents All appeals must be in writing and sent or hand delivered to the PRB c/o the Savannah State University Department of Public Safety. The appeals must be received within ten (10) calendar days from the date of the citation. The right of appeal is forfeited after the ten (10) calendar days (strictly enforced). After the deadline expires without payment of the fine, the citation will be considered as delinquent and a late fee may be imposed. Written Appeal forms may be PRB Committee shall render a final decision in writing within five (5) business days following In light of the fact that the Savannah area is prone to hurricanes, the University has a Hurricane Emergency Readiness Plan for use in the event of a threat of a tropical storm or hurricane. The plan governs how all members of the Savannah State University community will evacuate, tasks to be performed by certain University officials and offices, processes for the activation of the plan, and responsible University officials and/or offices. The plan is available in the Office of Student Affairs, the Office of Residential Services & Programs, and the Department each student strictly adheres to the plan for a timely and orderly accountability and evacuation of the University. Students who wish to leave the campus on their own must notify the Office of Student Affairs at 356-2194 prior to the evacuation. In accordance with University System of Georgia Board of Regents policy, Savannah State University has in place a Campus Homeland Security Task Force. The Task Force is charged by the President with providing appropriate actions for safeguarding the campus community RV T It is Savannah State University’s policy to promote a safe environment for its students. The University is committed to working with students to maintain an environment free from violence, threat of violence, harassment, intimidation, and other disruptive behavior. The coping, and/or stability in an emergency situation. The Crisis Intervention & Response team is coordinated by the Student Affairs’ Office of Counseling and Disability Services in cooperation Affairs at 356-2194 for emergency assistance. With the exception of service animals for students with disabilities, no pets of any kind (to include all animals, reptiles, insects, amphibians, birds, etc.) are permitted in University owned or leased residence halls, in academic buildings, business/administrative offices, athletic and recreational fields, or in any other facility of the University. Students with visual disabilities requiring the use of a seeing-eye dog should make arrangements through the Counseling and Disability Services Office (356-2202). DUCT Savannah State University prohibits the unlawful possession, manufacture, distribution, dispensation, and use of illicit drugs and alcohol on the institutional premises in accordance with the Drug-Free Communities and Schools Act Amendments of 1989 (Public Law 101226) and the Georgia Drug-Free Postsecondary Act of 1990. anctions for Unlawful use of Illicit Drugs or The Georgia Penal Code defines “Controlled Substances” in Drug Schedules I-V, Official Code of Georgia Annotated (O.C.G.A.), Sections 16-13-35 to 16-13-3. This includes a list of chemical compounds, opiates, hallucinogens, derivatives, isomers, and other materials. The State Board of Pharmacy may add new material to the list as required. An even broader listing of dangerous drugs is defined in O.C.G.A. Section 16-13-71. This citation describes hundreds of chemicals and other compounds. The Georgia General Assembly may add drugs to the list as required. “First Offender” : A person never before convicted of possession of a small amount of controlled Possession of one ounce or less of marijuana may result in imprisonment not to exceed 12 months and /or a fine not to exceed $1,000, or “public works” not to exceed 12 months Possession of more than one ounce of marijuana is a felony and is punishable by confinement Trafficking in marijuana is a felony . Depending on the amount, confinement ranges from 5 to The penalties for violation of the “controlled substances” provision are numerous and they vary, includes trafficking, and how much of the substance is involved. Penalties range from 5 to 30 years and include life for a second conviction of trafficking narcotics (Schedule II). Possession of an alcoholic beverage by any person under age 21 may result in confinement, Georgia law specifies property which is subject to seizure by the state under public condemna anctions for Drug Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841-858 describes the acts and criminal penalties and civil and criminal forfeiture provisions established by Congress. Title 21, U.S.C., Schedule IV involves barbiturates; Schedule V concerns codeine and atropine sulfate, among other preparations. The Attorney General of the United States is authorized to add items to the several schedules. The manufacture, or distribution of various controlled substances , depending upon their schedule sequence and the amount of substance involved, is punishable by confinement ranging The penalty for “simple possession” of illegal drugs ranges from 1 to 20 years, depend ing upon the substance schedule, amount possessed, and the number of convictions (Title 21, Section 844). The distribution, manufacture, or possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance is punishable by twice the sanction provided in Section 841 (b) (not less than 10 nor more than 80 years, depending upon the schedule and amount), where such offense was performed on or within one thousand feet of a college or university. Section (a) denies certain “federal benefits” to drug traffickers and possessors, such as federal grants, contracts, loans, and professional licenses. Section 853 provides for forfeiture of possession and title to the federal government of any property used in drug offenses. Drug and Alcohol abuse result in significant health problems for those who use them. Drug and alcohol use in the workplace not only contributes to lost productivity, but also causes tremendous costs related to absenteeism, accidents, health care, loss of trained personnel, and employee treatment programs. Drug and alcohol abuse causes physical and emotional dependence. Users may develop a craving for these drugs or alcohol and their bodies may respond to the presence of drugs in ways that lead to increased drug and alcohol use. Certain drugs, such as opiates, barbiturates, alcohol and nicotine create physical dependence. With prolonged use, these drugs become part of the body chemistry. When a regular user stops taking the drug, the body experiences the physiological trauma known as withdrawal. Psychological dependence occurs when taking drugs becomes the center of the user’s life. Drugs have an effect on the mind and body for weeks or even months after drug use has stopped. Drugs and alcohol can interfere with memory, sensation, and perception. They distort experiences and cause loss of The Harris-McDew Health Service Center and the Office of Counseling and Disability Services has other information regarding the effects of drugs and alcohol. ervices and Programs The Harris-McDew Health Service Center, the Department of Residential Services and and the Office of Student Programs and Organizations have many on-going programs that specifically address alcohol and drug abuse problems. For example, the Office of Counseling confidential services, interactive programs, hand-outs on the facts of alcohol and drugs. Programs are provided promoting healthy lifestyles with emphasis on awareness of the dangers Faculty, staff, and students are expected to adhere to the policies of the University and observe local, state and federal laws relative to unlawful use of drugs and alcohol. Penalties for violations of these standards range from warnings and probation to expulsion, loss of academic credit, suspension, temporary or permanent suspension and withdrawal of organization recognition, referral to the legal system for prosecution, Detailed sanctions are defined in the Student Handbook, Board of Regents Policy Manual, Faculty Handbook, and Classified Employee Handbook. Public Safety follows a policy of zero tolerance for violation of all laws involving alcohol and drugs. Persons found in violation of these laws will be arrested and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. A AL TI Savannah State University is committed to the elimination of alcohol and drug abuse within the University community. The University is concerned with the safety and welfare of its students. The approach to violations of the alcohol and drug policy is designed to be pro-active. While the primary approach in response to alcohol and drug violations is educational, it should also be clear that violations of the alcohol and drug policy will result in disciplinary sanctions imposed by Savannah State University. The Higher Education Reauthorization Act of 1998 (HERA) amended the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) to allow institutions of higher education to notify parents or legal guardians of students under the age of 21 of the final outcome of an alcohol or drug violation. In view of these changes, the following policies will be observed: After the second alcohol violation or after the first drug it will be the policy of Savannah State University to notify parents or legal guardians of students under the age of 21 of violations of the University’s alcohol or drug policy. may be notified after the first alcohol violation. Those circumstances may be as follows: Code of Student Ethics. in suspension or dismissal from the University, or removal from University housing. Under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to personally telephone the parents or legal guardians of students under 21 years of age and inform them of a potentially serious incident requiring their immediate notification. A letter will follow up the personal telephone informed by the Savannah State University’s Vice President for Student Affairs’ Office before parental notification occurs. This will give the student an opportunity to initiate contact with their parents or legal guardians before the parental notification letter is mailed. The parent or legal guardians of students who are 21 years of age on the date of adjudication The parent or legal guardians of students under the age of 21 who have been declared c. The parents or legal guardians of students under 21 years of age may not be notified in view of various social, religious, or cultural customs and practices, or under extraordinary circumstances as determined on a case-by-case basis by the Vice President for Student Affairs or designee. ote: Georgia is an Open Records State. Written requests for information under the Open Records Act will be forwarded to the Public Records Custodian. T Cellular phones, PDAs and pagers are often times important means to communicate. These devises, however, can be disruptive for the user and others when activated in classrooms, laboratories, libraries, business offices, and in certain other public areas. The University asks students and others to be mindful of this and to operate cellular phones, PDAs and pagers accordingly. In other words, these devices should be turned off when in the classroom and laboratory, A Students are responsible for notifying the Office of the Registrar of any change in address. The mailing of notices to the last address on record constitutes official notification. Savannah State University is a marketplace for ideas, conversations, and opinions. The University has high expectations that students will engage in critical discourse on a wide range of topics in conversations that take place during formal and informal discussions. Also, the University has high expectations that students engage in civil discourse. The use of profan ity, indecent, and lewd language has no place in a University environment. The University recognizes that students have a constitutional right to express themselves. As a community of As a member of the University community, it is expected that every student will have the opportunity to experience success inside and outside of the classroom. As such, students are encouraged to dress appropriately on the campus. However, during certain University events, A student’s attire should never be lewd, indecent, or inappropriate, as it is unbecoming of a suc cess-oriented Savannah State University student. (Examples: Inappropriate dress may include, but is not limited to, halter tops, any shirt that exposes bare midriff or bare back, t-shirts with obscene or offensive language, gestures, or slogans, undershirts customarily worn as undergarments-tank tops, white gauze shirts-and clothing which allows undergarments to be visually observed). T From time-to-time, members of the University misplace and lose items such as keys, cellular Department of Public Safety immediately. When a student misplaces or has his or her residence hall room key stolen, a report to the resident director, Office of Residential Services and Programs, or Department of Public Safety must be made expeditiously. Found items are logged in and stored at the Office of Student Affairs for safekeeping for a limited time. Prior to posting, documents must be approved for posting by the Office of Student Programs and Organizations. Students are encouraged to post flyers, handbills, signs, notices, posters and In addition, Campus Channel 15 is available for electronic posts in a Microsoft Power Point format. Documents should not be posted on any exterior door of University buildings. Unap proved items and items posted in non-designated areas are subject to immediate removal. The postings must be in good taste. Postings that are lewd, offensive, advertise alcohol, drinking contests and that work against the purposes of the University will not be approved. The student organization or student responsible for approved postings will be responsible for removing T I Theft and ire. One of the greatest challenges facing colleges and universities is theft in residence halls. From time-to-time, incidents of theft in the residence halls are reported to officials at Savannah State University. Inasmuch as students are strongly encouraged to follow safety instructions and guidelines described in this handbook, it is the University’s expectation that students who live on-campus purchase theft and fire insurance. Such insurance information is available in the Office of Residential Services and Programs at a very reasonable cost. Injury and ickness. Although students pay a health fee each semester, the fee does not pay for student health insurance. If a student is not covered under their parents’ health insurance, then the insurance plan should be sought by the student immediately. Certain students are required to participate in the University System of Georgia Student Health Insurance Program (SHIP). tudent Health Insurance Program Requirements All University System of Georgia institutions are required to participate in the Student Health Insurance program. Students in the categories listed below are required to have insurance that meets minimum standards set forth in Plan I (Mandatory Plan). Students who are not covered under another policy (employer, a parent or spouse) must purchase the negotiated policy. The following students are required to have health insurance that meets the minimums in Plan I (Mandatory Plan). All graduate students receiving a Full Tuition Waiver as part of their graduate All undergraduate, graduate and ESL international students holding F or J visas. All undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in programs that require proof of • All graduate students receiving fellowships that fully fund their tuition. Students who do not fall in the mandatory group (Plan I) have the option of purchasing other coverage provided through the USG Insurance Program (Plan II). For more information visit: http://www.usg.edu/student_affairs/faq/health Additional insurance information is available at the Health Center. T AFFA T RVIC T AFFA Central to the Division of Student Affairs is enhancing the holistic educational experience of students by providing educationally purposeful services and programs that bridge classroom learning with out-of- class experiences. As such, the primary focus of the Division of Student Affairs is to provide opportunities (e.g., activities, programs, resources, and well-maintained facilities) and to create environ ments that support the achievement of the University’s educational goals. The quality of student life, however, depends on the extent to which students take advantage of what the University offers for their personal learning and social enrichment. Students can be assisted in this important task through the units that comprise the Division of Student Affairs. Visit our web site at: http://www.savstate.edu/adm/sa/index.ht razier tudent Center 233 Professional Counseling addresses students’ needs related to social and emotional issues that may be affecting their day to day functioning, grades and stable school life. Some areas • Violence against the other/ Sexual offending. Disability ervices is committed to providing an equal educational opportunity for all qualified students with permanent or temporary disabilities which are physical or mental. Accommoda tions are academic adaptations that do not compromise academic standards or the mastery of essential course elements, but provide students with disabilities, an equal opportunity to succeed. In order to receive support and accommodations in the classroom and for testing purposes, students are required to provide clinical documentation and receive prior approval through this office. It is the student’s responsibility to contact us prior to the start of the semester in order to seek Career razier tudent Center 233 We provide services to students and alumni seeking employment, graduate school information, employers, academic developments and students. The Office serves as a resource center to help students explore career opportunities and effectively use the available services. Employment Assistance Interview Techniques Resume Writing Georgia Career Information System (GCIS) Job Announcements eadership & Character Development (356-2195) razier tudent Center 247 The development of leadership skills is a desired educational outcome at the University. As such, the University, through the Office of Student Affairs, has established the Center for Leadership & Character Development. The Center focuses primarily on developing student leadership, character development, and service through seminars, institutes, retreats, and workshops. The Center itself is located in the Office of Student Affairs suite; it houses dozens of books and videos, and DVDs on leadership, personal development, career development, and service learning. Typically, the Center engages in several major leadership programs, specifically in the fall, winter, and spring. The Freshman Academy: Leadership 101, Men’s and Women’s Leadership Institutes. All students are encouraged to utilize the Center. Students should be mindful that the major Harris-McDew All full-time undergraduate and graduate students pay a student health fee that covers the unlimited use of student health center services without additional cost for services provided by the staff. The Harris-McDew Student Health Center is conveniently located on the SSU campus on Jasmine Avenue adjacent to Payne Hall. It seeks to maintain, improve, and safeguard the Alcohol and Drug Awareness Resource Center; Wellness and wholesome mental and physical health habits programs; The center, which is staffed by nurses, is open Monday through Friday. Additionally, a physician is available Monday through Friday. A resident student suffering from an injury or sudden illness during hours when the health center is closed should contact the resident hall may be dispatched to campus for an immediate evaluation or transportation to the hospital as needed at the Student’s expense. Students are responsible for the cost of all services provided by any other community health care provider. All students are encouraged to be covered by an adequate health insurance plan and should follow its directions for emergency or crisis care. Information on a current student health insurance plan is maintained in the Student Health Center. Participation in the student health insurance plan is voluntary and the student ervices & Programs (356-2324) razier tudent Center 238 The Office of Residential Services and Programs provides comfortable, affordable, and secure university housing located throughout campus. In particular, the University has traditional residence hall facilities and apartment-style facilities, which is for upper-class-level students and a limited number of first year students on a first come, first served basis. Residence life programs promote academic success, student development, and leadership. For a greater understanding of residence life at the University, students are encouraged to read the Residential Living Handbook which is available in the Office of Residential Services and Programs. tudent Programs & razier tudent Center 244 The Office of Student Programs and Organizations is responsible for enhancing student life through co-curricular activities, which are an integral part of the physical, social, emotional, spiritual, and intellectual growth of students. Student activities at Savannah State University consist of: clubs and organizations; game room and recreational activities; movies; campus-wide and informal activities; and departmental activities. Student organizations provide opportunities for students, faculty, and staff to interact with one another during cultural, recreational, spiritual, The Student Government Association (SGA), which is the official representative of the student body, works closely with the University administration on matters related to student life. The SGA is a student-directed organization that provides students with a voice in the deci administration. SGA officers are elected by the student body and serve one-year terms. Students are encouraged to discuss their opinions, concerns, and expectations with SGA members, so that the organization can effectively represent them and promote the welfare of the student body. To carry out its tasks, the SGA creates various action committees and encourages students to razier tudent Center 129 The Campus Activities Board (CAB) is a component of the Office for Student Programs and Organizations and the Student Government Association. The CAB assists in the coordination and implementation of social, cultural, educational, and entertainment programs for the campus community. The board is composed of 15 to 30 students selected and trained from a cross population of the student body. Their job is to serve as chairpersons and members of the student activities committees. The committees are broken into four categories: Comedy Show, Concerts, Dances, and Special Events Visual & Performing Arts Game Room & Recreational Activities The mission of C.A.B. is to enhance students’ collegiate experience by working to unify the campus community, cultivating student leadership, contributing to retention efforts, complementing academic programs, promoting individual and group self-worth, promoting ports & Wellness Programs (351-3450) Willcox-Wiley Gym The Intramural Sports and Wellness Program (ISWP) is designed to foster both competitive and leisure sports and fitness activities for both men and women. Activities usually include, but are not limited to, basketball, volleyball, softball, and flag football. The goals of the ISWP Office are to: Provide all participants with a safe and enjoyable environment in which to participate in activities. Participants are required to fill out a Student Waiver Form with the ISWP Office. T RVIC Described below are some additional student services available at the University. More exist throughout the campus. Students are encouraged to refer to the General Catalog, their depart ment, and the University’s Web page for information on additional student services. of the University community by providing law enforcement services throughout the campus 24 hours per day, seven days per week throughout the calendar year. Staffed by State of Georgia arrest powers for offenses committed on any public or private property within 500 yards of any property under the auspices of the University System of Georgia. In emergency situations, Students are encouraged to take advantage of the University’s Document Center, a facility where copying and other duplication services are provided at cost. Four computer stations are located in front of the office for student use. scholarships. The goal of the Financial Aid Office is to provide financial assistance and counseling to eligible and deserving students in a timely manner in order for them to pursue an education at Savannah State University. Financial aid programs available to undergraduates include Federal Pell Grant and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant programs. The Federal Perkins Loan, Federal Work-Study and Federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Stafford Loan programs are available to both undergraduates and graduates. Students interested in financial aid are required to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), www. . ed.go in turn is submitted to the University’s data base system. Students receive a hard copy of the institution’s costs and a student’s needs, a financial aid award is given. An Estimated Family aid, starting with the FAFSA document. razier The University’s dining service is provided by contract with Thompson Hospitality Services. Dining venues include the main dining hall and Tiger Café in the King-Frazier Student Center, and the Kiosk in the Howard Jordan Business School. All residential students are required to purchase a meal plan. Meal plans are also available to commuter students. Hours of the dining venues are posted on the university’s web site and in the main dining hall. Holiday hours may vary from the regular dining hours during the academic year. Students are strongly encouraged to share their views about the quality of dining services to the director of Thompson Hospitality, the director of Auxiliary Services, or the Food Service Committee. Commuter Meal Plans Block plans are available for commuters. These plans offer students a great deal of flex ibility, since meals can be used at any time during the semester. Meal plans can be used in the all-you-care-to-eat dining hall as well as in the Tiger Café and Kiosk locations through the meal equivalency. For the current meal plan options, check the University’s web site http://www.savstate.edu/fa/Comptroller/bursar.ht .), or the Auxiliary Services office in The Food Service Committee serves as a liaison for residential and non-residential students, Auxiliary Services, and the Dining Services Director. The Committee is responsible for gathering and processing students’ concerns and/or recommendations regarding the quality of food being served. The Committee communicates with the student body as it relates to their responsibility regarding the dining venues. The Committee may recommend policy relative to meal plan exemptions. The Vice President for Student Affairs serves as Chair and makes appointments to the Committee consisting of students, faculty, and staff. Committee members will serve for one academic year. ookstore ( razier The Savannah State University Bookstore is operated under a contract with a company special izing in bookstore management. In addition to textbooks and school supplies, the bookstore carries SSU clothing, convenience store items for on-campus and off-campus students, and trade books. Bookstore hours are posted on the University’s web site and at the bookstore. Signs will be posted at the beginning of each semester informing students of when the University Business Office has determined that book vouchers can be used. Signs are also posted informing ookstore Committee The Bookstore Committee has representatives of faculty, staff, and students, and is co-chaired by the Bookstore General Manager and Auxiliary Services Director. The purposes of the Com mittee are to advise the Bookstore on improvements in products and services, and to educate the rest of the SSU community as to Bookstore policies and procedures benefiting students. razier The Post Office is a Contract Unit of the United States Postal Service. Stamps and money orders Resident students each receive a mail box as part of their room fees. The service window is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, except for Federal holidays. Vending (356-2771) Snack and beverage vending are managed by the Department of Auxiliary Services. If you encounter a problem with the vending machines, please notify Auxiliary Services at 912-3562771, giving the type of machine, location, and problem. Vandalism or destruction to vending equipment are offenses which are subject to fines and/or disciplinary action. Joint respon sibility may be assigned to residential students if the person(s) responsible is not identified. The purpose of Student Support Services is to enable eligible student-participants to persist to graduation through instructional, tutorial, academic, and mentoring assistance. First-generation college and low-income students are eligible to participate in the program, as are students with O promote student success. Learning communities, transitional programs, early warning alerts, faculty and staff engagement activities, testing, and the Freshman Year Experience Programs are a few of the specific activities coordinated by this office. Units of the library include the Asa Gordon Library, Adams Hall Archives, the Media Center and the Distance Learning component. The primary objective of each library unit is to implement, enrich, and support the educational programs of Savannah State University. The library’s holdings include a diverse collection of print, non-print, and computer resources for all to use. Additional resources are made available to our users as a result of our linkage to the University System of Georgia. Throughout our history as a USG library, the Gordon Library has collaborated with other USG libraries to share resources. This collaboration has supplemented our collection through interlibrary loan and GALILEO, an initiative of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia, which provides access to a web-based virtual library. Reference librarians provide bibliographic instruction to equip our students with the skills to utilize these online resources T RIGHT Colleges and universities are unique enterprises that value freedoms of thought, expression, and inquiry. Inasmuch as students are expected to enjoy these and other freedoms, they must respect the rights of all members and guests of the University community. In order for Savannah State University to foster an environment conducive to student learning and development, the environment must be free from behavior and conduct that works against the aims and purposes of the institution. Through appropriate procedures and guidelines, University disciplinary measures will be imposed on students for certain conduct which adversely affects the University’s pursuit of its educational purposes and goals, which violates or shows a disregard for the rights of other members of the University community, or which endangers property or persons on the University’s campus, its controlled or leased properties, or at University-sponsored events. The judicial system, which is administered by the Division of Student Affairs, is designed to provide a fair, educational process for accountability of student conduct. Furthermore, the judicial process aims to promote the development of individual integrity, to protect the rights of members of the University community, and to develop individual responsibility. AN TI Students have the right to form, join, and participate in groups or organizations that promote the common interests of students including, but not limited to, clubs or organizations that are organized for intellectual, religious, social, economic, political, recreational, or cultural purposes. The University does require students to follow the procedures and guidelines for establishing and registering such groups through the Office of Student Programs and Organizations. The University prohibits and will not tolerate practices, traditions, or customs that involve hazing of any kind, that interfere with the academic and personal development of T The University will not exclude any person from participation in its programs or activities on the basis of arbitrary considerations of such characteristics as age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, or veteran status. As such, students have the right to be free from such discrimination arising from programs and activities of the University. Students who believe that they are victims of such discrimination may obtain information concerning the University’s affirmative action policy, racial harassment, sexual harassment, and other applicable harassment policies from the Office of Student Affairs. T Students may freely select and invite speakers and performers from various fields and genres for academic and/or cultural enrichment. When doing so, the sponsoring student group or students must notify the Office of Student Programs & Organizations. In most cases, outside speakers require certain fees and travel accommodations. The sponsoring group is responsible for the costs associated with the guest speaker or performer. The invitation of outside speakers and performers does not imply approval or sponsorship of their views by the University nor While there are no restrictions on the point of view expressed by speakers and performers, other than those imposed by federal or state law, the University will not condone language and behavior that is lewd, racially offensive, or demeaning to any groups on campus. T VICTIM A student who is a victim of any misconduct for which disciplinary proceedings are conducted except for the final deliberative process in which the adjudicatory body weighs the evidence presented and arrives at a decision. Furthermore, a victim has the right to be notified of the outcome of the disciplinary proceeding within five business days including the sanction levied RTICIP ITY G Savannah State University takes seriously its commitment to stimulate and maintain a student- centered environment. The institution is focused on and is committed to putting students at the center of University affairs. In the most literal sense, a student-centered environment is one where the faculty and staff exceed student expectations, ensure student satisfaction, and demonstrate that students matter. Central to the University’s student-centered philosophy is the role students play in institutional decision-making, where appropriate. This is primarily achieved through the Student Government Association (SGA), though this does not diminish the significance of other registered student organizations or the administration’s right to involve other students in decision-making processes. As the representative for students, the SGA appoints students to serve on appropriate University-wide committees. Students are empowered and encouraged to voice their opinions through such committees. Additionally, the SGA is encouraged to make reports and recommendations to any of the University’s directors, deans, vice presidents, and the president of the University. PR TI AN Students are free to engage in peaceful, responsible, and orderly protests, demonstrations, and concerning time, place, and manner through the Office of Student Programs & Organizations. restricted in an inappropriate manner by a student, student group, or an office or department under the aegis of the University, the student may file a complaint with the Vice President for Student Affairs for investigation, mediation, or other appropriate action. ICY No rights are more highly regarded at Savannah State University than the first amendment guarantees of freedom of speech, freedom of expression, and the right to assemble peaceably. Savannah State University remains firmly committed to affording every member of the University community the opportunity to engage in peaceful and orderly protests and demonstrations, which do not disrupt the operation of the University. However, such opportunities must be provided on an equal basis and adhere to the basic principle of the University being neutral to the content of any public demonstration. In order to achieve this objective, while at the same time insuring that the University fulfills its educational mission, the University has the responsibility to regulate the time, place, and manner of expression. Through such regulation, the University can assure equal opportunity for all persons, preserve order within the University community property, and provide a secure environment to individuals exercising freedom of expression. The following provisions and regulations shall apply to faculty, staff, students, student organizations, and visitors: A.) Speeches and Demonstrations. There are selected areas designated as “Free Expression Areas or Public Forum” for speeches and demonstrations which are generally available for this purpose between 8 am and 6 pm, Monday through Friday. Use of these areas for speaking, demonstrating and other forms of expression will be scheduled through the Office of Student Programs & Organizations to best accommodate all interested users. Plans for speeches and demonstrations in these areas and times must be approved at least 48 hours in advance of the event. Such plans will be considered in accordance with the principle of content neutrality. B.) Distribution of Written Material. Non commercial pamphlets, handbills, circulars, newspapers, magazines and other written materials may be distributed with the permission of the Office of Student Programs and Organizations on a person-to-person basis in open areas outside of buildings and other closed structures on the campus. No stand, table or booth shall be used in distribution except in the King-Frazier Student Center and only with the permission of the Office of Student Programs & Organizations. The University maintains a position of neutrality as to the content of any written material distributed on the: campus under this policy. The Campus Solicitation Policy covers the distribution of commercial materials and publications. C.) Marches. Marches may take place on streets and sidewalks of the campus. The Vice President for Student Affairs must approve plans for an event of this nature at least 48 hours in advance. D.) Provisions. In order that persons exercising freedom of expression not interfere with the operation of the University or the rights of others, the following shall apply without exception to any form of expression and will be used to evaluate any plans requiring approval. Reasonable limitations may be placed on the time, place and manner of speeches, demonstrations, distribution of written material, and marches in order to serve the interests of health and safety, prevent disruption of the educational process, and protect against the invasion of the rights of others. Events, which may obstruct vehicular, pedestrian or other traffic, must be approved at least 48 hours in advance by the Vice President for Student Affairs. F.) Use of sound amplification on campus is regulated and must be approved at least 48 hours in advance by the Vice President for Student Affairs. J.) There must be no interference with scheduled University ceremonies, events or activities. K.) Malicious or unwarranted damage or destruction of property owned or operated by the Univer sity, or property belonging to students, faculty, staff or guests of the University is prohibited. Persons or organizations causing such damage may be held financially responsible. L.) Persons or organizations responsible for a demonstration or other expressive event must remove all resulting structures, signs and litter from the area at the end of the event. If this is not accomplished, persons or organizations responsible for the event may be held financially responsible. There must be compliance with all applicable state and federal laws and University policies, RY I Directory information will be treated as public information and generally will be available on all students and former students at the discretion of the University. Directory information includes the students’ name, date and place of birth, major field of study, height, weight, age, hometown, hobbies, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, general interest items of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degree applied for or received honors and awards received, and previous educational institutions attended. Students or parents of students, who are under eighteen, may refuse to permit the release of any or all of the categories of directory information until the end of spring semester by submitting a written request to the Office of the Registrar within ten days of the beginning of any academic semester during which the students are enrolled. This time requirement is necessary to insure that directory informa tion, which is withheld, is not included in the various University publications during the year. Requests to withhold the release of directory information will be honored at any time, while the University cannot be reasonably certain that some directory information will not be released if the aforementioned time limits are not met. The student directory is usually published during the fall semester. Requests received after press time cannot be honored. Information from this and similar publications cannot be deleted after printing, and previously released information cannot be recalled. Inquiries from news media about students or former students should be made to the Director of Communications and Community Relations. Due to the unpredictable nature and immediacy of media inquiries, notice cannot be given of media releases (non-athletic). Students or former students who wish to have directory information withheld should notify the Director of Communications and Community Relations prior to the anticipated date of any media inquiry. RIGHT T hearing of the case. Students alleged to have violated the Code of Student Ethics will be informed in writing of the reasons for the proposed disciplinary action with sufficient particularity and in sufficient time to ensure opportunity to prepare for the hearing. A student may have a non-legal advisor or member of the campus community present during the interview process and any subsequent adjudicative process. However, the advisor or support person is limited to advising the student. The advisor may not participate in presenting the case, questioning relevant parties, or making statements. An attorney may participate only when it appears that the hearing relates to a potential, or actual, civil case or criminal charge against the accused. T G TH T Students alleged to have violated the Code of Student Ethics have the following due process rights. The right to a non-legal advisor of their choice. (An attorney may be present only when it appears that the hearing also relates to a potential, or actual, criminal charge against the accused. In such an instance, the University may exercise the option to arrange for the attendance of the University’s legal counsel at any or all judicial proceedings.) The right to attend classes and University functions until a hearing is held and a decision is rendered against the accused by the appropriate judicial body. The accused may remain at the institution pending an appeal, if his or her presence does not present a threat to himself/herself, any member of the University community, or the property of the University. VICTIM TH T VI T To submit a written account of the alleged misconduct. To be advised of the date, time, and location of the disciplinary hearing, and to request To testify as a witness during the hearing. To be accompanied by an advisor of the victim’s choosing during the hearing process; however, the advisor will not be able to speak on behalf of the victim. To submit a written impact statement to the judicial body for consideration during the T PU Students are free, both individually and collectively, to express their views on institutional matters and on issues that are of interest to the University’s student body. The University views student publications, including The Tiger’s Roar, as media for free and responsible discussion and intellectual discourse. Inasmuch as the University will not purposefully restrict the editorial freedom of student publications and the student press, the editors and/or those responsible for student publications and the student press must be governed by responsible journalism, which entails avoiding libelous and indecent statements, undocumented allegations, attacks on personal integrity, and on employing techniques of harassment and innuendo. To ensure this responsibility, student publications and the student press are encouraged to secure advanced approval of copy by the adviser. Additionally, because student publications and the student press are not official organs of the University, a prominent disclaimer indicating that the views expressed within the publication are not necessarily those of the institution or its faculty, staff, or students must be inserted in the masthead or in some conspicuous section of the publication. Savannah State University is committed to a cooperative climate in which media representatives of the Tiger’s Roar student newspaper may obtain information on criminal activity on campus. The Georgia Open Records Act and the Campus Security Act, now officially known as the Clery Act, regulated the release of criminal information. In addition to the University’s annual report in accordance with the Clery Act, Savannah State University’s standard operation procedure shall require the Director of Communications & Community Relations to receive any requests from the Tiger’s Roar staff for summary reports and respond within a reasonable time frame. Savannah State University’s standard operation procedure shall require the Department of Public Safety through the Chief of Public Safety to provide the requested information to the Director of Communications & Community Relations within a reasonable time frame for transmission to the Tiger’s Roar staff in accordance with the applicable state and federal laws as referenced herein. T R Savannah State University is covered by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA), as amended. It is designed to protect the students’ rights with regard to education records maintained by the institution. Under the Act, students may inspect and review their own education records maintained by the institution and challenge the content of records (except grades which can only be challenged through the academic appeal procedure) on the grounds that they are inaccurate, misleading or in violation of privacy or other rights. Students may control disclosures from educational records with certain exceptions. Savannah State University’s policy on “Access to Student Records” complies with the provisions of FERPA. For additional information or techni cal assistance, you may call (202) 260-3887 (voice). Individuals who use TDD may call the Federal Information Relay Service at 1- 800-877-8339, or you may contact them at the following address: Family Policy Compliance Office, U. S. Department of Education, and 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. T Consistent with its mission, Savannah State University takes seriously its commitment to fostering and maintaining an environment conducive to student learning and growth through curricular and co-curricular programs. At the same time, the University has high expectations that students govern their behavior, actions, and practices responsibly and civilly. Students are, therefore, expected to conduct themselves in accordance with the objectives and standards of conduct established by Savannah State University. Finally, students are expected to know disciplinary action regardless of factors such as class level (i.e., freshman, sophomore, junior, senior, graduate student), age, race/ethnicity, place of residence (e.g., University Village, L evel I: “Zero Tolerance” Misconduct Level I offenses are very serious violations of the Code of Student Ethics. The University takes a zero tolerance approach to students who violate these standards. Violating the standards of conduct in this area, as a first offense, will result in a sanction of either suspension or permanent A Students are subject to disciplinary action for harassing, threatening -including any terrorist acts-, intimidating, coercing, or using physical force in a manner which causes another person of the University community or a guest of the University to be reason Harassing, assaulting, stalking, intimidating, threatening, or abusing another person by written, electronic, pictorial or oral communication or suggestions is prohibited. Students are further prohibited from violating the provisions and intent of applicable University policies on Sexual Harassment (Sexual Assault & Misconduct), Affirmative Action, the Americans with Disabilities Act age, sex, sexual orientation, disability, political affiliation or other ideologies. Students are subject to disciplinary action for engaging in hazing as defined by State of Georgia law. According to the Georgia Law Enforcement Handbook, particularly 16-5-61 It shall be unlawful for any person to haze any student in connection with or as a condition or precondition of gaining acceptance, membership, office, or other status in a school organization. Any person who violates this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature.” For clarity, the following terms are provided: ‘Haze’ means to subject a student to an activity which endangers or is likely to endanger the physical health of a student, regardless of a student’s willingness to participate in such activity. ‘School’ means any school, college, or University in this state. in one’s possession, including but not exclusively, items of University property, or items belonging to students, faculty, staff, student groups, visitors or to others within the larger distribute, selling, offering for sale, delivering, attempting to deliver, or possessing any drug controlled by federal or state laws on University property or at events sponsored by the University unless as authorized by medical prescription. Further, students are subject to disciplinary action for possessing or using drug paraphernalia on University property or at events sponsored by the University. Weapons and irearms: Students are subject to disciplinary action for possessing handguns or any lethal or Guns, bow and arrows, Taser gun, BB guns, air guns, ammunition, hunting slingshots, b. c. Mace and/or Pepper Spray: A chemical compound, prepared for use in aerosol containers that has the combined effect of a tear gas and nerve gas, temporary stunning its victims; in full. Except as otherwise provided in this subsection, it shall be unlawful for any person to carry, possess or have under such persons’ control mace or pepper spray while on the premises of Savannah State University, or at University sponsored ii. The provisions of this subsection shall not apply to: 1) Persons using mace as a defensive weapon only. 2) Professionals or Training Instructors who are using mace for instructional 3) A state certified peace officer employed with an agency authorized to carry mace/pepper spray in accordance with its policy. E a. Storing, possessing, furnishing, selling, or using or threatening to use explosives of any kind on University property or at University sponsored or recognized activities; and for Possessing or using fireworks or any substance prepared for the purpose of producing a visible or audible effect by combustion, explosion, or detonation on University property or at events sponsored or supervised by the University. Level II offenses are serious violations of the Code of Student Ethics. Violating these standards of conduct, as a first offense, shall result in sanctions ranging from a reprimand to permanent A Students are subject to disciplinary action for engaging in academic misconduct and academic dishonesty, which includes, but is not limited to, the following: Cheating or academic dishonesty is defined as the deception of others about one’s own work or about the work of another. Submitting another’s work as one’s own or allowing another to submit one’s work as Several people completing an assignment and turning in multiple copies, all represented Failure to properly acknowledge authorities quoted, cited or consulted in the preparation Copying and/or presenting the words of others as one’s own writing, including iv. Expressing in your own words someone else’s ideas as your own. d. The use of any materials, textbook, notes, cellular phones, MP3 players, or other electronic devices during an examination without the expressed permission of the instructor. Stealing a problem solution from an instructor. Tampering with experimental data to obtain ‘desired’ results or creating results for Tampering with or destroying the work of others. Submitting substantial portions of the same academic work for credit of honors more than once without permission of the present instructor. Lying about these or other academic matters. Unauthorized access of computer systems or files. With regard to plagiarism, themes, essays, term papers, tests, and other similar requirements must be the work of the student submitting them. When direct quotation of paraphrased material are used, they must be attributed to the source, and when the ideas of others are incorporated in the paper, F ire Storing, possessing, selling, furnishing, or using any incendiary devices; Refusing to vacate buildings, street walks, driveways, or other facilities of the University when directed to do so by an official of the University or any other lawful authority having just cause or failing to vacate a University building, including residence halls, Violating University restrictions on smoking. Students are subject to disciplinary action for violating local, state, or federal law, on- campus, at events sponsored by the University, or at other locations whereby the misconduct clearly contravenes the University’s interests and purposes. The University does not condone the violation or attempted violation of criminal laws. Alleged violations that constitute F Students are subject to disciplinary action for falsifying information to a University official or office, for misrepresenting information, or for lying, either through written or oral Damage to Property: Students are subject to disciplinary action for damaging, destructing, or defacing University property, including library materials, or property of any person as a result of deliberate action or as a result of reckless or imprudent behavior. Students are subject to disciplinary action for possessing, manufacturing, dispensing, using, or selling alcoholic beverages on University property or at events sponsored by the University. Students are further prohibited from possessing any alcoholic paraphernalia (e.g., beer funnels), being demonstrably intoxicated from alcohol, and having empty alcoholic beverage containers on University property or at events sponsored by the University. O Organizations, societies, clubs, and similarly organized groups are responsible for compli ance with University regulations. Upon satisfactory proof that a group encouraged or did not take satisfactory steps to prevent violations of University regulations, that group may be subject to permanent or temporary suspension, loss of recognition or charter, social Traffic Regulations: Violation of Campus and state traffic/driving regulations. result in sanctions ranging from a reprimand to disciplinary probation. Second offenses, however, may lead to suspension or expulsion from the University. S Possession, alteration, use, or attempted use of an identification card for the purpose of identification or to receive services by anyone other than the person whose name, identification card number, and photo appears on the card is considered unauthorized use and the offender will be subject to penalties and confiscation of the identification card by University officials. Failing to present University identification upon request by an authorized University official who offered proper identification as to his or her status. Disorderly A Students are subject to disciplinary action for the following acts Assembling on-campus for the purpose of disrupting classes, seminars, meetings, b. Assembling on-campus for the purpose of creating a riot, attempting to create a riot, destroy ing property, or creating a disorderly diversion that interferes with the normal operation of the University (i.e. water balloon fights, water gun fights, egging incidents, etc.); Obstructing the freedom of movement of other persons to and from University facilities Engaging in abuse of or unauthorized use of sound amplification equipment in-doors or outdoors during classroom hours (any use of sound amplification equipment must be cleared through the Office of Student Programs and Organizations); Violating University policies concerning the registration, scheduling and recognition of student organizations and activities. Students are subject to disciplinary action for engaging in conduct that is disorderly, rowdy, lewd, or indecent. Furthermore, students may be subject to disciplinary action for engaging Residence Hall Visitation Rules and Regulations: Students are subject to disciplinary action for violating University Housing rules and Students are subject to disciplinary action for violating University Housing rules and Not locking your room/apartment door when sleeping or lounging within your Failing to report your room/apartment key as being lost or stolen in a timely manner. Joint Responsibility for Violations: Students are subject to disciplinary action for knowingly acting in concert with others Students are subject to disciplinary action for being aware of the existence of a violation of University regulations and failing to take reasonable action to report the violation in a timely manner. Students are responsible for violations of University regulations that occur in on-campus residential facility rooms and are to report such violations in a timely manner. Students are subject to disciplinary action for playing cards or any other game of skill or 7. University Judicial a. Attempting to intimidate, coerce, or influence a person by any means in an effort to discour age or prevent his or her use of or participation in any judicial process or proceedings; Attempting to influence the impartiality of any member of a judicial body prior to or Failing to respond or comply with the summons of a judicial body or official; Knowingly falsifying, distorting, or misrepresenting information before a judicial body ntry or Use of University acilities and Vehicles: Students are subject Unauthorized entry into any University building, vehicle, residence hall, office, or other facilities. Students are further prohibited from remaining without authorization 9. Unauthorized Use of Computer Resources: Students are subject to disciplinary action for: Unauthorized entry into a file to use, read, or change the contents, or for any other purpose;’ unauthorized use of another individual’s identification and password; use of computing facilities to send obscene, threatening or abusive messages; use of computing facilities to interfere with the normal operation of Computer Services and Information Technology. ailure to Comply: Failing to respond to a lawful request by properly identified University officials or law enforcement officials in the performance of their duties. Failing to report for a conference, meeting, or appointment with any University official Failing to appear as a witness in a disciplinary case when properly notified; Failing to comply with any disciplinary condition imposed on a person by any judicial body or administrator. 11. S olicitation and Vending: Conducting a sales campaign in a residence hall, classroom, or administrative building, b. Placing door hangers or signs on cars on campus or in on-campus residential facilities; c. Any violation of the “Soliciting/Canvassing Policy ” which states: “Canvassing, placing signs and posters for solicitation purposes, chain letters, collections of any kind, and sales of tickets or merchandise not related to SSU entities are prohibited on Savannah State Uni versity premises. (University property, although recognized as state property is considered to be “specialized use” state property and therefore subject to reasonable restrictions and guidelines designed to foster the purposes to which the institution is dedicated). DUCT IT R T OFF A AN VI Although Savannah State University is not responsible or liable for student off-campus events or behaviors, it does reserve the right, in the interest of protecting students and the University from harm, to take action in response to behavior off-campus that violates University policies and when the behavior or misconduct clearly contravenes the University’s interests and purposes. As such, students participating in activities including, but not limited to, social groups are expected to conduct themselves as representatives of the University. TY C F IR T OFFENSE – GUI TY P LEA –R QU ES T FO R I NS TRUCT R OF R RD The instructor of record and student should consult the Department Chair and the Office of The imposition of one type of sanction shall not preclude the additional imposition of the other. A copy of all material involved in the case ( cademic Dishonesty Report orm and Request for Instructor to djudicate orm) and a brief statement from the professor inclusion in the student’s discipline record. F T – T I VI P R P T Y TH of the other. T VI OFA TY If the student has a second violation of academic dishonesty, the following sanctions will The student will be subject to any academic sanctions imposed by the instructor of IV. NO T I VI When a student is found not in violation of the Academic Dishonesty Policy, wherein discovery of evidence exonerates a student charged with academic dishonesty or mitigates the severity of an academic sanction imposed for the offense, the Board of Student Ethics or Hearing Officer forwards the recommendation to the instructor of record and to the Department Chair. The instructor of record shall reconsider his or her conclusion or sanction in light of the additional evidence. The instructor of record shall have five (5) work days to submit the final grade for the course to the Registrar. A copy of the final grade shall be forwarded to the Department Chair. In the case of a Department Chair bringing the charges against the student, the Board of record and to the Office of the Dean. TH WITHDR To ensure that Savannah State University students receive due process rights, Savannah State University has initiated the following Mental Health Withdrawal Procedure. Before a student may be withdrawn for mental health reasons there must first be the following chain of events: The student displays behavioral indicators, which are determined by a mental health When a mental health professional recommends that a student needs to be withdrawn from Affairs, the student or his or her representative may present any pertinent information that he or she believes will have a bearing on the particular case. This procedure is enacted to insure that the student’s legal rights are not violated and that the University has the right to remove any student whom it feels, based on professional evaluation, may present a danger A The Vice President for Student Affairs is responsible to the President for the supervision, administra tion, and operation of University policy related to student misconduct. There are four tribunals that have authority to adjudicate certain kinds of student misconduct. These judicial bodies are as follows: T The Coordinator of Student Ethics (Associate Vice President for Student Affairs) is the President for Student Affairs) has authority to receive complaints on student misconduct, direct such investigations as may seem appropriate, summon students who are directly involved or have knowledge of misconduct, and serve as a hearing officer. At the conclusion of an investigation, it is the responsibility of the Coordinator of Student Ethics(Associate Vice appropriate internal or external agency/department, or issue a charge to a student for violating adjudicated either administratively by mutual consent of all parties involved or formally. For clarity of purpose, less severe cases of misconduct can be resolved and/or adjudicated for Student Affairs)can impose any sanction on the student. Certain less severe cases may be resolved by mutual consent of all parties involved, such as, but not limited to, mediation sessions or mandatory counseling from the Office of Counseling and Disability Services, Harris-McDew Student Health Center, or other unit. In the event there is no mutual consent Student Government Association Judicial Branch, depending on the nature of the offense. T The Board of Student Ethics, which is comprised of faculty, staff, and students, has jurisdiction for hearing cases involving alleged violations of the Code of Student Ethics falling under the categories of Level I and Level II Misconduct Violations. Through the Coordinator of Student Ethics, the Board has authority to summon any member of the University community as a wit ness in a case of student misconduct. The Board of Student Ethics is comprised of eight faculty members, eight staff members, and eight students for a total of 24 members. The Faculty Senate and the University president each appoint four faculty members to the Board of Student Ethics. The Staff Council and the Vice President for Student Affairs each appoint four staff members. Finally, both the Student Government Association and the Vice President for Student Affairs each appoint four students to the Board of Student Ethics. All members are appointed to a one-year term. These individuals form the pool from which the Board of Student Ethics is selected to hear cases. The adjudication panel itself consists of two faculty members, two staff members, and two students. Although this is the preferred composition, minimally one member from each constituent group must be present to conduct a hearing. The Board of Student Ethics will have a chairman who is appointed by the Vice President for Student Affairs. During the summer session, or at the end of any semester when Board members are unavailable, the Vice President for Student Affairs and the vice president for academic affairs, in consultation with the president, of the University, will have the authority to appoint temporary board members, if needed. Every effort will be made to include students to the temporary board. T G T RY The Student Government Association (SGA) Judiciary has authority to hear and adjudicate Level III student misconduct allegations that have been referred to it in conjunction to the Residential Judicial Board. Members of the SGA Judiciary shall be available to serve on both absence, the senior member of the Student Judiciary will chair the hearing. The Coordinator Judiciary consists of nine members as follows: the chief justice who is elected by the student body and eight associate justices, all of whom are appointed by the chief justice and approved by the SGA Congress. Five members of the judiciary, one of which must be the chief justice or the senior justice, must be present in order to conduct a hearing. The SGA judiciary is Hearing Officers, appointed by the Vice President for Student Affairs, are staff and faculty members who have authority to receive complaints on student misconduct, direct such inves tigations as may seem appropriate, and summon students who are directly involved or have knowledge of misconduct, and serve as a hearing officer. At the conclusion of an investigation, matter to an appropriate internal or external agency/department, or issue a charge to a student for violating the Code of Student Ethics. Depending on the nature of the misconduct, the hearing of all parties involved or formally. For clarity of purpose, less severe cases of misconduct can be resolved and/or adjudicated administratively. In such cases, the hearing officer can impose any sanction on the student. Certain less severe cases may be resolved by mutual consent of all parties involved, such as, but not limited to, mediation sessions or mandatory counseling from the Office of Counseling and Disability Services. In the event there is no mutual consent Student Government Association Judiciary, depending on the nature of the offense. For formal hearings, a hearing officer is empowered to issue sanctions when a student is found responsible The Vice President, with the approval of the University President, appoints up to four staff members to serve as hearing officers for one-year terms. Hearing officers have authority to hear and adjudicate Level I and Level II student misconduct allegations that have been referred to it. Residence hall students must understand that they are responsible for their actions and that living in a densely populated environment requires maturity and good judgment. To maintain a positive educational environment, there are conditions that are part of your residence hall contract which govern acceptable and unacceptable behavior. These conditions allow the Residence Life staff to terminate your contract or take other action if you don’t live up to your part of the contract. The residence hall staff will confront you if your actions appear contrary to regulations or community standards. Our sincerest desire is that by calling attention to your behavior and its consequences, better judgment will be exercised and future problems can be avoided. The judicial system is a proactive approach to problems that may arise in a community environment. of the Residential Living Handbook occurs, an incident report is filed. Violations that would warrant minor sanctions are forwarded to the Hall Director or the Residence Life Judicial Board for review and adjudication. Violations that may warrant more severe sanctions are forwarded Investigating and djudicating Violations of the Code of tudent thics Complaint Procedures Any member of the University community may file a complaint against any student or student organization for misconduct by contacting the Office of Student Affairs, the Office to address complainants. While a student may make a complaint to either office, certain complainants should be directed immediately to the Department of Public Safety. In particular, complaints that are of a criminal nature or that present an immediate danger a complainant can discuss the matter with the Office of Student Affairs or the Office of any of these offices are willing to receive the information. Nevertheless, complaints should be submitted as soon as possible after the incident has taken place. The administrator and/or staff person with whom the complainant discusses the incident will demonstrate an ethic of care and concern. Students and other complainants should be forthright in discussing the incident. Although the complaint can be discussed orally, it must be subsequently reduced munity (e.g., student, faculty, staff). The name and address of the student against whom a complaint is lodged. 4) A statement demonstrating the facts of the alleged misconduct, which should include: that proceedings have been instituted against him or her. The accused student is required to her designee, to discuss the alleged misconduct with the accused student. The accused student may ask any questions he or she desires about the student judicial process. He or she will have 1) Consultation. pending further consultation with the complainant. This will allow the Coordinator of 2) Mediation. Based on the nature of the incident, the coordinator may seek to address the complaint through mediation. The mediation process provides an alternative to a formal hearing. It is intended to allow the individuals involved in the matter to discuss their respective understandings of the incident with assistance of the Vice President for Student designed to encourage each person to speak directly with the other and to accept personal responsibility where appropriate. Mediation seeks to facilitate the resolution of the incident A dministrative ction. The Coordinator of Student Ethics may adjudicate the case administratively. In certain cases (i.e., Level II and III), when a student accepts responsibility for the misconduct, the Coordinator of Student Ethics can issue an administrative sanction. Cases that are administratively adjudicated do not involve formal proceedings and shall not lead to a sanction of suspension or expulsion from the University, but can include a reprimand, community service, or disciplinary probation. The disposition of the case may 4) F ormal djudication. Based on the nature of the misconduct, the Coordinator of Student Ethics may proceed with the case formally by referring it to one of the following judicial bodies: L evel I: Coordinator of Student Ethics, Board of Student Ethics, or a Hearing Officer evel II: Coordinator of Student Ethics, Board of Student Ethics, or a Hearing Officer evel III: Coordinator of Student Ethics, Board of Student Ethics, or SGA Judiciary. student will be informed of the pleas available to him or her through the student judicial system. The alleged offender may then decide to plead or may request a maximum of one academic day in which to plead. The pleas that are available to students and the subsequent outcomes A student who accepts responsibility for the alleged violation waives his or her right to a hearing and accepts the sanction(s) offered by the judicial body. Should the offender o Contest: The alleged offender may plead no contest and accept the sanction(s) offered by ot Responsible: A student who denies responsibility for the alleged violation will have his or her case heard by the judicial body that has authority to hear the case. A date and time shall Drop the Case: allegation have no merit or drop the case for lack of sufficient evidence. In these instances, S A student may be summarily suspended from the University and all of its grounds by the Vice President for Student Affairs or designee and without following the hearing procedures articulated in the handbook if the Vice President for Student Affairs or designee is satisfied that the student’s continued presence on the campus constitutes a serious threat of harm to the student or to any other person on the campus or to the property of the University or property of other persons on the University campus. Within five business days after being summarily suspended, the student may request a hearing upon which the summary action was based. A student who has been summarily suspended from the University shall be required to leave the University’s grounds immediately and shall be notified that he or she could be arrested for trespassing if he or she returns to the University without authorization from the Vice President for Student Affairs or designee. A student may be residentially summarily suspended from the ALL residential facilities owned/operated on behalf of Savannah State University and all of its grounds by the Vice President for Student Affairs or designee and without following the hearing procedures articulated in the handbook if the Vice President for Student Affairs or designee is satisfied that the student’s continued presence within the residential facilities constitutes a serious threat of harm to the residential community, student or to any other person within University Housing or to the property of University Housing or property of other persons that resides in University Housing. Within five business days after being residentially summarily suspended, the student may request a ‘basis of the residential summary suspension hearing’ upon which the residential summary action was based. A student who has been residentially summarily suspended from the University Housing shall be required to leave the University Housing immediately and shall be notified that he or she could be arrested for trespassing if for Student Affairs or designee. The Implication for ppear efore a Tribunal If a student notified to appear before the Coordinator of Student Ethics, the Student excuse to comply, the accused will be tried in absentia. If substantial evidence is presented establishing that the violation occurred as alleged, the accused student shall be notified and an appropriate sanction will be provided by written notice. When an extension of time appears necessary to avoid undue hardship or injustice, time may be extended to enable a rder of the Hearing During the hearing, members of tribunal may raise questions to either the complainant or accused student as well as any witnesses. This is done at the direction of the chairperson. urden of Proof Students will be presumed not responsible until proven otherwise by a preponderance of evidence. During the hearing, the burden of proof rests upon the University official and/or complainant bringing the charges. During the deliberation, the judicial body shall determine, by majority vote (if the judicial body consists of more than one person), whether the student violated the particular section of the Code of Student Ethics. The judicial body’s at state and other outside judicial systems. Colleges and universities, however, adhere to fairness and due process. Nevertheless, formal rules of evidence and procedures followed by courts of law shall not be applicable during hearings. All matters upon which the decision may be based must be introduced into evidence at the proceeding before the tribunal hearing the case. The decision of the tribunal shall be based solely upon such matters. Improperly acquired evidence shall not be admitted. The adjudicating body may exclude evidence that D. Privacy of Proceedings All informal and formal hearings shall be conducted in private in order to protect the confidential nature of the proceedings, unless the defendant elects to have an open hearing. If the latter is the case, such a request must be in writing by the defendant. However, state and federal laws pertaining to open hearings takes precedence over either the defendants’ or the victims’ request for an open or closed hearing. . Record of the Proceeding There shall be a record, such as a tape recording, of all formal hearings before a judicial body. The record shall be the property of the University. The student shall be notified in writing of the decision within three days of the judicial body’s decision. All cases, except those adjudicated by the Coordinator of Student Ethics or a hearing officer, will be decided by majority vote as to both findings and sanctions. The victim or victims have the opportunity to learn of the decision through the Coordinator of Student Ethics. Every defendant shall also be advised in writing of his/her right to appeal the decision. RY sanctions listed below may be imposed, either singularly or in a combination, by the appropriate judicial body. These sanctions are not all-inclusive. Written Reprimand. behavior has been inappropriate, and that any further violation of University standards will Probation. The placing of a student on social and behavioral restrictions for a specified could result in suspension or expulsion from the University. Students serving a period of disciplinary probation are entitled to request a hearing under these procedures when accused of a subsequent violation. A student’s probation may not be revoked merely because a charge has been lodged against the student. or replacing physical property of the University or student or staff victims which has been stolen, damaged intentionally, or damaged as a result of gross negligence (In cases where the damage is in areas such as residence halls and lounges used jointly by groups of students, and the person responsible for the damage or theft is not known, the penalty may be applied against all students using the facility on a pro rata basis). The payment of a fine by a student or group of students shall in no way negate the right of the University 4. Mandatory E S A mandatory participation in a specific ment. The student is responsible for all related expenses. Failure to comply with the educational/community service sanction could result in suspension from the University. L Residence Hall uspension. Separation of the student from the residence halls or residence facilities owned by or operated for the institution for a specified length of time, after which residence facility, he or she may not transfer to another residence facility owned by or operated for the University. S Separation from the University for a stated period of time, with conditions of readmission stated in the notice of suspension. Students who are suspended from the University shall be denied access to the institution, including its facilities, grounds, residence halls, activities, or privileges for which the student might otherwise be eligible. After the period of suspension has expired, a student may apply in writing to have the suspension Residence Hall Permanent separation of the student from the residence halls or residence facilities owned or operated by the institution. In instances when a student is expelled from a residence facility, he or she may not transfer to another residence facility owned by or operated for the University. E Permanent separation of the student from the University. Students who are expelled from the University shall be denied access to the institution, including its facilities, grounds, residence halls, activities, or privileges for which the student might otherwise be eligible. The expulsion notation on the transcript may be permanently posted as determined rganization Deactivation — Loss of privileges, including University recognition for a specific period of time or permanently. Loss of privileges may include, but is not limited sanctions in writing. The student will also be informed of the appeal procedure. The findings A AN BAS A T In each case involving imposition of a disciplinary sanction, the accused shall have the right to appeal the decision. All appeals must be in writing and submitted to the appropriate office within five business days of the original decision. The written request for review must state the grounds for appeal with specify the reasons justifying the assertion of error. The President or designee takes final action in every case decided by the Associate Vice President A ppeal Procedures at the Institution A student may initiate an appeal concerning a decision made by the ssociate Vice President for tudent ffairs (Coordinator of tudent thics) , the Student Government a Hearing Officer. ssociate Vice President for ffairs (Coordinator of tudent thics) will hear all appeals not resulting in suspension or expulsion. Students who are appealing a suspension or expulsion and feel that further action is warranted fol lowing a decision by Associate Vice President for Student Affairs (Coordinator of Student Guidelines or as described below. In ordinary cases the student may not be required to appear before the person designated by the President. Such a request for appearance may appropriate. If procedural error prejudiced the ability of the accused to defend himself/ ing the case, the person designated by the President will render a decision and communicate the decision to the student. This constitutes the final appeal at the institutional level. The person designated by the President of the University will communicate to the student in writing the process for appealing the decision to the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia. Any appealed decision, including suspension or expulsion, will go into effect immediately. Exceptions to this policy will be made by the person designated by the President. The Guideline for An appeal may be made only on the grounds stated below. Failure of the judicial body to follow procedures, including failure to observe the rights of the accused, but only if such failure actually resulted in preventing the accused from adequately defending against the charge. The findings are not supported by substantial evidence or the sanctions are not supported Demonstrated bias on the part of one or more members of the adjudicating body. “Bias” Disqualification occurs only where it can be established that the Coordinator of Student Whether the sanction imposed by the adjudicating body was excessive, in light of the nature of the offense and the students’ disciplinary record. appropriate. If procedural error prejudiced the ability of the accused to defend him self/herself before any of the tribunals, the case may be returned for a new hearing. iv. A Should the student be dissatisfied with the decision of the person designated by the President, he or she has the right to appeal in writing to the Board of Regents. The appeal twenty calendar days after the institution’s final decision and shall cite all the reasons for ASSA T Sexual Assault, whether committed by a stranger, friend or acquaintance is a crime of violence. A student who sexually assaults another student is subject to both criminal and civil prosecution in a court of law and disciplinary action by Savannah State University. A student who commits sexual assault falls under Level I: “Zero Tolerance” Misconduct located under the Code of Student Ethics. Level I offenses are serious violations of the Code of Student Ethics. Savannah T The Savannah State University Code of Student Ethics defines sexual assault as “sexual against the victim’s will where the victim: Is forced or has reasonable fear that the victim or another will be injured if the victim does Is incapable of giving consent or is prevented from resisting due to physical or mental incapacity, which includes, but is not limited to, the influence of drugs or alcohol; or DUCT Sexual Misconduct is defined as the “intentional touching of the victim’s intimate parts (the primary genital area, groin, inner thigh, buttock, or breast) without or against the victim’s consent. This touching is either directly on the body part or on the clothing covering that body K.M., 1996, Student Handbook Policies: A Forms Manual for College Decision Makers. What To Do If If you have or think you have been sexually assaulted, or have had an unwanted sexual experi ence, you need to take immediate action. If the crimes occur on the campus of avannah tate University, you should report it immediately to the Department of Public afety by calling (912) 356-2186/356-2772 or by visiting the department in person. If the crime occurs off campus report incident to the avannah-Chatham County heriff Department at (912) 652-7624. Contact the Department of Public Safety located in Harris Hall immediately. The department operates 24-hours a day. It is important not to bathe, douche, or use mouthwash before receiving a medical examination. Doing so could interfere with any evidence that could be used to pursue the case for a successful adjudication in court. Go to St. Joseph’s/Candler Hospital Emergency Room located on at the corner of DeRenne will receive a physical examination for possible internal or external injuries. The hospital staff will also conduct a pregnancy test and a test for sexually transmitted diseases. At the hospital, evidence of a sexual assault will be collected by the hospital staff. A Sexual Assault Kit is used to collect medical evidence of a sexual assault. Keep in mind that going to the hospital does not mean you must press criminal or University charges. ssault Kit is provided by the police officer investigating the assault at no cost. However, other tests performed by the hospital will be at your 5. Unless you object, the hospital staff will contact a counselor from the Savannah State University’s Office of Counseling & Disability Services. The counselor will provide support, explain what options are available to you under the law and from the University Student Ethics system, and help you decide what if anything you want to do next. You will not be judged, blamed, or told what to do. The main objective is to provide you with support, information, and options. 6. In addition, the Harris-McDew Student Health Center can provide follow up services which include medical and nursing examination and care; alcohol and drug awareness resource center; limited pharmacy services; information, consultation and referrals; wellness and wholesome mental and physical health habits program; observation; and personal consultation. charges. When it is established in a court of law that a substantial amount of time has elapsed before reporting a sexual assault to law enforcement officials, it may tend to diminish your credibility. If you decide to press criminal charges, it is necessary that a prompt report be on file with the appropriate law enforcement agency. It is important to understand that reporting the incident to the police does not obligate you to press criminal or You may elect to file criminal charges in a court of law or charge the student with sexual Possible sanctions for a student found in violation of sexual assault or sexual misconduct include disciplinary probation, suspension, or expulsion from the university. If a student is charged with a sexual offense and is prosecuted in a court of law, criminal penalties as well as judicial sanctions may be imposed if the student is found to be responsible. In any campus disciplinary proceedings, the complaint and the accused student will be informed of the outcome Your Rights Victim a violation of the law, if the assailant is not a student, and/or with a violation of the Student Hearing Officer, or Judicial Officer prior to any penalty being imposed. To have past unrelated behavior excluded from the hearing. To be informed of the outcome of the disciplinary hearing, in compliance with the Sex Crimes Prevention Act To have adjustments made in academic programs and campus living arrangements. vailable Resources Rape Crisis Center Office - 233-3000 Memorial Medical University Center, 4700 Waters Avenue, - 350-8000 Office of Counseling and Disability Services Office - 356-2202 Division of Student Affairs - 356-2194 Security on Campus (Web Site) - http://www.securityoncampus.org Rape Crisis Center (Web Site) - http://www.rccsav.org FA Y CY CT ( The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 U.S.C. § 1232g; 34 CFR Part 99) is a Federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. The law applies to all schools that receive funds under an applicable program of the U.S. Department of Education. FERPA gives parents certain rights with respect to their children’s education records. These rights transfer to the student when he or she reaches the age of 18 or attends a school beyond Parents or eligible students have the right to inspect and review the student’s education records maintained by the school. Schools are not required to provide copies of records unless, for reasons such as great distance, it is impossible for parents or eligible students to review the records. Schools may charge a fee for copies. Parents or eligible students have the right to request that a school correct records which they believe to be inaccurate or misleading. If the school decides not to amend the record, the parent or eligible student then has the right to a formal hearing. After the hearing, if the school still decides not to amend the record, the parent or eligible student has the Generally, schools must have written permission from the parent or eligible student in order to release any information from a student’s education record. However, FERPA allows schools to disclose those records without consent, to the following parties or under School officials with legitimate educational interest; Specified officials for audit or evaluation purposes; Organizations conducting certain studies for or on behalf of the school; Accrediting organizations; To comply with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena; State and local authorities, within a juvenile justice system, pursuant to specific State law. Schools may disclose, without consent, “directory” information such as a student’s name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, honors and awards, and dates of attendance. However, schools must tell parents and eligible students about directory information and allow parents and eligible students, a reasonable amount of time to request that the school not disclose directory information about them. Schools must notify parents and eligible students annually of additional information or technical assistance, you may call (202) 260-3887 (voice). Individuals who use TDD may call the Federal Information Relay Service at 1-800-877-8339 or you may contact us at the following address: Family Policy Compliance Office, U. S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20202-4605. O V ANNA Savannah State University has a special town-gown relationship with the City of Savannah. The services, activities, and opportunities to offer students, ranging from movies to museums and from hot air balloons to horseback riding. Students are encouraged to treat the city as an extension of the campus. Given its rich history, students should involve themselves in the city’s culture so as to expand learning and development. Plus, Savannah has been ranked Conde Nast squares, the sites will add spice to the collegiate experience. Below are various resources and services for students. The information has been compiled from various sources, such as the City of Savannah’s Web page and the yellow pages. The information that is presented is not riented Resources and The institute was established in 1865 as a school to educate newly freed Black residents of Savannah. As a cultural center, Beach Institute features art exhibits, including a unique collection aptist Church (23 Montgomery Recognized by many as the oldest active Black church in North America, First African Baptist Church, with its unique stained-glass windows, served a vital role in Savannah’s Civil Rights Movement. aptist Church (559 W. King-Tisdell Cottage (514 An African American cultural museum located in an 1896 restored Victorian cottage, King- Tisdell’s collections demonstrate the contribution of African Americans to both Savannah egro Heritage Tour (502 The Negro Heritage Tour is a city-wide bus ride that features highlights of Savannah’s rich African American history, including churches, neighborhoods, and other historic sites. Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum ( lice treet & M K Jr. lvd.) With civil rights themes, the museum celebrates the contributions and cultural achievements of African Americans. irlines That AirTran Airlines www.airtran.co (800) 247-8726 American Eagle www.americanair.co (800) 433-7300 Continental Express www.continental.co Delta Airlines www.delta.co ) (800) 221-1212 Delta Connections www.delta.co (800) 221-1212 United Express www.united.co US Airways www.usair.co ther Modes of Transportation: www.amtrak.co (912) 234-2611 www.greyhound.co ) (912) 232-2135 Students are encouraged to keep current on other carriers and modes of transportation to and rt, Culture, Music, Theater Beach Institute Cultural Cen. City Lights Theater Company (912) 234-9860 (912) 786-5787 Savannah Theater Company (912) 232-1511 Telfair Academy of Arts & Science (912) 232-1177 Trustees Theater Tybee Island Lighthouse & Museum Tybee Museum Wormsloe Historic Site Bank of America Capital City Bank & Trust Darby Bank & Trust Co. National Bank of Commerce SunTrust Bank Wachovia Community Resources (912) 354-3911 Georgia Legal Services Memorial Health Univ. Med. Cen. Memorial Emergency (912) 351-0116 Rape Crisis Center Office Recovery Place(Substance Abuse Counseling) (912) 355-1440 SAFE Shelter (Domestic Violence Support) St. Joseph’s Hospital STD Testing (Health Department) Victim-Witness Assistance Willingway Outpatient Movie Theaters Westside Cinemas Wynnsong Places of Worship There are numerous places of worship in both the City of Thunderbolt and Savannah. We encourage students to refer to either the City of Savannah Web page (www.savannah.com) or the yellow pages for Randy Gunter, Vice President for Student Affairs out of class activities, as the quality of your experience depends on how well you accept As a Savannah State University student, you will be afforded every opportunity to learn, grow, and develop. While the student and the University are partners in student learning and tions, the University System of Georgia, state and federal agencies, and publications from Finally, we wish you well in your academic, social, and personal pursuits. During your Undergraduate General Catalog, Residential Living Handbook, and other published an informed, knowledgeable, and successful “Tiger.” as members of the University community and will supplement other Savannah State publications that more completely address all policies, procedures, and regulations Affairs, the Student Affairs Committee of the Faculty Senate, and the President’s Cabinet. You are encouraged to become familiar with the information contained in this handbook philosophy that puts students at the heart of what we do as a University to promote success. The handbook serves as a resource for many important University matters, including institutional traditions, student activities, strategies that promote student development The Division of Student Affairs is pleased to provide you with the 2008-2009 edition of the The Division of Student Affairs is pleased to provide you with the 2008-2009 edition of the student handbook. This handbook is indicative of our commitment to a “student centered” philosophy that puts students at the heart of what we do as a University to promote success. The handbook serves as a resource for many important University matters, including institutional traditions, student activities, strategies that promote student development MESSAGE FROM THE UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT As you receive this student handbook at the start of a new academic period, or for some of you, as you begin your collegiate career, I welcome you to this wonderful and historic institution. For over a century, Savannah State University has provided a high-quality education and a grand beginning to professional and academic life for many. A major component of the success of our graduates has been the impact of the learning community that constitutes campus life at Savannah State University. Student growth and development are always a function of both academic We want you to grow, learn inside and outside of the classroom, form quality and long-lasting relationships, have multiple opportunities to learn, to exercise leadership, pursue meaningful service to the campus and the larger community, and yes, we want you to have fun. To enable The rules, programs, and opportunities enclosed herein are designed to provide for your and collectively. Please know that violence in any form will not be acceptable on this campus or anywhere by members of this campus community. Also, please know that the presence of drugs, alcohol, and hallucinogens is considered a very serious violation of the purposes of the University environment. Threats, harassment, intimidation, and other negative interpersonal We urge you to explore the full diversity of association and opportunities available on the campus and to become fully engaged in student life activities. Please read the handbook carefully. It contains important information for your life as a student here. You will be expected to be fully aware of all rules, laws, and policies. Best wishes for a great academic year. Earl G. Yarbrough, Sr., MESSAGE FROM THE VICE PRESIDENT FOR ACADEMIC AFFAIRS You have chosen a great University to pursue your post-secondary education. At Savannah State University, we work hard to deserve your presence. Yet, we expect you to work equally as hard to prepare for each course and ultimately graduation. Academic honesty and integrity are absolute Take advantage of the vast opportunities Savannah State University has to offer. Remember Use this great University as your training ground for leadership and career development. Familiarize yourself with advising, registration, and all academic policies. Declare a major as early as possible. Further, I encourage you to select a mentor and follow the wise counsel of your mentor throughout your collegiate career. Being in good academic standing is a pre-requisite for participation in all clubs and organizations. Keep academics in the forefront of all you do. We believe in you! Mary Wyatt, Vice President for Academic Affairs MESSAGE FROM THE UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT As you receive this student handbook at the start of a new academic period, or for some of you, as you begin your collegiate career, I welcome you to this wonderful and historic institution. For over a century, Savannah State University has provided a high-quality education and a grand beginning to professional and academic life for many. A major component of the success of our graduates has been the impact of the learning community that constitutes campus life at Savannah State University. Student growth and development are always a function of both academic We want you to grow, learn inside and outside of the classroom, form quality and long-lasting relationships, have multiple opportunities to learn, to exercise leadership, pursue meaningful service to the campus and the larger community, and yes, we want you to have fun. To enable 11 STUDENT LIFE THE IMPORTANCE OF STUDENT INVOLVEMENT The experts in the area of student affairs suggest that the typical undergraduate student – one 18-22 – spends approximately 15 hours per week in the classroom. Although the bulk of the remaining 153 hours is typically spent on personal matters and with peers, Savannah State University expects that students will devote a considerable amount of this time to academic pursuits. After all, the purpose of institutions of higher education is the pursuit of knowledge and truth and the development of critical, analytical, reflective, and other skills. The University also recognizes that important student development takes place outside the classroom and laboratory for interpersonal, social, cultural, and recreational activities. Inasmuch as Savannah State University will provide the facilities, resources, programs, and activities for these learning and developmental opportunities to occur, it is ultimately up to the student to take advantage of what is provided. The effectiveness of student life – the 153 hours or so spent outside of the classroom is directly linked to the extent to which students are engaged in quality co-curricular events, whether informally or formally and whether student-or University-provided. This section of the handbook describes certain areas of student life. Students are encouraged to become The Savannah State University Undergraduate Catalog provides you with the latest academic information. Your personal copy may be obtained from the Registrar’s Office or view a copy at: http://www.savstate.edu/UCat.ht Each semester the Registrar’s Office also publishes a schedule of courses which informs you of the time, place and instructor of each course offered during a particular semester and contains information about registering for courses, dropping a course, withdrawing from the College and other pertinent academic information. You are urged to read both publications with care since you are responsible for knowing all academic regulations and requirements. Certain academic regulations are listed in these pages and in the Student Handbook. You are expected to know them and refer to them when the occasion dictates. ACADEMIC INTEGRITY Academic integrity is founded upon and encompasses the following five values: honesty; trust; fairness; respect; and responsibility. Supporting and affirming these values is essential to promoting and maintaining a high level of academic integrity. If knowledge is to be gained and properly evaluated, it must be pursued under conditions free from dishonesty. Deceit and misrepresenta tions are incompatible with the fundamental activity of this academic institution and will not be tolerated. Members of the academic community are expected to foster their own work in the spirit of academic honesty and not to tolerate its abuse by others. Responsibility for academic integrity lies with individual students and faculty members of this community. A violation of academic integrity is an act harmful to all other students, faculty and, ultimately, the institution. Throughout the semester, students remain in their Dean’s List To acknowledge publicly the high scholastic achieve ment of its students, Savannah State follows the traditional practice of publishing at the end of each semester a Dean’s List. Placement on this list is merited by a minimum of 12 hours enrollment with a semester average of 3.5. Part-time students qualify The University expressly reserves the right to deny participation in commencement and withhold the degree of any student who has completed all academic requirements, when disciplinary charges are pending or when there is a pending disciplinary action equivalent to suspension or expulsion. SSU makes every attempt to inform degree candidates prior to commencement if they have matters related to commencement (including the commencement program) does not waive or change the requirements stated above and a candidate will be excluded from participation Participating in the ceremony, moreover, is not a guarantee of graduation . However, Savannah State University is committed to doing TRADITIONS, CUSTOMS, & PRACTICES The nature of a college or university is as much a matter of its culture – its traditions, ceremonies, customs, and practices – as its organizational structures, policies, and practices (Kuh and Associates, 1991). Savannah State University has a particularly rich culture. Through cultural perspectives, such as ceremonies, traditions, customs, and practices, one may better understand the uniqueness of the university. Below are certain cultural artifacts of Savannah State University. More exist and others will be created as the University continues to ALMA MATER: “WE HAIL THEE S.S.U.” The alma mater is the institution’s revered hymn. Through song, it conveys what is ideologically special about Savannah State University. Given its importance, during the alma mater, students and others are expected to stand and to be respectful by acting in civil and non-disruptive manners. Men are expected to remove their hats during the alma mater. STUDENT ORGANIZATION OF THE YEAR AWARD The Clifford E. Hardwick III Student Organization of the Year Award is meant to bring signifi cant honor to a university-recognized student club or organization that has made an exceptional and distinctive impact on its members, the university, and the community. The University will recognize up to two clubs/organizations for the award annually. The club/organization selected for the award will be announced at the Outstanding Student Leadership & Service Recognition program and will have its name engraved on a plaque for permanent display at the University. The criteria for the award are available in the Office of Student Affairs. COMMENCEMENT A revered formal ceremony, commencement exercises are held twice each year during the all of the criteria to receive a degree from Savannah State University. FOUNDER’S DAY CONVOCATION The University formally celebrates its founding during the Founder’s Day Convocation. Founder’s Day Convocation, which is typically held during the week-long series of Homecom ing activities, honors the founding of Savannah State University and the people important to Homecoming is celebrated at Savannah State University during the fall semester. A week-long series of events, Homecoming culminates with a fierce intercollegiate football competition, usually followed by a rousing concert. During this spirited event, alumni, students, faculty, staff, and friends of the university gather together for the parade, reunions, tailgate parties, and other fun activities. 11 STUDENT LIFE THE IMPORTANCE OF STUDENT INVOLVEMENT The experts in the area of student affairs suggest that the typical undergraduate student – one 18-22 – spends approximately 15 hours per week in the classroom. Although the bulk of the remaining 153 hours is typically spent on personal matters and with peers, Savannah State University expects that students will devote a considerable amount of this time to academic pursuits. After all, the purpose of institutions of higher education is the pursuit of knowledge and truth and the development of critical, analytical, reflective, and other skills. The University also recognizes that important student development takes place outside the classroom and laboratory for interpersonal, social, cultural, and recreational activities. Inasmuch as Savannah State University will provide the facilities, resources, programs, and activities for these learning and developmental opportunities to occur, it is ultimately up to the student to take advantage of what is provided. The effectiveness of student life – the 153 hours or so spent outside of the classroom is directly linked to the extent to which students are engaged in quality co-curricular events, whether informally or formally and whether student-or University-provided. This section of the handbook describes certain areas of student life. Students are encouraged to become The Savannah State University Undergraduate Catalog provides you with the latest academic information. Your personal copy may be obtained from the Registrar’s Office or view a copy at: http://www.savstate.edu/UCat.ht Each semester the Registrar’s Office also publishes a schedule of courses which informs you of the time, place and instructor of each course offered during a particular semester and contains information about registering for courses, dropping a course, withdrawing from the College and other pertinent academic information. You are urged to read both publications with care since you are responsible for knowing all academic regulations and requirements. Certain academic regulations are listed in these pages and in the Student Handbook. You are expected to know them and refer to them when the occasion dictates. ACADEMIC INTEGRITY Academic integrity is founded upon and encompasses the following five values: honesty; trust; fairness; respect; and responsibility. Supporting and affirming these values is essential to promoting and maintaining a high level of academic integrity. If knowledge is to be gained and properly evaluated, it must be pursued under conditions free from dishonesty. Deceit and misrepresenta tions are incompatible with the fundamental activity of this academic institution and will not be tolerated. Members of the academic community are expected to foster their own work in the spirit of academic honesty and not to tolerate its abuse by others. Responsibility for academic integrity lies with individual students and faculty members of this community. A violation of academic integrity is an act harmful to all other students, faculty and, ultimately, the institution. Throughout the semester, students remain in their Dean’s List To acknowledge publicly the high scholastic achieve ment of its students, Savannah State follows the traditional practice of publishing at the end of each semester a Dean’s List. Placement on this list is merited by a minimum of 12 hours enrollment with a semester average of 3.5. Part-time students qualify The University expressly reserves the right to deny participation in commencement and withhold the degree of any student who has completed all academic requirements, when disciplinary charges are pending or when there is a pending disciplinary action equivalent to suspension or expulsion. SSU makes every attempt to inform degree candidates prior to commencement if they have matters related to commencement (including the commencement program) does not waive or change the requirements stated above and a candidate will be excluded from participation Participating in the ceremony, moreover, is not a guarantee of graduation . However, Savannah State University is committed to doing TRADITIONS, CUSTOMS, & PRACTICES The nature of a college or university is as much a matter of its culture – its traditions, ceremonies, customs, and practices – as its organizational structures, policies, and practices (Kuh and Associates, 1991). Savannah State University has a particularly rich culture. Through cultural perspectives, such as ceremonies, traditions, customs, and practices, one may better understand the uniqueness of the university. Below are certain cultural artifacts of Savannah State University. More exist and others will be created as the University continues to ALMA MATER: “WE HAIL THEE S.S.U.” The alma mater is the institution’s revered hymn. Through song, it conveys what is ideologically special about Savannah State University. Given its importance, during the alma mater, students and others are expected to stand and to be respectful by acting in civil and non-disruptive manners. Men are expected to remove their hats during the alma mater. STUDENT ORGANIZATION OF THE YEAR AWARD The Clifford E. Hardwick III Student Organization of the Year Award is meant to bring signifi cant honor to a university-recognized student club or organization that has made an exceptional and distinctive impact on its members, the university, and the community. The University will recognize up to two clubs/organizations for the award annually. The club/organization selected for the award will be announced at the Outstanding Student Leadership & Service Recognition program and will have its name engraved on a plaque for permanent display at the University. The criteria for the award are available in the Office of Student Affairs. COMMENCEMENT A revered formal ceremony, commencement exercises are held twice each year during the all of the criteria to receive a degree from Savannah State University. FOUNDER’S DAY CONVOCATION The University formally celebrates its founding during the Founder’s Day Convocation. Founder’s Day Convocation, which is typically held during the week-long series of Homecom ing activities, honors the founding of Savannah State University and the people important to Homecoming is celebrated at Savannah State University during the fall semester. A week-long series of events, Homecoming culminates with a fierce intercollegiate football competition, usually followed by a rousing concert. During this spirited event, alumni, students, faculty, staff, and friends of the university gather together for the parade, reunions, tailgate parties, and other fun activities. time. In 1968, Savannah State College founded Savannah’s first graduate program in education. The program soon received NCATE accreditation. Dr. Jordan resigned from the College in 1971 to become the first Black vice chancellor for the central office of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia. In 1971, Dr. Prince A. Jackson, Jr., became the second Savannah State College graduate to become president of the Institution. His administration was responsible for the development of the Naval Reserve Officers Training Program, the establishment of WHCJ-FM Radio Station, and the institutionalization of the Title III program, SACS accreditation, and construction of new buildings. Dr. Jackson was succeeded by Dr. Clyde W. Hall (197 8-80), a Savannah State graduate and professor of technical sciences. As acting president, Dr. Hall developed plans for a new administration building and health center, and initiated improvements to the infrastructure of the College. Dr. Wendell G. Rayburn (1980-1988), eighth president of Savannah State College, led the institution through its first major building program since the 1970s. His administration worked through the Desegregation Plan of the Board of Regents and completed the building of the marine biology facilities, Jordan College of Business Administration, the president’s house (later named William E. Gardner Hall), and Harris-McDew Health Services Center. In 1988, Dr. Rayburn resigned to become president of Lincoln University in Jefferson City, Missouri. Dr. Wiley S. Bolden succeeded him as acting president from 1988-1989. Dr. Bolden was instrumental in leading the College to continue its existence as a historically Black institution. Dr. William E. Gardner, Jr., (1989- 199 1) was selected as the ninth president of the College in September 1989, and presided over a period of unprecedented enrollment growth for the Institution. He successfully led the College to SACS accreditation for a ten-year period (1990-2000). During his tenure, Dr. Gardner established a Teacher’s Certification Program in collaboration with Armstrong Atlantic State University, then Armstrong Atlantic State College. Additionally, Dr. Gardner was responsible for the replica of the Navy jet flown by Commander Donnie L. Cochran, U.S. Navy “Blue Angels” demonstration flying team, being placed in front of the McGlockton NROTC Building. He also spearheaded the Centennial Celebration of Savannah State and the restoration of Adams Hall as the College’s archives building and established the Advanced Water Technology Center. Dr. Gardner died suddenly in the office in 1991, and was succeeded by Dr. Annette K. Brock, a Savannah State College graduate, and professor and chair, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences. Dr. Brock served as acting president from 1991 until 1993. As the College’s first woman president, she continued the successful work of the previous administration. During her administration, the Pathways to Teaching Program and the College’s archives were established, the latter with the support of Title III funding. Dr. John T. Wolfe (1993-1997) became the tenth president of Savannah State College. During his administration, the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia elevated Savannah State College, along with twelve other regional state colleges, to the status of state universities (1996). Also during Wolfe’s administration, graduate programs in public administration and social work were returned to the University. Dr. Carlton E. Brown (1997- 2006) became the University’s eleventh president. During Dr. Brown’s tenure, the University experienced enormous growth in many sectors such as an expanded curricula and academic programs. recognition by accrediting bodies such as the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) Commission on Colleges, the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), the American Association of Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) International and access to high quality leadership programs and facilities such as the Tiger Arena, which opened in 2000, the University Village in 2001 and the Freshman Living and Learning Center in 2003. In July 2008, Dr. Earl G. Yarbrough, Sr., became the 12th President of the University. time. In 1968, Savannah State College founded Savannah’s first graduate program in education. The program soon received NCATE accreditation. Dr. Jordan resigned from the College in 1971 to become the first Black vice chancellor for the central office of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia. In 1971, Dr. Prince A. Jackson, Jr., became the second Savannah State College graduate to become president of the Institution. His administration was responsible for the development of the Naval Reserve Officers Training Program, the establishment of WHCJ-FM Radio Station, and the institutionalization of the Title III program, SACS accreditation, and construction of new buildings. Dr. Jackson was succeeded by Dr. Clyde W. Hall (197 8-80), a Savannah State graduate and professor of technical sciences. As acting president, Dr. Hall developed plans for a new administration building and health center, and initiated improvements to the infrastructure of the College. Dr. Wendell G. Rayburn (1980-1988), eighth president of Savannah State College, led the institution through its first major building program since the 1970s. His administration worked through the Desegregation Plan of the Board of Regents and completed the building of the marine biology facilities, Jordan College of Business Administration, the president’s house (later named William E. Gardner Hall), and Harris-McDew Health Services Center. In 1988, Dr. Rayburn resigned to become president of Lincoln University in Jefferson City, Missouri. Dr. Wiley S. Bolden succeeded him as acting president from 1988-1989. Dr. Bolden was instrumental in leading the College to continue its existence as a historically Black institution. Dr. William E. Gardner, Jr., (1989- 199 1) was selected as the ninth president of the College in September 1989, and presided over a period of unprecedented enrollment growth for the Institution. He successfully led the College to SACS accreditation for a ten-year period (1990-2000). During his tenure, Dr. Gardner established a Teacher’s Certification Program in collaboration with Armstrong Atlantic State University, then Armstrong Atlantic State College. Additionally, Dr. Gardner was responsible for the replica of the Navy jet flown by Commander Donnie L. Cochran, U.S. Navy “Blue Angels” demonstration flying team, being placed in front of the McGlockton NROTC Building. He also spearheaded the Centennial Celebration of Savannah State and the restoration of Adams Hall as the College’s archives building and established the Advanced Water Technology Center. Dr. Gardner died suddenly in the office in 1991, and was succeeded by Dr. Annette K. Brock, a Savannah State College graduate, and professor and chair, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences. Dr. Brock served as acting president from 1991 until 1993. As the College’s first woman president, she continued the successful work of the previous administration. During her administration, the Pathways to Teaching Program and the College’s archives were established, the latter with the support of Title III funding. Dr. John T. Wolfe (1993-1997) became the tenth president of Savannah State College. During his administration, the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia elevated Savannah State College, along with twelve other regional state colleges, to the status of state universities (1996). Also during Wolfe’s administration, graduate programs in public administration and social work were returned to the University. Dr. Carlton E. Brown (1997- 2006) became the University’s eleventh president. During Dr. Brown’s tenure, the University experienced enormous growth in many sectors such as an expanded curricula and academic programs. recognition by accrediting bodies such as the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) Commission on Colleges, the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), the American Association of Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) International and access to high quality leadership programs and facilities such as the Tiger Arena, which opened in 2000, the University Village in 2001 and the Freshman Living and Learning Center in 2003. In July 2008, Dr. Earl G. Yarbrough, Sr., became the 12th President of the University. SAVANNAH STATE UNIVERSITY HYMN Our Alma Mater, S.S.U. Thine honor, pride and eminence, We raise in prayerful reverence. Guide us still from day to day. Be Thou mindful lest we lost our way; We adore each beauteous scene and hall, Our all we pledge to Thee! In our hearts we’ll build a shrine for You We hail Thee, S.S.U! Lyrical Revision by Ms. LaGina M. Frazier During the 2002 Spring Semester, a group of students participated in the inaugural Rites of Passage Leadership Program. The program, spearheaded by the Center for Leadership & Character Development and the Leadership Education & Development Fund, was a leadership retreat designed to focus on the distinctive values, beliefs, attitudes, and practices that men and women at the University are expected to commit to during their collegiate experience. As a historically Black institution with a rich heritage of educating the whole person, the university’s culture or its ethos must be characterized by a set of principles. It was primarily for this reason men and women elected to participate in the retreat at the Penn Center on St. Helena Island, SC on April 12-14, 2002. The outcome of the program was a Statement of Ethos for Men and for Women. The students who developed the ethos statements encourage all students to dialogue and incorporate the principles daily. The University wishes to acknowledge the students who spent a substantial amount of reflective, critical, and analytical time developing the statements for their fellow students. Several retreat speakers helped students conceptualize the ethos statements: (1) Dr. Na’im Akbar, professor of psychology at Florida State University; (2) Muhammed Akil, president & chief executive officer of Lost Link Enterprises, Inc.; (3) Dr. Rubye Braye, a decision scientist and president of JIL Group; (4) Rev. Tyrone Crider, former coordinator of voter registration for the 1984 and 1988 Jesse Jackson presidential campaigns; (5) Dr. Lee Jones, associate dean of the College of Education at Florida State University; (6) Mrs. Jessica and legal counsel at Savannah State University. Olamide Aina, Zikiar V. Alvin, Khamisi Campbell, Faron Ellison, Timi Fagbohun, Melvin Hackett, Jermaine James, Villareal Johnson, Landrell Latimore, Jon M. Lattimore, Torriel Lewis, Jeremy McMullen, Christopher Moyo, Obiora Onyemelukwe, Shawn Parker, D’Andre Phillips, Jason Sanders, Ranaldo Smith, Umoja Spaulding, and Rahsheim Wright. Mr. Irvin Clark, director of residential services & programs, served as the men’s coordinator. The Statement of Ethos for Women was written by: Aiesha Bridges, Tiffany Brown, Deandra Burke, Sherella Davis, Leona Dillion, Jessica Green, Sherrlyn Hall, Kenya Hollingshed, Wequita Moss, and Ebony Walker. Ms. Tonia Brown-Dickerson, assistant to the Vice President for Student Affairs, served as the women’s coordinator. SAVANNAH STATE UNIVERSITY HYMN 11 STUDENT LIFE THE IMPORTANCE OF STUDENT INVOLVEMENT The experts in the area of student affairs suggest that the typical undergraduate student – one 18-22 – spends approximately 15 hours per week in the classroom. Although the bulk of the remaining 153 hours is typically spent on personal matters and with peers, Savannah State University expects that students will devote a considerable amount of this time to academic pursuits. After all, the purpose of institutions of higher education is the pursuit of knowledge and truth and the development of critical, analytical, reflective, and other skills. The University also recognizes that important student development takes place outside the classroom and laboratory for interpersonal, social, cultural, and recreational activities. Inasmuch as Savannah State University will provide the facilities, resources, programs, and activities for these learning and developmental opportunities to occur, it is ultimately up to the student to take advantage of what is provided. The effectiveness of student life – the 153 hours or so spent outside of the classroom is directly linked to the extent to which students are engaged in quality co-curricular events, whether informally or formally and whether student-or University-provided. This section of the handbook describes certain areas of student life. Students are encouraged to become The Savannah State University Undergraduate Catalog provides you with the latest academic information. Your personal copy may be obtained from the Registrar’s Office or view a copy at: http://www.savstate.edu/UCat.ht Each semester the Registrar’s Office also publishes a schedule of courses which informs you of the time, place and instructor of each course offered during a particular semester and contains information about registering for courses, dropping a course, withdrawing from the College and other pertinent academic information. You are urged to read both publications with care since you are responsible for knowing all academic regulations and requirements. Certain academic regulations are listed in these pages and in the Student Handbook. You are expected to know them and refer to them when the occasion dictates. ACADEMIC INTEGRITY Academic integrity is founded upon and encompasses the following five values: honesty; trust; fairness; respect; and responsibility. Supporting and affirming these values is essential to promoting and maintaining a high level of academic integrity. If knowledge is to be gained and properly evaluated, it must be pursued under conditions free from dishonesty. Deceit and misrepresenta tions are incompatible with the fundamental activity of this academic institution and will not be tolerated. Members of the academic community are expected to foster their own work in the spirit of academic honesty and not to tolerate its abuse by others. Responsibility for academic integrity lies with individual students and faculty members of this community. A violation of academic integrity is an act harmful to all other students, faculty and, ultimately, the institution. Throughout the semester, students remain in their Dean’s List To acknowledge publicly the high scholastic achieve ment of its students, Savannah State follows the traditional practice of publishing at the end of each semester a Dean’s List. Placement on this list is merited by a minimum of 12 hours enrollment with a semester average of 3.5. Part-time students qualify 11 STUDENT LIFE THE IMPORTANCE OF STUDENT INVOLVEMENT The experts in the area of student affairs suggest that the typical undergraduate student – one 11 STUDENT LIFE THE IMPORTANCE OF STUDENT INVOLVEMENT The experts in the area of student affairs suggest that the typical undergraduate student – one 18-22 – spends approximately 15 hours per week in the classroom. Although the bulk of the remaining 153 hours is typically spent on personal matters and with peers, Savannah State University expects that students will devote a considerable amount of this time to academic pursuits. After all, the purpose of institutions of higher education is the pursuit of knowledge and truth and the development of critical, analytical, reflective, and other skills. The University also recognizes that important student development takes place outside the classroom and laboratory for interpersonal, social, cultural, and recreational activities. Inasmuch as Savannah State University will provide the facilities, resources, programs, and activities for these learning and developmental opportunities to occur, it is ultimately up to the student to take advantage of what is provided. The effectiveness of student life – the 153 hours or so spent outside of the classroom is directly linked to the extent to which students are engaged in quality co-curricular events, whether informally or formally and whether student-or University-provided. This section of the handbook describes certain areas of student life. Students are encouraged to become The Savannah State University Undergraduate Catalog provides you with the latest academic information. Your personal copy may be obtained from the Registrar’s Office or view a copy at: http://www.savstate.edu/UCat.ht Each semester the Registrar’s Office also publishes a schedule of courses which informs you of the time, place and instructor of each course offered during a particular semester and contains information about registering for courses, dropping a course, withdrawing from the College and other pertinent academic information. You are urged to read both publications with care since you are responsible for knowing all academic regulations and requirements. Certain academic regulations are listed in these pages and in the Student Handbook. You are expected to know them and refer to them when the occasion dictates. ACADEMIC INTEGRITY Academic integrity is founded upon and encompasses the following five values: honesty; trust; fairness; respect; and responsibility. Supporting and affirming these values is essential to promoting and maintaining a high level of academic integrity. If knowledge is to be gained and properly evaluated, it must be pursued under conditions free from dishonesty. Deceit and misrepresenta tions are incompatible with the fundamental activity of this academic institution and will not be tolerated. Members of the academic community are expected to foster their own work in the spirit of academic honesty and not to tolerate its abuse by others. Responsibility for academic integrity lies with individual students and faculty members of this community. A violation of academic integrity is an act harmful to all other students, faculty and, ultimately, the institution. Throughout the semester, students remain in their Dean’s List To acknowledge publicly the high scholastic achieve ment of its students, Savannah State follows the traditional practice of publishing at the end of each semester a Dean’s List. Placement on this list is merited by a minimum of 12 hours enrollment with a semester average of 3.5. Part-time students qualify The University expressly reserves the right to deny participation in commencement and withhold the degree of any student who has completed all academic requirements, when disciplinary charges are pending or when there is a pending disciplinary action equivalent to suspension or expulsion. SSU makes every attempt to inform degree candidates prior to commencement if they have matters related to commencement (including the commencement program) does not waive or change the requirements stated above and a candidate will be excluded from participation Participating in the ceremony, moreover, is not a guarantee of graduation . However, Savannah State University is committed to doing TRADITIONS, CUSTOMS, & PRACTICES The nature of a college or university is as much a matter of its culture – its traditions, ceremonies, customs, and practices – as its organizational structures, policies, and practices (Kuh and Associates, 1991). Savannah State University has a particularly rich culture. Through cultural perspectives, such as ceremonies, traditions, customs, and practices, one may better understand the uniqueness of the university. Below are certain cultural artifacts of Savannah State University. More exist and others will be created as the University continues to ALMA MATER: “WE HAIL THEE S.S.U.” The alma mater is the institution’s revered hymn. Through song, it conveys what is ideologically special about Savannah State University. Given its importance, during the alma mater, students and others are expected to stand and to be respectful by acting in civil and non-disruptive manners. Men are expected to remove their hats during the alma mater. STUDENT ORGANIZATION OF THE YEAR AWARD The Clifford E. Hardwick III Student Organization of the Year Award is meant to bring signifi cant honor to a university-recognized student club or organization that has made an exceptional and distinctive impact on its members, the university, and the community. The University will recognize up to two clubs/organizations for the award annually. The club/organization selected for the award will be announced at the Outstanding Student Leadership & Service Recognition program and will have its name engraved on a plaque for permanent display at the University. The criteria for the award are available in the Office of Student Affairs. COMMENCEMENT A revered formal ceremony, commencement exercises are held twice each year during the all of the criteria to receive a degree from Savannah State University. FOUNDER’S DAY CONVOCATION The University formally celebrates its founding during the Founder’s Day Convocation. Founder’s Day Convocation, which is typically held during the week-long series of Homecom ing activities, honors the founding of Savannah State University and the people important to Homecoming is celebrated at Savannah State University during the fall semester. A week-long series of events, Homecoming culminates with a fierce intercollegiate football competition, usually followed by a rousing concert. During this spirited event, alumni, students, faculty, staff, and friends of the university gather together for the parade, reunions, tailgate parties, and other fun activities. 5 The University expressly reserves the right to deny participation in commencement and withhold the degree of any student who has completed all academic requirements, when disciplinary charges are pending or when there is a pending disciplinary action equivalent to suspension or expulsion. SSU makes every attempt to inform degree candidates prior to commencement if they have ANNUAL REGISTRATION FOR CURRENT STUDENT CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS In order to receive university recognition as a current student club or organization, each group must register with the Office of Student Programs and Organizations by the third week of class during the fall semester. The Office of Student Programs and Organizations has a document with the university. The forms require the following. Each group must provide a roster of current officers, members, and advisors, with addresses, Each group must provide a calendar of proposed educational, community, social, and Each group must provide a copy of the organization’s current constitution and bylaws as well as any current policies prescribed by its national organization, if applicable. 4. Each group must provide the organization’s cumulative GPA, which must be a minimum of 2.50. In cases where the cumulative GPA of the group falls below 2.50, the organization will be placed on probation for one semester. If at the end of the semester of probation the organization’s cumulative GPA has not reached 2.50, recognition, as a student organization will be withdrawn until such time as the group cumulative average of 2.50 has been regained. The Vice President for Student Affairs, with the approval of the university President, may prescribe additional reasonable provisions for recognition of student organizations. Society for the Advancement of Management Achievers of Today and Tomorrow, Inc. The Tiger’s Roar Caribbean Student Association The Women’s Circle Way of Real Discovery Wesley Foundation College Democrats of America Wesleyan Gospel Choir Graduate Student Association International Students Association Model Organization of African Unity NAACP College Chapter National Council of Negro Women, Inc. Non-Traditional Student Association Sophia/Students Seeking Wisdom SSU Pre-Alumni Association SSU Varsity Cheerleaders Student Government Association Young Visionaries 9 ANNUAL REGISTRATION FOR CURRENT STUDENT CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS In order to receive university recognition as a current student club or organization, each group must register with the Office of Student Programs and Organizations by the third week of class during the fall semester. The Office of Student Programs and Organizations has a document Each group must provide a roster of current officers, members, and advisors, with addresses, Each group must provide a calendar of proposed educational, community, social, and Each group must provide a copy of the organization’s current constitution and bylaws as well as any current policies prescribed by its national organization, if applicable. 4. Each group must provide the organization’s cumulative GPA, which must be a minimum of 2.50. In cases where the cumulative GPA of the group falls below 2.50, the organization will be placed on probation for one semester. If at the end of the semester of probation the organization’s cumulative GPA has not reached 2.50, recognition, as a student organization will be withdrawn until such time as the group cumulative average of 2.50 has been regained. The Vice President for Student Affairs, with the approval of the university President, may prescribe additional reasonable provisions for recognition of student organizations. Society for the Advancement of Management Achievers of Today and Tomorrow, Inc. The Tiger’s Roar Caribbean Student Association The Women’s Circle Way of Real Discovery Wesley Foundation College Democrats of America Wesleyan Gospel Choir Graduate Student Association International Students Association Model Organization of African Unity NAACP College Chapter National Council of Negro Women, Inc. Non-Traditional Student Association INTRAMURAL SPORTS & WELLNESS ACTIVITIES The University encourages students to get involved in campus intramural and recreation activities. The University’s Intramural and Wellness Program provides activities for students who enjoy a structured approach to recreational activities. Intramural activities include flag football, basketball, volleyball, swimming, horseshoe, 3 on 3 basketball, billiards, softball and table tennis. Because the University is affiliated with the National Intramural and Recreation Sporting Association, students at Savannah State University are eligible to compete in regional and national intramural competitions against other colleges and universities. Through the Wellness Programs, students have access to health and wellness programming that includes weight training, aerobics, jogging, and health assessments. Additional activities may be added according to student interests. Open recreation hours provide opportunities for students to participate in activities on an informal basis. Wilcox-Wiley Gymnasium, Wright Stadium, the Tiger Arena Athletic Recreation Complex, swimming pool and the tennis courts are some of the venues for such leisure activities. A valid student identification card is required for access into these facilities. LEISURE ACTIVITIES ON THE FELIX ALEXIS CIRCLE The Felix Alexis Circle is an ideal place for leisure and informal activities, though it is occasionally used for formal programs and events. The University encourages students to take advantage of it for both informal and formal gatherings. In cases when students and/or student and submitted to the Office of Student Programs and Organizations. Grilling activities are only Student Programs and Organizations. The University assumes no liability for any injuries or accidents associated with grilling. Students are encouraged to exercise great care and caution. The Felix Alexis Circle is the property of the Board of Regents. Inasmuch as there are Greek- the circle. All students and visitors to the University have FULL access to benches, shaded areas, and other locations throughout the Felix Alexis Circle. Fraternities and sororities that have designated plot areas must be registered with the University and must keep the area free GUIDELINES & TIPS FOR STUDENT The University takes seriously the safety and well being of members of the University community and guests and visitors of the University. It complies with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act of 1990, which require, in part, the University to report certain crimes to both students and the U.S. Department of Education. The Department of Public Safety is the unit responsible for public safety, though everyone is encouraged to work collaboratively to ensure the campus is a safe and comfortable environment. Below are some guidelines and practices to enhance safety efforts. STUDENT NICKNAMES Inasmuch as the University considers nicknames as informal terms of endearment, students are strongly urged to learn the first and last names of their friends and acquaintances. There are instances when knowing a student’s “real” name can help properly identify the student to campus police, emergency medical personnel, or residence hall staff. EMERGENCY CALL BOX LOCATIONS Emergency call boxes are located around the campus to provide direct immediate communication links with the Savannah State University Department of Public Safety at any time of the day or night. Emergency call boxes are identified by a blue light and red EMERENCY lettering on each side. 4 INTRAMURAL SPORTS & WELLNESS ACTIVITIES The University encourages students to get involved in campus intramural and recreation activities. The University’s Intramural and Wellness Program provides activities for students who enjoy a structured approach to recreational activities. Intramural activities include flag football, basketball, volleyball, swimming, horseshoe, 3 on 3 basketball, billiards, softball and table tennis. Because the University is affiliated with the National Intramural and Recreation Sporting Association, students at Savannah State University are eligible to compete in regional and national intramural competitions against other colleges and universities. Through the Wellness Programs, students have access to health and wellness programming that includes weight training, aerobics, jogging, and health assessments. Additional activities may be added according to student interests. Open recreation hours provide opportunities for students to participate in activities on an informal basis. Wilcox-Wiley Gymnasium, Wright Stadium, the Tiger Arena Athletic Recreation Complex, swimming pool and the tennis courts are some of the venues for such leisure activities. A valid student identification card is required for access into these facilities. LEISURE ACTIVITIES ON THE FELIX ALEXIS CIRCLE The Felix Alexis Circle is an ideal place for leisure and informal activities, though it is occasionally used for formal programs and events. The University encourages students to take advantage of it for both informal and formal gatherings. In cases when students and/or student REPORTING A CRIME OR SUSPICIOUS BEHAVIOR All crimes as well as any suspicious activity that occur on the campus of Savannah State emergencies as well as routine telephone and radio communications through a radio dispatcher. Utilizing radio communication with the local 911 center, the department provides prompt response to medical, fire and other emergencies. The telephone numbers for contacting the ..................................... 911 or 356-277 ........................... INFORMATION Confidential and anonymous information can be reported to (912) 356-2018 (Savannah State University Department of Public Safety) or local-based Campus Crime Stoppers at (912) 234-2020. Should an assault occur, particularly of a sexual nature, contact the Department of any evidence that could be used to pursue the case for a successful adjudication in court. The When reporting crimes or suspicious activity, be sure to provide the following information: Your name and address for police record; Weapons, if any; and Any other pertinent information you feel is important or necessary. STUDENT IDENTIFICATION CARDS Upon enrolling in the University, new students will receive a valid student identification card through the Office of Residential Services & Programs. Returning students must have their University-issued identification card validated each semester. The student identification card must be visibly displayed at all times, presented upon request by University officials, and reported immediately if lost. The validated identification card enables students to gain access to University services (e.g., library, health center, dining hall, athletic events). A replacement fee is charged if a duplicate identification card is lost. Students are responsible for transactions on their identification cards unless otherwise specifically stated in writing by the University. Misuse of the student identification card is addressed in the Code of Student Ethics section of the handbook. Savannah State University offers the Higher One tm system for student refund management. Higher One tm provides refund management services to higher education institutions. Higher One tm provides students with more choices and better service for receiving financial refunds. Higher One also offers the OneAccount, a no minimum bal ance, no monthly fee checking account with the convenience of MasterCard® Debit with exclusive features. Contact the Office of Student Accounts for additional information. Lock the door when leaving your room . Always take your possessions with you when moving about in the library, cafeteria, classrooms, or offices. 5 REPORTING A CRIME OR SUSPICIOUS BEHAVIOR All crimes as well as any suspicious activity that occur on the campus of Savannah State 911 or 356-277 INFORMATION Confidential and anonymous information can be reported to (912) 356-2018 (Savannah State University Department of Public Safety) or local-based Campus Crime Stoppers at (912) 234-2020. Should an assault occur, particularly of a sexual nature, contact the Department of Nature of the incident; 2. Persons involved; 3. Your name and address for police record; The location from which you are calling; 5. Injuries, if any; 6. Weapons, if any; and Any other pertinent information you feel is important or necessary. STUDENT IDENTIFICATION CARDS Upon enrolling in the University, new students will receive a valid student identification card through the Office of Residential Services & Programs. Returning students must have their University-issued identification card validated each semester. The student identification card must be visibly displayed at all times, presented upon request by University officials, and reported immediately if lost. The validated identification card enables students to gain access to University services (e.g., library, health center, dining hall, athletic events). A replacement fee is charged if a duplicate identification card is lost. Students are responsible for transactions on their identification cards unless otherwise specifically stated in writing by the University. Misuse of the student identification card is addressed in the Code of Student Ethics section of the handbook. Savannah State University offers the Higher One tm system for student refund management. Higher One tm provides refund management services to higher education institutions. Higher One tm provides students with more choices and better service for receiving financial refunds. Higher One also offers the OneAccount, a no minimum bal ance, no monthly fee checking account with the convenience of MasterCard® Debit with exclusive features. Contact the Office of Student Accounts for additional information. Immediately report any crime, suspected crime, or suspicious circumstances/persons to Never leave personal property unattended. Lock the door when leaving your room . Always take your possessions with you when moving about in the library, cafeteria, classrooms, or offices. The penalty for “simple possession” of illegal drugs ranges from 1 to 20 years, depend ing upon the substance schedule, amount possessed, and the number of convictions (Title 21, Section 844). The distribution, manufacture, or possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance is punishable by twice the sanction provided in Section 841 (b) (not less than 10 nor more than 80 years, depending upon the schedule and amount), where such offense was performed on or within one thousand feet of a college or university. Section (a) denies certain “federal benefits” to drug traffickers and possessors, such as federal grants, contracts, loans, and professional licenses. Section 853 provides for forfeiture of possession and title to the federal government of any property used in drug offenses. Health Risks Associated with the Use of Illicit Drugs and Alcohol Drug and Alcohol abuse result in significant health problems for those who use them. Drug and alcohol use in the workplace not only contributes to lost productivity, but also causes tremendous costs related to absenteeism, accidents, health care, loss of trained personnel, and employee treatment programs. Drug and alcohol abuse causes physical and emotional dependence. Users may develop a craving for these drugs or alcohol and their bodies may respond to the presence of drugs in ways that lead to increased drug and alcohol use. Certain drugs, such as opiates, barbiturates, alcohol and nicotine create physical dependence. With prolonged use, these drugs become part of the body chemistry. When a regular user stops taking the drug, the body experiences the physiological trauma known as withdrawal. Psychological dependence occurs when taking drugs becomes the center of the user’s life. Drugs have an effect on the mind and body for weeks or even months after drug use has stopped. Drugs and alcohol can interfere with memory, sensation, and perception. They distort experiences and cause loss of The Harris-McDew Health Service Center and the Office of Counseling and Disability Services has other information regarding the effects of drugs and alcohol. Drug and Alcohol Educational Services and Programs The Harris-McDew Health Service Center, the Department of Residential Services and and the Office of Student Programs and Organizations have many on-going programs that specifically address alcohol and drug abuse problems. For example, the Office of Counseling confidential services, interactive programs, hand-outs on the facts of alcohol and drugs. Programs are provided promoting healthy lifestyles with emphasis on awareness of the dangers Faculty, staff, and students are expected to adhere to the policies of the University and observe local, state and federal laws relative to unlawful use of drugs and alcohol. Penalties for violations of these standards range from warnings and probation to expulsion, loss of academic credit, suspension, temporary or permanent suspension and withdrawal of organization recognition, referral to the legal system for prosecution, Detailed sanctions are defined in the Student Handbook, Board of Regents Policy Manual, Faculty Handbook, and Classified Employee Handbook. Public Safety follows a policy of zero tolerance for violation of all laws involving alcohol and drugs. Persons found in violation of these laws will be arrested and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. The penalty for “simple possession” of illegal drugs ranges from 1 to 20 years, depend ing upon the substance schedule, amount possessed, and the number of convictions (Title 21, Section 844). The distribution, manufacture, or possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance is punishable by twice the sanction provided in Section 841 (b) (not less than 10 nor more than 80 years, depending upon the schedule and amount), where such offense was performed on or within one thousand feet of a college or university. Section (a) denies certain “federal benefits” to drug traffickers and possessors, such as federal grants, contracts, loans, and professional licenses. Section 853 provides for forfeiture of possession and title to the federal government of any property used in drug offenses. Health Risks Associated with the Use of Illicit Drugs and Alcohol Drug and Alcohol abuse result in significant health problems for those who use them. Drug and alcohol use in the workplace not only contributes to lost productivity, but also causes tremendous costs related to absenteeism, accidents, health care, loss of trained personnel, and employee treatment programs. Drug and alcohol abuse causes physical and emotional dependence. Users may develop a craving for these drugs or alcohol and their bodies may respond to the presence of drugs in ways that lead to increased drug and alcohol use. Certain drugs, such as opiates, barbiturates, alcohol and nicotine create physical dependence. With prolonged use, these drugs become part of the body chemistry. When a regular user stops taking the drug, the body experiences the physiological trauma known as withdrawal. Psychological dependence occurs when taking drugs becomes the center of the user’s life. Drugs have an effect on the mind and body for weeks or even months after drug use has stopped. Drugs and alcohol can interfere with memory, sensation, and perception. They distort experiences and cause loss of The Harris-McDew Health Service Center and the Office of Counseling and Disability Services has other information regarding the effects of drugs and alcohol. Drug and Alcohol Educational Services and Programs The Harris-McDew Health Service Center, the Department of Residential Services and PARENTAL/GUARDIAN NOTIFICATION Savannah State University is committed to the elimination of alcohol and drug abuse within the University community. The University is concerned with the safety and welfare of its students. The approach to violations of the alcohol and drug policy is designed to be pro-active. While the primary approach in response to alcohol and drug violations is educational, it should also be clear that violations of the alcohol and drug policy will result in disciplinary sanctions imposed by Savannah State University. The Higher Education Reauthorization Act of 1998 (HERA) amended the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) to allow institutions of higher education to notify parents or legal guardians of students under the age of 21 of the final outcome of an alcohol or drug violation. In view of these changes, the following policies will be observed: After the second alcohol violation or after the first drug it will be the policy of Savannah State University to notify parents or legal guardians of students under the age of 21 of violations of the University’s alcohol or drug policy. may be notified after the first alcohol violation. Those circumstances may be as follows: Code of Student Ethics. in suspension or dismissal from the University, or removal from University housing. Under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to personally telephone the parents or legal guardians of students under 21 years of age and inform them of a potentially serious incident requiring their immediate notification. A letter will follow up the personal telephone informed by the Savannah State University’s Vice President for Student Affairs’ Office before parental notification occurs. This will give the student an opportunity to initiate contact with their parents or legal guardians before the parental notification letter is mailed. The parent or legal guardians of students who are 21 years of age on the date of adjudication The parent or legal guardians of students under the age of 21 who have been declared c. The parents or legal guardians of students under 21 years of age may not be notified in view of various social, religious, or cultural customs and practices, or under extraordinary circumstances as determined on a case-by-case basis by the Vice President for Student Affairs or designee. Note: Georgia is an Open Records State. Written requests for information under the Open Records Act will be forwarded to the Public Records Custodian. PARENTAL/GUARDIAN NOTIFICATION Savannah State University is committed to the elimination of alcohol and drug abuse within the University community. The University is concerned with the safety and welfare of its students. The approach to violations of the alcohol and drug policy is designed to be pro-active. While the primary approach in response to alcohol and drug violations is educational, it should also be clear that violations of the alcohol and drug policy will result in disciplinary sanctions imposed by Savannah State University. The Higher Education Reauthorization Act of 1998 (HERA) amended the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) to allow institutions of higher education to notify parents or legal guardians of students under the age of 21 of the final outcome of an alcohol or drug violation. In view of these changes, the following policies will be observed: After the second alcohol violation or after the first drug it will be the policy of Savannah State University to notify parents or legal guardians of students under the age of 21 of violations of the University’s alcohol or drug policy. Under certain circumstances, the parents or legal guardians of students under 21 years of age may be notified after the first alcohol violation. Those circumstances may be as follows: The incident involved significant property damage. b. The incident was a DUI. c. The incident was accompanied by other serious violations of the Code of Student Ethics. in suspension or dismissal from the University, or removal from University housing. Under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to personally telephone the parents or legal guardians of students under 21 years of age and inform them of a potentially serious incident requiring their immediate notification. A letter will follow up the personal telephone Students under 21 years of age whose parents or legal guardians are notified will be verbally informed by the Savannah State University’s Vice President for Student Affairs’ Office before parental notification occurs. This will give the student an opportunity to initiate contact with their parents or legal guardians before the parental notification letter is mailed. The parent or legal guardians of students who are 21 years of age on the date of adjudication The parent or legal guardians of students under the age of 21 who have been declared c. The parents or legal guardians of students under 21 years of age may not be notified in view of various social, religious, or cultural customs and practices, or under extraordinary circumstances as determined on a case-by-case basis by the Vice President for Student Affairs or designee. Note: Georgia is an Open Records State. Written requests for information under the Open Records Act will be forwarded to the Public Records Custodian. GENERAL STUDENT EXPECTATIONS CELLULAR PHONES, PERSONAL DIGITAL ASSISTANTS (PDAS) & PAGERS Cellular phones, PDAs and pagers are often times important means to communicate. These devises, however, can be disruptive for the user and others when activated in classrooms, laboratories, libraries, business offices, and in certain other public areas. The University asks students and others to be mindful of this and to operate cellular phones, PDAs and pagers accordingly. In other words, these devices should be turned off when in the classroom and laboratory, CHANGE OF ADDRESS Students are responsible for notifying the Office of the Registrar of any change in address. The mailing of notices to the last address on record constitutes official notification. CIVIL LANGUAGE Savannah State University is a marketplace for ideas, conversations, and opinions. The University has high expectations that students will engage in critical discourse on a wide range of topics in conversations that take place during formal and informal discussions. Also, the University has high expectations that students engage in civil discourse. The use of profan ity, indecent, and lewd language has no place in a University environment. The University recognizes that students have a constitutional right to express themselves. As a community of As a member of the University community, it is expected that every student will have the opportunity to experience success inside and outside of the classroom. As such, students are encouraged to dress appropriately on the campus. However, during certain University events, A student’s attire should never be lewd, indecent, or inappropriate, as it is unbecoming of a suc cess-oriented Savannah State University student. (Examples: Inappropriate dress may include, but is not limited to, halter tops, any shirt that exposes bare midriff or bare back, t-shirts with obscene or offensive language, gestures, or slogans, undershirts customarily worn as undergarments-tank tops, white gauze shirts-and clothing which allows undergarments to be visually observed). LOST AND FOUND From time-to-time, members of the University misplace and lose items such as keys, cellular Department of Public Safety immediately. When a student misplaces or has his or her residence hall room key stolen, a report to the resident director, Office of Residential Services and Programs, or Department of Public Safety must be made expeditiously. Found items are logged in and stored at the Office of Student Affairs for safekeeping for a limited time. Prior to posting, documents must be approved for posting by the Office of Student Programs and Organizations. Students are encouraged to post flyers, handbills, signs, notices, posters and In addition, Campus Channel 15 is available for electronic posts in a Microsoft Power Point format. Documents should not be posted on any exterior door of University buildings. Unap proved items and items posted in non-designated areas are subject to immediate removal. The GENERAL STUDENT EXPECTATIONS CELLULAR PHONES, PERSONAL DIGITAL ASSISTANTS (PDAS) & PAGERS Cellular phones, PDAs and pagers are often times important means to communicate. These devises, however, can be disruptive for the user and others when activated in classrooms, laboratories, libraries, business offices, and in certain other public areas. The University asks students and others to be mindful of this and to operate cellular phones, PDAs and pagers accordingly. In other words, these devices should be turned off when in the classroom and laboratory, postings must be in good taste. Postings that are lewd, offensive, advertise alcohol, drinking contests and that work against the purposes of the University will not be approved. The student organization or student responsible for approved postings will be responsible for removing STUDENT INSURANCE Theft and Fire. One of the greatest challenges facing colleges and universities is theft in residence halls. From time-to-time, incidents of theft in the residence halls are reported to officials at Savannah State University. Inasmuch as students are strongly encouraged to follow safety instructions and guidelines described in this handbook, it is the University’s expectation that students who live on-campus purchase theft and fire insurance. Such insurance information is available in the Office of Residential Services and Programs at a very reasonable cost. Injury and Sickness. Although students pay a health fee each semester, the fee does not pay for student health insurance. If a student is not covered under their parents’ health insurance, then the insurance plan should be sought by the student immediately. Certain students are required to participate in the University System of Georgia Student Health Insurance Program (SHIP). USG Student Health Insurance Program Requirements All University System of Georgia institutions are required to participate in the Student Health Insurance program. Students in the categories listed below are required to have insurance that meets minimum standards set forth in Plan I (Mandatory Plan). Students who are not covered under another policy (employer, a parent or spouse) must purchase the negotiated policy. The following students are required to have health insurance that meets the minimums in Plan I (Mandatory Plan). All graduate students receiving a Full Tuition Waiver as part of their graduate All undergraduate, graduate and ESL international students holding F or J visas. All undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in programs that require proof of • All graduate students receiving fellowships that fully fund their tuition. Students who do not fall in the mandatory group (Plan I) have the option of purchasing other coverage provided through the USG Insurance Program (Plan II). For more information visit: http://www.usg.edu/student_affairs/faq/health Additional insurance information is available at the Health Center. STUDENT AFFAIRS & STUDENT SERVICES DIVISION OF STUDENT AFFAIRS Central to the Division of Student Affairs is enhancing the holistic educational experience of students by providing educationally purposeful services and programs that bridge classroom learning with out-of- class experiences. As such, the primary focus of the Division of Student Affairs is to provide opportunities (e.g., activities, programs, resources, and well-maintained facilities) and to create environ ments that support the achievement of the University’s educational goals. The quality of student life, however, depends on the extent to which students take advantage of what the University offers for their personal learning and social enrichment. Students can be assisted in this important task through the units that comprise the Division of Student Affairs. Visit our web site at: http://www.savstate.edu/adm/sa/index.ht postings must be in good taste. Postings that are lewd, offensive, advertise alcohol, drinking contests and that work against the purposes of the University will not be approved. The student organization or student responsible for approved postings will be responsible for removing STUDENT INSURANCE Theft and Fire. One of the greatest challenges facing colleges and universities is theft in residence halls. From time-to-time, incidents of theft in the residence halls are reported to officials at Savannah State University. Inasmuch as students are strongly encouraged to follow safety instructions and guidelines described in this handbook, it is the University’s expectation that students who live on-campus purchase theft and fire insurance. Such insurance information is available in the Office of Residential Services and Programs at a very reasonable cost. Injury and Sickness. Although students pay a health fee each semester, the fee does not pay for student health insurance. If a student is not covered under their parents’ health insurance, then the insurance plan should be sought by the student immediately. Certain students are required to participate in the University System of Georgia Student Health Insurance Program (SHIP). USG Student Health Insurance Program Requirements All University System of Georgia institutions are required to participate in the Student Health Insurance program. Students in the categories listed below are required to have insurance that meets minimum standards set forth in Plan I (Mandatory Plan). Students who are not covered under another policy (employer, a parent or spouse) must purchase the negotiated policy. The following students are required to have health insurance that meets the minimums in Plan I (Mandatory Plan). All graduate students receiving a Full Tuition Waiver as part of their graduate All undergraduate, graduate and ESL international students holding F or J visas. All undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in programs that require proof of Students who do not fall in the mandatory group (Plan I) have the option of purchasing other coverage provided through the USG Insurance Program (Plan II). For more information visit: http://www.usg.edu/student_affairs/faq/health Additional insurance information is available at the Health Center. STUDENT AFFAIRS & STUDENT SERVICES DIVISION OF STUDENT AFFAIRS Central to the Division of Student Affairs is enhancing the holistic educational experience of students by providing educationally purposeful services and programs that bridge classroom learning with out-of- class experiences. As such, the primary focus of the Division of Student Affairs is to provide opportunities (e.g., activities, programs, resources, and well-maintained facilities) and to create environ ments that support the achievement of the University’s educational goals. The quality of student life, however, depends on the extent to which students take advantage of what the University offers for their personal learning and social enrichment. Students can be assisted in this important task through the units that comprise the Division of Student Affairs. Visit our web site at: http://www.savstate.edu/adm/sa/index.ht STUDENT RECORDS Savannah State University is covered by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA), as amended. It is designed to protect the students’ rights with regard to education records maintained by the institution. Under the Act, students may inspect and review their own education records maintained by the institution and challenge the content of records (except grades which can only be challenged through the academic appeal procedure) on the grounds that they are inaccurate, misleading or in violation of privacy or other rights. Students may control disclosures from educational records with certain exceptions. Savannah State University’s policy on “Access to Student Records” complies with the provisions of FERPA. For additional information or techni cal assistance, you may call (202) 260-3887 (voice). Individuals who use TDD may call the Federal Information Relay Service at 1- 800-877-8339, or you may contact them at the following address: Family Policy Compliance Office, U. S. Department of Education, and 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. Consistent with its mission, Savannah State University takes seriously its commitment to fostering and maintaining an environment conducive to student learning and growth through curricular and co-curricular programs. At the same time, the University has high expectations that students govern their behavior, actions, and practices responsibly and civilly. Students are, therefore, expected to conduct themselves in accordance with the objectives and standards of conduct established by Savannah State University. Finally, students are expected to know disciplinary action regardless of factors such as class level (i.e., freshman, sophomore, junior, senior, graduate student), age, race/ethnicity, place of residence (e.g., University Village, Level I: “Zero Tolerance” Misconduct Level I offenses are very serious violations of the Code of Student Ethics. The University takes a zero tolerance approach to students who violate these standards. Violating the standards of conduct in this area, as a first offense, will result in a sanction of either suspension or permanent Students are subject to disciplinary action for harassing, threatening -including any terrorist acts-, intimidating, coercing, or using physical force in a manner which causes another person of the University community or a guest of the University to be reason Harassing, assaulting, stalking, intimidating, threatening, or abusing another person by written, electronic, pictorial or oral communication or suggestions is prohibited. Students are further prohibited from violating the provisions and intent of applicable University policies on Sexual Harassment (Sexual Assault & Misconduct), Affirmative Action, the Americans with Disabilities Act age, sex, sexual orientation, disability, political affiliation or other ideologies. 3 STUDENT RECORDS Savannah State University is covered by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA), as amended. It is designed to protect the students’ rights with regard to education records maintained by the institution. Under the Act, students may inspect and review their own education records maintained by the institution and challenge the content of records (except grades which can only be challenged through the academic appeal procedure) on the grounds that they are inaccurate, misleading or in violation of privacy or other rights. Students may control disclosures from educational records with certain exceptions. Savannah State University’s policy on “Access to Student Records” complies with the provisions of FERPA. For additional information or techni cal assistance, you may call (202) 260-3887 (voice). Individuals who use TDD may call the Federal Information Relay Service at 1- 800-877-8339, or you may contact them at the following address: Family Policy Compliance Office, U. S. Department of Education, and 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. Level I: “Zero Tolerance” Misconduct Level I offenses are very serious violations of the Code of Student Ethics. The University takes a zero tolerance approach to students who violate these standards. Violating the standards of conduct in this area, as a first offense, will result in a sanction of either suspension or permanent Assault, Harassment, and Fighting: Students are subject to disciplinary action for harassing, threatening -including any terrorist acts-, intimidating, coercing, or using physical force in a manner which causes another person of the University community or a guest of the University to be reason as judicial sanctions may be imposed if the student is found to be responsible. In any campus disciplinary proceedings, the complaint and the accused student will be informed of the outcome Your Rights As A Victim Of A Sexual Assault a violation of the law, if the assailant is not a student, and/or with a violation of the Student Hearing Officer, or Judicial Officer prior to any penalty being imposed. To have past unrelated behavior excluded from the hearing. To be informed of the outcome of the disciplinary hearing, in compliance with the Sex Crimes Prevention Act To have adjustments made in academic programs and campus living arrangements. Available Resources Rape Crisis Center Office - 233-3000 Memorial Medical University Center, 4700 Waters Avenue, - 350-8000 Office of Counseling and Disability Services Office - 356-2202 Division of Student Affairs - 356-2194 Security on Campus (Web Site) - http://www.securityoncampus.org Rape Crisis Center (Web Site) - http://www.rccsav.org as judicial sanctions may be imposed if the student is found to be responsible. In any campus disciplinary proceedings, the complaint and the accused student will be informed of the outcome Your Rights As A Victim Of A Sexual Assault To have a person of your choice accompany you throughout the judicial process. To submit a Victim Impact Statement to the University Board or Student Ethics, a University Hearing Officer, or Judicial Officer prior to any penalty being imposed. To have past unrelated behavior excluded from the hearing. To be informed of the outcome of the disciplinary hearing, in compliance with the Sex Crimes Prevention Act To have adjustments made in academic programs and campus living arrangements. Available Resources Rape Crisis Center Office - 233-3000 Memorial Medical University Center, 4700 Waters Avenue, - 350-8000
Student Handbook Code Of Student RigHtS ReSponSibilitieS And