LHU Student Handbook 

Please Note: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information presented in this handbook/planner. All event schedules were obtained in Spring, 2007, and therefore, are subject to change.  If you have any questions or suggestions for next year’s calendar, please contact the Office of Student Affairs, 311 Sullivan Hall, Lock Haven, PA  17745.

LOCK HAVEN UNIVERSITY

OUR VISION

Lock Haven University was founded in 1870 and the Clearfield Campus was founded in 1990 with the purpose of preparing teachers for the public schools.  It maintains its commitment to educating students in all aspects of learning and for their responsibilities to their communities where ever they may reside.  Promoting a curriculum that is balanced with the liberal arts and requirements of numerous academic disciplines, students are encouraged to learn throughout their classroom experiences and in their living environments.  Students must make a commitment to actively participating in all aspects of learning and putting into practice the qualities of leadership they acquire through actual responsibilities in making this campus a community of scholars.  The faculty, staff and students share a common vision of cooperating as a community that fosters maturity and concern for the well being of all of its members.

OUR ASPIRATIONS

The students of Lock Haven University and the Clearfield Campus become part of the campus community by living in its residence halls and in assuming leadership roles in clubs and organizations.  The campus community is larger than its physical boundaries as students serve the needs of individuals and agencies in the community as well as on the campus by volunteering their expertise and time to assist those around us.  Learning to care for others in many different ways promotes learning about self and understanding of the value of interactions with different concerns and life experiences.  Applying knowledge from the classroom to actual life settings challenges our students to prepare for their futures as professionally educated contributors to our world wide society.

OUR COMMITMENT

Committed to providing an environment that is consistent with the needs of our students’ future endeavors, Lock Haven University encourages scholastic excellence among students, faculty and staff.  As a community of scholars, the exchange of knowledge leads to new ideas and advances that can only occur with interaction between the teacher and the student.  Providing an environment that supports learning and teaching is the commitment of this university to its students, their families and its staff.  The integration of all races, different points of view, cultural distinctions and ethnic similarities describes the potential for growth and learning, whether it is in a residence hall, playing field, laboratory or classroom.  The challenges our students will confront in their futures invite a strong determination and commitment from this university to insure personal development at its best.

OUR INVESTMENT

By the time a student graduates, he or she should: have acquired through general studies the knowledge, skills and values needed to effectively live in one’s own culture; have mastered the skills of effective written, oral and visual communication; be informed and intellectually curious about oneself as a human being , about the natural world, and about one’s own cultural heritage; appreciate other cultures through a knowledge of art, religion, politics, literature, and history; and employ knowledge of the past to understand current and future problems.

Compliance

The success of this policy will depend upon the thoughtfulness, consideration and good will of all members of the Lock Haven University community.

In the event of a conflict, faculty, staff, and students are encouraged to work out a compromise among themselves. If this effort proves unsuccessful, the individual case will be handled by the immediate supervisor.

Copies of this policy will be distributed to all faculty, staff, and students. Signs will be posted and ashtrays removed in all areas where smoking is prohibited.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Lock Haven University welcomes students, faculty and staff from all racial, religious, national and socioeconomic backgrounds. The University does not discriminate in admission or access to its program and activities on the basis of handicap, gender or minority status.

Social Equity/Affirmative Action

Lock Haven University is firm in its resolve that equal employment shall be accorded to all qualified individuals without regard to race, religion, color, disability, national origin, age, sex.

The ultimate objective of this policy is the abolition of practices which tend, inadvertently or otherwise, to discriminate against women and minorities.  Such conduct has the effect of substantially interfering in a severe and pervasive manner with an individual’s work or academic performance, or of creating in a severe and pervasive manner an intimidating, hostile or offensive working or academic environment to a reasonable person.

The objective of the Lock Haven University Social Equity/Affirmative Action Plan is to facilitate equal opportunity by taking positive, aggressive steps to improve the employment and educational conditions for all who choose our University as their place of work or study. By enlisting the aid and cooperation of all segments of the campus community behind the equal opportunity effort, the objectives of the Lock Haven University Social Equity/Affirmative Action Plan shall be accomplished.

All inquiries concerning the program are encouraged to be submitted to the designated Director of Social Equity/Affirmative Action of Lock Haven University, Mr. Albert Jones, (570) 484-2322.

This policy is in compliance with federal and state law, including but not limited to, Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IV of the Educational Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act.

Americans with Disabilities

No qualified disabled student shall, on the basis of handicap, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or otherwise be subjected to discrimination under any academic, research, occupational training, housing, health insurance, counseling, financial aid, physical education, athletics, recreation, transportation, other extracurricular or other post secondary program or activity offered or sponsored by this University.

OCR Guidelines

Lock Haven University is an equal opportunity education institution and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex and disability in its activities, programs, or employment practices as required by Title VI, Title VII or Title IX and Section 504.

For information regarding civil rights or grievance procedures, contact Ms. Sharon Taylor, Title IX Coordinator, and Mr. David Proctor or Mr. Albert Jones, Section 504 Coordinator, at Lock Haven University, Lock Haven, PA 17745 (570) 484-2322. For information regarding services, activities and facilities that are accessible to and useable by handicapped persons, contact Dr. Rey Junco, Support Programs Coordinator (570) 484-2926.

ACADEMIC MATTERS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Academic Advising

Every student enrolled at the University has an academic advisor, usually from the department that offers the student’s major.  Department chairpersons or the Coordinator of Exploratory Studies assign advisors.  Since faculty members from across the curriculum serve as advisors to exploratory students, those students with particular academic interests have advisors knowledgeable in their areas of interest.

Clearfield students who will remain at the Clearfield Campus after the initial semester are advised by faculty at Clearfield. Clearfield students majoring in Exploratory studies who plan to attend the main campus for the second semester are advised by the Coordinator of Exploratory Studies. If a Clearfield student has declared a major, the student is typically advised by a faculty member in that major.

Advisors help students select courses, develop their academic interests, and monitor academic progress. Exploratory students should utilize services offered by the Office of Exploratory Studies to help them decide on an appropriate major. Such services include academic advising and counseling, vocational interest inventories, information on LHU academic programs and requirements, the Academic Majors Fair, and other programming focused on choosing a major. The Office of Career Services has resources and services for exploratory students. All students must meet with their academic advisors at least once each semester.

Responsibility for Academic Advisement

The responsibility for good academic advisement rests with both faculty and students. The faculty member is responsible for communicating accurate and up-to-date academic information and helping make an effective plan. The student is responsible for carrying out the plan and actively seeking help. Ultimate responsibility for knowing about and meeting academic requirements rests with the student.  Good academic advising allows students to achieve optimum progress through the University experience.

CLASSROOM BEHAVIOR

Students and faculty share responsibility for maintaining an appropriate learning environment in the classroom.  Civility and respect create a safe and productive atmosphere in which students can achieve.  Disruptive behavior hinders the educational process and is unacceptable at Lock Haven University.

The definition of disruptive behavior is at the reasonable discretion of the faculty member teaching the class, and determination of whether a specific behavior is disruptive resides within the authority of the faculty member.  Examples of disruptive behavior include, but are not limited to, the following:

1.   Showing disrespect for and displaying poor manners toward any faculty member or other students.

2.   Disruptive or inappropriate use of technology and electronic devices in the classroom, such as cell phones, computers, pagers, and MP3 players.

3.   Persistent speaking without being recognized or interrupting other speakers.

4.   Persistently entering class late or leaving early without an excuse or the faculty member’s permission.

5.   Threats, harassment, or personal insults of any kind directed toward any faculty member and other students.

Faculty have the discretion to impose sanctions for disruptive behavior in their classrooms.  Some of the sanctions may include:

                - a formal apology

                - dismissal from the class in which the disruptive behavior occurs

                - referral to Student Affairs for resolution of the situation, which action could result in dismissal from
                  the University

Changing Your Major

Finding the right major can be a challenge. Discovering all the possibilities may take time. To change majors, petition the academic department of choice.  Applications may be obtained from the Registrar’s Office, the Director of the Campus if attending Clearfield, or online. Be aware that departments may require a certain grade point average or other demonstrations of competence before an application is approved.

Grade-Point Average, also known as Quality Point Average [GPA or QPA]

Completing a course usually results in the assignment of credit.  The grade received in each course generates quality points, which are the product of the numerical equivalent of the grade and the number of credit hours the course carries.  The following chart shows the numerical values of grades:

             Quality Grade           X Points             Course Credit

                      A                          4.0         x       3 credit hours

                      A-                         3.7         x       3 credit hours

                      B+                       3.3         x       3 credit hours

                      B                          3.0         x       3 credit hours

                      B-                        2.7         x       3 credit hours

                      C+                       2.3         x       3 credit hours

                      C                         2.0         x       3 credit hours

                      C-                        1.7         x       3 credit hours

                      D+                       1.3         x       3 credit hours

                      D                         1.0         x       3 credit hours

                      E                          0.0                             

Credit hours have a special meaning distinct from clock hours.  Lock Haven University operates on a semester system and awards semester credit hours.  Usually, a one-semester-hour course meets for one hour per week for a semester (fifteen weeks).  A three-semester-hour course meets for three hours per week, etc.  Classes are typically fifty minutes in length.  There is considerable variation in the relationship between credit hours and clock hours for special courses, for example, laboratories, internships, and studios.

To compute a QPA or GPA for a semester, multiply the value of each grade by the credit hours of the appropriate course; add up all the products, and divide the sum by the number of credit hours attempted.  Here is an example.

                Course I      3 hours    B+     3.3 x 3     =           9.9

                Course II     2 hours    C       2.0 x 2     =           4.0

                Course III    3 hours    A        4.0 x 3     =           12.0

                Course IV   1 hour       E       0.0 x 1     =           0.0

                Total            9 hours                         =   25.9

Adding the products, you get 25.9 total.  Divide by the number of hours attempted (9), and the resulting GPA is 2.88 for that semester or session.  You have a grade average between a B- and a B.

Calculate your cumulative GPA by doing the same operation on all of the credit you have accumulated at LHU.   Credit transferred into LHU is valid for meeting requirements and graduating (with some restrictions), but it does not affect your cumulative GPA.  Remember that to be in good academic standing, you must have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.00, a C average, for all of your academic work at LHU. 

Other Important Grade Information

You may find some of the following grades on your report.

Grade Appeal Policy

INFORMAL PROCEDURE:

If a student disagrees with the final course grade received in a course, the student should attempt to resolve the issues through discussion with the faculty member who awarded the grade.  The chairperson of the department may be included in the discussion if the student so desires.  (If the faculty member awarding the grade is a chairperson, the appropriate dean may be included if the student so desires.)  Informal resolution should always be attempted before initiating a formal grade appeal. 

FORMAL PROCEDURE:

If a student believes that an improper final course grade has been assigned, an appeal may be filed on the following grounds:

1. Clerical or mechanical error in calculation or recording of a grade.

2. Arbitrary and Capricious Evaluation: Significant and unwarranted deviation from grading procedures and course outlines set at the beginning of the course (ordinarily during the first week of the course) or a grade assigned arbitrarily and capriciously on the basis of whim, impulse or caprice. The student may not claim arbitrariness and capriciousness if the student simply disagrees with the professional evaluation of the instructor.

The following steps must be followed:

1. Deliver a written, signed appeal to the faculty member who awarded the grade.  The appeal should contain supporting evidence and indicate a desired solution.  A copy must be sent to the departmental chairperson.

2. The faculty member will respond within ten (10) working days.

3. If the student is not satisfied, the student should within ten (10) working days, pass the appeal formally to the chairperson, who will respond within ten (10) working days.

4. If the student is not satisfied with the chairperson’s response or action, the student should, within ten (10) working days pass the appeal formally to the appropriate academic dean, who will respond within ten (10) working days.

5. If the student is not satisfied, the process continues by the student’s passing the appeal within ten (10) working days to the Vice President for Academic Affairs, who will respond within ten (10) working days.

6. If the student is not satisfied, the last appeal to be made within ten (10) working days, is to the President, who will respond to the student and faculty member within twenty (20) working days.  The President may change assigned grades.  The President’s decision is final.

      At every stage of the appeal, all parties must have access to the evidence submitted.

Graduation Requirements for Undergraduate Students

Students must earn 120 semester hours in order to graduate. This credit must meet established University guidelines at the appropriate grade-point average.

Transfer students must earn a minimum of 30 semester hours as resident students to receive a degree from the University.

In order to receive honors upon graduation, a student must complete 60 semester hours at the University. For students who have completed 60 hours excluding their last semester, honors will be based upon their GPA at that time. Students who have completed 45 hours excluding their last semester and have an honors GPA may be listed in the graduation program and announced, but final determination of honors will be based upon the GPA at the end of their last semester.

Academic honors are awarded based upon the following grade-point average requirements.

Absences from Class

The policies of individual members of the faculty may vary significantly concerning classroom attendance. To a large extent, the responsibility for classroom attendance belongs to the student. With this generalization in mind, the following guidelines should be noted:

1. Those faculty members who consider attendance, class participation, and class performance an integral part of their course work typically include a written statement about class attendance with the course information and requirements that are distributed at the beginning of the semester. Fulfillment of those requirements, including attendance, is the responsibility of the student.

2. Students are not penalized for absences caused by participation in university-approved activities or by verified conditions beyond their personal control.

3. No faculty member is under any obligation to provide make-up work for a student who has an unexcused absence from any class. Students consult with the faculty member concerning any absences. Faculty members may call the Health Service to verify illnesses. Where extended absences are caused by illness, the student should provide verification from the Health Service or the attending physician to the Registrar’s Office.

4. For courses where no policy on attendance has been stated, a student’s grade will not be lowered solely because of absence.  However, absences may and frequently do result in diminished learning and performance, which in turn is likely to affect grades.

ACADEMIC PROBATION AND RETENTION

ACADEMIC PROBATION AND SUSPENSION POLICY

A student who has attempted more than twelve semester hours of credit and whose cumulative grade point average falls below 2.00 at the end of the summer term will be suspended for one semester. 

Suspension appeals must be received within two weeks after the close of the summer session.  The basis for the successful appeal must be documented extraordinary circumstances preventing the student from achieving a 2.00 cumulative grade point average.

EXPLANATIONS

Probationary status is awarded at the conclusion of the fall and spring semester.

Suspension is awarded at the conclusion of the summer sessions.

At the end of the fall and spring semesters, students are notified of probationary status, i.e. cumulative GPA less than 2.00.   In addition, student transcripts will include a probationary notation.

Any student who has attempted more than 12.0 semester hours (cumulative) and has a cumulative GPA less than 2.00 at the end of the summer sessions will be suspended.  Students should, therefore, carefully review their academic record at the end of the spring semester to determine the need to enroll in summer classes at LHU.  Formal notification of suspension occurs in early August.

GPA is not an issue for summer enrollment.  Students may register for summer classes no matter what their academic standing.

Remember that suspension appeals must be received within two weeks after the close of the summer session.  Again, students should carefully review their academic record upon completion of summer courses.  Appeals must document extraordinary circumstances preventing adequate academic performance.  Appeals are submitted to the student’s college dean.

A student enrolling during any semester or summer session of the academic year is subject to review under this academic policy.  If the grade point average is not met, suspension will be noted on the academic record as of the last semester of attendance.

Students who have been placed on probation and choose not to enroll for the spring or summer will be suspended at the end of the summer.  Students who want to return for the fall semester will be required to appeal this suspension through their college dean.  If however, students sit out the fall semester and want to return for the spring 2008 semester or later, they will be required to request permission to return through the Registrar’s Office.

ACADEMIC AMNESTY

Students returning to Lock Haven University after a minimum two-year interruption in matriculation have two options available concerning their previous academic record at the University.  For either option the student’s past academic record remains on the transcript, and the student receives full credit for courses taken.

Option  I Previously earned quality points will continue to be calculated in the student’s grade point average. 

Option II Previously earned quality points will not be calculated in the student’s grade-point average after readmission. 

In addition, readmitted students must meet the University’s requirements as well as the individual departmental and certification requirements that are in place the year in which they return.  Credit for courses already taken may be accepted toward graduation; at the discretion of individual departments, students may be required to repeat those courses in which significant changes in content have occurred. Specific questions concerning these options should be addressed to the Registrar’s Office

Appeals.  Students who are academically suspended may petition the appropriate College Dean for reinstatement.  Students majoring in the College of Education and Human Services should write to the Dean of the College of Education and Human Services.  Arts and Science majors (including students who are exploratory) should write to the Dean of the College of Arts and Science. 

Students must understand that in order to maintain academic integrity and fairness to all students, the deans will scrutinize each appeal carefully.  The appeal letter must document extraordinary circumstances beyond the student’s control (e.g., personal, medical, or serious family emergencies) that significantly interfered with his or her ability to complete the required academic work.

The signed letter must include:

1.   A statement with supporting documentation indicating why academic performance was poor.

2.   A statement indicating how the student expects to improve his or her academic performance.

3.   A statement concerning the projected course of study.

Other statements, independent documentation, references, and other information that the student feels may be helpful should also be submitted at this time.  Informal appeals submitted electronically may not receive full consideration and may not be reviewed.

Readmission.  After being suspended, a student must apply for readmission on academic probation if the current level of enrollment in his or her area permits.  A written notification must be submitted to the Registrar at least six weeks before the semester the student intends to return.  After a two-year separation from the University, students may petition for Academic Amnesty.

The University reserves the right to establish conditions for the readmission of students who have been academically suspended.  It is the prerogative of the Dean or his/her designee to establish conditions and requirements in the readmission letter.  Examples of such conditions include but are not limited to (1) repeat courses for which a student has received an E and (2) meet with the student’s academic advisor and/or Dean on a regular basis.

Educational Opportunity Program and Student Support Services Program.  Students enrolled in the Educational Opportunity Program (Act 101) or Student Support Services Program will meet the academic requirements as outlined in the respective funded grant and at the discretion of the Director of the appropriate program.

Satisfactory Progress

Minimum satisfactory progress toward a degree for a full-time student is defined as the successful completion of a minimum of 24 credit hours during each academic year, including summer school, with a grade average of at least 2.00.

Independent Study

An independent study can be arranged with a faculty sponsor. Independent study credit is available to students who have earned 30.0 semester hours and whose grade point average is at least 2.00. An application form must have the approval of the sponsor and a number of other academic officers of the University. The University catalog contains more information about this process.

Credit by Examination

University credit can be earned through the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) during the student’s first year of enrollment. CLEP tests are given in a variety of subject fields. A complete listing of examinations is available from the Office of Admissions or the Provost’s Office. Students may request departmental examination for any course listed in the University Course Catalog. If successful in meeting departmental standards, students may receive credit. Students will receive a ‘DX’ grade for credit earned by department examination.

Pass-Fail Option

Courses may be taken in the “free elective” category under the pass-fail option. There is a maximum of six (6) semester hours of pass-fail credit.  Application to exercise this option can be made in the Registrar’s Office during the first fifteen days of the semester. At the Clearfield Campus, students may obtain an application in the Director’s Office. A student cannot change to a letter grade after enacting this option.

Repeating Courses

In order to improve a grade point average, students elect to repeat a course.  The first time a course is repeated, the student receives the higher grade that is earned.  If a student attempts to take a three (3) credit course a third time, the grade point average will be determined by dividing the quality points earned by six (6) credits, thus minimizing the impact on the grade point average. 

Incompletes

Students who experience a serious personal, medical, or family emergency that prevents completion of the course work during the final five weeks of the session may petition the instructor(s) for additional time to complete the assignments/requirements.  If the quality of the student’s efforts has been satisfactory and class attendance has been regular, the instructor(s) may, at his/her discretion, assign an “incomplete grade” (I).  The student then has until the mid-point of the subsequent session or summer session to submit all outstanding course assignments/requirements.  If the student fails to complete the outstanding assignments, the incomplete grade automatically becomes an “E” grade unless an extension is arranged with the approval of the professor, who should notify the Registrar’s Office, 127 Russell Hall, telephone 484-2006.

Withdrawal from a Class or Course Change

During the first five weeks of a semester students may exercise the option to withdraw from one or all classes without any grading penalty (“E” grades).  Students who formally withdraw from a course after the 5^th week of a semester and before the 11^th week (after the 1^st week and before 4^th week of a five-week summer session), will be assigned a grade of either W/P or W/F by the instructor.  Although the W/P or W/F will appear on the academic transcript, neither grade will raise or lower the student’s semester or cumulative Grade Point Average.  During the final five weeks, withdrawal will incur grading penalty.  However, in the case of a documented serious medical or family emergency substantially interfering with the student’s ability to perform his/her course work, the Provost or his/her designee may grant a non-penalty waiver (“W” grade).  Refund of fees, if any, is based on the date the written withdrawal is received by the University.  Health Service visits, in themselves, do not constitute proof of serious illness. Students electing to withdraw from a class should contact the Registrar’s Office.

Withdrawal from the University

If circumstances do not permit a student to continue academic work at the University, please consult with the academic advisor, Director of Clearfield Campus, or the Vice President for Student Affairs about withdrawal from the University. The Vice President for Student Affairs approves all withdrawals from the University and can recommend that no academic penalty be assigned if the withdrawal is the result of a medical or serious family emergency.

Students withdrawing from the University need to complete a withdrawal form available in the Vice President for Student Affairs Office, 311 Sullivan Hall, or the main office at Clearfield.  An exit interview is strongly encouraged. All financial obligations to the University must be met at the time of the withdrawal.  Resident students must leave the campus within forty-eight hours after withdrawing from all classes.

Withdrawing and Financial Aid

Any student who receives financial aid and decides to withdraw from the University is subject to special requirements.  If a student withdraws before the ninth (9^th) week of classes, a percentage of the financial aid already received and/or are eligible to receive will be returned to the specific financial aid source.  When the University returns the financial aid funds to the appropriate agency, the student will be responsible for paying the University the outstanding balance.

Please be advised that at the time of the withdrawal from the University, the student may also be required to pay additional funds directly to federal financial aid programs.  It is very important that a student understand the financial decisions being made when withdrawing from the University.  Students deciding to leave the University without formally completing the withdrawal procedures are subject to academic dismissal, may forfeit future financial aid eligibility, and will receive a bill for returned financial aid.

When financial aid funds must be returned to programs on your behalf, these funds will be returned to those programs in the following order:

1.   Unsubsidized FFEL/Direct Stafford Loan

2.   Subsidized FFED/Direct Stafford Loan

3.   Perkins Loan

4.   FFED/Direct Plus

5.   Pell Grant

6.   SEOG

7.   Other Title IV (federal) programs

Funds are returned to programs from which you received funds during the semester in which you withdraw.

Involuntary Leave of Absence

The purposes and objectives of the University include establishing an environment that promotes the well being of the individual. Occasionally, a student may experience medical or psychological difficulties that interfere with academic and personal progress in the University environment. If it is so determined by appropriate medical or psychological professionals and the student refuses to withdraw voluntarily, an involuntary leave of absence may be imposed by the Vice President for Student Affairs or his/her designee.

The Vice President for Student Affairs or his/her designee will determine, after consultation with professionals and following University procedures, that such action is appropriate and will forward a letter to the student and the Registrar’s Office.

When evidence is presented to the Vice President or that person’s designee that the health condition has been satisfactorily resolved, the student may seek readmission to the University based on the Vice President’s recommendation and satisfactory completion of other existing conditions for reenrollment.

Reasonable and necessary extensions of time may be granted by the reviewing officer at any point in the process.

SERVICES FOR STUDENTS

Student Affairs

Every student attending Lock Haven University has the opportunity to learn and develop many interests during his/her college experience. Student Affairs is a segment of the University’s structure that works with a number of offices and individuals who provide services to students.

The Division of Student Affairs is responsible for the development of student potential.  This division consists of professional staff members working on student concerns in areas such as career services, food service, health service, Public Safety, human and cultural diversity, residence life, student recreation center, community service, and student activities.

Programs and activities that are directed by staff members include homecoming, new student orientation, student government, residence hall government, wellness programs, alcohol awareness, community service/service learning, and many different types of cultural, recreational and social events. Clubs and organizations foster leadership skills and always invite different talents and new opportunities. In conjunction with other offices, services are offered to the educationally disadvantaged and developmentally impaired. Adult students also are assisted by many of the services in the division.

Staff members in all areas are available to assist students with their individual needs and concerns. Under the direction of the Vice President for Student Affairs, the services and opportunities for student growth continue to support the academic mission of the University. Whenever there is a need, the Student Affairs Office is a good place to begin.  Students at the Clearfield Campus are invited to make use of the services provided through the Director’s Office at that site.

Career Services

The Career Services Office, located in Akeley Hall, is an integral part of the University’s educational program. It offers a wide range of free services to help students explore, select and pursue a career path. Students are encouraged to use these services as early as their freshman year and throughout their years at Lock Haven University. An emphasis is placed upon developmental counseling so that students may gain the degree of self-understanding and knowledge of occupations necessary to make or change career decisions. 

Individual counseling, and FOCUS, an online interactive career guidance and information system, are available to assist students with their career planning process. The office maintains a Career Library of up-to-date information on career options, employer organizations, internships, job listings, summer opportunities and graduate/professional schools. Assistance is provided in developing career objectives, resume writing, interviewing skills, and job search strategy.  The office also co-sponsors several job fairs and career-related events, and shares job and internship listings with the other thirteen universities in the PA State System of Higher Education.

Additional information and resources may be accessed on the Internet through the Career Services website: ( www.lhup.edu/career.  The office is open 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. on weekdays, with additional evening hours established each semester.

Community Service

MountainServe:  Center for Rural Community Service and Learning exists to encourage civic responsibility for the faculty, staff and students of Lock Haven University.  It is the place where education and service become integrated.  MountainServe offers guidance to students who are seeking placement in meaningful service work and resources to faculty and staff members interested in service learning.  We also serve as the place where the university and community meet.  Through an open and honest dialogue between the residents of Lock Haven and Clinton County, MountainServe promotes sustainable forms of community development through linking the resources of the University to identifiable community needs.

MountainServe offers students individual counseling for a service placement, an on-line application, as well as mentoring to student groups interested in performing community service.  Those students who register with MountainServe will receive membership into our listserv that provides weekly updates as to what service opportunities are available and upcoming.  Students may also get involved in more sustained forms of service through participation in one of our many service programs such as Americorps, International Service Scholars Program, and the community-based Federal Work Study Program.

For more information we invite you to stop in at our office located in 133 Smith Hall, just off the lobby area and speak to our Director, Ms. Anne-Marie Turnage, or contact us at either: (570) 484-2498 or www.lhup.edu/mountainserve

ACADEMIC DEVELOPMENT AND COUNSELING

Student Support Services Program

The U.S. Department of Education funds a grant, which provides services to first generation college students from low-income families and to students with disabling conditions.  Services provided on an individual basis include academic advising, career exploration, personal counseling, tutoring information on scholarships and financial aid opportunities, admission to cultural events and direct tuition aid.  Students are assisted by the Director of Student Support Services Writing Center Specialist, the Math Center Specialist, peer tutors, and peer counselors.   The Student Support Services Program’s primary objective is to increase retention and graduation rates of students.  Contact 570-484-2324 if you have any questions.

Writing Center. The Writing Center is a component of the Student Support Services Program that offers support to those wanting to improve their writing skills.  The Center, in cooperation with the English Department, is staffed by student writing consultants and a faculty director.  The Center offers individualized assistance on an appointment or drop-in basis.  Students in any major receive assistance in all phases of the writing process, including planning, organizing, developing, revising, and editing.  Instruction in word processing is available.  A writing library contains worksheets and self-instructional materials to assist students and their work. 

Mathematics Center. The Mathematics Center offers services to students seeking improvement in their mathematics skills.  The Mathematics Department provides the faculty director who supervises student assistants.  Individual and small group tutorials are available to students whether or not they are enrolled in mathematics classes.  Placement tests are given with follow-up interpretation.  Additional help is offered through self-instructional modules and worksheets, computer-assisted instruction, videotaped lessons, and the mathematics library. 

Disability Services for Students Office. The Office for Disability Services assists with a variety of academic needs. The office also assists students with reasonable accommodations.  Students with learning, visual, hearing, and mobility impairments and other disabilities have used the office for the following: course selection, registration assistance, counseling, liaison with state rehabilitation agencies, obtaining books on tape, note taker and reader service, test accommodations, and advocacy.

Students in need of disability services are urged to make their needs known early since some services require considerable advance planning and coordination.  Contact Dr. Rey Junco at 570-484-2926 if you have any questions.

Tutorial Services

The University Tutorial Services provides tutors to students who apply for assistance in basic subject areas and general education courses. This service is provided to students free of charge. The assistance, rendered by a trained and qualified peer tutor, will depend on the student’s academic needs and available time. Students are encouraged to seek tutorial help before they experience serious difficulties in their coursework. The student may fill out a “Request Form for Tutorial Services” for 100 and 200 level courses.  This procedure is outlined in the Tutorial Coordinator’s Office located in 137 Russell Hall. 

Developmental Education Courses

ADAC100 - Learning Strategies for College (1 s.h.) Designed to develop the learning skills, styles, attitudes, and behavior of students with special academic needs. The students will be instructed in listening skills, note taking, textbook reading, preparation for tests, use of time, solving problems, organizing study, critical and creative thinking for studying, and methods for converting short-term memory to long-term memory.

ADAC101 – Introduction to Academic & Personal Development (3 s.h.) Overview of the evolution and purpose of a liberal college education; exploration of career and life goals and student development theory, educational interests and opportunities; discussion of learning and teaching styles; identification of university resources; development of academic and social skills; and an understanding of the desired outcomes of the entire college experience. This course is primarily for first year students.

ADAC105 – Principles and Development of Cognitive Reading Processes (2 s.h.) Presents strategies and techniques to enhance students’ abilities to learn from written materials, including both expository and narrative texts.  The development of students’ cognitive reading processes and vocabulary will be stressed.

ADAC119 - First Year Seminar for Exploratory Studies Students (1 s.h.).  This course introduces the Exploratory Studies student to the culture and mission of the University and its programs of study.  An orientation to resources available to students and an introduction to basic college learning and study skills is provided.

ADAC 125 – Introduction to Career/Life Planning (2 s.h.)  Through an exploration of career development theory, thorough self-assessment, development of sound decision-making skills, and exploration of academic programs of study and the world of work, this course facilitates the ultimate declaration of major and the first steps in navigating the career/life planning process.

Educational Opportunity Program

The Educational Opportunity Program provides counseling, learning skills, instruction and tutorial services for students whose economic background and educational preparation may impair their initial ability to pursue successfully the opportunities offered by higher education. Through study skills development, personal counseling, peer outreach counseling, tutorial assistance, and academic advisement, the program seeks to develop and enhance the skills students need to be competitive in an academic environment.

For entering freshmen that need to enhance their basic academic skills prior to fall enrollment, the program includes a Skill Development Summer, which includes credit-bearing instruction focusing on math, writing, reading, and other learning skills. Proficiency testing, study skills workshops,   group orientation and counseling activities are provided.  The counseling activities include time management, coping strategies, human relations, values clarification, and decision-making skills. EOP offers selected incoming first-year students an opportunity to adjust to college life and to enhance the academic skills, which will be necessary throughout their college careers.

Students interested in the Educational Opportunities Program (EOP) should contact the director. Staff offices are located in the Department of Academic Development and Counseling in Russell Hall. Inquiries concerning the summer component should be initiated with the Admissions Office in Akeley Hall.

The Educational Opportunity Program faculty is located in Russell Hall.  The Director is Douglas Posey and the telephone number is (570) 484-2457.

Exploratory Studies Advising

The Coordinator of Exploratory Studies Advisement assigns exploratory studies students to an advisor.  Students who are completely undecided about a choice of major are advised by faculty in Academic Development and Counseling to ensure developmental advising.  Students who indicate an interest in a particular major on the Exploratory Advising survey and the Admissions application may be assigned to a faculty advisor in that major.  Programs, workshops, and assessment are done through the Office of Exploratory Studies Advising on a regular basis.  Undecided students receive career counseling and academic advisement from the Coordinator of Exploratory Studies by appointment and informational interviews and shadow experiences can be facilitated through this office.  In September the Academic Majors Fair takes place to introduce undecided students to every major and minor at Lock Haven University through faculty and student representatives from each program.  A two-credit course entitled Introduction to Career/Life Planning is offered through the Department of Academic Development and Counseling.

The Office of Exploratory Studies Advising is located in 109 Russell Hall, Department of Academic Development and Counseling.  The telephone number is 484-2454.  The Coordinator is Maribeth Hanna-Long.

Students can find information on Exploratory Studies Advising on the University website. 

University Counseling Services

University Counseling Services is a component of the Department of Academic Development and Counseling.  Counseling is provided to students with personal, emotional or academic adjustment concerns.  Professional counselors and psychologists assist students with questions about achievement, educational progress, interpersonal relationships, self-image, social skills or other potentially stressful or emotional disturbing experiences.  Services are provided daily during regular working hours.  Students may be referred to off-campus agencies and private practitioners when desired or needed for more lengthy care.  The Counseling Services are located in 102 Russell Hall.

Student Support Services (SSS)
Russell Hall 113
(570) 484-2345
www.lhup.edu/student-support-services

Student Support services is a federal TRIO program fully funded by the U.S. Department of Education. The Student Support Services program's primary objective is to promote the academic success of program participants, leading to higher retention and graduation rates. SSS program policies require incoming first-year SSS students to begin their academic career in Exploratory Studies. The Director of SSS serves as the faculty adviser for all first-year SSS students. The Lock Haven University SSS program has an SSS program that includes 230 participants.

Students must qualify as first-generation (neither parent nor guardian received a bachelor's degree) AND low income (see current income guideline below), first-generation only or have a documented disability (as supported by documentation submitted to the Disability Services Office). Two-thirds of any SSS program must include students with documented disabilities OR first-generation college students who meet federal income guidelines. One-third of the total population of students with documented disabilities must also qualify as low-income.

With the emphasis on the freshman year, the director of the SSS program provides academic advisement and counseling to first-year SSS participants who, as part of SSS program requirements, are enrolled in the Exploratory Studies program. First-year participants meet monthly for team meetings and work closely with SSS faculty and assigned Peer Advisers. A faculty Writing Specialist also works one on one with program participants.

Throughout participants' undergraduate experiences SSS will help students meet their goals. Student Support Services (SSS) does not serve as a replacement to participants' department advisers nor does SSS exclude students from seeking services from other university offices. Through courses and programs, SSS strongly encourages program participants to take advantage of the services offered through other university offices including Disability Services, Career Services, Student Activities, International Studies, and the Office of Human and Cultural Diversity, to name a few. 

Book Loan Program

Active SSS participants will be able to reduce their cost of attendance by utilizing the SSS book loan program. Participants can check out text books from the office with the understanding that their text books must be returned to the office at the end of the semester and not sold.

Grant Program

SSS students who receive a Pell award, have a minimum of a 2.5 cumulative quality point average and who have been active participants in the program are given the opportunity to apply for an SSS grant. The award is equal to the students' Pell award.     

Cultural Programs        

Active SSS participants will have the opportunity to participate in cultural activities throughout the year. Trips will include excursions to Washington, DC, New York City, Philadelphia, and even study abroad experiences. Peer Advisers coordinate these events and trip locations vary yearly. Participants must read their newsletters regularly and pay attention to their emails in order to be aware of these cultural opportunities.

Peer Advising

The Student Support Services (SSS) Peer Advisement Program is a great opportunity for SSS Juniors and Seniors to offer support and encouragement to SSS freshmen through informal social and academically-oriented interactions. SSS Peer Advisers are service minded students with 2.7+ (B-) GPA who play a key role in assisting first year students to become acclimated to the campus and the demands of the collegiate life.

SSS Peer Advisers assist new students through one-on-one and group meetings with their advisees. SSS Peer Advisers are an important on-campus resource for new students and work as vital members of the SSS counseling team. SSS Peer Advisers, because of the hard work they do coordinating activities and mentoring SSS participants, receive full text book support through the SSS program.

Food Service

There are a variety of restaurants and student dining options available at Bentley Hall.  For students who live on campus, you are required to purchase one of the following residential meal plans.  They are:  19 meal plan with $150.00 flex dollars, 14 meal plan with $150.00 flex dollars, 10 meal plan with $150.00 flex dollars, or 175 Block Plan with $150.00 flex dollars.  Students living off campus may also want the advantage of discounted meal rates that a meal plan can provide and can also choose any of the meal plans listed above or select one of the additional options: 5 meal plan with $150.00 flex dollars, 75 meal block plan with $150 flex dollars or an all flex account (which requires an initial $100 minimum deposit).  Special meal plan feature; all meal plans also include 5 guest meals per semester.

The Dining Services Management Company, ARAMARK, is guided by a University consultant and by the student food service committee, which monitors the student comments and concerns and recommends menu and service changes when appropriate. Special accommodations are attempted for student teachers, those on restricted diets, and other participants who are required to be away from campus for University activities.  The food service committee consists of representatives from the Student Cooperative Council, a representative of the Vice President for Student Affairs and the Dining Services Company.

The University will issue your student id card which is also used as your meal card.  This electronic card may not be transferred to anyone for any reason.  You must have the card to gain access to the dining areas unless you are paying cash.  Students are responsible for protecting the quality of their cards.  There is a replacement fee for damages and lost cards of $15.00.  See section on student id cards about replacement information.  If you do loose your student id, you should notify us at 484-2296 or visit the Dining Services Administration Office as soon as possible to ensure that a hold is put on your dining account and that your meals and FLEX dollars are not used by anyone other than yourself.

The University asks that students show regard for others in the dining hall.  The University’s Code of Conduct is applicable to behavior in the dining hall.  Behavior, which is not acceptable to the University, will result in disciplinary action being taken.  Food obtained in the Upper Deck RFoC must be eaten in the Upper Deck.  You are welcome to all you care to eat while there, however no food or beverage is to be removed.  Removal of food or dining services property is considered a violation and will be prosecuted through University Public Safety and Student Life.  Carry out food is available in the Eagle Rock Café and other retail locations. 

Dining is charged on a full week basis, the week beginning on Monday and ending the following Sunday. If you are in a dining plan at any time during a week you will be required to pay for the entire week regardless of the number of meals eaten.

CASH MEAL RATES

This is the price that is charged for customers who do not have meal plans.  The cashiers in Upper Deck RFoC will be able to provide that information to you.  You can also contact us at 484-2296 or visit our website at www.lockhaven.campusdish.com for additional information.

UPPER DECK RFoC HOURS

Monday - Friday:
Breakfast                  7:00 a.m.   -       10:00 a.m.
Lunch                      10:30 a.m.   -         2:00 p.m.
Dinner                       4:30 p.m.   -         7:30 p.m. 

Saturday & Sunday:
Continental             10:00 a.m.   -       11:00 a.m.
Brunch                     11:00 a.m.   -         2:00 p.m.
Dinner                       4:30 p.m.   -         6:30 p.m.

CASH EQUIVALENCY HOURS

Students who purchase meal plans have the opportunity to use one meal swipe in some of our retail locations.  This is achieved by assigning a cash credit amount to a meal and then students can make retail food purchases at Eagle Rock with this credit amount.  If the purchase goes over the cash equivalency amount, then the customer is responsible for the additional amount.  If the purchase is under the cash equivalency amount, there is no cash back.  Cash Equivalency is set up in 4 meal zones.

Zone 1                       7:00 a.m.   -       10:30 a.m.
Zone 2                     10:30 a.m.   -         3:30 p.m.
Zone 3                       3:30 p.m.   -         7:30 p.m.
Zone 4                       7:30 p.m.   -       Close

EAGLE ROCK CAFE...The place for food, fun, AND friends!

Italian Kitchen –Big slices of pizza, stromboli, calzones, and heart paninis offer you grab and go convenience made fresh daily.

Grill Works – Philly cheesesteaks, sirloin burgers, crunchy chicken fingers, chicken wings and quesadillas.

Freshëns – Fruit and yogurt based smoothies made with your choice of nutriceuticals or frozen yogurt, parfaits and sundaes.

Quiznos – Did someone say “TOASTED”?  Lock Haven University features the national brand of Quizno’s right here at Bentley Hall.

Java City – Gourmet coffee, espresso and cappuccino prepared just the way you like it.

C³ – A complete convenience store to save you time and travel.

Keep up with new retail openings, hours of service and specials by visiting our website at www.lockhaven.campusdish.com.

Health Services

Lock Haven University is able to provide health care to the students at no charge.  Glennon Health Services is open Monday through Thursday between the hours of 8 am and 8 pm and Fridays from 8 am until 5 pm.  Saturday hours are available from 8 am to 1 pm.  The Health Service staff consists of a Medical  director, certified physician assistant, registered nurses, one licensed practical nurse and a secretary.  The health service is located in the Glennon Infirmary building on the Glenn Road behind Price Auditorium.  You may contact the Infirmary by phone at 570-484-2276 or by fax at 570-484-2522.

Students are required to complete a Lock Haven University medical health form.  This form consists of a physician signed health history and physical.  The physical must be completed 6 months prior to admission and before a student is permitted to register for classes. 

Health care is limited to treatment of minor illness and injuries.  Serious illnesses and surgical cases are referred to the local hospital or doctor’s office. Taxi service is available to the Lock Haven Hospital from the Glennon Health Service office free of charge.  Students needing medical attention when the Health Service is closed may go to the Lock Haven Hospital.

Insurance coverage is the responsibility of the student.  Students should be aware of their medical insurance and prescription policy coverage (i.e. lab tests, co-pays, etc.).  Many insurances are not covered in this area.  These insurances may have a “guest pass” that needs to be obtained by the student or the parents.  This may allow the student to designate a primary care physician in our area for health reasons.  Otherwise, the student may to return home or pay for health care at a local physician’s office or Lock Haven Hospital.  A referral may be needed from the student’s primary care provider if testing (i.e. lab tests, co-pays, etc.) is needed.  Referrals need to be obtained from the student OR either parent(s) due to H.I.P.P.A. regulations.  A limited insurance policy is available to students.  Information about this policy is available in the Vice President for Student Affairs Office, 311 Sullivan Hall, or call (570) 484-2022.  Glennon Health Services is not financially responsible for any testing (i.e. lab tests, co-pays, etc.) that the student’s insurance policy does not cover.

Glennon Health Services is not permitted to release any information (including to parents) without a signed record release from the student (18 years or older).  The student may obtain a record release form at Glennon Health Services.  This is due to H.I.P.P.A. regulations.

International Studies

Lock Haven University is renowned as a leader in international education and is the only state owned Pennsylvania university with this special mission.

The University has a director of international studies and a staff dedicated to the coordination and supervision of all exchange programs with foreign universities and the development of new international initiatives. The Admissions Office is responsible for admitting new foreign students and the evaluation of credentials. The Institute for International Studies is responsible for granting tuition waivers, faculty and foreign student advisement, working with immigration authorities, coordination of curriculum and student participants in Lock Haven University’s programs abroad, organization of a lecture series, conferences, exhibits, and cultural and social events dealing with international subjects.

All Lock Haven University students studying abroad and all international students enrolling at Lock Haven University must have medical insurance that is acceptable either in the United States or the country of study.  Information about medical insurance is available from the Institute for International Studies Office.

Lock Haven University maintains more than 30 formal exchange agreements with universities in more than 20 different countries around the world, providing diverse academic and cultural opportunities. The International Student Teaching Program places students in Australia, Croatia, England, Ireland and Spain. A unique feature of international education at LHU is that the exchange programs are available to all students, regardless of their major, and students may avail themselves of these opportunities as early as their second semester.

Lock Haven University offers its students an opportunity to add an international dimension to their education through an established and experienced global network of colleges and universities. Visit the Institute for International Studies in Raub Hall or on the Web to learn about the various programs and opportunities that are available.

Financial Aid

The Student Financial Services office administers financial aid programs at Lock Haven University.

Currently about 80% of LHU students receive some financial aid to help in meeting expenses. This assistance is in the form of grants, loans, and student employment. For many students, aid will be a combination of funds from several sources.

Most financial aid available is based on calculated financial need. This means that a student must provide family financial information on the required forms and have eligibility determined according to the differing requirements of the various programs. The requirements of programs vary considerably, and students may be able to receive some financial aid even if their “calculated need” is quite low. Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to have eligibility for financial aid determined.  Student Financial Services recommends that students complete the FASFA each year by March 15^th.  The FAFSA must be completed online at www.fasfa.ed.gov.

Students are notified of financial aid eligibility each spring to summer for the coming year. Aid is subject to all the Terms and Conditions referenced in the award notice. In addition, students are responsible for maintaining Satisfactory Academic Progress as explained in the Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy. Financial aid may be adjusted during the academic year if changes occur in student circumstances. It is also the student’s responsibility to notify the Student Financial Services Office about any private scholarships or awards or any other condition that may affect financial aid eligibility.

Students with questions about financial aid or with financial problems should discuss their situation with a staff member in the Student Financial Services Office. The office is located in 123 Russell Hall and is open from 9 am until 4 pm on weekdays. Staff members are available to answer questions, provide forms, and be of whatever other assistance they can.  In addition, information about financial aid is available online at www.LHU.edu/financial-services.

Satisfactory Academic Progress Requirements for Financial Aid

In order for currently enrolled students to continue to receive financial aid, they must meet the requirements of the Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy.  The following requirements must be met:

•  A student must earn 21 credits in each academic year of full-time enrollment.  Students enrolled for less than an academic year or less than full-time for any period are subject to the requirements listed at www.LHU.edu/financial-services.  Follow the Satisfactory Academic Progress link.

•  A student must maintain a minimum grade point average that meets the requirements of the Probation Policy as published in the catalog.

•  After two years (four semesters) of enrollment, a student must have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.00. 

•  A student must complete his educational program within a maximum time frame not to exceed 150% of the length of the program.

Students who repeat courses for which they have already received a passing grade should note that additional credit will not be earned for such courses.  Therefore to meet the 21 credit minimum requirement, it is necessary to allow for any such repeats.  Similarly, students who are considering dropping from full-time to part-time in a particular semester should note that this may result in a failure to meet the Satisfactory Academic Progress requirements.  

The complete Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy is available online at www.LHU.edu/financial-services via the Satisfactory Academic Progress link.  Students may raise any questions about this policy with Student Financial Services staff.

STUDENT BILLING

The Student Financial Services Office generates student billing for each semester.  Prior to the start of each semester, the Student Financial Services will send a bill to the student’s permanent address on file with the University.  Charges on the student bill are generated as a result of student registration, housing assignments, if applicable, meal plan contracts, and other University transactions.  Financial Aid awards which have been certified by Student Financial Services will be displayed on the student bill.  All payments and payment inquiries should be directed to the Student Financial Services Office.  Failure to conform to the due dates on the student bill will result in a Late Payment Fee.  A student account with a balance due after the first day of the semester will be subject to a hold on access to student records and registration.  A Non-Sufficient Funds Fee will be charged for all checks returned by the bank.  The Student Financial Services Office is located in Russell Hall room 123.  Office hours are Monday through Friday, 9 am to 4 pm.  Answers to many of your questions about student billing and financial aid are available at the Student Financial Services website:  www.LHU.edu/financial-services. 

The Student Financial Services Office may be contacted via:

Telephone                   570-484-2344 

Facsimile                    570-484-2918

Email                          sfs@LHU.edu

Web site                     www.LHU.edu/business

VA Education Benefits

The Student Financial Services Office of Lock Haven University assists veterans, dependents, and reservists who qualify for VA education benefits.  If you have any questions about your eligibility and wish to apply for VA education benefits, including the GI Bill, please contact Student Financial Services, 123 Russell Hall.  This information is also available online at www.lhup.edu/veterans. 

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

The Public Safety Department, located in Glennon, is a service for the University community. Services provided by this department include registering all bicycles and motor vehicles on campus (including visitors’ cars), providing students with Operation I.D. materials, noting safety violations on the campus, investigating all vehicle accidents, criminal activities, and provides crime prevention information. The Department of Public Safety is also responsible for issuing tickets and providing parking control, admitting students to residence halls after hours, handling emergencies, registering all bows/arrows, knives and firearms on campus and securing them in that office, operating the campus lost and found department and enforcing all Pennsylvania criminal and traffic laws.

Officers are on duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Cooperation by all members of the University community is encouraged in reporting criminal acts, suspicious persons and safety violations. The phone number is 484-2278.

Motor Vehicle and Parking Regulations

Parking and operating a vehicle on campus is a privilege granted by the University. All vehicles must be registered at Public Safety or at the Clearfield Campus and display a valid parking decal or visitor’s pass for a specific area. The cost of obtaining a decal varies depending on the assigned lot. It is the responsibility of each student to advise their guests of parking regulations. Parking tickets are issued 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All violations must be paid within 72 hours or a $1 surcharge will be added. If not paid, a citation will be issued through the local magistrate’s office. Payment may be made at the Public Safety Office. Any questions or problems related to the parking or operation of vehicles should be brought to the Director of Public Safety.

I. Resident Student Requirements:

1.   Must have completed 48 credit hours.

2.   Operator’s license and registration card must be presented at the time of registration.

3.   Vehicle must be owned by the student or an immediate family member.

4.   A $20.00 fee will be charged. A total of 250 resident decals will be sold on a seniority basis. Dates will be posted at Public Safety at the beginning of each semester.

II. Commuter Students:

1.   Operator’s license and registration card must be presented at the time of registration (48 credit hours requirement is waived).

2.   Vehicle must be owned by the student or an immediate family member.

3.   A $10.00 fee will be charged for a green decal.

4.   During the first two weeks of classes each semester, students living within a half-mile radius of the Main Campus will not be eligible to receive a commuter decal.  Public Safety will review available space and determine if commuter passes can be issued.  A detailed of the map of the city will be available for review in Public Safety.

5.   Stadium parking is available for students not meeting the criteria under the motor vehicle and parking regulations.  Students desiring parking at the stadium must submit a letter to the Director of Public Safety to obtain a parking pass, which costs $10.00.

Anyone giving false information to obtain a decal or special permit will have his/her on-campus parking privileges revoked for a minimum of one semester.

All fees are subject to change.

DETAILED INFORMATION ABOUT ON-CAMPUS PARKING REGULATIONS IS AVAILABLE FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY IN GLENNON INFIRMARY.

Operation I.D.

The Public Safety Department offers a service free of charge to help in the prevention of theft. This program involves engraving a number, preferably your operator’s license number and birthdate, on all your valuable property. Some articles you are encouraged to engrave are bikes, stereos, computers, small appliances, televisions, radios, and some jewelry.

If at any time you are a victim of crime, you are encouraged to report that crime to Public Safety. Realizing that not every crime is solved, it is very important to report incidents immediately. The Public Safety Department has a trained criminal investigator who will be in contact with you shortly after the crime is reported. Your cooperation and communication with Public Safety is appreciated.   Public Safety also offers training and educational sessions upon request.  Please contact the Director of Public Safety for further information at 570-484-2278.

The Lock Haven University Libraries

The Lock Haven University Libraries consist of the Stevenson Library in Lock Haven and the Clearfield Campus Library in Clearfield. As centers of information for teaching and learning, the Lock Haven University Libraries contain more than 350,000 books and over 900 journals, and provide access to thousands of electronic journals and newspapers through the campus network.

The libraries form an integral part of the University’s online information network.  The LHU Libraries web page (HYPERLINK http://www.LHU.edu/library) is your primary access point for many library resources, including:

•  PILOT, the library catalog of books and periodical titles

•  Full text databases, such as InfoTrac, EBSCOhost, Lexis-Nexis, JSTOR and Project Muse with articles from thousands of journals and newspapers

•  Encyclopedia Britannica Online

•  Electronic indexes to articles in education, criminal justice, science, and other major disciplines. 

•  DVD’s, videos, music cds and other media

Librarians provide reference and information services to help you learn more about using the library’s print, media, and electronic resources.  Librarians can explain specialized reference materials, journal indexes, search strategies for library databases, the World Wide Web and more. Stop at the Reference Desk on the main floor of Stevenson Library or call 570-484-2468.  At Clearfield, call 814-768-3410. 

To extend our access to more books and journals, the Lock Haven University Libraries participate in Interlibrary Loan partnerships with other libraries.  If you need a book or journal article that we do not have, fill out an interlibrary loan request form at the Reference Desk or on the LHU Libraries web page, or use the UBorrow and EZBorrow services online.

To learn more about the Lock Haven University Libraries and their many collections and services, ask a librarian or browse the web site at www.lhup.edu/library.

Stevenson Library hours during the Fall and Spring Semesters are:

Monday - Thursday:      7:30 am    - 11:00 pm
Friday:                         7:30 am    -  4:00 pm
Saturday:                     10:00 am    -  5:00 pm
Sunday:                       2:00 pm    - 11:00 pm
(A 24 hour study area is available during the fall and spring semesters.  Hours are limited on holidays and breaks.)

Clearfield Campus Library hours are:

Monday - Thursday:      8:00 am    -  8:00 pm
Friday:                         8:00 am    -  4:00 pm
(Clearfield Campus Library is closed on weekends and school breaks.)

Human and Cultural Diversity

The Director for Human and Cultural Diversity is located on the ground floor of Sullivan Hall and can be reached by dialing 484-2598 or 484-2154. The director works with all students, especially: African-Americans, Latino-Americans, Asian Pacific Islanders, Native Americans, religious minorities, as well as gays and lesbians. The director assists them with their questions and concerns about college life. This office also provides Financial Aid Scholarships, educational workshops and information to all students about learning to deal with differences. Meeting students from many cultures is part of a college experience. The Director of Human and Cultural Diversity is available to assist all students with concerns.

Student Recreation Center

In the Spring 2002, Lock Haven University’s Student Recreation Center opened its doors to the LHU community.  Students agreed to pay for the operation of the facility as a result of a student referendum conducted in 1998.  The Rec Center has a 1/9^th of a mile running track, a state of the art fitness center, three multi-purpose courts, a dance/exercise room, three racquetball courts, a climbing wall and outdoor lighted courts for volleyball, basketball and tennis.

The Rec Center is open during the academic year, seven days a week.  Policies for use, hours of operation, appropriate attire and available equipment are posted on the web site at www.LHU.edu/rec_center/policies_procedures.htm.

All faculty and staff are able to use the Rec Center by paying the membership fee.  Students are eligible to use the facility by paying the facilities usage fee.

UNIVERSITY OMBUDSMAN

The Assistant to the President/Director of Social Equity serves as the University Ombudsman.  Administrators, faculty, staff and students can consult with the Ombudsman in the event they have specific problems on campus and are in need of a mediator to assist them.  Every consultation is confidential.  Please contact the Ombudsman to set up an appointment at 484-2322 or stop in 301 Sullivan Hall.

LIFE ON CAMPUS

Residence Life Options and Policies

Lock Haven University has six traditional residence halls and one apartment-style hall. There are some basic differences from hall to hall. These differences provide the student an opportunity to choose an environment suitable to his/her own needs.

The six co-educational halls include: Gross, High, McEntire, North, Smith and Woolridge Hall.  The apartment-style hall reserved for upper classmen and international students is Campus Village.

Smith and Woolridge Halls are located in the lower part or center of campus. Gross, High, McEntire and North halls are located on the “hill” or upper part of campus. Campus Village is located on West Church Street.  The University reserves the right to change the composition of a residence hall based upon the number of students admitted.

On Campus Residency Requirements

Lock Haven University is committed to the academic success of all its students and endorses the benefits of on-campus living as a requirement for its students.

Students admitted for the first time to Lock Haven University main campus will comply with the following on-campus residency requirements. Students must remain in University housing until they have earned 30 credit hours

Students who reside at their permanent residence within a 50-mile radius of the University’s main campus may be considered to be commuting from their permanent residence and are not required to live on campus. The University will make an initial determination regarding students’ housing status.

The Vice President for Student Affairs or designee shall have the authority within his or her discretion to review initial determinations made pursuant to this policy and/or to grant applications for waivers in appropriate extenuating circumstances. Requests for review of initial determinations or for waivers in extenuating circumstances should be directed to the Vice President, whose decision shall be final.

Refunds or credits of the housing deposit will not be made after April 1st as outlined in the Housing and Food Service License Agreement. Housing Agreements are for both Fall and Spring semesters unless otherwise indicated.

Withdrawal of residence hall privileges may also result in dismissal from the University in appropriate circumstances.

Housing Policy

The student must sign a residence hall or apartment agreement for housing and food service, which he/she will submit when registering for a room.  Residents of Campus Village are not required to have a meal plan.  Residents of all other halls need to choose a 19, 14, 10 or 175 block meal plan.

Students living in University residence halls are expected to be aware of their responsibilities as outlined in the Housing Agreement and Lock Haven University Statement of Student Rights and Responsibilities found later in this Handbook. All university housing agreements are for a period of one academic year, unless a senior has a student teaching assignment out of the Lock Haven area. Penalties for room cancellations are specifically outlined in the Housing & Food Service License Agreement.

Campus Village Apartments are considered to be a part of on-campus living and as such, residence hall room policies and procedures also apply to students residing in those apartments.

The University reserves the right to change the eligibility standards for students based upon available space.

Room assignments for freshmen/new students are processed according to the date the Admissions Office receives the advanced deposit fee. Final assignments are contingent upon availability of space.

Room Changes

Students who encounter difficulties in adjusting to a certain roommate or hall should consult their Resident Assistant or Resident Director for assistance. Room changes will be granted only if the proper procedures are followed, space is available, and the reason for the request warrants the change as determined by the Student Life staff.

Room Consolidation Policy

Students who find themselves in unrequested single room/apartment situations because of losing a roommate have the following options:

• Consolidation with a student in the same residence hall who is in a similar situation without a roommate.

• Retain the single room and pay the established single room rate, only if there is no overcrowding (see On Campus Residency Requirements).

Single Room Requests

Because of the uncertainty of the housing requirements for the Fall semester, single rooms will not be available to any residence hall student at the start of that semester. Applications for single rooms will be accepted by the Student Life Office. As space develops, single rooms will be offered according to seniority and other factors. Those students who sign-up for rooms which are not specifically designed as singles should understand that a second student may be assigned on a temporary basis. Extra furnishings in single rooms may not be removed.

Room and Board Fees

Room and Board rates are established in May and the most recent rates can be found on the university’s web site at www.lhup.edu.

STUDENT LIFE STAFF

Resident Directors

Each residence hall has a director who supervises the hall and is available to consult with any student. Resident Directors have responsibility for administrative matters associated with operating a residence hall, supervising Resident Assistants and advising hall council. Professional staff members are trained in the area of counseling, or student personnel, and are available to help students with personal, social and academic concerns.  Resident Directors also act as judicial hearing officers.

Resident Assistants

Resident Assistants (RAs) are upperclass students who are carefully selected for their ability to help resident students. They are directly responsible to and work very closely with Resident Directors. RAs are responsible for helping students to maintain a safe, comfortable, friendly academic atmosphere. They serve as helpers, information disseminators, friends, rule enforcers, programmers for events, and administrators. Please feel free to consult your RA about any concerns or problems.

Desk Receptionists

Desk receptionists are student employees who work at the front desk of each building. Receptionists are hired and supervised by the Resident Director. Besides providing desk presence for the residence hall, they also maintain a change fund and check out recreational equipment. In addition, they complete other tasks as assigned by the supervisor. If you are interested in being a receptionist, contact your Resident Director at the beginning of the semester.

Maintenance Staff

Each residence hall has a maintenance staff of custodial workers. Custodians maintain all public areas such as lounges, bathrooms, recreation rooms, closets, laundry rooms, utility rooms, corridors and stairways. Campus Village apartment cleaning, including kitchens and bathrooms, is the responsibility of the residents of that apartment.

Please contact your Resident Director if you have a maintenance/custodial concern. He/she will communicate with the maintenance staff.

PROCEDURES FOR ROOM SIGN UP

Housing Agreement

Students living in the residence halls/apartments are expected to abide by the regulations published in this handbook as well as updates published by the University throughout the year.  Non-compliance with written procedures may result in disciplinary action.

The University may terminate a student’s occupancy of residence hall/apartment space and take possession of the room at any time for violation of residence hall regulations. In addition, a student’s occupancy of a space may be terminated upon the mutual consent of the student occupant and the Dean of Student Affairs or designee.

Room Assignments

Each Spring semester, students may reserve a space in the residence hall/apartments by paying the $100 deposit, signing a Housing and Food Service License Agreement and registering for an available space.

Room assignments for freshmen/new students are processed according to the date the Admissions Office receives the advanced deposit fee. Final assignments are contingent upon availability of space. All room assignments are made by the Student Life/Housing Office, which reserves the right to change such assignments if it becomes necessary. Information pertaining to single rooms or other arrangements are available from the Student Life/Housing Office.

RESIDENCE HALL/APARTMENT LIVING

Your Room

Your room becomes your home and will take on your identity and that of your roommate(s). Although the room is fairly complete, you are asked to furnish your own bed linens, towels, mattress pad, blanket, bedspread, pillow, draperies, wastebasket, and any other personal items that you might wish.  In addition, Campus Village residents may bring their own personal furniture, if space permits.

When you first check into your room, you will be asked to complete a Room Condition Report (RCR) or an Apartment Condition Report (ACR) if you have an apartment in Campus Village. The RCR/ACR is the agreement between you and the University which outlines the condition of the room and all furnishings provided.  You take responsibility for the room and all contents when you sign the form.  This form is checked at the end of the year, and any damages (other than normal wear and tear) and/or missing items will be the financial responsibility of the residents of the room.

The general upkeep and cleanliness of your room/apartment is up to you, however, there are certain specific regulations that must be followed by all residents. The window screens should not be removed from the windows (there is a $15 fine for doing so). Do not use adhesive hangers or decals anywhere in the room or on the door. Poster putty or Tesa tape may be used to fasten things to the walls but do not use adhesive tape or tacks because of resulting permanent damage. Equipment and furniture including beds may not be removed from the rooms. For reasons of safety, beds must not be disassembled or assembled in a different fashion. Beds may not be stacked on other furniture. Closet doors are not to be used as shelving. Draperies or flammable material should not be hung over doorways or lights.

In order to provide completely furnished rooms for all resident students, it is imperative that all furnishings remain in each room. No items should be removed from any room. No furniture should be unbolted from the walls. Students may not make any renovation/addition or attachment (e.g. building shelves, making holes in the wall, the use of nails, etc.) that may cause damage.  Note:  Students are reminded that cellophane tapes and other strong adhesives (duct tape, etc.) will cause damage to walls and/or doors by removing paint.  Students may not place room furnishings in such a way that they are supported by University furniture or residence hall structure.  All room furnishings must be free-standing and self-supporting.  Failure to comply with these procedures will result in student judicial action and a financial charge for maintenance.

Absences

If you plan to be absent from the residence hall for longer than three days, you should notify your Resident Director or Resident Assistant.

Bicycles

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania building codes prohibit the storage of bicycles in the residence halls. Bicycle racks are provided outside, but you must provide your own lock and chain. Bike lockers are also available for rent; see your RD for more information.  The University is not responsible for bicycles left on the premises.

Change

A change fund may be maintained in each building for residents needing change for laundry or vending machines. Change is available only when the desk is open or during the hours posted in your residence hall.

COMMUNICATION

All official university communication with students living in the residence halls will be through university provided e-mail accounts and residence hall mail boxes.  Students preferring to use cell phones or other commercial e-mail accounts may miss important university information.  Students should check University provided e-mail and their assigned residence hall mailbox on a regular basis.

Corridors/Hallways

The hall corridors should be clear at all times and emergency lights must be left on all night. No furniture, luggage, decorations or other items may obstruct clear passage through the corridors and Campus Village walkways. There should be no sports playing in any hallway or common area of the hall.

Emergency Contact Information

Emergency Contact Information must be on file in your residence hall or apartment complex. This contains information on your home address and telephone numbers and the names and numbers of students who would be able to help contact you in an emergency.

Equipment

Each residence hall has recreational equipment purchased and owned by the Hall Council. Your hall has some or all of the following equipment: television, ping pong tables, pool tables, games, pianos, kitchen equipment and cleaning supplies (brooms, vacuum cleaners, etc.) Equipment may be checked out from the residence hall desk by presenting your ID card and a $1.00 refundable deposit. You are expected to pay for damages to equipment when it is checked out in your name. Any equipment that is not functioning properly should be reported to your hall president, desk receptionist or RA on duty.

Keys

Each student is issued a room key and a mailbox key. If keys are lost, the original lock will be replaced at a cost to the student.

Students are permitted three (3) room lock outs per semester.  On the 4^th lock out, the Student Life Staff may issue a lock change request for the room and the student will be billed the appropriate cost.  This policy is designed to provide a service to the student while also encouraging responsible and mature behavior.

Kitchens

Residence hall kitchens are for home cooking and are equipped with sinks, refrigerators and stoves or hot plates. Students should supply their own cooking equipment and utensils for use in the kitchens. Any personal kitchen appliance should be used in the kitchens and not in individual rooms. It is the responsibility of each person using the kitchen to clean it immediately after use.

Laundry Facilities

Coin operated washers and dryers are located in each residence hall.

Liability

The University is not responsible for your personal property. This includes damage due to loss, fire, theft, flooding or other reason. It is recommended that you check your family insurance policy to find out if it covers personal property at a residence away from you home, otherwise you may want to consider renter’s insurance. It is suggested that you record the serial numbers of all valuable equipment to be kept in your room.

Lobbies, Lounges and Recreation Rooms

Lobbies, lounges and recreation rooms may be used for entertaining guests, for relaxing and for residence hall activities. Resident and non-resident groups wishing to use the public areas of the residence hall must register the event in 302 Sullivan Hall and with the hall Resident Director.

Lounge and recreation room furnishings are for the use of all residents and their guests and may not be removed to individual rooms. These rooms should be left in an orderly condition after use.

Floor lounges are available for socializing during the day and for studying and socializing during quiet hours. The furniture may not be removed from these areas. Students who move lounge furniture to their rooms will be fined a minimum of $15.

Mail

You will be assigned a mailbox with a lock when you move into your residence hall. Please inform your family, friends and others of your residence hall address so that mail will be delivered directly to you. This must be in the following format:

              Mary Jones

              Name of Residence Hall

              Box or Room Number

              Lock Haven University

              Lock Haven, PA 17745

Mail address to Campus Village should be addressed as follows:

              Mary Jones

              500 W Church Street

              Apartment Number

              Lock Haven, PA  17745

Please encourage parents and friends not to send cash in the mail. Checks or money orders would be more appropriate.

Perimeter Door Access

All Residence Halls have a type of outside or inside electronic door access.  Doors are locked most hours of the day and night.  Students, using their Student ID card, will have access to their residence hall 24 hours a day.  Students are not permitted to allow others to follow them into the hall.

Quiet Hours and Consideration Hours

“Quiet hours,” a time set aside for minimal noise within a hall, will be set by each residence hall council. All times other than quiet hours are known as “consideration hours.” During this time it should always be quiet enough so that anyone who wants to can sleep or study. Students are expected to respect the requests of others for quiet, and share in the responsibility for developing and maintaining a positive atmosphere on their wing or apartment complex.

Safety on Campus

The University’s residence halls provide opportunities for students to enjoy freedom of choice. The safety of each individual is highly encouraged and students should participate in educational safety programs. Students are asked to voluntarily participate in securing their rooms and maintaining security for all residents. Traditional residence hall desks are staffed until 2 a.m. by desk receptionists. Students seeking admittance to residence halls will be required to use their LHU ID card.  Emergency telephones are located outside each residence hall to assist you. Students must carry their student I.D. at all times.

Security Alarm System and Residence Hall Exterior Doors

An alarm system is in operation in each residence hall seven days a week. Student I.D. must be shown upon request of University personnel including students employed in the residence halls.

Individuals who do not comply with these regulations are subject to disciplinary action. Anyone who tampers with the alarm system, attempts to circumvent the alarm system, or who compromises the safety and security of the building, its residents or its furnishings, will be in violation of University policies and regulations, and will be subject to disciplinary action and/or arrest.

Study/Computer Rooms

Study/Computer rooms are located in each residence hall. Hours for use are scheduled in each residence hall.  The furniture may not be removed from these areas.

Telephones

Residents of each room are responsible for providing their own cell phone and making arrangements to acquire a calling plan.  Lock Haven University residence hall rooms are no longer equipped with land-lines.  Emergency “Single call only” phone boxes will be located on each residence hall floor. 

All official university communication with students living in the residence halls will be through university provided e-mail accounts and residence hall mail boxes.  Students preferring to use cell phones or other commercial e-mail accounts may miss important university information.  Students should check University provided e-mail and their assigned residence hall mailbox on a regular basis.

Television Cable

Television cable is available in all residence hall rooms and apartments and the expanded basic service is provided without cost to students.  The residents of the room must pay for any damage or missing cables belonging to the TV service provider.

Utility Rooms

The utility rooms contain mops, brooms and buckets for use in keeping your room clean. The equipment may be obtained in the residence hall from the hall staff during desk hours. Please return these articles promptly when you are finished with them so that others may use them.

Vending Machines

Vending machines are located in the residence halls for your convenience. If a machine is out of order, or if you lose money in a machine, please report it to the desk receptionist. Vandalism to machines may result in cause for them to be removed from the halls.

IMPORTANT POLICIES GOVERNING THE RESIDENCE HALLS AND APARTMENT COMPLEX

Instruction from University Officials

Students must follow oral or written instructions regarding University regulations or state law as given by authorized representatives. These authorized representatives of the university may include Desk Receptionists, Resident Assistants, Resident Directors, and any other University personnel.  The responsibilities of the University require the reservation of a reasonable right to enter into student rooms to assure proper upkeep, to provide for the health and safety of all residents, and to investigate when there is reasonable cause to believe a violation of residence hall or other University regulations has occurred within student rooms.

Identification

Students are required to carry and provide their student identification.  The student ID will be required for entry into all residence halls.

Residents and/or guests are required to identify themselves upon request from University officials. All residence hall students must obtain proper hall identification for their guests. Failure to comply may result in disciplinary action.

Alcohol

Pennsylvania law states that no one under 21 years of age shall possess, sell, transport, or consume alcoholic beverages. Underage drinking violations are dealt with in accordance with Pennsylvania statutes.

The possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages in the University residence halls or apartments is not permitted by any student or guest including those 21 and older. In addition, students are reminded that intoxication does not excuse offensive behavior and that disciplinary action will be taken against offenders.

Alcohol is not permitted on University property. Violation of this University policy can result in dismissal from the University. Students may be referred to local or state assistance agencies for counseling services for alcohol misuse.

Drugs

Federal and state laws prohibit the use of illegal drugs and the misuse of legally prescribed drugs. Students are expected to know about drugs and the law. If you are concerned about drugs or their usage, the Student Affairs staff would be glad to discuss the legal and psychological aspects of drug usage.

Possession, sale, use, transfer, purchase or delivery of illegal drugs, and/or drug paraphernalia on campus is prohibited. Misuse of legally prescribed drugs is also included in this definition.  Violations of this University policy can result in suspension from the University. Students may be referred to county and state assistance agencies for misuse of drugs.

Smoking/Tobacco Products Policy

All residence halls and apartments are considered to be non-smoking.  Smoking is prohibited within all residence halls and apartments even within student’s rooms.  Chewing tobacco is only permitted in the students’ room with the roommate(s) permission.  The Residence Hall Council of each building retains the right to control smoking designated areas within the immediate vicinity of each residence hall (25 feet).   Please check with residence hall staff if you are unclear about this policy.

Pets

Pennsylvania Health and Safety regulations prohibit the keeping of animals or pets for any reason in state-owned residence halls or apartments. In keeping with these regulations, Lock Haven University permits tropical freshwater fish in a five-gallon tank or less as the ONLY permissible pets within the residence halls/apartments. Aquariums of five gallons or less are only permitted if adequate and routine maintenance of the tank is performed. Should proper care and maintenance not be performed, the residents will be asked to remove the aquarium and this privilege will be revoked. This will be done at the discretion of the student life staff.

During holiday and vacation breaks, electricity is turned off in the residence halls as a cost and energy saving practice. In these instances, it is up to the resident to arrange for the removal of the fish from the hall, as the University will assume no responsibility for feeding or care of the fish at any time.

Residence Hall/Apartment Solicitation Policy

I.    Definitions

1. The term “solicitation” refers to the act of approaching another with the intent to petition or request support.

2. The term “commercial solicitation” refers to the solicitation of a sale of any lawful consumer product or service.

3. The term “non-commercial solicitation” refers to acts of solicitation that do not involve an attempt to sell consumer products or services.

4. The term “fundraising for non-commercial purposes” refers to fundraising by a non-profit educational, charitable, political or religious association, organization or corporation.

5. The term “recognized campus organization” means any group, association, organization or corporation officially recognized by, or affiliated with the University.

6. The term “outside individual, group, association, organization or corporation” refers to individuals who are neither University students nor University employees and groups, associations, organizations and corporations that are not affiliated with the University. The term includes University employees when they are conducting solicitations on behalf of groups, organizations, associations, or corporations not affiliated with or recognized by the University.

II.  General

A. Registration

Recognized campus organizations, as well as outside individuals, groups, associations, organizations and corporations who wish to solicit are required to register several days in advance with the Vice President for Student Affairs before they will be permitted to enter University buildings. The University may prohibit or limit sales of consumer products and services by individuals, groups, associations, organizations, and corporations

B. Profit-Sharing

The University may require outside individuals, groups, associations, organizations and corporations engaged in the sale of consumer products and services to contribute specified percentage of profits resulting from sales on campus to specified campus organizations.

C. Residence Halls/Apartments

1. Only individually addressed mail will be disseminated to mail boxes.

2. Door to door solicitation in the living units is not permitted.

3. Solicitation in individual rooms is allowed only by invitation of the occupant.

4. Solicitation in public areas of the residence halls may be permitted in designated areas as determined by the Vice President for Student Affairs or designee.

5. Invited group demonstrations are permitted in specified common areas of the residence halls.

6. Sales persons are permitted to visit individual students in their respective rooms and at the students’ request to finalize sales agreements.

7. A sale in a residence hall room or apartment to a purchaser other than the occupant is prohibited.

8. Group solicitations of sales in the common areas of the residence halls must abide by the University fundraising policies.

The rules and regulations implementing the above policy may be obtained from the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs.

Visitation Regulations

Visitation in the residence halls is permitted twenty-four hours a day. Anyone entering the residence halls during front desk hours must show valid photo identification and register at the front desk, or the host must make prior arrangements (48 hours prior to the visit) with the Resident Director. All guests and visitors must be escorted by a resident at all times. Current policy defines guests as those non-students visiting students and visitors as Lock Haven University students who do not live in the specific residence hall visited.

1. It is the responsibility of roommates to agree upon the times when their room will be used for visitation.

2. It is the responsibility of every resident to report violations of hall visitations policies to a Resident Assistant, Resident Director or the Desk Receptionist.

3. It is the responsibility of the Hall Council to publicize and enforce visitation regulations within the residence hall.

4. It is within the jurisdiction of the residence hall council and the Resident Director to temporarily suspend visitation privileges on a wing, a floor or the whole building if the residents have not accepted the responsibilities of adhering to and enforcing the policy.

5. It is within the jurisdiction of the executive board of Residence Hall Association and advisor(s) or the Resident Director to temporarily suspend visitation privileges in a residence hall or halls, if the residents have not accepted the responsibilities of adhering to and enforcing the policy.

6. A host is considered responsible for the behavior of guests or visitors.

7. Visitors and guests must be met in the lobby or front door and must be escorted by their host at all times within the residence halls.

8. A guest or visitor must be accompanied or met by the host to gain admittance to the building. Only the main lobby doors may be used for entry and exit.

9. Visitors and guests are required to use only the bathrooms which are clearly marked for their gender’s use.

10. Any guest or visitor found unescorted may be required to leave the building/apartment area immediately.

11. Any infractions of the above regulations may result in disciplinary action.

12. It is within the jurisdiction of the Residence Hall Council to temporarily suspend visitation privileges in a residence hall for special purposes such as final examination week.

Posting Policy

All flyers, posters, etc. on a bulletin board must contain the stamp “approved for posting” by the Residence Director. Any poster not properly stamped, will be removed. Large posters will be permitted in the lobby areas only and may be restricted by Resident Directors. The residence halls will not post any signs, posters or banners promoting alcohol or an alcohol-related event. For Sale signs, travel posters, magazine sales, credit card applications may only be posted on the bulletin boards.

Approval for posting may be obtained during the office hours of the Resident Director. If you leave a sign for posting at other times, please write your name and phone number on the back. Posting is prohibited on any glass surface -- doors and windows. Please use masking tape only. Any violation[s] of this policy may result in revoking posting privileges.

Health

Students who are feeling ill should contact the Health Services at (570) 484-2276.  If the Health Service is closed, please contact a Resident Assistant or Hall Director. If it is necessary to go to the hospital during the evening or weekends, please notify the Resident Director or the Resident Assistant on duty.  An ambulance may be called by either Public Safety or the Resident Director.

Fire Prevention Measures

• Candles and incense, oil lamps and open flames are not permitted in the residence halls or apartments.

• Smoking is not permitted in the residence halls or apartments.

• Do not put burning materials down the trash chute or in trash cans.

• Kitchen appliances are not permitted in residence halls (hot plates, broilers, electric fry pans, corn poppers, etc.)  Campus Village apartments are equipped with an electric stove and refrigerator.

• Certain other electrical appliances (space heaters, sun lamps, heat lamps) may not be used in the residence halls or apartments.

• You may use certain electrical appliances such as hair dryers, electric rollers, and small microwaves in your room, but you are asked to unplug them when you are not in the room or when they are not in use.

• You may use coffee makers that have internal heating elements.  All appliances that use an open heating element/source are prohibited.

• You may use radios, televisions, stereos, lamps, and clocks, but you are asked to unplug them during vacation periods.

• Do not use more than one appliance for each electrical outlet.

• Cars and bicycles may not be parked in fire zones around the residence halls.  Cars illegally parked may be towed, at the owner’s expense.

• Smoke and heat sensors, pull stations, sprinklers or sprinkler piping and fire extinguishers are located in each residence hall.  Tampering with or activating any fire equipment in the absence of an actual fire will result in severe fines and possible legal action.

• The fire doors are swinging doors located throughout the building that will help keep a fire from spreading. Do not prop them open, and please, close them when someone else has left them open.

Fire Alarms

IF YOU BECOME AWARE OF A FIRE, SOUND THE FIRE ALARM AND CONTACT YOUR RESIDENT DIRECTOR OR RESIDENT ASSISTANT IMMEDIATELY.

Do not try to put the fire out if there is any personal danger involved, or if it causes a delay in contacting the Resident Director or sounding the alarm.

A number of fire drills are required and scheduled during the year in order to ensure that all individuals know safety precautions and evacuation routes. When the fire alarm sounds, it is mandatory for you to leave the building immediately. In case of illness or injury, contact your Resident Director or Resident Assistant at once.

The following procedures should be followed when a fire alarm is sounded:

• Close the window in your room/apartment. This cuts down on a draft that fans a fire.

• Leave the door to your room closed.

• Wear hard-soled shoes and a coat to protect you from the fire and the weather, and carry a towel to protect you from the smoke.

• Leave the building quickly and quietly. Try to be aware of alternate routes you can use in case your regular evacuation route is blocked.

• Assemble outside the building, out of the way of fire equipment, and await further instructions.

• Do not use elevators.

Vacation Instructions

Whenever you leave your residence hall/apartment for a vacation period, you are asked to leave your room in an orderly, sanitary condition. For reasons of safety and hygiene, please make sure that you do the following:

• Clean your room thoroughly, and leave your possessions in order.

• Empty, wash and unplug refrigerator.  (Remember defrosting time!)

• Campus Village residents need to unplug the refrigerator at the end of their contract.

• Discard all perishable food.

• Empty wastebaskets and remove trash.

• Unplug all electrical appliances, including clocks, lamps, etc.

• Close windows.

• Lock your room door.

Your room will be checked for these safety precautions at the beginning of each vacation by your Resident Director or Resident Assistant. A $25 improper checkout fee may be imposed if these instructions are not followed.

Before each vacation period, you will receive notice of the closing instructions that include the date and time of closing and reopening for your hall.

Students who cannot comply with the announced closing and opening times should contact their Resident Director as soon as the closing notice is posted to see if it is possible to make other arrangements.

Once the hall has officially closed, students will not be readmitted to the hall until the published date and time. Violators are subject to judicial action and a $200 fine.

Recycling Responsibilities

LHU recycles the following materials: all aluminum, steel, bi-metal cans, and plastic, newspapers, magazines, glass (please do not break the glass), corrugated cardboard and mixed paper.

There are clearly marked containers for all recyclable materials throughout the campus.

Tips on Recycling. Steel and bi-metal cans, usually food containers, should be rinsed and have both ends cut out and flattened to conserve space.

There will be boxes around campus for mixed paper such as: computer paper, stationery, and most tablet paper.

Corrugated cardboard should be flattened and when a stack is collected, it should be tied in neat bundles for easy handling.

Glass containers should have the metal caps removed. It is not necessary to remove labels. Please, do not break the glass containers because it is dangerous to handle and the recycling centers are set up to accept whole containers, not fragments.

Residence Hall Room and Apartment Entry Policy

Lock Haven University is committed to the protection of students’ right to privacy within the confines of their assigned residence hall rooms or campus apartments.  This right to privacy is balanced by a responsibility to protect the health and safety of the University community.  The University also has an obligation to protect its property, service functions, and educational mission from damage or disruption caused by violations of University regulations or criminal law.  It is within this context that the following guidelines were established:

University staff members shall generally enter a residence hall room or university apartment within the following parameters:

(a) Under conditions of serious threat to the safety or well-being of persons or property.

(b) When behavior or activity occurring in a room is disruptive to other residents, and occupants of the room are not present or have not responded to requests to open the door.

(c) To perform routine maintenance, complete repairs, or to conduct regular room/apartment inspections.  Room inspections are generally for assessing compliance with fire safety regulations, damage, health conditions, maintenance needs, and cleanliness.  Such inspections are generally announced at least twenty-four hours in advance.  Residents need not be present during the room inspection.

(d) During building emergencies such as fire alarms or actual fires, tornadoes or electrical or plumbing malfunctions.

(e) When instructed to by an authorized police officer.

(f) With the permission of an assigned resident.

(g) Upon the issuance of an administrative search warrant.

Upon entering a room according to the aforementioned guidelines, staff members may confiscate and document items that constitute violations of law or University rules, regulations, and policies.  These items must be in plain, unobstructed view of the staff member.  Police personnel may also be called when appropriate.  Confiscated items (e.g., cooking appliances, candles, etc.) not in violation of local, state, and federal laws may be returned to the owner when appropriate.  Additionally, university staff members will not routinely admit a third party to another person’s assigned room or apartment without the consent of an occupant.

State and federal law governs the protocol for entry into and/or search of campus rooms when enforcing criminal statutes.  Such entry is normally the responsibility of police personnel.

The issuance of an administrative search warrant is typically based on reasonable cause.  Reasonable cause is less than certainty and more than mere suspicion that the search of a particular dwelling will disclose specific evidence.  Absent exigent circumstances, administrative searches must have the advance approval of the President, or the Vice President for Student Affairs, or the Dean of Student Affairs, or a designee.  Once approval is received, persons entering a dwelling should announce themselves and their purpose.  A lack of response from within the dwelling in a reasonable amount of time may justify the use of a master key to enter the premises.  The search for evidence justifies intrusion only into the areas of the dwelling where such items may be found.  Violations discovered during this administrative action will be subject to adjudication within the University judicial system.

STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS

Student Cooperative Council (SCC)

The Student Cooperative Council, Inc. or SCC, is the student governing body of Lock Haven University. As the governmental body of the students, the SCC plays an integral role in the administration of the University. The SCC works with the students, faculty and administration on policies that affect the University.  All students are members of the SCC and all have a role in the election of officers and representatives on the Student Senate.  This principle governing body allocates activity fees for the operation of intercollegiate athletics, clubs, theatre groups, musical groups, intramurals, and recreation.  The SCC operates the University Bookstore, the Parsons Student Union Building and vending services on campus.

SCC Committees

Any member of the SCC can be a member of our standing and/or ad hoc committees. No student may chair more than one committee in any given semester. The committees include:

      Student Appropriation Committee (SAC)

      Elections Committee

      Food Service Committee

      Information Systems Task Force

      Public Relations

2007-2008 SCC Executive Committee Officers:

President              William J. Dowd, III
Vice President      Keith Haller
Treasurer              Donald Amoriello

Black Student Union and LSA 

Formed in 1970, the Union creates an awareness of African American culture and brings about a socializing force in a positive direction. The society actively sponsors speakers, cultural and social events and coordinates Black History Month activities with other campus organizations. Membership is open to all students.

LSA (Latino Student Association) was created to bring Hispanic students together and to provide the campus with great awareness of this culture.

Residence Hall Association

All current residents of the residence hall are members of the Residence Hall Association (RHA). The presidents of each hall are responsible for assisting in establishing residence hall rules, regulations and policies, formulating and allocating budget expenditures and promoting the general welfare of resident students. The Residence Hall Association meets weekly and all students are welcome.

Programming - The presidents and vice presidents of each hall meet weekly to coordinate programs and activities of an educational, cultural, social and recreational nature for resident students. Students are welcome and are urged to attend these hall council meetings to offer their ideas and suggestions.

During the academic year, RHA sponsors many campus functions including: dances, study break socials, Family Day, Annual Semi Formal, weekly bowling and the Movers and Shakers Program.

Hall Council - Each residence hall has a hall council consisting of the president, vice president, secretary, treasurer and several wing representatives. Wing representatives are elected by the students of each wing in September. If you are interested in being actively involved in residence hall government, you are urged to run for election. Your specific responsibilities and any other questions can be answered by your residence hall president or vice president or Resident Director.  Hall councils work closely with Residence Life staff to promote communication on the campus.

Student Organizations

There are over 140 clubs and organizations on campus recognized by the Student Cooperative Council, Inc.  They provide a great way to get involved, pursue interests and meet new friends.  Clubs and club types include:

Greek Organizations

Interfraternity Council

                Alpha Chi Rho

                Alpha Sigma Phi

                Kappa Alpha Psi

Panhellenic Council

                Alpha Sigma Tau

                Sigma Kappa

                Sigma Sigma Sigma

                Zeta Tau Alpha

                Zeta Phi Beta

Honor & Service Societies

                Alpha Kappa Psi (Business)

                Alpha Mu Gamma (Foreign Languages)

                Alpha Upsilon Alpha – Beta Lambda Chapter (Honors Reading)

                Alpha Psi Omega (Theatre)

                Delta Psi Kappa (Education, Health & Recreation)

                Gamma Psi

                Kappa Delta Pi (Education)

                Kappa Kappa Psi (Band)

                Lambda Pi Eta – Rho Delta Chapter (Communications)

                Mu Upsilon Delta

                Phi Alpha (Social Work)

                Phi Kappa Phi (History)

                Phi Kappa Pi

                Phi Sigma Pi

                Phi Sigma Tau

                Psi Chi (Psychology)

                Sigma Tau Delta (English)

                Tau Beta Sigma (Band)

Religious Clubs

                Christian Student Fellowship

                Full Gospel Fellowship

                Hillel

                Latter Day Saints Student Association

    New Life Fellowship          

    Newman Community

                Protestant Campus Ministries     

Academic Clubs

                Athletic Training Club

                Biology Club

                Chemistry Club

                Council for Exceptional Children

                Criminal Justice Student Organization

                Early Childhood Education Club

                English Club

                Geoscience Club (Geology)

                German Club

                Health Science Club

                Honors Club

                JS PASS – Physicians Assistant Program

                Le Club Francais – French Club

                LHU AHPERD

                Lock Haven Psychological Association

                Math Club

                Media Design Club

                Nanotechnology Club

                Philosophy Club

                Physics Club

                Pre – Law Club

                Pre – Med Club

                Recreation Society

                SESPSEA

                Social Science Club

                Social Work Club

                Society of Collegiate Journalists

                Spanish Club – Vamos A Charlar!

                Sport Administration Society

                SPSEA

Competitive & Club Sports

                Airsoft

                Boxing Club

                Cricket Club

                Fencing Club

                Forensics Team (Debate Team)

                Golf Club

                Gymnastics Club

                Ice Hockey Club

                Intramurals

                Karate Club

                LHU Winterguard

                Martial Arts Association

                Men’s Lacrosse

                Men’s Rugby

                Men’s Volleyball

                Roller Hockey Club

                Skiing & Boarding Club

                Ultimate Frisbee

                Wiffleball Club

                Women’s Rugby

Multicultural Clubs

                Asian Student Association

                Black Student Union

                Distinguished Gentlemen

                Gay-Straight Alliance

                International Student Association

                Latino Student Association

                Second Family

                Sophisticated Ladies

                Soul Sista Hood

                TIARA

                Women’s Coalition

Special Interest Clubs

                Aerobics Club

                Association for Computer Machinery / PCU  

                Cheerleaders

                Circle K

                College Democrats

                College Republicans

                Colleges Against Cancer

                Eagle Eye

                Eagles Nest Society

                Electronic Entertainment Society

    Fly Fishing Club

                Free Thought Alliance

                Global Viewers

                H2 Real Hip Hop Club

                Habitat for Humanity

                Haven Scope

                Musical Gaming Association

                Outing Club

                PA-SWAT

                Qadesh Society

                Ranger Club

                Rotaract

                Safe Haven

                Sign Language Club

                Soaring Eagle Paint Ball Club

                Sports Broadcasting Club

                Strength, Conditioning & Fitness Club

                Student Athlete Advisory Committee

                Underground Role Playing Club

                WLHU Radio        

Production & Performance Organizations

                Dance Consort

    Gospel Choir

                Hip Hop Dance Club

                Jazz Rock Ensemble

                Lock Down

                Lyrically Speaking

                Modern Dance Company

                Revamp Dance Crew

                University Band

                University Choir

                University Players

Programming Organizations

                Clearfield Campus Activities Board

                Fine Arts Society

    Haven Activities Council

                LOC Entertainment

                Residence Hall Association

                Student Cooperative Council, Inc.

Student Publications/Communications:

                Havenscope (T.V.)

                The Crucible (literary)

                The Eagle Eye (newspaper)

                WLHU Radio

GUIDANCE FOR FORMING AN ORGANIZATION

Ways and Means Committee Guidelines:

The following guidelines are designed as a checklist to help those organizations that submit a constitution to the Student Cooperative Council (S.C.C.) in order for them to become recognized.

The following items must be contained in a constitution in order for Senate approval.

______ (1) Proper name of the organization.

______ (2) Defined purpose/goals of the organization

______ (3) Membership information
______           (Limited to Lock Haven University students only.  Part time and Full time students
______           only; no alumni membership.)

______ (4) Voting Rights
______           (All active members must be permitted to vote.)

______ (5) Officers
______           (Must include duties of a President, Vice-President, Secretary, and Treasurer.)

______ (6) Qualifications of Officers
______           (Must have all activities fees, parking fines paid, and QPA qualifications met, etc.)

______ (7) Election of Officers
______           (Include when elections will take place and length of the term.)

______ (8) Meeting Times and Place
______           (Need not be too specific.)

______ (9) Will Dues be colleted?

 ________(10) Definition of Quorum.

                        (Quorum is usually defined as fifty percent plus one members - 50% + 1)

 ________(11) ALL ORGANIZATIONS MUST ABIDE BY ALL S.C.C., Inc.
______         GUIDELINES AND CONSTITUTION.

______ (12) ALL ORGANIZATIONS MUST ABIDE BY THE LHU STUDENT HANDBOOK.

______ (13) If dues are collected, they must be reported to the S.C.C., Inc. Business Manager

                         and Treasurer.

______ (14) S.C.C., Inc. funded clubs MUST turn in a club roster each semester.

______ (15) Budgets for S.C.C., Inc. funded clubs are submitted to the S.C.C., Inc.

                         Treasurer every spring.

 ______ (16) Must give a report to Senate every academic year, either in the Fall or Spring

    _____        Semester.

 ________(17) Must have an advisor

                         (faculty or staff)

______ (18) Amending the Constitution
                         All amendments must be passed by a majority vote by the Ways and Means
______        Committee of the S.C.C., Inc. Senate.  If deemed necessary, amendments passed by the

                         Ways and Means Committee of the S.C.C., Inc. must pass by a majority vote in the  

                         S.C.C., Inc. Senate.

 ______ (19) Repealer
______        (This is the last Article in the constitution):  Any and all previous bylaws and constitutions

                          of the organization known as the (your club name here) are hereby and forever repealed.

STUDENT APPROPRIATIONS COMMITTEE (S.A.C.) FINANCIAL GUIDELINES:

I. Eligibility

A. For an organization to request an allocation, it must first have a valid and approved student constitution by the Senate.  The organization must maintain a valid and approved student constitution by the Senate.  An organization that is determined by the S.A. C. to be eligible for an allocation does not automatically receive an allocation.   First year allocations may not exceed $800.00 and cannot exceed more than the amount of $400.00 per semester.

B. Absolutely no fraternities or sororities, whether honorary, professional, or social, will be considered for funding by the S.C.C.  The Interfraternity Council/Panhellenic Council will be considered for and limited to one conference per fiscal year that will be funded by the S.C.C.

C. Organization membership shall be limited to persons who are members of the Student Cooperative Council, Inc., as defined in the S.C.C. Constitution.  An S.C.C. member is defined as a full time or part time S.C.C. fee paying student.

II. Funding Requests

The S.A.C. shall review organization budget requests and make recommendations to the Senate.  The Senate may accept or reject the recommendations of the S.A.C. as it deems fit and proper.  Approved budget amounts are not absolute until properly approved by the Senate.

A. Procedures

1. In order to receive consideration for funding, an organization must properly complete and submit their budget request to the S.C.C. Treasurer.  This request must be submitted on or before the deadline date, which will be determined annually by the S.C.C. Treasurer.

2. Budget requests must be broken down as to the amount needed for each specific item or activity and must include any anticipated income.

3. Budget requests that are vague, incomplete, or improperly prepared shall be returned to the organization submitting the request, and that organization shall not be considered for an allocation until said request is properly prepared and resubmitted within a time period specified by the S.C.C. Treasurer.

4. Each organization must submit a current list of officers and faculty advisor(s) in order to receive funding.

5. All clubs and organizations recognized under the funded status, whether or not they currently receive funding, are required to submit a report of their activity as a club/organization to the Senate once every fiscal year in order to receive funding.

a. All reports to the Senate must be given by a student who is an active member in that club or organization.

b. All budget approvals throughout the Spring budgetary season will be contingent upon each club’s organization’s compliance with this policy.

c. Failure to submit a report to the Senate may result in the denial of funding for the following fiscal year.

d. Failure to submit a report for two consecutive years constitutes inactivity and may result in the de-recognition of that club or organization.

6. The S.A.C. may request an organization to have a representative present at a S.A.C. meeting in order to have questions concerning a budget request answered.  Such a request must be issued in discretion of the S.C.C. Treasurer to the organization prior to the time of the meeting at which the representative is required to be present.  Failure of a club/organization to comply with this provision may result in no funding for that fiscal year.

7. Any club/organization which fails to submit its budget request on time may be declared by the S.C.C. Treasurer to be ineligible for an allocation.

8. Clubs/organizations requesting S.C.C. funds shall be notified of the budget allocations that the Budget Committee intends to recommend to the Senate for approval.  This notification will be available to the organization in the Business Office at least seven days prior to the Senate meeting where the allocation will be voted upon.  Such notification will include the amount to be recommended to the Senate and the date, time, and place of the Senate meeting at which their allocation will be acted upon.

9. All clubs/organizations wishing to appeal their budget allocations must submit notification of the appeal, in writing, to the S.C.C. Treasurer before the conclusion of the budget appeal hearings.  No club/organization may appeal its allocation to the Senate without first making an appeal to the S.A.C.

B. CONTINGENCY REQUESTS

Requests and/or appeals for additional funds may be made at any time after the fiscal year’s budget has been passed through the proper channels, as stated within these Standing Rules.

1. General Contingency

a. A club/organization may request additional funds by completing a General Contingency Request Form.  Requests for additional funds must be submitted to the Treasurer.  Such requests should state the reason for the request, the date by which the funds are desired, any justification for the request, and any other pertinent information that is required on the form.  General Contingency request forms are available in the S.C.C. office, in the Business Office and can be found on the S.C.C. webpage..

b. Unless otherwise noted by the S.C.C. Treasurer, a representative is required to attend the S.A.C. meeting at which the request will be considered.    

Failure to have a representative available is grounds for the dismissal of the request.

c. Acceptance or rejection of the request for additional funds shall be based upon the need of the organization, the merits of the use of the funds, the number of people for which the use of the funds will involve, all policies listing funding provisions, and the overall status of the S.C.C. budget as determined by the S.A.C.

d. If denied, clubs/organizations may not resubmit the same contingency request for reevaluation by the S.A.C. more than once. All appeals should be made to the Senate as outlined in Section II, letter C.

2.  Programming Contingency

a. The $15,000 of contingency funds that are available under Programming Contingency is divided among two sub-sections, Program Specific and Outreach Service.  A club is only permitted one allotment a year from programming contingency.

i. Program Specific Contingency:  Program specific contingency will only be available in an amount to cover one-half the entertainer’s, speakers or programming agencies’ contracted fee, not to exceed fifteen hundred dollars. Money from programming contingency may only be used to pay the entertainer, speaker or programming cost. There is a total of $8,000 available for the entire fiscal year.

ii. Outreach Service Contingency: Outreach service contingency will only be available in an amount to cover one-half the amount of requested funds per participant; there is a cap of $15,000 per request of a recognized funded club/organization. If $1,500 is granted to a club/organization it is to be divided evenly among member/participants. There is a total of $3,500 available for each semester totaling $7,000 available for the entire fiscal year. Though the SCC would be making monetary contributions, the SCC will not be the sponsoring agency for the club/organization and will not be held responsible for the group or any individual members of the group.

b. A club/organization may request programming funds by completing a Programming Contingency Request Form. Request for funds must be submitted to the Treasurer.  Such requests should state the reason for the request, the date by which the funds are desired, any justification for the request, and any other pertinent information that is required on the form.  Programming request forms are available in the S.C.C. Offices, S.C.C. Business Office and can be found on the S.C.C. web page.

c. Unless otherwise noted by the S.C.C. Treasurer, a representative is required to attend the S.A.C. meeting at which the request will be considered. 

Failure to have a representative available is grounds for the dismissal of the request.

d. Acceptance or rejection of the request for programming funds shall be based upon the need of the organization, the merits of the use of the funds, the number of people for which the use of the funds will involve, all policies listing funding provisions, and the overall status of the S.C.C. budget as determined by the S.A.C.

e. If denied, clubs/organizations may not resubmit the same programming contingency request for reevaluation by the S.A.C. more than once.  All appeals should be made to the Senate as outlined in Section II, letter C.

f. Programming specific contingency will be available to clubs putting on programs in which there is a contracted entertainer, such as including but not limited to, speakers, comedians, singers, magicians, etc.  It is required that the program be open to all students.

g. Programming contingency is not to be used to supplement a club’s budget.  It is to be used in any unforeseen circumstances such as the availability of a speaker that was not known during the budget process, or to meet a campus or club interest of specialized nature such as a current topic of interest.

C.  APPEALS FOR ADDITIONAL FUNDS

1. Any club/organization wishing to make an appeal on a ruling made by the S.A.C. must make such an appeal through a voting member of the Senate who is willing to sponsor such an appeal.

2. A Senator wishing to sponsor an appeal must first do the following, unless specifically exempted in writing by the S.C.C. Treasurer:

a. Notify the S.C.C. Treasurer of his or her intent to make an appeal.  Such notification must be delivered in person, in writing, to the S.C.C. Treasurer.

b. Include in the notification of appeal the reason for the appeal, what decision is being appealed, and the nature of support of the appeal.

c. Notify the Speaker of the House of his or her intent to make such an appeal and request that the appeal be placed on the agenda of the Senate. All appeals must be clearly stated as such on the agenda.

3. Any appeal which does not completely comply with these procedures should immediately be ruled out of order by the Speaker of the Senate, and further requests for such an appeal should be denied.

4. Once an appeal is heard by the Senate, the decision of the Senate is final, and no further appeals on the topic may be made.

5. All appeals will require a simple majority vote of the Senate for approval.
 

III. CAPITAL EXPENDITURES

A. Organizations requesting funds for capital expenditures shall submit such requests in accordance with procedures set forth by the S.A.C.

B. In general, capital items shall be considered to be items that are over $500 and essentially non-recurring that may be expected to last a number of years.

C. Three bids must be submitted to the S.C.C. Treasurer for any club/organization wishing to purchase any non-recurring items over $500.

D. Requests for capital items should include a detailed explanation of what is desired and a justification for the purchase.  Requests must include the maximum possible cost and the name and address of any firm that quotes a price.

E. All such purchases become the property of the S.C.C., and not of the organization requesting them.

F. Organizations in possession of capital items owned by the S.C.C. shall be expected to maintain a record of each item, and shall be responsible for the proper security and maintenance of such items.

G. All clubs/organizations must submit an annual inventory report to the S.C.C. Treasurer for all capital items owned by the S.C.C.

IV. EXPENDITURES

The S.C.C., Inc. is a non-profit corporation. Purchase orders must be filled out for all purchases and signed by the faculty advisor, student officer, and the S.C.C. Accountant before the purchase is made.

A. No students, members of the S.C.C. Senate or Executive Committee, Advisors, or any University employees shall be salaried or paid for services by the S.A.C. funds allocated to that organization unless specific, prior approval is granted by the S.A.C.

B. All organizations that receive an allocation from the S.C.C. must keep an account book in which shall be recorded all transactions involving S.C.C. funds.  All accounts are subject to audit upon request of the S.C.C. Treasurer and S.C.C. Accountant.

C. Funds are allocated as per that fiscal year’s budget request as approved by the Senate and the President of the University.

D. All Transfers of Funds within an organization’s budget must be approved by the S.A.C. except for those under $50 which may be approved by the S.C.C. Treasurer.

E. Alcoholic beverages may not be purchased by any S.C.C. club/organization using S.C.C. funds.

F. Authority to draw checks will be given to the S.C.C. Accountant on specially prepared vouchers signed by the Advisor and the Treasurer, President, or Chairperson of the organization requesting payment.

G. Expenditure requests must be supported by invoices, receipts, or signed statements which indicate that the money is due and owing, what the payment is for, and the amount.

H. No S.C.C. funds may be used for supplies, food, or materials for the purpose of a fundraiser.

I.  No allocations will be granted under broad, generalized terms, e.g., miscellaneous, or other, unless accompanied by a detailed explanation of the request.

J. The S.A.C. has the right to limit food expenditures when deemed excessive.

K. Any club/organization that does not have a faculty advisor at any time during the year will have its funds automatically frozen until a new advisor is obtained.

V. INCOME

A. All monies raised, donated, or collected must be deposited into the club’s/organization’s S.C.C. budget, unless otherwise approved by the S.C.C. Accountant.  Any organization found to have monies in an off campus depository will forfeit its current year’s budget and will forfeit the privilege of receiving any funding for the following fiscal year.

B. Complete, up-to-date financial records must be kept by the Treasurer and/or faculty Advisor of all clubs/organizations. These records are subject to audit by the S.C.C. Treasurer or the S.C.C. Accountant.

C. All unexpended budgeted funds or reusable income reverts to the S.C.C. equity accounts at the end of the fiscal year.

D. The establishment of a Special Account for any funded organization must be approved by the S.A.C. or the S.C.C. Accountant.  Authority for opening a Special Account will be considered based on a specific written request to the S.A.C. or the S.C.C. Accountant.

VI. MEALS, LODGING, AND TRANSPORTATION

A. Trips that are deemed academic/curricular in nature by the S.A.C. are not permitted to be funded with S.C.C. monies.

B. Reasonable expenditures for travel expenses of organizations on trips closely allied with their objectives may be granted by the S.A.C.

C. Organizations utilizing buses for transportation shall use the least expensive vehicle commensurate with their purposes.

D. In cases where private vehicles are used for official S.C.C. business as approved by the S.A.C., a reimbursement rate shall be set and reviewed annually by the S.A.C. at the recommendation of the S.C.C. Director and Accountant.

E. The S.C.C. will not pay for any meals, dinners, or parties that are not specifically requested and detailed in that organizations approved budget unless submitted to the S.A.C. in advance of the event for approval.

F. Members of clubs/organizations whose allocations include funds for meals shall observe the maximums as determined by the S.A.C.  It should not be assumed from these allowances that the maximum amount will be allocated for each meal. Each club/organization or individual is encouraged to pay these expenses when possible.  At all times possible, athletic teams and small clubs shall use other institutions’ dining facilities.

VII. S.C.C. ACTIVITY FEE REFUND

A. Refunds of the S.C.C. Activity Fee due to students withdrawing from Lock Haven University or changing status are prorated in accordance with the University’s tuition refund policy.

B. Any waiver of the S.C.C. Activity Fee must be approved by the S.A.C. or the S.C.C. Accountant.

VIII. CONTRACTS

A. Any S.C.C. organization involved with contracts for performances, artists, etc., must obtain the S.C.C. Director’s approval.

B. All contracts must obtain the signature of one member of the corporation who has the power of purchase (i.e., S.C.C. President, S.C.C. Treasurer, S.C.C. Business Manager).  No one else may sign contracts!!

C. A properly signed contract bearing the necessary signatures shall be deemed to be a binding contract of the Student Cooperative Council, Inc

IX. PUBLICITY

At all times, and if appropriate, S.C.C. funding shall be acknowledged in print.  The slogan “sponsored by the S.C.C.” or “sponsored by the Student Cooperative Council” should appear in a prominent place on all professional/organizational prepared posters, programs, schedule cards, or other printed materials.  When the acknowledgment appears on the printed material which contains the logo or name of the printer, the printer’s logo or name may be no larger than the acknowledgment of the S.C.C.  This section applies to all S.C.C. funded organizations and all S.C.C. sponsored and co-sponsored events.  The S.A.C. may take “appropriate actions” in order to enforce this section.

X. PENALTIES

A. Organizations failing to comply with any of the procedures set forth herein shall be subject to such penalties as the S.C.C. Treasurer deems fit.

B. Any club/organization whose expenditures exceed the allocated amount for the fiscal year will be severely penalized at the discretion of the S.A.C.

XI. AMENDING THE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

These Standing Rules may be amended at any meeting of the S.A.C. by a majority vote of the Committee.  Such amendments are not final until approved by a simple majority vote of the Senate.

POLICY FOR THE FUNDING OF S.C.C. CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS PER THE REORGANIZATION ACT OF 1994

The following guidelines have been mandated for all S.C.C. funded clubs and organizations:

·     Money will not be allocated to clubs or organizations that fail to abide by all policies and procedures of the S.C.C. It is the responsibility of all clubs and organizations to familiarize themselves with such policies and procedures.

·     Money will not be allocated for purchases of food to be used at any event which is not open to all members of the S.C.C.
 

·     Money will not be allocated for educational materials when such materials will be used for academic/career advancement and not for the benefit and function of the club. Materials of such a nature should be supplied by either the University or the student (i.e., projects, programs, and materials of an instructional nature)
 

·     Money will not be allocated to a club in which University credit is given unless a distinct delineation is made in writing to the S.C.C. Treasurer stating the difference between the function of the club and the function of the credited class.   When such a case exists, only those needs necessary to the existence and function of the club will be funded.
 

·     Money will not be allocated in the absence of an advisor.
 

·     Student activities funded by the S.C.C. shall be administered in a way that is beneficial to all Lock Haven University students.
 

·     All funded activities must not be in conflict with the policies of the college (as interpreted by the S.C.C., University President, and the Board of Trustees.)

·     Money will not be allocated to any club for international conventions/conferences/seminars.

The funding of all clubs and organizations shall be at the discretion of the S.A.C. and Budget committees. The following is a list of guidelines for that committee to follow. When clubs/organizations request funding for items and services not listed under their own classification, it will be at the discretion of the S.A.C. and Budget committees as to whether or not such items or services will be funded. The S.A.C. and Budget committees are not obligated to approve the full amount of any request. It may approve only part of the request or deny the whole request if it so deems fit.

Financial Regulations Governing Organizations

The guidelines and regulations Governing Student Organizations are available to all student organization officers. At the beginning of each semester a treasurers meeting is held and all organizations are provided a copy of these guidelines. Additional copies may be obtained from the Student Cooperative Council, Inc. treasurer in the Parsons Union Building.

Student Organization On-Campus Fundraising Procedures

The purpose of the fundraising policy is to monitor all campus fundraising activities in order to prevent two or more organizations from scheduling a similar activity simultaneously. A copy of this policy can be obtained from the treasurer of the Student Cooperative Council, Inc. in the Parsons Union Building. A brief description of the approval process follows.

1. All organizations wishing to engage in fundraising activities must complete a fundraising registration form and submit it for approval to the Student Cooperative Council treasurer one week prior to the beginning of the event. Forms may be obtained in the SCC office and the Business office Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 4 PM.

2. No SCC funds are to be used for supplies, food, or materials for the purpose of a fund-raiser.

3. There will be a limit of two events per location.

4. The SCC reserves the right to reject any events which may be in competition with the SCC Bookstore or Snackbar.

External Fundraising Policy

1. All students, student organizations and other individuals affiliated with the University must receive approval from the Vice President for Advancement before they engage in any type of external solicitation.

The University may prohibit individuals or groups from soliciting donations from alumni, corporations, local business and private citizens if their actions will hinder the Advancement Division’s fundraising efforts.

Greek Organizations

Recognition of Greek Organizations

Lock Haven University is an educational institution designed “to stimulate each student’s intellectual life, to develop his sense of individual and community responsibility, and to impart knowledge and understanding of his own and other cultures.” It is with a common understanding of the objectives of Lock Haven University that the University has approved and supported the development of fraternities and sororities on campus. Clearly, the University’s expectations for Greek organizations are framed in its expectations for itself.

The University has articulated this as a statement of objectives. This statement concentrates primarily on the academic and intellectual responsibilities of Lock Haven as a University. However, there are two objectives of the statement which provide a general context for the presence of Greek organizations and also give some direction to such extracurricular organizations. Both are stated as major objectives of the University.

1. To stimulate the development of intellectual, spiritual, emotional, and physical abilities which will enable individuals to achieve optimum, desirable, personal and social goals.

2. To stimulate the development of values and skills necessary for participation in and preservation and improvement of a democratic society which confers upon individual’s certain rights and responsibilities yet allows them to work independently and creatively within the social mores.

It is with the same objectives the Greek System has developed at Lock Haven University.

The University recognizes that Greek letter organizations are a valuable part of campus life for many students. The Division of Student Affairs is supportive of the ideals upon which such organizations are founded and realize the many contributions made to the University and community by fraternities and sororities.

In keeping with the objectives of the University, institutional recognition of Greek organizations is contingent upon demonstration that each individual organization’s philosophy, goals, and behavior, which includes both individual and group action, are parallel to and complementary of those set by the University for itself and as defined herein. This is not to say that such organizations might not have additional goals, but these goals cannot be incompatible with the goals, objectives and philosophy of the University. All Greek organizations must have national recognition and affiliation. Lock Haven does not recognize local chapters of Greek organizations.

Lock Haven University recognizes the Interfraternity Council as the legislative body of the Lock Haven University social fraternity system. Similarly, the University recognizes the Panhellenic Council as the legislative body of the Lock Haven University social sorority system.

Issues of mutual concern or impacting the total Greek system fall within the jurisdiction of the Vice President for Student Affairs Office.  In support of the higher academic standards, all Greek activities must cease one week prior to study day.

In order to maintain consistent accountability of Greek organizations, only those organizations designated as being in good standing with the Lock Haven University, IFC/Panhellenic and the Vice President for Student Affairs will be eligible for institutional recognition by the University.

Further, failure on the part of Panhellenic Council and Interfraternity Council to exercise appropriate legislative or judicial responsibilities for its respective constituencies will result in Lock Haven University, through the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs, to take appropriate institutional action.  Lock Haven University may suspend any recognized chapter for questionable high risk behavior at any time pending a complete review.

Colonization Requirements for Fraternities

Requirements of a Colony. The colonization period will be at least one academic year or until all requirements have been met. The petitioning group has at least 15 members, but is expected to have 20 when petitioning for Chapter Status; they must meet academic standards. (Colonies of underrepresented groups petitioning for representation must have 8 members, but is expected to have 10 members when petitioning for Chapter status).

The group’s faculty advisors and members must meet individually or collectively at least biweekly.

The group must affiliate with a national fraternity.

The group conducts weekly meetings following the national policies and procedures.

A set of By-Laws must be adopted which must include policies and procedures handling disciplinary problems. These By-Laws must be approved by the National Headquarters, I.F.C. and the University. Organizations can not discriminate on the basis of race, religion or national origin.

The group must implement a budget and dues paying system approved by the National Headquarters and the Vice President for Student Affairs.

A financial accounting system must be implemented and approved by the National Headquarters.

At least four service projects to the community or the University (per semester must be planned, approved and completed by the time the group petitions for a chapter. (Ex: Work with Big Brother/Little Brother Assoc.) These projects must be submitted on a program planning and evaluation form.

At least one philanthropic or service project must be completed by Petition for Charter. ($1,000 raised - may be ongoing until $1,000 goal is met.)

The group has petitioned the I.F.C. and the Vice President for Student Affairs for acceptance as a colony fraternity. When acceptance is received the group must comply with all regulations and requirements of the I.F.C., S.C.C., and the Vice President for Student Affairs.

A system for recruiting and electing new members has been designed. This must be presented in writing to the National Headquarters, I.F.C. and the Vice President for Student Affairs.

A weekly lesson plan for new membership education (following the National program and containing NO HAZING) must be established.

All social activities held by the Colony must be non-alcoholic.

A list of short and long range goals are to be submitted with the Petition for Charter to I.F.C. and the Vice President for Student Affairs.

The President meets with the Dean of Student Development and/or Greek Advisor biweekly to review the group’s progress. The I.F.C. president has the option to attend.

The Colony must meet all expectations of the National Headquarters and the University.

National Headquarters support must be in writing and included in colonization packet. A representative should visit the campus each semester.

Individual Requirements. Each member has an understanding of the Fraternity’s history and traditions and has passed the National Examination. Each sorority’s requirements are determined by National Panhellenic.

Each member has a QPA of at least 2.0 on a 4.0 scale both cumulative and for the previous term. The QPA of the entire group must be equal to or above the All Fraternity Average or risk membership in good standing in the I.F.C.

Members must have attended either a Conclave or a National Convention if such is scheduled during the period as a Provisional Chapter.

Each member must be made aware that his/her conduct will be governed by the Chapter’s By-Laws and I.F.C. Constitution. Any violation of these requirements could lead to expulsion from not only the local Chapter, but the National Fraternity.

The members represent their organizations at all times and will be held accountable.

The Interfraternity Council (I.F.C.)

The social fraternities comprise the membership in the Interfraternity Council (I.F.C.). Representatives from each organization, including the president and other executive members, meet to form the I.F.C. The I.F.C. seeks to maintain sound fraternity relations, establish rushing rules and party policy, supervises two formal rush periods, and promotes a positive relationship with the Lock Haven community and University campus.

Rush for fraternities is open to all interested men, however, first semester freshmen or students who have earned less than 12 credit hours are ineligible to pledge or associate. The University, with I.F.C. endorsement, requires a student to have a cumulative 2.0 GPA to join a fraternity. All prospective members must complete a university rush orientation program

Hazing, as defined by the University, is strictly forbidden and shall never be considered as a requirement for membership in any organization. In addition, the fraternities shall have no membership restriction which discriminates against any segments of our student population, with the exception of academics. A complete statement regarding the University’s anti-hazing policy appears under Policy Statements.

The Panhellenic Council

The Panhellenic Council is composed of the members of each of the national sororities on campus. One selected representative from each group serve on the executive board. The council is composed of one elected delegate and one alternate from each sorority. It is organized to maintain intersorority relationships, to sponsor social functions, and to cooperate with the University in promoting high social and scholastic standards among women.

Each semester, the Panhellenic Council sponsors recruitment activities to acquaint women with the various aspects of sorority life. In accordance with University policy, a woman must have completed 12 credits and earned a GPA of at least 2.0 in order to join a sorority. It is also the duty of the Council to see that each sorority follows the University’s hazing policies, see anti-hazing policy under policy statements.

Besides recruitment, The Panhellenic Council also sponsors academic, social and service projects for Lock Haven University and the Lock Haven community.  Sororities are governed by the Unanimous Agreements of Panhellenic Conference. Additional sororities will be considered for admission under the guidelines set by Panhellenic Conference.

Intercollegiate Athletics

Our men’s intercollegiate athletics program is affiliated with the National Collegiate Athletic Association (all sports are classified in Division II except wrestling, which is Division I and in the Eastern Wrestling League) and with the 14-member Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (Western Division). Seven sports are offered for men at the varsity level at Lock Haven University including football, soccer, cross-country, wrestling, basketball, baseball, and track and field.

Our women’s athletics program is affiliated with the NCAA (all sports are classified in Division II except field hockey, which is Division I and in the Northeast Athletic Conference), and with the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference. Nine sports are offered for women on the varsity level at Lock Haven University including field hockey, cross-country, basketball, swimming, softball, lacrosse, track and field, volleyball, and soccer.

IMPORTANT POLICIES & PROCEDURES

GUIDELINES FOR CONDUCT

ACQUIRED IMMUNODEFICIENCY SYNDROME (AIDS) POLICY STATEMENT

The epidemic of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) has become an epidemic of fear. An appropriate institutional response must include medical diagnosis and treatment, personal counseling, professional confidentiality, and education.

According to the latest and the best medical evidence the AIDS virus is spread sexually, by the injection of contaminated blood, and from mother to fetus. Other modes of transmission are extremely rare. The AIDS virus is not spread by casual contact.

In light of this background, the following policy for an institutional response to AIDS is recommended:

1. The recommendations of the attending physician concerning the medical treatment and personal well-being of the patient will be followed as completely as institutionally possible. Standard medical confidentiality will be absolutely maintained.

2. The complete range of institutional counseling facilities will be made available to the patient and to other individuals with whom the patient may have had contact.

3. The Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs will develop and provide ongoing campus-wide education through the wellness program.

ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE POLICY

A. Preface

1. These regulations and policies are enacted pursuant to the Council of Trustees resolution regarding the possession and use of alcoholic beverages on Commonwealth property and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Statutes and Liquor Control Commission policies and procedures.

2. Current University policy regarding alcoholic beverages on University/Commonwealth property as stipulated in the Administrative Manual, LES 502, December 1, 1980 states: “Use or possession of alcoholic beverages is prohibited on Commonwealth property.”

3. Matters related to the use of alcohol on the Lock Haven University campus must be viewed as a total University concern and re-evaluated by the President of the University in consultation with Faculty, Students and the Administrative staff.

4. The rights of anyone who for any reason does not or may not use alcoholic beverages must be fully respected at all times.

B. General

1. The possession, consumption and sale of alcoholic beverages on property under the control of Lock Haven University shall be in accord with the provisions of Pennsylvania State Statutes, provisions of the regulations of the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Commission and policies established by the Council of Trustees for Lock Haven University.

2. Public display and/or consumption of alcoholic beverages in buildings and on campus is prohibited. Sieg Conference Center and any other properties acquired by LHU are considered University property.

3. Responsibility for enforcement of provisions set forth in this document is designated as follows:

a. Incidents occurring in the Parsons Union Building -- the Director and Staff and Public Safety when called to handle a violation.

b. Residence Halls and Campus Village -- the Dean of Student Affairs and staff and Public Safety when called to handle a violation.

c. All other campus grounds (parking lots, stadium, or playing fields etc.) and buildings -- Public Safety.

d. Public Safety will work cooperatively with City officials to deal with violations of City ordinances taking place on City sidewalks and streets adjacent to the campus.

4. Members of the University community are responsible for informing their guests of campus policies. Guests are subject to University policies and regulations. If they fail to abide by these regulations, they will be asked to leave the campus.

5. Violations of the Alcoholic Beverage Policy will be handled as set forth in the Student Rights and Responsibilities Statement and in compliance with Commonwealth Statutes.

6. Fraternal organizations are subject to the stipulations of all University policies, city and state statutes.

7. Groups other than University recognized ones utilizing campus facilities are subject to the stipulations of this policy.

8. Exceptions to the policy may be made with the consent and direction of the President or designee.

C. University Residence Halls and Apartment Complex

1. The consumption, use or possession of alcoholic beverages by persons of any age is prohibited.

2. Possession, use or consumption of alcoholic beverages on the grounds of the campus is not permitted.

3. Empty alcohol bottles, cans or other containers are not permitted.  Alcohol bottles, cans or other containers used for display purposes are, also, not permitted.

D. Athletic Events

1. The possession, use or consumption of alcoholic beverages at any intercollegiate and/or intramural athletic activity is prohibited and not subject to exception.

2. For purposes of this policy, University property includes parking area adjacent to playing fields and any other Commonwealth controlled areas.

ACADEMIC HONESTY POLICY

Preamble

Lock Haven University endeavors to promote an appreciation of the values of fairness and intellectual honesty and to establish a climate of academic freedom within which students learn. Any breach of trust may undermine academic freedom and diminish the integrity of the University’s mission. The University has established means of discouraging academic dishonesty and has established procedures to protect every student’s right to fair treatment and due process.

Instructors share the expectation that students demonstrate their mastery of subject matter in an honorable and straightforward manner. Violations of ethical norms are very serious.

Policy

Lock Haven University forbids academic dishonesty. Students who commit acts of academic dishonesty shall be subject to the sanctions outlined below. This policy applies to all students registered at Lock Haven University during or after their enrollment. Students may contest only (1) whether or not academic dishonesty has occurred or (2) whether a penalty was given capriciously.

Responsibilities of Instructor

Instructors are encouraged to include a statement regarding academic dishonesty in the course outline. Faculty members have the right to investigate any circumstances that may constitute violations of academic honesty.

Responsibilities of Students

Students who do not attend the first day of class must seek out a copy of the course outline.

Students must meet the time deadlines outlined in this policy or forfeit the opportunity to appeal the decision.

As members of the University community, students share the responsibility for promoting and maintaining academic integrity. A student who becomes aware of an act of academic dishonesty by another student should bring this information to the attention of the instructor. Either the instructor or student may initiate a charge of academic dishonesty.

Definitions

An act of academic dishonesty involves fraud, deceit, or misrepresentation in attempting to obtain academic credit or influence the grading process by means unauthorized by the course instructor or inconsistent with University policy. Academic honesty is breached when a student willfully gives or receives assistance not authorized in course work, and/or who intentionally fails to adhere to, or assists others in failing to adhere to, the University policy on academic honesty.

Academic dishonesty includes, but is not limited, to the following:

1. Plagiarism. The definition of plagiarism for purposes of Lock Haven University policy is as follows:  At one extreme, plagiarism is the word-for-word copying of another’s writing without enclosing the copied passage in quotation marks and identifying it in a proper citation. At the other end of the spectrum, plagiarism is the casual inclusion of a particular idea or term which one has obtained from another’s writing or speaking, and which is presented as one’s own opinion or idea. Within the broad spectrum, plagiarism may include weaving into the text random writings of others without proper identification of the sources. It is also the paraphrased and abbreviated restatement of the analysis and conclusions of another, without the due acknowledgment of the author’s text as the basis for recapitulation. Plagiarism also includes, but is not limited to, “the wrongful appropriation, in whole or part, of another’s literary, artistic, musical, mechanical, technical, or computer program composition.”

2. Receiving and/or providing unauthorized assistance for and during examinations.

3. Using unauthorized notes, materials and devices during examinations.

4. Presenting material research prepared by others, including commercial services, as one’s own work in fulfilling course requirements.

5. Collusion with others in attempting to circumvent course requirements.

6. Making fraudulent statements or claims to gain academic credit or influence grading.

7. Attempting to bribe faculty or other University personnel in order to gain academic advantage.

8. Securing or possessing course examination material prior to the administration of the examination from the instructor or proctor without the consent of the instructor.

9. Taking an examination or course on another’s behalf or arranging for another to take an examination or course on one’s behalf.

10. Altering transcripts and misusing other records and identification material.

11. Intentionally falsifying or arbitrarily inventing research and data to be presented as an academic endeavor.

Procedure for Handling an Incident Informally

When an instructor observes a student engaging in an act of academic dishonesty in the classroom, such as cheating on a test, the instructor has the authority to confiscate the materials at that time and place, and discreetly inform the student that the student is required to make an appointment with the instructor to discuss the alleged incident. During that meeting between instructor and student, the instructor shall inform the student of the accusations against him or her. The accuser shall have thirty calendar days to notify the student of the allegations. In the event an incident occurs at the end of the spring semester, the thirty-day notification may apply to the following fall semester, with the consensus of all parties. If no consensus exists, the Vice President for Academic Affairs or designee will decide whether or not to carry over the action.

If an instructor believes a student has engaged in an academically dishonest act outside the classroom, such as plagiarism, then the instructor shall so inform the student in a discreet, confidential setting, such as the instructor’s office.

In cases of academic dishonesty, the instructor may elect to implement a sanction that can be given within the confines of the course. If that sanction is not acceptable to the student, or if an instructor feels that more severe sanctions should be implemented, either party may initiate the procedures detailed below. In most instances, the final decision on a grade rests only with the instructor.

Should the student feel that the sanction is not acceptable, he/she may implement the following process:

• The student first notifies the instructor of his or her dissatisfaction with the sanction by arranging a meeting with the instructor in a discreet, confidential setting. This must be done within ten days of the implementation of the sanction; both the student and the instructor may appear with an advisor.

• If dissatisfied with the instructor’s response, the student should submit in writing a statement of his or her dissatisfaction to the department chairperson and to the faculty member. The chairperson may attempt to work out a solution acceptable to both the student and the instructor.

• If the chairperson suggests a solution, the proposed solution should be discussed first with the instructor, who must approve it prior to the solution being offered to the student.

• If the instructor will not accept the chairperson’s proposal, the chairperson then informs the student that no resolution is possible.

• If a student is dissatisfied with the department chairperson’s response, the student must:

a. initiate the formal process;

b. give oral notification to the instructor of his/her dissatisfaction with the solution; and

c. submit a written statement about his/her dissatisfaction to the department chairperson.   

• Notification must occur within ten days of the chairperson’s response.

Should the instructor feel than an act of academic dishonesty warrants a more severe sanction than can be given within the confines of the course, the instructor retains the right to submit the evidence to the Vice President for Academic Affairs or a designee with recommendations for further sanctions. The instructor must also inform the student of his/her action in a discreet, confidential setting such as the instructor’s office.

Formal Resolution Process

The formal process may be initiated by either the instructor or the student by submitting in writing a complaint to the Vice President for Academic Affairs. Once the Vice President for Academic Affairs or designee determines the actual charges, the Vice President for Academic Affairs or designee may not be involved in any aspect of the resolution process or an appeal. Once the Vice President for Academic Affairs or designee initiates the formal proceedings, the student and instructor shall be informed in writing of the alleged violation. Both the student and the instructor may be assisted by a representative or an advisor who may be an attorney. If an attorney is present, he/she may not argue the case.  The student shall be given, by personal delivery or by certified mail to the last known address, written notification of the date, time, place of the hearing and the alleged violation. Such notification shall not occur more than twenty-one days from the start of the formal process. The student will be given the right to review, prior to the hearing, any written material that will be used against the student at the hearing.

The hearing will be an administrative hearing with the hearing officer appointed by the Vice President for Academic Affairs. The hearing officer is empowered with the right and obligation of judging the evidence and implementing a sanction if so warranted. The student has the right to cross examination and the right to present a defense. This cross examination and defense must be confined to the issue of whether or not academic dishonesty has occurred. The hearing must be recorded and a determination must be made as to whether a violation of this policy has occurred. The results of the hearing must be sent to the student and instructor in writing within five days of the termination of the hearing.

Students shall be advised that failure to attend the hearing, except for “good cause,” may result in sanctions being imposed and the University is under no obligation to reschedule a hearing.

An Appeal

If the student is dissatisfied with the determination of the hearing officer, an appeal shall be made in writing to the Vice President of Academic Affairs or designee within ten days after the student is notified of the results of the administrative hearing. Filing an appeal does not automatically result in a new hearing. The Vice President or designee shall refer the appeal to the University Academic Appeals Board.

The Academic Appeals Board shall consist of a College Dean not previously involved in the resolution process or a substitute mutually agreed to by the instructor and the accused. The Board shall include two faculty members chosen by APSCUF, as well as two undergraduate students appointed by the Student Cooperative Council, Inc. Terms of appointment will be for one academic year. The College Dean or substitute shall serve as the Chairperson.

The Academic Appeals Board shall review all evidence pertaining to (1) the fact of whether or not academic dishonesty has occurred or (2) whether or not the penalty was given capriciously. The Board shall determine whether or not due process was given in reaching the decision, or based upon the introduction of new evidence, request a new hearing by a different hearing officer designated by the Vice President for Academic Affairs. Only new evidence with direct bearing to issues (1) and (2) above may be introduced to the Academic Appeals Board. No disciplinary action will be taken before an appeal is decided unless the President determines that the integrity of the academic process requires immediate implementation. The Chairperson and the Board shall render a written decision to the student and instructor within ten days of receipt of an appeal. The decision of the Academic Appeals Board shall be final.

For the purposes of this policy, all time limits shall be construed to mean class days within the academic year. Summer school may constitute part of the academic year. Infractions occurring at the end of the spring semester or during the summer terms may be carried over until the next fall semester, with the consensus of all parties. If no consensus exists, the Vice President for Academic Affairs or designee will decide whether or not to carry over the action.

Sanctions

The following is a list of the range of sanctions that may be imposed against a student found to have committed acts of academic dishonesty:

Sanctions which may be given within the confines of the course:

Grade Penalty: An instructor’s refusal to correct an assignment or test or an instructor’s requiring the rewriting of an assignment or the retaking of a test for reasons related to academic dishonesty.

Grade Reduction: If a student is found to have committed an act of academic dishonesty, then a grade for a particular unit of work or for the entire course may be reduced. This includes a grade of “E”.

Imposition of a failing “E” grade: A student who has withdrawn from a course in which he/she committed an act of academic dishonesty may receive an “E” for the course.

Instructors are encouraged to notify the Vice President for Academic Affairs when a sanction is given within the confines of the course. The student must be notified when such action is taken.  Once a sanction is given within the confines of a course and there is no formal process initiated, the sanction will be put in place and no other action will be taken by the student or faculty member. 

Sanctions which may result from Formal Resolution Process:

Official Reprimand: An official letter reprimanding the student for the commission of an offense may be placed in the student’s official file for a specified period of time.

Suspension: If a student is found to have committed an act of academic dishonesty, the student may be suspended from the University for a specific period of time unless specific and significant mitigating factors are present.

Dismissal: Permanent removal of the student from enrollment at the University may be imposed for repeated violations, cumulative violations, or egregious first offenses.

Definition of Terms:

University - The community of faculty, staff and students at Lock Haven University.

instructor - any person employed by the University who holds academic rank or performs teaching duties.

staff - any person employed by the University who is not a faculty member or an instructor.

class days - days upon which classes in general are held during the academic year (normally five days a week)

designee - any person appointed by the Vice President for Academic Affairs to represent the University. This person may not be a member of the faculty.

POLICY STATEMENT FOR A DRUG-FREE WORK PLACE

As required by the Federal “Drug-Free Work Place Act of 1988,” P.L. 100-690, 120 STAT 4304 et seq, the Lock Haven University of the State System of Higher Education, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, hereby declares as its policy that the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession or use of a controlled substance is prohibited at any work place under the authority of the Board of Governors. Any employee violating the policy will be referred to the Commonwealth’s employee assistance program and/or disciplined, in an appropriate manner, up to and including termination. Discipline, when appropriate, shall be taken under relevant provisions of collective bargaining agreements, Civil Service Policy or the System’s Merit Principle Policy.

It is a condition of employment to abide by the terms of this policy and to notify Lock Haven University of any criminal drug statute conviction for a violation occurring in the work place no later than five (5) days after such conviction.

LOCK HAVEN UNIVERSITY’S COMMITMENT TO BEING DRUG-FREE

The University has adopted the following statement as a part of the Network of Drug-Free Colleges and Universities.

Membership Guidelines. American society is harmed in many ways by alcohol abuse and drug use -- decreased productivity, serious health problems, breakdown of the family structure, and strained societal resources. Problems of abuse have a pervasive impact upon many segments of society -- all socio-economic groups, all age levels, and even the unborn. Education and learning are especially impaired by alcohol abuse and drug use. Abuse among college students inhibits their educational development and is a growing concern among our nation’s institutions of higher education. Recent national and campus surveys indicate that alcohol abuse is more prevalent than drug abuse and that institutions increasingly are requesting community support and mounting cooperative efforts to enforce their policies.

The Network to Promote Drug-Free Colleges and Universities seeks the participation of colleges and universities who have made a solid commitment throughout their institution to:

• Establish and enforce clear policies that promote an educational environment free from the abuse of alcohol and other drugs.

• Educate members of the campus community for the purpose of preventing alcohol and other drug abuse, as well as educate them about the use of legal drugs in ways that are not harmful to self or others.

• Create an environment that promotes and reinforces healthy, responsible living; respect for community and campus standards and regulations; the individual’s responsibility within the community; and the intellectual, social, emotional, spiritual or ethical, and physical well-being of its community members.

• Provide for a reasonable level of care for alcohol and drug abusers through counseling, treatment, and referral.

Standards. The Standards for the Network to Promote Drug-Free College and Universities define criteria for institutional membership in the Network. The Standards are organized within the four areas of Policy, Education, Enforcement, and Assessment.

A.  Policy

Network members shall...

1. Promulgate policy, consistent with applicable federal, state and local laws, using such means as the student and faculty handbooks, orientation programs, letters to students and parents, residence hall meetings, and faculty and employee meetings.

2. Development policy which addresses both individual behavior and group activities.

3. Define the jurisdiction of the policy carefully to guarantee the inclusion of all campus property. Apply campus-based standards to other events controlled by the institution.

4. Stipulate guidelines on marketing and hosting for events involving students, faculty, staff, and alumni at which alcoholic beverages are present.

5. State institutional commitment to the education and development of students, faculty, and staff regarding alcohol and other drug use.

B.  Education Programs

Network members shall...

1. Provide a system of accurate, current information exchange on the health risks and symptoms of alcohol and other drug use for students, faculty, and staff.

2. Promote and support alcohol-free institutional activity programming.

3. Provide, with peer involvement, a system of intervention and referral services for students, faculty and staff.

4. Establish collaborative relationships between community groups and agencies and the institution for alcohol- and drug-related education, treatment, and referral.

5. Provide training programs for students, faculty, and staff to enable them to detect problems of alcohol abuse and drug use and to refer persons with these problems to appropriate assistance.

6. Include alcohol and other drug information for students and their family members in student orientation programs. The abuse of prescription and over-the-counter drugs should also be addressed.

7. Support and encourage faculty in incorporating alcohol and other drug education into the curriculum, where appropriate.

8. Develop a coordinated effort across campus for alcohol and other drug related education, treatment, and referral.

C.  Enforcement

Network members shall...

1. Publicize all alcohol and other drug policies.

2. Consistently enforce alcohol and other drug policies.

3. Exercise appropriate disciplinary actions for alcohol and/or other drug policy violations.

4. Establish disciplinary sanctions for the illegal sale or distribution of drugs; minimum sanctions normally would include separation from the institution and referral for prosecution.

D.  Assessment

Network members shall...

1. Assess the institutional environment as an underlying cause of drug abuse.

2. Assess campus awareness, attitudes, and behaviors regarding the abuse of alcohol and other drugs and employ results in program development.

3. Collect and use alcohol and drug-related information from police or security reports to guide program development.

4. Collect and use summary data regarding health and counseling client information to guide program development.

5. Collect summary data regarding alcohol- and drug-related disciplinary actions and use it to guide program development.

POLICY GOVERNING CONDUCT AT ATHLETIC CONTESTS

The following policies shall govern player behavior and crowd control during athletics contests at Lock Haven University.

Policy on Players’ Behavior. Players competing in athletics events at Lock Haven University shall be subject to all policies and regulations of the University, the City of Lock Haven and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, as they pertain to personal conduct.

Athletics administrators and coaches have the responsibility to set the tone for appropriate and responsible behavior expected of players and team personnel in intercollegiate athletics at Lock Haven University.

Players on the bench: If a fight breaks out and a player leaves the bench area to participate in the fight, he/she shall be immediately suspended from participation for the duration of that contest and may be subject to further disciplinary action.

Players on the court/field: A player who has been determined (a) to have provoked or initiated a fight, or (b) to have used more force or action than necessary to protect himself/herself during a fight, will be suspended from participating in the team’s next contest.

In any and all situations, the University reserves the right to take disciplinary action in accordance with the University’s Student Rights and Responsibilities procedures.

Crowd Control Procedures. Individuals attending athletics events at Lock Haven University shall be subject to all policies and regulations of the University, the City of Lock Haven and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, as they pertain to personal conduct.

Coaches, officials, athletics administrators and Public Safety officers shall take all precautions to prevent altercations and/or acts of disorderly behavior.

Coaches shall be responsible for the conduct of their teams. Athletics administrators shall make public address announcements or undertake preliminary intervention, as necessary, to prevent incidents from occurring.

Public Safety officers and athletics administrators shall enforce all crowd control procedures. Officers in attendance at home events in the sports of football, soccer, baseball, men’s and women’s basketball, and wrestling, shall position themselves in an area visible to players and spectators.

Officers shall anticipate problems and move to prevent them. They shall respond to specific requests from officials and/or athletics administrators.

The number of officers present at events shall be determined jointly by Public Safety and athletics administrators, based on expected crowd size.

At the end of contests, and at halftime of football, soccer and basketball contests, Public Safety officers shall ensure the safe transit of officials and visiting team from the playing area to the locker room area.

LOCK HAVEN UNIVERSITY STATEMENT OF STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Preamble. An academic community exists for the communication of knowledge and for the development of creativity and critical judgment in a sustained and independent search for truth. Lock Haven University supports the transmission of knowledge, the pursuit of truth, the development of students and the general well-being of society. Free inquiry and free expression are indispensable to the attainment of these goals.

As a member of the University’s community, students are encouraged to demonstrate critical judgment and to engage in activities that respect the rights and privileges of the individual and others. Academic freedom is essential to the functioning of this community of scholars.

Freedom to teach and freedom to learn are inseparable facets of academic pursuits. The freedom to learn depends upon appropriate opportunities and conditions in the classroom, on the campus and in a community at large. The responsibility to secure and respect general conditions conducive to learning is shared by all members of the University community.

The goal of this University is to govern its members by fair and unobstructed measures of desired conduct. The governance includes activities students participate in through their academic work as well as their social activities. Behavior that deviates from these measures will be dealt with in accordance with the procedures that apply to this community and its standards.

Student Bill of Rights and Responsibilities

Article I. No student shall be denied any educational or social opportunity because of race, religion, gender, creed, color, or national origin.

Article II. No full-time student shall be denied the right to vote for student government officials or in referendums affecting him/her with a validated university identification card.

Article III. Any student or student organization shall have the right of free expression (for example, personal physical appearance, publications and speech), so long as it does not conflict with the Constitution of the United States or federal and state law explicitly on the editorial page that the opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the University or the student body.

Article IV. Any student or student organization shall have the right to assemble, form, join or support an organization for any purpose so long as it does not conflict with the Constitution of the United States and/or federal and state law.

The University and student government shall have the right to require that an organization state its function and purpose in order to gain recognition on campus.

The University shall not discriminate against or punish any student for participation in any assembly or membership in any organization, so long as the assembly or organization is lawful under the Constitution of the United States and/or federal and state law.

Article V. Any student or student organization shall have the right to hear a speaker. This article is not intended to give the rights to commercial speech. Those routine procedures required by the institution before a guest speaker is invited to appear on campus shall be designed only to ensure that there is orderly scheduling of facilities and adequate preparation for the event, and that the occasion is conducted in a manner appropriate to an academic community. The institutional control of campus facilities shall not be used as a device of censorship. It shall be made clear to the academic and larger community that sponsorship of guest speakers does not necessarily imply approval or endorsement of the views expressed, either by the sponsoring group or by the institution.

Article VI. A student’s personal effects shall be free from seizure except as authorized by law. The student shall be previously notified and present, if possible, during a search.

Article VII. Activities of students may upon occasion result in violation of the law. In such cases, University officials should be prepared to advise students of sources of legal counsel and may offer other assistance. Students who violate the law may incur penalties prescribed by civil authorities. The student who incidentally violates institutional regulations in the course of his/her off-campus activity shall be subject to no greater penalty than would be imposed normally. University action shall be independent of community pressure.

Article VIII. Readmission after voluntary withdrawal.  A student may elect to voluntarily withdraw from the University while criminal charges against him or her are pending in the external judicial system.  In such an event, should the student wish to be readmitted to the University subsequent to his or withdrawal, the student must petition the Vice President for Student Affairs in writing, seeking readmission.  The Vice President or designee shall determine whether readmission is appropriate at that time.  The Vice President or designee shall have discretion to take into account any matters of fact, recommendations of Public Safety or other professionals, and/or other appropriate information, including from the student seeking readmission, that is available.  The Vice President or designee may impose such conditions on readmission as he or she determines are reasonable and appropriate.  The determination of the Vice President or designee shall be appealable by the student seeking readmission to the President of the University.  The University also reserves the right at any time and all times to commence campus disciplinary proceedings against any student.

Student Code of Conduct

Conduct Jurisdiction. The University reserves the right to take necessary action to protect the safety and well-being of the campus community, its students, faculty, facilities and programs. All students, regardless of where they live, are members of the academic community with the same basic rights and responsibilities. All students are subject to the student disciplinary code. Violations which occur off campus may be dealt with by the University.

Students are expected, as citizens, to abide by the laws and regulations of the City of Lock Haven, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the United States of America, in addition to those of the University. Students who violate the law may incur penalties prescribed by civil authorities. In such cases when the University’s interests are involved, the authority of the University may be asserted. The President or designee shall determine if the interests of the University are involved and if judicial action is necessary.

Violation of a University regulation which is a violation of civil law or violation of civil law which affects the University shall be procedurally handled as a University disciplinary situation regardless of whether or not the courts prosecute. Disciplinary action at the University will not be subject to challenge on the grounds that criminal charges involving the same incident have been dismissed or reduced. Finally, implementation of University disciplinary authority does not protect the student from, nor does the University necessarily consider it to be a substitution for, civil process or criminal prosecution.

Student organizations and groups formally approved by the University or its affiliates are subject to the same regulations as individual students. Cases shall be considered if a significant number of students involved in the alleged offense belong to an organization or group or if planning and leadership responsible for an alleged offense came from student members of an organization or group. Sanctions for group or organization misconduct may include probation, withdrawal of official recognition or limitations on the use of facilities and privileges afforded by the University, as well as other appropriate sanctions as provided in this code.

In general, the University’s disciplinary authority attempts to promote:

• Concern with matters which impinge upon academic achievement and standards, and the personal integrity of its students.

• Obligation to protect its property and the property of members of its community.

• Interest in the mental and physical health and safety of members of its community.

• Concern for preserving the peace, for insuring orderly procedures, and for maintaining student morale.

• Responsibility for character development, for maintaining standards of decency and good taste, and for providing an appropriate moral climate on the campus.

• Protection of its good relations with the community.

Conduct Regulations. A person who is found in violation of any of the following acts committed while a student on the University campus or on property controlled by the University or University affiliates or in connection with off-campus University activities shall be subject to the maximum sanction authorized in this document.

• Academic misconduct including all forms of cheating and plagiarism. Academic misconduct includes, but is not limited to, providing or receiving assistance in a manner not authorized by the instructor in the creation of work to be submitted for academic evaluation including papers, projects, and examinations; and presenting, as one’s own, the idea or works of another person or persons for academic evaluation without proper knowledge.

• Actual or threatened physical assault or intentional or reckless injury to self, persons or property.

• Offensive or disorderly conduct which causes interference, annoyance or alarm, or recklessly creates a risk thereof.

• Interfering with the freedom of any person to express his/her views, including invited speakers.

• Interference with entry into or exit from buildings or areas with free movement of any person.

• Behavior or activities which endanger the safety of oneself or others.

• Disruption or obstruction of teaching, research, administration, disciplinary proceedings or other University activities.

• Violation of any of the restrictions, conditions or terms of a sanction resulting from prior disciplinary action.

•  Failure to provide identification upon demand by or to comply with other directions of University staff members or the staff of contractual affiliates of the University acting in the performance of their duties.

•  Misuse of University documents - forging, transferring, altering or otherwise misusing a student fee card, student payroll card, identification card, course registration material, schedule card, PIN Number and other University identification or any other document or record.

•  A person who is found guilty of unauthorized use of the name or insignia of the University, occurring while a student shall be subject to the maximum sanction of dismissal or any other sanction authorized herein.

•  Possession, sale, use, transfer, purchase or delivery of drugs or drug paraphernalia except as expressly permitted by law.

•  Making false statements in the application for admission, financial aid applications, petitions, requests or other official University documents or records, forgery on drop/add forms and other university records or documents.

• Forcible entry into a building or other premises.

• Unauthorized presence in a building or other premises.

• Possession or use of firearms (including firearm replicas), fireworks, dangerous weapons (including all BB and Pellet guns), or possession of chemicals when not authorized.

• Starting fires, and/or explosions, and/or false reporting of a fire, bomb, incendiary device, or other explosive or any false reporting of an emergency.

• Tampering with fire or safety equipment.

• Theft, damage, destruction, tampering or defacement of personal, community and/or University or University affiliates’ property.

• Lewd, obscene, indecent conduct or expression.

• Illegal gambling in any form as defined by law.

• Unauthorized use of University property or property of members of the University community or University affiliates.

• Violation of residence hall rules and regulations.

• Violation of published University policies, rules and regulations relating to: alcohol, smoking, sexual harassment, verbal harassment, and other established regulations that are contained in University publications.

• The use of computers, including electronic mail, for the violation of personal privacy or the committing of crimes; the unauthorized use of computers and/or peripheral systems, unauthorized access to computer programs or files, unauthorized alteration of computer programs or files, unauthorized duplication or use of computer programs or files, making unauthorized changes to a computer account, or other deliberate action which disrupts the operation of computer systems, including electronic mail, serving other students or the University community generally.

• The misuse of telephone or communications equipment, including electronic mail.

• Any violation of federal, state or local law.

• Residence hall violations.

A Student Code of Conduct violation will be regarded as more serious if it is done with malicious intention toward the race, gender, color, religion, national origin, disability or sexual orientation of another individual or group of individuals.

Residence Hall and Apartment Complex Violations. A student currently enrolled who is found guilty of violation of University Residence Life Rules and Regulations or those that apply as a major violation is subject to the penalties of: disciplinary probation, residence life probation, residence life warning, change of living environment.  NOTE: Offenses involving multiple, simultaneous violations (as well as repeated offenses) are considered more severe infractions and usually result in a stronger response.

1. All residence halls and apartments are considered to be non-smoking.  Smoking is prohibited within all residence halls and apartments even within individual student’s rooms.

2. Cooking and/or possession or usage of any resistance principle/high wattage equipment (e.g. frying pans, hot plates or immersion coils) in student rooms.

3. Use of gasoline motors of any type, including motorcycles and mopeds in student rooms or public areas of a residence hall/apartment complex.

4. Use of wicker, paper or other flammable wastebaskets in student rooms.

5. Use of paper or other highly combustible lamp shade including cloth coverings over overhead lights in student rooms or public areas of residence halls/apartment complex.

6. Possession of candles or incense, burnt or unburnt in student rooms or public areas in residence halls.

7. Possession or faulty or non-UL approved appliance cords (i.e. frayed or broken insulation, damaged plugs) in student room apartment. Halogen lights are prohibited.

8. Possession of room air conditioners in student rooms.

9. Unsanitary and/or hazardous conditions resulting from poor upkeep of student room (i.e. uncovered food, excess dirt or discarded paper litter).

10. Use and/or possession of appliances which under normal conditions exceed the rated outlet capacity of a student room.

11. Possession of extra University furniture in student rooms.

12. Possession of a waterbed in a student room.

13. Possession of any type of room space heater in a student room or public area of a residence hall.

14. Possession of multiple plug receivers and/or extension cords in a student room or public area of a residence hall. Surge protectors used for computer operation are permitted.

15. Possession of flammable or non-UL approved holiday decorations in a student room or public area of a residence hall/apartment complex.

16. Possession of weight lifting equipment in a student room or public area of a residence hall.

17. Placing any object on a window ledge or hanging an object on the outside of the building.

18. Removal of a screen from any window in a student room.

19. Violation of established guidelines for room painting or lofts.

20. Violation of established consideration hours and/or quiet hours.

21. Bicycles are not permitted in any residence hall.

22. Inability or refusal on the part of the student to adjust to the concept and requirements of living in a student residence environment.

23. Use of musical instruments that are amplified (i.e. electric guitars) or other instruments that can be heard outside of your room (drums, horns, etc.)

24. Use of window coverings which are placed directly over the window, or, which are placed directly in front of the window where others can clearly view the object or covering.  Aluminum foil, cardboard, tape, newspaper, computer paper, garbage bags, contact paper, posters, flags, etc. may not be used to cover windows.

25. Propping of exterior residence hall doors, allowing others to follow through exterior doors, and otherwise compromising the safety procedures and mechanisms of the residence halls.

26. Possession and/or use of any item(s) that have the potential to cause damage to University property (ex. nails, duct tape, etc.)  This violation also covers all types of in hall sports.

Disciplinary Sanctions

The following disciplinary sanctions comprise a range of official action which may be imposed for violation of regulations. One or more sanctions may be imposed. It should be noted that the University refund policy directs that “when a student has been suspended or dismissed from the University for disciplinary reasons, refunds are not available.” Further, if the disciplinary action results in the loss of any University-contracted service for the student, no refund is available.

Disciplinary Warning. This written action is taken when the individual’s conduct or involvement merits an official admonition. The student is warned that further misconduct may result in more severe disciplinary action.

Disciplinary Probation

Probation Level l  - A serious form of reprimand that is fitting for the type of violation or repeated violations as designated for a certain period of time by the Hearing Officer or University Judicial Board.  In addition, the Hearing Officer/Judicial Board may impose additional requirements, not limited to letters of apology, research papers, community service or other activities.  An individual or group may lose privileges including but not limited to specific activities, specific privileges and use of facilities.  The student may, if deemed appropriate, represent the University in activities and hold office in student organizations during the time stipulated as probationary. The student is notified that further infractions of any University regulation may result in more stringent action being placed on his/her actions.

Probation Level II - The most serious level of disciplinary sanction short of suspension from the University. The student remains enrolled at the University under circumstances defined by the Hearing Officer or University Judicial Board. The student may not represent the University in any official capacity or hold office in any student organizations. The student is considered to “not be in good standing.” Examples representing the University in an official capacity are [but not limited to]: participation in varsity or non-varsity intercollegiate athletic events or teams, recognized student organizations, theater groups or productions, musical organizations, SCC Senator or Officer, or any official recognized responsibility as related to campus employment. This probation level indicates to the student that further violations[s] of any University regulations will result in more stringent disciplinary action, including but not limited to dismissal or suspension from the University. Additional restrictions may be placed on the student while on Level II probation, not limited to but including loss of on-campus housing privileges, restriction from campus events and activities. In addition, the Hearing Officer/Judicial Board may impose additional requirements, not limited to letters of apology, research papers, community service or other activities.  An individual or group may loose privileges including but not limited to specific activities, specific privileges and use of facilities.

Creative Discipline.  This action selected will commensurate with the offense.  The objective of this sanction is education and rehabilitation.  Such action could include letters of apology, research papers, community service, and other such creative educational activities.

Suspension of Privilege.  An individual or group will lose privileges that allow him/her/them to participate in specific activities, use specific facilities, or exercise specific privileges. 

Residence Hall/Apartment Complex Reassignment or Removal. This action is an involuntary reassignment to or removal from on-campus housing. Removal from the residence halls is for a designated period of time. Usually, a student is given forty-eight hours to remove all belongings from an assigned space. This may include restricted visitation privileges.

Suspension of Group Recognition. This action consists of the withdrawal for stated periods of time all or part of the official recognition of a group found in violation of University regulations. Such action may include conditions for reinstatement of recognition. Total removal or recognition shall result in complete suspension of the activity of the group.

Revocation of Group Recognition. This action is permanent cancellation of the official University recognition and privileges of a group found in violation of University regulations. This action shall result in complete suspension of the group.

Restitution Fines. The student or organization may be required to make payment to the University or to another specified person(s) or group(s) for damages incurred as a result of a violation of any provision of the Student Code of Conduct. Restitution Fines may be demanded by the University in addition to any other sanction applied. Restitution Fines may include an administrative fee for processing.

Interim suspension. The President or his/her designee may suspend a student for an interim period pending full disciplinary proceedings whenever there is evidence that the continued presence of the student on the University campus poses a substantial threat to the safety and/or well-being of any person or persons, University property, or the property of others. An interim suspension may become effective immediately without prior notice. A student suspended on an interim basis shall be given an opportunity to appear personally before a hearing officer within 10 or less school days from the effective date of the interim suspension.

During an interim suspension, the student will be barred from all or part of the University’s premises. Any student under interim suspension who returns to the portion of campus to which he/she was barred without permission from the Vice President for Student Affairs will be subject to dismissal and/or arrest for trespassing.

At the time the student is notified of the interim suspension, it will be determined whether or not the student may attend classes.

Suspension. This action is one of involuntary separation of the student from the University for a designated period of time. After this period of time, the student is eligible to return. The University Hearing Officer may establish additional requirements which must be fulfilled to his/her satisfaction, prior to reinstatement. Permanent notification of suspension will appear on the student’s transcripts and academic history. The student shall not participate in any University sponsored activity and may be barred from University premises during suspension.

Dismissal. This action is one of the involuntary and permanent separation from the University. Notice of permanent dismissal shall appear on the student’s academic history and transcript. The student will also be barred from University activities and premises.

Alcohol Policy Violations and Sanctions

Any violation of the alcohol policy will subject the student to the following minimum disciplinary sanctions:  NOTE:  Off-campus violations shall also be considered in the levels of offense.

First Offense

LHU Office of Public Safety will be called and appropriate citations may be issued.

The student will be referred to the Alcohol Education class conducted by the Wellness Coordinator.

The student may be assessed a fine in the amount of $30 to cover the costs of the alcohol education class.  Students may perform 10 hours of community service work assigned by the hearing officer in lieu of the fine.

The student may be placed on Disciplinary Probation I for one (1) year from the date of the incident.  

Second Offense

LHU Office of Public Safety will be called and appropriate citations may be issued.

The student will be required, at his/her expense, to schedule an appointment for an alcohol abuse assessment/evaluation with a qualified outside agency and follow the treatment guidelines prescribed.

The student may be assessed a fine in the amount of $60 to cover the costs of the alcohol education class.  Students may perform 20 hours of community service work assigned by the hearing officer in lieu of the fine.

The student may be placed on Disciplinary Probation Level II for one (1) year from the date of the incident.  

Third Offense

LHU Office of Public Safety will be called and appropriate citations may be issued.

The student shall be suspended from LHU for one (1) academic semester (Fall or Spring).

In order to be readmitted, the student shall demonstrate a sincere interest in furthering his/her education without substance misuse/abuse.

The student will submit a letter to the Vice President for Student Affairs or her designee outlining the commitment to being substance free and means of achieving that goal.

Illegal Drug and Drug Paraphernalia Policy Violations and Sanctions

Any violation of the Illegal Drug and Drug Paraphernalia policy will subject the student to the following minimum disciplinary sanctions:  NOTE:  Off-campus violations shall also be considered in the levels of offense.

First Offense

LHU Office of Public Safety will be called and appropriate citations may be issued.

The student may be suspended from LHU for one (1) academic semester (Fall or Spring).

The student will be required, at his/her expense, to schedule an appointment for a drug abuse assessment/evaluation with a qualified outside agency and follow the treatment guidelines prescribed.

If suspended, in order to be readmitted, the student shall demonstrate a sincere interest in furthering his/her education without substance misuse/abuse.

The student will submit a letter to the Vice President for Student Affairs or her designee outlining the commitment to being substance free and means of achieving that goal.

Disciplinary Procedures

Two distinct levels of disciplinary procedures have been designated to insure the rights of due process and a fair hearing. Incidents occurring in a residence hall that lead to a violation of its rules and regulations and/or conduct regulations stipulated in this document will be processed by a Hearing Officer and follow the guidelines outlined under Procedures for Residence Hall/Apartment Complex Violations. Incidents that involve an individual who may be suspended from a residence hall or the University, student organizations, any part of campus buildings and grounds, or incidents off-campus, will be processed according to procedures outlined in Procedures for Conduct Violations.

Referral to a Disciplinary Body

1. Any member of the University community may bring charges against any student. Such charges must be in writing and filed with the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs or designee.

2. Charges may be brought against a student by a department or unit of the University [for example, University Public Safety, Academic Affairs, Library, etc.].

3. A complaint filed in writing must be received within ninety [90] calendar days of the infraction which can be extended up to one full calendar year by the Vice President for Student Affairs or designee based upon unforeseen information or circumstances.

4. The Vice President for Student Affairs or designee will direct the charges to the appropriate disciplinary officer/body for processing once the selection is made by the accused [or by the Vice President for Student Affairs in appropriate circumstances].

Procedures for Conduct Violations

Alleged incidents of conduct violations will be reviewed either by a University Hearing Officer or the University Judicial Board. Conduct violations receive a minimum sanction of disciplinary warning and a maximum sanction of dismissal from the University. Appropriate financial restitution is to be made as adjudicated by University Officials.

Hearing Options

Hearings are conducted to resolve matters related to alleged violations of Code of Conduct regulations in two ways. The accused may select one of two hearing options listed below if there are major questions of fact to resolve the charges of Code of Conduct violations. However, at the discretion of the Vice President for Student Affairs or designee, cases involving immediate health, safety or psychological problems will be reviewed by a University Hearing Officer or designee only. Furthermore, it must be noted that two weeks prior to the end of fall or spring semester and during summer sessions, the option of the University Judicial Board is not available. When processing through either option, the Vice President for Student Affairs or designee will designate personnel to examine the allegation[s], to determine the actual charge[s] and to present the University’s case during the hearing, when appropriate. 

An informal disposition of the disciplinary charge[s] can be achieved mutually by the student[s] and the University.

A.  University Hearing Officer

1. A student or organization accused of violation[s] of the Code of Conduct, either on or off campus, may select the University Hearing Officer option.

2. The University Hearing Officer or designee will follow the HEARING PROCEDURES outlined in this section of the document.

3. Decision[s] rendered by a University Hearing Officer may be appealed following guidelines outlined under APPEAL PROCEDURES found in this document.

B.  University Judicial Board

1. A student or organization accused of violation[s] of the Code of Conduct, either on or off campus, may select the University Judicial Board option. Informal disposition of the disciplinary charge[s] can be achieved mutually by the student[s] and the University.

2. The University Judicial Board consists of six [6] members [two (2) students, two (2) faculty members and two (2) administrators].  A total of three members must be present to conduct a hearing.  The Chairperson of the Board is the Dean of Student Development or designee. The Chairperson is a non-voting member of the Board except in cases of a tie vote.

3. All members of the Board must attend all orientation sessions to be conducted by the Vice President for Student Affairs or designee.

4. All decisions rendered by the Board will be implemented by the Vice President for Student Affairs or designee. Decisions reached by the Board may be appealed following the procedure outlined in Appeal Procedure of this document.

5. If the accused or accuser[s] has/have a conflict of interest with a member of the Board, an alternate will be assigned for that case by the Chairperson.

6. The Vice President for Student Affairs or designee serves as the advisor to the Board.

Hearing Procedures

1. The accused student(s) or organization officers shall be provided written notification of the time, place and date of the hearing. Sufficient notice is defined as at least five (5) classroom days. The notice shall include the charges that will be reviewed and other pertinent information about the hearing. An extension may be requested within two days of receipt of the notice.

2. The student(s) or organization representatives has/have the right to have a friendly advisor present at the hearing who may be a faculty member, student or staff member. An attorney may serve as an advisor but may not argue the case or attempt to introduce legal procedures into the hearing.

3. Hearing will be closed to the public, except for the immediate member of the student’s family or his/her advisor or witnesses. The University reserves the right to review individuals participating in hearing procedures based upon the involvement with the incident.

4. Oral and/or written testimony by the accused student(s) or witnesses involved may be considered.

5. Accused students shall be afforded an opportunity to hear all testimony against them and question witnesses testifying against them.

6. Student witnesses may be subject to charges of dishonesty within the University disciplinary system, if their testimony is deemed to be intentionally inaccurate.

7. Prospective witnesses, other than the accuser and accused student(s), may, at the discretion of the University Hearing Officer or Chairperson of the University Judicial Board, be excluded from the hearing during the testimony of other witnesses.

8. Any person, including the accused student, who disrupts a hearing, may be excluded from the proceedings.

9. The hearing shall be conducted in a fair and impartial manner, although strict rules of evidence do not apply. A suggested order for the hearing is as follows:

a. Introductions

b. Disciplinary philosophy of the University

c. Charges (in the presence of the accused)

d. Evidence in support of the charge

e. Witnesses in support of the charge

f.  Evidence in support of the accused

g. Witnesses in support of the accused

h. Review of the evidence and testimony

10. If an accused student fails to appear at a scheduled hearing without a valid excuse, the University Hearing Officer/board will proceed to a decision based upon the evidence presented.

11. Hearings shall be recorded on audio tape or any other reliable means of making a record shall be imposed at the discretion of the University Hearing Officer or Chairperson of the University Judicial Board. Their record shall be maintained in the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs for two years or until such time as all appeal procedures are exhausted.

12. Pending action on any charges, the status of the student shall not be altered, except in cases involving interim suspension and only in accordance with the procedures for such suspensions.

13. The accused has the right to receive in writing the decision of the hearing officer which shall contain the reasons for the action, findings of fact and an explanation of the sanction(s). The University Hearing Officer or Chairperson of the University Judicial Board shall prepare this notification a timely manner, but no longer than 30 calendar days.

Appeal Procedure

A formal appeal must be submitted in writing within five (5) class days of the receipt of the outcome of the hearing. Formal appeal of a decision reached by the University Hearing Officer must be made to the University Hearing Board. Formal appeal of a decision reached by the University Judicial Board will be to the University Hearing Officer. Failure to submit the appeal in writing within the allotted time will render the original decision final and conclusive.

An appeal must be based upon one or more of the following conditions:

1. Procedural error(s) in interpretation of University regulations were so substantial as to effectively deny the student a fair hearing.

2. New and significant evidence, which could not have been discovered by diligent preparation for presentation at the initial hearing, is now available.

3. Lack of substantial evidence in the record to support the outcome below.

The University Hearing Officer or University Judicial Board will limit his/her inquiry to the record of fact at the time of the written appeal and will determine whether or not to grant a hearing. Should a hearing be granted, the appealing student(s) or organization will receive notification not to exceed ten (10) class days of the time, place and date. Only information based upon record of fact until that time may be presented. The hearing is informal and no record will be made.

The University Hearing Officer or University Judicial Board must respond in writing within ten (10) class days to an appeal. The University Hearing Officer or University Judicial Board may reject, amend or modify the action taken by the hearing officer.

Procedures for Handling Residence Hall/Apartment Complex Violations

Alleged incidents involving minor violations of the Student Code of Conduct and Residence Hall/apartment complex Violations will be reviewed by the Dean of Student Affairs or designee. Violations of the Code may receive a disciplinary warning, disciplinary probation, creative discipline, suspension of privileges, restitution and/or reassignment or removal from a residence hall.

A.  Preliminary investigation

Once a written complaint is received by a Resident Director, an investigation will be conducted to determine if a violation has occurred. The Resident Director will establish the charge(s) and the degree of the involvement of all parties. This may involve a discussion with the complainant.

B.  Jurisdiction

1. The Resident Director shall review cases involving minor violations of the Student Code of Conduct and residence hall regulations.

2. Cases of repeated violators may be reviewed with the Dean of Student Affairs.

C.  Hearing Procedures

1. The accused student(s) shall be notified of the time, date and place of the hearing. An extension may be requested within two days of the meeting date. Students will be permitted extensions within reason.

2. The accused student(s) may submit written or oral testimony. Witnesses may be afforded an opportunity to submit testimony in support of the charges for the accused or accuser.

3. Hearings are closed to the public.

4. Hearings are to be conducted in a fair and impartial manner, rules of evidence do not apply.

5. If an accused student fails to appear at a scheduled hearing without a valid excuse, the hearing officer will proceed to a decision based upon the evidence presented.

6. The accused, if found responsible, shall be notified in writing of the decision of the Resident Director. In the case of removal from a residence hall, the Dean of Student Affairs shall be the hearing officer.

7. An appeal of removal from the residence hall decision will be made to the Dean of Student Development. An appeal of this decision is based solely upon (1) lack of substantial evidence or (2) new and significant evidence which was not available at the time of the informal hearing.

Definitions

The term University Judicial Board shall mean a judicial organization of three (3) members with authorization to hear incidents that involve Code of Conduct violations that may result in dismissal from the University.

The term University shall refer to the community of faculty, staff and students at Lock Haven University.

The term student shall include any person currently registered or in the process of registration at the beginning of an academic semester for a course, program or activity at the University.

The term faculty member shall mean any person employed by the University who holds academic rank or performs teaching or research duties.

The term staff member shall mean any person employed by the University or University affiliate or the Student Cooperative Council, Inc. who is not considered faculty.

The term University premises and/or facilities shall mean all buildings or grounds owned, leased, operated, controlled or supervised by the University or the Student Cooperative Council, Inc.

The term organization shall mean a group of persons who have complied with University requirements for registration or recognition or those of the Student Cooperative Council, Inc.

The term hearing officer shall mean a Resident Director, the Dean of Student Affairs, or designee.

The term University Hearing Officer shall mean the Dean of Student Affairs or designee.

The term University sponsored activity shall mean any activity on or off campus which is initiated, aided, authorized or supervised by the University or University affiliate.

The terms will or shall are to be used in the imperative sense, not imparting a choice.

The term may is to be deemed permissive, imparting a choice.

FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS TO PRIVACY

Rights of access to educational records. The Family Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 and the Pennsylvania Right-to-Know Law of 1957 grants all students, currently or previously enrolled at Lock Haven University, the right to review and inspect their educational records. Educational records are those files, documents, and other materials which contain information directly related to a student and are maintained by Lock Haven University. The following officers are designated as responsible for educational records within their respective areas: the Vice President for Academic Affairs, Vice President for Student Affairs, Director of Career Services, the Dean of the College of Arts and Science, and the Dean of the College of Education and Human Services. Each of these officers is responsible to make available a listing of student records within his/her area of responsibility. A student may inspect his educational records within a reasonable time after written request is submitted to the appropriate official, but in no event shall this period exceed 45 days. Copies of educational records shall be made available to the student, who shall bear the expense thereof.

Material not considered to be educational records or are otherwise not available for inspection by the student are:

1. Records of institutional supervisory and administrative personnel and educational personnel ancillary thereto which are in the sole possession of the maker and which are not accessible to any other person except a substitute.

2. Records maintained by the Public Safety.

3. Records maintained by the school physician and psychologist that are used in connection with treatment of the student and which are not available to anyone other than persons providing such treatment.

4. Financial records of the parents of the students.

Lock Haven University shall not release educational records or personally identifiable information contained therein (other than directory information) to anyone, without the express, written consent of the student, except:

1. Other school officials including professors with legitimate education interests.

2. Officials of other schools in which the student seeks to enroll.

3. Government officials using such information to audit, evaluate and enforce federal legal requirements or otherwise comply with state statues.

4. Accrediting agencies in order to carry out their functions.

5. Parents of dependent students.

Directory information includes the following: student’s name, address, telephone listing, date and place of birth, major field of study, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees and awards conferred and most recent previous educational institution attended.

A student may request that any or all of this information not be made publicly available by request to the Vice President for Student Affairs Office prior to the end of the registration period for any given semester. Requests must be renewed each semester.

Students are entitled to challenge or add to the factual basis of any entry contained in their educational records, for the purpose of ensuring corrections or deletion of inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise inappropriate data contained therein. The substantive judgment of a faculty member about a student’s work, expressed in the grades and/or evaluations is not within the preview of this right to challenge. Challenges should be submitted to the appropriate school official in whose area the questioned material is kept. Corrections or deletions may be made by that official without a formal hearing. Adverse decisions may be appealed in writing, to the Vice President for Academic Affairs and finally to the President. The student’s written statement of challenge shall remain in part of that record regardless of the outcome of the challenge.

Any questions regarding this policy may be directed to the Vice President for Student Affairs.

GENDER DISCRIMINATION/SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

Gender Discrimination/Sexual Harassment Policy Statement

Lock Haven University [refers to Main Campus and Clearfield Campus] is committed to providing a learning and working environment that enhances the dignity and worth of every member of its community. To this end, the community must be free from discriminatory conduct of any kind. Thus, because such conduct subverts the well-being of the college environment, abuse, discrimination or harassment of any individual will not be tolerated.

Gender discrimination/sexual harassment in any form is not only contrary to University policy but also morally reprehensible because it undermines the dignity of community members and often represents an unfair exploitation of power.

As a university, we take seriously our responsibility to educate all members of the community about the nature of gender discrimination/sexual harassment, its effects on both individual and communal well-being, and the steps necessary to combat it. Lock Haven University is committed to equality of opportunity and freedom from discrimination for all of its students, faculty and staff.

Gender discrimination/sexual harassment and all forms of sexual intimidation and exploitation are of concern to the University. Governed by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 which prohibits sex discrimination in education, Pennsylvania Fare Educational Opportunities Act, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 which prohibits non discrimination in employment, and the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act (and their amendments), the University seeks to prevent and correct such actions. Gender discrimination/sexual harassment is unacceptable conduct and will not be tolerated in any context at Lock Haven University, whether it is in a faculty/student, faculty/faculty, supervisor/employee, student/student, worker/co-worker, or other relationship regardless of the formal status of the persons involved. Individuals who engage in such behavior are subject to appropriate corrective action which, when warranted, may include termination of their relationship with the University. In addition, such persons may be held personally liable to the target of such behavior and be subject to sanctions independent of those imposed by the University.

Under Title IX, an individual is the victim of gender discrimination if he/she is, on the basis of sex, excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity operated by the University. In addition, under Title VII an employer commits gender discrimination if it (a) fails or refuses to hire, discharges, or otherwise discriminates against any individual with respect to his/her compensation, terms, conditions or privileges of employment, because of such individual’s sex, or (b) limits, segregates or classifies its employees or applicants for employment in any way which would deprive or tend to deprive any individual of employment opportunities or otherwise adversely affect his/her status as an employee, because of such individual’s sex.

Sexual harassment occurs in a variety of situations which share a common element: the inappropriate introduction of sexual activities or sexual comments into the work or learning situation. Though not limited to the following circumstances, often sexual harassment involves relationships of unequal power and contains elements of coercion, for example suggestions that academic or employment reprisals or rewards will follow the refusal or granting of sexual favors. For purposes of this Policy, sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature occurring when:

• Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual’s employment, or of a student’s academic status or treatment;

• Submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis for academic or employment decisions affecting such individual; or

• Such conduct has the effect of substantially interfering in a severe and pervasive manner with an individual’s work or academic performance, or of creating in a severe and pervasive manner an intimidating, hostile or offensive working or academic environment to a reasonable person

Types of behavior which may constitute sexual harassment include, but are not limited to:

• Sexist, sexually suggestive or intimidating remarks or behavior;

• Inappropriate and offensive uninvited sexual advances;

• Solicitation of sexual activity or other sex-linked behavior by promise of reward;

• Coercion of sexual activity by threat of punishment;

• Sexual assault.

Supervisory Cautions

Faculty and supervisors should be aware that amorous or sexual relationships with students or subordinate employees are strongly discouraged at Lock Haven University. Due to the inherently unequal nature of a relationship in which one party supervises, advises or evaluates the other, the apparent consensual status of an amorous relationship between such parties is suspect even when both parties have given voluntary consent. In such a situation, it is the ethical and professional responsibility of the person in the position of power to relinquish decisions regarding the subordinate and to remove himself/herself from the supervisory role. In sum, such relationships have the potential for adverse consequences, including the filing of charges of sexual harassment, and thus any person in a supervisory capacity enters at peril into amorous or sexual relations with a subordinate.

Procedures for Responding to Gender Discrimination/Sexual Harassment

All parties involved must clearly understand that gender discrimination/sexual harassment is not only a violation of University Policy, it is a violation of state and federal law. As a result, the complainant may proceed in one of three ways: (1) through the University procedure (described below), (2) through the legal system (state and federal agencies and/or the criminal justice system), or (3) through a combination of both. The complainant should inform the University if she/he intends to proceed through the legal system. Following the University procedure does not preclude pursuing the complaint through the legal system.

The University policy seeks to encourage students and employees to express freely, responsibly, and in an orderly fashion, their opinions and feelings about any problem or complaint of gender discrimination/sexual harassment. Deliberate or malicious false accusations of gender discrimination/sexual harassment will not be tolerated. However, any act by a student or University employee of reprisal, interference, restraint, penalty, discrimination, coercion, or harassment-overtly or covertly-against a student or employee for responsibly using this policy and its Procedures may itself be a violation of the policy subjecting the perpetrator to disciplinary action under this policy if appropriate.

Procedures for Responding to Gender Discrimination/Sexual Harassment:

The University endorses a strong, widely disseminated and consistently enforced policy against gender discrimination/sexual harassment. As such, each University dean, director, department chairperson, search committee chairperson, administrator and supervisor is responsible within his/her area of jurisdiction for making appropriate referrals of complaints to the individuals identified in this policy. The University will annually publicize this policy in the Student Handbook; forward copies of it to all department chairpersons, deans, managers, and labor union leaders; and make announcements of any new procedure(s) in the campus newspaper and other means of existing communication.

The University Procedure

Volunteers from the faculty and staff (representing bargaining units, including AFSCME and APSCUF) and student body will be recommended by their respective constituencies and appointed by the President or his/her designee to constitute:

• a seven-member Gender Discrimination/Sexual Harassment Board of Advisors

• a five-member Panel on Gender Discrimination/Sexual Harassment (in addition, the Panel will have a non-voting Chair as detailed below)

New members appointed to either group will undergo a mandatory training program, including sensitivity to issues of confidentiality as well as listening and communication skills, before assuming their responsibilities. Names of members of both groups will be publicized widely by the University. Members of both groups shall be recused from acting in a given matter when appropriate for conflict-of-interest or prejudice.

A. Gender Discrimination/Sexual Harassment Board of Advisors

Membership on the Board of Advisors should include faculty, staff, and students, and should represent bargaining units including AFSCME and APSCUF. The terms of membership will be as follows: three members of the Board will accept an initial three-year term; the remaining four members will accept a two-year term; thereafter, the term of membership will be two years. The tasks of the Board will be as follows:

1. to implement a program to educate the campus about sexual harassment;

2. to ensure that the institution’s policy and procedures are widely publicized;

3. to offer informal consultation and information to employees or students of the University who believe they have been sexually harassed or discriminated against because of their gender;

4. to outline procedures that might be employed against an alleged harasser or alleged discriminator if the employee or student does not wish to institute a formal complaint.

B. Panel on Gender Discrimination/Sexual Harassment

The Director of Social Equity, or his/her designee in cases of conflict-of-interest, will act as the non-voting Chair of the Panel. The membership of the Panel should include faculty, staff, and students, and should represent bargaining units, including AFSCME and APSCUF.  The task of the panel will be to review and investigate gender discrimination/sexual harassment complaints at the formal level, and to make findings of fact and report to the President concerning such complaints.

C.  Procedure

Complaints will be heard in compliance with the following procedures:

Informal Process:

Employees or students of the University who believe they have been sexually harassed or discriminated against because of their gender (“the complainant”) may approach a member of the Gender Discrimination/Sexual Harassment Board of Advisors. Tasks of the Advisor will only involve offering consultation, information and attempted informal resolution. In attempting to achieve an informal resolution, the Advisor should act neutrally. The Advisor will immediately notify the Director of Social Equity as soon as he or she is approached by a complainant. The Advisor will hear the complaint, provide needed information (including channels both inside and outside the University through which complaints may be filed), and attempt to resolve the problem by informal means. Any informal resolution will be voluntary for both complainant and the respondent. Under this informal process, the University will impose no involuntary sanctions or discipline. Once the informal processing of a complaint is completed, all informal notes and records relative thereto, if any, are to be kept centrally and confidentially in the Office of the Director of Social Equity.

Formal Process:

If the informal process seems inappropriate, or if no informal resolution can be achieved, the complainant may formulate the complaint in writing and contact the Chair of the Gender Discrimination/Sexual Harassment Panel (who is also the Director of Social Equity) to file a formal complaint. Panel members meeting as a whole will then review and investigate the complaint, interviewing parties to it, as well as any relevant witnesses and persons having knowledge of the situation. Both parties may suggest witnesses and other evidence for the panel’s consideration. The panel reserves the right to determine the relevancy of witnesses and other evidence and to identify and consider relevant witnesses and other evidence of its own accord as well. The Panel may meet as frequently as necessary to complete the investigation. Individual members of the Panel will not conduct the investigation separately. Instead, the investigation will be performed by the Panel together as a whole. All interviews, meetings, telephone calls and other activities relating to the complaint will be carefully documented and clearly dated by the Panel. Complainants may be requested by the Panel, but not required, to face the respondent in a fact-finding meeting. Furthermore, neither a complainant nor a respondent may be compelled to attend a fact-finding meeting, though such meetings can be held in their absence if they choose not to attend and a determination made on the basis of the evidence before the Panel. During this process both the complainant and the respondent may be accompanied by an advocate whose role will be advisory only; advocates will not address the Panel directly. The fact-finding process is intended to be an investigation, not an adjudication, and the strict rules of evidence and criminal or civil procedure applicable in the external legal system do not apply.

After the Panel has declared that the investigation is complete, the Panel will prepare a written report which shall include the following:

• A statement of the findings of fact;

• A statement of the conclusions, if any, which the Panel has drawn;

• Any other relevant information deemed appropriate to the findings of fact.

The report will be completed and sent to the University President, or his/her designee in cases of conflict-of-interest, within fourteen working days of the conclusion of the Panel’s investigation. If the Panel does not reach a consensus, the report to the President should state that fact. In that event, a minority as well as majority report may be submitted.

Upon receiving the report from the Panel, the President will review it and determine a resolution. The final decision as to the outcome of the investigation and what, if any, action to be taken shall be the President’s. The President shall have absolute discretion to accept or reject the findings and/or conclusions in the report in whole or in part, and shall have the authority to seek additional information as she/he deems appropriate. Any resolution by the President will be determined after she/he has conducted any required pre-disciplinary hearing(s). If the decision goes against the respondent, the President may take disciplinary action against him or her. Possible sanctions include, but are not limited to, written or oral reprimand, demotion, suspension or leave of absence without pay, temporary or permanent debarment from university functions, activities and memberships, or termination from the University. The President will inform the complainant and the respondent of his/her decision in writing within thirty working days of receipt of the Panel’s report. Full disclosure of the President’s decision will be given to the complainant, including any resulting disciplinary action. All such disclosed information is to be kept confidential by both parties. The decision of the President shall be final within the University, except that in cases where the President has determined that the complaint does not contain a valid claim of unlawful discrimination and/or sexual harassment, the complainant shall have the opportunity to formally request the President’s reconsideration of his/her decision. Such a request for reconsideration must be submitted to the President in writing within 5 working days of the complainant’s receipt of the President’s decision. A copy of the written request for reconsideration shall also be provided by the complainant to the respondent at that time. The request for reconsideration should include any additional information or argument relative to the complainant’s position that the President’s decision was incorrect. Following receipt of a written request for reconsideration, the President will review the matter, and will consult with the Office of University Legal Counsel to determine whether a reconsideration of his/her decision is warranted. The President will notify both parties of his/her decision regarding the request for reconsideration within 15 working days of receipt of the request for reconsideration.

All records of the formal process (including the complaint, records of the Panel’s hearings, the report to the President and the President’s decision) will be secured in the Office of the Director of Social Equity. In the event that the President takes disciplinary action against the respondent, a copy of the President’s decision shall be placed in the respondent’s personnel file, in accordance with the terms of any applicable Collective Bargaining Agreement.

At the end of each academic year, statistics concerning the number of sexual harassment complaints filed and a general description of dispositions (preserving the confidentiality of the parties involved and not including any personally identifiable information) will be made public by the Director of Social Equity.

Confidentiality

Because of the University’s commitment to a discrimination-free environment, the resolution of the complaint will involve a thorough investigation and appropriate actions as indicated by the results of that investigation. Although every effort will be made to protect the identity of the complainant during the investigation, sometimes that is not possible.

During informal resolution, all reasonable efforts will be made to ensure the confidentiality of information received, including the identities of the parties. Since no sanctions will be recommended or imposed on the accused in the informal resolution stage, the identity of the complainant will be disclosed to the accused only if the complainant gives permission. If, due to the circumstances of the alleged harassment, it is not possible to conduct a review of, or resolve the complaint and at the same time maintain confidentiality, the complainant will be informed and will be given the option of proceeding or withdrawing from the process. During formal investigation the identity of the complainant will be made known to the accused party; every reasonable effort will be made to protect the privacy rights of all parties, but confidentiality cannot be guaranteed.

Timeline

Time constraints will go into effect beginning with the filing of the formal complaint, which must be filed within 180 days (including weekends and summer) of the alleged discrimination or harassing incident. Upon the filing of a formal written complaint by the complainant with the Chair of the Panel (Director of Social Equity), the Panel will have a maximum of 30 working days to complete investigation of the complaint. The Panel’s report will be sent to the President or his/her designee within 14 working days after the investigation has been declared closed by the Panel. Within 30 working days from the receipt of the Panel’s report, the President will review the complaint and determine a resolution; copies of his/her determination will be sent to both parties. These time frames may be extended through mutual agreement of the University (acting by the Director of Social Equity), the complainant and the respondent. The University (acting by the Director of Social Equity) may also unilaterally extend any stage of the proceedings for good cause for up to 30 days beyond the time frames specified herein. Such a unilateral extension may occur no more than twice in the processing of any given complaint.

Working days shall be defined for these purposes as weekdays (excluding weekends and holidays, but including the summer).

The complainant shall be aware that if she/he intends to file a complaint outside the University with the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Civil Rights (OCR) or the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC), such complaint must be filed within 180 days (including weekends and summer) of the alleged discrimination or harassing incident.

UNIVERSITY ANTI-HAZING POLICY

The educational goals of Lock Haven University strive to establish a belief that all individuals and groups have certain responsibilities to enhance the overall development of all students and to ensure their rights as members of the University community. University policy therefore support organizations which are nurtured in an atmosphere of social and moral responsibility, respect for its members, and loyalty to the principles of higher education.

I. Definition. Hazing is defined as, but not limited to, any brutality of a physical nature or any activity which would subject an individual to extreme mental stress. Hazing includes any willful destruction or removal of public or private property and any activities which interfere with the educational goals of Lock Haven University. For purposes of this definition, any activity as described, upon which the initiation, admission into, affiliation with or continued membership in an organization is directly or indirectly conditioned, shall be presumed to be “forced” activity, in spite of the willingness of an individual to participate in such activity. This policy shall include all acts constituted as hazing on or off the University campus and in compliance with PA Act 175.

PA ACT 175

Pennsylvania Act 175 of 1986 prohibits fraternities, sororities, and other student organizations from hazing applicants for membership or from hazing persons who are already members to maintain their memberships in organizations.

An organization and its members are engaged in hazing if it engages in any activity, for purposes of initiation or continuing membership, which recklessly or intentionally endangers the physical or mental health of a student. This means any potential dangerous forced physical activity; any activity which could cause a student to suffer extreme mental stress, as well as any other form of forced activity potentially harmful to the mental health of dignity of a student.

Hazing activities include, but are not limited to:  whipping, beating, forced calisthenics, exposure to elements, forced consumption of food, liquor, drugs (legal or illegal) or any other substance, sleep depravation, forced exclusion from social contact, conduct which could result in extreme embarrassment, nudity, coerced sexual activity, confinement, physical restraint, or mental harassment.

An organization and its student members are also engaged in hazing if pledging, initiation or continuing membership activities cause the willful destruction of or removal of public property.

Act 175 provides that no student can consent to being hazed. Any activity falling within the definition of hazing activities is considered to be forced activity, subjecting the organization and its members to the full range of penalties.

Any organization found to have engaged in hazing may have its official recognition revoked.  Any student who participates in hazing may be fined, suspended, or expelled from the University via the University Judicial System.  Hazing is also a criminal penalty, and students are subjected to arrest and prosecution under the Pennsylvania Crime Code.  Conviction may result in a term of one year in addition to any other applicable penalty under the Pennsylvania Crime Code.

A. Physical Hazing

• whipping, beating, paddling, branding, tattooing

• forced calisthenics

• exposure to the elements

• physical shocks

• forced consumption of any food, liquor, drug or other substance

• any other forced physical activity which could adversely affect the physical health and safety of the individual.

B. Mental Hazing

• sleep deprivation (all new member or associate activities must cease prior to midnight, and must not begin any earlier than 8:00 a.m.  Overnight activities are prohibited.)

• forced exclusion from social contact

• forced conduct which could result in extreme embarrassment, harassment or ridicule

• kidnapping

• wearing apparel which is conspicuous and not normally in good taste or morally degrading

• humiliating games or activities

• any other forced activity which could adversely affect the mental health or dignity of the individual

II. Enforcement and Sanctions

A. All University organizations, their members and prospective members will be held responsible for ensuring the enforcement of this policy. It is understood that appropriate disciplinary action will be taken against those who choose to violate the provisions of this policy.

B. In the case of an individual or organization which authorizes hazing in blatant disregard for this policy, penalties will be imposed as follows:

1. Individual(s):

a. community or University projects