Table of Contents
Mission Statement……………………………………………………… 3
Introduction……………………………………………………………... 4
History………………………………………………………………….. 5
Traditions…………………………………………………...................... 10
Students Rights/Responsibilities………………………………………... 12
Policies and Regulations………………………………………………... 14
Standards of Student Conduct…………………………………………... 35
Academic Integrity……………………………………………………… 41
Academic Life…………………………………………………………... 45
Academic Support………………………………………………………. 49
Student Life Information………………………………………………... 50
Student Services and Programs…………………………………………. 55
Commuter Services and Information………………………………….... 60
Residence Life………………………………………………………….. 63
Security…………………………………………………………………..73
Seton Hill Government, Clubs………………………………………….. 75
Publications and Newsletters…………………………………………… 77
Statement of Anti-Harassment……………………………...................... 77
Instructions for Voice Mail System………………………...................... 78
Alma Mater……………………………………………………………… 79
Important Telephone Numbers………………………………………….. 80
Mission Statement……………………………………………………….. 81
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Mission Statement
Seton Hill is a Catholic university rooted in Judeo-Christian values. In the tradition of Elizabeth Ann
Seton, we educate students to think and act critically, creatively, and ethically as productive members
of society committed to transforming the world.
Adopted by Board of Trustees
February 24, 2003
SETON HILL UNIVERSITY, as an educational institution and as an employer, values equality of
opportunity, human dignity, and racial/ethnic and cultural diversity. Accordingly, the University
prohibits and will not engage in discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, religion,
national origin, ancestry, sex, age, marital status, familial status, sexual orientation, disability, or status
as a disabled veteran or a veteran of the Vietnam era. Further, the University will continue to take
affirmative steps to support and advance these values. This policy applies to admissions, employment,
and access to and treatment in University programs and activities. This is a commitment made by the
University and is in accordance with federal, state, and/or local laws and regulations
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Introduction
Upon entering Seton Hill a student becomes a member of the University community, sharing both
the benefits of its tradition, spirit, and opportunities and the responsibility for its viability in the present
and the future. Students are strongly encouraged to share themselves, their ideas and ideals, their
talents, and abilities with other members of the community and to be receptive to the views of others.
The student further obliges her/himself to know and accept those standards in academic and social life
which the University deems appropriate for the growth of its members.
Opportunities for participation in every aspect of the community are available; students may
choose involvement in academic, cultural, athletic, spiritual, and social programs, both on and off
campus. Seton Hill recognizes and encourages the individuality of each person in the community and
seeks to provide every opportunity for development. If at times the development of others is infringed
upon, action is taken to remind the individual of personal responsibility and to provide the student with
a deeper understanding of self and respect for others. Basically, Seton Hill seeks to enable students to
make sensitive and mature decisions within an environment of academic and social freedom framed by
the liberal arts and Christian principles. The underlying spirit and style of the University have been
made concrete in its Mission Statement.
Although Seton Hill has undergone many changes in its history, it nevertheless remains steadfast
in its purpose for existing, i.e., the education of responsible members of society, equipped
intellectually, socially, culturally, and spiritually to assume an active and effective role in local,
national, and global communities – a student prepared to transform the world!
Seton Hill University is owned by the Sisters of Charity of Seton Hill. It is governed by a Board
of Trustees composed of Sisters of Charity and lay persons.
Seton Hill reaches out to the Greensburg, Latrobe, and surrounding communities through its
distinguished programs of concerts, art exhibits, visiting scholars, lectures, entertainment, athletics,
theatre productions, and service to those in need. Reciprocally, Greensburg extends numerous cultural
and recreational opportunities to Seton Hill Students with the Westmoreland Symphony Orchestra,
Westmoreland Museum of American Art, library facilities, churches and synagogues, and its
department stores and shopping malls.
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Dear Setonian:
It is my pleasure to welcome you to Seton Hill University! For those students just beginning their
college career at Seton Hill University, you have made an excellent decision! For the upper-class
students, welcome back! The Student Services Staff look forward to getting to know the new students
and continuing and strengthening our relationship with the returning students as you pursue your
academic and personal goals.
As a University community, you are members of an academic community as well as the civil
community. All students have the rights, duties, and obligations associated with being a citizen in such
communities. What Seton Hill has to offer is exciting and demanding. The curricular and cocurricular experiences are designed to challenge and empower you. Through all that we have to offer,
we strive to create an environment conducive to your academic, personal, and spiritual growth, where
lifelong friendships are made, and where you can develop and share your talents and abilities.
The staff and faculty are available to assist you throughout your years at Seton Hill. However, our
efforts will be directed not to solving your problems but to helping you realize your potential for
addressing your own needs.
This Student Handbook represents one of the ways we are of service to you. The Handbook is
designed to serve as a guide to the services, opportunities, programs, and policies at Seton Hill. An
informed student is better able to make good decisions. We hope you make frequent use of this
particular resource.
Please be in touch with me if I can be of any assistance to you –strong@setonhill.edu; 724.838.4242;
222 Maura Hall.
Best wishes for a successful year!
Charmaine R. Strong, Ed.D.
Dean of Students
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Seton Hill University History
In the summer of 1882, Mother Aloysia Lowe, Mother Superior of the Pennsylvania Sisters of
Charity, purchased the land where Seton Hill University now stands. She named the site, which
consisted primarily of farmland, Seton Hill, in honor of Elizabeth Ann Bayley Seton, the founder of
the Sisters of Charity and the first American-born saint.
After creating the Saint Joseph Academy for Girls in 1883 (which operated until 1947), and taking
over the operation of the Saint Mary’s School for Boys in 1889 (which operated until 1927), the Sisters
of Charity opened the doors to Seton Hill Junior College in 1914. Four years later, in 1918, the
Pennsylvania College and University Council approved Seton Hill’s charter and Seton Hill College
was born.
Over the next several decades, Seton Hill evolved and grew with the times, adding programs and
expanding its reach. And in 2002, the Pennsylvania Department of Education officially granted Seton
Hill’s request to become a university. What started as a small college for local young women is now a
coeducational university with more than 2,000 students from 42 states and 16 countries, offering 30
undergraduate and 11 graduate programs, as well as an adult degree program.
Throughout its history, Seton Hill has educated students to think and act critically, creatively, and
ethically as productive members of society, committed to transforming the world. A Catholic
university, Seton Hill embraces students of all faiths, and pursues its mission in the tradition of Saint
Elizabeth Ann Seton, who promised her own students: “I would fit you for that world in which you are
destined to live.”
Campus Buildings
Main Campus (On “the Hill”)
Saint Mary Hall
The Stokes mansion was one of the few usable buildings still standing when the Sisters of Charity
purchased the land that would become Seton Hill’s campus. Named for previous owner William
Stokes, a wealthy lawyer and a major in the Civil War, this grand home had once contained the first
private library Andrew Carnegie had ever seen, inspiring the public libraries he established in later
years. The Stokes mansion served as the Sisters’ first home on the campus, and as the first home of the
Saint Joseph Academy, a boarding school for girls run by the Sisters. After Saint Joseph Academy
moved to the new Administration Building in 1889, the Saint Mary’s Preparatory School for Boys was
moved to the Stokes mansion, and the building has been referred to as Saint Mary Hall ever since. The
original building served the college for many years, but eventually had to be rebuilt. The current Saint
Mary Hall houses administrative offices and dance studios.
Administration Building
In 1889, the Sisters of Charity dedicated their new Motherhouse and new home of Saint Joseph
Academy, the building that now serves as the University’s Administration Building. An 1888 issue of
the Altoona Times described this large Romanesque building, designed by prominent Pittsburgh
architect Joseph Stillberg, as “the finest educational institution in western Pennsylvania.” In 2001 the
Administration Building re-opened after an extensive three-year renovation that maintained the historic
Victorian-era charm of the building while fitting it for today’s students. The Administration Building
contains classrooms equipped with the latest technology, computer labs, the National Catholic Center
for Holocaust Education, the E-Magnify Women’s Business Center, and student services and
administrative offices.
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Saint Joseph Chapel
Saint Joseph Chapel, “the heart of Seton Hill,” was dedicated on November 18, 1890. The chapel,
with its pillars of rose Georgian marble, intricately sculpted high and side alters of Carerra marble, 18
stained glass windows (including two 16 foot rose windows and a circular angel window in the ceiling
above the alter) and hand carved wooden pews, is still used daily at Seton Hill. In stained glass above
the main entrance are depicted values dear to the hearts of the Sisters of Charity: humility, simplicity,
charity. The wing that houses the chapel is also home to the majestic Cecilian Hall, long used for
graduation ceremonies, music and theatre performances, lectures, and special events.
Maura Hall
Maura Hall, built in 1908, currently houses the University biology laboratories in addition to
classrooms, computer labs, student residence rooms and administrative offices.
Lowe Hall
The University’s main dining hall – a fine example of Lombard Gothic architecture – is located in
Lowe Hall, built in 1920 as the first residence hall on campus. Lowe Hall also contains student
services and administrative offices. The building’s name honors Mother Aloysia Lowe of the Sisters
of Charity, who led the Sisters in the purchasing of the land that was to become Seton Hill’s campus,
and who was integral in every aspect of the college’s early days. Mother Aloysia described Seton Hill
as “to me, the dearest spot on earth.”
Sullivan Hall
Sullivan Hall, opened in 1929, is often referred to as Seton Hill’s “castle building.” Called simply
“the Activities Building” for years, it was officially named in 1947 to honor the Reverend Dr. Daniel
R. Sullivan, the fourth president of Seton Hill. Designed in the Norman Chateau style, Sullivan Hall
still serves as a student activities building, housing student club offices, the campus bookstore, the
Griffin’s Cove cafe´, the campus swimming pool, and student lounges.
Katherine Mabis McKenna Center
Sullivan Hall’s neighbor, the Katherine Mabis McKenna Center, opened in 2005. The McKenna
Center provides beautifully equipped facilities to accommodate the needs of all students interested in
pursuing life-long habits of fitness and wellness. The centerpiece of the McKenna Center is the
competition Salvitti Gymnasium seating 1,200. The Center also offers aerobics and fitness rooms, a
weight facility, locker rooms, two intramural courts, athletic training facilities, and athletic department
offices. The Edan Hall Foundation Running Track, which circles the second floor of the McKenna
Center, offers panoramic views of the Laurel Highlands on one hand, and an unobstructed view of the
gymnasium on the other. The exterior walls of Sullivan Hall serve as interior walls for the McKenna
Center, a symbol of continuity that honors, according to President JoAnne Boyle, “the vision of those
who went before us as we build for the future.”
Reeves Memorial Library
Reeves Memorial Library, dedicated in the fall of 1958, is named for the Reverend Dr. James A.
Reeves, fifth president of Seton Hill. Harlan Art Gallery and classrooms for the LECOM at Seton Hill
medical school are housed on the Library’s lower level.
The Child Development Center
The Child Development Center, which opened in 1967, is a preschool for children ages 3 to 5.
The nationally-accredited CDC is under the direction of Seton Hill’s Division of Education. The CDC
provides a valuable community service while affording Seton Hill students the opportunity to observe,
work, and learn in an accredited early childhood environment.
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Lynch Hall
The Clay Frick Lynch Hall of Science opened in the fall of 1970. Lynch Hall features computer
centers, classrooms, faculty offices, and laboratories for many of the programs in Seton Hill’s Division
of Natural and Health Sciences, including Seton Hill’s Physician Assistant program. Lynch Hall also
houses many of the classrooms and the lecture hall for LECOM at Seton Hill, the medical school on
Seton Hill’s campus. The Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) opened LECOM at
Seton Hill in the fall of 2009. The name of the building honors the memory of an outstanding civic
and industrial leader of Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania.
The Music Wing
The Music Wing, completed in 1974, housed the University’s music department until 2009, when
the theatre and music programs moved to the new Performing Arts Center in downtown Greensburg.
Still commonly referred to as “the Music Wing,” this building, located behind Cecilian Hall, now
houses new interactive computer labs and the departments of Computer and Information Technology,
Custodial and Maintenance.
Bayley Hall
Bayley Hall was constructed in 1976 and contains classrooms, seminar rooms, and faculty offices
for the Nutrition and Dietetics, Family and Consumer Sciences, Art, Art Therapy and Physician
Assistant programs. It is named in honor of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, whose maiden name was
Bayley.
Residence Halls
Residence facilities for students are located in Maura Hall, Lowe Hall, Canevin Hall, Havey Hall,
Brownlee Hall, Farrell Hall, and De Chantal Hall. Lowe Hall, opened in 1920, was named for Mother
Aloysia Lowe, first Mother Superior of the Sisters of Charity of Seton Hill. Canevin Hall, dedicated in
1924, was named for Bishop Regis Canevin of Pittsburgh, who gave his approval and encouragement
to Seton Hill University in its early days. Farrell Hall, opened in 2004, was named in honor of Eileen
Farrell, the first lay president of Seton Hill. De Chantal Hall, named for Sr. De Chantal Leis, dean of
women from 1951 until 1964, opened in the fall of 2005. Brownlee Hall, opened in 1965, is named in
honor of Sr. Francesca Brownlee, a directress of Saint Joseph Academy and Seton Hill’s dean from
1919 – 1929. Havey Hall was named for Mother Mary Joseph Havey, first president of Seton Hill
College.
Saint Joseph Hall
Saint Joseph Hall, originally a residence for the Sisters associated with the University and now
faculty office space, was constructed in 1923.
Technology Learning Commons
The Technology Learning Commons, or TLC, takes up the greater part of what used to be Seton
Hill’s Music Wing (behind Cecilian Hall), which was vacated by the Music Department when they
moved to the new Performing Arts Center in the summer of 2009. The Technology Learning
Commons houses Seton Hill’s Computer and Information Technology department and the new IQZone
(a high-tech classroom) and MediaSphere (a cutting edge gaming lab.) The IQZone and MediaSphere
are designed to encourage interactive learning – between students and professors, students and their
peers, and students and technology. As such, they are adaptable learning spaces, allowing the
technology and the physical layout of the room itself to be easily reconfigured to meet the
requirements of the students or the course. (They two learning spaces can also work in concert with
each other.) The IQZone looks the most like a traditional classroom, albeit an ultramodern one, with
one wall covered with two giant monitors and another featuring a smart board that can also be used as
a monitor for the “life size” video conferencing system. The modular furniture is mobile, and the floor
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is dotted with enough power and computer ports to support almost any conceivable configuration. The
tech in the room can be controlled from a smart podium that features an interactive monitor (you can
write or draw on it, for instance, and direct your text or art to appear on the smart board), a handheld
tablet device that can be used anywhere in the room, or a touch screen on the wall behind the podium.
The MediaSphere is more gaming lab than classroom, although it serves equally well as either. The
room surrounds its inhabitants with giant wall monitors (one with a smart board overlay that allows it
to switch easily from monitor to virtual chalkboard) and provides students and professors with mobile
workstations, specially designed furniture and powerful computers that can run the most sophisticated
gaming software. The IQZone and MediaSphere transform into collaborative learning centers when
class or faculty technology training is not in session, and can be reserved for use by anyone on
campus.
Downtown Greensburg Campus
Performing Arts Center (P.A.C.)
Seton Hill’s new Performing Arts Center, located in Greensburg’s cultural district just seconds
from main campus, opened in fall 2009. The 73,000 square foot Center houses two dedicated, flexible
performance spaces, the Carol Reichgut Concert Hall and the William Granger Ryan Theatre. The
Center also includes classrooms, rehearsal rooms and technical areas that include the best equipment
for learning and performing – from Steinway pianos to the latest in lighting, sound, video, and
acoustics. The Center also houses faculty and administrative offices for Seton Hill’s programs in
music and theatre.
Center for Family Therapy
The Seton Hill University Center for Family Therapy, located in downtown Greensburg just a few
doors from the Performing Arts Center, serves as community-based mental health and training site.
Therapy is provided by advanced Marriage and Family Therapy graduate students specializing in
individual, couples, and family therapy. Using state-of-the-art training facilities, therapists are
mentored by experienced clinicians on the faculty at Seton Hill University.
Visual Arts Center (V.A.C.)
Located three blocks from the Performing Arts Center and the Center for Family Therapy in
downtown Greensburg, V.A.C. is a large painting and drawing studio. In addition to providing
excellent studio space for Seton Hill’s art students, V.A.C. is located close to local arts organizations
and venues in Greensburg’s cultural district.
The Seton Hill Community
Seton Hill University, however, is much more than its buildings. It is a community composed of
students, faculty, staff, and alumni, each of whom has helped shape the Seton Hill that we experience
today. The leaders of this community represent the true builders of Seton Hill.
Seton Hill University Presidents
1918-1921 Mother Mary Joseph Havey
1921-1924 Mother Raymond Creed
1924-1925 Mother Rose Genevieve Rodgers
1925-1931 Reverend Dr. Daniel Richard Sullivan
1931-1947 Reverend Dr. James A. W. Reeves
1948-1971 Reverend Monsignor William Granger Ryan
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1971-1977 Sister Mary Schmidt
1977-1987 Ms. Eileen Farrell
1987- Present Dr. JoAnne Boyle
May their courage and foresight inspire those who are yet to come with the same vigor and openness
that the 1919 Seton Hill Bulletin describes:
"If the management of Seton Hill finds a way of doing things that is better than their present method,
they will replace all of that method or any part of it without scruple, for they are bound by no
traditions and they fear nothing but God's disfavor and the closed mind."
Traditions
Griffin Days
New Setonians entering the University are assisted through an integrated program of academic and
social events. Participants in orientation events will become acquainted with the history and traditions,
the people and facilities, the spirit, and the style of life on the Hill. This program is specially designed
to welcome all freshmen entering in the fall semester.
Lunch with Liz
A program to familiarize students with the history of Elizabeth Ann Seton and how her spirit
continues to direct and enliven the Sisters of Charity and the Seton Hill University community.
Opening Liturgy
The University community gathers as a faith community at this celebration near the beginning of
the year to invoke the blessings of God’s wisdom, grace, truth, and love on the personal and academic
endeavors of everyone at the Hill.
SHGA Club Fair
Toward the beginning of each academic year, students have the opportunity to learn about the
many clubs and organizations available at Seton Hill and meet the students involved in them. All
students, especially freshmen, are encouraged to take an active leadership role in organizations on
campus. Local churches within the community are also invited to attend.
Honors Convocation
Faculty, staff and students come together in the fall and spring as an academic community to
recognize those students who have achieved outstanding honors during the previous year. We also
reaccept the challenge of scholarship as teachers and learners by welcoming outstanding speakers to
address us on these occasions.
President’s Reception
At this official ceremony, all new students are welcomed into the University community. The
formalities include a reception line with which the students are formally introduced to the President,
administration, faculty, and staff.
Labor of Love
Early in the fall semester, members of the Seton Hill community participate in a day of service to
help others in need, bond with each other, and continue the Seton legacy of charity. After a send-off
rally on Sullivan Lawn, students, faculty, staff, and trustees board vans and travel to the service sites. .
Service sites have included: Caritas Christi, Christian Laymen Corps Store, Green Meadows Nursing
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Home, Habitat for Humanity, Jubilee Soup Kitchen, Powdermill Nature Reserve, Produce to People,
St. Emma’s Monastery, Seton Hill Grotto, Westmoreland Cleanways, Westmoreland County Food
Bank, and the YMCA.
Unity Coalition Rally
The Central Westmoreland Unity Coalition was formed in 1997. Each year, the coalition plans a
rally to promote understanding and unity among people and to foster a community that celebrates
diversity. Seton Hill University students, faculty, and staff participate in the rally with members of the
community. The program includes speakers and presentations and concludes with a candlelight
ceremony.
Homecoming & Family Weekend
This weekend is a chance for students to celebrate with each other, their families, and Seton Hill
staff, faculty, and alumni. Social gatherings, Liturgy, Brunch, Athletic Events, Tailgate Party,
Storybook Brunch, King & Queen of the Hill competition and the Cardboard Regatta are planned
annually.
International Student Organization Food Festival
A culinary experience showcasing authentic international dishes from over 20 different countries
is prepared by Seton Hill’s intercultural community. The festival is an excellent opportunity for guests
to enjoy and learn through food and music about the many different cultures represented at Seton Hill
University.
Kristallnacht Remembrance Service
Seton Hill University’s Annual Kristallnacht Remembrance Service, highlighted by guest speakers
and a candle lighting ceremony, recalls the “Night of Broken Glass” – November 9-10, 1938 – when
the Nazis burned synagogues, looted Jewish homes and businesses, and murdered individuals in
nationwide programs. Sponsored by the National Catholic Center for Holocaust Education and
Campus Ministry, this event brings together members of the campus community to remember and vow
never to let this happen again.
All-Campus Thanksgiving Dinner
Before the Thanksgiving break, the University celebrates our gratitude for and with each other.
An interfaith prayer service of Thanksgiving precedes a turkey dinner with all the trimmings served by
faculty and staff.
Operation Christmas Basket
During the fall semester, we create a crafter’s workshop through Campus Ministry; making and
baking activities increase in late November. Early in December, a sale of baked goods and craft items
provides funds for Seton Hill’s outreach into the Greensburg community with food and other
assistance to the needy.
Christmas on the Hill
Reflecting on the importance of the coming of Christ into history, we begin the Christmas season
with the Crib Ceremony. The freshman class sponsors this program during which the Christmas
figures are placed in the Nativity. Caroling and the sharing of memories of Seton Hill University
Christmases past conclude the evening. Sophomores continue the celebration with their light-up
ceremony.
On the Saturday of celebration, all members of the Seton Hill family don their very best to begin
the festivities. A formal candlelight dinner for all Seton Hill University students served by faculty and
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staff, a Christmas Liturgy with candlelight and Silent Night, the Christmas dance, and campus parties
make up the celebration.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration
Each spring, as a tribute to Martin Luther King, Jr., and in keeping with Dr. King’s commitment to
service, the campus comes together for a day. Students, faculty, and staff have a light breakfast
together and after a blessing and kickoff, volunteers depart for various service sites. Service sites have
included: Westmoreland County Food Bank, American Red Cross, American Cancer Society,
Humane Society of Westmoreland County, Christian Laymen Corps Store, and Caritas Christi. This
celebration continues on campus with a follow-up educational program later in the week on issues of
peace and justice.
Tree Planting
The junior class plants a memory for us on campus in this annual late-spring ritual. A symbol of
growth and endurance, the tree they dedicate not only beautifies the campus, but remains as a reminder
of their class through the years.
Senior Week
This week between finals and graduation provides time for the seniors to plan activities including
social events, nostalgia, and last trips to familiar places. These activities are organized by the members
of the Senior Class and their Advisors.
Baccalaureate and Commencement
A December Commencement is held for those students who complete their degree studies in
August or December. This ceremony incorporates a vesper service with the academic events and is
followed by a faculty/staff reception for students and their families.
In the spring, a baccalaureate Mass is scheduled on the Friday evening preceding Commencement.
The Senior Class Officers lead the procession, displaying their Senior Class Banner. The
Commencement Address on Saturday opens with an academic procession, and end with the
Commencement Address and presentation of diplomas. Graduates then process to a receiving line to
say good-bye to the faculty and staff, symbolizing coming full circle from the President’s Reception in
their first year when they formally met the faculty and staff. A reception for family and friends is also
planned. Farewell to friends and a last ride down the Hill begin the next phase of each new graduate’s
life.
Alumni Weekend
During the first weekend in June, Seton Hill alumni from far and near gather for their annual
reunion. Meeting old friends, reminiscing, and getting caught up on what’s been happening at their
Alma Mater take most of the weekend. Special celebrations are planned for the five-year classes, but
all graduates are welcomed home. The President of the Senior Class serves as the Chair of the fiveyear reunion. Class officers often serve as co-chairs.
Student Rights/Responsibilities
College students are both citizens and members of the academic community. As citizens they
have the same basic rights guaranteed under the United States Constitution: freedom of speech,
petition, peaceful assembly and inquiry, and security against unreasonable search and seizure.
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As members of the Seton Hill University community, they have the right of just evaluation based
on academic standards; of freedom to express views on issues of institutional policy; of freedom to join
associations to promote common interests; and of freedom to express dissent by peaceful
demonstration. As members of the academic community, they are subject to the obligations which this
membership implies.
While Seton Hill guarantees the student rights and encourages individual freedom and personal
choice, the University administration reserves itself the ultimate determination and enforcement of
major policy decisions and the right, with appropriate notice, to change these policies if conditions
necessitate. It expects its students, furthermore, to recognize their responsibility to the community and
concern for the group. It expects that students recognize Seton Hill’s character as a Catholic university
which does not rest on a specific rule but, rather, on the spirit, style, and traditions of such an
institution.
Having studied the objectives of the University and the Joint Statement of Rights and Freedoms of
Students (1967), the Seton Hill Government Association formulated the following statements
concerning student rights and freedom on the Hill.
Student Participation in Institutional Government
As constituents of the academic community, students are free, individually and collectively, to
express their views on issues of institutional policy and on matters of general interest to the student
body. The student body, through the Seton Hill Government Association, has clearly defined ways to
participate in the formulation and application of institutional policy affecting academic and student
affairs.
Student Publications
Editors and managers of University publications are free to develop their own editorial policies.
At the same time, the editorial freedom of student editors and managers entails corollary
responsibilities that are governed by the canons of responsible journalism, such as the avoidance of
indecency and impropriety, undocumented allegations, attacks on personal integrity, and the
techniques of harassment and innuendo.
All University published and financed student publications explicitly state on the editorial page
that the opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the University or of the student body as a
whole.
All student publications financed by the University must have a faculty advisor who is accountable
to the institution and its policies and the Seton Hill University Mission Statement.
Student Records
Seton Hill University has adopted a policy consistent with the Family Educational Rights and
Privacy Act (FERPA), which allows each student to inspect and to review her/his educational records
and which limits the circumstances in which information contained in a student’s education records
might be disclosed. The policy is maintained in the Student Services Office, and any student may get a
copy of it there.
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FERPA affords students certain rights with respect to their education records. These rights
include:
1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the
University receives a request for access.
2. The right to request the amendment of the portion of the student’s education records that the
student believes is inaccurate.
3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the
student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without
consent.
One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with
legitimate educational interests.
The following student information is considered to be personally identifiable information which
may be disclosed by the University unless a student exercises her/his right to request that such
information not be disclosed:
Name; address (local, home, and e-mail); telephone number (local and home); place and
date of birth; dates of attendance; major field of study and class level; degrees, honors, and
awards; previous institutions attended; past and present participation in officially
recognized activities and sports; height and weight of athletic team members.
To withhold disclosure of such directory information, written notification must be received in
the Student Services Office no later than the last day of the drop/add period in any given
semester. A form must be filed annually to renew the request to withhold information. Seton
Hill University assumes that failure by any student to request specifically the withholding of
personally identifiable information indicates approval for disclosure of such information.
4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures
by Seton Hill University to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of
the office that administers FERPA are:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202-4605
Right of Peaceful Demonstration
The right of students to dissent and to express dissent by peaceful demonstration is upheld by the
University, provided that dissenters respect the rights of others to disagree with them, that they do not
interfere with the operation of the University, and that they refrain from violence to persons or
property. The Office of Student Services must be notified if the demonstration involves more than five
(5) persons and is taking place on University property.
Policies and Regulations
Alcohol, Prescription Medication and other Drugs
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Alcohol: Seton Hill University supports the Pennsylvania State Laws and the Drug-Free Schools Act
concerning alcohol and accepts the responsibility to inform each student of her/his obligation to obey
these laws. Violation of such laws includes financial penalties and educational opportunities regarding
underage drinking, driving under the influence, providing alcohol to minors, using false ID’s, public
drunkenness, and more. In Pennsylvania, and all states of the U.S., the legal drinking age is 21.
In Pennsylvania, underage drinking laws apply to a number of behaviors, which include: lying about
one’s age to obtain alcohol; purchasing, attempting to purchase, consuming, possessing, or transporting
alcohol; carrying a false identification card; and being intoxicated. Consequences for any of the above
may include, but are not limited to, fines, loss of driver’s license, notification of parents/guardians,
BASICS (Brief Alcohol Screening and Intervention for College Students), AOD counseling, personal
counseling, and evaluation of one’s alcohol use by an alcohol/drug assessment professional.
Students and their guests, regardless of age, may neither store nor consume alcoholic beverages of any
kind on University property or as part of any University activity. Alcoholic beverages are not
permitted at any student-sponsored function. However, at special University-sanctioned functions
hosted by faculty or staff, alcohol may be served to legal age students provided the proper University
procedures and guidelines and all state and federal laws are followed. University funds, including
orientation fees or activities fees, are not to be spent for alcohol by student groups or club advisors.
Guidelines and permission request forms are available in the Student Services Office.
Any use of alcohol that results in behavior which causes hazard or injury to the individual, injury or
embarrassment to the University or members of the external community, or which leads to a social
disturbance, shall be a matter for disciplinary action. Students who present themselves on campus in
an intoxicated condition are subject to disciplinary action, BASICS, AOD counseling, and/or personal
counseling. Additionally, any student who is in a room where alcohol is knowingly present is subject
to disciplinary action, BASICS and/or AOD counseling. Decorative alcohol bottles or empty alcohol
containers may not be kept in the residence halls. Individuals are prohibited from providing alcohol or
creating an environment to consume alcohol on campus (hosting).
Seton Hill University consequences for alcohol policy violation include, but are not limited to:
ALCOHOL
Level I
Level II
Violation: Minimum of a $250.00 fine
 A refund of $200 will be awarded after successful completion of BASICS
if completed within 30 days of the violation.
 A refund of $150 will be awarded after successful completion of BASICS
if completed with 45 days of the violation.
 A refund of $100 will be awarded after successful completion of BASICS
if completed with 60 days.
 No refund will be granted if not completed within 60 days.
 A possible PA State citation; parent notification and coach notification if an
athlete.
Hosting Violation: Minimum of a $300.00 fine in addition to the above sanctions.
Violation: Minimum of a $300.00 fine
 A refund of $200 will be awarded after successful completion of BASICS
if completed within 30 days of the violation.
 A refund of $150 will be awarded after successful completion of BASICS
if completed within 45 days of the violation.
 A refund of $100 will be awarded after successful completion of BASICS
-15-
if completed within 60 days.
No refund will be granted if not completed within 60 days.
A possible PA State citation; parent notification and coach notification if an
athlete.
Hosting Violation: Minimum of a $400.00 fine in addition to the above sanctions.
Violation: Minimum of a $400.00 fine
A refund of $200 will be awarded after successful completion of BASICS if
completed if completed within 30 days of the violation.
A refund of $150 will be awarded after successful completion of BASICS if
completed within 45 days of the violation.
A refund of $100 will be awarded after successful completion of BASICS if
completed within 60 days.
No refund will be granted if not completed within 60 days.
A possible PA State citation; parent notification and coach notification if an athlete.
Hosting Violation: Minimum of a $450.00 Fine in addition to the above sanctions.


Level III
Alcohol Penalties in the State of Pennsylvania
Offense
Fine
Jail
License Suspension
0-$300
0-90 days
Public drunkenness
1st offense
Purchase, consumption, possession or transportation ...
1st offense
0-$300
0-90 days
90 days
2nd offense
0-$500
0-90 days
1 year
Subsequent offenses
0-$500
0-90 days
2 years
1st offense
0-$300
0-90 days
90 days
2nd offense
0-$500
1 year
1 year
Subsequent offenses
0-$500
1 year
2 years
1st offense
0-$300
0-90 days
90 days
2nd offense
0-$500
0-1 year
1 year
Subsequent offenses
0-$500
0-1 year
2 years
1st offense
$3005,000
48 hrs—2 years
1 year
2nd offense
$3005,000
30 days– 2 years
1 year
3rd offense
$30010,000
90 days—5 years
1 year
Misrepresentation of age...
Carrying a false ID
DUI
Selling or Furnishing Liquor, Malt or Brewed beverages to Minors
-16-
1st Offense
$1,0002,500
0-1year
-
2nd Offense
$2,500
0-1year
-
A complete reference to PA laws and sanctions can be accessed at
http://www.lcb.state.pa.us/edu/resources/law.asp
Alcohol Medical Amnesty
The University community values the health and safety of its members and supports an environment
that encourages students to come to the assistance of one another. To that end, certain provisions –
known as the Alcohol Medical Assistance Procedure – have been made to ensure that responsible
action is taken when a student is medically endangered due to consumption of alcohol.
Students for whom medical assistance is summoned for alcohol intoxication will be granted amnesty
from University administrative disciplinary action and University Police action. The student who
summons University Police/University Staff and/or Resident Assistants (or EMS, if off campus) on
behalf of an intoxicated student will likewise be granted such amnesty provided the caller remains with
the intoxicated student until help arrives. Students involved in an alcohol-related incident for which
amnesty is granted will be provided appropriate educational or developmental interventions.
Amnesty applies only to alcohol violations and does not apply to other criminal activity such as
assault, property damage, or presence of other illicit substances. As a concerned community, in cases
where medical help is indicated but not sought, involved students will be engaged in a process to
encourage responsible concern for others. Students who are involved in the alcohol medical amnesty
procedure on multiple occasions will be required to participate in counseling sessions with the Alcohol
and Other Drugs Prevention Specialist to explore the significance of their involvement and decision
making. This policy is subject to change pending University, State or Federal legislation/policy
amendments.
Questions should be directed to the Director of Counseling, Disability, and Health Services at 724838-4295.
Prescription Medication: The misuse of prescriptions drugs is both illegal and dangerous. Many
prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs have side effects, and when taken incorrectly or in
combination with other prescribed or OTC drug(s) they can be extremely dangerous or lethal.
ONLY TAKE A PRESCRIBED MEDICATION FOR THE REASON IT WAS PRESCRIBED
AND DURING THE TIME PERIOD FOR WHEN IT WAS PRESCRIBED.
When you have finished taking the medication as prescribed, any leftover medication should be taken
to the Wellness Center or pharmacy for disposal in a safe manner. Additionally, any medication that
is expired or over a year old should also be disposed of safely.
Abuse of Drugs: Any licit, or legitimate, prescribed or OTC drug taken other than as directed is
considered abuse. You do not have to take illegal drugs to abuse drugs.
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NEVER GIVE OR SELL PRESCRIPTION DRUGS TO ANOTHER PERSON!
A medication that you were directed to take by your physician may be extremely dangerous or lethal to
others. You do not know how medications may interact with other OTC or prescribed drug(s) that
another person is taking. Those medications may also have an adverse reaction to the medication you
give them.
NEVER TAKE OR BUY PRESCRIPTION DRUGS FROM ANOTHER PERSON!
It could be dangerous or deadly to take another person’s medication. Risks include, but are not limited
to:
 Allergic or rare drug reaction
 Interaction with another drug (OTC or prescribed)
 Reaction due to an undiagnosed health condition
 Possession or use of another person’s prescribed medication is strictly prohibited by law
and University policy. Sanctions for violation of the policy may include, but are not
limited to: mandatory meeting(s) with the university prevention specialist, evaluation of
one’s drug use by an alcohol/drug assessment professional, removal from the residence
halls, expulsion, or suspension with or without a stipulation that the student seek personal
counseling/treatment, immediate withdrawal from the University or other action as
deemed appropriate.
Other Drugs: The use of controlled drugs (including but not limited to marijuana, speed, LSD,
cocaine, heroin, ecstasy, steroids, amphetamines, and non-prescription use of controlled drugs, etc.) are
believed to lead to temporary and even permanent physical and psychological damage to those who
use them and to impair the user’s capacity for the intellectual and judgmental discipline needed for
academic achievement and social living (except when prescribed and taken under strict medical
supervision). Furthermore, in Pennsylvania, the selling, buying, possession, and non-prescription use
of controlled drugs are felonies punishable by severe fines and imprisonment. University policy,
therefore, holds that the unlawful manufacture, distribution, possession, or use of controlled drugs and
drug paraphernalia is prohibited on any University property or work place or as part of any University
activity. Furthermore, proved instances of manufacture, distribution, possession, or non-prescription
use of controlled drugs (regardless of location) are considered evidence of one’s failure to accept the
principles of personal responsibility which are fundamental to the academic and social life of the
University, and, therefore, will result in disciplinary action. Sanctions for violation of the “other drug
policy” may include, but are not limited to: mandatory risk reduction meeting(s) with the University
prevention specialist, opportunity for immediate withdrawal from the University, suspension with or
without a stipulation that the student seek personal counseling/treatment, evaluation of one’s drug use
by an alcohol drug assessment professional, expulsion, removal from the residence halls, and arrest by
state/local/University police.
Seton Hill University consequences for Other Drug Policy violation include, but are not limited to:
Level I
Other Drug Violation
Violation: Minimum of a $300.00 fine
 A refund of $200 will be awarded after successful completion of drug
education program if completed with 30 days of the violation.
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
A refund of $150 will be awarded after successful completion of BASICS
if completed with 45 days of the violation.
 A refund of $100 will be awarded after successful completion of BASICS
if completed within 60 days.
 No refund will be granted if not completed within 60 days.
A possible PA State citation; parent notification and coach notification if a student
athlete. “Other Drug” violations may result in removal from the residence halls or
suspension or dismissal from the university.
Hosting Violation: Minimum of a $350.00 fine in addition to the above sanctions.
Level II
Violation: Minimum of a $400.00
 A refund of $200 will be awarded after successful completion of BASICS
if completed within 30 days of the violation.
 A refund of $150 will be awarded after successful completion of BASICS
if completed within 45 days of the violation.
 A refund of $100 will be awarded after successful completion of BASICS
if completed within 60 days.
 No refund will be granted if not completed within 60 days.
A possible PA State citation; parent notification and coach notification if a student
athlete. “Other Drug” violations may result in removal from the residence halls or
suspension or dismissal from the university.
Hosting Violation: Minimum of a $450.00 fine in addition to the above sanctions.
Drug Penalties in the State of Pennsylvania
Possession of 30 grams or less of Marijuana
1st Offense
$500
30 Days
Possession of 30 grams or more of Marijuana
1st Offense
$5,000
1 year
A complete reference to PA laws and sanctions can be accessed at
http://members.aol.com/Judiciary/35PA780_113.html
Violation of Law
Off-Campus: Students who violate the law as a result of off-campus activities and incur penalties
prescribed by civil authorities will be responsible for such penalties. Seton Hill is an academic
institution and shall remain neutral in such cases. If the University or academic community is
involved, the special authority of this institution will be asserted. Seton Hill University has the right to
pursue off-campus incidents through its judicial system.
On-Campus: Theft, vandalism, shoplifting, harassment, turning in false alarms, tampering with
telephones or mail, etc., are criminal offenses. The University does not view with leniency such
offenses committed on campus by students. Violators will be subject to disciplinary action by the
Campus Police, the Dean of Students, or the judicial system.
-19-
Seton Hill reserves to itself the right to notify parents should a student be found committing a
criminal offense.
Bulletin Boards
Bulletin boards located in various areas of the campus carry notices about class changes and
cancellations, graduate school programs, student activities, and many other items of interest.
Administrative offices, classes, and departments have their own boards for additional information.
Announcements, letters, and reminders are also posted on residence hall floors and in all campus
lounge areas. All notices must follow the University Posting Policy. (See paragraph below)
Because students are responsible for knowing what is posted, they should cultivate the habit of
regularly reading notices.
Notices posted on bulletin boards should state the name of the individual or group responsible for
the announcement.
Student members of groups or organizations may use the services of the Xerox Office on campus,
providing they have a budget charge number.
All postings from off-campus businesses must have posting approval by the Office of Activities &
Commuter Life.
Class Cancellations
In case of inclement weather, students should call (724) 830-1000 for information about class
cancellations due to weather conditions or check the Announcement section on the Griffin’s Lair.
Announcements will be also made on the radio and television stations, KDKA Pittsburgh and WTAE
Pittsburgh. A list of class cancellations due to faculty members’ immobility or illness may also be
found on the Academic Affairs bulletin board located on 2 nd Maura. Individual class cancellation
notices are also posted on classroom doors.
SHU class cancellation notices may also be sent to active students, faculty, and employees through
the University’s Campus Alert text messaging service. University constituents must self-register to
receive this emergency message service using the “Alert” button near the top of the SHU Website’s
main homepage. Message recipient costs are limited to standard text messaging charges from your cell
phone provider. University messages sent by this service are limited to special campus alerts.
Computing Services
Purpose of Computing Services – Network and Internet services at Seton Hill University have
been established to promote educational excellence by facilitating resource sharing, innovation, and
communication. Maintaining these computing services depends upon proper conduct of end users.
Seton Hill users are held to high ethical standards consistent with the Mission Statement of the
University. These standards also underscore responsible, legal, and secure use of the campus-wide
information system, and are indicative of common sense and common decency applicable to any
shared resource. Responsibility extends to access, use of information, and distribution of data.
Office, classroom, laboratory computers, plus peripheral equipment; network hardware; and all
associated software, supplies, and materials are provided to carry out the academic and administrative
goals and objectives set by faculty, administration, and students.
In keeping with the mission of Seton Hill University to affirm the uniqueness of every person
evidenced by active, generous concern for others and respect for values different from one’s own, the
University offers academic support services to all students. In addition, students with disabilities may
-20-
need a variety of services, accommodations, or auxiliary aids. Decisions about these services are based
on documentation, interview, knowledge of specific needs, and compliance with Section 504 of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.
While the student with a documented disability will be provided preferential access to computers
equipped with the adaptive devices and/or software necessary for the student, it is the responsibility of
the student to request access to specific adaptive technology devices and/or software by contacting the
Office of Disability Services. Individuals with questions regarding services, accommodations,
technology accesses, or auxiliary aids, please contact Seton Hill University’s Office of Disability
Services at 724-838-4925.
Provisions for Computer System Use - Students, Faculty and Staff are provided with a Seton
Hill network and/or email account. These accounts provide access, which varies depending on user
needs, to resources including but not limited to; email, departmental and personal network drive space,
the campus intranet, the campus portal and library resources.
Student network and email accounts are created for students upon admissions deposit to the
institution and retained throughout the students’ career at Seton Hill University. Student accounts are
reviewed each August. Accounts for students who are not registered for the upcoming fall semester
and who have not been registered for the prior summer, spring and fall semesters (last 3 semesters) will
be disabled and removed. Access to any network storage space as well as access to personal web
space will be disabled at this time as well.
A University-owned office computer is provided on campus to all full time faculty, professional
and operational employees, and employees who regularly use computers in completion of their work
tasks. Seton Hill computing equipment is also located in classrooms and computer labs throughout the
campus. Students have priority for use of classroom and computer lab facilities. All University
machines are loaded with University-owned software, and receive full technical support from
Computer and Information Technology (CIT) personnel. Network connections and Internet
connectivity are provided for each residence hall student. Helpdesk support for privately-owned
student, faculty, or employee computers may also be provided depending on the severity of the
problem. Helpdesk assistance is given in response to any computer, e-mail, or web-based information
portal logon problem that precludes fulfillment of the University’s academic and administrative
purposes.
The Computer and Information Technology Department is responsible for ensuring that all
computers and peripheral hardware, printers, fax machines, telephone system equipment, and all
related software are compatible with University standards and network requirements. All Universityfunded purchasing requests for such items must be routed through this department before a purchase
order is issued. CIT maintains University-purchased equipment and software inventory databases, and
archives all software media and licenses. CIT personnel are also responsible for installing all new
informational technology hardware and software, and for moving such items to different campus
locations or to different computers.
Submit a Helpdesk request through Griffin’s Lair, under the Helpdesk tab the and above Computer
and Information Technology services will be provided on a timely, scheduled basis.
Conditions of Computer System Use - Access to the Seton Hill University computer system,
including Internet connectivity, is not a right but a privilege. Inappropriate use will, at the discretion of
University Administration, result in suspension of computing service privileges. When using any of
-21-
the University’s computing resources you agree to adhere to applicable conditions of use. The
following list is not all-inclusive.
1. Respect the rights, privileges, and privacy of other users.

Respect the privacy of other users by not attempting to access their accounts or tamper with
their data.

Do not attempt to access/copy any data/files for the purpose of plagiarism.

Honor the intellectual rights of others by not making unauthorized copies of copyrighted or
licensed programs or data.

Respect the rights of other users in an open and hospitable computing environment, regardless
of race, sex, color, religion, ethnicity, age, or special abilities status.

Do not use the network in a way that is disruptive for others. Examples of disruptive uses
include sending mass emails, chain letters, external sales promotions, high volumes of strictly
personal email, and non-work related instant messages from one computer to another.
2.
Preserve the integrity and stability of the University computing system.

Use only your own User ID and Password for their intended purpose.

Do not use any University-owned or operated computers for personal “for-profit” activities or
for any illegal purposes.

Do not attempt to bypass any security systems.

Respect the financial structure of the system; for example, you must not intentionally develop
or use any unauthorized mechanisms to alter or avoid charges levied by Seton Hill University.

Respect the integrity of the system by not intentionally developing or using programs,
transactions, data, or processes that harass other users or infiltrate the system or damage or
alter the data or software components of a system.

Respect the policies and procedures of external networks, such as the Internet and systems
that can be accessed via the Internet.

Hubs, routers, switches, and servers are not permitted on the Seton Hill network without the
written consent of the Network Administrator.

Respect Seton Hill’s commitment to spiritual, ethical, and religious values by ensuring that
anything stored, transmitted, or posted to the World Wide Web will be of a form and content
that it could be posted on a bulletin board anywhere on campus.

Do not open or download pornographic materials or other materials that violate the Mission
Statement of the University.
3.
Use only authorized software applications on University-owned computers.
-22-



4.
Do not load and use personal programs, or use any existing programs in a manner that affects
the stability of existing systems.
Do not download Internet-provided software to your office or classroom/lab computer,
including those “free” applications that provide customized email orders, graphics, and
decorative animations. These downloads often install spyware and other infectious codes on
your computer that will create problems for you and for others on the University network.
Do not install or use Internet-related software such as Real Audio, MP3 downloads, or
Internet radio stations, except as approved by Seton Hill University. Such activities place
undue burdens on network bandwidth, thereby constraining the University’s capability to
achieve its educational excellence objectives.
Respect the limited resources that are shared by all users.

Avoid such practices as consuming the University’s facilities or Internet bandwidth for long
periods of time when others are waiting to use these for academic purposes.

Do not damage or alter equipment or software either physically or by infection with a virus,
spyware, or other forms of contamination.

Food, drink, or tobacco products of any kind are discouraged in computer classrooms/labs, or
near computers or computer-related equipment to protect the integrity of the equipment.

Abide by an instructor’s requirements for computer use including participation in online
assignments, and honor an instructor’s right to allow or disallow use of a computer while the
room is in use for instructional purposes.
Privacy and Security - Conditions of Computer System Use, detailed above, have been
established for the protection of all users, but provide neither absolute security nor unqualified privacy.
When a person logs on to the Seton Hill University computing system, that person becomes
responsible for adhering to University policy as well as state and federal laws governing individual
privacy rights and confidentiality. Responsibility extends to access, use of information, and
distribution of data from the system.
Seton Hill University reserves the right to monitor any action that you perform while using the
campus-wide information system. Such action is necessary to protect the integrity of the University
computing system.
1.
Safeguard your passwords, your data, and your personal information.

Your unique Seton Hill username is assigned by the University and cannot be changed.
However, you can and should change your account password frequently. Do not share your
password with others.

Follow all security policies and procedures established to control access to Seton Hill’s
system.

Logoff your University-owned computer account at the end of each work session. Do not
shut down the computer entirely, but instead click Restart to reactivate the Logon screen.
Leaving the computer powered on, but with your personal account closed, extends the life of
-23-
hardware components. It also provides the opportunity for software patches and updates to be
installed on University-owned computers by the Network Administrator.

Protect your computer and other computers from viruses, worms, spyware, and other
infections by having an up-to-date anti-virus software application actively running, and by
being current with security-related updates to the operating system.

Regularly backup your computer data and important email messages that should be saved, but
regularly delete other files and messages from your University account to conserve system
storage space.

Seton Hill University does not assume any liability for data loss resulting from delays, nondeliveries, mis-deliveries, or service interruptions caused by errors and/or omissions.
2.
The Seton Hill University computing system is designed and operated to serve the needs and
best interests of all its users, but those who use this computing system do so at their own risk.

The University makes no warranties of any kind, expressed or implied, for the service it is
providing, and the University will not be responsible for any damages you may suffer.

Seton Hill specifically denies any responsibility for the accuracy or quality of information
obtained through its Internet services.

If you believe you can identify a security problem on the University network, it is your
responsibility to notify the Network Administrator. Do not demonstrate the problem to other
users.

Notify the Director of Campus Police immediately if any individual is trying to contact you
for illicit or suspicious activities.
Users of Seton Hill University’s computing system should use the system according to their academic
and personal needs. Users should also consider the implications that careless use of the system might
have on them or other members of the University community. The University reserves the right to
institute disciplinary charges as well as report suspected criminal offenses to civil authorities.
Facebook and Online Community Use - Seton Hill University faculty and staff do not monitor online
communities. Seton Hill University does not forbid faculty, staff, and students from joining and
participating in online communities. Any behavior that violates University policies brought to the
attention of a University official will be treated as an opportunity to educate the students, and a judicial
sanction may occur. The University recommends that students follow the following tips:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Once you post something on the Internet, it can never be completely deleted.
Remember-future employers will search for you before they hire you. (Do you really want
the world to be able to view you in the ways you portray yourself on the Internet?)
Parents and family members can access the information you post.
If you choose to put certain types of photos or information on your Facebook account, then
make your account PRIVATE (by making your account private, you will be able to control
who has access to your information on Facebook.)
Think about how you represent others in certain circumstances. (Pictures of someone without
their permission can still be considered libel.)
-24-
6.
7.
8.
Be careful about who you allow to become “friends” on Facebook. (Not everyone is who
they say they are.)
Be cautious about agreeing to meet people you befriend through Facebook/Internet.
Do not include a lot of personal information on your account like your residence hall room
number, personal phone number, etc.
Institutional, Professional, and Personal Web Pages and Web Logs - Institutional, professional and
personal home page publishers are responsible for their own web pages and web logs. This includes
responsibility for avoiding copyright violations, complying with local, state, and federal laws and other
University policies, keeping the information up to date, and responding to email contact generated by
the page.
Institutional web pages are those maintained by an official unit of Seton Hill University. These
include various areas of the University and student organizations. Recognized student organizations
can apply for institutional web accounts through the University Helpdesk. Professional pages for
faculty and employees are web pages and logs that contain information directly related to one’s
position at Seton Hill University. One’s professional page or log may contain a link to one’s personal
page or log. Personal pages are web pages or logs maintained by individual faculty, employees, or
students who, while bound by these policies, are entirely responsible for the content of their pages or
logs. Upon deactivation or removal of the individual’s network account, edit access to the pages will
be removed and the pages will be archived.
Copyright laws apply to electronic publishing as well as to print publishing. Be sure you have
permission to publish the information, graphics, photographs, audio, video, etc. on your pages if you
are not the author or creator. Photographs of individual or personal information about an individual
must not be included without the permission of the individual.
Printing – Printing through campus owned printers is reserved for academic purposes only. Students
have access to black and white printers in most of the Academic Computer Labs on campus. Color
printers are provided in those labs/classrooms where subject matter demands color printing (e.g.,
Graphic Design courses). Color printing is also available through the on-campus Xerox Copy Center.
Print Quota Policy - Each University student will be given a $25 print quota credit per semester for
use on public or lab printers. This equates to 500 single-side black and white pages at $.05 per page.
Pages printed in black and white on a color printer will be charged $.15 per page. Pages printed in
color on a color printer will be charged $.25 per page, or 250 single-sided pages. The print quotas are
reset at the beginning of each semester (Fall, Spring, and Summer), regardless of how many units are
remaining. Printing balances may not be transferred or carried over to the next semester.
Once a student’s quota has been completely exhausted, she/he will be unable to print until
additional quota has been purchased. Additional print quota can be purchased with cash in $5
increments from the Student Accounts Office during regular business hours.
Students who are working for campus departments or campus activities should consult with their
supervisor or advisor in regards to tracking printing they do for their job or activity.
To help prevent accidental use of large amounts of the quota with a single print job, the following
limitation has been instituted:
-25-

All public or lab printers are limited to print jobs of 100 pages or less and single copy print
jobs. If a print job is automatically deleted due to the above limitation, the print job will not
count against the student’s quota.
Students can monitor their print quota balance online by going to http://printquota.setonhill.edu.
This quota lookup page is accessible from on campus. The user will be prompted for her/his username
and password. The balance will be updated automatically after each print job completes.
User Behavior Expectations - Seton Hill University administrators, employees, faculty, and students
are allowed to use the computers in all public computing facilities on our campus to perform research,
work, and classroom assignments. They should be able to perform such computing in a comfortable,
professional environment. Hostile or abusive language or gestures will not be tolerated and noise will
be maintained at a level that allows users to concentrate on the University-related pursuits.
Anyone who is not a currently enrolled student or current employee of Seton Hill may use the
public facilities at the discretion of University employees, if computers are available and not being
used by Seton Hill administrators, employees, faculty, and students. Within the limitations of
classroom/lab scheduling, students have priority over all other users for the use of the classroom/lab
facilities.
Use of the Seton Hill University computer system and all information technology facilities is
governed by the same policies and procedures applicable to other areas of University life.
Damaging or altering equipment (such as viruses on hard drives or displaying inappropriate
pictures on any monitor in any public computing area on campus) is cause for immediate expulsion
from that facility, and the person responsible may be subject to the Consequences of Violations noted
below. Food, drink, or tobacco product use of any kind is discouraged in computer classrooms/labs or
near any computers or computer-related equipment to protect the integrity of the equipment.
In addition, other systems that can be accessed through the Seton Hill University system have their
own individual policies. It is the user’s responsibility to adhere to those policies; for example, the
Internet and systems that can be accessed via the Internet.
Direct questions on acceptable use to any of the following:
1.
E-mail CITdirector@setonhill.edu or call (724) 830-1850.
2.
Email Netadmin@setonhill.edu or call (724)-830-1581.
Consequences of Violations - Any violation of these conditions (for example, using some else’s
account without permission, tampering with files or passwords, harassing others) is unethical and may
constitute a criminal offense. Rights to all individual accounts are non-transferable.
If Computer and Information Technology or other Academic or Administrative employees suspect
that any of these conditions is being violated, they will initiate an investigation through the appropriate
agency on campus. During the investigation, the account in question and all computing services may
be suspended. If a breach of the conditions is confirmed, the user may face disciplinary review and/or
possible legal action. Seton Hill University cannot and will not extend protection to a user who
violates the policies of an external network.
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Definition
System is used in a generic sense to refer to the aggregate of all hardware and software owned or
licensed by Seton Hill University, including the network.
As a general matter, copyright infringement occurs when a copyrighted work is reproduced,
distributed, performed, publicly displayed, or made into a derivative work without the permission of
the copyright owner.
Recommended Computer Specifications - Resident students’ computers should meet the
following minimum requirements: Operating Systems: Windows XP SP2+ or Mac OS X 10.3+.
Either desktop or laptop/notebook computers are acceptable for residence hall use. Laptop/notebook
computers should include 802.1b/g/n WPA-2 Wireless Cards.
For your protection, a current anti-virus software package is required. SHU now provides free
copies of VIPRE® Anti-virus + Antispyware which may be REQUIRED in the future. A software
firewall is also recommended and is included for free in Windows XP and Mac OS X. Microsoft
Office 2007 Professional application software is recommended for all personally-owned computers.
Please note that these are minimum specifications that will suffice for basic computing such as
surfing the Internet and running Microsoft Office. Faster processors, more memory, and a larger hard
drive may be necessary for applications such as graphic design, gaming, and music. Please contact the
CIT Helpdesk by logging into Griffin’s Lair, navigating to Helpdesk > Computer Help and completing
an online form or call 724-830-1805 if you need assistance.
Software/Hardware Discounts - Students are responsible for the purchase and installation of any
software they may wish to use on their own computers. Seton Hill uses the Microsoft Office 2007
Professional Suite of office productivity software. Please visit our website by logging into Griffin’s
Lair, navigating to Departments > Computer & Information Technology for information on special
discount pricing on software and hardware available to Seton Hill students.
Residence Hall Connectivity - Residence Halls have one CAT 5 network connection per student.
To connect with a wire, your computer must be equipped with a 10/100 Ethernet Network Interface
Card (NIC). You will also need a Cat 5 patch cable. Campus-wide wireless was implemented in the
Fall of 2009, providing ubiquitous wireless. Please do not bring any switches, routers, or wireless
access points as they are not permitted on the student residence hall network. You will have access to
the Internet from your room, as soon as your computer is connected and passes a security scan.
CIT Helpdesk - For general problems, our preferred method is to fill out a form by logging into
Griffin’s Lair, navigating to Helpdesk > Computer Help and completing an online form, but you can
also reach us by calling 724-830-1805 or stopping by our newest location in Administration 406.
Resolving more complicated connectivity, spyware, and virus control issues are normally referred to
outside vendors, although the University’s computer technicians may be engaged under certain
circumstances and workloads.
Hours:
Monday – Thursday 8:00a.m. – 8:00p.m.
Friday – 8:00a.m. – 5:00p.m.
Saturday 9:00a.m. – 12:00p.m.
Wireless Zones – A ubiquitous implementation of HiPath wireless from Enterasys was completed
in the Fall of 2009.
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Academic Computer Labs – University-owned computers in classrooms and labs are equipped
with the software required to fulfill course assignments. The University-provided facilities are readily
available, often on a 24 x 7 basis. Please visit Griffin’s Lair for a list of Lab locations and hours of
operation. For assistance in using the Academic Computing Labs or to report hardware/software
problems in them, contact the Helpdesk.
Disorderly/Disruptive Conduct
Prohibited activities are behaviors that are disruptive to the orderly operations of the University,
disregard for the rights of others, or are disrespectful of the community, such as, but not limited to:
engaging in fighting or threatening behavior; using abusive or obscene language or making an obscene
or lewd gesture in a public place; physical, sexual, racial, psychological coercion; engaging in conduct
which has the intent to demean, annoy, or alarm another person. Likewise, injury to a person or the
property of another person will result in disciplinary action. Any willful damage to the reputation or
psychological well being of another person will not be tolerated.
Emergency Plan
Emergencies can come without warning at any time. Being prepared to handle emergency
incidents is an individual as well as an organizational responsibility. Seton Hill University
implemented a revised Emergency and Public Safety Resource Guide in December 2007. The
resource guide was developed by the Task Force on Emergency Procedures to assist in minimizing the
effects from such events. The resource guide, used in tandem with the Seton Hill University Crisis
Management Communications Coordination Plan, provides the Seton Hill community with
information needed to handle emergency situations in a clear and coordinated manner. The
Emergency and Public Safety Resource Guide and the Crisis Management Communications
Coordination Plan are updated annually and, as necessary, after an emergency or crisis situation. Such
updates ensure that processes are reviewed constantly in order to improve the University’s procedures,
responses, and actions.
Firearms/Offensive Weapons
It is absolutely prohibited for any person to possess firearms (including pellet guns, paintball guns,
or bb guns), a rifle (including air rifles), shotgun, handgun, knife (with 3-in blade or longer),
switchblade, slingshot, balloon launcher, bow, other lethal or dangerous weapons or devices capable of
causing harm to another person. Possession is defined as being carried on the person, being present in
a residence hall room or campus building, or being in a vehicle on campus. Use of any instrument in a
dangerous fashion is also not permitted, and the person will be subject to disciplinary action.
Fireworks
All fireworks are banned from University property. Possession and/or use of any type of
fireworks will result in disciplinary action.
Fire Prevention and Regulations
Since many of the University buildings were built in the late nineteenth and early twentieth
century, fire prevention is especially significant at Seton Hill. The University works closely with the
Greensburg Fire Department to maintain fire alarm systems, to modify building structures where
necessary for safety, to conduct drills, and to train residence hall staff in fire safety. In addition, fireresistance ratings are required on furniture in residence hall rooms. Seton Hill’s Campus Police
officers check smoke alarms across campus regularly in order to ensure they are not disabled and that
they are in good working order. When a fire alarm signal is sounded at the University, that signal is
automatically transmitted to the Greensburg Fire Department for immediate response. Students are
expected to recognize the hazards of fire in all of the buildings and to accept responsibility for not
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participating in any activity that may cause a fire and jeopardize the personal safety and property of
others. Smoking, candles, and open flames are not permitted in the residence halls.
False Alarms: Any person who is found to have willingly signaled a false alarm will be liable to
both state and federal laws. Seton Hill does not view such action lightly and will take whatever action
deemed necessary to insure the safety and welfare of the total University community. Seton Hill will
cooperate with civil authorities in the investigation, apprehension, and conviction of all such persons.
Fire Drills: Fire drills are conducted throughout the year in all campus buildings. Everyone is
expected to participate and cooperate with Seton Hill and City of Greensburg fire officials. Once an
alarm sounds in a building, all occupants of the building are to leave in an orderly and quiet manner.
They are to remain outside until they are signaled by the proper authorities to return. Failure to
participate in a fire drill by remaining in a building during a state of alarm will result in a $50.00 fine.
Fire safety rules-compliance inspections are conducted in Seton Hill residence halls throughout the
year as well.
Fundraiser Policy
The purpose of the Seton Hill University Fundraising and Gift Acceptance Policy shall be to
oversee, regulate, and maintain the fundraising activities of all students, faculty, staff, and other
designees of the University in order to maintain operational and organization efficiency as well as
comply with all federal and states laws, Internal Revenue Service Regulations, CASE (Council for the
Advancement and Support of Education) standards, and Generally Accepted Accounting Principles
(GAAP) that govern fundraising at Seton Hill University.
The complete Fundraiser Policy is available on the University’s intranet system, Griffin’s Lair,
under SHGA.
Hazing
Hazing in any form is prohibited. Hazing is defined as any action or situation which recklessly or
intentionally endangers mental or physical health or involves the forced consumption of liquor or drugs
for the purpose of initiation into or affiliation with any organization. Organizations or individuals who
are accused of such offenses will be subject to disciplinary action. The penalty for student or staff
violators could be expulsion, suspension, or other appropriate disciplinary action, and in the case of an
organization which authorizes such conduct, rescission of permission to operate on campus. All such
penalties shall be in addition to any penalty pursuant to the penal law.
Insubordination
Failure to submit to specific directives or notices of authorized University personnel is considered
to be an act of insubordination and will result in disciplinary action.
Missing Student Policy
Seton Hill University takes student safety very seriously. To this end, the following policy has
been developed in order to assist in locating Seton Hill student(s) living in University-owned, oncampus housing, which based on the facts and circumstances known to the University, are determined
to be missing. This policy is in compliance with Section 488 of the Higher Education Act of 2008.
Most Missing Person Reports in the university environment result from a student changing their
routine without informing their roommates and/or friends of the change. Anyone who believes a
student to be missing should report that concern to the Resident Assistant, the Office of Residence
Life, or Campus Police. Every report made to a University official will be followed up with an
immediate investigation once a student has been missing for 24 hours.
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Depending on the circumstances presented to University officials, parents of a missing student
will be notified. In the event that parental notification is necessary, the Dean of Students or her/his
delegate, will place the call.
Residential students will be asked to provide, on a voluntary basis, emergency contact information
in the event she/he is reported missing while enrolled at Seton Hill University. If students wish to
change their emergency contact information, they may do so by submitting a letter in writing to the
Dean of Students.
Posting Policy
Signs, notices, posters, and announcements may be placed only on campus bulletin boards or
campus kiosks designated for community use and should be posted with thumb tacks (not staples).
Signs, etc. are not to be placed on bulletin boards designated for specific office or group use. They
may not be posted on trees, walls, doors, or glass surfaces.
All publicity to be distributed or displayed on campus must be approved by the Director of
Student Activities. Clubs that have not requested official recognition from the university will not be
permitted to post on-campus information. Signs posted in unauthorized areas or those that have not
been approved by the Office of Activities will be removed. Damage caused by posted signs to walls,
doors, or windows will be repaired at the individual’s/club’s/group’s expense. Publicity for offcampus groups hosting events on campus must also be approved by the Director of Student Activities.
Signs must contain the name of the sponsoring organization, which is responsible for their
removal within three days of the conclusion of the event. Large posters and banners can be displayed,
and groups wishing to display large items should work with the Director of Student Activities for
assistance and to ensure that guidelines are kept.
Pregnancy
Seton Hill University accepts the challenge and commits to supporting women who choose to
carry their babies to term while remaining enrolled in the institution. In his 1985 Pastoral Letter in
Defense of Life, Bishop John Michael Darcy, Bishop of Fort Wayne-South Bend, Indiana, urges us “to
stand with women at this time of decision, to pray for them, walk hand in hand with them.” Members
of the Student Services Staff - Campus Ministry, Counseling, Residence Life, Wellness Center, and the
Life-Way Pregnancy Clinic - are available to assist students with their special circumstances.
Campus housing arrangements for the pregnant student are also available. In order to remain in
the residence halls, however, a student must be in contact with the Wellness Center or Life-Way
Pregnancy Clinic and be willing to work with the Wellness Center, Life-Way Pregnancy Clinic, and
Residence Life for additional assistance.
Relationship with Parents
Seton Hill recognizes the privileges given to the eighteen-year-old in Pennsylvania. However, the
University cannot ignore its long tradition of responsibility to students and their parents. Without
disclosing the content of student records protected by law, Seton Hill, as a private institution, can and
does reserve the right to notify parents if the student is in jeopardy, legally, physically, emotionally, or
academically. In this sense, Seton Hill does assume some responsibility of in loco parentis, but
parents cannot expect the University to monitor each student’s activities and companions as closely as
the family might. Therefore, Seton Hill expects a reasonable degree of maturity, responsibility, and
conformity to University policies and regulations from each student, and anticipates that parents hold
the same expectations. Should students fail to meet these expectations, either through circumstances
beyond their control or through purposeful behavior over a period of time, Seton Hill undertakes the
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responsibility to notify the parents since they naturally assume a responsibility for their daughter/son’s
welfare whatever the age.
Sales/Solicitations
No student may solicit, invite, or permit another person to solicit on campus for sale or
promotional projects without a request in writing to the Dean of Students or a delegate and a positive
response to the request in the form of a letter of authorization. Any student approached by sales
persons or solicitors on campus should report their presence immediately to the Dean of Students or to
Campus Police if a letter of authorization cannot be produced.
Serious Disease Policy
Members of the campus community with infectious, long-term, life threatening, or other serious
diseases may continue their work or attendance at the University as long as they are physically and
mentally able to perform the duties of their job or meet their academic responsibilities without undue
risk to their own health or the health of other employees or students.
Serious diseases for the purposes of this policy include, but are not limited to, cancer, heart
disease, stroke, multiple sclerosis, hepatitis, tuberculosis, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV),
acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), and meningitis.
The mere diagnosis of HIV, AIDS, AIDS-Related Complex (ARC), AIDS virus antibodies, or any
other serious communicable disease is not, in itself, sufficient basis for imposing limitations,
exclusions, or dismissal. Harassment of individuals with or suspected of being infected with any
disease is not acceptable behavior at the University and will be strictly censored. The diagnosis of the
condition, as any other medical information, is confidential.
In working with faculty, employees, or students diagnosed with HIV, AIDS, or any other serious
communicable disease, the University will proceed on a case-by-case basis; with the advice of medical
professionals these factors will be considered:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
The condition of the person involved and the person’s ability to perform job duties or
academic responsibilities;
The probability of infection of co-workers or other members of the University community
based on the expected interaction of the person in the University setting;
The possible consequences to co-workers and other members of the University community, if
infected;
Possible reasonable accommodations and modifications to the individual’s job or other
obligations to take account of the condition;
Risk to the person’s health from remaining on the job or in the University community; and
other appropriate factors.
Any determination with respect to an employee or student will be made following consultation
with the affected employee or student, the employee or student’s treating physician (if available), and
such other persons as need to be involved in such a situation.
Disclosure will take place only if deemed medically advisable and legally permissible. The
appropriate Health Department will be informed of all cases of diseases required to be reported under
state or federal law.
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Sexual Assault and Misconduct Policy and Procedures
The University’s Sexual Assault and Misconduct Policy has been developed to ensure that
consistent procedures and coordination of University and community resources are available to
students affected by sexual assault or misconduct. This policy is in compliance with The Higher
Education Amendments of 1992 and 1998, which require colleges to take initiatives to prevent, report,
and investigate sex offenses that allegedly occur. According to the Amendments, a sex offense is
defined as “either a forcible or non-forcible sexual act directed against another person, against that
person’s will, or where the survivor is incapable of giving consent, and may include rape or
acquaintance rape.”
Sexual assault/misconduct includes a range of behaviors used to obtain sexual contact against a
person’s will. Sexual misconduct is defined as sexual contact without consent by an acquaintance or a
stranger and includes: intentional touching without consent, either of the victim or when the victim is
forced to touch, directly or through clothing; rape/acquaintance rape; attempted rape; sodomy without
consent; or sexual penetration with an object without consent. To constitute lack of consent, the acts
must be committed either by threat, force, and intimidation or through the use of the victim’s mental or
physical inability such as when the victim is physically or mentally incapacitated by alcohol or other
drugs.
Any Seton Hill University student who has been a victim of sexual assault or misconduct should as
soon as possible:
1.
Seek medical attention immediately for the treatment of any injuries and testing. Also,
medical evidence can be collected at this time and it is important to not wash before seeking
medical attention. A medical advocate from the Blackburn Center (community agency that
provides services for victims of sexual and domestic abuse; 24 hour hotline 724-836-1122 or
1-888-832-2272) or a member of the Seton Hill community may be requested to accompany
the student.
2.
Report the incident to the Campus Police, Dean of Students, Wellness Center, Campus
Ministry, Residence Life, or the Counseling Center so that immediate support and assistance
may be offered.
3.
The student will be advised of available security options which include: filing charges on
and/or off campus or electing not to file charges.
4.
Counseling will be made available to the student who is a victim of a sexual assault and/or the
accused with the University’s Counseling Center, the Blackburn Center, or another service
provider of the student’s choosing. Phone numbers are available on the inside back cover of
this handbook.
5.
If the victim is a resident student and wishes to make a change in her/his residence status
because of an assault, the University will accommodate the student’s wishes to the best of its
ability.
6.
Every effort will be made to assure the privacy and confidentiality of the student who has
been assaulted and the accused during and after any investigative and adjudicative processes.
7.
The Campus Life Resolution Board or an Administrative Hearing Board will be responsible
for hearing sexual assault cases. All Board members will be trained in the area of sexual
assault.
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8.
Any sanction imposed by either of the Boards, if the accused student(s) are found responsible
for the sexual assault, will be selected from the University’s existing disciplinary sanctions as
found in the Student Handbook.
9.
Accused student(s) may elect to take responsibility for the offense. In such cases, the Campus
Life Resolution Board or the Administrative Hearing Board would not solicit additional
information but would determine sanctions.
10. All existing guidelines for filing complaints and appeals as outlined in the Student Handbook
under the heading of Standards of Student Conduct will apply to sexual assault/misconduct
cases.
11. The aforementioned process will be followed regardless of whether or not legal proceedings
are pending.
As an educational institution, Seton Hill University recognizes its responsibility to inform students
and employees about campus security and prevention of crime. Programs to promote awareness of
rape, acquaintance rape, and other sex offenses are offered on an annual basis. Existing campus and
community counseling services for the victims of sexual assault are also available. A Student Services
staff member can provide any student with additional information.
Sexual Harassment and Harassment on the Basis of National Origin, Race, or Sexual Orientation
Seton Hill University, a diverse academic community, celebrates this diversity and is committed to
serving individuals and groups from all backgrounds. It strives to provide an equal opportunity to all
members of our community. Accordingly, University policy requires that no person be denied
employment or academic opportunities or otherwise discriminated against on the basis of race,
ethnicity, religion, gender, national origin, sexual orientation, color, age, disablement, or economic
status.
The University is also committed to freedom of thought, discourse and speech, and the attainment
of the highest quality of academic and educational pursuits.
True to its mission as a Catholic University, Seton Hill espouses trust, civility, and a willingness to
recognize the dignity of each person. Thus, it is the responsibility of each member of the University
community to learn to understand the differences among us as well as the similarities, and to
demonstrate tolerance, which precludes any expression of bigotry. However, tolerance is not enough.
Respect, understanding, and a basic generosity of spirit are expected.
Sexual Harassment – Defined
Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination that is prohibited by Title VII of the Civil
Rights Act of 1964 (employers), Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (students),
Pennsylvania law, and by Seton Hill University policy. Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome
sexual advances; requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct being made as a term
or condition of one’s academic pursuits or working conditions by creating a hostile environment.
Harassment on the Basis of National Origin, Race, or Sexual Orientation – Defined
This includes any ethnic, racial, or sexual slurs and other verbal or physical conduct relating to an
individual’s national origin, race, or sexual orientation when this conduct; 1) has the purpose of effect
of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work or student environment; 2) has the purpose or
effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s work or academic performance; 3) otherwise
adversely affects an individual’s employment or academic opportunities. This definition will be
interpreted and applied consistent with academic freedom and freedom of expression.
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Copies of the Anti-Harassment Policy and Procedures (Concerning Sexual Harassment and
Harassment on the Basis of National Origin, Race, or Sexual Orientation) are available in the
Affirmative Action Office (Vice President for Administration and Student Life) and the Dean of
Students Office. The Student Right-to-Know and Campus Security Act as amended by the Higher
Education Amendments of 1992 requires all colleges and universities to include in publications, such
as this Student Handbook, specific policies and procedures regarding both the victim and the alleged
perpetrator of both forcible and non-forcible assault if they are members of the University community.
Telephones
The University provides an in-house telephone system in each residence hall room and throughout
the campus. Security phones are in place across campus. In addition to the in-house service,
telephones are equipped with voice mail. Resident students may use prepaid calling cards if they
would like long distance and toll capability from their room telephone.
Tampering with and misuse of telephones are criminal offenses, and the University will cooperate
with investigators who suspect students of such offenses. This includes causing deliberate damage to a
University telephone or any of its parts. Violators will be subject to disciplinary action by the Campus
Police, the Dean of Students, her/his designate, or the Campus Life Resolution Board.
Tobacco Use Policy
The use of tobacco products inside any Seton Hill University facility (on or off campus) is
prohibited. Individuals may only chew tobacco or smoke at least 25 feet away from any Seton Hill
building. Information on tobacco use cessation programs is available in the Health and Wellness
Center and the Human Resources Department.
The responsibility for carrying out this policy is placed upon all members of the Seton Hill
community. Each member of the community is responsible to inform visitors and guests of the policy.
Compliance with the policy will be a collaborative effort among students, faculty, staff, and guests.
Persons observed to be using tobacco in a non-designated area will be requested to extinguish or
discard tobacco products; any member of the campus community can make such a request. All
community members and guests will be treated with dignity and respect. Persistent violators should be
reported to Human Resources (employees) or the Dean of Students (students). Violations of the
Tobacco Use Policy will be handled in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct or the University
Policy Manual.
University Policy on the Official Recognition of Student Groups and Organizations
The Official Recognition of Organizations Policy is available on the University’s intranet system,
Griffins Lair, under SHGA. Students interested in forming new groups should contact SHGA at
shga@setonhill.edu with any questions.
Student Functions and Activities: All student events must be discussed with the Assistant Dean
of Students or her/his designee, who will approve the time and date for the event.
Publicity: Each group is responsible for publicizing its own event on campus. All outside
publicity must be channeled through the Office of Public Information. Students may not use official
University stationery without administrative permission. All publicity must follow the University
Posting Policy.
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Visitation
Please refer to the visitation policies outlined in the Residence Life section of this Handbook.
Seton Hill University reserves the right to make reasonable changes in policies, rules, and regulations.
Standards of Student Conduct
Philosophy of Discipline
Seton Hill University has responded in a number of ways to enable students to grow in disciplined
independence. The University’s aim is to develop responsible and self-reliant adults. Seton Hill also
recognizes the University’s role to assume leadership in forming values, rather than blindly following
transient social trends. The University has, therefore, set certain universal human values of honesty,
integrity, charity, and consideration as standards towards which each student can strive. The university
places its resources at the disposal of the students as they assume more independence in their social
and academic roles.
Seton Hill’s social regulations are based on developmental principles and reflect a philosophy that
college students should develop the maturity to freely choose their personal values and social activates
and be responsible for their actions.
The Seton Hill community continues to maintain its traditional concern for the personal welfare
and well-being of its constituents. Seton Hill encourages individual freedom and personal choice but
expects students to recognize their responsibility to the community and concern for the group. All
students are required to abide by the policies and procedures in the Student Handbook. Campus
policies may be different from the “law of the land.” The University’s standards ask what is good and
life-giving for the individual and the University community.
Disciplinary Procedures
Should a student violate an academic, social, or residence life policy, thereby jeopardizing the
safety of the community or demonstrating excessive inconsiderateness for the community, that student
may be subject to a hearing. The university does not view discipline as an end in itself, but rather
seeks to make it a learning experience by helping the student to recognize her/his offense against the
Community and her/himself and by having her/him make some kind of retribution relevant to the
seriousness of the offense.
Due Process
In all situations, procedural due process requires that the University inform the student of the
nature of the charges against that student, that the student be given a fair opportunity to refute the
charges and confront the accuser, that the students be notified of the time and place of the hearing, and
that the institution not be arbitrary in its actions. Students will receive at least a 48-hour hearing
notification.
Disciplinary Proceeding Disclosures
Upon written request, Seton Hill will disclose to an alleged victim of a crime of violence or a nonforcible sex offense, or to the alleged victim’s next of kin (if the victim dies as a result of the crime or
offense), the final results of any institutional disciplinary proceeding dealing with that crime or
offense.
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Standards of Conduct Expected of Students
Seton Hill University is a private, Catholic university, and students are expected to conduct
themselves in ways that contribute to a supportive living and learning environment. All persons are
expected to use their skills in critical thinking, communication, valuing, and problem-solving in
positive ways to pursue their academic and personal goals.
In concert with the University mission and Catholic identity, expectations are that members of the
academic community will demonstrate:



Respect for self
Respect for others, their well-being, and their property
Respect for policies, the law, and the process for conflict resolutions on this campus.
When an individual or group demonstrates behavior that interferes with the Seton Hill community,
the behavior shall be seen as a violation whether the behavior occurs on or off campus. This includes
misconduct that is violation whether the behavior occurs on or off campus. This includes misconduct
that is a violation of University standards, regulations, or the law and that is detrimental to the
University’s mission and interest. Persons exhibiting unacceptable behavior shall be subject to
disciplinary action as determined by the appropriate process. The following examples of unacceptable
behavior are illustrative rather than inclusive and are set for all students and are consistent with the
pursuit of educational objectives. If any clarification is needed, the Dean of Students should be
contacted.
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
Conduct which would interfere with the mission and Catholic identity of the University,
including but not limited to, treating others, self and property, with dignity and respect.
Intentionally or carelessly engaging in conduct which threatens or endangers the health or
safety or causes physical or psychological harm to any person, including the violator
Using abusive, obscene, vulgar, loud, or disruptive language or conduct directed toward and
offensive to a member of or a visitor to the University community
Unauthorized use, possession, or storage of any firearms, explosives, other weapons,
fireworks, or dangerous chemicals
Use of any instrument in a dangerous fashion
Use, possession, or distribution of alcohol on University property or as part of any University
activity. Use possession, or distribution of any controlled substance except as permitted by
law
Possession of drug paraphernalia
Possession or display of empty alcoholic beverage containers, including those held for
purposes of recycling
Theft of property or services or knowingly possessing stolen property
Intentionally or carelessly misusing, destroying, or damaging University property or the
property of others
Disorderly conduct or careless interference with University or University-sponsored activities
Violation of rules governing residence in University-owned or controlled property
Violation of University regulations or policies
Intentionally initiating or causing to be initiated any false report, warning, or threat of fire,
explosion, or other emergency
Intentionally furnishing false information to the University or a member of the campus
community
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
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Forgery; unauthorized alteration or misuse of University or other documents, records, or
instruments of identification; or significant misrepresentation on applications or resumes
Willful fraud committed against a member of the campus community or campus visitor
Failure to comply with the directives of University officials acting in performance of their
duties. University officials include students appointed to act as representatives of the
University.
Unauthorized entry into or use of University facilities or property
Any effort by conspiracy or omission to impede or hinder any disciplinary proceeding
Lewd, indecent, or obscene conduct or expression; use of fighting words
Conduct which results in harassment, infringement of rights, or hardship to any member of
the University community which does not fall under any of the above standards
Misuse of the University equipment and/or information technology, e.g., computers, computer
labs, TV/DVD/VCR equipment, etc. as outlined in detail in the “Computing ServicesConditions of Use” Policy.
Any Conduct that violates federal, state or local law as determined by the university.
Communication Reports
Communication Reports are informational reports that document residence hall issues.
Communication Reports may be issued by any member of the Residence Life staff, the Dean of
Students, or any member of the Dean’s staff. Students are notified if a Communication Report is filed.
Incident Reports
Members of the University Police Department may issue an Incident Report involving University
students and/or their guests who are found violating University Policy. Incident Reports are distributed
to the Dean of Students and members of the Dean’s Staff. Serious offenses are subject to disciplinary
action by the Campus Police, the Dean of Students, members of the Dean’s Staff, or the Campus Life
Resolution Board, or by actions of an Administrative Hearing Board.
Major Offenses
Communication Reports and/or Incident Reports may be issued in case of serious offenses against
University Policy. Serious offenses are subject to the disciplinary action by the Dean of Students,
members of the Dean’s Staff, or the Campus Life Resolution Board or by actions of an Administrative
Hearing Board.
Minor Offenses
A Communication Report and/or Incident Report may be issued for a minor offense and/or
community standard violations. The Director of Residence Life will determine if an educational
conference with a Residence Life staff member is necessary.
Social Offenses
Social offenses encompass the broad range of regulations governing social behavior and
community and residence hall living. Responsibility for carrying out these policies rests with the Dean
of Students and the Dean’s staff.
Disciplinary Hearings
Upon receipt of a Communication Report and/or an Incident Report, the Dean of Students or
members of the Dean’s Staff begin an investigation for the incident. A member of the Student
Services Staff will meet with the accused student(s) and inform the student(s) of the
date/time/place/policy violation relative to the incident. At that time, if the student(s) accepts
responsibility for the violation of University Policy, the student(s) involved can waive the right to a
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formal hearing and subsequent appeal; actions will be issued at the time of the meeting. If the
student(s) does not accept responsibility for the violation of University Policy and/or chooses a formal
hearing, the Campus Life Resolution Board or an Administrative Hearing can be scheduled. Students
will receive at least a 48-hour notice of the date, time, and place of the hearing. Should an accused
student fail to attend her/his hearing, the hearing will be conducted in the student’s absence. Any
student who fails to appear at her/his scheduled hearing forfeits the right to an appeal.
SHGA Campus Life Resolution Board Procedures
The University shall provide each student with a fair and impartial hearing. The judicial branch of
SHGA is responsible for the Campus Life Resolution Board (refer to SHGA Constitution available in
the Student Services and Office of Activities and Commuter Life). The hearing shall be held in
private, and all involved in the hearing shall regard all information relevant to the case as confidential;
all persons involved in the hearing will take an oath to maintain confidentiality and to uphold the
standards of honesty, fairness, and respect for all parties involved. The hearing will be voice recorded.
Both parties have the right to be assisted by a member of the Seton Hill University community to
serve as an advisor; an advisor cannot be an attorney. However, students are responsible for presenting
their information and, therefore, advisors are not permitted to speak or to participate directly in any
meeting before a judicial body.
The accused student will be notified by the Chair of the Campus Life Resolution Board or the
Dean of Students, in writing, of the time and place of the hearing. The Chair of the Campus
Life Resolution Board or a member of the Dean’s staff will read the charges, and the accused student
will be asked if the student accepts responsibility for the violation. Students will present their
information and answer questions. The room is then cleared of everyone except the members of the
Board. The members of the Board, through discussion, decide responsibility (or not) and assign
sanctions. The decision is a result of a majority vote of the present members of the Board. The
accused student is recalled, the decision is read, the accused student is advised of the right and
process of appeal, and the case is closed.
Students will receive written notification of the outcome of a hearing within 24 hours of the
conclusion of the hearing.
Administrative Hearing
A decision to conduct an Administrative Hearing may be made when any or all of the following
conditions are present: the charge is criminal in nature and is referred to local, state, or federal
officials; there is concern for the personal safety of others; the case is particularly sensitive, e.g., sexual
harassment/assault; regular channels are not available, e.g., final exam week, summer, vacation,
breaks. The Dean of Students, or designee in absence of the Dean, chairs the Administrative Hearing
Board. If possible, the Campus Life Resolution Board Chair serves on the Administrative Hearing
Board as well as another faculty/staff member of the Campus Life Resolution Board.
Students have the right to be assisted by a member of the Seton Hill University community to
serve as an advisor; an advisor cannot be an attorney. However, students are responsible for presenting
their information and, therefore, advisors are not permitted to speak or to participate directly.
Correctional Measures
Investigation of Student Conduct: Premises occupied by students and the personal possessions
of students should not be searched, except in the circumstance outlined under Student Services and
Programs, Privacy Section.
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Status of Student Pending Final Action: Pending action on the charges, the status of a student
and the student’s right to be present on the campus and to attend classes should not be altered, except
for reasons relating to her/his physical or emotional safety or to the well-being of students, faculty, or
University property.
Right of Appeal: If the accused student or the accuser can demonstrate that there has been a
major due process procedural error in the disciplinary process, and/or if the accused student or accuser
can introduce substantive new evidence, an appeal may be initiated by written request.
If a student wishes to appeal a decision of a disciplinary nature, she/he must do so in writing
within three (3) business days after receiving the written decision in all cases except dismissal or
suspension. In these cases, time is extended to five (5) business days. Decisions of the Campus Life
Resolution Board are subject to review by appeal to the Dean of Students. Decisions of the Dean of
Students are subject to a review by an appeal to the Vice President for Administration and Student
Life. Only cases involving dismissal or suspension may be appealed to the President.
Sanctions
Power of Dismissal, Summary Suspension, or Suspension: The power of dismissal, summary
suspension, or suspension of a student for social matters lies with the Dean of Students.
Dismissal: A student may be dismissed if the student’s behavior shows a continue lack of respect
for University policies and rules, if the student is continually and demonstrably disruptive to the
harmony of the community, or if the student commits a proved, grave offense such as, but not limited
to, vandalism, theft, or assault against a person or property on or off campus. Parents/guardian may be
notified. A resident student who is dismissed from the University forfeits tuition, room, and board
charges and fees at the time of the dismissal; a commuter student forfeits tuition charges and fees.
Summary suspension may occur in severe or emergency cases in which the safety and well-being
of students, employees, or University property are endangered. During the summary suspension
student are not permitted to access the residence halls and/or campus. Parents may be notified of this
action. A time shall be set for a hearing, not less than two (2) business days, nor more than five (5)
business days, after the student has been summarily suspended.
Suspension results from an infraction of University rules or policy that is serious, but not serious
enough to warrant dismissal. During the period of suspension, a student temporarily severs connection
with Seton Hill in order to reevaluate her/his behavior and to consider whether Seton Hill provides the
atmosphere in which the student can comfortably combine an academic and social life. A suspended
student who wishes to return to Seon Hill should present in writing evidence of willingness to live a
responsible lifestyle. The duration and conditions of suspension are established by the Dean of
Students relative to each individual case and communicated in writing. A copy may be sent to
parents/guardians.
A resident student who is suspended from the University forfeits tuition, fees, and room and board
charges at the time of the suspension; commuter students forfeit tuition and fee charges.
Students under disciplinary suspension or dismissal are required to disassociate themselves from
the University within the time prescribed by the Dean of Students. They are not to visit the University
unless approved in writing by the Dean of Students.
Probation provides a period during which a student and Seton Hill may determine whether the
atmosphere on the Hill is the best place for her/him to reach her/his goals. During the period of
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probation, a student may ask for no special privileges. She/he should recognize that violation of any
policies may warrant dismissal, and she/he must remain in close contact with the Dean of Students or
the Dean’s delegate throughout the period of probation. Specific conditions and the duration of
probation are established by the Dean of Students relative to each individual case and are outlined in a
letter to the student. A copy may be sent to parents/guardians.
Service or special duties are temporary positions of work responsibility appropriate to the
offense.
Monetary Fines may be assigned for violation of alcohol/drug policy, tobacco use, illegal use of
electrical appliances, use of candles and incense, damage to University property, possession of pets,
baby-sitting in residence halls, loss of keys, or other offenses against the general welfare and safety of
the community.
a.
Acts of Vandalism………………..$5.00 minimum/Cost of Repair
b.
Baby-sitting in residence halls……………………………...$25.00
c.
Failure to leave area of alarm……………………………….$50.00
d.
Pets in residence halls………………………………………$25.00
e.
Residence Hall lockout fees………………..........$10.00 to $25.00
f.
Residence Hall lost key/re-core…………………………….$200.00
g.
Tampering with fire equipment or causing
potential fire problem…………………………..$100 minimum/Cost of Repair
h.
Violation of Alcohol/Drug Policy……………..$250.00 to $400.00
i.
Violation of Tobacco Use Policy.…………………………...$25.00
j.
Violation of Visitation Policy……………………………….$25.00
k.
Other violations are subject to monetary fine.
BASICS (Brief Alcohol Screening and Intervention for College Students) and/or risk
reduction program may be assigned for violations of the alcohol and drug policy, in addition to the
monetary fines levied. In some cases, AOD counseling, personal counseling, official campus
professional AOD assessment, parent notification, and/or coach notification may be required as well.
The AOD risk reduction/education program must be completed within the timeframe specified on
the “Responsibility Form” and includes an initial and exit interview with the Prevention Specialist and
completion of the educational program, BASICS and/or risk reduction program. At the Specialist’s
discretion the education program may also include video viewing, interactive exercises, support group
attendance, self-evaluation, journal writing, and information regarding physiological effects of alcohol,
drugs, legal consequences, risk factors, social/peer influence, low-risk vs. high-risk use, SHU policy,
professional evaluation, etc. The educational program will typically require 4-8 hours for completion.
Counseling may be required and may also be offered as an alternative to dismissal or suspension.
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Financial restitution is required for damages or theft.
Pennsylvania state citations may be issued for violations of University policy.
Requirement to attend a schedule seminar workshop or program relative to the development of
positive standards of behavior or goals may be ordered.
Suspension or dismissal from the residence halls may be ordered. Room and board charges
will be prorated at the time of separation according to the refund policy through the Student Accounts
Office. Students suspended from the residence halls may request permission to move back on campus
after the suspension date. The student must present in writing evidence of her/his willingness to live a
responsible lifestyle in community.
Suspension of privileges in co-curricular activities. All sanctions are cumulative. Consequently,
students who repeatedly violate University policy may receive more severe sanctions. Sanctions may
also be enhanced base on the severity of the behavior and the impact on the community.
Academic Integrity
Academic dishonesty is any act that violates the University’s Academic Policy or goals of
academic excellence. One found guilty of academic dishonesty shall be subject to academic and/or
disciplinary sanctions. Academic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to:
1.
Cheating: Copying or attempting to copy from another person the answers to academic work
such as homework, quizzes, papers, reports, computer programs, or exams, and presenting the
information as your own. Other forms of cheating involve someone else supplying academic
work for a student, such as writing another student’s paper, report, or computer program, or
taking another student’s quiz or exam. Cheating may also involve the use of unauthorized
information – provided by notes, papers, books, online documents, cell phones, pagers, and so
forth – for exams, quizzes, or other academic work where such information is not permitted.
2.
Fabrication of information to support your work: The misrepresentation of data or
information to intentionally mislead the reader that your assumptions or claims are correct.
3.
Acting as an accomplice for academic dishonesty: Assisting or attempting to assist someone
else with committing an act of academic dishonesty.
4.
Falsifying grades: Changing or attempting to change a grade or graded academic material.
5.
Unauthorized possession or distribution of academic material: Possessing, attempting to
possess, distributing, or attempting to distribute academic related material – such as quizzes or
exams – without proper authorization.
6.
Plagiarism: The act of taking someone’s thoughts or words and attempting to present these
thoughts or words as one’s own. Plagiarism is unethical and often illegal.
Plagiarism
In its simplest form, plagiarism may be copying text from a book, newspaper, magazine, website,
and so on, into your work. Often, one can avoid plagiarism by paraphrasing and citing resource
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material. Notice, however, that by paraphrasing work and not citing the work, you still may be
considered to be plagiarizing someone else’s work.
With the widespread use of the Internet to research materials, “copy and paste” techniques become
more common every day. However, to “copy and paste” material from a website or other document
and present it as your own is a form of plagiarism.
Students have resources for help on plagiarism questions or concerns. Students who are unsure
whether they are correctly paraphrasing, stating, or citing source material should ask their instructor for
insight or clarification. Students should also be aware that the Collegiate Academic and Personal
Success Program (CAPS) provides assistance with various writing needs, including proper use of
source materials, and may be able to answer plagiarism-related questions.
Academic Integrity Policy
To address the problem of academic dishonesty, Seton Hill University has an Academic Integrity
Policy that utilizes a report system to identify and handle students with a repeat history of academic
dishonesty.
This policy does not imply that the faculty mistrusts students. Rather, the intent of this policy is to
educate students regarding proper academic behavior and to provide a means by which we can uphold
University academic standards. Students who fail to follow proper academic behavior will bear the
consequences of appropriate sanctions.
Resolution Procedure for Academic Dishonesty
If a faculty member believes a student has been intentionally academically dishonest – for
example, by cheating, plagiarizing, or assisting others with dishonesty – the faculty member is
obligated to file an Academic Dishonesty Report Form with the Office of Academic Affairs. To file an
Academic Dishonesty Report Form, the faculty member collects and retains pertinent evidence to the
case. The faculty member decides what sanctions to impose through an Informal Resolution between
the faculty member and student. If the infraction is considered severe enough to affect the academic
community, the faculty member also has the option to request a Formal Academic Dishonesty Review.
The Provost and Dean of the Faculty will also request a Formal Academic Dishonesty Review for a
second or greater offense and has the option to request a formal review earlier if she believes it is
warranted.
Informal Resolution
An Informal Resolution involves only the faculty member, and the student. Here, the faculty
member shall decide the sanction(s), file electronically an Academic Dishonesty Report Form that
specifies the sanction(s), and enforce the sanction(s).
The faculty member informs the student of the Academic Dishonesty Report Form and sanction.
The student will receive an electronic copy of the report through her/his campus e-mail account. The
student then has the option of adding his/her understanding of the incident on the form. The student
acknowledges the sanction(s) by reviewing the received copy of the report and signing the Academic
Dishonesty Report Form. If the student disputes the accusation of academic dishonesty, it is also
indicated on the form, and in such a case a Formal Academic Dishonesty Review occurs as described
below.
The faculty member will have access to and student will receive an electronic copy of the report
for their records. The faculty member submits the Academic Dishonesty Report Form to the Office of
Academic Affairs and enforces the sanction (s).
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The Office of Academic Affairs maintains all filed Academic Dishonesty Report Forms. This
central collection of Academic Dishonesty Report Forms provides a means of detecting repeat offenses
by a student, even if the offenses span different faculty members or different academic programs. A
Formal Academic Dishonesty Review occurs on any student with two or more offenses. Students on
whom Academic Dishonesty Reports were filed have their academic progress assessed by the
Academic Standards Committee during end-of-semester review.
Formal Academic Dishonesty Review
A case of academic dishonesty (not academic grievance) shall be resolved through Formal
Academic Dishonesty Review if any of the following is true:




The student has two or more offenses
The offense extends beyond the classroom community
An informal resolution is not achieved or achievable
The student challenges the legitimacy of the academic dishonesty report by indicating such on
the report filed
During a Formal Academic Dishonesty Review, the Provost and Dean of the Faculty hands the
case over to the Academic Judicial Board. This Board judges the case and decides what sanction(s) to
enforce.
At the point of determining the need for a Formal Academic Dishonesty Review, the Provost and
Dean of Faculty will communicate with the student. The Provost and Dean of the Faculty presents to
the student the reasons for the formal academic review and offers the student a hearing by the
Academic Judicial Board. At this time, the student can waive his/her right to hearing and simply be
given designated academic sanctions.
If the student does not accept responsibility for the violations and/or chooses a formal hearing, the
Chair of Academic Judicial Board schedules a hearing and the student is notified by the Chair of the
Academic Judicial Board, in writing, of the time and place of the hearing with a minimum of a 48 hour
notice. Should an accused student fail to attend the hearing, the hearing will be conducted in the
student’s absence. Any student who fails to appear at her/his scheduled hearing forfeits the right to an
appeal.
The University provides each student with a fair and impartial hearing. The hearing is held in
private and all involved in the hearing regard all information relevant to the case as confidential; all
persons involved in the hearing will take an oath to maintain confidentiality and to uphold the
standards of honesty, fairness, and respect for all parties involved. The hearing is voice-recorded.
The Chair of Academic Judicial Board reviews the academic offenses filed against the student.
The accused student is asked if he/she accepts responsibility for the violation(s). The student presents
his/her information and answer questions about the violation(s). The faculty member(s) who filed the
violations describes the academic violation if he/she chooses to offer verbal statement(s). The room is
then cleared of everyone except the members of the Academic Judicial Board. The members of the al
Board, through discussion, decide responsibility (or not) and assign sanctions. This decision is a result
of the majority vote of the members of the Board who are present. The accused student is advised of
the right and process of appeal, and the case is closed.
The student receives written notification of the outcome of the hearing within 24 hours of the
conclusion of the hearing.
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Academic Judicial Board
The Academic Judicial Board consists of three students from the Student Superior Court and three
faculty members from the Academic Standards Committee. Each member votes and the majority shall
prevail. In the event of a tie vote, the Provost and Dean of the Faculty breaks the tie.
Sanctions
With an Informal Resolution, the faculty member determines the sanction(s), state the sanctions(s)
on the field Academic Dishonesty Report Form, and enforce said sanctions(s). Such sanctions may
include, but are not limited to the following: the student may be required to repeat the original work or
a modification thereof; the work may obtain only a certain percentage of the given grade for certain
work; the student’s overall course grade may be lowered; the student may be required to perform extra
work; the student may fail the course.
More severe sanctions, such as academic probation, suspension, or dismissal may be imposed only
through a Formal Academic Dishonesty Review or during the Semester Review by the Academic
Standards Committee. Sanction(s) imposed by the Academic Judicial Board or the Academic
Standards Committee do not replace sanctions issued by the faculty member.
Appeals
Should the student disagree with either the case and/or the sanction(s) imposed by an Informal
Resolution, the student has the right to file an appeal by following the Academic Grievance process as
defined in the University Catalog. The appeal must be filed with the Office of Academic Affairs
within five (5) work-days after the Academic Dishonesty Report Form is filed, excluding holidays
when the University is closed.
If the Formal Dishonesty Review has taken place and if the accused student can demonstrate that
there has been a major due process procedural error and/or if the accused student can introduce
substantive new evidence, an appeal may be initiated by written request. If a student wishes to appeal
a decision, she/he must do so in writing within five (5) business days. Decisions of the Academic
Judicial Review Board are subject to review by appeal to the Provost. The decision of the Provost is
final in these matters.
Should a case of academic dishonesty occur at the end of a semester, the faculty member must
submit the student’s grade by the Registrar’s original due date and time. Whether a case is being
appealed or is in the period for appeal does not preclude the standard grade submission requirements
and an incomplete grade may not be given as a result. Should an appeal be made in accordance with
the above guidelines and granted, the grade may be changed as a result of the process.
Duration of Filed Academic Dishonesty Report Forms
The Office of Academic Affairs maintains all filed Academic Dishonesty Report Forms for a
particular student until the student graduates from the University. Upon graduation or separation from
the University, all academic reports filed against the student will be purged.
Academic Grievance Board
If any student feels she/he has cause for grievance in academic matters (commonly related to
grading practices), the student may request in writing that the Provost initiate the student grievance
procedure. The student must explain her/his grounds for grievance, and this request must be made no
later than two weeks after grades are posted for the course. The Provost will discuss the matter with
the involved faculty and the student, and then help them to establish an ad hoc Grievance Board. This
meeting will take place no later than the second week of the semester following the complaint. This
board will consist of two faculty members and two students, agreed upon by both parties, and a fifth
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member from the University community, chosen by the previously mentioned four. If the faculty
involved has not named two faculty members for this board within two weeks, the Provost will appoint
them. The Grievance Board will act in an advisory capacity to the Provost. The Grievance Board
must make a recommendation within two weeks of the meeting. The decision of the Provost is final in
these matters.
Academic Life
Academic Engagement and Class Attendance
Students must fully engage in the learning process, are expected to attend all class meetings, and
are held responsible for the full content of each course of study.
A responsible academic life implies systematic preparation in all course work. Students must
devote sufficient time for adequate class preparation. A minimum of two hours outside of class for
every hour the course meets is a common guideline.
Each course instructor articulates in the course syllabus a course outline and required readings
and/or assignments which must be completed prior to attendance. The syllabus also describes the
teaching/learning environment required in the class (laboratory, studios, experiential exercises, team
work, discussion, and lecture). Overall course assessment commonly includes participation and
attendance.
The University faculty and administration support participation in intercollegiate sports, theatre
productions, music recitals, conferences, workshops, and other co-curricular activities; however, it is
always the student’s responsibility to negotiate a way to receive information and/or materials
distributed in class. Students must understand that, depending on the course design and requirements,
it may not be possible to make up a missed class session. Any absence from a class for participation in
such events must be negotiated by the student with the instructor prior to the absence from class.
Students who miss a class because of illness or personal emergency must contact the instructor.
Depending on the course design and requirements, it may not be possible for a student to make up a
missed class session.
Advisors
All students are assigned advisors for their majors and/or teacher certification with whom they
meet at least once in each semester to discuss their academic concerns, career plans, and any special
projects they might wish to pursue. If a student wishes to change majors or advisors, she/he notifies
the Registrar’s Office which then arranges for the transfer of her/his records. Although advisors will
assist the student with matters such as course and program selection, the ultimate responsibility for
knowledge of requirements, course prerequisites, and verification of accuracy of records maintained by
the Registrar remains with the student. Consequently, students should be familiar with the contents of
the University Catalog and monitor their progress toward graduation through GriffinGate.
Liberal Arts Curriculum
The Seton Hill University faculty believes that the liberal arts and sciences are the essential
elements in the higher education of a student. Therefore, all students build their academic study on the
foundation of the liberal arts curriculum.
Study in the liberal arts begins with LA100 Basic Composition and LA101 Seminar in Thinking
and Writing. Writing is the primary content of both courses, together with the related processes of
critical reading, critical thinking, and oral communication. The theme is Cultural Identities, selected to
support the social, psychological, spiritual, and ethical development students undergo during their first-
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year transition to university life. This focus offers a lens through which students can examine the ways
their own identities are shaped in relation to others. In addition, LA102 Connections helps students to
transition into university life in general and to Seton Hill University in particular. Students will
discover the resources available to them and will learn specific skills and strategies that will help them
to succeed in college.
Academic program information and policies are contained in the Seton Hill University Catalog.
The Academic Course Schedule is published by the Registrar’s Office and available on GriffinGate.
All academic matters are coordinated through the Academic Affairs Office.
CareerWorks
CareerWorks provides assistance to students to enhance their liberal arts education by developing
careers with entrepreneurial skills and internships.
Career development begins when a student enters the University and continues as a lifelong
process. CareerWorks recognizes the importance of this development and provides resources and
services to support students during the various stages of their career development. CareerWorks
strongly suggests that students use available services upon entering the University.
Services provided by CareerWorks include:







Career Counseling and Coaching
Career Testing and Exploration of Majors
Resume and Cover Letter Reviews
Interviewing Tips and Techniques
Internship and Job Search Strategies and Resources
Job and Internship Fairs; Career Days
On-Campus Recruiting and Interviewing
Internship and Experiential Learning
Internships and other types of experiential learning are valuable experiences. They offer students
the opportunity to acquire academic credit while gaining on-the-job experience. Internships allow
students to test career goals before graduation and increase their marketability to potential employers
after graduation.
CareerWorks assists students in their search for experiences related to their academic major and
career objectives. CareerWorks is one internship source for students; however, additional resources
may be provided as well.
Students are encouraged to schedule an appointment to discuss their academic requirements,
future career goals, and to review current opportunities available. Students can find the internship
registration form on Griffin’s Lair under the Forms, Registrar. Additional questions can be directed to
Jamie Martin, Assistant Director, at martin@setonhill.edu.
CareerWorks is located on the 3rd floor of the Administration Building. To schedule an
appointment, students can call 724-838-4247.
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Seton Hill University’s E-Magnify®
Recognized as a leading University for Entrepreneurs by Entrepreneur magazine, the University
continues its tradition of entrepreneurial excellence through E-Magnify, a U.S. Small Business
Administration women’s business center program.
In 1991, Seton Hill was a pioneer when it established a center for women entrepreneurs to address
the needs of the country’s growing number of women-owned businesses. Since then, the center has
helped thousands of women entrepreneurs and business professionals through its mission “to
strengthen the economic impact of women business owners as a collective force and to advance their
growth through innovative programming in entrepreneurship and new venture creation.” The Center
is strategically poised to expand its business counseling, training, education and mentoring services to
serve a 27-county western Pennsylvania marketplace by 2011.
With a website recognized by Harvard Business School as a good source for “practical, nongender-specific business content,” E-Magnify is a leading provider of best-practice expertise and
information and is committed to preparing students for the challenges of business ownership.
Both female and male students have the opportunity to engage with E-Magnify through:






Internship and work study opportunities;
Classroom projects at selected entrepreneurial sites throughout the region;
A Women’s Entrepreneurial Symposium highlighting national and regional women business
leaders through a diverse range of educational programs that highlight topics of interest to
entrepreneurs;
Online business resources through www.e-magnify.com providing free information, including
online education, interviews with entrepreneurs, and articles focusing on small business
concerns;
An extensive collection of business resources and materials designed to assist students who
are interested in starting their own small business; and
Business counseling opportunities.
Students across all majors have the opportunity to explore business ownership early in their
college career through a Business Plan Development course which examines the research, planning
and development of a business plan with emphasis on four fundamental core elements of business
planning. The new course is based on a business planning course, CORE FOUR, offered through EMagnify.
The National Catholic Center for Holocaust Education
Seton Hill University established its National Catholic Center for Holocaust Education (NCCHE)
on the anniversary of Kristallnacht (November 9), 1987, in response to the urging of Pope John Paul II
to recognize the significance of the Holocaust (Shoah), and to “promote the necessary historical and
religious studies on the event which concerns the whole of humanity today.” (Letter to Archbishop
William May, 1987).
The mission of the Center is to counter anti-Semitism and to foster Catholic-Jewish relations by
making the fruits of Holocaust scholarship accessible to educators at every level, especially in Catholic
colleges and universities throughout the United States. To this end, the Center sustains a vital
cooperative program with Yad Vashem in Israel and designs events to assist educators in shaping
appropriate curricular responses for students of every age.
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Nowhere has the Center’s impact been felt more directly than at Seton Hill itself. Over twenty
Seton Hill faculty and staff members have participated in the Center’s premiere program, the Catholic
Institute for Holocaust Studies, a graduate-level summer institute in Israel. Consequently, faculty have
developed a program in Genocide and Holocaust Studies consisting of two components, an
undergraduate minor and a graduate certificate program, offered completely online. Not only does this
program support the mission of the Center and the University, but it will also serve as a valuable
resource for teachers, professors, students-anyone interested in the causes and consequences of
genocide.
In 2008, Ethal LeFrak of New York, N.Y., donated $750,000 to Seton Hill University to endow
The Ethal LeFrak Holocaust Education Conference and create The Ethel LeFrak Student Scholars of
the Holocaust Fund.
The Ethel LeFrak Holocaust Education Conference Fund supports the appearance at the triennial
conferences of national and international speakers, sponsors the art exhibits that accompany the
conference, and underwrite the publication of The Ethel LeFrak Holocaust Education Conference
Proceedings.
The Ethel LeFrak Student Scholars of the Holocaust Fund provides annual student scholarships to
support student participation in the Summer Institute at Yad Vashem (the Holocaust Remembrance
Authority in Israel), The Ethel LeFrak Holocaust Education Conference the Genocide and Holocaust
Studies Program at Seton Hill, the March of Remembrance and Hope: A Students’ Leadership
Program and Mission to Poland, and activities relating to international travel, Jewish-Catholic
traditions, and readings and research to advance understanding of significant Holocaust issues past and
present. This fund also supports The Ethel LeFrak Outstanding Student Scholar of the Holocaust
Award to be presented annually to the student who writes a reflection paper that best demonstrates a
keen and advanced understanding of the lessons of the Holocaust.
The NCCHE also provides Seton Hill students with many programs and resources including the
following:
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Annual Kristallnacht Remembrance Service (fall semester)
Annual Yom HaShoah – Westmoreland Interfaith Holocaust Remembrance Program (spring
semester)
Annual tour of the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum as part of the University’s Washington,
DC bus trip (fall semester)
Special guest speakers and visiting scholars
Special exhibits, plays and concerts in cooperation with academic departments
Periodic study-travel in connection with the Genocide and Holocaust Studies Program
Internship opportunities with the Center
Genocide and Holocaust Collection of books and other materials housed in a special room in
Reeves Memorial Library
Permanent exhibit of archival photographs depicting women and children in the Holocaust.
In summary, the NCCHE seeks to eradicate prejudice and to promote peace, truth, and justice. We
welcome students to visit the Center, located in Administration Rooms 312, and 313, and to participate
in Center programs and events.
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Academic Support Program
Collegiate Academic and Personal Success (CAPS) Program
Since its establishment in 1971, the C.A.P.S. Program has been helping students to achieve their
goals. The mission of the program is to promote academic and personal success through tutoring,
counseling, course instruction, study skills, and writing assistance. The services of the C.A.P.S.
Program are available to students through the financial support of Seton Hill, and Student Support
Services. Student Support Services is a federally-sponsored program which provides assistance to
students who are financially or educationally disadvantaged, physically or learning disabled, or first
generation college students. If you feel that you qualify to participate in either of these programs,
contact the Director of C.A.P.S.
Writing Center
The Writing Center provides assistance to students as they create, revise and edit all types of
writing. Primarily, students work one-to-one with writing consultants to improve their written
communication skills. Writing Center personnel also present workshops, develop handouts, and
furnish other resources for the SHU community. These services can be accessed by making
appointments or by dropping into the Center.
Tutoring Center
Tutorial assistance is offered in many subject areas by trained peer tutors. Tutoring schedules are
available in the Tutoring Center. To find out more about the tutorial program, contact the Tutorial
Coordinator.
Academic Counseling
Individual or group assistance is available to improve academic skills. Some of the topics
included under Academic Counseling are time management, test taking strategies, note taking, test
anxiety, and identifying personal learning style.
Counseling
The counseling service staff includes one professional counselor and master level student interns.
They provide intensive individual or group service to students with academic or personal needs.
Students are assured of complete confidentiality in their consultation. You may call or stop in to see
the counselors.
Disability Services
In keeping with the mission of Seton Hill University to affirm the uniqueness of every person
evidenced by active, generous concern for others and respect for values different from one’s own, the
University offers academic support services to all students. In addition, students with disabilities may
need a variety of services, accommodations, or auxiliary aids. Decisions about these services are based
on documentation, interview, knowledge of specific needs, and compliance with Section 504 of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and the Americans with
Disabilities Act Amendment Act of 2008. The Director and Coordinator of Disability Services work
closely with disabled students to assess and meet individual needs. Readers, note takers, extended
testing time, distraction reduced testing environments, and access to special adaptive equipment and etext can be arranged.
Although students may self-disclose at any time, Seton Hill University encourages students with a
disability who desire to receive accommodations to self-disclose early in their academic careers. It is
recommended that freshman disclose the summer before the start of the fall term if possible.
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Students with disabilities are encouraged to contact the Director at 724-838-4295, to determine
eligibility for services.
Services are not retroactive, so early disclosure is essential.
Student Life Information
Bookstore
Located in Sullivan Hall, the SHU Bookstore carries new and used textbooks for all classes,
fiction and non-fiction trade books, and a convenient range of school supplies, residence hall staples,
snacks, greeting cards, and health and beauty products, sold at or below suggested retail prices. A
wide variety of school spirit gift and clothing items are also available. Visit in person or shop online at
www.setonhillbookstore.com. Items must be paid for at time of purchase.
Dining Services
Sharing a meal together is a time of enjoyment and relaxation. Meals are served cafeteria-style in
Lowe Dining hall; each student must present her/his I.D. card before entering the Hall. Students are
expected to clear their tables and take their dishes to the dish room after each meal. Yelling, boisterous
actions, and disruptive behavior are unacceptable in the Dining Hall.
Students are also asked to respect the health regulations concerning public eating establishment.
Shirts and shoes must be worn at all times. Sports equipment is not permitted in the dining hall. Lowe
Dining Hall and the Griffins Cove are Smoke free areas. No food, dishes, or utensils may be taken
from the Dining Hall. Special arrangements can be made for take-out containers.
Arrangements for special parties, departmental dinners, and box lunches may be made with the
Dining Services. When visiting, parents and guests may purchase meal from the cashier inside the
Dining Hall or use student flex dollars if available.
Box Lunches
Box lunches may be requisitioned from the Dining Service in place of cafeteria lunch for resident
students under the following conditions:
The Seton Hill Dining Service will provide a packed lunch for those students who must be off
campus because of student teaching or practicum. There will be no reimbursement for missed meals.
To receive your packed lunch, bring your class schedule to the Dining Service office. The lunches
must be picked up during normal dining service business hours.
Students with a work-study assignment conflicting with meal times must submit a note from their
supervisor.
Cash Equivalency
Cash equivalency allows students on the 7, 10, 14, or 19 meal plan to purchase a certain dollar
amount of food in the snack bar, Griffin’s Cove, instead of dining in the cafeteria. To do this, a student
makes a selection, and the cash price of each item is totaled. If the cost is under the cash equivalency
amount for the meal, there is no charge. If it exceeds the cash equivalency rate, the difference is paid
in cash or flex dollars. Under this option, students may order only once.
Cash Equivalency Rates
Posted each semester.
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Griffin’s Cove
Seton Hill University’s snack bar, Griffin’s Cove, is located in Sullivan Hall. It is open to Seton
Hill University students and their guests and offers a fast food alternative to the menu in Lowe Dining
Hall. Hours of operation are advertised each semester.
Financial Aid
The Financial Aid Director advises students who need scholarship, grant, or loan assistance or a
campus job in order to continue their education at Seton Hill. If, at any time during her/his years at
Seton Hill, a student feels that financial needs qualify her/him for assistance, she/he should make an
appointment with the Financial Aid Office.
I.D. Cards
Every student must obtain an I.D. card during the first week on campus and carry it at all times to
present in the dining hall, for admittance to residence halls and some nonresident University buildings,
to withdraw books from the library, to cash checks, or for identification upon the request of any
University official.
If the I.D. card is lost, the student must report the loss to the Registrar’s Office. The fee for
replacing the card is $25.00. The fee for replacing a damaged card is $10. (Student must present the
damaged card to the Registrar’s Office.)
Pictures for I.D. cards are taken as needed in the Registrar’s Office (110 Admin.). The card is
activated electronically when the student’s account is cleared in the Student Accounts Office.
A student’s I.D. card is good for the entire time the student is at Seton Hill.
Laundry
Washers and dryers are located in the basement of Sullivan Hall for Canevin and Lowe Hall
residents, fourth and fifth floor of Maura for Maura Hall residents, first floor of Brownlee for
Brownlee Hall residents, Havey basement for Havey Hall residents, first floor of Farrell for Farrell
Hall residents and on the second floor of the DeChantal Hall for those residents. The University does
not assume any responsibility for clothing left in the laundry area or for personal property left in
ironing areas. Also, the University does not take responsibility for clothing damaged in the washers or
dryers or for providing refunds in any amount for laundry cards.
Library
At the center of the Seton Hill Campus is Reeves Memorial Library. This building serves as the
information center of the campus to students and faculty alike. The library holds a collection of
approximately 115,000 items, which include the following: books, periodicals, microforms, both
educational and entertainment videos, DVDs and CDs. Access to information is made easy through
Endeavor’s Voyager automated catalog. Voyager, along with the library’s online databases, is
accessible both in the library and through any computer connected to the Internet; the Library also
offers WiFi throughout.
Products currently offered to the University community on-line are ARTstor; EBSCOhost which
includes the following databases: Academic Search Elite, Business Search Elite, Cochrane Library
Databases, ERIC, MLA Bibliography, Medline, Newspaper Source Plus, PsycINFO, Regional
Business News, and The Serials Directory; JSTOR Arts & Sciences III and IV; Literature Resource
Center: and Sage Online Journals. These databases offer thousands of journal articles, abstracts, and
documents, many of which are full-text. As new databases become available which more closely meet
the needs of our students and faculty the above list is subject to change.
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To familiarize students with the library and methods of bibliographic research, on-going
Information Literacy (I.L.) Programs are conducted throughout the semester. Individualized assistance
is also available by contacting any of the librarians to set up an appointment.
The Reeves Memorial Library at Seton Hill University is open seven days a week: Monday –
Thursday 8:00 a.m. – 10:50 p.m., Friday 8:00 a.m. – 4:50 p.m., Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 5:50 p.m., and
Sunday 1:00 p.m. – 10:50 p.m. Summer and break hours, which may be different than the regular
hours, are posted throughout the campus and on the library web page.
As a part of the growing world of information, the library at Seton Hill offers its patrons
interlibrary loan service through the OCLC cataloging system. Reciprocal borrowing privileges are in
place through an agreement with the Westmoreland County Academic Libraries Reciprocal Borrowing
Program that is comprised of Penn State – Fayette, New Kensington, and Greater Allegheny campuses,
St. Vincent College, University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg, and Westmoreland County Community
College. Membership is also held in the Share Westmoreland (which includes most libraries in
Westmoreland County) and Lyrasis (which covers most of the eastern United States) Consortia. These
cooperative ventures further broaden the scope of library services offered.
The Archives is located on the ground floor of Brownlee Residence Hall. The Archives collects
and maintains materials which document the history, growth, and development of the University and
its predecessor institutions, and their programs, administrators, students, faculty and alumnae/i.
Maintenance and Custodial Service
Requests for maintenance and custodial service can be made through the helpdesk on the Seton
Hill University website.
Post Office
The Post Office is located on the first floor of the Administration Building Annex. The personnel
offer traditional services with the exception of registered mail and the purchase of money orders. Only
1st class mail will be forwarded during the summer break. Forwarding will stop two weeks prior to the
beginning of the fall term. Students need to come to the post office and fill out a mail forward card or
the mail and packages will be returned to sender during summer break. Mail will be held over the
Christmas Break. Resident students are assigned a post office box and should check it regularly since
much internal communication is channeled through the house mail system. Commuter students may
also obtain a mailbox assignment by requesting one at the Office of Residence Life/Administrative
Assistant Office (Maura 223). Window service hours for the Post Office are Monday through Friday,
9:00 a.m. until 3:45 p.m. and Saturday, from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m.
1.
Mail and packages need to include the student’s mailbox number.
2.
All mail and package notices will be in student mailboxes by early afternoon the same day
they arrive.
 Students who have mailboxes in the post office by noon.
 Students who have mailboxes in the residence halls by early afternoon.
3.
In the event a student should change residence halls, the family and others should be informed
of the new mailbox information. This will help you receive your mail without delay.
4.
If a student receives a package too large to fit in the mailbox a “Package Notice Slip” will be
put in the mailbox. He/she must then come to the post office to retrieve the package. The
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student must provide the white package notice slip and student I.D. when picking up
packages. The student is required to sign for the package.
Registration of Vehicle
Any student who parks within the campus area must register her/his vehicle and request a student
parking permit. Students must fill out a Parking Permit request form on Griffin’s Lair. The license
plate number, driver’s license number, and care insurance information are required. Students then
receive permit in the Registrar’s Office. There is no charge for the first parking permit. A replacement
fee of $10 applies for lost permits.
Faculty, student, employee, and restricted parking areas are clearly marked. Persons parking in
areas not designated for them will be fined. Repeated offenses will result in booking or towing.
Parking is restricted in the kitchen area, Child Development Center, Brownlee Hall, Post Office
lot, in front of Maura Hall, Visitors’ Parking, handicapped spaces, and fire zones, and along all curbs
and roadways.
Temporary parking permits are available for those who wish to bring a car a campus for only a
short time or have overnight guest coming on campus. These permits may be obtained from Campus
Police.
All vehicles on campus must be registered. Failure to register by the second Monday in
September will result in a fine.
All fines may be paid in the Student Accounts Office between the hours of 9:30 a.m. and 12:00
noon and 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Tickets received during the weekend are
payable on Monday without penalty of additional costs.
Three unpaid parking tickets in one year will result in the vehicle being booted. The boot will be
removed upon payment of all tickets and a $35.00 boot fee. If not paid within 72 hours after being
booted, the vehicle will be towed at the owner’s expense and held until all fees and towing charges are
paid.
Seton Hill University assumes no responsibility for any losses or damages to any vehicle or for
any losses or damage to property or injuries to person resulting from the use of its parking facilities.
Student Accounts Office
The Student Accounts Office is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday and
8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Friday.
Personal checks may be cashed in the Student Accounts Office. The maximum amount is $100.00
per student per day; a validated Seton Hill identification card is required to cash checks. A $35 service
fee will be assessed on all returned checks, regardless of the maker.
A First Commonwealth ATM machine is located on campus in the Post Office, but only
withdrawals and transfers can be completed at this machine.
Federal Work-Study or Seton Hill University funded jobs are paid on the 15 th of each month.
Students may pick up their work-study check, cash a work-study check in any amount, have their
earnings deducted from their tuition balance, or have their earnings directly deposited into their
checking account. Contact Payroll at 724-838-4202 for information on direct deposit.
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Students who use their work-study earnings to pay on their account must complete a credit entry
authorization form, once each school year. These forms are available in the Student Accounts Office.
Once the form is signed, the Student Accounts Office will post the $25 work-study deferment fee onto
the student’s account. Each work-study payday, the student’s tuition account will be credited for the
amount of the work-study check. To determine the net due after allowing for work-study, students
should add in the $25 deferment fee and then deduct an allowance equal to the amount of the net workstudy earnings from their balance. Typically, 3.07% is deducted each pay for payroll taxes.
All accounts are due in full two weeks prior to the start of the semester. Unpaid accounts or
accounts undeferred through pending financial aid, work-study, in-house or outside payment plans,
employer reimbursement, or Seton Hill remission will be subject to a late fee. Further, nonpayment
may result in the student not being able to register for future semesters, or in financial dismissal.
For more information visit the Seton Hill website, log into Griffin’s Lair, click on the Documents
tab or the Forms tab, then on the left click on Student Accounts. You may also contact someone from
Student Accounts at 724/838-4214 if you have any questions regarding your balance.
SHU Transportation Policy
The University recognizes the transportation challenges associated with the Greensburg area and
the campus setting. Students should create car pools and use their ingenuity to arrange transportation
with one another. The University, however, does take responsibility for some specific transportation
needs.
New Student Shuttle Service
In the welcoming tradition extended by Elizabeth Ann Seton, Seton Hill University provides
transportation services for new students arriving from the Pittsburgh International or Latrobe Regional
airports. This service is provided at no cost to new students for their first official trip to campus, prior
to the beginning of the semester. Please contact the Office of Activities and Commuter Life at 724830-1076 (domestic students) or the Office of Intercultural Student Services at 724-830-1089
(international and intercultural students) at least one week in advance for this service.
This service is offered only one time; students seeking transportation for breaks, etc. are expected
to make their own transportation arrangements.
Town Campus Site Shuttle Service
Van service will shuttle employees and students to both the main campus and downtown sites.
The van service schedule and hours will be posted on Griffin’s Lair annually.
Transportation Resources
Airlines – Arnold Palmer Regional Airport Information – 724-539-8100 or
www.palmerairport.com .
Greyhound Bus Lines – Information – 800-231-2222 or www.greyhound.com .
Majesty Transportation – 412-462-5029, 412-462-4858 or www.majestytransportation.com .
Majesty provides transportation to Pittsburgh International Airport, two day advance notice is
required.
Pittsburgh International Airport – www.pitairport.comm or :
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United – 800-241-6522; US Airways – 800-428-4322; Southwest – 800-453-9792, AirTran -800247-8726; Delta – 800-221-1212; Northwest – 800-225-2525; American – 800-433-7300.
Public Transportation
The Greensburg area is serviced by airport van, train, bus, and taxi. The van and taxi will pick up
passengers at Seton Hill’s Administration Building door. Train and bus service are scheduled, but
connections between lines may be difficult to arrange. We suggest that you call the respective
services for the latest weather conditions and schedules to arrange the best travel plans.
Taxi Service- - Yellow Cab of Greensburg – 724-838-0700 (Monday through Saturday, 7:00 a.m.
to 7:00 p.m.)
Train – Amtrak – 800-872-7245 – schedule (information and reservations) www.amtrack.com
or 412-471-6170 (Pittsburgh station information only).
Westmoreland County Transit Authority – 724-834-9282 or www.westmorelandtransit.com .,
provides service to Westmoreland Mall; to many surrounding communities; to Oakland
(Pittsburgh’s Civic, Cultural, Medical, and University Center); to Pittsburgh’s Gateway Center;
and to the Pittsburgh Greyhound Bus Terminal.
Vans
Seton Hill University operates vans to provide transportation support for the athletic, social, and
academic programming of the institution. Only authorized drivers may operate SHU vans, and only
departments or organizations with budgets in the Business Office may reserve them. Questions
regarding van usage should be directed to the Office of Activities and Commuter Life.
Student Services and Programs
The mission of Student Services at Seton Hill University is to ensure the overall development of
the individual student. By utilizing a holistic approach to education and growth, students are supported
in their efforts for academic success and lifelong learning. We help foster our students’ abilities to
think and act critically, creatively, and ethically through a variety of opportunities for effective
communication and interaction; interpersonal skills development; community living; leadership;
spiritual development; social, educational and cultural activities; and the integration of physical, social,
and emotional wellness.
The Student Services Staff consists of the Dean of Students, Associate Dean of Students and
Director of Residence Life, Assistant Director of Residence Life, Director of Intercultural Student
Services and Judicial Affairs, SEVIS Project Director, Resident Directors, Director of Campus
Ministry, Associate Director of Campus Ministry and Chaplain, Campus Minister, Assistant Dean of
Students, Graduate Assistant, Director of Counseling, Disability and Health Services, Coordinator of
Health Education and Staff Nurse, and Coordinator of Disability Services and Prevention Specialist.
The Student Services Staff works closely with Campus Police, the Seton Hill Government Association,
Collegiate Academic and Personal Success (C.A.P.S.) Staff, Dining Services, and other campus
offices.
Student Services for graduate and adult undergraduate students are housed in the Office of
Graduate and Adult Studies. This staff includes the Director of Graduate and Adult Studies, two
Program Advisers, and two Administrative Assistants. These services include orienting new students,
scheduling assistance each semester/session, test proctoring, CLEP and DANTES testing, facilitating
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the adult honor society, and advocating for the adult student. Students requiring other services are
referred to the appropriate offices.
Activities and Programming
Student activities and programs are planned by the Office of Activities and Commuter Life with
the assistance of members from the University’s social programming board, the Student Activities
Council (SAC). Students who have ideas for programs or would like to participate in the selection of
campus events and activities are highly encouraged to join the Student Activities Council.
Activities include social and cultural planned events as well as spontaneous programming. A wide
variety of activities are offered in order to meet the diverse interest of SHU students.
Popular activities include trips to Pittsburgh, Washington, D.C., and New York; Pittsburgh
sporting events; museum, ballet, and theatre trips; recent release movie screenings; various types of
aerobic classes, musicians, comedians, and other entertainers on campus.
Sullivan Hall serves as the site for comedians, musicians, movie screenings, game shows, and a
variety of student social events. Recreation equipment, including board games, athletic equipment,
and video game systems, can be signed out through the Equipment Room located near the Campus
Bookstore. The Griffin Lounge, also located in Sullivan Hall, contains several flat screen TVs, lounge
areas, study tables, and dining areas. Its proximity to the Bookstore, Griffin’s Cove, and the McKenna
Recreation Complex, as well as its 24-hour access, adds to its convenience as the hub of the student
center.
Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug (ATOD)
The Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug (ATOD) Program provides leadership to the university
community in reducing alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use and related negative consequences.
Through the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board, the ATOD program administers and supports
prevention and intervention services that encourage students to make healthy lifestyle decisions to
improve their overall well-being and enhance their academic and personal success.
Athletic Programs
The athletic programs at Seton Hill are designed to enrich the lives of students through physical
and recreational programs at the intercollegiate and intramural levels. Each year presents a full
schedule of varsity sports, intramural sports, and club sports, as well as personal development
programs.
Intercollegiate Athletics
Seton Hill University is a member of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA),
Division II, and a member of the West Virginia Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WVIAC),
comprised of schools from West Virginia and Pennsylvania. Seton Hill presently participates at the
varsity level in football, men’s and women’s basketball, men’s and women’s soccer, men’s and
women’s cross country, men’s and women’s track and field, women’s golf, women’s tennis, men’s and
women’s lacrosse, field hockey, volleyball, wrestling, baseball, softball, and equestrian competition.
Baseball – The year consists of a six-week fall season and a full varsity schedule in the spring, as
well as a 15-game junior varsity schedule.
Basketball – A winter sport, both men and women participate. An approximate 26-game
schedule is played.
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Cross Country – The fall season of competition has 8-10 meets. Women run a 5K race, and men run
an 8K race. The team competes against many top locally, regionally, and nationally-ranked teams
during its season.
Equestrian – The equestrian team attends multi-school competitions throughout the fall and
spring with regional and national championships held for qualifying riders.
Field Hockey – The team plays a 22-game schedule culminating with the National Championship
Tournament for independent schools during the first weekend in November.
Football – The football team plays a very demanding schedule featuring opponents in
Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia. The Griffins play their home schedule at Offutt Field in
Greensburg.
Golf – Women play both a fall and spring schedule of matches.
Lacrosse – This is a spring sport that participates in approximately 10-15 games per season for
both men’s and women’s teams. There is also be a fall ball season lasting 20 practices. A majority of
the schedule is NCAA D II competition.
Soccer – The men’s and women’s soccer teams play their schedules in the fall. Both teams play a
20-game regular season schedule.
Softball – Softball plays a six-week schedule in the fall and plays its remaining schedule in the
spring.
Tennis – A spring sport in which women compete. The schedule consist of 15-18 matches,
including a spring break trip to Hilton Head, SC.
Volleyball – This fall sport plays a complete varsity schedule. The 2005 team was Conference
Champions.
Seton Hill University Intramural Sports and Recreation Program
Intramural sports and recreation are organized for all students, faculty, and staff of Seton Hill
University. Through participation in various programs, participants receive a multitude of personal
benefits including improved levels of physical fitness and wellness, opportunities for social interaction,
improved time management skills, the opportunity to engage in a dynamic group setting, improved
dedication and motivational skills, the opportunity for a healthy means of stress relief, and a sense of
ownership and belonging among students, staff, faculty, and Seton Hill University.
Don’t want to be a part of team intramurals? No problem. In addition to the intramural team
sports and activities, Seton Hill offers the availability of informal recreation on our campus and in our
facilities ties for all students, faculty, and staff. Facilities and equipment are available for use in an
unstructured format. Equipment is available in Sullivan Hall; a valid student/faculty I.D. is required to
use equipment.
Intramural programs are a rapidly growing area of activities at Seton Hill University. Aerobics,
weight training, and water aerobics are a few examples of some of the current programs we offer. You
receive instructions and workouts to enhance your fitness level. More instructional programs are being
added all the time; please check often to see if there is something that interests you – or, let the
Athletic Department know what you would like to have included!
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Campus Ministry
Campus Ministry, while Catholic in orientation, provides opportunities for students of all
denominations to enrich their University experience by participation in prayer and worship,
community service, social responsibility, and, in general, sharing the gifts of faith with the entire
campus community. Campus Ministry functions under the direction of a team, assisted by faculty,
staff, and many student volunteers. Its weekly publication, the VINE, keeps the campus informed of
its activities. All students are invited to join Camus Ministry.
Community Outreach – Campus Ministry offers opportunities for students to train for,
participate in, and reflect upon meaningful service to the community. These service experiences
include aiding the very young and the elderly, the unemployed and economically disadvantaged, the
homeless, and those with disabilities. Students enrich their own lives while helping others in the
search for justice and liberation.
Worship and Prayer – The daily and Sunday Mass schedules are found in the VINE.
Information about church and synagogue services in the Greensburg area is also available. Ecumenical
Prayer Services for the entire campus community are held several times in each semester. Students are
encouraged to volunteer and be trained for the following ministries:
Liturgical Ministries – Lectors, Ministers of Hospitality, Eucharistic Ministers, Sacristans,
and Liturgical Assistants for weekday and Sunday Masses.
Music Ministry – Cantors, Choir Singers, and Instrumentalists for Sunday Masses and Special
Liturgies.
Community Service
Caritas Christi Volunteers - Visit with the retired Sisters of Charity.
Food Bank/Soup Kitchen – Day trips are planned for students to assist with food packaging
and preparing meals for those needing assistance.
Habitat for Humanity – Help with local building projects that assist low-income families
achieve their dream of home ownership.
Operation Christmas Basket – Make and sell craft items and baked goods to benefit local
persons in need.
Each semester, other volunteer programs may evolve depending on local needs and student
interest.
Social Responsibility
Justice Awareness – Plan activities that draw attention to human rights, world hunger, and
other issues related to justice and peace.
Respect Life – Promote an awareness of the value and quality of all human life through
programs of education and witness.
Special Programs
Weekend Retreats – The Campus Ministry Team conducts weekend retreats off campus for
students to reflect, pray, and discuss together.
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Bible Study and Faith Sharing – Sessions are provided throughout the year for students
who want to learn more about the Hebrew and Christian scriptures. Students are enabled to
discover ways to integrate scriptural texts into daily living.
Counseling
A licensed professional counselor is available to assist students in developing an understanding of
themselves, their environment, and their potential. Extensive individual and group services to students
with personal, academic, social, or career decisions to make are provided.
Primarily, these services enable students to gain a better understanding of themselves and a
broader perspective on their life choices. The process and pace of developing skills as self-directed
persons differ for each student. Consequently, the counseling staff provides opportunities to assist
students in defining their values, becoming autonomous and independent, clarifying their personal and
career goals, and choosing a pattern for interpersonal behavior and healthy life choices.
Frequently, a student comes to the Counseling Center through a friend, faculty, or resident
assistant referral; for others, initial contact may be made directly with the staff. Once assistance is
requested, the student helps to design a personalized and completely confidential, program suited to
his/her needs. A schedule of sessions is agreed upon, or off-campus referrals may be made.
All on-campus counseling services are provided at no cost to the student. Students are assured of
complete confidentiality in their consultations. No information is released to University personnel,
outside agencies, or individuals without the student’s explicit authorization in advance. If, however, in
the opinion of the counselor, there is a clear and immediate threat to the life or welfare of the student to
other students, or to the community, appropriate preventive actions will be taken. Students can call
724-838-4295 or extension 4295 or 4252 to schedule an appointment.
In addition to personal counseling, services are also offered in the following areas:
The ATOD Prevention Specialist distributes drug and alcohol prevention/risk
reduction/educational materials to the entire Seton Hill community with factual information on alcohol
and other drugs. Personal development is fostered through programs, lectures, and experiences geared
toward self-enhancement.
Life-Way Pregnancy Services.
Pregnancy Counseling – Each situation is unique. The staff will lead you through the choices
confronting you and help you to make an informed and educated decision about your pregnancy.
Adoption Counseling – For clients considering adoption, ongoing counseling and support are
offered, plus access to specially-trained counselors who can further help you explore that decision
and create an adoption plan. Referrals for agency or private adoption are also available.
Abstinence Counseling – Life-Way is committed to helping clients learn the facts and
consequences of premature, premarital sexual activity. Information on the benefits of premarital
sexual abstinence and ways to make wise choices regarding sexual behavior is provided. LifeWay also offers a program, “A is for Abstinence,” for group presentations.
Post-Abortion Counseling – Confidential one-on-one, trained lay counseling is available for
clients experiencing emotional or psychological difficulties after abortion.
Counseling Referrals – Life-Way offers referrals to compassionate, trained professional
counselors as needed.
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Ongoing Support Groups – Life-Way offers ongoing support groups for single and new moms,
as well as parenting, nutrition, and CPR classes. Babysitting is provided.
Veterans Outreach – a Career-Links sponsored VA caseworker is available on campus to meet
with veteran students twice a month and other times by appointment.
Commuter Services and Information
Commuter students have access to all campus services such as counseling, tutoring, swimming
pool, Griffin’s Cove, etc. Commuters are encouraged to participate in campus organizations and
activities. Contact the Office of Activities and Commuter Life with any questions or concerns.
SHGA
Commuter students are encouraged to participate in student government; they have
proportionate representation in the Senate. Copies of the SHGA handbook are available on the
Griffin’s Liar under SHGA.
Lounge Areas
The second Maura lounges are popular areas with both commuters and residents, especially
during class breaks. Phones, vending machines, a microwave, televisions, stereo, pool table,
foosball table, work areas, and computers are available. Sullivan Hall also has a comfortable
lounge area for studying or relaxing.
Meal Plans
The Seton Hill Dining Service offers a variety of lunch and meal plan options to commuters
that can be used in both Lowe Dining Hall and the Griffin’s Cove. Visit the Dining Service Office
for further information and to set up a meal plan.
Lockers
Lockers are located in the first floor Maura corridor and in the second floor Maura lounge.
They are available on a first-come basis, and there is no charge for their use. Lockers must be
vacated at the end of the academic year. The Office of Activities and Commuter Life handles the
assignments.
Mailbox
Resident students must have a mailbox assignment, and commuters are encouraged to request
one if needed. The Office of Residence Life (Maura 221) accepts requests and assigns mailboxes.
Emergency Alert System
Students are strongly encouraged to register themselves through the University Emergency
Alert System. This system notifies students via email or text message of cancellations or other
pertinent information affecting the student body. Students can register on the Seton Hill
homepage.
Class Cancellations
In case of inclement weather, students should call (724) 830-1000 for information about class
cancellations due to weather conditions or check the Announcement area of the Griffin’s Lair.
Announcements will be also made on the radio and television stations, KDKA Pittsburgh and
WTAE Pittsburgh. A list of class cancellations due to faculty members’ immobility or illness may
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also be found on the Academic Affairs bulletin board located on 2 nd Maura. Individual class
cancellation notices are also posted on classroom doors.
SHU class cancellation notices may also be sent to active students, faculty, and employees
through the University’s Campus Alert text messaging service. University constituents must selfregister to receive this emergency message service using the “Alert” button near the top of the
SHU Website’s main homepage. Message recipient costs are limited to standard text messaging
charges from your cell phone provider. University messages sent by this service are limited to
special campus alerts.
Disability Services
In keeping with the mission of Seton Hill University to affirm the uniqueness of every person
evidenced by active, generous concern for others and respect for values different from one’s own, the
University offers academic support services to all students. In addition, students with disabilities may
need a variety of services, accommodations, or auxiliary aids. Decisions about these services are based
on documentation, interview, knowledge of specific needs, and compliance with Section 504 of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973 the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and the Americans with
Disabilities Act Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAA). The Director and Coordinator of Disability
Services work closely with eligible students to assess and meet individual needs. For example, note
takers, extended testing time, distraction reduced testing environments, readers, tutors, access to
special adaptive equipment and e-texts can be arranged.
Although students may self-disclose at any time, Seton Hill University encourages students with a
disability who desire to receive accommodations to self-disclose early in their academic careers. It is
recommended that freshmen disclose the summer before the start of the fall term if possible.
Students with disabilities are encouraged to contact the Director at 724-837-4295, to determine
eligibility for services.
Services are not retroactive, so early disclosure is essential
Intercultural Student Services
The Intercultural Student Services Office serves the special needs and provides services for
intercultural students and first- generation U.S. residents. It is a center for multicultural activities. The
Director provides orientation for all new intercultural students and assists students with personal,
social, and immigration matters. The Director is the advisor for the Intercultural Student Organization.
The ISO meets monthly and sponsors social events throughout the year.
National Coalition Building Institute (NCBI)
As an NCBI Campus Affiliate, Seton Hill offers students, staff, and faculty the opportunity to
participate in workshops designed to heighten awareness about oppression, prejudice, and the many
types of discrimination. Through a structured presentation, participants develop an awareness of the
effects of these forces and learn skills for confronting these forces when faced. All workshops are free.
Workshop participants are invited to join the Seton Hill University NCBI Team after successful
completion.
Wellness Center
The Seton Hill University Wellness Center offers a level of care similar to that available in a
primary care physician’s office, with special attention to the unique needs of young adults. The staff is
committed to the concept of wellness and hopes that you come to view the center as a “Wellness
Center,” as well as a place to come when you are ill, injured, or need health-related information. We
believe that each student is responsible for good health and that traditional medical care is only one
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part of health care. Self-care is an important part of health and includes the process of functioning on
one’s behalf to promote a healthy lifestyle and detect and prevent illness. We would like to be partners
in your health care and help you identify areas of self improvement, which could lead to higher levels
of physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. The Wellness Center is operated by the University
and provides a variety of medical services and first aid. The office is staffed by the Coordinator of
Health Education and Staff Nurse, 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and by the Physician
Assistant Tuesdays from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m.
Health History Form and Immunization Requirements – All resident students are required to
submit a Health History Form (http://www.setonhill.edu.forms.health_form1.pdf) to the Wellness
Center prior to beginning their first semester at the University. The Health History form should
include a complete immunization record and a copy (front and back) of the student’s insurance card.
All commuter students utilizing the services of the Wellness Center are also required to complete the
Health History Form, and have a copy of their insurance card, prior to utilizing the services. For
students who live on campus, immunization MUST include the meningitis vaccine; ideally, this
immunization should occur at least 60 days prior to residing on campus.
Medications – Starter doses of prescription medications, if in stock, are given to the student when
they see the physician assistant, doctor, or nurse. Remainder and other prescriptions are filled by a
local pharmacy and delivered to campus free of charge. The cost of the prescription is the
responsibility of the student. Medication charges are charged to insurance, and co-pays are charged to
the student’s bill and are to be paid at the Student Accounts Office. Prompt payment will ensure
continuation of this valuable service.
Insurance – Students are required to maintain health insurance coverage. Students who are no
longer covered by their family plan may avail themselves of student health insurance. Contact the
Wellness Center for information.
Available Services
 Primary walk-in outpatient care
 Referrals to specialists
 Someone to talk with about personal problems
 Health education and counseling
 Nutrition counseling
 Injections
 TB screens
 Quick tests for Strep A
 Blood sugars
 Urine dipsticks
 Blood pressure screens
 Nebulizer treatments
 Allergy injections
Medical Excuses – The Wellness Center does not issue medical excuses covering class absences,
missed examinations, etc. The student’s instructor may call the nurse for verification if the student
visited the center; however, no medical information will be disclosed without the student’s consent.
Emergencies – When the Wellness Center is not open or the situation demands immediate care,
resident students may contact a Resident Assistant or the Resident Director on duty. It may be
determined that students have to be taken to the local hospital emergency room:
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Excela Health (formerly known as Westmoreland Regional Hospital) Phone: (724) 832-4355
532 West Pittsburgh Street
Greensburg, PA 15601
The student is assisted in securing transportation to the emergency room by the University in medical
emergencies as determined by the resident hall staff. Students seen in the emergency room are
requested to sign a “Release of Information” form in order to secure a copy of the “order record” from
that visit for their file in the Wellness Center. The Resident Assistant helps to contact the appropriate
personnel in case of an emergency.
Please note: Transportation for private doctor or dental appointments or for other medical problems is
the responsibility of the student.
Residence Life
Introduction
Seton Hill takes pride in the family spirit that pervades its halls. Recognizing that each student
brings an individual choice of lifestyle, other students respect that choice and honor it as the choice of
a unique person with special abilities and needs. Everyone is seen as having something to offer the
community. At the same time, each student accepts the responsibility of integrating her/his lifestyle
into that of the whole community so that a satisfactory quality of life is ensured for all. Such
integration means compromise on the part of each individual and responsibility on the part of Seton
Hill to see that certain rules are maintained for the mutual safety, convenience, and well-being of the
entire community.
Residence Hall Staff
The residence hall staff enables the students to create an environment which provides for a wellfunctioning, harmonious, and pleasant community life. This staff consists of the Associate Dean of
Students and Director of Residence Life, an Assistant Director of Residence Life, the Graduate
Resident Directors, the Head Resident Assistants, and the Resident Assistants. Together, they insure
the smooth running of residence hall policies and procedures, give guidance and counseling when
students indicate a need for it, and carry out and enforce University policies. The staff shares a
common goal of empowering students to develop a responsive and responsible sense of community,
balancing academic, social, personal, and communal facets of University life.
Residence hall personnel are an important component of student life. They actively participate in
orientation, programming, and leadership roles within the University community. Chosen on the basis
of their sense of responsibility, commitment, and interpersonal skills, they contribute to the academic
and personal growth of the students with whom they share a common living experience. Training
programs enable the Resident Assistants to learn responsive skills appropriate to the needs of all
students.
Director of Residence Life – The Associate Dean of Students and Director of Residence Life
supervises the overall operation and management of the residence halls. These responsibilities include
budget, housing and room selection procedures, residence hall staff training, resident assistant
selection, and assistance with disciplinary situations. The Director of Residence Life directly
supervises the Assistant Director.
Assistant Director of Residence Life – The Assistant Director of Residence Life is a full-time
professional staff member who assists with the overall operations of the residence halls and judicial
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affairs. The Assistant Director of Residence Life directly supervises all three Graduate Resident
Directors and Desk Security Assistants.
Graduate Resident Directors – The Graduate Resident Directors are current graduate students who
reside on campus. The Graduate RDs are assigned to manage the overall operations of the residence
halls. The Graduate Resident Directors report directly to the Assistant Director of Residence Life.
The primary responsibilities are to establish and maintain a safe, healthy, and orderly living/learning
environment for the benefit of all students. Other duties include administrative tasks, facilities
requests, programming activities, counseling, and assistance with disciplinary situations. The GRDs
directly supervise the Resident Assistants.
Every day of the week, there is a GRD on duty for the campus who can be reached by calling the
Office of Residence Life or, after 5:00 p.m., by checking the duty schedule posted on their RA’s
bulletin board. If there is an emergency, Campus Police may be reached at extension 4911.
Resident Assistants and Head Resident Assistants - The Resident Assistant, a mature and
responsible student selected by the Dean of Students staff, is trained to be most immediately
responsible for the welfare of those who live on her/his floor. The RA is responsible for creating and
maintaining good morale among the students on the floor and helping them to become and remain
oriented to the total University community. The RA does this primarily through being available and
genuinely interested in each resident. In addition, the RA joins in making the entire residence life team
a viable and smooth-functioning unit on campus by becoming familiar with the other staff members
and sharing time, talents, and ideas with them.
Head Resident Assistants are experienced Resident Assistants. Their responsibilities include staff
development, on-call duty, and mentoring of RAs on staff. They serve in a guidance role for staff
members and as a liaison between all the members of the Residence Life Staff.
Desk Security Assistants – Desk Security Assistants (more commonly referred to as DSAs) are workstudy students who are trained and supervised by the Assistant Director of Residence Life. DSAs are
located at the entrance to each residence hall. Their primary responsibilities include providing
security, hospitality, and information. Students are asked to cooperate with the DSAs by following
visitation procedures.
Community Living
Seton Hill attempts to provide an acceptable pattern of community living which protects the rights,
privileges, and privacy of the individual and, at the same time, is beneficial to the group as a whole.
Because residence halls have a number of students in relatively limited space, it is essential for general
harmony that all residents make a conscious effort to adjust to the requirements of communal living.
Formal regulations are minimal. Students are reminded that the more important rules are the
unwritten but traditional values which call for respect, honesty, sensitivity to and consideration of
others, selflessness, self-discipline, and maturity.
Academic endeavors are the focus of the university experience. Study and sleep have priority in
residential life over all other rights and privileges. Residents are expected to regulate their behavior so
as not to disturb other residents. They are expected to recreate off the floors and to keep stereo, radio,
and television volume low in order for roommates and neighboring students to study. Particular effort
should be made to maintain a quiet atmosphere on each residence hall floor between 11 p.m. and 8
a.m. Students entering and leaving residence halls during this period should be especially considerate
of those who are studying or sleeping.
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Resident students are responsible for making sure their guests are aware of and adhere to all Seton
Hill University policies as outlined in the Student Handbook.
Formal Regulations
I. Fire Regulations
Each year, as part of their training program, the Residence Hall staff is instructed in fire
safety. The staff, in turn, instructs residents in fire drill procedures, fire regulations, and
proper usage of fire equipment. Students are expected to be familiar with all fire regulations.
(See Campus Regulations.)
A. Smoking: By order of the Greensburg Fire Department, smoking is forbidden in all
campus buildings, including residence halls. All Seton Hill community members,
including resident students, may only chew tobacco or smoke at least 25 feet away from
any Seton Hill building. Fines will be issued for violations.
B. Electrical appliances: Cooking appliances may be used only in residence hall lounges,
kitchenettes, and other designated locations where heavy circuits have been installed to
carry the extra load. Because of the fire hazard involved in overloading electrical
circuits, extension cords, halogen lamps, electric blankets, portable heaters, sunlamps,
lamps with plastic coverings or cooking appliances of any kind may not be used in any
student’s room. During major vacations all electrical appliances must be unplugged.
C. Open flames: The use of any open flame, including matches, candles, incense, and
candle-simmering potpourri, is strictly prohibited in residence halls. Fines will be issued
for violations which includes finding burnt wicks.
D. Storage of flammables: The storage of any flammable, combustible, or explosive
materials, including gasoline, kerosene, cleaning fluid, firearms, explosives, and
firecrackers, is prohibited in residence halls.
E. Holiday decorations: Each year special regulations are put into effect at Christmas time
regarding decorations, and all persons are required to abide by them. Failure to comply
with the regulations will result in a fine.
II. Visitation Policy
Visitors may reach campus residents from the phones at the building entrances or the
security desk located in each hall.
All visitors must sign in with the Desk Security Assistant when visiting after 9:00 p.m.
Visitors arriving prior to and leaving before 9:00 p.m. are not required to sign in. Visitors arriving
prior to 9:00 p.m. and remaining in the hall must register with the Desk Security Assistant at 9:00
p.m.
Residents are responsible for the behavior of their guests and are required to accompany them
at all times. The resident is responsible for making sure the guest is aware of and adheres to the
visitation policies. On special occasions, it may be necessary to limit the number of guests to
ensure safety and to provide crowd control.
To avoid infringements of the right to privacy, roommates are expected to arrive at a mutual
agreement concerning visitors.
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Hours of Visitation
Sunday through Thursday
Friday and Saturday
11:00 a.m.-Midnight
11:00 a.m.-2:00 a.m.
A. Seton Hill University resident students
1. All residents are required to present a valid Seton Hill University ID if requested by the Desk
Security Assistant.
2. Residents of the building do not need to sign in with the DSA. Residents must sign in with
the DSA when visiting another residence hall.
3. Resident students may visit other residents in other residence halls for academic and social
reasons without restriction during visitation hours. However, cohabitation is NOT permitted
at any time or under any circumstance. Any resident student can visit in the Sullivan Lounge
without restriction.
4. Commuters and off-campus guests must follow the hours of visitation outlined above.
5. Commuters and off-campus guests (non-Seton Hill students) are not permitted on campus
after visitation hours unless participating in a campus-organized student activity or if
registering as an overnight guest through the Office of Residence Life.
B. Commuters
1. All Seton Hill University commuters are required to present a valid Seton Hill University ID
to the DSA and have to leave their ID at the desk.
2. Commuters must register with the DSA after 9:00 p.m. and the host/hostess must be present
to escort the guest to and from the residence hall room.
3. All commuter students must follow the University’s visitation hours policy:
Sunday through Thursday
11:00 a.m. – Midnight
Friday and Saturday
11:00 a.m. – 2:00 a.m.
4. After visitation hours, a commuter student may visit with a resident student in the Sullivan
Hall Lounge.
C. Guests
1. All guests from off-campus are required to produce a valid photo ID and register with the
DSA upon entering the residence hall if after 9:00 p.m. This includes mothers and fathers as
well as visitors of the same sex. The ID will be retained by the DSA and returned when the
guest leaves.
2. The host/hostess must be present at the security desk to escort the guest to and from the
residence hall room.
3. All guests must follow the University’s visitation hours policy:
Sunday through Thursday
11:00 a.m. – Midnight
Friday and Saturday
11:00 a.m. – 2:00 a.m.
4. Off-campus guests must be off Seton Hill property by the end of visitation hours or may be
charged with trespassing.
D. Overnight guests
1. Same- sex guests: Students who wish to have a guest of the same sex stay in their room
overnight must register their guest with the Office of Residence Life. An Office of Residence
Life staff member will then issue a Guest Pass for admittance to the residence hall.
If a guest is a significant other of the same sex, please follow the procedures below.
2.
Opposite- sex guests: Students who wish to host an overnight guest of the opposite sex must
register their guest with the Office of Residence Life. To do this, the student must obtain an
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Overnight Guest Form from the Office of Residence Life. When completed, the form must be
signed by the student’s RA and submitted to the Office of Residence Life two days in
advance. The Area Coordinator or the Resident Director will then assign a room and issue a
Guest Pass for admittance to the residence hall. She/he must be signed in when visiting the
room of the host/hostess.
3.
The host/hostess is responsible for locating a same-sex room for their guest. The cost is $55
per night and includes linens and towels. Meals are not included in this, although they may be
purchased at the dining hall.
Persons under the age of 16 are not permitted to stay overnight due to liability issues. To
assure room availability during special events, it is advisable to register early because of the
limited amount of space. At all times, the Admission Office has priority on the guest space
for housing prospective students.
E. Unauthorized visitors
1. Unattended persons should be questioned by students and asked to leave. If they do not
comply, students should contact Campus Police and/or a Residence Life staff member. All
students should make a conscious effort to maintain the safety of the Seton Hill community.
III. Quiet Hours
Each floor will designate quiet hours which are conducive to its particular needs. However, an
effort should be made to maintain a quiet atmosphere on each residence hall floor between 11:00
p.m. and 8:00 a.m. (Please refer to Community Living Introduction for guidelines.)
IV. Floor Meetings
In an effort to provide for a community environment conducive to all residents’ needs, students
are expected to attend mandatory floor meetings. Failure to attend an advertised meeting will
result in disciplinary actions.
V. Break Procedures
Regularly scheduled breaks include Fall, Thanksgiving, Winter, Spring, and Easter breaks. So
that all University personnel may avail themselves of the needed rest and respite signified by these
periods, all students are expected to leave campus for the duration of each break by a designated
time on the day break begins and should plan to return after noon on the day break ends. Students
will be assessed a portion of the per diem rate if they return to campus before noon.
Students will be charged the per diem rate listed on the current University cost card unless
their academic or athletic schedules require their staying. Students who stay must register with the
Office of Residence Life and may be asked to move to a central location for the duration of the
break. No visitation is permitted during scheduled University breaks; all campus facilities are
closed during breaks. Students may not return and expect admittance to any building during the
time of breaks, nor should they ask permission to return earlier than noon of the day break ends.
Should they arrive in the area before this time, they must make plans to stay elsewhere or be
charged for their early arrival.
For semester break procedures, please refer to Residence Keys and Laundry Cards section.
VI. Pets
Pets are not permitted in individual rooms or in campus buildings. Failure to comply with this
regulation constitutes a violation, and a fine may be issued. Pets include fish, birds, cats, dogs,
hamsters, snakes, and lizards.
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VII. Babysitting
Babysitting is not permitted in the residence halls because the University insurance policies do
not cover liability. Failure to comply with this regulation constitutes a violation, and a fine may
be issued.
VIII. Sunbathing
Sunbathing is permitted on the tennis courts and the softball and soccer fields. Public areas of
the campus such as the lawns around the Administration Building and Sullivan lawns are
inappropriate for this purpose.
Care of Property and Miscellaneous
The University attempts to provide adequate facilities and upkeep in these facilities to insure
pleasant living conditions for residents. Students have the responsibility for caring for all property in
their use. Deliberate damage or misuse of University property could result in community billing to
recover costs to repair or replace items. All furniture provided by the University must remain in the
room throughout the academic year.
Cleanliness
Rooms should be kept clean and orderly. In the interest of health and general welfare, the
residence hall staff will inspect rooms once a month, during breaks, and at the end of the year.
Residents whose rooms do not meet reasonable standards of cleanliness will be advised to correct the
situation or pay a fine.
Common Facilities Guidelines
Residents are expected:
To be thoughtful and courteous in the use and care of common facilities by cleaning bathtubs after
use, closing elevator doors securely, wiping up spills in bathrooms, halls, kitchens, and lounges,
and returning cleaning utensils supplied for general use to hall closets;
To place discarded items and paper in the waste containers;
To refrain from monopolizing public televisions and VCR/DVDs.
Curtains
Curtains/blinds are provided by the University for Havey, Brownlee, Canevin/Lowe, Farrell, and
DeChantal Halls, and may not be removed.
Damage
Residents are assessed throughout the year and at the end of each year for damages in their rooms
that were not previously noted on the Room Condition Form. Students are also charged for not
returning their room key and/or laundry card at the end of the academic year or when they vacate their
room.
Decorating
Nails, screws, or tacks may not be used on the walls or woodwork. Hall bulletin boards are
provided for announcements and messages. Cellophane tape, doubleback tapes, or stick-ums may not
be used on any glass, painted, or varnished surface anywhere on campus. Posters or other decorations
may be attached to walls with painter’s tape or sticky tack, but must be removed when the occupant
moves. Contact paper and plastic stick-ups should not be used at all. Students may not in any way
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deface residence hall walls or woodwork. Spray snow may not be used on any surface. Decorative
and empty alcohol bottles are not permitted in residence halls. Fines will be issued for damage.
Evening Closing Hours
All residence halls are accessed through the key card system. Canevin bridge doors are locked at
midnight. After the building is locked, students can only enter by the use of their key card.
NOTE: Any student who must walk around campus after dark should request an escort from
Campus Police.
There are security phones (8 ft. tall midnight blue) located at the bottom, middle, and near the top
of the main entrance road, in B Parking Lot, in D Parking Lot, and at Havey Hall walkway for students
in need of assistance when traveling the roadway.
Furniture
The University provides adequate furnishing for each student in each room. Students are welcome
to bring additional furniture if they wish; however, all furniture provided by the University must
remain in the room. Furniture from lounge areas may not be taken for private use or moved without
permission of a member of the residence hall staff. Students who take common property for their own
personal use will be liable to monetary fines. All personal property must be removed from rooms at
the end of the year.
Halls
Hallways must be kept free of furniture, trunks, luggage, decorations, sports equipment, shoes,
etc., so that, in case of fire, all residents are assured of a quick safe exit.
House Phones
Each residence hall is equipped with a house phone located on the outside entrance to each
building. House phones are also in each residence hall room. House phones may be used for making
calls from within the University and for making local calls outside the University. Any damage to
phones will be assessed collectively. Any problems with residence hall phones should be reported to
the Computer Helpdesk on the SHU Website.
Kitchenettes
Kitchenettes are located in each residence hall. Students need to utilize their own pans, dishes,
utensils, etc. Courtesy requires that each person who uses the facility leaves the area in an orderly
condition. Students are expected to wash their dishes immediately after use.
Laundry
Washers and dryers are located in the basement of Sullivan Hall on the fourth and fifth floor of
Maura Hall, on first floor of Brownlee, on the ground floor of Havey, on the first floor of Farrell Hall,
and on the second floor of DeChantal Hall. Ironing boards are provided in each residence hall and
should be used only in the areas designated. The University does not assume responsibility for
clothing damaged or left in the laundry rooms or ironing areas.
Lounges
Each residence hall has a furnished lounge for the convenience of residents. TVs and VCR/DVDs
are an added privilege. Residents are responsible for keeping lounges in a clean and orderly condition.
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Maintenance
Request for maintenance should be reported to the Maintenance Help Desk on the Seton Hill
University website or reported to the Resident Assistant.
Opening and Closing of Residence Halls
Beginning of semester – At the beginning of each semester students may plan to return to
campus after noon on the day before classes begin. If they arrive in the area before this time,
they should make arrangements to stay elsewhere until the residence halls are opened at noon.
Because time is needed to get residence halls in readiness, exceptions cannot be made, and
students are asked not to request them.
End of semester – Except for graduating seniors, all students are to leave campus as soon as
possible and no later than the morning after their last examination. Any student required to
stay longer must have the permission of the Associate Dean of Students and Director of
Residence Life and may be charged according to the length of the stay. Room and board is
covered by the semester’s statement until the last exam.
Privacy
Every student has the right of privacy shared with her or his own roommate. Visiting of rooms by
other SHU students is expected to be a part of residence hall life; each student’s right to privacy,
however, permits her or him to determine with the roommate the extent of visitation by other students.
A student’s room may not be entered without consent except for the following circumstances:
 Residence Hall/Campus Police staff may enter the room if the activity of the student poses a
potential or on-going disruption or possible violation of SHU policy.

The room may be entered for reasons of health and safety of either the individuals in the room
or the other individuals in the building.

Maintenance and Housekeeping personnel making necessary repairs are permitted in the
student’s room.

For reason of safety, maintenance, security, and implementation of the Residence Hall
programs of Seton Hill University, students’ rooms may be inspected with advance notice of
such inspections.

Monthly inspections take place by Residence Life or Facilities Management staff.

Residence Hall staff may enter rooms during official University breaks for room checks.

Staff members may search those areas of the rooms where illegal possessions may be stored.
Students must be advised of the reasons for the room search.
Residence Keys and Laundry Cards
All students are issued a room key by the Office of Residence Life according to the following
procedures:
1.
Students are given a room key and a laundry card from the Office of Residence Life on movein day.
2.
There is a $200.00 fee for the loss of any room key issued to a student and a $15.00
replacement fee for the loss of or damage to a laundry card.
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3.
Students who change rooms or withdraw from school must make the necessary changes in
status with the Office of Residence Life. All students must return keys and laundry cards
before leaving campus at the end of the academic year.
4.
Each student has been issued a room key and is responsible for carrying that key. Staff
members cannot provide a student access to another student’s room.
Lockouts
Each time students are locked out of their room the time and date will be recorded. A fine of $10
will be added to their student billing statement. On the third lockout, a fine of $25 will be added to
their student billing statement and a judicial meeting will be scheduled with a member of the residence
life staff. If a resident student is locked out of their residence hall room, they follow the procedure
below. Between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, the resident should go the
Office of Residence Life. A member of the residence life staff can issue a temporary key to the
resident. The resident will have a period of time in which they must return the key to the office.
Between the hours of 5 p.m. and 8 a.m., the resident should call the RA duty phone in order to be let
into her/his room.

Campus Police are not responsible for lockouts.
Room Changes
After the freshman year, students may choose their roommates. While recognizing that conflicts
do occur, the University encourages roommates to try to work out difficulties. The RAs are available
to help solve difficulties and arrive at a reasonable compromise. If help offered by the RA has not
resolved the problem, the Area Coordinator/Resident Director will guide the residents to find a more
permanent solution.
Freshman students must wait until two weeks have elapsed in the fall semester to make a room
change. The students who want to switch rooms and their roommate(s) must fill out the Roommate
Switch Form available in the Office of Residence Life and return it by the stated time. Students must
also attend the Roommate Switch meeting when it is announced. To enhance the freshman living and
learning experience, all freshman residents are required to have a roommate. Since upper-class
students have chosen their own rooms and roommates, request for room changes are considered only
when there is a serious reason for a change. Changes after the beginning of the spring semester are
strongly discouraged.
Should a situation become impossible and all ordinary means have been tried to resolve the
conflict, a student may negotiate a room change with the Area Coordinator/Resident Director.
Changes are approved through consultation with the residence hall staff member involved; final
approval rests with the Associate Dean of Students and Director of Residence Life.
Room Condition Form
For their own protection, all students must review the Room Condition Form with their RA upon
moving into a room. The room and furnishings are expected to be in the same condition when the
occupants leave. Registered occupants are financially responsible for keeping the room and its
contents free from damage by themselves and by others. When moving, students should contact their
RA to have the condition of the room assessed.
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Room Selection
Students receive specific information about the room selection process in March of each year. All
rooms designated as suites, quads, triples, or doubles must be filled to capacity to be reserved.
Generally, upper-class students are able to choose their roommate(s) and rooms during the room
selection process. The Office of Residence Life reserves the right at all times to assign students to
rooms where vacancies exist. Students must be registered as a full-time student for the following Fall
semester.
1.
All freshmen are required to live on campus unless residing with family or a close relative.
2.
Students who participate in room selection and then request to withdraw from campus
housing after June 1st will forfeit their $150.00 room deposit fee.
3.
Housing is not guaranteed for those returning students who did not go through the Room
Selection process.
4.
When withdrawal from campus housing occurs after the semester begins, the student will be
refunded room and board cost prorated starting the day the campus room is empty AND the
room key and laundry card are returned to the Office of Residence Life; refunds will be made
in accordance with the normal refund policies of the University as outlined in the University
Catalog.
5.
Admission to campus housing during the academic year is possible when suitable residence
hall accommodations are available. Request for on-campus rooms should be made to the
Associate Dean of Students and Director of Residence Life.
6.
A student who changes from a resident to non-resident student (or vice versa) must go to both
the Office of Residence Life and the Student Accounts Office to inform them of the decision.
Storage
During the school year, residents may store trunks, garment bags, luggage, and other possessions
in the storage rooms located in their residence halls. Forms are available in the Office of Residence
Life.
Students desiring to store items during the summer break must pick up Summer Storage Forms in
the Office of Residence Life and make payment in the Students Accounts Office. Only resident
students who live more than four hours away from campus can store their belongings. They may store
up to four items, or receive special permission from the Associate Dean of Students and Director of
Residence Life. Storage items left behind by students are not the responsibility of the University and
will be disposed of after ten business days or by the close of each semester. At no time does the
University accept responsibility for loss or damage to stored items. If a student does not return, her or
his belongings will not be mailed without prepayment. This includes packing and shipping charges.
Valuables and Personal Property
The University is not responsible for damage or loss of a student’s personal property through fire,
water damage, or theft, nor does it carry insurance to cover such losses. Through the Operation
Identification Program, the Campus Police provides a service that may reduce the chance of theft and
make it easier to identify items that may be lost or stolen. To discourage theft, residents should lock
rooms when they leave even if they are going to another part of the same floor. All loss of property
must be reported immediately to the Resident Assistant and to Campus Police. Campus Police will
investigate all reported incidents.
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Windows
Screens or security locks may not be removed from windows. Outside window ledges may not be
used for storage. A fine may be issued for removal of screens.
Withdrawal, Suspension, or Dismissal of Resident Students
Residents are expected to vacate and remove personal belongings from rooms within two days of
the effective date of withdrawal, suspension, or dismissal from the residence halls, or suspension or
dismissal from the University. Within this two-day period, students must return their key and laundry
card to the Director of Residence Life. The effective date of withdrawal from the residence hall is the
date the key is received in the Office of Residence Life.
Security
The University is situated on a 200-acre campus near a suburban area, and Seton Hill recognizes
its responsibility to protect its students and their property. To provide for the safety of students and to
enhance the quality of their life on campus, the University maintains a Police Department.
The Campus Police Department is maintained by the University for the purpose of serving and
protecting the University community and its property. Although the department is comprised of highly
trained professionals, the basic responsibility of security rests with each community member. The key
factors in providing a safe and secure campus are mutual respect and compliance with regulations that
the administration deems necessary for the general welfare of the total campus.
Seton Hill University employs its own Campus Police. All officers are specially trained and
certified by the Pennsylvania State Police at a certified training academy. These officers have full
police powers and are prepared to assist the University community in any way possible. As agents of
Seton Hill University, they represent the rightful owners of the University property and are charged
with responsibility of maintaining a professional security presence while providing a safe and peaceful
environment in which to live. Where applicable, representatives of the Campus Police are considered
members of the University administration and may become part of any University judicial proceedings
relative to the enforcement of any provision of this Handbook.
All Campus Police report to the Chief of Campus Police, who works in close conjunction with the
Residence Hall Staff and the Dean of Students to provide a campus environment where the needs of
the individual are met and the quality of life is enhanced. The Chief of Police’s office hours are
Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.
Act 73 – College and University Security Information Act and Clery Act
In compliance with the provisions of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Act 73 of 1988, known
as the College and University Security Information Act, a complete record concerning security policies
and procedures and three years worth of selected crime statistics is available in the Admissions Office,
Dean of Students Office, and Campus Police Office.
Automated External Defibrillators (AED’s)
An automated external defibrillator (AED) is used to treat victims who experience sudden cardiac
arrest. The AED shall only be used in the manner specified by the manufacturer and only on victims
who are unconscious, not breathing and showing no signs of circulation, such as normal breathing,
coughing, and movement. The AED will analyze the heart rhythm and advise the operator if a
shockable rhythm is detected. If a shockable rhythm is detected, the AED will charge to the
appropriate energy level and advise the operator to deliver shock. After each use, a Post-Incident
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Report Form, located in each AED cabinet should be completed and returned to the Manager of
Human Resources within 24 hours. Training will be made available upon request.
AED’s are located: McKenna Recreation Center (Weight Room and Athletic Training Room),
Athletic Field House (Weight Room and Athletic Training Room), Athletic Team Travel Bag,
Wellness Center, Campus Police Office/Vehicle, Performing Arts Center (Main & Lower Level),
Visual Arts Center and Orthodontics Center.
e2Campus – Campus Alert System
Endorsed by Security on Campus Inc. and used by more than 450 schools across the USA,
e2Campus is a free text and email messaging system that Seton Hill University will use to notify you
when in case of a major emergency, crisis situation, disaster, weather emergency, closing or delay at
Seton Hill. During emergency situations other forms of communication may be used as well.
To enroll in the e2Campus Alert System, login into the Seton Hill Website, Griffins Lair and enter
your contact information. You may enter into this service or leave this service at any time; you may
also enroll an additional person (parent, spouse, etc.)
Please keep the contact information (cell phone numbers and email addresses) in your secure
personal account up to date, so that the University will always know how to reach you.
Emergencies
Campus Police Officers can be dispatched by radio to any specified location by dialing 4911 from
any house or security phone. In case of emergency, requests for medical assistance, security and fire
department service, student services assistance, or maintenance should be made to ext. 4911.
Harassment
Although Seton Hill University is a privately owned property, certain areas are open to the public.
All students should enjoy the right to move safely about the campus without fear of harm or
harassment. The Campus Police Department defines harassment as any intentional actions which, for
no legitimate reason, seriously annoy or alarm another person. Harassment includes, but is not limited
to, anonymous letters or phone calls, pranks, practical jokes, verbal abuse, and physical or mental
menace. University officials will not tolerate, nor should students condone, any incidence of
harassment toward a student. The Campus Police Officers have the authority to arrest any person
engaging in such illegal behavior. Students should report any incident of harassment which comes to
their attention or knowledge. They should, if possible, obtain a license number (if applicable) and
description of those involved.
While the Campus Police Department provides protection for all students, the ultimate
responsibility for individual safety and security lies with each student.
For additional information on Sexual Harassment and Harassment on the Basis of National Origin,
Race, or Sexual Orientation, see applicable section in Policies and Regulations section of this
Handbook.
Incident
An “Incident” is defined as any event which is not consistent with the routine of the University,
and may be an accident or a situation which might result in an accident. Incidents should be reported
to the Campus Police. An incident report should be completed by a Campus Police Officer.
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A student, visitor, or guest who experiences an accident or injury on campus should complete an
incident report with Campus Police.
Personal Property
Students should secure all valuables and should lock their rooms when they are leaving for any
extended period of time. All residence hall rooms are equipped with security locks supplied and
maintained by the Campus Police Department. Each student receives a key for her/his room.
To limit the possibility of thefts on campus, the Campus Police Department has adopted Operation
Identification, a program that has proved nationally successful. Marked valuables such as radios,
stereos, computers, and the like are hard to dispose of or sell. Possession of such marked items
constitutes solid evidence of theft. Students should engrave valuable items with their driver’s license
number.
Sex Offender Registration Policy
The Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act is a federal law enacted in October 2002 that provides for
the tracking of convicted, registered sex offenders who are either enrolled as students or working at
institutions of higher education. The Act amended the Jacob Wetterling Crimes Against Children and
Sexually violent Offender Registration Act. Under the provisions of this Act, any person who is
required to register under a state sex offender registration program must notify the State when the
registrant enrolls at an institution of higher education or is employed at such an institution.
Additionally, the sex offender registrant must notify the State of any change in enrollment or
employment at an institution of higher learning. The State will provide a list of registered sex
offenders who have indicated they are either enrolled or employed at the University to the University’s
Police Department.
In accordance with the Jacob Wetterling Crimes Against Children and Sexually Violent Offender
Registration Act (as amended by the Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act), the University shall publish
a statement in each Annual Campus Safety/Crime Statistic Report where the list of registered sex
offenders can be found.
The University encourages members of the campus community who wish to be informed of the
identities of registered sex offenders residing in the surrounding area to contact the Pennsylvania State
Police at www.psp.state.pa.us.
Traveling on Campus
The Campus Police Department cautions students to be careful when walking through the campus,
especially at night. The department tries to provide maximum visual surveillance throughout the
campus, but wishes also to raise student consciousness regarding areas to be avoided (wooded areas,
buildings closed for the night, parking lots, etc.) and of the need to travel with companions rather than
alone, to use well-lighted sidewalks and paths, to avoid hitchhiking or accepting rides from strangers.
Students should report any person who is loitering or acting suspiciously on the campus by dialing
4911 on any campus phone and telling a member of the Campus Police Department. (Any students
who have to work late at night or who are worried about walking alone should notify Campus Police
and ask that a police officer escort them to their destination).
Seton Hill Government Association
Seton Hill students have an important share in the government of the University and have voting
representation on some University committees. Participation in student government affords students
the opportunity to develop a sense of responsibility and the habit of contributing actively to society.
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The Seton Hill Government Association is a working system of self-government, through which
students learn not only the advantages but also the difficulties and trials of disciplined group living.
Copies of the SHGA Constitution and Bylaws detailing the organization of the student
government are available to all students on the Griffin’s Liar intranet system under Documents,
SHGA.
Campus Government, Clubs, Honoraries, and Organizations
For the most up to date listing of Clubs and Organizations refer to Griffin’s Gate, Campus Resources,
SHGA page
Alpha Lambda Delta – Academic Honor Society
Bible Study
Biology Club
Business Club
Chemistry Club
College Democrats Club
College Republicans Club
Computer Science Club
Craft Club
Dance Project
Dietetics Club
Education Club/PSEA
English Club
Eye Contact
Family and Consumer Sciences Club
Feminist Collective
Fencing Club
Flower Power Club
Forensic Science Club
French Club
Gay-Straight Alliance
Graphic Design Club
Green Lite Engage Student Chapter
History Club
Intercultural Student Organization (ISO)
Judo Club
Kappa Omicron Nu Honor Society
Labyrinth Club
Lambda Pi Eta
Laser Runners Club
Lions Club
Make-a-Wish Club
Math Club
Men Against Sexual Violence
Music Therapy Club
NAACP-Seton Hill University Chapter
Pennsylvania Music Teachers Association-Seton Hill University Chapter
Photography Club
Physician Assistant Student Society
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Political Science Association
Psi Chi – Psychology Honor Society; Affiliated with the American
Psychological Association
Psychology Club – Affiliated with Psychology Department
Respect Life Club
SHU Acapella Choir
SHU American Red Cross Club
SHU-A-Thon
Social Work Club
Sociology Club
Spanish Club
Student Art Therapy Association-Seton Hill University Chapter
Student Body Activities Council
Student Theater Activities Council (STAC)
Students in Free Enterprise
Students in the Arts
S.T.A.N.D.
Publications and Newsletters
Events Calendar – Available online at www.setonhill.edu (select Calendar) lists dates, times, and
places of campus activities and events. Also found on the Griffin’s Lair, Student Life page.
Eye Contact – The Art/Literary Magazine of Seton Hill – is a creative publication produced each term
by students. Anyone can submit creative work; deadlines are posted. Final selections for the magazine
are juried by student editorial staff. Email eyecontact @setonhill.edu, for details.
Forward – Alumni Newsletter available online at www.setonhill.edu (select News & Events then
Publications).
Setonian – Available online at http://blogs.setonhill.edu/setonian University student newspaper.
The Vine - Campus Ministry weekly bulletin. Also available online at www.setonhill.edu (select
Student Life, Campus Ministry)
Statement of Anti-Harassment
Seton Hill University, a diverse academic community, celebrates this diversity and is committed to
serving individuals and groups from all backgrounds. It strives to provide an equal opportunity to all
members of our community regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, national origin, sexual
preference, color, age, disability, or economic status.
The University is also committed to freedom of thought, discourse, and speech and the attainment
of the highest quality of academic and educational pursuits.
True to its mission as a Catholic university, Seton Hill University espouses trust, civility, and a
willingness to recognize the dignity of each person. Thus, it is the responsibility of each member of
the university community to learn to understand the differences among us as well as the similarities
and to demonstrate tolerance which precludes any expression of bigotry. However, tolerance is not
enough. Respect, understanding, and a basic generosity of spirit are expected.
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Seton Hill University Voice Mail System for Resident Students
To set-up your resident hall telephone voicemail system:
When setting up your voicemail you will use 1 for yes, use 2 for no, and use * as indicated below to
show you have completed a given set-up requirement.

Dial 71
o

Hello and thank you for calling. As a new voicemail box holder we are going to assist you in
setting up your new voicemail box.
At the tone, state your first and last name. State only your name. When you are finished
enter*.
Spell your last name by entering the first 3 letters of your last name using your number
keypad.
Record your personal greeting.
Would you like to set-up a security code for your voicemail box?



o
If you are using a security code to lock your voicemail box please be sure that everyone
residing in your room uses this same number for picking up messages. Only have one single
security code to use with the same room phone.
You will then be asked if you are happy with your set-up. Unless you press 1 for yes, your voicemail
box will automatically clear all the information you just added.
To Access your voicemail messages.
From your room phone:



o
Dial 71.
It will then ask you for your personal security code.
It will then say your name.
It will then say remember 1 for yes and 2 for no; and then tell you that there are either no new
messages, or that you have some number of messages waiting.
From any phone on campus:



Dial your 4 digit extension.
You will hear the start of your message; during that time dial 9, followed by your 4 digit
extension number.
Follow the prompts to retrieve your messages.
Off campus voicemail pick – up:



Dial 724-838-7838.
When you hear the greeting, dial 9 plus your 4 digit telephone extension number, or the last 4
digits of your telephone number.
Follow the prompts to retrieve your messages.
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The Seton Hill University Alma Mater
1929
Alma Mater, hail we greet thee,
We thy daughters come to meet thee,
Keep us near thee, we entreat thee,
Dearest Seton Hill.
Chorus:
Seton Hill we love thee
Make us worthy of thee
Make us glow with zeal to know
Warm as the skies above thee,
Alma Mater may thy hoary years but brighter make thy story,
Be to thee a crown of glory,
Dearest Seton Hill.
1989
Alma Mater, hail we greet thee,
Sons and daughters come to meet thee,
Keep us near thee, we entreat thee,
Dearest Seton Hill.
Chorus:
Seton Hill we love thee
Make us worthy of thee
Make us glow with zeal to know
Warm as the skies above thee,
Alma Mater may thy hoary years but brighter make thy story,
Be to thee a crown of glory,
Dearest Seton Hill.
*What is now the Seton Hill Alma Mater was written by President Daniel R. Sullivan to honor the
class of 1920 and was adopted as the Alma Mater in 1929. In 1989 President JoAnne Boyle, in
recognition of the first Seton Hill degrees awarded to men, approved the alternate version.
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IMPORTANT TELEPHONE NUMBERS
Main Campus Number (724-834-2200)
Campus Ministry………………………………………………Ext. 4576
Campus Police (non-emergency)……………..Daytime Ext. 4499, 4998
Emergency and Evening Ext. 4911
Counseling Services…………………………………………..Ext. 4295
Disability Services…………………………………………….Ext. 4295
Residence Life………………………………………………...Ext. 4260
Student Services……………………………………………....Ext. 4242
Wellness Center……………………………………………….Ext. 4234
Off-Campus Resources
ALCOHOL AND DRUGS
Al-non (24-hour hotline) – 1-800-628-8920
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) (24-hour hotline) – 1-800-258-7780
Alcoholics Anonymous Referral – 724-830-0163
Gateway Drug and Alcohol Rehab for Youth and Adults – 1-800-472-1177
Narcotics Anonymous – 412-391-5247
SPHS Behavioral Health (formerly CSAS) – 724-832-5880
WOMEN’S RESOURCES
The Blackburn Center Against Domestic and Sexual Violence724-837-9540
Child Care Assistance Project – 724-836-4580 or 1-800-548-2741
Crisis Pregnancy Center – 724-929-2930
Sexual Assault Hotline – 724-836-1122 or 1-888-832-2272
Life Way – 724-838-4252 or 1-866-549-6636
MENTAL HEALTH
Suicide Hotline – 1-800-273-8255
Westmorland Crisis Hotline – 724-547-0285 or 1-800-836-6010
Excela Health Behavioral Health Services724-832-4550
OTHER RESOURCES
AIDS Hotline National – 1-800-342-2437
Catholic Charities – 724-837-1840
Childline (Child Abuse) – 1-800-932-0313
Pittsburgh Poison Center – 412-681-6669
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SETON HILL UNIVERSITY: THE MISSION STATEMENT
Seton Hill is a Catholic university rooted in Judeo-Christian values. In the tradition of Elizabeth
Ann Seton, we educate students to think and act critically, creatively, and ethically as productive
members of society committed to transforming the world.
CATHOLIC IDENTITY AT SETON HILL: THE VISION
Seton Hill’s values of being a Welcoming, Learning, Celebrating, and Serving Community can be
articulated and are embodied by every member of the Setonian community. These values guide our
decisions and behaviors as we put faith into action for the transformation of the world.
SETON HILL UNIVERSITY: THE MOTTO
HAZARD YET FORWARD
This motto of Seton Hill University continues to inspire us as we invite all members of the Seton
Hill community to share in the ongoing dialogue to discover even more effective ways of living out
the vision as a




Welcoming,
Learning,
Celebrating, and
Serving Community.
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