Ashford University Campus Security and
Fire Safety Report
2014
Ashford University Campus Security and Fire Safety Report - Published October 1, 2015
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Contents
Introduction .................................................................................................................................................. 5
Clery Geography............................................................................................................................................ 5
Campus Security and Crime Prevention Policy ............................................................................................. 7
Notification of the Campus Security and Fire Safety Report .................................................................... 7
Reporting Crimes and Emergencies .......................................................................................................... 7
Procedures for Reporting Criminal Actions or Emergencies..................................................................... 7
Contact Information to Report a Crime or Emergency ............................................................................. 8
Timely Reports of Specific Crimes or Offenses ......................................................................................... 8
Campus Public Safety Office ..................................................................................................................... 9
Security of and Access to Campus Facilities ............................................................................................. 9
Campus Awareness of Security Services ................................................................................................. 10
Alcohol and Drug Policies and Procedures ................................................................................................. 10
University Student Alcohol Use Policies ................................................................................................. 11
University Student Drug Use Policies ...................................................................................................... 11
Alcohol and Drug Prevention Programs.................................................................................................. 11
State and Federal Laws Regarding Drugs and Alcohol............................................................................ 12
University Sanctions Regarding Drugs and Alcohol ................................................................................ 13
Biennial Review ....................................................................................................................................... 13
Sexual Misconduct/Harassment Policies and Procedures .......................................................................... 13
Nondiscrimination................................................................................................................................... 15
Sexual Assault Prevention Programs ...................................................................................................... 16
Contact Information to Report a Crime or Emergency ........................................................................... 16
Information Regarding Sex Offenders .................................................................................................... 16
Fire and Emergency Response and Evacuation Policies and Procedures ................................................... 17
Emergency Evacuation Procedures......................................................................................................... 17
SendWordNow Emergency Notification System .................................................................................... 17
Contact Information for Campus Crisis Team ......................................................................................... 18
Non-Fire Evacuations and Drills .................................................................................................................. 18
Evacuating a Building (Non-Fire) ............................................................................................................. 18
Tornado Awareness ................................................................................................................................ 19
Conducting Tornado Drills ...................................................................................................................... 19
Post Drill .................................................................................................................................................. 19
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Fire Safety Report ....................................................................................................................................... 19
Fire Safety Awareness Program and Staff Training................................................................................. 19
Testing Emergency Response and Evacuation Procedures..................................................................... 20
Conducting Fire Drills .............................................................................................................................. 20
Post Drill .................................................................................................................................................. 20
Fire Alarms .............................................................................................................................................. 20
Regis Residence Hall ............................................................................................................................... 21
Smoke Detectors ................................................................................................................................. 21
Fire Alarm/Sprinkler System ............................................................................................................... 21
Fire Extinguishers ................................................................................................................................ 21
Durham Residence Hall ........................................................................................................................... 21
Smoke Detectors ................................................................................................................................. 21
Fire Alarm/Sprinkler System ............................................................................................................... 21
Fire Extinguishers ................................................................................................................................ 21
BW Residence Hall .................................................................................................................................. 21
Smoke Detectors ................................................................................................................................. 21
Fire Alarm/Sprinkler System ............................................................................................................... 21
False Alarms ............................................................................................................................................ 21
Notification of Fire .................................................................................................................................. 22
Contact Information to Report a Fire ..................................................................................................... 22
Items Allowed and Not Allowed in the Residence Facilities ................................................................... 22
Evacuating a Building during a Fire ......................................................................................................... 22
Fire Log .................................................................................................................................................... 23
Missing Student Notification ...................................................................................................................... 23
Contact Information for the Office of Student Affairs to Register a Confidential Contact .................... 24
Notification Procedures .......................................................................................................................... 24
Annual Disclosure of Crime Statistics ......................................................................................................... 24
Appendix A: Student Community Standards Procedures ........................................................................... 33
Appendix B: Employee Handbook Procedures ........................................................................................... 45
Appendix C: Privacy of Student Records ..................................................................................................... 50
Appendix D: Sexual Misconduct/Harassment Policy .................................................................................. 54
Appendix E: Retaliation ............................................................................................................................... 58
Appendix F: Reporting/Filing a Complaint for Title IX (Gender/Sex Discrimination).................................. 58
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Appendix G: Requests for Confidentiality ................................................................................................... 67
Appendix H: Other Complaints ................................................................................................................... 68
Appendix I: Student Services, Health, and Safety ....................................................................................... 69
Appendix J: Emergency Reference Guide ................................................................................................... 69
Appendix K: Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Program Report .................................................... 70
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Introduction
Ashford University (“University”) is providing the following information to all current and
prospective students and employees as part of the University’s commitment to safety and
security pursuant to the requirements of the federal Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus
Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act (“Clery Act”) and the Violence Against Women
Reauthorization Act of 2013 (“VAWA”), which added Campus SaVE Act provisions.
VAWA amended the Clery Act, requiring institutions to compile statistics for incidents of
domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking and to include certain policies,
procedures, and programs pertaining to these incidents in their annual security reports.
Effective July 1, 2015, the U.S. Department of Education published final regulations
implementing the changes to the Clery Act by VAWA. Prior to July 1, 2015, in accordance with
the Department’s Dear Colleague Letter GEN 14-13 dated July 14, 2014, the Department
required institutions to make a “good-faith effort to comply with the statutory provisions as
written” until the effective date of the final regulations. This report is prepared in cooperation
with the local Clinton Police Department surrounding the University’s main campus and off
campus housing location, the campus Public Safety Office, the department of Residential Life
and Housing, and the Student Affairs Office.
This report is prepared in cooperation with the local Clinton Police Department, the campus
Public Safety Office, the department of Residential Life and Housing, and the Student Affairs
Office. Campus crime, arrest, and referral statistics include those reported to the Campus Public
Safety Office, designated campus officials (including but not limited to the Director of Student
Affairs, the Associate Director of Campus Student Affairs, the Campus Registrar, the Campus
Director of Security & Safety, other directors, deans, department heads, designated residence
life staff, faculty advisors, and athletic coaches), and local law enforcement agencies.
This report is compiled annually under the direction of the Director of Safety & Security
(Campus Public Safety Office) and the Associate Vice President of Student Affairs (Student
Affairs), who is responsible for checking the accuracy of reports and reconciling statistics to
assure proper categorization and to avoid double counting. For questions about any of the
information provided in this report, please contact the Director of Campus Security & Safety,
Michael LeBlanc, at 563.242.4023, ext. 13052, or the Associate Vice President of Student
Affairs, Poppy Fitch, at 866.974.5700, ext. 20702.
Clery Geography
Crimes are broken down by geographic location according to the following categories oncampus, non-campus building or property, and public property within the immediate vicinity.
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On campus is defined as: Any building or property owned or controlled by the University within
the same reasonably contiguous geographic area and used by the University in direct support
of, or in a manner related to, the University’s educational purposes, including residence halls;
and any building or property that is within or reasonably contiguous to (1)(C)(i)(1)(a) of this
definition, that is owned by the institution but controlled by another person, is frequently used
by students, and supports institutional purposes (such as a food or other retail vendor).
This includes:
 St Clare Hall
 Durgin Hall
 Durham Hall
 St. Francis
 The Red House
 Parking Lot (Cemetery across Springdale) - Leased
 Practice Soccer Field – Leased
 Ladd Science Building
On-campus housing facilities are defined as: Any student housing facility that is owned or
controlled by the institution, or is located on property that is owned or controlled by the
institution, and is within the reasonably contiguous geographic area that makes up the campus.
This includes:
 Regis Hall
 Durham Hall
Non-campus building or property is defined as: Any building or property owned or controlled
by a student organization that is officially recognized by the institution; or Any building or
property owned or controlled by an institution that is used in direct support of, or in relation to,
the institution’s educational purposes, is frequently used by students, and is not within the
same reasonably contiguous geographic area of the institution.
This includes:
 BW*
 I Wireless
 Ashford University Field
 Tennis Center
* Residential but non-campus
Public property is defined as: All public property, including thoroughfares, streets, sidewalks,
and parking facilities, that is within the campus, or immediately adjacent to and accessible from
the campus.
This includes:
 Park
 Roadways (near sidewalk, road and far sidewalk)
 Municipal Lot across the street
 Across Springdale Dr.
 N Bluff Rd
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 Valley Way
 Lincoln Way
The Director of Campus Security & Safety will maintain an up-to-date list of the buildings and
properties that the University owns or controls and the addresses for these properties and
identify the geographic categories to which the buildings and property belong. The Director of
Campus Security & Safety will identify the public property that is within or immediately
adjacent to and accessible from the campus.
Campus Security and Crime Prevention Policy
Notification of the Campus Security and Fire Safety Report
Annually by no later than October 1, the University distributes the Ashford University Campus
Security and Fire Safety Report (“Report”) to every student (whether attending the Clinton,
Iowa campus or online) and employee via email and posts the Report for the general public on
its website. Anyone may also request a hard copy by emailing michael.leblanc@ashford.edu or
poppy.fitch@ashford.edu.
Reporting Crimes and Emergencies
It is important for students, as well as other members of the campus community, to take
responsibility for their own safety and well-being. The University strongly encourages students
to take steps to ensure the safety and security of their belongings, themselves, and others.
The Campus Public Safety Office maintains a crime log documenting any criminal incident or
alleged criminal incident that occurs on the campus, on public property within or immediately
adjacent to and is accessible from the campus, and is reported to the Campus Public Safety
Office. This log extends beyond Clery Act crimes. This information is available for public
inspection, upon request, during normal business hours. Information in the crime log includes
the following: the nature of the crime, the date and time the crime occurred, a general location
of the crime, the case number, and any known disposition of the complaint. Any portion of the
log older than 60 days will be made available within two business days of a request for public
inspection. The University reserves the right to maintain the privacy of both the victim and the
accused in any of these situations except as may be required by law.
Procedures for Reporting Criminal Actions or Emergencies
The University encourages individuals to report any crime accurately and promptly to local
police and to the Campus Public Safety Office when the victim of such crime elects or is unable
to make such a report. For immediate assistance, please contact Campus Public Safety.
Students may also contact the Clinton Police Department if they are the victim of a crime, if
they witness a crime, or if they have information that would aid in solving a crime. Additional
persons to whom a student or employee may report a crime or emergency include the Director
of Student Affairs, the Associate Director of Campus Student Affairs, the Campus Registrar, the
Campus Director of Security & Safety, or any other directors, deans, department heads,
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designated residence life staff, faculty advisors, and athletic coaches.
Contact Information to Report a Crime or Emergency
Clinton Police Department
Campus Public Safety Office
Director of Campus Student Affairs
Associate Director of Campus Student
Campus Registrar
Campus Director of Security & Safety
911 or 563.243.1458
563.242.2752, Room C1240
563.242.4023 x27152,Rm F2132
563.242.4023 x27154
563.321.1880, Room F213
563.242.4023 x27151, Room C2216
563.242.4023 x13052, Room C1240
University policies do not allow victims or witnesses to report crimes on a voluntary,
confidential basis. For confidential reporting, contact the Clinton County Sheriff’s Office Crime
Stoppers at 563.242.6595 or toll free at 888.883.8015. The Clinton Police Department (CLPD)
maintains a “Text-A-Tip” anonymous hotline. Individuals may “Text-A-Tip” to CLPD by texting a
message to 274637 (CRIMES).
The University neither employs professional counselors or pastoral (faith-based) counselors for
use by students, faculty or staff nor follows a policy that encourages pastoral counselors and
professional counselors to inform the persons whom they are counseling to report crimes on a
voluntary, confidential basis for inclusion in the annual disclosure of crime statistics.
All campus incident reports are forwarded to the Director of Campus Student Affairs for review
and potential action by the Student Affairs Office if Student Community Standards and/or
violations of law are suspected. When appropriate, these will be referred to law enforcement
agencies. When a potentially dangerous threat to the University community arises, timely
reports or warnings will be issued as set forth in the section entitled Timely Reports of Specific
Crimes or Offenses below.
Timely Reports of Specific Crimes or Offenses
When a known crime is considered to have a serious or continuing threat to University students
or employees, the Campus Public Safety Office and, the Student Affairs Office, will notify the
campus community in a timely manner, withholding the names of victims as confidential,
through one or more of the following methods, depending upon the nature of the incident:
• Immediate notification of student body, faculty and staff utilizing the
SendWordNow emergency notification system;
• Resident students may be notified via building meetings, flyers, etc.
• Entire student body and faculty and staff may be notified via flyer, posted
information, email, or use of the SendWordNow emergency notification system,
• If necessary, notification to the larger community via written press release or
telephone call.
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The University, without delay and taking into account the safety of the community, will
determine the content of the notification and initiate the notification system, unless issuing a
notification will, in the professional judgment of responsible persons, compromise efforts to
assist a victim or to contain, respond to, or otherwise mitigate an emergency.
Campus Public Safety Office
The University maintains a security team supervised by a Director of Campus Security & Safety.
Additional persons to whom a student or employee may report a crime or emergency include
the Director of Student Affairs, Associate Director of Campus Student Affairs, and the Campus
Registrar, and the local police.
The University contracts with a professional security firm to provide additional security services.
Campus Public Safety officers have the authority to ask persons for identification and to
determine whether individuals have lawful business at the University. In addition, they have the
authority to issue parking tickets for parking violations on University property. Campus Public
Safety officers have no formal arrest authority. City, county, or state law enforcement officers
make arrests, if necessary.
The Campus Public Safety Office works closely with the Clinton Police Department, Clinton
County Sheriff’s Office, and the Iowa Highway Patrol, and refers all criminal incidents to local
authorities who have jurisdiction on campus. The Director of Campus Security & Safety and
local authorities confer on issues of campus security and safety. The University and the local
law enforcement authorities have not entered into a formal memorandum of understanding.
Students and staff may contact the authorities directly. Campus Public Safety officers will make
contact on behalf of the University or individuals involved if the officers determine it is
necessary or when such contact is requested. The University takes any reported criminal action
seriously and responds to it accordingly; the University relies on law enforcement authorities to
assist during criminal investigations and emergencies.
Security of and Access to Campus Facilities
During business hours, access to the University (excluding certain housing facilities) is not
restricted. During non-business hours, access to all University facilities is by access card or key,
or by admittance via Campus Public Safety or Residence Life staff. Visitors to the campus are
subject to school policies. Their student and employee hosts share responsibility for the lawful
and appropriate behavior of visitors. All criminal incidents involving, or observed by, campus
visitors should be reported immediately to the Campus Public Safety Office.
Emergencies may necessitate changes or alterations to posted schedules. Public Safety officers
conduct rounds of all campus buildings 24 hours a day, seven days per week. Campus Public
Safety officers have access to all areas of campus, including the residence halls. During the
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academic year, the Director of Student Affairs, the Associate Director of Campus Student
Affairs, the Director of Campus Security & Safety, and the Director of Facilities meet periodically
to discuss any issues of pressing concern related to facilities, security, and maintenance.
Campus Public Safety officers also monitor the off-campus properties of the South Campus
Athletic Field, Tennis Courts, and BW Residence Hall facilities.
The University does recognize official student organizations that have sanctioned off-campus
living or meeting facilities.
Campus Awareness of Security Services
Ashford University takes crime prevention seriously and informs students and staff throughout
the year regarding various programs and opportunities to learn about campus security
procedures and practices. The annual New Student Orientation held annually in June or July
includes presentations on topics such as personal safety, home security, sexual assault
prevention, domestic violence, hate crimes, and workplace violence, and offers a variety of
experts in these areas. Faculty, staff, and continuing (including non-residential) students are
strongly encouraged to attend these programs. A common theme of all awareness and crime
prevention programs is to encourage students and employees to be aware of the shared
responsibility for the safety and security of the University community. All faculty and staff
receive emergency wallet cards that offer emergency procedure information and emergency
contact numbers.
Crime prevention information is posted on campus bulletin boards, in the Campus Safety Tips
Brochure, and at presentations throughout the year. Crime prevention is covered during the fall
and spring faculty retreat and, during semi-annual emergency management drills for faculty
and staff. Further, regular safety updates are sent to faculty, staff, and students from the
Director of Campus Security & Safety.
The Director of Campus Security & Safety and Student Affairs maintains documentation of
educational programming and safety updates.
Alcohol and Drug Policies and Procedures
The University continues to remain in compliance with the requirements of the Drug-Free
Schools and Communities Act and has adopted and implemented programs to prevent the
abuse of alcohol and use or distribution of illicit drugs by its students and staff. It is the
University’s intent to provide a drug-free, healthful, safe, and secure academic environment.
The University maintains written policies on alcohol and other drugs and has developed a
thorough method for distributing this policy to every student and employee.
The written materials are annually distributed in the Ashford University Drug Free Schools
Communities Act Program (See Appendix K) and contain the following information:
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




Standards of conduct that prohibit unlawful possession, use or distribution of illicit
drugs and alcohol on it property or as a part of its activities
A description of the health risks associated with the use of illicit drugs and abuse of
alcohol
A description of applicable legal sanctions under local, state or federal law
A description of counseling or treatment programs
A clear statement and description of the disciplinary sanctions the institution will
impose on students and employees.
This program is intended to supplement and not limit the provisions of the University's DrugFree Workplace policy applicable to University employees.
The following policies and guidelines have been established to uphold the University’s
obligation to its students, faculty, and surrounding community:
University Student Alcohol Use Policies
The University neither condones nor sanctions the use of alcohol. All individuals must observe
the alcoholic beverage laws of the State of Iowa. The University strictly prohibits the
unauthorized use, consumption, possession, and distribution of alcohol by any student,
regardless of legal drinking age, within the residence halls, on campus grounds, or at Universitysponsored activities. The University Sanctions section set forth below provides additional
explanation of the institution’s disciplinary procedures for students who violate this policy.
For certain University events or functions, alcohol may be served only to those persons of legal
drinking age who can verify their age with a state-issued identification, passport, or similar
document. Written permission from the Campus Director or University President to serve
alcohol and any legally required alcohol permits must be obtained prior to the function.
University Student Drug Use Policies
The unlawful possession, use, sale, or distribution of illegal drugs or controlled substances is
prohibited within the residence halls, on campus grounds, or at University-sponsored events.
Drug paraphernalia is strictly prohibited within the residence halls, on campus grounds, or at
University-sponsored activities. The University Sanctions section set forth below provides
additional explanation of the institution’s disciplinary procedures for students who violate this
policy.
Alcohol and Drug Prevention Programs
The University provides counseling services related to drug and alcohol use and abuse for
students. In addition, employees may receive services through our Employee Assistance
Program. The University disseminates informational materials, education programs, and
referrals regarding the use of alcohol and /or controlled substances. Students who violate
University policies related to the use of drugs or alcohol are subject to the disciplinary
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procedures set forth in the Student Community Standards. Employees who violate the Drug
Free Workplace policy face discipline, up to and including termination. The Student Affairs
Office coordinates the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Program; however, other
University departments and staff handle some services:
Alcohol and Drug Education: Student Activities, Residence Life, Employee Assistance Program
Counseling Referrals: Access and Wellness, Employee Assistance Program
University Disciplinary Actions: Residence Life Staff, Director of Student Affairs
Employee Disciplinary Actions: Human Resources
The University provides local and national toll-free telephone numbers to help any member of
the University community who may require assistance in dealing with a drug or alcohol
problem. The University maintains this information on its Emergency Assistance page of the
website and in the Clinton Community Health and Wellness Guide.
State and Federal Laws Regarding Drugs and Alcohol
Both state and federal laws prohibit distribution of, manufacture of, or possession with intent
to manufacture or distribute a controlled substance or a counterfeit controlled substance. In
general, state penalties for conviction under these laws range from up to two years to 50 years
of confinement and a fine of $625 to $1,000,000, depending upon the type and quantity of drug
involved. Specific drugs, amounts, and penalties are described in Iowa Code Chapter 124. For
penalties relating to federal drug law violations, please see 21 U.S.C. Chapter 13, Subchapter I,
Part D and http://www.justice.gov/dea/druginfo/ftp_chart1.pdf.
Chapter 123 of the Iowa Code sets forth state law relating to the consumption of alcohol, and
the following excerpts provide a partial summary of the statute:
• It is unlawful to be intoxicated (or simulate being intoxicated) in a public place (§
123.46(2)).
• Persons under the legal age (21 years) are prohibited from purchasing or possessing
alcoholic beverages (§ 123.47(2)).
• It is unlawful to sell, give, or otherwise supply alcoholic beverages to a minor (§
123.47(1)).
• Those under the legal age may not present false evidence or misrepresent their age to
a permittee or licensee for purposes of obtaining alcoholic beverages (§ 123.49(3)).
• No person may sell or give alcoholic beverages to an intoxicated person (§ 123.49(1)).
Anyone under the age of 21 who is caught driving with a blood alcohol level of 0.02 or more will
lose his or her driver’s license or permit for at least 60 days (§ 321J.2A). Temporary driving
permits for school, work, or other reason, will not be issued during the suspension period. A
blood alcohol level of 0.02 is a very small amount–as little as one beer or drink.
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University Sanctions Regarding Drugs and Alcohol
The University seeks to uphold University drug- and alcohol-related policies and laws and will
impose disciplinary sanctions against those students and employees who violate them.
Sanctions could lead to suspension or expulsion from the institution.
Employees will be disciplined, up to and including, termination, and the University may refer
students, faculty or employees who violate related laws to law enforcement for prosecution. As
part of the disciplinary process, the University may also request that the student complete a
rehabilitation program. Employees may self-refer or have a University referral to the Employee
Assistance Program for assistance in dealing with the use of alcohol or a controlled substance.
A criminal conviction is not necessary to find that a student or employee has violated the
University Student Community Standards or the provisions of the Employee Handbook, and the
University need not (and ordinarily will not) defer its own actions and sanctions pending the
outcome of any criminal proceeding. Students and employees should refer to the Student
Community Standards in the Academic Catalog (See Appendix A) and the Employee Handbook
(See Appendix B), respectively, for additional information.
Biennial Review
The University conducts and publishes a Biennial Review of its Drug-Free Schools and
Communities Act Program in order to:
(a) determine the program’s effectiveness and implement needed changes to the
program;
(b) determine the number of drug and alcohol-related violations and fatalities that—
(i) occur on the University’s campus or as part of any of the University’s
activities; and
(ii) are reported to campus officials;
(c) determine the number and type of sanctions that are imposed by the University as a
result of drug- and alcohol-related violations and fatalities on campus or as part of the
University’s activities; and
(d) ensure consistent enforcement of sanctions.
Sexual Misconduct/Harassment Policies and Procedures
The University is committed to maintaining an academic climate in which individuals of the
university community can benefit fully from the University’s programs and activities. Acts of
sexual misconduct violate a student’s sense of safety and trust and significantly interfere with
their lives, including their educational goals. The University has developed policies and
procedures to create a campus environment that prohibits retaliation, responds promptly and
effectively to complaints of sexual misconduct, safeguards due process, and seeks a fair and
effective resolution of the complaint. The institution created these policies and procedures in
accordance Title IX and VAWA, their implementing regulations, and U.S. Department of
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Education Office for Civil Rights sub-regulatory guidance. Students and other persons may find
these policies in the Student Rights and Responsibilities section of the Academic Catalog, (see
Appendices C-I).
Abusive sexual conduct by anyone is a threat to the entire University community. All individuals
who believe another individual has personally violated them in a sexual manner should
immediately report the incident to the Title IX/ Coordinator, Ashford University Campus
Director of Student Affairs, Student Grievance Resolution Officer, University Security personnel,
and/or to local police.
Students are strongly encouraged to report all incidents that threaten their or another person’s
continued well-being, safety, or security. University personnel will assist the student in notifying
authorities, if requested.
Reporting sexual misconduct helps:
 Protect the victim and others from future harm.
 Apprehend the alleged assailant.
 Maintain future options regarding prosecution.
 Disciplinary action, criminal, and/or civil action against the perpetrator.
If you are raped or sexually assaulted:
 Go to a safe place. Think safety first.
 Preserve evidence. Do not bathe, shower, douche, change clothes or straighten up the
crime scene.
 Contact someone who can help. The police, campus security, a friend, campus staff or
faculty.
 Seek medical attention at a Hospital Emergency Room:
o to assess and treat any physical injuries.
o to determine the risk of sexually transmitted infections or pregnancy and to take
appropriate measures.
o to collect evidence.
Individuals may report instances of sexual misconduct to the University Title IX/SaVE
Coordinators:
San Diego, CA
Poppy Fitch: Associate Vice President, Student Affairs, Title IX/ADA Compliance Officer
P / 866.974.5700 Ext. 20702
E / titleIX@ashford.edu
M / 8620 Spectrum Center Blvd San Diego, CA 92123
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Clinton, IA
Jill Mussman: Associate Director, Career Services, Title IX/SaVE Deputy Coordinator
P / 877.241.9893 Ext. 27155
E / titleix@ashford.edu
M / 400 North Bluff Blvd, Clinton, IA 52732
Michael LeBlanc: Campus Director of Security and Safety, Clery Officer
P / 563.242.4023 Ext. 13052
C / 563.321.1623
E / Michael.Leblanc@ashford.edu
M / 400 North Bluff Blvd, Clinton, IA 52732
Employees may report sexual misconduct to the University Title IX/SaVE Coordinators, or to:
Human Resources
Kendra Myers, Vice President, Human Resources
P / 866.475.0317 Ext. 11801
E / kmyers@bpiedu.com
M / 13500 Evening Creek Dr N # 600, San Diego, CA 92128
Individuals with complaints of any nature described above always have the right to
simultaneously file a formal complaint with the Office for Civil Rights (OCR), United States
Department of Education, Washington DC 20201, and/or a criminal complaint with local law
enforcement.
Nondiscrimination
Ashford University does not discriminate in its education programs and activities on the basis of
race, color, creed, national or ethnic origin, religion, sex, pregnancy, childbirth and related
medical conditions, marital status, medical condition, service in the uniformed services, political
activities and affiliations, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or
any other consideration made unlawful by federal, state, or local laws. Specifically, Title IX/SaVE
requires the University not to discriminate on the basis of gender/sex in its education programs
and activities. Gender/sex harassment, including gender/sex violence, is a form of prohibited
gender/sex discrimination. Examples of covered acts are found in the University’s policies on
Sexual Misconduct.
Other University policies and procedures can be found with the following links:
Privacy of Student Records (see Appendix C)
Sexual Misconduct/Harassment Policy (see Appendix D)
Retaliation (see Appendix E)
Reporting/Filing a Complaint for Title IX (Gender/Sex Discrimination) (see Appendix F)
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Requests for Confidentiality (see Appendix G)
Other Complaints (see Appendix H)
Sexual Assault Prevention Programs
Programs to promote the prevention and awareness of sexual violence, sexual assault,
domestic and/or dating violence, stalking, sexual exploitation, and other sexual misconduct
offences are provided in order to promote a safe living and learning environment. Campus
sexual assault prevention programs include Residence Hall Orientation, guest presentations on
prevention, awareness, and response, and the Ashford Student Health 101 magazine, which
provides regular features on sexual health and safety and which recently published a Title IX
Special Edition. This publication is a compilation of all of the educational content delivered
during the course of the 2014-15 academic year on topics related to gender equity, sexual
violence, and sexual health and was provided to all students in August, 2015.
Students attending the mandatory Residence Hall Orientation receive the University Sexual
Misconduct Response Brochure that details the University policy regarding sexual misconduct,
contains resource information for victims, and provides information on the University process
for responding to reports of sexual misconduct. Additionally, information on sexual assault and
community resources are available in the Office of Student Affairs, and additional information is
on the Community Safety page of the Ashford University website.
All students, faculty, and staff receive notification of the University’s Sexual Misconduct Process
through the annual distribution of the Academic Catalog.
Contact Information to Report a Crime or Emergency
Clinton Police Department
Campus Public Safety Office
Director of Campus Student Affairs
Associate Director of Campus Student
Campus Registrar
Campus Director of Security & Safety
911 or 563.243.1458
563.242.2752, Room C1240
563.242.4023 x27152, Room F2132
563.242.4023 x27154
563.321.1880, Room F213
563.242.4023 x27151, Room C2216
563.242.4023 x13052, Room C1240
Information Regarding Sex Offenders
Iowa law requires sex offenders who reside, are employed, or attend school in Iowa to register
with the county sheriff. The person must register within five business days of changing a
residence, employment, or attendance as a student. (See Iowa Code § 692A.104)
The Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act requires institutions to inform members of the campus
community of the means by which they can obtain information about registered sex offenders
who may be present on campus. The campus community may find law enforcement agency
information provided by the State of Iowa concerning registered sex offenders at
www.iowasexoffender.com. Illinois registry information is available at
Ashford University Campus Security and Fire Safety Report - Published October 1, 2015
16 | P a g e
http://www.isp.state.il.us/sor/. Questions regarding local sex offender registry can be directed
to the Clinton County Sheriff’s Office at 563.242.9211.
Under Iowa law, persons required to register as sex offenders are those convicted of a sex
offense listed in Iowa Code section 692A.102, as well as individuals who are required to register
as a sex offender in another jurisdiction under the other jurisdiction’s sex offender registry.
Under Illinois law, persons required to register as sex offenders are persons who have been
charged of an offense listed in Illinois Compiled Statutes 730 ILCS 150/2(B) when the charge
results in one of the following:
 A conviction for the commission of the offense or attempt to commit the offense,
 A finding of not guilty by reason of insanity of committing the offense or attempting
to commit the offense
 A finding not resulting in an acquittal at a hearing for the alleged commission or
attempted commission of the offense.
Fire and Emergency Response and Evacuation Policies and
Procedures
Emergency Evacuation Procedures
General Information about the emergency response and evacuation procedures for Ashford
University are publicized each year in the Student Services, Health and Safety section (see
Appendix I) of the Academic Catalog.
The University also publishes a Campus Emergency Reference Guide (see Appendix J) on its
website that explains its emergency and evacuation procedures.
SendWordNow Emergency Notification System
During a significant emergency or dangerous set of circumstances involving an immediate
threat to the health or safety of students, faculty, or employees on campus, the institution will
use without delay its SendWordNow System to inform members of the University community,
as well as provide other notifications, such as telephone, or calls, building alarms, or both.
Through the SendWordNow system, notifications are sent by email to any outside email
address or by text message to a cell phone. The messages are initiated by a member of the
University’s Campus Crisis Response Team only when required for safety purposes. Students
are automatically registered for the SendWordNow System, although information regarding
opting out is available in the Student Affairs Office.
The Campus Crisis Response Team is responsible for confirming if an emergency or dangerous
situation exists, determining the level of emergency on campus, and whether circumstances
warrant the use of the SendWordNow System. In this vein, the University will take into account
the safety of the campus community and determine whether issuing a notification would (in
Ashford University Campus Security and Fire Safety Report - Published October 1, 2015
17 | P a g e
their professional judgment) compromise efforts to assist a victim or to contain, respond to, or
otherwise mitigate the emergency. If the Campus Response Team decides that events warrant
an emergency notification, it will develop the content of the communication, determine the
appropriate segment or segments of the campus community to receive a notification, and
initiate the use of the SendWordNow System. If necessary, notification will also be sent to the
City of Clinton community through press releases, telephone calls, or both. The Campus Crisis
Response Team includes the Campus Director/VP, Director of Student Affairs, Campus
Communications Manager, Campus Facilities Director, Campus Director of Security & Safety,
Campus Director of Information Technology, and the Campus Registrar.
Contact Information for Campus Crisis Team
Vice President/Campus Director
Director of Campus Student Affairs
Director of Communications
Director of Facilities
Information Technology Manager
563.242.4023, x 27101 Room C2320
563.242.4023 x27152 Room F2132
563.242.4023 x27110 Room C2420
563.242.4023 x13051 Room RH1220
563.242.4023 x 12701 Room RH1605
Campus Registrar
Campus Director of Security & Safety
563.242.4023 x27151, Room C2216
563.242.4023 x13052, Room C1240
Non-Fire Evacuations and Drills
Evacuating a Building (Non-Fire)
When the evacuation alarm (fire alarm) is sounded, pre-determined monitors will report to
their assigned areas and assist people in finding the exits or a designated place of safety. They
will ensure that all occupants evacuate the building and/or areas of danger and facilitate the
movement of those individuals requiring assistance.
Residence Hall evacuation plans are maintained by the Office of Residence Life. Emergency
evacuations are coordinated through the Residence Life Staff and the Campus Public Safety
Office. Evacuation procedures provide a basic plan of action for all emergencies. Procedures are
in place for each floor and building for egress routes. Responsibilities of Residence Life Staff, the
Campus Public Safety Office, Maintenance, and Information Desk Staff response are predefined.
In teaching and other academic areas, the University posts evacuation plans on the floor of
each building. Faculty announce where the plans are posted on the floor at the beginning of
each semester to each class. When the alarm sounds, faculty and staff must direct students to
appropriate exits.
Students and office personnel report to an Emergency Assembly Area located in the parking lot
across the street from Durham Hall. The faculty member or staff supervisor must personally
verify that everyone for whom they are responsible exited the building and safely arrived at the
Emergency Assembly Area.
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Persons with disabilities or requiring assistance with evacuation should be consulted when
considering options for safe and timely evacuation. Generally, stair landings and stairwells are
checked first by the fire department and are the safest option for evacuation. Elevators should
never be used to move persons with disabilities in emergency situations. Notify the police or
fire department when a person with a disability or other person requiring assistance is waiting
on a stairwell or stair landing during evacuation. As individuals evacuate any building, they
should move out of the way of fire/safety responders and report to an Emergency Assembly
Area.
Tornado Awareness
Tornado awareness and response training was conducted the week of March 24-28, 2014, to
make students, faculty, and staff aware of campus tornado shelter locations and to identify the
types of audible alarms based on the tornado threat level.
Conducting Tornado Drills
Upon activation of the City of Clinton audible alarm, the institution directs faculty, staff, and
students immediately to take shelter in the designated tornado shelter areas of the University.
The Campus Public Safety Office monitors the weather and immediately advises when it is safe
to leave the shelter. Upon the notification of the end of the drill, each area is checked for
injured students, faculty, staff, and visitors. Upon completion, the institution conducts a sweep
of all facilities to check for damage.
The Clinton County Emergency Management Office and the Iowa Area Manager of the National
Weather Service conducted an unannounced drill for all campus facilities on Wednesday, March
26, 2014, at 10:00 a.m. The drill was terminated at 10:20 a.m.
Post Drill
The Campus Public Safety Office, Facilities Operations, and various staff members at the Clinton
campus will document any violations and a conduct a debriefing of the drill (if needed). These
officials will note the time for evacuations and review the effectiveness of personnel with
assigned duties.
Fire Safety Report
Fire Safety Awareness Program and Staff Training
At the beginning of each academic year, the Clinton Fire Marshall visits Ashford University to
discuss fire safety with resident students, including fire prevention measures and evacuation
procedures. Fire safety and severe weather evacuation procedures are reviewed at the annual
Residence Hall meeting in August. Resident Assistants also review the information with their
floor residents at their individual floor meetings.
Fire safety education is conducted for faculty each fall during the faculty workshop and offers
Ashford University Campus Security and Fire Safety Report - Published October 1, 2015
19 | P a g e
the opportunity for clarification of procedures. Faculty and staff are asked to review the webbased PowerPoint presentation.
The Director of Campus Security & Safety also prepares annual reports to the University
President and the Director of Campus Student Affairs detailing any recommendations for
improvement in fire safety.
Testing Emergency Response and Evacuation Procedures
Unannounced drills are conducted by the Director of Security in each campus residence hall
twice per year. Drills are also conducted for the entire campus twice per year in the fall and
spring. The drills are conducted in order for the community to practice safe evacuation
procedures. The SendWordNow emergency notification system is utilized and tested as a
component of these drills.
For each test, the Director of Campus Security & Safety will document a description of the
exercise, the date, the time, and whether the test was announced or unannounced.
Conducting Fire Drills
The fire alarm is activated to begin the evacuation; once the evacuation is complete, the
building is checked by staff to ensure that everyone has evacuated the building. Upon the
arrival of the Clinton Fire Department, firefighters assume control of the building. Once the all
clear is given, the Campus Director of Security & Safety will issue a message giving the all clear.
Timed evacuations will be noted and responsibilities reviewed.
During 2014, two unannounced fire drills were conducted in addition to a tornado drill. The
team determined that the time in which the evacuations took place was satisfactory.
Everyone evacuated as required, and a review of actions with staff was completed.
On March 27, 2014, at 3:30 p.m., an unannounced fire drill was conducted at all University
residential and non-residential facilities. The drill was terminated at 3:50 p.m.
A second unannounced fire drill was conducted on October 15, 2014, at 10:30 a.m. in all
University residential and non-residential facilities. The drill was terminated at 10:54 a.m.
Post Drill
After each drill, Campus Public Safety, Facilities Operations, and various staff members on site
document the timing of the evacuations and conduct a debriefing of the drill.
Fire Alarms
Fire alarm boxes are located on every floor and are tested on an annual basis. Fire alarm boxes
are directly connected to the Clinton County Law Enforcement Center. A fire can be reported by
pulling the lever on any of these boxes. If a fire is suspected, University policy directs a student,
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faculty, or staff member immediately should immediately sound the building alarm, leave by
the nearest exit, and notify the Campus Public Safety Office at 563.242.2752, and provide it
with as much information as possible.
Regis Residence Hall
Smoke Detectors
Every room and common area in Regis Hall has photo-electric smoke and heat detectors that
are connected to a heat-activated alarm system.
Fire Alarm/Sprinkler System
Regis Hall is equipped with an Intelliknight 5820XL Addressable Fire Alarm Panel and Silent
Knight. This advanced heat-activated alarm system monitors the sprinkler system of the
building and controls water flow, temper switches, and pump-run functions.
Fire Extinguishers
Fire extinguishers are located on every floor in Regis Hall. Extinguishers are tested annually.
Durham Residence Hall
Smoke Detectors
Every room and common area in Durham has photo-electric smoke and heat detectors that are
connected to a heat-activated alarm system.
Fire Alarm/Sprinkler System
Durham Hall is equipped with an Intelliknight 5820XL Addressable Fire Alarm Panel and Silent
Knight. This advanced heat-activated alarm system monitors the sprinkler system of the
building and controls water flow, temper switches, and pump-run functions.
Fire Extinguishers
Fire extinguishers are located on every floor in Durham Hall. Extinguishers are tested annually.
BW Residence Hall
(The BW Residence hall is a non-campus housing facility. The institution includes this information in the
Report for your reference.)
Smoke Detectors
Every hallway and common area in the BW has a photo-electric smoke and heat detector that is
connected to a heat-activated alarm system.
Fire Alarm/Sprinkler System
The BW is equipped with Honeywell SK-5208 Alarm Control Communication. This heatactivated system monitors the public and common areas.
False Alarms
University policy declares that turning on a false fire alarm is both dangerous and illegal. A
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significant fine is also assessed for the misuses of fire extinguishers, activating alarms on
emergency exit doors, or both.
Notification of Fire
In the event of a fire, the pertinent campus community must evacuate (if possible), pull the fire
alarm, and ensure that the Campus Director of Security & Safety and the Director of Campus
Student Affairs are immediately notified. The Campus Director of Security & Safety documents
all fire-related incidences in the fire log within two business days of the report of the incident to
the local fire department.
Contact Information to Report a Fire
Clinton Police Department
Clinton Fire Department
Campus Public Safety Office
Director of Campus Student Affairs
Associate Director of Campus Student
Campus Director of Security & Safety
911 or 563.243.1458
911 or 563.242.0125
563.242.2752, Room C1240
563.242.4023 x27152,Rm F2132
563.242.4023 x27154563.321.1880, Room F213
563.242.4023 x13052, Room C1240
Items Allowed and Not Allowed in the Residence Facilities
For a comprehensive list of the items prohibited by the University in the resident rooms, please
see page 21 in the Residence Hall guidebook or contact the Office of Residence Life at
563.242.4023, x 27150. Items specific to fire safety that are prohibited are:
• Hot plates/Toasters/Ovens
• Heating elements of any kind, including sunlamps and halogen lamps
• Candles/Incense/Candle Warmers
• Extension cords (power strips with breaker switches/surge protectors, built-in are
acceptable for use with computer and stereo equipment)
• Deep fat-frying machines (submerging food in oil to cook is prohibited)
The University complies with the Iowa Smoke-free Air Act. Smoking is prohibited on campus
and in the BW Residence Hall.
Evacuating a Building during a Fire
The University provides the following guidance to the members of the campus community
about procedures for evacuating a building during a fire:
When an alarm sounds, individuals should keep low to the floor if there is smoke in the room
and to feel the door or doorknob before opening any doors. If either is hot, do not open the
door. If no heat is felt, open the door slightly to check for heat or heavy smoke. If heat or heavy
smoke is present outside the room, close the door and stay in the room until help arrives.
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If you are unable to leave the room, seal up the cracks around the door using wet clothing,
sheets, and the like. Hang an object out the window, such as a jacket, shirt, or sheet to attract
attention. If a phone is available, call Campus Security at 563.242. 2752 and inform them of
your location.
If you are unable to leave the room, seal up the cracks around the door using wet clothing,
sheets, and the like. Hang an object out the window, such as a jacket, shirt, or sheet to attract
attention. If a phone is available, call Campus Security at 563.242. 2752 and inform them of
your location.
If you try to escape through a smoke-filled room or corridor, move quickly in a crouched
position. Cover your head and body with something that can be easily discarded should it catch
on fire (preferably wet) and breathe through a wet cloth, taking short breaths through your
nose.
After evacuating the building, stand clear; emergency equipment will need to maneuver around
the buildings. Stay away from main entrances.
Follow all directions given by fire and police personnel, Campus Security staff, or Residence Life
staff.
Even if an alarm has been turned off, you should not return to the building until authorized to do
so by a Fire Department official. Never re-enter a burning building.
The University has prepared an extensive guide relating to emergency evacuation procedures.
The Emergency Reference Guide (see Appendix J) contains information on campus emergency
contacts, as well as procedures for medical emergencies, bomb threats, violent crime, fire,
evacuations, and weather emergencies.
Fire Log
The University maintains a fire log documenting any fire that occurs in an on-campus student
housing facility. The log includes the nature, date, time, and general location of the fire. The log
is available to the public during normal business hours. Any portion of the log older than 60
days shall be made available within two business days of a request for public inspection.
Missing Student Notification
The University has developed a missing student notification policy for students who reside in
on-campus housing. Each student who resides in on-campus housing has the option to identify
and register a confidential contact with the Office of Student Affairs. Only the Office of Student
Affairs and local law enforcement have access to the confidential contact information and only
for the purpose of a missing student investigation). This confidential contact will be notified by
the Office of Student Affairs not later than 24 hours after the time that the student is
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23 | P a g e
determined missing in accordance with the following notification procedures.
Contact Information for the Office of Student Affairs to Register a Confidential Contact
Director of Campus Student Affairs
563.242.4023 x27152, Rm F2132
Associate Director of Campus Student Affairs
563.242.4023 x27154, Room F2130
If the missing student is under 18 years of age and is not an emancipated individual, the
University must notify a custodial parent or guardian, as well as any confidential contact,, not
later than 24 hours after the time that the student is determined missing.
Not later than 24 hours after the time the student is determined missing, the University
Campus Security Office will notify the local law enforcement agency and will provide the
confidential contact information to local law enforcement at that time.
Notification Procedures
Any member of the University community with knowledge of a missing student who has been
missing for 24 hours must immediately contact the Office of Student Affairs, which must
immediately refer the report to the Campus Security Office. If, upon investigation of the official
report, the Campus Security Office determines that student has been missing for more than 24
hours, the Office will contact the individual’s confidential contact registered with the Office of
Student Affairs, and, if the student is under the age of 18, the student’s custodial parent or
guardian via telephone within 24 hours.
Regardless of whether the student has identified a contact person, is above the age of 18, or is
an emancipated minor, the Office of Campus Security will inform the local law enforcement
agency within 24 hours of a student determined to be missing.
Annual Disclosure of Crime Statistics
Federal law requires all institutions of higher education to collect and maintain statistics
concerning specific crimes and to report these statistics annually to students and employees,
and prospective students and employees. We report statistics to all Ashford students, including
those enrolled in distance education courses and programs.
The University gathers statistics concerning the occurrence of certain offenses on campus, in or
on our off campus housing facilities, in or on non-campus buildings or property, and on public
property.
The University prepared this report in cooperation with the Clinton Police Department, the
Campus Public Safety Office, the department of Residential Life and Housing, and the Student
Affairs Office.
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24 | P a g e
Campus crime, arrest, and referral statistics include those reported to the Campus Public Safety
Office, designated campus officials (including but not limited to the Director of Campus Student
Affairs, the Associate Director of Campus Student Affairs, the Campus Registrar, the Campus
Director of Security & Safety, other directors, deans, department heads, designated residential
life staff, faculty advisors and athletic coaches), and local law enforcement agencies. If you
should have questions about any of the information provided in this Report, please contact the
Director of Campus Security & Safety, Michael LeBlanc, 563.242.4023 x 13052.
Criminal
Offenses
OnCampus
(Including
Residence
Halls)
Residence
Halls*
(Excluding
BW
Residence
Hall)
NonCampus
(BW
Residence
Hall)
Public
Property**
2012
2013
2014
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2012
2013
2014
1
2
0
1
1
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
2
2
0
2012
2013
2014
1
2
1
0
0
0
4
2
0
0
0
0
5
4
1
2012
2013
2014
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2012
2013
2014
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2012
2013
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Year
Total*
Robbery
Aggravated
Assault
Burglary
Motor Vehicle
Theft
Arson
Criminal
Homicide:
Murder/NonNegligent
Manslaughter
Ashford University Campus Security and Fire Safety Report - Published October 1, 2015
25 | P a g e
2014
0
0
0
0
0
2012
2013
2014
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Criminal
Homicide:
Negligent
Ashford University Campus Security and Fire Safety Report - Published October 1, 2015
26 | P a g e
Criminal
Offenses
Year
OnCampus
(Including
Residence
Halls)
Residence
Halls*
(Excluding
BW
Residence
Hall)
NonCampus
(BW
Residence
Hall)
Public
Property**
2012
2013
2014
1
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
2012
2013
2014
0
0
1
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
2012
-
-
-
-
-
2013
2014
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2012
-
-
-
-
-
2013
2014
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
1
0
2012
-
-
-
-
-
2013
2014
1
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
On- Campus
(Including
Residence
Halls)
Residence
Halls*
(Excluding
BW
Residence
Hall)
NonCampus
(BW
Residence
Hall)
Public
Property**
0
0
0
0
Total*
Sex Offenses –
Forcible
Sex Offenses
Non- Forcible
Domestic
Violence
NOT
REPORTABLE
Dating Violence
NOT
REPORTABLE
Stalking
NOT
REPORTABLE
Hate
Crimes^
Year
Total*
Robbery
2012
0
27 | P a g e
2013
2014
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2012
2013
2014
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2012
2013
2014
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2012
2013
2014
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2012
2013
2014
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2012
2013
2014
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2012
2013
2014
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Aggravated
Assault
Burglary
Motor Vehicle
Theft
Arson
Larceny/Theft
Simple Assault
28 | P a g e
Hate Crimes^
NonCampus
(BW
Residence
Hall)
Public
Property**
Total*
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
3
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
On-Campus
(Including
Residence
Halls)
Residence
Halls*
(Excluding
BW
Residence
Hall)
2012
2013
2014
0
0
0
2012
2013
2014
0
0
0
Year
Destruction
Damage
Vandalism of
Property
Any Crime
involving bodily
injury
Intimidation
1 (bias of
race)
1 (bias of
race)
2013 3 (bias of
gender)
2 (bias of
gender)
1 (bias of
race)
1 (bias of
race)
2012
2014
Criminal
Homicide:
Murder/NonNegligent
Manslaughter
2012
2013
2014
0
0
0
0
0
0
29 | P a g e
Sex Offenses Forcible
2012
2013
2014
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2012
2013
2014
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Sex Offenses
Non-Forcible
Arrest/Persons
Referred for
Campus
Disciplinary
Action
Year
OnCampus
(Including
Residence
Halls)
Residence
Halls*
(Excluding
BW
Residence
Hall)
NonCampus
(BW
Residence
Hall)
Public
Property**
2012
2013
2014
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
2012
2013
2014
7
2
0
7
2
0
17
10
13
0
0
0
24
12
13
2012
2013
2014
0
0
5
0
0
5
2
0
3
0
0
0
2
0
8
Total*
Liquor Law
Violations: Arrest
Liquor Law
Violations:
Disciplinary
Actions
Drug Law
Violations: Arrests
30 | P a g e
Drug Law
Violations:
Disciplinary
2012
2013
2014
2
1
0
2
1
0
4
1
0
0
0
0
6
2
0
2012
2013
2014
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2012
2013
2014
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
Illegal Weapons
Possessions:
Arrests
Illegal Weapons
Possessions:
Disciplinary
Actions
Fire
Report/
Statistics
Durham
Regis
Number of
persons who
received fire
related
injuries
resulting in
treatment at
a medical
facility
Year
Total
Fires in
each
building
Fire
number
Cause
of fire
2012
0
N/A
N/A
0
0
0
2013
2014
0
0
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
0
0
0
0
0
0
2012
0
N/A
N/A
0
0
0
2013
2014
0
0
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
0
0
0
0
0
0
Deaths
due to
fire
Value of
Property
Damage
due to
Fire
31 | P a g e
BW
2012
0
N/A
N/A
0
0
0
2013
2014
0
0
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
0
0
0
0
0
0
*Residence Halls: Statistics reported in the Durham and Regis Residence Halls column
are included in the On-Campus column. Statistics reflecting actions at the BW Residence
Hall are included in the Non-Campus Property (BW Residence Hall) column. The “total”
is the sum of the columns labeled “On-Campus” + “Non-Campus Property (BW
Residence Hall)” + “public property.”
**Public Property includes all public property, including thoroughfares, streets,
sidewalks, and parking facilities, that are within the campus or immediately adjacent to
and accessible from the campus.
^Hate Crimes: These include any crimes reported to local police agencies or to a campus
security authority that manifest evidence that the victim was intentionally selected
because of the victim’s actual or perceived race, gender, religion, national origin, sexual
orientation, gender identity, ethnicity, or disability and refers to the following crimes:
criminal homicide (murder and non-negligent manslaughter), sex offenses (forcible and
non-forcible), robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, motor vehicle theft, arson, larcenytheft, simple assault, intimidation, destruction/damage/vandalism of property and any
other crime involving bodily injury.
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Appendix A: Student Community Standards Procedures
Student Community Standards
The following Student Community Standards are applicable to individuals during all periods of
enrollment following the submission of an admissions application and including institutional
breaks or approved Academic Leaves from the University. Regardless of whether an individual
has applied to or enrolled at the University, any concerns relating to sexual misconduct or
discrimination are addressed in the sections entitled Nondiscrimination and Sexual Misconduct
Policy.
Ashford University is responsible for creating and maintaining an environment that is conducive
to the pursuit of learning and living and to the development of students as scholars and
citizens. Ashford University is committed to preserving the exercise of freedom of inquiry,
freedom of thought, freedom of discussion and expression, and the right of peaceful assembly.
Each student shall enjoy certain freedoms as a member of the academic community and should
exercise his or her freedoms with responsibility. The responsibility to secure and maintain
conditions conducive to the freedom to learn is shared by all members of the University
community.
University policies are necessary to safeguard the mission of Ashford University, thus protecting
the freedom of students to learn without undue interference by others. If misconduct occurs,
the University community must respond in ways that protect the rights and freedoms of all
members of the community. The welfare and development of the individual student are
primary concerns. To fulfill its function as an educational institution and to protect the rights of
all the members of the University community, the University has the right and the duty to
maintain order within the University and to exclude persons who disrupt the educational
process. When necessary, the University will call upon the local, state, and/or federal
authorities to maintain order.
All students are expected to make themselves familiar with the Student Community Standards
(hereinafter referred to as Standards). Ignorance of these Standards, including behavioral
expectations, specific prohibited conduct, or consequences for misconduct is not a defense to,
nor grounds for, excusing violations of the Standards.
Please note that prospective students are required to uphold all relevant Student Community
Standards. A prospective student who is found to have violated these Standards could be
precluded from enrolling in Ashford University.
The University reserves the right to refuse admission to any applicant whose behavior is
deemed inappropriate based on communication with University employees. Admissions
decisions are final.
All references to “student” in the Student Community Standards section of this Catalog refer to
current students, students no longer in attendance, and alumni.
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The University reserves the right to create, modify, or make changes to the Standards from
time to time, as needed, or when it determines necessary in particular circumstances. The
Standards may also be extended or amended to apply to new and unanticipated situations that
may arise.
Conduct Procedures - Student Community Standards Procedures
Whenever a complaint is made for alleged misconduct or a Student Community Standard
appears to be violated, the Conduct Administrator or designee will conduct an investigation of
the allegations as soon as possible (generally, for offenses against the academic community, the
President will designate the Vice President of Academic Services (online) or designee). The
Conduct Administrator or designee may make any necessary modification to these procedures
that does not materially jeopardize the fairness owed to any party.
Notice of Complaint
Once a determination is made that reasonable cause exists for the Conduct Administrator or
designee to investigate and process a complaint, notice will be given to the accused student.
Notice will be in writing, and may be delivered in person during a meeting with the Conduct
Administrator or designee or via email. Email is considered an official form of University-related
communication.
Once emailed, such notice will be presumptively delivered when an email is sent. If a student is
under the age of eighteen (18) years, a copy of the notice will be sent to the parents or
guardian of the student.
The letter of notice will state briefly a description of the incident alleged, as well as stating all
policies the accused student is alleged to have violated and the possible consequences if the
accused student is found in violation. The letter of notice will direct the accused student to
contact the Conduct Administrator or designee within two business days (Monday through
Friday) of receipt to respond to the complaint.
The failure of a student to acknowledge the notice within two (2) business days will result in an
administrative hold on the student’s account. This administrative hold will remove the student
from all future scheduled courses and prevent transcripts from being issued. The hold will not
be lifted until the student participates in either an informal or formal hearing and the Student
Community Standards proceedings for the student are closed.
Within the two business day period, the accused student may pose any questions about the
charges or process to the Office of Student Affairs, and at that time or before, will respond to
the charge in writing and may indicate to the Conduct Administrator or designee whether he or
she admits or denies the allegations of the complaint. If the accused student admits the
violation(s), an informal hearing will be held and the Conduct Administrator or designee will
impose appropriate sanctions. Such a disposition will be final and there will be no subsequent
proceedings, unless the sanctions include suspension or expulsion. In that case, the accused
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student may request a hearing by the Student Community Standards Committee on the issue of
sanctions, only, or can choose to accept the sanctions imposed by Conduct Administrator or
designee during the informal hearing.
Ashford University divides complaints into minor and serious violations. Generally, with the
exception of Academic Integrity violations, any misconduct that will result in less than
separation is considered minor, and any misconduct that is likely to result in suspension or
expulsion is considered serious. If the student accepts responsibility for the violation(s), prior to
the hearing, whether minor or serious, the complaint will be resolved in an informal hearing, as
previously described. If the student does not accept responsibility, minor complaints will be
referred for an informal hearing, and more serious complaints will be referred to the Student
Community Standards Committee for a formal hearing (see subsequent details on the
proceedings of this committee). The Conduct Administrator or designee has discretion to
determine the severity of the alleged violation(s), and whether informal or formal hearing
procedures will apply.
Decisions made by the Student Community Standards Committee or the Conduct Administrator
or designee will be final, and sanctions implemented, pending the normal appeal process,
described subsequently. The Conduct Administrator or designee has the authority to stay
implementation of sanctions pending the appeal, at his or her discretion.
Informal Hearings Procedures
For hearing procedures relating to matters involving sexual misconduct or other sensitive
issues, please see Special Procedural Provisions for Sexual Misconduct Sanction
Hearings located in this section of the Catalog. For minor violations (or admitted serious
violations), the Conduct Administrator or designee will, upon receipt of a written response from
the accused student, schedule a hearing.



Informal hearings will be heard by the Conduct Administrator or designee and will be
non-adversarial and conversational in nature.
Written notice of the time, date, and location of the hearing will be sent to the accused
student at least two (2) business days prior to the informal hearing date and time. The
accused student may additionally be notified in person, by telephone, or by email.
Students may waive the two (2) day notice requirement if they prefer an expedited
hearing.
If a student fails to attend a scheduled hearing, the hearing may proceed as scheduled,
and the Conduct Administrator or designee will make a determination on the basis of
the evidence available at the hearing. If appropriate, sanctions will be implemented. A
student may not avoid the impositions of sanctions by withdrawing with conduct
charges pending. The hearing will still proceed, and any finding of a violation will result
in a “WF” grade and other appropriate transcript notation. The conduct administrator
may also impose an administrative hold on the student’s account in addition to or in lieu
of resolving the charges in the student’s absence. This administrative hold will remove
the student from all future scheduled courses and prevent transcripts from being issued.
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


The hold will not be lifted until the student participates in either an informal or formal
hearing and the Student Community Standards proceedings for the student are closed.
At the informal hearing, witnesses and admissibility of information will be determined at
the discretion of the Conduct Administrator or designee. The informal hearing will
consist mainly of informal questioning and discussion of the alleged incident.
The parties will notify the Conduct Administrator or designee, at least forty-eight (48)
hours prior to the informal hearing, of the names of any advisors who may be
accompanying the parties at the hearing; advisors are to be selected from members of
the Ashford University community unless special permission for an outside advisor is
granted by the Conduct Administrator or designee.
o The advisor is only present to support the student. The advisor will not represent
the student, speak on behalf of the student, or play an active role of any kind in
the informal hearing process.
o Advisors are permitted to speak with the student as necessary, privately or
during the informal hearing, to fully perform a supportive role.
After the informal hearing, the Conduct Administrator or designee will deliberate and
determine whether it is more likely than not that the student has violated the Student
Community Standards. Once a finding is determined, if that finding is that of a policy
violation, the Conduct Administrator or designee will determine an appropriate
sanction. The Conduct Administrator or designee will prepare a written finding, which
will be shared with the accused student no later than two (2) business days following
the hearing.
Student Community Standards Committee Formal Hearing Procedures
For hearing procedures relating to matters involving sexual misconduct or other sensitive
issues, please see Special Procedural Provisions for Sexual Misconduct Sanction Hearings in this
section of the Catalog.
Notice
Written notice of the time, date, and location of the formal hearing will be sent to all parties,
who may additionally be notified in person, by telephone, or by email.
Composition
The Conduct Administrator or designee will name a Student Community Standards Committee
to conduct a formal hearing to review complaints. The Student Community Standards
Committee will consist of members selected by the Conduct Administrator or designee, and will
consist of representatives from full-time faculty, Financial Services, Student Services, the Office
of the Registrar, and senior academic administration. At any formal hearing before the
committee, three (3) committee members and several alternates will be selected to transact
the business of the committee. In sexual misconduct and related hearings, a three-member
administrative panel will be utilized. Any member of such committee who believes he or she
has a conflict of interest rendering him or her incapable of making an impartial decision will
disqualify him or herself from that hearing and the Conduct Administrator or designee will
appoint a person to take his or her place at that hearing.
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Record of Proceeding
Proceedings before the Student Community Standards Committee will be recorded and will be
made available or a copy will be provided to the parties if requested.
Committee Procedures
Once an accused student responds to an alleged violation, the parties will be given a minimum
of seven (7) business days to prepare for a hearing. Students may request to waive the seven
(7) day preparation requirement if they prefer an expedited hearing.
At least forty-eight (48) hours before any scheduled hearing, the following may occur:





The accused student will deliver to the Conduct Administrator or designee a written
response to the complaint;
The parties will deliver to the Conduct Administrator or designee a written list of all
witnesses they each want the University to call on their behalf at the hearing, giving the
full contact information of any such witness, if known;
The parties will deliver to the Conduct Administrator or designee a written list of all
items of physical information the parties intend to use or need to have present at the
hearing, and will provide such information or indicate who has possession or custody of
such information, if known;
The parties will notify the Conduct Administrator or designee, at least forty-eight (48)
hours prior to the formal hearing, of the names of any advisors who may be
accompanying the parties at the hearing; advisors are to be selected from members of
the Ashford University community unless special permission for an outside advisor is
granted by the Conduct Administrator or designee.
o The advisor is only present to support the student. The advisor will not represent
the student, speak on behalf of the student, or play an active role of any kind in
the formal hearing process.
o Advisors are permitted to speak with the student as necessary, privately or
during the formal hearing, to fully perform a supportive role.
The Conduct Administrator or designee will ensure that this information and any other
available written documentation is shared between the complainant(s) and accused
student(s) at least twenty-four (24) hours before any scheduled hearing. Hearing
officers may be unseated if Conduct Administrator or designee concludes that their bias
precludes an impartial hearing of the complaint. Additionally, any Student Community
Standards Committee member or hearing officer who feels they cannot make an
objective determination must recuse himself or herself from the proceedings.
If there is an alleged victim of the conduct in question, the alleged victim may serve as the
complainant, or may elect to have the administration serve as complainant. Where there is no
victim, the administration will serve as complainant. In any joint hearing, separate
determinations will be made as to the responsibility of each student accused. The conduct
administrator may elect to separate hearings that have been referred jointly or join those that
have been referred separately.
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After a formal Student Community Standards Committee hearing, the Committee will
deliberate and determine by majority vote whether it is more likely than not that the student
has violated the Student Community Standards. The Conduct Administrator or designee will
serve as the non-voting Chair during the hearing and deliberations to resolve all questions of
admissibility, evidence and precedent. Once a finding is determined, if that finding is that of a
policy violation, the Student Community Standards Committee will determine an appropriate
sanction. The Chair is responsible for informing the Student Community Standards Committee
of applicable precedent and any relevant previous violations of Student Community Standards
by the accused student. All committee hearings will be recorded and the Chair will be
responsible for completing the hearing file. The Conduct Administrator or designee will prepare
a written deliberation report detailing the finding to include in the case record, including how
each body member voted, the information cited by the body in support of its finding, and any
information that the body excluded from its consideration, and why. This report should
conclude with any recommended sanctions. This report typically should not exceed two pages
in length, and must be submitted to the Conduct Administrator or designee within 48 hours
after the end of deliberations. The Conduct Administrator or designee may make appropriate
modifications and then will implement the final determination and inform the parties within
seven (7) business days after the hearing.
Admissible Information
The committee will consider all information that is relevant and credible. The Committee may
in its discretion limit or bar character witnesses. Any questions of the admissibility of
information will be determined by the Chair. The past sexual history or sexual character of a
party will not be admissible by the other party in hearings unless such information is
determined to be highly relevant by the Chair. All such information sought to be admitted will
be presumed irrelevant, and any request to overcome this presumption by the parties must be
included in the complaint/response or a subsequent written request, and must be reviewed in
advance of the hearing by the Conduct Administrator or designee. While previous violations in
Student Community Standards by the accused student are not generally admissible as
information about the present alleged violation, the Conduct Administrator or designee may
supply previous complaint information to the Committee when it may intend to establish a
pattern in a complaint involving any form of sex/gender discrimination (e.g., stalking,
relationship violence, sexual harassment, sexual misconduct, etc.).
Sanctions
The following sanctions may be imposed upon any student found to have violated the Student
Community Standards:
Written Warning: A notice in writing to the student that the student is violating or has violated
institutional policies. The letter informs the student that continued misconduct will result in
further conduct action up to and including removal from the University. The letter will be
emailed and/or delivered to the student’s campus address for Clinton Campus students. For
online students, the letter will be sent to the student’s email address on file with the University.
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Types of Probation
Conduct Probation: The hearing body determines the beginning and ending dates. Students on
conduct probation may incur additional sanctions for any subsequent violation of University
policies and/or rules, whether or not this violation is related to the original violation for which
conduct probation was imposed.
Probation Restrictions: Students on probation may be subject to the following restrictions:

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They may not hold any office or leadership role in any student or University organization
or activity.
They may not represent the University in any on- or off-campus event.
Other restrictions may be established for individual situations by the Conduct
Administrator or designee.
Loss of Privileges: Means a denial of specified privileges for a definite period of time. Privileges
that may be lost include, but are not limited to, the following:
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Restricted Access: Student may be restricted from entering specified buildings or areas
on campus, from attendance at specified campus events, or from use of specified
equipment or facilities for definite periods of time.
Fines: Fines may be imposed to restore damage to physical property. In addition, the
hearing body may recommend that the University refuse: (1) to grant academic credits
or degrees; or (2) to issue grades or transcripts to the student offender(s) or student
member(s) of an offending organization, until such fine is paid. The method of payment
will be specified by the hearing body imposing the fine.
Restitution: Compensation for loss, damage, or injury. This may take the form of
appropriate service and/or monetary or material replacement. The conduct body may
recommend that the University refuse: (1) to grant academic credits or degrees; or (2)
to issue grades or transcripts to the student offender(s) or student member(s) of an
offending organization, until restitution is complete.
Educational Projects: Completion of an educational or developmental project such as,
but not limited to, the following: attending a specific workshop or program, writing an
article or research paper on a specified topic, making an oral presentation to a campus
group, participating in specified counseling/evaluation, work assignments, and/or
service to the University. The Conduct Administrator or designee may develop
additional educational sanctions to meet individual student needs on a case-by-case
basis.
Suspension: Separation of the student from campus/online university access, classes
and all privileges for a definite period of time, after which the student is eligible to
return. The offender may not be on campus at any time or participate in University
classes except to come to the Administration Building for matters directly related to the
suspension. In cases where suspension prevents the completion of course work, the
student will receive a “W” grade. Tuition and fees will be refunded as per applicable
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
refund policies outlined in the Financial Information section of this Catalog. Any
conditions for readmission will be stated in the order of suspension.
Expulsion: Permanent separation of the student from the University. Tuition and fees
will be refunded as per applicable refund policies outlined in the Financial Information
section of this Catalog. The student is barred from being present on-campus and at
University-sponsored events.
The following sanctions may be imposed upon groups or organizations:


Those sanctions listed previously;
Deactivation: Loss of all privileges, including University recognition, for a specified
period of time.
More than one of the sanctions listed previously may be imposed for any single violation.
Special Provisions
Attempted Violations
In most circumstances, Ashford University will treat attempts to commit any of the violations
listed in the Student Community Standards as if those attempts had been completed.
University as Complainant
As necessary, Ashford University reserves the right to initiate a complaint, to serve as
complainant, and to initiate conduct proceedings without a formal complaint by the victim of
misconduct.
False Reports
Ashford University will not tolerate intentional false reporting of incidents. It is a violation of
the Student Community Standards to make an intentionally false report of any policy violation,
and it may also violate state criminal statutes and civil defamation laws.
Group Violations
When members of groups, individuals acting collusively, or members of an organization act in
concert in violation of any policy, they may be held accountable as a group, and a hearing may
proceed against the group as joint accused students. In any such action, however,
determinations will be made with respect to the involvement of each accused individual.
Immunity for Victims
Ashford University encourages the reporting of conduct code violations and crimes by victims.
Sometimes, victims are hesitant to report to University officials because they fear that they
themselves may be accused of policy violations, such as underage drinking at the time of the
incident. It is in the best interests of this community that as many victims as possible choose to
report to University officials. To encourage reporting, Ashford University pursues a policy of
offering victims of crimes amnesty from policy violations related to the incident.
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Good Samaritan
The welfare of students in the University community is of paramount importance. At times,
students on and off-campus may need assistance. Ashford University encourages students to
offer help and assistance to others in need. Sometimes, students are hesitant to offer
assistance to others, for fear that they may get themselves in trouble (for example, as student
who has been drinking underage might hesitate to help take a sexual misconduct victim to
Campus Security). Ashford University pursues a policy of immunity for students who offer help
to others in need for any minor violations the Good Samaritan was involved in at the time.
Parental Notification
Ashford University reserves the right to notify parents/guardians of dependent students
regarding any conduct situation, particularly alcohol and other drug violations. The University
may also notify parents/guardians of non-dependent students who are under age 21 of alcohol
and/or drug policy violations. Where a student is non-dependent, Ashford University will
contact parents/guardians to inform them of situations in which there is a health and/or safety
risk. Ashford University also reserves the right to designate which University officials have a
need to know about individual conduct complaints pursuant to the Family Educational Rights
and Privacy Act (FERPA).
Notification of Outcomes
The outcome of a Student Community Standards hearing is part of the education record of any
student personally identified, and is protected from release under FERPA, a federal law.
However, Ashford University observes the following legal exceptions:
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Complainants and accused in sexual misconduct and sexual harassment incidents have a
right to be informed of the outcome and sanctions of the hearing, in writing, without
condition or limitation, and to be kept apprised of the status of investigations;
The University may release the final results of a disciplinary proceeding in which a
student who is an alleged perpetrator of a crime of violence or non-forcible sex offense,
is found in violation of the University’s Student Community Standards. A crime of
violence includes arson, burglary, robbery, criminal homicide (manslaughter by
negligence, murder, and non-negligent manslaughter), forcible sex offenses, assault,
destruction/damage/vandalism of property and kidnapping/abduction. The University
may not disclose the name of any other student, including the victim or witness, without
the prior written consent of the other student. The University will also release this
information to the complainant in any of these offenses regardless of the outcome;
In the event that the alleged victim is deceased as a result of the crime or offense, the
notification will be made to next of kin (upon written request).
Remedy of the effect of a sexual offense may include changes to the academic and residential
housing of the complainant.
Defenses
It has become common for students accused of policy violations to try to defend their actions
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with excuses, such as prescription drug interactions, self-defense, alcohol, etc. Defending
actions is admitting to a policy violation. While a student’s defense will not excuse his or her
actions, Ashford University will take the legitimacy of his or her defense into consideration in
addressing the proper sanction.
Emergency Administrative Leave
In situations requiring immediate action, and after consultation with concerned individuals
(e.g., students, faculty, administrators, other staff members, internship, or student teaching
supervisors, etc.), the Conduct Administrator or designee may place the student on an
emergency administrative leave. Students placed on Emergency Administrative Leave are
removed from all current and future courses.
During Emergency Administrative Leave, the University administration will conduct a timely
investigation. Students will remain on an administrative leave no more than 14 days from the
student’s last date of attendance. Within that 14-day period, the University administration will
follow University procedures for administration of the Student Community Standards and
render a decision as to any change in status and/or and sanctions to be imposed by the
University. Students on Emergency Administrative Leave are not permitted to return to campus
or to participate in University classes or events.
Involuntary Leave
Ashford University considers the safety and well-being of its students, faculty, and staff as a top
priority. The Involuntary Leave policy is not intended to be a substitute for appropriate
disciplinary action when discipline is warranted, but may be used in cases when regular
disciplinary proceedings cannot or should not be used, and after attempts to encourage the
student to initiate a Voluntary Leave have been exhausted. Involuntary Leave is available to
protect the health and safety of the University Community and is not a penalty.
Grounds for Involuntary Leave
A student may be subjected to Involuntary Leave if there is evidence that the student’s
continued attendance presents an unreasonable risk of harm to members of the University
Community. The leave will endure for a pre-determined period, or until the student no longer
poses an unreasonable risk of harm, at which time the leave will end and the student will be
reinstated. Grounds for Involuntary Leave include representing a significant threat to the safety
and/or health of members of the University Community
Procedure
When the Conduct Administrator or designee receives credible information regarding a
student’s behavior, statements, or actions that may constitute grounds for Involuntary Leave,
the Conduct Administrator or designee will meet with the student to review the reported
behavior, actions, and/or statements. If the Conduct Administrator or designee has a
reasonable basis to believe that that the student meets the criteria for Involuntary Leave, he or
she may take any of the following actions:
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

Impose an immediate Emergency Administrative Leave if there is compelling evidence
that the student poses high probability of substantial harm to others that cannot be
mitigated by appropriate accommodations; and/or
Require the evaluation of the student by an appropriate professional chosen by the
University. The cost of the evaluation shall be paid for by the University. The evaluation
shall be completed within 10 business days after the initial meeting with the Conduct
Administrator or designee, unless an extension is granted.
Evaluation
In situations where a mandatory evaluation by a professional is expected, the student will be
expected to sign written authorization to allow for the exchange of relevant information
between the University and the evaluating professional. Failure to cooperate with the
evaluation or sign the written authorization may result in a referral to the student conduct
process. The professional making the evaluation shall assess the student’s ability to safely
participate in the University’s educational program. The assessment shall inform the Office of
Student Affairs’ determination of:

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
The severity of risk posed by the student to the health and safety of members of the
University community;
The probability that potential harm may occur; and,
Whether reasonable modification of policies, practices, and procedures will sufficiently
mitigate the risk.
If the evaluation results in a determination that the student’s continued attendance poses no
significant threat to the health and safety of others, the University will take no further action
under the Involuntary Leave policy.
If the evaluation results in a determination that the continued attendance of the student
presents a significant threat to the health and safety of others, the University may refer the
matter to the Student Affairs department and/or will conduct an Involuntary Leave hearing to
make an individualized and objective assessment of the student’s ability to safely participate in
the University’s educational program. The assessment will include a determination of the
severity of risk posed by the student, the probability that potential harm may occur, and
whether reasonable modifications of policies, practices, and procedures will sufficiently
mitigate the risk. The student may provide evidence showing he or she should not be placed on
Involuntary Leave. If the hearing determines it is more likely than not that there is a direct
threat of harm to others based on a high probability of substantial harm, the student will be
placed on leave from the University until it can be demonstrated that the student no longer
poses a direct threat and has met all appropriate conditions for return.
Appeals of an Involuntary Leave will be handled in accordance with the Ashford University
grievance procedures.
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During the period of either Emergency Administrative Leave or during a time period of
Involuntary Leave after assessment, the student is not permitted to participate in University
courses or events, or be present in any University facility or on any campus, except by the
express permission of the Conduct Administrator or designee.
Appeal of Involuntary Leave after Evaluation or Emergency Administrative Leave
In situations where a student is involuntarily withdrawn as a result of either an Emergency
Administrative Leave or as an action determined appropriate from the results of the
assessment, a student shall be informed of his or her right to appeal the University’s decision
regarding the Involuntary Leave.
The appeal shall be in writing and directed to the VP/Campus Director (Clinton Campus
modality) or the Vice President of Student Affairs, & Retention and Graduation (online
modality) or designee and shall be received within ten (10) business days of the determination
of the Involuntary Leave. Upon receipt of the appeal, the VP/Campus Director (Clinton Campus)
or Vice President of Student Affairs, & Retention and Graduation (online) or designee shall set
a hearing date no later than 15 business days after receipt of the appeal. The hearing shall be
an informal proceeding and is not considered adversarial.
At the hearing, the student will be provided with the opportunity to review any evaluations
utilized by the University in the determination to invoke the Involuntary Leave policy. The
student will also be provided with the opportunity to present relevant information from his or
her perspective. The student may be accompanied by a person acting as an advocate who may
be a family member or friend or member of the University community. The VP/Campus Director
(Clinton Campus) or the Vice President of Student Affairs, & Retention and Graduation (online)
or designee will review all the information presented in the hearing and make a determination
of whether to uphold the involuntary leave of the student or consider readmission to the
University.
Readmission to the University
A student who is involuntarily withdrawn under the Involuntary Leave policy will have the
opportunity to be reinstated according to the time period specified in the decision letter from
the Conduct Administrator or designee. The University may impose conditions upon the reenrollment status as appropriate.
Consequences to Course Grades and Tuition or Other Fee Charges
If the Involuntary Leave policy is invoked, the student will normally receive “W” grades
(withdraw grades) in all courses in which he or she is currently enrolled, and will be considered
eligible for a tuition credit upon re-enrollment. Regular tuition charges and other applicable
fees will be refunded per the tuition refund policies outlined in the Financial Information
section of this Catalog, based on the student’s last date of attendance.
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Appendix B: Employee Handbook Procedures
2.22 Corrective Action
The Company may impose corrective action, including verbal or written discipline, suspension
and/or termination to address performance problems or violations of Company policies. The
Company may, in its sole discretion, use whatever form of discipline is deemed appropriate, up
to and including termination of employment.
The Company’s use of discipline does not alter the at-will employment status of its employees.
Accordingly, either the employee or the Company can terminate the employment relationship
at will, at any time, with or without reason and with or without notice.
2.23 Grievance Procedure
These procedures apply to staff, faculty, and administrative employees who occupy positions
other than “temporary” and have achieved regular employment status.
Any employee of the Company, regardless of status, may bring to the attention of his/her
supervisor, the appropriate dean or director, or the Employee Relations Representative,
allegations discussed in section A below.
Purpose, Concepts and Definitions
The purpose of this procedure is to promote prompt and efficient investigation and resolution
of grievances at the Company. These procedures shall be the method for resolving grievances.
A. Grievance: The term “grievance” as defined in this policy shall apply to the following:


A grievance is a written complaint by an individual employee or a group of employees
alleging that the employee’s employment rights and entitlements have been adversely
affected due to a violation, misapplication or misinterpretation of Company policies,
regulations, or procedures as outlined in this Handbook.
a claim by an individual employee regarding a specific management act which is alleged
to have adversely affected the employee's existing terms or conditions of employment
This grievance process does not apply to cases of alleged civil rights discrimination, sexual
harassment or other forms of harassment. Guidelines and processes for complaints of
discrimination or harassment are outlined in this Handbook at Section 4.3. Section 4.3 applies
to all employees regardless of status.
B. Grievant: The term “grievant” shall mean a staff, faculty or administrative employee (or
group of employees) employed by the Company at the time of the action giving rise to the
grievance. A Grievant who voluntarily resigns or retires from employment with the Company
shall have their pending grievance(s) immediately withdrawn and will not benefit by any
subsequent settlement or disposition of any individual or group grievance.
Days: The term “working days” shall mean those days when the business offices of the
Company are open. The term “calendar days” refers to all days in the month including
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weekends and holidays. Deadlines that fall on a day that is not a regular business day will
automatically be extended to the next business day.
The commitment of both the Company and the grievant is necessary so that the grievance
procedure will achieve its designed objectives.
Steps in the Grievance Procedure and time limits generally are followed as outlined below.
Omission or re-ordering of one or more steps in the procedure may be approved in writing by
the Vice President of Human Resources if the circumstances of the grievance justify such action.
Delays in time limits at any step in the process may be requested and approved by the
Company or the employee.
Offers of Settlement: Settlement offers made at any stage of this grievance process including
informal resolution, shall be inadmissible as evidence in subsequent steps of this process.
Informal Resolution
It is intended that, whenever possible, all grievances and/or concerns be resolved informally,
before the filing of a formal grievance. Open communication between supervisors and
subordinates is encouraged so that resorting to the formal grievance steps will not be
necessary.
Employees should first discuss the issues giving rise to the grievance and/or concerns with their
immediate supervisors, who may be able to affect a prompt resolution. If your grievance
involves your supervisor, you should address your concerns with the next higher supervisor on
the organizational chart. In addition, during this informal process, the supervisor and/or
employee are encouraged to contact an Employee Relations Representative for assistance in
resolving grievances informally. Employee Relations will attempt to facilitate a satisfactory
resolution for both parties.
Formal Resolution of Problems
Step 1 - Written Grievance
If the grievance is not resolved satisfactorily at the informal level and the grievant wishes to
pursue the matter further, the grievant may file a formal written grievance with the Human
Resources office within thirty (30) calendar days from the date on which the employee knew or
could be expected to know of the event giving rise to the grievance.
The formal written grievance shall be submitted on the form located at
http://insite.bridgepoint.local/dept/hr/Documents/EMPLOYEE%20GRIEVANCE%20FORM.docx
The written grievance shall state the specific policy, regulation, or procedure alleged to have
been misinterpreted, misapplied, or violated and/or the grievance must indicate the specific
management act which has adversely affected the employee’s existing terms and conditions of
employment. The grievance must also indicate the effect on the grievant, the date(s) of the
action grieved and the relief requested.
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Employees may file the written grievance by submitting an Employee Relations ticket via the HR
ticketing system (Employee Relations/File and Employee Relations Grievance), and uploading
the completed grievance form to the ticket. Alternatively, employees may file the written
grievance by personal delivery to Human Resources at the Evening Creek location, BPI Building
First Floor or the grievance form may be scanned and sent via email to
grievance@bridgepointeducation.com. The business hours for Human Resources are 8:00am5:00pm Pacific Time. A grievance must be received between 8:00am-5:00pm Pacific Time. Any
grievance received after 5:00pm Pacific Time will be considered filed the next business day.
Once the grievance has been accepted for processing, the Human Resources office will forward
the Step 1 grievance to the employee’s supervisor unless the grievance involves the employee’s
supervisor. If the grievance involves the employee’s direct supervisor, the grievance will be
forwarded to the next level supervisor.
The supervisor (or appropriate level supervisor), upon receiving the grievance, shall investigate
the matter as appropriate and respond to the grievant orally or in writing through the Human
Resources office within fifteen (15) working days of the date the grievance was received by the
supervisor. If the response is not issued within this time limit, or if the grievance is not resolved
at Step 1, the grievant may appeal the grievance to Step 2.
Step 2 – Grievance Review
If the grievance is not resolved at Step 1, the grievant may proceed to Step 2 by filing a written
appeal of the Step 1 decision with the Human Resources office. This written appeal to Step 2
must be received by the Human Resources office within ten (10) working days of the date of the
Step 1 decision. The appeal to Step 2 shall state the issues that remain unresolved from Step 1,
the specific policy, regulation, or procedure alleged to have been misinterpreted, misapplied, or
violated and/or the grievance must indicate the specific management act alleged to have
adversely affected the employee’s existing terms and conditions of employment. The grievance
must also indicate the effect on the grievant, the date(s) of the action grieved and the relief
requested.
The Human Resources office will forward the Step 2 appeal to the supervisor of the Step 1
responder or his/her designee.
The Step 2 responder shall investigate the grievance as appropriate and respond to the grievant
in writing through the Human Resources Department, within fifteen (15) working days from the
date of receipt of the Step 2 appeal.
Step 3 - Grievance Review - Sr. Vice President of Human Resources
Following the issuance of the Step 2 response, if the grievance is not resolved satisfactorily at
Step 2, the grievant may proceed to Step 3 by filing a written appeal of the Step 2 decision with
the Human Resources office. The written appeal to Step 3 must be received by the Human
Resources’ office within ten (10) working days of the date of the Step 2 decision. The written
submission at Step 3 shall state the issues that remain unresolved, the specific policy,
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regulation or procedure alleged to have been misinterpreted, misapplied, or violated and/or
the grievance must indicate the specific management act which has alleged to have adversely
affected the employee’s existing terms and conditions of employment. The grievance must also
indicate the effect on the grievant, the date(s) of the action grieved and the relief requested.
The Step 3 appeal will be forwarded to the Sr. Vice President for Human Resources. The Sr. Vice
President of Human Resources or his/her designee will review the matter and respond to the
grievant orally or in writing within twenty (20) working days from the date of the receipt of the
Step 3 appeal. The decision at Step 3 shall be final and binding.
Policy on Retaliation
No employee shall be discriminated or retaliated against or otherwise treated unfairly for filing
a grievance, testifying or assisting in the investigation process pursuant to this grievance
procedure.
2.24 Arbitration Agreement
Introduction
Binding arbitration of disputes, rather than litigation in courts, provides an effective means for
resolving issues arising in or from an employment situation. Arbitration is generally faster,
cheaper and less formal for all parties. Bridgepoint Education, Ashford University, and
University of the Rockies (collectively referred to as “the Company”) are committed to using
binding arbitration to resolve all legal disputes, whether initiated by the Company or by an
employee, in a forum which provides this alternative to the court system. As a condition of
employment, employees must also agree to use the arbitration forum. The Company’s
agreement to use binding arbitration is confirmed by this statement; your agreement is
confirmed by your acceptance and/or continuing your employment with the Company.
Agreement
The Company and employee will utilize binding arbitration to resolve all disputes that may arise
out of the employment context. Both the Company and employee agree that any claim,
dispute, and/or controversy that either employee may have against the Company (or its
owners, directors, officers, managers, employees, agents, affiliated entities and parties
affiliated with its employee benefit and health plans) or the Company may have against
employee, arising from, related to, or having any relationship or connection whatsoever with
my seeking employment by, my continuing employment with, or any other association with the
Company, shall be submitted to and determined exclusively by binding arbitration pursuant to
the Federal Arbitration Act.
Included Claims
Included within the scope of this agreement are all disputes, whether they be based on the
California Fair Employment and Housing Act, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as
amended, or any other state or federal law or regulation, common law, or otherwise, with
exception of claims arising under the National Labor Relations Act which are brought before the
National Labor Relations Board, claims for medical and disability benefits under the California
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Workers’ Compensation Act, Employment Development Department claims, or as otherwise
required by state or federal law.
In addition to addressing any and all Claims, the Arbitrator shall have exclusive authority to
resolve any dispute relating to the arbitrability of any claim or the formation, interpretation,
application, enforceability, or legality of this Agreement.
However, nothing herein shall prevent an employee from filing and participating in proceedings
before the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing, or the United States Equal
Employment Opportunity Commission or any other similar state agency (although if such a
claim is pursued following the exhaustion of such administrative remedies, that claim would be
subject to these provisions). Further, if either party’s claim is within the jurisdictional limit of
the local small claims court ($7,500 in California at the time of drafting) the party asserting such
claims may opt out of this arbitration agreement and elect to pursue those claims in the small
claims court.
In addition, the employee and the Company retain the right to apply to any court of competent
jurisdiction for provisional relief, including pre-arbitral attachments or preliminary injunctions.
Procedures
Claims should be raised as promptly as possible, but in no event later than the time provided by
the applicable limitations period.
In addition to any other requirements imposed by law, the arbitrator selected shall be a retired
Judge, or otherwise qualified individual to whom the parties mutually agree, and shall be
subject to disqualification on the same grounds as would apply to a judge in a court of law.
Except as provided in this Arbitration Agreement, the arbitration shall be held in accordance
with the then current Employment Arbitration Rules of the American Arbitration Association,
which are available at www.adr.org/employment or which will be provided to you by the
Company upon request. The arbitrator shall have the authority to order such discovery, by way
of deposition, interrogatory, document production, or otherwise, as the arbitrator considers
necessary to a full and fair exploration of the issues in dispute, consistent with the expedited
nature of arbitration. Consistent with the efficiencies of arbitration, the arbitrator may also
allow for the hearing of any motions, including motions for summary judgment or dismissal.
Resolution of the dispute shall be based solely upon the law governing the claims and defenses
pleaded, and the arbitrator may not invoke any basis (including but not limited to, notions of
“just cause”) other than such controlling law. The arbitrator may award any remedy or relief
available in a court of law, consistent with applicable legal standards. The arbitrator shall not
have the authority to combine individually filed arbitrations into a class action or collective
action or consider claims on a class, collective, or representative basis. Awards shall include the
arbitrator’s written reasoned opinion and a court of competent jurisdiction shall have the
authority to enter a judgment upon the award.
The arbitration shall be held in a location agreed to by the parties or as ordered by the
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arbitrator.
Class Action Waiver
All claims must be brought in the parties’ individual capacities and not as a representative or
class member in any purported class, collective, Private Attorney General or representative
proceeding. There will be no right or authority for any dispute to be brought, heard or
arbitrated as a class, collective or representative action or as a class member in any purported
class, collective action, Private Attorney General or representative proceeding.
Costs and Fees
Each party will pay his, her or its own attorney’s fees, subject to any remedies to which that
party may later be entitled under applicable law. The Company shall initially bear the
administrative costs associated with conduct of the arbitration, subject to: (1) a one-time
payment by the employee toward these costs that is equal to the filing fee then required by the
court of general jurisdiction in the state where the employee works; and (2) any subsequent
award of the arbitrator in accordance with applicable law.
Severability
Should any term or provision, or portion thereof, be declared void or unenforceable or deemed
in contravention of law, it shall be severed and/or modified by the arbitrator or court and the
remainder of this agreement shall be enforceable.
Entire Agreement
This agreement supersedes any and all prior agreements regarding arbitration.
Jury Waiver
I understand that by agreeing to this agreement, both employee and the Company waive
his/her/its rights to trial by jury.
Appendix C: Privacy of Student Records
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974
The U.S. Department of Education's Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
regulations afford students certain rights with respect to their education records. FERPA rights
begin upon the student’s enrollment, which occurs when the student has been admitted to the
University and attends any portion of a course. FERPA protected rights include the following:
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.

Students should submit written requests that identify the record(s) they wish to inspect
to the University Registrar or the Associate University Registrar-Campus Services. The
Registrar will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and
place where the records may be inspected. If the records are not maintained by the
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Registrar’s Office, the Registrar’s Office will facilitate the student’s access to the
requested records.
2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student
believes is inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy
rights under FERPA.



Students may ask the University to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate,
misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA. They
should write to the Registrar, clearly identifying the part of the record they want
changed, and specifying why it should be changed.
If the University decides not to amend the record as requested by the student, the
University Registrar will notify the student in writing of the decision and advise the
student of his or her right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional
information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when
notified of the right to a hearing.
If, as a result of the hearing, Ashford University decides that the information in the
education record is not inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the privacy
rights of the student, the student will be afforded the opportunity to place with the
education record a statement commenting on the contested information in the record
and/or a statement setting forth any reason for disagreeing with the decision of the
hearing. The statement placed in the education record by the student will be
maintained with the contested part of the record for as long as the record is maintained.
When the related record is disclosed to an authorized party, the record will include the
statement filed by the student.
3. The right to provide written consent prior to disclosures of personally identifiable
information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that
FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.

An exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials
with legitimate educational interests. A school official has a legitimate educational
interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her
professional responsibilities for the University. A school official may include any of the
following:
o A person employed by the University in an administrative, supervisory,
academic, research, or support staff position (including law enforcement unit
personnel and health staff);
o A person or company with whom the University has contracted (such as an
attorney, auditor, or collection agent);
o A person or organization acting as an official agent of the institution and
performing a business function or service on behalf of the institution;
o A person serving on the Board of Trustees; or
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A student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary committee, or
assisting another school official in performing his or her professional
responsibilities.
Upon request, the University discloses education records without consent to officials of
another school in which a student seeks or intends to enroll, or is already enrolled so
long as the disclosure is for purposes related to the student’s enrollment or transfer.
The University may disclose education records without consent in connection with
financial aid for which the student has applied or which the student has received, if the
information is necessary to determine eligibility for the aid, determine the amount of
the aid, determine the conditions of the aid, or enforce the terms and conditions for the
aid.
The University may disclose education records without consent to parents in the
following circumstances:
o When a student is a dependent student as defined in Section 152 of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986;
o When the student has violated any federal, state, or local law, or any rule or
policy of Ashford University, governing the use or possession of alcohol or a
controlled substance if Ashford University determines that the student has
committed a disciplinary violation with respect to that use or possession, and the
student is under the age of 21 at the time of the disclosure to the parent; or
o The disclosure is in connection with a health or safety emergency.
The University may disclose education records without consent when the information is
deemed necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or other individuals in
an emergency.
The University may disclose education records without consent to comply with a judicial
order or lawfully issued subpoena.
Directory information can be published and/or disclosed to outside organizations
without a student’s prior written consent. “Directory information” means information
contained in an education record of a student that would not generally be considered
harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed. If the student does not want Ashford
University to disclose directory information from his or her education records without
prior written consent, the student must notify the University Registrar in writing. A
request for nondisclosure of directory information is valid unless or until the student
requests a change in writing. Ashford University has designated the following
information as directory information:
o Student’s name
o Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
o Address
o Telephone listing
o Weight and height of members of athletic teams
o Electronic mail address
o Photograph
o Degrees, honors, and awards received
o Date and place of birth
o






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Major field of study
Dates of attendance
Grade level
The most recent educational agency or institution attended
Enrollment status (e.g., undergraduate or graduate, full-time or part-time)
Class rosters within the classroom
The University may disclose education records without consent to authorized
representatives of the U. S. Comptroller General, the U. S. Attorney General, the U.S.
Secretary of Education, or state and local educational authorities, such as a state
postsecondary authority that is responsible for supervising the University’s statesupported education programs.
o Disclosures under this provision may be made in connection with an audit or
evaluation of federal- or state-supported education programs, or for the
enforcement of or compliance with federal legal requirements that relate to
those programs. These entities may make further disclosures to outside entities
that are designated by them as their authorized representatives to conduct any
audit, evaluation, or enforcement or compliance activity on their behalf.
The University may disclose education records without consent to accrediting
organizations to carry out their accrediting functions.
The University may disclose education records without consent to organizations
conducting studies for, or on behalf of, the school, in order to: (a) develop, validate, or
administer predictive tests; (b) administer student aid programs; or (c) improve
instruction.
The outcome of a campus hearing is part of the education record of any student
personally identified, and is protected from release under FERPA. However, Ashford
University observes the following legal exceptions:
o Complainants and accused in sexual misconduct and sexual harassment incidents
have a right to be informed of the outcome and sanctions of the hearing, in
writing, without condition or limitation, and to be kept apprised of the status of
investigations;
o The University may release the final results of a disciplinary proceeding in which
a student who is an alleged perpetrator of a crime of violence* or non-forcible
sex offense, is found in violation of the University’s Student Community
Standards. The University may not disclose the name of any other student,
including the victim or witness, without the prior written consent of the other
student. The University will also release this information to the complainant in
any of these offenses regardless of the outcome;
o In the event that the alleged victim is deceased as a result of the crime or
offense, the notification will be made to next of kin (upon written request).
o
o
o
o
o
o




*A crime of violence includes arson, burglary, robbery, criminal homicide (manslaughter by
negligence, murder, and non-negligent manslaughter), forcible sex offenses, assault,
destruction/damage/vandalism of property and kidnapping/abduction.
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The University may also disclose education records without consent under other exceptions
authorized by FERPA.
4. The right to file a complaint with the US Department of Education concerning alleged
failures by Ashford University to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and
address of the Office that administers FERPA is:
Family Policy Compliance Office
US Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202-5920
Appendix D: Sexual Misconduct/Harassment Policy
Gender/Sexual Discrimination, Misconduct, Harassment or Violence - Title IX/SaVE Purpose
Ashford University is committed to maintaining an academic climate in which individuals of the
university community have access to an opportunity to benefit fully from the University’s
programs and activities. When students experience acts of sexual misconduct, their sense of
safety and trust is violated. This can significantly interfere with their lives, including their
educational goals. This policy has been developed to proactively create a campus environment
in which incidents of sexual misconduct can be promptly and effectively responded to without
further victimization, retaliation, and with possible remediation of its effects.
Sexual Misconduct/Harassment Policy
The University considered the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013 (VAWA),
and for the purposes of this Policy, the various sexual misconduct definitions listed below are by
applicable jurisdictions. Definitions may vary by state.
Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment includes unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature, such as unwelcome sexual
advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal, nonverbal, or physical conduct of a
sexual nature that has the effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual's academic or
work performance, or creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment. Sexual
violence is a form of sexual harassment prohibited by Title IX/SaVE.
Three Types of Sexual Harassment
1. Hostile Environment includes any situation in which there is harassing conduct that is
sufficiently severe, pervasive/persistent or patently offensive so that it alters the
conditions of education or employment, from both a subjective (the alleged victim’s)
and an objective (reasonable person’s) viewpoint. The determination of whether an
environment is “hostile” must be based on all of the circumstances. These
circumstances could include:
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








The frequency of the conduct;
The nature and severity of the conduct;
Whether the conduct was physically threatening;
Whether the conduct was humiliating;
The effect of the conduct on the alleged victim’s mental or emotional state;
Whether the conduct was directed at more than one person;
Whether the conduct arose in the context of other discriminatory conduct;
Whether the statement is a mere utterance of an epithet which engenders
offense in an individual, or offends by mere discourtesy or rudeness; and
Whether the speech or conduct deserves the protections under other principles
such as academic freedom.
Hostile Environment sexual harassment may occur in student to student, faculty/staff to
student or student to faculty/staff relationships or third party to student/faculty/staff.
2. Quid pro quo sexual harassment exists when there are:


Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors or other verbal or
physical conduct of a sexual nature; and
Submission to or rejection of such conduct results in adverse educational or
employment action.
Quid Pro Quo sexual harassment may occur in student to student, faculty/staff to student or
student to faculty/staff relationships.
3. Retaliation

The University will sanction a faculty, student, or staff member who takes
adverse action against a person because of the person’s participation in or
support of an investigation of Sexual Misconduct/Harassment. Adverse action
includes, but is not limited to, threats, harassment, intimidation (implied threats)
or actual violence against the person or his or her property, adverse educational
or employment consequences, ridicule, taunting, bullying, or ostracism.
Retaliation sexual harassment may occur in student to student, faculty/staff to student or
student to faculty/staff relationships, or third party to student/faculty/staff.
Title IX/SaVE also prohibits gender-based harassment, which may include acts of verbal,
nonverbal, or physical aggression, intimidation, or hostility based on sex or sex-stereotyping,
even if those acts do not involve conduct of a sexual nature.
Definitions and Examples of Sexual Misconduct/Harassment
Sexual Misconduct Offenses include, but are not limited to:
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




Sexual Violence
Sexual Assault
Domestic and/or Dating Violence
Stalking
Sexual Exploitation
The University reserves the right to determine the applicable definition based upon factors
including but not limited to location of alleged offense, applicable laws or location of the
University. Under University policy or Title IX or other federal law, conduct may constitute sexual
misconduct/harassment even though that conduct does not meet a specific state or other
definition of an offense.
Sexual Violence
Sexual violence is defined as physical sexual acts perpetrated against a person’s will or where a
person is incapable of giving consent. A number of different acts fall into the category of sexual
violence, including, rape, sexual assault, sexual battery, sexual abuse, and sexual coercion,
domestic violence, dating violence, and/or stalking. Sexual violence can be carried out by
University employees, other students, or third parties. All such acts of sexual violence are forms
of sex discrimination prohibited by Title IX.
Consent
Consent means cooperation in act or attitude pursuant to an exercise of free will and with
knowledge of the nature of the act. A current or previous relationship shall not be sufficient to
constitute consent. Submission under the influence of fear shall not constitute consent.
Incapacitation
Incapacitation is the physical and/or mental inability to make informed, rational judgments.
States of incapacitation include, but are not limited to, unconsciousness, sleep, and blackouts.
Where alcohol or drugs are involved, incapacitation is defined with respect to how the alcohol
or other drugs consumed affects a person’s decision-making capacity, awareness of
consequences, and ability to make fully informed judgments. Being intoxicated by drugs or
alcohol does not diminish one’s responsibilities to obtain consent. The factors to be considered
when determining whether consent was given include whether the accused knew, or whether a
reasonable person should have known, that the complainant was incapacitated.
Sexual Assault
Any person who knowingly inflicts sexual intrusion or sexual penetration on a victim commits
sexual assault if:


The person causes submission of the victim by means of sufficient consequence
reasonably calculated to cause submission against the victim's will; or
The person knows that the victim is incapable of appraising the nature of the victim’s
conduct; or
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





The person knows that the victim submits erroneously, believing the person to be the
victim’s spouse; or
At the time of the commission of the act, the victim is less than fifteen years of age and
the person is at least four years older than the victim and is not the spouse of the victim;
or
At the time of the commission of the act, the victim is at least fifteen years of age but
less than seventeen years of age and the person is at least ten years older than the
victim and is not the spouse of the victim; or
The victim is in custody of law or detained in a hospital or other institution and the
person has supervisory or disciplinary authority over the victim and uses this position of
authority to coerce the victim to submit, unless the act is incident to a lawful search; or
The person, while purporting to offer a medical service, engages in treatment or
examination of a victim for other than a bona fide medical purpose or in a manner
substantially inconsistent with reasonable medical practices; or
The victim is physically helpless and the person knows the victim is physically helpless
and the victim has not consented.
Domestic Violence
Domestic violence means an act or threatened act of violence upon a victim with whom the
person is or has been involved in an intimate relationship. “Intimate relationship” means a
relationship between spouses, former spouses, past or present unmarried couples, or persons
who are both the parents of the same child regardless of whether the persons have been
married or have lived together at any time. Domestic violence also includes any other crime
against a victim, or against property, including an animal, or any municipal ordinance violation
against a person, or against property, including an animal, when used as a method of coercion,
control, punishment, intimidation, or revenge directed against a victim with whom the person
is or has been involved in an intimate relationship.
Dating Violence
The term “dating violence” means violence committed by a person who is or has been in a
social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with the victim; and where the existence of
such a relationship shall be determined based on a consideration of the following factors:



The length of the relationship.
The type of relationship.
The frequency of interaction between the persons involved in the relationship.
Stalking
A person commits stalking if directly, or indirectly through another person, the person
knowingly:

Makes a credible threat to another person and, in connection with the threat,
repeatedly follows, approaches, contacts, or places under surveillance that person, a
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

member of that person’s immediate family, or someone with whom that person has or
has had a continuing relationship; or
Makes a credible threat to another person and, in connection with the threat,
repeatedly makes any form of communication with that person, a member of that
person’s immediate family, or someone with whom that person has or has had a
continuing relationship, regardless of whether a conversation ensues; or
Repeatedly follows, approaches, contacts, places under surveillance, or makes any form
of communication with another person, a member of that person’s immediate family, or
someone with whom that person has or has had a continuing relationship in a manner
that would cause a reasonable person to suffer serious emotional distress and does
cause that person, a member of that person’s immediate family, or someone with
whom that person has or has had a continuing relationship to suffer serious emotional
distress. For purposes of this paragraph, a victim need not show that he or she received
professional treatment or counseling to show that he or she suffered serious emotional
distress.
Sexual Exploitation
Occurs when a person takes non-consensual or abusive sexual advantage of another for his or
her own advantage or benefit, or to benefit or advantage anyone other than the one being
exploited, and that behavior does not otherwise constitute one of the other Sexual
Misconduct/Harassment offenses. Examples of sexual exploitation include, but are not limited
to:





Prostituting another student;
Non-consensual video or audio-taping of sexual activity;
Going beyond the boundaries of consent (such as letting your friends hide in the closet
to watch you having consensual sex);
Engaging in voyeurism; and
Knowingly transmitting an STI or HIV to another student.
Appendix E: Retaliation
Retaliation
This policy also prohibits retaliation against a person who reports Sexual
Misconduct/Harassment, assists someone with a report of Sexual Misconduct/Harassment, or
participates in any manner in an investigation or resolution of a Sexual Misconduct/Harassment
report. Retaliation includes threats, intimidation, reprisals, and/or adverse actions related to
employment or education.
Appendix F: Reporting/Filing a Complaint for Title IX (Gender/Sex
Discrimination)
Reporting/Filing a Complaint for Title IX (Gender/Sex Discrimination)
Sexual Misconduct/Harassment is a threat to the entire University community. Members from
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the University community are strongly encouraged to report all incidents that threaten a
student’s continued well-being, safety, or security. Complaints from any member of the
University community relating to discrimination, misconduct, harassment, domestic violence,
dating or other related violence, stalking, or retaliation based on gender or sex concerning a
faculty, staff, a student or students should be reported to:
Title IX/SaVE Coordinator Ashford University:
Poppy Fitch, Associate Vice President, Student Affairs, Title IX/ADA Compliance Officer.
Poppy Fitch can be contacted at:
Phone: (866) 974-5700, ext. 20702
Email: titleix@ashford.edu
Mailing Address: 8620 Spectrum Center Blvd, San Diego, CA 92123
The Title IX/SaVE Coordinator is responsible for the oversight, coordination and implementation
of all Title IX compliance activities for the University. Title IX/SaVE Coordinator responsibilities
include, but are not limited to, monitoring of the ongoing publication of the University’s policy
of Nondiscrimination including the Title IX/SaVE Coordinators contact information, continuous
monitoring and oversight of overall University activities for compliance with Title IX
requirements including athletic equity, grievance procedures, investigations, sanctions and
evaluating requests for confidentiality.
University personnel will inform students in writing of procedures that victims should follow,
including:
 The importance of preservation of any evidence;
 Options regarding the assistance of local law enforcement, campus/site officials;
 The option to decline assistance, or decline notifying local law enforcement;
 Any interim protective measures that will be taken and their options for protective
orders; and
 Resources including counseling, health, and mental health services.
Individuals with complaints of any nature described above always has the right to
simultaneously file a formal complaint with the Office for Civil Rights (OCR), United States
Department of Education, Washington DC 20201, and/or a criminal complaint with local law
enforcement.
Receipt of Complaint
Upon receiving notice of a possible violation of the Sexual Misconduct/Harassment policy, the
University will take immediate and appropriate steps to:



End the behavior;
Conduct a prompt, fair and impartial investigation;
Remedy the effects, and
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
Prevent it from reoccurring.
Referral to Office of Student Grievance Resolution
Upon receipt of a complaint, the Title IX/SaVE Coordinator will refer the complaint to the Office
of Student Grievance Resolution (OSGR), and if necessary, to Employee Relations, for
investigation.
The investigation will be completed and findings and sanctions issued within sixty (60) calendar
days from the receipt of the complaint, barring documented unforeseen circumstances.
In all complaints, the Title IX/SaVE Coordinator and, if necessary, Human Resources, will
determine the need for initial, short term remedial actions.
In order to protect the complainant, at any time during the investigation, the University may
recommend short term, or interim, protections or remedies. These remedial actions may
include, but are not limited to, making the complainant aware of their rights, resources and
support services, issuance of No Contact orders to separate or limit contact between the
parties, modification of extracurricular, transportation, dining, working or living arrangements
or course schedules, assignments or tests, increased monitoring, supervising, or security at
applicable locations or activities, and/or interim suspension(s) pending investigation. These
remedies or protections may apply in ground or online contexts.
Efforts will be made to minimize the burden on the complainant. Failure to comply with these
interim protections may be considered a separate violation of this policy.
Office of Student Grievance Resolution Initial Investigation into Complaint
The Initial Investigation will be completed within ten (10) calendar days from the receipt of the
complaint, barring documented unforeseen circumstances.
Upon receipt of a complaint from the Title IX/SaVE Coordinator, the Office of Student Grievance
Resolution (OSGR), and if necessary, Human Resources staff, will mutually investigate the
complaint.
OSGR and, if necessary, Human Resources staff, will mutually determine the identity and
contact information of the complainant, whether that will be the initiator, the alleged victim, or
a University proxy or representative.
OSGR and, if necessary, Human Resources staff, will mutually collaborate with the complainant
to identify the correct policies allegedly violated.
OSGR and, if necessary, Human Resources staff, will mutually conduct an immediate initial
investigation to determine if there is reasonable cause to charge the accused individual, and
what policy violations should be alleged as part of the complaint. If a reasonable cause exists,
OSGR and, if necessary, Human Resources staff, will mutually prepare the initial investigation
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report and if applicable, a proposed Notice of Charges on the basis of the initial investigation
and submit it to the Title IX/SaVE Coordinator for further action.
Once the Title IX/SaVE Coordinator receives a copy of the report of initial findings, the Title
IX/SaVE Coordinator will review the findings and make a determination within three (3)
calendar days of receipt of the initial investigation report and if applicable, the proposed Notice
of Charges as to whether reasonable cause exists to bring charges against the accused
individual. If reasonable cause exists, the matter shall proceed to a formal investigation.
If the Title IX/SaVE Coordinator determines there is insufficient evidence to support reasonable
cause, the Title IX/SaVE Coordinator or designee or, if necessary, Human Resources, will
simultaneously and in writing inform the complainant and the accused that the investigation is
discontinued. The interim, short term actions taken will be reversed.
Notice of Charges and Continued Investigation of Complaint
 The decision whether to continue the Investigation will be made and communicated to
the parties within fifteen (15) calendar days of the receipt of the complaint, barring
documented unforeseen circumstances. The Title IX/SaVE Coordinator or his/her
designee, will simultaneously communicate in writing to the parties the continuation of
the investigation and intent to present the accused with a Notice of Charges.
 If the Title IX/SaVE Coordinator determines there is sufficient evidence to support
reasonable cause and approve the charges, the Title IX/SaVE Coordinator and, if
necessary, Human Resources staff, will mutually determine the need for additional,
short term remedial actions for any parties involved in the complaint.
 In order to protect the complainant, at any time during the investigation, the University
may recommend short term, or interim, protections or remedies. These remedial
actions may include, but are not limited to, making the complainant aware of their
rights, resources and support services, issuance of No Contact orders to separate or
limit contact between the parties, modification of extracurricular, transportation,
dining, working or living arrangements or course schedules, assignments or tests,
increased monitoring, supervising, or security at applicable locations or activities,
and/or interim suspension(s) pending investigation. These remedies or protections may
apply in ground or online contexts.
 Efforts will be made to minimize the burden on the complainant. Failure to comply with
these interim protections may be considered a separate violation of this Policy.
 The investigator(s) will conduct the investigation in a manner appropriate in light of the
circumstances of the case, which will typically include interviews with the complainant,
the respondent, and any witnesses. As part of the investigation, the University will
provide an opportunity for the parties to present statements, witnesses, and other
evidence. The interviews will be supplemented by the gathering of any physical,
documentary, or other evidence, as appropriate and available including but not limited
to law enforcement investigation documents and student or employee personnel files.
The investigation is deemed to be adequate, reliable, impartial, prompt, balanced and
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



fair, and all individuals will be treated with appropriate sensitivity and respect
throughout the investigation.
Any requests for updates on the status of the investigation prior to its completion
should be directed to the Title IX/SaVE Coordinator.
The investigator will make a finding and present the findings to the Title IX/SaVE
Coordinator within forty-five (45) calendar days of the receipt of the complaint, barring
documented unforeseen circumstances.
The Title IX/SaVE Coordinator will communicate the results, if applicable, to Human
Resources staff.
At any time during this process, the individual maintains the right to simultaneously file
a formal complaint with the Office of Civil Rights (OCR), United States Department of
Education, Washington DC 20201, and/or a criminal complaint with local law
enforcement.
Presentation of Investigation Findings to the Parties
 The Title IX/SaVE Coordinator or designee, or, if necessary, Human Resources staff, will
simultaneously and in writing communicate the findings to the accused and the
complainant within fifty (50) calendar days of the receipt of the complaint, barring
documented unforeseen circumstances. This communication will inform the parties
whether the preponderance of the evidence supports a finding against the accused for
the alleged violation(s).
 The communicated findings will inform the parties as to 1) whether there is a finding of
sexual harassment; 2) whether the interim measures will continue; 3) what actions will
be taken, including any disciplinary procedures that will be initiated; and 4) whether any
assistance will be provided to the victim.
 Where the accused is found not responsible for a violation, the Title IX/SaVE
Coordinator and Human Resources staff where applicable, will consider the reversal of
any remedial actions taken.
 The accused or the complainant may appeal the findings in part or in whole; the Title
IX/SaVE Coordinator or his/her designee will advise the parties of the criteria for appeal
of the findings when communicating the findings.
Investigation Findings: Acceptance
 If the complainant and/or accused individual(s) accept the findings in whole, each shall
notify the Title IX/SaVE Coordinator within three (3) business days of communication of
findings. If the complainant and/or accused individual do not indicate his/her
acceptance or Appeal of the findings within three (3) business days of communication,
non-communication will be considered acceptance and the University will proceed
accordingly with the process four (4) business days following communication of the
investigation findings.
 The Title IX SaVE/Coordinator will review all case information and determine
appropriate sanctions within eight (8) business days following notification of all findings
to the complainant and accused individual, barring documented unforeseen
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

circumstances. If the accused is an employee, the Title IX/SaVE Coordinator in
coordination with the Human Resources staff will determine appropriate sanctions.
The Title IX/SaVE Coordinator, or Human Resources staff (if applicable) shall, within two
(2) business days, barring documented unforeseen circumstances, simultaneously and in
writing inform the complainant and the accused of the sanction decision.
Sanctions against student(s) determined by this process are subject to the Sanction
Appeal Process by either the accused or complainant.
Investigation Findings Appeal
 If the complainant and/or the accused individual (s) disagree with the findings, in part or
in totality, either the complainant or the accused may appeal the finding in part or in
totality on the following bases:
 The accused and/or complainant wants consideration of new evidence, which was
unavailable during the original investigation that could be outcome determinative. A
summary of this new evidence and its potential impact must be included;
 The accused and/or complainant alleges that a material deviation from written
procedures impacted the fairness of the process in a way that could be outcome
determinative;
 The accused and/or complainant challenges the assertion that the evidence presented
during the investigation process was sufficient to find them responsible by a
preponderance of the evidence; or,
 The accused and/or complainant alleges bias by the investigator, or the Title IX/SaVE
Coordinator which deprived the process of impartiality in a way that was outcome
determinative.
 The accused and/or complainant have five (5) business days, barring documented
unforeseen circumstances from the date of communication of findings, to present the
formal appeal, in writing, to the Provost of Ashford University, Dr. Lori Williams.
The Provost may be contacted as follows:
Email: lori.williams@ashford.edu
Mailing Address:
Dr. Lori Williams
Provost, Ashford University
8620 Spectrum Center Blvd, San Diego, CA 92123
Investigation Finding: Appeal Process
 Upon receipt of either party’s appeal of the findings, the Provost will acknowledge
receipt of the notice within three (3) business days.
 The written appeal must state the basis for appeal and provide sufficient information
that supports the grounds for appeal.
 The Provost or her designee will review all cases presented for appeal within five (5)
business days of the appeal, barring documented unforeseen circumstances, to
determine if the presented grounds for appeal and supporting information will be
accepted or rejected.
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




If the appeal does not meet the stated grounds for appeal, the appeal will be rejected.
The Provost, shall, within two (2) business days of the determination, barring
documented unforeseen circumstances, simultaneously and in writing, inform the
complainant and the accused the appeal decision.
If the President determines there is sufficient evidence to support an appeal, the matter
will return to the Office of Student Grievance Resolution for further investigation unless
the appeal alleges bias of the investigator which deprived the process of impartiality in a
way that was outcome determinative or an assertion that the evidence was insufficient
to meet the preponderance of the evidence standard. In those cases, the appeal will
remain with the President or her designee for review and final decision.
Whether the investigation goes to the Office of Student Grievance Resolution or
remains with the President or her designee, the appeal investigation will be completed
within fourteen (14) calendar days of submission to the Provost, barring documented
unforeseen circumstances that may extend the appeal review.
The Provost, and if applicable in coordination with Human Resources, will communicate
the appeal findings simultaneously and in writing to the complainant and the accused.
Additionally, the Provost will consult with the Title IX/SaVE Coordinator and Human
Resources (when necessary) to consider the reversal of any remedial actions taken.
Additional Information for Sexual Misconduct/Harassment Investigations
Amnesty Policy. Ashford University encourages the reporting of crimes by victims and/or
witnesses. Sometimes, victims and/or witnesses are hesitant to report to University officials
because they fear that by reporting an incident he/she may be accused of policy violations,
such as underage drinking at the time of the incident. It is in the best interests of this
community that as many victims and/or witnesses as possible choose to report to University
officials. To encourage reporting, Ashford University pursues a policy of offering victims and/or
witnesses of crimes immunity from policy violations related to the incident, as long as those
policy violations are not directly related to the crime itself. For example, if a student reported a
rape in which he or she was involved as an accused individual, he or she would not be immune
from policy violations.
Attempted Violations. In most circumstances, Ashford University will treat attempts to commit
Sexual Misconduct/Harassment as if those attempts had been completed.
False Reporting. Ashford University will not tolerate intentional false reporting of incidents.
Group Actions. When members of groups, individuals acting collusively, or members of an
organization act in concert in violation of any policy, they may be held accountable as a group
or individually, and may proceed against the group of jointly accused students, or individually,
at the discretion of the University.
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Right to Present Own Complaint or Use Proxy. The alleged victim has the right to present his or
her own complaint if he or she wants to, or to ask the University to stand as complainant in his
or her place.
Sexual History. Questioning or presenting of evidence about the complainant’s prior sexual
conduct with anyone other than the accused will be prohibited. Evidence of a prior consensual
dating or sexual relationship between the parties by itself does not imply consent or preclude a
finding of Sexual Misconduct/Harassment.
University as complainant. As necessary, Ashford University reserves the right to initiate a
complaint, to serve as complainant, and to initiate conduct proceedings without a formal
complaint by the victim of Sexual Misconduct/Harassment.
Possible Sanctions and Protective Measures
 Any student found responsible for violating the policy on Sexual
Misconduct/Harassment may receive a sanction ranging from a verbal warning,
probation, and suspension to expulsion/termination, depending on the severity of the
incident, and taking into account any previous documented conduct issues. If the
accused individual is an employee, sanctions will be determined by Title IX/SaVE
Coordinator in consultation with Human Resources if applicable.
 In order to protect the complainant, at any time during the investigation, the University
may recommend short term, or interim, protections or remedies. These remedial
actions may include, but are not limited to, making the complainant aware of their
rights, resources and support services, issuance of No Contact orders to separate or
limit contact between the parties, modification of extracurricular, transportation,
dining, working or living arrangements or course schedules, assignments or tests,
increased monitoring, supervising, or security at applicable locations or activities,
and/or interim suspension(s) pending investigation. These remedies or protections may
apply in ground or online contexts.
 Efforts will be made to minimize the burden on the complainant. Failure to comply with
these interim protections may be considered a separate violation of this policy.
Sanction Process
The Title IX/SaVE Coordinator will review all case information and determine appropriate
sanctions within five (5) business days of notification of acceptance or determination on appeal
barring documented unforeseen circumstances.
Sanction Appeal Process
 Where either party, the accused or the complainant, disagrees with the sanction(s),
either has five (5) business days from the date sanctions are communicated, barring
documented unforeseen circumstances to present an appeal of the sanctions, in writing,
to the Provost. The written request for appeal of the sanctions must state one or more
of the five (5) basis for appeal (see the following), along with facts and information that
support the grounds for appeal; and be accompanied by any relevant, new information
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




or evidence that was not available during the investigation phase of the process. The
Title IX/SaVE Coordinator will forward all case information to the Provost or designee
who will make a determination as to whether there is sufficient evidence to support an
appeal of sanctions on the basis of:
o The availability of new information, unavailable during the original investigation,
that could be outcome determinative regarding sanctions;
o A potential material deviation from written procedures which impacted the
fairness of the process in a way that was outcome determinative regarding the
sanctions;
o The potential of bias by the Title IX/SaVE Coordinator which may have deprived
the process of impartiality in a way that was outcome determinative.
o A belief that a sanction(s) is substantially disproportionate to the severity of the
offense.
The sanction(s) appeal will be reviewed by the Provost within five (5) business days of
the sanction appeal notice, barring documented unforeseen circumstances, to
determine whether there are sufficient grounds for appeal.
If the appeal of the sanctions does not state a ground for appeal or sufficiently meet the
grounds for appeal, the appeal will be rejected by the Provost or designee and the
decision to reject the appeal communicated to the Title IX/SaVE Coordinator and if
applicable Human Resources.
The Title IX/SaVE Coordinator and if applicable Human Resources, will simultaneously
and in writing inform the complainant and the accused of the rejection of the appeal
within seven (7) calendar days of the determination, barring documented unforeseen
circumstances.
The Title IX/SaVE Coordinator will impose all sanctions on the accused student for the
violation. Human Resources in consultation with the Title IX/SaVE Coordinator will
impose all sanctions on the accused employee. Once the sanctions are carried out, the
case will be closed.
If the Provost determines there are grounds for the sanction appeal, the Provost will
review all information presented with the sanction appeal and make a final sanction
determination within fourteen (14) calendar days of acceptance of the appeal of
sanctions, barring documented circumstances that may extend the determination. The
Provost will forward the determination to the Title IX/SaVE Coordinator.
The Title IX/SaVE Coordinator and if applicable, Human Resources, will simultaneously
and in writing inform the complainant and the accused of the appeal decision within
seven (7) calendar days of the decision, barring documented unforeseen circumstances.

The Title IX/SaVE Coordinator or designee, and if applicable, Human Resources, will
impose all sanctions for the violation. Once the sanctions are carried out, the case will
be closed.
Nondisclosure Agreements. The University will not require a party to abide by a nondisclosure
agreement, in writing or otherwise, that would prevent the redisclosure of information related
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to the outcome of the proceeding.
Appendix G: Requests for Confidentiality
Confidentiality
Students or parents of minor students, reporting incidents of Sexual Misconduct/Harassment
may ask that the students’ names not be disclosed to the accused or that no investigation or
disciplinary action be pursued to address the alleged Sexual Misconduct/Harassment. The
University strongly supports a student’s interest in confidentiality in cases involving Sexual
Misconduct/Harassment. There are situations in which the University must override a student’s
request for confidentiality in order to meet its Title IX obligations; however, these instances will
be limited and the information will only be shared with individuals who are responsible for
handling the University’s response to incidents of Sexual Misconduct/Harassment. Given the
sensitive nature of reports of Sexual Misconduct/Harassment, the University will ensure that
the information is maintained in a secure manner. The University is aware that disregarding
requests for confidentiality can have a chilling effect and discourage other students from
reporting Sexual Misconduct/Harassment. In the case of minors, state mandatory reporting
laws may require disclosure, but will generally be followed without disclosing information to
University personnel who are not responsible for handling the University’s response to
incidents of Sexual Misconduct/Harassment.
Even if a student does not specifically ask for confidentiality, to the extent possible, the
University will only disclose information regarding alleged incidents of Sexual
Misconduct/Harassment to individuals who are responsible for handling the University’s
response. To improve trust in the process for investigating Sexual Misconduct/Harassment
complaints, the University will notify students of the information that will be disclosed, to
whom it will be disclosed, and why. Regardless of whether student complainant requests
confidentiality, the University will take steps to protect the complainant as necessary, including
taken interim measures before the final outcome of an investigation.
For Title IX purposes, if a student requests that his/her name not be revealed to the accused or
asks that the University not investigate or seek action against the accused, the University will
inform the student that honoring the request may limit its ability to respond fully to the
incident, including pursuing disciplinary action against the accused. The University will also
explain that Title IX includes protection against retaliation, and that University officials will not
only take steps to prevent retaliation but also take strong, responsive action if it occurs. This
includes retaliatory action taken by the University and University officials. When the University
knows or reasonably should know of possible retaliation by other students or third parties,
including threats, intimidation, coercion, or discrimination (including harassment), it will take
immediate and appropriate steps to investigate or otherwise determine what occurred. The
University will protect the complainant and insure his/her safety as necessary.
If the student still requests that his/her name not be disclosed to the accused, or that the
University not investigate or seek action against the accused, the University will determine
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whether or not it can honor such a request while still providing a safe and non-discriminatory
environment for all students, including the student who reported the Sexual
Misconduct/Harassment. The Title IX Coordinator will evaluate confidentiality requests.
If the University determines that it can respect the student’s request not to disclose his/her
identity to the accused it will take all reasonable steps to respond to the complaint consistent
with the request. Although a student’s request to have his/her name withheld may limit the
University’s ability to respond fully to an individual allegation of Sexual
Misconduct/Harassment, the University will investigate other means available to address the
Sexual Misconduct/Harassment, without initiating formal action against the accused or
revealing the identity of the student complainant. The University will also take immediate
action as necessary to protect the student while keeping the identity of the student
confidential.
Appendix H: Other Complaints
Other Complaints
All other complaints, including non-harassment, other forms of sex/gender based
discrimination, misconduct, harassment, violence or retaliation based on race, color, creed,
national or ethnic origin, religion, pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions, marital
status, gender identity, medical condition, service in the uniformed services, political activities
and affiliations, age, disability, veteran status, or any other consideration made unlawful by
federal, state, or local laws, should follow the relevant procedure outlined in the Dispute
Resolution Procedure for Student Complaints and/or contact:
Shandell Ruiz at (866) 475-0317, ext. 11322, Parrish Nicholls, ext. 11320, or any member of the
Student Dispute Resolution Center at Dispute.Resolution@ashford.edu or (866) 974-5700 ext.
20091.
An individual may also file a complaint or grievance alleging discrimination, misconduct,
harassment, domestic violence, dating or other related violence, stalking, or retaliation based
on gender or sex in the procedure outlined in the Dispute Resolution Procedure for Student
Complaints, if they prefer; however these complaints will be routed back to the Title IX/SaVE
Coordinator.
The above complaint processes (Gender/Sex and Other Complaints) involve a thorough,
impartial investigation designed to provide a fair, prompt, and reliable determination about
whether the University nondiscrimination policies have been violated. As necessary, the
University reserves the right to initiate a complaint, to serve as complainant, and to initiate
conduct proceedings without a formal complaint by the victim.
The University has an obligation to report any crimes of which it has knowledge under the
Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act).
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Appendix I: Student Services, Health, and Safety
Severe Weather
In the case of severe weather, listen for a warning siren and/or radio announcements. (On the
Clinton Campus, the public address system will be used to make announcements in conjunction
with a city activated warning siren.) If appropriate, the SendWordNow system may be used to
transmit a message regarding severe weather. The severe weather/tornado siren sounds a
steady blast or tone for three minutes. When a severe weather/tornado warning occurs, be
prepared to take cover in a designated shelter area. Clinton Campus Public Safety staff, faculty,
staff members, and Residence Life staff will assist students in moving to designated areas on
campus. All students must move to the designated areas for the duration of the warning!
Please note that it is everyone’s individual responsibility to be prepared and to educate
themselves accordingly in the event of impending severe weather.
Clinton Campus Public Safety and Residence Life staff will notify students when the “all clear”
signal has been issued by the County Emergency Management. Students will then be allowed to
leave the designated areas. Students are asked to cooperate with all directives given by
University staff.
NEVER USE THE FIRE ALARM FOR NOTIFICATION OF SEVERE WEATHER.
In the case of severe weather, listen to local radio stations KROS, AM 1340; The Eagle, FM 94.7;
or KCLN, AM 1390 or watch Quad-City area television stations WHBF, Channel 4; KWQC,
Channel 6; or WQAD, Channel 8.
Appendix J: Emergency Reference Guide
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EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION:
POLICE/FIRE/RESCUE.................................................................................................. 911 / 5-911
CAMPUS SECURITY....................................................................................................... EXT. 27056 (FROM CAMPUS PHONES) 563.242.2752
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (BTS).......................................................................... 563.242.4023, EXT. 12701
LEGAL INQUIRIES/ISSUES
BRIDGEPOINT VICE PRESIDENT OF COMPLIANCE............................................... 800.798.0584, EXT. 11312
MEDIA INQUIRIES/STATEMENTS
BRIDGEPOINT VICE PRESIDENT OF PUBLIC RELATIONS .................................. 800.798.0584, EXT. 11601
AFTER HOURS CONTACT INFORMATION:
CLINTON POLICE DEPARTMENT................................................................................ 563.243.1458
DIRECTOR OF CAMPUS SECURITY & SAFETY........................................................ 563.321.1623
DIRECTOR OF STUDENT AFFAIRS............................................................................. 563.321.1880
EMERGENCY
REFERENCE
GUIDE
400 NORTH BLUFF BLVD., CLINTON, IA 52732
15AUC0715 • AC0255
FIRE/EVACUATION
- FIRE
- EVACUATION
- EVACUATING PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES
VIOLENCE/BOMB THREAT
- VIOLENT CRIME IN PROGRESS
- A.L.I.C.E OPTION
- BOMB THREATS: (BY PHONE OR WRITTEN)
- CHECKLIST FOR PERSONS TAKING A BOMB THREAT CALL
MEDICAL EMERGENCIES/MENACING BEHAVIOR
- MEDICAL EMERGENCIES/MENTAL HEALTH EMERGENCY
- MENACING BEHAVIOR
NATURAL DISASTER/OTHER INCIDENTS
- WEATHER EMERGENCIES
- HAZARDOUS MATERIAL EXPOSURE
- SUSPICIOUS MAIL/PACKAGES
- EXPLOSIONS
UTILITIES
- BUILDING SYSTEM/UTILITIES FAILURES
SAFETY/EMERGENCY COMMUNICATION
- BUILDING/RESIDENCE HALL EMERGENCY INFORMATION
- EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS
- EMERGENCY EVENT OVERVIEW
- EVENT RESPONSE NOTES
- ASSESSMENT AND CARE TEAM (ACT)
- WELLCONNECT COUNSELING SERVICES
FIRE
• Activate fire alarm by pulling on alarm box.
• Alert people in the immediate area of the fire and evacuate safely.
• Confine the fire by closing doors as you leave the area.
• Notify Campus Security 563.242.2752 and 911 / 5-911 immediately noting the location and size of the fire. Always call from a safe location.
• Evacuate the building. Do not use elevators unless directed to do so by authorized emergency personnel.
• Do not re-enter the building until authorized emergency personnel give the “all clear” signal.
• If smoke, heat, or flames block your exit routes, stay in the room with the door closed.
- Place cloth (damp if possible) over your mouth and nose to act as a filter.
- Signal for help using a bright-colored cloth at the window.
- If there is a telephone in the room, call 911 / 5-911 to alert authorities of your whereabouts.
• Report all fires to Campus Security, even those which have been extinguished.
• See Emergency Event Overview for follow-up instructions.
FIRE/EVACUATION
EVACUATION
Leave your building immediately when an alarm sounds or if you are instructed to do so by a member of the Evacuation Response Team or
authorized emergency personnel.
• Notify others on your way out.
• Secure hazardous operations if possible.
• Take only important personal items. Leave non-essential items.
• Close doors behind the last person out of the room.
• Walk quickly and orderly to the nearest safe exit.
• Do not exit using elevators unless Evacuation Response Team or authorized emergency personnel tell you to do so.
• Do not re-enter the building until Evacuation Response Team or authorized emergency personnel give the “all clear” signal.
• Report any missing or trapped persons to Evacuation Response Team or authorized emergency personnel.
• Move away from the building to an established evacuation area (area will be determined based on the emergency and condition of the campus).
If you are required to leave the building immediately but are unable to do so due to a physical disability, injury or obstruction:
• Go to the nearest area where there are no hazards. Hazard-free stairwell landings are the best areas to await assistance.
• Notify Campus Security 563.242.2752 and/or 911 / 5-911 from a safe location.
• Signal out the window to emergency responders, if possible.
• Remain calm; responders will arrive.
EVACUATING PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES
Instructors and supervisors should be cognizant and proactive with persons who may need assistance during evacuation.
Assisting Persons who are Blind/Visually Impaired:
• Clearly announce the type of emergency.
• Offer your arm for guidance.
• Tell the person where you are going and alert him/her to obstacles along the way.
Assisting Persons who are Deaf/Hearing Impaired:
• Turn lights on and off to gain attention.
• Indicate directions with gestures or a written note.
Assisting Persons who are Mobility Impaired/Wheelchair Users:
• Elevators should not be used for evacuation unless Evacuation Response Team or authorized emergency personnel tell you to do so.
• Volunteers may assist students/personnel needing aid to the nearest hazard-free stairwell landing to await assistance.
• One individual should remain with the person(s) if that can be done without unreasonable personal risk.
• Others should advise emergency personnel of the location of those needing aid in order to complete the evacuation.
• If an imminent danger situation exists and the person requests assistance in evacuation before emergency personnel can arrive, volunteers
may evacuate the person per his/her instructions.
• Emergency evacuation chairs are located on floor 3 of the main St. Clare stairwell and floor 3 of the Regis stairwell.
VIOLENT CRIME IN PROGRESS
• Indicators of a violent crime in progress:
- PA system audible message: “LOCKDOWN”.
- Text message indicating event.
- Email message indicating event.
- Voicemail message indicating event.
• If exiting the building safely is possible:
- Exit the building immediately.
- Notify others as you exit the building.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Notify Campus Security 563.242.2752 and/or 911 / 5-911 immediately upon reaching a safe location.
• If exiting the building safely is not possible:
- Go to the nearest room or office.
- Close and lock the door.
- Cover the door windows.
- Be quiet and act as if no one is in the room.
- DO NOT answer the door.
- Turn down volume of cell phone.
- Notify Campus Security 563.242.2752 and/or 911 / 5-911 as soon as you are able.
• See Emergency Event Overview for follow-up instructions.
VIOLENCE/
BOMBTHREAT
A.L.I.C.E. OPTION
ALERT: Notify authorities and those in harm’s way of the danger at hand. It is important to be as clear and accurate with the information as possible.
Remember to identify yourself, your location, key suspect information, any weapons, direction of travel, and a call back number. Do not hang up
unless your safety is compromised or you are directed to by the dispatcher.
LOCKDOWN or shelter in place. By locking down and barricading entry points, you are making yourself a more difficult target and creating a
stronghold that nobody should be able to enter.
INFORM, give real-time updates. This step can be accomplished with things such as video surveillance equipment or public address systems.
Updates during a violent intruder incident allow you to make sound decisions about how to react and what steps, if any, to take next. They can act
as good distractors for the intruder.
COUNTER* is the last resort. If you are in this position many objects can be used as distraction devices. Spread out, turn the lights out, and as a last
resort be ready to unleash on the intruder if he/she enters you domain. You alone are the only person who can make this decision.
*As an employee, you are not obligated to respond in the above manner. These strategies are examples for your consideration.
EVACUATE or get out!! Your goal is to put as much time and distance as possible between you and the attacker. Do not use the same rally point as
with fire drills, you will want to move further away. Examples are over the hill in the cemetery or the back side of the congregational church.
Remember there are no guarantees in an active shooter/violent intruder situation, but just as in other emergency situation the more you know the
better your chances of survival. Most importantly never give up!
For telephone bomb threats:
• Remain calm, note the exact words used by the caller, and note the time of call.
• Check caller ID for information.
• Do not hang up the phone on an incoming call.
• Signal or email a co-worker to Notify Campus Security 563.242.2752 and 911 / 5-911 immediately.
• Keep the caller on the line for as long as possible, and ask the following questions:
- When will the bomb explode?
- Where is the bomb?
- What does it look like?
- What kind of bomb is it?
- What will cause it to explode?
- Where did you place the bomb?
- Why did you do it?
- Where are you calling from?
- What is your address?
- What is your name?
• Make a note of the tone, rate, and affect in the caller’s voice.
• Is the voice familiar to you?
• Note background noises.
• Note the telephone number receiving the call.
For written bomb threats:
• Notify Campus Security 563.242.2752 and 911 / 5-911 immediately.
• Do a quick visual inspection of your area. Do not touch or move any suspicious objects.
• Do not use radios, pagers, or cell phones because they may trigger an explosive device.
• Follow evacuation procedures.
• See Emergency Event Overview for follow-up instructions.
CHECKLIST FOR PERSONS TAKING A BOMB THREAT CALL
If there is another person nearby, discretely signal that you are receiving a bomb threat. If not, wait to notify someone. Do NOT hang up the phone on
which the call was received.
Exact time of call: Length of Call: Date: Exact words of caller: Questions to ask
(Keep them on the line as long as possible and stay calm)
1. When is the bomb going to explode? 2. Where is the bomb? 3. What does it look like? 4. What kind of bomb is it? 5. What will cause it to explode? 6. Where did you place the bomb? 7. Why did you do it? 8. Where are you calling from? 9. What is your address? 10. What is your name? Caller’s voice (circle)
calmslowcryingslurredstutterdeeploudbrokengiggling
accentangryrapidstressednasallispexciteddisguised
sincere
squeaky
normal
Voice familiar? well spoken
irrational
incoherent
message read taped foul
Who did it sound like? Were there any background noises? (circle)
streetmusicfactoryotheranimalhousevoicesnoises
pa systemboothstaticmotorlocalofficelong dist.
Person’s name receiving call: Telephone # at which the call was received: If no second person, call 911 / 5-911 from another phone. MEDICAL EMERGENCY
• Notify Campus Security 563.242.2752 and/or 911 / 5-911 immediately.
• Do not attempt to move the victim unless the person is in danger of further injury.
• Properly trained individuals should begin CPR and/or Automated External Defibrillator (AED) on an unresponsive
victim who is not breathing normally.
• Properly trained individuals should commence first aid while awaiting an ambulance, particularly to stop heavy bleeding.
• If alcohol poisoning is suspected, keep the person awake.
• See Emergency Event Overview for follow-up instructions.
MENTAL HEALTH EMERGENCY
In the event of overly threatening behavior constituting an immediate threat to self or others, notify Campus Security 563.242.2752 and/
or 911 / 5-911.
In non-emergency situations, refer students to the Dean of Campus Student Affairs and Support Services or Associate Director of Student
Affairs; refer faculty and staff to Employee Assistance Program (1.800.538.3543).
• Express your concern directly to the individual.
• Make referral in the presence of the individual and offer to accompany them.
• Watch for changes in behavior:
- Significant changes in academic or work performance;
- Changes in hygiene, speech, attentiveness, or social interaction;
- Excessive drinking or drug use;
- Severe loss of emotional control;
- High levels of irritability;
- Impaired speech or garbled/disjointed thoughts;
- Excessively morbid, violent or depressing themes in written assignments;
- Verbal expression of suicidal or violent thoughts.
• See Emergency Event Overview for follow-up instructions.
MEDICAL EMERGENCIES
/MENACING BEHAVIOR
MENACING BEHAVIOR
Contact Campus Security 563.242.2752 and/or 911 / 5-911.
• Stay calm and unhurried in your response to the person.
• Be empathetic and show your concern.
• Try to sit down with the person, as sitting is a less aggressive posture than standing or moving around.
• Be helpful. Schedule an appointment for a later time, take notes.
• Provide positive feedback such as, “We can get this straightened out,” or “I’m glad you’re telling me how you feel about this.”
• Stay out of arm’s reach.
• Limit eye contact.
• Do not argue, yell or joke.
• Do not touch the person.
If the person’s agitation increases, attempt the following:
• Leave the scene.
• Notify Campus Security.
• Alert co-workers using an agreed-upon code word to indicate trouble.
• Do not allow menacing behavior to go unreported. Alert Campus Security and
co-workers immediately after the person leaves.
• See Emergency Event Overview for follow-up instructions.
WEATHER EMERGENCIES
Security monitors weather radio which broadcasts news of weather watches and warnings.
Tornado
• Evacuate to designated areas – typically the lowest level of the building.
• Move to interior of room, avoid windows.
• Crouch down into a ball position and cover your head.
• Avoid glass-enclosed places or areas with wide-span roofs, such as auditoriums and gymnasiums.
• If outdoors, get into a building or, in case of tornado, find a low-lying ditch and lay down.
• Avoid trees, power lines, and other hazards.
• Wait until the “All Clear” signal is given by emergency personnel.
Flash flood
• Follow instructions given by authorized emergency personnel.
• Do not seek shelter in ditches or low-lying areas.
Weather closing information
Refer to the notices posted on the Ashford University homepage at www.ashford.edu.
NATURAL DISASTER
/OTHER INCIDENTS
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EXPOSURE
• Notify Campus Security immediately 563.242.2752 and dial 911 / 5-911.
• If possible, try to identify the type of material for the operator.
• Do not touch the material.
• Confine the exposure by shutting doors or cordoning off the area.
• If possible to do safely, extinguish all flames and ignition sources.
• Notify people in neighboring offices and classrooms.
• Sound the building fire alarm to initiate evacuation.
• Evacuate to a pre-established safe area, such as the gravel parking lots away from the building.
• Do not return to the building until instructed that it is safe to do so by University personnel or authorized emergency personnel.
• See Emergency Event Overview for follow-up instructions.
SUSPICIOUS MAIL/PACKAGES
• Move away from suspicious items.
• Do not move, open, cover, or interfere with the package.
• Do not use radios, pagers, or cell phones because they may trigger an explosive device.
• Notify Campus Security 563.242.2752 and/or 911 / 5-911 from a safe location.
• Follow Security or Police instructions.
EXPLOSIONS
• Notify Campus Security 563.242.2752 and/or 911 / 5-911.
• Take cover under study furniture or evacuate the building if directed to do so by authorized emergency personnel.
• Signal for help by shouting or hanging an article of clothing from a window, but do not linger by windows.
• If possible, move away from the site of the hazard to a safe location.
• Do not use elevators.
• Be careful of fallen debris, and of glass or heavy objects that might fall.
• See Emergency Event Overview for follow-up instructions.
BUILDING SYSTEM FAILURES
• Activate alarm/emergency systems, if necessary.
• Notify Campus Security 563.242.2752 immediately.
• Turn off all utilities and equipment.
• Extinguish flames if it is possible to do so safely.
• Ventilate the room if time and situation permits.
• Evacuate as necessary and specifically in cases of water or gas leaks.
• See Emergency Event Overview for further instructions.
• Report any persons trapped by calling security.
UTILITIES FAILURES
• Electrical outage
- Evacuate as necessary and specifically in cases of water or gas leaks.
- In laboratory buildings, fume hoods do not operate during a power outage and most laboratories should not be used until ventilation is
properly restored.
• Gas leak/Unusual odor
- Cease all operations immediately.
- Do not use cell phones or electronic equipment.
- Do not switch lights on or off.
- Evacuate as soon as possible.
• Flooding/Plumbing failure
- Cease using all electrical equipment.
- Avoid contact with water.
- Evacuate the area.
Note: Do not use the elevator or light matches/candles or utilize lighters or anything that may cause a spark.
• See Emergency Event Overview for follow-up instructions.
UTILITIES
BUILDING/RESIDENCE HALL EMERGENCY INFORMATION
Fire alarm location Fire extinguisher location Emergency exits location Weather shelter location Defibrillators location Person(s) trained in CPR Evacuation meeting place Persons needing help during evacuation should meet Nearest emergency call box location Nearest weather radio location In all situations:
Your first priority is your personal safety and the safety of others.
SAFETY/EMERGENCY
COMMUNICATION
EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS
Send Word Now (Emergency Notification System)
This service is used to transmit brief messages of an urgent nature to the Ashford University community.
Transmissions will be made via cell, home or office phone numbers on file with the registrar’s office.
To update or change your notification contact information in Send Word Now:
• Students: please visit the Registrar’s office.
• Employees: change your information within the ADP Portal.
Web site: www.ashford.edu
Weather radio stations: FM 94.7, FM103.7, AM 1340 and AM 1390
Media Inquiries
Comments made to the press are handled through the Bridgepoint Education (BPI) Public Relations department or assigned designees.
Refer all media inquiries to the Director of Communications, 800.798.0584, ext. 27110.
Legal Inquiries/Issues
Bridgepoint Education Vice President of Compliance 800.798.0584 ext. 12701
Media Inquiries/Statements
Bridgepoint Education Vice President of Public Relations 800.798.0584, ext. 11601
If approached in person by media personnel, please state “no comment” and refer to them to the Campus Director or BPI Vice President of Public
Relations.
Statements to Authorities:
As an eyewitness to an event you may be asked to provide authorities with a statement.You may do so in accordance with your civic responsibility.
EMERGENCY EVENT OVERVIEW
The Crisis Response Communication Center (CRCC)
Located in St. Clare Hall, C2320, the CRCC is designated as the primary control point for coordination and handling of the University’s response to
Level 5 emergencies occurring on campus.
University Crisis Response Plan and Communication Plan
These plans are available from the Director of Security and Safety or Director of Communications.
Evacuation Response Team members include:
• Crisis Management Team Coordinator, responsible for:
- Providing overall management/supervision of the emergency evacuation.
- Handling all external (e.g. local authorities) and internal communications.
- Making all decisions related to building emergencies and evacuation.
Campus Security 563.242.2752
This office oversees the safety and security
for the Ashford University Campus and is
available 24 hours a day/7 days a week.
• Floor Warden (Suite Monitor), responsible for:
- Organizing and directing the students/staff/faculty Emergency Response Team for the assigned suite and common areas of the floor.
- Keeping the Director of Security informed of absences of the Emergency Response Team members who are responsible for common areas.
- Ensuring all common areas on assigned floor are evacuated.
• Stairwell Monitors, responsible for:
- Managing orderly evacuation through the stairwell entryway.
- Directing traffic to the identified evacuation area.
Event Response Notes
Complete the Events Response Notes (included in this guide) and notify Crisis Management Coordinator to make proper/appropriate notifications.
Incident Report
Involved employees should work with Campus Security and/or Human Resources to complete an incident report for any emergency event.
Victim Services/Counseling
The Dean of Campus Student Affairs and Support Services will coordinate victim services/counseling for students and will coordinate with Human
Resources to make arrangements for staff and faculty.
EVENT RESPONSE NOTES
Witnesses to emergency/crisis events should complete the following information to provide to their immediate supervisor and/or campus crisis
management coordinator. Note: This form is for internal use only. Law enforcement officials who want a statement will complete their forms. Upon
termination of the incident, all University personnel will meet with their department supervisor for information and a debriefing.
Date: Time: Location: Individuals involved: Witnesses names: Brief description of incident/event: Who has been contacted/notified? Did any injuries occur? Yes
No
Hospital location(s): Event Response Review
Were there any employees in danger or injured? Yes
No
If so, how many? To which hospital(s) were they taken? Have any family member(s) been notified? Yes
No
Has the situation been secured and is everyone currently safe? Yes
No
What impact/damage is there to the facility, if any? Describe the event:
Time: Location: Persons involved: Details of the event: What action has been taken? University personnel? Yes
No
Law enforcement and/or emergency personnel? Yes
No
Who have you contacted to notify of the situation? What instructions have been given to employees/students? Is there media coverage? Yes
No
Who is currently in charge of the scene? ASSESSMENT AND CARE TEAM (ACT)
Mission Statement
In the interest of cultivating community welfare and safety, the Ashford Assessment and Care Team (ACT) proactively operates to raise awareness
of concerning behaviors through training, accountability, and assessments. The team connects, communicates, and engages timely response and
intervention to empower positive differences in people’s lives and to prevent preventable violence. The team serves as a resource providing referral,
consultation, and support to the campus community.
You can report anonymously to the ACT team by:
Calling 563.242.4023, ext. 7445, or 800.242.4153, ext. 27122
Quick link on Student Portal
You can also report to the ACT team by emailing ACT@ASHFORD.EDU
WHAT KINDS OF THINGS SHOULD BE REPORTED TO THE ACT?
The types of behaviors or actions that should be reported are listed below, though the list is not exhaustive. Reporters are expected to use their
judgment as to what is reportable, erring on the side of over-reporting when in doubt. For example, if an incident seems minor, but other similar
incidents occur in close proximity, they may indicate a pattern that is not visible to the witness of a single incident:
•
Extreme rudeness or insubordination
to University officials, staff, faculty,
or administrators
•
Classroom disruption
•
All violations of residence hall rules
•
All violations of the Student
Code of Conduct
•
Drug or alcohol intoxication in the classroom or at campus facilities
•
Threatening words or actions
•
Writings that convey clear intentions to harm self or others
•
Observed self-injurious behavior, such as cutting, burning, etc.
•
Online postings that are threatening
•
Excessive class absenteeism
•
Suicidal signs – including threats (e.g., “I am going to kill myself”),
gestures (e.g., erasing one’s hard drive), ideation (e.g., “I’ve always
thought about killing myself by jumping off a cliff”), or attempts
•
Acts motivated by hatred
or discrimination
•Paranoia
WELLCONNECT COUNSELING SERVICES
Contact: 1.800.326.6142
The counseling services include the following:
•Intervention.
• Short term face to face counseling
Your WellConnect website also offers solutions and assistance with everything from stress and depression, substance issues/ questions, relationship
issues, and more.
www.wellnessworklife.com
Through Wellconnect you are also able to receive the following:
Student Support Services
Budget and Debt
• Counseling
• Creating a Budget
• Depression
• Credit Card Management
• Substance Abuse
• Debt Consolidation
• Stress/Anxiety
• Purchasing a home
• Family Issues
Community Referrals
• Relationships
• Community based resources to
help you balance school/work/family
demands.
Legal Counseling
• Contracts
• Wills
• Divorce/Custody
New Parent Transition
• Telephonic coaching support for
new parents seeking work/life/school
balance.
Appendix K: Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Program
Report
70 | P a g e
Ashford University Drug Free Schools
and Communities Act Program Report
December 2014
Introduction
In compliance with the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act, Ashford University (“University”)
has implemented a program to prevent the illicit use of drugs and the abuse of alcohol by students
and employees. The Program requires the University to distribute information annually to students
and employees concerning the possession, use, or distribution of alcohol and illicit drugs at the
University. This information includes the University’s standards of conduct relating to the unlawful
possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol, health risks associated with the use of
illicit drugs and alcohol abuse, resources for obtaining assistance with drug and alcohol abuse, and a
summary of legal sanctions for violations of Iowa State and Federal law, as well as University
disciplinary actions relating to the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and
alcohol. Ashford University Drug Free Schools and Communities Act Program Report is sent annually
in December to staff, faculty and students, and is distributed upon new hire or enrollment
throughout the year.
The Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Program is intended to supplement and not limit the
provisions of the University's Drug-Free Workplace policy applicable to University employees.
The Office of Student Affairs provides an overall coordination of the Drug-Free Schools and
Communities Act Program; however, some services are the responsibility of other University
departments and staff, including:
Alcohol and Drug Education: Student Access and Wellness, Student Activities, Residential Life,
Employee Assistance Program
Counseling Referrals: Student Access and Wellness, Employee Relations/Human Resources
University Student Disciplinary Actions: Residential Life Staff, Director of Campus Student Affairs
Employee Disciplinary Actions: Human Resources
Standards of Conduct
The following information outlines the University standards of conduct relating to the unlawful
possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students and employees on University
property or as a part of University-sponsored activities:
University Student Alcohol Use policy:
The University neither condones nor sanctions the use of alcohol. All individuals are expected to
observe the applicable local, state and federal laws. The University strictly prohibits the use,
consumption, possession, and distribution of alcohol by any student, regardless of legal age,
within the residence halls, on campus grounds, or at University-sponsored activities.
For certain University events or functions, alcohol may be served only to those persons of legal
drinking age who, if so requested by the event sponsor, are able to verify their age with a state
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Ashford University Drug Free Schools and Communities Act Program Report
December 2014 CR 0121651a
issued identification, passport or similar document. Written permission from the Campus Director
or University President to serve alcohol, and any legally required alcohol permits must be
obtained prior to the function.
University Student Drug Use policy:
The unlawful possession, use, sale, or distribution of illegal drugs or controlled substances is
prohibited within the residence halls, on campus grounds, or at University-sponsored events.
Drug paraphernalia is not permitted within the residence halls, on campus grounds, or at
University- sponsored activities.
Student Athlete Drug, Alcohol and Tobacco policy:
Ashford University prohibits the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of drugs, alcohol, or
tobacco by student athletes, on or off campus. The University and Athletics Department oppose
the misuse or abuse of alcohol, which it defines as “any alcohol related behavior that adversely
affects a person’s life in regard to physical health, feelings of self-esteem, personal or family
relationships, educational, occupational goals or one’s standing in regard to local, state or federal
laws.” All student athletes are to abide by Ashford University standards and the Student
Community Standards as defined in the current Academic Catalog and any additional standards as
determined by their coach via team rules. Students who violate the Ashford University Student
Community Standards are subject to sanctions that may be independent of and/or in addition to
those described below, per Catalog policy.
Intercollegiate Athletics Drug Education and Testing Program policy:
Ashford University has adopted a policy for drug education and the prevention of drug abuse. This
policy includes the testing and education of student athletes involved in intercollegiate athletics at
Ashford University. This policy is based on a presumption against the use of any artificial chemical
substances that are not medically necessary (i.e., taken under orders of a physician, with notice to
the athletic training staff). If an athlete has any questions about a given substance, then he/she
should consult the Athletic Director.
Residence Hall Drugs and Alcohol policy:
It is the University’s intent to provide a drug-free, healthy, safe, and secure academic environment.
The University’s Residence Hall policies on drugs and alcohol track the university policies. The
following policies and guidelines have been established to uphold the University’s obligation to its
students, faculty, and surrounding community:
The University neither condones nor sanctions the use of alcohol. All individuals are expected to
observe the alcoholic beverage laws of the State of Iowa. The University strictly prohibits the use,
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December 2014 CR 0121651a
consumption, possession, and distribution of alcohol by any student, regardless of legal age, within
the University housing facilities, on campus grounds, or at University-sponsored activities.
The possession, unlawful use, sale, or distribution of illegal drugs is prohibited on the University
campus. Also, drug paraphernalia is not permitted on the University campus.
For certain University events or functions, alcohol may be served only to those persons of legal
drinking age. Written permission from the Campus Director or University President to serve alcohol
and an alcohol permit must be obtained prior to the function.
Employee Drug and Alcohol Policy:
The University prohibits the manufacture, distribution, dispensation, sale, purchase, or transfer of
any controlled substance by its employees on University premises or while conducting University
business. The University prohibits the unlawful possession or use of any controlled substance by its
employees on University premises or while conducting University business. Employees may not
report to work under the influence of an unauthorized controlled substance. Controlled substances
include those drugs listed in the federal Controlled Substances Act.
The University also prohibits the use, possession, distribution, transfer or sale of any drug
paraphernalia on University premises or while conducting University business. In addition, the
University prohibits employees from reporting to work under the influence of, dispensing,
possessing or using alcohol on University premises or while conducting University business except as
permitted at specific University events.
Legal Sanctions
Local, state and federal laws prohibit the possession or use of, distribution of, manufacture of,
or possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance or a counterfeit controlled
substance. Specific drugs, amounts, and penalties are described in the Controlled Substances
Act, available online at www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/21cfr/21usc/ .
These penalties include:
21 U.S.C.S. 862, Denial of Federal benefits, including student loans, grants, contracts, and
professional commercial licenses. Persons convicted of illegal possession may be denied these
benefits for up to one year for a first offense and up to five years for second and subsequent
offenses. Persons convicted of drug trafficking may be denied these benefits for up to five years for
a first offense and up to 10 years for a second offense. Upon a third or subsequent drug trafficking
conviction, a person may be permanently ineligible for all Federal benefits.
The following summary sets forth the legal sanctions under local, state or federal law for the
unlawful possession or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol. Please note that a student or
employee who violates the University’s policies relating to the possession or distribution of
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December 2014 CR 0121651a
illicit drugs and alcohol is subject both to the University’s sanctions as well as any applicable
criminal sanctions provided by local, state or federal law.
Iowa Code § 124.401 and in 21 U.S.C. § 841(b). State and federal legal sanctions are subject to
change by the Iowa General Assembly and the United States Congress, respectively.
a. Penalty Enhancement. The maximum term and fine increase significantly if state or federal
penalty enhancement rules apply. Factors which raise maximum penalties under federal
penalty enhancement rules include death or serious bodily injury; prior drug conviction;
placing at risk or distributing a drug to a person under 21 years old; using a person under 18
years of age to assist in the drug violation; and distributing or manufacturing a drug within
1,000 feet of school property, including the Ashford University campus. Penalty enhancement
rules apply to defendants 18 years or older. Factors which raise maximum penalties under
state penalty enhancement rules include using firearms or dangerous weapons in the
commission of the offense.
b. Possession. Both state and federal laws prohibit possession of a controlled substance and
distinguish between “simple possession” and possession with intent to distribute. In Iowa,
simple possession for a first time offender is a serious misdemeanor, carrying a minimum $315
fine and a penalty of up to a year incarceration and a maximum $1875 in fines. § 903.1(1)(b). If
the substance is marijuana, the maximum penalty for a first time offender shall not exceed
$1000 and/or 6 months incarceration. § 124.401(5). Under federal law, simple possession of
any controlled substance, including marijuana, is a misdemeanor and first time offenders are
subject to a minimum $1000 fine and up to a year incarceration. 21 U.S.C. § 844(a).
If the defendant has prior convictions for drug offenses under either State or Federal law, the
offense brings enhanced penalties. If the defendant is tried under the Federal statute, certain
“mandatory minimums” may apply regardless of whether the previous offense was a State
misdemeanor or a conviction under Federal law.
Additionally, a person in possession of a small amount of a controlled substance for personal
use may be assessed a civil fine up to $10,000 in addition to any criminal fine. 21 U.S.C. §
844(a). Persons in possession of a controlled substance (first offense) may also be denied
Federal benefits including student loans, contracts, grants, and professional licenses for up to a
year. 21 U.S.C. § 862(b).
c. Driving While Intoxicated. Under state law, a person found guilty of operating a motor
vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol (blood concentration of .08 or greater)
shall be imprisoned for not less than 48 hours and fined not less than $625 for the first offense.
Iowa Code §321J.2(2)(a). For the second Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) offense the
minimum period of confinement is seven days and a fine of not less than $1,875. Iowa Code
§321J.2(2)(b). The minimum period of confinement for the third or subsequent OWI
convictions is thirty days and could be up to one year, with a fine of not less than $3,125. Iowa
Code 231J.2(2)(c).
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The driver's license of an individual under 21 years of age who is found guilty of operating a
motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of .02 percent or more is subject to a 60-day
suspension even if the individual is not legally intoxicated. Iowa Code § 321J.12(2)(c). For
individuals convicted of OWI, the period of suspension is 180 days or more regardless of age.
Iowa Code §321J.12(1).
d. Alcohol-Related Offenses. Under state law, the drinking age is 21. State law prohibits:
• public intoxication; § 123.46
• driving a motor vehicle with an unsealed receptacle containing an alcoholic beverage in
the vehicle; § 123.28
• giving or selling an alcoholic beverage to anyone intoxicated; § 123.49
• possession of an alcoholic beverage under legal age; § 123.47
• knowingly providing alcohol to an individual under the age of 21. § 123.47
e. The City of Clinton prohibits:
• Distribution of dangerous substances Clinton Ordinance § 131.01
• Consumption or possession of alcohol by persons under the age of 21 § 133.01
• Supplying a person who is under the age of 21 with alcohol § 133.01
• Attempting to purchase alcohol when under the age of 21 § 133.01
• Public Intoxication or simulated intoxication § 133.02
• Consuming alcohol on school (K-12) property or while attending a public or private
school function § 133.02
• Possession of alcohol in a park or city-owned property between the hours of 6 p.m. and
9 a.m., or 9 p.m. and 9 a.m. as designated in the ordinance, unless a permit is obtained
§ 96.05
• Possession of alcohol in a container larger than 32 ounces in a park § 96.06
• Possession, use, manufacture, or delivery of a controlled substance § 133.15
• Use, Possession with intent to use, or delivery of drug paraphernalia (defined in §
133.17) § 133.19
• Presence of persons under the age of 21 in bars § 110.05
• Persons found to violate any of the above Clinton Ordinances are generally guilty of a
misdemeanor, although penalties may increase for repeat offenders or persons charge
with the corresponding violation of State or Federal law.
• The following is a summary of Iowa state penalties for drug offenses1:
Persons found to violate any of the above Clinton Ordinances are generally guilty of a misdemeanor,
although penalties may increase for repeat offenders or persons charge with the corresponding
violation of State or Federal law.
The following is a summary of Iowa state penalties for drug offenses1:
1
This chart is not a complete list of all drug-related offenses and is not intended as legal advice. The Iowa Code criminalizes
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Offense - Marijuana
Possession – First Offense:
including possession with
intent to deliver (not for sale)
§124.401(5)
Possession – Second Offense:
§124.401(5); §903.1(b)(1)
Possession – Third Offense or
Greater: §124.401(5);
§903.1(b)(2)
Delivery, Manufacture, or
Possession with intent to
deliver: Less than 50kg
§124.401(1)(d) 2
Delivery, Manufacture, or
Possession with intent to
deliver: 50kg – 100kg
§124.401(1)(c)
Delivery, Manufacture, or
Possession with intent to
deliver: 100kg – 1000kg
§124.401(1)(b)
Delivery, Manufacture, or
Possession with intent to
deliver: Over 1000kg
§124.401(1)(a)
Possession of Drug
Paraphernalia §124.414
Offense – Controlled
Substance, non-Marijuana
Iowa Drug Offenses 2012
Type of Offense Jail Term/Penalties
Misdemeanor
0-6 months, includes a
minimum of 48 hours,
which can be
suspended.
Serious
Up to 1 year, includes
Misdemeanor
a minimum of 48
hours, which can be
suspended.
Aggravated
Up to 2 years, includes
Misdemeanor
a minimum of 48
hours, which can be
suspended.
Special Class
Up to 5 years
“D” Felony
Fine
$1000
$315 - $1875
$625 - $6250
$1000 - $7500
Special Class
“C” Felony
Up to 10 years
$1000 - $50,000
Special Class
“B” Felony
Up to 25 years
$5000 $100,000
Special Class
“B” Felony
Up to 50 years
Up to
$1,000,000
Simple
Misdemeanor
None, possible
community service
Type of Offense
Jail Term/Penalties
$65 - $625, plus
$10 Drug abuse
resistance
surcharge
Fine
acts beyond just manufacturing the actual controlled substance: manufacture or delivery of “counterfeit substance, or a
simulated controlled substance, or to act with, enter into a common scheme or design with, or conspire with one or more
other persons to manufacture, deliver, or possess with the intent to manufacture or deliver a controlled substance” are all
crimes under §124.401. Furthermore, this chart does not include sentence enhancements which may be relevant to
individuals charged with accompanying firearm possession or individuals who involve minors in the crime.
2
This subsection also applies to manufacture, delivery, or possession with intent to deliver flunitrazepam, which is
sometimes used as a “date rape drug.”
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Possession – First Offense
§124.401(5)
Serious
Misdemeanor
Possession – Second Offense
§124.401(5)
Aggravated
Misdemeanor
Possession – Third and
Subsequent Offense
Delivery, Manufacture, or
Possession with intent to
deliver: heroin §124.401(1)(a),
(b)
Special Class
“D” Felony
Special Class
“B” Felony
Delivery, Manufacture, or
Special Class
Possession with intent to
“B” Felony
3
deliver: coca leaves or cocaine,
or ecgonine, or any mix of the
above, their salts, isomers or
derivatives §124.401(1)(a), (b)
Delivery, Manufacture, or
Possession with intent to
deliver: PCP §124.401(1)(a), (b)
Special Class
“B” Felony
Delivery, Manufacture, or
Possession with intent to
deliver: LSD §124.401(1)(a), (b)
Special Class
“B” Felony
Up to 1 year, includes $315 - $1875
a minimum of 48
hours, which can be
suspended.
Up to 2 years, includes $625 - $6250
a minimum of 48
hours, which can be
suspended.
Up to 5 years
$1000 - $7500
more than 1kg: Up to
50 years
100g – 1kg: Up to 25
years
more than 1kg:
Up to
$1,000,000
100g – 1kg:
$5,000$100,000
more than 500g, or
more than
more than 50g of a
500g, or more
mix or substance that than 50g of a
contains a cocaine
mix or
base: Up to 50 years
substance that
100g – 500g or 10g –
contains a
50g of a mix with a
cocaine base:
cocaine base: Up to 25 Up to
years
$1,000,000
100g – 500g or
10g – 50g of a
mix: $5,000$100,000
more than 100g or
more than 100g
1kg of a mix: Up to 50 or 1kg of a mix:
years
Up to
10g – 100g or 100g –
$1,000,000
1kg of a mix: Up to 25 10g – 100g or
years
100g – 1kg of a
mix: $5,000$100,000
more than 10g: Up to more than
50 years
10g:Up to
Less than 10g: Up to
$1,000,000
25 years
Less than 10g:
3
Except coca leaves and extracts of coca leaves from which cocaine, ecgonine, and derivatives of ecgonine and their salts
have been removed.
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Delivery, Manufacture, or
Possession with intent to
deliver: any mixture containing
methamphetamine,
amphetamine, or any of their
salts, isomers, and salts of
isomers §124.401(1)(a), (b)
Other Schedule I, II, and III
Substances 4 - any amount
Delivery, Manufacture, or
Possession with intent to
deliver: heroin – up to 100g
§124.401(1)(c)
Delivery, Manufacture, or
Possession with intent to
deliver: coca leaves5 or cocaine,
or ecgonine, or any mix of the
above - up to 100g, or up to
10g of a cocaine base mix
Delivery, Manufacture, or
Possession with intent to
deliver: PCP – up to 10g or up
to 100g of a mix
Delivery, Manufacture, or
Possession with intent to
deliver: any mixture containing
methamphetamine,
amphetamine, or any of their
salts, isomers, and salts of
isomers – up to 5g of
amphetamine, or any mix
Special Class
“B” Felony
more than 5kg: Up to
50 years
5g – 5kg: Up to 25
years
$5,000$100,000
more than 5kg:
Up to
$1,000,000
5g – 5kg:
$5,000$100,000
Special Class
“C” Felony
Special Class
“C” Felony
Up to 10 years
$1000-$50,000
Up to 10 years
$1000-$50,000
Special Class
“C” Felony
Up to 10 years
$1000-$50,000
Special Class
“C” Felony
Up to 10 years
$1000-$50,000
Special Class
“C” Felony
Up to 10 years
$1000-$50,000
4
Some examples of other Schedule I, II, and III controlled substances include mescaline, morphine, fentanyl, and hashish.
Except coca leaves and extracts of coca leaves from which cocaine, ecgonine, and derivatives of ecgonine and their salts
have been removed.
5
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Possession with intent to
Special Class
manufacture or deliver –
“D” Felony
ephedrine, pseudoephedrine,
ethyl ether, anhydrous
ammonia, red phosphorous,
lithium, iodine, thionyl chloride,
chloroform, palladium,
perchloric acid,
tetrahydrofuran, ammonium
chloride, magnesium sulfate
Schedule IV or V 6
Aggravated
Misdemeanor
Up to 5 years
$100 - $7500
Up to 2 years, includes $625 - $6250
a minimum of 48
hours, which can be
suspended.
Driver’s License Suspension: Iowa Code § 901.5(10) – The Department of Transportation will revoke a
driver’s license for 180 days under court order when a person is convicted of certain drug related
offenses. If the license is already suspended or revoked, the 180 days begins after all other
suspensions and revocations have expired. The triggering offenses could include any of the violations
of § 124.401, § 124.401A. § 124.402, § 124.403, § 126.3, and Chapter 453B, many of which are listed
on the chart above.
Federal Trafficking Penalties for Schedules I, II, III, IV, and V (except Marijuana)
6
S
II
Substance/Qu
Cocaine
500-4999
grams mixture
II
Cocaine Base
28-279 grams
mixture
I
V
Fentanyl
40-399 grams
mixture
Penalty
First Offense:
Not less than
5 yrs. and not
more than 40
yrs. If death or
serious bodily
injury, not less
than 20 yrs. or
more than life.
Fine of not more
than $5 million if
an individual,
$25 million if not
an individual.
I
Fentanyl
Analogue 1099 grams
Second Offense:
Not less than 10
Substance/Quan
Cocaine
5 kilograms or
more mixture
Cocaine Base
280 grams or
more mixture
Fentanyl
400 grams or
more mixture
Fentanyl
Analogue
100 grams or
Some examples of Schedule IV or V controlled substances include Tylenol with codeine or Valium.
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Penalty
First Offense:
Not less than
10 yrs. and not
more than life. If
death or serious
bodily injury, not
less than 20 yrs.
or more than life.
Fine of not more
than $10 million
if an individual,
$50 million if not
an individual.
Second Offense:
Not less than 20
yrs., and not
I
Heroin
100-999 grams
mixture
I
LSD
1-9 grams
mixture
II
Methampheta
mine
5-49 grams
pure or 50-499
grams mixture
II
PCP
10-99 grams
pure or
100-999 grams
mixture
Substance/Quantity
Any Amount Of Other
Schedule I & II
Substances
Any Drug Product
Containing Gamma
Hydroxybutyric Acid
yrs. and not
more than life. If
death or serious
bodily injury, life
imprisonment.
Fine of not more
than $8 million if
an individual,
$50 million if not
an individual.
Heroin
1 kilogram or
more mixture
LSD
10 grams or
more mixture
Methamphetami
ne
50 grams or
more pure or 500
grams or more
i t
PCP
100 grams or
more pure
or 1 kilogram or
more mixture
more than life. If
death or serious
bodily injury, life
imprisonment.
Fine of not more
than $20 million
if an individual,
$75 million if not
an individual.
2 or More Prior
Offenses: Life
imprisonment.
Fine of not more
than $20 million
if an individual,
$75 million if not
an individual
Penalty
First Offense: Not more than 20 yrs. If death or serious bodily injury,
not less than 20 yrs. or more than Life. Fine $1 million if an
individual, $5 million if not an individual.
Second Offense: Not more than 30 yrs. If death or serious bodily
injury, life imprisonment. Fine $2 million if an individual, $10 million
if not an individual.
Flunitrazepam (Schedule
IV)
1 Gram
Any Amount Of Other
Schedule III
Drugs
Any Amount Of All Other
Schedule IV
Drugs (other than one
gram or more of
Any Amount Of All
Schedule V Drugs
First Offense: Not more than 10 yrs. If death or serious bodily injury,
not more than 15
yrs. Fine not more than $500,000 if an individual, $2.5 million if not
i di
id l Not more than 5 yrs. Fine not more than $250,000 if
First
Offense:
an individual, $1
million if not an individual.
$ if an
First Offense: Not more than 1 yr. Fine not more than $100,000
individual, $250,000
if not an individual.
$
Federal Trafficking Penalties for Marijuana, Hashish and Hashish Oil, Schedule I Substances
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First Offense: Not less than 10 yrs. or more than life. If death or
serious bodily injury, not less than 20 yrs., or more than life. Fine
not more than $10 million if an individual, $50 million if other
than an individual.
Second Offense: Not less than 20 yrs. or more than life. If death
or serious bodily injury, life imprisonment. Fine not more than
$20 million if an individual, $75 million if other than an individual.
Marijuana
First Offense: Not less than 5 yrs. or more than 40 yrs. If death or
100 to 999 kilograms marijuana serious bodily injury, not less than 20 yrs. or more than life. Fine
mixture or 100 to 999
not more than $5 million if an individual, $25 million if other than
marijuana plants
an individual.
Second Offense: Not less than 10 yrs. or more than life. If death
or serious bodily injury, life imprisonment. Fine not more than $8
million if an individual, $50million if other than an individual.
Marijuana
First Offense: Not more than 20 yrs. If death or serious bodily
50 to 99 kilograms marijuana
injury, not less than 20 yrs. or more than life. Fine $1 million if an
mixture,
individual, $5 million if other than an individual.
50 to 99 marijuana plants
Second Offense: Not more than 30 yrs. If death or serious bodily
injury, life imprisonment. Fine $2 million if an individual, $10
Hashish
million if other than an individual.
More than 10 kilograms
Hashish Oil
More than 1 kilogram
Marijuana
First Offense: Not more than 5 yrs. Fine not more than $250,000,
less than 50 kilograms
$1 million if other than an individual.
marijuana (but does not
Second Offense: Not more than 10 yrs. Fine $500,000 if an
include 50 or more marijuana
individual, $2 million if other than individual.
plants regardless of weight)
1 to 49 marijuana plants
Hashish
10 kilograms or less
Hashish Oil
1 kilogram or less
Marijuana
1,000 kilograms or more
marijuana mixture or 1,000 or
more marijuana plants
http://www.justice.gov/dea/druginfo/ftp_chart2.pdf
Health Risks
The following provides information on the health risks associated with the abuse of alcohol and use
of illicit drugs. The U.S. Department of Justice provides information on the effects of alcohol and
commonly used drugs and can be referenced on the U.S. Department of Justice’s website at
http://www.justice.gov and http://www.justice.gov/dea/druginfo/factsheets.shtml (last visited
November 13, 2014).
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Alcohol:
Alcohol consumption causes a number of marked changes in behavior. Even a low amount can
significantly impair the judgment and coordination required to drive a car safely, increasing the
likelihood that the driver will be involved in an accident. Low to moderate amounts of alcohol also
increase the incidence of a variety of aggressive acts, including spouse and child abuse. Moderate to high
amounts of alcohol cause marked impairments in higher mental functions, severely altering a person’s
ability to learn and remember information. Very high amounts cause respiratory repression and death. If
combined with other depressants of the central nervous system, much lower amounts of alcohol will
produce the effects described here. Alcohol is an important dimension in sexual violence in that many
perpetrators are drinking when they attack their victims or experience alcohol abuse problems.
Repeated use of alcohol can lead to dependence. Sudden cessation of alcohol intake is likely to produce
withdrawal symptoms, including severe anxiety, tremors, hallucinations, and convulsions. Alcohol
withdrawal can be life threatening. Long-term consumption of large quantities of alcohol, particularly
combined with poor nutrition, can also lead to permanent damage to vital organs, such as the brain and
the liver. Based on language from the Mayo Clinic Consuming alcohol during pregnancy increases the risk
that the child may be born with fetal alcohol syndrome. Problems that may be caused by fetal alcohol
syndrome include physical deformities, mental retardation, learning disorders, vision difficulties and
behavioral problems.
Because alcohol affects many organs in the body, long-term heavy drinking puts people at risk for
developing serious health problems, some of which are described below.
Alcohol-Related Liver Disease: More than 2 million Americans suffer from alcohol-related liver disease.
Some drinkers develop alcoholic hepatitis, or inflammation of the liver, as a result of long-term heavy
drinking. Its symptoms include fever, jaundice (abnormal yellowing of the skin, eyeballs, and urine), and
abdominal pain. Alcoholic hepatitis can cause death if drinking continues. If drinking stops, this condition
often is reversible. About 10 to 20 percent of heavy drinkers develop alcoholic cirrhosis, or scarring of
the liver. Alcoholic cirrhosis can cause death if drinking continues.
Heart Disease: Moderate drinking can have beneficial effects on the heart, especially among those at
greatest risk for heart attacks, such as men over the age of 45 and women after menopause. But longterm heavy drinking increases the risk for high blood pressure, heart disease, and some types of stroke.
Cancer: Long-term heavy drinking increases the risk of developing certain forms of cancer, especially
cancer of the esophagus, mouth, throat, and voice box. Women are at slightly increased risk of
developing breast cancer if they drink two or more drinks per day. Drinking may also increase the risk for
developing cancer of the colon and rectum.
Pancreatitis: The pancreas helps to regulate the body’s blood sugar levels by producing insulin. The
pancreas also has a role in digesting ingested food. Long-term heavy drinking can lead to pancreatitis, or
inflammation of the pancreas. This condition is associated with severe abdominal pain and weight loss
and can be fatal.
Drugs:
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Methamphetamine: Methamphetamine releases high levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine which
stimulates brain cells enhancing mood and body movement. It also appears to have a neurotoxic effect
damaging brain cells that contain dopamine and serotonin, another neurotransmitter. Over time,
methamphetamine appears to cause reduced levels of dopamine, which can result in symptoms like
those of Parkinson’s disease, a severe movement disorder. Users may become addicted quickly and use
it with increasing frequency and in increasing doses. The central nervous system (CNS) actions that result
from taking even small amounts of methamphetamine include increased wakefulness, increased physical
activity, decreased appetite, increased respiration, hyperthermia, and euphoria. Other CNS effects
include irritability, insomnia, confusion, tremors, convulsions, anxiety, paranoia, and aggressiveness.
Hyperthermia and convulsions can result in death.
Methamphetamine causes increased heart rate and blood pressure and can cause irreversible damage to
blood vessels in the brain, producing strokes. Other effects of methamphetamine include respiratory
problems, irregular heartbeat, and extreme anorexia. Its use can result in cardiovascular collapse and
death.
Cocaine: Cocaine is a strong central nervous system stimulant that interferes with the re-absorption
process of dopamine, a chemical messenger associated with pleasure and movement. Dopamine is
released as part of the brain’s reward system and is involved in the high that characterizes cocaine
consumption. The physical effects of cocaine use include constricted peripheral blood vessels, dilated
pupils, and increased temperature, heart rate, and blood pressure. The duration of cocaine’s immediate
euphoric effects, which include hyper-stimulation, reduced fatigue, and mental clarity, depends on the
route of administration.
High doses of cocaine and/or prolonged use can trigger paranoia. Smoking crack cocaine can produce a
particularly aggressive paranoid behavior in users. When addicted individuals stop using cocaine, they
often become depressed, which may lead to further cocaine use to alleviate depression. Prolonged
cocaine snorting can result in ulceration of the mucous membrane of the nose and can damage the nasal
septum enough to cause it to collapse. Cocaine-related deaths are often a result of cardiac arrest or
seizures followed by respiratory arrest.
Heroin: Heroin abuse is associated with serious health conditions including fatal overdose, spontaneous
abortion, collapsed veins, and infectious diseases, including HIV/AIDS and hepatitis. Mental functioning
becomes clouded due to depression of the central nervous system. Long-term effects of heroin appear
after repeated use for some period of time. Chronic users may develop collapsed veins, infection of the
heart lining and valves, abscesses, cellulitis, and liver disease. Pulmonary complications, including various
types of pneumonia, may result from the poor health condition of the abuser, as well as from heroin’s
depressing effects on respiration.
Marijuana: Recent research findings indicate that long-term use of marijuana produces changes in the
brain similar to those seen after long-term use of other major drugs of abuse.
Someone who smokes marijuana regularly may have many of the same respiratory problems as tobacco
smokers. These individuals may have daily cough and phlegm, symptoms of chronic bronchitis, and more
frequent chest colds. Continuing to smoke marijuana can lead to abnormal functioning of lung tissue
injured or destroyed by marijuana smoke.
MDMA (Ecstasy): MDMA causes injury to the brain, affecting neurons that use the chemical serotonin to
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communicate with other neurons. The serotonin system plays a direct role in regulating mood,
aggression, sexual activity, sleep, and sensitivity to pain. Many of the risks users face with MDMA use are
similar to those found with the use of cocaine and amphetamines, such as: psychological difficulties
including confusion, depression, sleep problems, drug craving, severe anxiety, and paranoia – during and
sometimes weeks after taking MDMA; physical symptoms such as muscle tension, involuntary teeth
clenching, nausea, blurred vision, rapid eye movement, faintness, and chills or sweating; and increases in
heart rate and blood pressure, a special risk for people with circulatory or heart disease. There is also
evidence that people who develop a rash that looks like acne after using MDMA may be risking severe
side effects, including liver damage, if they continue to use the drug.
Rohypnol, GHB, and Ketamine: Coma and seizures can occur following abuse of GHB and, when
combined with methamphetamine, there appears to be an increased risk of seizure. Combining use with
other drugs such as alcohol can result in nausea and difficulty breathing. GHB may also produce
withdrawal effects, including insomnia, anxiety, tremors, and sweating. In October, 1996, because of
concern about Rohypnol, GHB, and other similarly abused sedative-hypnotics, Congress passed the
“Drug-Induced Rape Prevention and Punishment Act of 1996.” This legislation increased federal penalties
for use of any controlled substance to aid in sexual assault.
LSD: The effects of LSD are unpredictable. They depend on the amount taken; the user’s personality,
mood, and expectations; and the surroundings in which the drug is used. Usually, the user feels the first
effects of the drug 30 to 90 minutes after taking it. The physical effects include dilated pupils, higher
body temperature, increased heart rate and blood pressure, sweating, loss of appetite, sleeplessness,
dry mouth, and tremors.
LSD is not considered an addictive drug since it does not produce compulsive drug-seeking behavior as
do cocaine, amphetamine, heroin, alcohol, and nicotine. However, like many of the addictive drugs, LSD
produces tolerance, so some users who take the drug repeatedly must take progressively higher doses to
achieve the state of intoxication they had previously achieved. This is an extremely dangerous practice,
given the unpredictability of the drug. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) is funding studies
that focus on the neurochemical and behavioral properties of LSD. This research will provide a greater
understanding of the effects of the drug.
Drug or Alcohol Counseling, Treatment or Rehabilitation
The University provides supportive intervention resources related to drug and alcohol use and abuse for
students and staff. The University disseminates informational materials, education programs and
referrals regarding the use of alcohol and/or a controlled substance.
The University provides services related to drug and alcohol use and abuse for its staff, faculty and
students. University employee services are coordinated through the Cigna Employee Assistance
Program. Clinton, Iowa Ground Campus students are afforded access to mental health and
rehabilitation services through the WellConnect Student Assistance Program. These services include
telephonic assessment and brief counseling and resource support, face to face counseling services,
and access to a comprehensive self-service student health and wellbeing online portal, CU THRIVE.
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All University staff and faculty may utilize the Ashford University HELP Resource to identify support
resources and appropriate response to escalated psycho-social issues, including drug and alcohol
abuse. When individual students experience escalated circumstances and intervention is
appropriate, support services are provided by the Student Advocates through the Ashford University
HELPline. Utilizing a case management approach, Student Advocates provide short-term support and
resource identification to include both local and national resources. In this way, Student Advocates
address the impact of substance abuse and action plan with students in order to coordinate support
and recovery efforts.
The Emergency Assistance page of the Ashford University website includes contact information on
national counseling, treatment, and rehabilitation programs for drug and alcohol resources for
students, prospective students and the community to access in a confidential manner.
The information available on the Emergency Assistance page of the Ashford University website
includes the following national toll-free telephone numbers are provided to assist any member of
the University who may require assistance in dealing with a drug or alcohol problem:
American Council on Alcoholism (800) 527-5344: Addresses alcoholism as a treatable disease
through public education, information, intervention, and referral.
Al-Anon (888) 425-2666: Helps families and friends of alcoholics recover from the effects of living with
the problem drinking of a relative or friend.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse Hotline (877)-643-2644: Provides information, support, treatment
options, and referrals to local rehab centers for any drug or alcohol problem.
Hotlines/Help Lines:
24 Hour National Alcohol & Substance Abuse Information Center
(800) 784-6776
Alcoholics Anonymous/Narcotics Anonymous
250 20th Avenue North, Clinton, IA 52732
Website: www.aaquadcities.com
(563) 242-8136
Bridgeview Community Mental Health Center
638 South Bluff, 2nd Floor Bluff Bldg., Clinton, IA 52732
Website: www.bridgeviewcmhc.com
(563) 243-5633
Center for Alcohol and Drug Services
4869 Forest Grove Road, Bettendorf, IA 52722
Website: http://www.cads-ia.com
(563) 332-8974
Center for Alcohol and Drug Services - Intake Outpatient Administration
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1523 South Fairmount Street, Davenport, IA 52808
Website: http://www.cads-ia.com
(563) 322-2667
Center for Alcohol and Drug Services - Country Oaks
12160 Utah Avenue, Davenport, IA 52804
Website: http://www.cads-ia.com
(563) 326-1150
Family Resources Inc., Wittenmyer Youth Center/ Leslie East
Review Committee Membership
2800 Eastern Avenue, Davenport, IA 52803
Website: http://www.famres.org
(563) 326-6431
Genesis Multiple Addictions Recovery Center (MARC)
West Central Park at Marquette, Davenport, IA 52804
Website: http://www.genesishealth.com
(563) 421-1000
New Life Outpatient Center Inc.
Paul Revere Square
Suite 2000 North
2322 East Kimberly Road, Davenport, IA 52807
Website: http://www.newlifeopc.com
(563) 355-0055
Enforcement
The University seeks to uphold University drug and alcohol-related policies and laws, and will
impose disciplinary sanctions against those students and/or employees who violate said policies
and laws consistent with local, State or Federal law.
Enforcement of the University’s Drug and Alcohol polices is facilitated by Campus Security, the
Dean of Student Affairs (Campus students)/Director of Student Development & Engagement
(Online students) and Employee Relations. As part of the disciplinary process, the University may
also request that the student or employee complete a rehabilitation program.
Students
Sanctions for students included: warnings, reflective essays, fines, module-based developmental
instruction, written assignments, conduct probation, and dismissal. The University maintains a
progressive sanctioning protocol. It demonstrates a commitment to ensuring evenly imposed
sanctioning processes through the use of the Community Standards Sanctioning Chart in all
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December 2014 CR 0121651a
sanctioning processes.
Employees
Sanctions for employees included: Coaching, Mandatory EAP Referral, and Termination.
Employees may self-refer or have a Human Resource’s referral to the Employee Assistance
Program for assistance in dealing with the use of alcohol or a controlled substance. The
Employee Relations group, including the Vice President of Human Resources, manages staff
corrective action.
It is the University’s intent to provide a drug-free, healthful, safe, and secure academic environment.
This information is very important and we encourage you to read it carefully. The information
presented herein is available at www.ashford.edu/DFSCA. You may also request a paper copy of this
Report by responding to studentaffairs@ashford.edu and a copy will be mailed to you.
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Ashford University Drug Free Schools and Communities Act Program Report
December 2014 CR 0121651a