2013/2014
STUDENT HANDBOOK
Undergraduate Student Handbook
2013-2014 Edition
The mission of Vanguard University is to equip each student for a
Spirit-empowered life of Christ-centered leadership and service.
Truth  Virtue  Service
Student Life exists to cultivate a community
of authentic relationships and diverse learning environments
that facilitate the holistic growth of each student
towards Christ-likeness.
Welcome to Vanguard University. Let me congratulate and thank you for choosing a University
that will permanently shape the direction of your life and vocation. The experiences and
relationships which emerge during your time at Vanguard will sharpen you as a person and will
clarify God’s calling on your life. At Vanguard, we value hearing your story and learning about
you. Entering into this community requires allowing yourself to be known and respecting the
community values.
Being part of the Vanguard community, like any community, has certain standards,
requirements, and responsibilities that facilitate University life. These expectations reflect our
affiliation with the Assemblies of God denomination and help to facilitate a strong Christian
community. This handbook is your guide to understanding the community life experience at
Vanguard. It is expected that all students will read through this material and refer to it as
necessary. I hope you are able to enter into the vibrant programs, relationships and ministries
available to you this year.
At Vanguard you will encounter rigorous academic programs, intentional learning opportunities
and faculty, administration, and staff who desire to mentor you. This strong liberal-arts
education will help to develop you holistically and help you to become the person God created
you to be.
I pray that you choose to take advantage of all the resources and relationships in the Vanguard
community. Your life will forever be changed by the dynamic community life and the spiritual
vitality that you experience this year at Vanguard.
Dr. Tim Young
Dean of Student Life
Vanguard reserves the right to make changes and periodic updates to this document at any time. It is the
responsibility of each student to become familiar with the contents of the Student Handbook and to abide by the
academic, social, and spiritual responsibilities of the members of the University community. Please consult the
student handbook online for current updates at http://studentlife.vanguard.edu/student-handbook/.
Table of Contents
Academic Services
Educational Targets & Goals
4
4
Academic Policies and Procedures
4
School for Professional Studies (SPS)
5
Study Abroad Courses
7
Veterans Benefits
7
Leave of Absence Policy
8
Medical/Compassionate Leave of Absence Policy
8
Withdrawal from the University
Refund Policies
9
9
Grading System
9
Academic Probation & Disqualification
11
Degree Requirements
12
Academic Integrity and Dishonesty
13
Campus Public Safety
Clery Act Notification
Crime Awareness and Campus Security Act of 1990
15
15
16
Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act of 1989 (Public Law 101-336)
16
Public Notification Policy
16
Emergency Procedures
Fire Drill Instructions
16
18
Vehicle Registration
18
Bicycles on Campus
Community- Who is Vanguard
Responsibilities of Vanguard Community Membership
19
19
19
Community Expectations
General Expectations of the Vanguard Community
20
20
Rules, Restraints, and Responsibilities (Student Code of Conduct)
21
Appearance
23
Computer Dishonesty
23
Computer Usage Guidelines
24
Confidential Reporting
25
Dancing Policy
25
Drug & Alcohol Testing Policy
26
Fireworks
26
Hazing Policy
26
2
Internet Material
26
Parking Enforcement
Personal Property
26
27
Pregnancy Policy for Unmarried Students
27
Residence Life Policies and Procedures
27
Sales Policy for Students
Spiritual Formation Department
36
36
Spiritual and Social Expectations
36
Responsibility of the Spiritual Formation Department
36
Outreach
37
Chapel
37
Student Government Association (SGA)
38
Student Discipline Process
41
Foundations for Student Discipline
Overview of the Student Discipline Process
41
42
Written Documentation
43
Hearings
44
Sanctions
Appeal Process
44
46
Commuter Students
47
Dining Commons (Food Service)
47
Diversity Policy
FERPA
49
50
Grievance Process
51
Health Services
51
Information Technology
Mail & Copy Center Services
52
52
Missing Student Policy
54
Peaceful Assembly Policy
54
Sexual Assault Prevention Policy
55
Sexual Harassment Policy
55
Student I.D. Cards
59
Student Life Staff
Student Frequently Used Contact Information
60
61
Summary of Handbook Changes for 2013-2014
62
3
Academic Services
Educational Targets & Goals
The VU experience is designed to provide students with a broad, Christian liberal arts education. Specifically, the faculty has
dedicated themselves to helping students achieve the following:
Intellectual Engagement
Students will learn to think critically and evaluate evidence rationally; acquire and continue to use skills for learning; utilize
research methods for the expansion of knowledge and problem solving; integrate learning with Christian faith and living. They
will develop the ability to communicate the fruits of learning and research clearly and effectively.
Spiritual Formation
Students will understand Christian existence as a journey that integrates human experience with personal faith; gain an
appreciation for the value of participation in communities of believers; and, develop and maintain a biblically based and
theologically sound Christian lifestyle of personal and social responsibility.
Professional Excellence
Students will understand current theories and practices in their respective academic disciplines in the context of the liberal arts
and sciences; develop lifelong skills for communicating and performing professionally; achieve technological competence in
acquiring and processing information. They will acquire interpersonal ability to work harmoniously with others; and, internalize a
strong sense of professional ethics.
Aesthetic Expression
Students will understand various sources of aesthetic sensitivity and expression as inherent human endowments and part of God's
creation; gain an awareness, understanding, appreciation, and expression of the fine and performing arts; and, develop
interpretive frameworks of aesthetic truths and values for personal wholeness and community enrichment.
Responsible Stewardship
Students will adopt a lifestyle of personal health and well-being; appreciate the value of family and other meaningful
relationships; exhibit the responsibilities of citizenship in society; gain a global outlook in caring for the environment and in
promoting social justice and economic empowerment; and, promote the church's mission through community service.
Socio-cultural Responsiveness
Students will demonstrate a capacity to challenge personal prejudices; appreciate cultural diversity and learn from other cultures;
develop a commitment to pursue peace, justice and reconciliation in a pluralistic society; and, celebrate the differences of race,
ethnicity, gender, and age within the biblical vision of inclusiveness and the equal value of all people.
Academic Policies and Procedures
Academic Calendar
Vanguard University operates on a two-semester academic calendar system.
Fall Semester—the semester normally is scheduled from late August to the Christmas Holiday. A normal load for this session is
twelve to eighteen units.
Spring Semester—the semester normally is scheduled from early January to early May. A normal load for this session is twelve
to eighteen units.
Summer Sessions—the summer term, which normally is scheduled from mid-May through early July, is divided into three
sessions.
Registration
Registration dates are specified on the calendar at the beginning of the University Catalog. A student may register for a course or
courses after the cutoff date given, but for no more than the number of units equal to the number of full weeks remaining in the
semester (including the week of final examinations), and with the permission of the professor(s) involved and Dean of the
College.
4
Students will receive credit only for those courses in which they are formally registered. No registration is complete until tuition
and fees have been paid or a satisfactory arrangement has been made with the Office of Accounting Operations. Late fees may be
charged to students who do not complete the registration process prior to the published deadlines.
Students may not receive credit for concurrent enrollment at any other institution without prior approval by the Registrar. Further,
the University reserves the right to cancel any scheduled course in which the enrollment is less than ten.
Student Academic Load in the College
A normal academic load is from twelve to eighteen units per semester. Students taking less than twelve units are considered parttime. Students who are employed for more than three hours of work daily may find that twelve units is a sufficient load. Students
contemplating participation in Commencement with provisional honors should consider carefully the paragraph on “Honors” that
appears later in this section.
Students who wish to register for more than eighteen units must have a cumulative “B” average and must secure advance written
approval from the Department Chair of their major. Ideally, a student should budget two hours of preparation for each class hour.
The following persons must maintain twelve or more units per semester: international students possessing a student visa (F-1
status), Social Security dependents, students receiving Cal Grants, students who participate in intercollegiate athletics, and
students whose extra-curricular programs dictate.
Special Class Enrollment Options
Conference Courses—Junior or Senior students, who for good reason cannot enroll in a listed catalog course when it is regularly
scheduled, may request to take a conference course. To have a conference course approved, a student must (1) receive permission
from the professor offering the course, the appropriate Department Chair, and the Registrar; and (2) pay a fee in addition to the
regular tuition. No more than four conference courses may be credited toward graduation.
Individual Studies Courses—Junior or Senior students with at least a 3.0 grade point average may pursue specifically designed
courses of individualized study within their major for up to three units per semester and for a total of twelve units applicable to
graduation. Such courses are initiated by the student, who must secure an appropriate sponsoring faculty member to supervise
and evaluate the project. A written prospectus of the nature of the proposed study, its objectives, resources, procedures,
requirements, and basis for evaluation—as devised by the professor or by the student in consultation with the professor—must be
submitted to the appropriate Department Chair and Registrar for approval. Individual studies carry an additional fee beyond
regular tuition.
Pass/Fail Courses—Outstanding seniors and juniors may enroll for one course each semester on a Pass/Fail basis. A maximum of
two courses taken on a Pass/Fail basis may be credited toward graduation. The request for such a grade must be made at the time of
registration. These courses may not be used to meet core, major, or professional requirements with one exception: With the
permission of the Provost, seniors maintaining a GPA of at least 3.25 may use an upper division course to meet a core curriculum
requirement. A grade of “C” must be earned in order to be granted a “Pass” grade for the course. A grade of “C-” or below will
result in an “F” grade recorded on the transcript. A grade of “P” does not affect the grade point average, but a grade of “F” does. If
an “A” grade is earned, it will be recorded on the transcript.
Residence Courses—Residence courses are those taken during regularly scheduled sessions on the VU campus as distinct from
extension, correspondence, or other special courses.
School for Professional Studies (SPS)
Cross Registration between Traditional Degree Programs and Degree Programs in the School for
Professional Studies (SPS)
Students enrolled in the Traditional College may enroll concurrently in classes in SPS Degree Programs according to the
following criteria:
1.
Students are considered on a case by case basis and will be assessed as to fit for the SPS program.
2.
Students must obtain “cross-registration” approval from the Director of Student Services for the School for Professional
Studies, their Academic Advisor, and the Office of Accounting Operations. Approval may be granted in highly unusual
circumstances, such as a course is needed by a senior level student for graduation in his/her final semester.
5
3.
Students must possess a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher and have at least 88 cumulative unites (i.e., senior status) to be
eligible to take both Major and general education courses. Students who have not achieved senior status may request to
cross-register, however, they must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.33*.
Students may not cross-register for more than six cumulative units*.
Students will be enrolled in SPS Degree Programs as “student-at-large” (not eligible for Financial Aid).
Students will pay the prevailing SPS Degree Programs tuition rate.
Students wishing to cross-register in SPS Degree Programs should request a cross-registration application form from the
SPS Office.
*Students receiving veteran’s benefits are exempt from GPA, class level, and maximum units allowed requirements. See
numbers 3 and 4 above.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
SPS Degree Program students at VU may enroll concurrently in classes in VU’s Traditional College according to the following
criteria:
1.
Students are considered on a case by case basis.
2.
Students must obtain cross-registration approval by the Undergraduate Dean of the College.
3.
Students will be enrolled in the College as “student-at-large” (not eligible for Financial Aid).
4.
Students will pay the prevailing traditional undergraduate tuition rate.
5.
Students wishing to cross-register in traditional coursework should request a cross-registration application form from the
Undergraduate Admissions Office.
Policy Regarding Transfer from Undergraduate to SPS
The University desires to establish a clear process for students who have been deemed a good fit and are thus eligible to transfer
from the undergraduate program to the School for Professional Studies (SPS).
In order to determine fit and eligibility students would first need to meet with an SPS Recruiter. During this meeting the
Recruiter will explain the degree requirements in the School for Professional Studies, the financial aid options available, and the
steps involved in transferring, as well as the items needed to complete the transfer petition process. At this meeting the SPS
Recruiter will provide the student with the Transfer Petition form. Once the student has obtained the Transfer Petition form, the
student must complete the following steps:
1.
Schedule a meeting with their undergraduate Academic Advisor or Department Chair to obtain approval to transfer to
the SPS. (Signature Required)
2.
The student will then schedule a meeting with the Office of Student Success to complete a fit interview and obtain
approval to transfer. (Signature Required)
3.
After meeting with and obtaining approval from the Office of Student Success, the student must complete a Transfer
Petition packet which includes the following items:
a.
Resume – a complete record of work experience, including dates and responsibilities
b.
Academic record (transcript or degree audit – unofficial copies are acceptable)
c.
Statement of purpose – articulating why you wish to make this change, your understanding of the SPS
format and why you believe it is appropriate for you, your educational goals including which SPS major
you intend to pursue, and explanation of how you have met the 5 year, full-time work experience
requirement.
4.
Once the Transfer Petition packet is complete, the student must schedule a meeting with the SPS Department Chair of
the major the student intends to pursue to present items included in the Transfer Petition Packet and obtain approval.
(Signature required)
5.
Once Department Chair approval is obtained, the student will complete an SPS Admissions packet which includes the
following items:
a.
Approved Transfer Petition form with all necessary signatures
b.
Application to the School for Professional Studies
c.
Critical thinking essay (prompt provided by SPS Recruiter)
d.
One business reference
e.
One personal reference
6
f.
6.
Current transcripts for those schools not already on file with the Registrar’s Office
After evaluating the student’s Transfer Petition packet and SPS Admissions package, the SPS Admissions Committee
will make a decision regarding the student’s eligibility for the program and will notify the student of their admittance
into the school or denial of their request to transfer via letter.
Study Abroad Courses
Academic credit for college-sponsored study trips conforms to WASC guidelines. One unit hour is granted for each week of
study, with an additional unit hour possible if academically warranted. All college-sponsored study trips and semester abroad
programs must be approved by the Undergraduate Studies Committee. Some academic departments restrict the number of unit
hours earned from study trips which students may count toward their major.
Students should consult with their academic advisor, Department Chair, and study abroad personnel for counsel on either
Vanguard or off-campus study abroad programs. Please see the "Off-Campus Study Programs" section of the University Catalog
for more detailed information on study abroad programs offered through VU. Students wishing to study abroad through an
institution other than Vanguard should contact the Office of the Registrar for appropriate paperwork and approval.
Veterans Benefits
Vanguard University is approved for training of veterans and eligible persons under the provisions of Title 38, United States
Code.
Upon acceptance into the University, individuals eligible for veteran’s benefits may apply for benefits through the Veterans
Resource Center. Vanguard University is a full Yellow Ribbon Institution. The Yellow Ribbon application can be downloaded at
the Veterans Resource Center homepage. In addition, the veteran must submit a certified copy of their separation papers (Form
DD-214), along with their Certificate of Eligibility and any appropriate application form(s). For details, or to obtain a hard copy
of the Yellow Ribbon application, please visit the Veterans Resource Center.
Vanguard University recognizes and uses the ACE Guide to the Evaluation of Educational Experiences in the Armed Services in
determining the value of learning acquired in military service, and awards credit for appropriate learning acquired in military
service at levels consistent with ACE Guide recommendations when applicable to a service member’s program. Veterans
accepted into the College or the School for Professional Studies will be awarded one physical education unit (to a maximum of 8
units) for every six months of active service completed, provided an honorable discharge was received as indicated on Form DD214. Vanguard University grants up to 30 units for certain types of military experience and educational training. The Veteran
must provide an official Military Transcript to the Office of the Registrar, who on an individual basis, grants any additional units.
To claim full GI Education Benefits, it is the students’ responsibility to request certification with the Veterans Resource Center
each semester. The student must indicate their semester’s enrollment on an Enrollment Status Form. To obtain a hard copy of
the Enrollment Status Form, please visit the Veterans Resource Center or http://sps.vanguard.edu/veterans-center/.
Students receiving Veterans benefits will be put on Probation if their cumulative GPA drops below the graduation requirement
for the program being attended as outlined below.
2.00 (C average) The College
2.00 (C average) The School for Professional Studies
2.67 (B- average) M.T.S. degree in the Graduate Program in Religion
3.00 (B average) M.A. or M.S. degree in the Graduate programs
Probationary status will continue until the student has raised his/her cumulative GPA to the minimum requirement. An individual
will have his/her veterans benefits terminated if he/she remains on Probation for two consecutive semesters.
Credit by Testing and Extension
Vanguard University grants a maximum of twenty-four units from Advanced Placement (AP), College Level Examination
Program (CLEP), International Baccalaureate (I.B.), other testing organizations, or from non-VU extension and correspondence
programs. VU grants credit to students who receive a grade of “3” or higher on tests administered in the AP program of the
College Entrance Examination Board. Credit for exams taken through CLEP will be awarded based on recommendations by
CLEP and the appropriate department. Typically a minimum score of 50 is required. VU grants credit to students who receive a
score of “4” or higher on the higher-level exams in the I.B. program. Work taken through any regionally accredited extension,
online, or correspondence program may be recognized for fulfilling graduation requirements.
7
Change of Class Schedule
Students are responsible for the individual program they select upon registration. Changes may be made online during designated
Online Registration time periods, and thereafter must be made by the filing of an add/drop form in the Office of the Registrar. A
class dropped during the first four full weeks of the semester is not entered on the transcript; however, one dropped subsequently
up to the end of the eighth full week will appear on the transcript with a grade of “W.” Classes dropped after the eighth week will
receive a grade of “WF” unless the professor, aware of extenuating circumstances beyond the control of the student, is willing to
grant a “WP”; however, the student must be earning a minimum grade of “C” in the course to warrant a “WP.”
All classes added after the second full week of classes must be approved by the professor and the Dean of the College.
For those courses that are offered on an unusual calendar, withdrawals received in the Office of the Registrar during regular
business hours prior to the end of the first quarter of the total number of class hour sessions offered in the course will have no
entry made on the transcript; withdrawals received in the Office of the Registrar during regular business hours prior to the end of
the second quarter of the total number of class hour sessions will receive a “W” on the transcript; withdrawals received in the
Office of the Registrar during regular business hours prior to the last class hour session will receive a grade of “WF” unless the
professor, aware of extenuating circumstances beyond the control of the student, is willing to grant a “WP.”
Leave of Absence Policy
The Leave of Absence Policy applies to those students who wish to leave Vanguard University for a semester to participate in a
study abroad program, internship, practicum, or due to circumstances beyond their control which cause the need for time off (i.e.,
care of ill parent, etc.). This policy does not apply to those students who wish to attend another institution, or simply take a
semester off. Leave of Absences are typically for one semester, but may be given for up to one academic year. In order for
students to qualify they must be in good academic standing, and apply in advance of the time period they wish to be on leave-ofabsence. This is not intended for students wishing to withdraw during the current semester. Applications for Leave of Absence
may be picked up in the Office of the Registrar or downloaded from the VU website. A Leave of Absence fee may be required.
Medical/Compassionate Leave of Absence Policy
A medical/compassionate leave of absence request may be made in extraordinary cases in which serious illness or injury
(medical) or another significant personal situation (compassionate) prevents a student from continuing his or her classes and
incompletes or other arrangements with the faculty are not possible. Medical leave can be granted for up to two consecutive
semesters due to documented physical or mental health difficulties. A request for a medical/compassionate leave of absence
must be made with the Disability Services Office.
A student may request and be considered for a medical leave of absence when extraordinary circumstances, such as a serious
illness or injury prevent the student from continuing classes. The Medical Leave of Absence policy covers both physical health
and mental health difficulties.
A student may request and be considered for a compassionate leave of absence when extraordinary reasons, not related to the
student’s personal physical or mental health (for example care of a seriously ill parent, child or spouse, or a death in the student’s
immediate family) prevent the student from continuing in classes.
Students taking medical/compassionate leave of absence are not regarded as having permanently withdrawn from the University
and need not apply for readmission through the Admissions Office; however, students must be approved for fitness to return to
campus through the Disability Services Office.
Students will need to contact their own health insurance provider for details concerning the continuation of their insurance
coverage.
Any student granted a medical/compassionate leave of absence during the first eight weeks of the semester will be dropped from
any classes that the student is enrolled in. If the medical/compassionate leave is granted after 20% of the semester the student
may, with faculty approval, receive an Incomplete for one or more courses. If an Incomplete is not deemed appropriate, a grade
of “W” will be issued. No refund of charges will be made for courses in which an Incomplete is given. No credit is earned for any
course in which a “W” is issued. Refunds, if any, will be granted based upon Vanguard University’s refund policy.
Incomplete work must be made up no later than six calendar weeks following the last day of the term (or other academic session).
If this is not done, a grade of “W” will automatically be assigned. Extensions to the six-week limitation are made only with the
approval of the Dean of the College and may not exceed the last day of the following semester.
Please refer to the Disability Services Handbook for additional information.
8
Withdrawal from the University
The University desires to establish a clear process for students who choose to withdraw from the University. In order to do so, the
student must complete the following steps:
Students who withdraw from the University during the semester must complete the following steps:
1.
2.
3.
Schedule an exit interview with the Office of Student Success.
Upon completion of the exit interview, student must complete a Traditional Undergraduate Student Application for
Withdrawal form (provided at exit interview) which includes obtaining signatures from the following departments:
a. Office of the Registrar
b. Financial Aid Office
c. Residence Life
d. Library
e. Office of Accounting Operations
Once all signatures have been obtained and the Traditional Undergraduate Student Application for Withdrawal form is
complete, the student must return the application to the Office of the Registrar in order for it to be processed and the
withdrawal process to be complete. Upon complying with this procedure, the student is then entitled to a refund in
keeping with the refund policy found in the Financial Information of the University Catalog.
Students who choose not to return to the University between semesters (either during winter or summer break) must complete the
following steps:
1.
2.
3.
Schedule an exit interview with the Office of Student Success.
Upon completion of the exit interview, student must complete a Non-Returner Application for Withdrawal form
(provided at exit interview) which includes obtaining signatures from the following departments:
a. Office of the Registrar
b. Residence Life
c. Library
d. Office of Accounting Operations
Once all signatures have been obtained and the Non-Returner Application for Withdrawal form is complete, the student
must return the application to the Office of the Registrar in order for it to be processed and the withdrawal process to be
complete.
Refund Policies
For refund policies for all programs, see the appropriate section of the University Catalog.
Tuition Refunds
Tuition refunds will be made for withdrawal from the University or course load reduction when an official withdrawal form or an
official add/drop form is filed with the Registrar’s Office. Refunds will be based on the date of receipt of the official forms by
the Registrar’s Office (or the office of Student Success for full withdrawals for traditional undergraduate students) according to
the tuition refund schedule found in the University Catalog.
Refund schedule applies to tuition, room, board and residence life, student services, and unused course fees. Students who
withdraw or are expelled from the institution may be required to have some or all of their financial aid returned to the various aid
programs. Any traditional undergraduate student who wishes to withdraw from the University must notify the Office of Student
Success of their “intent to withdraw” and for information on the process of withdrawing. SPS and graduate students must contact
their department for the appropriate process. The amount of financial aid to be returned for the student will be calculated based
on this date. Federal aid will be returned based on the amount of the semester the student has completed. State and institutional
aid will be returned based on the refund percentage applied to the student’s institutional charges. See the Financial Aid Office for
calculation.
Grading System
Grade
A
AB+
B
BC+
Significance
Exceptional
Grade Points
4.00
3.67
3.33
3.00
2.67
2.33
Good
9
C
CD+
D
DF
W
WP
WF
CR
I
P
AU
Satisfactory
Poor
Failure
Withdrawal
Withdrawal Passing
Withdrawal Failure
Credit
Incomplete
Pass (Granted for “C” or higher)
Audit
2.00
1.67
1.33
1.00
0.67
0.00
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
0.00
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
A grade point is a numerical value assigned to a letter grade. Each unit with a grade of “A” is assigned four grade points. Each
unit with a grade of “B” is assigned three grade points, etc. Thus, for example, a three-unit course with a grade of B is assigned a
total of nine grade points. A grade point average (GPA) is determined by dividing the total number of grade points by the number
of units attempted for which grade points are assigned.
The term “current grade point average” refers to the GPA earned in the last session of enrollment. The term “cumulative grade
point average,” on the other hand, refers to the average of the total of grade points accumulated divided by the total of all units
earned in the College. The cumulative GPA is calculated and then entered on the transcript of the student’s academic record at
the end of each session or semester.
While courses are transferred from other colleges, grade point averages are determined only on the basis of courses completed at
VU.
Incomplete Grades
Faculty may assign a grade of “I” (Incomplete) to students when they warrant additional time to complete coursework due to
situations beyond their control (i.e. serious illness, accident, or death of a family member). They may only be awarded when the
student’s grade would have otherwise been an “F”. Incomplete work must be made up no later than six calendar weeks following
the last day of the term (or other academic session). If the work is not made up by this time a grade of “F” will automatically be
assigned. Extensions to the six week limitation are made only with the approval of the Dean of the College. Faculty are under no
obligation to assign an incomplete grade or to administer a make-up exam.
Grade Change Policy
Grades submitted by faculty to the Office of the Registrar are considered final. Students who believe a grade was assigned in error
must contact the professor of the course to review his/her records. Submission of a grade change to the Office of the Registrar can
be made by the faculty member no later than two semesters following the term in which the grade was originally assigned.
Requests for exceptions to this policy must be made to the Provost.
Grade Dispute Procedure
Students who wish to dispute a grade assigned by a professor must file a petition with the Dean of the College. Both the student
and professor will have opportunity to present their case. The decision made by the Dean of the College is considered final;
however, either the student or the professor may appeal the decision to the Provost.
Course Repeat Policy
Academic courses offered at VU are not repeatable unless specifically noted in the catalog. Those students who wish to retake a
course due to a low or failing grade are permitted to register again for the same course during any given semester. All grades will
appear on the student’s permanent academic record (transcript). When a course is repeated, both grades will remain on the
transcript, but only the higher grade is computed in the grade point average. In the case that both grades are the same, only the
most recent grade will be included in the G.P.A.
Class Attendance
Regular and punctual class attendance is expected and is essential to optimum academic achievement. Students in lower division
classes are given an “F” for any course in which they have been absent more than one-fifth of the scheduled class meetings.
Attendance requirements in upper division classes are established by each professor. School for Professional Studies (SPS)
students should refer to the SPS portion of the University Catalog for class attendance policies.
10
Absences occasioned by participation in a college-approved activity (e.g. field trips, athletic contests) are governed by the
following:
1.
Students are responsible for initiating the process of makeup work. Work must be submitted when due whether or not the
student is present.
2.
Scheduled events (games, concerts, tournaments) constitute an excuse to miss class; however, practices do not.
3.
Students should clear their class schedules with coaches or directors before registering for classes to minimize potential
conflicts.
4.
Missed classes for authorized events will count toward the one-fifth absence allowance. Student athletes and others
affected by excused absences should be particularly careful not to miss other class sessions for unauthorized reasons.
5.
Students shall not be penalized for missing class for authorized college activities by loss of attendance points. On the rare
occasion it would be impossible to make up a missed class or lab; the student should miss the activity and not be
penalized by the coach or director.
Class Standing
Class standing, which classifies students for both academic and social activities, is determined on the basis of the accumulated
number of units applicable toward graduation at this college in keeping with the following chart:
Freshman
0-26
Sophomore
27-56
Junior
57-87
Senior
88 +
Faculty Offices
Faculty offices are in various locations on the campus. Faculty members post individual hours on their office doors. Students are
encouraged to meet with their professors for their counsel and assistance.
Irregular Exams
The offering of irregular examinations is at the discretion of the individual faculty, and they are responsible for making the
arrangements for proctoring the exams. If an individual professor is not available to proctor his/her examination, then
arrangements for a proctor will be made with the departmental secretary.
Academic Probation
“Academic probation” is a term used to designate a period of close academic supervision, generally including reduced allowable
activities, imposed to improve unsatisfactory academic performance. Students on academic probation may not register for more
than twelve units excluding physical activity courses during the probation period. Such students shall not hold a student body
office and must curtail extracurricular work and activities as recommended by their faculty advisor. In certain cases, eligibility
for participation in intercollegiate sports may be forfeited per action of the Athletic Committee.
A student’s official transcript will reflect academic probation following any full semester in which a student’s current or cumulative
grade point average drops below a “C” average (2.0). This designation will remain on the transcript unless the student receives a
change of grade prior to the end of the withdrawal period of the following semester.
Academic probation will continue for the student until the current and cumulative GPA’s are raised to 2.0.
Academic Disqualification
A student is academically disqualified when there are two consecutive semesters of current or cumulative GPA below “C” (2.0).
Students academically disqualified are precluded from further enrollment unless, in the judgment of the faculty advisor and the
Dean of the College, significant academic improvement has been made in the last probationary semester. A disqualified student
may appeal for re-entry by petition.
Honors
The Academic Honors list, published at the end of each semester, honors all degree-seeking students with twelve or more units
who have earned a GPA of 3.5 or above for that semester.
Students who have completed, by the end of the fall semester, no less than 36 units (bearing letter grades) at Vanguard may be
eligible to participate with provisional honors in the Commencement ceremonies ahead of actual completion of all courses
required for graduation. The deadline for having honors designated at the Commencement Ceremonies is the end of the fall
semester. Any grades and/or grade changes subsequently affecting the GPA will not be indicated for Commencement, but will
be reflected in the honors posted with the degree on the transcript and diploma. Students official honors will be based upon their
11
GPA at the completion of all coursework required for graduation and will be indicated on the permanent transcript and on the
diploma. Students must complete a minimum of 45 units at Vanguard to have honors recorded on their transcript and diploma.
Students who have maintained a cumulative GPA of 3.500—3.699 will graduate cum laude. Those achieving a GPA of 3.700—
3.899 will graduate magna cum laude. The level of summa cum laude will apply to an average of 3.900 and above.
Student Honor Societies
Student honor societies exist to recognize superior academic performance, provide academic enrichment to the Vanguard
community, and to provide opportunity for students to gain greater exposure to academic disciplines. Undergraduate students
may be accepted into the University’s chapter of the following honor societies:
Alpha Zeta
Lambda Alpha
Lambda Pi Eta
Phi Alpha Theta
Pi Sigma Alpha
Psi Chi
Sigma Tau Delta
Delta Kappa
Sociology
Anthropology
Communication
History
Political Science
Psychology
English
University Service
Degree Requirements
Candidates for the Bachelor of Arts degree or the Bachelor of Science degree in the University’s traditional undergraduate
programs must meet the following requirements:
1.
A minimum of 124 units and a cumulative grade point average of 2.0.
A minimum of forty units must be upper division work, and twenty-four units must be taken in residence at VU.
2.
A minimum of twenty-four of the last thirty units must be earned at VU.
3.
A major in a department must be completed as prescribed by the University Catalog. At least one-half of the major must
be completed at VU.
4.
A minor in a department or subject is optional. If a minor is not declared, a student will complete the required units for
graduation by taking elective courses.
5.
An Application for Graduation must be filed in the Office of the Registrar. See “Application to Graduate” for more
information.
6.
Students must complete the core curriculum program of fifty-two – fifty-four units.
Application to Graduate
Students nearing completion of all requirements for their degree must submit an Application for Graduation no later than the
second week of the semester in which they intend to complete. The Application should be submitted to the department of their
major who will then forward it on to the Office of the Registrar. A late fee may be assessed to Applications received after this
time. The Application will be reviewed by the Office of the Registrar and the student will be notified of their clearance to
graduate and participate in Commencement ceremonies. Traditional undergraduate students may only participate in
Commencement ceremonies in May if they have no more than 4 units outstanding to complete their degree. These units must be
completed in the summer immediately following the Commencement ceremonies in which they participate.
Release of Student Records
A student may not graduate, nor receive any diploma, certificate, transcript, or letter of recommendation until all financial
obligations have been satisfied in accordance with policies described in the University Catalog under “Costs and Payment
Policies.” Any diplomas, certificates, transcripts, or letters of recommendation shall be retained by the University until all such
obligations are satisfied. Release of any such student records prior to or subsequent to any default by the debtor shall not be
considered
a
binding
precedent
or
modification
of
this
policy.
Students who have left the University without completing their degree may reactivate their academic file in order to ascertain
those requirements that remain unfulfilled. They may do so by submitting a “Request to Reactivate Student Record” form to the
Office of the Registrar. A fee will be due and payable at the time of the request if more than one academic year has passed since
the date of last attendance at Vanguard. The file will be considered open for one calendar year from the time of reactivation.
A Second B.A./B.S. Degree
A second Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree may be awarded to a student who applies providing a minimum of
thirty units beyond the units required for the first B.A./B.S. are achieved. No more than six units may be transferred, and no more
than six units may be lower division. The second B.A./B.S. must be in a major significantly different from the first B.A./B.S., and
a minimum grade point average of 2.0 must be maintained. A second B.A./B.S. degree may be pursued concurrently with the first
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one providing no units are applied to both degrees, including the total number of units needed for the first degree (124).
Requirements for both degrees must be fully satisfied. A student desiring to be considered for a second B.A./B.S. must be
enrolled at VU in the final semester in which graduation requirements are to be met and an “Application for Graduation” must be
submitted to the Office of the Registrar no later than the beginning of the semester in which graduation is anticipated.
Students may complete a second major at VU and have the second major indicated on the transcript; however, only those
students who have achieved a second Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science degree will be awarded a second diploma and be
permitted to participate in the Commencement ceremonies for a second time.
Interdisciplinary Studies
The Liberal Studies major is an interdisciplinary program which provides an opportunity for students to seek a broad liberal arts
education rather than to concentrate in a single academic discipline.
The Liberal Studies major is the approved academic program for those seeking a California Multiple/Single Subject Teaching
Credential. Those students seeking a teaching credential should consult the Graduate Program in Education, Department of
Liberal Studies, for specific requirements.
Declaring a Major
All students are urged to declare a major no later than the end of their third full semester of work. Students are aided in this
determination by consulting with the appropriate Department Chair or the Dean of the College. Formal declaration of a major or
a change of major is made by filing a “Change or Declaration of Major" form in the Office of the Registrar.
Declaring a Minor
A minor consists on average of twenty units in a single subject area. Students cannot receive minors in the same department as
their major. A student who desires to develop a departmental minor should consult the chair of the appropriate department.
Minors are not formally declared in the Office of the Registrar until the student applies to graduate.
Appeals Procedure
A student seeking a variance from any stated academic policy in the University Catalog should consult with the department of the
course/policy in questions. Academic Petitions may be picked up in the Office of the Registrar. The final appeal in all student
academic matters is to the Provost, who serves as the chief academic officer of the University.
Academic Integrity and Dishonesty
Vanguard University is a community of Christian scholars. When students join our college community, they are expected, as
apprentice scholars, to search for truth with integrity and accuracy. This quest requires humility about our abilities, respect for the
ideas of others, and originality in our thinking. Since Vanguard University is a Christian community, the integrity of our
scholarship is rooted in the integrity of our faith. We seek to be followers of Christ in the classroom, in the library, and at the
privacy of our computers.
Academic dishonesty is considered a serious breach of trust within the Vanguard community, as it both violates the regard for
truth essential to genuine learning and Christian consistency, and disadvantages those students who do their work with integrity.
It demonstrates a deep disrespect for fellow students, the faculty, the University, and one’s own commitment to the integrity that
should mark the life of the practicing Christian. Academic dishonesty may consist of plagiarism, cheating, or falsification.
I. PLAGIARISM
Students have a responsibility to understand plagiarism and to learn how to avoid it. They should refuse to allow fellow students
“to borrow” or to use an assignment without proper citation, encourage fellow students to do their own work, and refrain from
completing assignments for their fellow students. If a student helps another plagiarize in these or other ways, he or she is equally
guilty of academic dishonesty.
A. Definitions
To plagiarize is to present someone else’s work—his or her words, line of thought, or organizational structure—as our own. This
occurs when sources are not cited properly, or when permission is not obtained from the original author to use his or her work.
By not acknowledging the sources that are used in our work, we are wrongfully taking material that is not our own. Plagiarism is
thus an insidious and disruptive form of dishonesty. It violates relationships with known classmates and professors, and it violates
the legal rights of people we may never meet. Another person’s “work” can take many forms: printed or electronic copies of
computer programs, musical compositions, drawings, paintings, oral presentations, papers, essays, articles or chapters, statistical
data, tables or figures, etc. In short, if any information that can be considered the intellectual property of another is used without
acknowledging the original source properly, this is plagiarism.
13
At Vanguard University, we define three levels of plagiarism:
1.
Minimal plagiarism includes, but is not limited to, doing any of the following without attribution:
a. inserting verbatim phrases of 2-3 distinctive words;
b. substituting synonyms into the original sentence rather than rewriting the complete sentence;
c. reordering the clauses of a sentence;
d. imitating the sentence, paragraph, or organizational structure, or writing style of a source;
e. using a source’s line of logic, thesis or ideas.
2.
Substantial plagiarism includes, but is not limited to, doing any of the following without attribution:
a. inserting verbatim sentences or longer passages from a source;
b. combining paraphrasing with verbatim sentences to create a paragraph or more of text;
c. repeatedly and pervasively engaging in minimal plagiarism.
3.
Complete plagiarism includes, but is not limited to, doing any of the following without attribution:
a. submitting or presenting someone’s complete published or unpublished work (paper, article, or chapter);
b. submitting another student’s work for an assignment, with or without that person’s knowledge or consent;
c. using information from a file of old assignments;
d. downloading a term paper from a web site;
e. buying a term paper from a mail order company or web site;
f. reusing or modifying previously submitted work (e.g., from another course) for a present assignment without obtaining
prior approval from the instructors involved.
B. Consequences
Minimal plagiarism. When instances of minimal plagiarism are detected, the instructor can use these situations as an
educational opportunity to discuss with the student the nature of plagiarism and the values of a scholarly, Christian community.
At the professor’s discretion, assignments may be rewritten and resubmitted, with or without a grade penalty. Repeated instances
of minimal plagiarism may, at the professor’s discretion, be treated as substantial plagiarism.
Substantial plagiarism. For a first offense, the student typically receives a failing grade on the assignment that has been
plagiarized, and a Report of Academic Dishonesty is submitted to the Associate Provost/Dean of the College. For a second
offense, the student typically receives a failing grade in the course, and a Report of Academic Dishonesty is submitted to the
Associate Provost/Dean of the College. For a third offense, the student typically is recommended for expulsion from the
University. The final appeal in all student academic matters is to the Provost, who serves as the chief academic officer of the
University.
Complete plagiarism. For a first offense, the student typically receives a failing grade in the course, and a Report of Academic
Dishonesty is submitted to the Associate Provost/Dean of the College. For a second offense, the student typically is
recommended for expulsion from the University. The final appeal in all student academic matters is to the Provost, who serves as
the chief academic officer of the University.
II. CHEATING
Cheating is obtaining or helping another to obtain credit for work accomplished by deceptive means. Cheating includes, but is not
limited to:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
talking or communicating through signals with another student during a quiz or exam;
using unauthorized materials such as electronic devices or cheat sheets to obtain information for a quiz or exam;
copying or sharing information during a quiz or exam;
taking, using, sharing or posting an exam or answers to a quiz or exam (before, during or after the quiz or exam);
leaving during a quiz or exam in order to obtain information;
claiming credit for work not accomplished personally;
giving false data about the procedure used to take a quiz or exam or complete an assignment.
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III. FALSIFICATION
Falsification is the alteration of information, documents, or other evidence in order to mislead. Examples of this form of
academic dishonesty include but are not limited to:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
fabrication or falsification of data, analysis, citations or other information for assignments, exams, speeches or any
other academic work;
forgery or unauthorized alteration of official documents, credentials, or signatures;
misrepresentation of one’s academic accomplishments, experiences, credentials, or expertise;
withholding information related to admission, transfer credits, disciplinary actions, financial aid, or academic status;
submitting the same work in more than one class without the authorization of the instructors.
Consequences for cheating and falsification
1.
2.
3.
4.
If a student has been dishonest in any way in completing an academic assignment, the student typically receives a
failing grade in the exercise and a Report of Academic Dishonesty is submitted to the Office of the Associate
Provost/Dean of the College.
The above is understood to be a minimal degree of discipline. A faculty member may, if he or she has announced the
policy, give the student an F in the course for any type of academic dishonesty.
A second violation or instance of dishonesty in the same or different course may result in expulsion from the university.
A student who feels that he or she has been unfairly accused or unjustly treated may appeal to an ad hoc committee
comprised of the Associate Provost/Dean of the College, the Chair of the Department of the student’s major, and an
additional resident faculty member of the student’s choosing. The final appeal in all student academic matters is to the
Provost, who serves as the chief academic officer of the University.
Campus Public Safety
Campus Public Safety helps preserve public peace and order and protects all university personnel, students, and property from
crime and safety hazards. Campus Public Safety Officers are trained according to California P.O.S.T. Reserve Level III standards
and registered through the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services. Staff members' power of arrest is outlined in the State
Penal Code as private persons’ arrest. In their attempt to maintain a safe environment for all members of the University
community, it is important that respect and courtesy be given to the staff members as they perform their duties in a routine,
professional, and efficient manner. In addition to helping maintain a safe environment, Campus Public Safety and the Residence
Life Department reserves the right to enter any facility, including on campus student residences, at any time there is reasonable
cause to do so.
Contacting Campus Public Safety
Telephone Ext. 6799
Emergency Cell Phone (714) 966-6799
In addition, the Campus Public Safety website provides students with resources for routine and emergency safety needs at
http://services.vanguard.edu/campus-safety/.
Clery Act Notification
Vanguard University, in Compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics
Act of 1990 (formerly the Campus Security Act), provides prospective employees, students and their parents access to its Annual
Security Report. The report describes the University’s safety and security services and procedures and provides crime and
disciplinary referral statistics for the three previous years.
To obtain a copy of this report, please go to our website at http://services.vanguard.edu/campus-safety/. Students may also obtain
a copy of this report by phoning (714) 668-6161, or mailing a request to:
Campus Public Safety Director
Vanguard University
55 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
15
Crime Awareness and Campus Security Act of 1990
Public law 101-883, The Student Right-to-Know and Campus Crime Act requires colleges and universities receiving federal funds
to make available yearly campus security policies, crime prevention programs, and specific campus crime statistics to current
students and employees, as well as to any applicant for enrollment or employment, upon request. This includes making the
community aware of crimes committed on campus within a reasonable amount of time. When crimes do occur, the campus
community will be notified by one or more of the following methods: Campus Public Safety Alert Notices posted at all common
building entry points, chapel announcements, and e-mail. In addition, all these policies and statistics are available at Campus
Public Safety.
A copy of the most current report is available at the following web site: http://services.vanguard.edu/campus-safety/.
Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act of 1989 (Public Law 101-336)
The University annually distributes to all students and employees policies, programs, and procedures regarding its prohibition
against the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of drugs, drug paraphernalia, or alcohol by students and employees in
conformity with this Act.
Public Notification Policy
Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act
In accordance with the Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act (CSCPA), California’s Megan’s Law and in conjunction with Costa
Mesa Police Department, this policy will be the guiding factor in notifying the Vanguard University community of registered sex
offenders associated with Vanguard University.
All persons required to register with a local law enforcement agency as a sex offender, according to California Penal Code 290,
who enroll in class, make deliveries, or work on the Vanguard University campus 30 days or more in one year, must register at
the Costa Mesa Police Department (CMPD) as being associated with Vanguard University.
CMPD will evaluate the classification of the offender according to California’s or Serious Sex Offender, CMPD will inform the
Campus Public Safety Department of the registration.
According to CSCPA and California’s Megan’s Law, Vanguard University will notify the campus community of the sex
offender’s registration. This notification will include the name of the offender, and may include a photo and a summary of the
offender and prior convictions. Vanguard University will make an effort to contact and inform the offender of the intent to notify
the community before notification is made. Notification to the community may be made by using copies of flyers supplied by
CMPD, flyers developed by the University, campus wide email, flyers in campus mailboxes, establishing a web page on
Vanguard’s intranet, and or the Vanguard University newspaper. All persons who wish to view the registered sex offender
information may call CMPD at (714) 754-5079 to make an appointment.
The purpose of the notification is not to cause undue hardship to a student seeking an education at Vanguard University or to
create a hostile work environment. The purpose of this policy is to keep the Vanguard University community informed for their
safety, and to comply with local and federal law.
Emergency Procedures
Step #1: Call the appropriate emergency number depending on the situation.

911 (from residence hall room, must dial 9-911)

Campus Public Safety ext. 6799, 714-966-6799.

When the dispatcher answers, state: “THIS IS AN EMERGENCY.”

Be prepared to give the dispatcher your name, location, and the phone number you are calling from.
Step #2: Respond according to the type of emergency listed:
Medical
Fire

Do not move the victim, unless unavoidable.

If you are trained and certified, and comfortable to do so, administer First Aid.

If the person is suicidal or shows signs of suicidal tendencies, contact Campus Public Safety.

If you hear a fire alarm, evacuate the building immediately.

Do not use an elevator.
16

Walk, don’t run!

If you discover a fire, activate the nearest fire alarm. Check doors for heat (top and bottom) with back of hand. If
hot, do not open! Wait for emergency personnel to respond. Open window if available to do so. Yell for help.

Fire extinguishers are located in all buildings. Familiarize yourself to their locations prior to emergencies.

Do not attempt to fight large fires.

For small fires (wastebasket size) only—use a fire extinguisher.

If fire grows larger, alert others and move away from the fire. Close (but do not lock) all doors behind you as you
move away.

If trapped in heavy smoke, drop to your hands and knees and crawl toward the nearest exit.

If you are trapped by a fire, place cloth material around/under the door. Retreat and close as many doors as
possible between you and the fire. Be prepared to signal from a window.

If your clothing catches fire, DO NOT RUN! STOP—DROP—ROLL!
Earthquake



DUCK, COVER, AND HOLD. Do not use an elevator. Remain calm, do not rush outside.
During the shaking:
o
If inside, take cover under a desk or table near an interior wall.
o
If outside, move away from windows, tall objects and overhead lights.
After the shaking stops:
o
Do not use telephones except for life-saving situations.
o
If you smell gas, evacuate the building immediately.
Crime in Progress

Do not interfere with the criminal, except for self-protection or the protection of others.

If possible, get a good description of the criminal, weapon, method, and direction of travel.
Bomb Threat

Take all threats seriously. Evacuate and contact authorities.
Gas Leak

After the threat, if you see a package or unknown object in an unusual place, DON’T TOUCH IT!

Open the windows. Do not light matches or turn on lights.

Leave building.

Notify Campus Public Safety, RD, or Facility Services immediately.
Chemical Spills

Do not attempt to clean up a spill yourself. Be prepared to evacuate the building.

Call Facility Services.
Safety Tips

Be familiar with emergency procedures and all possible exit routes in a building.

Keep hallways clear and door locked.

Do not overload electrical circuits.

Report problems with smoke detectors or fire alarms to your Resident Director.
Crime Prevention Tips

Avoid walking in isolated areas.

Do not open residence hall room doors to strangers.

Keep all doors closed and locked. Do not leave doors propped open.

Do not leave valuables in room.
17
Earthquake Preparedness

Be familiar with emergency procedures, evacuation routes, and potential hazards to avoid.

Identify the phone number of a contact person outside Southern California.

Put together a personal emergency kit (contact Campus Public Safety for guidelines).

Maintain an earthquake-safe environment:
o
Move heavy objects down from high shelves.
o
Secure tall bookcases and cabinets.
o
Anchor desktop computers down with anchor pads or Velcro.
o
Relocate beds and furniture away from windows.
Fire Drill Instructions
Residence Facilities:
Fire drills are conducted at intervals during the school year. When the alarm sounds, each student should leave the residence
facilities immediately and go to designated evacuation areas: locations are posted at floor exits. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO USE
ELEVATORS. Exits should be kept clear at all times.
Fire lanes must be kept clear of vehicles. If a vehicle is parked in a fire lane, the violators are subject to a fine or tow-away of
their vehicle.
Classrooms:
If a fire alarm sounds when students are in class, students and employees are required to evacuate the building and remain at a
safe distance from the building until recalled.
Sounding a false fire alarm is both dangerous and illegal. Offenders will be suspended, turned over to the Costa Mesa Police
Department for prosecution, and assessed any charges attributable to the false alarm.
Vehicle Registration
All students (on campus and commuting students) are required to register cars, motorcycles, motor scooters, and other motorized
vehicles at the time of class enrollment. Students are allowed to register only two vehicles. The permit issued must be displayed
in the passenger side corner of the front windshield no later than two weeks from the first day of classes each semester. The
permit is assigned to the registered owner. A $5.00 charge will be assessed through the Office of Accounting Operations for lost
permits. Students may only have one vehicle on campus at a time. Trailers and off-road vehicles are not permitted on campus.
Any vehicle not displaying a valid parking permit will be issued a parking citation and fined the appropriate amount for the
violation (see below). The registration of vehicles is required to be completed on-line via the Campus Public Safety web page at:
http://services.vanguard.edu/vehicle-registration-form/. The person to whom the permit is registered will be responsible for all
violations issued to the vehicle displaying the permit. The parking permit is the property of VU and must be returned to VU upon
request or when the student or employee leaves the University.
Temporary parking permits are available to students and employees when a rental or non-permitted vehicle must be driven on
campus. Temporary parking permits are available in the Campus Public Safety Office. Guests should obtain a temporary parking
permit at their earliest opportunity.
The State of California has a financial responsibility law. It is the vehicle owners' responsibility to maintain proper insurance
coverage. Out-of-state students are required by law to secure a California Driver's License and register their vehicle with the State
of California within 10 days if the student registers to vote, or establishes residence and secures off campus employment in
California.
Vehicles must have current license plates and be in running order to be parked on campus. Any vehicle not meeting these
standards will be towed at the registered owner's expense regardless of whether the vehicle has a valid University permit or not.
Students may not leave their vehicles parked on campus during the summer unless they are residing in campus housing.
Temporary vehicle summer storage may be available if the student is a member of a mission trip sponsored by Vanguard
University. The vehicle owner must make storage arrangements with the Director of Campus Public Safety.
Due to the limited parking spaces on campus, motorcycles are to be parked in designated areas on campus. Owners are
responsible for providing covering to protect the cycles from the elements. Recreational Vehicles (RVs) may not be used as
personal vehicles except by prior approval.
18
Bicycles on campus
For security purposes, all bicycles should be secured with a U-bolt locking device. Vanguard University provides designated
areas where bicycles are to be parked or stored. Motorized scooters may not be parked in these areas. Bicycles are not permitted
in buildings, passageways or unapproved living areas by order of the Costa Mesa City Fire Department. Bicycles in unauthorized
areas will be removed and the owners will be assessed a $15 fine ($25 repeated offense).
The University is not responsible for the loss, damage or theft of bicycles. The Costa Mesa Municipal Code requires all bicycles
to be registered. Students should visit the Campus Public Safety Office to register any bicycles. Campus Public Safety will
register bikes and forward the application to the Costa Mesa Police Department. All bikes on University property must be
registered and display a proper bicycle license.
All unclaimed bicycles at the end of the semester without a bike permit will be impounded as abandoned and will be disposed of
in accordance with California Law.
Community- Who is Vanguard
About Vanguard University
The mission of Vanguard University is to equip each student for a Spirit-empowered life of Christ-centered leadership and
service.
Vanguard University is a community of thoughtful Christians dedicated to honoring Christ and serving his church. As an
evangelical comprehensive university within the Pentecostal tradition, VU is committed to providing an educational experience
that integrates faith, learning, and living, and to preparing students for a lifetime of learning and service in a variety of vocations
and ministries.
The University believes that a liberal arts education illuminated by Christian truth fosters the intellectual and spiritual
development that prepares and challenges students to take an active role in shaping their culture and their world.
The vision that guides the VU community is rooted in the University's heritage as an institution of the Pentecostal tradition which
was birthed out of the Azusa Street Revival in Los Angeles, California, at the turn of the twentieth century. From its inception,
the movement generated a multicultural, multiracial, and gender-inclusive community of Spirit-empowered Christian believers
who were committed to peacemaking and reconciliation. With global consciousness, these foremothers and forefathers of a
renewed Christian faith carried the good news of the gospel around the world.
A strong commitment to cultural diversity, racial reconciliation, and gender equality is a consequence of VU being deeply
grounded in the faith tradition that brought the University into existence. Moreover, these core values continue to define the
institutional vision that pulls the VU community forward toward its mission and educational targets and goals. Within this
Christian context of inclusiveness, the University aims to provide a quality educational experience marked by the pursuit of truth,
the cultivation of character, and the desire for service.
These three basic pursuits inherent in the VU educational experience-truth, virtue, and service-are enshrined in the University
motto and embossed on its official seal. "Truth, Virtue, and Service" summarizes the institution's educational vision.
Responsibilities of Vanguard Community Membership
Biblically Speaking
The goal of Vanguard University is to understand and interpret every aspect of the VU community from a biblical point of view.
To love God with our whole beings and to love our neighbor as ourselves are foundational principles of the Lordship of Christ
practiced by every responsible VU member. The responsibilities of membership at VU include:

To love God and all members of the VU community (Matt. 22:37-40).

To practice righteousness and justice in dealing with one another, to help those in need and to seek reconciliation
when personal differences arise. (Micah 6:8, Matt. 18:12-17).

To fulfill one's potential for spiritual growth by active, regular participation in worship opportunities within the
community, including but not limited to chapel and soul care opportunities.
19

To be willing to confront, in love, a fellow student whose lifestyle conflicts with that of the expectations of the
community.

To accept the responsibility of the Great Commission (Matt. 28:19-20) by participating in and supporting the
global and community integration ministries of the community.

To develop conscientiously one's academic potential.

To practice discretion and restraint in the choice of television programs, music, movies, theater, social dancing,
printed matter, electronic media (including the internet) and other public programs; as well as organizations with
which one associates.

To observe the Lord's Day in worship, rest, Christian fellowship, and service.
Responsible Freedom
VU recognizes that while the Scriptures do not provide specific teaching regarding all social and moral practices, they do
advocate self-restraint in situations that may be harmful or offensive to others. Therefore, all members of the community need to
exercise their freedom responsibly in relationship to the various communities of which we are a part, and with loving regard for
the sensitivities of others.
Loving Involvement
Love not only means understanding and support for one another, but also requires a willingness to confront others whose
behavior is harmful to themselves and to the community. Love, in both regards, provides the environment of positive influence
conducive to learning and to the energizing presence of the Spirit of the Lord.
While the University reaches out with love and understanding, it would not be faithful to its responsibility to the student, other
members of the community, nor to those who support it and look to it for graduates, if it did not appropriately respond to those
whose behavior is unacceptable. The University believes that redemptive discipline should be:

A meaningful, learning experience that encourages responsible behavior.

Based on the scriptural concepts and educational principles of love and justice.

Consistent and balanced with the best interests of both the individual and the University community.
Community Expectations
General Expectations of the Vanguard Community
Voluntary Commitment
These expectations apply to each student while he or she is enrolled in a University program or residing in University approved
housing. Each student is expected to exercise restraint in these matters even when he or she is not under direct University
jurisdiction. These rules apply to on and off campus behavior and for the whole academic year, from the beginning of the fall
semester or as soon as a student moves into on-campus housing or participates in university activities, until the completion of the
spring semester including all vacation periods (Thanksgiving, Christmas, Spring break, etc.). The same expectations apply for all
summer programs, such as summer courses, outreach trips, summer housing, etc.
Compliance with the Law
As Christians and members of society, all students are expected to comply with local, state, and federal laws when enrolled in a
VU academic program, living in University housing, or engaged in any University sponsored activity. Students should expect the
University to cooperate with law enforcement agencies and to initiate disciplinary proceedings when violations of such laws
occur, if the infraction also violated VU behavioral and community standards. Students arrested or charged with a crime while
enrolled or residing at VU must report this information to the Dean of Student Life within 72 hours.
Church Attendance
Even though Vanguard seeks to be a Christian community, it is not, nor can it substitute for, the Church. Therefore, students are
encouraged to identify with a local church of their choice and to attend church services regularly.
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Rules, Restraints, and Responsibilities (Student Code of Conduct)
The following behaviors are to be avoided:

Non-Compliance. Failure to comply with an appropriate request of a University official or representative. This
may also include the following behaviors:
o Failure to obey the summons of a university official.
o Failure to fully disclose all information to a university official during an investigation or the disciplinary
process.
o Falsification, lying, hiding, distortion or misrepresentation of information relevant to or requested in
connection with and during an investigation or the disciplinary process.
o Disruption or interference with the orderly conduct during an investigation or the disciplinary process.
o Attempting to influence another person in order to obstruct an investigation during a disciplinary
process.
o Engaging in harassment or intimidating behavior of a community member involved in an investigation
or in the disciplinary process.
o Failure to comply with any and all sanctions imposed as a result of the disciplinary process.

Misrepresentation. Misrepresentation of oneself, or an organization, to an agent of the University.

Forgery. Forgery, alteration or misuse of campus documents, records, or identification or knowingly furnishing
false information to campus officials.

Knowing Presence Contribution. Students may be held accountable for an incident if they indirectly participated
in a violation. Students must refrain from being in an environment in which other students are violating
community standards (such as consuming alcohol) or local, state, and federal laws.

Unauthorized Use. Unauthorized entry into, unauthorized use of, or misuse of property in the possession of, or
owned by, the University or a member of the campus community.

Vandalism/Pranking. Unauthorized alteration of property from its original condition, placement and/or
presentation, including graffiti, paint, alteration to landscaping, etc.

Theft. Taking property belonging to someone else without their permission.

Failure to Evacuate. Failure to evacuate a campus building immediately upon the sound of an alarm, or failure to
follow specific prescribed procedures, including the on-site directives of a campus representative.

Breaching Security Systems. Jeopardizing or interfering with the safety and security systems established within
the campus community, including the propping of locked doors, altering locking devices, permitting unauthorized
access to another, etc.

Misuse or Tampering with Emergency Equipment. Illegitimately engaging alarm pull stations, discharging fire
extinguishers, disengaging smoke detectors, hanging or wrapping objects from fire sprinkler systems, or removing
fire protection devices. Individuals misusing or tampering with emergency equipment may be subject to criminal
charges.

Fighting, Violence, or Harm to Others. Any conduct or behavior which threatens or endangers the health,
physical or emotional safety of an individual.

Disruption to the Community. Students may not engage in behavior that causes significant mental or emotional
damage to other members of the community or jeopardizes the educational process of others. A violation may
include a simple disruptive act or ongoing acts and will usually involve complaints from students, faculty, or staff.

Threats. Any threatening or intimidating actions, language, and/or behaviors whether acted upon or not which
threatens or endangers the health, physical and/or emotional well-being of an individual.

Harassment. Intimidating another individual through the threat of physical or emotional harm, by means of an
unwelcome advance, verbal abuse, written or verbal threat, telephone call, internet message, or text message, etc.
Continued harassment might be considered “stalking”, and may be subject to criminal charges by California law. Hostility
or aversion toward an individual based upon race, color, gender, national origin, age disability, sexual orientation or any
other basis protected by federal or states laws is considered harassing behavior. Harassment could also be considered as
the creation of a hostile environment through oral, physical, written, graphic or visual conduct that is offensive or
discriminatory based on the previously stated attributes.

Unauthorized Recording. No student may make an audio or video recording of any person(s) on University premises in
bathrooms, showers, bedrooms, or other premises where there is an expectation of privacy with respect to nudity and/or
sexual activity. Students are also expected to respect the reasonable expectations of privacy of other individuals within the
University community. Accordingly, students are not permitted to make an audio or video recording of private, nonpublic
conversations and/or meetings on University premises, without the knowledge and consent of all participants subject to
such recordings.
21

Gambling. Any activity that involves betting, wagering, or games of chance for which there exists the potential of
personal or financial loss. (“Drawings” are permitted when entry into the drawing is free, an entry fee is optional,
or a gift of equal or greater value is received upon paying an entry fee).

Alcohol. Refrain from the possession, purchase, or use of alcoholic beverages.

Social Dancing. Social dancing is not allowed on Vanguard University’s campus; it is however, permitted at
University-sponsored off-campus events. See the Dancing Policy for further details.

Tobacco. Refrain from smoking on or off campus; refrain from use and possession of all forms of tobacco,
including, but not limited to, cigarettes, cigars, snuff, pipe tobacco, chewing tobacco, and hookah. This policy
also pertains to e-cigarettes.

Prohibited Drug Use. Refrain from the use of all illegal drugs and non-medical narcotics or hallucinogenic
drugs, and the possession of drug paraphernalia. Students who possess, distribute, and/or use narcotics (including
medical marijuana, misuse of prescription drugs, Salvia, any form of hallucinogens, etc.) or other intoxicants may
be subject to the disciplinary process. Students present on campus while under the influence of narcotics are
subject to disciplinary process, even if their consumption was off campus. Although California State law permits
the use of medical marijuana, i.e., use by persons possessing lawfully issued medical marijuana cards; federal laws
prohibit marijuana use, possession, and/or cultivation at educational institutions and on the premises of other
recipients of federal funds. The use, possession, or cultivation of marijuana for medical purposes is therefore not
allowed.

Housing Gatherings Involving Alcohol or Drugs. Persons who host or in any way assist or promote a gathering
(on or off campus) that includes alcohol or illegal drug usage will be subject to the discipline process. Those
living at the location where the party is held may be held responsible as hosts regardless of who provides the
alcohol.

Inappropriate, Lewd, Indecent, or Obscene Behavior or Language. Inappropriate, lewd, indecent, or obscene
behavior, language, music, or dress will not be tolerated. This includes but is not limited to the possession of
display of pornographic and/or sexually suggestive material, and derogatory racial/ethnic material in any form on
university-owned or leased premises, or personal property (e.g. vehicles, electronic devices, clothing, tattoos, etc.).

Biblical standards. Students shall not participate in or associate with practices known to be morally wrong by
Biblical standards.

Cohabitation. Student cohabitation with a member of the opposite sex, including but not limited to spending the
night together and/or living together in the same residence, is not permitted, both on and off campus. This
provision does not prohibit students from living with family members.

Same-Sex Relationships: Individuals may not engage in a romanticized same-sex relationship.

Sexual Misconduct. Sexual misconduct includes, but is not limited to: sexual sins such as adultery, homosexual
behavior, sexual assault, sexual harassment, sexual exploitation, unmarried sexual behavior, inappropriate sexual
behavior, nonconsensual sexual contact (or attempts to commit same).

Nonconsensual Sexual Contact: Nonconsensual sexual contact is: any intentional sexual touching, however
slight, with any object, by a man or a woman upon a man or a woman, without effective consent.

Nonconsensual Sexual Intercourse: Nonconsensual sexual intercourse is: any sexual intercourse (anal, oral, or
vaginal), however slight, with any object, by a man or woman upon a man or a woman, without effective consent.

Sexual Exploitation: Sexual exploitation occurs when an individual takes or attempts to take nonconsensual or
abusive sexual advantage of another for his/her own advantage or benefit, or to the benefit or advantage of anyone
other than the one being exploited, and that behavior does not otherwise constitute one of other sexual misconduct
offenses.

Activism: Activism against Vanguard University community standards is a violation.

Attitudes: Guard against attitudes such as greed, jealousy, pride, bitterness, needless anger, an unforgiving spirit,
harmful discrimination and prejudice such as that based on race, sex, or socioeconomic status.

Addictive Behavior: Student conduct discipline process may be adjusted regarding addictive behavior at the
university’s discretion if the student is genuinely pursuing assistance. In some cases, students will be required to
be under the supervision of a licensed healthcare professional and the student may need to sign a release of
information allowing university officials to access this information.

Weapons: Firearms, BB guns, switchblades, air soft guns, replica weapons, paintball guns, toy guns in the shape
or form of actual weapons, and other weapons described in the California Penal Code (Part 4, Title 2, Sections
12000-12601, Section 626.9, 626.10(b), and Section 653K), or any other weapon deemed inappropriate, are not
allowed on campus. Water guns and handmade play weapons must be decorated with bright colors so they can be
22
identified from a distance as safe. Use of these weapons is limited to outside recreation. They are not permitted in
academic or administrative areas of the campus. If one of these items is perceived as dangerous or intimidating by
a member of the community, Campus Public Safety Officers, or an administrator will ask the owner to remove it
from the public areas of the campus. Any fixed blade knife over 2 inches on Vanguard University is a violation of
state law. All weapons should be turned over to the Director of Campus Public Safety or his designee and
registered for safekeeping. These weapons will be temporarily stored until the owner is able to remove them from
campus or will be turned over to the Costa Mesa Police Department if illegal. Students who are found to be in
possession of forbidden weapons on campus will be subject to disciplinary action.

Inappropriate Media: Students are to avoid media that is degrading to gender, ethnicity, and sexuality. Media
containing excessive violence, sexual content, nudity, profane language, and degrading humor is not
recommended for the spiritual and emotional development of VU students and must conform to Vanguard
community life standards.
Appearance
It is necessary to maintain some minimal regulation consistent with respect for one another and in conformity with civic health
and safety codes. Students may be shoeless on lawns or in residence halls, but not in the Library, classrooms, administrative
offices, or the Café. Swim wear is limited to water and Gymnasium and shirts are to be worn in public settings. Students' casual
and formal attire should reflect good taste and modesty.
Computer Dishonesty
Plagiarism
There are three forms of plagiarism involving the use of computers and electronic storage of text.

Printing two or more copies of the same research paper which are used to fulfill the requirements for more
than one class without the consent of the professor(s). Some professors permit multiple submissions of papers,
but others require that a paper be unique and original for each course. Submitting a paper previously used in
another class, submitting a duplicate copy of a paper being used in another class or revising a paper used in an
earlier class or used in another class during the same semester is unacceptable, unless students have obtained the
express permission of his/her professor(s). Students who are not sure about their professor's policy on the use of
papers for more than one class should ask permission from their professors rather than turn in work based upon an
assumption of what will be accepted.

Using material from another student's paper. Block copying allows the transportation of whole sections or
paragraphs of one paper to be merged into another paper. Plagiarism is the use of someone else's words or ideas
without crediting that person, with or without the permission of the original writer to use his/her ideas. All
material borrowed verbatim must be put in quotation marks and credited appropriately, regardless of the source.
All ideas borrowed and turned into the student’s own words must also be credited appropriately. Students are
prohibited from transporting whole sections of text from another student's paper into their own paper, regardless of
how much revision is done to the copied material.

Two or more students handing in copies of the same research paper or assignment, with each student claiming
individual credit for the work. To avoid the accusation of collaboration in plagiarism, a student should not lend
his/her disks to another student who might copy an assignment from the disk.
Violation of Copyright
Copyrighted programs, songs, movie files, and printed documentation may not be copied, downloaded, distributed to others, or
used on any machine outside of the computer labs, unless permitted under the terms of the software licenses between VU and the
software manufacturers. Unauthorized copying and downloading is theft. Moreover, students with personal computers on campus
are expected to not participate in software pirating or use pirated software. This includes downloading copyrighted digital media
(mp3’s, etc.).
Invasion of Privacy
The files and programs of other people are private property. It is unethical for students to read, alter, or copy such private
programs or files, unless they have explicit permission to do so by the owner.
Disciplinary Procedures
If any student violates any of the above guidelines, disciplinary action will be taken. The University reserves the right to monitor
traffic on the network, including contents, and to examine files on any systems that are connected to the network.
The IT Department will investigate incursions and discipline will be handled through the Student Care Committee of the office of
the Dean of Student Life. Depending upon the seriousness of the offense, the following sanctions may be applied:
23

Completion of community service.

Payment of a designated fine. If computer equipment is damaged, students will be required to pay for replacing the
damaged equipment in addition to any fine imposed.

Revocation of computer privileges temporarily or permanently.

Loss of credit for an assignment, test, or even the entire course.

Dismissal from the University.

In serious cases, a police report may be done including any participating student’s names and a description of the
violation(s). California Penal Code Section 502 considers certain computer abuse a crime, and penalties can range
up to a $10,000 fine and up to three years in prison.
Students may appeal any decision of the Student Care Committee following the discipline appeal process as laid out in the
Student Discipline Process section of this handbook.
Computer Usage Guidelines
General Use Guidelines
As an educational institution, VU is firmly committed to the discovery of truth, the life of the mind, and the free interchange of
ideas. The University recognizes that in order for the best learning to take place, students will be exposed to hostile, offensive,
and even subversive ideas, so that the students can confront and wrestle with the whole range of ideas and philosophies in the
intellectual marketplace. It is therefore the position of the University that students should use maturity and self-discipline in
accessing potentially offensive material.
At the same time, VU is more than just an educational institution. It is a spiritual community committed to nurturing its members,
providing them with good values and an atmosphere as positive and wholesome as possible.
The Information Technology Department, therefore reserves the right to regulate or prohibit access to obscene, pornographic, and
unlawful materials (such as by way of the internet) and distribution of such materials over the campus network.
Students using University computing and network resources are required to use them in a manner consistent with the University's
standard of conduct. The framework of responsible, considerate, and ethical behavior expected by the University extends to cover
the use of campus facilities and network resources and networks throughout the world to which electronic access has been
provided by the University. Computing and network resources and user accounts are owned by the University and are to be used
for university-related activities only. Computer equipment and accounts at VU should be used for legitimate instructional,
research, and administrative or other approved purposes. By enrolling at the University students agree to abide by the guidelines
listed herein and in the official Technology Use Policy.
Student Computing and Network
VU makes available computing and network resources for use by the University's students. VU students have certain privileges.
They include:

Use of Campus LAN, Wireless LAN, and intranet

E-mail

Use of internet

Priority over non-VU users and/or guests when using campus computer labs

Use of computers and printers in the campus computer labs
Campus Printer Kiosks
Vanguard University provides several print kiosk stations on campus that feature high quality laser printers. Print transaction can
be made via the http://print.vanguard.edu website from either the wired or wireless network anywhere on campus by uploading
supported documents to the Web Print tab and selecting the kiosk location desired. Documents will not be charged or printed
until they are released by logging in to the kiosk or remotely under the Jobs Pending Release section of http://print.vanguard.edu.
This allows students to print from their room or wirelessly and not worry if their print job will be accidentally removed by
another student. For kiosk locations please visit the web page at http://it.vanguard.edu/print-kiosks/.
Student Responsibilities
To protect the quality and reliability of computing and network resources, students must observe the following responsibilities.
This list is not comprehensive, but it includes the responsibilities that students accept whenever they choose to use the
University's computing resources and/or network, which the University provides:
24

Student use of the campus network, the internet, and e-mail must be consistent with the mission and character of
VU. VU's information technology resources may not be used for any unauthorized purpose or for any activity that
is harmful, illegal, obscene, or harassing.

Students must not apply for a user-ID under false pretenses. Once a student has received a user-ID for access to the VU
network, e-mail and computer systems on that network, he/she is solely responsible for all actions taken when that user-ID
is used.

Students must not share or use another person's user-ID, password or e-mail account. Students should never leave
a terminal or PC while logged on and leave it unattended for more than a few minutes. Students should never write
down their user-ID and password. Students should also change passwords frequently.

Students must not intentionally seek information about, browse, copy, or modify a file belonging to another
person, whether at VU or elsewhere, unless that student has been granted explicit permission by the owner of the
file.

Students are authorized to use only computer resources and information to which they have been granted access.
Students who encounter or observe a gap in system or network security should immediately report the gap to the
manager of that system. Abuse of a discovered gap rather than reporting it can result in disciplinary action.

Students that are not certain they have permission to copy, compile or manipulate software or data should assume
that they do not have permission.

The University's policies on harassment apply equally to electronic displays and communications as they do to
more traditional means of display and communication. Students must not display or transmit images, sounds or
messages that could create an atmosphere of discomfort or harassment for others.

Messages, sentiments, and declarations sent as electronic mail or postings must meet the same standards for
distribution or display as printed documents.

Students are not permitted to send spam e-mail to faculty, staff, or students on campus. Email regarding official
VU business or events must receive approval through the IT Department and be routed through the division or
department sponsoring the event.

Use of the network folder is a privilege for academic purposes. Students are expected to stay within the space
limits posted in the main lab.

Students must not degrade computing or network performance in any way that will prevent others from meeting
their educational or university business goals. Academic work by students takes precedence over personal usage.

Students must not create or willfully disseminate computer viruses. All students should be sensitive to the ease of
spreading viruses and should take steps to ensure all files are virus-free.

Students must not install any additional software on VU computer equipment.

Equipment and supplies for VU labs should be treated with care. Any student who abuses equipment or takes
supplies from the labs will lose lab privileges and be charged the cost of repair or replacement. Any student who
steals equipment will be prosecuted under the law.

Members of the VU university community are expected to observe federal, state and local laws which govern computer
and telecommunications use, as well as the University's own regulations and policies as outlined in the Student Handbook.
Confidential Reporting
If a student becomes aware of a violation of the community standards committed by a VU student or is generally concerned about
the health, welfare, safety or well-being of a student, they are encouraged to confidentially report this information to the
residence life office at OfficeofRL@vanguard.edu.
Dancing Policy
Social Dancing is not allowed on Vanguard University’s campus; it is however, permitted at University-sponsored off-campus
events. These dances are permitted granting that the host has filled out the proper Dance Proposal Form and has been approved
by the Director of Leadership Development.
The Director of Leadership Development is responsible to communicate University standards and expectations to all groups that
request to sponsor a dance. The Director of Leadership Development will act as a guide in this approval process. Helpful
guidelines have been established to ensure that campus dances are consistent with the Student Handbook and uphold the high
standards we have for University events.
25
Dance Proposal Forms are available in The Bridge and must be submitted to the Director of Leadership Development at least one
month before the intended event date. This time period allows for adequate review of all proposals including evaluation of
conflicts with the University Tiered Events Committee. The dance proposal form includes guidelines for staff attendance,
musicians and DJs, general atmosphere, and other dance-planning procedures to uphold the spirit of the guidelines in the Student
Handbook. The responsibility to uphold these guidelines and confront breaches of those guidelines falls under the sponsoring
organization as well as the staff or faculty member advising the organization.
Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy
Students who are suspected of using an illegal substance, including marijuana, may be subjected to mandatory drug-testing in
order to demonstrate their compliance with student disciplinary contracts and university regulations. These tests will be paid for
by the student. Students who are suspected of being under the influence of alcohol while they are enrolled at the University may
be subjected to an alcohol blood-level screening test.
Fireworks
Fireworks or other explosive devices are not allowed on the University campus. Violators will be subject to disciplinary actions
and possible prosecution in accordance with Municipal or State Codes.
Hazing Policy
Hazing means any method of initiation or pre-initiation into a student organization or student body, whether or not the
organization or body is officially recognized by an educational institution, which is likely to cause serious bodily injury to any
former, current, or prospective student of any school, community college, college, university, or other educational institution in
this state. The term hazing does not include customary athletic events or school-sanctioned events.
Hazing is not permitted at Vanguard University and is a criminal offense in violation of California law. Regardless of motive or
intent, any student participating in a hazing/prank type activity, which potentially endangers or adversely affects the physical and
emotional well-being of another member of the community, can expect immediate and serious disciplinary action.
Vanguard’s policy is based upon the proposition that students are entitled to be treated with consideration and respect. Vanguard
regulations on hazing are synonymous with state law as stated below (Calif. Penal Code §245.6):

It shall be unlawful to engage in hazing, as defined in this section.

A violation of this section that does not result in serious bodily injury is a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine or
imprisonment.

Any person who personally engages in hazing that results in death or serious bodily injury as defined in paragraph
(4) of subdivision (f) of Section 243 of the Penal Code, is guilty of either a misdemeanor or a felony, and shall be
punished by imprisonment.

The person against whom the hazing is directed may commence a civil action for injury or damages. The action
may be brought against any participants in the hazing, or any organization or which the student is seeking
membership whose agents, directors, trustees, managers, or officers authorized, requested, commanded,
participated in, or ratified the hazing.

Prosecution under this section shall not prohibit prosecution under any other provision of law.
Internet Material
All members of the VU community are encouraged to practice discretion and restraint in the materials that they access over the
internet. Obscene, pornographic, or unlawful materials accessed over the internet are neither educationally nor spiritually
purposeful and therefore should be avoided.
Student use of the internet is a privilege which can be revoked for cause. Students should consider the character and mission of
the University, together with issues of public perception, before accessing material on the World Wide Web.
Parking Enforcement
Parking on campus is considered a privilege, which can be revoked if the University's rules and regulations are not observed. In
order to provide an effective, fair means for encouraging observance of the University’s parking regulations, the following fines
for violations have been set:
Improper parking / In road
$50
15 minute parking
$20
26
Fire lane
$50
Disabled parking
$250
No parking zone
$50
96 hour tow notice
$25
Reckless/careless driving
$50
Failure to yield or stop
$30
Permit parking violation
$20
Designated reserved parking
$30
Other
$20
A Parking Citation Petition for a violation may be submitted to the Hearing Officer within seven (7) calendar days of receiving
the ticket. If the appeal is denied, a student may request a review of the appeal by the Director of Campus Public safety. The
Director of Campus Public Safety will have the final decision for Parking Citation Petitions.
The speed limit for all parking lots has been set at 15 MPH. Please be considerate of other drivers and pedestrians. Those found
to be driving recklessly and placing others at risk of injury may have their driving privilege revoked.
A copy of the VU Parking and Traffic Regulations are available in the Campus Public Safety Office or on-line via the Campus
Public Safety web page at http://services.vanguard.edu/campus-safety/safety-services/. Vehicle owners are responsible for the
information contained within the regulations.
Personal Property
VU is not liable for the loss of money or personal belongings by any person or for damages done to property belonging to any
individual. Liability coverage does not extend to personal property. Personal property coverage is available under most
homeowners' or renters' insurance policies. Students should consult with their parents to determine appropriate coverage. The
University is not liable for any injury which occurs during an unsupervised activity.
Pregnancy Policy for Unmarried Students
If a student becomes pregnant, she, or someone she knows, is encouraged to talk with a Dean, Resident Director or other Student
Life staff member. The Student Life office is ready to help and offer support to those involved and effectively work through the
complexity of needs that a pregnancy presents. Additional confidential support through the Vanguard Counseling Center and
other campus services are available, along with academic support. While some students in these circumstances may choose to
leave the university temporarily, it is our hope that any student who chooses to continue in classes during the pregnancy will find
this to be a supportive and redemptive community.
Residence Life Policies and Procedures
The University is committed to providing a quality residential experience in a Christ-centered environment that encourages the
personal development of students. The residence life experience provides students with the opportunities to:

Pursue their academic goals

Test their judgment and reflect on their behavior

Evaluate information regarding contemporary issues in light of scriptural principles

Develop interpersonal skills through cooperative living in a community setting

Identify university resources and receive assistance from appropriate personnel

Develop quality relationships

Develop acceptance, understanding, and appreciation for diverse cultural backgrounds

Assess attitudes, values, interests, and goals so that appropriate choices can be made

Know and integrate the Bible with all areas of life
27
Residence Life Personnel
The Director of Residence Life (DRL) supervises the Residence Life Department. Resident Directors (RDs) are full-time
University staff members whose chief task is to facilitate community life in the residence facilities. Resident Coordinators (RCs)
are University staff members who also work and live in the residence facilities. RDs and RCs are available for informal
counseling and seek to build and strengthen the personal development and interpersonal relations among resident students. Each
RD and RC has the concern that VU residence living will be a pleasant and meaningful experience.
Housing Coordinator is a member of the Residence Life Staff and oversees all housing assignments for University residences.
The Housing Coordinator and other Residence Life Staff reserves the right to assign and re-assign rooms and roommates as
necessary to fill vacancies in University housing. Attempts are made to satisfy resident student preferences for housing and
roommate assignments; however, this is not always controllable.
The Coordinator of Student Care is a full-time staff member who works in the residence facilities and with commuter students
and is specifically responsible for the coordination of Student Life care programs and oversight of a resident student mentoring
program.
Resident Assistants (RAs) are student leaders who live in the residence facilities and are present to assist the Resident Directors.
RAs facilitate peer communications and see that a positive living/learning environment exists as free as possible of disturbing
elements, which can hamper residence living.
Residence Life Requirements
All single freshman and sophomore students under 21 years of age and who are not living at home with their parent(s) or legal
guardian(s) are required to live in residence to the extent that rooms are available. Students who are 21 years of age or older,
including juniors and seniors, may also be required to live on campus if they are on disciplinary probation. It is intended that
Residence Life shall serve to develop Christian character, self-control, and thoughtful consideration of the rights of others.
Students in residence agree to abide by all regulations in effect.
All students wishing to live off-campus must receive prior authorization from the Residence Life Office by submitting an OffCampus Housing Petition each year. Students are advised not to enter into a lease agreement before obtaining approval for offcampus status. Having a lease in place will not be a factor for consideration of a request. On and off-campus students may not
live with a member of the opposite gender other than their spouse and/or sibling (as long as sibling does not have another
roommate of same gender). All resident students (and their guests) are required to observe the “Rules, Restraints, and
Responsibilities” of community membership at Vanguard University, found in the “Community Life” section in this handbook.
For more information about housing at Vanguard, please visit http://studentlife.vanguard.edu/residence-life/.
Part-time Undergraduate Students
During fall and spring semester at least seven (7) units must be maintained in order to receive priority consideration for oncampus residency, though full-time undergraduate students receive priority consideration.
Graduate and SPS Students
Housing in the campus apartments (Vanguard Centre) may be made available to single and married graduate and SPS students on
a space-available basis. Rooms are double or quadruple occupancy. SPS and graduate students are not offered the option of
reserving rooms in undergraduate housing but may apply to be put on a waiting list for space-available in undergraduate housing
facilities for the upcoming year. All Graduate and SPS students interested in Vanguard housing should contact the Residence
Life Office for availability.
Housing Term
Vanguard University housing operates on an academic year housing contract. Students wishing to live on campus will sign a
housing contract each year during Housing Registration during the spring semester. The amount of $300 must be paid as a
deposit to secure a space in campus housing.
On-Campus Residential Areas
Huntington and Laguna Halls, Newport Hall, Balboa Hall, Catalina Hall, and Vanguard Centre are the official residence areas of
the University. The University reserves the right to assign a new occupant to fill a vacancy, to make changes in room
assignments, and to re-assign a student in the residence facilities. Please read the section on Vacancies for further information.
Huntington Hall and Laguna Hall
Huntington Hall primarily houses single males who are freshmen and sophomores and who are traditionally-aged students. The
Laguna Hall's residents are single females who are freshmen and who are traditionally aged students. The Halls are connected by
a spacious lobby on the ground floor which is a comfortable meeting place for students.
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Catalina Hall
Catalina Hall houses single female undergraduate students in spacious rooms. Each room is air-conditioned and has a private
bathroom and a large closet. The second, third, and fourth floors are each equipped with a laundry facility and a study room.
Residents can take advantage of the spacious and decorative lobby on the first floor.
Newport Hall and Balboa Hall
Newport and Balboa Halls are designed to house single students, male and female of at least junior status or nontraditionallyaged students. Each room has a private bath and a large closet. Each building is also equipped with laundry facilities and study
rooms. Returning students in good standing are given priority in these facilities.
Vanguard Centre
Vanguard Centre are campus apartments located near the University. The apartments house male and female students of at least
junior status or nontraditionally-aged students. Each apartment has a private bath, closet, and kitchen facility. Returning students
in good standing are given priority in this facility.
Floor Meetings and Residence Hall Rallies
Each residence hall RD and RA Staff are required to hold mandatory floor meetings two times per semester. These meetings are
mandatory for all resident students of Vanguard University, and are held throughout the fall and spring semesters. There is a $40
fine for unexcused absences from these meetings.
Health Insurance for Students
All undergraduate students who are enrolled in at least seven (7) units are required to have health insurance and will
automatically be enrolled in and charged for a University-sponsored health insurance plan. Students who provide evidence of
comparable coverage under another plan to Residence Life by the given deadline will be waived out of the insurance plan.
On-Campus Housing Process
Secure a Housing Application from the Office of
http://studentlife.vanguard.edu/residence-life/ (continuing students).
Admissions
(new
applicants)
or
online
at

Housing applicants are required to remit a $300 room reservation deposit. This deposit must accompany the initial
residence application to reserve university housing each year. This deposit will be credited towards the student’s
housing costs. The deposit is refundable to applicants who decide not to attend VU, if the Residence Life Office
receives written notification of withdrawal/cancellation of their housing application on or before May 1 for the fall
semester and December 31 for the spring semester. If housing cancellations are received after May 1 (fall) or
December 31 (spring), the housing deposit is non-refundable. When registered, an additional $150
cleaning/damage deposit will be assessed to the student's account. Should damages occur to the student's room or
common area in excess of the $150 deposit, an additional fee will be charged to his/her account to cover the
expense of the damages.

Return Housing Application and receipt of payment to the Admission Office (new applicant) or the Residence Life
Office during Housing Registration Week each year (returning student).

Room assignments will be made by August 1 for students with completed Housing Applications.
Check-In Procedures
Students may move into their room assignment only on their designated move-in day. Upon arrival, students will complete a
Check-In/Out Form, which the student must sign in agreement to the condition of the room at the time of check-in. The key will
be issued at this time.
Each resident is responsible for all damages to the room they occupy (and common areas) as a result of unexpected wear. It is
important that the condition of the room and furnishings be indicated accurately on the Check-In/Out Form. Failure to complete
the form will result in liability for any cleaning, repairs, and /or replacement costs incurred at the time of check-out. All repair
charges will be billed equally to room occupants unless otherwise noted after Facilities Services personnel inspects the room
upon check-out of undersigned resident.
Check-Out Procedures
Non-graduating residents must vacate residence rooms no later than 5:00 PM. the Friday following the last day of final exams.
Graduating seniors must vacate residence rooms no later than 5:00 PM. the Saturday following Commencement ceremonies. The
only exceptions are those who have been approved for Christmas housing or summer housing. Exceptions must be cleared by the
Housing Coordinator or Director of Residence Life. Students who fail to meet this deadline will forfeit $40.00 of the
cleaning/damage deposit and will be assessed $15.00 per hour until they properly check out of the room. If the check-out
procedure is not followed, $40.00 of the cleaning/damage deposit will be forfeited. In checking out, follow these steps:
1)
The student should sign-up for a check-out appointment 24 hours prior to checking out of the residence hall.
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2)
Clean the room.






All personal belongings must be removed from the room.
The room needs to be vacuumed and dusted.
All furniture must be clean and in place.
Everything from the walls must be removed
Kitchen appliances and private baths must also be clean.
Students are responsible to ensure that the common areas are clean
3)
The Check-In/Out Form, completed when the student moved in, will be reviewed and signed by the Resident Assistant,
Resident Director and Facility Services technician. The student is required to also sign the form.
4)
Keys should be returned to the Resident Assistant. A replacement fee of $75.00 will be assessed to the student's account for
non-returned or copied keys.
5)
The cleaning/damage deposit of $150.00 will be refunded subject to completion of the check-out procedure and subject to
payment of losses or damage (if any) to VU property. The deposit may also be used to repair common area damages in
which individuals are not identified as responsible. Failure to properly clean the room will result in a $75.00 room cleaning
charge against the cleaning damage deposit. The cost of repairing damages beyond the amount of the deposit will be charged
to the student's account. Roommates are jointly responsible for any financial liability stemming from room abuse. Returning
students who have a "zero" balance on their student accounts may request their cleaning/damage deposit be returned to
them, or it may remain on their account as a cleaning/damage deposit for the following year. Cleaning deposits will be
returned no later than July 1st. Resident students should contact the Office of Accounting Operations for procedures to have
the deposit returned.
6)
Any personal belongings left behind after the resident students officially checks out of housing, or is left in the room or
common areas beyond the approved housing agreement provisions, may be discarded by the University.
Changing Rooms
Possible room changes may be discussed with the Housing Coordinator ten days after the semester has started and must be
approved by the appropriate Resident Directors prior to any move. A Room/Roommate Change Request Form must be completed
and submitted to the Housing Coordinator. If the change is approved, follow the check-out procedure on the old room
assignment and the check-in procedure on the new room assignment. The University reserves the right to assign a new occupant
to fill a vacancy, to make changes in room assignments, and to re-assign or remove a student from the residence facilities.
Vacancies
After the deadline for Room/Roommate changes (10 days into the semester) in order to maintain occupancy in a room, students
can choose to exercise the Vacancy Purchase Option. This option is available only if there is no waiting list for the given
hall/floor and if the student(s) agree to pay the additional 30% charge to “purchase” the vacant space. Regardless of purchase of
any vacancy, all furniture must remain in the room.

Students who choose not to purchase the vacancy should be prepared to receive another roommate at any given
time within the discretion of the Residence Life Office.

All vacancies are given equal priority for roommate placement. No priority will be given to protect any vacancy.

Any resident that makes it impossible/undesirable for a newly assigned roommate to stay in the vacancy will be
considered to have purchased the vacancy and will be billed retroactively to the date the space became available.
This policy pertains not only to the moving of personal belongings but also may pertain to the attitude of current
residents of the room.

Students that choose to move into an empty room after filing a Room/Roommate Change Form will be required to
purchase the room at the additional 30% charge.
Cancellations
At Housing Registration for the academic year during the spring semester (returning undergraduate students), a $300 housing
deposit must be paid in order to secure a spot, as explained in the section On-Campus Housing Process. In order for the deposit to
be refunded, the Residence Life Office must receive notice of cancellation from the student in writing by May 1 st. Students that
choose to cancel housing after this deadline will not receive the refund of the housing deposit. No exceptions.
Students that cancel housing after being checked-in to a room must follow Check-Out Procedures with the Resident Assistant.
Refunds will be given based on the refund chart published in the Housing Contract and signed at Housing Registration. See the
Housing Coordinator in the Residence Life Office for the schedule (contact the Housing Coordinator at ext. 5273 or
30
housingoffice@vanguard.edu). Students must move out of housing within 24 hours of termination of the Housing Contract unless
written agreement is obtained by the Residence Life Office.
Room Decor
In the fall months students will find themselves calling this residence area home. Students should remember that this "home" can
be more than a storehouse for (much used) text books, a bed to sleep in, or a desk to work at on that last minute term paper.
Students are encouraged to make it attractive and comfortable; however, the room must be left in the same condition as when it
was first moved into.

Residents may not paint or wall paper walls.

Residents may not intentionally alter any university furniture.

Residents may not use nails or their equivalent in any University property (including room walls and/or furniture).
Adhesive hangers that do not remove or strip paint can be used quite effectively for hanging most decorative
items. If the adhesive hanger does remove paint or damages the walls in any way, the occupants of the room will
be assessed a damage fine.

Residents may not stack university furniture on top of each other unless it is designed to be securely stacked.

Residents may not stack university furniture on top of any other object unless it is approved by Facility Services.

All damages to the room are the responsibility of the occupants assigned to the room.

Residents may not hang anything from the fire sprinkler systems, including sprinklers and pipes.
There is to be no baking, frying, or boiling of any food items in residence facility rooms, unless they are equipped with full
kitchen facilities (such as Vanguard Centre apartments and some rooms in Balboa Hall).
Alcohol, alcohol containers, and/or drug paraphernalia are not to be used for room decorations.
What is allowed and not allowed in the residence hall rooms:
What to bring
What NOT to bring
Optional (popular items)
Linens (extra-long twin)
Candles
Portable refrigerator (under 4.5 cu ft.)
Pillow
Incense or wax burners
Personal computer
Blankets/comforter
Pets
iPod/MP3 player/stereo
Towels
Toaster / oven toaster
Television & DVD player
Toiletry Items
Open-flame appliances
Small coffee maker
Alarm clock
Illegal drugs or alcohol
Fan
Multiple outlet surge protector
Firearms or weapons
Beach Chair
Cleaning supplies
Fireworks
Board games & cards
Cell phone/ telephone
Drums (in rooms)
Sports equipment
(tennis, volleyball, Frisbee, etc.)
Desk lamp
Chairs, desks, or beds
(rooms are furnished)
Extra storage units
(such as under the bed boxes)
Laundry detergent
Large refrigerator (over 4.5 cu. ft.)
Laundry bag or basket
Halogen lamps
Room Furniture
Each room is fully furnished to meet the needs of students. Beds, mattresses, desks, desk chairs (except in Vanguard Centre), and
a dresser are provided in each residence hall room. Furniture is not to be removed from the room or the student will be charged a
fine of $25.00 per furniture item (and a replacement cost if not returned). The beds provided by the University are designed to
sleep one person only. Bed rails for bunk beds will be provided upon request of the student (request to be made to the RA or
RD.)
Lounge Furniture
Furnishings in the lounge areas are not to be removed. Any person violating this policy will be fined $25 per piece (and
replacement costs if not returned).
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Satellite TV and Air Conditioning Units
Personal satellite TV dishes and/or air conditioning units may not be secured to University property, nor shall the installation of
such systems obstruct egress routes from residence halls, cause a safety hazard, or alter the intended design and construction of
the facility. This condition applies to other appliances not described herein, but are deemed a risk, hazard, or in violation by
University officials. Students may keep a free-standing air conditioning unit in their residence hall room for an additional charge
of $50 per semester to defray energy expenses.
Storage
Vanguard University does not provide extra storage space, other than the space within the resident student’s assigned room, and
appropriate resident storage closets (NH & BH). Students may not store personal belongings in rooms and closets over the
summer break.
Appliances & Cooking
Most on-campus rooms were designed as sleep-study areas, not full housekeeping units. Only appliances such as popcorn
poppers, coffee pots, blenders, and compact refrigerators and microwaves are allowed in student rooms. Hot plates, toasters,
potpourri burners, electric skillets, electric saucepans, broiler ovens, sandwich grills, toaster ovens, full-size refrigerators or other
such electrical appliances are not acceptable. “George Foreman” style grills are allowed in kitchenette rooms and areas
specifically designed for food preparation. For fire safety and health sanitary reasons, there is to be no food preparation in the
residence facilities, except for where kitchenette-style space is provided. Vanguard Centre, limited rooms in Balboa Hall with full
kitchen facilities are an exception to this rule.
Refrigerators in Rooms
At this time, Vanguard University does allow for resident students to keep refrigerators in University rooms; however, there are
some restrictions:

Refrigerator can be no larger than 4.5 cubic feet.

No more than two refrigerators per room.

Residence Life reserves the right to require students to remove refrigerators if these restrictions are not observed.
Also, the University reserves the right to require residents to remove/unplug refrigerators if they disrupt electrical
power to the residence halls.
Fire Hazards
Students are expected to be alert to fire hazards and to use good judgment when potential hazards exist. It is impossible to list all
fire hazards, but the following represents an effort to address the basic safety regulations in the residence hall.
Common hallways/areas must be free of clutter and/or obstacles that could potentially hinder evacuation routes. For example,
bikes, surfboards, furniture, and other large objects cannot be stored in hallways or common areas.
Electrical appliances must be UL approved. The burning of candles or incense; the use of kerosene or propane lanterns or lamps;
and the storage of combustible fuels, paints, or oils is not permitted in residence halls and is subject to a $50.00 fine. Students
should not tamper with existing electrical equipment, lighting, wiring, and switches. Room decorations should consist of fire
retardant materials. Exceptions must be approved by the Resident Director.
Students are required to observe all fire alarms and evacuation procedures. Failure to respond appropriately to fire alarms
(including fire drills) is subject to disciplinary fines.
Hanging personal belongings from fire sprinklers or pipes in residence halls is prohibited and is a fire code violation. Students
may be held responsible for damages caused by hanging items from fire equipment.
Room Inspections
Since residence hall living involves sharing facilities with other students, a broad sense of responsibility must be maintained. The
University reserves the right to make periodic health and safety inspections. The University also maintains master keys to all
residence halls and reserves the right to inspect rooms by authorized personnel at any time without prior notice.
Right to Enter
VU reserves the right for authorized personnel to enter any unit at any time for purpose of inspection, repairs, or other official
business of which the resident will be informed at time of entry, if present. Tours for guests or prospective students may be
necessary on very brief notice. If at any time there is reasonable cause to believe that an occupant is using his/her residence room
in a manner inconsistent with appropriate University regulations, a search may be made by a University representative to gather
evidence for use in disciplinary proceedings. The University maintains master keys to all residence halls and reserves the right to
inspect rooms by authorized personnel at any time without prior notice.
32
Guest Privileges
Occasionally a resident may wish to have an overnight guest. Permission to do so must be obtained in advance from the Resident
Director. Any guest with permission from the Resident Director to stay more than two nights will be expected to pay $20.00 per
night. Arrangements for payment are to be made in the Residence Life Office with the Assistant Director of Residence Life and
verification shown to the Resident Director. Guests should make arrangements with Campus Public Safety for a temporaryparking permit if necessary. Hosts will be held financially responsible for any guest behavior that would result in fines or
damages to University or private property. Guests are not permitted to have in their possession a key to the resident host’s
assigned room. Campus Public Safety Officers do not unlock residence hall doors for non-student guests.
University officials reserve the right to require non-student guests to vacate campus property.
Restricted Areas
University policy does not allow any individual to enter the living area (halls or rooms) of those of the opposite sex except for
designated times such as Open House Visitation. Occasionally, University personnel may do so, but only after announcing their
intention to enter.
In the interest of student safety, Campus Public Safety personnel may patrol residence facility hallways. After 11:00 PM, Campus
Public Safety will not announce their presence to avoid disturbing sleeping residents.
City Hall Property
Students are prohibited from walking, riding skateboards, bicycling, parking their vehicles or in any other way utilizing City Hall
parking lots or property and are subject to fines if they do so.
Roofs of Buildings
Students known to have been climbing on buildings without proper authorization or known to have been involved in defacing
them will be assessed the cost of repairs and subject to severe disciplinary action (suspension). This includes unauthorized access
to roofs of all buildings.
Open House Policy
Members of the opposite sex are only permitted in residence hall rooms during open house hours. During open hours, the
residence life rules must be followed at all times. Open House visitation hours for each residence hall are communicated to
resident students at the mandatory floor meeting and are posted in various places in the residence halls. Each resident student is
responsible to become familiar with the Open House visitation hours.
Open House Visitation
The University supports healthy, informal interaction between men and women and provides Open House opportunities to
accomplish this goal. Open House is a privilege afforded to all residents in good standing. Open House refers to those
predetermined times when members of the opposite sex may visit together in the residence facilities. Open House should
generally be used for study, fellowship, and social events (such as birthday and Christmas parties, residence hall events, etc.).
The Residence Life staff monitors Open House. Violations of Open House policies may result in fines, forfeiture of housing,
suspension, or other disciplinary action.
Open House Expectations:

Room doors must be completely open when members of the opposite sex are together in a residence hall room
during Open House Visitation hours or if a member of the opposite sex is in an opposite sex room by himself or
herself during open house hours (Laguna Hall, Huntington Hall, Balboa Hall, Newport Hall, and Catalina Hall).

Member of the opposite sex may not lie together on/in a bed or couch. If on the bed, students (and or student and
guest) must be sitting or in upright position.

Resident students are responsible to keep track of the time for when open house visitation hours is over. Open
house visitation ends at the time specified—this is not the time to begin the process for leaving the
floor/room/quad.
Open House Visitation hours:
The Open House visitation hours for each residence hall are communicated to resident students at the mandatory floor meeting
and Residence Hall Rally (first week of each semester) and are posted in various places in the residence halls. Each resident
student is responsible to attend the mandatory floor meeting and Residence Hall Rally and become familiar with the Open House
Visitation hours.
Open House Hours for Laguna, Huntington, Catalina, Balboa, and Newport Halls
Tuesdays: Huntington Hall
7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Thursdays: Laguna Hall
7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
33
7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Monday-Thursday: Catalina Hall
Fridays (all rooms/halls)
4:00 PM – 12:00 AM (Midnight)
Saturdays (all rooms/halls)
4:00 PM – 12:00 AM (Midnight)
Sundays (all rooms/halls)
4:00 PM – 12:00 AM (Midnight)
12:00 PM (Noon) –12:00 AM (Midnight)
Everyday in Balboa and Newport
Open House Hours Vanguard Centre
11:00 AM – 1:00 AM
Everyday
Throwing Objects
For safety purposes, no objects (including liquids) may be thrown from a residence facility. Throwing objects from any residence
facility window, roof, or balcony will result in a $100 fine and possible removal from the residence hall.
Skate Boards/Roller Blades/Bikes
Due to the potential for property damage and in the interest of safety and comfort of all University members, the use of roller
blades, roller skates, bikes, scooters, and skateboards is prohibited inside campus buildings and elevators, including residence
facilities and lobbies. Limited use of such is permitted on driveways, parking lots, and sidewalks (with the exception of those
around the residence halls and within ten feet of a building). Use of courtyards (for example, Needham Chapel, Scott Academic
Center) is prohibited.
Riders shall refrain from riding on railings, benches, or otherwise damaging University property. Riders are responsible for the
damages they cause to any persons or University property. Riders should use caution, maintain a safe speed and distance from
buildings and people, and are encouraged to wear head and body protection when riding on campus. The University is not
responsible for injuries suffered while riding roller blades, roller skates, bikes, scooters, or skateboards on campus. Failure to
abide by these policies may result in disciplinary action.
Pets
University rules preclude the keeping of pets in any residence facility or on-campus, except for fish in tanks of 5 gallons or less.
Residents with fish must take proper care of the tank, and all roommates must consent to having the tank in the room. Tank
owners will be held responsible for all damages that occur if the tank breaks. Residents found in violation of the pet policy are
subject to fines and will be required to remove the pet from University residence. First offense is a $50 fine; second offense is
$100 fine and possible removal of student from University housing. Removal of non-approved pets in the residence halls is
expected in 12 hours of official notice from University officials. If the pet is not removed in this time frame, the violation
becomes a second offense.
Lost Key
Students who have lost their keys may request a replacement from the Assistant Director of Residence Life. A $75 replacement
charge will be assessed to the student’s account. Loss of master key will result in a $100 fine to offset the cost of re-keying, if
necessary.
Room Unlocks
Occasionally, students may become locked out of the residence room. A student who has become locked out of their room should
first contact his/her Resident Assistant to gain entrance into the room. Any student that is unable to locate his/her Resident
Assistant may contact Campus Public Safety at ext. 6799 or 714-715-2829. The CPS officer will request to see some
identification and will verify that the student is the listed occupant in the room before unlocking the door. Students may be
assessed a $5 fee for an RA or a CPS room unlock.
Quiet Hours
There are some responsibilities which students living in an academic community have to each other. The close proximity of
living quarters requires that certain hours be regarded as quiet hours. These hours are 11:00 PM to 11:00 AM daily. Students
should refrain from playing loud music, playing musical instruments, or engaging in loud behavior during quiet hours. In addition
to these quiet hours, it should be understood that the unique needs of each facility require the mutual respect of every student's
privilege to a comfortable residence area. Drums and amplified musical instruments should not be played at any time in the
residence facilities.
It is hoped that students will be able to work out between themselves any breach of this mutual respect for each other in the
residence areas. The residence staff is also available to facilitate this process.
There is no enforced residence hall curfew. However, if a student’s overnight activities (employment included) adversely affects
the student’s academics and/or behavior, the University may strongly encourage the student to observe a curfew.
34
Housing Assignment Changes Between Fall and Spring Semesters
Some students prefer to make a housing change between the fall and spring semesters. Students must obtain the approval of the
Housing Coordinator and their Resident Director prior to making a room change. Approved room changes and relocations from
the fall room into a new spring room must be accomplished prior to leaving for the Christmas break. Students who are unable to
relocate prior to the Christmas break may be required to remove their belongings from their current room and delay their room
change until the beginning of the spring semester, or forfeit their room change approval.
Housing Assignment Changes from On-Campus Residency to Off-Campus at Semester
Students living in campus housing that would like to apply to move off-campus for the spring semester must submit an OffCampus Petition to the Residence Life Office. Approval must be received by the Housing Coordinator and Resident Director
before the student can check-out of campus housing. Students must pay the equivalent of one month’s prorated rent to break the
housing contract signed for the academic year.
Christmas Break Housing
The University desires to provide a quality living experience for students needing to remain in campus housing due to job or
living requirements. Students desiring to live in campus housing during Christmas Break must formally apply for this opportunity
through the Residence Life Office by December 1. However, Vanguard Centre will remain open during Christmas Break at no
extra charge. Students may be required to relocate to another room or accept a temporary roommate during the Christmas Break
housing period at the discretion of the Housing Coordinator and Resident Director. Fall semester housing concludes at 7:00 PM
on the Friday of finals week.
On campus residence facilities will be closed beginning at 7:00 PM the Friday of finals week and will re-open at 12:00 PM, the
Saturday prior to classes resuming for the spring semester. Students should inform their Resident Director before the end of the
fall semester if they are unable to secure housing during this period to see if assistance can be provided.
There is no official food service plan provided during the Christmas Break period. However, there may be times when the Dining
Commons is available for food service. Resident students in Christmas Break housing should inquire about food service through
contacting a representative of the Dining Commons.
Spring Break Housing
Housing facilities will not close during spring break, so students may continue to live in the residence halls if they choose. One
Resident Assistant per facility along with one Resident Director will be available to students during this time.
Summer Housing
Limited housing is available during the summer months with priority assigned to students enrolled during the summer sessions.
Students not enrolled in the subsequent fall semester are not eligible for summer housing. Summer housing brochures are
available in the Residence Life Office in March. Applications are received during the registration week in April. There is a
deadline for Summer Housing Applications. First month’s rent must be paid in the Office of Accounting Operations prior to the
student being able to relocate to summer housing.
Work Request Policy for Residential Buildings
Occasionally, it may become necessary for maintenance to be performed in residence rooms. Student residents who are in need of
a repair should follow these steps:
1)
Go to the VU website at www.vanguard.edu.
2)
Click on Services in the toolbar at the top of the page.
3)
Go to Campus Services and choose Maintenance to submit a Maintenance Work Request.
4)
Residents will receive a work order number by email that can be used to reference the progress of the submitted work
request (most plumbing and other emergency requests are addressed the same day).
5)
Residents may also submit a work request by calling ext. 5431, or in person at the Facility Services office (located between
the Library and IT).
6)
The resident will be informed of the completed work order via an email containing a questionnaire asking if the repair was
completed to the resident’s satisfaction.
Emergency Work Requests
During the hours of 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM, M-F, Facility Services can be contacted at ext. 5431. After these hours and on
weekends, students should call the emergency on-call tech at (714) 222-9352. Students should also locate the RA or RD OnDuty at (714) 713-5089. If a student is unsuccessful in either attempt, he/she may contact Campus Public Safety at ext. 6799, or
(714) 966-6799.
35
Sales Policy for Students

Off-Campus product salespersons are not permitted to solicit or sell in any of the campus buildings (including
Residence Halls) unless approved by the Director of Event Relations.

Student selling of a product on campus is permitted provided that the student obtains permission from the Director
of Leadership Development. Students may not sell non pre-packaged food items due to health and safety
concerns.

Storage of products may only occur in the student's room and must not infringe upon the reasonable living rights
and comfort of a roommate.

Door-to-door selling, phone solicitation, and vehicle flyers are prohibited.

All contact for purchasing must be initiated by the consumer.

Advertisements may be placed on campus bulletin boards once they have been approved via stamp in the
Residence Life Office.
Spiritual Formation Department
Spiritual and Social Expectations
All undergraduate students enrolled at Vanguard University are required to read and sign the following statement. We encourage
and expect students to thoroughly read the material below as they are committing to these expectations upon their admittance to
the university.
Vanguard University is a Christian academic community that encourages individual integrity and responsibility in accordance
with a biblical understanding of Christian discipleship and its social and ethical implications. The Vanguard Community
understands the primary call of the Christian faith—as expressed by Jesus—to seek to love God with our whole being and to love
our neighbor as ourselves. Men and women who enter this community are expected to pursue this call through the cultivation of
a virtuous character, developing intellectual and constructive participation in the life of the university.
Undergraduate students will abide by basic community standards consistent with a virtuous Christian life as well as other rules
appropriate to the university’s aims and goals. The university recognizes that a student’s personal commitments and lifestyle may
differ from these standards; however, every student is expected to comply with these community standards while they are
enrolled. These requirements include, but are not limited to the following:

Abstaining from any practices that violate the biblical standard for Christian living: such as drunkenness, gluttony,
stealing, causing dissention amongst community members, slanderous or profane language, dishonesty, occult
practices, premarital sex, adultery, the use of pornography, and other sexual sins.

Refraining from the possession or use of alcoholic beverages, all forms of tobacco, non-medical narcotics, and
hallucinogenic drugs (including marijuana).

Using discretion and restraint in conduct relating to the media, arts, internet, language, social dancing, cards and
games, as well as organizations with which one associates.
It is important that students become familiar with the contents of the Student Handbook so that they may understand and abide by
the academic, social and spiritual standards expected of them. To read more regarding student policies visit
http://studentlife.vanguard.edu/residence-life/.
If a student has concerns about any of these commitments, please feel free to contact the Undergraduate Admissions Office (new
students) or the office of the Dean of Student Life (current students).
By enrolling at VU students accept the above statement of responsibilities.
Responsibility of the Spiritual Formation Department
As a university intimately connected with the Christian church, Vanguard is an institution dedicated to the formation of disciples
as part of the mission of the church. It is, then, the responsibility of the Spiritual Formation Department (SFD) to oversee and
facilitate these basic practices of discipleship—in partnership with other university departments—in an effort to foster spiritual
development and maturity. It is the university’s aim to help students establish vision and practices for life-long spiritual growth
and equip them with disciplines, relationships, and tools that empower them to pursue transformation and maturity in Christ
through the various seasons of life. ‘Spiritual Formation’ is another way of understanding the journey that each Christian
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endeavors as they pursue the fullness of the call of discipleship. The Vanguard community pursues these ends through, among
other things, communal worship, teaching scripture, prayer and service (giving).
These four communal practices have been markers of the Christian community since the birth of the Church (Acts 2:42-47) and
function as unifying expressions for each gathering of Christ followers. The university provides weekly opportunities for these
communal interactions through the VU Chapel and Outreach programs:
Outreach
VU understands that essential to Christian discipleship is a life filled with generosity, service, and charity. The Outreach
Office—within the SFD—works to connect VU students to the local and global community to love and serve as an expression of
the work of the Kingdom of God. The Outreach Office partners with multiple organizations through wide range of projects to
care for those in regular proximity to VU community and those overseas. These partnerships also help students discover where
they are most passionately committed to see transformation and renewal in the lives of those around them.
Chapel
Chapel is an integral part of the VU community and foundational to the spiritual, intellectual, and social development that
students will experience during their time at VU. Chapel services are designed to allow the VU community to pursue God
together and learn to respond to His leading through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Goals of the Chapel Program

To encourage appreciation, familiarity and love for the Word of God.

To cultivate a heart of gratitude and nurture community through regular corporate worship.

To foster a habit of participation in communal worship.

To grow in the discernment and response to the work of the Holy Spirit.

To empower and train the VU community to live as Christ’s disciples in whatever context they operate within.

To provide first-hand leadership experience for those called to ministry within the Christian church.
VU chapels occur 5 times per week (3 morning and 2 evening services) with numerous additional Alternative Chapels occurring
monthly. As an undergraduate, with 12 or more units, students are required to attend 30 chapels per semester—unless approved
for a chapel credit reduction through the chapel petition process. In addition to the VU chapels (and other events that meet the
chapel credit criteria), there are regular worship, prayer and study groups meeting at various times on-campus providing further
occasions for discipleship and development.
Weekly chapel services occur during the following times:
Mondays – EXCAVATE
8:00-8:50PM
Needham Chapel
Tuesdays
9:30-10:20AM
NMC Worship Center
Wednesdays
10:00-10:50AM
NMC Worship Center
Wednesdays – SHINE
9:30-10:30PM
NMC Worship Center
Thuesday
9:30-10:20AM
NMC Worship Center
Excavate is a weekly evening bible study.
Shine is a student-led worship service.
Chapel Attendance
Chapel attendance is tracked through the Student ID Card which is scanned at the beginning and end of each chapel service.
Students will be given credit for chapel attendance if they arrive within 10 minutes of the posted start-time. Attendance
information is posted in the MyVU portal which offers easy access for all chapel information. Each student is responsible for
monitoring their own chapel attendance and informing the SFD of any potential errors.
Full-time students are required to complete at least 30 chapel credits each semester. One chapel service is equivalent to one
chapel credit. In the event of a conflict in work, class schedule, or commuting distance, a chapel petition may be filed with the
Spiritual Formation Department at the beginning of each semester. Seniors in their final semester are encouraged to attend
37
chapel, but they have no chapel credit requirement. Graduate and SPS students are excused from required chapel credits, but are
welcomed and encouraged to attend.
A respectful attitude is expected at all chapel gatherings. Students should turn off their mobile phones, and refrain from loud
talking, homework, texting, or other disruptive behavior. Food and drink are prohibited in the NMC worship center.
Chapel Petitions
In order to petition for a reduction of chapel credit requirements, a student must show that they are unable to attend 2 of the 5
chapels each week or demonstrate other reasons why a reduction should be granted. Petitions will be submitted during the first
four weeks of each semester and will only be received after the published due date if there are work schedule or living
arrangement changes.
Reasons for Petitioning:
1. Student lives outside of a 10-mile radius from the Vanguard Campus.
2. Students with verified employment during morning or evening chapel hours.
3. Students with class outside VU, a disability accommodation, or a family emergency.
If a petition is denied and the student wishes to appeal that decision, they may do so by submitting new information to the
Spiritual Formation Department for reconsideration.
Reasonable Disability Accommodations for Spiritual Formation Credits
Students who are experiencing a physical or psychological disability are encouraged to meet with the Disability Services
Coordinator in the Counseling Center located on the second floor of the Scott building in the Student Services Center. The
Student Services Center may assist with reasonable accommodations for both long-term and temporary disabilities that may
include a modification of Spiritual Formation chapel credit requirements. Proper documentation of disability is required.
Methods of Appeal
If circumstances result in unexpected absences from chapels, students may submit a late petition to the Coordinator of Chapel and
Discipleship providing dates and reasons for absences. Each petition will be considered on a case-by-case basis and will take into
account the unique circumstances of the petition.
Inaccurate or false claims presented in a chapel petition as well as premature departure from chapel events are considered
conduct violations and may require further disciplinary sanctions.
Chapel Accountability
If a student does not fulfill their requirement and has not been approved for a chapel petition, they have the option to write a
Reflection Paper for each missing chapel credit (no more than 50% of their total chapel requirement). To complete this paper,
students will listen to a prerecorded VU Chapel and write a two-page summary and reflection of the chapel recording. Papers
must follow the guidelines detailed in the ‘Reflection Paper Guidelines’ and submitted to the Spiritual Formation office before
5:00 pm on the Monday after finals week. If the papers are completed and submitted by the deadline provided, students will not
incur any penalties.
If a student fails to meet their chapel requirement and does not submit the Reflection Papers on time, then a penalty of $350.00
will be charged to the students account on the Tuesday after finals week.
All required forms and guidelines (Reflection Paper Guidelines, Downloadable MP3’s of Chapel services) are available online at
www.vanguard.edu/sfd
Vanguard University students are expected to fulfill the chapel credits with diligence and integrity in the same way they would
for all academic requirements.
Spiritual Formation Offices
Offices for Spiritual Formation are located on the first floor of Laguna Hall.
Student Government Association (SGA)
Leadership Development
Vanguard University is committed to assisting students discover, nurture, and utilize their talents, abilities, and spiritual gifts. The
Leadership Development Department is a place where relationships and programs serve to support and challenge students in our
community. The Leadership Development Department encourages students to integrate their faith, learning, and living. The
department provides intentional training and practical experiences to help accomplish the University's educational mission.
Students are encouraged to use their leadership gifts and talents to serve the community and to make a positive difference for the
Kingdom of God.
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Goals of the Leadership Development Department include:

To promote communication among student organizations and between the University and the student body.

To create effective programs that will provide continuity and maintain the momentum developed from year-toyear in student organizations.

To encourage faculty involvement in leadership development and co-curricular activities.

To encourage recruitment and retention of students with demonstrated leadership potential and to provide more
effective support mechanisms for student leadership campus-wide.

To provide an atmosphere that challenges the student leader and provides him/her with the best possible leadership
experience.
The Leadership Development Department is located in The Bridge.
Director of Leadership Development
The offices of the Director of Leadership Development, Coordinator of Student Programming, and Student Life Administrative
Assistant are located in The Bridge at the bottom of Huntington Hall. The Director and Coordinator work with student
organizations in order to provide the mechanisms for successful and meaningful programs and to ensure that students are
represented at VU.
Associated Student Body
Every undergraduate student at VU is a member of the Associated Student Body (ASB). Active membership is limited to students
with seven (7) or more units.
Associated Student Body Government
The Student Government Association (SGA) is made up of three functioning branches: the Executive Board, Student Senate and
Program Board. All SGA offices are located in The Bridge. The function of the SGA as stated in its Constitution is as follows:
“We, the students of Vanguard University, wishing to provide a more spiritually, intellectually, and socially enriching
environment, as well as provide a medium for an organized student voice that we may change our world for Christ.”
Executive Board
The Executive Board serves as the direct connection between the University Administration and the Students. Each Executive
Officer serves as a member of the Senate. The Executive Board consists of the President, Executive Vice President, and Vice
President of Student Programming. Executive Officers are elected during the spring semester. The SGA President is the Chief
Executive Officer of the Associated Student Body.
Student Senate
The Senate is the representative body for students. The Senate is made up of the Executive Board, Class Senators, and Student
Representatives and is presided over by the Executive Vice President. Sophomore, junior, senior class officers and student
representatives are elected/hired during the spring semester. Freshmen class officers are elected at the beginning of the fall
semester. Student representatives represent students living in the various residence facilities on campus, as well as commuter
students. All students are encouraged and welcome to attend the Senate meetings held on Friday mornings at 10 am in The
Bridge.
Under the Senate, each class has a Class Council which is chaired by its class senator. Each Class Council consists of the senator
and program director. Students are welcome to attend various Class Council meetings. Class Council meeting times will be
posted on the SGA bulletin board outside of The Bridge.
In addition to representing the needs of the students, the Senate also provides leadership opportunities and coordinates the
selection of students to serve on various University committees. Please contact a Student Senate Officer, Executive Board
Officer or the Director of Leadership Development if you are interested in serving in any of these areas.
Student Senate:
Commuter Senator (1)
Men’s and Women’s Facilities Senators (2)
Multicutural Senator (1)
Senior, Junior, Sophomore, and Freshman Class Senators (4)
Program Board
The Program Board is a group of student leaders who plan and coordinate on and off-campus activities. The Program Board
consists of program directors, including each class program director, who individually plan and coordinate student activities. The
Vice President of Student Programming chairs the Program Board. The primary goal of the Program Board is to provide quality
39
social and spiritual activities for students. Students or Student Organizations wishing to have an event or activity on campus must
submit a proposal for approval to the Director of Leadership Development.
Program Board Members
All School Program Directors (2)
Class Program Directors (4)
Marketing Director (2)
Commuter Program Director (1)
Director of Public Relations (1)
Student Organizations
All members of the student body are members of their respective class organizations. All student clubs must be registered with
the Student Government Association. In addition to these, there are many co-curricular organizations and activities on campus
such as:
Student Organizations
All Nations
Alpha Phi
Asian Pacific Islander Club
Divine Dancers
El Puente
Enactus
International Club
Invisible Children
Live 2 Free
Mosaic Club
Student Affiliates in Natural and Technological Sciences (SAINTS)
Synecdoche
Vanguard Surfing Club
Veterans Club
Student Organization Advisors
Each organization must have an advisor who is a member of the administration, faculty, or staff. The Director of Leadership
Development (DLD) must approve the advisor. All activities sponsored by classes or clubs should adhere to the following
procedures:
1)
Clear dates and functions with the Program Board and DLD.
2)
Arrange for use of campus facilities through the DLD.
3)
Plan program with the advisor.
4)
In case of an all-school function, the program should be presented in writing and cleared with the DLD.
To join co-curricular organizations, the advisor or organization president should be contacted. Only VU students are eligible to be
members of these organizations.
Formation of Student Organizations
Students who wish to form a Student Organization must obtain an application for Student Organization Charter from the office of
the Coordinator of Student Programming (CSP), located in The Bridge. Once completed and returned to the CSP, the student
organization charter will be reviewed to be approved or denied. Such approval shall be based upon the purpose and need for such
an organization and the degree to which it aligns with the total University program and policy.
Regulations for Student Organizations
Membership in student organizations must be open to all students without regard to ethnicity, gender, age, ability, or social status.
Compliance of each member with the University co-curricular organization requirements is important (see section on student
participation in co-curricular activities.) The purpose, activities, and name of the organization should align with the overall
objectives of the University. Where funds are handled, procedures prescribed by the Office of Accounting Operations should be
followed.
Student Participation
Student participation in co-curricular and extra-curricular activities requires a cumulative GPA of 2.0. Students on academic
probation are ineligible to hold a student body office and advised to limit themselves to only one co-curricular or extra-curricular
40
activity. Some student leadership assignments and student organizations require higher GPA standards and full-time student
status for membership appointment/election. Refer to the organizational constitution or policy statements for such guidelines.
Honor Societies
Many departments have honor societies. Please contact the academic department of interest for more information.
Fundraising Policy for students
Students who desire to raise funds for approved student organizations (class office, ministry teams, student government, etc.)
must complete a fund-raising application available in The Bridge and receive approval from the Director of Leadership
Development and the Office of University Advancement prior to any fund-raising activities. Occasionally, the parking lots may
be used by approved student organizations to raise funds on weekends and during the Orange County Fair. Interested persons
should contact the Director of Leadership Development for details.
Fund-raisers must not compete with any Vanguard University vendors, including but not limited to Bon Appétit, Founders
Bookstore, and Pepsi. As decided by the administration, off-site vendors selling phone cards or cell phones or offering credit
cards will not be approved to solicit at Vanguard University.
Student Discipline Process
Foundations for Student Discipline
Model of Christian Community Discipline
Because we are a community, our behavior affects others. Because we are a Christian community, a breach of community
standards must be confronted in case others are led to believe that such behavior is acceptable.
There are two fundamental biblical principles which direct the exercise of discipline within a Christian community (Eph. 2:19-22;
l Cor. 12:12-31; l Cor. 5):

Christian discipline seeks to maintain the integrity of the community.

Christian discipline seeks to be redemptive toward the offender.
Using the Scriptural model, we assume that most students will conduct themselves properly by practicing the highest form of
discipline, that of self-discipline. Students who have violated University behavioral policies are encouraged to quickly and
voluntarily confess and seek the advice and counsel of his/her Resident Director, Resident Coordinator, Director of Residence
Life, or the Dean of Student Life. This will allow a truly repentant student to voluntarily discuss his or her violation and may
keep disciplinary action to a minimum. In some cases, the counseling session will result only in rehabilitative action. If that fails,
then members of the Residence Life staff, faculty, the Student Care Committee, and the Dean of Student Life will assume the
responsibility to confront anyone falling short of the community's expectations.
Student Life Mission for Student Discipline
Vanguard University provides a community approach to student violations of community behavioral standards and expectations.
VU’s goal in a disciplinary response to an infraction is to assist in the social, behavioral, and spiritual development of students
through evaluation in the context of an evangelical Christian worldview.
Student Life Discipline Process Philosophy
All students at VU are members of the campus community which upholds specific community behavioral guidelines and
expectations. These are designed to serve the best interest of both the individual and the community. Therefore, each individual is
accountable to other community members in highly significant ways. Discipline committees exist to provide constructive and
consistent confrontation with students who have violated University guidelines.
This approach is consistent with the model found in Matthew 18:15-17, which states that individuals need to be “shown” their
“fault” through a peer group motivated by love and concern, in an effort to bring about growth. In addition, the discipline
committees use a redemptive and developmental framework aimed at reconciliation.
The following principles apply to the student care process as a whole at Vanguard University:

Developmental and Educational: The student discipline process is ultimately developmental and educational in
purpose. Students, staff, faculty, and administrators who serve on discipline committees use this principle as an
over-arching motive. Whether making decisions on appropriate consequences, or developing parameters for
consequences, they realize the need to make the disciplinary process a learning and growing experience for all
those involved.
41

Christian: The student discipline process is Christian in character. VU is concerned with the inner spiritual life
and wise decision-making which exemplifies Christ. Further, genuine concern and love serve as the motivation for
maintaining a discipline process that is redemptive in nature.

Student Individualization: One important goal in the disciplinary process is to affirm that all students are equal,
uphold the same value, and should be directly involved in supporting and upholding community standards that are
willfully agreed upon by all students upon enrollment in the University. VU’s goal is to provide a fair and
objective framework from which to guide disciplinary procedures. However, individual sanctions assigned to
students may be different based upon the student’s response and circumstances.

Institutional Integrity: The reputation of an organization draws on the integrity of each person. An institutional
value stands behind every decision a discipline committee makes. This principle includes the ability of an
institution to be honest and trustworthy through the efforts of its people. This will in turn create a discipline
process which is undivided in aim and purpose.

Constant Evaluation: While the process in place has been developed, tested, and tried, and is binding regarding
institutional policy, as a human creation, the discipline process is imperfect. Accordingly, all parts of the system
must remain open to growth through the process of group discussion and decision-making. To this end, the
Student Care Committee meets to evaluate guidelines for consequences at the end of each academic year to
determine if revisions are necessary.

Quality Service: This principle stresses the University’s obligation to provide services in a timely and affirming
manner. It is also based on group ownership of the discipline process, which in turn enables all members of the
Student Care Committees to give input concerning the discipline process in order to maximize VU’s overall
effectiveness. This quality of an organization is a practical outgrowth of group ownership because diverse
perspectives yield efficiency.

The Student Handbook: Among other helpful information, VU’s Student Handbook contains specific information
about behavioral guidelines and consequences. It outlines the student discipline and appeal process. A copy of the
Student Handbook is available on Vanguard University’s website at http://studentlife.vanguard.edu/studenthandbook/.
Student Discipline for On-and Off-Campus Students
The student discipline process has been developed to support VU’s community standards as stated in the Student Handbook and
Vanguard University Catalog, under the University’s mission and “Responsibilities of Vanguard Community Membership”
sections. The student discipline process has been created to respond to violations of community standards for on and off-campus
students and to respond appropriately within the boundaries outlined in this manual. All decisions of the various discipline
committees are considered University responses to violations of community standards. The committees assigned to hear
discipline cases are “The Student Care Committee” (SCC) and “The Student Affairs Conduct Committee” (SACC). This section
of the student handbook is divided into the following sections:
1)
Overview of the student discipline process
2)
Discipline Process
3)
Sanctions
4)
Appeals Process
Overview of the Student Discipline Process
It is also important to note that in respect to disciplinary proceedings, formal rules of evidence are not followed, and past conduct
may be considered in the discipline process. The standard used is “preponderance of evidence” which means that the incident was
more likely than not to have occurred. VU will attempt to structure the procedures so as to facilitate a reliable determination of
the truth and be fair and reasonable. SCC and SACC meetings may be recorded by Vanguard for accuracy.
When the staff becomes aware of an alleged violation of community standards for on or off-campus students he/she will consult
with members of the SCC as needed and will refer the case to be handled by the appropriate individual or committee.
The SCC will usually be comprised of at least two people for each hearing. Members of the SCC may include, but are not
limited to, the following:

Director of Residence Life

Student Life Representatives

Resident Assistant (as student representatives as needed)

Appointed faculty or staff member
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When assigned to hear a case by the DRL, the Student Care Committee (SCC) will confront behaviors of on and off-campus
students that are not in compliance with community standards. This Student Care Committee will hear the majority of all student
infractions reported to them by members of the community. An SCC Summons and an SCC Disciplinary Contract with sanctions
may be used by this committee.
Disciplinary contracts and sanctions are used to provide a framework in which to make a decision that addresses the situation,
and attempts to produce growth and behavior changes in the life of the student.
Student Affairs Conduct Committee Meeting (SACC): The main function of the SACC is to assume initial responsibility for
cases that are of a more serious nature. The SCC may refer a student to the SACC if a student has serious or multiple violations
of any kind.
The SACC is chaired by the Director of Residence Life, the Dean of Student Life, or an individual designated by the Dean of
Student Life, and will include at least two other individuals. An SACC hearing will be comprised of two people appointed by the
chair for each hearing. Members of the SACC may include, but are not limited to, the following:

Director of Residence Life or Dean of Student Life, chair

Student Life Staff members

Appointed staff or faculty members
Appointment of SACC for original jurisdiction over discipline
The Director of Residence Life will determine if a community violation should be referred to SACC. If a hearing is required, a
written summons will be given to the student at least two days prior to the hearing. The student will be required to appear before
SACC for a hearing to determine if a community standards violation has occurred and, if so, the extent of the violation. SACC
will arrive at a disciplinary decision within 10 working days. For students found in violation of community standards, a
Disciplinary Contract with sanctions will be created and a written copy will be given to the student. An SACC Appeal Request
form will accompany any Disciplinary Contract.
Disciplinary Process
When a violation of community standards is reported to the Student Life Staff, the Director of Residence Life will initiate the
disciplinary process. The disciplinary process is divided into four sections:
1)
Documentation
2)
Hearings
3)
Sanctions
4)
Appeal Process
Written Documentation
Incident Report: Often disciplinary situations begin with an “Incident Report,” which requires as much information as possible.
Any community member may complete this document. Typically, RAs who observe possible violations of University behavioral
standards will complete an Incident Report and forward it to the Residence Life staff.
Action in Writing: At times an incident will not require a formal meeting but will simply require a letter of warning, reprimand,
etc., which will be placed in the student’s disciplinary file and given to the student via campus mail or email. A student is able to
appeal this action by turning in the appropriate appeal request within 3 business days.
Summons: A member of the Residence Life staff will contact the student(s) involved to inform them of an alleged violation with
2 days’ notice to schedule an appointment for a meeting or hearing if necessary. This contact may take the place of the written
summons or email. The summons is a written document that includes a description of the infraction, and a notice of action to
take, i.e. meeting with RD, SCC, or SACC. Only Student Life staff may issue a summons and this process will be conducted in
a manner that promotes confidentiality. Failure to adequately respond to a conduct summons may result in further disciplinary
consequences. Each student involved in an incident should be advised of the date, time and place of any hearings, as well as the
general nature of the charges against him or her.
Student Care Committee: Disciplinary Contract: When the Student Care Committee (SCC) conducts a hearing and makes a
discipline decision; a student will receive an SCC Disciplinary Contract that will be distributed to: a) the student(s) involved; and
b) placed in the student’s file to be viewed by Residence Life staff as needed. If students found in violation of community
standards are involved in leadership programs, athletics, and/or clubs and organizations within the University community, the
student can expect that their faculty or staff advisors may be notified of a disciplinary decision as well.
43
Student Affairs Conduct Committee: Disciplinary Contract: Students will be notified of a SACC hearing via an SACC
Summons and will be required to be present for the hearing. The SACC will conduct a hearing with written notification 2 days in
advance and may determine appropriate sanctions after review of all information. The decision of the SACC will be
communicated to the student by an appointed committee member both verbally and in writing. The verbal communication will
take place in private, both to ensure confidentiality and to facilitate a redemptive environment.
Hearings
It is expected that all persons appearing before the conduct committees will present information that is both true and correct.
Behaviors, active or passive, intended to impede the discipline process, including failure to appear, the misrepresentation of
information, attempts to influence the testimony of another, failure to comply with a sanction, etc., may result in serious
disciplinary action. Hearings may be tape recorded for the purpose of documentation of the hearing proceedings.
In all disciplinary circumstances the student(s) should be reminded that the developments of self and personal integrity are
primary goals of the disciplinary process. Also, the corrective measures are intended to assist each student become a responsible
and positively contributing member of the VU community. Each hearing will include information about a student’s right to
appeal the decision. If a Disciplinary Contract is issued, it will be completed within ten (10) business days.
Besides the SCC or SACC members and the student(s) involved in an incident, the student has the option of requesting an advisor
or witnesses to be present. This request must be made in writing to the Director of Residence Life at least 48 hours prior to the
hearing.
Advisor: The student shall also have the right to choose anyone from the University community to serve as an advisor. The
advisor may not act as a witness, either of the incident or as a “character” witness. The advisor may only address the committee
to clarify the questions directed to the student and to clarify the hearing processes. The advisor does not speak for, or in place of,
the student.
Witnesses: The student has the right to call witnesses on his/her behalf following this guideline: witnesses are limited to those
persons who have firsthand knowledge of the behavior/incident in question (i.e. eye and ear witnesses). Both the student and the
various committees have the right to call witnesses. “Character” witnesses are generally not allowed to participate in committee
hearings. The committee shall rule on allowing any “character” witnesses to offer their testimony. Witnesses may not participate
in the council hearing except for an orientation and to give their testimony. The committee shall rule on the admissibility of all
evidence.
Role of Attorneys and/or Legal Counsel: It is also important to note that in respect to disciplinary proceedings, formal rules of
evidence are not followed, and past conduct may be considered in the discipline process. If the student wishes to have legal
representation he/she needs to discuss this with the Director of Residence Life in writing prior to the hearing. Legal counsel has
limited roles in private university disciplinary proceedings and would serve as an advisor.
Sanctions
A violation of University policies and Community Standards may result in the imposition of one or more sanctions. A sanction is
a disciplinary action that requires the student to meet certain expectations and/or complete specific requirements within a stated
time frame. The goal of sanctions are to promote change in the individual, provide opportunity for restitution to individuals and
the community (in case of theft, loss, and/or damages), and to restore the individual back into the community where possible.
Sanctions affecting the conduct of students are based on general principles of fair treatment. Sanctions will take into account the
intent of the accused, the effect of the conduct on the victim and/or the Vanguard community, the student’s disciplinary history,
whether sanctions such as education and community service are likely to change the student’s conduct, and the student’s needs
and prospects for improvement. While attempting to be consistent in its disciplinary decisions, the University also seeks to be fair
and sensitive to the facts and circumstances of each individual case. Some sanctions may need to be more punitive due to the
seriousness of the offense. Sanctions that may be imposed are not limited to those listed.
Sanctions may include:

Warning: A restatement of the community standards is made to the student, together with an official warning
concerning future behavior. May include loss of or restriction from certain activities or privileges.

Fines: The student is expected to make a payment of charges for violation of regulations. These charges will be
added to a student’s account. These vary according to the violation.

Probation: The student is expected to show a development in responsible actions toward Vanguard and members
of the community for a specified period of time. May include limitations in or restriction from certain activities or
privileges.
44

Citizenship Probation: The student may not participate in any VU activity except for academics for the duration
of this sanction. This includes but is not limited to forensics, theatre, athletics, student leadership, or other extracurricular activities of any kind.

Loss of Privileges: Some students may lose privileges such as visitation, leadership opportunities, living on
campus, campus employment, co-curricular activities, parking, etc., appropriate to the violation of the Student
Standards of Conduct.

Restitution: In certain circumstances, sanctions may include payment of financial compensation for loss, damage
or injury. Failure to pay such charges may result in additional sanctions (including, but not limited to, denial of
re-enrollment or refusal to release official transcripts and records).

Interim Suspension: In certain circumstances, the Dean of Student Life or a designee may immediately impose a
University or residence hall suspension. Interim suspension may be imposed:
o
To ensure the safety and well-being of members of the Vanguard community or preservation of
University property.
o
To ensure the student's own physical or emotional safety and well-being.
o
If the student poses a credible threat of disruption of or interference with the normal operations of the
University.
During the interim suspension, the student may be denied access to the residence halls and/or to the campus (including classes)
and/or all other University activities or privileges for which the student might otherwise be eligible as the Dean of Student Life or
the designee may determine to be appropriate. The interim suspension shall extend only until such time as the SACC hearing can
be completed and other sanctions (if any) imposed.

Deferred Suspension: Deferred suspension is a formal warning that a minimum one semester suspension will
result from another serious violation. Students may be placed on deferred suspension for 1 or 2 semesters. The
student’s academic adviser will be notified of the deferred suspension status, as well as the student’s parent(s) if
he/she is claimed on the parent’s tax return.

Suspension: The student is voluntarily separated from the University for a specified length of time. Absences
from classes and chapels are not excused and academic work that is missed may not be made up.

Administrative Withdrawal: The student is required to withdraw from the University without the privilege of
returning until a time specified by the SACC.

Expulsion: The student is permanently separated from the University with a notation of the reasons for the
termination in his/her file. No refunds are made and the student will suffer the academic consequences of his/her
actions.
When students are suspended or expelled for disciplinary reasons, there will be no refund of tuition or room/board charges for the
semester and financial aid may be canceled. Upon permanent separation from University housing, students may apply for a check
request for any credit on the student account through the Office of Accounting Operations.
The Dean of Student Life will make the final determination for the University on a sanction that involves suspension and
expulsion. In certain limited situations, the Dean of Student Life may impose a sanction but suspend or postpone its actual
implementation.
Sanctions for Student Organizations
Student groups and organizations may be charged with violations of these Community Standards. A student group or
organization and its officers may be held collectively and/or individually responsible when violations of this code occur either
during an event sponsored by the organization or by an individual representing or associated with that organization or group. The
following sanctions may be imposed upon groups or organizations: deactivation, warning, reprimand, probation, fines, loss of
privileges, restitution, and other educational sanctions. Deactivation includes loss of all privileges, including University
recognition, for a specified period of time. Individual students are subject to other sanctions as described above.
The University reserves the right, for educational purposes, to review actions taken by civil authorities regarding any student or
student organization. It is also important to note that in respect to discipline, a private college, such as Vanguard University, does
not follow civil rules of evidence (i.e. proven beyond a reasonable doubt). In determining whether or not a violation has
occurred, the standard "more likely than not" (referring to an alleged violation) is applied.
The University is not required to impose the same discipline in all situations involving the same violation of community
standards; however, to honor consistency, the various judicial councils attempt to impose the same sanctions for various
violations. Consideration will be given to the specifics of the incident and to the previous behavior of the student(s) involved.
More serious disciplinary action will be taken in situations involving repeated violations. The University will assess each case
based on the responsibility for membership expectations, and impose appropriate sanctions.
45
Appeal Process
When the sanctioned student disputes the outcome of a disciplinary procedure, that student may request, through the Dean of
Student Life that an Appeal Committee review the decision. Sanctions may or may not be postponed or suspended pending the
outcome of this appeal at the discretion of the Dean of Student Life.
The appeal is not a re-hearing of the original conduct meeting and the role of the appeal officer is not to substitute his or her own
judgment for the judgment of those who rendered the original decision. The role of the appeal officer is to determine whether a
new decision is warranted due to a procedural error, the availability of new information or the imposition of excessive sanctions.
Therefore, a student’s appeal must be based on one or more of the following grounds:



A process or procedural error that was made that was significantly prejudicial to the outcome of the student
conduct meeting as it affects the student appealing.
New information that was not available or known to the student appealing at the time of the student conduct
meeting has arisen which, when considered, may materially alter the outcome. Note: Information that the
appealing student chose not to present at the time of the hearing is not considered new information.
The sanctions imposed are so unfair – considering the nature of the violation, student attitude, previous history,
impact of the students’ behavior on the community and other specific circumstances – that they demonstrate an
abuse of discretion by the student conduct officer or review body.
It is not enough to simply assert one of the grounds for appeal. The written statement accompanying the appeal form must
provide information that supports grounds upon which the student bases the appeal. For example; if the student asserts that a
procedural error occurred; he or she must name the procedure with specificity and explain how the error affected the decision
made.
To initiate an appeal hearing, the Appellant is to submit an Appeal Request form in writing, to the Dean of Student Life within
three days of receiving the SCC or SACC contract.
Review of Appeal
The appeal officer will grant or deny review of decisions rendered in student conduct meetings based on the student’s written
appeal.
Review Denied
Appeal officers will not review an original decision based on an appeal that fails to meet the criteria outlined above. In such
cases, the appeal officer will make no inquiry beyond the written material submitted and the original decision and any sanctions
imposed will stand.
Review Granted
If the student’s appeal satisfies the appeal criteria, the appeal officer will consider material and/or testimony previously presented
or a written summary of the previous proceedings. The appeal officer may also meet with the student, any witnesses and/or the
original decision makers prior to making a decision.
If an appeal request is accepted by meeting the criteria outlined above, the Dean of Student Life will then form an Appeal
Committee, made up of one of the remaining members of the SCC or SACC not directly involved in the disciplinary process,
along with two faculty/staff members selected by the Dean of Student Life. If no remaining members of the SCC or SACC are
available, the Dean of Student Life may select a replacement from Vanguard faculty or staff.
The Appeal Committee will, within 15 working days of the receipt of the appeal request, review and evaluate the original hearing
and decision, as well as the information that the student has presented. Based on the nature of the appeal, the Appeal Committee
has the discretion whether or not to call the student and/or his/her witnesses to appear before the Appeal Committee. If the
student and/or the witnesses will be called, they will be notified at least two (2) days in advance of the appeal hearing date. The
Appeal Committee may tape-record the appeal hearing.
The Appeal Committee will issue its decision in writing to the student(s) involved within a reasonable time (usually within 10
working days) of the conclusion of the appeal process. The decision of the Appeal Committee will be final and no further appeal
is possible.
It is also important to note that in respect to appeal proceedings, formal rules of evidence are not followed, and past conduct may
be considered in the appeal process. No particular model of procedural process is required; however, the Appeal Committee will
attempt to structure the procedure so as to facilitate a reliable determination of the truth and be fair and reasonable.
During periods other than regular semesters (summer, spring break, Christmas break), the Dean of Student Life reserves the right
to alter the timing of the appeals process as necessary, due to faculty/staff/student availability.
46
Non-Disciplinary Policy
Students struggling with difficult issues in their personal lives are encouraged to seek out a Student Life staff member for help at
any time. Except in situations where the university is required by law to take appropriate disciplinary action (e.g. harassment,
sexual assault, etc.), students who come to a Student Life professional staff member for help related to lifestyle behaviors (e.g.
alcohol, drug use, tobacco dependency, sexual issues, etc.) prior to staff becoming aware of a violation of university policy may
be offered support and help outside of the regular student conduct process.
Commuter Students
Commuter Students
As a commuter student, you are an important part of our community. We encourage you to acquaint yourself with the many
resources, programs, and staff available to assist you. The Student Government Association has commuter student members who
represent undergraduate commuter student needs. They are available to you via email at commutersenator@vanguard.edu or
commuterpd@vanguard.edu, and by stopping by their offices located in The Bridge. You may also contact the Coordinator of
Student Care at commuterlife@vanguard.edu.
Food Service
The Café
Sharing time with friends on campus is an important way to build community. Students are encouraged to frequent the Café and
Outtakes to enjoy the full benefits of residential life at Vanguard.
The University has created a meal plan program that is designed to meet the diverse and demanding needs of today's college
residential students. This program can be used at either the Café which serves “all-you-care-to-eat” or to-go meals daily, or at
Outtakes, which serves meal equivalency, beverages and packaged food-to-go.
Meal Plans
The 13-14 Vanguard meal plan has many options to fit students’ schedules and offers the flexibility to enjoy meals at students’
own pace. If a student uses all of their meals for the week they are able to use their Dining Dollars to purchase additional meals.
All meal plans include various levels of Dining Dollars that will enable students to purchase food and beverages at Outtakes with
the swipe of their VU ID card. Any student who is running low on his/her Dining Dollar amount may add additional money at the
Cashier Office. Weekly meals begin on Monday morning and end on Sunday evening.
New Meal Plans: Flexible Spending Included:
Any 19 meals per week + $100 Dining Dollars per semester
Any 15 meals per week + $150 Dining Dollars per semester
Any 10 meals per week + $200 Dining Dollars per semester
Convenience Meal Plans
To help facilitate a greater community experience, non-residents and commuter students also have meal plan options that may be
purchased through the Office of Accounting Operations.
Café Hours for 13-14 Academic Year
Dining hours are posted at the entrance door to the Café:
Monday through Friday
Breakfast 7:00 AM to 9:30 AM
Lunch 11:00 AM to 1:30 PM
Dinner 4:30 PM to 7:00 PM
Saturday-Sunday
Brunch 10:30 AM to 1:00 PM
Dinner 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM
47
Resident Dining Calendar for Fall 2013 - Spring 2014
Friday, August 16th
Open at Breakfast
rd
Friday, August 23
New Students arrive
Monday, September 2
nd
Tuesday, November 26th
Monday, December 2
nd
Labor Day
Thanksgiving Break-Wednesday through Sunday
Close after Dinner
Return from Thanksgiving Break
Open at Breakfast
Christmas Holiday
Close after Dinner
th
Friday, December 13
Wednesday, January 8
th
Monday, January 20th
Monday, February 17
Brunch/Dinner Schedule
Martin Luther King Holiday
Brunch/Dinner Schedule
President's Day
Brunch/Dinner Schedule
th
th
Saturday, March 15
Sunday, March 23
rd
Spring Break
Friday, May 9
Close after Lunch
Return from Spring Break
Friday, April 18th
th
Brunch/Dinner Schedule
Good Friday
Open at Brunch
Brunch/Dinner Schedule
End of the Academic Year
Close after Dinner
Outtakes at the Cove
Dining on the run or late at night? Students can stop by Outtakes to pick up a freshly made salad, sandwich, or hot entrée.
Outtakes offers flexible and quick options without sacrificing quality food or service.
Outtakes Service Hours are set in cooperation with SGA and are subject to change. Service hours for Outtakes will always be
posted on the entry doors.
General Meal Plan Guidelines

Meals are not transferable. Meals are only to be used by the Vanguard University ID cardholder and cannot be
transferred for use by another person.

The person whose name and photo appear on the Vanguard University ID must be present in order for the card to
be used to obtain meal(s).

Members of the campus community may not loan and/or borrow student identification cards.

Participants may use their Dining Dollars to purchase additional meals for guests, but may not use meals in the
meal plan for guests.

Failure to present a valid student identification card may result in denial of service.

Meal plans are used to serve as a community dining experience. Meal plan participants are allowed only one (1)
meal per meal period.

Meal plans are not for the purpose of stocking groceries in the dorm room. Dining Dollars may be used in
Outtakes to purchase groceries, snack items or a hot entrée, when available.

Meals will reset at the end of each week (Sunday) and any unused weekly meals are lost.

Dining Dollars carry over from fall semester to spring semester, but zero out at the close of spring semester.
Dining Etiquette

Shirt and shoes must be worn at all times.

Our program is “all-you-care-to-eat” meals while in the Cafe. Students are welcome to leave with one (1) dessert
or one (1) piece of fresh fruit; anything more than that, and students will be asked to eat it in the Café.

In the interest of keeping a clean Café, guests are responsible for bussing their own tables and taking them to the
dish return.

Service ware (glasses, mugs, flatware, plates, trays, etc.) may not be removed from the Café.

Dining courtesy is expected at all times.
48
To-Go Meals

Meals to-go can be requested Monday-Friday (lunch and dinner only) and Eco Friendly containers are available.
Meals to-go will not be available for breakfast or on weekends.
Guidelines for To-Go Meals:

Take out containers are available at the cashier.

The containers are for times the students are not eating in the Café, not “doggie boxes” to take out extra food.

Students may not fill their own containers with juice or soda, only water can be filled into personal drinking
containers.

Only plastic utensils and to go containers are to be taken from the Café.

If a student is unable to make any of the meal periods due to a work schedule conflict, they should contact the
Café manager to obtain a "to-go" sack meal. Advance notice must be given.
Meal Plan Accommodations and Exemptions
Meal plan accommodations are provided by the Disability Services Office. Meal plan accommodations and exemptions may be
granted if a student provides a written medical doctor's statement which includes a medical diagnosis and a dietary plan
indicating specific food requirements. "Medical reasons" are defined as a medically diagnosed health problem, not merely a
personal preference. The Café will make every effort to provide reasonable food accommodations to meet the student’s medical
needs. Students requesting meal plan accommodations will be required to first meet with the Disability Services Coordinator and
then schedule an appointment with the Café Manager to discuss appropriate food and meal choices.
If a complete food plan exemption is granted, the student will be required to live in a residential room that has cooking facilities.
Rooms with kitchen facilities are very limited in number; therefore, the granting of an approved meal plan exemption does not
automatically guarantee a room with a kitchen. Those students who plan to request an exception must do so prior to the beginning
of each semester so that room accommodations can be made where necessary. Other absences from meals (because of being
home on weekends, not eating breakfast, schedule of work, etc.) are considered preferences of the student and are not valid
reasons for exemption from the food plan.
Diversity Policy
Racial and Ethnic Tolerance in Community Life
Jesus summed up the whole of the Old and New Testaments in the twin commandments of loving God with the whole being and
loving one's neighbor as oneself. Paul frequently teaches that rebirth in Christ supersedes national or racial identity. His finest
expression of this idea is: "For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor
Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus." (Gal. 3:27-28)
In the Christian society, as in no other, the ultimate purpose in community experience is achieved when people from a variety of
racial and ethnic origins celebrate together through Christ their joys and sufferings. A healthy Christian society provides
opportunities for and encourages such sharing. The laws of the nation that now prohibit any sort of racial or ethnic discrimination
are a fulfillment of these ideas.
VU, in obedience to Scripture, in keeping with the noble ideas of great civilizations, and in compliance with federal law,
subscribes to and encourages the equal right of all to pursue excellence in their lives without racial or ethnic inhibitions. The
University abides conscientiously to nondiscriminatory practices in hiring and promotions. The University expects all members
of the community to remove from their behavior and speech habits, as well as from their thinking, as much as lies within them,
all indications of racial or ethnic bias. Racism in any form will not be tolerated in community life on this campus. The
University's statement on racial and ethnic diversity is as follows:
Statement on Diversity
Vanguard values were built upon the Judeo-Christian tradition and the VU community affirms the biblical view that God is
creator and sovereign over all the earth, and that all people are equally valuable in God's sight.
Vanguard embraces the Bible as the authoritative rule for faith and practice and affirms the prophetic concept of justice which
combines personal piety with social justice. Personal piety refers to that aspect of character and behavior, consistent with biblical
morality, which seeks to be in right relation with God. Social justice refers to the state of social, political, and economic
relationships in which all people are treated equitably. Because justice is rooted in the character of God, it should flower in the
community of faith. One ought to seek justice because God seeks justice. VU affirms that the pursuit of justice raises perennial
issues that recur wherever social groups assert competing claims for resources and competing understandings of fair and
equitable treatment. These difficulties we understand to be inherent in the human condition. Yet it is also important to note an
49
apparently inevitable tendency of human cultures to resolve issues of justice in fragmented and self-serving ways. By contrast,
VU wishes to affirm that the Christian's pursuit of justice is rooted in the character of God Himself and that it, therefore, differs
profoundly from the mandate of our prevailing pluralistic culture.
VU, as a community of Christians, affirms that the unity within the Body of Christ transcends any differences which might divide
people (Gal. 3:28), including differences of culture, race, physical ability, sex, socio-economic status, and generation. This unity
summons students, faculty, administrators and staff to seek fair and equitable treatment for all members of our community. For
this reason, VU seeks to create an environment in which competing cultural perspectives are given fair hearing, and in which
individuals from different cultural and ethnic backgrounds are given equitable and fair access to resources. Vanguard believes
this to be an expression of Christian holiness.
VU, as an evangelical community, recognizes that the world-wide mission of the Church inevitably involves the challenge of
cultural diversity. For this reason, Vanguard seeks to create an environment in which students learn the importance of balancing
respect for other cultures with a healthy acknowledgment of the strengths and limitations of their own.
VU, as a Pentecostal community, believes that the source for the transformation of all human experience ultimately lies in the
movements of the Holy Spirit. For this reason, Vanguard seeks to create an environment in which the charismatic movement of
the Holy Spirit leads students, faculty, administrators and staff toward evermore thoughtful treatment of each other.
FERPA
Student Privacy Rights
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect to their education records.
They are:
1)
The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the University receives a request
for access.

2)
3)
Students should submit to the registrar, dean, head of the academic department, Vice President, or other
appropriate Official, written requests that identify the record(s) they wish to inspect. The University official 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 University official to whom the request was submitted, that official shall
advise the student of the correct official to whom the request should be addressed.
The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes is inaccurate or misleading.

Students may ask the University to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should
write the University official responsible for the records, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed,
and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading.

If the University decides not to amend the record as requested by the student, the University will notify the student
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.
The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except
to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.

Disclosure without consent to University officials with legitimate educational interests is permitted. A University
official is a person employed by the University in an administrative, supervisory, academic or research, or support
staff position (including Campus Public Safety personnel and health staff); a person or company with whom the
University has contracted (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent); a person serving on the Board of
Trustees; or a student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting
another school official in performing his or her tasks.

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 responsibility.

Other exceptions that permit disclosure without consent are:
o
To authorized representatives of the Controller General of the United States; the Attorney General of the
United States (for law enforcement purposes); the Secretary of the Department of Education of the
United States; and state and local educational authorities.
o
To parents of dependent students, as defined in section 152 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
o
To a parent or a legal guardian in connection with a health or safety emergency.
50
4)
o
To a parent or a legal guardian of a student regarding the student’s violation of any Federal, State, or
local law, or of any rule or policy of the institution, governing the use or possession of alcohol or a
controlled substance if the student is under the age of 21 and the institution determines that the student
has committed a disciplinary violation with respect to that use or possession.
o
If a parent or eligible student initiates legal action against the University, the University may disclose to
the court, without a court order or subpoena, the student’s education records that are necessary for the
University to defend itself.
o
The disclosure is in connection with a disciplinary proceeding conducted by the University against a
student who is an alleged perpetrator of a crime of violence.
The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by Vanguard University to
comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202-4605
The University may release public directory information concerning students. Such information includes, but is not limited to, the
student’s name, address, email address, telephone listing, date and place of birth, major field of study, dates of attendance, grade
level, enrollment status (e.g., undergraduate or graduate; full-time or part-time), participation in officially recognized activities
and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, photograph, degrees, honors and awards received, and the most
recent educational agency or institution attended. The above designated information is subject to release by the campus at any
time unless the campus has received a prior written objection from the student specifying information which the student request
not be released.
Grievance Process
Students who feel they have been unfairly dealt with in any area of the University are encouraged to contact the Dean of Student
Life (ext. 5488, or email DeanofStudentLife@vanguard.edu.) for Student Life issues or the Vice President for Academic Affairs
office (ext. 5427, or email OfficeoftheProvost@vanguard.edu) for an issue that is academic in nature. In the event that informal
procedures fail to resolve the problem the student will indicate in writing the nature of the grievance, the evidence upon which it
is based, and the redress sought. The grievance can be filed on a General Petition form which can be obtained in the office of the
Dean of Student Life. The Dean of Student Life will act to bring formal resolution to the stated grievance. If satisfactory action is
not achieved, the appeal may be directed to the President. The final appeal in all student academic matters is to the Provost, who
serves as the chief academic officer of the University.
Health Services
Health and Emergency Medical Services
Any staff or student who is facing a life-threatening emergency should dial 911 (or 9-911 if a campus phone) and give the nature
of the emergency, the location on campus, and stay in contact with the emergency operator and the injured person until help
arrives. Anyone assisting with an emergency situation or injured person should also dial Campus Public Safety at ext. 6799, or
(714) 966-6799, to alert them to an emergency and the activation of Emergency Medical Services.
Vanguard University has a small Health Center located on the first floor of the Laguna Dorm (x6471). The purpose of the Health
Center is to supplement the Student’s existing health care plan. The facility is open from 10:00am-5:00pm Monday through
Friday, and is closed on school holidays. The services provided include the following:




Immediate care for illness/injuries
Wound care/first aid
Treatment and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal injuries
Referrals for general medical, counseling, and other allied health professionals
The facility is supervised by Dr. Terry A. Zeigler, EdD, ATC, and staffed by allied health professionals specializing in acute care,
wound management, and the treatment of musculoskeletal injuries. Dr. Zeigler is assisted by senior Kinesiology: Pre-Health
majors.
In the event of an illness or serious injury, the student will be referred to one of the following sites listed below depending upon
their medical insurance plan:
51
Hoag Urgent Care
1190 Baker Street @ Fairview
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
949-764-7777
8am-8pm, Monday-Friday
Closed Weekends
Kaiser Urgent Care
3401 S. Harbor
Santa Ana, CA 92704
888-988-2800
Hoag Hospital Emergency Room
One Hoag Drive
Newport Beach, CA 92663
949-764-4624/24 hour daily care
Kaiser Medical Hospital
6640 Alton Parkway
Irvine, CA 92618
949-932-5000
Directions to these facilities are posted on the wall outside of the Health Center and are also available on the Health Center
Website at www.vanguard.edu/provost/healthcenter.
The services offered and medical supplies provided by the Health Center are free to all students, staff, and faculty of Vanguard
University.
Guidelines and Procedures Relating to AIDS and a Positive HIV Antibody Test
VU is a Christian community committed to a historical evangelical interpretation of Scripture. This community therefore believes
it is the obligation of all persons to abstain from sexual intercourse outside of a monogamous heterosexual marriage.
Some pre-marital conduct seeks to circumvent normal sexual activity reserved for marriage relationships. Such activity places the
participants at extreme risk. In an effort to responsibly advise members of this community about the health hazards of such
conduct, the guidelines and procedures relating to AIDS and a positive HIV antibody test recommended by the American
University Health Association have been adopted by the University and are available from the Dean of Student Life.
The guidelines are not an endorsement of any of the activities discussed therein. What is commonly referred to as "safe sex" does
not address the ethical, moral and biblical issues present in a Christian community or the requirement to accept responsibility for
the consequences of our behavior.
The University urges all members of its community to practice an exemplary lifestyle which honors the human body as a temple
of the Holy Spirit and glorifies Christ.
Information Technology
Computer Labs
The IT Department supports and maintains several computer labs located throughout the campus. All students are welcome and
encouraged to make use of these computers for school-related assignments.
Printing Fees
There is a $.08 per page charge for black & white printing and a $.15 per page charge for color print jobs. Students will be
credited $11.00 each semester for printing. Once that credit has been depleted, students will no longer be able to print. Students
can always check the amount of funds they have via a dialog box at their workstation. Payment for additional printing can be
made in the IT Department and in the Library during regular working hours. Each student’s student computer user account will
be credited the amount they choose to pay.
Vanguard E-Mail Accounts
All traditional students will be automatically given a VU email account. This is the centralized means of communication on
campus and students are encouraged to check their accounts regularly. Use of Vanguard email accounts must conform to the
community life standards and may be revoked if misused. Vanguard alumni retain their email accounts for life.
Mail & Copy Center Services
The Mail and Copy Center (MCC) processes and delivers incoming mail and packages, generates copies, and acts as a fullservice shipping center for the entire university. The MCC strives to meet the office and logistical needs of students, faculty, and
staff in an efficient, economical and courteous manner.
Overview of services:







Sending and receiving mail and packages. The MCC works with all major couriers (USPS, FedEx, UPS, etc.).
Packages pre-prepared with printed shipping labels may be dropped off for pickup.
Copying: regular black & white copies are 0.04/single sided, 0.07/double sided; color copies are 0.24/single sided,
0.48/double sided. Larger paper sizes (up to 40″ wide) available upon request.
Colored paper available at 0.02/pastel, 0.03/neon, 0.04/pastel & white cardstock, 0.05/neon cardstock.
Faxing (0.25/page).
Stamps (0.46) and envelopes (padded and regular) of various sizes available for purchase
Comb-binding, stapling, and 3-hole punching of documents.
Scanning of documents to VU email only (Free).
Mailbox availability:





Campus mailboxes are optional, with priority given to undergraduate students living on campus. New students are preassigned at the beginning of each semester. Late arrivals are sorted based on the availability of remaining boxes.
Due to the limited number of mailboxes, students living off-campus are encouraged to receive mail at their place of
residence.
Classwork is sorted into mailboxes as it arrives. Work from students living off-campus is sorted into a separate file and
may be retrieved upon walk-in.
Incoming packages are sorted daily. On average, all incoming mail is completely processed by 12:00 pm. Large
packages will be held inside the MCC and a notification slip will be placed inside the student’s box. Please bring this
slip to an MCC worker to claim your package.
Please note: Effective immediately, the MCC will no longer retrieve mail from student mailboxes. If you are having
difficulty opening your box and/or have forgotten your combination, an MCC worker will be happy to assist you.
Tips for prompt and accurate mail delivery:

[First name] [Last name]
Vanguard University
55 Fair Drive [Your mailbox number here]
Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Remember to include your full name AND box number on all correspondence. This will ensure prompt delivery.
Please do not use nicknames.
Summer mail forwarding:

To set up Summer Forwarding, fill out the online form located at http://services.vanguard.edu/mail-forwarding/. Please
note: it may take up to two additional weeks to receive your forwarded mail.

Only USPS First Class mail can be forwarded. This does not include Presorted Standard mail (i.e. magazines, general
advertisements, etc.). Any mail that cannot be forwarded will be held in your box or, in the event that you have
graduated, returned to sender.

Forwarding begins one week after the end of the spring semester and stops two weeks before the beginning of the fall
semester.
Upon leaving or graduating from Vanguard:

Please fill out the online Change of Address form, located at http://services.vanguard.edu/change-address/

After a student has graduated, the MCC will forward said student’s mail for a period of six months. Any mail received
after this six month period will be returned to sender.

The MCC strongly encourages graduated students to notify relevant parties (i.e. phone companies, credit card
companies, vendors, insurance agencies, etc.) of any change of address immediately.
Additional copy services:

Documents may be emailed to copycenter@vanguard.edu. Students may also bring in USB drives.

Report binding prices vary depending on document size. Clear covers (0.67) and black/blue backs (0.47) available.

Foam-mounting of large format posters. Price depends on size (typically $2/square foot)

Large 37” laminations (1.50/foot). Individual laminating sheets also available (0.47 for 8.5x11, 1.14 for 11x17)

Paper cutting – up to 250 sheets simultaneously.

Letter folding for 8.5”x11” and 8.5”x14” mailing envelopes (Free).
53
All prices and services are subject to change. Additional paper types available upon request. Please inquire for pricing.
Contact us:

Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm.

Call 714-662-5298 or email copycenter@vanguard.edu.
Missing Student Policy
In the event that Campus Public Safety receives a report of a student that is considered missing, the Director of Campus Public
Safety shall be notified as soon as possible. If, after a brief investigation, it is determined that the student is in fact missing, the
Dean of Student Life will be notified along with the Costa Mesa Police Department. If the student is under 18 years old, the
parent or guardian will be notified. If a student is over 18 years old, the person designated as a contact will be notified. Campus
Public Safety will cooperate with the police department by providing any information they may need to launch a missing person
report and investigation.
Definition of Missing Student
During Welcome Week, VU Campus Public Safety will inform students residing in on-campus housing that Vanguard will notify
either a parent or an individual selected by the student not later than 24 hours after the time the student is determined to be
missing. This information will include the following:

Students have the option of identifying an individual to be contacted by VU not later than 24 hours after the time
the student has been determined to be missing. Students can register this confidential contact information through
the Housing Office.

If the student is under 18 years of age, and not an emancipated individual, VU is required to notify a custodial
parent or guardian not later 24 hours after the time that the student is determined to be missing.
Process for notification when a student is missing:
When a member of the faculty, staff or students realizes that a student may be missing, they should follow the following
procedure:
1)
Contact Campus Public Safety and report that the student might be missing.
2)
Campus Public Safety will then:
3)
a.
Initiate an investigation to determine the validity of the missing person report.
b.
Contact the Director of Residence Life to make a determination as to the status of the missing student.
If the student is determined to be missing, Campus Public Safety will:
a.
Notify the individual identified by the missing student as the emergency contact within 24 hours of making the
determination that the student is missing.
b.
If the missing student is under the age of 18, notify the student’s custodial parent or guardian as contained in the
records of the University within 24 hours of the determination that the student is missing
c.
Notify the Costa Mesa Police department within 24 hours after determining that the student is missing.
d.
Notify the Dean of Student Life who will initiate whatever action he or she deems appropriate under the
circumstances in the best interest of the missing student.
Peaceful Assembly Policy
It is the desire of the University to promote appropriate expression of views that do not conflict with the mission/identity of our
unique Christian higher education community. To accomplish this, provision is made for peaceful assemblies and forums by
members of the Vanguard community, rather than protests or demonstrations.
The time, manner, and place for peaceful assembly is subject to the approval of the office of the Dean of Student Life or
designee. The policy of Vanguard with respect to peaceful assembly and forums is as follows:
54

Time: Limited between the hours of 8:00 AM and 8:00 PM Monday-Friday (excluding Chapel periods; T-W-TH
9:30-11:00 AM).

Place: The walkway between the Scott building and Needham Chapel (or other approved locations) upon
submission of request and written permission from the Dean of Student Life or designee.

A request by a Vanguard student group to assemble or hold any event that could be otherwise construed as an
assembly or forum must be submitted (form is available on the Student Life website).

Written approval from the office the Dean of Student Life must be in possession of those in charge at the time and
at the location of the assembly/forum.

Only sound amplification that is officially authorized is permitted.
Such activities may not interfere or disrupt the orderly conduct of university business, events, or infringe on the rights of others.
If an activity becomes disruptive, the University will take appropriate action to limit or terminate the activity. In the event the
area is not restored to its original condition, the organizer will bear fiscal accountability.
Persons who are not students of Vanguard or otherwise affiliated with the University may not participate in such assemblies or
forums on campus. Assemblies or forums that do not conform to these provisions may subject participants to temporary or
permanent suspension from the University or other sanctions as outlined in the Student Handbook.
Sexual Assault Prevention Policy
The University is concerned about any allegations of sexual assault and, therefore, strongly encourages any person who has
experienced such a violation to report the situation immediately to a Resident Director, Director of Counseling Services, Director
of Campus Public Safety, or the Dean of Student Life who will take action to ensure that appropriate medical and counseling
services are provided and that Campus Public Safety is notified. Sexual assault is defined as rape, acquaintance rape, and other
sex offenses, forcible or non-forcible. Victims of sexual assault should attempt to preserve evidence that may be necessary to the
proof of criminal sexual assault.
In accordance with federal regulations regarding disciplinary resolutions of sexual assault cases, both the accuser and the accused
are entitled to the same opportunities to have others present during disciplinary hearings and to be informed of the outcome.
However, the University will report and cooperate with the appropriate law enforcement authorities that have the right and
responsibility to act in response to law violations committed on the University premises and/or by a member of the University
community.
The University will report complaints of sexual assault that involve minors to the appropriate law enforcement authority in
accordance with California law. Victims of sexual assault may notify the proper law enforcement authorities themselves or may
ask to be assisted by campus authorities in notifying such authorities. The University will notify student victims of sexual assault
of any reasonably available options in changing their academic or living situations if so requested.
Sexual Harassment Policy
Unlawful Discrimination & Harassment Policy
Purpose
VU is committed to maintaining the University environment as a Christian community that provides a place for spiritual growth,
work, and study free of all forms of unlawful discrimination and harassment. The purpose of this policy and these procedures is
to ensure that no person shall, on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, sex, physical or mental disability, or any other
criterion specified by federal, state or local laws be unlawfully subjected to discrimination or harassment under any program or
activity offered under the control of VU. Complaints of harassment, including sexual harassment, are included in the
discrimination complaint procedures described below.
Approval
This policy has been approved by Vanguard University’s administration on April 28, 2010. The administration is charged with
implementing this policy, which is applicable to all Vanguard University administrators, faculty, staff, and students.
Scope
These policies encompass procedures for investigation of unlawful discrimination and harassment.
55
Compliance with Non-Discrimination Laws and Regulations
VU operates in compliance with all applicable federal, state and local non-discrimination laws and regulations in conducting its
programs and activities and in its employment decisions. As a religious institution, VU is exempt from certain regulations
relating to laws and discrimination on the basis of religion.
Inquiries concerning this policy regarding students, compliance with applicable laws, statutes and regulations (such as Title VI of
the 1964 Civil Rights Act, Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973),
and complaint procedures may be directed to the Director of Residence Life, 55 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92626, (714) 5563610 x 4800. To the extent such inquiries and complaints pertain to employment-related matters, they should be directed to the
Director of Human Resources, 55 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92626, (714) 556-3610 ext.5285. The Director of Residence Life
is designated as VU’s Section 504 and Title IX Coordinator. The Director of Human Resources is VU’s Equal Employment
Opportunity Officer and Section 504 and Title IX Coordinator with respect to employment matters.
Policy Against Discrimination
VU does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, sex, physical or mental disability, or any
other criterion specified by federal, state or local laws in the administration of its admissions, employment and educational
policies or scholarship, loan, athletic and other VU-administered programs.
Policy Against Sexual and Other Forms of Unlawful Harassment
VU is committed to maintaining a learning, working, and living environment that is free from sexual and other forms of unlawful
harassment. Harassment is a form of discrimination and is defined as verbal, visual or physical conduct that is directed at an
individual or a group because of race, color, national origin, age, sex, physical or mental disability or any other criterion
protected by law, when such conduct is sufficiently severe, pervasive or persistent so as to have the purpose or effect of
interfering with an individual’s or group’s academic or work performance or creating a hostile educational, work or living
environment. VU also prohibits unlawful harassment based on the perception that anyone has any of those characteristics, or is
associated with a person who has or is perceived as having any of those characteristics.
Harassing conduct can take many forms and may include, but is not limited to, the following: slurs, jokes, statements, gestures,
assault, impeding or blocking another’s movement or otherwise physically interfering with normal work or academic
performance, pictures, drawings, or cartoons, based upon an individual’s race, color, national origin, age, sex, physical or mental
disability, or any other criterion protected law.
Sexually harassing conduct in particular may include all of these prohibited actions, as well as other unwelcome conduct, such as
requests for sexual favors, conversation containing sexual comments, and other unwelcome sexual advances. Sexually harassing
conduct can be by a person of either the same or opposite sex.
VU’s policy prohibiting sexual and other forms of unlawful harassment applies to all administrators, faculty, staff, students,
program participants and visitors. Persons who are not VU employees, but perform work at VU for its benefit (such as
contractors and temporary employees) are also protected and required to abide by this policy.
Under the direction of the appropriate administrator, the University will fully and effectively investigate any report of unlawful
harassment and will take whatever corrective action is deemed necessary, including disciplining or discharging any individual
who is found to have violated this prohibition against harassment.
An individual who feels that he or she has been unlawfully harassed may meet with a person officially designated to receive
reports of unlawful discrimination and harassment, and to work for resolution in such situations. This reporting procedure is
outlined below.
Procedure for Processing Complaints of Unlawful Discrimination and/or
Harassment
General Provisions
Coverage:
These procedures apply to the processing of complaints arising from alleged unlawful discrimination and/or harassment including
sexual harassment. Any student or employee (administrative staff or faculty) who believes that he or she is a victim of
discrimination or harassment may file a complaint under these procedures. Student or employee complaints based on grounds
other than discrimination should be pursued under the grievance and appeal procedures contained in the student handbook,
faculty handbook, staff handbook, or other applicable mechanism.
56
Definitions:
1) Complaint: A complaint is an allegation that a student or employee has been subjected to unlawful discrimination or
harassment.
2) Complainant: The complainant is an individual or group of individuals who believe that unlawful discrimination or
harassment may have occurred.
3) Respondent: The respondent is an individual or group of individuals against whom an allegation of unlawful discrimination
or harassment is made.
Responsible Officer:
The designated individuals (“Responsible Officer”) to receive and process complaints under this procedure are as follows:
1)
For student complainants:
a. For Undergraduate Students – Director of Residence Life
b. For SPS Students – Director of SPS
c. For Graduate Students – Graduate Program Director
2) For staff complainants: Director of Human Resources
3) For faculty complainants: Director of Human Resources in collaboration with VPAA or Dean of the College.
For complainants that involve both a student and a faculty or staff member, a representative from Student Life and from Human
Resources will assist in the VPAA in the investigation.
Retaliation Prohibited:
Any retaliatory action of any kind by an employee or student of the University against any other employee or student of the
University as a result of that person’s seeking redress under these procedures, cooperation with an investigation, or other
participation in these procedures is prohibited and may be regarded as the basis for disciplinary action.
Privacy:
The privacy and confidentiality of the parties shall be maintained to the extent possible during the processing of a complaint.
Resolution Options:
Individuals are encouraged to use this procedure to resolve their complaints of unlawful discrimination or harassment. However,
they may also file a complaint at the beginning, during or after use of VU’s complaint procedure with:
U.S. Department of Education
Office of Civil Rights
50 United Nations Plaza
Room 239
San Francisco, CA 94120; or
U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
255 East Temple Street
Fourth Floor
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Processing of a Complaint
Any person who believes he/she has been unlawfully discriminated against or harassed may file a complaint with the Responsible
Officer. Although the failure to initiate a complaint in accordance with the terms of this policy, including the time limitations set
forth herein, shall constitute a waiver of the complainant’s right to utilize these complaint procedures, VU nevertheless reserves
the right to pursue an investigation as it deems appropriate whenever and however it receives allegations of or information related
to unlawful discrimination or harassment.
Informal Procedures
The University has established the following informal resolution process to resolve charges of unlawful discrimination or
harassment:
1)
Persons who believe they have been or may be the victim of unlawful discrimination or harassment may choose to avail
themselves of informal resolution procedures. Use of these informal procedures is not a prerequisite to the filing of a
complaint under the formal procedures described below.
57
2)
3)
4)
5)
Requests for assistance under these informal procedures may be oral or written and should usually be made as soon as
possible after the most recent alleged act of unlawful discrimination or harassment. Such requests should be directed to the
appropriate Responsible Officer directly, or submitted via Vanguard’s incident reporting system at www.lighthouseservices.com/vanguard.
Requests for assistance under these informal procedures will be dealt with, to the greatest extent practical and possible, on a
confidential basis and disclosure of their existence will be limited to those who, in the interests of fairness and problem
resolution, have an immediate need to know or as legally required. Because VU has an obligation to address unlawful
discrimination and harassment, it cannot guarantee that the identity of a person who seeks assistance through the use of this
informal procedure will be treated as completely confidential where it would conflict with its obligations to provide a safe or
nondiscriminatory work and educational environment.
Upon receipt of a request for assistance under these informal procedures, the person requesting assistance will be provided
with a copy of this policy and counseled on options for resolving the problem and about sources of further assistance, such
as counseling services available to students at the Counseling Center [and for faculty and staff through the Employee
Assistance Program].
Requests for assistance may have several outcomes. The person who makes such a request may only want to discuss the
matter in order to clarify whether unlawful discrimination or harassment may be occurring and to determine his or her
options, including the pursuit of more formal action. In some situations, the Responsible Officer to whom the request is
brought may be asked to take action to see whether an informal resolution can be reached. In this situation, the Responsible
Officer shall keep a written log of discussions. If resolution is reached through this process, a letter summarizing the
informal resolution shall be sent to the concerned parties and the matter considered closed. If the matter cannot be resolved
informally or, for that matter, at any time in the informal process, the person seeking assistance may elect to make a formal
written complaint. The Responsible Officer’s written log of discussions shall then become a part of the official investigative
file.
Formal Procedures
Where informal complaint procedures are not possible or appropriate or fail to satisfactorily resolve the matter, the complainant
may file a formal written complaint with the Responsible Officer director or submit electronically via www.lighthouse-
services.com/vanguard.
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)
Persons who believe they have been the victim of unlawful discrimination or harassment may file a formal written
complaint. Such a complaint will result in an investigation, the purpose of which shall be to determine whether a violation
of this policy has occurred. An investigation may also be initiated upon the request of the President, Provost, VicePresident, Dean, Director of Residence Life, or Director of Human Resources without a formal complaint from any
individual.
Formal complaints under this procedure should be directed to the Responsible Officer directly, or via www.lighthouseservices.com/vanguard. Such complaints must be made within one year of the most recent alleged act of unlawful
discrimination or harassment. The complaint must be in writing and should include details concerning the conduct that
gives rise to the complaint, the name of the person(s) against whom the complaint is made, and the names of witnesses.
Within five (5) working days after the receipt of the signed complaint, the Responsible Officer will review the complaint to
determine whether it describes the kind of unlawful discrimination or harassment which is prohibited under these
procedures, and whether the complaint sufficiently describes the facts of the alleged misconduct. If the complaint does not
describe the kind of prohibited conduct the University investigates under these procedures, the complainant will be notified
and will be referred to the appropriate process. If the complaint does not sufficiently describe the facts giving rise to the
complaint so that a determination can be made regarding the alleged misconduct, the complaint will be returned and
complainant will be invited to submit an amended complaint providing enough factual detail to allow the above
determination to be made.
Within ten (10) working days of receiving the complaint or amended complaint, the Responsible Officer shall act as
investigator or shall appoint one or more investigators to act alone, together or in conjunction with the Responsible Officer
to investigate the charges, and shall notify the appropriate Vice-President and the respondent that a written complaint has
been received and a formal investigation has begun.
The investigator(s) shall within ten (10) working days of the complainant’s referral to the formal complaint process,
commence an investigation of the alleged unlawful discrimination or harassment. The investigator(s) shall meet with the
complainant to review the nature of the complaint and identify the scope and nature of the investigation. The investigator(s)
58
6)
7)
8)
shall also meet with the respondent to present a copy of the complaint and this policy, to receive the respondent’s answer to
the complaint and to review with the respondent the scope and nature of the investigation.
The investigator(s) shall thoroughly investigate the complaint. Prior to completing the investigation, the investigator(s) shall
meet again with the complainant and the respondent separately to give an overview of the steps taken during the
investigation, to ask the complainant and the respondent for the names of any others the investigator(s) should speak with,
and to request any additional information.
After completion of the investigation, the investigator(s) shall meet with the Dean of Student Life if either party involved in
the complaint is a student. The investigator(s) shall meet with the Vice-President of the applicable administrative division
of the University if the complaint involves only faculty or administrative staff members. The appropriate Vice-President
shall be responsible for reviewing the report of the investigator(s), making factual determinations, and reaching a conclusion
regarding the charges and appropriate corrective action and/or disciplinary sanction, if any.
Within ninety (90) calendar days of receiving the complaint, or as soon thereafter as practical under the circumstances, the
investigation shall be completed and a determination shall be made. The appropriate Vice-President shall forward to the
complainant and respondent all of the following:
a. A summary of the investigative report;
b. A written notice setting forth:
i. The findings of the appropriate Vice-President as to whether unlawful discrimination or harassment did
or did not occur with respect to each allegation in the complaint;
ii. A description of actions taken, if any, to remedy any unlawful discrimination or harassment that
occurred, and to prevent similar problems from occurring in the future;
iii. The complainant’s and respondent’s right to appeal the determination either as to the finding or to the
appropriateness of the recommended actions.
Appeal Rights
1)
2)
3)
4)
If the complainant or respondent is not satisfied with the results of the formal level administrative decision, the complainant
or respondent may appeal the determination by submitting written objections to the University President within ten (10)
calendar days of the receipt of the determination.
The appeal shall be considered by a committee comprised of five (5) persons selected from a standing list of faculty,
administrative staff and students available for such purpose. The complainant and respondent shall each select one
committee member. The two members so chosen shall select a faculty member (from the standing list) who shall be the
third committee member. The appropriate Vice-President and the Responsible Officer involved in the matter shall each
select one committee member. The committee members chosen shall select one member to be the voting Chairperson for
the committee.
Within thirty (30) calendar days of receiving the appeal, or as soon thereafter as practical under the circumstances, the
committee shall consider the objections presented, review, and evaluate the investigative report and findings of the
appropriate Vice-President and any actions taken, and reach its conclusion (by majority vote) and communicate its
conclusion in the form of an advisory recommendation to the President.
The President shall issue a decision in writing to the complainant and respondent within ten (10) calendar days of the receipt
of the committee’s recommendation, or as soon thereafter as practical under the circumstances, which shall be the final
decision of the University in the matter.
Student I.D. Cards
Student ID cards will be made shortly after the students’ arrival to campus. The staff in the Information Technology Department
will take student pictures and print an I.D. card in the Technology Services building. Hats, sunglasses, poses, and friends in the
picture are not permitted for Student I.D. pictures. Students may request a clear plastic card holder that can be put on a lanyard.
It is not recommended to put on a key chain because the keys may damage the I.D. card.
The Student I.D. card, serves as identification to activities, athletic games, and other University-sponsored events. As a true
“smart card”, the I.D. card can also be used in the Café, Outtakes, Library, Chapel, Computer Lab, University Book Store, and
entry into dorms. The card should be in the student's possession and shown to Campus Public Safety Officers or other school
officials upon request.
The replacement cost of a Student I.D. card is $25.00 dollars. This fee will be charged to the student’s account through the Office
of Accounting Operations for Student Receivables. The Student I.D. card is not transferable.
59
Student Life Staff
Name
Area of Responsibility
Office Location
Ext.
Vice President for Student Life
Smith 2
5488
Diane Griffo
VP of Student Life Administrative Assistant
Smith 2
5487
Allison Hesse
Director of Residence Life
Huntington Hall
5271
Housing Coordinator
Huntington Hall
5275
Nicole Givenrod
Secretary of Residence Life
Huntington Hall
5273
Daniel Van Hoff
Resident Director & Asst. Director of Res Life
Huntington Hall
5274
Dannae Rushing
Resident Director
Catalina Hall
5276
Bethany Palmer Mayott
Resident Director
Laguna Hall
5279
Resident Director
Balboa Hall/Newport Hall
5277
Amy Schultz
Resident Coordinator
Balboa Hall/Newport Hall
5280
Jon Krapivkin
Resident Coordinator
Vanguard Centre
5270
Associate Director of Student Success
Smith Annex
6486
Shelley Youd
Coordinator of Orientation & Transitions
Smith Annex
6487
Ryan Moyher
Director of Leadership Development
Bridge
5253
Jordan Baker
Student Life Administrative Assistant
Bridge
5255
Rachael Lund
Coordinator of Student Care
Bridge
5252
Megan Mickelsen
Coordinator of Student Programming
Bridge
5254
Jonathan Allbaugh
Dean of Spiritual Formation
Laguna Hall
5260
Kayli Hillebrand
Associate Director of Outreach
Laguna Hall
5265
Bryan Rouanzoin
Associate Director of Chapel & Discipleship
Laguna Hall
5261
Sero Ku
Outreach Administrative Assistant
Laguna Hall
5262
Lehua Coley
Coordinator of Performing Arts Ministry Teams
Laguna Hall
5263
Steve Slater
Missionary-in-Residence
Laguna Hall
5264
Coba Canales
Director of Diversity Programming
Laguna Hall
5281
Kerry Kimble
Coordinator of Disability Services
SCOTT 2
6483
Coordinator of HSI
Bridge
4899
Jonathon Murillo
Summer Bridge Mentor
Bridge
4897
Doug Hutchinson
Interim Director of Counseling Center
Scott 2
6481
Dr. Beth Lorance
Staff Therapist
Scott 2
6480
Elizabeth Banks
Counseling Center Administrative Assistant
Scott 2
6482
Dr. Terry Zeigler
Health Center Director
Laguna Hall
6464
Colby McKamey
Allied Health Professional
Laguna Hall
6459
Dr. Tim Young
Susan Park
Amanda Lebrecht
Cyndi Pinto
60
Student Frequently Used Contact Information
Department
Location
Extension or Direct Phone
714-556-3610
Web or Email
www.vanguard.edu
5486
http://services.vanguard.edu/business-services/
714-966-5486
accountsreceivable@vanguard.edu
Accounting Operations
Office
1st floor of Scott
Admissions
1st floor of Scott
Athletics
Gymnasium
6605
Bookstore
Near the Café and
attached to the Cove
4715
5496
714-966-5496
admissions@vanguard.edu
athletics@vanguard.edu
mat.acuna@vanguard.edu
http://www.neebo.com/vanguard
6145
Box Office (Lyceum)
Lyceum Theater
boxoffice@vanguard.edu
714-668-6145
Campus Public Safety
(Security)
Attached to
Needham Chapel
Career Center
2nd floor of Scott
Room 227
Counseling Center
2nd floor of Scott
Disability Services
2nd floor of Scott
Diversity Offices
1st floor of Laguna
Hall
Facility
Services/Maintenance
The Central
Plant/Maintenance between the Library
and Information
Technology
Financial Aid
1st floor of Scott
6799
paul.turgeon@vanguard.edu
714.966.6799
http://career.vanguard.edu/
6474
careercenter@vanguard.edu
5256
http://services.vanguard.edu/counseling-center/
714-662-5256
counselingcenter@vanguard.edu
6483
714-619-6483
disabilityservices@vanguard.edu
5281
coba.canales@vanguard.edu
5431
http://www.campusdash.com/enUS/Facilities/Vanguard
grace.mahinan@vanguard.edu
714-966-5431
MaintenanceWorkRequests@vanguard.edu
4252
http://financialaid.vanguard.edu/
714-966-5490
financialaid@vanguard.edu
SYoud@vanguard.edu
Frontline
Smith Annex
6487/4822
Health Center
1st floor of Laguna
Hall
6471
Housing/Meal Plans/Enroll in
VU Insurance
1st floor of
Huntington Hall
5275
VU Insurance Questions
UHCSR
800-767-0700
714-916-6471
HealthCenter@vanguard.edu
housinginfo@vanguard.edu
https://www.uhcsr.com/vanguard
customerservice@uhcsr.com
Information Tech. (IT/IS)
Building 14
Technology Services
6500
helpdesk@vanguard.edu
Leadership Development
1st floor of
Huntington Hall
5253
rjmoyher@vanguard.edu
Library
O. Cope Budge
Library
5474
Direct Line (after 5PM)
714-966-5474
jack.morgan@vanguard.edu
61
Extension or Direct Phone
714-556-3610
Web or Email
www.vanguard.edu
Department
Location
Mailroom/ Copy Center
Scott Center Annex
Newspaper (Vanguard Voice)
Communication Lab
2nd floor of Scott
http://thevoice.vanguard.edu/contact
http://thevoice.vanguard.edu
Outreach Ministries
1st floor of Laguna
Hall
5265
globaloutreach@vanguard.edu
localoutreach@vanguard.edu
Registrar/Records/Transcripts
1st floor of Scott
5200/5209
records@vanguard.edu
1st floor of
Huntington Hall
5273
http://studentlife.vanguard.edu/residence-life/
Residence Life
714-662-5273
officeofRL@vanguard.edu
5298
714-662-5298
copycenter@vanguard.edu
st
Spiritual Formation
1 floor of Laguna
Hall
5262
spiritualformation@vanguard.edu
Tutorial Center
2nd floor of Scott
6479
tutorial@vanguard.edu
Weddings
Event Relations in
Scott Annex
5291
Writing Center
Heath Building
2nd floor room 214
laura.daugherty@vanguard.edu
714-966-5483
4774
writingcenter@vanguard.edu
Reference Quick-list for Modifications to 2013-2014 Student Handbook
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School for Professional Studies
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Page 5 – Cross registration and undergraduate transfer policies updated.
Academic Services
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Page 9 – Refund Policy change: Any traditional undergraduate student who wishes to withdraw from the University must
notify the Office of Student Success of their “intent to withdraw” and for information on the process of withdrawing.
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Page 13-15 – Academic Integrity and Dishonesty – the Academic Plagiarism Policy was updated and re-named.
Rules, Restraints, & Responsibilities
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Page 21-23 – The following categories were added to the Student Code of Conduct: Same-Sex Relationships,
Nonconsensual Sexual Contact, Nonconsensual Sexual Intercourse, Sexual Exploitation, Activism, Addictive Behavior,
and Weapons.
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Page 25 – New Dancing Policy added.
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Page 27 – Pregnancy Policy for Unmarried Students added.
Residence Life Policy & Procedures – Housing
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Page 27 – Added Housing Coordinator to the Residence Life personnel.
Spiritual Formation Department
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Page 36 – Updated wording on Spiritual and Social Expectations
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Page 37 – Outreach section added.
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Page 37 – Chapel policies updated.
Student Government Association
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Page 38 – New structure of SGA listed.
Student Discipline Process
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Page 47 – Non-Disciplinary Policy added.
Food Services
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Page 47 – Updated the resident dining calendar for 13-14.
Health Services
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Page 51 – The Student Health Center is now open on weekdays from 10am-5pm.
Sexual Assault Prevention Policy
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Page 58 – Vanguard’s incident reporting system has changed from My Safe Campus to Lighthouse.
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