Office of Student Services Student Handbook 2013-2014 www.sunyorange.edu Hello and welcome to Orange County Community College. Hopefully this handbook will enable you to find the answers to many of your questions. Topics are listed in alphabetical order. Also included in this handbook are the Student Rights and Responsibilities. Orange County Community College is an equal opportunity/affirmative action Institution. In accordance with Federal regulations, the New York State Human Rights Law and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Orange County Community College does not discriminate on the basis of age, color, religion, creed, disability, marital status, veteran status, national origin, race, gender or sexual orientation in employment or in the educational programs and activities which it operates. Orange County Community College reserves the right to photograph its student for use in publications, advertisements and/or on its website unless student notifies the Office of Institutional Advancement at 845-341-4725. All in formation in this handbook is current as of October 3, 2012 Helping You Get The Most Out of Your College Experience WHERE TO GO TO... If You Want To Contact . Add or drop a course . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Records and Registration Buy books, supplies, etc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .College Bookstore Get an I.D. Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Student Activities Office Get a parking permit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Student Activities Office Obtain info on Veterans Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Academic Advising Center Pay College bills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Bursar Obtain an official transcript . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Records and Registration Find or return lost or found articles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Student Activities Obtain information on job opportunities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Career & Internship Services Reserve a calendar date and room for activity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Student Activities Office Contact College Clubs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Student Activities Office Discuss scholastic probation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Faculty Advisor/Academic Advising Center Run for Student Senate, join a committee or club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Student Activities Office Seek Health Services info . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Wellness Center Inquire about P.E.L.L. or T.A.P. check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bursar Talk over a problem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Academic Advising Center Get financial aid information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Financial Aid Reactivate or start a new student club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Student Activities Office Register for evening courses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Records and Registration Obtain tickets for student activities events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Student Activities Office Report a theft or disturbance . . . . . . . . . . Security Office or Dial “O” for campus operator Tutorial Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Library Improve English speaking skills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Language Corner, Library 235 Find out “what’s happening” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Grapevine / Student Activities Office Find out about child care for pre-schoolers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .SUNY Orange Lab School Find out who your advisor is . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Academic Advising Center Clear notices for posting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Student Activities Office Check progress towards graduation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Records and Registration Find out about transfer information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Academic Advising Center Report absences from classes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Records & Registration Obtain info about career counseling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Career & Internship Services Get information about school closing . . . . . . . . . . . .Local radio stations, Facebook, Twitter College web site, Email alert Enjoy a nutritious meal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Cafeteria Information Directory Middletown caMpus (845) 344-6222 Department . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Location . . . . .phone# Academic Advising Center . . . .Shepard Center 3rd fl . . . . .341-4070 Accessibility Services . . . . . . . .Shepard Center 3rd fl . . . . .341-4077 Admissions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Shepard Center 3rd fl . . . . .341-4030 Bookstore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Shepard Center 2nd fl . . . . .341-4815 Bursar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Shepard Center 2nd fl . . . . .341-4837 Career & Internship Services . .Shepard Center 2nd fl . . . . .341-4444 Continuing & Professional Education . . . . . . . . . .CM 1st fl . . . . .341-4770 Financial Aid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Shepard Center 3rd fl . . . . .341-4190 Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .LIB . . . . .341-4855 Records and Registration . . . . Shepard Center 3rd fl . . . . .341-4140 Student Activities . . . . . . . . . . .Shepard Center 2nd fl . . . . 341-4065 Transcripts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Shepard Center 3rd fl . . . . .341-4155 Tutorial Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .LIB 2nd fl . . . . .341-4171 Veteran’s Rep . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Shepard Center 3rd fl . . . . .341-4071 Wellness Center . . . . . . . . . . . .Shepard Center 2nd fl . . . . .341-4870 newburgh caMpus (845) 562-2454 Student Services Central . . . . . . . . . .KAP, Room 110 . . . . .341-9502 The following departments can be found in Student Services Central : Admissions, Advising & Counseling, Bursar, Financial Aid, and Records and Registration Accessibility Services . . . . . . .Kaplan Hall, Room 128 . . . . .341-9034 Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Kaplan Hall, 1st fl . . . . .341-9020 Student Activities . . . . . . . . . . . .Tower Building, B-10 . . . . 341-9544 Tutorial Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Kaplan Hall, 2nd fl . . . . .341-9504 Wellness Center . . . . . . . . . .Kaplan Hall, Room 125 . . . . .341-9090 Building Location Key Middletown Campus BT Bio-Medical Tech. Building CM Christine Morrison Building HA Harriman Hall HO Horton Hall HU Hudson Hall LAB Morrison Lab School LIB Library MO Morrison Hall OH Orange Hall PE Physical Education Building SSC Shepard Student Center Newburgh Campus ARM Newburgh Armory KAP Kaplan Hall TWR Tower Building Search and browse class schedules online: www.sunyorange.edu/schedules 1 Getting Help In An Emergency! On the Middletown Campus – Dial “77” Emergency Exterior Phone Locations (press button and state emergency) • • • • • • • Inner Alumni Campus by Harriman - Emergency “Blue Light” Tower Phone Parking Lot #2 - behind Harriman Hall Tennis Court Drive - behind Physical Education Building Bio-Tech/Hudson Hall - by “Mastodon” entrance Bio-Tech - South Street entrance Shepard Student Center - Bennett Street entrance Horton Hall - by “Green Houses” Interior Red Emergency Phone Locations Orange Hall, Harriman Hall, Library, Shepard Student Center, BioTech Building and Hudson Hall. There are wall signs located beside each red phone with instructions for reaching emergency units both on and off campus. On the Newburgh Campus – Dial “33” Interior Red Emergency Phone Locations All floors in lobby area. Shuttle Service ALL STUDENTS MUST HAVE CURRENT STUDENT I.D. Leave Newburgh 7 a.m. 9 a.m. 11 a.m. 1 p.m. 3 p.m. 5 p.m. Arrive Middletown 7:45 a.m. 9:45 a.m. 11:45 a.m. 1:45 p.m. 3:45 p.m. 5:45 p.m. Bus leaves Newburgh every Tuesday and Thursday at 8:45 a.m. instead of 9 a.m. Sign up for automatic e-mail weather alerts: www.sunyorange. edu/alert 2 Leave Middletown 8 a.m. 10 a.m. 12 p.m. 2 p.m. 4 p.m. 6 p.m. Arrive Newburgh 8:45 a.m. 10:45 a.m. 12:45 p.m. 2:45 p.m. 4:45 p.m. 6:45 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday bus leaves Middletown at 7:45 a.m. and 9:45 a.m. instead of 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. Academic Calendar You will find important dates for each semester—such as dates of holidays, final withdrawal from classes without penalty, finals week, etc.—included in the current course schedule and your College catalog (on the web, www.sunyorange.edu, Current Students, academic calendar). Academic Help Tutorial-Academic Support/Learning Assistance Services The Tutorial Center provides tutoring for all credit students of the College upon request. Students must have instructor approval to be tutored. Tutors are recommended by faculty and demonstrate a high level of academic achievement in their subject area. A one-time processing fee of $45 is paid each semester. Tutoring sessions are typically scheduled for one hour, once or twice per week. Scheduling depends on tutor and student availability. Students interested in being tutored or desiring employment as a tutor are encouraged to pick up an application or contact the Tutorial Center. Tutors also staff specialty labs on campus to assist students on a drop-in basis. Check with academic departments or tutorial/learning center staff for details about lab hours. Tutorial/Learning Center Middletown campus — Library 2nd floor (341-4171) Hours Monday through Thursday — 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday — 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Newburgh campus — Kaplan Hall 2nd floor (341-9504) Hours Monday through Thursday — 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday — 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Writing Centers - English Dept.: BT 360 and KAP 225 These two facilities will help you in mastering key writing skills. Faculty and professional tutors will help you with instructor-developed materials, writing practice, and special computer-based software; they will help you to improve skills you need for writing assignments. You may use the Writing Centers if (a) Consider parking at a distance. you are taking courses which require weekly Writing Center attendance, (b) part of another You will probably get course requirement is limited use to class much faster. of the Writing Centers, (c) course instructors recommend it, or (d) 3 you drop in on your own for writing practice and instruction. Day and evening Writing Center hours are posted each semester. Contact Ms. L. Stroms, x4026, for more information. Reading Labs - English Dept.: BT 360 and Kaplan 223 Reading labs are specifically designed for you when you are enrolled in Reading & Study Skills 1 and 2. You must sign up for the weekly lab hour that best fits your schedule. Lab work and attendance are course requirements. In the lab, you work on individualized assignments created by your instructors. A Reading Lab Aide is available to offer assistance when needed. The SUNY Orange reading labs are not available for dropin attendance. The Labs are open during the day, Monday through Friday, at times specified and posted each semester, and during the specially-posted evening hours. For more information, call ext. 4134. Technical Writing Lab: BT 260 This computer-equipped lab offers instruction and supervised individual work for you in (a) the ENG160-ENG161 Technical Writing Modules, and (b) courses and departments involved in the Writing Consultancy Project. ENG 160-ENG161 students who have priority must schedule 2 lab hrs./week here. You work with your course instructors and lab personnel on technical and allied health writing assignments. While this is not a “drop-in” lab, some English instructors also arrange for their classes to be trained in the lab on a space-available basis. You must work with the lab faculty and staff while following posted lab rules. Call ext. 4014, for further information. Academic Policies 1) Conduct Expected of Students: See the Code of Student Conduct published in the Rights and Responsibilities Information Section. The College reserves the right to dismiss any student who engages in conduct incompatible with the purposes of the College. 2) Attendance: You are required to attend all classes. Your instructors are authorized to lower grades for unexcused absences. For excessive absences, you may be withdrawn from a course. In the event that you must be absent from class due to religious observations, it is your responsibility to contact the instructor to arrange for an opportunity to make up any examination or study Need help Finding a Student Service requirements which you may have missed because of such absence. Office? 4 illness, accident, or similar Page 1 of this Student Handbook has a If circumstances make it impossible listing of department locations and phone numbers for you to attend classes for three consecutive days or more, it is your responsibility to notify the Office of Records and Registration. Current or future awards of financial aid may be affected if you do not attend classes for which you are registered. Academic Policies & Procedures The degree requirements and academic regulations contained in the current catalog affect all who begin their study in the academic years covered by it. All information contained in the catalog is accurate as of the time of publication. However, policies are subject to change; current information relative to changes in program or academic policies can be obtained from the Office for Academic Affairs which is located on the second floor of Morrison Hall. The Vice President for Academic Affairs is authorized to waive the application of any College academic policy in a particular case. Academic Separation & Probation 1 CumGPA Academic Standing 2.00 - 4.00 Good Standing 1.50 - 1.99 Probation 0.00 - 1.49 Probation Less than 30 credit hours completed 0.00 - 1.49 30 or more credit hours attempted Probation (If GPA is 2.00 or higher) Separation (If GPA is 0.00 - 1.99) 3 3 1 CumGPA - Cumulative grade point average Grades of W, I, M, N, or Pass/Fail in Developmental courses do not apply 3 SemGPA - Semester grade point average 6/09 2 Good Academic Standing Students who have achieved a CumGPA (cumulative grade point average) of 2.0 or higher at the College are designated in good academic standing. Academic Probation Students who have achieved less than a CumGPA of 2.0 at the College are placed on academic probation. Students on academic probation Bad Weather? may continue study; however, they Check these sources for closings/delays may not enroll in more than 14 w www.sunyorange.edu credits in Fall/Spring or 6 credits in w our Facebook and Twitter pages a summer session. w local radio stations (see pg. 9) w Call 344-6222 or 341-4065 5 Accident Insurance All full-time and part-time students are automatically enrolled in the Student Accident Insurance Program. This program provides coverage 24 hours/day for all students, up to the benefit limit of $7,500. Information about the insurance program, including student insurance ID cards, informational brochures and claim forms are available in the Wellness Center on the 2nd floor of the Shepard Student Center or Tower Building room B17. This is a supplemental insurance program for students who have other insurance coverage, and primary insurance for those students who are otherwise uninsured. All accidents must be reported to the Wellness Center and an incident report completed prior to submission of an insurance claim. For more information, call the Wellness Center. Insurance information can also be found at www.studentplanscenter.com When asked the name of the College, type in Orange County Community College. Academic Advising Center The Academic Advising Center assists students in deriving maximum benefit from their college experience and in developing the full range of their educational, personal, and social potential. The Center is staffed by professionals who work from a developmental perspective to help students clarify their academic and career goals, identify obstacles, and explore available resources for achieving those goals. Center services include: • Academic Advising • Transfer Advising • Veteran Affairs • Workshops, classes and programs For Academic Advising Center hours, walk-in and appointment availability and additional information, please check the Center’s web page: www.sunyorange.edu/advising/ or call. (see the directory on page 1 for phone number and location information) 6 Academic Advising The mission of academic advising at SUNY Orange is to facilitate student learning, development and success by collaborating with students to develop and implement meaningful and attainable educational plans. Based on a student’s area of Do you know that the study, an academic advisor is BAT CAVE assigned to assist them in is a computer lab? developing and meeting their academic goals. This advisor is often a faculty within the department of the student’s academic program, but may be a member of the Academic Advising Center staff, or other College faculty and staff. Students may find their assigned advisor in Banner with their Student Information, and should meet with this person each semester to evaluate progress toward goals and adjust strategies and plans as necessary. Students are encouraged to meet with their assigned advisor whenever possible. Advisors in the Academic Advising Center are also available to assist students with questions, College processes, quick transactions, and whenever an assigned advisor is not available. Responsibilities of Advisors • Provide and effectively communicate accurate information. • Treat students with respect • Assist students with decision-making and allow students to make final decisions • Refer students to appropriate resources and opportunities • Assist students with developing and pursuing goals • Be accessible for meetings through office hours, telephone and email. Responsibilities of Advisees • Actively participate in the Advising and educational process • Accept responsibility for actions and decisions • Schedule, attend and be prepared for Advising meetings • Become knowledgeable about college resources, requirements, programs, policies and procedures • Actively seek out information, opportunities, services and resources to facilitate success. Workshops/Classes/Programs Throughout the semester, the Academic Advising Center offers workshops, classes and programs designed to assist students in developing necessary skills and resources, and to provide information to help achieve their goals. These include workshops on transfer planning and veterans’ opportunities, group advising for specific degree programs, college success seminars, and more. Additionally, the Academic Advising Center’s website provides links to online workshops to help students with college skills such as test taking, study skills and time management, all accessible anytime from any computer. Transfer Advising The Academic Advising Center assists students with the transfer process by helping them understand: how to go about selecting a transfer institution; the transfer process and the SUNY transfer guarantee; and Money? Assistance? Look for financial aid workshop schedule. 7 how to find information about the application requirements and process, and appropriate courses for their institution of choice. The Center also provides transfer workshops and arranges visitations by 4-year transfer representatives from a variety of institutions throughout the year. During College Transfer Days in the fall semester, the Academic Advising Center invites approximately 90 public and private college and university representatives to campus to meet and discuss their programs with students. As a member of the new York State Transfer and Articulation Association, the Academic Advising Center has developed contacts with many of the four-year colleges and universities where a majority of SUNY Orange students transfer to complete their undergraduate and post-graduate degrees. These relationships are instrumental in helping guide students, and careful planning can streamline the transfer process to the college of choice. All New York residents who transfer directly from a SUNY or CUNY two-year college with an A.A. or A.S. degree are guaranteed admission to a four-year SUNY College for full-time study. The transfer guarantee becomes effective if a student is denied admission at all four-year college choices. Please refer to www.suny.edu/student for applications, and important eligibility and deadline requirements. Visit www.sunyorange.edu/advising/transfer/ for events and information Alcohol & Drug Policy It is unlawful to purchase, manufacture, possess, use, distribute, sell, or consume alcohol and/or other drugs on campus sites or at College-sponsored events. For additional information refer to the Rights and Responsibilities Section. Art Exhibitions Cultural Affairs at SUNY Orange presents events which are offered throughout the year. Programming is diverse and is meant to broaden the educational and academic opportunities of the college community, as well as provide enriching experiences to the community-at-large. Inasmuch as SUNY Orange is a community college, the community is invited to participate and avail itself of all Cultural Affairs programs. Events include: • Lectures—social studies, economics, humanities, science, art, music, film, theatre, architecture, timely issues; 8 Fast food lover? Check out Stone Willy’s Pizza and Summit Subs in the College Cafe, and Hudson View Cafe. • Film—foreign, classic, documentary, independent, comedy, science fiction, silents, topic-themed, with introductions and discussions; • Music—classical, jazz, ethnic performances; • Theatre—classics, innovative, modern, and new works; children’s theatre; • Dance—classic, modern, folk, ethnic; • Poetry readings—plain, dramatic, and/or with accompaniment; • Master classes—music, art, theatre, poetry, dance; The Cultural Affairs Advisory Board is comprised of faculty, staff, students, and community members. Athletics Each student pays an athletic fee to help support the intercollegiate program, which consists of men’s tennis, basketball, baseball, soccer and golf and women’s volleyball, tennis, basketball and softball. At registration, the College collects a student activity/athletic fee from each credit student. Full-time students (12 credits or more) pay $68 ($40.80 activity fee, $27.20 athletic fee) per semester. Part-time and evening students pay $5 per credit. Auditing Courses You may audit a course with completion of a special permission card obtainable at the Records and Registration Office or Student Services Central. No credit is earned or grade given when auditing courses; however, you may change status from audit to credit or vice-versa if you file a special permission card during the first three weeks of a 15 week semester course. The deadline for half-semester courses is the end of the first week and a half of classes. If you are eligible for financial aid, you should consult with the Financial Aid Office before registering or changing to audit status. If audited courses are included in 12 credits of course work, you can become ineligible for TAP and other aid programs. Bookstore The SUNY Orange Bookstore stocks textbooks and supplies for courses as well as art, engineering and school supplies, SUNY Orange clothing, gifts and incidentals to college life. The Bookstore offers a full range of textbook options that include new, used, digital and rentals. Textbooks are not included in tuition. Visit the Bookstore website, www.sunyorangebookstores.com for textbook information or visit the store and browse the shelves where you'll find textbooks arranged alphabetically by course (Art, Biology, Chemistry etc.). Be sure to have your schedule so you Want to join an athletic team? Call 341-4215 9 have the detailed information you need to find the proper match of books for the course you are taking. Ask about our free Textbook PrePack service and enjoy the convenience and savings in time and energy as we arrange to have your books all together ready and waiting for you! The Bookstore accepts cash, personal checks, MasterCard, Visa, and Discover cards for payment. Customers must show proper ID for all purchases. Various types of student financial aid are also accepted. Students must be pre-authorized to charge. Middletown Campus Bookstore — General Hours of Operation (when classes are in session): Monday, Tuesday & Thursday 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. Wednesday 8:30 a.m.- 7:30 p.m. Friday 8:30 a.m.- Noon Specific hours of operation will be posted for each semester that may include some variation of the above. Additional evening hours are offered at the start of each semester. Newburgh Campus Bookstore — The SUNY Orange Bookstore on the Newburgh campus is located on the first floor of the Tower Building. It stocks books and supplies for courses held in Newburgh, along with a variety of general school supplies, school spirit items and snacks. The bookstore entrance is located to the left of the main building entrance. Store hours vary throughout the year, and can be found on our web site, www.sunyorangebookstores.com or by calling 845-341-4815. Bursar’s Office For your convenience, the Bursar has offices in two locations: The Shepard Student Center in Middletown and Student Services Central in Kaplan Hall on the Newburgh campus. At both locations students can pay their tuition and fees, submit residence information, and complete a change of information form (name/address). In addition, the Middletown office provides American Opportunity Credit information, certifies and disburses financial aid and provides billing services. 10 Obtain your parking permit and I.D. card at the Student Information Desk (Middletown) or Student Services Central (Newburgh) All students are expected to keep their address current and up-todate and to submit tuition payments and residence information by the established deadlines. All correspondence we send has financial implications; please read it carefully. Call us with any questions you may have. We look forward to assisting you. (see page 1 for phone number and location information) Tuition payment options include: cash, check, money order, MasterCard, VISA, Discover, American Express, TuitionPay payment plan,and finalized financial aid. Campus Parking Regulations Basic Parking and Driving Regulations are: • Permits must be displayed in designated area and can be obtained at the Student Information Desk in the Shepard Student Center on the Middletown campus and at Student Services Central in Kaplan Hall on the Newburgh campus. • Parking is limited to student lots indicated on the campus map* • Student parking is available on levels B-2 and B-3 of the Kaplan Hall underground parking garage which is accessible via First Street. • Some lots are reserved for faculty; some spaces are reserved for handicapped drivers and monitored by the police department ($200 fine) • Never park on grass areas • Park within the specified lines provided in lots • Obey the 5 mph speed limit on campus • No parking in Lot #10 (Maintenance Dept), and Lots #2 & 6 (faculty and staff only) The following may occur if you do not follow Parking Regulations: Ticketing by College security. If you ignore tickets, you will not be able to register for courses the following semester and your official College transcript will not be released until your tickets are paid! *Refer to campus map for designated parking areas. Career & Internship Services Your Portal to Career Success The Office of Career & Internship Services assists students, alumni and community members with all phases of the career development process. The office is staffed by professionals who can guide you through a maze of career information and make valuable resources available for your career discovery. Specific services include: Career Advising/Counseling: With the help of various assessment tools and 1:1 counseling our staff can assist you with career and selfexploration. There is bus transportation between the Newburgh campus & Middletown campus during the week. 11 Job Market Information: We can assist you to obtain and research occupational, educational and employment information. Professional Development: Through workshop participation you can gain insight into resume and cover letter construction, interviewing techniques, making decisions, critical workplace behaviors and skills, positioning for advancement opportunities, etc. Employment Services: We maintain job listings for part-time and full-time jobs which you can access through our website at www.sunyorange.edu/careers. Staff is available to critique resumes which can be posted to our website for employer searches. Experiential Education: The opportunity exists for you to explore the world of work through internships, volunteer jobs, service learning, informational interviews and job shadowing experiences. Stop by our office and prepare yourself for today’s employment market. For further information please call Career & Internship Services or visit us at www.sunyorange.edu/careers. Cellular Phones The active use of any device classified as a “telecommunications device,” including, but not limited to, pagers, cellular phones, PDAs, and messaging devices is prohibited in classrooms as well as in other areas where a classroom atmosphere is assumed, except by special permission of the instructor; e.g., libraries, labs, theaters, and administrative offices. Passive use, including silent and vibrate mode, may be used provided it does not compromise the educational process or promote an unethical situation. Instructors reserve the right to regulate the monitoring of such devices as necessary. Clubs At SUNY Orange, where all students are commuters, clubs and organizations contribute in a unique way to a student’s learning, development and success. You are afforded the opportunity to join with friends or to make new ones through activities which you enjoy, and are different from or which supplement classroom work. Club activities are student centered and student controlled and present a wonderful opportunity to develop projects and pursue interests as joint undertakings with other students. Need a job? Visit Career & Internship Services 12 Clubs and organizations meet at Activity Hour on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11 a.m.-12 noon unless otherwise posted. For further information, contact the Student Activities Office. Copy Machine For your convenience, copy machines are located in the Library, the Shepard Student Center, Harriman Hall, Bio-Tech building and the Newburgh campus. Copies are 15 cents each. Delayed Openings In the event of inclement weather, the College will announce delays and closings in the following ways • posting on College web site • direct email to students/faculty/staff via SUNY Orange account (@sunyorange.edu) • usage of New York Alert that delivers notices via land line, cell phone, text message, voicemail and FAX available (sign up via Banner at MySUNYOrange) • direct email to College “alert” list (sign up at www.sunyorange.edu/alert/email/subscribe.shtml • posting on College’s Facebook and Twitter pages • audio announcement on College switchboard (845-344-6222) • announcement on local radio stations, which include: Pamal Broadcasting WBNR 1260 AM / WSPK 104.7 FM / WHUD 100.7 FM / WBPM 92.9 FM / WXPX 107.1 FM ClearChannel Radio WELG 1450 AM / WPKF 96.1 FM / WRNQ 92.1 FM / WKIP 99.3 FM / WRWD 107.3 FM / WBWZ 93.3 FM WSUS (New Jersey) WSUS 102.3 FM / WNNJ 1360 AM and 103.7 FM / WHCY 106.3 FM FOX Radio WGNY 103.1 FM and 96.7 FM Cumulus Radio Radio Disney 1340 AM & 1390 AM / WRRV 96.9 FM & 92.7 FM / WPDH 101.5 FM & 106.1 FM / Kicks 94.3 FM & 97.3 FM / MIX 97 FM WDST (Woodstock) WDST 100.1 FM Watermark Broadcasting (Monticello) WSUL 98.3 FM / WVLS 95.7 FM Bold Gold Media Group (Sullivan County and Pennsylvania) Do you know admission is free Thunder 102 FM / WDNH 95.3 FM / WYCY 105.3 FM / to most activities on campus? WDNB 102.1 FM / WWRR 104.9 FM 13 You can also have delay and closing alerts emailed directly to you. Go to www.sunyorange.edu/alert/email/subscribe.shtml to subscribe. Or, if you prefer, you may call the College’s main number (344-6222) for upto-date recorded voice information. Office of Accessibility Services The Office of Accessibility Services (OAS) provides support services and coordinates reasonable academic accommodations for students with documented disabilities under ADA and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Academic accommodations include, but are not limited to, use of adaptive equipment, alternative testing, sign language interpreters, audio format exams, scribes and peer note-takers. Students are responsible for identifying themselves to the OAS and providing documentation that is current and appropriate. In addition, the office serves as a resource to faculty and staff, works to dispel negative and limiting stereotypes and promotes a campus environment that is sensitive, accepting and responsive to the needs and contribution of all SUNY Orange students. The Office of Accessibility Services serves as a national voter registration site. The staff in OAS is happy to assist any student in filling out or submitting an application to vote. For more information, call or visit the Office of Accessibility Services. (see page 1 for phone and office location) English-as-a-Second Language (ESL) If you are an incoming student whose primary language is not English, and you demonstrate the need to improve your English, the college offers: WRT 020 English-as-a-Second Language. Writing RDG 060 ESL Reading w/ RDG 061 Support Module Through the formal placement process, you may be required to take one or both of these courses before attempting later college-level study; you may also elect to take these courses. Working closely with the course instructors, you are immersed in reading, writing, and speaking & listening activities. Extension Centers Satellite Locations Don’t be a stranger to your faculty advisor. 14 The College also offers evening credit and non-credit courses at Port Jervis High School, Warwick Valley High School and MonroeWoodbury High School. Students may choose from courses in Psychology, Physical Education, Business, Criminal Justice, Art, Math, and English to name a few. In addition, a number of non-credit computer, leisure, language, art, and photography courses are offered throughout the semester. The variety of courses for college credit and the wide array of non-credit offerings enable individuals to take courses towards a degree, expand their job skills, or take some personal enrichment classes closer to home or work. For additional information, please call 341-4765. Financial Aid Assistance is provided by Federal, State, local and/or private sources to help students meet college costs. Financial aid consists of grants, loans, scholarships and/or work study. To apply for federal student aid for college and for most state and institutional aid, you must complete and submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year you attend. The quickest way to apply is online using FAFSA on the Web at www.fafsa.ed.gov. The SUNY Orange federal school code is 002876. Students are able to check the status of their financial aid awards online at www.sunyorange.edu. From the homepage click on MYSUNYORANGE then follow the Log In instructions. After successful login go to: Student and Financial Aid, Financial Aid tab, Financial Aid Status (choose year). If you need to submit additional information you will see “Unsatisfied Requirements”; click to see what is needed. To check awards, click awards and choose the aid year. To accept an Award Offer, click on the terms and conditions tab, read the contents and then click on the Accept button.This will bring you to the Award offer page. To accept an Award Offer, make your decision, and submit. Please note: all student loans must be accepted or declined at the “Accept Award Offer” link. Failure to compete this step will delay the loan process. All courses you register for must apply toward your degree program. If you have courses that do not apply toward your degree program financial aid may be reduced. If you need to speak with someone regarding your financial aid, or need more information about scholarships and other options, call one of the phone numbers listed on page 1 of this Handbook. Fitness Facilities The Physical Education Building is equipped with six racquetball courts, eight tennis courts, a six-lane 25-yard swimming pool, spin studio, weight room, dance studio and gymnasium. A schedule is available at the beginning of each semester for use of these facilities by the campus community. A current student ID card must be shown in order to use the facilities free of charge. 72% to 79% Weekend hours for the above of students facilities are also available to the general public for a nominal fee. who attend Orange For more information, call 341work full or part time. 4885 or e-mail sharon.ahearn@sunyorange.edu. 15 Food Services No need to leave campus! The legendary STONE WILLY’S PIZZA and SUMMIT SUBS (Nationally branded franchises) are available to do it all for you! Freshly baked bread, subs and pizza, and our world-class salad bar for your tempting creations are located in the Shepard Student Center, 1st floor. Open from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday - Friday. Just grab ‘n’ go! Food and beverage kiosks are located in the Bio-Tech Building (Daily Grind) and in Harriman Hall. The College cafeteria is located in the Shepard Student Center and serves breakfast and lunch every weekday from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Vending machines are located in Harriman Hall, Bio-Tech Building, Shepard Student Center, Library, Orange Hall and P.E.Building. The Daily Grind is located in Bio-Tech Building and is open Monday-Thursday, 7:30 a.m.-7 p.m.; for soups, sandwiches, salads and more. Food for Thought is located in the lower level of Harriman Hall. The Newburgh campus cafeteria is located in the Tower Building. Their hours of operation are Monday thru Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.. In addition, the Hudson View Café located on the 2nd floor of the Kaplan Hall serves gourmet crafted coffees, grab & go items, fresh made salads, subs and sandwiches; and an excellent panoramic view. Vending is located in the same area. Hours are Monday – Thursday 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Friday 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Game Rooms The Middletown campus game room is located on the first floor of the Shepard Student Center; and the Newburgh campus game room is located in the basement of the Tower Building. Both offer big screen TVs and pool tables. The Middletown facility is equipped with a pool table; while Newburgh offers a ping-pong table. The game rooms are great places to relax with friends. Game tournaments are held throughout the year. Grades & Quality Points A four-point grading system, based on letter grades of A, B, C, D, and F, is used at the college. Each grade is assigned a numeric value: A = 4, A- = 3.67, B+ = 3.33, B = 3.00. B- = 2.67, C+ = 2.33, C = 2.00, C- = 1.67, D+= 1.33, D = 1.00, D- = 0.67, and F = 0. To calculate quality points, multiply the number of credits of a course by the numeric value of the grade earned. For example: An A (4 quality points) in Freshman English 1 (3 credits) produces 12 quality points (4 x 3 = 12) and a C- (1.67 quality points) in Calculus 1 (4 credits) produces 6.68 quality points (1.67 x 4 = 6.68). Red phones can be used to call Security or the Nurse 16 To determine academic average for a given semester, divide the quality points earned by the number of semester hour credits calculated (SemGPA). The same formula, dividing the total number of quality points by the total number of credits calculated, is used to calculate the cumulative quality point average (CumGPA). To clear a grade of I (Incomplete) from the record, work must be completed by the deadline indicated on the Incomplete Form, which can be no later than the end of the next semester, Fall or Spring. If the work is not completed, the I grade will become an F. It is the student’s responsibility to remain in contact with the instructor and submit work by the deadline. A grade of I will be calculated as an F for graduation purposes. General Rules & Regulations Food and drinks are not permitted in lounges or recreation areas. Furniture should not be moved except for special events. Contact the Student Activities Office for permission to move furniture or to reserve classrooms or other facilities for activity events. Policy on Selling Wares on Campus College regulations prevent the use of the campus for private or individual commercial purposes. Students may, of course, sell their texts or other personal belongings to students and may use designated areas to advertise such selling, upon approval at Student Activities Information Desk. A student may request permission from the Vice President for Student Services to sell handicrafts and other personal wares on campus. Students may arrange with the College Bookstore manager to concession personally-produced wares for sale in the Bookstore. Alcoholic Beverages The serving or consumption of alcohol at any College-sponsored or Collegerelated event at which students are present is prohibited. At the discretion of the President, alcohol may be served at Collegesponsored or College-related events at which students are not present. No Pets on Campus Civil Law prohibits pets in public buildings and special laws prohibit animals in areas where food is prepared and served. Animals anywhere within the city limits not leashed are subject to impounding. The College further prohibits pets on campus. The dog warden or police may be called. Service Animals Individuals with disabilities may be accompanied by their services animals in those locations on the SUNY Orange campuses where members of the public or participants in Visit the Student Activities Office (SAO) services, programs or activities are to sign up for trips, obtain tickets, permitted. As defined by the voter registration forms and Americans with Disabilities Act information about the Student (ADA) Section 36.302 (1), a services animal is any dog tha is individually Senate, clubs and all activities. 17 trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual or other mental disability. In some cases, the College may permit other species of animals on campus on a case-by-case basis, consistent with applicable law. Prohibited • Smoking is prohibited in all college buildings and offices. • Smoking is prohibited within 20 feet of all college buildings. • Use of alcoholic beverages is prohibited anywhere on campus. • The College works within the framework of civil law regarding the use or abuse of narcotics. • Pets are not permitted on campus. • The campus cannot be used for private or individual commercial purposes. • Firearms are strictly prohibited on campus unless approved by the President. Degree Requirements The following academic standards apply to all first degrees: • 6 credits of Freshman English • 2 credits of Physical Education (including PES 100 Concepts of Physical Wellness) in addition to 60 credit hours • achievement of an overall “C” average (CumGPA of 2.00) • 30 of the total number of required credits be taken at Orange Each of the degrees must meet the minimum requirements as set forth by the New York State Education Law. These include at least 60 credit hours of study of which 45 credits must be in the liberal arts for the A.A. degree, 30 credits for the A.S. degree, and 20 credits for the A.A.S. degree. The degree earned depends upon the educational and career goals of the individual. Each of the degrees offered at Orange is listed by degree title in the College catalog with a description of the purpose, goals, and specific course requirements. Graduation Ceremony Participation in our Commencement Exercises is not automatic. You must initiate the process. If you intend to graduate in May, you must file for graduation in the Records and Registration Office during the month of February prior to May graduation. If you complete your graduation requirements at the end of the Fall semester or during the summer sessions, you are invited to participate in the commencement ceremony the following May. See Academic Calendar and course schedules for filing deadlines. Need help Finding a Student Service Office? 18 August graduates who meet certain criteria will be able to participate in the May graduation ceremony. Page 1 of this Student Handbook has a listing of department locations and Below is the list of criteria and phone numbers required courses of action to qualify. 1) Self identify at time of applying by letting the Registration Staff in Middletown or the Enrollment Specialist in Newburgh know you would like to walk in the May ceremony. 2) Must be in good Academic Standing (2.00 CQPA or higher) 3) Need 6 or less credits to graduate in August 4) Must be registered for the required course(s) at SUNY Orange or another institution (if registered at another institution must fill out a Permission to Attend form with the Registration Office and provide a copy of the schedule from the other institution) Students who are graduating in August and do not meet the above criteria will be invited to participate in next year’s May commencement. See Academic Calendar for filing deadlines. Application for Graduation: You must file an application for graduation along with a $50 fee in the Office of Records and Registration in Middletown by the deadline in the appropriate course schedule. Before you can be cleared for graduation, you must return all college property loaned to you and pay any monies owed or outstanding obligation to any office of the College. Identification Card All full and part-time credit students receive an I.D. card free of charge when registering. This is the final step of the registration process. Your I.D. card must be validated each semester. The I.D. card also serves as a library card and a student activity pass which enables you to gain free admission or a special student rate to the various activities. Loss of a card must be reported to the Student Activities Office or Student Services Central. A replacement can be obtained from that office at a cost of $15.00. All students are required to obtain an I.D. and are strongly encouraged to wear it when on campus. Immunization Requirements New York State Public Health Law requires that all students born on or after 1/1/57 who wish to take six or more credits provide proof of immunity to Measles, Mumps and Rubella prior to registration. Meningococcal vaccine is not required at SUNY Orange, but NYS law requires that all students sign the Meningitis Response Form acknowledging receipt of information about the availability of the vaccine. Immunization records and Meningitis Response Forms should be submitted to the Health Services. Students in Newburgh Join the Student Senate. may submit the forms to the Student Services Central staff. (Note: If you are a re-admitting See Student Activities for more student who has previously information fulfilled this immunization requirement here at SUNY 19 Orange, you do not have to re-submit your immunization records. You may check with the Health Office to be certain that your records are on file.) You may prove your immunity in one of three ways: 1) Documentation of live virus vaccine given after 1/1/68 and on or after your first birthday for: Measles- Two Doses at least 28 days apart Mumps - One Dose Rubella - One Dose 2) Documentation of physician diagnosed disease and date of diagnosis for: Measles and Mumps only, immunization or serology required for Rubella. 3) Laboratory serologic proof of immunity (titer) for: Measles, Mumps and Rubella YOU WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO REGISTER FOR SIX OR MORE CREDITS UNTIL YOU HAVE SUBMITTED YOUR IMMUNIZATION RECORDS TO THE COLLEGE HEALTH OFFICE. If you have any questions about these requirements, please contact the Wellness Center office. Intramural Sports The Movement Science Department provides a variety of sports and activities for students, faculty, and staff. Students may participate in team sports such as kickball, ultimate frisbee, soccer, dodge ball, basketball, whiffle ball and volleyball. Individual events and competitions are also held in a variety of events, including racquetball, tennis, 5K walk/run and fitness events. For more information on how to participate or work as a student official, call 341-4885 or e-mail: sharon.ahearn@sunyorange.edu. Interim/Involuntary Medical Withdrawal A student will be subject to a College Interim or Involuntary Medical Withdrawal if the College determines that the student is suffering from a physical, emotional or psychological condition in which the resulting behavior: 1) poses an imminent danger, physical harm or threat to the campus community or to the student; or Looking for something to do? Check out the Cultural Affairs calendar 20 2) substantially impedes te activities of the campus or other members of the campus community, including the educational process, activities or functions fo the College and its personnel. In the event of an Interim or Involuntary Medical Withdrawal, the student may be prohibited from attending classes and/or being on campus. The student will be required to submit a physician’s medical release and/or mental health evaluation prior to registering for another semester. Students may not be eligible for a waiver of tuition charges under this procedure. Lab School (Educational Child Care) The SUNY Orange Lab School provides child care and learning experiences for children of SUNY Orange students. Children of staff and faculty will be accepted as space permits. Community enrollments are also accepted. Morning, afternoon, and full-day programs provide a healthy, happy, and stimulating learning environment. Each child is able to explore and learn through a variety of activities, including music and movement, creative art, story-time, outdoor play, and child-directed center-based readiness experiences. The Lab School serves children 18 months through 5 years of age. Library Services The SUNY Orange Libraries located on the Middletown and Newburgh campuses are designed to function as both a traditional environment of quiet study space and as a state-of the-art information commons. The libraries house a variety of study spaces, including carrels for individual study, tables for group work and designated quiet-study areas. While in the Library, students are asked to respect the needs of others, to engage in behavior that supports the academic learning environment, and to adhere to the Library Code of Conduct. The Information Commons are busy, centrally located areas where students can access academic and technology resources necessary to support their learning and research. Within the Commons, the Library provides traditional research tools and reference materials, Microsoft Office software, and both wired and wireless internet access. The electronic databases provide full-text and full-image journals, magazines and newspapers. A Help Desk is located adjacent to each Commons and is staffed by librarians and support staff to assist students with their research needs. Workshops and instruction sessions designed to help students acquire and improve library research skills are offered by Library faculty. A schedule of workshops is available online and within the Library. The student’s College identification card serves as a library card and is required to borrow books, videos and reserve readings; to utilize the computers in the Information Commons; and to Remember your I.D. card. access the databases from offcampus. The Library website (www.sunyorange.edu/lrc) and contains detailed information regarding library services, hours, It’s your library card and facilities use pass, too. 21 policies and includes instructional guides that are designed to assist students with their research needs. For questions or reference assistance, students may call the Library. (see page 1 for phone numbers) During the regular academic year, the Middletown Library is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; the Newburgh Library is open Monday through Thursday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; summer and intersession hours as announced. Lockers Lockers are available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis in the Shepard Student Center and the Fitness Center (room 129) in the Tower Building. To reserve a Fitness Center locker for regular use, please register at the Security desk in the Tower Building. Your property should be clearly marked with your name to prevent mix-ups and possible loss of books and coats. All personal property must be removed from all lockers at the end of each semester. Lost and Found SUNY Orange maintains a Lost and Found on each of the campuses. In Middletown, Lost & Found is located in the Student Activities Office. In Newburgh, lost items can be retrieved at the Security office in the Tower Building located at the building entrance. (see page 1 for location and phone information.) MySUNYOrange MySUNYOrange is the College’s primary interface with you the student. To access MySUNYOrange from the College’s homepage (www.sunyorange.edu) click on MySUNYOrange and then enter your student ID number (this is the “A” number assigned to you by Admissions and listed in your admission letter and on your course schedule printout.) 22 With your MySUNYOrange login ID, you can: • check your grades • view accounts of charges and payments • view financial aid information • view courses and schedules • view/print your transcript • run a degree audit (CAPP)• view your holds • register online (if eligible) • sign in to online courses SUNY Orange Email With your SUNYOrange e-mail account, you can: Did you pick up • send and receive email your Student Activities • receive informational updates Calendar? from the College • retrieve instructor materials and class handouts Computer Kiosks In addition to open access computer labs, computer kiosks are available in the Shepard Student Center in Middletown, and on the Newburgh campus. Music/Art The Student Activities Office, Cultural Affairs and the Arts and Communication Department sponsor a variety of musical concerts and events each semester through activities programming, the Cultural Affairs Series, student recitals, concerts, and exhibits. A variety of art exhibitions are displayed throughout the year on both campuses. Newburgh Campus The College serves many of the educational needs of the citizens of eastern Orange County at its Newburgh campus. The Newburgh campus features two buildings: newly-opened Kaplan Hall and the recently renovated Tower Building. The Newburgh campus comprises over 100,000 sq. ft of general-purpose classrooms, state-of-the-art science labs, computer labs, technology-training labs, a tutorial center, a library/learning resource center, reading, writing, and mathematics labs, a cafe, faculty and staff offices, and a breathtaking view of the Hudson River. Students are able to pursue seven full degree programs at the Newburgh campus in the following areas: Liberal Arts (Humanities and Social Sciences emphasis), Nursing, Human Services, Business Management, Criminal Justice (AS and AAS) and Individual Studies. In addition, over 220 credit course sections are offered each semester in a range of disciplines, and academic advisors are available to help students plan their programs of study. Students can also find a full array of services at the Newburgh campus including a onestop student services center housing admissions, financial aid, academic advising, accessibility services, career counseling, health services, registrar, and bursar offices. The Newburgh campus also hosts a comprehensive program of cultural events and student activities throughout the academic year. A free daytime shuttle bus operates between the Middletown and Newburgh campuses during the Fall and Spring semesters. Non-credit training and enrichment courses and programs are offered at the Newburgh campus by the Continuing and Professional Education Department (CAPE), and the campus is also home to the Center for Youth Development which runs programs that provide educational support, mentoring, college counseling, workforce preparation, cultural enrichment and parental involvement activities to junior and high school youth. A major renovation project has just been completed to transform the Tower building into a state-of-the-art facility housing classrooms, computer labs, a full-service bookstore, a child care center, a fitness center, cafeteria, student activities suite, art studios, a forensics lab, and faculty and administrative offices.. Lockers are located on 1st floor of Shepard Student Center. 23 Parking - see Campus Parking Regulations. Parking Permits Parking permits are required for day students and are available at the Student Activities Office (Middletown campus) or Student Services Central (Newburgh campus) on presentation of a valid identification card. Tickets are issued for parking violations and can be paid at the Bursar’s Office, Shepard Student Center, 2nd floor, or Student Services Central in Kaplan Hall. If you attend classes at the Newburgh campus, you are required to have a parking permit for evening classes also (not required for Middletown). Parking passes must be updated each semester when you update your student I.D. Replacements can be obtained from the Student Activities Office at the cost of $5.00. Photography Policy In order to document various College activities, as well as to promote the academic, cultural and student activities on campus, students agree to allow College photographers and their designees to capture their images in both still pictures, as well as motion video. Posting Information on Campus In order to post ads or flyers, you must first obtain permission from the Student Activities Office, 2nd floor, Shepard Student Center; or from the Director of Student Services-Newburgh, Student Services Central, Kaplan Hall. Flyers may be posted only on bulletin boards. They may not be hung on walls, windows or doors. Probation If you have achieved less than a CumGPA of 2.0 at the college, you are placed on academic probation. While on academic probation you may continue study; however, you may not enroll in more than 14 credits in Fall/Spring semester or 6 credits in a summer session. Red Flag Policy Identity Theft Prevention Program Make sure you update your college ID and parking pass each semester. 24 Orange County Community College is committed to preventing fraud associated with the misuse of identifying information (identity theft) of students, staff, faculty or others who have relationships with the College to obtain educational or financial services. In compliance with the Federal Trade Commission Red Flags Rule (16 CFR 681.2) under the Fair and Accurate Credit Transaction Act of 2003, the College will employ its Red Flag Identity Theft Prevention Program to identify accounts susceptible to fraud, recognize possible indications of identity theft associated with those accounts, devise methods to detect such activity and respond appropriately when such activity is detected. In compliance with the Federal Trade Commission’s Red Flags Rule (16 CFR 681.2), the College will require all individuals requesting services to provide a SUNY Orange Identification Card, a driver’s license or other government issued identification (with photo). Refund Policies Students who officially withdraw (drop) from a credit course or from the College may be eligible for a refund of tuition and appropriate share of fees. PLEASE SEE COLLEGE CATALOG FOR COMPLETE INFORMATION. Records and Registration The Records and Registration Office in Middletown and Student Services Central in Newburgh handle students’ records, oversees the registration process, sets the academic master schedule, distributes grades and administers academic policy. Students should contact the Records and Registration staff for information ranging from: registrations and schedule changes; transcripts; grades, records, and access; verification of enrollment, attendance, or full or part time status for insurance, banks and employers; graduation applications; the course schedule each semester; the final exam schedule each semester; the list of graduates each semester; student records; changes of curriculum; registration calendars; attendance records; academic policies and the academic policy manual; and protection of students’ privacy rights and communication with parents and others regarding the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Information regarding many of the Records and Registration regulations and policies can be found by contacting Records and Registration, or visiting www.sunyorange.edu/academicservices. (see page 1 for phone and location information) Religious Activities Local clergy extend a welcome to attend their services and church activities. Visit “Sugar” our resident Mastodon on display in the Bio-Tech Lobby 25 Safety Our campus is generally a safe and secure environment; however, it is a public access facility, and we cannot guarantee who is on the campus and for what purpose. As an individual using the campus, you must be alert for your own safety and security. Listed below are some suggestions for your safety. • Pay careful attention to your personal belongings; do not leave them unattended. • Put your name in each of your books. Textbooks are expensive and may tempt a thief. Suggestion: Mark off certain pages with your own private ID number or name. • Evening students should have their car keys in hand before leaving a building. • Whenever possible, walk in groups to cars and bus stops when leaving class. • You may request an escort to your auto by dialing 4710 in Middletown or 9533 on the Newburgh campus. • Lock your car and leave nothing in view of a potential thief. Expensive sound systems in cars may attract thieves. • Evening students should carry change. A public pay phone is located in front of the George F. Shepard Student Center in case of emergency. • Use Red phones: - For confidential calls, dial "4934" to reach Ed Kiely, Director of Security or Anthony Jacklitsch, Evening Security Coordinator. - Dial “77” for emergencies in Middletown and “9533 or 9556” on our Newburgh campus - Call “4710” for non-emergencies and for auto escorts in Middletown and “9556 or 9533” in Newburgh • Emergency exterior Yellow phones are located throughout campus. • Emergency blue light towers can be found in the following locations: Middletown campus - Entrance of Lot #6 (behind the Shepard Student Center) - Inner campus Alumni Green by Harriman Hall - Entrance of Lot #5 (on Bennett Street) - Entrance of Lot #1 (on Orange Hall Drive) Newburgh campus - Kaplan Hall garage (wall mounted, 3 on each level) Courtyard Plaza and exterior locations of Kaplan Hall Orange Hall Theater – Home of fabulous student productions 26 Snow Closings See Delayed Openings, page 11. Sign up for automatic College delays and closings e-mail alerts at www.sunyorange.edu/alert. Student Activities Co-Curricular Activities The hub of Student Activities is the second floor of the Shepard Student Center where the Office of the Director of Student Activities is located. You will find information and assistance for all student activities at the Student Activities Office and Information Desk, Shepard Center in Middletown, and on the first floor of the Tower Building in Newburgh. Activities sponsored by the Student Senate, the Board of Activities (BOA), and clubs and organizations range from theater, dance and musical presentations to lecture, comedy, novelty/variety shows and various trips to recreational, educational and cultural events. The second floor of the Shepard Student Center is also the site of the Bookstore, Career Services, Wellness Center, Student Lounge, and the Testing Center. The Game Room and Student Government offices are located on the first floor in the cafeteria. In Newburgh, the Game Room and Student Government offices are located on the first floor of the Tower Building. Student Housing Orange County Community College was established for commuting students; there are no dormitories nor is there any approved housing. Landlords occasionally post notices of available rooms/apartments on the bulletin board on the second floor of the Shepard Student Center. Apartment listings are also available through the Times Herald-Record. The College, however, does not assume responsibility for these accommodations or rental arrangements. The responsibility for these accommodations, adhering to the rules and regulations of the landlord, and resolving disagreements with the landlord rests with the student and/or his parents and not with the College. You must notify the College of any and every change in your local address. Student Senate At registration, the College collects an activity/athletic fee from each credit student. All students pay an activity fee based on the number of credits they are taking When you pay your activity fee, you automatically become a member of the Student Association. As a member of the Student Association, you have the right to run for or elect representatives to the governing body of the Student Association, the Student Senate. The Student Senate is ultimately responsible for appropriating activity fees, chartering clubs and organizations, and acting on behalf of the Student Association’s best interest. In short, the Student Senate is your representative voice on campus. You are encouraged to attend Senate Sign up for automatic e-mail weather alerts: www.sunyorange.edu/alert 27 meetings and/or bring your concerns to the attention of one of the members of the Senate. There are active Student Senates on both campuses. The Middletown campus Senate meeting room and office are located on the first floor of the Shepard Student Center in the cafeteria. If you wish to contact the Senate office via phone, call extension 4076. Letters or messages may be left at the Student Activities Office where all Senate and club mailboxes are located. The Newburgh Senate office is located in the Student Activities Office in the Tower Building. Eligibility for Elections Students interested in participating in Student Government should contact the Student Activities Office in Middletown or Newburgh. First time students must be enrolled for a minimum of six credits to be eligible to run for the position of Student Senator. Returning students must be enrolled for a minimum of six credits and must have attained a cumulative quality point average of 2.00 by the end of the semester preceding the election in order to be eligible to run for the position of Senator. (Any student who wishes to run for the position of President, Vice President or Treasurer must fulfill the aforementioned requirements and, in addition, must have completed a total of twenty-four credits prior to assuming office. Students wishing to run for the position of secretary must be enrolled for a minimum of six credits and fulfill the aforementioned requirements. These positions are voted on within the Senate.) Maintaining Eligibility All members of the Student Senate must maintain throughout their term a minimum of six credits per semester and a Quality Point Average of 2.00 and a cumulative Quality Point Average of 2.00 to remain an eligible participant in Student Government. Transcript Requests 28 Official Transcripts contain a record of all courses, grades and degrees received at SUNY Orange. Transcripts are sent to other parties such as colleges, prospective employers, or government agencies at the request of the student and payment of the required fee. NOTE: Transcripts will not be released if there is a hold on the student account. Online Transcript Ordering SUNY Orange is pleased to offer students and alumni the convenience of requesting and Remember... paying for Official Transcripts via You must now get a validation sticker for the National Student Clearinghouse going to your Student I.D. and your parking permit by www.getmytranscript.com. Upon at the beginning of each semester. written request and following payment of appropriate fees, students may have transcripts sent to other parties such as colleges, prospective employers or government agencies. Transcripts are mailed within a week of the request, in order of receipt, except for peak periods at the beginning and end of each semester. At those times, volume may require two or three weeks for processing. Transcripts should be requested well in advance of the required receipt date. Requests must be signed by the student, authorizing release of transcripts, and include the transcript fee of $5 per copy. Please be advised that institutions and agencies requesting transcripts will not consider them official unless mailed directly from SUNY Orange or hand-delivered in a sealed envelope marked “unofficial if seal is broken.” Only the student (with appropriate photo identification) may pick up his or her transcript, unless he or she has given written permission to a designee, with a verified signature. The designee should also provide photo identification. Veteran Affairs The College’s Veterans Affairs Certifying Official, located in the Academic Advising Center, provides benefit information, enrollment certification and support services to meet the needs of military veteran students and their dependents. Additionally, a designated academic advisor works with veteran students to help them develop and pursue academic plans, acclimate to the academic environment, and secure any additional resources necessary to facilitate success. For further information, please call the VA Certifying Official at 845341-4071, or visit www.sunyorange.edu/advising/ veterans/index.shtml. Waiver for Physical Education for Health Reasons If you seek a waiver of physical education as a graduation requirement because of a physical limitation you must follow this procedure: • Pick up a “Physical Education Waiver Request” form for your physician from the Associate Academic Vice Presidents’ office located in the Middletown campus Library, or Student Services Central in Newburgh. • Give the “Physical Education Waiver Request” form to your Physician. (They must read it before sending a letter requesting a physical education waiver.) • Have your physician write a letter using his or her letterhead and following the instructions on the “Physical Education Waiver Request” form. • Return the physician’s letter to the Associate Academic Vice Presidents’ office located in the Library. NOTE: Students with long term disabilities should make their application for waivers their first semester at college. Wellness Center The Wellness Center at SUNY Orange is designed to promote health education and wellness on campus. Primary nursing and emergency care, health counseling Call the Event Hotline for the latest listing of college events 866-590-7776 29 with referrals, and educational programs are provided by registered nurses. You are eligible for services at no additional cost. Part-time students pay $2/semester for Accident insurance only. All accidents should be reported to the The Wellness Center office so that an incident report can be completed. Insurance claim forms and instructions for claim submission will be provided by our staff at that time. Wellness Center staff is available to give students information about access to primary health care facilities and how to apply for health insurance through outside insurance companies and managed care organizations. For office hours and calendar of health education events visit www.sunyorange.edu/wellnesscenter, or call The Wellness Center. (see page 1 for phone and office location information) Insurance information can also be found at www.studentplanscenter.com. When asked the name of the college, type in Orange County Community College. Withdrawal from a Course When you find it necessary to withdraw from a course(s), you must complete and file the Drop/Add form, by the withdrawal deadline stipulated in the academic calendar, with the Office of Records and Registration. If you officially withdraw from college or course(s) by the end of the tenth week or its equivalent, you will receive a grade of W; thereafter, only the instructor may give a grade of W through the thirteenth week of a course (or its equivalent). An instructor is not required to do an Instructor Withdrawal. After such time, an academic letter grade will be assigned by the instructor. If you are required to enroll in developmental courses, you must complete them. (This does not preclude Official Withdrawal from College by the withdrawal deadline listed in the academic calendar.) If you seek a waiver of this policy, you must obtain permission of the instructor, advisor, and the Registrar. If you choose to enroll in developmental courses, you may withdraw with the signature of your advisor. If you receive financial aid, you should check with the Financial Aid Office prior to withdrawal since it may affect current or future awards of aid. Withdrawal from College You may withdraw from the College and from all current semester courses, including developmental, if you do so by the end of the thirteenth week or its equivalent. You should discuss this decision with your advisor prior to withdrawal. Search and browse class schedules online: www.sunyorange.edu/ schedules 30 You must complete the Total Withdrawal from College form and the Drop/Add form with appropriate signatures by the end of the thirteenth week of class or its equivalent (see Academic Calendar). Exit interviews with an Academic Advisor are required of all matriculated students. If you receive any form of financial aid, you are required to obtain a financial aid officer’s signature. If you are a non-matriculated student, you should complete and file the forms with Records and Registration in Middletown or Student Services Central in Newburgh. Computer and Network Use Policy This policy defines the acceptable use of computers and networks made available to employees and students of the College and any other person granted such access. The College network exists to enrich the learning environment and to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of all other College operations. Usage of the network is a privilege and is limited to those functions. Since some communications over the network involve matters of academic freedom and sensitive or protected communications, this policy assumes the privacy of such communications. User Responsibilities Since College computers are to be used only for enriching the learning environment or for enhancing the operating effectiveness of the College, following are the types of uses that are prohibited: • Displaying or transmitting material that is not educational or does not support the curriculum of the College and that could otherwise be considered sexually explicit, profane, racist, harassing, threatening or creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment • Disguising the source of electronic messages • Modifying the network in any way (includes adding access points or installing bridges, switches, hubs, or repeaters) • Running unauthorized programs or applications on the network • Gaining unauthorized access to any electronic resource • Circumventing security systems designed to prevent unauthorized access • Accessing, downloading, or storing of copyrighted software or information which is not licensed • Transmitting any material in violation of federal or New York State regulations • Using computing resources for commercial or profit-making activities • Accessing or attempting to access any electronic resource for which the user does not have authorization • Disrupting another user’s work or system • Broadcasting messages or any other activity that results in the congestion of the network • Distribution and/or sharing of user accounts and passwords 31 College Responsibilities The College is responsible for the design, maintenance and good working order of the network and for providing ongoing user training on the appropriate uses of the network. The College is also responsible for investigating any suspected abuse of this policy. Such investigation may include remote monitoring of online activities and inspection of user’s computer work areas. If an abuse becomes apparent, the College may invoke stricter supervision, limit or revoke the user’s privileges, or take other appropriate action. E-mail Policy SUNY Orange uses e-mail as the official means of communicating academic and administrative information to students. Most announcements will come to a student’s e-mail inbox in the form of the “Student Grapevine.” Assignment of E-mail Address SUNY Orange assigns an e-mail address (@sunyorange.edu) to each registered student. This College issued e-mail account will be designated as the student’s official e-mail address when administrative and academic departments need to communicate with students. College Responsibility The College is responsible for communicating with students in a timely and accurate way about changes in policies, procedures and deadlines that affect them. The College will select the most appropriate method (mail, telephone, e-mail) to convey pertinent information to specific groups of students. In some cases, e-mail may be used exclusively. Routine announcements, administrative and academic dates and deadlines, and information of a general nature will typically only be sent by e-mail. Student Responsibility Students are responsible for receiving, reading, responding to and complying with official e-mail communications sent by the College. Because information may be time-sensitive, students are encouraged to check their e-mail regularly (daily, several times weekly) throughout the semester. Students who opt to redirect their @sunyorange.edu e-mail account to another personal e-mail account do so at their own risk. The College is not responsible for e-mail that is not delivered to a forwarded address or for spam filters that may block e-mail messages. The student’s failure to receive or read e-mail communications does not constitute an excuse for missing College communications or meeting College deadlines. SUNY Orange Student Grapevine College information to students will be communicated twice weekly through the e-newsletter, the “Student Grapevine.” The Student Grapevine, which will include announcements, schedules of events, and notifications of College deadlines, will replace most mailings, flyers and postcards that are currently distributed to students. An online version of the Student Grapevine will be posted to the College’s website. 32 Rights and Responsibilities Information Important information students and staff have the Right and the Responsibility to know . . . • Access to Official College Records • Student Grievance Procedures • Code of Student Conduct • Religious Rights • Alcohol and Other Drug Policy • Parking Regulations • Campus Safety and Security Student Rights and Responsibilities Orange County Community College is proud of its reputation for academic excellence and the safe and conducive environment for learning which exists on the Middletown and Newburgh campuses. In an effort to maintain the quality of life, both in and outside of the classroom setting, the College has adopted various codes, policies and grievance procedures for the benefit of all students. ACCESS TO OFFICIAL COLLEGE RECORDS The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act was designed to ensure that the educational records of colleges and universities would be open to inspection and correction and that recorded information, in whatever medium, would not be made freely available to individuals outside the college without student consent. Copies of the Act are available from the Records and Registration Office on request. The official academic file for each student is maintained in the Records and Registration Office. A typical file contains the following documents: • Official transcript • College application and acceptance letters • High School transcript or GED • Test scores if not on high school transcript • College assessment results • Transcripts from previous college(s) and transfer credit evaluation(s) • Verification of submission of Medical Form to College Nurse • Change of grade, curriculum, permanent address forms • Registration and drop/add forms • Graduation waivers and substitutions • Absence notices • D-F-W reports filed by instructors • Graduation application and recommendations • Notice of academic action (probation, separation) • Notice of disciplinary action • Student’s request for nondisclosure of directory information Disclosure to Student 34 1. On presentation of proper I.D., a student may request to review the contents of his or her academic file. An appointment will be made, within a reasonable amount of time (and no later than 45 days), with the student, a staff member or counselor to review the file in the Records and Registration Office. 2. Official Transcripts contain a record of all courses, grades and degrees received at SUNY Orange. Transcripts are sent to other parties such as colleges, prospective employers, or government agencies at the request of the student and payment of the required fee. Information on ordering transcripts can be found on page 28. NOTE: Transcripts will not be released if there is a hold on the student account. 3. Students may receive a student copy of his/her transcript on written request and payment of the transcript fee. Official copies bearing authorized signature and/or the College Seal are directly mailed or faxed to third parties by the College. 4. Any document submitted by or for students to support application for admission or award of transfer credit remains in the student’s file. These documents will not be forwarded to a third party. They must be requested from the originating institution by the student. Disclosure to Relatives/Guardian/Spouse Information will be released with permission of the student or on subpoena. Students and former students will be notified of the latter case. See also Directory Information. Access to Records by Faculty & Administration Faculty and administrative staff who have an educational interest in student academic files may review them in the Records and Registration Office. Medical, counseling, and security records are not open to faculty and administrative staff for general review except where covered by the Act. Disclosure to Other Individuals, Institutions, & Telephone Inquiries (Directory Information) The following items are matters of public record and will be released without student consent unless the student wishes to deny release to all but those authorized by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, except disclosures allowed through the Solomon Act. Students should address their written requests for nondisclosure to the Registrar. 1. Student status. 2. Current enrollment or dates of enrollment. 3. Curriculum (program) and year of study. 4. Degree/certificate (if any), date of award, major, and honors received. 5. Names and addresses of graduates requested by state or local representatives who wish to send congratulatory messages. 6. Names and addresses of graduates requested by bona fide educational institutions who seek to inform graduates of transfer opportunities and other educational options or other educational institutions with whom we have a specific agreement (eg. Franklin Institute). Not to be Released (without student consent): • Address and telephone numbers. • Grades, test scores, averages, academic status, or terms of suspension/ dismissal. • Date or place of birth. • Health status, attendance, course work, or disciplinary action. Student Appeal Process Students are advised that grievance procedures can be initiated in the event that protected rights and freedoms have been violated. See Student Grievance Procedure, for details. 35 Any requests for assistance or questions concerning the Privacy Act should be directed to either the Vice President for Student Services or the Registrar. Disclosure by Other Offices of the Institution 1. The foregoing guidelines are applicable to handling any request for academic information about students or former students received by any member of the faculty, administration, or clerical staff. The guidelines are intended to protect the individual’s right to privacy and the confidentiality of his academic records throughout the institution. 2. All institutional personnel should be alert to refer promptly to the Office of Records and Registration requests for transcripts, certifications or other information which that office provides. Faculty and other staff members should restrict their responses to acknowledging, when appropriate, the receipt of request for student information, or limit their response to that information germain to their sphere of responsibility or their relationship to the student (faculty advisor, major professor, instructor, etc.). 3. Should placement files be set up, information contained therein would have been submitted by the student for the purpose of employment, it obviously may be released to anyone for this purpose, but for this purpose only. Whenever there is a need for the institution to issue a transcript of the student’s educational record in connection with employment, it should be specifically requested of the Records and Registration Office by the student. Withholding Information Release of information, grade reports, transcripts, certifications, etc., will be withheld at the request of the appropriate office for unmet financial obligations, violation of non-academic regulations, unreturned books to the Library, unreturned materials to individual departments or divisions. Student Records/Confidentiality All student records are maintained and made available in accordance with the Federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974. With some exceptions, all student records are available for review upon request by that student, and the right to challenge the content is provided. No records are released to third persons except as provided in the Act. Further information is available from the Office of Records and Registration. Notification of Student Rights under FERPA 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 College receives a request for access. 36 Students should submit to the Director of Academic Services or Vice President for Student Development written requests that identify the record(s) they wish to inspect. The College 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 College official to whom the request was submitted, that official shall advise the student of the correct official to whom the request should be addressed. 2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes are inaccurate or misleading. Students may ask the College to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the College official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the College decides not to amend the record as requested by the student, the College 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. 3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception that permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the College in an administrative, supervisory, academic, research, or support staff position (including law enforcement unit personnel and health staff); a person or company with whom the College 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. Upon request, the College will disclose education records without consent to officials of another school which a student seeks or intends to enroll (barring any indebtedness to this College). 4. Students have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the College to comply with FERPA requirements: Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 600 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20202-4605. Parents’ Rights Message to Parents in Regards to Student Records: Orange County Community College is guided by the principle that students' active involvement in their education enhances their learning and development. In keeping with this principle, SUNY Orange considers its primary relationship to be with its students. When the student is a tax dependent of parents/guardians, it is important that both parties discuss how they will communicate. Academic progress is reported to students with the expectation that this information will be part of on-going discussions with parents/guardians. 37 If said discussions are not taking place with the student, the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act has provided two ways in which parents/guardians of dependent students may inspect the educational records of the student. The first is to obtain a signed written consent from the student and submit consent to the Registrar in the Office of Records and Registration. A student's signed written consent must specify the records to be inspected; state the purpose for disclosure; and identify the person(s) to whom the disclosure should be made. A new consent form would be required each year or when access to additional educational records not covered in the first consent form is being requested. If the consent form does not specify the actual records to be inspected or simply states something equivalent to ‘all educational records', the only educational records that will be disclosed are those that appear on the most current academic transcript. If the student is unwilling to provide a signed written consent, the final alternative is for the parents/guardians to provide the Registrar with a copy of the preceding year's tax returns to demonstrate the student is a tax dependent. The copy provided must have either been completed by a third party (i.e., H&R Block) or be an official full complete copy (not the shortened version) from the Internal Revenue Service. Information on how to obtain this version can be found by contacting the IRS Office at 1-800-829-1040. When the documentation is submitted, the parents/guardians must also specify the records to be inspected. If the request simply states something equivalent to ‘all educational records', the only educational records that will be disclosed are those that appear on the most current academic transcript. According to FERPA, an institution has up to 45 days after a valid request is presented to arrange for the inspection of the specified educational records. The meetings in the majority of cases will be made with the Registrar who acts as the FERPA Officer for the institution, and not with individual faculty members. Interim/Involuntary Medical Withdrawal A student will be subject to a College Interim or Involuntary Medical Withdrawal if the College determines that the student is suffering from a physical, emotional or psychological condition in which the resulting behavior: 1) poses an imminent danger, physical harm or threat to the campus community or to the student; or 2) substantially impedes the activities of the campus or other members of the campus community, including the educational process, activities or functions fo the College and its personnel. In the event of an Interim or Involuntary Medical Withdrawal, the student may be prohibited from attending classes and/or being on campus. The student will be required to submit a physician’s medical release and/or mental health evaluation prior to registering for another semester. Students may not be eligible for a waiver of tuition charges under this procedure. 38 STUDENT GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE The purpose of the Student Academic Grievance Procedure is to encourage the informal resolution of academic issues that might surface between students and faculty in a manner that is timely and upholds standards of academic integrity. In the event that students and faculty are unable to resolve an academic issue, the formal stage provides additional fair and equitable procedures for students. Students should understand that each stage of the process is an important one; therefore, it is not possible to move through the process unless previous stages have been followed. The procedure must be utilized by all students regardless of the location at which the grievance has arisen or the mode of delivery for the course. Procedures: A student having a concern of an academic nature with a faculty member arising from participation in a credit class should follow the procedure outlined below. Such concerns could include the belief that his/her grade(s) is not consistent with the grade criteria designated by the course instructor/syllabus. Should the grievance reach the formal stage the student has the right to seek the assistance of an unbiased third party, which includes the student’s academic advisor or an individual from a pool of trained volunteers. The role of this third party is to help the student prepare for and navigate the formal process. It is not the role of this third party to represent the student during this process. 1. Informal Stage: a. The student must first discuss the matter with the course instructor. This discussion should commence as soon as possible but (1) no later than 30 calendar days after the start of the following spring semester if the concern arose during the fall semester or (2) no later than 30 calendar days after the start of the following fall semester if the concern arose during the spring semester or summer session. Faculty must document the date of meeting with the student. b. If the student and the instructor cannot resolve the matter in this discussion, the student will have five business days after meeting with the instructor to contact the appropriate department chair to discuss the matter informally with him/her. The chair must consult with the instructor and may include the instructor in the mediation. The student and the instructor should provide copies of all relevant material. The chair will make a decision within five business days and communicate the rationale for the decision to the instructor and the student. c. The student will have five business days from the date of the Chair’s decision to contact the appropriate Associate Vice President to discuss the matter informally with him/her. If the academic grievance requires the issuance of a grade change, at the objection of the instructor, the student must enter the formal stage of the grievance process. 39 2. a. 40 Formal Stage: If the matter has not been resolved informally, the student will have five business days after discussion in 1(c) to file a formal, written Academic Grievance Notice with the appropriate Associate Vice President. The Academic Grievance Notice form (see attached) will be available through academic departments and should include a clear statement of the student’s specific complaint, a clear statement of how the student would like to see the matter resolved, and relevant documentation that supports the student’s claim(s). b. The Associate Vice President will inform the course instructor and the department chair of the formal grievance and will have ten business days to meet with all parties involved, make a thorough evaluation, and notify the student, course instructor, and department chair in writing of his/her findings, decision, and the rationale for his/her decision. 3. Appeal: a. If the student is not satisfied with the decision of the Associate Vice President, he/she will have five business days to file a formal, written appeal with the Vice President for Academic Affairs. This written appeal should include a copy of the Academic Grievance Notice submitted to the Associate Vice President and any additional documentation or explanation that is appropriate. b. The Vice President for Academic Affairs will inform the course instructor, the department chair, and the Associate Vice President of the formal appeal and will have ten business days to meet with all parties involved, make a thorough evaluation, and notify the student, course instructor, department chair, and Associate Vice President in writing of his/her findings, decision, and the rationale for his/her decision. 4. Final Appeal: a. If the student is not satisfied with the decision of the Vice President for Academic Affairs, the student will have five business days to file a formal, written grievance with the President of the College. This written appeal should include a copy of the Academic Grievance Notice submitted previously and any additional documentation or explanation that is appropriate. Only those grievances heard and decided during previous stages of this process can be considered by the President. The President will issue a formal decision to all parties, in writing, within ten business days. The President’s decision is final. NOTE: The authority to assign grades rests with the faculty member who is instructor of record; however, under extraordinary circumstances, if the academic grievance requires the issuance of a grade change, at the objection of the instructor, only the Associate Vice President, Vice President for Academic Affairs, or the President may authorize such in the formal or appeal stages. Students are required to utilize the informal stage to attempt to resolve all academic grievances, including those pertaining to grades. RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR MAINTENANCE OF PUBLIC ORDER ON THE CAMPUS OF ORANGE COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE 1. Statement of Purpose. The following rules have been adopted by the Board of Trustees in compliance with Section 6450 of the Education Law and have been filed with the Commissioner of Education and the Board of Regents on July 20, 1969, as required by that section. Nothing herein is intended, nor shall it be constructed, to limit or restrict freedom of speech nor peaceful assembly, and it is not intended by any provision herein to curtail the rights of students, faculty, or staff to be heard upon any matter affecting them in their relations with this institution. In the case of any apparent violation of these rules by such persons, which in the judgment of the chief administrative officer or his designee does not pose any immediate threat of injury to person or property, such officer may make reasonable effort to learn the cause of the conduct in question and to persuade those engaged therein to desist and to resort to permissive methods for the resolution of any issues which may be presented. In doing so, such officers shall warn such persons of the consequences of persistence in the prohibited conduct, including their eviction from any premises of the institution where their continued presence and conduct is in violation of these rules. 2. Application of Rules. These rules are not intended to repeal, supersede, or preclude any other rules or policies relating to the same subject matter except to the extent they are inconsistent therewith. The rules hereby adopted shall govern the conduct of students, faculty, and other staff, licensees, invitees, and all other persons, whether or not their presence is authorized, and also upon or with respect to any other premises or property under the control of the institution used in its teaching, administrative, service, cultural, recreational, athletic and other programs and activities. 3. Prohibited conduct. No person, either singly or in concert with others, shall: a. Willfully cause physical injury to any other person, nor threaten to do so for the purpose of compelling or inducing such other person to refrain from any act which he has a lawful right to do or to do any act which he has a lawful right not to do. b. Physically restrain or detain any other person, nor remove such person from any place where he is authorized to remain. c. Willfully damage or destroy property of the institution or under its jurisdiction, nor remove or use such property without authorization. d. Without permission, expressed or implied, enter into any 41 42 private office of an administrative officer, member of the faculty, or staff member. e. Enter upon and remain in any building or facility for any purpose other than its authorized use or in such manner as to obstruct its authorized use by others. f. Without authorization, remain in any building or facility after it is normally closed. g. Refuse to leave any building, facility or area after being requested to do so by an authorized administrative officer. h. Obstruct the free movement of persons and vehicles in any place to which these rules apply. i. Deliberately disrupt or prevent the peaceful and orderly conduct of classes, lectures, meetings, and administrative functions, or deliberately interfere with the freedom of any person to express his views, including invited speakers. j. Knowingly have in his possession upon any premises to which these rules apply, any rifle, shotgun, pistol, revolver, or other firearm or weapon without the written authorization of the chief administrative officer whether or not a license to possess the same has been issued to such person. k. Willfully incite others to commit any of the acts herein prohibited with specific intent to procure them to do so. l. Be involved in any action or situation which recklessly or intentionally endangers mental or physical health or involves the forced consumption of liquor or drugs for the purpose of initiation into or affiliation with any organization. 4. Freedom of Speech and Assembly, Picketing and Demonstration. No student, faculty, or other staff member or authorized visitor shall be subject to any limitation or penalty solely for the expression of his views nor for having assembled with others for such purpose. Peaceful picketing and other orderly demonstrations in public areas of ground and building will not be interfered with. Those involved in picketing and demonstrations may not, however, engage in specific conduct in violation of the provisions of the preceding section. 5. Penalties. A person who shall violate any of the provisions of these rules shall: a. If he/she is a trespasser or visitor without specific license or invitation, be subject to ejection or arrest by local police. b. If he/she is a licensee or invitee, have his authorization to remain upon the campus or other property withdrawn and shall be directed to leave the premises. In the event of his/her failure or refusal to do so, he/she shall be subject to ejection. c. If he/she is a student, be subject to expulsion or such lesser disciplinary action as the facts of the case may warrant, including suspension, probation, loss of privileges, reprimand or warning. d. If he/she is a faculty member on probation or on tenure, be guilty of misconduct and be subject to dismissal or termination of his/her employment or such lesser disciplinary action as the facts may warrant, including suspension or censure. e. If he/she is a staff member in the classified service of the civil service, be guilty of misconduct, and be subject to the penalties prescribed in the civil service law. f. If he/she is a staff member other than one described in paragraphs (d) and (e), be subject to dismissal, suspension or censure. 6. Procedure. The chief administrative officer or his/her designee shall inform any licensee or invitee who shall violate any provision of these rules that his/her license of invitation is withdrawn and shall direct him/her to leave the campus or other property of the institution. In the event of his/her failure or refusal to do so, such officer shall cause his/her ejection from the campus or property. In the case of any other violator who is neither a student, faculty, nor other staff member, the chief administrative officer or his designee shall inform him/her that he/she is not authorized to remain on the campus or other property of the institution and direct him/her to leave such premises. In the event of his/her failure or refusal to do so, such officer shall cause his/her ejection from such campus or property. Nothing in this paragraph shall be construed to authorize the presence of any such person at any time prior to such violation nor affect his/her liability to prosecution for trespass or loitering as prescribed in the Penal Law. In the case of a student, charges for violation of any of these rules shall be presented and shall be heard and a recommendation to the chief administrative officer shall be made under the “Code of Student Conduct” for the disposition of charges. In the case of a faculty member, charges of misconduct in violation of these rules shall be made by the chief administrative officer or his/her designee and thereafter heard and determined by the Board of Trustees of Orange County Community College within 30 days. In the case of a staff member, charges of misconduct in violation of these rules shall be made by the chief administrative officer or his/her designee and thereafter heard and determined by the Board of Trustees of Orange County Community College within 30 days. 7. Enforcement Program. The chief administrative officer shall be responsible for the enforcement of these rules and he/she shall designate in writing the other administrative officers who are authorized to take action in accordance with these rules when required or appropriate to carry them into effect. 43 In any case where violation of these rules does not cease after warning and in other cases of willful violation of these rules, the chief administrative officer or his/her designee shall cause the ejection of the violator from any premises which he/she occupies in such violation and shall initiate disciplinary action as herein before provided. The chief administrative officer or his/her designee may apply to the public authorities for any aid which he/she deems necessary in causing the ejection of any violator of these rules and he/she may request the county attorney to apply to any court of appropriate jurisdiction for an injunction to restrain the violation or threatened violation of these rules. Adopted: Board of Trustees 7/15/1969 44 CODE OF STUDENT CONDUCT ARTICLE I: STATEMENT OF PURPOSE Orange County Community College Board of Trustees, administration, faculty, and staff have a primary concern for the academic achievement, standards, and personal integrity of our students. We recognize our obligation to protect college property and we take a special interest in the mental and physical health and safety of our community. We are committed to preserving the peace, uplifting campus morale, and creating a civil climate on our campuses. The College has adopted the following policies and procedures as an expression of its expectations of student conduct. ARTICLE II: CODE OF STUDENT CONDUCT SECTION A: Jurisdiction of the College College jurisdiction shall be limited to conduct which occurs on College premises or which occurs off College premises and adversely affects members of the College community and/or the pursuit of the College mission. SECTION B: Conduct – Rules and Regulations Any student or organization found to have committed or to have attempted to commit any of the following acts of misconduct is subject to the disciplinary sanctions outlined in Article IV. 1. Acts of dishonesty, including, but not limited to: a. Cheating, including cybercheating b. Fabrication c. Facilitating academic dishonesty d. Plagiarism, including internet plagiarism e. Forgery f. Bribery g. Multiple submission (submitting the same assignment to more than one instructor without the permission of the instructors). Please refer to the College Academic Policy for other means of resolution for academic dishonesty issues. 2. Violation of any provisions of the professional and/or ethical codes of programs in the fields of Allied Health, Nursing, Kindercollege or any other applicable programs. 3. Interference with the College approved operation of any College recognized student organization. 4. Disorderly conduct, including but not limited to: disruption or obstruction of teaching, research, administration, disciplinary proceedings, other College activities, and other campus activities. 5. Conduct which alarms, threatens or in some manner disrupts the learning process of another student and/or the ability of faculty to teach. 6. Physical abuse, verbal abuse, threats, intimidation, stalking, coercion and/or other conduct which threatens or endangers the health, wellbeing or safety of any person. 45 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19 46 Sexual misconduct (see Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment Policies). Harassment which serves to degrade the status of another person. Most often, harassment focuses on a personal attribute, singling it out for ridicule, attack or disparagement. Attributes include, but are not limited to: race or ethnic origin, gender, physical or mental disability, age, religion, economic class, and sexual orientation. Harassment may include physical contact, written or verbal comments or suggestions, obscene or offensive pictures or “jokes,” hostile or threatening gestures or other forms of degradation. This includes acts of harassment carried out by one or more students on behalf of and/or at the request of another student. Theft of and/or damage to property of the College, property of a member of the College community, or other personal or public property. Hazing, which is an act which endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student, or involves the forced consumption of liquor or drugs, or which destroys or removes public or private property for the purpose of initiation, admission into, affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in a group or organization. Consent of the participants is not a defense against a complaint of hazing. Failure to comply with directions of a College employee or emergency or service personnel acting in performance of their official duties. Failure to identify oneself to a College employee or emergency or service personnel acting in performance of their official duties when requested to do so. Unauthorized possession, duplication or use of keys, combinations, or access cards to any College premises or unauthorized entry to or use of College property. Violation of published College policies, rules or regulations found in, but not limited to, the Student Handbook, the Rights and Responsibilities booklet, Parking and Traffic Regulations, Individual Department Handbooks, Academic Policy, and the College Catalog. Use, possession or distribution of illegal drugs, narcotics or other controlled substances, and drug-related paraphernalia, except as permitted by federal, state and/or local law. Public intoxication or the use, possession or distribution of alcoholic beverages except as expressly permitted by federal, state and/or local law and College regulations (see the College Alcohol Policy). Possession of firearms, explosives, or other weapons, or unauthorized use of dangerous chemicals or substances on College premises. Participation in a campus demonstration which disrupts the normal operations of the College and infringes on the rights of other members of the College community; leading or inciting others to disrupt scheduled and/or normal activities within any campus building or area. Intentional obstruction of the free flow of pedestrian or vehicular traffic on College premises or at College sponsored or supervised functions. 20. Conduct which is disorderly, lewd, or indecent; breach of peace; or aiding, abetting, or procuring another person to breach the peace on College premises or at functions sponsored by, or participated in, by the College. 21. Theft or other abuse of computer resources, including, but not limited to: a. Commercial use of computing resources; b. Data interception; c. Forgery; d. Willfully engaging in practices that place undue burdens on college resources (ie. Spamming); e. Engaging in or disseminating illegal, obscene, threatening, discriminating, fraudulent, defamatory, intimidating, harassing, embarrassing or unwelcome electronic communication; f. Copying, modifying or destroying college network or internetbased files; and, g. Accessing or attempting to access the college network or internet resources for which the user is not authorized or granted explicit permission. 22. Abuse of the judicial system, including but not limited to: a. Failure to comply with the directive to appear before a hearing panel or disciplinary conference administrator after having received appropriate notification of such a directive. b. Falsification, distortion, or misrepresentation of information before a hearing panel or disciplinary conference administrator. c. Disruption or interference with the orderly conduct of a judicial proceeding. d. Knowingly instituting a judicial proceeding without cause. e. Influencing or attempting to influence another person to commit an abuse of the judicial system. f. Attempting to discourage an individual’s proper participation in, or use of, the judicial system. g. Attempting to influence the impartiality of a member of a hearing panel or of a disciplinary conference administrator prior to and/or during the course of a judicial proceeding. h. Harassment (verbal or physical) and/or intimidation of any person involved in a judicial proceeding. i. Failure to comply with a sanction imposed under the Student Rights and Responsibilities. j. Failure to comply with an agreed upon informal resolution. 23. Engaging in gambling activities defined as illegal by federal, state or local law and/or by College regulations. 24. Behavior prohibited by federal, state and/or local laws. 47 ARTICLE III: JUDICIAL PROCEDURES SECTION A: Complaints and Hearings 1. Any member of the College community may file a complaint against a student for allegedly violating the Code of Conduct. The person who files the complaint shall be the Complainant. The student alleged to have violated the Code of Conduct shall be the Respondent. 2. All complaints shall be prepared in writing and directed to the Vice President for Student Services. If the incident occurs on the Newburgh campus, the Vice President for the Newburgh Campus will be notified and receive copies of all documents pertaining to alleged violations of the Code of Conduct occurring on the Newburgh campus and may initiate such action with the Vice President for Student Services. A complaint shall contain; a. The identity of the Complainant, the Respondent; b. The specific element(s) of the Code of Conduct alleged to have been violated; c. The date, time and place of the alleged violation(s); and, d. The names of any witnesses. 3. Complaints should be submitted as soon as possible, but in no event later than 30 days, after the violation occurs. A complaint may be filed after 30 days only when the Vice President for Student Services finds special circumstances exist that warrant a late filing. Incident/security reports may be considered complaints and filed with the Vice President for Student Services, in which case the College may be considered the Complainant. 4. The Vice President for Student Services shall determine if the alleged conduct may constitute a violation of the Code of Conduct. If so, the case shall proceed for adjudication. 48 SECTION B: Informal Resolution 1. Filing a complaint shall not always require a formal adjudication process. In the event that the Vice President for Student Services elects to seek an informal resolution, he/she will review all relevant information, interview pertinent witnesses, and bring together the Complainant and Respondent, if desirable. 2. Resolution shall be achieved when the Vice President for Student Services, Complainant and Respondent are satisfied that the behavior at issue has been addressed and a mutually acceptable outcome has been achieved. The resolution shall be reduced to writing by the Vice President for Student Services or designee and mailed to the parties. 3. Respondent’s failure to respond to a request by the Vice President for Student Services or designee’s request to participate in an informal resolution may result in a letter to the Respondent warning the Respondent that failure to respond may result in referral of the complaint to the Board of Inquiry for a hearing. 4. At the informal stage, resolution of an incident occurring on the Newburgh campus will be achieved when the Vice President for Student Services, the complaintant, the respondent, and the Vice President for the Newburgh Campus are satisfied that the behavior at issue has been addressed, and when an outcome acceptable to both the Vice President for Student Services and the Vice President for the Newburgh Campus has been achieved. 5. If the Vice President for Student Services is unable to resolve the complaint to the mutual satisfaction of the Complainant and the Respondent, the Vice President for Student Services shall advise the Complainant of his/her right to proceed formally. SECTION C: Formal Adjudication 1. If the complaint is to be adjudicated using formal procedures, the Vice President for Student Services shall convene the Board of Inquiry to act as the hearing panel. 2. All complaints to be adjudicated by the Board of Inquiry shall be presented to the Respondent in written form. 3. No student may be found responsible for the alleged violation of the Code of Conduct solely because the student failed to appear before a hearing panel, however, the hearing will proceed as scheduled if the Respondent fails to attend. In all cases, the evidence in support of the complaint shall be presented and considered. 4. As the Board of Inquiry does not meet during the summer months, all alleged violations of the Code of Conduct during that time period shall be resolved by the Vice President for Student Services through informal resolution. If informal resolution fails, the case will be referred to an alternate Board of Inquiry composed of faculty, staff and students as available. 5. During the disciplinary process, the victim's rights are: • To have a person or persons of the victim's choice accompany the victim throughout the disciplinary hearing • To remain present during the entire proceeding • As established in state criminal codes, to be assured that his/her irrelevant past sexual history will not be discussed during the hearing • To make a "victim impact statement" and to suggest an appropriate penalty if the accused is found in violation of the code • To be informed immediately of the outcome of the hearing • During the disciplinary process, the rights of the "accused" are as described under the Due Process Procedure of the College Judicial System SECTION D: Hearing Procedures The following procedures apply when a complaint has been directed by the Vice President for Student Services to the Board of Inquiry, which will serve as the hearing panel. 49 50 1. Composition of the Board of Inquiry-The Board of Inquiry is composed of seven members; four students appointed by the Student Senate, and three faculty members appointed by the College Governance System. One of these faculty members shall be designated as the Chair of the Board of Inquiry. The College Governance System shall appoint alternate faculty members and the Student Senate shall appoint alternate student members. 2. Advisors-The Complainant and Respondent may only be advised by one current faculty or staff member of Orange County Community College. Family members and other individuals may not serve as advisors and may not be present during the hearing. The Complainant and Respondent may not appear by or be represented by an attorney and no attorneys may be present at any time during a hearing. 3. Scheduling the Hearing-Absent exigent circumstances, or unless the student and the College otherwise agree in writing, a hearing shall be scheduled to take place not more than fifteen (15) business days after the Respondent has been notified of the complaint. 4. Attendance-The hearing shall be closed and attendance shall be limited to members of the Board of Inquiry, the Judicial Advisor, the Complainant, the Respondent, their respective advisors, and any witnesses deemed necessary by the parties. 5. Role of Panel Chair-The chair of the hearing panel shall preside over the hearing. All procedural questions shall be subject to the final direction and discretion of the chair. The chair of the hearing panel shall introduce members of the hearing panel and ask all hearing participants to identify themselves. All testimony and questioning shall be at the direction and the discretion of the chair. The chair may limit or exclude testimony or questioning of any hearing participant to the extent that such testimony or questioning is repetitive of matters previously presented or is not relevant to the incident in question. The chair may recess the hearing at any time. 6. Role of Judicial Advisor-The Judicial Advisor shall be available to the hearing panel for consultation regarding procedural elements any time during the hearing. The Judicial Advisor may request that the chair recess the hearing at any time. 7. Hearing Procedures-All hearings shall contain the following elements: a. The chair shall make opening remarks. b. The Complainant shall have the opportunity to present a statement about the incident in question. The Respondent shall then have the opportunity to present a statement about the incident in question. c. After the statements by the Complainant and the Respondent, members of the hearing panel shall have the opportunity to question both the Complainant and the Respondent. The Complainant and the Respondent shall have the opportunity to question each other. Only questions relevant to the alleged incident, and not repetitive to the hearing panel’s questioning, shall be allowed. d. The Complainant shall be offered the opportunity to present relevant evidence and witnesses one at a time. Members of the hearing panel shall have the opportunity to ask questions at the conclusion of each witness’s testimony. The Complainant and the Respondent shall have the opportunity to question the witness at the conclusion of each witness’s testimony. The chair shall permit witnesses to be present in the hearing room only during their testimony. e. The Respondent shall be offered the opportunity to present relevant evidence and witnesses one at a time. Members of the hearing panel shall have the opportunity to ask questions at the conclusion of each witness’s testimony. The Complainant and the Respondent shall have the opportunity to question at the conclusion of each witness’s testimony. The chair shall permit witnesses to be present in the hearing room only during their testimony. f. Members of the hearing panel shall have the opportunity to ask final questions. Prior to deliberations, the Complainant and the Respondent shall be asked if they have any other testimony they wish to present. g. After the presentation of all testimony, witnesses and evidence, and subsequent questioning, the chair shall call the board to deliberate. The Complainant, the Respondent, and their advisors shall be excused by the Judicial Advisor. The witnesses shall remain available at the hearing site until dismissed by the board. 8. A record of the proceedings shall be kept, including the evidence presented, documents and other exhibits, witnesses who testified, and the final findings and recommendations of the Board of Inquiry and the members’ votes. SECTION E: Deliberations 1. Normally, deliberations shall be carried out and completed as soon as practical following the hearing. Deliberations shall take place in private, with only the members of the hearing panel present. The Judicial Advisor shall be available to the hearing panel during the deliberations for consultation regarding the hearing procedure. During the sanctioning phase of the deliberations, the Judicial Advisor shall provide information regarding any previous judicial action involving the Respondent. SECTION F: Findings of Fact and Recommendations 1. Upon hearing all testimony, witnesses and evidence and after deliberations, the hearing panel shall either dismiss the complaint or find that the Respondent violated the Code of Conduct. 51 2. Findings that the Respondent violated the Code of Conduct shall be made on the basis of whether it is more likely than not that the Respondent violated the Code of Conduct. 3. A Respondent shall be presumed not responsible for a violation of the Code of Conduct until it has been demonstrated through credible testimony and evidence that it is more likely than not that the student committed the violation. 4. If the Board of Inquiry determines that the Respondent violated the Code of Conduct, it shall recommend to the Vice President for Student Services a sanction for the violation. 5. Prior to making a recommendation of sanction, the Judicial Advisor shall advise the Board of Inquiry of any previous judicial action taken against the Respondent. The hearing panel may recommend any level or combination of sanctions. 6. The findings of fact and recommendations shall reflect the majority opinion of the Board of Inquiry. SECTION G: Communication and Implementation of Findings of Fact and Recommendations 1. The written findings of fact and recommendations shall be forwarded to the Vice President for Student Services for action within two business days after the end of the hearing under normal circumstances. 2. The Vice President for Student Services may accept, reject, or modify the Board’s recommendation which shall be implemented unless an appeal is filed. 3. The Vice President for Student Services shall communicate his/her decision in writing to the Respondent, the Board of Inquiry, the Judicial Advisor, the Complainant (as appropriate with concern to the Respondent’s privacy rights) and any other appropriate College authorities. Under normal circumstances, the Vice President for Student Services shall communicate his/her decision within five days after receipt of the Board of Inquiry’s recommendation. 52 SECTION H: Appeal Procedures 1. The Respondent may file a written appeal to the hearing panel’s decision to the President of the College not more than five business days after receiving notification of the decision. Filing shall mean “received in the Office of the President.” 2. In the written appeal, it shall be the responsibility of the appellant to provide evidence of one or more of the following grounds for appeal: a. The original hearing was not conducted in conformity with prescribed procedures; b. Insufficiency of the evidence to reasonably support the decision; c. The sanction imposed was unduly harsh for the violation committed; d. Availability of new evidence that was not available at the time of the hearing sufficient to alter the decision. 3. If an appeal is granted by the President, he/she shall have access to the hearing record, including all documentary evidence, the written findings, and any other pertinent written information. After receiving the materials, he/she shall proceed in one of the following manners: a. The President alter the recommended sanction by making it more severe, less severe or otherwise different; or b. The manner may be remanded to the hearing panel for reopening of the hearing to allow reconsideration of the original determination and/or recommended sanction(s). 4. If an appeal is denied by the President, the decision of the hearing panel shall stand and the recommended sanction(s) shall be imposed. 5. The President shall provide written notification of the appeal decision to the hearing panel, Complainant (when necessary and appropriate), Respondent, the Judicial Advisor, and any other appropriate College authorities. 6. Recommended sanctions shall not be imposed during the pendancy of an appeal unless the nature of the conduct under review or the circumstances involved dictate otherwise. SECTION I: Interim/Involuntary Medical Withdrawal 1. In most cases, a student’s status is not altered pending a hearing or an appeal, unless preliminary information reasonably demonstrates that the student’s continued presence on campus would: a. pose a threat to the health, safety, or well-being of the student others within the College community, and/or b. threaten to cause a disruption to or interruption of College operations. 2. In the event the student’s continued presence poses such threat(s), the Vice President for Student Services or his/her designee may place the student on Interim/Involuntary Medical Withdrawal and deny the student access to the campus including all classes and cocurricular activities, on an interim basis. a. Except in an emergency, the Vice President for Student Services or his/her designee, will communicate with the student prior to instituting Interim/Involuntary Medical Withdrawal stating in writing the terms of the Interim/Involuntary Medical Withdrawal. b. The Vice President for Student Services or his/her designee will review the facts underlying the Interim/Involuntary Medical Withdrawal within five (5) business days of its commencement for the purpose of determining whether to continue the Interim/Involuntary Medical Withdrawal. At a minimum, the review will include: i. an opportunity for the student to meet and confer with the Vice President for Student Services or his/her designee. ii. notice as to the reason(s) for the Interim/Involuntary 53 Medical Withdrawal if not already communicated to the student iii. the opportunity for the student to present his/her version of the events leading up to the imposition of the Interim/Involuntary Medical Withdrawal. The Vice President for Student Services or his/her designee will decide whether to continue the Interim/Involuntary Medical Withdrawal within one (1) business day of the review and will communicate that decision to the student in an appropriate manner. ARTICLE IV: SANCTIONS SECTION A: Interim Suspension of Privileges 1. Faculty members retain the right to remove from the classroom (for the duration of that class period) any student demonstrating disruptive behavior. It is the responsibility of the faculty member to report the incident to the Vice President for Student Services and to indicate if they do not want the student to return to class (interim suspension) and the rationale for that request. This request will be acted upon by the Vice President for Student Services or designee prior to the next class session. 2. The Vice President for Student Services may issue an interim suspension of privileges for the following reasons: a. To insure the safety and well-being of members of the College community or to preserve College property; b. To insure a student’s own safety or well being; or c. If a student poses a threat of disruption or interference with the normal operations of the College. 3. During the interim suspension, a student may be denied access to College activities, facilities and/or classes or other privileges for which the student might otherwise be eligible, as the Vice President for Student Services may determine to be appropriate. 4. The decision to alter or suspend privileges for an interim period shall be communicated by the Vice President for Student Services in writing to the Respondent and shall be effective immediately. Notification shall either be hand-delivered or sent by certified mail. Failure or refusal to take receipt of notification shall not negate or postpone said action. The appropriate College officials shall be notified of the interim suspension including those directly involved in the pending complaint. 5. The interim suspension or altered privileges shall remain in effect until a final decision has been made regarding pending complaints or until the Vice President for Student Services determines that the reason for imposing the interim suspension of privileges no longer exists. Absent exigent circumstances, or unless otherwise agreed to by both parties, an expedited hearing shall take place within 10 business days of notification of the interim suspension. 54 SECTION B: Other Sanctions 1. The following sanctions may be imposed individually or in combination for any violation(s) of the Code of Conduct: a. Warning – A written notice to the student, identifying the nature of the Code of Conduct violation(s). The warning shall be placed in the student’s official record. b. Loss of privileges – Revocation of specified privileges for a specified time period (e.g. use of College facilities, cocurricular activities, work study). c. Restitution – Compensation for loss, damage or injury. Restitution may be monetary, an appropriate form of service, or the replacement of specific materials, as dictated by the situation. d. Educational Project – Completion of a project specifically designed to help the student understand why the Code of Conduct violation was inappropriate. e. Probation – A written reprimand for violation of a specified item in the Code of Conduct. Probation is for a designated period of time and includes the probability of more severe disciplinary sanctions if the student is found responsible for violating the Code of Conduct during the probationary period. f. Suspension – Separation from the College for a specified period of time, after which the student is eligible to return or the organization may resume its activities. g. Expulsion – Permanent separation from the College. h. Other sanctions as deemed appropriate by the Associate Vice President for Student Services. 2. The proper College authorities shall be notified of any sanction imposed. 3. Disciplinary sanctions shall be recorded in the student’s confidential file maintained in the Office of Student Services. 4. The following sanctions may be imposed upon student clubs or organizations: a. Those sanctions listed above in section B 1, a-f. b. Deactivation – Loss of recognition for a specified period of time. ARTICLE V: WITHDRAWAL AND READMISSION The Registrar shall be advised of any student who voluntarily withdraws from the College while a complaint is pending. The student must present adequate evidence of permission to re-enroll. Permission for reenrollment may be granted only after the complaint has been resolved, unless circumstances dictate otherwise. If the complaint cannot be resolved because the complainant, witnesses or evidence are not available, such permission may be denied by the Vice President for Student Services. ARTICLE VI: INTERPRETATION AND REVISION 1. Any question of interpretation regarding the Student Rights and Responsibilities shall be referred to the Vice President for Student Services or designee for final determination. 55 2. The Student Rights and Responsibilities shall be reviewed every three (3) years by the Board of Inquiry, the Vice President for Student Services and the College Attorney. The Ad Hoc Committee on the Code of Student Conduct may also be re-formed at this time to give input. SEXUAL ASSAULT PREVENTION What To Do If You Are Sexually Assaulted on Campus Get to a safe place as soon as you can Try to preserve all physical evidence; do not bathe, douche, or change your clothes • Contact SUNY Orange Department of Safety and Security in Middletown by dialing 77 from a campus phone or calling 341-4710, and in Newburgh by dialing 9533 from a campus phone or calling 341-9533. You may also use one of the Blue Light emergency phones, or any of the red or yellow phones located throughout the campus. • Security will contact Wellness Center and local law enforcement as appropriate • The Orange County Rape Hotline is available 24 hours a day at 1800-832-1200. The Rape Crisis Center will provide a specially trained advocate who will meet you at the hospital, and remain with you throughout the examination and reporting procedures. In addition, this program which is a service of the Mental Health Association in Orange County, can provide ongoing counseling and sexual assault survivor support groups. Remember, assaults—sexual or otherwise—are crimes; they are not the victim's fault. Victims have the right to pursue adjudication of crimes that occur on our campus through criminal courts and/or through the college's internal disciplinary process (under the Student Code of Conduct). SUNY Orange Safety and Security Department Officers are trained to assist victims throughout this process. • • Disciplinary Action Where there is probable cause to believe the College's regulations prohibiting sexual misconduct have been violated, the College will pursue strong disciplinary action through its own channels. This discipline includes the possibility of suspension or dismissal from the College. An individual charged with sexual misconduct will be subject to the College disciplinary procedures, whether or not prosecution under New York State Criminal Statutes is pending. The College will make every effort to be responsive and sensitive to the victims of these serious crimes. 56 Information and Support If you are the survivor of a sexual assault or sexual misconduct, you may seek advice and support services from any members of the Sexual Assault Response Team (SART), which includes the Director of Safety and Security, the Wellness Center Coordinator and a member of the Academic Advising Center staff. Members of the team will assist sexual assault victims and can provide referral to county sexual assault resources and support. Survivors of sexual assault and violence are encouraged to use these services, regardless of whether the incident happened on or off campus. Educational Programs In cooperation with the Rape Crisis Services provided by the Mental Health Association in Orange County, educational programs to promote awareness of rape, acquaintance rape, and sex offenses are presented to the campus community. The Sexual Assault Response Team connects with county resources to provide in-service training for various professional audiences including Safety and Security, Academic Advising Center, and Wellness Center personnel who come in contact with sexual assault survivors. Sexual assault prevention and other safety tip brochures, which include the annual Safety Committee report and campus crime statistics for the past three years, are distributed each semester by the Safety and Security Department. The College offers additional information, support and related programs throughout the year. BIAS CRIME PREVENTION Hate Crimes and the Law It is an Orange County Community College Safety and Security mandate to protect all members of the college community by preventing and prosecuting bias or hate crimes that occur within the campus' jurisdiction. Hate crimes, also called bias crimes or bias-related crimes, are criminal activities motivated by the perpetrator's bias or attitude against an individual victim or group based on perceived or actual personal characteristics, such as their race, religion, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or disability. Hate/bias crimes have received renewed attention in recent years, particularly since the passage of the federal Hate/Bias Crime Reporting Act of 1990 and the New York State Hate Crimes Act of 2000 (Penal Law Article 485). Copies of the New York law are available from Director of Safety and Security, 341-4932. Penalties for bias-related crimes are very serious and range from fines to imprisonment for lengthy periods, depending on the nature of the underlying criminal offense, the use of violence or previous convictions of the offender. Perpetrators who are students will also be subject to campus disciplinary procedures where sanctions including dismissal are possible. In addition to preventing and prosecuting hate/bias crimes, the SUNY Orange Department of Safety and Security also assists in addressing bias-related activities that do not rise to the level of a crime. These activities, referred to as bias incidents and defined by the College as acts 57 of bigotry, harassment, or intimidation directed at a member or group within the SUNY Orange community based on national origin, ethnicity, race, age, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, color, creed, or marital status, may be addressed through the State University's Discrimination Complaint Procedure or the campus conduct code. Bias incidents can be reported to Department of Safety and Security as well as to Human Resources Department. If you are a victim of, or witness to, a hate/bias crime on the Middletown campus, report it to the Department of Safety and Security by calling 341-4710, or in an emergency, by using a Blue Light or other campus emergency telephone, dialing the emergency reporting number 77, or stopping by the Safety and Security Office located on the first floor of Orange Hall. The Department of Safety and Security will investigate and follow the appropriate adjudication procedures. In Newburgh, call 3419533 or 341-9556 or 9533 or 9556 from a campus phone. Victims of bias crime or bias incidents can avail themselves of counseling and support services from the campus as follows: after notifying the Department of Safety and Security, they will be escorted to the Wellness Center. For general information on SUNY Orange safety and security procedures, call 341-4710 in Middletown or 341-9533/9556 at the Newburgh campus. More information about bias-related incidents and bias crimes, including up-to-date statistics on bias crimes is available from the Director of Safety and Security, 341-4932 or 3414934. All inquiries will be handled in a strictly confidential manner. Sexual Harassment Orange County Community College is committed to all provisions of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, and other human rights and equal opportunity laws. These laws include prohibition of discrimination in employment and educational programs and services on the basis of sex. Recent guidelines for Title VII of the Civil Rights Act focus upon sexual harassment as an unlawful practice. Recent interpretations of Title IX of the Education Amendments similarly delineate sexual harassment as discriminatory and unlawful. Sexual harassment takes many forms, from constant joking to physical assault. It may involve threats that you will fail in class or that you will lose your job. It may make your study, work, or living environment uncomfortable through continued sexual comments, suggestions or pressures. It may include: • derogatory or dehumanizing gender reference; • subtle or overt pressure for sexual activity; • physical contacts. Sexual harassment is defined by EEOC as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature if: 58 • submission to, or toleration of, such conduct on or off campus is made (either explicitly or implicitly) a term or condition of instruction, employment, or participation in other College activities; • submission to, or rejection of, such conduct by an individual is used as a basis for evaluation in making employment or academic decisions affecting the individual; • such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonable interfering with an individual’s academic or work performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive College environment. Orange County Community College is committed to maintaining a workplace and a learning environment free of sexual harassment and intimidation. Sexual harassment is unacceptable behavior, unlawful and not tolerated. Any member of the College community found guilty of sexual harassment will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action. Any questions or allegations should be directed to Paul Broadie, phone 341-4020. Title IX Coordinators Wendy Holmes, Title IX Coordinator Associate Vice President for Human Resources/Affirmative Action Officer Orange Hall (845) 341-4662 wendy.holmes@sunyorange.edu Responsibilities include monitoring and oversight of overall implementation of Title IX compliance at the College, including coordinating of training, education, communications, and administration of compliant procedures for faculty, staff, students and other members of the College community. For Students: Paul Broadie, Title IX Deputy Coordinator for Students Vice President for Student Services Shepard Student Center (845) 341-4010 paul.broadie@sunyorange.edu Responsibilities Title IX compliance students including training, education, communications, and administration of the grievance procedures against SUNY Orange students. For Faculty, Staff and Visitors: Wendy Holmes, Title IX Coordinator Associate Vice President for Human Resources/Affirmative Action Officer Orange Hall (845) 341-4662 wendy.holmes@sunyorange.edu The Affirmative Action Office is responsible for Title IX compliance for matters involving faculty and staff, including training, education, communication, and administration of compliant procedures for 59 complaints against faculty, staff, and visitors, including those complaints filed by students. For Athletics: If you have a complaint against a SUNY Orange student, coach or administrator for sexual harassment, sex discrimination, or sexual assault, you may contact one of the offices listed above, or you may contact the Athletic Director or Assistant Athletic Director, who will facilitate the handling of the complaint with the appropriate office. Gender Equality in Athletics If you have a complaint about gender equality in athletics programs at SUNY Orange, you should contact the Athletic Director or Assistant Athletic Director, who is responsible for Title IX compliance in matters related to gender equality in athletics programs. Wayne Smith, Title IX Deputy Coordinator for Athletics Athletic Director Physical Education Building (845) 341-4261 wayne.smith@sunyorange.edu Stacey Morris Assistant Athletic Director Physical Education Building (845) 341-4215 stacey.morris@sunyorange.edu Anti-Hazing Law Reckless or intentional acts that endanger mental or physical health or involve the forced consumption of liquor or drugs for the purpose of initiation into or affiliation with any organization are strictly forbidden. Violation of the anti-hazing law will result in the expulsion, suspension, or other disciplinary proceeding or, if the violation is an organization, rescission of permission of the organization to operate on campus. A violator or organization may be subject to any applicable provision of the Penal Law in addition to any College disciplinary proceedings. 60 Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Equal Employment Opportunity is the law. It is mandated by Federal, State, and local legislation, by Executive Orders, and by definitive court decisions. EEO is a system of employment practices under which individuals are not excluded from any participation, advancement, or benefits because of their race, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin, disability, Vietnam era veteran status, or sexual orientation. Affirmative Action refers to steps taken to ensure that there is no discrimination with regard to employees and applicants for employment. It is designed to correct the effects of past discrimination, to eliminate present discrimination, and to prevent future discrimination. Affirmative Action differs from Equal Opportunity in that it is not merely prohibitive (non-discriminatory), but positive (antidiscriminatory). Affirmative Action works on the principle that discrimination can be eliminated only when employers take positive steps to identify and change policies, practices, and any other institutional barriers that cause or perpetuate inequality. Affirmative Action, in other words, is the effort whereby the promise of Equal Employment Opportunity may be fulfilled. Orange County Community College is committed to the principles of non-discrimination and equality of opportunity for all qualified applicants, students and employees. Any questions or allegations should be directed to the College’s Human Resources Office, phone (845) 341-4660. GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE FOR THE REVIEW OF ALLEGATIONS OF ILLEGAL DISCRIMINATION OR SEXUAL HARASSMENT In its continuing effort to seek equity in education and employment and in support of federal and state anti-discrimination legislation, Orange County Community College provides an internal grievance procedure for the prompt and equitable investigation and resolution of allegations of sexual harassment or illegal discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex, disability, marital status, or sexual orientation. This internal grievance procedure is one of several options open to any SUNY Orange student or employee who believes that they have been the victim of illegal discrimination or sexual harassment. If the grievant is an employee of SUNY Orange, he/she may choose instead to use any relevant employee grievance procedures established through negotiated contracts. Also, the grievant—either student or employee—may instead choose to file a grievance with an outside enforcement agency, such as the New York State Division of Human Rights, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the Office of Civil Rights of the Department of Education, and the Office of Federal Contract Compliance of the Department of Labor. The choice of which of these grievance procedures to use is solely that of the grievant. The Orange County Community College Grievance Procedure for the Review of Allegations of Illegal Discrimination or Sexual Harassment provides a mechanism through which the College may identify and eliminate incidents of illegal discrimination or sexual harassment. The College recognizes and accepts its responsibility in this regard and believes that the establishment of this internal grievance process will benefit students, faculty, staff, and administration alike, permitting investigation and resolution of problems without resort to the frequently expensive, timeconsuming procedures of state and federal enforcement agencies or courts. The initial step in the grievance procedure will be an informal process. The Affirmative Action Officer has been designated to meet the grievant for an informal hearing of an alleged violation. At this informal level, every effort will be made by the Affirmative Action 61 62 Hearing Officer to determine the validity of the complaint presented. If the matter is not resolved to the satisfaction of the grievant within ten (10) working days of its presentation, the Affirmative Action Hearing Officer will assist the grievant in the preparation of a written statement which will set forth the basis of the alleged violation with reasonable particularity and the remedy sought by the grievant. Requirements for Filing Grievances 1. A grievance must be submitted in writing on the form provided by the Affirmative Action Hearing Officer. 2. Employees must file a grievance within thirty (30) working days following the alleged discriminatory act or the date on which the grievant first knew or reasonably should have know of such act if that date is later. Students must file a grievance within thirty (30) working days following the alleged discriminatory act or thirty (30) working days after a final grade is received, if that date is later. 3. Grievances must be filed with the campus Affirmative Action Hearing Officer. Procedures for Processing Grievances 1. The Affirmative Action Hearing Officer shall receive any complaint of alleged illegal discrimination or sexual harassment, shall assist the grievant in defining the charge, and shall provide the grievant with information about the various internal and external mechanisms through which the complaint may be filed, including applicable time limits for filing with each agency. 2. If the grievant chooses to use the Orange County Community College Grievance Procedure for the Review of Allegations of Illegal Discrimination or Sexual Harassment, the Affirmative Action Hearing Officer shall assist the grievant in preparing a written statement, signing and dating a copy of the completed statement for the grievant. 3. The Affirmative Action Hearing Officer shall seek to resolve the grievance informally and shall have the right to all relevant information and to interview witnesses, including the right to bring together grievant and respondent, if desirable. If a resolution satisfactory to both grievant and respondent is reached within ten (10) working days through the efforts of the Affirmative Action Hearing Officer, the Officer shall close the case, sending a written notice to that effect to the grievant and respondent. The written notice, a copy of which shall be attached to the original grievance in the Officer’s file, shall indicate the agreement reached by grievant and respondent and shall be signed and dated by the grievant, the respondent, and the Affirmative Action Hearing Officer. 4. If the Affirmative Action Hearing Officer is unable to resolve the grievance to the mutual satisfaction of the grievant and respondent within ten (10) working days, the Officer shall so notify the grievant, advising grievant of his/her right to proceed to the next step internally or to file with appropriate enforcement agencies immediately. 5. If at any time the grievant chooses to use the employee grievance procedures established through negotiated contracts or to file a normal complaint with a state or federal agency or to start a court action, any internal investigation under way on the same complaint will be terminated without conclusion with the following exception: if internal investigation is prolonged to the point that the statute of limitation for filing with outside agencies may be exceeded (180 days for EEOC or OCR complaints; 365 days for Division of Human Rights complaints), a charge may be filed with the appropriate state or federal agency without interruption of the internal procedure. 6. If the grievant chooses to proceed through the internal grievance procedure, the grievant shall notify the Affirmative Action Hearing Officer in writing within seven (7) working days from the time of notification by the Affirmative Action Hearing Officer that the issue cannot be resolved informally. 7. Within five (5) working days of receipt, the Affirmative Action Hearing Officer shall notify the grievant and the President that a review of the matter shall take place by an ad hoc tripartite committee. The ad hoc tripartite committee is chosen from a panel of campus faculty, administrators, employees and students established each year by the President and the Affirmative Action Hearing Officer. The members of the ad hoc tripartite committee will be chosen as follows: One by the grievant; one by the respondent; and a third, who shall chair the committee, chosen by the two designees. Should either the grievant or respondent choose not to make a selection, the President will. 8. Selection of the ad hoc tripartite committee must be completed and the Affirmative Action Hearing Officer notified of the members chosen within seven (7) working days of the receipt of notification by the grievant and the President that a review of the matter shall take place by a tripartite committee. 9. The tripartite committee shall review the matter, as appropriate, and shall have the right to all relevant information and to interview witnesses, including the right to bring together grievant and respondent, if desirable. Both the grievant and respondent shall be given the opportunity to submit written statements that will become a part of the material compiled by the Committee. These written statements must be submitted to the Committee within ten (10) working days of the Committee’s formation. 10. Within fifteen (15) working days from the formation of the tripartite committee, the Committee Chairperson shall submit an opinion to the campus President as to whether or not sexual harassment or illegal discrimination has occurred. 11. The President shall communicate the opinion of the tripartite committee in writing to the grievant, to the respondent, and to the campus Affirmative Action Hearing Officer within five (5) working days together with a statement indicating his/her acceptance or rejection of the Committee’s opinion. The President will indicate his/her decision either to dismiss the charge for lack of evidence that sexual harassment or illegal discrimination has occurred or to discuss appropriate redress with the grievant if sexual harassment or illegal discrimination has been found. 63 64 Off-Campus Resolution of Grievances If the grievant is dissatisfied with the President’s response, the grievant may file a formal complaint with the appropriate State or Federal agency. The campus Affirmative Action Hearing Officer will provide information on State or Federal guidelines and laws and names and addresses of enforcement agencies. Students Unable to Attend Classes on Certain Days Because of Religious Beliefs 1. No person shall be expelled from or be refused admission as a student to an institution of higher education for the reason that he/she is unable, because of his/her religious beliefs, to attend classes or participate in any examination, study or work requirements on a particular day or days. 2. Any student in an institution of higher education who is unable, because of his/her religious beliefs, to attend classes on a particular day or days shall, because of such absence on the particular day or days, be excused from any examination or any study or work requirements. 3. It shall be the responsibility of the faculty and of the administrative officials of each institution of higher education to make available to each student who is absent from school because of his/her religious beliefs an equivalent opportunity to make up any examinations, study or work requirements which he/she may have missed because of such absence on a particular day or days. No fees of any kind shall be charged by the institution for making available to the said student such equivalent opportunity. 4. If classes, examinations, study or work requirements are held on Friday, after four o’clock post meridian or on Saturday, similar or makeup classes, examinations, study or work requirements shall be made available on other days, where it is possible and practicable to do so. No special fees shall be charged to the student for these classes, examinations, study or work requirements held on other days. 5. In effectuating the provisions of this section, it shall be the duty of the faculty and of the administrative officials of each institution of higher education to exercise the fullest measure of good faith. No adverse or prejudicial effects shall result to any student availing himself/herself of the provisions of this section. 6. Any student who is aggrieved by the alleged failure of any faculty or administrative officials to comply in good faith with the provisions of this section, shall be entitled to maintain an action or proceeding in the supreme court of the county in which such institution of higher education is located for the enforcement of his/her rights under this section. (a) A copy of this section shall be published by each institution of higher education in the catalog of such institution containing the listing of available courses. 7. As used in this section, the term “institution of higher education” shall mean schools under the control of the board of trustees of the State University of New York or the board of higher education of the City of New York or any community college. ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS POLICY In compliance with “THE DRUG-FREE SCHOOLS AND COMMUNITIES AMENDMENTS OF 1989” as mandated by section 22 of Public Law 101-226, and the DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE ACT of 1988, Orange County Community College will make the following information available to all its students and employees annually: I. STANDARDS OF CONDUCT Employees: As a employee of Orange County Community College, a Unit of the State University of New York, one should be aware of the following policy which must be adhered to as a condition of employment: 1. The unlawful use, possession, manufacture, dispensation, or distribution of controlled substances at all SUNY Orange work locations is prohibited. 2. Advance written approval and authorization is required from the President of the College for the consumption of alcohol at faculty functions. 3. Employees who unlawfully manufacture, distribute, possess, or use a controlled substance will be subject to disciplinary procedures consistent with applicable and collective sanctions outlined in section II, Disciplinary Sanctions. 4. Employees must notify the Personnel Office of any criminal drug statute conviction for a violation occurring in the workplace, or at a work site, no later than five (5) working days after such a conviction. Students: In accordance with the Orange County Community College Student Code of Conduct: 1. The unlawful purchase, manufacture, possession, use, distribution, or consumption of alcohol and other drugs on all Orange County Community College campus sites or college-sponsored events is prohibited. 2. No alcoholic beverages may be bought, manufactured, possessed, used, distributed, or consumed on campus or elsewhere as part of college activities unless written approval is received in advance by the President of the College. 3. As of December 1, 1985, the legal minimum age to purchase alcoholic beverages in New York State was changed to 21. Under the law, no person can sell, deliver, or give away any alcoholic beverage to any person under the age of 21. 4. The forced consumption of liquor or drugs for the purpose of initiation, admission into, affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in a group or organization. Visitors of all Orange County Community College campus sites are expected to adhere to the Standards of conduct regarding alcohol and other drugs required of Orange County Community College employees and students. 65 66 Orange County Community College aims to be supportive and helpful to those who experience problems related to drug and alcohol abuse, while protecting other individuals and the community from the negative and destructive influence of these substances. Any student or employee may contact the Advising, Assessment & Counseling Center for assistance. Information shared will be kept confidential. 67 68 69 II. Disciplinary Sanctions of the College Local, state and federal laws stipulate mandatory fines and imprisonment of individuals convicted of possessing, using or distributing illicit drugs or alcohol on campus and at all Collegesponsored events. Orange County Community College will strictly enforce the Code of Conduct which specifies the disciplinary measures for students who have been found to have possessed, used or distributed drugs or alcohol on College property and at all Collegesponsored events. Please refer to the Student Code of Conduct section in this publication for disciplinary procedures and possible sanctions specified for students. The disciplinary measures specified for employees include: 1. completion of an appropriate rehabilitation program; 2. sanctions resulting from a hearing pursuant to Section 75 of the New York State Civil Service Law. These sanctions include one of the following: a reprimand, a fine, suspension without pay, demotion, dismissal. In addition to disciplinary action and College sanctions, students and employees found possessing, using, or distributing illegal drugs and alcohol on college property may be referred to local authorities for prosecution and reported under the Federal Clery Act Legislation. Substance Abuse Resources SUNY Orange Wellness Center (845) 341-4870 After hours emergencies, call 911 or go to your local emergency room Orange Regional Medical Center East Main St., Middletown St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital 70 Dubois St.., Newburgh St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital 719 Laurel Ave.., Cornwall Bon Secours Community Hospital 160 East Main St., Port Jervis Catskill Regional Medical Center 68 Harris Bushville Rd., Harris Mobile Mental Health (888) 750-2266 Additional Resources 70 Middletown Addictions Crisis Center (845) 343-1443 Horton Family Program (845) 342-5300 Al-Anon/Alateen (24/7) (845) 294-9999 Alcoholics Anonymous (24/7) (845) 534-8525 Narcotics Anonymous (845) 431-6996 Alcoholics Anonymous (24/7) (845) 534-8525 Orange County Department of Mental Health Port Jervis: (845) 858-1458 Newburgh: (845) 586-5260 CAMPUS PARKING REGULATIONS Violators of campus parking regulations are subject to prosecution. 1. Parking is restricted to College-registered vehicles and guests of the College. All student, faculty, staff and Trustee vehicles are to be registered. A numbered tag provided free of charge is to be displayed in an easily visible area on all vehicles. Registration of vehicles after College registration for classes is completed is done through the Office of the Director of Student Activities. If the tag is lost or mutilated, a replacement must be secured. There is a replacement charge of $5.00. 2. During the day, students are permitted to park only in the Student Shepard Student Center lot, Mills Avenue lot, Morrison lot, South Street lot, Orange Hall lot, Benjamin Avenue lot, Bennett Street lot and the Physical Education lot. The Harriman Hall lot, Staff Shepard Student Center lot, and the parking area located at the rear of the Physical Education Building, or spaces as indicated in other lots are reserved for faculty and staff. In the evening, all lots are open on a first-come basis for students and staff. Bikes and motorcycles must park in designated areas only. 3. Parking in the lots is permitted only within the stalls. Drivers should be careful to park within the painted lines. Parking is prohibited adjacent to curbing or lanes painted yellow. 4. Overnight or weekend parking is not permitted. Parking lots are closed after the last evening class and/or college function. 5. Parking is permitted along the roadway curb closest to Orange Hall. 6. A 5 mile per hour speed limit shall be observed in the parking lot. 7. Please consult bulletin boards for additional information throughout the year. Upper Campus - Vehicles should not be driven onto the upper campus without permission. No parking is permitted on upper campus (areas adjacent to Morrison, Hudson, Horton, Harriman, Orange Hall and the Library). Off-Campus Parking - Off-campus parking on streets adjacent to and in the area of the College is subject to regulations imposed by local municipalities. Violators will be prosecuted by the local police. Handicapped Parking 1. Parking spaces for the handicapped are located at the following locations: Bio-Tech Building - 2 spaces Harriman Hall - E. Conkling wing of campus - 7 spaces Horton Hall - Concourse behind Horton -3 spaces Hudson Hall - Rear entrance - 5 spaces Morrison Lot - 12 spaces Orange Hall Lot - 4 spaces Physical Education Lot - 6 spaces Shepard Student Center - Parking lot - 5 spaces 71 2. Students with a temporary or permanent disability or medical condition will need to contact their local police department or county office to receive a state handicapped parking permit. Violations and Parking Security Safety and Security officers will provide security. Violators of college parking regulations are subject to fines. Cars, where necessary, may be towed away at the owner’s expense. CAMPUS SAFETY AND SECURITY Campus Security Report At Orange County Community College, the safety and well-being of our students, faculty, staff and visitors is a high priority. A safe and secure environment can only be achieved through the cooperation of all members of the campus community. You are the “Eyes and Ears “ of our campus. We hope that you read this information carefully and use it to help foster a safe environment for yourself and others. Confidential Information: Call Safety and Security Director Ed Kiely at ext. 4934. Crime Statistics Availability (CLERY Statement) A copy of the Orange County Community College (SUNY Orange) campus crime statistics as reported annually to the U.S. Department of Education will be provided upon request by the campus Ed Kiely, Director of Safety & Security (341-4934) or Anthony Jacklitsch, Coordinator (341-4715). In Newburgh, Call Chris Clark, Coordinator or Joseph White (341-9510). Information can also be obtained from the U.S. Dept. of Education website at: http://ope.ed.gov/security/. General Description of Campus Middletown: The Middletown campus, consisting of lecture halls, administrative office buildings, physical education facilities and parking areas, is bordered by South Street, Wawayanda Avenue, Grandview Avenue and Adams Avenue in the city of Middletown, New York. There are also administrative facilities located east of the campus on Bennett Street. There are signs on the buildings and campus area maps are available at most locations. Newburgh: Located at One Washington Center in the city of Newburgh, New York; bordered by First Street on the north and Colden Street on the east. Parking is available underneath Kaplan Hall in the garage, enter from First Street. Additional parking is available in the parking lot behind the Ebenezer Church on First and Montgomery Streets. There is metered parking on Broadway and at Washington Center near the main entrance of the Newburgh campus. After 6 p.m. there is no charge for metered parking. There is scheduled shuttle bus service between the Newburgh and Middletown campuses. Reporting a Crime or Incident 72 To report an emergency or serious incident at the Middletown campus, call 3414710 or "77" from any campus phone. Incidents may be reported in person at the Safety and Security Office located on the 1st floor in Orange Hall. To report an emergency or serious incident at the Newburgh campus, call 341-9533/9556 or "9533 or 9556" from any campus phone. Incidents may be reported in person at the Safety and Security Desk located in the lobby area of Kaplan Hall. Upon receipt of your call, appropriate security and/or emergency personnel will be dispatched to your location. Criminal offenses are investigated by the College Safety & Security Department and/or other appropriate authorities for future prosecution. The campus community is regularly notified of situations that may pose a threat to the personal safety and well being of anyone at the college through the following methods of communication: written memoranda to staff and faculty to be disseminated by them verbally to the students and the campus radio. Escorts If you require an escort to your vehicle or a site on campus, please call 341-4710 in Middletown or 341-9556 in Newburgh. We enjoy a close professional relationship with the Middletown Police Department, the Newburgh Police Department and the State Police with whom we routinely share information on crime. Potential criminal actions and other emergencies on campus can also be reported by any faculty or staff member or by calling the following: Middletown Police Department . . . . . . . . . . . . . .343-3151 Newburgh Police Department . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .561-3131 Middletown State Police . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .344-5300 Newburgh State Police . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .567-1033 None of the above would preclude anyone from contacting the Middletown or Newburgh Police Departments directly and reporting an emergency situation to them. Facility Security and Access Orange County Community College provides vehicle and foot patrol protection to campus properties owned by the College. Most campus facilities are open to the public during the day and evening hours when classes are in session. The general public can attend cultural and recreational events on campus with their access limited only to the facilities in which these events are held. At night and during the times that the campus is officially closed, College buildings are locked and only faculty, staff and some authorized students with proper identification are admitted. Campus employees with assigned offices are issued keys and are responsible for reporting missing or stolen keys. Enforcement Authority of the Orange County Community College Security Department: This department by itself holds no law enforcement powers regarding criminal matters, beyond that of the average citizen. However, some of the security officers are either retired or off-duty police officers. Only the off-duty police officers have the full extent of police authority when confronting criminal action or conduct on a twenty-four (24) 73 hour basis. Each off-duty officer will address conduct or reports thereof by following the guidelines of his/her parent police agency. The Security Department cannot mandate an arrest. This action is solely within the purview of the officer. However, we do have the right to bring any criminal matter to the attention of on duty police officers and police hierarchy for their attention and disposition. Middletown Campus: 115 South Street, Middletown, New York. The staff consists of a pool of 31 security officers scheduled by the Director of Safety & Security, the Assistant Director and Coordinator to meet the security and safety standards of the campus.. The Middletown campus has 12 parking lot attendants who enforce parking rules, procedures and assist in all vehicle and student parking problems. Newburgh Campus: One Washington Center, Newburgh, New York. The staff consists of 20 security officers. Their phone number is 341-9556 or 341-9533. The Newburgh campus has 8 parking lot attendants PROGRAMS DESIGNED TO INFORM STUDENT, FACULTY AND STAFF ABOUT CAMPUS SECURITY The Campus Safety and Security Advisory Committee (ongoing) – composed of faculty, staff and students addresses security/safety issues in a formal setting at regular meetings. It is the committee’s charge to review campus safety, security and health issues and concerns. The committee evaluates campus security policies and procedures, recommending changes when needed. Security Forums – the Director of Security meets with concerned campus groups to discuss security issues. The meetings are scheduled at mutually agreeable times. SART - (Sexual Assault Response Team) - (ongoing) see page 56 for details. Availability of Red Emergency Phones in the Following Areas: Orange Hall, Harriman Hall, Library, Shepard Student Center, Bio-Tech Building and Hudson Hall. There are wall signs located beside each red phone with instructions for reaching emergency units both on and off campus. Red emergency phones are located on each floor in the Kaplan Hall on the Newburgh campus. The Maintenance Department maintains buildings and grounds with a concern for safety and security. It inspects campus facilities and makes repairs on safety, lighting and security hazards such as broken windows and locks. Any safety or security hazards can be reported to the Security Department at 341-4710 or the Maintenance Department at 341-4600 or 341-9533 or 341-/9556 at the Newburgh campus for safety hazards only. 74 The cooperation and involvement of all members of the campus community in a safety and security program is essential. Everyone must assume responsibility for his/her own personal safety and the security of personal belongings by taking common sense precautions. Students, faculty and staff should report any suspicious persons whom they feel do not belong in their area or any unusual incidents to the Security Department. Securing personal property and autos is essential. You are the “Eyes and Ears” of our Safety and Security Department! Policies on Alcoholic Beverages and Drugs Drugs on Campus: The College operates within the framework of the NYS Penal Law regarding the possession and/or sale of narcotics. The possession and/or sale of narcotics as outlined in sections 220 and 221 of the NYS Penal Law is strictly enforced. Alcoholic Beverages on Campus: Possession and/or use of alcoholic beverages on campus is absolutely prohibited without the expressed written permission of the President. Violation of the drug and alcohol policies will lead to disciplinary proceedings and possible suspension or dismissal. 75 Crime Statistics Middletown campus Murder Manslaughter Forcible Sex Offenses Non-Forcible Sex Offenses Grand Larceny Grand Larceny Auto Robbery Assault Burglary Illegal Weapons Possessions Bias Crimes Hate Crimes W/Injury Hate Crimes W/Larceny Hate Crimes W/Vandalism Hate Crimes W/Intimidation Liquor Law Violations Drug Abuse Violations Arson Fire/Evacuation Drills* Fires Alarm Notifications Arrests 2008 0 0 0 0 6 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 3 0 5 1 2009 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 (graffiti) 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 4 1 (no injury) 5 1 2010 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 4 1 0 1 (grand larceny) (grand larceny) (criminal mischief auto) 1 1 2 (drug abuse) (theft of credit card) (trespass) *(3-4 times per year depending on type of occupancy) 76 Newburgh campus Murder Manslaughter Forcible Sex Offenses Non-Forcible Sex Offenses Grand Larceny Grand Larceny Auto Robbery Assault Burglary Illegal Weapons Possessions Bias Crimes Hate Crimes W/Injury Hate Crimes W/Larceny Hate Crimes W/Vandalism Hate Crimes W/Intimidation Liquor Law Violations Drug Abuse Violations Arson Fire/Evacuation Drills* Fires Alarm Notifications Arrests 2008 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 3 0 2 0 2009 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 (graffiti) 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 3 0 2 3 2010 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 1 3 1 0 0 (arrest & convictions for assault on students) *(3-4 times per year depending on type of occupancy) The crimes on campus mainly concern minor thefts of personal property (petty larceny) and small scale damage to College property (criminal mischief). The statistics are well below those of our immediate community, the City of Middletown, City of Newburgh and the larger community, Orange County. Personal awareness and proper precautions can dramatically reduce the amount of personal property loss and damages on campus. Remember: You are the “Eyes and Ears” on our campuses - report all criminal activity/suspicious activity to ext. 4710 in Middletown or ext. 9533 in Newburgh. “Confidentiality will be adhered to in every report.” 77 78 Middletown Campus Map SUNY Orange 115 South Street w Middletown, NY 10940 845-344-6222 Newburgh Campus Map SUNY Orange One Washington Center w Newburgh, NY 12550 845-562-2454