Nov 03, 2024  
2018-2019 Catalog 
    
2018-2019 Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Student Services



Academic Advising

Since college work represents an enormous investment on the part of the student and on the part of the College, all course selections must be reviewed and approved by faculty advisors/counselors prior to registration. Careful advising ensures that students take appropriate courses to meet their needs and the College maintains high academic standards.

Advisors are assigned to students according to curriculum and program area. During times when faculty advisors are not on campus, counselors are available by appointment for program advisement and registration. Students who have met course prerequisites can web register using myCommNet. A student is required to have written approval by a faculty member or counselor before he/she can register in person. A student who wishes to change his/her program of study may do so by going to the Records Office, room E102, and filing a Change of Major form. Documentation must be provided.

The Student Success Center

The Student Success Center, funded through grants from UBS, the Nellie Mae Educational Foundation and Achieving the Dream, is aimed at improving the success of community college students, particularly those who have been underserved in higher education.

The UBS Student Success Center at NCC provides an array of student services and guidance to help every student “Achieve their Dream.” All students are welcome to visit the Center in room E107, or call (203) 857-7234.

The Everett I.L. Baker Library

The Everett I.L. Baker Library serves the students, faculty and staff of NCC, as well as the community at large. The Library provides a gateway to information through acquired materials or subscriptions to resources available on or off campus as well as authoritative resources on the Internet.

NCC’s library is part of the Board of Regents Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU) consortium that also includes Charter Oak State College and the State of Connecticut Library. The CSCU Library Consortium offers the NCC students, faculty and staff delivery of physical materials from these libraries.

In support of the College’s mission and academic curricula, the Library provides a broad range of services in a welcoming environment for our diverse population of users. The Library is dedicated to achieving the educational objectives of the College by promoting innovative technologies and extending instructional venues that encourage success in the retrieval and critical analysis and citation of authoritative sources. Working together with faculty, the library provides resources, subject guides and instruction in discipline specific areas.

NCC students and faculty are able to access the items on course reserve. All other users may access print and electronic materials and streaming films. This includes our reference collection, books and e-books, journals, newspapers, databases, films, music and spoken recordings. NCC students may and access via more than 50 computers, campus WIFI, and authentication from off campus. There is also a computer workstation for the visually impaired. A black-and-white photocopier and a scanner are available to users on the first floor. Three study rooms that are part of NCC’s Learning Commons with white boards and computers are available to NCC students. Additional study space is available elsewhere on the first floor and on the second floor where the circulating book collection is located. A Library Instruction Area/Open Computer Lab is available in the southwest corner of the first floor of the Library.

Students seeking reference assistance may consult the Library staff at the Information Desk, arrange an in-depth reference session by calling (203) 857-7379 or contact librarians via the Subject Guides on the Library’s website. Library Instruction classes are available either through regular courses or as open workshops to assist students in understanding the complex skills needed to utilized the resources, narrow topics for papers, evaluate authoritative resources and how to cite sources in different disciplines to avoid plagiarism.

Materials may be borrowed at the Check-Out Desk using a current NCC ID Card which is obtained at the East Campus Security Desk. Reserve materials may not be removed from the Library without authorization. Reserve materials may only circulate to NCC students and faculty. Circulating books may be renewed in person at the Check-Out Desk or online if the item is not overdue. Awareness of the renewal dates are the responsibility of the borrower. Lost materials and fees may be paid at the Business Office and a copy of the voucher presented to Library staff to unblock holds and update borrower’s records.

Library Hours

During the fall and spring semesters, the Library is open Monday through Thursday from 8:30 am to 8 pm, Friday from 8:30 am to 3 pm and Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm.

Visit the library’s home page at www.norwalk.edu/library to find out more information about the library’s hours, services, links to faculty requests for library instruction sessions and newly accessible resources.

Tutoring Services Center

The NCC Tutoring Center is committed to helping students at all levels to achieve academic success. Tutoring is provided in a lively and supportive learning environment, accessible at no charge to students enrolled in credit courses at the College. Small group and individual tutoring is offered in a variety of disciplines, conducted on a drop-in basis.

The Center, which has been awarded international certification by the College Reading and Learning Association, is staffed by highly qualified peer tutors, professional tutors and faculty. These tutors help students to become active and independent learners while improving their self-confidence and academic skills. They work with students to review and master concepts, help with learning strategies and improve study methods. Posted daily schedules vary in response to student needs. For more information, students should come to the Tutoring Center in room W110, or call (203) 857-7205.

Writing Center

At the Writing Center, all NCC students can receive help with a wide variety of writing tasks, including understanding writing assignments, brainstorming, drafting, outlining, critical reading/thinking, researching and documentation. The tutors in the Center will help students understand their own writing process and help them reach their goals to become stronger, more confident writers. Computers, textbooks and other resources are available for student use.

Students may make appointments at the Writing Center, located in W110A, or simply walk in. Appointments cannot be made over the phone. For more information, call (203) 857-3374 or visit the NCC website.

Math and Science Recitations

Mathematics and Science courses are required for all degree programs at NCC. In order to improve student success and retention in these courses, the Mathematics and Science Departments instituted a rigorous out-of-classroom approach called recitations. Both departments have embraced the recitation approach to improving student performance by offering these one-hour extra classroom sessions designed to reinforce the materials that were presented in the lecture.

The purpose of recitations is to give students a review of the material in a setting that is not as formal as a lecture setting, and the material is often presented using a different pedagogy. For example, the recitation session may offer more practical examples of a concept or may go over “problems” that students may encounter in homework assignments or on exams. This allows students to ask questions and possibly direct what material will be covered during the recitation. All sessions are taught by faculty members in both departments.

Statistics show a positive correlation between attendance at recitations and student success. Students should consult their professor(s) for locations and times.

Center For Career Development

The Center for Career Development provides comprehensive programs, activities and services that assist students, alumni and community members to prepare for finding suitable employment by developing resume writing and interviewing skills, job-search strategies and a deeper understanding of the fit between their competencies and the world of work. Through assessments of personality styles, interests, abilities and values, students are assisted in exploring and planning for career goals and options.

The Center for Career Development offers professional services to students and alumni, including:

  • Career Assessment
  • Effective Career Planning
  • Job and Internship Search
  • Resume/Cover Letter Writing
  • Mock Interviews
  • Professional Networking

Resources

NCC Career Connections (https://ncc-csm.symplicity.com/students) serves as the College’s internal job portal which contains information on internships, part-time and full-time positions posted by employers. Students and alumni can search jobs/internships and submit their resumes online. There is no placement fee for students, alumni or employers.

Career Assessment Choices 360 (www.choices360.com)

NCC Library (http://norwalkcc.libguides.com/c.php?g=199282&p=1310959): the Library contains resources that can help you with job search, resume writing, career exploration, interview preparation, and social networking.

Services to Employers

The Center for Career Development offers numerous ways to partner with your organization:

  • Host information sessions/information tables
  • Participate in NCC’s Annual Career Expo
  • Engage in presentations, panel discussions and guest speaking opportunities
  • Connect with NCC clubs and organizations (https://norwalk.edu/student-activities/clubs/)
  • Conduct career workshops and networking events

Information about services to students, alumni and employers can be accessed by visiting: https://norwalk.edu/career-development/.  The Center for Career Development is located on the West Campus in room W118 and can be reached at (203) 857-6947.

Cooperative Education Work Experience

Cooperative Education places students in part-time or full-time semester-long work experiences, most of which are paid. Students earn credit while earning wages and gain degree-related experience before graduation. To qualify, students must attain sophomore standing in an academic program with a GPA of at least 2.0, complete ENG 101 and complete any prerequisites set by that program.

Recruiting Guidelines

NCC welcomes local recruiters to campus. However, recruiters who come to the College must check-in first with the contact person who extended the invitation or the person who assisted them in making the arrangements on campus. Employers, military personnel and college admission representatives are limited to one visit per month for recruiting purposes. Recruiters will be provided with a table and chair and are required to interact with students from that location.

Counseling Center

Norwalk Community College encourages the student to achieve his/her maximum personal development and potential. To facilitate this objective a professional staff of counselors is available to assist students in making realistic choices. Students are frequently faced with questions or concerns about academic performance, life goals and relationships with others.

Students who see themselves getting into trouble with their personal situation, with academic problems or with life in general, are encouraged to make an appointment to see a counselor. The personal development and academic progress of our students are very important. The Center is located in room E104 and can be reached at (203) 857-7033.

Services that are not provided by the NCC counseling staff may be referred to a local agency.

The following services are available: educational advising, developing a plan of study, finding the right major, graduation audit, personal counseling and transfer counseling. Your discussions with counselors are always treated with respect and confidentiality. Bilingual counselors are available. Mental health appointments can be scheduled by calling (203) 857-6870.

Transfer Assistance

Counselors, located in the Counseling Center, room E104, are experienced in assisting students with transfer to four-year institutions. For a review of transfer options, you are welcome to use the transfer catalog library in the Counseling Center. Students may also use available college planning websites to help in the transfer process.

The counseling services personnel can help you with all aspects of transferring. A college fair is held each year for transfer information to four-year institutions. Resources in the Counseling Center will provide you with information on colleges relevant to cost, college description and scholarship information for hundreds of colleges. Each institution determines the amount and availability of scholarships.

NCC also has special scholarships for transferring students. The application deadline for these scholarships varies. The transfer to-four-year-colleges bulletin board located outside the Counseling Center provides updated transfer information.

Transfer Agreements with Four-Year Institutions

As a fully accredited institution, NCC credits (with the exception of remedial level courses) are transferable to other colleges and universities. However, each institution has special degree programs and requirements that will determine the specific transfer credit it will grant. Graduates of NCC are eligible for admission to the Connecticut State Universities (CSUs) and University of Connecticut (UConn). Policies on transfer and articulation with NCC have been established to expedite transfer to these institutions.

NCC participates in the Connecticut College of Technology which has developed Pathway Programs leading to a bachelor’s degree in Engineering Science Transfer Program A.S.  or Technology Studies (Pathway) Transfer Program A.S.  

CSCU Transfer and Articulation Policy (TAP)

Community College students can complete associate degree programs that transfer without hassle to all four Connecticut State Universities and Charter Oak State College offering their major. Upon transfer, students are guaranteed full junior status and can complete a bachelor’s degree in their major without losing any credits or being required to take any extra credits.

Students in a TAP pathway will complete the first 60-63 credits of a bachelor’s degree at a Community College and the final 60-63 credits at Charter Oak State College or a Connecticut State University  (TAP is not applicable to University of Connecticut). Through TAP, students enrolled at a Connecticut Community College can select from concentrations that prepare them to complete a bachelor’s degree.

Initiated in 2012 by the Board of Regents’ interpretation of the state Assembly’s Public Act #12-31, TAP has three key elements:

  • A common, competency-based, general election core
  • Common lower-division, pre-major pathways that include at least 30 credits of transferable general education credits
  • Guaranteed junior status upon transfer

More information about the TAP Pathways is available at www.ct.edu/transfer/tickets.

In addition to these are: a statewide articulation for registered nurses, transfer agreements with Western Connecticut State University for the NCC Criminal Justice and Human Services programs and a general articulation agreement with Eastern Connecticut State University and Southern Connecticut State University. Students have the option of continuing their education in the participating Early Childhood Education Teacher Certification programs; in the University of Connecticut’s Human Development and Family Relations major or in Charter Oak State College’s Child Studies Concentration. The terms for credit award and student eligibility vary under each option. The CSU system and the Community College system continue to work jointly on articulation agreements to facilitate the transfer of students. Also, discussions with private universities are at various stages in the process of arranging articulation agreements.

Several state and private universities including Western Connecticut State University, Southern Connecticut State University and UConn have published course equivalency reports showing transferability of courses. Information on articulation agreements and course equivalency reports is available in the Counseling Center and the Learning Resources Center. Students who plan to transfer should confer with their counselor or academic advisor as early as possible.

Transfer Opportunities with University of Connecticut

An important element of the College’s mission is to provide the first two years of a baccalaureate program to meet the needs of those students who wish to transfer to another college or university and complete the requirements for a bachelor’s degree. To further this goal, the Community Colleges of Connecticut (CC) and UConn have entered into a Transfer Agreement in order to facilitate transfer between the two systems.

UConn Guaranteed Admission Program (GAP)

The Guaranteed Admissions Program is an agreement between the University of Connecticut and the Connecticut Community College System. It is designed for students who are enrolled in a Liberal Arts transfer program at one of the Connecticut community colleges and plan to earn a bachelors degree in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and/or the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Connecticut. To qualify for admission, students must:

  • complete and submit an application for the GAP program before completing 30 or fewer transferable credits (applications are available in the Counseling Center or from the Liberal Arts Coordinator)
  • earn an Associate Degree in Liberal Arts within five years
  • plan to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences at UConn

Other Transfer Paths

The NCC Liberal Arts and Science Program with psychology emphasis is intended to provide the first two years of a four-year psychology degree. The academic experience in this area allows psychology majors to enter the University of Connecticut with all prerequisites for major courses they need to take. This curriculum leads to the Associate in Arts degree.

Students intending to transfer to a specific four-year institution must work closely with their faculty advisor and the Counseling Center.

In addition, students completing the NCC associate degree program in Business Administration Transfer may enter the UConn School of Business to pursue a bachelor of science degree in Business and Technology at the University of Connecticut at Stamford (UConn Stamford).

Transfer applicants should begin the application process in the fall of their second year in the Business Administration Transfer program. In order to facilitate a more seamless transition from NCC to UConn Stamford via this route, applicants who have completed all requirements, earned an overall GPA of 3.0 (4.0 scale) and achieved a B (3.0) or higher in courses being used for 200-level major requirements are guaranteed admission to the School of Business in the Business and Technology major. See your academic advisor for articulation details.

Admissions Opportunity with the Connecticut State Colleges & Universities (CSCU)

The Transfer Compact

The Connecticut State Colleges & University (CSCU) system maintains a Transfer Compact which offers Dual Admission to students who are planning to enroll at a CSCU university after completing an associate degree. Through the Compact, students are guaranteed admission to the selected CSCU university upon successful completion of their associate degree with a minimum of 2.0. (Specific academic and professional programs may have additional admission requirements.)

While completing the associate degree, students receive personalized academic advising from both community college and university advisors to ensure that appropriate coursework is completed and that all credits taken at the community college will apply toward their bachelor’s degree. Students have full library privileges at the university they have designated, even while completing their associate degree at a community college. After earning an associate degree, students are given course registration and on-campus housing options equivalent to university juniors.

To be eligible for the Compact, students must have earned 15 or fewer transferable college credits at a Connecticut community college at the time of application, earn an associate degree from NCC (in five years or less), and start pursuing a bachelor’s degree at one of the CSCU campuses. For further information, contact Orlando Soto at (203) 857-7030 or http://www.ct.edu/admission/dual.

General Transfer

Graduates of the Connecticut community colleges with a GPA of 2.0 or higher are guaranteed admission within the CSCU system. Community college graduates admitted to the Connecticut State University of their choice shall be given the same consideration for admission to specific majors and admitted on the same terms as students who began their studies at the university. In the case of majors for which articulation agreements have been adopted, community college students preparing for transfer should follow the terms of the articulation agreement regarding course prerequisites, grade point averages and other requirements stated in the agreement.

Graduates of the community colleges will be admitted as juniors and will be expected to complete two years of full-time (or equivalent part-time) study at the university to be eligible for the bachelor’s degree.

Graduates of the community colleges must make application by the date and on the forms prescribed by the university, including the submission of all the required transcripts, documents and fees.

Child Care

The Norwalk Community College Child Development Laboratory School (CDLS) is an integrated training environment for NCC students in the Early Childhood Education (ECE) Program and a quality early care and education facility for children ages six months to five years.

The CDLS is a nationally accredited (National Association for the Education of Young Children) and state licensed (Office of Early Childhood) child care center for children six months to five years. The CDLS provides care to eight children in its Infant/Toddler classroom, and 16 children in each of two Preschool classrooms. There are multiple enrollment options ranging from five days, three days or two days per week. The CDLS is open Monday through Friday, when the college is open, September through mid-June.

Our professional staff (director and experienced teachers) offer quality care for children of NCC students, faculty and staff as well as for families in surrounding communities. Our environment is developed to support the whole child and to promote his/her emotional, social, cognitive, physical and creative development. The curriculum is designed to meet the individual needs and interests of the child with emphasis placed on his/her world.

While meeting the child and family’s needs, the CDLS enhances the academic component of the ECE Program by providing a model for appropriate practices for early childhood care and education. ECE students utilize the laboratory school for observation, internships and student teaching practicums.

For information, please call the CDLS parent line at (203)857-6804.

Services for Adult Learners and Students with Children

In support of the Norwalk Community College mission to recognize the diverse needs of our students, we are proud to welcome adult learners and students with children by supporting their academic achievement through existing support services. If you are an adult learner and/or a student with children and would like to learn about available services to support you in your academic endeavors please visit: (1) the Counseling Center (room E104) to learn about personal counseling and referrals, general academic advisement, transfer related information, and career and life planning and (2) the Child Development Center and Laboratory School (CDLS) that offers students, faculty, staff, and the community with high‑ quality childcare that fosters child development in a warm and nurturing environment and serves as a learning center for Early Childhood Education students.

Student Support Services Program (TRIO)

The Students Support Services Program (TRIO) is funded by the U.S. Department of Education. The program is designed to promote the success and retention of non-traditional students who can benefit from academic support. Participants must demonstrate a commitment to earning an associate degree within a four-year period after acceptance into the program. Students increase their opportunities for success when they choose to participate in the Student Support Services Program, and they are expected to utilize some aspect of program services throughout their time at NCC. Our program staff is committed to helping students make their college experience productive, fulfilling and enjoyable.

The Student Support Services Program offers the following services to participants: Counseling, Academic Advising, Tutoring, Study Skills Workshops, Professional Development Seminars, Free Summer Courses for College Credit and more.

In order to be eligible for services, the U.S. Department of Education requires that a program participant meet the federal income requirement, come from a family in which neither parent has a four-year college degree, or have a physical or learning disability.

For more information, please contact Jacqueline Santiago, Program Director, at (203) 857-7107, or come to room W209.

Services for Students with Disabilities

NCC is committed to providing accessible post-secondary education to students with disabilities in accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, as amended. Students with disabilities who have been diagnosed by a qualified professional may be eligible for services, depending on the documentation provided by the student. The documentation should be recent, specify the diagnostician’s qualifications, specifically name the diagnosed disability, identify diagnostic testing mechanisms, procedures, results, and contain a narrative relating the testing results to the effect of the disability on learning and functioning in an educational environment.

Services are determined on a case-by-case basis. Due to the high demand for services and the nature of certain disabilities, students are advised to contact Student AccessAbility Services at least six weeks in advance of the beginning of the semester. While we will make every effort to arrange academic adjustments in a timely fashion, failure to provide sufficient advance notice may impede service delivery.

In order to begin the process with Student AccessAbility Services, you need to have received a letter of acceptance from the college with a student I.D. number.  In order to apply for services students can click Apply for Services or navigate to “Student Services” on the main menu of the NCC website.  Select “Disability Services” from the drop down menu.  Then select “Apply for Services” from the navigation panel on the left of the Student AccessAbility Services web page (https://norwalk.edu/sas/apply-for-services/). After we receive your completed Intake Form, we will contact you for an appointment.  

For helpful information about services for students with disabilities in higher education and the transition from Special Education also review the Student AccessAbility Services Home Page.

If you need further assistance with this process, come to Student AccessAbility Services located in the UBS Student Success Center (Room E-107) or call Student AccessAbility Services at (203) 857-6840. Students who have questions or concerns related to Student AccessAbility Services at NCC may also contact Cheryl DeVonish, Chief Operating Officer, at (203) 857-7016.

Servicios Para Los Estudiantes Hispanos

NCC ofrece cursos de inglés como segundo idioma destinados, a facilitar y dessarollar destrezas básicas en el idioma inglés. También se ofrecen cursos de literatura, cultura y civilización, enseñados en español. Además ofrecemos un Certificado en Inglés como Segunda Lengua. El colegio tiene disponible para los estudiantes servicios de orientación en el Departmento de Orientación, (203) 857-7033. Para más información, favor de communicarse con Charles Kruzshak, (203) 857-7015 o Orlando Soto, (203) 857-7030.

Connecticut Talent Assistance Cooperative (CONNTAC)

CONNTAC is a cooperative effort of 34 institutions in the State of Connecticut that seeks promising students from disadvantaged circumstances who have never attended a college. Colleges will usually waive the program enrollment fee for students referred by CONNTAC. CONNTAC assists individuals who qualify to find the institution of higher education which best suits their needs and potential. Connecticut high school students can obtain further information about CONNTAC from their high school counselors. For additional information, call either the Norwalk office at (203) 857-7109 or the CONNTAC central office at (203) 634-7669.

Student Activities Programs

NCC provides a program of student activities designed to meet both individual and community needs. This program consists of five parts: Leadership Training, Student Clubs, Student Government, Fitness/Wellness Activities and Cultural Activities listed below.

Information on joining existing clubs and forming new ones is available in the Student Activities Office. Clubs are regulated according to information in the Student Handbook.

Student Organizations

Accounting Society • African Culture Club • Archaeology Club • Architecture and Interior Design Club • Art Club • Asian Club • Ballroom Club • Biology Club • Chemistry Club • Criminal Justice Club • Dance Club • Drama Club • Early Childhood Education Club • Euro Club • Engineering Club • Exercise Science Club • Film and TV Club • French Club • Gaming Club • Gay Straight Alliance • Haitian Awareness (HASTA) Club • Hay Motivo • Hillel Club • Hosteurs • Language and Cultural Exchange Society • Legal Assistant Society • Literature Club • Marketing Club • Math and Physics Club • Medical Assistants Club • Model United Nations Club • Multi-Cultural Club • Music Club • Musings Literary Magazine • NCC Military Veterans Club • Nursing Club • Peace Club • Philosophy Club • Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society • Physical Therapy Club • Respiratory Care Club • Roteract Club • Soccer Club • Speech Club • Student Government • Student World Assembly • Theater Arts Club • TRIO Club • The Voice Student Newspaper • Wellness Club

Student Government

The Student Government serves as the student governing body. It is the purpose of the Student Government to create and maintain channels of communication with faculty and administration and to participate meaningfully in college affairs and the governance of student activities. The Student Government functions as the coordinator of student interests, grants recognition to student organizations and sponsors a variety of social, cultural and educational activities throughout the year.

As the coordinating agency for student activities, the Student Government makes major decisions concerning expenditures from the student activities fund and is responsible for recruiting student members for various committees and councils to assist the President and faculty in arriving at college policies. The Student Activities Director serves as advisor to the Student Government.

Honor Societies

Phi Theta Kappa, the honor society for two-year colleges, is recognized by the American Association of Community and Junior Colleges. Alpha lota Nu, the chapter at NCC, is a five star chapter of PTK, which indicates chapter activity at the highest level. To qualify for membership, a student must have earned a 3.50 minimum cumulative grade point average and completed 12 credits.

Leadership Development

The Student Activities Office does ongoing leadership training through weekend retreats, campus programming and/or individual advisement. These programs are open to all students.

Pitney Bowes Foundation Wellness Center

The Wellness Center is located on the ground floor of the Center for Science, Health and Wellness in room H003.

Mission Statement

The Pitney Bowes Wellness Center is a state-of-the-art facility that is committed to improving the general well-being of all patrons. We encourage safe and effective exercise and lifestyle modification in an effort to improve one’s quality of life.

Services

The Wellness Center offers a variety of services to all patrons. These services include equipment orientation, exercise assessment and prescription, stress management, lifestyle coaching, and much more.

Registration

There are two easy steps for registration:

  1. NCC ID Cards - All patrons must present a valid NCC ID card upon entry to the facility. ID cards are available at the East Campus Security Desk during hours of operation.
  2. New Member Packet - All first-time members must complete a Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q) and sign off on terms and agreements of use.  The New Member Packet is available at the Wellness Center’s front desk and can be downloaded from the department’s web page. 

Group Fitness Courses

All group fitness courses are 0.5 credit, 10-week courses that are graded on a pass/fail basis. Credits earned in these courses are transferable to some four-year institutions. There are no prerequisites for registration.  Group fitness courses range from one hour to one hour and 30 minutes and meet once or twice weekly.  A complete listing of group fitness courses are located in the course search under “Health and Physical Education (HPE).”  To register for these courses please visit our Registrar Office or go to My.Commnet.edu. 

Group fitness courses are a great way to stay motivated and learn about new forms of exercise. Our elite group of certified instructors will guarantee a safe, fun and challenging experience for all levels of fitness.

Learning Outcomes

  1. Students will have an understanding of history and background of the discipline they are participating in.
  2. Students will apply information and experiences of these courses to personal wellness as a lifelong activity to obtain optimal health.
  3. The student will be able to demonstrate and perform safe and appropriate form and technique specific to course activities as taught by each instructor.

Cultural and Social Programming

The diversity of the NCC student population is recognized through campus-wide social gatherings, cultural diversity festivals, guest speakers, field trips and more. For more information about Student Activities Programs and Services, contact Javon Noblin, Director of Student Activities, at (203) 857-7249. The office is located in room W111.

Accident and Health Insurance Programs For Students

All enrolled students attending a Connecticut regional community college are automatically covered under the School Time Only Accident Insurance Plan. Students may also obtain broad 24-hour accident and sickness insurance. Students who will attain age 23 during the college year may not be covered by family insurance and should consider enrolling. For further information, contact the NCC Business Office, room E103.

Cafeteria

The cafeteria on the West Campus is available to students during the following hours: Monday through Thursday from 8 am to 8 pm, and Friday from 8 am to 1 pm. Food is also available from the Snack Bar and vending machines on the second floor bridge of the East Campus. The East Campus Snack Bar is open 8 am to 8 pm Monday through
Thursday, 8 am to 1 pm Friday, and 8 am to noon Saturday.

Bookstore

The Follett Bookstore is located in the East Campus building on the first floor, opposite the PepsiCo Theater. Text and trade books are available as well as clothing, gifts and a wide selection of supplies needed for class. Regular hours are Monday through Thursday, 8:30 am to 5:30 pm and Friday, 8:30 am to noon. At the start of each semester, hours are extended.

For additional information, visit the Bookstore’s website at www.norwalk.edu/bookstore or call Bookstore Manager Kevin Gibson at (203) 857-7240.

Graduation Disclosure Rates and Campus Safety

Information regarding graduation rates is available in the Admissions Office, room E106. Information on Campus Safety is available in brochures campus-wide.

Connecticut Community College System Policy on Student Conduct

Section 1: Student Code of Conduct

PREAMBLE

Academic institutions exist for the transmission of knowledge, the pursuit of truth, the development of students, and the general well-being of society. In line with this purpose, the Board of Regents for Higher Education (“BOR”) in conjunction with the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (“CSCU”) has the duty to protect the freedoms of inquiry and expression, and furthermore, has the responsibility to encourage all of its members to develop the capacity for critical judgment in their sustained and independent search for truth.

CSCU has certain self-defined institutional values. Principal among these values is respect for the safety, dignity, rights, and individuality of each member of the CSCU Community. The opportunity to live, study, and work in an institution which values diverse intellectual and cultural perspectives and encourages discussion and debate about competing ideas in an atmosphere of civility is a basic component of quality higher education.

All members of CSCU must at all times govern their social and academic interactions with tolerance and mutual respect so that the students who pass through a CSCU door are enriched by these experiences and are prepared for full and enlightened participation in a multi-cultural society. Because of the BOR’s and CSCU’s commitment to principles of pluralism, mutual respect, and civility, certain activities are not acceptable on CSCU campuses. Acts of intolerance, of hatred or violence based on race, religion, sexual orientation or expression, disability, gender, age, or ethnic background are antithetical to the BOR’s and CSCU’s fundamental principles and values. It is the BOR’s and CSCU’s responsibility to protect our students’ right to learn by establishing an environment of civility.

The disciplinary process is intended to be part of the educational mission of CSCU. Student disciplinary proceedings are not criminal proceedings and are not subject to court rules of procedure and evidence.

INTRODUCTION

This Student Code of Conduct (hereinafter the “Student Code” or “Code”) is intended to present a clear statement of student rights and responsibilities established by the Board of Regents for Higher Education. The BOR has charged the President of the Board of Regents for Higher Education with developing procedures to protect those rights and to address the abdication of responsibilities in collaboration with the four State Universities, the twelve Community Colleges and Charter Oak State College. The Student Code describes the types of acts that are not acceptable in an academic community.

Disclaimer: This Code is neither a contract nor an offer of a contract between any BOR governed institution and any student. The provisions of this Code are subject to revision at any time.

PART A: DEFINITIONS

The following list of defined terms utilized throughout this Student Code is provided in an effort to facilitate a more thorough understanding of the Code. This list is not intended to be a complete list of all the terms referenced in the Student Code that might require interpretation or clarification. The Vice President for Student Affairs at a University, the Dean of Students at a Community College, the Provost at Charter Oak State College or their designee shall make the final decision of the interpretation of the definition of any term found in the Student Code. For purposes of interpretation and application of the Student Code only, the following terms shall have the following meanings:

1. “Accused Student” means any student accused of violating this Student Code.

2. “Advisor” means a person who accompanies an Accused Student or an alleged victim to a hearing (or a proceeding pertaining to a report of sexual violence) for the limited purpose of providing advice and guidance to the student. An advisor may not directly address the Hearing Body, question witnesses, or otherwise actively participate in the hearing process (or other proceeding pertaining to a report of sexual violence).

3. “Appellate Body” means any person or persons authorized by the University Vice President for Student Affairs, Community College Dean of Students, Charter Oak State College Provost or their designee to consider an appeal from a determination by a Hearing Body that a student has violated the Student Code.

4. “Calendar Days” means the weekdays (Mondays through Fridays)

when the University or College is open.

5. “College” means either collectively or singularly any of the following institutions: Asnuntuck Community College, Capital Community College, Gateway Community College, Housatonic Community College, Manchester Community College, Middlesex Community College, Naugatuck Valley Community College, Northwestern Connecticut Community College, Norwalk Community College, Quinebaug Valley Community College, Three Rivers Community College, Tunxis Community College, and Charter Oak State College.

6. “Complainant(s)” means the person(s) who initiates a complaint by alleging that a Student(s) violated the Code.

7. “CSCU” means either collectively or singularly, any of the following institutions: Central Connecticut State University, Eastern Connecticut State University, Southern Connecticut State University, Western Connecticut State University; Asnuntuck Community College, Capital Community College, Gateway Community College, Housatonic Community College, Manchester Community College, Middlesex Community College, Naugatuck Valley Community College, Northwestern Connecticut Community College, Norwalk Community College, Quinebaug Valley Community College, Three Rivers Community College, Tunxis Community College, and Charter Oak State College.

8. “CSCU Affiliates” means individuals and/or entities with whom or with which the College or University has a contractual relationship.

9. “CSCU Official” means any person employed by the College or University to perform assigned administrative, instructional, or professional responsibilities.

10. “CSCU Premises” means all land, buildings, facilities, and other property in the possession of, or owned, used, and/or controlled by, the University or College, either solely or in conjunction with another entity.

11. “Disciplinary Officer” or “Conduct Administrator” means a University, College or CSCU official who is authorized to determine the appropriate resolution of an alleged violation of the Code, and/or to impose sanctions or affect other remedies as appropriate. Subject to the provisions of this Code, a disciplinary officer or conduct administrator is vested with the authority to, among other duties: investigate a complaint of an alleged violation of the Code decline to pursue a complaint, refer identified disputants to mediation or other appropriate avenues of resolution, establish charges against a student, enter into an administrative agreement developed with an Accused Student in accordance with Section II-B-3 of this Code, advise a Hearing Body, and present the case before the Hearing Body.

12. “Hearing Body” or “Hearing Panel” means any person or persons authorized by the University Vice President for Student Affairs, Community College Dean of Students or Charter Oak State College Provost to determine whether a student has violated the Code and to impose sanctions as warranted, including a hearing officer or hearing board.

13. “Institution” means the University or College within CSCU.

14. “Instructor” means any faculty member, teaching assistant or any other person authorized by the University to provide educational services, including, but not limited to, teaching, research, and academic advising.

15. “Member of the CSCU Community” means any person who is a student, an official or any other person who works for CSCU, either directly or indirectly (e.g., for a private enterprise doing business on a CSCU campus).

16. “Policy” means the written regulations, standards, and student conduct expectations adopted by the BOR and found in, but not limited to the Student Handbook, the Residence Life Handbook, the housing contract, the graduate and undergraduate catalogs, and other publicized University and College notices.

17. “Prohibited Conduct” means the conduct prohibited by this Code, as more particularly described in Part I-D of this Code.

18. “Reporting Party” means any person who alleges that a student has violated this Code.

19. “Student” means either (1) any person admitted, registered, enrolled or attending any CSCU course or CSCU conducted program, whether full-time or part- time, and whether pursuing undergraduate, graduate or professional studies, or continuing education; (2) any person who is not officially enrolled for a particular term but who has a continuing relationship with a CSCU; or (3) any person within two calendar years after the conclusion of their last registered Community College course unless the student has formally withdrawn, graduated or been expelled from the College.

20. “Student Code” or “Code” means this Student Code of Conduct.

21. “Student Organization” means an association or group of persons that have complied with the formal requirements for University or College recognition.

22. “Support Person” means a person, who accompanies an Accused Student, a Reporting Party or a victim to a hearing for the limited purpose of providing support and guidance. A support person may not directly address the Hearing Body, question witnesses, or otherwise actively participate in the hearing process.

23. “University” means any of the following institutions: Central Connecticut State University, Eastern Connecticut State University, Southern Connecticut State University, and Western Connecticut State University, whichever the alleged violation of the Code occurred.

24. “Shall” and “will” are used in the imperative sense.

25. “May” is used in the permissive sense.

PART B: APPLICATION, DISTRIBUTION, AND ADMINISTRATION OF THE STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT

1. Application of the Student Code: The Student Code shall apply to the four Connecticut State Universities, the twelve Community Colleges, and the on-line college:

Central Connecticut State University, Eastern Connecticut State University, Southern Connecticut State University, Western Connecticut State University; Asnuntuck Community College, Capital Community College, Gateway Community College, Housatonic Community College, Manchester Community College, Middlesex Community College, Naugatuck Valley Community College, Northwestern Connecticut Community College, Norwalk Community College, Quinebaug Valley Community College, Three Rivers Community College, Tunxis Community College, and Charter Oak State College.

An alleged violation of the Student Code shall be addressed in accordance with the Code of Conduct, even if the accused Student has withdrawn from the Institution prior to the completion of the disciplinary procedures.

The Student Code shall apply to Students and to University Student Organizations. The term “student” shall generally apply to the student as an individual and to a Student Organization as a

single entity. The officers or leaders of a particular Student Organization usually will be expected to represent the organization during the disciplinary process. Nothing in this Student Code shall preclude holding certain members of a Student Organization accountable for their individual acts committed in the context of or in association with the organization’s alleged violation of this Code.

2. Distribution of the Student Code: The Student Code shall be made readily available electronically and/or in a printed publication to students, faculty and staff. The office responsible for Student Affairs will annually distribute and make available to students, faculty and staff, electronically and/or in a printed publication, any revisions to the Code.

3. Administration of the Student Code: A University’s and Charter Oak State College’s Provost or a Community College’s Dean of Students shall be the person designated by the institution President to be responsible for the administration of the Academic Misconduct portion of the Student Code. A University’s Vice President for Student Affairs, a Community College’s Dean of Students, or Charter Oak State College’s Provost shall be the person designated by the institution President to be responsible for the administration of the Non-Academic Misconduct portion of the Student Code.

PART C: SCOPE OF AUTHORITY

A Student who is found responsible for engaging in conduct that violates the Student Code on any CSCU campus or on property controlled by the BOR or by any CSCU Affiliate or any CSCU sponsored function or event shall be subject to the sanctions described in this Code. The Student Code of Conduct also applies to online activities, where applicable. Students who attempt to engage in conduct that violates this Code, who knowingly encourage, aid or assist another person in engaging in such conduct, or who agree with another person, explicitly or otherwise, to engage in such conduct, may also be subject to disciplinary action.

Off-campus misconduct by University students may be subject to the jurisdiction of the University and addressed through its disciplinary procedures if one of the following conditions is met: (i) a Student engages in prohibited conduct at an official University event, at a University-sanctioned event, or at an event sponsored by a recognized University Student Organization; or (ii) a Student engages in prohibited conduct under such circumstances that reasonable grounds exist for believing that the Accused Student poses a threat to the life, health or safety of any member of the CSCU or to the property of the CSCU.

Community College students conduct is subject to the Code on campus and off-campus whenever such conduct impairs College-related activities or affairs of another member of the College community or creates a risk of harm to a member or members of the College community. Students must be aware that, as citizens, they are subject to all federal and state laws in addition to all CSCU regulations governing student conduct and responsibilities. Students do not relinquish their rights nor do they shed their responsibilities as citizens by becoming members of the CSCU Community. However, where a court of law has found a student to have violated the law, an institution has the right to impose the sanctions of this Code even though the conduct does not impair institution-related activities of another member of the university or college community and does not create a risk of harm to the college or university community. The decision to exercise this right will be in the sole discretion of the President of the impacted institution or his/her designee.

Charter Oak State College applies this Code to matriculated and non-matriculated students, including those participating in portfolio assessment, credential evaluation, testing, or contract learning. Jurisdiction shall be limited to student conduct that occurs while students are taking Charter Oak State College courses or availing themselves of Charter Oak State College services. However, if a matriculated Charter Oak State College student is found guilty of student misconduct at another institution, including but not limited to misrepresentation of records from other institutions, the student may be subject to disciplinary action at Charter Oak State College.

PART D: PROHIBITED CONDUCT

The following list of behaviors is intended to represent the types of acts that constitute violations of this Code.

1. Academic misconduct, which includes, but is not limited to, plagiarism and all forms of cheating.

Plagiarism is defined as the submission of work by a student for academic credit as one’s own work of authorship which contains work of another author without appropriate attribution.

Cheating includes, but is not limited to: (i) use of any unauthorized assistance in taking quizzes, tests or examinations; (ii) use of sources beyond those authorized by the instructor in writing papers, preparing reports, solving problems or carrying out other assignments; (iii) the acquisition, without permission, of tests or other academic material belonging to a member of the University faculty or staff; and (iv) engaging in any other behavior specifically prohibited by a faculty member in the course syllabus.

2. Acts of dishonesty, including but not limited to the following:

a. Misuse of University or College documents, including, but not limited to forging, transferring, altering or otherwise misusing a student fee card, student payroll card, identification card or other College or University identification document, course registration document, schedule card, transcript, or any other institution-issued document or record.

b. Knowingly furnishing false information to any CSCU Official, faculty member or office.

3. Theft of property or services, or damage to, defacement or destruction of, or tampering with, real or personal property owned by the State of Connecticut, CSCU/BOR, the institution, or any member of the CSCU Community.

4. Actual or threatened physical assault or abuse, threatening behavior, intimidation, or coercion.

5. Sexual misconduct may include engaging in one of more behaviors:                                                  

(a) Sexual harassment, which can include any unwelcome sexual advance or request for sexual favors, or any conduct of a sexual nature when submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual’s education; submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as a basis for academic decisions affecting the individual; or such conduct has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with an individual’s academic performance or creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive educational environment. Examples of conduct which may constitute sexual harassment include but are not limited to:

• sexual flirtation, touching, advances or propositions

• verbal abuse of a sexual nature

• pressure to engage in sexual activity

• graphic or suggestive comments about an individual’s dress or appearance

• use of sexually degrading words to describe an individual

• display of sexually suggestive objects, pictures or photographs

• sexual jokes

• stereotypic comments based upon gender

• threats, demands or suggestions that retention of one’s educational status is contingent upon toleration of or acquiescence in sexual advances.

(b) Sexual assault shall include but is not limited to a sexual act directed against another person when that person is not capable of giving consent, which shall mean the voluntary agreement by a person in the possession and exercise of sufficient mental capacity to make a deliberate choice to do something proposed by another.

A person who initially consents to sexual activity shall be deemed not to have consented to any such activity which occurs after that consent is withdrawn. Consent cannot be assumed because there is no physical resistance or other negative response. A lack of consent may result from mental incapacity (e.g., ingestion of alcohol or drugs which significantly impair awareness or judgment) or physical incapacity (e.g., the person is unconscious or otherwise unable to communicate consent). Consent must be affirmative. (See Sexual Misconduct Reporting, Support Services and Processes Policy).

Sexual assault is further defined in sections 53a-70, 53a-70a, 53a-70b, 53a-71, 53a-72a, 53a-72b and 53a-73a of the Connecticut General Statutes.

(c) Sexual exploitation occurs when a person takes non-consensual or abusive sexual advantage of another for anyone’s advantage or benefit other than the person being exploited, and that behavior does not otherwise constitute one of the preceding sexual misconduct offenses. Examples of behavior that could rise to the level of sexual exploitation include:

• Prostituting another person;

• Non-consensual visual (e.g., video, photograph) or audio-recording of sexual activity;

• Non-consensual distribution of photos, other images, or information of an individual’s sexual activity, intimate body parts, or nakedness, with the intent to or having the effect of embarrassing an individual who is the subject of such images or information;

• Going beyond the bounds of consent (such as letting your friends hide in the closet to watch you having consensual sex);

• Engaging in non-consensual voyeurism;

• Knowingly transmitting an STI, such as HIV to another without disclosing your STI status;

• Exposing one’s genitals in non-consensual circumstances, or inducing another to expose his or her genitals; or

• Possessing, distributing, viewing or forcing others to view illegal pornography.

 6. Intimate partner violence is defined as:

• Including intimate partner violence, which is any physical or sexual harm against an individual by a current or former spouse or by a partner in a dating relationship that results from (1) sexual assault, as defined in section 5 above; (2) sexual assault in a spousal or cohabiting relationship; (3) domestic violence; (4) sexual harassment, as defined in section 5 above or, (5) sexual exploitation, as defined in section 5 above.

• Physical abuse, which can include but is not limited to, slapping, pulling hair or punching.

• Threat of abuse, which can include but is not limited to, threatening to hit, harm or use a weapon on another (whether victim or acquaintance, friend or family member of the victim) or other forms of verbal threat.

• Emotional abuse, which can include but is not limited to, damage to one’s property, driving recklessly to scare someone, name calling, threatening to hurt one’s family members or pets and humiliating another person.

 7. Violations of privacy, including, but not limited to, voyeurism and the use of web-based, electronic or other devices to make a photographic, audio or video record of any person without his or her express consent, when such a recording is intended or likely to cause injury or distress. This includes, but is not limited to: (i) surreptitiously taking pictures or videos of another person in spaces such as sleeping areas, bathrooms, gymnasiums, locker rooms, and changing areas; and (ii) sexually exploiting another person by electronically recording or permitting others to view or electronically record, consensual sexual activity without a partner’s knowledge or permitting others to view or listen to such video or audio tapes without a partner’s knowledge and consent. Publicizing or threatening to publicize such records will also be considered a violation of this Code.

8. Hazing, which is defined as an act which endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a Student, or which destroys, damages, or removes public or private property for the purpose of initiation or admission into, affiliation with or as a condition for continued membership in a group or organization. The express or implied consent of the victim will not be a defense to an allegation of hazing. Consenting to the activity by remaining silent or not objecting in the presence of hazing is not a neutral act and is also a violation of this Student Code.

9. Stalking, which is defined as repeatedly contacting another person when:

a. The contacting person knows or should know that the contact is unwanted by the other person; and

b. The contact causes the other person reasonable apprehension of imminent physical harm or the contacting person knows or should know that the contact causes substantial impairment of the other person’s ability to perform the activities of daily life.

As used in this definition, the term “contacting” includes, but is not limited to, communicating with (including internet communication via e-mail, instantmessage, on- line community or any other internet communication) or remaining in the physical presence of the other person.

10. Harassment, which is defined as conduct which is abusive or which interferes with a person’s pursuit of his or her customary or usual affairs, including, but not limited to, such conduct when directed toward an individual or group because of race, ethnicity, ancestry, national origin, religion, gender, sexual orientation or expression, age, physical attribute, or physical or mental disability or disorder, including learning disabilities and mental retardation.

11. Conduct that is disorderly, lewd or indecent (including, but not limited to, public nudity and sexual activity in areas generally open to members of the campus community), breach of peace or aiding, abetting or procuring another person to breach the peace on CSCU premises or at functions sponsored by, or affiliated with the University or College.

12. Behavior or activity which endangers the health, safety, or well-being of oneself or others.

13. Offensive or disorderly conduct which causes interference, annoyance or alarmor recklessly creates a risk thereof at CSCU or CSCU premises, CSCU web or social media sites, at a CSCU-sponsored activity or in college or university courses, including cyber bullying. This offense does not apply to speech or other forms of constitutionally protected expression.

14. Unauthorized possession, duplication or use of keys (including, but not limited to, card access, card keys, fobs, etc.) to any CSCU premises or forcible and/or unauthorized entry on or into CSCU premises.

15. Starting fires, causing explosions, falsely reporting the presence of fire, bombs, incendiary or explosive devices, or falsely reporting an emergency.

16. Unauthorized or improper possession, use, removal, tampering or disabling of fire and/or safety equipment and warning devices, failure to follow standard fire and/or emergency safety procedures, or interference with firefighting or emergency response equipment or personnel.

17. Use, possession, purchase, sale or distribution of alcoholic beverages, except as expressly permitted by law and CSCU regulations. Alcoholic beverages may not, under any circumstances, be used by, possessed by, or distributed to any person under twenty-one (21) years of age.

18. Use, possession, purchase, sale, distribution or manufacturing of narcotics, controlled substances and/or drugs, including, but not limited to, marijuana and heroin, or drug paraphernalia, except as expressly permitted by law.

19. Use, possession or distribution of firearms, ammunition for firearms, other weapons or dangerous instruments, facsimiles of weapons or firearms, fireworks, explosives or dangerous chemicals. A dangerous instrument is any instrument, article or substance that, under the circumstances in which it is being utilized, is capable of causing death or serious physical injury. The possession of a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument on campus is strictly prohibited, even if such item is legally owned.

20. Gambling, including, but not limited to, promoting, wagering, receiving monies for wagering or gambling for money or property on CSCU premises.

21. Disruption or obstruction of any College or University function, activity or event, whether it occurs on or off the campus, or of any non-University or College function, activity or event which is authorized by the institution to occur on its premises.

22. Intentional obstruction of the free flow of pedestrian or vehicular traffic on CSCU premises or at University or College-sponsored or supervised functions or interference with entry into or exit from CSCU premises or with the free movement of any person.

23. Failure to comply with the directions of CSCU officials or law enforcement officers acting in the performance of their duties and/or failure to identify oneself to these persons when requested to do so.

24. Conduct that violates published BOR/CSCU policies, rules, and regulations, including, but not limited to, residence hall rules and regulations.

25. Conduct prohibited by any federal, state, and/or local law, regulation or ordinance.

26. Unauthorized use of CSCU property or the property of members of the CSCU

Community or of CSCU Affiliates.

27. Theft, unauthorized use, or abuse of University or College computers and/or peripheral systems and networks, including, but not limited to:

a. Unauthorized access to CSCU computer programs or files;

b. Unauthorized alteration, transfer or duplication of CSCU computer programs or files;

c. Unauthorized use of another individual’s identification and/or password;

d. Deliberate disruption of the operation of CSCU computer systems and networks;

e. Use of the Institution’s computing facilities and resources in violation of copyright laws (including unauthorized peer-to-peer file sharing of copyrighted material, including, but not limited to, copyrighted music, movies, and software);

f. Use of computing facilities and resources to send obscene messages (which are defined as messages which appeal mainly to a prurient, shameful or morbid interest in nudity, sex, excretion, sadism or masochism, go well beyond

customary limits of candor in describing or representing such matters, and are utterly without redeeming social value); and

g. Violation of the BOR Policy Statement on Acceptable and responsible use of Information Technology resources and/or any applicable BOR computer use policy.

28. Abuse of the CSCU conduct and disciplinary system, including but not limited to:

a. Failure to obey the notice from a Hearing Body or CSCU Official to appear for a meeting or hearing as part of the Student Conduct system;

b. Falsification, distortion, or intentional misrepresentation of information to a

Disciplinary Officer or Conduct Administrator, or before a Hearing Body;

c. Initiation of a conduct or disciplinary proceeding knowingly without cause;

d. Disruption or interference with the orderly conduct of a disciplinary proceeding;

e. Attempting to discourage an individual’s proper participation in, or use of, the disciplinary system;

f. Attempting to influence the impartiality of a Disciplinary Officer, Conduct Administrator or member of a Hearing Body prior to, and/or during the course of, the disciplinary proceeding;

g. Harassment (verbal or physical) and/or intimidation of a Disciplinary Officer, Conduct Administrator, or member of a Hearing Body prior to, and/or during the course of the disciplinary proceeding;

h. Failure to comply with the sanction(s) imposed under the Student Code; and

i. Influencing or attempting to influence another person to commit an abuse of the disciplinary system.

PART E: HEARING PROCEDURES FOR SEXUAL MISCONDUCT, SEXUAL INTIMATE PARTNER, DOMESTIC VIOLENCE & STALKING REPORTS

In addition to disciplinary procedures applicable to State University students in Section II, Community College students in Section III, or Charter Oak State College Students in Section IV, for any hearing conducted involving allegations of sexual misconduct, including sexual harassment, sexual assault, sexual exploitation, stalking and intimate partner violence the reported victim and the accused student shall each have the following rights::

1. At any meeting or proceeding, both the reported victim and accused student may be accompanied by an advisor or support person of the student’s choice provided the advisor or support person does not cause a scheduled meeting or hearing to be delayed or postponed and provided an advisor or support person may not directly address the Hearing Body, question witnesses, or otherwise actively participate in the hearing process (or other proceeding or pertaining to a report of sexual misconduct);

2. The reported victim of sexual misconduct is entitled to request that disciplinary proceedings begin promptly;

3. Any hearing regarding an accusation of sexual misconduct shall (i) be fair, prompt and impartial; (ii) be conducted by a Hearing Body annually trained in issues relating to sexual misconduct (iii) use the preponderance of evidence (more likely than not ) standard; (iv) shall allow both the accused student and reported victim the opportunity to present evidence and witnesses on their behalf during any disciplinary proceeding; (v) shall provide both the accused student and the reported victim with equal access to any information that will be used during meetings and hearings; and (vi) invoke the standard of “affirmative consent1” in determining whether consent to engage in sexual activity was given by all persons who engaged in sexual activity .

4. In accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), the accused student and the reported victim have the right to keep their identities confidential;

5. Any reported victim shall be provided written notice of the decision of the Hearing Body at the same time as the accused student, normally within one (1) business day after the conclusion of the Hearing. In accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) the notice to any reported victim of sexual misconduct shall contain only the following: the name of the accused student, the violation committed, if any, and any sanction imposed against the accused student.

6. The reported victim shall have the same right to request a review of the decision of the Hearing Body (appeal rights) in the same manner and on the same basis as shall the accused student; however, if a request for review by a reported victim is determined to be properly made and if the review determines there is sufficient grounds for altering the decision of the Hearing Body, among the other actions that may be taken as set forth above, the sanction of the hearing may also be increased. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in any hearing pertaining to sexual misconduct both the reported victim and the accused student are entitled to be simultaneously provided notice of any change in the results of the hearing prior to the time when the results become final as well as to be notified when such results become final.

 7. The standard of “Affirmative Consent” is set forth in the BOR Sexual Misconduct Reporting, Support Services and Processes Policy and is incorporated herein by reference.

PART F: CONDUCT AND DISCIPLINARY RECORDS

The written decision resulting from an administrative conference or a hearing under this Code shall become part of the student’s educational record and shall be subject to the provisions of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). A student’s disciplinary record shall be maintained separately from any other academic or official file maintained by the Institution. Disciplinary records will be maintained for a period of five (5) years from the date of the incident, except that the sanction of expulsion shall be noted permanently.

While student education records are generally protected from disclosure by FERPA, there are a number of exceptions to this rule. Students should be aware that a record concerning his/her behavior while a student at the College or University may be shared with other colleges or universities to which the student may subsequently wish to transfer or be admitted. Similarly, prospective employers may require a student to provide access to his/her education records as part of the employment application process. A record of having been sanctioned for conduct that violates Section I.D. of the Code may disqualify a student for admission to another college or university, and may interfere with his/her selection for employment.

PART G: INTERPRETATION AND REVISION

Questions regarding the interpretation of this Code shall be referred to the University’s and Charter Oak State College’s Provost or a Community College’s Dean of Students or their designees for the administration of the Non-Academic Misconduct portion of the Student Code and to the University’s Vice President for Student Affairs, a Community College’s Dean of Academic Affairs or Charter Oak State College’s Provost or their designees for the administration of the Academic Misconduct portion of the Student Code.

This Code shall be reviewed and revised, if and as necessary, every five (5) years, or as directed by the President of the Board of Regents for Higher Education.

Section 2: CONDUCT AND DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES APPLICABLE TO COMMUNITY COLLEGE STUDENTS

Procedures for Community College students differ from those procedures applicable to either the Universities or Charter Oak State College. This is due to the environmental, cultural and administrative differences within the types of the institutions comprising CSCU. Procedures for addressing allegations and sanctions regarding academic misconduct (as defined in Section I.D.1 above) for Community College Students as set for in this Section III of the Code.

PART A: DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES (Academic and Non-Academic Misconduct)

In regard to College Students, the following procedures shall govern the enforcement of the Code:

1. Information that a student may have violated the Code should be submitted to the Dean of Students, Dean of Academic Affairs or other designee of the President (hereinafter referred to as “the Dean”), normally within thirty (30) calendar days of the date of a possible violation or within thirty (30) calendar days of the date that the facts constituting a possible violation were known.

2. Upon receipt of information relating to a possible violation, the Dean may immediately place restrictions on or suspend a student on an interim basis if, in the judgment of the Dean, the continued presence of the student at the College or continued participation in the full range of college activities poses a danger to persons or property or constitutes an ongoing threat of disrupting the academic process.

a. “Interim restrictions” are limitations on the Student’s participation in certain College functions and activities, access to certain locations on campus or access to certain persons, that do not prevent the Student from continuing to pursue his/her academic program. A Student upon whom the Dean has placed interim restrictions shall be afforded written reasons for the restrictions, as well as the time period during which the interim restrictions shall apply. The decision of the Dean regarding interim restrictions shall be final.

 b. “Interim suspension” is the temporary separation of the Student from the College that involves the denial of all privileges, including entrance to College premises. Prior to imposing an interim suspension, the Dean shall make a good faith effort to meet with the Student. At this meeting, the Dean shall inform the Student of the information received and provide the Student an opportunity to present other information for the Dean’s consideration. Based upon the information available at that time, the Dean shall determine whether the Student’s continued presence on campus poses a danger to persons or property or constitutes an ongoing threat of disrupting the academic process. A Student suspended on an interim basis by the Dean shall be provided written reasons for the suspension and shall be entitled to an administrative conference or a hearing as soon as possible, normally within ten (10) calendar days from the date the interim suspension was imposed. The decision of the Dean regarding an interim suspension shall be final.

 3. Following the imposition of interim restrictions or interim suspension, if any, the Dean shall promptly investigate the information received by meeting with individuals who may have knowledge of the matter, including the accused Student, and by reviewing all relevant documents.

If upon the conclusion of the Dean’s investigation, the Dean determines that there is insufficient reason to believe the Student has committed a violation of any part of Section I.D. of this Policy, the Dean shall dismiss the matter and shall so inform the Student in writing.

4. If upon the conclusion of the Dean’s investigation, the Dean determines that there is reason to believe the Student has committed a violation of any part of Section I. D. of this Code and, after considering both the possible violation and the prior conduct record of the Student, that a sanction of less than suspension or expulsion is appropriate, the Dean shall schedule an administrative conference with the Student. The Student shall be given reasonable notice of the time and place of the conference. At the administrative conference, the Student shall have the opportunity to present information for the Dean’s consideration. At the conclusion of the administrative conference, the Dean shall determine whether it ismore likely than not that the Student has violated the Policy and, if so, impose a sanction less than suspension or expulsion. The Dean shall provide the Student with a written explanation for the determination. The decision of the Dean shall be final.

5. If upon the conclusion of the Dean’s investigation, the Dean determines that there is reason to believe the Student has committed a violation of any part of Section I.D. of this Code and, after considering both the violation and the prior conduct record of the Student, that a sanction of suspension or expulsion is appropriate, the Dean shall provide the Student with reasonable written notice of a meeting and shall inform the Student that his/her failure to attend the meeting or to respond to the notice may result in the imposition of the maximum permissible sanction. At the meeting, the Dean shall provide the Student with a written statement that shall include the following:

a. a concise statement of the alleged facts;

b. the provision(s) of Section I.D. that appear to have been violated;

c. the maximum permissible sanction; and

d. a statement that the student may resolve the matter by mutual agreement with the Dean, or may request a hearing by notifying the Dean in writing, which must be received by 5:00pm on the following business day.

 

6. If the Student requests a hearing, he/she is entitled to the following:

a. to be heard within five (5) days or as soon as reasonably possible, by an impartial party or panel whose members shall be appointed by the Dean;

b. if the Dean appoints an impartial panel, to have a Student on the panel if requested by the Student;

c. to appear in person and to have an advisor who not shall attend as a representative of the Student. However, if there is pending at the time of the hearing a criminal matter pertaining to the same incident that is the subject of the hearing, a lawyer may be present for the sole purpose of observing the proceedings and advising the Student concerning the effect of the proceedings on the pending criminal matter;

d. to hear and to question the information presented;

e. to present information, to present witnesses, and to make a statement on his or her behalf; and

f. to receive a written decision following the hearing.

 

7. As used herein, the term “impartial” shall mean that the individual was not a party to the incident under consideration and has no personal interest in the outcome of the proceedings. Prior to the

commencement of the hearing, the Student who is subject to the hearing may challenge the appointment of an impartial party or panel member on the ground that the person(s) is (are) not impartial. The challenge shall be made in writing to the Dean and shall contain the reasons for the assertion that the person(s) is (are) not impartial. The decision of the Dean shall be final.

8. The written decision of the impartial party or panel shall specify whether, based on the information presented, it is more likely than not that the Student committed the violation(s) reported and shall state the sanction to be imposed, if any. The written decision shall be provided to the Student.

9. Sanctions imposed by an impartial party or panel are effective immediately. The President may, for good cause, suspend imposition of the sanctions imposed by the impartial party or panel to allow the Student time to prepare a written request for review. If a written request is received, the President may continue to suspend imposition of the sanctions until he has reviewed and acted on the Student’s request.

10. A written request for review of the decision of the impartial party or panel must be received by the President within three (3) calendar days after the Student is notified of the decision and must clearly identify the grounds for review. The review by the President is limited to the record of the hearing, the written request, and any supporting documentation submitted with the request by the Student. The decision of the impartial party or the panel shall be upheld unless the President finds that:

a. a violation of the procedures set forth herein significantly prejudiced the Student; and/or

b. the information presented to the impartial party or panel was not substantial enough to justify the decision; and/or,

c. the sanction(s) imposed was (were) disproportionate to the seriousness of the violation.

11. Decisions under this procedure shall be made only by the college officials indicated.

PART B: DISCIPLINARY SANCTIONS

The prior conduct record of a Student shall be considered in determining the appropriate sanction for a Student who has been found to have violated any part of Section I.D. of this Code. Sanctions shall be progressive in nature; that is, more serious sanctions may be imposed if warranted by the prior conduct record of the Student.

A “sanction” may be any action affecting the status of an individual as a Student taken by the College in response to a violation of this Policy, and for the purposes of this Section III of the Code include but are not limited to the following:

1. “Expulsion” is a permanent separation from the College that involves denial of all Student privileges, including entrance to College premises;

2. “Suspension” is a temporary separation from the College that involves denial of all Student privileges, including entrance to college premises for the duration of the suspension, and may include conditions for reinstatement;

3. “Removal of College Privileges” involves restrictions on Student access to certain locations, functions and/or activities but does not preclude the Student from continuing to pursue his/her academic program;

4. “Probation” is a status that indicates either (a) serious misconduct not warranting expulsion, suspension, or removal of College privileges, or (b) repetition of misconduct after a warning has been imposed;

5. A “Warning” is a written notice to the Student indicating that he or she has engaged in conduct that is in violation of Section I.D. of this Code and that any repetition of such conduct or other conduct that violates this Code is likely to result in more serious sanctions;

6. “Community Restitution” requires a Student to perform a number of hours of service on the campus or in the community at large.

Approved by Board of Regents 3/13/2014; amended 4/17/2014; 1/15/2015, 6/16/2016

Sexual Misconduct Reporting, Support Services and Processes Policy

Statement of Policy

The Board of Regents for Higher Education (BOR) in conjunction with the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU) is committed to insuring that each member of every BOR governed college and university community has the opportunity to participate fully in the process of education and development. The BOR and CSCU strive to maintain a safe and welcoming environment free from acts of sexual misconduct, intimate partner violence and stalking. It is the intent of the BOR and each of its colleges or universities to provide safety, privacy and support to victims of sexual misconduct and intimate partner violence.

The BOR strongly encourages victims to report any instance of sexual misconduct, including sexual harassment, sexual assault, sexual exploitation, stalking and intimate partner violence, as an effective means of taking action by reporting such acts to the appropriate officials and pursuing criminal or disciplinary remedies, or both. The only way that action can be taken against anyone who violates another in such a manner is through reporting. Each and every BOR governed college and university shall provide those who report sexual misconduct with many supportive options, including referral to agencies that provide medical attention, counseling, legal services, advocacy, referrals and general information regarding sexual misconduct. Each and every BOR governed college and university will preserve the confidentiality of those who report sexual misconduct to the fullest extent possible and allowed by law. All BOR and CSCU employees, victim support persons and community victim advocates being consulted will make any limits of confidentiality clear before any disclosure of facts takes place. Other than confidential resources as defined above, in addition to employees who qualify as Campus Security Authorities under the Jeanne Clery Act, all BOR and CSCU employees are required to immediately communicate to the institution’s designated recipient any disclosure or report of sexual misconduct received from a student as well as communicate any disclosure or report of sexual misconduct the employee received from another employee when misconduct is related to the business of the institution.

Affirmative consent must be given by all parties before engaging in sexual activity. Affirmative consent means an active, clear and voluntary agreement by a person to engage in sexual activity with another person. Sexual misconduct, as defined herein, is a violation of BOR policies and, in addition, may subject an accused student or employee to criminal penalties. The BOR and each of its governed colleges and universities are committed to providing an environment free of personal offenses. Sexual relationships of any kind between staff/faculty and students are discouraged pursuant to BOR policy.

The Board of Regents for Higher Education hereby directs the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities to implement the Policy stated above pursuant to the following provisions:

Terms, Usage and Standards

Consent must be affirmed and given freely, willingly, and knowingly of each participant to desired sexual involvement. Consent is a mutually affirmative, conscious decision - indicated clearly by words or actions - to engage in mutually accepted sexual contact. Consent may be revoked at any time during the sexual activity by any person engaged in the activity.

Affirmative consent may never be assumed because there is no physical resistance or other negative response. A person who initially consents to sexual activity shall be deemed not to have affirmatively consented to any such activity which occurs after that consent is withdrawn. It is the responsibility of each person to assure that he or she has the affirmative consent of all persons engaged in the sexual activity to engage in the sexual activity and that affirmative consent is sustained throughout the sexual activity. It shall not be a valid excuse to an alleged lack of affirmative consent that the student or employee responding to the alleged violation believed that the student reporting or disclosing the alleged violation consented to the activity (i) because the responding student or employee was intoxicated or reckless or failed to take reasonable steps to ascertain whether the student or employee reporting or disclosing the alleged violation affirmatively consented, or (ii) if the responding student or employee knew or should have known that the student or employee reporting or disclosing the alleged violation was unable to consent because the student or employee was unconscious, asleep, unable to communicate due to a mental or physical condition, or incapacitated due to the influence of drugs, alcohol or medication. The existence of a past or current dating or sexual relationship between the persons involved in the alleged violation shall not be determinative of a finding of affirmative consent.

Report of sexual misconduct is the receipt of a communication of an incident of sexual misconduct accompanied by a request for an investigation or adjudication by the institution.

Disclosure is the receipt of any communication of an incident of sexual misconduct that is not accompanied by a request for an investigation or adjudication by the institution.

Sexual misconduct includes engaging in any of the following behaviors:

(a) Sexual harassment, which can include any unwelcome sexual advance or request for sexual favors, or any conduct of a sexual nature when submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual’s education or employment; submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as a basis for academic or employment decisions affecting the individual; or such conduct has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with an individual’s academic or work performance or creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive educational or employment environment. Examples of conduct which may constitute sexual harassment include but are not limited to:

  • sexual flirtation, touching, advances or propositions
  • verbal abuse of a sexual nature
  • pressure to engage in sexual activity
  • graphic or suggestive comments about an individual’s dress or appearance
  • use of sexually degrading words to describe an individual
  • display of sexually suggestive objects, pictures or photographs
  • sexual jokes
  • stereotypic comments based upon gender
  • threats, demands or suggestions that retention of one’s educational status is contingent upon toleration of or acquiescence in sexual advances.

Retaliation is prohibited and occurs when a person is subjected to an adverse employment or educational action because he or she made a complaint under this policy or assisted or participated in any manner in an investigation.

(b) Sexual assault shall include but is not limited to a sexual act directed against another person

without the consent (as defined herein) of the other person or when that person is not capable

of giving such consent.

Sexual assault is further defined in sections 53a-70, 53a-70a, 53a-70b, 53a-71, 53a-72a, 53a-72b

and 53a-73a of the Connecticut General Statutes.

(c) Sexual exploitation occurs when a person takes non-consensual or abusive sexual advantage of

another for anyone’s advantage or benefit other than the person being exploited, and that behavior

does not otherwise constitute one of the preceding sexual misconduct offenses. Examples of

behavior that could rise to the level of sexual exploitation include:

• Prostituting another person;

• Non-consensual visual (e.g., video, photograph) or audio-recording of sexual activity;

• Non-consensual distribution of photos, other images, or information of an individual’s sexual activity, intimate body parts, or nakedness, with the intent to or having the effect of embarrassing an individual who is the subject of such images or information;

• Going beyond the bounds of consent (for example, an individual who allows friends to hide in the closet to watch him or her having consensual sex);

• Engaging in non-consensual voyeurism;

• Knowingly transmitting an STI, such as HIV to another without disclosing your STI status;

• Exposing one’s genitals in non-consensual circumstances, or inducing another to expose his or her genitals; or

• Possessing, distributing, viewing or forcing others to view illegal pornography.

Sexual exploitation is further defined as a crime in Connecticut State Law.

(d) Intimate partner, domestic and/or dating violence means any physical or sexual harm against an individual by a current or former spouse of or person in a dating or cohabitating relationship with such individual that results from any action by such spouse or such person that may be classified as a sexual assault under section 53a-70, 53a-70a, 53a-70b, 53a-71, 53a-72a, 53a-72b or 53a-73a of the general statutes, stalking under section 53a-181c, 53a-181d or 53a-181e of the general statutes, or domestic or family violence as designated under section 46b-38h of the general statutes. This includes any physical or sexual harm against an individual by a current or former spouse or by a partner in a dating relationship that results from (1) sexual assault (2) sexual assault in a spousal or cohabiting relationship; (3) domestic violence; (4) sexual harassment (5) sexual exploitation, as such terms are defined in this policy.

Offenses that are designated as “domestic violence” are against family or household members or persons in dating or cohabitating relationships and include assaults, sexual assaults, stalking, and violations of protective or restraining orders issued by a Court. Intimate partner violence may also include physical abuse, threat of abuse, and emotional abuse.

  • Physical abuse includes, but is not limited to, slapping, pulling hair or punching.
  • Threat of abuse includes but is not limited to, threatening to hit, harm or use a weapon on another (whether victim or acquaintance, friend or family member of the victim) or other forms of verbal threat.
  • Emotional abuse includes but is not limited to, damage to one’s property, driving recklessly to scare someone, name calling, threatening to hurt one’s family members or pets and humiliating another person.
  • Cohabitation occurs when two individuals dwell together in the same place as if married.
  • The determination of whether a “dating relationship” existed is to be based upon the following factors: the reporting victim’s statement as to whether such a relationship existed, the length of the relationship, the type of the relationship and the frequency of the interaction between the persons reported to be involved in the relationship.

(e) Stalking, which is defined as repeatedly contacting another person when contacting person knows or should know that the contact is unwanted by the other person; and the contact causes the other person reasonable apprehension of imminent physical harm or the contacting person knows or should know that the contact causes substantial impairment of the other person’s ability to perform the activities of daily life.

As used in this definition, the term “contacting” includes, but is not limited to, communicating with (including internet communication via e-mail, instant message, on- line community or any other internet communication) or remaining in the physical presence of the other person.

Confidentiality

When a BOR governed college or university receives a report of sexual misconduct all reasonable steps will be taken by the appropriate CSCU officials to preserve the privacy of the reported victim while promptly investigating and responding to the report. While the institution will strive to maintain the confidentiality of personally identifiable student information reported, which information is subject to privacy requirements of the Family Education Rights Privacy Act (FERPA), the institution also must fulfill its duty to protect the campus community.

Confidential resources are defined as follows: For the Universities, entities with statutory privilege, which include campus based counseling center, health center and pastoral counseling staff members whose official responsibilities include providing mental health counseling to members of the University community as well as off campus counseling and psychological services, health services providers, member(s) of the clergy, and the local Sexual Assault Crisis Center and Domestic Violence Center. For the Colleges, confidential resources are limited to entities with statutory privilege, such as off campus counseling and psychological services, health services providers, member(s) of the clergy, and the local Sexual Assault Crisis Center and Domestic Violence Center. The personnel of these centers and agencies are bound by state statutes and professional ethics from disclosing information about reports without written releases.

Information provided to a confidential resource by a victim of a sexual misconduct or the person reported to have been the victim of sexual misconduct cannot be disclosed legally to any other person without consent, except under very limited circumstances, such as an imminent threat of danger to self or others or if the reported victim is a minor. Therefore, for those who wish to obtain the fullest legal protections and disclose in full confidentiality, she/he must speak with a confidential resource. Each BOR governed college and university will provide a list of such confidential resources in the College or University’s geographic region to victims of sexual misconduct as well as publish these resources on-line and in various publications.

Where it is deemed necessary for the institution to take steps to protect the safety of the reported victim and/or other members of the campus community, the institution will seek to act in a manner so as not to compromise the privacy or confidentiality of the reported victim of sexual misconduct to the extent reasonably possible.

Mandated Reporting by College and University Employees

Other than confidential resources as defined above, in addition to employees who qualify as Campus Security Authorities under the Jeanne Clery Act, all employees are required to immediately communicate to the institution’s designated recipient (e.g., Title IX Coordinator) any disclosure or report of sexual misconduct received from a student regardless of the age of the reported victim. All employees are also required to communicate to the institution’s designated recipient (e.g., Title IX Coordinator) any disclosure or report of sexual misconduct received from an employee that impacts employment with the institution or is otherwise related to the business of the institution.

Upon receiving a disclosure or a report of sexual misconduct, employees are expected to supportively, compassionately and professionally offer academic and other accommodations and to provide a referral for support and other services.

Further, in accordance with Connecticut State law, with the exception of student employees, any paid administrator, faculty, staff, athletic director, athletic coach or athletic trainer who, in the ordinary course of their employment, has a reasonable cause to suspect or believe that a person under the age of 18 years has been abused or neglected, has been placed in imminent harm or has had a non-accidental injury is required by law and Board policy to report the incident within twelve hours to their immediate supervisor and to the Department of Children and Families.

Rights of Parties

Those who report any type of sexual misconduct to any BOR governed college or university employee will be informed in a timely manner of all their rights and options, including the necessary steps and potential outcomes of each option. When choosing a reporting resource the following information should be considered:

  • All reports of sexual misconduct will be treated seriously and with dignity by the institution.
  • Referrals to off-campus counseling and medical services that are available immediately and confidential, whether or not those who report feel ready to make any decisions about reporting to police, a college or university employee or the campus’s Title IX Coordinator.
  • Those who have been the victim of sexual misconduct have the right to take both criminal and civil legal action against the individual allegedly responsible.
  • Those who seek confidentiality may contact a clergy member(s), a University counseling center psychologist, a University health center care provider, the Sexual Assault Crisis Center of Connecticut and/or the Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence − all of whom are bound by state statutes and professional ethics to maintain confidentiality without written releases.

Right to Notify Law Enforcement & Seek Protective and Other Orders

Those who report being subjected to sexual misconduct shall be provided written information about her/his right to:

(1) notify law enforcement and receive assistance from campus authorities in making the notification; and,

(2) obtain a protective order, apply for a temporary restraining order or seek enforcement of an existing order. Such orders include:

  • standing criminal protective orders;
  • protective orders issued in cases of stalking, harassment, sexual assault, or risk of injury to or impairing the morals of a child;
  • temporary restraining orders or protective orders prohibiting the harassment of a witness;
  • family violence protective orders.

Options for Changing Academic, Housing, Transportation and Working Arrangements

The colleges and universities will provide assistance to those involved in a report of sexual misconduct, including but not limited to, reasonably available options for changing academic, campus transportation, housing or working situations as well as honoring lawful protective or temporary restraining orders. Each and every BOR governed college and university shall create and provide information specific to its campus detailing the procedures to follow after the commission of such violence, including people or agencies to contact for reporting purposes or to request assistance, and information on the importance of preserving physical evidence.

Support Services Contact Information

It is BOR policy that whenever a college or university Title IX Coordinator or other employee receives a report that a student, faculty or staff member has been subjected to sexual misconduct, the Title IX Coordinator or other employee shall immediately provide the student, faculty or staff member with contact information for and, if requested, professional assistance in accessing and using any appropriate campus resources, or local advocacy, counseling, health, and mental health services. All CSCU campuses shall develop and distribute contact information for this purpose as well as provide such information on-line.

Employee Conduct Procedures

Employees who are reported to have engaged in sexual misconduct are subject to discipline in accordance with the procedures applicable to the employee’s classification of employment.

Student Conduct Procedures

The Student Code of Conduct provides the procedures for the investigation, definitions of terms, and resolution of complaints regarding student conduct, including those involving sexual misconduct, as defined herein.

The Title IX Coordinator can assist in explaining the student conduct process. The Student Code of Conduct provides an equal, fair, and timely process (informal administrative resolution or a formal adjudication) for reported victims and accused students.

Reported victims of sexual misconduct shall have the opportunity to request that an investigation or disciplinary proceedings begin promptly; that such disciplinary proceedings shall be conducted by an official trained annually in issues relating to sexual misconduct and shall use the preponderance of the evidence (more likely than not) standard in making a determination concerning the alleged sexual misconduct.

Both the reported victim of sexual misconduct and the accused student are entitled to be accompanied to any meeting or proceeding relating to the allegation of sexual misconduct by an advisor or support person of their choice, provided the involvement of such advisor or support person does not result in the postponement or delay of such meeting as scheduled and provided such an advisor or support person may not directly address the Hearing Body, question witnesses or otherwise actively participate in the hearing process or other meeting pertaining to a report of sexual misconduct and each student shall have the opportunity to present evidence and witnesses on her/his behalf during any disciplinary proceeding.

Both the reported victim and accused student are entitled to be provided at the same time written notice of the results of any disciplinary proceeding, normally within one (1) business day after the conclusion of such proceeding, which notice shall include the following: the name of the accused student, the violation committed, if any, and any sanction imposed upon the accused student. Sanctions may range from a warning to expulsion, depending upon the behavior and its severity of the violation(s). The reported victim shall have the same right to request a review of the decision of any disciplinary proceeding in the same manner and on the same basis as shall the accused student; however, in such cases, if a review by any reported victim is granted, among the other actions that may be taken, the sanction of the disciplinary proceeding may also be increased. The reported victim and the accused student are entitled to be simultaneously provided written notice of any change in the results of any disciplinary proceeding prior to the time when the results become final as well as to be notified when such results become final.

In accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), the accused student and the reported victim have the right to keep their identities confidential.

Dissemination of this Policy

Upon adoption by the Board all CSCU institutions shall, upon receipt, immediately post and maintain this policy at all times in an easily accessible manner on each institution’s website. This policy shall thereafter be annually provided to all Title IX Coordinators, campus law enforcement officers and security personnel, and other campus personnel. Further, this policy shall be presented at student orientation and at student awareness and prevention trainings, and made broadly available at each campus. The policy shall be expanded upon by each institution to provide resources and contact information specific to their institution and geographic area as set forth above.

Approved by Board of Regents 1/15/15 revised 6/16/16