Student Handbook VALDOSTA STATE UNIVERSITY VOLUME 5 Except where expressly noted herein, this Student Handbook is not, nor is it intended, to create a contract between any student and the university. The terms set forth in this Student Handbook do not create contractual or legal rights for students.

The provisions of this handbook are not to be regarded as a contract between any student and the University. The University reserves the right to change any of the policies, rules, and standards of conduct at any time as may be necessary in the interest of the University. The University also reserves the right to modify or discontinue any of the services, programs, or activities described in this handbook.

2 CONTENTS | STUDENT HANDBOOK VOLUME V

4 Welcome from the President CAMPUS LIVING 5 Welcome from the Vice President 31 Housing & Residence Life for Student Affairs & Dean of Students 33 Dining Services 7 VSU Mission Statement 38 Bookstore 39 Odum Library STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION 39 Student Mail Center 40 Health Services 9 SGA Constitution 40 VSU – 1Card Services 9 Welcome from the 41 University Police Student Government (SGA) President 42 Parking & Transportation STUDENT AFFAIRS ACADEMICS 20 Student Affairs & Dean of Students Office 44 Policies & Procedures 21 Counseling Center 49 Student Records 22 Alcohol & Other Drugs Education 49 Graduating with Honors 23 Office of Health Promotions 50 Dean’s List 23 Career Services 50 Honors College 23 Cooperative Education 51 Office of Academic Student 24 Office of Testing Instructional Support (OASIS) 24 Access Office 52 Student Success Center 25 Office of Financial Aid GENERAL INFORMATION DEAN OF STUDENTS 53 Finance & Administration 25 Student Conduct Office 57 Student Organization Regulations 26 Office of Student Life 64 Student Code of Conduct 26 Greek Life 83 Family Educational Rights 27 Orientation & Leadership Programs & Privacy Act (FERPA) 27 Campus Recreation 84 General Public Forum Venue Policy 28 Volunteer Services 85 Conflict Resolution Policy 29 Parents & Family Association 85 Equal Opportunity Statement 29 Athletics & Sports 87 Campus Map 29 Alumni Relations 88 Campus Telephone Quick Reference

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3 LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT | STUDENT HANDBOOK VOLUME V President’s Welcome

Welcome to Valdosta State University. When applying to be VSU’s new president, I was fully aware of the university’s outstanding reputation as a regional public university. Having had the privilege of being on campus for some time now, however, I continue to discover more of what VSU has to offer. Whether you are visiting our Web site or are planning a visit to our beautiful campus, I know that you will make those same discoveries. Valdosta State University has been serving the citizens of South Georgia for over 100 years, and is dedicated to educating the citizens and leaders of the 21st Century. With a focus on the future and a respect for our history, we serve as the intellectual and cultural hub of our region. Our faculty and staff have built an unrivaled living and learning environment that prepares our students not only for their chosen careers, but also for the ever-increasing demands of global citizenship. Our 40,000 alumni in Georgia and all over the world have taken what they learned at VSU and carried that knowledge into their communities and chosen professions. The 2012-13 academic year is yet another exciting one at VSU. For example, students and faculty are fully utilizing the innovative Dr. WIlliam McKinney laboratory facilities of the newly expanded Bailey Science Center. President of Valdosta State University This fall, we will break ground on our $36 million Health Sciences and Business Administration Building, which symbolizes our commitment to regional engagement and partnership. The 140,000 square-foot facility will house academic programs in Nursing, Communication Sciences and Disorders, Athletic Training, Exercise Physiology, Social Work, Health Care Administration, and Dental Hygiene (in partnership with Wiregrass Georgia Technical College). These are just a few of the exciting things happening at VSU. A tour of our campus or this Web site will show you much more. Whether it is through attending arts and cultural events, Blazer athletic events, or learning about our nationally recognized academic programs, I invite you to discover all that VSU has to offer.

4 LETTER FROM THE VICE PRESIDENT | STUDENT HANDBOOK VOLUME V

FROM THE DESK OF THE Vice President for Student Affairs & Dean of Students

On behalf of the Division of Student Affairs, welcome to Valdosta State University. Our dedicated staff will work to provide you with a wide array of programs and services that will help you succeed at VSU. As one of the most beautiful campuses in the south, VSU prides itself on being student-centered. Students are what make VSU the dynamic, growing, and nationally recognized institution that it is. We believe you will have an excellent experience at VSU, both in and out of the classroom! Valdosta State University is on the move with new facility construction under way to enhance the learning environment and prepare our students as future leaders in a global society. A new $36 million, 140,000 square-foot Health Sciences Business Administration facility is currently under construction that will house Nursing, Communication Sciences and Disorders, Athletic Training, Exercise Physiology, Social Work, Health Care Administration and Dental Hygiene. An addition to the Bailey Science Center opened in the fall of 2012 which provides faculty and students with new laboratories. We have a comprehensive Student Health facility that treats and educates students on their health needs. VSU has a cutting-edge Student Recreation Center. This comprehensive wellness center is the heart of campus activity! Russell F. Mast The complex also includes three lighted outdoor intramural fields, adjacent to Vice President for Student Affairs Centennial Hall, a 30 element, low and high ropes challenge course behind and Dean of Students the Sustella Parking Deck, and an outdoor rental center (CORE) located in the south end of the Sustella Parking Deck. Students may present their student ID and rent all types of outdoor recreation and camping gear. In January of 2010 the Student Union opened its doors and has become the central hub of activity for the entire campus. This state of the art facility includes; dining opportunities, VSU Bookstore, meeting rooms, student organization offices, Theater, ballrooms, game room, and administrative offices for Student Life, SGA, Greek Life, CAB and the Vice President for Student Affairs. The Division also has a fully accredited Counseling Center that assists students with personal needs. The Career Center Offices work with students in meeting their future career goals. VSU awarded over $130,000,000 in financial aid during the last fiscal year, and the knowledgeable staff in the Financial Aid Office is always available to help students. The Access Office also supports students with disabilities by offering accommodations, tutoring, interpretation support and workshops to assist students with their academic success.

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Continued

The Office of Testing provides a wide variety of services from graduate school admissions tests to teacher certification exams. National research shows that students graduate quicker and with better grades if they maintain campus involvement. Student Affairs urges students to get involved in campus organizations and activities. There are almost 200 active student organizations on campus, including 23 Greek social organizations, over a dozen faith-based campus ministry groups, numerous intramural opportunities, and many service and academic clubs. Volunteer Services helps connect VSU students and organizations with community service projects in the area. A leader in the world of NCAA Division II Athletics, VSU has one of the most successful and well-rounded intercollegiate sports programs in the nation. The Blazer and Lady Blazer athletic teams compete in the Gulf South Conference (GSC), one of the toughest conferences in the country. Valdosta State University has 12 intercollegiate athletic teams. VSU has won six national titles: football (2), men’s tennis (2), baseball (1), and this past spring women’s softball won the national title with a 58-5 record. It is our goal to make your VSU experience memorable and satisfying. We strive to offer the highest level of professionalism and commitment to students. If there is any way the Division of Student Affairs team can assist you, please contact my office at (229) 333-5941 or reach me through electronic mail at [email protected]. Also utilize our Parent Resource Center. This site will help family members stay connected with campus events and provide valuable current information on resources and deadlines.

6 MISSION STATEMENT | STUDENT HANDBOOK VOLUME V VSU Mission Statement

Since 1913, Valdosta State University has been a major provider of educational services for South Georgia. The beauty and consistency of its Spanish Mission style of architecture are indicative of its dedication to serving the region’s heritage while developing programs and services to enhance its future.

Within the context of the University System’s VSU prides itself on offering nationally accredited programs in Art, Valdosta State University possesses the core Business, Music, Nursing, Sports Medicine/Athletic Training, Speech- characteristics of a regional university. Language Pathology, School Psychology, Theatre, Public Administration, The core characteristics include: Social Work, and Teacher Education which have a magnet effect beyond the institution’s primary setting. In its academic credit programming, A commitment to excellence and responsiveness VSU will place a priority on developing existing programs that aid the within a scope of influence defined by the needs educational, economic, cultural, and social advancement of its region and of a specific region of the state and by particularly new programs in health-related professions and public administration. The outstanding programs or distinctive characteristics programs will continue to be supported by strong preparatory courses and that have a magnet effect even beyond the region; majors in the humanities, sciences, and social studies. VSU also remains A campus-wide commitment to a technologically committed to pre-professional programs preparing its undergraduate enhanced learning community that promotes students for medical, legal, technical, and other professional study. student success, sustains instructional excellence, In its service to students, VSU concentrates on those from the region serves a diverse and well-prepared student body, including a large number of older, non-traditional students who live and offers academic assistance, and provides learning work off campus and many who transfer from other institutions. To serve enrichment for all students; its region and to attain maximum educational benefits, the university A wide range of disciplinary and interdisciplinary promotes an atmosphere that attracts a diversified student body, of which academic programming at the baccalaureate and a representative proportion will be minority students. master’s levels, as well as a range of professional VSU promotes a successful learning experience by maintaining programs at the baccalaureate and post- services for minority, disabled, veteran, international, and other students baccalaureate levels, including a limited number of with special needs. To aid in developing the whole student, it provides professionally oriented doctoral-level programs; counseling, health services, academic advising, special assistance, A commitment to public service, continuing honors programs, international programs, career planning, and many co- education, technical assistance, and economic curricular activities. development activities that address the needs, VSU is committed to providing life-long learning and to the economic improve the quality of life, and raise the educational and cultural development of its region. It offers various non-credit level within the university’s scope of influence; programs and services through the South Georgia Institute, College of A commitment to scholarly and creative work to the Arts Outreach, the Valdosta Symphony Orchestra, the Music Society, enhance instructional effectiveness and to encourage and other organizations. Community relations are enhanced through faculty scholarly pursuits and a commitment to alumni services and VSU-TV and Radio. Community service and technical research in selected areas of institutional strength assistance are offered by faculty and staff in a variety of forms. and focused on regional need. Research, scholarship, and creative endeavors exist primarily to meet As a regional university in South Georgia, Valdosta the regional needs of schools, businesses, and other organizations and to State cooperates with other University System promote faculty development and instructional improvement. institutions to ensure that the region receives the VSU aspires to improve continuously the quality and effectiveness of its services it needs. To expand its programmatic programs, scholarship, and student services. Assessment of programs, outreach, it develops and offers programs by the raising of standards, and the refinement of learning technologies distance learning and at off-campus locations will improve the university. To aid in obtaining this objective, institutional throughout the region. It will continue to exercise a research and planning, external funding, and collaborative relationships leadership role in meeting the needs of the region, with other institutions will be promoted. To a great extent, VSU will continue particularly in providing access to professionally to develop as a regional university serving its South Georgia constituency oriented doctoral programs, primarily in education, by implementing programs that meet student needs and providing the and to applied research. maximum opportunity for faculty development.

Source: Valdosta State University Web Page; Approved by the Institutional Planning Committee-November 18, 1999; Approved by the Faculty Senate-February 17, 2000; The revision was approved February 2002. Subsequent revisions were approved by the VSU Faculty January 2007 and approved by the USG Board of Regents in June 2007. VSU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools - Commission on Colleges (SACS-COC), For questions about the accreditation of Valdosta State University, contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia, 30033, Phone: (404) 679-4500, Fax: (404) 670-4558, http://www.sacscoc.org. 7

STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION | STUDENT HANDBOOK VOLUME V Student Government Association

SGA President’s Welcome On behalf of the student body allow us to welcome you to Valdosta State University. It is our pleasure to serve as your SGA Executive Board. We strongly encourage you to get involved with as many organizations that fulfill your specific needs while you attain your college degree. Here at VSU, we push the academic envelope by challenging you to perform at or above your potential. Academics come first here, however, we do have countless student organizations ranging from academic, social, athletic, or religious. You’ll definitely learn skills that might not be otherwise taught in the classroom. You are a part of the Student Government Association, and we are here to serve you. Should you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to come see us in the Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students Office in Student Union third floor or call us at (229) 333-5941. Here at Valdosta State University, we are creating a path to produce more than just college graduates but future leaders. Once again, welcome to VSU, and we hope you have a successful academic year. Yours in Service, Your SGA President

Preamble STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION The purpose of the Student Government Association is to represent, We, the students of Valdosta State University lead, and unify the student body of Valdosta State University and (VSU), in order to form a democratic, efficient, to give students an active voice in the government of VSU. This and responsible student government; to governance is prompted by working for innovative, desirable changes. represent, lead, and unify the student body, to The student government needs the support and interest of the student decide and act responsibly for the students’ body. This year’s executive officers hope to expand the role of the SGA interest, and to work with the Faculty, Staff, and in campus affairs by working with the school administrators and faculty Administration of the university in the pursuit members for common goals. of our mutual interest, do hereby establish The student government is attempting to expand in scope and there the Student Government Association of VSU is a place within its structure for every interested student. Whenever a and adopt this Constitution. The Student student has a complaint about any phase of life on campus, it should Government Association applies only to the be reported to the student government so that an attempt can be internal governance of the SGA. If any part of made to improve campus life. the SGA Constitution conflicts with Board of Regents (BOR), University Systems of Georgia The student government offices are located on the third floor of the (USG) and or VSU policies and procedures; Student Union in the Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of then BOR, USG, and VSU policies and Students Office which is open 8am-5:30pm Monday through Thursday procedures will be adhered to. and from 8am-3pm on Fridays. The telephone number is (229) 333- 5941. Their web page is http://www.valdosta.edu/studentaffairs/sga/

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ARTICLE I A. The Senate shall have the power to make The Organization recommendations on issues relevant to the general welfare of the student body including, but not limited to, SECTION 1: NAME student conduct regulations. The name of this organization shall be called the B. The Senate shall have the power to make statutes Student Government Association of Valdosta State governing the operations of the SGA. University; hereinafter referred to as the “SGA.” C. The Senate shall have the power to override an SGA SECTION 2: MEMBERSHIP Presidential veto on any statute or recommendation by two-thirds (2/3) vote of the entire voting membership of All students, by virtue of their enrollment at VSU, the Senate. hereinafter referred to as “the student body,” shall be subject to this Constitution, the SGA By-Laws, the Student D. The Senate shall approve any of the SGA President’s Body Statutes, and the University Code of Conduct as it appointees by two-thirds (2/3) vote of the Senate that is appears in the VSU Student Handbook. present. A. The right to vote in any student body election or E. The Senate may, by two-thirds (2/3) vote of the entire referendum shall not be denied to any currently voting membership of the Senate, bring charges of enrolled VSU student. impeachment against any SGA Executive Officer, Senator, or Justice. A three-fourths (3/4) vote of the entire B. All students shall be subject to the rules and voting membership of the Senate is required to remove regulations of the university, but these rules shall at any SGA Executive Officer, Senator, or Justice after a no time and in no way abridge the students’ rights as recommendation of impeachment has been approved by defined under the Constitution of the United States of the Senate. The Senate has no power of impeachment America or of the state of Georgia. against Executive Cabinet Directors. It is the sole power SECTION 3: BRANCHES OF GOVERNMENT of the President of the SGA to remove his/her executive The SGA shall be divided into three branches: the appointees after confirmation from the Senate. Legislative Branch, the Executive Branch, and the Judicial SECTION 2: APPOINTMENT Branch. No power or authority belonging to one branch A. General Appointment: The Senate shall consist of fifty shall be applied to either of the other branches unless (50) seats, numbered one (1) through fifty (50), with one otherwise stated in this Constitution. (1) Senator occupying each seat. SECTION 4: PURPOSE B. Special Provisions: The purpose of the SGA shall be to represent the 1. Seats numbered one (1) through ten (10) shall only concerns of all students of VSU in all university matters, be occupied by a qualified student in the freshman while creating legislation and developing programs and class. activities of practical value to the student body. 2. Seats numbered eleven (11) through fifteen (15) shall only be occupied by a qualified student in the ARTICLE II sophomore class. Legislative Branch 3. Seats numbered sixteen (16) through twenty (20) shall only be occupied by a qualified student in the junior SECTION 1: class. POWERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE BRANCH 4. Seats numbered twenty-one (21) through twenty-five All legislative powers herein granted shall be vested (25) shall only be occupied by a qualified student in in a Senate. The Senate shall formulate such policies, the senior class. regulations, and recommendations that shall relate to the student body. The specific powers and responsibilities of 5. Seats numbered twenty-six (26) through thirty (30) the Senate are as follows: shall only be occupied by a qualified graduate student.

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6. Seats numbered thirty-one (31) through fifty (50) are open to all students qualified under Article VIII of this Constitution as well as Article VI of the SGA By-Laws. SECTION 3: TERMS AND QUALIFICATION OF THE SENATE A. Members of the Senate may not: be a member of the SGA Judicial Council, the manager or managing editor of any campus communication funded by student activity fees, or hold any executive position in the SGA unless otherwise stated in this Constitution. B. Every Senator shall be required to take the oath of office as administered by the Chief Justice or his/ her designee of the Judicial Council, or any other appointed Judicial Council member approved by the Senate. C. The term of office shall run from one SGA election to the next corresponding election, as prescribed by the elections code of Article VIII of this Constitution as well as Article VI of the SGA by-laws. meeting following the fall elections. The Parliamentarian must relinquish his/her position as Senator to assume the SECTION 4: SENATE VACANCIES duties of the office to which he/she has been elected. A. Any vacant seat in the Senate to be filled shall be B. The following duties and powers shall be invested in the announced by the presiding officer of the Senate Office of the President of the Senate: within one week of its occurrence. Any Senator may suggest nominations from the floor to fill any 1. Shall be the Vice President of the SGA who shall Senate vacancy. The matter shall be tabled for preside over and conduct all meetings of the Senate, one week for consideration, before the winner is unless otherwise approved by two-thirds (2/3) vote decided. All nominees to fill vacant seats must meet of the Senate that is present, in concordance with all requirements to hold office as prescribed in the this Constitution, the SGA By-Laws, and the rules Elections Code of Article VIII of this Constitution as well adopted by the Senate. as Article VI of the SGA By-Laws. 2. May, in case of a tie, vote on any measure before the B. No person may be nominated or elected to the Senate. Senate if that person h as served in the Senate or on 3. Shall appoint members to any Senate committee. the Executive Board within the semester of his/her 4. Shall hold regularly scheduled meetings with the nomination, unless otherwise approved by two-thirds chairpersons/heads of the committees of the Senate (2/3) vote of the Senate that is present. in order to assist the SGA President in the execution C. Persons wishing to be nominated, in order to fill of all actions taken by the SGA Senate. a vacant seat within the Senate, must attend two C. The following duties shall be vested in the Office of the consecutive meetings of the Senate before receiving a President Pro Tempore of the Senate: nomination. 1. Shall perform all the duties of the presiding officer in D. The Legislative Branch may fill any Senate seat left the absence of the President of the Senate. vacant after the annual fall and spring elections. 2. In regular session of the Senate in which the SECTION 5: OFFICERS OF THE SENATE President of the Senate is present, the President Pro A. Officers of the Senate shall be: President, President Tempore shall be a voting member of the Senate, Pro Tempore, Secretary, and Parliamentarian. The with all rights and privileges thereof. President Pro Tempore and Parliamentarian shall be elected from the Senate membership by majority vote (50%+1) of the Senate that is present, at the opening

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D. The following duties shall be vested in the Office of the SECTION 9: CODE OF CONDUCT Secretary of the Senate: A Code of Conduct may be established by two-thirds (2/3) 1. Shall be the Secretary of the SGA unless otherwise vote of the Senate that is present, and reviewed yearly by approved by two-thirds (2/3) vote of the Senate the Rules Committee. Changes to the Code of Conduct are that is present. subject to approval by two-thirds (2/3) vote of the Senate 2. Shall keep an accurate record of all Senate that is present. The Code of Conduct shall be maintained by meetings. the Secretary of the SGA. 3. Shall be responsible for dispatching all such legislation requiring executive action to the ARTICLE III President of the SGA. Executive Branch 4. Shall dispatch copies of the Senate minutes to all members of the Senate as well as to other persons SECTION 1 : COMPOSITION as required. The Executive Branch of the SGA shall consist of 5. Keep a roll of all Senate members. the Offices of President, Vice President, Secretary, and Comptroller. The purpose of the Executive Branch shall be 6. Shall dispatch all correspondence of the Senate. to supervise, maintain, and advise on policies, regulations, 7. Shall be responsible for notifying all Senators and recommendations that are formulated by the Legislative of Senate meetings through the Office of the Branch in the interest, convenience and necessity of Secretary of the SGA. the student body. The Executive Branch will initiate and maintain projects of interest for the students, which have 8. All business to be placed on the Agenda for been approved through the proper channels and shall meetings of the Senate must be submitted in a recommend to the Legislative Branch any legislation timely manner before each Senate meeting at a deemed necessary. time and date to be left at the discretion of the Secretary of the Senate. SECTION 2 : TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE EXECUTIVE BOARD E. The following duties shall be vested in the Office of the Senate Parliamentarian: The President, Vice President, Secretary, and Comptroller must each: 1. Shall act as an advisor to the presiding officer on matters of parliamentary procedure. A. Be an enrolled student in good standing at the university at the time of election and maintain that standing 2. The Parliamentarian has the duty to maintain a throughout their term of office. position of impartiality, and therefore does not make motions, participate in debate, or vote on B. Hold office for the year and be elected by a majority of any question. the voting student body as proscribed in the Election Code of Article VIII of this constitution as well as those of SECTION 6 : MEETINGS OF THE SENATE the SGA By-laws. The Senate shall assemble at least eight times a C. Shall not be a member of any Student Judicial semester, except summer semester. During summer Committee, the Campus Activity Board, a manager or semester, the Senate shall meet whenever necessary. A managing editor of any campus communications funded majority (50%+1) of the Senate shall constitute a quorum by the SGA. to do business, but a smaller number may convene from meeting to meeting. D. Shall not hold a position in the Legislative Branch during the term of office unless specifically authorized by this SECTION 7: COMMITTEES OF THE SENATE constitution. The committees of the Senate and their duties shall be Every member of the Executive Branch shall be required defined in the SGA By-Laws. E. to take the oath of office as administered by the SECTION 8: ESTABLISHMENT OF BY-LAWS University President, the Chief Justice or his/her designee The By-Laws of the SGA shall be established by two- of the Judicial Branch, or any other appointed judiciary thirds (2/3) vote of the Senate that is present. The By-Laws member approved by the Senate. shall be maintained by the Secretary of the SGA.

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SECTION 3: DUTIES OF THE SGA PRESIDENT F. The President may veto within one week of passage, any The following duties shall be vested in the Office of the recommendation or statute of the Senate, but may be President: over-ridden by two-thirds (2/3) vote of the entire voting membership of the Senate. The power of vetoing any A. The President of the SGA shall execute, supervise, measure by the SGA Senate before its passage and and maintain all such policies, regulations, and before its acceptance by the Student Life Committee or recommendations as formulated by the Legislative student body, in part or as a whole, is solely vested in the Branch. Office of the SGA President. Any bill passed by the Senate B. The President shall represent the students of VSU at must be approved by the President within ten (10) days official university functions. The President shall appoint, of its passage. All bills that are approved by the Senate upon concurrence of a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the and sanctioned by the President will be signed with the Senate that is present, members to committees and President’s signature to signify acceptance of the bill. Any councils of the university as requested by the Faculty, bill not approved by the President within the allotted ten (10) Staff and Administration. day period shall be null and void. C. The President shall have the power to call a special G. The President may be appointed to any standing session of the Senate, shall be an ex officio member of university committee or board other than those of the all boards and committees of the SGA excluding those SGA, or may appoint a representative to serve in such of the Legislative Branch, and shall see that all actions capacity with the Senate. taken by the Senate are executed. SECTION 4: DUTIES OF THE SGA VICE PRESIDENT D. The President shall in the spring semester call a joint The following duties shall be vested in the Office of Vice meeting of all divisions of the SGA at which time the President of the SGA: President shall report on the State of the Association. A. The Vice President of the SGA shall serve in any capacity E. The President may remove from office any Presidential that will assist the SGA President in the execution of all appointee to the Executive Cabinet. actions taken by the SGA Senate.

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B. If the Presidency of the SGA is vacated for any reason, A. If the Office of the Vice President of the SGA is vacated, the duties and responsibilities of the President shall the chairperson/head of the Rules Committee, as transfer to the Vice President. The Vice President shall prescribed by Article V of the SGA By-Laws, or its relinquish the Office of Vice President to assume the equivalent shall assume the duties of the SGA Vice Office of President. President and must relinquish his/her position as Senator C. The Vice President shall hold regularly scheduled in order to assume the Office of SGA Vice President. meetings with the student-held seats on the university B. If the Office of the Secretary of the SGA is vacated, the committees and boards and regularly report such chairperson/head of the Public Relations Committee, meetings to the Senate. as prescribed by Article V of the SGA By-Laws, or its D. Shall assume any duties that may be delegated by the equivalent shall assume the duties of the SGA Secretary President. and must relinquish his/her position as Senator in order to assume the Office of SGA Secretary. SECTION 5: DUTIES OF THE SGA SECRETARY C. If the Office of the Comptroller of the SGA is vacated, The following powers and duties shall be vested in the the chairperson/head of the Senate Finance Committee, Office of Secretary of the SGA: as prescribed by Article V of the SGA By-Laws, or its A. The Secretary shall be the supervising officer for the equivalent shall assume the duties of the Comptroller of secretarial staff of the SGA. The Secretary shall be the SGA and must relinquish his/her position as Senator responsible for establishing and maintaining all records to assume the Office of SGA Comptroller. and files that pertain to the SGA. D. Those appointed to fill a vacant seat on the Executive B. The Secretary shall be the recorder of the Senate, Board shall be approved by two-thirds (2/3) vote of the unless deemed otherwise by two-thirds (2/3) vote of entire voting membership of the Senate. the Senate that is present, and will assume any other duties delegated by the presiding officer of the Senate. ARTICLE IV C. Shall assume any duties that may be delegated by the Judicial Branch President. SECTION 6: DUTIES OF THE SGA COMPTROLLER SECTION 1: RESPONSIBILITIES The following powers shall be invested in the Office of The Judicial Powers of the Student Body and the SGA the Comptroller of the SGA: shall be vested in the Judicial Branch through one prominent A. The Comptroller shall supervise the proper expenditure body, the Judicial Council, and such lesser councils as may of all monies of the SGA and shall give a monthly from time to time be ordained. The Judicial Branch shall written report on these expenditures to the Senate. promote fairness, equality, and justice to all members of the student body. The Judicial Council shall be subject to this B. The Comptroller shall maintain records of all business Constitution and to the VSU Student Code of Conduct. transactions which involve funds of the SGA; shall have the responsibility of informing the members of the SGA SECTION 2: COMPOSITION of all actions taken by the university that involve the use A. The Judicial Council shall be composed of eleven of funds derived from the members of the SGA; shall members appointed by the President of the SGA in be responsible for the preparation of the budget for the conjunction with the Office of the Vice President for SGA funds. Student Affairs/ Dean of Students and with the advice C. Shall assume any other duties delegated by the and consent of a two thirds (2/3) of the Senate that is President.. present. SECTION 7: EXECUTIVE BOARD VACANCIES B. The Judicial Council will be presided over by a Chief Justice who shall yearly be elected from and by the In a case where all executive board positions become eleven members of the Council. The Chief Justice, in vacant, the four standing SGA committee chairs shall fill conjunction with the Vice President for Student Affairs/ the Executive Board with the respective positions to be Dean of Students or his or her designee, shall have the determined by the Judicial Board in coordination with the power to set the time and place of meetings of all lesser Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students councils as the need arises. Any Judicial member shall office. have the power to administer the oath of office to the

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members of the Legislative and Executive Branches as well as to all members of the SGA Judicial Council, and such lesser councils as may from time to time be ordained. C. The Judicial Council shall select one of its eleven members to serve as Associate Chief Justice. The Associate Chief Justice shall maintain a record of all proceedings and serve in the role of Chief Justice in his/her absence. D. The specific rules, procedures, and duties of the Judicial Council shall be found in the VSU Student Code of Conduct. E. All members of the Judicial Council shall be an enrolled student in good standing at the university at the time of appointment to the Judicial Branch, and must maintain that standing throughout their entire tenure of service. All members of the Judicial Council shall serve on the Council until such time as the member decides to resign, fails to maintain good standing at the university, or is removed from service by impeachment. No member shall serve as a member of the Executive or Legislative Branches, or be manager or managing editor of any campus communications funded by student activity fees. SECTION 3: POWERS A. The Judicial Council shall have jurisdiction and powers SECTION 4: HISTORY as described by the Vice President for Student Affairs A complete record of all actions on hearings shall be and Dean of Students. maintained by the Judicial Council. This record shall be B. The constitutional and empowered jurisdiction shall made available to the student involved upon written request include the following: by the student. SECTION 5: APPEALS 1. Violations of all rules, regulations, and policies governing individual student conduct and student The right to appeal any recommendation or ruling by organizations. the Judicial Council shall not be denied to any student or student organization by this Constitution. 2. All sections of the Executive Branch of the SGA. SECTION 6: RIGHT TO AN ADVISOR 3. Sole power of interpretation of the Constitution, Statues, and Bylaws of the SGA. The right to an advisor, either lay or professional, shall not be denied to any student or student organization by this 4. All conflict which arises between officially Constitution. registered student organizations. SECTION 7: DOUBLE JEOPARDY 5. Offenses against this constitution. A student or organization that appears before the Judicial C. The Judicial Council, in conjunction with the Office Council shall not be under the threat of double jeopardy of the Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean when cleared of charges by the Judicial Council. Any of Students may, at its discretion, review any case charges against a student or organization by a group or an involving members of the SGA. individual shall not be held against the student or student D. The Judicial Council shall have the right to summon organization that has already been found not responsible of any member of the student body, Faculty, Staff, or the same charges. The ruling of the Judicial Council is the Administration of VSU, to testify either on behalf of final authority on this Constitution. All other rulings will be or against the accused at the request of the parties subject to the appeals process as found in the VSU Student involved before any council of the Judicial Branch. Handbook’s Code of Conduct.

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ARTICLE V When sitting for the purpose of impeachment, the Senate Finances as a whole shall be under oath. No member shall be impeached without a three-fourths (3/4) concurrence of the The right of the SGA to control its financial resources entire voting membership of the Senate. Judgment in the and any disbursement is a right of the organization. It is cases of impeachment shall extend to removal from office the life of the SGA, and rightfully belongs to the students and disqualification to hold any office in the SGA until the in a representative and democratic government. No one next regular election. shall have the authority to delegate away this right. Federal SECTION 2: RIGHTS OF IMPEACHMENT Law, the state of Georgia and its agencies, and the BOR Any person impeached by the Senate may appeal to the of the state of Georgia shall have the only recognized Judicial Council. To reverse impeachment, a three-fourths authority to restrain this right. All financial actions taken (3/4) majority of the Judicial Council is required. If the by the SGA must follow the appropriate policies and Judicial Council is unable to reach a decision, for whatever procedures established by VSU, USG, and the Georgia reason, the verdict of the Senate shall stand. The decision of Department of Administrative Services (DOAS). the Judicial Council is the final word on impeachment.

ARTICLE VI ARTICLE VII Impeachment Election Code

SECTION 1. POWER OF IMPEACHMENT SECTION 1: TERMS AND CONDITIONS The Senate shall have the sole power to hear all A. All candidates for the Senate and Executive Board shall actions of impeachment against any official of the SGA. be enrolled students in good standing with the university Any branch of the SGA may institute impeachment at the time of the election and must maintain that good proceedings against any of its members. Furthermore, standing throughout their term of office. The elections impeachment proceedings must be submitted to the shall be conducted by the Elections Committee and Senate, which has the sole power of impeachment as publicized by the Public Relations Committee. prescribed by Article II, Section 1E of this Constitution.

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B. All candidates shall meet the qualifications for the SECTION 4: PROCEDURES particular office to which they aspire as expressed in Election procedures are as follows: this Constitution and the SGA By-laws. A. All freshman Senators shall be elected by the Student C. Each candidate shall file a statement of intent with the Body during an election held no later than the fourth SGA Elections Commissioner which shall be subject to (4th) week of the fall semester. These Senators shall be review by the Elections Committee. installed at the first SGA meeting following their election D. No person shall run for more than one office at a time. to office. Once a statement of intent has been submitted to B. All sophomores, juniors, seniors, and graduate students the Elections Commissioner, the candidate may not shall be elected by the student body during an election to change the title of the office in which the candidate be held no later than the third (3rd) week of April during intends to run for. the spring semester. E. An individual shall be considered an official candidate C. The Executive Officers shall be elected by the student only after the Elections Commissioner has received the body during an election to be held no later than the third candidate’s statement of intent, and has verified the (3rd) week of April in the spring semester. Installation candidate’s qualifications. shall take place no later than the last day of the spring F. Qualifying for the fall elections shall begin twenty-one semester. (21) days prior to the day of election and the deadline D. In the event of a tie, a run-off election between the for qualification shall be one week later at five o’clock two candidates having the largest number of votes p.m. (5:00PM). will be held on a date no later than ten (10) days after G. Qualifying for the spring elections shall begin twenty- the original election. A simple majority (50%+1) will eight (28) days prior to the day of election and the determine the winner. Any candidate may decide not to deadline for qualification shall be one week later at five run in the run-off election by submitting a statement of o’clock p.m. (5:00PM). such to the Elections Commissioner and the Chairperson SECTION 2: of the Elections Committee, and by doing so the THE FORM OF THE BALLOT SHALL BE AS FOLLOWS: remaining run-off candidate would then be declared the winner of the office. A. The candidates shall be listed in alphabetical order under the office for which they have qualified, E. Any Senator elected to any Executive office must resign last name first, to be followed by the candidate’s from the Senate within seven (7) days prior to installation entire legal name, with nicknames to be closed in in the Executive office. parentheses, as signed on their statement of intent F. All voting procedures and regulations must be followed followed by any party or group of affiliation as indicated as prescribed by Article VIII of this Constitution along with on their statement of intent. Article VI of the SGA By-Laws. B. Blanks for write-in candidates shall be provided at the SECTION 5: VIOLATIONS end of the list of qualifying candidates for each office, All complaints relating to violations of the above stated with the label “write-in candidates” placed before the rules must be filed with the Elections Commissioner of blank. the SGA within nine (9) days of the election. The Elections C. All write in candidates are subject to the rules and Commissioner of the SGA shall then present the complaints regulations as prescribed by Article VIII of this to the Chairperson of the Elections Committee. The Constitution as well as Article VI of the SGA By-Laws. Elections Committee must hear the complaint within five SECTION 3: RULES AND REGULATIONS (5) class days of its submission to the Elections Committee chairperson/ head. A three-fifths (3/5) vote by the committee All candidates must follow the campaign rules and is required to initiate action on alleged violations. Violators regulations as prescribed by Article VIII of this Constitution may receive the maximum punishment of forfeiture of the as well as Article VI of the SGA By-Laws. office or disqualification from the election.

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All disciplinary action shall be initiated only with the ARTICLE IX approval of such action by majority (50%+1) vote of Amendments the Senate that is present. All admissible evidence shall be verified by the Elections Commissioner, first before Amendments or revisions to this Constitution shall any disciplinary action can be recommended. Any other require approval by two-thirds (2/3) vote of the entire non-verified evidence cannot be considered valid. voting membership of the Senate. Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students shall advise the Elections Commissioner on all admissible evidence. ARTICLE X Approval

ARTICLE VIII This Constitution shall take effect when approved by Due Compensation the voting majority of the student body via referendum. This Constitution was reviewed, amended, and The members of the Executive Branch of the SGA adopted via a student referendum Fall 2010. shall receive due compensation for their services, which shall not increase or decrease during their term of office as recommended by the Student Activity Fee Budget Committee.

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STUDENT AFFAIRS | STUDENT HANDBOOK VOLUME V

DIVISION OF Student Affairs

OFFICES

OFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT FOR STUDENT AFFAIRS AND DEAN OF STUDENTS VP for Student Affairs and Dean of Students: Russell F. Mast Location: 3rd Floor Student Union Phone: (229) 333-5941

The Division of Student Affairs endorses the objectives of the university as they relate to the overall education and development of our students. Most of the hours students spend at a university are outside of the classroom. It is our mission to offer comprehensive programs and services to maximize both the educational experience and opportunities for personal development. We want students to be successful and become active VSU alumni! The Division of Student Affairs includes the following departments and services: Access Office, Alcohol and Other Drug Education, Campus Recreation and Student Recreation Center, Career Services, Cooperative Education, Counseling Center, Financial Aid, Student Life (Homecoming, Student Union, Campus Activities Board, Volunteer Services, Greek Life and other Student Organizations), Health Education and Promotion, Housing and Residence Life, Orientation and Leadership Programs, Student Conduct Office, Student Government Association, Student Media (Spectator and WVVS-FM), Testing Services, school mascot (Blaze), Hardship & Medical withdrawals, and the VSU Ambassadors. All staff members are interested in your success and they look forward to working with you throughout your VSU career! Should you have questions or concerns about any of the programs or services offered by the division, please contact the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students at (229) 333-5941, or send an email to [email protected]. We also have a web-site designed especially for parents and family members at http://www.valdosta.edu/prc, which also provides information on the VSU Parent’s Association.

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COUNSELING CENTER faculty advisor. Graduate students interested in a practicum Director: Dr. John Grotgen in the Counseling Center should contact their academic Location: Powell Hall East 2nd Floor department and the Director of Counseling. Phone: (229) 333-5940 Consulting and working cooperatively with all members of the university community are important functions of the The philosophy of the Counseling Center is based on a Center. Professional staff is available to meet with faculty, holistic approach to individual growth and development. staff and students regarding issues of human functioning Our primary emphasis is on relatively short-term growth and development. Another type of consultation occurs when counseling designed to deal with the personal, social, faculty, staff, parents, spouses, or friends are concerned and educational concerns of our students. Our goal is to about an individual. Persons who are concerned about an help each individual develop fully and get the most from individual are urged to contact the Center for consultation. the university experience. All counselors are professionally Assistance in crisis management and guidelines for referral trained and licensed. The Center is accredited by the are available. International Association of Counseling Services, Inc. The Counseling Center is committed to sharing its The Counseling Center offers an atmosphere in which expertise in human behavior and development with the individuals may discuss their concerns with the assurance entire VSU community. We offer workshops that can be that all counseling information will remain confidential. All services are provided free of charge. Individuals seek counseling for a variety of reasons, including stress, depression, anxiety, family and relationship issues, physical or sexual abuse, academic difficulties, substance abuse, and identity concerns. Any issue causing you concern is appropriate to bring to counseling. We all need someone to talk to at times. One advantage to talking over a concern with a counselor, rather than a friend, is that counselors are professionals who are trained to be objective and to help you explore alternatives for reaching a solution to your problems. Short- term individual counseling can often prove to be very beneficial in exploring one’s feelings, attitudes, behaviors, and lifestyle. Each semester the Counseling Center offers a variety of groups and seminars designed to address the normal developmental needs of college students. These programs emphasize personal understanding and skill development. We also assist students in their efforts to improve their academic performance. This often involves identifying the obstacles students face and then devising ways to overcome them. Sometimes these obstacles can be inefficient study skills, test anxiety, poor time management, or speech anxiety. Counseling practicum experiences are available for graduate students in the Counseling Center. Student counselors are closely supervised by professional staff. Individual skill development programs are designed through consultation with the student intern and his/her

21 STUDENT AFFAIRS | STUDENT HANDBOOK VOLUME V designed for specific groups, such as classes, residence Presentations halls, or student organizations. We are prepared to The AOD Education Coordinator is available to address provide professional staff development workshops for substance abuse issues in a variety of settings: classrooms, faculty and staff. We also provide training workshops Greek Life functions, clubs, organizations, student-athlete for student leaders, resident assistants, pledge meetings, and Residence Halls. These frank, interactive trainers, orientation leaders, and other campus and presentations may be tailored to specific needs or concerns, community groups. Finally, faculty members may request and no group is too large or too small. presentations that address the concerns of college students and that complement course content. The Counseling Center is located in Powell Hall East, KARMA Peer Education Program (2nd floor). Appointments may be made in person or Students are trained as Peer Educators in the for-credit by calling 333-5940. When necessary, referrals will be class KARMA (Knowledge, Awareness, Respect, Maturity, & made on campus or in the community so that all available Achievement). These Peer Educators provide presentations resources are utilized. Please visit our website at: in classes, residence halls, Greek Life functions, and to http://www.valdosta.edu/counseling. other campus and community groups as requested. Topics of discussion include alcohol, other drugs, how to help a friend with a substance abuse problem, self-esteem, eating ALCOHOL & OTHER DRUG EDUCATION disorders, date rape, and HIV/AIDS. KARMA students Coordinator: Mark Williams also participate in campus-wide activities, such as the Location: Powell Hall East, 1st Floor Alcohol Awareness Fair and Safe Spring Break Fair. KARMA Phone: (229) 259–5111 is a great way for students to get involved and make a Web Address: http://www.valdosta.edu/aode/ difference.

VSU acknowledges the fact that alcohol and other drugs Natural High can have a significant impact on the university community. We are taking a proactive stance in educating students In collaboration with the Offices of Campus Recreation on issues related to alcohol and drug use in an effort to and Housing and Residence Life, Natural High provides prevent the development of substance abuse problems. activities for students on weeknights and at times of high Our philosophy is that awareness fosters informed stress. All activities are alcohol free and provide students decisions and, ultimately, changes when needed. Our goal with a safe environment in which to have fun. Activities is to be seen as a resource where students can turn for include dances, Bingo, Free Game Room Nights, movies answers to substance abuse questions, whether related and others as decided by the students on the advisory to their personal use or that of a friend or significant other. council. Natural High events are open to all students, staff Through a variety of services, the Office of AOD Education and faculty. New members are always welcome. is helping VSU affirm itself as an institution that provides National Collegiate Alcohol Awareness Week The Office a safe and healthy environment for students to receive a of AOD Education provides a week-long event educating quality education. AOD offers the following services: students on issues related to alcohol use. Throughout the week, students have opportunities to attend lectures, workshops, and other events designed to teach college Assessment & Referral students about the possible hazards of high risk drinking If a student has concerns regarding their relationship behavior. The week culminates with an alcohol awareness with alcohol or other drugs, they may obtain an fair which draws hundreds of students and community assessment, at no cost, to determine the extent of the members. substance abuse problem. One-on-one counseling is To become better acquainted with our staff and additional available when warranted. On rare occasions, a referral services, visit our web site at http://www.valdosta.edu/aode. is made to an appropriate off-campus agency. It is up to the individual to follow through on referrals as all phases of this process are voluntary. AOD also serves as the focal point for official substance abuse interventions and receives referrals from several VSU offices.

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OFFICE OF HEALTH PROMOTIONS Jobs may be viewed from our website, but currently Assistant Director: Holly Wright enrolled students must come to the office and present their Location: Powell Hall East 1st Floor VSU ID to get complete application information on the jobs. Phone:(229) 245-3896

The Office of Health Promotions is committed to providing the students at VSU with the knowledge of health and wellness in a variety of methods. The goal is to provide wellness education through interactive formats, as well as assist students in connecting with various resources throughout the VSU community. This is achieved by presentations on, Body Image/Eating Disorders, HIV/AIDS, STDs, Violence Prevention Tobacco Use, as well as special events on campus, individual contact, and referrals. The Health Promotions office is located in Powell Hall East 1st Floor. For more information please stop by or phone the Health Educator at (229) 245- 3896 and visit the website at: http://www.valdosta.edu/studentaffairs/healthpromotions.

OFFICE OF CAREER SERVICES Associate Director: J. Kevin Taylor Location: Powell Hall-West, 2nd Floor Phone:(229) 333-5942 Web Address: http://www.valdosta.edu/career

Career Services provides career planning and development opportunities to undergraduate and graduate students and alumni through the following activities: • Assistance in choosing a major • Information describing various occupations in terms of preparation required, employment outlook, working environment, and compensation COOPERATIVE EDUCATION • Workshops on career-related topics -resume writing, Assistant Director: Carla Carter Jordan interviewing skills, job search strategies Location: Powell Hall West, 1st Floor, Room 1100 Phone:(229) 333-7172 • Career opportunity listings Email: [email protected] • Resume referrals to employers Web Address: http://www.valdosta.edu/coop • Coordination of on-campus interviews and career fairs Cooperative Education (Co-op) is an academic program • Disseminate information on graduate and that affords students the opportunity to combine classroom professional programs training with “on-the-job” experience in an area related to their field of study. Co-op is open to all majors and career Off-Campus Part-time Jobs are available to any VSU fields offered at Valdosta State University. Students may student, as long as they are currently enrolled either part choose from the following options: Alternating Co-op or full time. Our off-campus part-time service (J.O.B.S.) (full-time alternating semesters up to three rotations of provides a wide range of positions. Pay ranges from degree-related work and school), Parallel Co-op (Part-time minimum wage to $10 per hour.

23 STUDENT AFFAIRS | STUDENT HANDBOOK VOLUME V degree-related work while attending VSU); and Internships Placement (one to two semesters of degree-related work either on Computer-Adaptive Placement Assessment and a full-time or part-time basis). Many local, regional, and national employers participate in the VSU Co-op Program. Support System (COMPASS) Employers include fortune 500 companies and federal Teacher Certification agencies, as well as smaller firms. Students who wish to Professional Assessments for participate in the Co-op Program are encouraged to apply Beginning Teachers Series (PRAXIS l & ll) after completing 30 credit hours and in good academic standing (not on probation). Applying early helps students Electronic PRAXIS – Continuous & World Language increase their chances of successfully competing for the Georgia Assessments for the Certification of best possible Co-op or Internship placement. For more Educators (GACE) Computer Based information on Co-op, students may call (229) 333-7172, Professional Certification visit our web site http://www.valdosta.edu/coop or come by the Co-op Office in Powell Hall-West, 1st floor, Room Prometric-IT Certification 1100. Language Certification Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) OFFICE OF TESTING Credit by Examination Director: Rebecca Taylor College Level Examination Program (CLEP) Location: Powell Hall West Room 1131 - 1st Floor Electronic Core Curriculum (ECORE) Phone: (229) 245-3878 Email: [email protected] Independent Study Examinations (ISE) Web Address: http://www.valdosta.edu/testing Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Educational Support (DANTES) As a national test center, the Office of Testing Graduate Admissions administers standardized examinations for Educational Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) Subject only Testing Services, the Psychological Corporation, the American College Testing Program, the Law School Admission Services, the State of Georgia, and the ACCESS OFFICE University System of Georgia, as well as for other Director: Dr. Kimberly Tanner educational and governmental institutions. Many testing Location: Farber Hall programs and their components are given in specific Phone: (229) 245-2498 (Voice) (229) 375-5871 (VP) areas to entering students for admission and placement, or (229) 219-1348 (TTY) to undergraduate students for proficiency and for degree Email: [email protected] credit by examination, to teacher education majors for Web Address: http://www.valdosta.edu/access certification, Information Technology for certification and to graduate students for admission to specialized programs. The mission of the Access Office is to create an The Office of Testing serves a vital role in assisting accessible, inclusive, sustainable learning environment, students with their college testing requirements. Specific where disability is recognized as an aspect of diversity information concerning a particular test should be that is integral to the campus community. Our primary requested at least one semester prior to the time you objective is to provide equal access to campus programs intend to take the test. and activities for all students while upholding the academic Tests administered by the Office of Testing include, but standards of Valdosta State University. In order to meet this are not limited to: objective, the Access Office provides accommodations Entering Students Admission when barriers to accessible design still exist. Examples of accommodations include materials in alternative formats, Scholastic Assessment Tests (SAT I & II) sign language interpreting and access to adaptive American College Testing Program (ACT) technology.

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OFFICE OF FINANCIAL AID Federal Work-Study Director: Doug Tanner Students must apply for Federal Work Study through the Location: University Center Office of Financial Aid. Awards are based on need and Phone: (229) 333-5935 eligibility. Students must be enrolled to participate. Job assignments will be made by the Office of Financial Aid. The Office of Financial Aid assists students in applying Veterans’ Affairs for all institutional and federal financial aid programs and The Office of Veterans’ Affairs is also located in the Office arranges for the disbursement of all aid received by any of Financial Aid. This office assists students in applying for student from any source. The university participates in all Veterans’ Educational Benefits and certifies their enrollment major federal and state aid programs such as Federal Pell to the Veterans’ Administration. Grants, Federal Work Study, Federal Direct Stafford/Ford Loans, and HOPE/Zell Miller Scholarship Programs. We are located in the University Center and welcome your visit STUDENT CONDUCT OFFICE and questions. Our telephone number is (229) 333-5935. Assistant Dean of Students (Student Conduct): Most financial aid is awarded on the basis of financial Sherolyn Hopkins need, which is determined by a congressional formula Location: Student Union 3rd floor applied to the Free Application for Federal Student Phone: (229) 333-5941 Aid (FAFSA). Applications for financial assistance are accepted throughout the academic year although funds The Student Conduct Office’s (SCO) primary function is to are limited in some programs. It is to your advantage to investigate and determine whether there is responsibility for apply as early as possible. various allegations made against a student or organization Detailed information on various financial aid programs relative to the Student Code of Conduct in the Student and scholarships can be found in the University Handbook found at http://www.valdosta.edu/studentaffairs/ Undergraduate Catalog, University Graduate Catalog, or StudentHandbook.shtml . The (SCO) does not handle at http://www.valdosta.edu/financialaid/. complaints or allegations of students against faculty or

25 STUDENT AFFAIRS | STUDENT HANDBOOK VOLUME V staff members. These issues should be reported to the Greek Life immediate supervisors of the given individual first. The The Greek system at Valdosta State has continually Student Conduct Office’s primary goal is to redirect maintained the highest standards of excellence among the a student or organization’s behavior toward a more organizations on campus. Greek letter organizations have constructive outcome. If you have questions regarding the been a vital part of the campus and community of Valdosta Code of Conduct, the campus disciplinary process and since 1953. Each chapter is dedicated to promoting the procedures, or you wish to report a complaint against a high ideals for which it was founded, including scholarship, student please call (229) 333-5941 or contact the office via philanthropic service to both the University and community, email at [email protected]. leadership, and sisterhood / brotherhood. Valdosta State More detailed information can also be found at the University currently recognizes thirteen sororities and Student Conduct Office website: fourteen fraternities. http://www.valdosta.edu/judicial/index.shtml

Hazing OFFICE OF STUDENT LIFE Hazing is a concern for many new students and parents. Director of Student Life and the Student Union: Not only is hazing against the law in the state of Georgia, Robin Vickery but the VSU Greek system has a zero tolerance policy Location: Student Union 3rd floor for any behaviors that meet the definition of hazing. All Phone: (229) 333-5674 activities sponsored by our fraternities and sororities must be consistent with their founding principles, and must The Office of Student Life’s mission is to promote and compliment the mission of the University as well as abide by provide quality programs and services for the student all local, state and federal laws. population of the university community. The Director is Information regarding all fraternities and sororities and responsible for the following departments and their related their recruitment processes can be obtained at Orientation programs and services: Greek Life, Volunteer Services, the during the Greek Life Information Session or by contacting Campus Activities Board (CAB), all Registered Campus the Office of Greek Life at (229) 333-5674. Organizations, and activities like Homecoming, Fall Explosion, the Happening, Parents Weekend, and many more. Registered Student Organizations All students are encouraged to enrich the VSU campus and their own college experience by getting involved. Campus Activities Board We do not learn from seeing, we learn from doing. One C.A.B. is responsible for planning cultural and method of getting involved and ‘doing’ is by joining educational social programs and activities for the student a student organization. Student organizations afford population such as major concerts, comedians, speakers, many opportunities like friendship, networking and dances, and special events. For information about C.A.B. personal growth. Involvement can foster interpersonal call (229) 333-5674. relationships, the development of professional skills, and the enhancement of academic experiences by serving the campus community and cultivating leadership at VSU. Homecoming Nearly 200 student organizations currently thrive at VSU Homecoming is a unique event that celebrates the and new organizations are continuously accepted. For more spirit of Valdosta State University with a fun-filled week of information on how to get involved with any of our registered activities for our students, alumni, and community. This organizations, or to view a list of all current student special week usually takes place one week during the organizations, please visit https://valdosta.collegiatelink.net. month of October and always concludes on Saturday with a VSU Blazer Football game. For more information call the Office of Student Life at (229) 333-5674 or go to http://www.valdosta.edu/stulife/ and click homecoming.

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Leadership programs are offered throughout the academic year and are open to all VSU students. Weekend retreats, leadership conferences, a leadership resource room, and workshops are scheduled each semester. LeaderQuest is a three-tier leadership program that includes an Emerging Leader track for freshman and Existing and Experienced Leader tracks for upperclassmen. These intense programs are designed to promote and enhance team building and leadership skills. Students are encouraged to take advantage of these programs for personal and professional growth. Interested students should contact the Leadership Office or visit http://www.valdosta.edu/studentaffairs/leadership/

CAMPUS RECREATION Director: Richard H. Hammond Location: Student Recreation Center (SRC) Phone: (229) 333-5898 Website: http://www.valdosta.edu/recreation/

The Department of Campus Recreation provides students, faculty, staff, and members of the campus community the opportunity to experience lifelong activities while enhancing their well-being through fitness and wellness. Campus Recreation offers a positive outlet for stress in seven (7) specific areas:

ORIENTATION & LEADERSHIP PROGRAMS Intramural Sports Coordinator: Brenda Beasley Location: Student Union 3rd floor Intramural sports are designed to provide an opportunity Phone:(229) 333-5941 for all students, faculty and staff to participate in organized recreational activities. Structured leagues and tournaments are offered in a diverse array of sporting activities such Blazer Beginnings Orientation programs are provided as: Flag Football, Softball, Basketball, Soccer, Volleyball, for new and transfer students. Orientation for students Tennis, Racquetball and Ultimate Frisbee. Intramural Sports beginning classes in the fall will be held in the summer Program offers the students, faculty and staff at VSU over 40 months prior to the semester. Spring semester orientation different activities to participate in during the academic year. is held in January prior to the start of the term. Attendance at orientation sessions for new and transfer students is highly encouraged and provides each student with the Facilities opportunity to learn about the campus community, and The Student Recreation Center facility is top-notch and also provides a specified time to meet with an academic state-of-the-art. The facility includes three multipurpose advisor and register for course classes. basketball courts, an indoor jogging and walking track, a Students interested in serving as Orientation Leaders 9,000-square-foot weight room featuring free weights and should contact the Orientation Office or visit us online cardiovascular equipment, an indoor pool, three racquetball at http://www.valdosta.edu/studentaffairs/orientation. courts, a large multipurpose aerobics room, and a 27-foot Orientation Leader selection is conducted each January. custom-built climbing wall.

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Fitness and Wellness Club Sports The Student Recreation Center features a 9,000 square The Club Sports program is constantly growing to meet foot, state-of-the-art weight room, complete with a cardio the needs of a diverse campus population. The Valdosta fitness center featuring 13 televisions, ten treadmills, eleven State University Club Sports Program is designed to elliptical machines, seven stair climbers, and two rowing promote and develop the interests and skills of individuals machines. The SRC also offers group fitness classes in a in different sports and recreational activities. VSU currently 3,800 square foot Aerobics Room. Here, SRC instructors has Men’s and Women’s Soccer, Men’s and Women’s teach classes such as Yoga, Military Boot Camp, Legs and Lacrosse, Ultimate Frisbee, Cycling, Table Tennis, Rugby, Abs, kick boxing, Pilates, step it up, awesome abs, get Tennis club teams. Several other clubs will be organized on the ball, and Latin Flavor. The Consulting and Personal in the near future. If there is any activity that we don’t offer Training programs offer individual help and assistance with and you have the interest in starting, please come by and achieving body goals. These programs offer fitness tests let’s work on it. that include: Body Composition, Strength and Endurance, and Flexibility. Consultants and Personal Trainers will develop an individually unique workout routine and Aquatics nutritional plan suited just for the members. The Natatorium houses a 3,486 square foot, twenty- five yard swimming pool with six lanes sloping from four feet to a depth of nine feet. The heated indoor pool stays Instructional Courses at a pleasant temperature of 82 degrees all year round. The Department of Campus Recreation at Valdosta State Also, water exercise equipment, water basketball, water University (VSU) currently offers a wide variety of non-credit volleyball, and water polo are available. In addition, American Red Cross (ARC) courses. All new ARC standards certified instructors provide swimming lessons. will be taught in each class. Course offerings include: Standard First Aid, CPR for the Professional Rescuer, Automated External Defibrillator, and Lifeguard Training. VOLUNTEER SERVICES Director: Brian Roberts Location: Student Union 3rd Floor Center for Outdoor Recreation Experiences Phone: (229) 333-5674 CORE’S mission is to provide access to outdoor activities that will foster the development of friendships in the campus The Office of Volunteer Services encourages and community, to educate and to promote outdoor recreation. promotes opportunities to build partnerships between VSU CORE Programs consist of four different areas, challenge and the community through community service. There are course, climbing wall, outdoor trips and outdoor rental numerous opportunities for students. A few of the ways to center. The Challenge Course was built in the summer of become involved include; helping Habitat for Humanity, 2007. It provides an avenue for VSU groups to work on working with the Second Harvest Food Bank of South their team development skills. It also offers another way Georgia, reading to elementary age children, or assisting for students to experience the outdoors while still being on with the holiday gift wrap program and organizing the campus. The Climbing Wall is located inside the student Holiday Helper project! Opportunities for involvement are recreation center. This 27-foot wall makes you feel as if you updated weekly on our website. Students who record their were climbing a real mountain. We offer belay certification, service hours are eligible for special campus recognitions beginning and advanced climbing classes. The Outdoor throughout their college career. Trip program, travels to places close to VSU for outdoor The Office also oversees the Blazer Pantry, which is an adventures. Trips have included: rock climbing, Whitewater on-campus food collection center for students who qualify rafting, canoeing, mountain biking, skiing, bouldering, back for nutritional assistance. For more information, visit our packing, and skydiving. The Outdoor Rental Center provides website: http://www.valdosta.edu/student/student-life/our- students with outdoor equipment for personal use. Go services/volunteer-services/ on your own backpacking or kayaking trip with our rental equipment. Plan your own, or come to us for help, and you could be on your way to an adventure.

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PARENTS AND FAMILY ASSOCIATION Vice President for Student Affairs & Dean of Students Office Location: 3rd floor, Student Union Phone: (229) 333-5941

The Parents and Families Association encourages parents to be involved by joining the VSU Parents & Families Association. The VSU Parents and Families Association promote an effective working partnership between parents and the University for the benefit and well-being of their student and the University. Yearly dues are only $25 and this entitles you to E-newsletters, and other opportunities. You may join the Parents and Families Association at http://www.valdosta.edu/studentaffairs/ pfa/, and we encourage you to use the Parent Resource Center’s page at http://www.valdosta.edu/prc/. Please contact the office by phone at (229) 333-5941 for more information.

ATHLETICS & SPORTS Athletic Director: Herb Reinhard Location: P.E. Complex - Athletic Offices Likewise, the Athletic Department’s Red Hots Dance Team Phone: (229) 333-5890 has won three National Dance Association national titles Website: http://www.vstateblazers.com/ and the 2009 Competition Coed Cheerleading team has two national championships.

A leader in the world of NCAA Division II Athletics, Other Gulf South Conference members include Delta VSU has one of the most successful and well-rounded State in Mississippi; Alabama-Huntsville; West Alabama; intercollegiate sports programs in the nation. The Blazer North Alabama in Alabama; Christian Brothers in Tennessee; and Lady Blazer athletic teams compete in the Gulf South West Georgia and West Florida. Shorter and Union will join Conference (GSC), one of the toughest conferences the conference in 2013-14. in the country. Blazer teams perennially participate in postseason play. Valdosta State has earned the GSC’s ALUMNI RELATIONS Men’s All-Sports Trophy, which gauges each school’s success in the league’s seven sports, six times while Interim Director of Alumni Relations: Sage Archer winning the women’s award three times. Location: Regional Center for Continuing Education Building Room 332 The department sponsors 12 sports - baseball, men’s Phone: (229) 259-5123 basketball, women’s basketball, men’s cross country, Website: https://www.valdostastate.org/ women’s cross country, football, men’s golf, softball, men’s tennis, women’s tennis, soccer and volleyball - and has won six NCAA Division II national championships. The Alumni Relations office coordinates activities and events to allow graduates, students, parents and friends of Most recently, the 2012 softball squad claimed the VSU to maintain contact with the University. At Homecoming, NCAA’s top prize with a 4-1 defeat of UC San Diego, while we host many activities throughout the weekend including the men’s tennis claimed the national title in 2011. the recognition of our Distinguished Alumnus. During Additionally, VSU’s football team won the title in 2004 the Spring Semester, we honor the Graduate of the Last and 2007 after finishing as the runner-up in 2002 while Decade, and do a statewide tour to visit Alumni and the men’s tennis team also won in 2006 and the baseball assist in the recruitment of new students. The Alumni squad won the school’s first title in 1979. Association also awards scholarships and hosts the post- commencement receptions held after each ceremony.

29 Campus Living CAMPUS LIVING | STUDENT HANDBOOK VOLUME V Campus Living

Offices After their first year students may choose to live in Hopper Hall, Centennial Hall or Converse Hall provided that space is available. Our Housing staff strives to pair students together HOUSING & RESIDENCE LIFE based upon their preferences marked on their housing Director: Dr. Thomas Hardy applications. Students also have the option of rooming with Location: Hopper Hall a friend that will also be attending VSU. The Housing office Phone: (229) 333-5920 does their best to accommodate all requests. Fax: (229) 333-7159 Where you choose to live during your college years is Email: [email protected] paramount in defining your college experience. Housing and Website: http://housing.valdosta.edu Residence Life provides a distinctive and dynamic living and learning environment. Campus living is convenient, with all The mission of the Office of Housing and Residence residence halls being just a short walk from classes, labs, Life is to provide affordable quality housing in a safe the library, entertainment, and dining. But, living on campus and secure environment. Our caring staff is committed is about so much more than just proximity. It is about lifelong to serving our students by creating a holistic living and friendships, opportunities for involvement and employment, learning community which fosters: education, diversity, 24-hour staff support, and leadership development. We civic engagement, recreation, and personal growth encourage you to explore all the benefits of campus living. through programming and leadership opportunities. For more information on Housing and Residence Life, Valdosta State University houses approximately 2850, please visit the website at http://housing.valdosta.edu or students on campus in five traditional residence halls, contact our office. two suite style halls, and two apartment communities. Traditional residence halls offer double-occupancy rooms opening onto conventional hallways with community The Role of the Residence Hall Staff bathrooms. Brown, Langdale, Lowndes, Patterson, and The Residence Hall Director and Resident Assistants Reade are the traditional residence halls. Georgia Hall and in your residence hall have been chosen for their ability Hopper Hall, suite style facilities, offer both private and to facilitate learning and growth. As leaders, their primary semi-private occupancy rooms. Converse Hall, our oldest duties are to encourage and stimulate meaningful activity; apartment style facility, offers two varieties of apartments to assist residents in working out the problems that occur in – efficiency units, which house one resident and traditional group living; to provide information about campus services, one-bedroom apartments, which house two residents activities and residence hall and university procedures; is available for upper-classmen. Centennial Hall, the to perform certain managerial tasks such as check-in, largest apartment style facility, is also available for upper- checkout, and property inventory; and to serve as an classmen. Brown, Lowndes, Patterson, and Reade were interested person when someone wishes to discuss matters all recently renovated and are traditional style. Langdale of personal concern. There are also front desk workers Hall has been renovated one wing at a time to conclude available to answer questions and assist residents, as well with the last wing in 2013. as, the night operations team who drive an after-hours National research shows that freshmen who live in the shuttle bus and provide enhanced patrols in the halls late at residence halls tend to experience greater academic and night. The Complex Director is a full-time professional who personal success during their college career.. For this supervises the graduate student Residence Hall Director reason, VSU has a program for all incoming freshmen to and undergraduate Resident Assistants and oversees the live in the residence halls. activities within the residence hall complex. These staff members are present to assist you with your needs in the residence hall.

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Housing Accommodations Due to Disabilities Specially equipped facilities for students with disabilities are available. Students requesting modified housing due to a disability must register 2 months before classes begin with the Access Office for Students with Disabilities in Farber Hall, (229) 245-2498 (voice), (866) 948-3815 (vp) or (229) 219-1348 (tty.) Upon receipt and review of documentation of a disability that meets the Georgia Board of Regents’ criteria, the Access Office for Students with Disabilities will notify Housing and Residence Life of any reasonable accommodations to meet a resident’s housing needs.

Residence Hall Contract Your application and contract contain items and conditions of occupancy for which you are legally responsible. The University can assume no responsibility for missing or stolen articles. Parent’s insurance policies may cover your belongings while you are at college. Student Conduct Code Please check with your insurance provider for more All rules listed under Student Code of Conduct, information. For your own protection you should leave Appendix A, Section II of the Student Handbook, apply to family heirlooms and valuables at home and keep your residence hall living. room locked when you are not present. The University reserves the right to remove any student from housing who is delinquent in the payment of bills Visitation to the University, has demonstrated an unwillingness to Valdosta State University maintains limited visitation abide by the University Code of Conduct, violates any hours in the freshman buildings and extended hours in section of the Housing contract or published Residence the upper-class facilities. Please note with all visitation Life rules and regulations, or exhibits behavior which is hours a roommate’s right to privacy supersedes the incompatible with the maintenance of order, health and roommate’s right to have a guest. Residents are safety, or and propriety in the residence halls. responsible for the conduct of their guests.

Building Security Residence Halls The Residence halls are locked 24-hours/day beginning Visitors must obtain a visitation pass and secure the the first day of class each semester. You may gain pass on their person at all times while in a residence hall. admission to your residence hall by using your VSU Family members must comply with visitation procedures, identification card. Centennial, Georgia, Hopper, and as would any other visitor. Reade halls also have card swipe entry for the suite and apartment doors. The Night Operations Team and front desk worker program provides an added layer of Quiet Hours security. For your own protection, nonresidents are not Quiet hours shall be maintained in every residence allowed in the halls unless they are guests of residents hall from 10pm until 8am Sunday evening through or are on official business. You should be aware of this Thursday evening and from 12am to 10am Friday and non-trespass policy and should assist the residence hall Saturday evenings. Twenty-four hour quiet hours shall be staff in maintaining the privacy and security of your hall. In maintained in all halls during finals and any other time order for guests to contact you, they may call you from the considered necessary. Please be considerate of other courtesy phones located outside each residence hall. people. The areas surrounding the residence halls and

32 CAMPUS LIVING | STUDENT HANDBOOK VOLUME V apartments have been designated as quiet zones from Traditional Meal Plans – Resident Students 7pm until 10am daily. Students and guests are expected Create your own experience with My Meals. Enjoy fresh to respect the residence hall and apartment residents’ food and relax with your friends. Or, if you’re on the go, right to a quiet environment at all times. Courtesy hours grab a quick bite to eat on your way to class. My Meals are 24 hours a day in all residence halls, meaning if the are convenient and accessible at Palms or Hopper Dining noise can be heard in the hallway, it is too loud. Centers. For My Meals plans with a specific number of meals per week, each time you dine, a meal will be V-STATE DINING SERVICES deducted from your total meal balance. These plans are good for one week, and are reset every Sunday night at Location: Palms Dining Center midnight. The Blazer Bucks that come with your meal plan Phone: (229) 333-7146 are good per semester. All resident students will have a meal plan as part of their Valdosta State University firmly believes that today’s housing contract. However, at the beginning of the semester, hard-working student should be rewarded with a dining you may change your plan once during the registration experience that makes eating on campus palate-pleasing, period. So, if you find your plan isn’t fitting your needs, go healthy and entertaining. With sixteen different dining ahead and change it. We make it easy to Eat.Learn.Live for locations in eight different buildings, there’s always a you! place to grab a bite to eat, no matter where you are on campus. A VSU meal plan gives you the freedom to make your own dining decisions with several plans to choose Unlimited + $125 Blazer Bucks from, depending on your specific eating habits and This plan offers the most flexibility! Enjoy UNLIMITED lifestyle. meals or snacks in our All-You-Care-to-Eat Palms or Hopper Dining centers, plus $125 in Blazer Bucks, to be used at any retail dining or convenience store location found on-campus.

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14 Meals/Week + $225 Blazer Bucks Enjoy 14 meals per week at our All-You-Care-to-Eat Palms or Hopper Dining, plus $225 in Blazer Bucks, to be used at any retail dining or convenience store location found on-campus.

10 Meals/Week + $370 Blazer Bucks Enjoy 10 meals per week at our All-You-Care-to-Eat Palms or Hopper Dining, plus $370 in Blazer Bucks, to be used at any retail dining or convenience store location found on-campus. Resident students ranked as sophomores or above may choose from any of the three plans already listed, or the plan below.

$875 Blazer Bucks Enjoy $875 in Blazer Bucks to be used at any retail dining or convenience store location found on-campus. Students living in Centennial or Converse Hall that are officially ranked as sophomores or above can select any 75 Value Pack + $20 Bonus Bucks of the plans offered, including the plan below. Enjoy 75 meals for the semester and $20 Bonus Bucks, to be used at any on-campus dining location, including Palms $475 Blazer Bucks and Hopper Dining Centers, retail dining and convenience store locations. Enjoy $475 in Blazer Bucks to be used at any retail dining or convenience store location found on-campus. 50 Value Pack + $15 Bonus Bucks

Commuter Meal Plans – Commuter Students & employees Enjoy 50 meals for the semester and $15 Bonus Bucks, to be used at any on-campus dining location, including Palms A simple swipe saves you time, money and the and Hopper Dining Centers, retail dining and convenience headache of losing your parking space. Swipe & Save store locations. meals are accepted in Palms and Hopper Dining Centers. The four Value Pack meal plans are good per semester. The Xtra Blazer Bucks plus Bonus Bucks plans are good 25 Value Pack for the entire academic year through the spring semester. Enjoy 25 meals for the semester, to be used at any on- With each swipe of your card, a meal is deducted from campus dining location, including Palms and Hopper Dining your total meal balance. Centers, retail dining and convenience store locations. Swipe & Save meals ensure discounted pricing with EVERY meal. If you don’t want to dine alone, invite a friend! There are no restrictions on who can dine with your $300 Xtra Blazer Bucks + $22.25 Bonus Bucks Swipe & Save meal plan. With the free Bonus Bucks and sales tax savings, this plan provides $344 in purchasing power to eat on campus. This plan is good for the entire academic year, through the Spring 100 Value Pack + $40 Bonus Bucks semester. Enjoy 100 meals for the semester and $40 Bonus Bucks, to be used at any on-campus dining location, including Palms and Hopper Dining Centers, retail dining and convenience store locations.

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$200 Xtra Blazer Bucks + $10 Bonus Bucks Where Do I Eat on Campus? With the free Bonus Bucks and sales tax savings, Palms Dining Center this plan provides $224 in purchasing power to eat Palms Dining is an All-You-Care-to-Eat resident dining on campus. This plan is good for the entire academic facility that offers a wide range of healthy food options. The year, through the Spring semester. unique menus feature a variety of delicious and healthy meals for breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner, including $100 Xtra Blazer Bucks traditional favorites, ethnic specialties and vegetarian and vegan selections. Students can enjoy meals with their This plan is good for the entire academic year, friends. To spice things up a bit, we create special menus for through the Spring semester. fun dining events and themed dinners all year long! Located in Palms Quad.

Hopper Dining Center Hopper Dining is also an All-You-Care-to-Eat resident dining facility, where you can enjoy a variety of foods, healthy choices and unlimited helpings. Hopper introduces you to the cutting edge of resident dining, while keeping the uniquely personal and delectable experience that you can look forward to. Here, students can choose to participate in our Balanced U program, which promotes a solid foundation of healthy eating habits and enables students to make informed nutritional choices. Located in Hopper Hall.

Papa John’s Pizza Papa John’s Pizza is committed to delivering on its brand promise of “Better Ingredients. Better Pizza.” Papa John’s is the recognized quality leader in the pizza industry, who opened its first restaurant in 1985. Today they are the third- largest pizza company in the world, with approximately 3,300 restaurants located throughout the United States and approximately 35 international markets. Its traditional pizza sauce is made from superior-tasting, vine-ripened tomatoes which are harvested once a year at the peak of ripeness. In addition to its superior sauce, Papa John’s offers great thin crust dough or a perfect pan crust. Located in Palms Retail Center.

Blazer Bucks and Xtra Blazer Bucks Blazer Bucks are similar to a debit account and are Pinkberry good for one semester. Use your Blazer Bucks at any All of Pinkberry’s great-tasting products are freshly made, dining location on campus and save the sales tax with with the highest quality ingredients and Pinkberry’s signature every purchase! tang. Our menu includes Original, Pomegranate, Chocolate, You can add to your account as needed by purchasing Mango, Coconut and Green Tea frozen yogurts, daily cut Xtra Blazer Bucks. Xtra Blazer Bucks can also be used fresh fruit and seasonal fresh fruit toppings, as well as at any on campus location, and are good for the entire creative and premium dry and liquid toppings. Pinkberry academic year, through the Fall and Spring semesters. also now serves a Fresh Fruit Parfait in addition to our Original and Green Tea smoothies. Get your taste of Swirly Goodness! Located in Palms Retail Center.

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Moe’s Southwest Grill based on annual sales, they feature signature sandwiches, Moe’s Southwest Grill is a fun and engaging fast-casual salads and nuggets made with tender 100% chicken breast. concept serving a wide variety of fresh, made-to-order Also included are side items with a delicious Chick-fil-A southwest fare. The first Moe’s restaurant opened in twist (Waffle Potato Fries, anyone?) We have two Chick-fil-A Atlanta, GA on December 1, 2000, and offers burritos, locations on campus, a Chick-fil-A Express, located in the tacos, quesadillas, nachos, salads and fajitas. Guests can University Center Food Court, and our newest full-scale choose from over 25 fresh ingredients including grilled Chick-fil-A, located on the Second Floor in the Student chicken and steak. Located in Palms Retail Center. Union.

Starbucks Nathan’s Famous Starbucks purchases and roasts high-quality whole Nathan’s Famous is an international fast food restaurant bean coffees and sells them along with fresh, richly that began as a nickel hot dog stand in Coney Island in 1916 brewed, Italian style espresso beverages and a variety and has become a much-loved “New York institution”, now of pastries and confections. They are simply the premier available throughout the United States and internationally. purveyor of the finest coffee in the world. Here, freshly Nathan’s offers a menu of quality and variety, anchored brewed coffees, handcrafted espresso beverages and by its world-famous beef hot dogs and crinkle cut French Frappuccino® blended beverages are made to perfection. fries. Nathan’s menu offerings also include Cheese steaks, Starbucks also offers a wide range of Tazo® teas, Nathan’s Chicken Classics and Arthur Treacher’s Fish & Oatmeal and Warmed Breakfast Sandwiches. Located on Chips. Located on the Second Floor in the Student Union. the Second Floor of the Student Union.

Baja Flats Chick-fil-A Baja Flats is fresh grilled flavor, Flat Out Fast! Savoir faire Chick-fil-A is credited with introducing the original and savory fare – the Baja Flats Grille commands center boneless breast of chicken sandwich and pioneering stage with a sizzling array of regional favorites and ethnic in-mall fast food. As one of the largest privately-held specialties. This flat-top grill station spotlights the sounds restaurant chains – with 1,125-plus restaurants in 37 and aromas of fresh grilled excitement. Baja Flats offers an states and Washington, D.C. – and the second largest array of tasty burgers, salads and international concepts. quick-service chicken restaurant chain in the nation, Located in the University Center Food Court.

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Chef’s Table Langdale Market Chef’s Table is an innovative food program designed to Langdale Market is an on-campus convenience store, offer restaurant-style dishes. The ingredients are fresh and stocked with plenty of quick meals, snack items, candies, seasonal. Offered are a variety of foods that can satisfy beverages, personal hygiene products, detergents, film, the toughest palettes. The menu includes everything cards, balloons and so much more! Located in Langdale from Georgia BBQ and Home-Style Cooking to flavorful Hall. pasta dishes and even international flare. Located in the University Center Food Court. Sustella Market Sustella Market is an on-campus convenience store that Outtakes carries a large variety of packaged meals, fresh produce, a Outtakes combines convenience, quality and selection full-line of dairy products, sandwiches, fountain drinks, ice of a wide range of grab-and-go foods that are freshly cream, paper products and everything you could possibly prepared on-site. Its menu consists of healthy snacks and need during a snack attack. Sustella also offers fresh beef organic products, which are essential to the VSU campus hot dogs from Nathan’s Famous and fresh coffee, daily! This life. Located in the University Center Food Court. mini grocery store is a one-stop shop. Located in Centennial Hall.

Einstein Bros. Bagels Einstein Bros. Bagels is part of New World Restaurant Catering Group, the largest operator of bagel bakeries in the V-State Catering understands how important meals and “quick-casual” segment of the restaurant industry. From refreshment breaks are for your programs. From casual the butter lettuce that lends sandwiches a delicate crunch continental breakfasts to elegant sit-down dinners, your food to the all-butter recipes of reinvented sweets, Einstein and beverage service can be readily accommodated, no Bros. Bagels is getting back to the food…darn good matter what your request. Our friendly, professional staff is food. Einstein Bros. Bagels offers a wide variety of bagels always ready to assist you in planning food details for your and “schmears”, breakfast sandwiches, lox and bagel special event. combinations, lunch paninis and sandwiches, as well Mouth-watering food and a unique setting and as lighter fare that have fewer carbohydrates and are impeccable service are standard fare for your group’s dining lower in fat. Coffee, tea and espresso beverages are also and catering events. Our catering staff is at your disposal to available. Located in the College of Education Lobby. help you choose from a wide array of menu selections or to create a custom menu to make your event unique. Blazing Brew We would be proud to have you as our honored guest and Blazing Brew is infamous for its items that center we look forward to extending to you the superior service and around Seattle’s Best Coffee. Since 1970, Seattle’s Best excellent cuisine that V-State Catering can provide. Coffee has been satisfying coffee lovers’ demand for great coffee, fueled by the simple notion that everybody For the most up-to-date information, and to answer any deserves a more enjoyable coffee experience. Seattle’s questions that you may have, please contact V-State Dining Best Coffee® is meant to be savored your way, whether at (229) 333-7146. If you have Catering needs, please you like the lightness of Level 1 or the boldness of Level 5. contact V-State Catering at (229) 259-5910. V-State Dining Level 1: Mild, light, crisp is also online! Please visit http://www.dineoncampus.com/ Level 2: Bright lively, easy drinking valdosta, or speak to us through our Facebook Page, http:// www.facebook.com/VStateDining, or through Twitter as well, Level 3: Balanced, smooth, full-flavored at http://www.twitter.com/VStateDining. Level 4: Rich, elegant, complex Level 5: Bold, dark, intense New, starting in August 2012: Smoothies will now be offered in Blazing Brew! Located on the First Floor of Odum Library.

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our own students, through a buyback program at the end of each term, as well as from major used book wholesale companies.

School Supplies and Technology Products In addition to textbooks, the bookstore also carries a broad range of school supplies for your academic and personal needs. These supplies include imprinted wire bound notebooks, filler paper, binders, pens, pencils, and folders and are located on the first floor of the store.

Wireless Residence Hall Internet Products All VSU residence Halls have state of the art wireless technology to provide student access to the internet. Wireless technology means the connectivity to the internet is via Hallnet. The VSU Tech Shop provides necessary services to students who need assistance in this area. Additionally, the VSU Tech Shop is a certified Apple Retail Store and is BOOKSTORE home to other major computer brands as well. Visit the VSU Tech Shop for virtually all your computer, music and gaming Director: Bethanie B. Brogdon needs. The Tech Shop is located on the first floor of the store. Location: Student Union Phone: (229) 333-5666 Logo Merchandise The Valdosta State University Bookstore is located in One of the most exciting parts of coming to VSU is the Student Union Building on Oak Street. The multi-level becoming involved with a variety of student activities, store is a state of the art facility with nearly 18,000 square including the Blazer athletic program. The bookstore feet of shopping space including the VSU Tech Shop. carries a full line of imprinted products with the school logo, including clothing, bumper stickers, window decals, license plates, glassware, and gifts. The VSU Bookstore is a proud Textbooks corporate member of the Blazer Booster Club. Although this Your first visit to the store will probably be for the type of merchandise is displayed throughout the store, the purchase of textbooks and supplies for your courses. The most extensive selection is on the second floor of the store. textbook department is located on the first floor of the This portion of the store has an interior entrance through the store and is arranged in alphabetical order by the name of food court of the Student Union Building as well as from the the academic department and then by the course number first floor. within the department. A customer service desk is located within the department near the sidewalk entrance to offer assistance with any questions or concerns. For students Graduation Products who prefer to shop on-line, the VSU Bookstore has a As graduation approaches each term, students participate web site for secure textbook shopping. The web site is in our Graduation Celebration event, where we take orders located at http://www.thevsubookstore.com. The textbook for the official VSU class ring as well as customized department carries a large supply of used textbooks graduation announcements. Caps and gowns can be for most course offerings, and when these books are purchased from the bookstore on a daily basis, as well available, they are shelved in front of any new books as at the Graduation Celebration if a student chooses to ordered for courses. Shop early for used books, because participate in the graduation ceremony. More specific class they are very popular and sell quickly because of their ring information can be found at our bookstore website discounted prices. Used books are sold at 75% of the http://www.thevsubookstore.com new book price. Our supply of used books comes from

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Payment Methods In 2011, a three-phase renovation of the original library All purchases at the bookstore may be paid via cash, building replacing the ventilation system, ceilings, lighting, check, credit card, or the FLEXible Spending Plan. We and carpeting was completed, making the interior design accept Visa, MasterCard, and Discover. The bookstore similar throughout the entire library building. does not accept telephone calls from relatives authorizing a student to use their credit card. All check transactions Other Collections require a current VSU ID card, and the checks themselves must be imprinted with the name, address, and telephone The VSU Archives provides a collection of materials number of the customer. By University policy, the documenting the history of Valdosta State University and bookstore does NOT accept two-party checks or counter South Georgia. A special climate controlled storage area is checks. Students with new checking accounts and available to preserve the collection of manuscripts and rare counter checks should use the ATM to get cash for their books. purchases until their imprinted checks are available. The VSU Bookstore staff takes great pride in supporting STUDENT MAIL CENTER the academic mission of the university. We encourage you Location: Hopper Hall 1st floor to let us be your one-stop-shopping- spot while you are Phone: (229) 249-2694 enrolled at VSU. Our mailing address is VSU Bookstore, Window Service Hours: Student Union Building, 1500 North Patterson Street, Monday Thursday: 8:30am - 5pm Valdosta, Georgia 31698. Normal operating hours are 8:00 Friday: 8:30am - 2:30pm a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8:00 a.m. Website: http://www.valdosta.edu/finadmin/business/campusmail/ to 3:00 p.m. on Friday. Regular Saturday hours are 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.; however, extended hours are offered Campus Mail Services (CMS) issues VSU mailboxes at the start of each semester as well as for special events to each student living in a residence hall. The cost for the being held on campus including football games, visitation, box is included in the registration fees and is for personal etc. The VSU Bookstore is closed on all holiday weekends. use only. All box holders must check their Banner account each semester to verify box number and combination. ODUM LIBRARY Combinations will not be available to view until move in University Librarian: Alan Bernstein day of each semester. VSU boxes are deactivated and Location: Library forwarding information is requested when the student Phone: (229) 333-5860 moves off campus. Mail is not held by CMS between Spring Website: http://www.valdosta.edu/library/ and Fall semesters. Please submit a summer forwarding address before leaving campus. The summer forwarding will automatically stop when the student returns the following fall The library collections include approximately 549,683 as an on-campus resident. volumes in print, 105,278 e-books, 1,105,266 units in microprint and 107,827 government documents. About An email notice will be sent to the box holder’s VSU email 2,596 periodicals are received regularly. The library is a when an item arrives that is too large to fit in the VSU Box or selective depository of U.S. Government documents. it is received from UPS or FedEx, which requires the student to sign for the package. These items can be retrieved from Strategically located at the hub of campus activity, the the service window at the Student Mail Center with a valid library building, first occupied in 1972, offers comfortable VSU ID. and attractive surroundings encouraging casual reading as well as serious research. Works by internationally Box holders are requested to use the proper address renowned artists are exhibited throughout the building, format given below. Mail and Parcels must match the often alongside the work of VSU students. box holder assigned to the box. Mail not appropriately addressed in the student’s name and address may result In 2003 the library doubled in size, offering an Internet in the item being delayed or returned to the sender. Please Cafe, a computer lab, electronic classroom, a Georgia use given first and last names on packages and refrain from Library Learning Online (GALILEO) Technology Center, a using nick names or middle names. Packages that cannot 100-seat auditorium, and expanded study space, reading be identified will be returned to the sender. rooms and book stacks. Individual carrels, tables, small group study areas and groupings of colorful lounge furniture provide any type of seating desired.

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Example of the correct address format is: The student is responsible for seeking urgent, emergency, Student Name and after-hours medical care at the local hospitals: South Georgia Medical Center or Smith Northview. VSU (assigned box number) “Healing the Present...Teaching the Future” 1500 N. Patterson St. Valdosta, GA 31698 VSU 1CARD SERVICES Director: Deidra Di Pietro The Student Mail Center service window sells stamps, Location: 1204 N. Patterson St. pre-stamped letter size (No. 10) envelopes, and UPS and Phone: (229) 259–2593 FedEx services.

The VSU 1Card is your student ID as well as a HEALTH SERVICES multipurpose card to be used throughout campus. The VSU Director: Dr Edwin Hiatt 1Card bears your name, photograph, student ID number, Location: 200 Georgia Avenue and encoded magnetic stripe. The VSU 1Card is produced Phone: (229) 333-5886 during orientation or registration and is the property of the Appointments: (229) 219-3200 university; therefore, it must be surrendered to university officials upon request and should be carried at all times. Use of the card means that you accept future changes in The Student Health Center provides routine and acute terms and conditions that regulate the use of the VSU 1Card health care and urgent health care for all students who and accounts thereon; said changes will apply to all cards have satisfied the health fee requirement. The health fee in circulation and in use at that time and will supersede makes the student eligible for services at the health center the terms and conditions in effect at the time the card was during that semester. A $15 co-pay is deducted from the acquired. A fee of $15 must be paid for all replacement VSU health fee each visit. 1Cards. Two (2) forms of identification are required to obtain Care is provided by physicians, nurse practitioners, a a VSU 1Card, one of which must be a government issued pharmacist, medical technologist, registered nurses, x-ray photo ID—this includes replacement cards. technician, and office staff. A FLEX Account is a campus debit account which allows Radiology is our most recent addition to our ancillary you to make purchases using your VSU 1Card. The VSU services and is provided at a minimal cost to the 1Card is required to access the FLEX Account (and its student. There may be a time when a patient is referred shadowed vending and laundry privileges), check out library to Radiology Associates of Valdosta or South Georgia material, printing, testing, and the following services and Medical Center. Referrals to private medical personnel are privileges for which you must pay fees in advance: at the student’s expense. • Athletic events All patient records are confidential and in compliance • Residence Hall access with HIPAA regulations. Records may be released with a written request from the patient (HIPAA Authorization to • Dining Plans/Privileges Disclose Health Information form). Most forms are located • Health Center Privileges on our website. Please visit http://www.valdosta.edu/ • Admission to the Student Recreation Center administration/finance-admin/auxiliary-services/student- health/welcome.php or call Medical Records at 219-3203. FLEX is the only form of payment accepted in laundry room locations on campus. FLEX is also an accepted form Appointments for the providers (physician, nurse of payment at most snack and drink vending machines. A practitioners, or physician assistant) are required. Phone limited number of drink vending machines are equipped (229) 219-3200 or go online at https://health.valdosta. with bank credit/debit card readers, and all snack and drink edu to schedule or cancel an appointment. The Student equipment accept cash. Health Center’s operating hours are Monday – Thursday 8:00AM– 5:00PM and Friday 8:00 AM – 2:30 PM. Hours are subject to change based on the demand of the student population.

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Annual Security Report - Clery Act This annual security report includes statistics for the previous three years concerning reported crimes that occurred on campus, in certain off-campus buildings or property owned or controlled by the university, and on public property within or immediately adjacent to and accessible from the campus. The report also includes institutional policies concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. A copy of the report is available in the University Police office, and on our website: http://www.valdosta.edu/finadmin/vsupd/crimestats.shtml.

Walking and Bicycling We encourage those who live on or near campus to seriously consider the positive aspects of walking and/or cycling to jobs and classes. VSU walkers and cyclists enjoy: • Minimal transportation cost, You may visit our “on-line card office” to make credit • Zero stress and worry about where to park, card deposits, check your FLEX balance and transaction • Health benefits, and history, or suspend your card if it is lost or stolen. Excess financial aid may be allocated for your FLEX Account • Dependable and predictable transportation during specific dates each semester on the VSU Banner Moreover, walkers and bicyclists contribute significantly Web registration page. Keep in mind, however, that your to reducing traffic congestion which improves air quality for fees and matriculation come out of your financial aid everyone. Please enjoy VSU’s beautiful campus by walking before excess funds are applied to your FLEX Account. and bicycling. Visit our web page at http://www.vsu1card.com for specific policies and dates concerning the VSU 1Card and Bicycle Operation Regulations its privileges. • Be aware that it is unlawful to operate a bicycle in any Office hours are 8:30-5:00, Monday through Thursday, manner that endangers pedestrians, other cyclists, and 8:30-2:30 on Friday. motorists, or private property. • Follow motor vehicle regulations on the road, being UNIVERSITY POLICE particularly cautious at intersections. Director: Chief Scott Doner • Watch for pedestrians. Main Office - Oak Street Parking Deck. Substation Office - Sustella Street Parking Deck Phone: (229) 333-7816 Bicycle Parking Regulations Emergency: (229) 259-5555 • Bicycle parking regulations are in effect at all times, even at night and during vacations. University Police is responsible for the protection of • Bicycle parking is available at bicycle racks located the life and property of the Valdosta State University throughout the VSU campus. Bicycles are to be community. University Police is located in the main parking parked only in these areas and should be properly deck. We are open 24 hours a day seven days a week. attached to the racks. As a courtesy to fellow cyclists, The emergency telephone number is (229) 259-5555. please use only one space. For general information please call (229) 333-7816. For additional information about University Police visit our website at http://www.valdosta.edu/finadmin/vsupd/.

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Bicycles must not be parked or stored: For added safety you might consider using a good • In any University building quality u-type bicycle lock which will lock both wheels and frame to the bicycle rack. • Against or fastened to any tree, plant, bush, or foliage, PARKING & TRANSPORTATION • Against or fastened to any water, steam, or gas pipe, or any electrical fixture, ornamental bench, Director: Jill Ferrell trash can or emergency safety device, Location: 1st Level Sustella Street Parking Deck Phone: (229) 293-PARK (7275) • On any access/egress ramp or blocking an entrance or exit to any University building, VSU Parking Policies will be in effect and uniformly • In any handicap area, or in any other area where enforced at all times. All campus community members bicycle parking is specifically prohibited. (students, faculty, staff, and visitors) will be expected to • Bicycles parked in violation of these regulations observe parking policies and regulations. Parking citations will be impounded. It is lawful for the University will be issued for infractions of parking policies. All fines to remove locking devices in order to impound will be paid at the Parking & Transportation Department’s a bicycle. The University is not responsible for mailing address 1500 N. Patterson St. Valdosta, GA damage done to the locking device caused as 31698. All motor vehicles must properly display a current the result of an impound. parking permit to park on the campus at all times. • Register your bicycle! It’s free! Take your bicycle Office hours are: 8:00am to 5:30pm, Monday through to the Public Safety office for free etching of its Thursday and 8:00am to 3:00pm on Friday. Please frame and wheels. visit our web pages at http://www.vsuparking.com for a For added protection, join the B.A.T. (Bicycle Anti-Theft) comprehensive description of all parking policies and Program. For more information about the B.A.T. program, go regulations, and a complete description of the Blazer to Crime Prevention Programs web page. Call (229) 333- Shuttle Bus routes. 7816 for additional information.

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ACADEMICS | STUDENT HANDBOOK VOLUME V

DIVISION OF Academic Affairs

ACADEMIC AFFAIRS POLICIES & PROCEDURES Interim Vice President for Academic The normal course load is 15 semester hours for undergraduate students and 9 Affairs: semester hours for graduate students. An average student should devote at least Dr. Karla Hull thirty hours to study each week, in addition to course attendance. Location: West Hall Room 107 A full-time undergraduate student is defined as one who is registered for 12 or Phone: (229) 333-5950 more semester hours, and a full-time graduate student as one who is registered Website: http://www.valdosta.edu/academic/ for 9 or more semester hours. Part-time undergraduate and part-time graduate students are those who register for fewer hours than full-time students. (The Veterans Administration often requires that the student be enrolled for 12 semester hours or more to be classified as a full-time student.) A student must be enrolled full-time to receive full financial aid. Students should become familiar with the Academic Affairs section of the Valdosta State University Catalog.

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PERMISSION FOR OVERLOAD Grades for credit accepted in transfer or by examination An academic load greater than 19 hours requires are not posted to student’s permanent record and are not students to complete the VSU Petition to Register for included in the calculation of the grade point average [GPA]. More Than Nineteen Hours; the academic advisor, To receive a grade of “I” (Incomplete) students must the department head of the student’s major, and the submit a request form to their instructor (the process and appropriate Dean or Director must sign this form to form are available at http://www.valdosta.edu/academic/ indicate their approval. The maximum load for which RequestforIncomplete.shtml. Students have one year to approval may be given is 21 semester hours credit. have an “I” grade removed. Students are promoted from class to class (from freshman through senior) each semester based on total COMPUTING GPA semester hours required for different classifications. Hours required for classification beyond that of freshman are: A student’s semester grade point average [GPA] is computed by dividing the number of hours for which he / she is enrolled during a semester [attempted hours] into the Classification Semester Hours Earned total quality points received for the semester. A cumulative average for all courses taken at VSU is calculated by Sophomore 30 dividing total quality points earned for all courses taken at Junior 60 VSU by total hours attempted at VSU (excluding transfer Senior 90 hours).

GRADE REPORTS ACADEMIC RENEWAL POLICY The faculty believes that students in college should be The Academic Renewal Policy allows Valdosta State held accountable for their scholarship. Accordingly, grade University degree-seeking undergraduate students reports are not sent to parents or guardians. Instead, the who have experienced academic difficulty to have one students themselves receive their reports on-line and are opportunity to make a fresh start at Valdosta State University expected to contact their advisors whenever their work after an absence of five consecutive calendar years from is unsatisfactory. Grades are posted at the end of each any postsecondary institution. If a student does not request semester on student Banner WEB. Students in academic Academic Renewal status at the time of re-enrollment, the difficulty should contact their instructor and/or advisor. student may do so within two academic semesters of re- enrollment or one calendar year, whichever comes first. For more information on the Board of Regents’ Academic Grade Quality Points Renewal Policy, consult the Academic Affairs Handbook. All A 4.00 previously attempted coursework continues to be recorded B 3.00 on the student’s official transcript. Additionally, graduation with honors is based on all academic work attempted C 2.00 at Valdosta State University and at other institutions, D 1.00 including work prior to the granting of academic renewal. A complete statement of the policy and the form, Application for Academic Renewal, are available in the Office of the F-Failure 0.00 Registrar. WF-Withdraw Failing 0.00

DROPPING VERSUS WITHDRAWING FROM CLASSES Grades of W, S, U, V, I, IR K, and NR are not included in Dropping: Students may drop a class or classes during the computation of the grade point average. the official drop/add period at the beginning of each term In-Progress grade reports will be on-line for all students (generally the first week of class). Students must drop taking 1000/2000 level courses at the end of the seventh online. Classes that have been dropped do not appear on a week of the semester. The In-Progress grade is not student’s official transcript. recorded on the official transcript or GPA calculation.

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Withdrawal For a medical or hardship withdrawal, the student must Students may withdraw from courses following the drop/ withdraw from ALL classes. The student must also be able add period until midterm. Students must withdraw online. to produce appropriate documentation. The Vice President Classes from which a student has withdrawn appear on for Student Affairs and Dean of Students Office will verify the student’s transcript and a grade of “W” is assigned. that documentation and will contact instructors via e-mail to ask them to assign the student a “W” or “WF.” The Vice Before midterm, Students may withdraw from President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students Office will courses following the drop/add period by completing the not be able to divulge the reason for the withdrawal because withdrawal process on BANNER. Students may withdraw of FERPA regulations. If the Vice President for Student Affairs from courses following the drop/add period until midterm and Dean of Students Office does not receive a reply from online. A grade of “W” will appear in the student’s official the instructor, they will contact the instructor’s department records if the student has withdrawn five or fewer times head. The Vice President for Student Affairs and per the Limited Withdrawal Policy. For the sixth and each Dean of Students Office will only accept petitions for subsequent withdrawal that counts under this policy, medical or hardship withdrawal until 5 p.m. of the last students will receive a grade of “WF.” day of the term. A student may not exercise this right to withdraw to In very rare cases, students may not be able to initiate the avoid sanction for academic dishonesty. Instructors may withdrawal by 5 p.m. on the last class day of the semester. assign a “W” on the proof roll for students not attending However, no withdrawal paperwork will be accepted or class. It is the responsibility of the student to complete appeal considered on withdrawal petitions submitted any the withdrawal process. A withdrawal is official when it later than the following: is received and processed by the Office of the Registrar. Both students and faculty are notified via their VSU email For a spring or summer class, the last class day the fall addresses when the withdrawal has been processed. semester following that term; In order to receive a refund, students must withdraw For a fall class, the last class day of the spring semester from all classes for the semester. The refund percentage following that term. will be based on the time of the withdrawal as registered in If a petition for a late withdrawal is denied, unclear, or Banner. submitted beyond stated deadlines, the case may be After midterm, students will not be allowed to withdraw referred to an Appeals Committee. as required by Board of Regents’ policy; however, In the case of both medical and hardship withdrawals, the students may petition for an exception to the Board petition will become a permanent part of the student’s file. If of Regents’ withdrawal deadlines. VSU groups these the petition is approved, the instructor may assign a grade withdrawals into two categories: of “W” or “WF” after midterm. Note that “WF” is calculated (1) Medical Withdrawals in the grade point average the same as “F.” Any student who discontinues class attendance after midterm and does not (2) Hardship Withdrawals officially withdraw may be assigned a grade of “F” No fee A student may request to withdraw from the university adjustment will be made for withdrawals except as outlined after midterm for medical or hardship reasons. The in the Tuition, Fees, and Costs section of the VSU Catalogue. student must contact the Vice President for Student Affairs The Finance and Administration Office will receive a copy of and Dean of Students Office to make this request. This the withdrawal fund for refunding, if applicable. office will assist the student through the process of a WARNING: If students do not pass 67% of attempted medical or hardship withdrawal. The Vice President for credit hours on a cumulative basis (attempted credit Student Affairs and Dean of Students Office’s telephone hours include those from which students have number is (229) 333-5941. The policy and procedures withdrawn), they could lose eligibility for financial aid. are available at http://www.valdosta.edu/academic/ WithdrawalPolicy.shtml.

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Academic Probation and Suspension Valdosta State University seeks to provide an environment suitable for promoting the learning community. To ensure this primary goal, the university requires of its students reasonable academic progress. The retention of those students who repeatedly demonstrate a lack of ability, industry, maturity, and preparation would be inconsistent with this requirement. Academic probation is designed to serve three purposes: 1. To make clear to all concerned the inadequacy of a student’s performance; 2. To provide occasion for necessary counsel; and 3. To give students whose success is in doubt additional opportunity to demonstrate adequate performance. LIMIT ON COURSE WITHDRAWALS (5 “W” POLICY) For undergraduate students only Academic suspension is imposed as a strong indication that the student incurring such suspension should withdraw Effective Fall 2010, all undergraduate students are from the university, at least for a time, to reconsider the limited to five course withdrawal (“W”) grades for their appropriateness of a university career or to make necessary entire enrollment at Valdosta State University. Once a fundamental adjustments in attitudes toward the academic student has accumulated five “W” grades, all subsequent demands of university life. withdrawals (whether initiated by the student in BANNER or initiated by the instructor on the proof roll) will be I. Stages of Progress with Minimum recorded as “WF.” The grade of “WF” is calculated as an Grade Point averages Required “F” for GPA purposes. An individual’s stage of progress is determined on the The limit on withdrawals does not apply if a student • Semester Hours attempted at VSU withdraws from all classes in a given semester before the and hours transferred to VSU mid-term point of the semester. The following types of withdrawals do not count against the limit of five course • Cumulative grade-point average required on VSU withdrawal (“W”) grades: Courses • Hardship withdrawals (see process above) • The number of academic semester hours attempted, including those transferred from other institutions. • Medical or mental health withdrawals Transfer credits are not included in computing grade- (see process above) point averages. • Military withdrawals • Grades of “WF” 1-29 1.60 • Withdrawals taken in semesters before 30-59 1.75 Fall Semester 2010 60-89 1.90 • Withdrawals taken at other institutions 90 - graduation 2.00 • Transfer students, regardless of their classification upon enrolling at Valdosta State University, are also limited to five withdrawals at Valdosta State University. For complete information on the Limited Withdrawal Policy, see http://www.valdosta.edu/academic/ WithdrawalPolicy.shtml

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II. Academic Probation E. Should another institution permit a student on suspension A student will be placed on academic probation if, at from Valdosta State University to enroll, work taken at the end of any semester while the student is in good that institution during any period of suspension shall not standing, the cumulative GPA falls below the minimum be counted as degree credit at Valdosta State University specified in the table above or the semester GPA falls unless prior approval was obtained from the student’s below 2.00. Even though a student on probation is dean at Valdosta State University. making some progress toward graduation, it should be F. Only fall and/or spring semesters count as clearly understood that without immediate academic “sit out” semesters. improvement, suspension may result.

IV. Right of Appeal III. Academic Suspension and Upon appeal by the student, the dean or director of the academic Dismissal respective academic unit in which the student is enrolled A. A student will be suspended if at the end of any term, has the authority to waive the first or second suspension if while on academic probation, the cumulative GPA falls unusual circumstances warrant. The third suspension can below the minimum specified in the table above, and be appealed only by petition to the Admissions Advisory the term GPA falls below 2.00. Committee. B. A first suspension will be for one semester. (See readmission procedures below.) V. Readmission Procedures C. A second suspension shall be for two Students must make application for readmission in writing academic semesters. to the Director of Admissions prior to registration for the D. A third or subsequent suspension shall result in the semester in which they plan to return. Following the first student being academically dismissed from the or second suspension, readmission on probation may be institution for a minimum period of five years. granted for unusual and compelling reasons by the dean or

48 ACADEMICS | STUDENT HANDBOOK VOLUME V director of the college or division in which the student was STUDENT RECORDS enrolled at the time of suspension. A suspended student The Office of the Registrar maintains information readmitted on probation may have specific academic concerning the academic records of students and requirements imposed by the Admissions Advisory issues academic transcripts of records and verifications Committee or by the Vice President for Academic Affairs. of enrollment for various governmental agencies and A petition to the Committee and personal appearance organizations. before the Committee are required. Any further appeals must be made by petition directly to the Vice President for Students are encouraged to check with the Registrar Academic Affairs. A student accepted for readmission, when questions arise concerning academic status. Students suspended at the end of the last term of attendance, who have a permanent record to which only they and authorized does not re-enroll will remain on academic suspension. personnel under FERPA have access. It is to the student’s advantage to check this record periodically. Official transcript copies are provided at the request of the student. One week VI. APPEALS PROCESS FOR GRADES processing time should be allowed. Priority requests and fax AND OTHER ACADEMIC CONCERNS copies are available for a fee. VSU has long had an appeals process in place to Unofficial transcript copies are available by Banner WEB help students and faculty resolve any issues with the through the VSU homepage. assignment of a grade. This procedure endeavors to Transcripts of academic records from other colleges and protect both faculty and students by assuring a process high schools are not provided. The student must contact that allows dialogue at each step. While the initial appeal each previous institution attended for those transcripts. It is may be informal (i.e. a conversation between the faculty also the student’s responsibility to contact testing agencies member and the student), if the situation is not resolved, for test score reports. the rest of the process occurs in writing, using the Final Course Grade Appeal Form, available from the Registrar’s Official transcripts will not be released if there is any type of Office. “hold” on the student’s record. Therefore, students who have just cause to appeal the assignment of a grade must first discuss the problem with GRADUATING WITH HONORS their professor. Further appeals are then directed, in order, Three classes of graduation honors recognize exceptional to their professor’s department head, dean, and the Vice students qualifying for the bachelor’s degree. These honors President for Academic Affairs. Copies of the final course are based upon all academic work attempted, including grade appeal policy, procedures, and form are available in all courses attempted at other institutions. A minimum of the office of the Registrar. 60 semester hours of academic work, including student The same process should be followed if a situation teaching, must be successfully completed in residence at arises in a class prior to the assignment of grades. VSU Valdosta State University. Credit by examination or exemption recognizes, as the Statement on Academic Rights and will not be included in the work considered for residence. Responsibilities from the American Council on Education • Cum Laude for an overall grade point average of 3.50 maintains, “Academic decisions including grades should and a VSU cumulative average of 3.50. be based solely on considerations that are intellectually relevant to the subject matter under consideration. • Magna Cum Laude for an overall grade point average Neither students nor faculty should be disadvantaged of 3.70 and a VSU cumulative average of 3.70. or evaluated on the basis of their political opinions. Any • Summa Cum Laude for an overall grade point average member of the campus community who believes he or of 3.90 and a VSU cumulative average of 3.90. she has been treated unfairly on academic matters must Honors shown in the graduation program are based on have access to a clear institutional process by which grades earned to date; however, official honors included on his or her grievance can be addressed.” If students feel diplomas include all work attempted at VSU and all other uncomfortable addressing issues involving intellectual institutions, including accepted and non-accepted transfer pluralism and academic freedom with their instructors, credit. they should seek the advice of the VSU Alternative Dispute Resolution Committee (c/o Rebecca Murphy, (229) 259- 5105) who can assist in helping both the student and the faculty member in addressing their concerns.

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DEAN’S LIST OFFICES Being placed on the dean’s list recognizes students achieving a term grade point average of 3.50 or better, on HONORS COLLEGE 9 or more semester hours with a cumulative GPA of 3.00 Location: 222 Oak St. or better. Phone: (229) 249-4894 Website: http://www.valdosta.edu/honors/ UNIVERSITY SYSTEM REGENTS’ TEST REQUIREMENT The mission of the Honors College at Valdosta State Each institution of the University System of Georgia University is to provide for the stimulation of academically must assure the other institutions, and the System as motivated students so that they achieve their full academic a whole, that students obtaining a degree from that potential, while at the same time providing recognition for institution possess literacy competence, that is, certain such students’ endeavors. The Honors College encourages minimum skills of reading and writing. Therefore students meaningful connections between disciplines, innovative enrolled in undergraduate degree programs shall pass the and unusual approaches to subject matter, and a reliance Regents’ Test as a requirement for graduation. upon experiential learning and global awareness that For undergraduate students at Valdosta State University, are fully integrated into the course content and lead to the Regents Test requirement will be fulfilled by a passing opportunities for strong undergraduate research and creative grade in English 1102.* endeavors. The Honors College also provides extra-curricular opportunities for students to broaden themselves through * Students failing ENGL 1102 will be required to register lectures, service opportunities, and other forms of activity that for the class each subsequent semester in which they relate to their education. are enrolled at VSU. They will also be required to meet with a tutor in VSU’s Student Success Center to develop Finally, the mission of the Honors College is to attract the a remediation plan. best students to Valdosta State, and to assist in retaining those students through all four years of their undergraduate experience. In this way Honors College students will make a visible and positive impact on the entire university community, thereby enriching the diversity of the Valdosta State University community as a whole. To be admitted to the Honors College, an entering freshman should have a combined SAT score (Verbal and Math) of at least 1130 or an ACT composite score of 25, along with a high school grade point average of at least 3.20. Transfer students from another college or university or a currently enrolled at VSU should have a grade point average of a 3.20. The Honors College requires a minimum of 24 Honors credit hours or nine Honors courses completed with a B or better, a selective global experience through foreign language, study abroad, or other approved activities, and an overall GPA of a 3.00. A two-credit gateway introductory seminar (HONS 1990), a two-credit Honors perspective course, an Honors Research Methods course (HONS 3999) in the chosen discipline as well as a Capstone experience (HONS 4990 Thesis, HONS 4000 Independent Study, or any other approved Capstone experience) are part of the requirements. The remaining five courses may be chosen from a mix of Honors Core curriculum courses, Honors sections in the major, and Honors Option Credit in the major (taking a non- Honors course for Honors credit). Upon completion, students receive an Honors College Certificate, special notation on their transcript, and public recognition.

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Upon graduation from VSU, students receive a gold The major advantage of learning communities is that diploma seal, a gold honors cord to wear at graduation, they contribute to a higher level of student participation in and other forms of public recognition. Most importantly, learning. Students in learning communities report greater future employers as well as graduate and professional personal involvement in a range of academic and social schools will recognize Honors students’ commitment activities over the course of the year than do students in to perseverance, academic excellence, and intellectual regular curriculum classes. exploration.

OFFICE OF ACADEMIC STUDENT INSTRUCTIONAL SUPPORT(OASIS) AND CENTER FOR ADVISING & FIRST YEAR PROGRAMS Director: Dr. Chere L. Peguesse Location: University Center-South Phone: (229) 245-4378 Website: http://www.valdosta.edu/oasis/

The OASIS Center for Advising and First Year Programs is located in the University Center—office 1114. OASIS primarily serves exploratory or “undecided” students - i.e., those who have not declared an academic major. The mission of the OASIS advising center is to assist students in setting and achieving their academic, career, and personal goals. Although all students are required to meet with an advisor at least one time a semester, the OASIS Advising Center encourages students to meet with their advisor at least three times per semester. In addition, OASIS provides the leadership and management for the Freshman Year Experience Program, the Freshman Learning Communities Program (major- based), the Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies Degree program, the Associate of Arts Degree program, and the Learning Support Program. The Freshman Year Experience (FYE) is a year-long set of courses and projects that focus on helping students The Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies Degree (INTS) is with an undecided major achieve excellence in their an Inter-disciplinary degree that allows students to pursue academics. Students who participate in FYE are members three areas of emphasis and is ideal for the student who of learning communities. Each learning community has desires to tailor their degree to their personal interests. approximately 25 students. The anchor course for each Many employers are looking for employees who possess learning community is VSU 1101, a course that teaches skills in the areas of communication, professional and students successful learning and study skills for college, technical reading and writing, research, interpersonal skills, as well as major and career exploration. This class is time management, leadership and team work. The INTS taught by an advisor who has close contact with the other program gives students the opportunity to gain these skills faculty in the learning community, which strengthens the while combining different fields of study to create a unique, support network for the student. personal learning experience. The INTS Track 1 is open to The Freshman Learning Communities program is a students who are either active-duty military or who have had semester-long program for students who have declared a 2-year continuous break in their education. The INTS Track a major and want the experience of a small community 2 is open to all students with a 2.50 grade point average. of peers who take courses in common. Like FYE, each community has approximately 25 students.

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The Associate of Arts degree may be earned upon STUDENT SUCCESS CENTER satisfactory completion of 60 semester hours of academic Director: Dr. Chere L. Peguesse credit, to include completion of Areas A through F of the Location: Langdale Hall Mezzanine Core Curriculum. Any single Area F may be selected from Phone: (229) 333-7570 among departmental listings.

Learning Support programs are intended to serve The Student Success Center (SSC) at Valdosta State non-traditional students who are not prepared for core University provides students with supplemental academic curriculum courses and need additional preparation in advising, peer tutoring in core curriculum courses, and mathematics and English. A non-traditional student is campus job information. The SSC is centrally located on the defined as a student who graduated from high school a main campus in Langdale Residence Hall. Our goal is to minimum of five years prior to admission, or a student who support students at any level and ability in their course work, holds a General Education Diploma (GED) and graduated job experience, and major and career planning, thereby a minimum of five years prior to admission. Students who fostering in them the determination and drive to graduate have been away from formal education for at least five and lead fulfilling lives. For more information, see our years and have attempted fewer than 30 semester hours website: http://www.valdosta.edu/ssc/ or call 333-7570. are also eligible for the Learning Support Program.

52 Finance&Administration FINANCE&ADMINISTRATION | STUDENT HANDBOOK VOLUME V

DIVISION OF Finance & Administration

FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION Vice President for Finance & Administration: Sue E. Fuciarelli Location: University Center Phone: (229) 333-5710

Valdosta State University is a unit of the University System of Georgia and receives a major portion of its operating funding through appropriations from the State of Georgia. This support enables the University to offer high quality educational programs at a minimal cost to its students. Valdosta State University’s academic year consists of two terms: Fall and Spring, as well as a series of Summer Sessions. The University’s tuition is set by the University System of Georgia Board of Regents each spring and is effective the following fall term. Mandatory Fees and Other Fees are proposed annually by the University, supported by a committee, half of whom are students, and ultimately approved by the Board of Regents. However, the University and the University System reserve the right to change fees at the beginning of any term.

TUITION, FEES, AND COSTS All charges are based on approved fees and are subject to change according to the policy of the Board of Regents. Fee schedules are available at http://www.valdosta.edu/finadmin/financial/feeschedules. shtml. All new students who attend orientation programs will be charged $40 to cover the related costs. All transfer students who attend an orientation program will be charged $20 to cover the related costs. VSU assesses mandatory fees each semester to students who are registered for 4 or more credit hours on the main campus. Valdosta State University’s mandatory fees for these students include: health fee, student activity fee, and athletic fee, transportation fee, parking facility and health facility fees. All students are charged the following mandatory fees each semester regardless of campus or registered credit hours: technology fee and access card fee, and a Board of Regents Institutional fee. All fees are tentative and subject to change according to Board of Regents policy.

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PAYMENT OF FEES AT REGISTRATION Students who register but do not attend VSU for a given term must Registration is complete only when tuition and fees withdraw from courses paid for by financial aid in order to avoid are paid by the established deadline. Students are unsatisfactory grades or financial accountability. A withdrawal from responsible for determining account balances and one class does not mean a complete withdrawal from the University. securing payment by the established fee payment Please refer to the following section for the University’s Refund deadline. The University’s web site is the most up- Policy. to-date reference for registration and fee payment Complete payment instructions are located at http://www.valdosta. deadline dates, but notices are also sent to University edu/finadmin/financial/student.shtml. e-mail accounts and registered mobile phones. The VSU e-mail is an official means of communication with students. REFUND OF FEES The University posts an invoice to student account Students officially withdrawing from the University after paying with account balances 2-3 weeks before each fee fees for the term will be issued a 100% refund for tuition, mandatory payment deadline via the VSU Student Online Account fees, campus housing, and board meal plans, provided the official Center at https://secure.touchnet.com/C20243_tsa/ withdrawal occurs NO LATER THAN the official drop/add day for web/login.jsp. Generally, the invoice will reflect refunds. Students officially withdrawing from ALL classes AFTER the the amount owed, which is based on the courses official drop/add day will receive a refund based upon the following selected, living arrangements on campus, the meal official refund policy: plan selected, and other student choices. • The refund amount shall be based on a pro rata percentage Financial Aid may be used to pay for tuition determined by dividing the number of calendar days in the and room and board in accordance with federal semester that the student completed by the total calendar days regulations. However, if there are any other charges, a in the semester. The total of calendar days in a semester includes student must give the University consent to pay other weekends but excludes scheduled breaks of five or more days charges with federal financial aid. This authorization and days that a student was on an approved leave of absence. is maintained in the Banner student system. A written The unearned portion shall be refunded up to the time that the statement is required to rescind the authorization and amount earned equals 60%.Students who withdraw when the should be delivered to the Financial Aid Office in the calculated percentage of completion is greater than 60% are not University Center. entitled to a refund of any portion of institutional charges. VSU accepts the following payment forms for • A refund of all non-resident fees, matriculation fees, and other tuition and fees - all of which may be used to secure mandatory fees shall be made in the event of the death of a registration, but in all cases, full payment is required: student at any time during the academic session. cash, personal check, ACH direct payment (we • Housing fees, post office box fees, and music fees are call this web check) money order, traveler’s check, non¬refundable fees. Refunds of elective charges upon online credit card (MasterCard, American Express withdrawing from the institution during a term will be made on a or Discover), university short term loans (separate prorated basis determined by the date of withdrawal. qualifications required), completed and fully • Flex charges and a la carte meal plans are refundable only to the authorized financial aid (meaning all promissory notes extent they are unspent. have been signed for loans). • It is the student’s responsibility to withdraw officially in Effective July 1,2008, credit card payments will only accordance with university regulations, which are set out in the be accepted online through the VSU Student Account Student Catalog. Center. • Students receiving funds and financial aid monies will have their VSU does not accept the following payment forms: refunds restored to the following programs in this precise order: third party checks, credit card checks, starter checks, outstanding balances on non-subsidized loans, subsidized counter checks, or partial payments. loans. PLUS loans, Pell, SEOG , other Title IV student assistant If full payment is not made by the fee payment programs, HOPE, private scholarships, and finally to the student. deadlines, VSU reserves the right to take the following • No other refunds or reductions are allowed unless such actions and will notify students of such action: cancel reductions are necessitated by schedule changes initiated by the registration in progress, hold student records, prevent University. future registration, and pursue collection of debt.

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• Students suspended or expelled for disciplinary the State of Georgia, VSU follows the Business Procedures reasons are not entitled to a refund of any deposits, Manual of the Board of Regents, chapter 10.0, regarding tuition, or fees paid. Additionally, students who are collection, due diligence procedures, and write-off. asked to vacate their residence hall rooms as a result Financial holds are placed on student accounts for balances of disciplinary actions are not eligible for refunds. due. These holds will not allow students to register, graduate, or receive official VSU documents until outstanding balances Additional information is located on the web at the are paid. Students can check their account status and hold following links: type by visiting the Banner Registration Website. Registration dates and course schedules: Generally, student account balances that are past due 120 www.valdosta.edu/it/eas/sis/ days and returned checks (NSF) that are over 60 days will be Fee Schedules: turned over to the University’s Collection Agency. www.valdosta.edu/finadmin/financial/feeschedules.shtml CANCELLATION OF STUDENT REGISTRATION FOR CAUSE Refund policies: www.valdosta.edu/finadmin/financial/student.shtml The University reserves the right to cancel the registration of (Also found at the Student Financial Services Office any student who fails to meet his or her financial responsibility, located in the University Bursary) according to the rules and regulations of the University. The rules and regulations provide that: CHECK CASHING SERVICE 1. All fees are due and payable upon completion of All checks and money orders must be payable through registration. Students should not report for registration a United States bank. To accommodate students, the without having sufficient funds available to pay their University will cash one personal check per day, per fees. The payment instructions are located at http://www. student, for $50.00 or less at Student Financial Services valdosta.edu/finadmin/financial/howtopayfees.shtml/ located in the University Bursary. Bursary hours are 2. Any check issued to the University in payment of fees, or to Monday-Thursday, 8:00 am to 5:00 p.m. and Friday, be cashed for personal convenience, must be paid upon from 8:00 am to 2:30 p.m. Checks will not be cashed if presentation to the bank on which it is drawn. A student the student has a “Hold” on his or her student account. who issues a check on a bank without having sufficient Checks drawn for cash only must be made payable funds on deposit in that bank has violated the statutes of to “VSU-CASH.” The University will not accept two- the State of Georgia and may be prosecuted. party checks for cashing. Parents who send their son or daughter spending money by check should make 3. All fines for violations of the rules related to parking and their check payable to VSU, with the student’s name traffic, and charges related to the library and other facilities on the “for” section of the check. Checks issued to such as laboratory breakage, etc., must be paid promptly. the University in payment of fees, purchases of books, Those students having outstanding obligations will not be etc., or to be cashed for personal convenience must be allowed to enroll in subsequent terms. paid upon presentation to the bank on which they are 4. Misuse of an I.D. card may result in suspension from drawn. Checks returned to the University for Insufficient classes of all involved students. Funds, account closed, stopped payment, or for any 5. Students who have secured short term loans must have other reason will be handled in accordance with the this obligation paid in full according to the terms agreed Collections Policy, below. upon with the Loan Officer to avoid suspension or possible Additionally, the University can suspend the student cancellation of the term’s registration. from class and from any facilities of the University for a 6. Students who misrepresent the facts pertaining to their returned check of any reason. Suspension from class will qualifications to live off campus may be suspended from not relieve the student from the obligation for payment of classes. In each instance, students will be given proper the returned check and fees. notice to comply with the housing regulations before action is taken to effect cancellation of their registration. COLLECTIONS 7. The University reserves and intends to exercise the right The University recognizes that circumstances may to withhold copies of education records and/or to cancel arise to create a balance due to the University. In effort enrollment of students who owe the University money. to protect the financial interests of the institution and

56 Student Org Regulations STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS| STUDENT HANDBOOK VOLUME V Student Organization Regulations

I. INITIAL PROCEDURE FOR REGISTRATION OF STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS: A. An organization seeking registration must submit an application online through the CampusConnect system at Valdosta. collegiatelink.net. The application consists of the following items: 1. Name of the organization, on campus mailing address (if applicable), or local mailing address, and email address 2. Purpose (including an explanation of why the organization is desirable on campus) 3. Qualifications for membership (Membership is ONLY for current VSU students currently enrolled in 3 credit hours or more) 4. Fees, dues, and other considerations for membership 5. Officer and leadership structure 6. Time and manner of election of officers 7. Number of students wishing to join (must be 10 or more students), unless approved by the Director of Student Life. 8. VSU Faculty or Staff Advisor (name, phone number and VSU email) 9. Explanation of any extra-campus affiliation (e.g. national parent organization) Office of Student Life 10. Time and location of planned meetings Director: Robin Vickery Location: Student Union 3rd floor 11. Names of prospective members who will serve as Phone: (229) 333- 5674 spokespersons for the organization during the registration procedure. Their name, VSU email, and cellphone number will be required. Professors involved in the organization may provide campus phone numbers. 12. A digital copy of the proposed organization’s Constitution and By-Laws (this will need to be downloaded onto CampusConnect)

For the most current information regarding any Registered Student Organization go to the VSU Campus Connect website at https://valdosta.collegiatelink.net or call the Student Life Office at (229) 333-5674 for more information.

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B. The Assistant Dean of Students, the Director of Student Life, and the Assistant Director for Student Life shall examine each application and reject those not submitted in the proper form. A representative from the prospective organization may request a hearing on the proposed registration and, if necessary, may appoint a registration committee to review all facts pertinent to the establishment of such an organization on the VSU campus.

II. CRITERIA FOR REGISTRATION AND REVIEW PROCEDURE A. Registration shall be granted only to those organizations whose purpose and proposed activities are clearly related to the educational goals and mission of the University. Registration shall be denied if the evidence presented shows that the proposed organization will present substantial likelihood of material interference or conflict with the educational process of the University or any of the following:

1. The regular and orderly operation of the university 2. The requirements of appropriate discipline within the university community. III. RIGHTS OF STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS The academic pursuits of teaching, learning, and 3. A. Registration authorizes an organization: other campus activities. 1. To use the University facilities and equipment, 4. The laws or public policies of the state of Georgia subject to the Board of Regents’ policy and to and the United States University regulations governing the use of facilities 5. The statutes and regulations of the university and equipment subject to reasonable scheduling or and the policies of the Board of Regents for the clearance of particular facilities and equipment by the University System of Georgia. Events Services Office. 6. The composition of the organization’s membership 2. The use of CampusConnect, an organization is not composed entirely of VSU students. management system. 3. Right to post announcements on campus, according B. If the committee disapproves registration, the to the University’s posting policy. organization may appeal the decision to the Vice 4. To be eligible to request student activities funds President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students who subject to the Board of Regents’ policies and to shall review the same and affirm, reverse, or modify the University regulations governing allocation of student decision. activity fees. C. All proposed organizations will be notified in writing 5. Registration as a VSU student organization does once approval for registering has been granted. This is not guarantee the receiving of funds from student the final phase of the registration process. account budget committee.

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IV. RULES AND REGULATIONS C. Financial responsibility: GOVERNING STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS 1. Use of allocated student activities fee funds monies A. It is understood that Valdosta State University holds must conform to the purposes and practices each organization responsible for the actions of its approved by the allocating authority. members and their guests at all times. Furthermore, it 2. Organizations shall carry on business transactions is understood that all student organizations will abide and contractual relations with punctual and timely by the Valdosta State University Students Code of discharge of valid obligations and prudent use of Conduct. It should also be noted that if disciplinary funds. actions are taken against a student organization, the disciplinary process under Appendix B of the Student 3. Any organization not in good financial standing with Code of Conduct would be followed. the university will not be permitted to use University facilities. B. Although the University cannot provide constant, on site supervision of all activities, it does reserve the right D. Conformance with organizational purpose: Activities to attend organization functions as well as enter any or organizations must be in conformance with their premises under the control of an organization when application’s stated purposes. it deems necessary. VSU also reserves the right to E. Campus Displays: Displays including, but not limited discipline organizations and individual students when to, posters, notices, or banners which litter the campus there is evidence of misconduct or the alleged violation or damage the property of the University or of other University rules, regulations or outside laws are brought persons or entities, or which are obscene, or which to the attention of the University. Your organization can materially interfere with the regular and orderly operation be held accountable for upholding the VSU Student of the University are prohibited. All banners and sheet Code of Conduct even if the event is held off-campus. signs must be registered and approved by the Office of Student Life PRIOR to displaying them.

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F. Property damages: Unauthorized or malicious damage update form on CampusConnect both Fall and Spring to the property of the University or other persons semesters. This form indicates any changes in the or entities resulting from organizational activities organization’s officers and or advisors and is due by is prohibited and the student organization shall be February 15 (spring semester) & September 15 (fall responsible for all damages. semester). G. Disorderly Conduct: Organizational activities that L. Party regulations when alcohol is present encourage or precipitate riots or other disturbances, 1. VSU does not encourage alcohol use at student which materially interfere with the regular operation of organizational events: however these are guidelines the University, are prohibited. for students to follow if the organization chooses to H. Parades, student rallies, and other such gatherings: have alcohol available at their event. 1. Must be limited to areas designated by either the 2. It is the recommendation of the Student Life Office published notice for such activities or designated that any social event at which alcohol is present by the General Public Forum Venue policy as should be provided by a third party vendor. described in the Student Handbook’s Code of a. Alcohol is not allowed at public events, only Conduct. private events. Private events are those 2. Outside parades, student rallies, and other such events that are attended by members of the gatherings which interfere with pedestrian or organization and their invited guests. vehicular traffic on campus must be cleared with b. All social events where alcohol is present the Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of and guests are invited BYOB (bring your own Students Office and the VSU Police Department, beverage), or closed functions using a third party before they may be undertaken, as well as with vendor to handle the alcohol will be designated the proper civil authorities if the event is held off- as private functions. The house organization campus. cannot purchase alcohol with organizational 3. Use of facilities, equipment, and other University funds or participate in the purchase of alcohol in property shall be subject to reasonable scheduling any other manner (no bar tabs, use of personal by the Events Services Office in order to promote checking accounts, pooling of funds or “passing fair sharing of their use. the hat”, etc.). I. Law violations: No organization shall commit, c. The hosting organization will provide and make encourage, condone or contribute to violations of available to members/guests during the duration University statutes and regulations, and policies of of a social event non-alcoholic (alternate) the Board of Regents, of the Laws of Georgia and the beverages and food. United States. d. For the duration of a social event provide and J. Eligibility for Membership and officer status in have available transportation by taxi, designated organization: driver, duty driver, or other similar means for 1. Active membership shall be confined to regularly members/guests who are visibly intoxicated or enrolled students. who request transportation. 2. 3 hours is the minimum course load for any student e. The total number of persons present may not participating in a student organization. exceed three times the membership of the one host organization or 100 guests, whichever is 3. A student must maintain a 2.25 GPA to be eligible greater. Any exception must be reviewed in to serve as an officer of a student organization consultation with the Director of Student Life or unless otherwise stated by the organization by his/her designee at least 72 hours prior to the laws. Organizations may raise or require a higher beginning of the event. GPA for membership. f. A sign shall be conspicuously displayed at all K. Information to be submitted to the Director of Student Life: entrances indicating the event is restricted to Each organization must designate an officer to attend members and invited guests only and stating the an Officer Training at the beginning of Fall semester. ending time of the event. Each organization must complete a registration

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g. Advertising on campus of a social event where 2. Fund raising projects may be held on or off campus alcohol may be present is prohibited. but approval of these locations is required through h. All common source containers of alcohol, the Student Life Office. Fundraisers are limited to one including but not limited to, kegs, community day in length, unless an extension is approved. coolers (cooler shared with others), punch 3. Students and Student Organizations are prohibited bowls, bulk quantities, and any other container from acting as agents for non-university affiliated that may be shared with others, are prohibited. enterprises. In other words, members of a student i. All entrances and exits to the event must be organization may not sell items or services monitored at all times. for an outside company in return for financial compensation. j. Glass bottles are strictly prohibited at any social event, unless provided by a third party 4. Dances, concerts. variety shows. or similar fund- vendor. raising projects must have approval of the Events Services and the Director of Student Life. k. ALL registered organizations hosting a private party are responsible for providing a certified 5. Fund-raisers and raffles which involve the hiring, law enforcement officer to check IDs of all “renting,” or “purchasing” of human beings for those attending to assure compliance with the unspecified tasks will not be approved. These state’s legal drinking age requirement. practices have the potential to violate the basic rights of those involved and by nature are demeaning to l. The Office of Student Life is responsible for participants. determining what is classified as a “party” and determine consequences on a case by 6. Door to door sales and solicitation are prohibited. case basis for individuals or organizations per 7. The selling of magazines, phone cards and the policies and procedures set forth in the distribution of credit card information is not allowed Student Handbook’s Code of Conduct. on the Valdosta State University campus. M. Organization Publications: 8. Full rental of facility, personnel and other associated 1. Student organization publications shall not contain expenses will be charged to organizations keeping material considered obscene or defamatory as more than 10% of the proceeds from the event. defined in the Code of Georgia, Section 16-12-80b This percentage of money collected can be used or which may create a substantial likelihood of for prizes, program planning and other expenses material interference with the regular and orderly incurred with the event. operation of the University. 9. No organization may co-sponsor an event with an 2. Student organization publications shall abide by alcohol distributor, club, bar, charitable organization the guidelines and policies established by the or tavern (tavern defined as an establishment University. generating more than half of annual gross sales from alcohol) where alcohol is given away, sold or N. Fund Raising & Raffles. otherwise provided to those present. Additionally, Valdosta State University recognizes the need for no organization may co-sponsor or co-finance a registered student organizations to independently raise function where alcohol is purchased by any of the money in order to augment their abilities to sponsor host organizations or groups. Fundraisers may not activities and events. All on-campus fund-raisers must be be co-sponsored by an alcohol distributor or tavern approved, reviewe, authorized and sanctioned through the and no monies from the sale of alcohol may be used Student Life Office. as fundraising dollar or donated to an organization. When planning a fund-raiser or a raffle, please bear in 0. Auxiliary Groups mind the following guidelines: The North-American Interfraternity Conference (as of 1. All on-campus fund-raisers must be sponsored 1987), the National Panhellenic Council (as of 1988) and the by a registered student organization and must be member organizations of the National Pan-Hellenic Council, reviewed and approved through the Student Life Inc. urge and recommend that member organizations Office in the Student Union at least 3 weeks prior to work to eliminate auxiliary or “little sister/little brother” the event.

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programs. Valdosta State University formally recognizes When an organization accepts responsibility for alleged the request from these national organizations and their violations this does not prevent the Vice President for national presidents and hereby prohibits the formation of Student Affairs and Dean of Students or his/ her designee auxiliary groups on the campus. Any organization believed from referring to past adjudication of similar matters in order to be getting, as an auxiliary group shall be prohibited to maintain consistency & precedent, as well as professional from using University facilities. The Office of Greek Life judgment. will contact the national organization of the group in The Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of connection with the auxiliary immediately. Students or his/her designee, or the appropriate disciplinary P. Final Review Powers conduct committee may impose any of the following The Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of disciplinary measures upon an organization for alleged Students or his/her designee, as needed shall review violations of University regulations after a finding of the activities of each student organization to determine responsibility via an administrative or disciplinary conduct whether or not they are acting in accordance with committee hearing process. This list shall not be taken to be University regulations. Alleged violations of the University’s exhaustive, and it may be expanded as needed. Student Code of Conduct regulations may be brought • Restriction of all or any privileges enjoyed as a against a registered organization. The Vice President for registered student organization Student Affairs and Dean of Students or his/her designee • Monetary fines, withholding, or withdrawal of student may forward the charges to the Student Conduct Office for activities monies. appropriate conduct hearing. • Restitution for damages If an organization accepts complete and unconditional responsibility for ALL alleged violations, they may then • Probation and/or suspension for a defined period of choose an administrative hearing. This means the time of registered group status organization waives their right to a conduct committee • Withdrawal of registration indefinitely. hearing or appeal. The Vice President for Student An organization may appeal any sanction to the President, Affairs and Dean of Students or his/her designee, The President may utilize the services of an existing or ad or the appropriate Conduct Hearing committee may hoc committee for the appeal process as described in the impose any of the following disciplinary measures upon Student Code of Conduct. Upon notice and a hearing, the an organization for alleged violations of University’s President may review at any time the registration of any Student Code of Conduct regulations after a finding of student organization, and make whatever final disposition responsibility via an administrative or conduct committee he/ she deems is necessary in the best interest of the hearing process. This list shall not be taken to be University. exhaustive, and it may be expanded as needed.

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The following provisions of this code of conduct may be revised, supplemented, or amended as necessary at any time by the appropriate university authorities.

Appendix A (Preamble)

THE PRIMARY EXPECTATIONS OF VALDOSTA STATE STUDENTS ARE INTEGRITY AND CIVILITY. This statement is a principle expectation of all Valdosta State University students. As a student at Valdosta State University, you are expected to read, understand, and abide by the Student Code of Conduct. The Student Code of Conduct represents the expectations of student and organizational behavior at Valdosta State University. When a student or organization becomes a part of the university community, they are agreeing to abide by the Code of Conduct. This code is based on the principles and beliefs that students and or organizations are responsible adult learners, capable of making informed decisions and are accountable for their behavior and the consequences of their decisions. Students and or an organization are expected to conduct themselves in accordance with all rules and regulations set forth by Valdosta State University. The Valdosta State University Student Handbook’s Code of Conduct contains Valdosta State University’s official statement of the rights and responsibilities of students, both as individuals and Assistant Dean of Students: members of registered student organizations. The Valdosta State Sherolyn Hopkins University Student Handbook’s Code of Conduct is also the official Location: 3rd floor Student Union record of all conduct rules affecting student organizations and (Vice President for Student Affairs group activities, as well as student-oriented administrative policies and Dean of Students Office) and procedures. However, additional rules and regulations may be Phone: (229) 333-5941 developed, under established procedures, during the academic year as required for the general well-being of Valdosta State University. This statement and any additional rules and regulations are binding on both the student and the Valdosta State University administration. The student and or organization is expected to follow the rules, and the Valdosta State University is expected to enforce them. Valdosta State University is expected to acknowledge the student’s and or organization’s rights. Unfamiliarity with the code is not a valid excuse for infractions of the regulations.

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Knowledge of these regulations will help the student 4. No student shall sell, give, lend, or otherwise furnish to and or an organization in exercising their rights and avoid any unauthorized person material which can be shown infringement on the same. to contain the questions or answers to any examinations All students are members of the larger community scheduled to be given at any subsequent date in of the city, state, and nation and, as such, enjoy the any course of study offered by the University, without rights of citizenship. Valdosta State University cannot, authorization from the University. however, assume the role of a supervisor when students 5. No student shall engage in plagiarism, which is are involved in private activities. Student status does presenting the words or ideas of another person as not protect a student from arrest and prosecution for if they were the student’s own. Essays, term papers, violations of local, state or federal laws. laboratory reports, tests, online writing assignments, Students accused of any violations of local, state, or and other similar requirements must be the work of the federal laws may be subject to the appropriate Valdosta student submitting them. Some typical examples of State University disciplinary process for these violations plagiarism are: also. Pending civil or criminal matters shall not prevent A. Submitting an assignment as if it were one’s own Valdosta State University in its discretion from initiating the work when, in fact, it is at least partly or entirely the appropriate disciplinary action. work of another. B. Submitting a work that has been purchased or Section I otherwise obtained from an Internet source or Academic Integrity Code another source. C. Incorporating the words or ideas of an author into Academic integrity is the responsibility of all Valdosta one’s paper without giving the author due credit, State University employees and students. Faculty e.g., when direct quotations are used, they must members should promote academic integrity by including be indicated, and when the ideas of another are clear instruction on the components of academic integrity incorporated in the paper they must be appropriately and clearly defining the penalties for cheating and acknowledged. plagiarism in their course syllabi. Students are responsible for knowing and abiding by the Academic Integrity Policy as set forth in the Student Code of Conduct and the B. ACADEMIC INTEGRITY - ACADEMIC RESPONSE faculty members’ syllabi. All students are expected Valdosta State University policy is that a violation of to do their own work and to uphold the highest Appendix A, Section I may and should be handled by the standard of academic ethics. professor, the student, and possibly the department head or academic dean concerned with the offense. Sanctions for an academic integrity violation should be outlined in the A. ACADEMIC INTEGRITY VIOLATIONS course syllabus. Cheating and plagiarism are academic integrity Any faculty member who has documentation and/or violations. Additional violations may be added as deemed suspects that academic dishonesty has occurred shall appropriate. The following academic integrity violations (1) gather all pertinent information, and (2) meet with the are not to be considered all-inclusive: student or students involved, and (3) inform the student or 1. No student shall use or attempt to use unauthorized students of the academic response to an alleged violation materials or devices to aid in achieving a better grade of academic integrity, and (4) a faculty member should on a component of a class. create a Report of Academic Dishonesty (RAD) to document 2. No student shall receive or give or attempt to receive or the resolution of the matter. The faculty member will notify give assistance not authorized by the instructor in the his/her department head and/or dean of these decisions preparation of an essay, laboratory report, examination and may also contact the Student Conduct Office in the or other assignment included in any academic course. Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students for procedural clarification if desired. 3. No student shall take or attempt to take, steal, or otherwise procure in an unauthorized manner any The most severe action that may be administered by material pertaining to the conduct of a class, including any faculty member is a grade of “F” in that particular but not limited to tests, examinations, laboratory course. This is an academic response and not a disciplinary equipment, and roll books. recommendation. A student who wishes to appeal an

66 STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT| STUDENT HANDBOOK VOLUME V academic response to an alleged violation of academic a Valdosta State University Disciplinary Committee hearing integrity should go to the Office of the Registrar and and can be appealed via Appendix B, Section V of the request the appropriate grade appeal form and have the Student Code of Conduct. process explained in more detail. Faculty members may request that a particularly serious violation of the Academic Integrity Policy (buying or selling C. Academic Integrity - Disciplinary Response papers, stealing an exam, taking an exam for another student, significant plagiarism at the graduate level, etc.) be To initiate the disciplinary response process for an referred directly to the Valdosta State University Disciplinary academic integrity violation, a faculty member should first Committee. The Dean of Students and the academic dean submit a Report of Academic Dishonesty (RAD). It may be of the student’s major will consult concerning the referral found at http://ww2.valdosta.edu/academic/documents/ of a particularly serious first offense to the Valdosta State AcademicDishonesty.pdf along with all supporting University Disciplinary Committee. documentation to the Student Conduct Office in the Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students Office. In addition, a faculty member should also fill out the Section II on-line Student Conduct Incident Report (SCIR) form Non-Academic Student Conduct Code located at https://publicdocs.maxient.com/incidentreport. php?ValdostaStateUniv. The Report of Academic Dishonesty University students are expected to assume responsibility (RAD) form and all other supporting documentation for their behavior. They must understand that being under should be scanned and saved as pdf files and attached the influence of drugs and or alcohol does not lessen their to the (SCIR). If scanning is not possible then send the accountability. All students in the University community will Report of Academic Dishonesty (RAD) form and all other be held accountable for inappropriate behavior while under documentation intercampus mail to the Student Conduct the influence of drugs and or alcohol via the appropriate Office, and it will be entered accordingly. campus and community disciplinary procedure. This report shall be made part of the student’s disciplinary Students shall obey all local, state, and federal laws record and shall remain on file with the Student Conduct regarding the possession, consumption, manufacture, and Office in the Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of sale of alcoholic beverages or controlled substances. The Students Office in accordance with Board of Regents record United States Department of Education regulations stipulate retention policy. A student’s file on academic dishonesty that those “who engage in the unlawful manufacture, is not intended nor designed to allow access by faculty distribution, dispensation, or use of any controlled members seeking historical information or otherwise substance” may lose their federal financial aid. concerning a particular student. The purpose of the file is for the Vice President of Student Medical Amnesty Guideline Affairs and Dean of Students Office to determine if multiple incidents of academic dishonesty have occurred during a Purpose: To send a clear message to students that student’s academic career at Valdosta State University. If a their health and safety is of primary importance and the student is found to have cheated/plagiarized and withdraws consideration of their welfare and that of others should not from the course prior to the awarding of a grade, the Report be hindered for fear of sanctions through the university of Academic Dishonesty will still be placed on file in the office responsible for student conduct. In keeping with this Student Conduct Office. premise of health and safety being of foremost importance, this guideline should not be viewed as the University’s After a second (or subsequent) Report of Academic sanctioning or otherwise condoning violations of the Student Dishonesty (RAD) has been submitted to the Student Code of Conduct or local, state and federal laws. Conduct Office in the Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students Office, official violations will be drawn up The Valdosta State University’s (VSU) Medical Amnesty and the disciplinary matter may be referred to the Valdosta Guideline (MAG) is offered to students who become State University Disciplinary Committee. The Valdosta State aware of a medical emergency involving suspected University Disciplinary Committee will utilize the disciplinary alcohol poisoning or drug over-dose and seek emergency procedures outlined in Appendix B, Sections II.-V. of the assistance on that student(s) behalf. The student(s) making Student Code of Conduct. The most severe sanctions the notification of a suspected medical emergency and such as expulsion or suspension should only result from the victim(s) will be exempt from sanctioning through the

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Student Conduct Office for violations of the Student Code 2. If a student is under the age of 21 and determined of Conduct’s Substance Abuse Policy as referenced in to be under the influence of alcohol he/she will be the Student Handbook. Prosecution of individuals under referred to the appropriate authorities. local, state or federal laws would be at the discretion of 3. A student in a publicly intoxicated state will be appropriated officials of the applicable jurisdiction. referred to the appropriate authorities for disposition. 4. The consumption or possession alcoholic Crime Victim: If a victim of a crime is suspected of beverage(s) or possession of an open container having used alcohol and/or drugs, amnesty would be of an alcoholic beverage on University property is extended to the victim and the person seeking assistance prohibited in public areas. (A public area is defined and he/she will be exempt from sanctioning though the as any area outside of an individual’s living quarters.) Student Conduct Office for violations of the Student Code Students who publicly consume alcohol or possess of Conduct’s Substance Abuse Policy as referenced in an open container of alcoholic beverage(s) on the Student Handbook. Prosecution of individuals under University property are considered in violation of this local, state or federal laws would be at the discretion of policy. appropriated officials of the applicable jurisdiction. 5. No student shall furnish or cause to be furnished any Any student that believes she/he has been a victim of alcoholic beverage to any person under the legal sexual assault is encouraged to notify the VSU University drinking age of 21. Police (229-259-5555 or 911), VSU Counseling Center 6. The serving of alcohol to someone visibly intoxicated (229-333-5940), or The Haven Rape Crisis Center (229- and/or the facilitating of drinking games involving the 244-4477). consumption of alcohol is prohibited. 7. No common source containers of alcoholic Mandatory follow-up: All identified individuals present beverages e.g. beer kegs, hunch-punch, etc., may during the referral incident that are known or suspected be present at any registered University organization of having consumed alcohol or drugs illegally or to event. a hazardous level will undergo a substance abuse 8. No alcohol may be purchased with student activity assessment through VSU’s Office of Alcohol and Other fee funds. Drug Education and will be required to comply with the recommendations from the assessment. Failure to do so would subject the individual(s) to applicable sanctions B. Drugs through the Student Conduct Office. If the referral incident 1. The possession, use, manufacture, sale or delivery was sponsored by a campus organization, substance of illegal or dangerous drugs on or off campus is abuse education will be mandated for all members of the prohibited. This also includes prescription medication organization. being used in a manner not consistent with the prescription or by someone other than the person for Repeated Incidents: If an individual or campus whom the prescription was written. organization is involved in multiple calls for assistance in 2. Possession of drug paraphernalia is also prohibited the same academic year a greater level of intervention will on campus. This includes any item typically used to be required, including parental notification for individuals facilitate the use of a controlled substance. under age 21, (in accordance with the Parental Notification Policy and made pursuant to the Family Education Rights and Family Act). VSU’s Student Life Office would also be C. Damage to Property informed of campus organizations’ guideline violations.) 1. Littering. No student shall improperly dispose of any A. Alcohol form of litter on campus. 1. Students’ possession, consumption, or 2. Damage or destruction of property belonging to transportation of alcoholic beverages under the the University, or to a member of the University age of 21 is prohibited. community, or to a visitor to the campus is prohibited. 3. Defacing of University property is prohibited.

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D. Disruptive Behavior 4. No student shall enter or attempt to enter any 1. The Board of Regents (BOR) Policy Manual event registered by the University without proper Section 12.2 regarding disruptive behavior states, credentials for admission, e.g., a ticket, an “Any student, faculty member, administrator, identification card, an invitation, etc., or without or employee, acting individually or in concert fulfilling any reasonable qualifications established for with others, who clearly obstructs or disrupts, attendance. At such University functions a student or attempts to obstruct or disrupt any teaching, must present proper credentials to properly identified research, administrative, disciplinary, or public University personnel upon request. service activity, or any other activity authorized 5. Engaging in conduct which would violate state or to be discharged or held at any campus of the federal laws on obscenity is prohibited. University System of Georgia is considered by 6. No student shall interfere with, or give false name the Board to have committed an act of gross to, or fail to cooperate with, any properly identified irresponsibility and shall be subject to disciplinary University personnel while these people are in the procedures, possibly resulting in dismissal or performance of their duties. termination of employment (BOR Minutes, 1968- 69, pp. 166-168;1970-71, p. 98).” No one shall 7. All forms of harassment, intimidation, coercion, assemble on campus for the purpose of creating a threats, sexual or relationship violence and any other riot, or causing destruction of property, or creating forms of disorderly conduct e.g. bullying, sexual a disorderly diversion, which interferes with the assault, stalking / cyber stalking, and terroristic normal operation of the University. This section threats are strictly prohibited. should not be construed to deny any student the 8. No student shall deliberately fail to heed a right of peaceful, non-disruptive assembly per the disciplinary summons, oral or written, to report to policies set forth in Appendix D of the Code of an administrative official or an authorized Student Conduct under the General Public Forum Venue Government Association (SGA) official or judicial policy. committee. 2. No student or group of students shall obstruct 9. Failure to comply fully with a disciplinary sanction is the free movement of people about the campus, prohibited. interfere with the use of University facilities, or 10. The use of cell phones, pagers, or any other materially interfere with the normal operation of the electronic devices utilized in a manner that causes a University. disruption in the classroom, library, or other university 3. The abuse or unauthorized use of sound facilities is prohibited. Additional abuses that are amplification equipment indoors or outdoors during prohibited are the use of the device’s photographic classroom hours is prohibited. Any use of sound capacity to photograph test questions or for any amplification equipment must be cleared through other form of academic misconduct. the Event Services Office.

F. Falsification of Records E. Disorderly Conduct Students are prohibited from supplying false statements 1. Disorderly conduct or breach of the peace on or information on any records. University property or at any function sponsored or supervised by the University or any registered University organization is prohibited. G. Explosives 2. Pushing, striking, or physically assaulting any No student shall possess, furnish, sell or use explosives University student, faculty, administrator, staff of any kind on University property or at functions member, or visitor to the campus is prohibited. sponsored or supervised by the University or any registered University organization. 3. Conduct on University property or at functions sponsored or supervised by the University or any registered University organizations, which materially interferes with the normal operation of the University is prohibited.

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H. Fire Safety Paddling in any form, physical and psychological shocks 1. No student shall tamper with, damage, or and creation of excessive fatigue are always considered disconnect any fire safety equipment. hazing. Other activities which may be considered hazing are: quests, treasure hunts, scavenger hunts, road 2. The unlawful possession, sale, furnishing, or use of trips, or any other such activities. Also, wearing apparel any incendiary device is prohibited. in public which is designed to humiliate the wearer; 3. No student shall set or cause to be set any fire in engaging in public stunts and buffoonery; morally or on University property. degrading or humiliating games and activities; late work sessions which interfere with scholastic activities; and 4. The possession or use of fireworks on University property or at events sponsored or supervised any other activities which are not consistent with the by the University or any registered University regulations of the community are considered forms of organization is prohibited. Fireworks are defined hazing. This is not to be considered an all-inclusive list. as any substance prepared for the purpose of producing a visible or audible effect by Note: This definition is consistent with and partially taken combustion, explosion, or detonation. from the Official Statement of Position by the University 5. No student shall make, or cause to be made, a Fraternity Secretaries Association which was endorsed false fire alarm or issue a false bomb threat. and affirmed by the National Inter-fraternity Conference in 1974. The University also recognizes the Fraternity 6. Any student remaining in a campus facility during a fire alarm without permission by the appropriate Insurance Purchasing Group (FIPG) definition of hazing. authorities is strictly prohibited. K. Joint Responsibility for Infractions I. Weapons Students who act together to violate University A student in the unlawful possession of a firearm(s), regulations have both individual and joint responsibility as defined by either Federal or State law, on University for such violations. property or at University sponsored event is strictly prohibited. Such unlawful possession could result in L. Misuse of Student Identification 1Cards or Permits immediate arrest by the applicable law enforcement agency. The possession or use of any other weapon(s) 1. Lending, selling, or otherwise transferring a student is also prohibited and may result in an arrest. 1Card or parking permit is prohibited. 2. Being in possession of or the use of a student 1Card or parking permit by anyone other than its rightful J. Hazing owner is prohibited. This policy applies to all Valdosta State University 3. Failure to surrender a 1Card or parking permit to a students, clubs, and registered student organizations. properly identified and authorized University official is All rites and ceremonies of induction or private actions prohibited. by individuals, that tends to occasion or allow mental or physical suffering, are prohibited. Hazing is defined 4. The creation of a fake id,, 1Card or parking permit, as any action taken or situation created, intentionally, as well as the altering of a valid student 1Card or whether on or off campus, to produce mental or parking permit is prohibited. The replication and physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, distribution of the same is also prohibited. ridicule, or that violated the student code of conduct. Activities considered to be hazing include two M. Theft elements: (1) coercion, either overt or covert, and 1. No student shall take, attempt to take, or be in (2) production of physical or mental discomfort, in possession of, property belonging to anyone else either the participant(s) or spectators. Such activities without proper authorization or purpose. suggested or ordered by a group or a member of a group to new or trial members will be considered to 2. No student shall sell anything that is not his or hers carry with them covert coercion even if the activity is without written permission from the rightful owner. defined as “voluntary”.

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3. The illegal or unauthorized use of another’s 2. The unauthorized posting of flyers, posters, personally identifiable information is prohibited. distribution of promotional cards or any other Violations include, but are not limited to knowingly materials for off-campus non-Valdosta State and willfully assuming and using any and all University businesses or events is prohibited. personal identifying information, including photographs, without the consent or authorization of said owner, for the purpose of misrepresenting R. Animals oneself; using, selling, or transferring that With the exception of service animals, students are information to obtain any benefits, credit, goods, prohibited from having animals of all kinds in Valdosta services or other items of value in the name of said State University facilities or on Valdosta State University owner, or to otherwise do harm to said owner is a property. All service animals should be on a leash and or violation of this Code of Conduct. under the control of its handler at all times on campus.

N. Unauthorized Entry or Use of University or Student S. Inappropriate Use of University Computing Facilities Organization related Facilities or Property 1. A student’s use of personal or Valdosta State 1. No student shall make unauthorized entry into any University computing equipment to damage building, office or other facility, nor shall any person Valdosta State University’s computing infrastructure remain without authorization in any building after is prohibited, e.g. intentionally injecting viruses, normal closing hours. creating a computer system malfunction, altering or 2. No student shall make unauthorized use of any damaging a program(s), etc. University facility. 2. Any student logging on or attempting to log on as 3. No student shall knowingly use University or another user, giving your user name/password to Student Organization owned equipment, supplies, someone else, and/or accessing another user’s files or property without proper authorization. without express verifiable permission is prohibited. 3. Any student who intentionally wastes computing resources, running a repetitive program for O. Repeated Violations no reason, excessive simultaneous network Repeated violations of published rules or regulations of connections, misuse of server disk space, excessive the University are prohibited. size mailings or print jobs, etc. is prohibited. 4. The use of computing systems for making terroristic P. Violation of Outside Law threats, unsolicited sexual advances, harassment, or obscenity which is blatantly offensive to the prevailing Any violation of a local ordinance, a state, or federal community standards is prohibited. law, on or off-campus, constitutes a violation of the Student Code of Conduct and is prohibited. 5. The misappropriation of intellectual property, e.g., software, music, movie, data or copyright piracy is prohibited. Copyrights are granted in order to give Q. Campus Solicitation-Business Enterprises the artist an incentive to be able to profit from their work. A copyright gives an artist the sole right to 1. Valdosta State University will not permit the distribute their creative work, and only the copyright operation of privately operated business enterprises holder has the legal right to control the distribution on campus. All business enterprises operated on of a copyrighted file. Unauthorized sharing of campus shall be operated as an auxiliary enterprise copyrighted materials is a violation of the Board of and shall be under the direct management, control Regents Acceptable Usage Policies, which may be and supervision of the Vice President of Finance found at the following address: http://www.usg.edu/ and Administration of Valdosta State University. infosec/policies_and_standards/USG_Appropriate_ Questions concerning permission to solicit or Use_Policy_AUP.pdf operate a business enterprise on campus should be directed to the Vice President of Finance and Administration’s Office.

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6. The invasion of a user’s privacy by the altering of a Corrective Action Policy Regarding Copyright Violations user’s computerized registration files, passwords, Valdosta State University receives notifications of programs, or other related files, or the review copyright infringement under the Digital Millennium and dissemination of confidential student record Copyright Act (DMCA) originating from computers on information is prohibited. Valdosta State University’s network. Valdosta State 7. The use of Valdosta State University computing University is required to investigate each complaint. facilities for illegal purposes as defined by the Valdosta State University has the ability to identify “Georgia Computer Systems Protection Act the computer and user responsible for the alleged of 1991” or for personal or commercial gain is infringement. If an infraction is found, Valdosta State prohibited. University is required to remove the illegal material. 8. Engaging in conduct which would violate state • A 1st violation results in a temporary usage or federal laws or Board of Regents University suspension from HallNet (and Internet) usage and System policies regarding computer use is also a notification from the Office of Technology (OIT) prohibited. Such alleged violations will initially be regarding the inappropriate activity. Once the user handled by the Valdosta State University’s Division contacts (OIT) and agrees to comply with university of Information Technology and could result in policies the HallNet usage is immediately restored. immediate temporary suspension of computing • A 2nd violation results in another (OIT) notice privileges. being provided to the student and a one (1) hour suspension of HallNet access is enforced. Civil and Criminal Penalties for Violation of • A 3rd violation results in another (OIT) notice and a to Federal Copyright Laws be determined period of HallNet usage suspension is Copyright infringement is the act of exercising, applied. without permission or legal authority, one or more of • A 4th violation results in another (OIT) notice, the exclusive rights granted to the copyright owner suspension of HallNet access, and requires the user under section 106 of the Copyright Act (Title 17 of the to meet with Student Conduct Office in the Division United States Code). These rights include the right of Student Affairs before the HallNet access maybe to reproduce or distribute a copyrighted work. In the restored. Student Conduct Office meets with student P2P file-sharing context, downloading or uploading and follows their process and a recommendation to substantial parts of a copyrighted work without the Division of Information Technology is given. authority constitutes an infringement.

Penalties for copyright infringement include civil and For informational purposes, P2P violations includes: criminal penalties. In general, anyone found liable for civil copyright infringement may be ordered to pay • Using or running a P2P client such as LimeWire, either actual damages or “statutory” damages affixed Ares, FrostWire, Bit Torrent, uTorrent or similar at not less than $750 and not more than $30,000 per software (running also includes running the process work infringed. For “willful” infringement, a court may in the background) or any other such software. award up to $150,000 per work infringed. A court can, • Downloading music, movies, software or other data in its discretion, also assess costs and attorneys’ fees. using a P2P client For more information please visit the U.S. Copyright • Uploading music, movies, software or other data Office website at http://www.copyright.gov and for using a P2P client details, see Title 17, United States Code, Sections 504, 505. File sharing has the potential of consuming Valdosta State’s Internet bandwidth, and to prevent an abuse of limited bandwidth, the University uses automated tools to limit the impact of P2P traffic upon the legitimate educational uses of Peachnet and the Internet. Valdosta State may employ other tools to monitor for violations,

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and if the University receives proper legal demand to Board of Regents Policy, Section 4.6.2 (Violations of State identify a particular user for a copyright offense, the or Federal Law) states that, “A student in any institution University will comply and provide the copyright owner of the University System of Georgia who is charged with the required information. If you are identified, you with or indicted for a felony or crime involving moral could be subject to legal action from the copyright turpitude, may be suspended pending the disposition of holder, which could result in fines or a costly legal case. the criminal charges against him/her. Upon the student’s T. Residence Hall Policy request, the student shall be accorded a hearing. At such hearing, the student shall have the burden of establishing Students determined to be alleged violators of Housing that his/her continued presence as a member of the and Residence Life policies or their contracts may be student body will not be detrimental to the health, safety, referred to the Student Conduct Office for appropriate welfare or property of other students or members of the disciplinary action campus community or to the orderly operation of the institution. Upon final conviction, the student shall be Appendix B subject to appropriate disciplinary action.” Section I The purpose of the hearing is to consider rescinding Rights of Students the temporary disciplinary action, so the student may be allowed to continue his/her enrollment at Valdosta During a Disciplinary Committee hearing, the accused State University until his/her criminal case is complete, student shall be afforded these rights of due process: and the appropriate institutional disciplinary action is A. The right to an advisor of one’s choice. administered. B. The right to present information on one’s behalf. The Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of C. The right to question one’s accuser(s). Students or his/her designee will assign the student’s request to a review committee composed of three senior D. The right to call witnesses on one’s behalf. Student Affairs staff members within (5) business days. In E. The right to remain silent and have no inference of the event of scheduling conflicts or any other significant responsibility drawn from one’s silence. considerations, the Vice President for Student Affairs F. The right to question all witnesses. and Dean of Students may also postpone the student’s temporary suspension prior to the committee’s evaluation G. The right to appeal all sanctions. of the student’s request. H. The student may also request a verbatim transcript made at his/her own expense. Section II I. The right to attend classes and required Valdosta State Disciplinary Process University functions until a hearing is held and a decision is rendered. Exceptions to this are made when a student’s and or an organization’s presence could create Section 4.1.1 of the BOR policies, authorizes Valdosta a “clear and present danger” of material interference with State University to develop appropriate policies and the normal operation of Valdosta State University. procedures to discipline students / organizations for the violation of the University’s policies. In accordance with this The Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of responsibility, disciplinary sanctions shall be applied only Students or his/her designee may impose “temporary” after due process, fairness, and reasonableness have been disciplinary measures, including suspension, pending a met. The aim of any disciplinary action is to redirect student disciplinary hearing or until the conclusion of a student’s behavior toward the achievement of their academic goals. case via the appropriate local, state or federal process. Such temporary protective measures may be applied The President has delegated the function of student where the student and or organization is accused of a discipline to the Vice President for Student Affairs and serious violation of a Valdosta State University regulation Dean of Students and his/her staff to handle the day to day or of a local, state, or federal law or regulation. It is disciplinary process. The Vice President for Student Affairs understood that such temporary measures, if applied, and Dean of Students is assisted in the student disciplinary will be without avoidable prejudice to the student and or process by the Assistant Dean of Students and various organization. Disciplinary Committees.

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The use of the “peer-review” process in student for a violation of the Student Code of Conduct, then he / disciplinary matters is consistent with Valdosta State she may automatically forfeit his / her position on the SGA University’s educational goals, as well as its practice of Judicial Council. student participation in institutional governance. If a vacancy occurs on the SGA Judicial Council for any The Disciplinary Committees used are: reason, the SGA President shall follow the established • The Student Government Association recruitment and appointment procedure in the SGA Judicial Council Constitution Article IV, Section 2-A to determine a qualified student to serve. No member of the SGA Judicial Council • The Valdosta State University Discipline Committee can serve in the legislative or executive branch of the SGA The Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of while serving on the Judicial Council. Students or his/her designee assigns a case to the B. The Valdosta State University Disciplinary Committee shall appropriate Disciplinary Committee. Referrals are based on be composed of five faculty members and two students. many factors like the severity of the incident(s), the type and The President of Valdosta State University may authorize number of violations, the location of the alleged violations, the Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students the current and past disciplinary history of a student or an or his/her designee to make the appointments. The Vice organization, the case load of the Committees, as well as President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students or his/ the Dean of Student’s or his/her designee’s professional her designee will select the chair of the committee from the assessment. This list is not considered to be all-inclusive. five faculty members, and appoint two students from the In some cases, an accused student or organization SGA Judicial Council. may request a waiver of a disciplinary hearing and be given an administrative hearing ONLY when the student The following process shall apply for convening disciplinary or organization accepts complete and unconditional committee hearings: responsibility for ALL alleged Code of Conduct violations, 1. The accused student and or organization shall be and it is agreed upon in advance in writing before any notified in writing of the specific charge(s) made against disciplinary sanctions are issued. them and of the date, time, and place where a hearing In other instances, the professional opinion of Vice will be held. President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students or 2. The notification will inform the accused student and his/ her designee may deem it more appropriate for a or organization that an advisor of their choosing may disciplinary matter to be reviewed and acted on by the accompany them. The advisor is not there to represent appropriate Disciplinary Committee. the student and or organization before the disciplinary The President of the University or his/her designee committee. The advisor is only there to advise the (typically Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean student and or organization in their response to the of Students) may hear an appeal from any Disciplinary committee. Committee (See Appendix B, Section V for details). 3. The charge letter notifying the student and or The composition of each Disciplinary Committee organization of the disciplinary hearing shall be sent no is as follows: less than (5) class days prior to the date designated for the disciplinary hearing. A. The Student Government Association (SGA) Judicial Council shall be composed of (11) enrolled students 4. The accused student and or organization shall be representing a cross-section of the Valdosta State permitted to pose questions to all witnesses at the University student body. The members of the Committee hearing. (All questions are to be directed to the shall be appointed by the SGA President and approved chairperson who asks the witness to then respond). by the SGA Senate with prior input from the Vice 5. An audio recording of the hearing will be made. A copy President for Student Affairs and the Dean of Students. of the recording will be kept on file in the Vice President All members of the Council shall have a minimum for Student Affairs and Dean of Students Office. 2.5cumulative grade point average the semester of their appointment, and must maintain this average during their 6. The hearing shall be conducted in accordance with tenure. If a member does not maintain a 2.5 cumulative the policy set forth in Disciplinary Hearing Procedures average, has 2 or more unexcused absences to for Judicial Committees at Valdosta State University. scheduled meetings or hearings, or is found responsible (Appendix B, Section III).

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7. After proper notification is given, (note items D. The disciplinary hearing will follow this sequence: 1-3 above) and if the accused student and or 1. An oath is administered to the accused. organization does not appear at the hearing, then the hearing will proceed in their absence. 2. The presentation of the alleged violation(s) to accused. (Charges are prepared and presented by a representative of the Vice President for Student Section III Affairs and Dean of Students Office.) Disciplinary Hearing Procedures 3. A call for a response from the accused to each violation of either not responsible or responsible is Disciplinary hearings at Valdosta State University requested by the chair. are hearings to arrive at corrective recommendations 4. The presentation of witnesses and documentation regarding alleged student misbehavior. These supporting the alleged violation(s) is made. recommendations affect the student or organization’s 5. The presentation of the comments and relationship with the University. documentation supporting the accused’s position. The administration of discipline is viewed as an 6. Examination and questioning by the committee educational process NOT a criminal or civil trial and the accused follows witness comments and proceeding. As such, the disciplinary procedures used information supporting the alleged violations, and are determined and administered by educators. Such after the witness comments and information of the procedures will give cognizance to the test of fairness, accused. truth, justice and due process. 7. The presentation of the closing comments by both parties, first the representative of the Vice President The procedures used by all disciplinary committees are for Student Affairs and Dean of Student’s Office and as follows: then the accused. A. All disciplinary hearings involving the accused student 8. Committee deliberations then occur, and they and the appropriate disciplinary committee will be are closed to the public. The committee will hear conducted in a manner consistent with the Family only that information pertinent to the charge(s). Educational Rights and Privacy Act (“FERPA”) and are The Committee may request a representative of closed meetings. the Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of B. Disciplinary hearings are presided over by the Students Office assistance in clarifying an issue in chairperson of the committee. The disciplinary deliberations. committee chair may exclude any person from the 9. The disciplinary committee reconvenes after disciplinary hearing who materially interferes with the deliberation and will advise the accused of its disciplinary hearing proceedings. Any disruptions recommendation(s) The recommendation(s) of the of a disciplinary hearing can result in the possible committee is also communicated to the accused in immediate interim suspension of the student and or writing, following the verbal notification at the judicial organization involved in the disruption. The chairperson hearing. of the committee makes such a determination with 10. The accused student and or organization is also input of the Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean informed both verbally and in writing of the right to an of Students or his or her designee, and when that appeal and is informed of how to pursue the appeal determination is made those causing the disruption will process. be asked to leave the hearing and its premises. If they do not voluntarily leave, the University Police will be 11. Hearing is adjourned. contacted to escort them off the premises. C. After deliberations and by a majority vote, the disciplinary committee will determine based on the evidence presented at the hearing whether it is more likely than not that the violation in question did occur. A disciplinary committee quorum is more than 50% of its membership present. A hearing may proceed with less than a quorum if the accused elects to proceed.

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E. All comments are given under oath. F. The accused student may bring an advisor of his /her choosing to the hearing. G. The disciplinary committee has three charges. 1. The first is to determine the facts. 2. The committee is to determine responsibility for any or all violations. 3. IF there is a finding of responsibility for any or all violations, they are to develop a suitable disciplinary recommendation(s). H. The final determination of the acceptability of the recommendation(s) as well as the implementation of the recommendation(s) will reside with the Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students or his/her designee. E. Restrictions: exclusion from participation in campus organization leadership / membership, involvement in I. An audio recording of the hearing will be made and campus social, recreational and sporting, or recruitment is on file in the Vice President for Student Affairs and activities, residence hall visitation or access, the use of Dean of Students Office. campus facilities, identification card privileges, limitation of one’s mobility on campus, etc.. Section IV F. Restitution: reimbursement or replacement of property; Disciplinary Sanctions this may take the form of appropriate service or other compensation. The following are possible disciplinary measures that G. Forced Withdrawal: from the academic course within may be imposed upon a student or organization for which the offense occurred, without credit for the course. a finding of responsibility for violations of the Student H. Change in Grade: for the course in which the offense Code of Conduct. This list is not exhaustive and may be occurred. enlarged or modified as needed. I. Referral / Professional Assessment: The referral to the A. Expulsion: permanent severance of the student’s University Counseling Center, the Office of Alcohol and organization’s relationship with the University. Other Drug Education, etc.. B. Disciplinary Suspension: a temporary severance of J. Community Service: Assigned service with on or the student’s / organization’s relationship with the off campus agencies with prior approval from said University for a Specific Period of time, and or the loss organizations. of campus facilities access and access to all Valdosta State University event attendance. K. Parental and/or Guardian Notification Policy The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (20 USCS § 1232g C. Disciplinary Probation: notice to the student and or (i)(1) provides in pertinent part that institutions of higher organization that any further disciplinary violation education are not prohibited “...from disclosing, to may result in harsher sanctions, e.g., suspension or a parent or legal guardian of a student, information expulsion. Disciplinary probation might also include regarding any violation of any federal, state, or local law, one or more of the following: the setting of certain or of any rule or policy of the institution, governing the restrictions, the issuing of a reprimand, referral to an use of possession of alcohol or a controlled substance, educational program, or restitution for damages. regardless of whether that information is contained in the D. Reprimand: oral reprimand (an oral disapproval student’s education records, if -(A) the student is under issued to the student and or organization) or a letter the age of 21; and (B) the institution determines that of reprimand (a written statement of disapproval to the the student had committed a disciplinary violation with student and or organization). respect to such use or possession.”

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Due to FERPA regulations, and as a result of our Section V concern for the health and development of our students, Appeals Procedure the Valdosta State University Substance Abuse Task Force recommended the following notification policy for Students and organizations have the right to appeal a drug and or alcohol related conduct code violations. “In Disciplinary Committee recommendation in accordance with recognition that Valdosta State University students under the following procedures: the age of 21 are striving to become more responsible young adults, it is the recommendation of the Substance A. The accused shall appeal in writing to the President of Abuse Task Force that the university adopt a policy of the University or his / her designee within five business notifying parents/guardians of students found responsible days after receiving the decision of the committee. The for violating established alcohol/drug policies. Notification President shall within five days appoint an appeals would take place after a second or subsequent infraction. committee composed of three members of the faculty The task Force concluded that repeated offenses may of the University or shall utilize the services of an be indicative of a greater problem, and that it is in the appropriate existing committee. This committee shall student’s best interest if a joint intervention approach is review all the hearing materials and make their report employed, including parent/ guardian involvement. It is to the President. After consideration of the appeals further recommended that notification be made through committee’s report, the President shall within five days the Student Conduct Office. Married students would be render a final decision. exempt from this policy.” B. A student and or organization shall clearly state their In keeping with this policy, the Assistant Dean of grounds for an appeal in a written statement to the Students in the Vice President for Student Affairs and President. The ONLY acceptable grounds for an appeal Dean of Students Office will generate a notification letter or are as follows: schedule a conference call to the parents or guardians of 1. A procedural [or substantive error] occurred that a student ONLY after he/she has been found responsible significantly impacted the outcome of the hearing for a second or subsequent alcohol or drug code violation. (e.g. substantiated bias, material deviation from The letter will be mailed or the call made, one week established procedures, etc.) after the disciplinary recommendation is enacted, and 2. To consider new evidence, unavailable during all appeals have been finalized. This allows the student the original hearing or investigation, that could an opportunity to discuss the incident with the parent or substantially impact the original finding or sanction. guardian first. Valdosta State University’s hope is the delay (A summary of this new evidence and its potential will facilitate a follow up discussion between the Student impact must be included). Conduct Office and the parent/guardian(s). 3. The sanctions imposed are substantially disproportionate to the severity of the violation. C. The President will be given a copy of the audio recording and a packet containing copies of all the information used in the original hearing. If a verbatim transcript has been made, it will be made available to the President for consideration. D. When the President of the University has rendered his or her decision in writing on any appeal, the student and or organization has exhausted their appeal at the university level. E. Should the student and or organization seek an appeal of the decision of the President, they have the right to appeal in writing to the Board of Regents. The appeal to the Board of Regents is submitted in writing to the Board’s Office of Legal Affairs within twenty days after the Presidential appeal decision, and the appeal shall cite all the reasons for appealing the previous decision.

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Appendix C Section I Section II SEXUAL HARASSMENT, DEFINITIONS VIOLENCE AND ASSAULT Sexual Harassment Pursuant to Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Title IX of the Educational Amendments of Valdosta State University supports the rights of 1972, “sexual harassment” is defined as: Unwelcome sexual all members of the faculty, staff, administration, and advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or student body to live, work and study in an environment physical conduct of a sexual nature, when: free from sexual assault and intimate partner violence. Sexual contact with another person without consent or • Submission to such conduct is made either implicitly with the use of threat or force violates the standards of or explicitly a term or condition of an individual’s civility, decency, and respect expected of all members employment or status in a course, program or of the campus community. Valdosta State University activity; prohibits interpersonal violence of any kind, including • Submission or rejection of such conduct by an sexual violence, intimate partner violence, and stalking. individual is used as the basis for employment or Every member of the campus community should (a) be educational decisions affecting such individual; or aware that such behavior is prohibited by Valdosta State • Such conduct has the purpose or effect of University’s Student Code of Conduct, Faculty Handbook, interfering with the individual’s work or educational and Employee Handbook as well as by state and federal performance; of creating an intimidating, hostile, or law, and (b) become familiar with the campus protocol for offensive working and/or learning environment; or of responding to reported violations. interfering with one’s ability to participate in or benefit Valdosta State University is dedicated to providing from an educational program or activity. assistance and support to all members of the faculty, staff, administration, and student body. Students who have Examples of sexual harassment may include, but are not experienced intimate partner and/or sexual violence can limited to the following: receive support through VSU’s Counseling Center, as well • Physical Assault. as additional on-campus and off-campus resources. In addition to cooperating with law enforcement officials in • Direct or implied threats that submission to sexual the prosecution of alleged perpetrators, Valdosta State advances will be a condition of employment, work University will take appropriate action to respond to this status, compensation, promotion, grades, or letters behavior through the Student Conduct office for any of recommendation. student found responsible for violating this policy. VSU will • Sexual advances, physical or implied, or direct respond to any staff or faculty member found responsible propositions of a sexual nature. This activity may for violating this policy through established Human include inappropriate/unnecessary touching or Resources procedures. Support is available for all aspects rubbing against another, sexually suggestive or of the reporting process. degrading jokes or comments, remarks of a sexual nature about one’s clothing and/or body, preferential treatment in exchange for sexual activity, and the inappropriate display of sexually explicit pictures, text, printed materials, or objects that do not serve an academic purpose. • A pattern of conduct, which can be subtle in nature that has sexual overtones and is intended to create or has the effect of creating discomfort and/or that, humiliates another. • Remarks speculating about a person’s sexual activities or sexual history, or remarks about one’s own sexual activities or sexual history that does not serve a medical or academic purpose.

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Sexual harassment can occur regardless of the Sexual violence is any unwanted or non-consensual relationship, position or respective sex of the parties. sexual contact. Sexual violence can be committed by Same sex harassment violates this policy as does acquaintances, casual or long-term dating partners, harassment by a student of a faculty member or a spouses or strangers. The use of alcohol and/or any other subordinate employee of his/her supervisor. substance, by either party, in conjunction with an incident of Consent is defined as clearly communicating agreement sexual violence, does not mitigate responsibility or diminish or permission to participate in sexual activity. The the seriousness of the offense. Examples of sexual violence individuals consenting must act freely and voluntarily and include, but are not limited to: have knowledge of the nature of the act or transaction • non-consensual contact with intimate body parts involved. Such consent may be withdrawn at any time, • non-consensual penetration with a foreign object without regard to activity preceding the withdrawal of consent. A current or previous intimate relationship is • non-consensual penetration of the female sex organ not sufficient to constitute consent. Consent may not by the male sex organ be inferred from silence or passivity alone. Intoxication, • non-consensual oral or anal sexual acts drug use or other reasons for incapacity are obstacles • lewd exposure of sexual organs in public to consent. A person cannot freely, voluntarily, and with knowledge of the act, be deemed to have consented if • non-consensual kissing she or he is incapacitated or in a drug-induced or alcohol Stalking involves harassing or threatening behavior that an state. Non-consent occurs when the complaining party is individual engages in repeatedly such as following a person, prevented from resisting or giving consent as a result of appearing at a person’s home or place of business, making intoxication, or is unconscious at the time of the act. It is harassing phone calls, leaving written messages or objects, a violation of this policy to engage in any form of sexual or vandalizing a person’s property. It is any communication activity without the consent of the other person. or behavior that causes emotional distress, such as being Coercion is defined as the act of forcing (or attempting afraid for your safety. Cyber Stalking is using the Internet, to force) another individual through violence, threats, e-mail, or other electronic communications devices to stalk verbal insistence, or deception, to engage in sexual acts another person. against his or her will. The use of coercion in a sexual encounter constitutes a lack of consent. Section III Relationship Violence is defined as physically, sexually, Student Reporting Options psychologically abusive and/or intimidating behaviors used by one individual to maintain power and control SEEKING MEDICAL CARE over an intimate partner. Intimate partners may be dating, cohabitating, married, separated or divorced. Relationship A physical exam should be done in all cases of sexual violence can occur regardless of sexual orientation of assault, regardless of the length of time that has elapsed those in the relationship. Examples of relationship violence since the violence. Medically related concerns may include include, but are not limited to: pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections (including HIV) and physical injuries. If the violence occurred within the • attempting or committing an act that past 120 hours, an individual has the option of having causes fear of injury an evidence collection exam. Consider seeking medical • assaulting with a deadly weapon or with intent to attention for any physical abuse experienced. murder, rape or rob • intentionally causing substantial physical harm IF YOU CHOOSE NOT TO REPORT, BUT WANT A FREE • following, placing under surveillance or contacting FORENSIC MEDICAL EXAMINATION FOR PRESERVATION OF THE EVIDENCE without direct or indirect consent for the purpose of harassing and intimidating A victim shall have the right to have a forensic medical examination regardless of whether the victim participates • violation of a restraining or protective order, in the criminal justice system or cooperates with law condition of probation, bond, etc. enforcement in pursuing prosecution of the underlying • threatening to commit a crime of violence or to crime. A victim shall not be required to pay, directly or damage property indirectly, for the cost of a forensic medical examination.

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O.C.G.A. § 17-5-72 Additionally, the investigating law REPORTING TO OFFICIALS enforcement agency shall maintain any physical evidence An individual who experiences violence has several collected as a result of an alleged sexual assault that reporting options to consider. It is always the individual’s contains biological material, including, but not limited to, choice as to whether to report. An incident may be reported stains, fluids, or hair samples that relate to the identity to the Student Conduct Office (if alleged offender is a of the perpetrator of an alleged sexual assault, for ten University student) or to the appropriate law enforcement years after the report of the alleged sexual assault. If the agency, or both. victim does not cooperate with law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of an alleged sexual assault, Reporting an incident does not in any way obligate the investigating law enforcement agency shall maintain a student or employee to pursue legal or institutional any physical evidence collected as a result of such alleged disciplinary action; however, Valdosta State University has sexual assault that contains biological material, including, the right to pursue disciplinary action at its discretion. If the but not limited to, stains, fluids, or hair samples that relate complainant chooses to report and pursue criminal charges to the identity of the perpetrator of the alleged sexual against an alleged assailant, Valdosta State University assault, for not less than 12 months from the date any will support and comply with the criminal justice process. such physical evidence is collected. O.C.G.A. § 17-5-71. The criminal investigation and the campus investigation regarding violation of the Student Code of Conduct are Also under Georgia law, no prosecuting attorney, conducted independently, occurring simultaneously or investigating law enforcement agency, or government sequentially, on a case-by-case basis. official shall ask or require any victim of a sexual assault to submit to a polygraph examination or any other truth- telling device as a condition precedent to investigating REPORTING TO THE POLICE such alleged crime. The refusal of a victim to submit to Time is of the essence when sexual violence has a polygraph examination or any other truth-telling device occurred. The sooner violence is reported; the easier it is shall not prevent an investigation or prosecution of any to collect valuable evidence. If reported to the police within sexual assault. O.C.G.A. § 17-5-73. 120 hours, a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner can conduct a If the individual calls 911 dispatch requesting a Sexual Rape Protocol Exam (rape kit). In order to preserve physical Assault Kit, but does not want to make a report to Law evidence of sexual violence, it is advised not to urinate, Enforcement, dispatch is to contact The Haven Rape Crisis shower/bathe, douche, brush teeth, or wash clothing (unless Advocate and a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) they are certain they do not intend to report the incident to Nurse will be contacted. Evidence will be collected and police). Any clothing worn at the time of the incident should labeled with the individual’s information by the (SANE) be stored in a paper bag and taken to the hospital. If the Nurse. use of rape drugs is suspected, ask that a urine sample be collected and preserved as evidence. Physical evidence for If the individual comes to the hospital wanting a Sexual a criminal prosecution cannot be collected without a report Assault Kit, but does not want to make a report to Law being made to the police. After 120 hours, the Rape Protocol Enforcement, the hospital is to contact The Haven Rape Exam cannot be conducted, but a police report can be filed. Crisis Advocate and a (SANE) Nurse will be contacted. If If physical violence has occurred, contact the police to file needed, The Haven Rape Crisis Advocate will transport a report. Documenting incidents of relationship violence is the individual to the Rape Crisis Center for the exam after very important when working within the legal system. the individual has signed a confidentiality agreement. Evidence will be collected and labeled with the individual’s information by the (SANE) Nurse. REPORTING TO UNIVERSITY OFFICIALS To file a complaint regarding a student, contact the COUNSELING Student Conduct Office/Dean of Students’ Office (Vice Talking with a counselor can be an important step in the President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students) at (229) recovery process. Students are able to receive services 333-5941. Reporting violence to the Student Conduct Office on-campus at the VSU Counseling Center. In addition, can begin the University’s investigation of the issue and community based organizations can often provide direct serves as a form of official documentation of the incident. counseling services and/or referrals to appropriate The Conduct Office will then explain the disciplinary process counseling resources. and options as described in the Student Code of Conduct.

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A finding of responsibility regarding sexual violence The following process shall apply for convening the VSU by this process will be considered a code violation. Disciplinary Committee for sexual harassment or violence Disciplinary sanctions for violations of this policy include hearings: but are not limited to, the following measures: expulsion, 1. The respondent and the complainant shall be notified in disciplinary suspension, disciplinary probation, reprimand, writing of the specific charge(s) and of the date, time, and restrictions. See the “Disciplinary Process” section the and place where a hearing will be held. Student Code of Conduct. 2. The charge letter notifying the respondent and the Any violation of this policy should be reported to one of complainant students of the hearing shall be date the following locations: stamped no less than (5) business days prior to the date • VSU Police designated for the hearing. (229) 333-7816 or (229) 259-5555 3. The notification will inform the respondent and the • VSU Counseling Center complainant that an advisor of their choosing may (229) 333-5940 or after hours (229) 259-5555 accompany them during the hearing. The advisor is • The Haven Rape Crisis Center not there to represent either student before the hearing 1-800-334-2836 or (229) 244-4477 panel; the advisor is only there to advise the student in their response to the panel, and for support. 4. The respondent and the complainant shall be notified of Section IV. any witnesses and will be permitted to pose questions Judicial Process to all witnesses at the hearing. (All questions are to be directed to the chairperson who asks the witness to then Reporting sexual harassment or violence to the Office respond.) Only witnesses who have information directly of Student Conduct involving a student and another related to the case will be permitted. Character witnesses student(s) can begin the University’s investigation of the can submit written statements prior to the hearing. issue and serves as a form of official documentation 5. An audio recording of the hearing will be made. A copy of of an incident. If the incident involves a student and an the recording will be kept on file in the Vice President for employee of the university, it will be investigated and if Student Affairs and Dean of Students Office. needed heard by the university’s Title IX Coordinator. 6. The hearing shall be conducted in accordance with the The Office of Student Conduct will conduct an initial policy set forth in Appendix C, Section V. of the Code of investigation and determine if a potential violation of the Conduct. Code of Conduct has occurred. The VSU Disciplinary Committee (VSUDC) will be used for sexual harassment or After proper notification is given, (note items 1-4 above) violence hearings, and it will be composed of 5 specially and if the respondent or the complainant do not appear at trained faculty and staff. The (VSUDC) will hear cases the hearing, then the hearing may proceed in their absence. involving VSU students vs. other students only. Accommodations for the complainant may be made as an alternative to physically being presence. The complainant and the respondent are entitled to the same opportunities to have an advisor present during a campus disciplinary proceeding. Both the complainant and the respondent shall be informed of the final determination and sanctions resulting from any campus disciplinary proceedings involving an alleged sexual harassment or violence offense. A finding of sexual harassment or sexual violence under this policy will be considered a Code of Conduct violation. Disciplinary sanctions for violations of this policy will be imposed in accordance with the Code of Conduct. The range of sanctions includes, but is not limited to, the following measures: expulsion, suspension, reprimand, restriction, probation, and restitution. Student employees may additionally be subject to staff policies and procedures.

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Section V. 3. If there is a finding of responsibility for any or all Sexual Harassment or alleged violations, they are to develop a suitable Violence Hearing Procedures disciplinary recommendation(s). E. The Committee hearing will follow this sequence: Disciplinary hearings at Valdosta State University 1. An oath is administered to the respondent, the are hearings to arrive at corrective recommendations complainant, and all witnesses. regarding alleged student misconduct. These 2. The presentation of the alleged violation(s) and recommendations affect the student’s relationship with the information from the investigation. Charges are University. prepared and presented by a representative of The administration of discipline is viewed as an the Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of educational process not a criminal or civil trial proceeding. Students Office. The Committee will hear only that As such, the disciplinary procedures used are determined information pertinent to the charge(s). and administered by educators. Such procedures will give 3. A call for confirmation or challenge of documentary cognizance to the test of fairness, justice, truth, and due information by the complainant. process. 4. A call for a response from the respondent to each The procedures used by the VSU Disciplinary violation of either not responsible or responsible is Committee for sexual harassment or violence hearings are requested by the chair. as follows: 5. The presentation of witnesses and documentation A. All hearings involving the respondent, the complainant, supporting the alleged violation(s) are made. and the VSU Disciplinary Committee for sexual harassment or violence are closed to the public. Both 6. The presentation of witnesses and documentation the respondent and the complainant have the right to supporting the respondent’s position. be present during the entire hearing, except during 7. Examination and questioning by the Committee, deliberation. the respondent and the complainant follows the B. Hearings are presided over by the chairperson of the presentation of all information supporting the alleged VSU Disciplinary Committee. The Committee chair violations, and after the complainant, the witness may exclude any person from the hearing who is comments, and the information presented by the materially interfering with the hearing proceedings. respondent. Any disruptions of a hearing can result in the possible 8. The presentation of the closing comments and/ immediate interim suspension of the student involved or impact statement by all parties, first the in the disruption. The chairperson of the committee representative of the Vice President and Dean of makes such a determination with the input of the Vice Student’s Office, then the complainant, then the President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students or respondent. his/her designee, and when that determination is made 9. Committee deliberations then occur, and they those causing the disruption will be asked to leave are closed to all but members of the Committee. the hearing and its premises. If they do not voluntarily The Committee may request the representative of leave, the University Police will escort them off the the Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean premises. of Students assistance in clarifying an issue in C. Recommendations of the Committee are by majority deliberations. vote. A Committee hearing quorum is 3 of its 10. The hearing reconvenes after deliberations. membership present. A hearing may not proceed with less than a quorum. a) The hearing Committee Chair will verbally advise the respondent and the complainant of its finding D. The Hearing Committee has three charges. regarding the respondent’s responsibility for the 1. The first is to determine the facts. alleged violations. 2. The Committee is to determine if the respondent is b) The hearing Committee Chair will also verbally responsible for the alleged violations. advise the respondent and the complainant that the Committee’s findings regarding responsibility or not as well as its disciplinary

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recommendation(s) will be submitted to the FERPA rights are provided only to University applicants Vice President for Student Affairs and the upon actual acceptance to and subsequent enrollment for Dean of Students or his or her designee at the classes at the University. Under FERPA, students attending conclusion of the hearing. A written decision an institution of postsecondary education may: from the Vice President for Student Affairs and A. Consent to disclosures of personally identifiable the Dean of Students or his / her designee will information contained in the student’s education records, be communicated to the respondent and the except to the extent that such disclosure are authorized complainant in writing within 5 class days from without consent. the end of the hearing. B. Choose to suppress (i.e., keep from being disclosed) c) The hearing Committee Chair will also advise their directory information per the process identified the respondent and complainant verbally of the right to an appeal and they are later informed C. Inspect and review their education records; in writing in the decision letter of how to pursue D. Seek amendment of those education records believed to the appeal process. be inaccurate, misleading or otherwise in violation of their 11. Hearing is adjourned. privacy rights; and F. The final determination of the acceptability of the E. File complaints with the Department of Education about recommendation(s) as well as the implementation alleged failures by the University to comply with the of the recommendation(s) will reside with the Vice requirements of FERPA. President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students or his/her designee. As it relates to disclosure of records Valdosta State H. Both the respondent and complainant are entitled University may disclose information under one exception to seek a no-contact order that imposes reasonable which permits disclosure without consent. It is disclosure restrictions of contact after a complaint has been to school officials with legitimate educational interests. filed, during the investigation and during and after the A school official is a person employed by the University proceedings are in progress. in an administrative, supervisory, academic or research, I. All parties to a report have a right not to face questions or support staff position (including law enforcement unit or discussion of their sexual history, unless the hearing personnel and health staff); a person or company with officer determines that such information about the whom the University has contracted (such as an attorney, student is highly relevant to determining whether or not auditor, or collection agent); a person, including a student, there has been a violation as it establishes a pattern of serving on an official committee, such as disciplinary or behavior consistent with the charges. grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a J. Both the complainant and the respondent have the right legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review to appeal. The appeals procedure will follow Appendix an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional B, Section V. of the Code of Conduct. Both parties will responsibility. be informed if there is an appeal. With no attempt to make these list exhaustive, other types Appendix D of disclosures which do not require prior consent of the student include these: Section I • Upon request, to officials of another school in which Family Educational Rights & Privacy Act the student seeks or intends to enroll, of 1974 (FERPA) • To parents of dependent students, as defined in section 152 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, PRIVACY OF STUDENT RECORDS • In case of a health or safety emergency, The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) • Results in disciplinary hearings to an alleged victim of (20 U.S.C. § 1232g; 34 CFR Part 99) is a Federal law that a crime of violence, protects the privacy of student education records. The • Directory information. law applies to all schools that receive funds under an applicable program of the U.S. Department of Education.

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The full text of Valdosta State University’s Procedure on To avoid conflicts in scheduling, reservation requests Student Records/Family Educational Rights and Privacy for the general Public Forum Venue are made through the Act may be found at the Registrar Office’s “Rights Under Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students, in FERPA” at http://www.valdosta.edu/registrar/, or the consultation with the Event Services Office. A two day notice VALDOSTA STATE UNIVERSITY POLICIES website at is required for requesting this space. Areas will be assigned http://www.valdosta.edu/vsu/policies/ on a first come first serve basis. Provisions for use of the area: Section II 1. There shall be no interference with the free flow of traffic Disciplinary Records Review nor the ingress and egress to buildings on campus. and Retention Policy 2. There shall be no interruption of the orderly conduct of University classes or other University activities. All student disciplinary records are retained in 3. No commercial solicitations, campus sales, or fund- accordance with the Board of Regents Policy as stated raising activities shall be undertaken that are not in Student Records Category K (64) Student Conduct sponsored by or authorized by the University. Records/ disciplinary action records explanation: This 4. The person who makes the reservation shall be series documents academic dishonesty and conduct responsible for seeing that the area is left clean and in violations among students. Records may include but are good order. not limited to: incidents reports; final reports; evidence; notification of allegation; timely notice forms; conduct- pending, conduct-restitution, and Suspension Lists; MENTAL HEALTH WITHDRAWAL Semester Security reports; disciplinary reports; informal To ensure that Valdosta State University students receive discussion notes; formal hearing notes; final summary due process rights, Valdosta State University has initiated statements; decision statements; appeals documentation; the following Mental Health Withdrawal Procedure. Before and related documentation and correspondence. a student may be involuntarily withdrawn for mental health Retention: 5 years after graduation or date of last reasons there must first be the following chain of events: attendance. 1. The student displays behavioral indicators, which are determined by a mental health professional to be of Section III danger to him/her or others. General Public Forum Venue Policy 2. When a mental health professional recommends that a student needs to be withdrawn from school for mental Valdosta State University embraces the value of free health reasons, an informal hearing will then be set speech and provides numerous opportunities for free up to determine whether or not the student should be speech. Examples of free speech opportunities include, withdrawn. but are not limited to uncensored: plays, lectures, 3. In this informal hearing, conducted by the Vice President entertainment, classroom discussions, concerts, art for Student Affairs and Dean of Students Office, the exhibitions and student sponsored programs and student or his / her representative may present any activities, which take place at various venues including pertinent information that he / she believes will have a classrooms, auditoria, and the campus green. Individuals bearing on the particular case. may wish to engage in public discussion or debate outside of these activities. Valdosta State University This procedure is enacted to insure that the student’s legal provides a public forum venue for this purpose. Valdosta rights are not violated and that the University has the right State University reserves the right to regulate the time, to remove any student whom it feels, based on professional manner and place of public activities on its campus in evaluation, and may present a danger to him/her or others. accordance with the law. The primary Public Forum Venue Other withdrawal policies, relating to withdrawals in is the stage on the Palms Quadrangle on main campus, general as well as medical or hardship withdrawals may be which is located next to the primary student dining facility found on the Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of and several student residence halls. Valdosta State may Students website at designate an alternative area(s) to accommodate large http://www.valdosta.edu/studentaffairs/dean. crowds or other special needs.

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VALDOSTA STATE UNIVERSITY DRUG FREE WORK PLACE POLICY Prohibited sex discrimination covers sexual harassment, including sexual violence. Sexual violence refers to physical Valdosta State University as a recipient of federal funds sexual acts perpetrated against a person’s will or where a supports and complies with all provisions of the Drug Free person is incapable of giving consent due to the victim’s Work Place Act of 1988. As an employer, Valdosta State use of drugs or alcohol, or due to an intellectual or other University will aggressively promote and strive to maintain disability. Sexual violence includes rape, sexual assault, a drug free work place for its faculty and staff. sexual battery and sexual coercion. All such acts of violence Student employees of Valdosta State University are are forms of sexual harassment covered under Title IX. expected to adhere to the policies of the institution, observe the basic rules of good conduct and to meet appropriate standards of performance. This policy, as STUDENT GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE with the other institutional policies, including state and If, during the course of enrollment in or employment federal laws, and the Board of Regents’ policies shall be by the institution, a student feels that he/she has been observed. discriminated against or harassed in violation of the Valdosta State University Drug Free Schools and University’s affirmative action and/or sexual harassment Communities Act Drug and Alcohol Prevention Program policies, the following action should be taken: (Adopted September 4,1990). A. A conference should be immediately scheduled with the Office of Social Equity and the appropriate individual will advise the student of his/her rights with respect to the DISCIPLINARY POLICY REVIEW nature of the complaint. The University will review this policy as needed but not B. A determination will be made as to whether the complaint less than on an annual basis to determine its effectiveness warrants a formal investigation which requires filing an and to ensure that disciplinary sanctions are consistently official complaint by the student. A record of the findings enforced. will be retained in the Office of Social Equity. The principal reviewers may include the following: C. In the case of a student employee, the procedure outlined • The Assistant Dean of Students in the regular staff handbook will be followed. The Office • The Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of of Social Equity will make this information available to the Students student. • The University Attorney While it is expected that students with complaints of an academic nature will file such complaints through the normal • Other appropriate university personnel. channels (faculty member, department head, dean, vice (This Student Code of Conduct was last reviewed and president for academic affairs and Provost, president), any revised Fall Semester 2012) violation relative to affirmative action or harassment should be reported immediately to the Office of Social Equity.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT Valdosta State University is an equal access/equal CONFLICT RESOLUTION PROGRAM opportunity educational institution. It is not the intent Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) of the institution to discriminate against any student or Liaisons: Dr. Martha Laughlin & Ms. Rebecca Murphy employee of the institution on the basis of race, color, Location: University Center Room 1127 religion, gender, age, ethnic or national origin, sexual Phone: (229) 249-4961 orientation, disability or veteran status, in admission to, or employment in, its education programs or activities. VSU participates in the University System of Georgia’s Title IX prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in Consortium on Negotiation and Conflict Resolution. This education programs or activities operated by recipients means additional resources for students. Conflict can of Federal financial assistance. Valdosta State University occur for many reasons such as lack of information, does not discriminate on the basis of sex in its education misinformation and misunderstanding, or differences in programs and activities. interests, personality, and ways of seeing things.

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At times conflict can be positive and its resolution can result in better ideas and ways of doing things. But unresolved conflict can grow into more serious disputes. There are many avenues a student can take to obtain assistance with conflict. One resource is through the Conflict Resolution program. We provide mediation, conflict coaching and training on conflict resolution. Whether your dispute is with another student, faculty member or staff member, we are here to help. If you are interested in exploring conflict coaching or mediation as an option for resolving a conflict, contact Dr. Martha Laughlin by email at [email protected], or by phone at (229) 249-4961. For all other inquiries contact Rebecca Murphy, [email protected], 259-5106 or visit our website at http://www.valdosta.edu/crc/. Inquiries are confidential.

86 VSU CAMPUS MAP INDEX DEPARTMENT LOCATIONS 6 Thaxton Hall 34 Education Center 1 Plant Operations 35 Tennis Courts & Reames Field 2nd fl Dean COBA Einstein Bros Bagels Central Warehouse 36 PE Complex/Athletics 106 SBDC 78 ETC 2 Athletic House 37 Fine Arts Bldg—COA Physical 314 Student Advising Center 87 Middle, Secondary, Reading Plant 6 Pound Hall & Deaf Education •Cheerleaders (Whitehead & Sawyer Theatre) 122 Decision Center 166 Early Childhood & Spe Ed •Golf Coach 38 Football Field 206 Management 212 ACE •Softball Coach 39 University Center 214 Accounting & Finance 227 Dean COE 222 Marketing & Economics 36 PE Complex 3 Softball Field 40 Special Ed & Com Disorders Bldg. 9 University Advancement Athletics Billy Grant Field 41 Band House Music Annex Development 165 K & PE Baseball Fieldhouse/Offices 42 Auxiliary Services •Corporate & Foundation Relations 37 Fine Arts Bldg •Major Gifts & Planned Giving 107 Dean COA 4 Greenhouse 43 Martin Hall—College of Nursing •Entrepreneurial Projects 107 Art 5 Barrow Hall—AFROTC 44 Office of Social Equity 13 History Dept. 2264 Music 6 Langdale College of Business 45 Campus Mail Services 14 Powell Hall 39 University Center E Counseling Center •Entrance 1 •Pound Hall 46 Printshop E Testing Live Oak Conference Room •Thaxton Hall 47 Bursary—Cashiers Rea & Lillian Steele W Cooperative Ed Dogwood Room 7 Biology Dept. Annex One Card Services North Campus W Communications Unit 3103 Employee & Org Development W 2nd fl Career Services Rose Room 8 My Friend’s House/ 48 University Park 15 Hugh C. Bailey Science Center Theater (Alzheimer’s Daycare Program) 49 Continuing Education TEMPORARY Biology Willow Room STUDENT •Entrance 2 History Dept. Annex Marriage & Family Therapy PARKING Chemistry 1036 Dean CAS Cypress Room 9 Philosophy & Religious Studies Temp University Advancement 16 Langdale Hall Event Services 10 Student Health Center/Infirmary 50 Student Recreation Center Langdale Market Food Court Center for International Programs Sustella Parking Deck 18 Farbar Hall Information Desk Magnolia Room 11 English Dept. Annex 51 Centennial Residence Halls South Georgia Access Office — Special Services Medical Center 21 Ashley Hall Executive Dining Room 12 University Honors Program 52 Student Rec Sports Complex Closed for Renovation •Entrance 3 13 History Dept. Temp. 53 MEA Federal Credit Union 22 West Hall Crafts Academic Affairs Dance Studio 14 Powell Hall 54 Athletic Field House Legal Affairs Printmaking 15 Hugh C. Bailey Science Center Football Offices & Practice Fields President Sculpture 16 Georgia Residence Hall Soccer Offices & Stadium 101/102 MPA •Entrance 5 124 Academic Projects VP Finance & Administration Langdale Residence Hall Jessie Tuggle Weight Room 128 M&CL Business Services •Student Success Center 207 English Financial Aid & Veteran Affairs Reade Residence Hall 244 Political Science Financial Services 23 Nevins Hall Human Resources/Employee Devel. 17 Area closed for construction 1011 Com Art Purchasing 18 Farbar Hall JEANETTE LOT 2006 PAG Registrar BLAZER CONFERENCE LOT African-American Studies •Entrance 6, 7 & 8 19 Carswell Hall—Women’s Studies LOT GEORGIA Math & CS SACJ 20 Palms Dining Center LOT Student Health 26 Psychology Building OASIS: Ctr for Advising & First Year 21 Ashley Hall closed for renovation Center Pyschology & Counseling Dept. Programs 22 West Hall Graducate School Interdisciplinary Studies 27 Hopper Hall •Entrance 9 23 Nevins Hall Campus Mail Window & Boxes 2037 South Georgia College Entry 24 Faculty & Staff Parking Hopper Dining Program (SGCEP) 25 Admissions Office GEORGIA HALL Housing & Residence Life •Entrance 10 SGA Interior Design Strategic Research & Analysis BAILEY Spectator Graphic Design (103 E. Brookwood Place) SCIENCE WVVS 40 Special Ed & Comm Disorders Bldg CENTER T. S R E T A L S 30 Student Union 112 Communication Sciences & 26 Psychology Bldg. FARBAR •Level 1 Disorders Graduate School CLOSED Converse Residence Hall Bookstore 201 Curriculum, Leadership & COLLEGE Tech Shop Technology CLOSED 27 Hopper Residence Hall LOT •Level 2 42 Oak Street Deck — Level 2 28 Brown Residence Hall Bookstore Auxiliary Services Food Court University Police Patterson Residence Hall The Loop 48 University Park Lowndes Residence Hall Nathan’s Famous COA Outreach

PSYCHOLOGY 29 Odum Library Baptist Starbucks English Language Institute Collegiate NORTH OAK STREET (ONE WAY NORTH) •Level 3 49 Continuing Education 30 Student Union Ministry HOPPER HALL Dean of Students University Advancement 31 Enviro & Occ Safety (1504 N. Oak St.) Student Life Advancement Services 32 Baytree Apts 33 Pine Hall Alumni Relations Information Technology Creative Design Services 33 Pine Hall Social Work Development

34 Dewar College of Education STUDENT UNION Marketing & Community Relations •Education Center VSU Foundation, Inc.

EMPLOYEE Marriage & Family Therapy PARKING •Jennett Lecture Hall FamilyWorks Satellite Services FCA 50 Sustella Deck — Level 1 Parking & Transportation Campus Recreation Rental Center JENNETT HALL

Tennis Courts EMPLOYEE PARKING Valdosta City Schools Administration

OAK ST. DECK

Oak St. Parking Lot

Sunset Hill Cemetery

EAST ANN STREET

SUSTELLA DECK ® WEST ANN STREET

ATHLETIC FIELD HOUSE W E S T M A R Y S T R E E T

54 FIELD HOUSE Emergency Phone Locations Indicates the location of freestanding emergency phones. Emergency phones are also located at Student Recreation Sports Complex the main entrance to all the dorms.

87 Revised March 2012 — Office of Creative Design Services — VSU Campus Map — Page 1 of 1 CAMPUS DIRECTORY | STUDENT HANDBOOK VOLUME V

QUICK REFERENCE Campus Directory

A Catalogs...... 333-7358 Academic Affairs...... 333-5950 Center for Outdoor Recreational Experiences...... 245-2360 Academic Projects...... 333-7358 Central Receiving...... 259-2535 Access Office for Students with Disabilities...... 245-2498 Central Stores...... 259-2535 Accounting Department (Langdale College)...... 333-5967 Chemistry...... 333-5798 Accounts Payable...... 333-5703 College of Arts Outreach...... 333-2150 Admissions...... 333-5791 Communication Arts...... 333-5820 USA...... 800-618-1878 Communication Science & Disorders...... 333-5931 Adult Academic Degree Completion Communication Unit...... 333-7177 / 333-2163 & Military Programs ...... 253-2873 Computer Labs (Students) Adult & Career Education...... 333-5928 Adult & Career Ed...... 333-5928 Advancement, Division of Univ...... 333-5939 CS Lab...... 249-2727 Advancement Support Services ...... 333-7176 Chemistry Lab...... 245-2279 Advising Center OASIS...... 245-4378 CS Classroom...... 245-2496 Business Administration (Langdale College)...... 249-2624 Decision Center...... 245-6571 Education...... 245-6425 Fine Arts...... 245-3789 African American Studies...... 249-4843 Odum Library...... 259-5056 AFROTC-Aerospace Studies...... 333-5954 Sociology...... 333-5743 Alcohol & Other Drug Education...... 259-5111 Writing Center...... 333-7387 Alzheimer’s Program: My Friend’s House...... 293-6146 Computer Science...... 333-5778 Alumni Relations...... 333-5797 Computer & Networking Services Toll Free...... 800-464-3638 Information Technology Division...... 333-5974 Annual Giving...... 245-4329 HELP Desk (IT)...... 245-4357 Anthropology...... 333-5943 Continuing Education...... 245-6484 Art Dept...... 333-5835 Cooperative Education...... 333-7172 Arts, College, Dean...... 333-5832 Copying Services...... 333-2162 Astronomy...... 333-5752 Counseling Center...... 333-5940 Athletic...... 333-5890 Creative Design Services...... 333-5980 Athletic Training...... 333-5897 Credit Union...... 333-5751 Auxiliary Services...... 333-5706 Criminal Justice...... 333-5943 Curriculum Leadership & Technology...... 333-5633 B Biology...... 333-5759 D Blackwater Writing Project...... 333-5946 Dean of Students Office...... 333-5941 Bookstore...... 333-5666 Dining Services Meal Plans...... 333-5988 Textbook Department...... 333-5669 Palms Dining...... 333-5857 Budget Office...... 333-5708 Catering...... 259-5510 Bursary...... 333-5725 Food Court University Center...... 259-2506 Business Administration (Langdale College)...... 333-5991 Einstein Bros. Bagels...... 333-5933 Business Services...... 333-5705 Hopper Dining...... 219-3155 Jazzman’s @ Odum Library...... 245-6579 C Student Union...... 333-5671 Campus Information...... 333-5800 Doctoral Programs...... 333-5694 Campus Mail...... 333-5672 Campus Recreation (Intramurals)...... 333-5895 Campus Tours (Admissions)...... 333-5791 Career Services...... 333-5942 Cashiers...... 333-2021 / 5719

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E K Early Childhood & Special Education...... 333-5929 Key Shop...... 333-5876 Economics (Langdale College)...... 245-2234 Kings Bay Center (VSU)...... 293-6058 E-Core...... 245-4378 Kings Bay Naval Base...... 912-882-6573 Education, College of, Dean...... 333-5925 Kinesiology & Physical Education...... 333-7161 Educational Technology Center...... 249-2781 eLearning...... 245-6490 L Emergency...... 259-5555 Langdale Development Office...... 259-5506 Employee & Organizational Development...... 259-5105 Langdale Market...... 333-5843 English...... 333-5946 Learning Support, OASIS...... 333-5934 English Language Institute...... 219-1246 Legal Affairs...... 333-5934 Environmental & Occupational Safety...... 293-6171 Library Administration...... 333-5860 Equal Opportunity Programs Circulation...... 333-5869 Multicultural Affairs...... 333-5463 Interlibrary Loan...... 333-5867 European Council...... 259-2591 Media...... 333-5863 Events Services...... 333-5998 MLIS...... 333-5966 Reference...... 333-7149 F The Loop Pizza Grill...... 333-5671 Faculty Development/Instructional Improvement....333-5470 Finance & Administration, VP...... 333-5710 M Finance (Langdale College)...... 333-5967 Management (Langdale College) ...... 245-2233 Financial Aid Office...... 333-5935 Marketing & Community Relations...... 333-7444 Financial Services...... 333-5708 Marketing (Langdale College)...... 245-2234 Fitness Center - PE Complex...... 333-7450 Marriage & Family Therapy Program...... 293-6264 Football Office...... 333-5844 Clinic...... 219-1281 Foreign Student Advisor...... 333-7410 Master of Public Administration...... 293-6058 Foundation. VSU...... 333-5939 Mathematics & Computer Science...... 333-5778 Freshman Year Experience...... 245-4378 Mass Media (Comm Arts)...... 333-5820 Meal Plan Office...... 333-5988 G Mediation (ADR Program)...... 249-4961 General Studies...... 245-4378 Middle, Secondary, Reading & Deaf Education...... 333-5611 Geosciences...... 333-5752 Modern & Classical Languages...... 333-5949 Governor’s Honors Program (Summer Only)...... 333-7166 Moody Air Force Base...... 247-4163 Graduate School, Dean...... 333-5694 Music...... 333-5804 Grants & Contracts Office...... 259-5045 Greek Advisor...... 333-5674 N News (See Communications Unit) H Non-Credit Services - Regional Center...... 245-6484 Health Promotions...... 245-3896 Nursing, College of, Dean...... 333-5959 Health Services (Main Line)...... 333-5886 Appointments...... 219-3200 O Help Desk (IT)...... 245-4357 OASIS Center for Advising & First Year Programs...245-4378 History...... 333-5947 One Card Services...... 259-2593 Housing & Residence Life...... 333-5920 Orientation Coordinator...... 333-5941 Human Resources & Employee Development...... 333-5709 P I Parking & Transportation...... 293-7275 ID Cards1 Card Office...... 259-2593 Payroll...... 333-5708 Information Technology...... 333-5974 Perspectives...... 245-2493 Instructional Technology Program...... 333-5633 Philosophy & Religious Studies...... 333-5949 Insurance Office (Employee)...... 333-5690 Physics, Astronomy, & Geosciences...... 333-5752 Insurance (Property, Risk)...... 333-2160 Physical Plant & Facilities Planning...... 333-5875 Interior Design...... 333-5835 Police, Campus Patrol...... 333-7816 Internal Audits...... 245-2491 Political Science...... 333-5771 International Programs...... 333-7410 Provost...... 333-5950

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President’s Office...... 333-5952 T Print/Copy Services...... 333-2162 Teacher Education...... 333-5925 Property Inventory...... 333-3735 Tech Shop...... 219-1398 Psychology & Counseling Dept...... 333-5930 Testing, Office of...... 245-3878 Public Administration...... 293-6058 Theatre Ticket Sales...... 333-5973 Public Services...... 245-6484 Purchasing Office...... 333-5705 U University Center (Information Desk)...... 259-2510 R University Advancement...... 333-5939 Regional Center for Continuing Ed...... 245-6484 Advancement Support Services ...... 333-7176 Registrar...... 333-5727 Alumni Relations...... 333-5797 Religious Studies...... 333-5949 Communication Unit...... 333-6163 Residence Halls (Directors) Development...... 333-5939 Brown Hall...... 333-5918 Annual Giving...... 245-4329 Centennial Hall...... 333-5269 Corporate Relations...... 245-3828 Converse Hall...... 333-5916 Planned Giving & Major Gifts...... 333-7441 Georgia Hall...... 333-5917 Marketing & Community Relations...... 333-7447 Hopper Hall...... 333-5916 Publication & Design Services...... 333-5980 Langdale Hall...... 333-5915 VSU Foundation...... 333-5939 Lowndes Hall...... 333-5914 University Police Office...... 333-7816 Reade Hall...... 333-5912 Emergency...... 333-5555 ROTC, Air Force...... 333-5954 V S Vending...... 259-2593 Short Term Loans...... 333-5725 Veterans Services...... 333-5935 Shuttle Bus...... 293-7275 VSU Connection...... 333-7177 Small Business Development Center...... 245-3738 VSU-TV...... 333-5820 Sociology. Anthropology, & Criminal Justice...... 333-5943 Social Work (Master’s Program)...... 249-4864 W South Ga CARENET...... 293-6146 Warehouse, Central -North Campus...... 333-5958 South Georgia College Entry Program...... 293-6247 Waycross College Office...... 912-284-2564 Special Education...... 333-5929 Women’s & Gender Studies...... 249-4842 The Spectator, Student Newspaper...... 333-5688 Writing Center (English)...... 333-7387 Speech Language Pathology...... 333-5931 WWS91FM...... 333-7314 Sports Medicine (Now Athletic Training)...... 333-5897 Strategic Research & Analysis...... 245-6517 Student Accounts...... 333-5725 Student Affairs (Vice President)...... 333-5941 Student Conduct Office...... 333-5941 Student Development, Nursing...... 333-7188 Student Government Association...... 333-5941 Student Health Services...... 333-5886 Student Life...... 333-5674 Student Payroll Services...... 333-5708 Student Recreation Center...... 333-5898 After hours Racquet Ball reservations...... 245-4306 Student Success Center...... 333-7570 Sustella St. Market...... 333-2182 Student Union Information Desk...... 333-7011

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