TABLE OF CONTENTS

WELCOME Greetings from Dr. Gibson and Mr. Jaime...... 3-4 INTRODUCTION Mission Statement ...... 5 University Goals ...... 5 Bearkat ...... 5 School Seal...... 5 School Logo...... 6 School Colors...... 6 Alma Mater ...... 6 Fight Song ...... 6 Motto ...... 6 ACADEMIC POLICIES/PROCEDURES Academic Grievances ...... 7 UNIVERSITY SERVICES Offi ce of the Vice President for Student Services ...... 11 Bookstore ...... 11 Bearkat OneCard ...... 11 Career Services ...... 13 Counseling Center ...... 13 Services for Students with Disabilities ...... 14 Dining Services ...... 14 Health Center ...... 16 IT@SAM ...... 16 Lowman Student Center ...... 17 Facilities Management...... 18 Public Safety Services ...... 18 Recreational Sports and Activities...... 19 Residence Life ...... 20 Sam Houston Memorial Museum ...... 21 Sam Houston Press & Copy Center...... 22 Students Legal Services ...... 22 Veterans Assistance Offi ce...... 22 CAMPUS LIFE Athletics ...... 23 Offi ce of Alumni Relations ...... 24 Dean of Students’ Offi ce ...... 24 Student Government Association...... 28 Department of Student Activities...... 28 Center for Leadership and Service...... 29 Spirit Programs ...... 29 Multicultural and International Student Services ...... 30 Policy For The Use of the Bearkat Plaza and LSC Mall ...... 31 DEAN OF STUDENTS’ POLICIES Alcoholic Beverage Distribution Policy ...... 32 Policy on Bikes, Skateboards, In-line Skates, etc ...... 33 Code of Student Conduct and Discipline...... 34 Computer Use Policy ...... 43 Debts of Students ...... 44 Co-curricular Use of University Facilities...... 44 General Provisions for Campus Activities...... 47 Parades, Demonstrations, and Rallies ...... 53 Students with Disabilities ...... 54 Hazing Act ...... 54 Parking and Traffi c...... 56 Posting and Distribution of Printed Materials ...... 57 Publications of Student Groups ...... 58 Student Organizations Policy...... 59 Risk Management Guidelines ...... 65 Student Absence Notifi cation Policy ...... 69 Student Grievance Procedures ...... 69 RELATED UNIVERSITY POLICIES Protection of Intellectual Property...... 70 AIDS Policy...... 70 Drug Free Work Place Policy...... 70 Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974...... 71 First Year Required Housing and Meal Plan Policy ...... 72 Prohibition of Weapons ...... 73 Racial Harassment Policy ...... 74 Sexual Assault Policy...... 75 Sexual Harassment and EEO ...... 76 Student Resignations ...... 79 Tuition Rebate for Certain Undergraduates ...... 80 Emergency Procedures Quick Reference...... 81 STUDENT’S RIGHT TO KNOW AND CAMPUS SECURITY ACT OF 1990 Student Right to Know...... 82 Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics ...... 82 Drug Free Schools and Communities ...... 86 • Standards of Conduct...... 86 • Health Risks of Alcohol and Drugs ...... 86 • University Penalties ...... 89 • Available Rehabilitation and Counseling Services ...... 89 • Crime Statistics ...... 90 • Penalties Under Federal and State Law ...... 91 IMPORTANT INFORMATION FROM YOUR UNIVERSITY HEALTH CENTER Immunization Information...... 92 Understanding and Preventing HIV/AIDS Infection...... 94

Student 2 Guidelines WELCOME

Dear Students,

It is with great pleasure that I welcome all new and returning students to Sam Houston State Uni- versity, a great name in Texas education. We are honored you chose this university to continue your education.

The year is fi lled with many new and exciting things for everyone. Those of you who are return- ing students are already aware of the many oppor- tunities for learning, recreation, and enjoyment that SHSU has to offer. If you are a new student, I urge you to become familiar with the activities available to you and to take advantage of them. A very important part of your educational experience is being involved, so I hope you embrace that opportunity.

I ask that you thoroughly read this handbook and become familiar with the various rules and regulations and the rights and responsibilities of others on campus. The university has dedicated faculty and staff that are always willing to help you — so reach out, ask questions, and get connected on campus

I give my warmest welcome to you as a member of the Bearkat family. My best wishes for a good year.

Sincerely,Sincerely,

Dana L. GGibsonibson PresidentPidt WELCOME

My Fellow Bearkats,

It is an honor to welcome you to Sam Houston State University. Whether you’re a returning Bear- kat or a new one, this year promises to be a great one. SHSU is a proud campus. We excel in our ath- letics, academics, the arts, the list goes on and on.

Our Student Body is one of the most diverse in the country yet when you walk through this campus, you can see and feel the unity of Bearkat Nation. Success is what we live and breathe here at SHSU.

As Student Body President, it is my job to ensure that success remains accessible to each and every student. You are my boss. There is no issue to big, too small, or unimportant. Student Government is here to serve you, whatever it may be. We are the offi cial voice of the Student Body. Whatever you may need, my offi ce is always open. Student Government Association is loca- tion in the Lowman Student Center, Suite 326. You can also call our offi ce at (936) 294-1938, or email us at [email protected].

EAT’EM UP KATS!

Ramiro Jaime, Jr. Student Body President INTRODUCTION

UNIVERSITY MISSION from Sam Houston Normal Institute to Sam Houston State Teachers College. (Prior to Sam Houston State University is a multi- 1923, the varsity sports teams were nick- cultural institution whose mission is to pro- named “The Normals.”) vide excellence by continually improving It is doubtful those who coined the “Bear- quality education, scholarship, and service to kat” nickname had a particular animal in its students and to appropriate regional, state, mind, however. More likely, the name came national, and international constituencies. from a popular local saying of the time, “tough as a Bear-kat!” The late Reed Lind- UNIVERSITY GOALS sey, who was a student/athlete in the 1920s • Promote students’ intellectual, so- and later retired as University registrar, once cial and leadership growth. said that “it was a good fi ghting name of the • Recruit and retain qualifi ed, dedi- time.” Since the animal in the saying was cated faculty and support staff. thought more mythical than real, the spelling • Recruit and retain qualifi ed, moti- settled upon was “Bearkat.” vated students. In the late 1940s, then SHSU president • Provide the necessary library and Harmon Lowman attempted to change the other facilities to support quality SHSU mascot from Bearkats to “Ravens” instruction, research, and public (after General Sam Houston’s Cherokee service. nickname). Mrs. Vernon Schuder reported • Provide an educational environ- that the alumni were polled; she voted for ment that encourages systematic the raven but that “all those old Bearkats inquiry and research. beat us out!” • Promote and support diversity and The current Sammy Bearkat mascot char- provide equitable opportunities acter began appearing at SHSU sports events for minorities. in 1959. • Offer a wide range of academic studies in preprofessional, bac- SCHOOL SEAL calaureate, masters’, and doctoral Sam Houston State University has adopt- programs. ed as its offi cial seal a high-contrast image • Collaborate with other uni- of the statue of General Sam Houston, which versities, institutions, and stands in front of Austin Hall on the north constituencies. end of the campus Quadrangle. • Provide instructional research and Around the image in the public service through distance seal are the words “Sam learning and technology. Houston State University,” two stars, and the year in BEARKAT which Sam Houston Nor- Sam Houston State University’s athletic mal Institute was founded teams have been nicknamed “The Bearkats” — 1879. since 1923 when the University’s name was changed by the Texas State Legislature

Student 5 Guidelines SCHOOL LOGO BEARKAT FIGHT SONG Sam Houston State University has adopt- Fight, Fight, you Bearkats! ed as its offi cial logo an orange “SH.” Fight on through! Where the seal is used We’re here in back of you! for more formal pre- You know again we’re here to win, sentations, the logo can so fi ght on to the end. be used in less formal Fight Fight Fight applications. Loyal we’ll ever be and true to SHSU We’ll fi ght and fi ght with all our might for Sam Houston’s Orange and White. SCHOOL COLORS The offi cial colors for Sam Houston State MOTTO University are: ORANGE and WHITE with BLUE as an acceptable trim color. “The Measure of a Life is its Service.”

ALMA MATER Hail to Sam Houston, School we love best, Mighty in battle, True to the test. Bearkats so loyal, Ever we’ll be. Orange and white Will lead us to victory!

Hail, Alma Mater Hats off to you, Ever you’ll fi nd us Loyal and true; Firm and undaunted Ever we’ll be, Here’s to the school we love Here’s a toast to thee.

Student 6 Guidelines ACADEMIC GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES FOR STUDENTS

1. PURPOSE c. Suspension for academic defi ciency The purpose of this academic policy state- d. An instructor’s alleged unpro- ment is to provide for the resolution of stu- fessional conduct related to aca- dent academic grievances in a prompt and demic matters equitable manner. e. Graduate comprehensive and oral examinations 2. GENERAL f. Theses and dissertations 2.01 Under the provisions of this pol- 2.02 If the dispute is determined to be icy, academic grievances include dis- based upon professional judgment, the putes over: aggrieved student is entitled to have, as a. Course grades appropriate and in turn, the department b. Unauthorized class absences or or school chair, College Academic Re- tardiness view Panel, academic dean, Dean of

Student 7 Guidelines Graduate Studies (for graduate student el, academic dean, Dean of Graduate issues), and Provost and Vice President Studies (for graduate student issues), for Academic Affairs form an opinion or Provost and Vice President for Aca- about the dispute and so advise the demic Affairs fi nds that a disputed ac- individual(s) involved. After consider- tion confl icts with federal or state law, ing the advice provided by any or all university, college, or departmental of the administrators participating in policy, or with an instructor’s stated hearing the grievance, the individual(s) class policy, a decision should be ren- involved in the dispute shall retain the dered in favor of the aggrieved student. academic freedom to decline to change the original judgment in the matter. 3. COLLEGE ACADEMIC REVIEW 2.03 Allegations of student miscon- PANEL duct, as defi ned in paragraph 5.2, 3.01 There shall be in each college a Chapter VI of the Rules and Regula- Standing College Academic Review tions, Board of Regents, The Texas Panel. The members of the panel shall State University System, and Sam be chosen by procedures established by Houston State University Student the college dean. The panel will consist Guidelines, published by the Dean of of three faculty members and two stu- Students’ Offi ce will be referred to the dent members. The chair of the panel Dean of Students’ Offi ce for necessary will be selected from the panel mem- action. bers by the appointees to the panel. A 2.04 Allegations, questions, or ap- department/school chair or any party to peals involving academic dishonesty, the appeal being heard may not serve i.e., cheating, plagiarism, collusion, on the panel. At least two faculty mem- and/or abuse of resource materials, bers and at least one student member will be processed in accordance with must be present for action to be taken. the procedures set forth in Academic 3.02 The Academic Review Panel Policy Statement 810213, “Procedures will be involved in an alleged griev- in Cases of Academic Dishonesty.” ance only after the normal procedures 2.05 If, in turn, the department/school outlined in paragraph 4.01.a and 4.01.b chair, College Academic Review Pan- below have been exhausted.

Student 8 Guidelines 3.03 The Academic Review Panel b. If an academic grievance is not will hear only appeals involving dis- satisfactorily resolved with the putes over those matters set forth in instructor or committee chair, the paragraph 2.01.a through 2.01.f of this student may appeal to the chair of policy. Appeals regarding university/ the academic department/school college degree requirements, student in which the complaint or dispute misconduct, or academic dishonesty is centered. The student appeal- will not be addressed by the panel. ing must provide a written sum- mary of the pertinent issues of the 4. PROCEDURES grievance. In addition, a student 4.01 The following steps are to be fol- may include other faculty or staff lowed in pursuing an academic griev- members or any other informed ance or an appeal of suspension for individual who might act as advo- academic defi ciency (a grade point av- cates in support of his/her appeal. erage below 2.00): c. If the student remains ag- a. In the event of an academic grieved after an appeal to the grievance, the student must fi rst chair of the department/school, appeal to his/her instructor or the student may forward the committee chair for a resolution written appeal (plus any other of the matter and must do so in additional material) to the col- writing and within thirty days lege dean in whose college the following the fi nal course exam dispute arose with a request to for the semester or summer ses- have the case heard by the Col- sion during which the dispute lege Academic Review Panel. arises. (If the grievance involves Within fi fteen working days of re- a suspension for academic de- ceiving the appeal, the Panel will fi ciency, the student appeals di- investigate the alleged grievance rectly to the appropriate academic and present such fi ndings and dean.) recommendations as the Panel

Student 9 Guidelines fi nds appropriate as soon as pos- visory capacity and may not be a sible to the grievant and to other directly active participant in the relevant parties, including the proceedings. department/school chair and the d. If a resolution of an academic faculty member(s) against whom grievance by the Review Panel is the grievance is directed. During not accepted, the student may re- the panel hearing(s), all parties quest in writing that the grievance involved in the original griev- be forwarded to the college dean ance will be invited to appear in whose college the dispute arose before the Panel. The grievant for review and adjudication. The may request either oral or written dean will receive all documents statements from advocates. The pertaining to the dispute from the inclusion of these statements at academic Review Panel and the the hearing(s) will be at the dis- dean will inform the student, the cretion of the Panel. Under no instructor, and/or the committee circumstances will advocates be chair, and the administrators par- permitted to directly question or ticipating in the appeals process of cross-examine any person who the decision and the disposition of is involved in the grievance. Le- the matter within fi fteen working gal counsel, if included by the days of receipt of the appeal. The grievant, may act only in an ad- dean’s decision is fi nal.

Student 10 Guidelines UNIVERSITY SERVICES

OFFICE OF THE VICE tive citizens in their college, community, PRESIDENT FOR and country. STUDENT SERVICES BARNES & NOBLE The offi ce provides administrative lead- UNIVERSITY BOOKSTORE ership, supervision, and coordination for the Division of Student Services. The division Located in the Lowman Student Center, includes the following departments: Dean Barnes and Noble University Bookstore is of Students’ Offi ce; Bearkat OneCard Ser- the offi cial bookstore for Sam Houston State vices and the Student Money Management University. The bookstore carries all required Center; Counseling Services and Services textbooks for all classes offered by the Uni- for Students with Disabilities; Health Ser- versity, as well as provides required school vices; Lowman Student Center; Recreation- supplies and course materials. The bookstore al Sports and Activities; Campus Activities; also offers a general reading and references Residence Life; Leadership Initiatives; and section, which features such areas as cam- Students’ Legal and Mediation Services. pus bestsellers, faculty author, reference, and Through leadership, program, and policy study guides. There is also a wide variety development, the division contributes to the of SHSU clothing, gifts and other merchan- overall intellectual, social, and personal de- dise. The bookstore is open from 7:30 a.m. velopment of the students. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Saturday The role of the Division of Student Ser- 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. during the fall and spring vices is to complement the total educational semester, and for special occasions such as mission of the university by providing op- graduation, homecoming, Saturdays@Sam, portunities for students to develop and and home football games. For additional in- grow in an academic environment. This is formation about the goods and services pro- accomplished by offering quality programs vided, call (936) 294-1862. and services. Departments within the divi- sion embrace a student development phi- BEARKAT ONECARD losophy that stresses the holistic approach The Bearkat OneCard signifi es your status in co-curriculum involvement. Studies as an active member of the Sam Houston State indicate that learning occurs in an envi- University community, serving as your offi cial ronment conducive to social, recreational, student identifi cation card and much more. educational, and intellectual interaction. A variety of Student Services programs are Student Indentifi cation Cards designed to foster such interaction with stu- Each System Component shall issue each dents, faculty, staff, and the university com- student enrolled at the Component a stu- munity. The goal of the division is to con- dent photo identifi cation (I.D.) card, which tribute to the learning experiences of our grants access to or use of Component facili- students, helping them to become educated, ties, programs, activities, and fi nancial dis- enlightened, and empowered in ways that bursement. they can achieve and contribute as produc-

Student 11 Guidelines 11.1 The student must present his or Activation and Usage her I.D. when seeking access to or use of SHSU faculty, staff, and students are re- Component facilities or amenities or when quired to activate their Bearkat OneCard at otherwise requested by a Component of- www.bearkatone.com. This card is for offi - fi cial. cial university identifi cation purposes, and is 11.2 Any falsifi cation, misrepresenta- required to be carried at all times. It is non- tion or other misuse of the student I.D. card transferable and its use is the responsibility is prohibited and shall be punishable under of the named student. Bearkat OneCards are Paragraph 5.2 of this Chapter and/or the required for library usage, access to resi- Component code of student discipline. dence hall perimeters, entrance to all athletic 11.3 Student I.D. Cards are nontrans- events and university sponsored functions, ferable, that is they may not be loaned, access to the HKC/Recreational Sports fa- borrowed, or used by another person for cilities, the University Health Center, Bur- identifi cation on or off campus or for any sar’s Offi ce, managing refund preferences, of the purposes stated in this Paragraph. A and student payroll. student shall immediately report a lost or Your Bearkat OneCard allows you to ac- stolen I.D. card to the administrative offi cial cess two accounts: or offi ce responsible for issuing the I.D. card — Bearkat Express: for on campus dining and have card replaced immediately. only — OneAccount: a free *FDIC insured Obtaining a Bearkat OneCard checking/debit account that meets your During registration, the student is re- banking needs. quired to secure (free of charge) a photo- When activating the Bearkat OneCard, identifi cation card, the Bearkat OneCard. students may elect to open the free OneAc- The OneCard must be activated at www. count, an optional on-line checking/debit bearkatone.com upon receipt in order to uti- account associated with the ID Card. The lize the card for services on the SHSU cam- OneAccount is a product offered by Higher pus. The Bearkat OneCard Offi ce is located One and MasterCard. The OneCard is NOT in the Estill Bldg., Suite 230. Offi ce hours a CREDIT CARD. After graduation, stu- are Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 dents may retain the Bearkat OneCard and p.m. Students may also contact the offi ce continue to utilize the OneAccount if they by phone at (936) 294-2273 or by email at choose to do so. [email protected]. Misuse of the ID card may subject the student, to whom it is issued, to disciplinary Requirements for Obtaining an ID card sanctions by the Dean of Students. Students — Be currently registered for classes must present their Bearkat OneCard when — Have a valid and current address listed requested by any offi cial of the university, on fi le with the University. including but not limited to, University Po- — Have a photo on fi le with the Bearkat lice, faculty, dining hall personnel, and resi- OneCard offi ce at SHSU. It is man- dence hall staff. datory that a valid state or govern- ment issued photo ID must be present- Lost or Stolen Bearkat OneCards ed at the time that the photo is taken. A lost or stolen ID card must be immedi- — A temporary card will be issued to you, ately reported to the Bearkat OneCard Of- upon request, for on-campus usage. Your fi ce in order to deactivate the card and its permanent Bearkat OneCard will be mailed privileges. The card can be deactivated by to your address on fi le within 7 to 10 busi- coming to the LSC Room 330 during normal ness days once you have met all of the above business hours, logging on to your account listed requirements. at www.bearkatone.com, or calling the toll Student 12 Guidelines free number at 1-877-BEARKAT. interviews and benefi t from its resume referral A $25.00 fee will be assessed for replace- option. Need help preparing for the job search? ment cards. This fee will be charged through Our professional staff and counseling interns the student accounting system and a new provide resume-writing assistance, give prac- card will be issued by mail. Temporary ID tice interviews and throughout the year of- cards can be provided for access to residence fer a variety of career-related workshops and halls, meal plans, and on campus use until programs. the new card arrives. If the student is unable Career Services invites hundreds of re- to locate their Bearkat OneCard but unsure cruiters representing a variety of nationally if it is offi cially lost, the student has the op- recognized corporate, governmental, and edu- tion of requesting a temporary ID card at cational employers to visit campus and recruit a cost of $10.00 which will be active for a our outstanding graduating seniors and alumni two week period. If the student is still un- through one of the six Job Fairs we host each able to locate their permanent ID card after year and through our on-campus interview pro- the two week period, a permanent card will gram conducted each fall and spring semester need to be ordered and a $25.00 charge will in our in-house professional interview suites. be placed on the students account. If a Bear- Located in Academic Building IV, Suite kat OneCard is not functioning properly, it 210, the SHSU Career Services offi ce is should be brought to the Bearkat OneCard open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. Offi ce for assessment or replacement. to 5:00 p.m. and other times as posted. Con- tact us at (936) 294-1713 by telephone or CAREER SERVICES by email at [email protected]. Visit our offi ce or website at www.shsu.edu/ca- The Sam Houston State University Career reerservices — we look forward to assisting Services offi ce assists students and alumni in you! All our services are offered at no charge identifying and developing their career goals to SHSU students and alumni. and ultimately, in fi nding success locating professional employment opportunities com- COUNSELING CENTER patible with their unique skills, interests, val- ues, temperament and academic preparation. The Counseling Center provides a va- Career Services offers career counseling riety of services to enhance student learn- and advising, career testing and a compre- ing and assist students in achieving their hensive Career Library to assist you in ob- academic and personal goals. The Center taining the critical information you need to is staffed by licensed psychologists, post- make an informed decision regarding the doctoral residents and graduate trainees choice of a major, and/or a career. In our Ca- who provide a confi dential setting where reer Library you will also fi nd a small com- students can freely discuss their concerns. puter lab for your convenience and a number The Counseling Center provides a range of free career-related magazines, brochures, of services including individual counsel- and employer information materials. ing, group counseling, couples counseling, You are encouraged to register as early as and outreach/preventive education presen- your freshman year with our online program tations. Staff members are also available to “JOBS for KATS” to establish your student assist students in a crisis situation. Students profi le. With a student profi le you can seek can receive help with a range of personal and apply for part-time jobs both on and off- concerns including transition to university is- campus and as a junior, senior or alumnus, sues, relationship diffi culties, self-esteem, in- locate internships and full-time positions as terpersonal problems, mood concerns, eating well. Graduating seniors and alumni also use disorders, concerns about their alcohol con- “JOBS for KATS” to sign up for on-campus sumption, physical/sexual abuse, and many

Student 13 Guidelines other concerns. Services are also available sign language/oral interpreting or real-time for international students who may seek sup- captioning for the deaf. One month notice is port in adjusting to life at an American uni- recommended for alternative text formats. versity. Groups that are commonly offered at Adaptive technologies are available at the Counseling Center include a Women’s various locations on the SHSU campus, Relational Support Group, an Interpersonal including the Counseling Center, the New- Therapy Group, and Self-Esteem Group ton Gresham Library, the Reading Center, among others. Please consult the Counseling and various Computer Labs. These tech- Center web page for more information about nologies include CCTV video magnifi ers, the current group offerings. The services the screen magnifi cation and reader software, Counseling Center offers are free. An initial scan-read software, and assistive listening intake appointment can be made by calling devices. Comparable technologies are avail- the offi ce or stopping by in person. All coun- able in the library and computer lab on the seling is confi dential within the limits of le- third fl oor of the LSC University Center in gal and ethical obligations. The Woodlands. A complete listing of the adaptive technologies and their locations on SERVICES FOR the SHSU campus is available at the above- STUDENTS WITH noted web address. DISABILITIES Any student who believes that he/she has been discriminated against on the basis of a The SHSU Services for Students with disability by SHSU faculty, staff, or admin- Disabilities (SSD) is located in the Counsel- istration may fi le a grievance by contacting ing Center, Lee Drain North Annex. SSD the ADA Student Coordinator at the Coun- provides academic accommodations and seling Center. Additional information on the auxiliary aids and services for otherwise- grievance procedures, as well as institutional qualifi ed students with mental or physical policy regarding students with disabilities, is impairments that substantially limit their detailed in the Academic Policy Statement academic functioning. To be considered for 811006 — Students with Disabilities. accommodations, a student must submit Students with disabilities may request documentation of his/her impairment to SSD assistance with the admissions or registra- and complete the disability intake process. tion process by contacting, respectively, the The student may schedule an intake appoint- Admissions Offi ce at (936) 294-1828 or the ment by contacting the Counseling Center at Registrar’s Offi ce at (936) 294-1040. (936) 294-1720 (TDD: (936) 294-3786). The Telecommunication Device for the hours of operation are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Deaf (TDD) locations are as follows with Monday through Friday. Additional informa- corresponding telephone numbers: tion on the procedure for requesting services • Dean of Students’ Offi ce: (936) 294-3785 and the SSD documentation requirements • Counseling Center and Services for is available at the Counseling Center or at Students with Disabilities: (936) 294-3786 www.shsu.edu/~counsel/sswd.html. • University Police: (936)294-3787 Decisions regarding accommodations are • Offi ce of Undergraduate made on a case-by-case basis, as supported by Admissions: (936) 294-3788 the student’s documentation and self-report. • Registrar’s Offi ce: (936) 294-3789 Students requesting auxiliary aids and/ or services that may require advance plan- SH DINING ning and coordination are advised to sub- SERVICES mit their requests to SSD in a timely man- ner. SSD recommends a minimum of two ARAMARK is a proud partner of the uni- months advance notice for the provision of versity, serving the campus community with

Student 14 Guidelines all of its dining needs. SH Dining Services membership starts over. On a weekly dining provides retail dining, residential dining and membership, meals are only able to be used catering all across the campus of Sam Hous- once per meal period, and may only be used ton State University. We strive to provide the by the dining membership holder. highest quality dining experience possible, The unlimited dining membership is de- and continually seek the input of our campus signed to provide the ultimate in fl exibil- community to guide us in our efforts. ity, convenience and value. There is no set Dining memberships, or “meal plans,” are amount of meals, and meals may be used as available to all students, faculty and staff. desired throughout the day, week and semes- Whether you live on campus or off campus, ter. Only the dining membership holder may we have a wide range of memberships to use the meals on an unlimited plan. accommodate any need and dining desire. Dining memberships are housed on the Each dining membership has both meals and dining membership holder’s BearkatOne Bearkat Bucks. The meals may be used at Card, and are independent from the debit ac- Old Main Market and Tortilla Fresca, locat- count on the card. Credit cards, debit cards ed in South Paw. The Bearkat Bucks may be and cash are also accepted at all on campus used at any on campus dining location. Our dining locations. memberships are broken into three catego- SH Dining Services offers a variety of ries: “blocks,” “weekly” and “unlimited.” dining options in the following buildings: Block dining memberships are designed to Lowman Student Center, Newton Gresham provide great fl exibility in the use of meals, Library, Gaertner Performing Arts Center, providing a certain block amount of meals to College of Humanities and Social Sciences, use throughout the semester, while still pro- Lee Drain, Old Main Market and South Paw. viding Bearkat Bucks to use across campus. To view an updated list of the current con- At the end of the semester, any unused meals cepts within each of these buildings please expire, and are removed from the account. refer to our website: www.shdining.com. Weekly dining memberships are designed Classic Fare Catering, SH Dining Services’ to offer a certain amount of meals per week, catering department, is located inside of the throughout the semester, and also provide Lowman Student Center, on the second fl oor. Bearkat Bucks to use across campus. At the Classic Fare Catering is able to facilitate any end of each week, any unused meals expire, catering need within Walker County, as well and the weekly amount of meals for that as the Woodlands Center. To view offerings

Student 15 Guidelines and menus, or to place an order, please • Nursing care visit: shsucatering.catertrax.com. To speak • Laboratory to someone regarding catering needs, call • Pharmacy (936) 294-1930 or email [email protected]. • Preventative Healthcare For more information on dining mem- • Physicals berships, or to fi nd out more information • TB testing about SH Dining Services, visit www.shdin- • Health Education ing.com. Contact us at: (936) 294-1914 or • Smoking Cessation [email protected], with any questions. The The Health Center also serves as the SH Dining Services offi ce is located on the campus contact for the student health insur- second fl oor of Old Main Market, which is ance plan offered through the university. located on the north side of campus: 1001 Coverage is available to all students cur- Bearkat Blvd., Huntsville, TX 77340. rently enrolled in six or more credit hours and is mandatory for international students. HEALTH CENTER Students may contact the Health Center for more information about the policy. The Student Health Center, located at the Please note that the Health Center is corner of Avenue J and Bearkat Boulevard, not equipped to address medical emergen- provides routine medical services and health cies. Students experiencing such conditions education to currently enrolled students. The should summon Emergency Medical Servic- Health Center is accredited by the Accredita- es (EMS) by calling 911 or report to nearest tion Association for Ambulatory Health Care hospital emergency room. (AAAHC). This means that the standard of The Health Center exists to provide care and operations either meet and/or exceed services and programs that assist stu- rigorous nationally recognized standards. dents in minimizing disruptions resulting The Health Center is open Monday – Fri- from health-related issues. Please contact day, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., with extended us at (936) 294-1805 or visit our website evening hours until 6:00 p.m. Monday – at www.shsu.edu/healthcenter for more Thursday during the fall and spring semes- information ters. Only business services are available between 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. Appoint- IT@SAM ments are scheduled by phone or in person. There is no cost for an offi ce visit. There The University has three departments to are charges for laboratory tests, prescription support the campus information technology medications, and certain procedures. These within the Division of Information Technol- charges are, in most cases, well below the ogy Services: Enterprise Services, Infra- prevailing community rate. structure and Support Services and Client The Health Center has an in-house phar- Services. macy that is able to fi ll prescriptions writ- The Enterprise Services department pro- ten by any healthcare provider. Many vides programming, business process analysis, prescriptions cost less than the deductible reporting, and database administration support or co-payment amounts of many insur- for all the administrative systems such as reg- ance plans. Please contact the pharmacy at istration, admissions, grade entry, fi nance, and (936) 294-1803 for price and availability. payroll. Most of these systems are available The Health Center offers services in the through the MySam campus portal. following categories: The Infrastructure and Support Services • Diagnosis and treatment of minor ill- department manages the server and network- nesses and injuries ing infrastructure, such as the gigabit con- • Referrals nectivity for all campus buildings including

Student 16 Guidelines residence halls. Each resident has his/her mer students who have completed at least own high-speed internet connections. Also, 15 hours of course work at SHSU will be wireless access points are provided through- eligible to opt-in to keep an SHSU e-mail out the main campus with SamNet. account. The Client Services department manages The three IT@Sam departments employ campus computer labs and classroom tech- more than 100 students as lab assistants, nology, licensing and installation of campus web designers, service desk assistants, and software, campus tech support, Web devel- software/hardware technicians. Students are opment and technology asset management. encouraged to apply for part-time employ- The Service Desk is also in the Client Ser- ment through Jobs4Kats. vices department and is available to help The website for the Division of Infor- students with their computer accounts, PINs mation Technology Services is www.shsu. and profi les. edu/~ucs_www/. Questions regarding From the University web site, students SHSU’s computer resources may be ad- can activate and begin using SHSU com- dressed to [email protected] or puter accounts as soon as they are accepted (936) 294-1950. to the University. To ensure prompt commu- nications, the University will send offi cial LOWMAN STUDENT statements and documents to the student’s CENTER SHSU e-mail addresses. The assigned e- The Lowman Student Center (LSC) is mail address will have the following format: considered the university’s center for activ- [email protected]. The use of University ity. Users include students, faculty, staff, ad- e-mail and all other computing resources ministrators, alumni, and guests. It is more is governed by the Division of Information than a building; it is an organization and a Technology Acceptable Use Policy (www. program which together represent a well- shsu.edu/intranet/policies/information_tech- considered plan for the community life of nology_policies/documents/IT-03Accept- the university constituencies. The Lowman ableUse.pdf). SHSU will never ask students Student Center provides many of the ser- to share their passwords with anyone. For-

Student 17 Guidelines vices, conveniences, and amenities mem- partmental offi ce on campus. Departmental bers of the university community require in staff will forward requests to the appropri- their daily life on campus. Dining facilities; ate FM offi ce. Students may also call FM meeting rooms; a theater; an art gallery; a Customer Service directly to report campus recreation area which includes table tennis, problems. Our Customer Service operation billiards, and electronic games; a ballroom; is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Mon- the bookstore; a lounge, and many other fa- day through Friday and can be reached at cilities are found in the LSC. The Student (936) 294-1821/1926. If departmental offi c- Center provides a convenient setting for es are closed, please report any safety issues informal association outside the classroom or emergency conditions to the University environment. Police at (936) 294-1794. FM offi ces are The LSC serves as a unifying force in the located at SAM South, 2424 Sam Houston life of the university cultivating an enduring Avenue. regard and loyalty to the university. For additional information or assistance PUBLIC SAFETY SERVICES please call: University Police • Information Center (936) 294-4902 University Police Offi cers are licensed • LSC Offi ce (936) 294-1759 Peace Offi cers as defi ned under the laws of • The Kat Klub (936) 294-3462 the state of Texas and thereby have author- ity as peace offi cers. Their primary jurisdic- General Building Operational Hours tion, under H.B. 391, includes all counties in Monday-Thursday 7:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. which property is owned, leased, rented, or Friday 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. otherwise under the control of Sam Houston Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. State University. Sunday 3:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. The University Police Offi cers subscribe to the Law Enforcement Code of Ethics, FACILITIES a portion of which reads, “As a law en- MANAGEMENT forcement offi cer, my fundamental duty is to serve mankind; to safeguard lives and Facilities Management (FM) is a support property; to protect the innocent against organization dedicated to assisting in the ed- deception, the weak against oppression or ucational mission of the university. With the intimidation, and the peaceful against vio- exception of Residence Life facilities, the lence or disorder; and to respect the Con- department maintains all grounds, buildings, stitutional rights of all citizens to liberty, utility systems, and parking lots. In addition equality, and justice.” In this endeavor, the FM provides fl eet management services, University Police earnestly solicit the sup- custodial services and design/construction port of the faculty/staff and students. Many services for major and minor renovation offi cers are students thus providing a bal- projects and new construction. ance within Public Safety Services from a Students can help reduce costs for main- student’s perspective. As many as 60 stu- taining the campus by using appropriate dents earn their way through the university trash receptacles and reporting any obser- by working in the many areas of Public vation of resource waste to our FM offi ces Safety Services as student assistants each noted below. Students are encouraged to re- semester and at the same time gain excel- port problems such as lighting outages, bro- lent work experience. ken bathroom fi xtures, water leaks, elevator In addition to university regulations, all malfunctions, room comfort issues, or other the general and criminal laws of the State and needed building repairs to the nearest de- the United States are declared to be in full

Student 18 Guidelines force and effect within the properties of Sam The facilities managed by the Department Houston State University. All persons are of Recreational Sports include the Recre- responsible for compliance with these laws. ational Sports Center (RSC), the Health and All thefts, vehicle accidents, or other of- Kinesiology Center (HKC), Johnson Coli- fenses that occur on campus should be re- seum, the McAdams Tennis Complex, the ported immediately to the university police. Pritchett Field Sports Complex, three Intra- The University Police Offi ce is located at mural Sports Fields, Sand Volleyball Courts, 2424 South Sam Houston Ave. (Sam South and the University Camp. Complex), and the telephone number is The RSC houses a 34′ climbing wall with (936) 294-1794. Police Offi cers are on duty bouldering area, a 10,000 square-foot weight 24 hours every day annually. The Business room with a cardio area, several multipur- Offi ce Hours are 7:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m., pose and fi tness rooms, as well as an outdoor Monday - Friday. heated swimming pool. The HKC is shared with the Health and Kinesiology academic RECREATIONAL SPORTS program and offers four basketball courts, AND ACTIVITIES two multi-purpose rooms, an 1/8-mile in- door running track, ten racquetball courts, The Department of Recreational Sports and a supplemental weight room. and Activities offers a wide variety of rec- Adjacent to the RSC/HKC are the three reational programming and provides state Intramural Sports Fields and Sand Vol- of the art facilities for students, faculty and leyball courts. These are utilized for Intra- staff. The activities offered include intramu- murals, Informal Recreation, and Special ral sports, informal recreation, club sports, Events. The McAdams Tennis Complex, wellness, special events, outdoor recreation, an outdoor tennis venue with eight tennis and aquatics. courts, is also close to the RSC. Facilities Johnson Coliseum, located directly across

Student 19 Guidelines from the RSC and HKC, seats 6,094 people incoming freshmen), and the 345-acre Uni- and hosts over 90 large-scale events each versity camp and retreat center. The Uni- year. Sammypalooza, Spring Breakout, versity Camp is a one-of-a-kind recreation Men’s and Women’s Varsity Basketball and and retreat facility located near Riverside, SHSU Volleyball are just some of the events Texas. Members of the SHSU community offered there. can spend a day canoeing on the water, fi sh- The newly-renovated Pritchett Field ing, hiking, biking, challenging themselves Sports Complex, home to many of SHSU’s on the low or high-ropes courses, hosting a Recreational Sports Clubs, includes two ath- gathering in the dining hall, or just enjoying letic fi elds (one grass and one turf) and an a picnic by the lake. outdoor running track. Special Events are responsible for host- ing large-scale events. Past activities have Programming included Sammypalooza, a musical festival Students enjoy the Informal Recreation with three stages and several live musical Program by participating in self-directed acts; Midnight Mayhem, with the legendary recreational activities such as drop-in bas- mechanical bull; and Spring Breakout, a fun ketball, weight-lifting, cardio, racquetball or fi lled night featuring a comedian and other swimming. The seasonally heated 182,000 entertainment opportunities. Most programs gallon pool has four 25-yard lap lanes and are offered free of charge to SHSU students. a leisure area which can be used for water The Recreational Sports department also sports or merely relaxing in the sun. provides numerous employment opportuni- The Wellness Program offers comprehen- ties for students who are interested in part- sive fi tness programming for the Bearkat time work. Over 300 student positions are community. Programs include group fi tness fi lled annually in the areas of intramural of- classes, yoga, personal training, workshops, fi ciating, facility supervision, aquatics, mar- and nutritional counseling. keting, and fi tness. Intramural Sports offers a variety of team, More detailed information may be found dual, and individual activities with both in the handbooks, brochures, and fl yers competitive and recreational divisions. Stu- available in the Recreational Sports and Ac- dents may participate in softball, fl ag foot- tivities Offi ce (RSC 162), at www.shsu.edu/ ball and soccer, as well as in non-traditional recsports, or by calling (936) 294-1985. activities such as dodgeball, Texas Hold ’em, and X-box tournaments. RESIDENCE LIFE The Club Sports program consists of over Residence Halls 35 recognized student organizations estab- The Department of Residence Life oper- lished to promote and develop common ates twenty-nine residence halls or hous- sport- and/or recreation-related interests. ing units, including an apartment complex Sports such as soccer, rugby, lacrosse and for upperclassmen. A brochure is available even Quidditch have been founded, orga- which provides details of the housing pro- nized, and maintained by volunteer student gram at Sam Houston, including information leaders who compete regionally and even regarding specifi c residence halls, and appli- nationally against other university club cable rates, as well as information about the sports teams. online application process.. This brochure is Outdoor Recreation is a multi-faceted available upon acceptance to the University. program consisting of six primary compo- The Department of Residence Life pro- nents; Trips, Workshops, the Climbing Cen- vides students with leadership opportuni- ter and bouldering area, equipment rental ties through involvement in their hall/house (tents, sleeping bags, kayaks, etc.), Bearkat councils, or through employment as a resi- Camp (a four day, three night experience for Student 20 Guidelines dent advisor, resident manager, or student museum composed of a rotunda and three assistant. Those interested in becoming in- wings, containing artifacts relating to Sam volved in their hall/house councils should Houston, his family, and early life in Texas; contact their building staff. Individuals Woodland Home, the historic home Sam seeking employment should contact the de- Houston built for his family in Huntsville; partment. You may contact the Residence Steamboat House, where General Hous- Life Offi ce at, Sam Houston State Univer- ton died; the Sam Houston Law Offi ce; an sity, Box 2416, Huntsville, Texas 77341- Exhibit Hall that now houses the Wigwam 2416, or by calling (936) 294-1812. Neosho Museum Store; Bear Bend Cabin, the hunting lodge Sam Houston stayed in SAM HOUSTON while hunting for bears; and replicas of a pe- MEMORIAL MUSEUM riod kitchen and blacksmith shop. Unique among museums in the state of The Sam Houston Memorial Museum Texas, the Sam Houston Memorial Museum was established in 1936 as a Texas centenni- features extensive collections of artifacts re- al project, funded by the Texas Legislature. lating to Sam Houston’s life in Texas and the Since that time the Museum has expanded to Texas Revolution, plus a growing collection a complex of fi fteen acres situated within a of documents relating to Sam Houston, poli- scenic park. Of interest is the Katy & E. Don tics and government in the area, and pioneer Walker, Sr. Education Center, which houses families. an exhibit gallery, auditorium, offi ces of the The Museum offers students many Museum’s education staff, the Patrick B. chances for both on-the-job learning experi- Nolan Library & Archives, and on the low- ences and employment opportunities. Both er level the W. S. Gibbs Conference Hall, regular and work-study jobs are available, which can be rented for meetings, confer- as well as various internship possibilities ences, receptions, etc. On site are the main

Student 21 Guidelines and special projects tailored to academic ant, family law, consumer protection, crimi- classes. Please visit the Museum offi ces nal, traffi c tickets, automobile accidents, and or call (936) 294-1832 to talk about these employee rights. programs. The offi ce is located on the third fl oor of For more information, check out the the Lowman Student Center (suite 330). Ap- website at www.samhouston.memorial. pointments can be requested in person, by museum. phone at (936) 294-1717 or electronically at www.shsu.edu/legalservice. We cannot SAM HOUSTON PRESS provide counsel on issues involving the AND COPY CENTER university. Fast, convenient and economical print- The attorney is also available to speak to ing and copying is available for students and student organizations, residence halls, and campus organizations at the Sam Houston classes. Press & Copy Center. Known as the main source for thesis and dissertations, the Press VETERANS ASSISTANCE & Copy Center also provides design and OFFICE consultation plus posters, signage, binding, Veterans may request assistance with the mailing and much more. The Center is con- processing of V.A. Educational Benefi ts for veniently located on the bottom fl oor of the the Post 9/11 Veterans Educational Assis- Thomason Building on the west side of the tance Act of 2008 (Chapter 33). Montgom- campus quadrangle. Hours of operation are ery G.I. Bill (MGIB) Chapter 30 (for veter- 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday – Friday. ans of active duty), MGIB Chapter 1606 (for Come by and visit with our friendly staff or members of the reserves), MGIB Chapter call (936) 294-1856 for more information. 1607 (Reserve Education Assistance Pro- gram for reservists who were called to active STUDENTS LEGAL duty), V.A. Vocational Rehabilitation, Chap- SERVICES ter 31 (for veterans with service connected “Laws are spider webs through which the disabilities), and Dependents Educational big fl ies pass and the little ones get caught.” Assistance, Chapter 35 (for the children ~Honoré de Balzac or spouse of a veteran who was disabled Why does Sam Houston State Univer- or killed as a result of their service in the sity offer legal consultation services to their Armed Forces.) students? Or, as we sometimes hear, “I’m a Students who were Texas Residents at the good student, why would I need legal ser- time of their entry in active duty, and who vices?” The law is a fundamental part of ev- are not eligible for the MGIB educational ery transaction; civil and criminal. Students, benefi ts, should inquire about their eligibil- whether just coming of age or with signifi - ity for benefi ts under the Texas Hazlewood cant experience, have a need to learn their Act. Veterans Assistance staff may be con- legal rights and responsibilities. tacted in the Registrar’s Offi ce on the third For these reasons, Sam Houston Student fl oor of the Estill Building. Legal Services employs a full time attorney dedicated to providing students with indi- vidual, confi dential, legal consultation. The attorney provides resources for resolution of legal concerns and when representation is necessary, will guide students in fi nding an attorney with the appropriate expertise. Fre- quent topics of inquiry include landlord/ten-

Student 22 Guidelines CAMPUS LIFE

ATHLETICS Since the 1992-93 school year, Sam Houston student-athletes have combined to Sam Houston State University competes produce an overall department grade point at the NCAA Division I level in 17 sports average (GPA) of 2.30 or higher. For the past as a member of the Southland Confer- 14 semesters, the more than 400 Bearkats ence, bringing the fun and excitement of participating in varsity sports have posted intercollegiate athletes to the Huntsville department GPAs above 2.87. SHSU’s over- campus. all athletic GPA in 2011 was 2.96. Men’s intercollegiate sports include base- The athletic program’s GPA is a mark ball, basketball, cross country, football, golf, higher than the overall student population at indoor track & fi eld, and outdoor track & Sam Houston State University. fi eld. Women’s sports are basketball, bowl- Fifteen times since 2007, Bearkats have ing, cross country, golf, indoor track & fi eld, been recognized as the outstanding student- outdoor track & fi eld, soccer, softball, ten- athlete in their individual sports. Winners of nis, and volleyball. the Southland Conference “Student-Athlete Sam Houston is the only athletic program of the Year” honors have been Ryan Bright in the Southland Conference that has earned (2007 and 2008 men’s basketball), Stephen the coveted SLC Commissioner’s Cup three Prihoda (2007 baseball), Lata Assudani consecutive years. The Cup symbolizes the (2007 women’s tennis), Jennie Sewell (2007 league’s all-sports championship for both women’s track and fi eld), Jennifer Heinz men’s and women’s athletics. The Bearkats (2008 women’s golf), Barkley Falkner also have won two Southland men’s all- (2009 men’s basketball), Irina Sotnikova sports trophies. (2009 women’s tennis), Brittany Brooks The Bearkats have won 25 Southland (2010 women’s basketball), Chris Cralle Conference regular season team champion- (2011 men’s indoor and outdoor track), Tra- ships including 16 since 2000. In addition, vis Watson (2011 football), Morgan Davis Sam Houston has won nine conference post- (2012 women’s indoor track), James Glenn season tournament titles. (2012 men’s golf) and Jake Arrington (2012 Since moving up to the NCAA Divi- baseball). sion I level in 1986-87, Sam Houston has Sam Houston State University annually participated in national post-season tourna- draws regional and national media attention ments 18 times including fi ve appearance in through televised athletic contests. Bearkat football, seven in baseball and two in men’s football and basketball games have been basketball. featured in nationally televised games on In 2011, the Kat football squad earned the CBS, ESPN, ESPN2 and ESPN3. Each year, No. 1 seed in the post-season playoffs and SHSU games are telecast on the Southland advanced to the NCAA Division I national Conference TV network. championship game in Frisco. The Bearkat The university boasts one of the fi nest baseball team reached the regional fi nals in athletic complexes in the Southwestern that 2007 at Ole Miss and in 2012 at Rice. serve as the site of both regular season com- While competing at a high level on the petition and post-season tournament action. playing fi eld, the Bearkats also have proven Home athletic events are held at Bowers themselves tops in the Southland Confer- Stadium (football), Johnson Coliseum (bas- ence in the classroom.

Student 23 Guidelines ketball and volleyball), Don Sanders Sta- management of and funding for alumni af- dium (baseball), softball (Bearkat Softball fairs was brought under the purview of the Complex), tennis (McAdams Tennis Cen- university by the creation of the Offi ce of ter), track and fi eld (York Track Center) and Alumni Relations. Also, a Board of Direc- soccer (Pritchett Field). tors was created to formulate and implement News, schedules, ticket information and certain alumni events and programs, in- opportunities to watch live video of Bearkat cluding reunions, homecoming awards and sports events are available on the SHSU ath- recognitions, and the distribution of alumni letic web site at www.gobearkats.com. scholarships. In addition to the numerous regional Student Tickets: alumni events hosted by the Offi ce of Alum- Sam Houston students are admitted to ni Relations, three major on-campus events all home regular season athletic events on are supported through this offi ce annually, presentation of a current and valid Bearkat the Offi cial University Ring Ceremony, the OneCard. Simply swipe your Bearkat On- Distinguished Alumni Gala, and the Service eCard at the designated student gates the Awards Luncheon. day of the event for admission. Bearkat Originated in the Fall of 2007, the Student OneCards must be active and you must be Alumni Association is a student organiza- currently enrolled. tion which encourages and fosters loyalty to the university and supports the great history OFFICE OF and traditions of Sam Houston State Uni- ALUMNI RELATIONS versity, including service to others through numerous community service projects each In the early 1920s during Harry F. Es- semester. The SAA also provides students till’s presidency, an association of former the opportunity to build relationships with students was fi rst organized. More than 30 successful alumni and network for positions years later, prompted by an expanding stu- in the workforce while still in school. dent enrollment and an increasing number of Much like Sam Houston State University, graduates, a charter for a non-profi t corpora- the Alumni Association has grown from its tion known as the “Alumni Association of earliest beginnings in strength, prestige, in- Sam Houston State Teachers College” was fl uence, and member involvement. Today, it formally adopted on November 2, 1956. remains a vibrant member of the university According to Article II of the Association family. Charter, “The purpose for which the corpo- The Offi ce of Alumni Relations encourag- ration is formed shall be to support benevo- es students, parents, alumni, and friends of lent, charitable and education undertakings, the university to visit the offi ce located in the whether associated with or related to Sam new John R. Ragsdale Visitor and Alumni Houston State Teachers College; to extend Center. The phone number is (936) 294-1841 aid, fi nancial or otherwise, to Sam Houston and website is alumni.shsu.edu. students; to encourage generally sentiments favorable to education, and to promote the DEAN OF union of good fellowship among ex-students STUDENTS’ OFFICE of Sam Houston State Teachers College.” During the summer of 1992, the As- The offi ce advocates student needs to the sociation merged with the University to university administration, faculty and de- create a centralized dues-paying organiza- partments and also transmits needs of these tion that offers programs and activities for groups to the students. The offi ce assist stu- alumni and friends regardless of college dents who have questions about any phase affi liation or special interest. Furthermore, of campus life.

Student 24 Guidelines The professional staff is responsible for family feud, amazing race and more. Parents the administration of a number of policies have the opportunity to participate in the and procedures found in this publication. Parents’ Association Meeting and learn how These include solicitation, student conduct to be proactively involved in their student’s and judicial processes, and certain provi- college experience. We also host the Bearkat sions of the Family Educational Rights and Alley Pre- Game Tailgate. Privacy Act. In addition, the department is responsible for The Student of Concern Freshman Leadership Program (SOC) Team, Who’s Who Among Students The Freshman Leadership Program is in American Universities and Colleges, the offered to entering freshmen who have Freshman Leadership Program, Orange demonstrated leadership interest as well as Keys Program, Greek Life, Raven’s Call, outstanding academic performance in high Alpha Lambda Delta, a freshman honor school. This year long training/development society, Online Mentoring and Guidance program provides fi rst year students with the Program (O.M.G.), Freshmen Learning opportunity to acquire a breadth and depth About Sam Houston (F.L.A.S.H.) Mentor of knowledge and skills within the three- Program, Student Government Association, layered focus learning about Sam Houston SHSU’s Bearkat Family Weekend, advising State University, gaining leadership skills the Parents’ Association, and the Parent Re- and serving in community service projects. lations Offi ce. The department, in an effort Upon completion of their freshman year, to promote individual and group develop- these students are strongly encouraged to ment of students, co-sponsors educational become active leaders in the university com- programs and leadership development munity. For more information on this pro- workshops. gram you may go to the LSC Suite 215 or The Dean of Students’ Offi ce is located call (936) 294-1785. in Suite 215 of the Lowman Student Cen- ter, telephone (903) 294-1785. Offi ce hours SHSU Mentoring Program are 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through The mission of the SHSU Mentoring Thursday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Friday, eve- Program is to increase the retention of ning hours by appointment. students by providing incoming freshmen and transfer students an opportunity to Bearkat Family Weekend learn from university mentors who serve as Bearkat Family Weekend helps family coaches, role models, advisors, guides and members build pride and strengthens their referral agents. Mentors create nurturing connection to the University while interact- and personalized university experiences, ing with faculty and staff, and experiencing thus easing the transition from high school what makes being a Bearkat so special. The to college and assisting in the retention and SHSU campus is a student’s home away graduation of college students. This program from home and one weekend a year families provides the opportunity for students to build are invited to make it their own. relationships with a faculty or staff member, The weekend offers many events and increase their network base, and gain valu- activities including open houses, campus able life experience. It gives you a chance tours, faculty presentations, and a special to become acquainted with someone who is event where families mix and mingle with personally interested in your well-being and the administrators of the university. Other who can assist you through the complexities family events include the annual Classic Car of university life. Cruise-In and Carnival on the Concourse. Families can also participate in community Online Mentoring and Guidance service opportunities and games such as As a component of the SHSU Mentoring Student 25 Guidelines Program, the Online Mentoring and Guid- their commitment to education in high re- ance (O.M.G.) is designed to connect gard by scheduling study nights, providing distance learning students with faculty, staff local and national scholarships, maintaining and administrators to help students achieve fi les of information from classes, pairing their academic, career, and personal goals. you with study buddies, rewarding outstand- Mentors are available to assist you with ing academic performance, and providing questions about SHSU, keep you informed scholastic assistance when needed. of the activities and events taking place on Philanthropy is another source of pride campus, and to encourage you as you pursue for all Greeks at SHSU. Each organization your degree at Sam Houston State University. supports a national or local philanthropy Our goal is for you to become connected to by hosting large and small scale events as the university in a unique and innovative fundraisers or to spread awareness for a way. You and your mentor will communicate particular cause. They also encourage and through SHSU webmail and Blackboard. reward volunteering on campus and in the Mentors are equipped to answer some ques- local community. With 20 plus Greek or- tions regarding online courses, however the ganizations on campus, there are plenty of primary role and responsibility of a mentor opportunities to donate, volunteer, and have is to build a relationship with you, encour- fun for a good cause! aging, supporting, and guiding you through Leadership opportunities will also begin your college experience. Online students and right away. In most chapters, new members mentors are also encouraged to participate are expected to serve on various committees in on-campus events throughout the year. or hold junior offi ces. New members are encouraged to pay attention during chapter Greek Life meetings and activities, and then decide Greek Life provides one of the most com- which area interests them most as there are prehensive experiences of university life, fo- leadership positions in every chapter for cusing on achieving excellence in and out of nearly every interest. Greek organization the classroom. Providing a vibrant and active membership is a privilege but it is also a environment, our organizations work to live responsibility. Members must always strive up to their founding principles and ideals, to represent the values of their chapter and which include scholarship, leadership, com- their national organization. munity service, fraternal bonds, and ritual. For more information about Greek Life Going Greek means more than just wear- please contact the Dean of Students’ Offi ce ing Greek letters, attending meetings, and go- or visit the Dean of Students’ Offi ce website. ing to parties; being in a fraternity or sorority is about making friendships that will last far Judicial Affairs beyond your college years while enhancing The Associate Dean of Students is re- your personal development by committing to sponsible for coordinating and administer- ideals of scholarship, leadership, and service. ing the student judicial process at Sam Hous- It is being respected for your individuality ton State University. This includes receiving while being part of a brotherhood or sister- reports of alleged misconduct, investigating hood with individuals who share the same the conduct, ensuring that students receive goals and values. Your brothers and sisters due process and fair treatment throughout are there to support you every step of the way the discipline process, and maintaining stu- and help as you make the transition to col- dents’ disciplinary records. Additionally, lege one fi lled with choices, connections and we are committed to informing students of commitments. Greek Life at SHSU is multi- their rights as members of the university faceted; there is something in it for everyone: community and educating them regarding Fraternity and sorority members hold the responsibilities they have to themselves Student 26 Guidelines and the other members of the university Parent Relations Offi ce community. The mission of the Parent Relations Of- The Dean of Students’ Offi ce views the fi ce is to partner with parents and family student judicial process as a learning experi- members of SHSU students to encourage ence that can result in growth and personal academic achievement and personal devel- understanding of one’s responsibilities and opment. We recognize that informed and in- privileges within both the university com- volved parents contribute to student success. munity and society. Further, the Dean of As a university liaison we maintain an Students’ Offi ce strives to address unac- updated website with clear directions and ceptable behavior in a manner that informs navigation capability, provide a list of FAQs students and guides them toward a greater on the website, provide links for offi ces that sense of personal responsibility and more parents are most concerned about, and an- mature and ethical standards. swer direct phone calls, emails, and sched- The Dean of Students’ Offi ce works ule parent appointments as needed. We are closely with the University Police Depart- here to help parents with any questions or ment and the Department of Residence Life concerns they may have regarding their as well as other local, state and federal law student. enforcement agencies to attempt to inves- Our monthly newsletters are sent on the tigate and resolve allegations of student 1st or 1st Monday of every month and will misconduct. contain informative information on how to The Dean of Students’ Offi ce also re- help the parent/student transition from home ceives reports of student misconduct by to college as well as provide information other students. If you have witnessed a on offi ces around campus and upcoming violation of the SHSU Code of Student events. The newsletter will be published Conduct or you wish to report suspicious each August – May to coincide with the aca- activity involving social or academic mis- demic year. For parents that do not wish to conduct, please contact the Dean of Stu- subscribe to the newsletter but would like dents’ Offi ce at (936) 294-1785 or via email the information it will also be uploaded to at [email protected]. the website every month for your viewing pleasure. Orange Keys Program Parents can also join the Parents’ Asso- The concept for the Orange Keys origi- ciation to stay involved and connected with nated in 1959 as a service organization. The their student. For information on how to join students who are selected to this prestigious the Parents’ Association contacts the Dean group serve the university as offi cial hosts to of Students’ Offi ce. visitors, prospective students, and dignitar- ies. The program consists of 15 outstanding Raven’s Call upper class students. These students must Raven’s Call is an annual memorial ser- maintain a 3.0 grade point average to retain vice that honors students, faculty and staff a position in the Orange Key Program. The who have passed away during the calendar Orange Keys work at various functions such year. This event showcases their pride in and as Homecoming, Parent/Family Weekend, loyalty to our university while we celebrate Career Days, The Texas State University their memory with family, friends, students, System Board of Regents meetings, “Satur- faculty, staff and administrators. A memorial days @ Sam,” and other functions. For more monument has been dedicated to those who information on this program you may go to have passed as a reminder of their service, the LSC Suite 215 or call (936) 294-1785. educational aspirations, and Bearkat pride.

Student 27 Guidelines Students of Concern (SOC) Team ciation offi cers and student senators. Open Members of the Students of Concern meetings are conducted each Tuesday night. (SOC) Team have completed special train- Students are encouraged to participate in ing and meet weekly during the academic their student government. Copies of the year. They stand ready to respond to refer- constitution and other information may be rals from faculty, staff or students regard- obtained from the Student Government As- ing students of concern. Team members sociation website www.shsu.edu/sga or the are pledged to confi dentiality and may be Student Government Association Offi ce entrusted with highly confi dential informa- which is located in the Lowman Student tion. Each situation is unique and involves Center, Room 326, (936) 294-1938. responding to the specifi c needs of the stu- dent of concern. To contact the SOC Team STUDENT ACTIVITIES please contact the Dean of Students’ Offi ce Student Activities provides leadership and or check on the Dean of Students’ website advisement to the following areas: student for more information. organizations; Multicultural Student Servic- STUDENT GOVERNMENT es; SHSU Spirit Programs including Co-Ed ASSOCIATION and All Girl cheerleading, Sammy Bearkat, and the Orange Pride Dance Team; Program The Student Government Association ex- Council; and leadership and volunteer pro- ists for the sole purpose of serving the stu- grams. The offi ce offers quality programs dent community. It is the political voice and and services that embrace a student develop- liaison for the student body. The university ment philosophy. The offi ce also provides an recognizes the need and worthwhile contri- environment conducive to learning through bution of student input in all facets of the involvement in co-curricular activities. university decision-making processes. The There are approximately 230 registered Student Government Association has long student organizations at Sam Houston been active in this regard and has worked State University. Professional staff mem- for the betterment of student life and aca- bers guide students in choosing a particu- demic quality. The student body participates lar organization according to their needs or in the development and management of a interests. well-rounded program of student activities Student Activities plans and implements by electing the Student Government Asso- campus leadership training programs for

Student 28 Guidelines student groups, plans university-wide stu- tion. Offi cial copies of the Co-Curricular dent programs, and coordinates a master Transcript can be used to supplement re- calendar of activities. sumes and academic transcripts when apply- The offi ce helps students understand Uni- ing to graduate/professional schools and the versity policies and procedures, provides prospective employers. technical assistance in planning student For more information go to www.shsu. events, and provides other information and edu/studentorganizations. assistance to students and organizations. For more information, contact the Depart- SPIRIT PROGRAMS ment of Student Activities located in Suite Sam Houston State University is proud to 328 of the Lowman Student Center, or call sponsor the nationally-ranked SHSU Co-ed (936) 294-3861. and All Girl Cheerleading Squads, Orange CENTER FOR Pride Dance Team and Sammy Bearkat. LEADERSHIP AND The student athletes comprising these three SERVICE groups can be seen at community and Uni- versity events alike. Additionally, these In support of Sam Houston State Univer- groups can be seen leading the rowdy Bear- sity’s mission and motto, “The measure of a kat fans at football, volleyball, and men’s Life is its Service,” the Center for Leader- and women’s basketball games. At each ship and Service strives to develop students event these groups take an active role in pro- as active citizen leaders promoting social moting school spirit and tradition. change within communities. The mission The SHSU cheerleaders are a competi- of the Center for Leadership & Service is tive squad bringing national recognition to to provide students with intentional, struc- the University through their performances tured educational training opportunities that through the Universal Cheerleaders Associa- expose them to the concepts of leadership tion (UCA) and National Cheerleader Asso- theory, skills, and application that promote ciation (NCA). Additionally, the cheerlead- community service as an integral aspect of ers have brought home top honors at NCA education. Where are you on the path to Nationals. leadership? The Center for Leadership and The Orange Pride dance team is an Service (CLS) can help you in the journey awarding winning, nationally recognized with programs that expose you to new ideas team competing annually in the National and experiences designed to develop your Dance Association (NDA). leadership effectiveness. Through leader- Sammy Bearkat not only serves as an ship education, personal development, skills embodiment of the University, but competes training, and service, you can become an nationally through NCA. The nationally active citizen leader. For more information, recognize Sammy Bearkat can be seen year visit www.shsu.edu/cls. round bringing an exciting style of enter- tainment to the University and community Leadership Initiatives events. For more information on any of The Co-Curricular Transcript, created the three Spirit Programs, please visit www. from your OrgLINK account, is the Univer- shsu.edu/spirit on the internet, call the Spirit sity’s record of leadership accomplishments, Offi ce at 936-294-4239, or send an e-mail to involvement in student organizations, com- [email protected]. munity service activities, and professional/ Program Council educational development programs. It is Program Council is the university’s stu- designed as a means of recognizing “out of dent programming board that creates and class” learning, development, and contribu- sponsors many entertaining events and ac- Student 29 Guidelines tivities on campus. By utilizing the time and also promotes the academic growth, per- ideas of students, Program Council sponsors sonal development, and leadership skills a variety of social, recreational, educational, of the traditionally underrepresented stu- and cultural events such as fi lms, dances, dent population at Sam Houston State concerts, lectures, spirit competitions, and University. many other activities. The goals for the Offi ce of M.S.S. are: Membership in Program Council is open I. To provide services for students from tra- to any student who is interested in the op- ditionally underrepresented populations, portunity to develop leadership skills, plan primarily students of color and interna- and present campus programs, make new tional students, but also female, physi- friends, and have a great time! Whether you cally challenged, and sexual minority are a committee member or become a mem- students. ber of the Programming Board, you will II. To educate students to understand diver- encounter situations dealing with market- sity in all its aspects and to train students ing, public relations, interpersonal relations, to promote social justice in all areas of leadership development, advertising, and diversity including race, culture, gender, basic administration. sexual orientation, physical ability and With a diverse group of members, Pro- religion. gram Council strives to serve as a unifying III. To promote appreciation and celebra- force in campus activities and student life. tion of diversity and multiculturalism in For more information, call Program Coun- all of its forms. cil at (936) 294-1763 or visit our website at For more information, please go to www. www.shsu.edu/~org_pc/. shsu.edu/diversity or call (936) 294-3588 . Student Organizations M.S.S. Programs A wide variety of student organizations SAMENTORS – The SAMENTORS pro- provide university students an opportunity gram helps freshmen and transfer students to become involved in campus life. Informa- make successful social and academic adjust- tion regarding University-registered orga- ments to college; however, ALL students are nizations can be obtained from the Campus welcome to participate. Mentors are sopho- Activities & Leadership Initiatives (via Or- more, junior, and senior students, and proté- gLINK). University registration is renewed gés are fi rst-year or transfer students. M.S.S. each fall and spring. Therefore, the listings is dedicated to serving ALL students and en- are subject to change. The Student Organiza- hancing their college experiences. tions policy may be found in this publication or obtained from the Dean of Students’ Of- Students on a Quest for Unity and Diver- fi ce or Campus Activities. sity – S.Q.U.A.D. is a group of 5-10 student leaders that function as Diversity Education MULTICULTURAL Trainers that facilitate presentations and STUDENT SERVICES workshops for student organizations, class- rooms, conferences, and community groups. Multicultural Student Services (M.S.S.), established in 1993, provides support for Multicultural Awareness Certifi cation – and enhances the SHSU college experience The M.A.C. program enables students, fac- for all students, although particular atten- ulty, and staff to learn about issues of diver- tion is given to students from traditionally sity and multiculturalism in weekly diversity underrepresented populations (based on events and programs. Attendees are eligible race, culture, religion, sexual orientation, to earn a M.A.C. certifi cation and to become gender, and physical ability). The offi ce Multicultural Ambassadors.

Student 30 Guidelines advance by the President’s designee. Cultural Programming – M.S.S. sponsors The LSC Mall is the area situated on the many cultural programs throughout the aca- south side of the Lowman Student Center demic semesters. Those programs include between the LSC and the Bearkat Plaza. It the Diversity Leadership Conference, Uni- extends in length from the east end of the Diversity Week (Fall/Spring), Black His- Lowman Student Center to the Alumni Gar- tory Month and Hispanic Heritage Month den area. It is available for use by all student programming, as well as MISSconceptions and University organizations for programs seminars. and activities. Reservations for use of the LSC Mall area may be made through the POLICY FOR THE USE Lowman Student Center Offi ce. OF THE BEARKAT PLAZA This policy shall be reviewed annually by AND LSC MALL the Vice President for Student Services. The purpose of this policy is to govern the reservation and use of the Bearkat Plaza and the Lowman Student Center (LSC) Mall area. The Bearkat Plaza is the open, outdoor space situated between the Lowman Stu- dent Center Mall area and the Lee Drain Academic Building. It extends to the east in the direction of the College of Business Ad- ministration and to the west in the direction of the clock tower. The Bearkat Plaza is de- signed to provide an open, peaceful, and aes- thetically appealing environment to enhance the college experience at Sam Houston State University (SHSU). Therefore, it may be re- served only for special University programs. Use of each facility is governed by the rules set forth in Chapter VII, “General Pro- visions for Campus Activities,” of the Rules and Regulations of The Texas State Univer- sity System, which shall be adhered to in ev- ery instance. The Code of Student Conduct and the SHSU Student Guidelines are also applicable to the Bearkat Plaza. All requests to utilize the Bearkat Plaza for special University events must be sub- mitted at least three weeks in advance of the requested event date to the Director of the Lowman Student Center. The LSC Director will forward appropriate program requests to the Vice President for Student Services. The Vice President for Student Services will forward appropriate program requests to the President’s Offi ce for Final consideration and approval. Programs will not be permit- ted in the Bearkat Plaza unless approved in Student 31 Guidelines DEAN OF STUDENTS’ POLICIES

ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE is a privilege granted to registered groups. DISTRIBUTION POLICY Failing to adhere to university regulations may result in the denial of future permits. General University Policy The possession and consumption of alco- 1. A permit DOES NOT holic beverages on any property owned and/ A. Give the sponsoring organization or controlled by Sam Houston State Univer- the right to sell alcoholic beverages. sity are prohibited except where permitted Selling includes, but is not limited to explicitly by published policies. The legal the following: age for the purchase, consumption and/or 1. The price of beverages being possession of alcoholic beverages in the included in the admission price. state of Texas is 21. Violators of this state 2. The price of beverage being in- law and university policy will be subject to cluded in the food ticket. Only university penalties and criminal charges. existing licensed catering ser- Students who are 21 years of age or older vices on the Sam Houston State may be permitted to have alcoholic beverages University campus can sell al- in their residence hall rooms, but not in com- coholic beverages. mon areas of residence halls as specifi ed in B. Give the sponsor the right to pur- other published alcoholic beverages policies. chase beverages at a discount. The sale or service of alcoholic beverages C. Give the sponsor the right to the on the campus of Sam Houston State Uni- space for the event. Space and facili- versity is not permitted except in “special ties for the event must be reserved use” buildings or facilities designated and with the specifi c facilities man- approved by the university president. ager through the normal university Sponsoring organizations of events where procedures. alcoholic beverages are to be served in special 2. Once a permit is granted, the organiza- use buildings or other designated facilities tion is responsible for obeying all university, are required to complete a “Request to Serve state, city, and federal laws governing the Alcoholic Beverages” Form. The completed distribution and consumption of alcoholic form will authorize the service of alcoholic beverages. beverages in conjunction with a scheduled 3. The legal age for drinking in Texas is special event. The form requires the approval 21. Giving alcoholic beverages to a minor signature of several university administrators can result in a fi ne of $500 plus university including the university president; therefore, disciplinary action. A minor producing false the request should be initiated at least fi fteen identifi cation to secure alcoholic beverages (15) business days in advance of the event. carries a fi ne of $25 to $500 plus disciplin- ary action. SHSU Alcoholic Beverage Distribution 4. At all events where alcoholic beverages Policy are distributed, there must be a sign clearly A permit to serve alcoholic beverages on stating that individuals under 21 years of age the campus of Sam Houston State University

Student 32 Guidelines are not permitted to drink the alcoholic bev- sidewalks, pathways, planted areas, erages being distributed. or handicap ramps, etc. However, bi- 5. At all events where alcoholic beverages cycles may be walked through these are distributed, a check must be made for areas.) Bicycles are not to be secured to age. handrails, light poles, trees or any other 6. Non-alcoholic beverages must be avail- campus fi xture not provided for that able in equally attractive variety to the al- purpose. Bicycles should be parked in coholic beverage and must be displayed in designated parking areas and/or secured equal prominence as the alcoholic beverage. in bicycle racks. Also, if the alcoholic beverage is free, all Section 2. Roller-skates/In-line Skates: other beverages must be free. Roller-skates and/or in-line skates shall 7. The amount of alcoholic beverages at not be used on properties owned, leased, an event is to be relative to the number of or otherwise controlled by Sam Houston guests attending the function. State University, except in areas where 8. Food items must be available in suffi - bicycles may be ridden. Members of an cient amounts for the number of persons at- authorized university skating club may tending the function. use roller-skates or in-line skates un- 9. It is required that all advertisement note der conditions approved in advance, in the availability of non-alcoholic beverages writing, in accordance with published and food, as prominently as alcohol. If al- university policy (Co-Curricular Use of cohol is to be advertised, it may not be the University Facilities). main emphasis of the notice. Section 3. Skateboards: Skateboards shall 10. Questions regarding the distribution of not be ridden or operated on properties alcoholic beverages should be directed to owned, leased, or otherwise controlled the Dean of Students’ Offi ce, Suite 215 in by Sam Houston State University, in- the LSC, (936) 294-1785. cluding but not limited to buildings, mall areas, sidewalks, streets, alleys, and POLICY REGULATING parking facilities. USE OF BICYCLES, ROLLER-SKATES/ Article II: Safety IN-LINE SKATES AND SKATEBOARDS ON Section 1. Required Conduct: All bicycling, THE CAMPUS OF roller-skating/in-line skating shall be SAM HOUSTON done in a reasonable, prudent and careful STATE UNIVERSITY manner with due regard for the safety of the user/operator and all other persons. Article I: Prohibitions Article III: Violations Section 1. Bicycles: Bicycles shall not be ridden or operated on properties owned, Section 1. Penalty: Any person who operates leased, or otherwise controlled by Sam or uses a bicycle, roller-skates/in-line Houston State University, except on skates, or skateboard in violation of this streets, parking lots or bike lanes where policy is subject to all appropriate uni- provided. Bicycles are not to be taken versity penalties and actions pursuant to inside campus buildings without spe- V.T.C.A. Education Code. cifi c permission from building manager, Section 2. Citation/Impoundment: Any Tex- supervisor or director. Bicycles are not as Peace Offi cer who is a member of or to be ridden inside campus buildings represents the University Police Depart- or on any common pedestrian walk- ment, who observes a person violating ing areas on campus. (e.g., mall areas, this policy, is authorized to issue a cita- Student 33 Guidelines tion. Fees are determined by the number CODE OF STUDENT of citations incurred each semester. CONDUCT AND 1st Citation $ 5.00 DISCIPLINE 2nd Citation $15.00 5. STUDENT CONDUCT AND 3rd/Subsequent Citations $25.00 DISCIPLINE. Section 3. Violators’ Obligation and Appeal 5.1 Acquaintance with Policies, Rules, Procedure: and Regulations. Each student is ex- A. Citations for violations may pected to be fully acquainted and com- be paid at the Cashier’s Offi ce or ply with all published policies, rules, and the University Police Offi ce or regulations of the Component and of The by mail to the University Police Texas State University System, copies of Offi ce. which shall be available to each student B. Citations are subject to appeal for review online and/or at various loca- and appeals must be fi led within tions on each campus. Students are also three (3) class days after the is- expected to comply with all federal and suance of the citation. All appeals state laws. must be on the offi cial appeal 5.2 Student Misconduct. Each student form secured from the Univer- is expected to act in a manner consis- sity Police Offi ce. The Dean of tent with the Component’s functions as Students’ Offi ce will set the date, an educational institution, including off time, and place for appeals. campus conduct that is likely to have C. All citations appealed shall be an adverse effect on the Component adjudicated through the universi- or on the educational process. Specifi c ty’s Parking Appeals Committee. examples of misconduct for which stu- The Parking Appeals Committee dents may be subject to disciplinary ac- shall be comprised of a pool of tion include, but are not limited to, the students, faculty and administra- following: tive staff appointed by the presi- (1) Commission of an act dent. Any two or three members that would constitute an of- of the pool will constitute an ap- fense under appropriate fed- propriate hearing committee. The eral, state, or municipal law; Parking Appeals Committee shall (2) Violation of any Regents’ rule, hear all appeals fi led by faculty, regulation, or order or Component staff, and students. policy, rule, or regulation, includ- D. Students who fail to resolve ing policies or contracts relating to citations are subject to disciplin- residential living in Component- ary action. owned or operated facilities; E. Any person receiving three or (3) Failure to comply with the more unresolved citations shall be direction of a Component offi cial considered to be in fl agrant vio- acting in the performance of his lation of this policy and their bi- or her duties; or, failure to heed cycle, roller-skates/in-line skates, an offi cial summons to the offi ce or skateboard may be impounded of a Component offi cial within the and held at the University Police designated time; Department pending fi nal action (4) Giving false testimony or by the Dean of Students. other evidence at a campus dis- ciplinary or other administrative proceeding;

Student 34 Guidelines (5) Failure to meet fi nancial ob- whether usable or not, of any drug, ligations including but not lim- narcotic, or controlled substance; ited to the issuance of a check to (13) Advocating or recommend- the Component or its contractors ing the conscious and deliberate without suffi cient funds; violation of any federal, state, or (6) Unauthorized use or posses- local law. Advocacy means ad- sion of ammunition, fi rearms, il- dressing an individual or group legal knives (knives with blades for imminent action and steeling longer than fi ve and one-half it to such action as opposed to the inches, hand instruments designed abstract espousal of the moral pro- to cut or stab another by being priety of a course of action; thrown, stilettos, poniards, Bowie (14) Forgery, alteration, theft, or knives, swords, and/or spears), or misuse of Component documents, other illegal weapons on Compo- forms, records, or identifi cation nent property (see, Chapter VII, cards; paragraph 4); (15) Unauthorized possession, (7) Conduct that endangers the ignition, or detonation, on Com- health or safety of others on the ponent property, of any explosive campus, including, by way of ex- device, fi reworks, liquid, or ob- ample, unauthorized throwing of ject that is fl ammable or capable any objects in or from Component of causing damage to persons or facilities; property by fi re or explosion; (8) Stealing, destroying, defacing, (16) Unauthorized entry into or damaging, vandalizing or misus- use of Component buildings, fa- ing Component property or prop- cilities, equipment, or resources, erty belonging to another (see, or possession or use of Com- also, Chapter VII, paragraph 4); ponent keys for unauthorized (9) Engaging in hazing or vol- purposes; untarily submitting to hazing, (17) Failure to maintain a current including an initiation by an or- offi cial mailing address in the ganization that involves any dan- Registrar’s offi ce and/or giving gerous, harmful, or degrading act a false or fi ctitious address to a to a student; Component offi ce or offi cial; (10) Possessing and/or using, (18) Knowingly initiating, com- without authorization according municating, or circulating a false to the Component policy, intoxi- or baseless report or alarm of a cating beverages in a classroom present, past, or future bombing, building, laboratory, auditorium, fi re, offense, or other emergency library building, faculty or ad- that would ordinarily cause ac- ministrative offi ce, residence hall tion by others charged with deal- or apartment, intercollegiate and ing with emergencies; placing a intramural athletic facility, or any person in fear of imminent seri- other public campus area, or being ous bodily injury; or preventing intoxicated in any public area of or interrupting the occupation of a the campus; building, room, aircraft, automo- (11) Illegal gambling in any form bile, or other mode of conveyance; on Component property; (19) Harassment where the indi- (12) Illegal possession, use, sale, vidual threatens or bullies, in per- or distribution of any quantity, son, by telephone, electronically, Student 35 Guidelines in writing, or by other means, to 5.3 Academic Honesty. The Compo- take unlawful action against any nent expects all students to engage in person and by this action inten- all academic pursuits in a manner that tionally, knowingly, or recklessly is above reproach and to maintain com- annoys or alarms the recipient; plete honesty and integrity in the aca- (20) Academic dishonesty (see demic experiences both in and out of the subparagraph 5.3); classroom. The Component may initiate (21) Campus disruptive activities disciplinary proceedings against a stu- (see subparagraph 5.4) or disor- dent accused of any form of academic derly conduct on Component- dishonesty, including but not limited to, owned or controlled property or cheating, plagiarism, collusion, falsifi - at a Component-sponsored or cation of research data, or the abuse of supervised function that inhibit resource materials on an examination or or interfere with the educational other academic work. responsibility of the Component 5.31 “Cheating” includes, but is community or the Component’s not limited to: social-educational activities shall (1) Copying from another include but not be limited to: us- student’s test paper, a labora- ing abusive, indecent, profane or tory report, other report, or vulgar language; making offen- computer fi les, data listings, sive gestures or displays that tend and/or programs; to incite a breach of the peace; per- (2) Using, during a test, ma- petrating fi ghts, assaults, acts of terials not authorized by the sexual violence, abuse, or threats; person giving the test; or evincing some obviously offen- (3) Collaborating, without sive manner or committing an act authorization, with another that causes a person to feel threat- person during an examina- ened. Such prohibition includes tion or in preparing academic disorderly classroom conduct that work; obstructs, interferes with, inhibits (4) Knowingly, and without and/or disrupts teaching and/or re- authorization, using, buying, lated classroom activities; selling, stealing, transport- (22) Using authority granted by ing, soliciting, copying, or state law, System rule, or Compo- possessing, in whole or in nent policy to deprive any person part, the contents of an unad- of his or her civil rights; ministered test; (23) Violation of Component pol- (5) Substituting for another icy relating to electronic network student, permitting any other facilities such as local area net- person; or otherwise as- works and the Internet; sisting any other person to (24) Failure to acquire and main- substitute for oneself or for tain a Component-issued student another student in the taking photo identifi cation (I.D.) care; of an examination or test or failure to replace a lost/stolen the preparation of academic I.D. card; and/or any falsifi cation, work to be submitted for aca- misrepresentation or other misuse demic credit, placement, or of the student I.D. card. qualifi cation; (25) Any attempt to commit these (6) Bribing another person prohibited acts. to obtain an unadministered Student 36 Guidelines test or information about an of the penalty. At each step in unadministered test; the process, the student shall (7) Purchasing, or otherwise be entitled to written notice acquiring and submitting of the offense and/or of the as one’s own work any re- administrative decision, an search paper or other writing opportunity to respond, and assignment prepared by an an impartial disposition as individual or fi rm. This Sec- to the merits of his/her case. tion excludes purchase or ac- After completion of the aca- quisition of word processing demic process, the academic services. offi cer making fi nal disposi- 5.32 “Plagiarism” means the ap- tion of the case may refer the propriation and the unacknowl- matter to the Chief Student edged incorporation of another’s Affairs Offi cer for any addi- work or idea into one’s own work tional discipline that may be offered for credit. appropriate. 5.33 “Collusion” means the un- (2) Disciplinary Process. In authorized collaboration with the case of fl agrant or re- another person in preparing work peated violations, the Chief offered for credit. Student Affairs Offi cer may 5.34 “Abuse of resource materi- take such additional disci- als” means the mutilation, de- plinary action. No disciplin- struction concealment, theft or ary action shall become ef- alteration of materials provided fective against the student to assist students in the mastery of until the student has received course materials. procedural due process under 5.35 “Academic work” means Subsection 5.6 and follow- the preparation of an essay, dis- ing except as provided under sertation, thesis, report, problem, Subsection 5.15. assignment, or other project that (3) Honor Code. Notwith- the student submits as a course re- standing subsection (1) quirement or for a grade. above, if a Component has 5.36 Disciplinary Procedures for adopted an Honor Code Academic Dishonesty. which includes an Honor (1) Academic Process. All Council that makes deci- academic dishonesty cases sions on appeals of penalty may be fi rst considered and grades issued by a faculty reviewed by the faculty member and disciplinary member. If the faculty mem- action on cases of fl agrant ber believes that an academic or repeated violations, the penalty is necessary, he/she hearings which consider dis- may assign a penalty but ciplinary action must afford must notify the student of the students procedural due his/her right to appeal to the process under Subsection department chair, the dean 5.6. Appeals of academic de- and, eventually, to the Vice cisions rendered by an Hon- President for Academic Af- or Council shall be heard by fairs (whose decision shall the Vice President for Aca- be fi nal) before imposition demic Affairs and appeals of Student 37 Guidelines disciplinary decisions ren- dered incapable of participat- dered by an Honor Council ing in the assembly due to shall be heard by the Chief the use of force or violence Student Affairs Offi cer. In or a reasonable fear of force the event of confl icts, these or violence. Rules and Regulations shall 5.42 Any person who is con- govern. victed the third time of violating 5.37 “Falsifi cation of Data” means this statute shall not thereafter be the representation, claim, or use of eligible to attend any school, col- research, data, statistics, records, lege, or university receiving funds fi les, results, or information that is from the State of Texas for a pe- falsifi ed, fabricated, fraudulently riod of two years from such third altered, or otherwise misappropri- conviction. ated or misrepresented. 5.43 Nothing herein shall be 5.4 Campus Disruptive Activities. construed to infringe upon any Pursuant to Education Code, Subsec- right of free speech or expression tion 51.935 (Disruptive Activities), the guaranteed by the Constitution of Components shall adhere to the follow- the United States or the State of ing Rules and Regulations: Texas. 5.41 No person or group of per- 5.5 Suspended, Expelled, and Dis- sons acting in concert may inten- missed Student Restriction. No student tionally engage in disruptive ac- who has been suspended, expelled, or tivity or disrupt a lawful assembly dismissed for disciplinary reasons from on a Component campus. Disrup- a Component of the System shall, dur- tive activity means: ing the applicable period of discipline, (1) Obstructing or restrain- be eligible to enroll at any other System ing the passage of persons Component. The registrar of a Compo- to the campus or an area of nent is authorized to make an appropri- the campus or to an exit, ate notation on the student’s transcript entrance, or hallway of any to accomplish this objective and to re- building without the autho- move the notation when the student’s rization of the administration disciplinary record had been cleared. of the Component; 5.6 Procedure for Administration of (2) Seizing control of an area Discipline. The Chief Student Affairs of a campus or any building Offi cer shall have primary authority or portion of a building for and responsibility for the administra- the purpose of interfering tion of student discipline at the Com- with any administrative, edu- ponent and for investigating allegations cational, research, or other that a student has violated System and/ authorized activity; or or Component Rules and Regulations, (3) Disrupting and/or pre- or specifi c orders and instructions is- venting or attempting to sued by an administrative offi cial of the prevent by force or violence Component. or the threat of force or vio- 5.61 The Chief Student Affairs lence any lawful assembly Offi cer or his/her appointee hereto authorized by the Compo- referred to as offi cer, will investi- nent administration. A lawful gate the alleged violations. During assembly is disrupted when a the investigation, if the student is person in attendance is ren- available, the offi cer will give the Student 38 Guidelines student an opportunity to explain Huntsville campus during the se- the incident. If the offi cer con- mester in question the following cludes that the student has violat- accommodations may be made for ed a System or Component policy, the distance learner at the discre- the offi cer will determine (but not tion of the offi cer: assess) an appropriate disciplinary (1) Section 5.61 listed penalty. above may be handled via (1) The offi cer will discuss telephone. If the student his or her fi ndings and his chooses to accept the of- or her determination of an fi cer’s decision he/she will appropriate penalty with the then be emailed the docu- student if the student is avail- ment with the penalty listed able and will give the student in writing. By signing the an opportunity either to ac- document the student ac- cept or reject the offi cer’s cepts the proposed sanction decision. and waives his/her right to a (2) If the student accepts the hearing. offi cer’s decision, the stu- (2) If the student does not dent will so indicate in writ- accept the offi cer’s decision ing and waive his or her right or does not waive his/her to a hearing. The offi cer may right to a hearing a disciplin- then assess the disciplinary ary hearing will be scheduled penalty. in accordance with subsec- (3) If the student does not tions 5.7 and 5.10 using tele- accept the offi cer’s decision communication technology. or does not waive his or her right to a hearing, a disciplin- Sam Houston State University — Formal ary hearing will be scheduled Mediation in accordance with Subsec- In matters involving interpersonal dis- tions 5.7 and 5.(10). putes, the Hearing Offi cer may suggest 5.62 If the student does not ex- that the matter be submitted to mediation. ecute a written waiver of the hear- If the involved parties (the accused[s] and ing process, then the offi cer shall complainant[s]) agree the matter will be prepare a written statement of submitted to mediation before the mediator charges and of the evidence sup- acceptable to all parties. porting such charges, including a The goal of the mediation is the execu- list of witnesses and a brief sum- tion of a “Contract of Resolution” which mary of the testimony to be given will specify the terms of the parties’ settle- by each, and shall send a notifi ca- ment of their dispute. The Contract of tion of such charges and statement Resolution will be placed in each involved to the accused student by certifi ed student’s disciplinary fi le. Any violation of mail, return receipt requested, ad- the terms of the Contract of Resolution shall dressed to the address appearing be grounds for formal disciplinary action. in the Registrar’s records, or shall If the involved parties are unable to hand deliver said document with agree upon a resolution, the matter will the student signing a receipt. proceed to formal disciplinary proceed- 5.63 Distance Education Students: ings. The Mediator shall at all times retain For students not taking any of their discretion to terminate the mediation and classes physically on SHSU’s proceed to formal disciplinary proceedings Student 39 Guidelines where he/she determines that the media- person and to be advised during the tion process is not making adequate prog- hearing by a designated represen- ress toward an appropriate resolution. All tative or counsel of choice. Each Contracts of Resolution must be approved party shall limit its presentation to by the Chief Judicial Offi cer. Whenever relevant evidence. The accused stu- mediation is unsuccessful and the matter dent must attend the hearing if the proceeds to formal disciplinary hearings. student desires to present evidence. 5.7 Student Disciplinary Hearings. In The hearing may proceed notwith- those cases in which the accused student standing the accused student’s fail- disputes the facts upon which the charges ure to appear. are based, such charges shall be heard and 5.73 Both the Component represen- determined by a fair and impartial per- tative and the accused student shall son or committee, hereinafter called the have the right to question witness- hearing offi cer or hearing committee, se- es. The accused student may ques- lected in accordance with procedures ad- tion witnesses with the advice of a opted by the Component. Except in those designated representative or coun- cases where immediate interim disciplin- sel. All questions shall be limited to ary action has been taken under authority relevant evidence. of Subsection 5.(14), the accused student 5.74 The hearing will be recorded. shall be given at least fi ve (5) class days If either party desires to appeal the written notice by the Chief Student Af- fi nding, a copy of the recording will fairs Offi cer, or a designated appointee, be produced at the expense of the of the date, time, and place for such hear- party appealing the fi nding, ings and the name or names of the hear- and both parties will be furnished a ing offi cer or hearing committee. Hear- copy for appeals purposes only. ings held under Subsection 5.(14) will be 5.8 Student’s Right to Challenge Im- held under the same procedures set forth partiality. The accused student may below, but will be held as soon as practi- challenge the impartiality of the hear- cable within twelve (12) class days after ing offi cer or a member of the hearing the disciplinary action has been taken un- committee at any time prior to the intro- less otherwise agreed to by the student. duction of any evidence. The hearing of- Upon a hearing of the charges, the fi cer or member of the committee shall Component representative has the bur- be the sole judge of whether he or she den of going forward with the evidence can serve with fairness and objectivity. and the burden of proving the charges by In the event the challenged hearing offi - the greater weight of the credible evi- cer or member of the hearing committee dence. The hearing shall be conducted in chooses not to serve, a substitute will be accordance with procedures adopted by chosen in accordance with procedures the Component that assure both parties adopted by the Component. (Component representative and accused 5.9 Determination of Hearing. The hear- student) the following minimal rights: ing offi cer or hearing committee shall 5.71 Both parties will exchange render a decision to both parties as soon lists of witnesses, expected testi- as practicable as to the guilt or inno- mony, copies of documents to be cence of the accused student and shall, if introduced, and notice of intent to necessary, assess a penalty or penalties use legal counsel, at a reasonable including, but not necessarily limited to: time prior to the hearing. (1) Verbal written warning; 5.72 Each party shall have the right (2) Requirement that the to appear and present evidence in student complete a special Student 40 Guidelines project that may be, but is of other students in the not limited to, writing an es- course; say, attending a special class (15) Suspension from the or lecture, or attending coun- Component for a specifi ed seling sessions. The special period of time. During sus- project may be imposed only pension, a student shall not for a defi nite term; attend classes or participate (3) Cancellation of residence in any Component campus hall or apartment contract; activities; (4) Disciplinary probation (16) Loss of or ineligibility imposed for a defi nite period for student grant or loan; of time which stipulates that (17) Expulsion from the future violations may result Component. A student who in disciplinary suspension; is expelled from the Compo- (5) Ineligibility for election nent is not eligible for read- to student offi ce for a speci- mission to the Component; fi ed period of time; (18) Dismissal from the (6) Removal from student Component. A student, who or organization offi ce for a is dismissed, is separated specifi ed period of time; from the Component for an (7) Prohibition from repre- indefi nite period of time; senting the Component in (19) Recording sanctions any special honorary role; in Subsections 5.9(9), (11), (8) Withholding of offi cial (13), (14), (15), (17), and transcript or degree; (18) may be made on a stu- (9) Bar against readmission; dent’s permanent transcript. (10) Restitution whether The Component may main- monetary or by specifi c du- tain confi dential records of ties or reimbursement for all other sanctions and may damage to or misappropria- consider any prior sanction tion of Component, student, received by a student in as- or employee property; sessing a subsequent sanc- (11) Denial or non-recogni- tion. The Component shall tion of a degree; develop a procedure for ex- (12) Suspension of rights and punging those records not privileges for a specifi c peri- transcribed on a student’s od of time, including access permanent transcript within to electronic network facili- a reasonable time not to ex- ties and participation in ath- ceed fi ve (5) years after the letic, extracurricular, or other student ceases to be enrolled; student activities; (20) A student who, by a pre- (13) Withdrawing from a ponderance of the evidence, course with a grade of W, F, under these Rules and Regu- or WF; lations, is found to have ille- (14) Failing or reduction of a gally possessed, used, sold or grade in test or course, and/ distributed any drug, narcot- or retaking of test or course, ic, or controlled substance, and/or performing additional whether the infraction is academic work not required found to have occurred on Student 41 Guidelines or off campus, shall be sub- tee designated by the chief student af- ject to discipline, ranging fairs offi cer or if the determination has from mandatory, university been made by a hearing committee, the or college approved counsel- appeal will be made to the Chief Student ing to expulsion. Mitigating Affairs Offi cer or designated appointee. or aggravating factors in as- If the Chief Student Affairs Offi cer has sessing the proper level of served as the hearing offi cer, the appeal discipline shall include, but will be made to the vice President in not necessarily be limited charge of student affairs. Written no- to, the student’s motive for tice of appeal must be received by the engaging in the behavior; appeal offi cer within fi ve (5) business disciplinary history; effect days after the decision. An appeal is not of the behavior on safety and simply a rehearing of the original case. security of the university or An appeal must be based on: 1) whether college community; and the or not a fair hearing was afforded. A likelihood that the behavior fair hearing includes notice of the al- will recur. A student who has leged misconduct, and an opportunity to been suspended, dismissed, present evidence; 2) whether or not the probated or expelled from sanctions levied were appropriate to the any system Component shall offense; 3) whether or not the fi nding be ineligible to enroll at any was supported by the evidence; and/or other system Component 4) whether or not new evidence is intro- during the applicable period duced that was not available at the time of discipline. The registrar of the hearing. Both parties, at the dis- of each Component is autho- cretion of the appeal offi cer, may submit rized to make an appropri- oral or written arguments, to support ate notation on the student’s their positions. In order for the appeal to transcript to accomplish this be considered, the appealing party must objective and to remove the submit all necessary documentation, in- notation when the student’s cluding written arguments, when appro- disciplinary record has been priate, to the appeal offi cer within fi ve cleared. A second infraction (5) business days after giving notice of for a drug-related offense appeal. The appeal offi cer may approve, shall result in permanent ex- reject, modify the decision, or remand pulsion from the Component the matter to the original hearing offi cer and from all other institu- or hearing committee for reconsidera- tions in The Texas State Uni- tion. The appeal offi cer shall respond to versity System. the appeal within ten (10) business days 5.10 Appeal. Neither party may appeal after all the documentation was received if the hearing offi cer or hearing com- and all testimony was heard, or he or she mittee determines that the allegations may postpone a decision for good cause. against the accused student are true but 5.11 Review of the Vice President in the only punishment assessed is verbal charge of Student Affairs. The Vice or written warning. In those cases, the President may review any disciplinary determination of the hearing offi cer or case and may approve, reject, modify hearing committee is fi nal. However, in the decision or remand the matter to the all other cases, either party may appeal original hearing offi cer or committee for to the Chief Student Affairs Offi cer. If reconsideration. the hearing offi cer has been an appoin- 5.12 President’s Right to Review. The Student 42 Guidelines President may review any disciplinary in disciplinary actions as well as possible case, and approve, reject, or modify the legal actions. decision or remand the matter to the The permission for use is granted to each original hearing offi cer or hearing com- student by Sam Houston State University mittee for reconsideration. for non-commercial use of the computing 5.13 Board of Regents’ Right to Review. and communications facilities and services The Board of Regents retains the right of the university, including its computer sys- to review any disciplinary action and tems, associated peripherals and fi les, tele- approve, reject, modify the decision, or phone and network access, and all university remand the matter to the original hear- microcomputers, according to the terms de- ing offi cer or hearing committee for scribed herein. reconsideration. This permission extends to the use of 5.14 Interim Disciplinary Action. The licensed software according to the regula- Chief Student Affairs Offi cer, the Vice tions set forth herein by Sam Houston State President in charge of student affairs, University for the use of such software. The or the President of the Component may student use of such software is governed by take immediate interim disciplinary ac- the terms of licensing agreements between tion, including suspension, pending a the university and the software licensors, hearing against a student for violation of and the student must abide by the terms a rule and regulation of the System or of of those agreements. These software pro- the Component at which the accused is grams are proprietary and may, therefore, a student when the continuing presence be subject to copyright or patent restric- of the student poses a danger to persons tions as defi ned in the license agreements. or property or an ongoing threat of dis- Students must not copy, disclose, transfer, rupting the academic process. In the or remove any proprietary programs from event that the interim disciplinary action the media on which this software resides. includes suspension, the Component Students must not use Sam Houston State offi cial involved shall, as soon as pos- University equipment or software to violate sible, notify the President and the Vice the terms of any software license agree- Chancellor and General Counsel of such ment. Information on specifi c software li- action. censes on all public computer systems can 5.15 Civil Proceedings. Every student is be obtained from the university Computer expected to obey all Federal, State, and Services Department or other appropriate local laws and is expected to be familiar department. with the requirements of such laws. Any Students must not use Sam Houston State student who violates any provision of University’s computer systems, including those laws is subject to disciplinary ac- any of its communications facilities and tion, including expulsion, notwithstand- services, in any way which deliberately di- ing any action taken by civil authorities minishes or interferes with the reasonable on account of the violation. and private use of any computer systems, or which is intended to do same. Sam Houston STUDENT COMPUTER State University retains the right to inspect USE POLICY and/or remove, when necessary, as a func- tion of responsible system management, all All students, full or part-time, are grant- disk fi les stored on the university computing ed permission to use the computing re- facilities. sources of the university. The use of these Upon violation or misuse of the comput- systems is governed by the following rules ing facilities at Sam Houston State Univer- and any violation of these rules may result sity, the university retains the right to deny Student 43 Guidelines future computing privileges at all university- amount owed to the Component for tu- owned computing facilities. In addition any ition, fees, charges, or any other fi nan- student found in violation may also be sub- cial obligations may result in any or all ject to further disciplinary action, as well as of the following: legal action under Section 1, Title 7, Chapter (1) Dismissal from the Com- 33 of the Texas Penal Code, as well as legal ponent or other disciplinary action by the owners and licensors of pro- actions; prietary software for violation of copyright (2) Withholding of future laws and licenser agreements. registration privileges; (3) Withholding the issu- DEBTS OF STUDENTS ance of grades or an offi cial certifi ed transcript; 9.1 Debts of Students or Organiza- (4) Withholding the confer- tions. Neither the System nor any ring of a degree; Component is responsible for debts (5) Bar against readmission contracted by individual students or for the student; by student organizations. All students (6) Assessment of late fees and student organizations are expected and/or reinstatement fees. to conduct themselves honorably in all 9.4 Each Component is authorized to commercial transactions. Neither the require that non-resident international System nor any Component will as- students secure mandatory accident, sume the role of a collection agency sickness, catastrophic illness, evacu- except for monies owed to the System ation and repatriation insurance as a or one of its Components; nor, will condition of enrollment. the System or any of its Components

adjudicate disputes between students CO-CURRICULAR USE OF and creditors over the existence or UNIVERSITY FACILITIES the amounts of debts, except with the prior approval of the President of 1. Purpose and Application the Components or a designated ap- 1.1 The physical facilities of the uni- pointee in those cases where the in- versity are an integral part of the total terests of the Component may be a structure and must be utilized to give factor. the greatest support to the total program 9.2 Students’ Financial Obligations of the university. Primary consideration Students are expected to meet their fi - in the use of facilities must be the ful- nancial obligations to the Component fi llment of the educational needs of the within the designated time allowed. university community. The administra- Registration fees are payable at the tion does not desire to deny an autho- time of registration, and students are rized individual or organization the use not entitled to enter class or laboratory of any facility so long as this use does until their fees and deposits have been not impede the university’s educational paid. Other charges and fi nancial obli- function. It is, therefore, necessary for gations are due at registration or within all functions on campus, except for ten days after a bill is rendered by the those using recreational and/or athletic Component or according to the special facilities, academic buildings, or those payment instructions that may be print- facilities managed by the President’s ed on the bill. Offi ce which require the use of institu- 9.3 Penalties for Failure to Pay tional facilities to receive the approval Failure to pay in the allotted time the of the director of the Lowman Student

Student 44 Guidelines Center and for the appropriate facility to tered by the university. be scheduled and reserved through the d. Professional societies or busi- LSC Offi ce in accordance with the pro- ness organizations participating visions of paragraph 3.1 of this policy. in programs related to academic 1.2 The purpose of this policy is to de- activities of the university. lineate policy relating to the co-curric- e. Groups sponsored by a univer- ular use of university facilities. sity department. 1.3 As a general rule, parents and f. Groups or individuals sponsored spouses of students and members of the or invited by the university presi- faculty, persons who visit and consult dent or his designated offi cial(s). with members of the administration or 2.2 In addition to the specifi c regu- faculty, and others who have a legiti- lations contained in this document, mate interest in the university and who certain general responsibilities are in- desire to occasionally visit the univer- cumbent upon organizations using the sity campus are welcome. The facilities facilities and each organization is ac- and campus of the university are, how- countable for its activities in the con- ever, reserved for and dedicated to edu- text of these general responsibilities. cational use and no use may be made of a. The activities shall be conso- the same which is inconsistent with that nant with the purpose of the or- primary use. ganization and the university and 1.4 The university, acting on its own with established university regula- or at the request of an offi cially recog- tions and public laws. nized campus organization, may invite b. The organization shall not en- speakers, performers, or entertainers to gage in activities which interfere appear before audiences on the univer- with the ongoing activities of sity campus. For further information the university or of any other ap- see Sec. 4.3 Time, Place and Manner proved organization. Restrictions. c. The organization shall be re- 1.5 No person or persons who substan- sponsible for its members’ behav- tially interfere with or who threaten ior when: with the apparent ability to carry out (1) they are acting as mem- such threat to substantially interfere bers of the organizations with the normal activities of the univer- (with or without offi cial sity or to substantially interfere with or approval) rather than as deny the lawful rights of others to use individuals. the facilities of the university shall enter (2) an event is held (offi - or remain upon the university campus. cially or unoffi cially) in the 2. Permission to Use name of the organization. 2.1 The following groups are welcome (3) they act in a manner to use the university facilities upon re- which indicates such action ceipt and confi rmation of their request is motivated by mutual mem- for use. bership in the organization. a. Student organizations as recog- (4) the association between, nized by the university and appro- and the action of the indi- priately sponsored. viduals under circumstances b. Academic organizations, fac- which draw attention to the ulty and university staff groups. organization rather than to c. Participants in short courses themselves as individuals. or specialized programs adminis- (5) Organizations are respon- Student 45 Guidelines sible for damages, injuries, pus recognized organization may pick up the etc., that occur during use. appropriate reservation request form from 3. Conditions and Limitations on Use of the LSC Offi ce, located in Room 311. The Facilities request form must be completed, signed by 3.1 Requests for approval of functions the organizational representative making the and for facilities must be made on the reservation and the faculty/staff sponsor, and appropriate form provided and avail- then returned to the director of the LSC for able in the Lowman Student Center fi nal approval. (LSC) offi ce, and on the LSC website 5. Off-Campus Activities www.shsu.edu/~lsc. All signatures Any wholly off-campus activity will not must be obtained, questions answered, require university approval. If any activity is and the request presented a minimum planned that involves university facilities and of two (2) business days prior to the de- off-campus facilities, that portion that is held sired date of use. on campus must be cleared and approved 3.2 Sponsoring organizations assume through the usual arrangement procedures. full responsibility for any fi nancial ob- 6. Legal Considerations and Disruptions ligations, damage to facilities or equip- 6.1 Non-members of the university ment, actions of participants, and for community are required, while on the having read and understood the uni- campus, to observe and comply with versity Code of Student Conduct and the rules and regulations adopted by Discipline and the university Policy on the university or the Board of Regents: Speech and Assembly. A faculty/staff copies of the same to be found in the advisor may be required to be in atten- Dean of Students’ Offi ce as well as dance during the scheduled use of any those specifi c statutes of the state of university facility by an organization. Texas relating to university property. 3.3 Whenever non-university groups Non-members of the university com- share with university groups in the use munity are also required, while on of university facilities, it must be upon campus, to identify themselves upon the invitation of the university and with the request of a university offi cial or the understanding that the sponsoring University Police or other law enforce- organization assumes full responsibil- ment offi cer in the performance of his ity for the activity. or her duty. 3.4 The university is no way obli- 6.2 The university campus is not a gated for functions in which an orga- sanctuary and any person who violates nization has contracted an outside in- any local, state, or federal law shall not dividual or group (such as a speaker, be protected nor given any preferred entertainment group, dance band, etc.) status in the eyes of the law by reason and there is an honorarium or fee in- of the fact that the violation occurred volved unless a contract is signed on the university campus or by reason by an offi cial representative of the of the fact that the violator is a member university specifi cally authorized of the university community. by the president of the university. 6.3 When it appears to the president, 3.5 Admission charges may be made or any university offi cial or an offi cer or an offering may be received if uni- of the University Police authorized versity approval is given at the time the and designated by him to maintain or- reservation is completed for the use of der, that any non-member of the uni- its facilities. versity community has violated on the 4. Arrangements campus, any local, state, or federal law Any representative authorized by a cam- or any university rule or regulation, Student 46 Guidelines such person or persons may be ordered sale of any property or service, or (2) by such offi cial or offi cer of the Uni- the receipt of or request for any gift or versity Police to leave the university contribution. The term “solicit” means campus, and should the university see to engage in solicitation. fi t, charges fi led against such person or 3.11 No person may solicit on the persons. campus of any component univer- 6.4 The president may make due ap- sity. However, the following ac- plication to any court for injunctive tivities are not solicitation: or other judicial relief in regard to (1) The sale or offer for sale the threatened or actual violation of of any newspaper, maga- any of the above-mentioned rules or zine, or other publication by regulations. means of a vending machine 7. Review or distribution stand in an 7.1 The responsibility of review and to area designated by the presi- recommend the revision or cancellation dent or an appointee. of this Policy Statement resides with (2) The sale or offer for sale the vice president for student services. of food, drink and other items 7.2 This policy shall be reviewed through vending machines annually. operated by the university or 8. Appeal its subcontractor in an area Students or university-recognized stu- designated by the president dent organizations may follow the stu- or an appointee. dent affairs grievance procedure in any (3) The sale or offer for sale appeal of this policy. of any university publication, book, or other material used GENERAL PROVISIONS in the academic work of the FOR CAMPUS ACTIVITIES university by the university or its subcontractor in an area 1. Campus Disruptive Activities designated by the president Pursuant to V.T.C.A. Education Code, or an appointee. Section 4.30 (Disruptive Activities) all uni- (4) The operation by the versity personnel, students, and others shall university or its subcontrac- follow the RULES AND REGULATIONS tor of a bookstore, specialty as specifi ed in Chapter VI, Subsection 5.4, store, laundry, cafeteria, or et seq., while in university facilities or on other service maintained for university property. the convenience of the uni- 2. Notice to Chancellor and Board versity’s students, faculty, or When dealing with disruptive activities at staff. a System university, the president shall take (5) The sale or offer for immediate action to utilize all lawful mea- sale by the university or its sures to halt and eliminate any and all such subcontractor of food, and disruptive activities and shall immediately drinks, souvenirs, and pro- notify the Chancellor and the Chairman of grams at athletic contests or the Board of Regents. other events sponsored or 3. Solicitation, Demonstrations, Use of authorized by the university. University Facilities, Motor Driven Ve- (6) The advertisement of hicles and Equipment any activity, item, or prod- 3.1 Solicitation. The term “solicita- uct sponsored or authorized tion” means: (1) the sale or offer for by the university and ap- Student 47 Guidelines proved by the president or an sheltered annuities, or other appointee. services to the university or (7) The collection of tuition its employees. and fees in connection with (13) Advertisements ap- enrollment of students in pearing in any university courses and programs. publication. (8) The collection of fees or (14) Advertisements sent dues by registered student, through the United States faculty, or staff organizations. Postal Service. (9) The collection of fees 3.12 Solicitation. The provisions or contributions for the ex- listed in Sections 3.11(1)-3.11(14) hibition of movies or other must take place in a manner that: programs, including fi ne arts (1) preserves an academic and athletic events sponsored atmosphere and does not dis- by the university or by regis- rupt classes, university pro- tered student, faculty, or staff grams, or other activities. organizations. (2) maintains security (10) Activities sponsored and safety for persons and by registered student, fac- property; ulty, or staff organizations (3) protects the privacy of on behalf of charitable or- students, faculty, and staff; ganizations, provided they (4) permits the free fl ow are conducted in accor- of pedestrian and vehicular dance with nondiscrimina- traffi c; tory policies approved by the (5) protects persons on cam- president or an appointee. pus from crime and avoids (11) Events sponsored by a unlawful activities; registered student, faculty, (6) preserves the beauty or staff organization or the of the university’s campus, university that are authorized buildings, and facilities; and scheduled in accordance (7) maintains the campus, with the facilities-use regu- buildings, and facilities in a lations of the university. All clean, orderly, and appeal- signs, tickets, and literature ing appearance, and avoids advertising the event must unnecessary wear and tear identify the sponsoring or- on buildings, grounds, or ganization. The university facilities; may require that members (8) protects students, fac- of the sponsoring organiza- ulty, and staff from decep- tion solicit directly, and may tion, fraud, and commercial prevent organizations from exploitation; and using nonmembers to solicit (9) eliminates unnecessary for the organization. costs and waste of university (12) Activities of agents of resources. companies authorized by the 3.121 The president university to provide instru- may prohibit persons ments, equipment, supplies, or organizations from health insurance, optional soliciting on campus if retirement programs, tax- they fail to follow these Student 48 Guidelines rules. local law (see Subsection 3.22). 3.122 The president Literature may not be distributed may require that the where the manner or form of said student government distribution constitutes disorderly and each registered conduct, disrupts classroom dis- student organization cussion, impedes the maintenance fi le a sworn statement of public order, or constitutes a disclosing: (1) the danger to the person distributing sources and amounts of or disseminating the material or to money received from any group or individual. solicitation during the 3.22 For the purposes of Subsec- preceding or current tion 3.21, advocacy means ad- semester or summer dressing the group for imminent session, and (2) the action and steeling it to such ac- payees and amounts of tion as opposed to the abstract es- expenditures of funds pousal of the moral propriety of a received from solicita- course of action. tions. Any student gov- 3.23 Any group or person, ernment or registered whether or not a student or em- student organization ployee, demonstrating on campus failing to comply with shall adhere to the provisions of the request of the presi- V.T.C.A. Education Code, Section dent shall be prohibited 4.30, as cited in Chapter VI, Sub- from solicitation on the section 5.4, of these RULES AND campus until such or- REGULATIONS. ganization comes into 3.3 Use of System Facilities by Uni- compliance. versity Organizations. Registered stu- 3.2 Demonstrations, Publications, dent, faculty, and/or staff organizations Posters, etc. Reasonable and nondis- may use the university’s buildings and/ criminatory rules and regulations as or grounds in compliance with reason- to time, place, and manner may be able and nondiscriminatory univer- promulgated by the president of the sity rules and regulations approved university to authorize student, faculty, by the university president that shall staff, and their registered organizations specify the policies and procedures to petition, distribute publications, post under which such organizations may signs, set up booths, and/or peacefully reserve the university’s buildings and/ demonstrate on the university campus. or grounds for their use. Extracurricu- Such regulations shall prohibit any lar student, faculty, or staff activities activity that would interfere with aca- involving the use of System-owned demic or institutional programs. buildings and grounds shall be con- 3.21 No group or person, whether ducted in accordance with local, state, or not a student or employee, shall and national law and in accordance publicly display, distribute, or dis- with the applicable System and univer- seminate on the university campus sity regulations. Such activities shall any petition, handbill, or piece of not disrupt or disturb the academic and literature, work, or material that university program and shall not result is obscene, vulgar, or libelous, in damage to or defacement of proper- or that advocates the deliberate ty. Registered student, faculty, or staff violation of any federal, state, or organizations may not enter into joint Student 49 Guidelines sponsorship of any on-campus project tion for political or sectarian gath- or program which involves fi nancial erings. However, the appearance commitments or the scheduling or use by or on behalf of a candidate for of facilities with individuals, groups, or public offi ce may be authorized students that are not registered without under conditions prescribed by the prior written approval of the university Board in Section 4 of this Chapter. president or his designee through nor- 3.45 Whenever non-System mal administrative channels. groups share in the use of System 3.4 Use of System Facilities by Out- buildings, it must be upon the in- side Groups. Use of grounds and physi- vitation of the System and under cal facilities of the System, especially its joint sponsorship, and with auditoriums, gymnasiums, and large the further understanding that all rooms, by outside individuals, groups, the conditions governing such or associations shall be subject to poli- sponsorship are to be set by the cies approved by the university presi- System. dent. The university policies covering 3.46 The System, when entering the use of facilities shall be subject into joint sponsorship of any pro- to the following rules in which the gram or activity, reserves the right “System” shall mean any component to approve advertising as well as university. news releases. 3.41 The System will not permit 3.47 The authorization for use of the unrestricted use by non-Sys- the System’s facilities for func- tem groups of any of its facilities. tions other than the university’s 3.42 The System will not enter own activities shall be at the sole into joint sponsorship of any proj- discretion of the president and ect or program that is to result in subject to the needs and the con- private gain for the cooperating venience of the System which individuals, group, or associations are always to have priority in the unless the president has reviewed scheduling of facilities. the project or program and has 3.48 In the case of programs for determined that such joint spon- which the System is a joint spon- sorship serves a public purpose sor with some other individual, and adequate contractual or other group, or organization, the fee to controls ensure its realization as be paid by the co-sponsor will be required by Article 3, Section 51, a matter for negotiation in each of the Texas Constitution. case, subject to fi nal approval by 3.43 The System will not enter the university president or a desig- into joint sponsorship of any pro- nated appointee, and will be speci- gram or activity in which the edu- fi ed in the agreement providing cational implications or benefi ts for the joint sponsorship. are not self-evident and which 3.5 Use of Motor-driven Vehicles does not directly supplement or Equipment. The president of each the educational purposes of the university shall promulgate a policy, System. specifying conditions for operation or 3.44 The System, established as use by students of university owned, a public university without regard controlled or leased motor-driven ve- to political affi liation or religious hicles or motor-driven equipment. The faith, cannot be a joint sponsor policy shall include, but not necessarily with any non-campus organiza- be limited to, requirements that users Student 50 Guidelines of such vehicles or equipment operate classes, seminars, symposia, and the same only during specifi ed hours; conferences intended for the use document proof of current medical in- and benefi t of students, faculty, surance coverage; signed medical treat- staff, and invited guests. No per- ment authorization forms; and signed son may obstruct or lessen in any liability waivers in favor of the univer- way the opportunity for the audi- sity, the Board of Regents, the System, ence to. The number of students, and their respective offi cers, employ- faculty, staff, and guests may be ees, or agents. limited to prevent a hazard to the 4. Speech and Assembly safety of the audience. 4.1 Defi nition. Freedom of inquiry 4.24 Off-campus speakers who and discussion is basic and essential have not been sponsored or in- to intellectual development. However, vited by a registered student, these freedoms must be exercised in a faculty, or staff organization or manner that does not illegally derogate by the component administration the rights of others or interfere with the shall be prohibited from speak- academic programs and administrative ing to groups in campus facilities processes of a component. and buildings unless the speaker is 4.2 Off-Campus Speakers in Compo- speaking to an off-campus organi- nent Facilities. The freedoms of speech zation that has been authorized to and assembly guaranteed by the First meet on the campus. and Fourteenth Amendments to the 4.25 With the prior written ap- United States Constitution shall be en- proval of the component presi- joyed by the students, faculty, and staff dent, the component may, at its of the components of The Texas State sole discretion, lease or rent space University System with respect to the in the student center or other ap- opportunity to hear off-campus or out- propriate buildings or grounds for side, speakers. political rallies and meetings pro- 4.21 If a registered campus orga- vided that space is made available nization is sponsoring a campus to legitimate political candidates speaker, it has the responsibility of in a nondiscriminatory fashion making clear the fact that the or- and the rent for such space is ganization, not the component, is based on a fair market value. extending the invitation to speak 4.3 Time, Place and Manner Restric- and that any views the speaker tions. While freedom of speech and may express are the speaker’s assembly is encouraged, the law recog- own and not necessarily those of nizes that there is no absolute right to the System or of the component. assembly or to make or hear a speech at 4.22 Students, faculty, staff, and any time or place regardless of the cir- registered organizations cam- cumstances, content of speech, purpose paigning for public offi ce on be- of assembly, or probable consequences half of candidates for public offi ce of such meeting or speech. The issu- must abide by the provisions of ance of invitations to outside speakers this section. shall be limited as follows: 4.23 Speakers to be paid from 4.31 A request to invite an outside state funds to speak on a compo- speaker will be considered by the nent campus shall speak in a fa- component only when made by a cility that is open to the public. registered student, faculty, or staff This subsection does not apply to organization. No invitation shall Student 51 Guidelines be issued to an outside speaker component president, whose deci- without prior written concur- sion shall be fi nal. If the president rence of the component president fails to decide the matter within or a designee for scheduling of seven (7) business days following speaker dates and assignment of the fi ling of the appeal, it shall be campus facilities. deemed granted, and the speaker’s 4.32 Any speaker request shall be invitation may be issued by the made in writing to the president organization. or a designee by an offi cer of a 4.35 Where the request for an registered student, faculty, or staff outside speaker is granted and organization, or by an adminis- the speaker accepts the invita- trative offi cer of the component, tion, the sponsoring organization desiring to sponsor the proposed shall inform the president or a speaker not later than six (6) busi- designee, immediately in writing ness days prior to the date of the of such acceptance. The president proposed speaking engagement. or a designee, may, at his or her This request shall contain the discretion, require that the meet- name of the sponsoring organi- ing be chaired by a member of the zation; the proposed date, time, administration or faculty and that and location of the meeting; the a statement be made at the meet- expected size of the audience; and ing that the views presented are the topic of speech. Any request not necessarily those of the com- not acted upon by the component ponent or of the sponsoring orga- president or a designee within fi ve nization. By acceptance of the in- (5) business days after submission vitation to speak, the speaker shall shall be deemed granted. assume full responsibility for any 4.33 A request made by a regis- violation of law committed by the tered organization may be denied speaker while on campus. only if the component president, 4.4 Assembly on Component Grounds. or the authorized designee, deter- Any group or person, whether or not mines, after proper inquiry, that a student or employee, and whether the proposed speech will consti- or not invited by a registered student, tute a clear and present danger to faculty, or staff organization, may as- the component’s orderly operation semble and engage in free speech ac- as defi ned in Subsection 2.5. tivities on the grounds of the campus. 4.34 Where the request for an out- However, the component president or a side speaker is denied, the spon- designee may adopt reasonable nondis- soring organization may appeal criminatory rules and regulations as to to the president or a authorized time, place, and manner of such activi- designee in writing within three ties and may prohibit such activities if (3) business days of the denial. A it is determined, after proper inquiry, hearing within will be held within that the proposed speech constitutes a four (4) business days following clear and present danger as defi ned in the fi ling of its appeal before an Subsection 4.5 below. impartial board or administrator 4.5 Clear and Present Danger. Pro- appointed by the president for a de posed speech which constitutes a clear novo consideration of the request. and present danger to the component’s Such board or administrator shall orderly operation by the speaker’s ad- make a recommendation to the vocacy (i.e., preparing the group ad- Student 52 Guidelines dressed and steeling it to such action natory Rules and Regulations as to as opposed to the abstract espousal of time, place, and manner may be pro- the propriety of resort to force) may mulgated by the president or a designee be prohibited. In determining the ex- of the component to authorize students, istence of a clear and present danger, faculty, staff, and their registered com- the component president, may consider ponent organizations to petition, dis- all relevant factors, including whether, tribute publications, post signs, set up within the past fi ve years such speaker booths and/or peacefully demonstrate has incited violence resulting in the de- on the component campus. Such regu- struction of property at any public insti- lation shall prohibit any activity that tution or has willfully caused the forc- would interfere with academic or com- ible disruption of regularly scheduled ponent programs. classes or other educational functions 3.21 No group or person, whether at any such institution. There must be or not a student or employee, shall not only advocacy to action but also a publicly display, distribute, or dis- reasonable apprehension of imminent seminate on the component cam- danger to the essential functions and pus any petition, handbill, or piece purposes of the component. of literature, work, or material that is obscene, vulgar, or libelous, or PARADES, that advocates the deliberate viola- PUBLICATIONS, tion of any federal, state, or local DEMONSTRATIONS law. Literature may not be distrib- AND RALLIES uted where the manner or form of said distribution constitutes disor- 1. Purpose derly conduct, disrupts classroom The purpose of this policy is to govern discussion, impedes the mainte- the conduct of all parades, demonstra- nance of public order, or consti- tions, rallies, and use of the Free Ex- tutes a danger to the person distrib- pression Area on university property or uting or disseminating the material at university sponsored events. or to any group or individual. 2. Review 3.22 For the purposes of Subsec- This policy shall be reviewed annually tion 2.21, advocacy means ad- by the chief student affairs offi cer. dressing the group for imminent 3. Policy action and steeling, bolstering, or 3.1 Parades, demonstrations, and ral- bracing it to such action as op- lies must comply with these rules and posed to the abstract espousal of university policy and must not: the moral propriety of a course of a. Result in a breach of peace or action. violation of any law. 3.23 Any group or person, wheth- b. Interfere with the free and un- er or not a student or employee, restricted fl ow of pedestrian and demonstrating on campus shall vehicular traffi c on campus or the adhere to the provisions of Educa- entry or the exit to any university tion Code, Section 4.30, as cited building, structure, or facility. in Chapter VI, Subsection 3.4, of c. Materially disrupt or inter- these Rules and Regulations. fere with normal activities of the 3.3 Disruptive Activities. Disruptive university. activities are prohibited on a compo- 3.2 Demonstrations, Publications, nent campus. See Education Code, Sec- Posters. Reasonable and nondiscrimi- tion 51.935 and Chapter VI, Subsec- Student 53 Guidelines tion 5.4. The president shall promptly may appeal to the ADA Compliance and utilize all lawful measures to halt and Oversight Committee. eliminate any and all such disruptive Students with disabilities may request activities and shall immediately notify admissions or registration assistance by the Chancellor and the Chairman of the calling the Undergraduate Admissions Of- Board of Regents. fi ce (936) 294-1828 or Registrar’s Offi ce (936) 294-1040. STUDENTS WITH Telecommunication Device for the Deaf DISABILITIES (TDD) locations are as follows with corre- sponding telephone numbers: Services to Students with Disabilities • Dean of Students’ Offi ce: (936) 294-3785 It is the policy of Sam Houston State Uni- • Counseling Center and versity that no otherwise qualifi ed disabled Services for Students individual shall, solely by reason of his/her with Disabilities: (936) 294-3786 disability, be excluded from the participation • University Police: (936) 294-3787 in, be denied the benefi ts of, or be subjected • Offi ce of Undergraduate to discrimination under any academic pro- Admissions: (936) 294-3788 gram or activity. • Registrar’s Offi ce: (936) 294-3789 Students seeking academic accommoda- Services for Students with Disabilities tions under Section 504 of the Rehabilita- is located in the Counseling Center (936) tion Act of 1973 and the Americans with 294-1720. Hours of operation are Monday Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 should through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. register with Sam Houston State Univer- sity Services for Students with Disabilities HAZING ACT (SSD). In order for students with disabili- (The following is excerpted from state ties to be eligible for academic accommo- of Texas statutes and is binding on this dations and adjustments, they need to pro- university.) vide documentation that shows evidence of a “substantially limiting” disability as SUBCHAPTER F. HAZING defi ned by federal legislation noted above. Service and documentation guidelines Texas Education Code § 37.151 - § 37.157 are available in the SSD offi ce. Students 37.151. Defi nitions needing interpreter services should notify In this subchapter: SSD at least two months in advance of the (1) “Educational institution” includes semester. a public or private high school. Adaptive technology is located in (2) “Pledge” means any person who the SSD, the Newton Gresham Library has been accepted by or is considering (NGL), and computer labs around cam- an offer of membership from, or is in pus. SSD and NGL have CCTVs, screen the process of qualifying for member- readers, and scanners. Each computer ship in an organization. lab has a large monitor and Zoom Text (3) “Pledging” means any action or ac- – level 2. tivity related to becoming a member of If you feel that you have been discrimi- an organization. nated against, you may fi le a grievance. (4) “Student” means any person who: Prior to fi ling a formal grievance, students (A) is registered in or in atten- are encouraged to resolve the issue directly dance at an educational institution; with the individual involved. Procedures for (B) has been accepted for ad- fi ling academic grievances are provided in mission at the educational insti- this document. If you are not satisfi ed, you tution where the hazing incident

Student 54 Guidelines occurs; or fects the mental health or dignity (C) intends to attend an educa- of the student or discourages the tional institution during any of its student from entering or remain- regular sessions after a period of ing registered in an educational scheduled vacation. institution, or that may reasonably (5) “Organization” means a fraternity, be expected to cause a student to sorority, association, corporation, or- leave the organization or the in- der, society, corps, club, or service, so- stitution rather than submit to acts cial, or similar group, whose members described in this subdivision; and are primarily students. (E) any activity that induces, (6) “Hazing” means any intentional, causes, or requires the student to knowing, or reckless act, occurring on perform a duty or task that involves or off the campus of an educational in- a violation of the Penal Code. stitution, by one person alone or acting 37.152. Personal Hazing Offense with others, directed against a student, (a) A person commits an offense if the that endangers the mental or physical person: health or safety of a student for the pur- (1) engages in hazing; pose of pledging, being initiated into, (2) solicits, encourages, directs, affi liating with, holding offi ce in, or aids, or attempts to aid another in maintaining membership in an organi- engaging in hazing; zation. The term includes: (3) recklessly permits hazing to (A) any type of physical brutal- occur; or ity, such as whipping, beating, (4) has fi rsthand knowledge of striking, branding, electronic the planning of a specifi c hazing shocking, placing of a harmful incident involving a student in substance on the body, or similar an educational institution, or has activity; fi rsthand knowledge that a spe- (B) any type of physical activity, cifi c hazing incident has occurred, such as sleep deprivation, expo- and knowingly fails to report that sure to the elements, confi nement knowledge in writing to the dean in a small space, calisthenics, or of students or other appropriate other activity that subjects the offi cial of the institution. student to an unreasonable risk of (b) The offense of failing to report is a harm or that adversely affects the Class B misdemeanor. mental or physical health or safety (c) Any other offense under this section of the student; that does not cause serious bodily inju- (C) any activity involving con- ry to another is a Class B misdemeanor. sumption of a food, liquid, alco- (d) Any other offense under this sec- holic beverage, liquor, drug, or tion that causes serious bodily injury to other substance that subjects the another is a Class A misdemeanor. student to an unreasonable risk of (e) Any other offense under this sec- harm or that adversely affects the tion that causes the death of another is a mental or physical health or safety state jail felony. of the student; (f) Except if an offense causes the (D) any activity that intimidates death of a student, in sentencing a or threatens the student with os- person convicted of an offense under tracism, that subjects the student this section, the court may require the to extreme mental stress, shame, person to perform community ser- or humiliation, that adversely af- Student 55 Guidelines vice, subject to the same conditions report. A person reporting in bad faith or with imposed on a person placed on com- malice is not protected by this section. munity supervision under Section 11, 37.156. Offenses in Addition to Other Article 42.12, Code of Criminal Pro- Penal Provisions cedure, for an appropriate period of This subchapter does not affect or repeal time in lieu of confi nement in county any penal law of this state. This subchapter jail or in lieu of a part of the time the does not limit or affect the right of an educa- person is sentenced to confi nement in tional institution to enforce its own penalties county jail. against hazing. 37.153. Organization Hazing Offense 37.157. Reporting by Medical Authorities (a) An organization commits an of- A doctor or other medical practitioner fense if the organization condones or who treats a student who may have been encourages hazing or if an offi cer or subjected to hazing activities: any combination of members, pledges, (1) may report the suspected hazing or alumni of the organization commits activities to police or other law enforce- or assists in the commission of hazing. ment offi cials; and (b) An offense under this section is a (2) is immune from civil or other li- misdemeanor punishable by: ability that might otherwise be imposed (1) a fi ne of not less than $ 5,000 or incurred as a result of the report, un- nor more than $ 10,000; or less the report is made in bad faith or (2) if the court fi nds that the of- with malice. fense caused personal injury, property damage, or other loss, a PARKING AND TRAFFIC fi ne of not less than $ 5,000 nor more than double the amount lost All students, full or part-time, who oper- or expenses incurred because of ate a motor vehicle on university property, the injury, damage, or loss. regularly or occasionally, are required to register those vehicles with the Depart- 37.154. Consent Not a Defense ment of Public Safety Services and obtain It is not a defense to prosecution of an of- a parking decal assigning a designated area fense under this subchapter that the person or areas for parking. Students at the time of against whom the hazing was directed con- regular registration, will obtain their park- sented to or acquiesced in the hazing activity. ing decal for the vehicle to be operated on campus. During preregistration, students 37.155. Immunity From Prosecution will indicate if a parking permit is request- Available ed. When registration payment is made, the In the prosecution of an offense under this students will take their paid receipt to the subchapter, the court may grant immunity Public Safety Services Building (or other from prosecution for the offense to each per- location posted) and their parking permit son who is subpoenaed to testify for the pros- will be issued. At all other times, any vehicle ecution and who does testify for the prosecu- registration or change of vehicles will be tion. Any person reporting a specifi c hazing accomplished at the Department of Public incident involving a student in an educational Safety Services located at 2424 South Sam institution to the dean of students or other ap- Houston Avenue. Students are expected to propriate offi cial of the institution is immune become familiar with and obey the Parking from civil or criminal liability that might oth- and Traffi c Regulations. A copy of the regu- erwise be incurred or imposed as a result of lations is issued with each parking decal. As the report. Immunity extends to participation in any community, a system of fi nes is estab- in any judicial proceeding resulting from the Student 56 Guidelines lished for various violations. All University an atmosphere conducive to the educa- Police citations are subject to a hearing, but tional purposes of the university. a request for a hearing must be fi led within 2. Review three (3) days of issuance through the Park- 2.1 The responsibility to review and to ing Appeals Committee. An offi cial form re- recommend the revision or cancellation questing such a hearing must be secured in of this policy statement resides with the person from the Department of Public Safety Department of Student Activities. Services Offi ce, located at 2424 South Sam 2.2 This policy shall be reviewed Houston Avenue. annually. The Parking Appeals Committee shall be 3. Eligibility made up of faculty, students, and staff. 3.1 Students and offi cially registered Any person receiving 3 or more unresolved campus organizations may post and/ citations shall be considered to be in fl agrant or distribute printed materials on the violation of university parking regulations. university campus in compliance with The university reserves the right to im- university policy. pound or have impounded any vehicle which 3.2 Private Enterprise and/or Off- is parked in a manner dangerous to vehicular Campus Organizations will be permit- or pedestrian traffi c, or in fl agrant violation ted to post and/or distribute printed ma- of university parking regulations. The ve- terials on the university campus only hicle owner shall bear all costs involved in during Bearkat Mania. Posting and/ such vehicle removal. or distribution of printed materials at Students’ records, transcripts, and grades times other than Bearkat Mania will be may be tagged and held for failure to re- subject to approval by the Director of solve their parking citations. Moving viola- Student Activities. tions are issued on Justice of Peace Court 4. Posting Summons and are adjudicated in the Justice 4.1 No signs, posters, or advertise- of Peace Court, Walker County, Texas, and ments shall be nailed, tied, hung, writ- the City of Huntsville Municipal Court. ten or otherwise affi xed to any trees, Some fl agrant parking violations may bushes, buildings, walkways, posts, be assigned to the Justice of Peace Court fences or any university fi xture. ALSO, (handicapped space violation would be an NO HANDBILLS MAY BE PLACED example). ON CARS PARKED ON UNIVER- AVOID parking citations by reading and SITY PROPERTY. obeying university parking regulations. 4.2 Students and offi cially registered campus organizations may post printed POSTING AND material on designated campus bulletin DISTRIBUTION OF boards with stamped approval of the PRINTED MATERIALS Department of Student Activities. The building liaison or their designate is 1. Purpose responsible for monitoring their build- 1.1 The purpose of this statement is to ing’s bulletin boards. delineate policy and procedure relat- 4.3 Printed materials may be posted ing to the posting and/or distribution on the bulletin boards in the Lowman of printed materials on the university Student Center with the stamped ap- campus. proval of the Department of Student 1.2 The specifi c objective is to estab- Activities and in accordance with the lish policies and practices pertaining to posted policy next to each bulletin the distribution of printed materials on board. the university campus so as to provide 4.4 All printed materials must conform Student 57 Guidelines to the general rules as follow: be prominent and visible on all printed 1. Printed materials may not ex- materials. ceed an overall size of 14″ x 22″. 6.2 Guidelines for Advertising Al- 2. Posted materials must not cov- cohol-Related Functions on campus. er prior posted materials and must Purpose: To encourage the responsible not extend beyond the edges of the use of alcohol, and to insure that ad- bulletin board. vertising for alcohol-related functions 3. Defaced material is subject to convey the basic principles of respon- removal. sible hosting. 4. Posted materials must identify a. Non-alcoholic beverages and/ campus affi liate, sponsoring orga- or food must be advertised equal nization, or individual student. to the advertising for alcoholic 5. Materials may be posted for a drinks (same size print, etc.). period not to exceed two weeks or b. Any printed advertisement until the conclusion of the event for an activity involving alcohol (whichever applies fi rst). Prompt must be stamped or printed with: removal of expired postings is the “Responsible Use of Alcohol is responsibility of the sponsoring Expected.” student or organization. c. The activity must be portrayed 6. Materials posted in violation as a social activity, having a pur- of printed policies are subject pose other than the consumption to removal and sanction by the of alcohol. university (Dean of Students’ d. The overall advertisement must Offi ce). be in “good taste,” as determined 5. Distribution by the Offi ce of Student Activi- 5.1 Students and offi cially registered ties (no “Drink and Drown,” etc.). campus organizations may distribute e. The advertising material must printed materials on the university clearly indicate sponsorship by campus in compliance with univer- an offi cially registered campus sity policy. Approval for distribution of organization. printed materials, except in recreation- f. All policies and procedures al and/or athletic facilities, residence as published in the solicitation halls, and academic buildings, requires policy in this publication must be completion and approval of a Campus followed. Reservation Form available from the 7. Organization Letters, Signs and Logos LSC Staff Offi ce, located in Room 311. 7.1 Organization letters, signs and lo- 5.2 Distribution in residence halls will gos may be placed on campus. All let- not be permitted. Residence hall mail ters, signs and logos are limited to a boxes are not to be used for distributing maximum height of four feet. printed materials by campus organiza- 8. Appeals tions, private enterprise, or individuals 8.1 Appeals of this policy by students unless the appropriate bulk rate or stan- or university registered student organi- dard postal rates have been paid. Door to zations will be reviewed by the Dean of door distribution will not be permitted. Students’ Offi ce. 6. Special Printed Materials 6.1 Advertisement of co-sponsored ac- PUBLICATIONS OF tivities should give equal billing to the STUDENT GROUPS sponsoring campus organization. The The university affi rms its position that organization’s name and/or logo should Student 58 Guidelines freedom of expression, as well as inquiry, is this principle along with other published stu- essential to a student’s educational develop- dent policies, all organizations will refrain ment. Vigorous intellectual explorations by from conducting any pledging, initiation, or students may sometimes result in questioning other extracurricular activities that will in of popular conceptions, and this in turn, may any way be detrimental, defamatory, ridicul- elicit the concern of society at large. One of ing or embarrassing to any race, color, creed the axioms upon which our nation was built, or national origin. All organizations should however, is that truth needs no protection, be well aware of the state of Texas Statute but is vital by vigorous debate in a market on Hazing. place where all ideas can be presented and 1. Statement of Purpose then tested by the reason of free people. Sam Houston State University recognizes Publications of student groups are encour- both the right of students to form into orga- aged on the campus of Sam Houston State nizations and the benefi ts which can result University. However, freedom of inquiry and from membership in groups having similar expression does not confer an absolute right or common interests or purposes. that would give immunity to every possible It is the purpose of this document to set use of language. Sam Houston State Univer- forth the procedures by which student or- sity expects its students to observe the stan- ganizations can be offi cially registered, to dards of propriety and good judgement in establish the rights and responsibilities of the exercise of such freedom. Students may students acting in a group capacity, and to publish and distribute free material that is not establish policies and regulations governing libelous or obscene or that does not promote all group activities. In addition, administra- or encourage the violation of law of the state tive and judicial procedures are set forth of Texas or the United States or the disrup- whereby those registered student organiza- tion of the university’s academic process. tions and groups accused of violating the Literature may not be distributed where policies will be afforded due process, and the manner or form of said distribution con- if appropriate, fair and just penalties. The stitutes disorderly conduct, disrupts class- university may issue regulations governing room discussion, impedes the maintenance the eligibility of students for participation in of public order, or constitutes a danger to the student organizations. person disseminating the material or to any 2. Defi nition of a Student Organization other group or individual. A student organization consists of at least In order to promote and protect the right fi ve students joined together for a common of privacy, the distribution of literature or lawful purpose and formally registered with circulation of petitions will not be allowed to the university. captive audiences such as in the classroom 3. Rights and Responsibilities of Student buildings, in study areas, or in residential Organizations units of the university. General rights of student organizations are the same as those granted to every citizen STUDENT of the United States of America under the ORGANIZATIONS POLICY Bill of Rights. Individuals are subject to the penal and civil statutes of the city, state and Sam Houston State University is guided federal government; regulations of the Board by the precept that in no aspect of its pro- of Regents; and regulations of the university. gram shall there be differences in the treat- The university may suspend recognition of ment of persons because of race, creed, a student organization for violating the Stu- color, sex or national origin. It is refl ected dent Organization Policy. The following are in policies governing programs of extracur- the general rights and responsibilities of rec- ricular life and activities. In accordance with ognized student organizations. Student 59 Guidelines 3.1 General Rights ment and practice, including, but a. Right to use university facilities not limited to, prompt discharge of under conditions established by the all obligations. university Facilities Use Policy. c. The responsibility to be cogni- b. Right to seek faculty and ad- zant of the special role it enjoys as ministrative advisement including an integral part of the academic a faculty/staff advisor. community of Sam Houston State c. Right to freedom of choice in University, and to act accordingly the selection of members, provid- in the best interest of its members ing there is no discrimination on and the university. the basis of race, creed, color, re- d. The responsibility for any ligion, ethnic origin, sex, sexual damages or injuries that occur orientation or gender identity. during their events. d. Right to use campus news and 3.3 Specifi c Limitations on Rights publicity media including the and Responsibilities of Student right of public recognition in uni- Organizations. versity catalogs, newspapers and a. While recognizing rights of other publications. student organizations, the univer- e. Right to indicate that the or- sity does not grant to organiza- ganization is offi cially registered tions the right, expressed or im- with the university. plied, to speak for the university. f. Right to invite off-campus b. The activity of student organi- guests to appear for regularly zations or their individual mem- scheduled meetings and assem- bers, taking place off university- blies. Meetings and speakers must owned or controlled property, are be scheduled in accordance with entirely the responsibility of the the Speech and Assembly Policy as student organization. The univer- approved by the Board of Regents. sity accepts no responsibility for g. Right to distribute organiza- off-campus activities by allowing tional literature under conditions advertising of such activities on specifi ed by the policy for the the campus. However, the univer- Distribution of Printed Materials sity will not ignore any activity off- and Subsection 6 (in the Student campus that refl ects adversely on Guidelines) of the Student Orga- the university or the community. nizations Policy. c. Activities of student organiza- h. Right to hold profi t-making tions are subject to the provision activities and to solicit funds for of the university Facilities Use organizational activities in accor- Policy. dance with university regulations. d. Membership in an organiza- 3.2 General Responsibilities. tion is limited to Sam Houston a. The responsibility to manage it- State University students, spouses self and carry out its activities in ac- of students, faculty and staff. The cordance with its own constitution: holding of offi ces is limited to local, state, and federal laws, and registered SHSU students except university regulations and policies. when national regulations require b. The responsibility to conduct that an offi ce be held by a faculty its business and fi scal operations member. Student membership in in accordance with normal stan- an organization must be no fewer dards of good business manage- than fi ve. Membership is not de- Student 60 Guidelines nied to anyone on the basis of 4.1 Permanent Organizations race, color, religion, creed, sex, or a. Any group of students hav- national origin. ing a purpose which is within e. Offi cers or student leaders the policies of this document representing the university in an may be registered with the uni- offi cial capacity (e.g., university versity. Registration of a campus committees, Board of Regents’ organization does not constitute Advisory Committees, off-campus endorsement of its program or conferences or programs, etc.) purpose, but is simply a charter must be current students; or they to exist on the university campus must be members of the faculty and may be withdrawn by the or university staff. To be eligible Student Organizations Board ac- to serve as an offi cer in a regis- cording to the specifi cations of tered student organization a stu- this document. dent must be enrolled full-time (12 b. The group will fi le the Sam hours undergraduate or 9 hours Houston State University Student graduate), have and maintain a 2.0 Organization Registration Appli- SHSU grade point average (GPA) cation with the coordinator of the cumulatively, and must not be student organizations as designat- on disciplinary probation. When ed by the vice president of student an election is held in a registered services. The application shall in- student organization, the names of clude the organization’s name, the the new offi cers must be transmit- constitution or statement of pur- ted to the Department of Student pose, name of offi cers or contact Activities within three days after persons, number of members, and the election. intent to affi liate with off-campus f. Students who do not meet the organizations. minimum GPA requirements at c. If formation of the organiza- the time of elections may not tion is not complete at the time of serve in a leadership capacity. In fi ling of the Sam Houston State the event a student is elected to of- University Student Organization fi ce without the minimum GPA re- Registration Application, the co- quirements, the organization must ordinator of student organizations hold a re-election immediately. will assist in making arrange- Organizations not meeting the ments for the organization to use above requirements will be placed university facilities for a limited on probation and may have their amount of time for organizational registered status revoked. purposes on a meeting-to-meeting g. Each registered organization basis until the organizational pro- is expected to include within its cess is completed and the required constitution and/or bylaws offi - information can be fi led. cer eligibility requirements which d. At the time of fi ling, the presi- must at least match those required dent or contact person for the or- by the university. An organization ganization will sign a statement may require additional academic indicating that he or she is famil- requirements it deems appropriate iar with and will uphold the afore- to hold offi ce or membership. mentioned Rights and Responsi- 4. Procedure for Formation and Regis- bilities of Student Organizations tration of New Organizations (Section 3, Student Organizations Student 61 Guidelines Policy) tion established herein. e. When the required application 4.2 Registration for a Limited Pur- forms have been fi led with the co- pose (Ad Hoc Registration). ordinator of student organizations, Registration for a limited purpose the coordinator will contact the (ad hoc registration) is available for Student Organizations Board to those groups which want to organize review the application. with some short-term goal in mind, After review, the coordinator that is, one which can be accomplished will notify the president and fac- in less than one academic year. Their ulty/staff advisor whether their registration will expire on the date indi- application has been approved or cated on the registration form. It is an- denied. ticipated that few ad hoc registrations (1) Upon approval of regis- will be granted. The board’s decision tration, the application will will be contingent upon the extenuating be signed by the coordina- circumstances of the application. tor of student organizations, 4.3 Maintenance of Registered Status. the chairman of the Student a. At the beginning of each fall, Organizations Board, The spring, and summer semesters, Director of Student Activi- all student organizations wishing ties, the Vice President for to maintain their registered status Student Services, the Presi- for that semester will submit to dent of the University or the coordinator of student organi- his appointed designee, and zations (no later than the twelfth returned to the organization class day) a list of the new offi - within 10 days as formal cers, number of members, and the notifi cation of registration. faculty/staff advisor on the semes- A copy of the approved ap- ter update form provided for that plication will be fi led in the purpose. Once the information offi ce of the coordinator of has been processed, registration student organizations that the may be automatic. group is eligible for all of the b. It is only necessary for an orga- rights of registered student nization to resubmit information organizations. such as an organization’s tax ID (2) Should the Student Orga- number, copies of the 501 C tax nizations Board feel that the forms or the organization’s con- petitioning organization does stitution or statement of purpose not meet the requirements for when it has been requested by the registration, the coordinator coordinator of organizations or of student organizations will the Director of Student Activities. notify the pending organiza- Both a National and an SHSU tion with the board’s recom- constitution may be requested. mendations and its decision The organization has 2 business regarding their status. This days to submit the most recent notifi cation will be stored on addition of their constitution and/ fi le in the coordinator’s of- or bylaws to the coordinator of fi ce. The organization may organizations. Any documents then work with the organiza- requested by a university offi cial tions’ coordinator to review must be provided within the given the requirements for registra- deadline. Student 62 Guidelines c. Should the Organizations against it and will set up a hearing Board feel that the organization before the board. does not meet the requirements b. The organization’s hearing for continued registration, the before the Student Organizations coordinator of organizations will Board is informal and within fair provide the necessary informa- and properly established proce- tion to the student representa- dures of due process. It provides tives and the organization advi- a hearing for the organization’s sor. Copies of this information president, the faculty/staff ad- will also be fi led in the coordi- visor, persons who committed nator’s offi ce. The organization the alleged violation, witnesses, may then request through the co- charges, defenses, rebuttal evi- ordinator a meeting with the Or- dence, and arguments. The disci- ganizations Board to appeal the pline committee shall consist of decision. The coordinator will the organizations board and the assist in making provision for Director of Student Activities. the group to continue to use uni- At the conclusion of the hearing, versity facilities for a designated the committee shall deliberate in period of time. private to determine if the group 4.4 Administrative Discipline. is responsible for any violation(s) a. Any member of the university of the Rights and Responsibilities community may fi le a complaint of Student Organizations, and against a registered student orga- may dismiss the charges or take nization when he or she feels that any of the action outlined in Sec- the organization has failed to com- tion 5.2e. The organization shall ply with the Rights and Responsi- be informed in writing, within 3 bilities of Student Organizations. class days, of the decision by the The complaint may be registered organizations coordinator, and with the coordinator of organiza- a copy of the decision shall be tions, the Dean of Students or his/ made a part of the organization’s her designate the vice president fi le in the offi ce of the coordina- for student services or designated tor. The decision of the board is appointee. If the vice president fi nal. for student services or designated 4.5 Organization Changes. appointee investigates the com- Registered organizations are re- plaint, the results will be reported quired to submit to the coordinator of to the Dean of Students’ Offi ce. student organizations any changes in The Dean of Students’ may hear offi cers, advisers, and/or purposes of the case or refer it to the coordina- the organization within three class days tor of organizations. If the incident of such a change. Failure to do so may is referred the coordinator of orga- result in withdrawal of registration. nizations will convene the Student 5. The Student Organizations Board Organizations Board who will 5.1 Composition. determine the validity of the com- a. The Student Organizations plaint by a two-thirds vote with all Board shall consist of fi ve stu- members voting. In the event that dents, four faculty, and one mem- such a complaint is deemed valid, ber of the administration, who the coordinator will notify the or- shall be selected as follows: ganization in writing of the charge (1) The six student mem- Student 63 Guidelines bers, one representative from for which all student organiza- each of the fi ve colleges and tions are subject to review by the one representative at-large, board shall be: shall be selected by the presi- (1) Noncompliance with the dent of the Student Govern- provisions of the university ment Association with the Student Organization Policy. approval of the senate. Each (2) Noncompliance with the student member shall serve a provisions of the university term of one year. Facilities Use Policy. (2) The four faculty mem- (3) Noncompliance with the bers shall be appointed by university Speakers Policy. the president of the univer- (4) Noncompliance with the sity from a list of eight rec- organization’s stated pur- ommended by the Faculty poses and goals or disruption Senate. Each faculty mem- of the educational process of ber shall serve for a two-year the university. term and shall be eligible for (5) Violations of the laws of reappointment. The terms the State of Texas or of poli- shall be arranged to permit cies and regulations of the the expiration of the terms university and the Board of of two faculty members each Regents. year. c. The board reserves the right to (3) The administration refuse registration of an organi- member shall be the coor- zation if the purposes and goals dinator of student organiza- of the organization do not aid in tions. This member shall providing a social and intellectual serve as a resource person climate conducive to the fullest and shall not vote. development of the student. b. The board chairman shall be d. The board may grant regis- appointed by the president of the tration to an organization for a university, and may be selected limited time pending the compli- from either student appointees or ance of the group with the pur- faculty appointees. The secretary poses and goals as stated in their shall be the coordinator of student constitution. organizations. e. The Student Organizations c. The board shall hold open Board may impose the following meetings, except that by a ma- penalties: jority vote the board may close a (1) Suspensions of the rights meeting. of the organization to: d. A quorum shall consist of fi ve (a) Use university members, including a minimum facilities; of two faculty. (b) Sponsor any 5.2 Responsibilities. activity; a. The board shall review appli- (c) Participate in cam- cations for registration and main- pus affairs; tenance of registration by student (2) Suspension of Registra- organizations. tion – This penalty shall be b. The board shall review actions for a stated period of time of student organizations. Actions but in no case less than the Student 64 Guidelines remainder of the academic tions may distribute materials on campus year in which the offense provided they adhere to the Procedures is committed. An organiza- for Distribution of Printed Materi- tion placed on Suspension of als Policy as printed in this handbook. Registration may not func- Failure to comply with the policy and tion on campus in any man- procedures may result in the cancella- ner and the general rights of tion of this privilege and/or the suspen- registered student organiza- sion of the organization. Distributing tions are withdrawn. students and campus organizations will (3) Revoke the action that be responsible for cleaning up any litter prompted the complaint and that may result from such distributions. instruct the organization to 7. Procedure for Amendment either present an acceptable Amendments to the Student Organiza- solution or implement a so- tions Policy may be initiated by any mem- lution that has been dictated ber of the university community through by the Student Organiza- the coordinator of student organizations. tions Board. The coordinator will forward the amend- 6. Solicitation ments through the appropriate channels The term “solicitation” as used herein with fi nal approval granted by the univer- means the sale or offer for sale of any prop- sity president. erty or service, whether for immediate or future delivery, and the receipt of or request RISK MANAGEMENT for any gift or contribution. GUIDELINES 6.1 Organizational Solicitation. Orga- 1. Purpose nizations soliciting on campus must Every student organization no matter comply with the guidelines below. how large or small inherently possesses ex- a. Organizations may solicit posure to risk and safety concerns. There- with approval of the director of fore the purpose of this policy is to assist in the Lowman Student Center for creating a safe environment where students, their own projects or charitable faculty and staff members can enjoy the ben- activities. A Campus Reservation efi ts of membership, affi liation and partici- Form must be completed by the pation in the activities and events of regis- organization and approved by the tered Sam Houston State University student director of the Lowman Student organizations. Center. 2. Review b. Any organizations collect- These guidelines shall be reviewed an- ing fi nancial donations for which nually by the Department of Student Activi- there is no exchange of merchan- ties and Dean of Students’ Offi ce. dise or services shall be account- 3. Guidelines able for funds received to the These guidelines shall apply to all stu- coordinator of student organiza- dent organizations and their members at tions within fi ve class days of the Sam Houston State University. All student completion of the drive. organization members, offi cers, advisors, c. Any organization failing to and affi liated persons should emphasize comply with Section 6.1(1a) and safety during all club/organization related Section 6.1(1b) above may be de- activities. nied future solicitation privileges. 4. Social Events 6.2 Distribution of Printed Materials. 4.1 A social event is defi ned as any Offi cially registered campus organiza- event or activity sponsored by any or- Student 65 Guidelines ganization whose primary purpose is is present. social or to provide entertainment to 4.5 All damages to any premises as a their members, alumni, university com- result of an event are the responsibility munity, or other guests. This includes of the sponsoring organization. but is not limited to concerts, lip syncs, 4.6 Security step shows, and parties/dances. Student organizations are required to 4.2 All social events are categorized by ensure the safety of their members and event level/type. Student organizations guests. University Police will provide hosting social events must follow the security at social events/ parties on requirements for the designated event campus. Huntsville Police Department, level/type: a Walker County law enforcement de- 4.3 Event Registration partment or some other bonded agency All student organizations are strongly (must be approved by the Dean of Stu- encouraged to register all social events dents’ Offi ce) will be required for secu- with the Department of Student Activi- rity at any off-campus venue. Determi- ties. Any student organization hosting a nation of number offi cers at the events major event (estimated attendance over is based on the size, nature, location, 500) or an event where alcohol will be and past history of the event. present must complete the “Event Noti- 4.7 Inappropriate behavior, including fi cation Form” and submit it to the De- but not limited to, fi ghting, illegal con- partment of Student Activities at least sumption of drugs/alcohol, weapons, 14 business days prior to the event. or property damage will not be toler- Student organizations hosting events ated and the continuation of the event categorized as Event Levels 3 or 4 held will be at the discretion of the univer- at an off-campus venue must submit an sity police, staff, facility manager, or “Off-Campus Event Request Form” to sponsoring organization (depending the Dean of Students’ Offi ce at least 30 on severity). All members of the spon- days prior to the event. Authorization is soring organization and guests at the required to proceed with event and all event must adhere to all policies set off-campus approvals will be at the dis- forth in the SHSU Student Guidelines cretion of the Dean of Students’ Offi ce. and Code of Conduct as well as abide 4.4 No student organization shall host/ by state law, local codes, and inter/na- sponsor ANY open party where alcohol tional requirements.

Student 66 Guidelines 5. Alcohol and Drugs State of Texas, Walker County, City of 5.1 The possession, use, sale or con- Huntsville, Sam Houston State Uni- sumption of Alcoholic Beverages dur- versity and The Texas State University ing formal or informal organization System. events, or any activity (it is considered 5.2 The purchase or use of a bulk quan- a Sam Houston State University event tity or common source containers of or activity if an observer would rea- alcoholic beverages, (e.g. kegs, cases sonably associate the event or activ- of beer, beer balls, party balls, bars, ity with the organization) or situation or alcoholic punch) is prohibited at all sponsored, coordinated, endorsed, or events or activities. associated by or with the organization 5.3 All social events where alcohol is must be in compliance with any and involved must be served by a licensed all applicable laws and policies of the insured Third Party Vendor, and have

Event Event Type Examples Event Location Requirements Level Closed Events/ Parties Banquets Any On- Campus -Registration encouraged, 1 No Alcohol Involved Picnics or but not required (Event participants Social Off-Campus venue limited to members Gatherings hosting the event, invited guests of organization members or alumni members) Closed Events/ Parties Date Parties Third Party Vendor -Registration required 2 Alcohol Involved Mixers -Guest List (Event participants Formals -Security as required by limited to members event venue and/or hosting the event, national organization invited guests of -Venue Contract organization members or alumni members) Open Events Concerts Any On- Campus -Registration encouraged, 3 No Alcohol Involved Step Shows or but not required (unless (Event open to the Off-Campus venue est. attendance over 500) university community -Security as determined and public) by law enforcement assessment of event

Open Events Fight Nights Third Party Vendor -Registration required 4 Alcohol Involved Lip Syncs - Security as determined (Event open to the Concerts by law enforcement university community assessment of event (no and public) less than 2) -Venue Contract

Open Parties Dances/ * Any On- Campus -Registration required No Alcohol Involved Parties or - Security as determined (Event open to the Off-Campus venue by law enforcement 5 university community assessment of event (no and public) less than 2)

Student 67 Guidelines appropriate security on the premises. 7.1 No student organization should 5.4 Purchasing alcohol with organiza- condone or tolerate any form of sexu- tion funds is prohibited. ally abusive behavior on the part of its 5.5 No organization members, collec- members or affi liates, whether physical, tively or individually, shall serve to, mental or emotional. This includes any purchase for, or sell alcoholic bever- actions that are demeaning to women ages to any persons under 21 years or men including but not limited to date of age. rape, gang rape, sexual assault, verbal 5.6 Open parties (not located at a third harassment or threats. party vendor or those events with un- 7.2 All organizations and their leaders restricted access to the public without shall review annually the University’s specifi c invitation) where alcohol is policy on Sexual Harassment and Sex- present, are strictly prohibited. ual Assault. These policies are found in 5.7 No organization may co-sponsor an “Student Guidelines” of Sam Houston event with an alcohol distributor, chari- State University and binding on all table organization or tavern (tavern student organizations, its members and defi ned as an establishment generating affi liates more than half of its annual gross sales 8. Travel from alcohol) where alcohol is given All members of student organizations away, sold or otherwise provided to traveling in representation of SHSU those present. should follow all safety and emergency 5.8 No organization may co-sponsor or procedures as established by the club/ co-fi nance an event where alcohol is organizations advisor and university purchased by either of the host organi- offi cials. Any accidents or incidents zations or groups. should be reported to the appropriate 5.9 No organization or its members university offi cial within 24 hours after shall permit, encourage, tolerate, or the occurrence. Emergencies should be participate in drinking games involving reported to the University Police De- alcoholic beverages. partment at (936) 294-1794. This num- 5.10 The possession, use, or sale of ber is monitored 24 hours a day. any ILLEGAL DRUGS OR CON- 9. Education and Review TROLLED SUBSTANCES at any Each student organization should an- organization event or any activity that nually educate and review with its an observer would reasonably associ- offi cers, members and affi liates the ate with the organization is strictly Student Organization Risk Manage- prohibited. ment Guidelines of Sam Houston State 6. Hazing University. These Risk Management 6.1 No student organization, its mem- Guidelines are made available in the bers or affi liates shall conduct or con- Dean of Students’ Offi ce and the De- done hazing activities. partment of Student Activities and re- 6.2 All organizations and their leaders printed in “Student Guidelines.” Cop- shall review annually the Hazing Act ies should be obtained and distributed passed by the State Legislature, 1987. to all advisors, offi cers, members and This Act is fully enumerated in the affi liates before the start of classes each “Student Guidelines” of Sam Houston semester. State University and binding on all stu- 10. Violations dent organizations, their members and The Student Organizations Board and/ affi liates. or the Dean of Students Offi ce may re- 7. Sexual Abuse and Harassment view, investigate and adjudicate possi- Student 68 Guidelines ble violations of the Risk Management staff, administration, or student of Sam Guidelines or Code of Student Conduct Houston State University. A grievable action by any organization, its members or is defi ned below. The purpose of the griev- affi liates. The procedures and sanc- ance procedures is to provide a process for tions for violations may be found in the an impartial review and to ensure that the SHSU Student Guidelines. rights of students are properly recognized and protected. STUDENT ABSENCE Students with academic grievances are NOTIFICATION POLICY directed to the Academic Grievance Proce- dures located in the Sam Houston State Uni- The student is responsible for communi- versity Undergraduate Catalog. cating directly with his or her instructor(s) Retaliation for fi ling a grievance will not when he or she is going to miss or has be tolerated. missed class. If possible, students should Defi nitions of Grievable Actions notify instructors and make arrangements A grievable action is an action that: for missed assignments before the absence a. Is in violation of written cam- occurs. Offi cial notifi cation by the Dean of pus policies or procedures, or Students’ Offi ce to instructors when absence b. Constitutes arbitrary, capri- from classes is for a period of fewer than cious, or unequal application three (3) consecutive class days is generally of written campus policies or not made. The Dean of Students’ Offi ce will procedures. not provide verifi cation for an absence for The Dean of Students’ Offi ce provides non-critical or non-emergency situations. Student Grievance Services to address con- When a student misses class for le- cerns of currently enrolled SHSU students. gitimate reasons/ emergency situations and The function of this service is to person- when the absence from classes is likely to ally assist students in achieving satisfactory be for an extended period (generally three resolutions to university related challenges class days or more), students may contact listed above. Additionally, the Dean of Stu- the Dean of Students’ Offi ce by completing dents Offi ce makes referrals to appropriate the “Absence Notifi cation Request Form” campus departments/offi ces when necessary (available in person or online at www.shsu. www.shsu.edu/~slo_www. edu/deanofstudents) to request notifi cation be sent to their instructors. If the student is physically unable to contact the offi ce, a family member may submit the notifi cation request. Absence notices will not be granted after ten (10) business days from the last date of absence. The Dean of Students’ Offi ce re- serves the right to grant or reject notifi cation requests at any time for any student. Excus- ing the student is at the sole discretion of the faculty member.

STUDENT GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES A grievance may arise out of a decision or action reached or taken in the course of offi cial duty by a member of the faculty, Student 69 Guidelines RELATED UNIVERSITY POLICIES

PROTECTION OF of primary concern in such cases. Students INTELLECTUAL who fail to abide by such conditions and are PROPERTY found to endanger themselves or the campus community by such noncompliance, may Unauthorized Use of University Intel- be referred to the university Crisis Team. lectual Property. Unauthorized or improper University employees who fail to abide by use of logos, trademark, trade dress, copy- such recommendations will be subject to rights, images, or other intellectual prop- disciplinary actions on the same basis as erty, whether owned by the University or any other work rule violation. The patient’s a third-party may subject students to disci- rights of nondiscrimination, privacy and pline under this code and to other penalties confi dentiality shall be honored as provided as allowed by law. for under State and Federal law. Because of

the extensive medical research currently un- AIDS POLICY der way on AIDS and the additional medical Sam Houston State University seeks to evidence which may become available with minimize the HIV/AIDS health risk on regard to AIDS, this policy statement is sub- campus. To prevent the spread of AIDS, ject to change. Nothing herein shall be con- Sam Houston State University has adopted strued as an assumption of risk or of other an educational program aimed at increasing legal responsibility by Sam Houston State faculty, staff, and student awareness. The University for the health or welfare of any university will respond to each AIDS case individual beyond the limits of previously on an individual basis subject to prevailing existing university policy or State law. medical research and current legal opin- ion, using as a guide the American College DRUG-FREE Health Association’s General Statements WORKPLACE POLICY on Institutional Response to AIDS. The The Board of Regents and the administra- University Health Center is the designated tion of SHSU support the national policy of central source for AIDS educational mate- the United States of America to stop the il- rials, information regarding AIDS testing, licit use of drugs and the abuse of alcohol in counseling, and referral for medical care. In our society. In keeping with The Drug-Free the event that a student, or a faculty or staff Schools and Communities Act, SHSU has member, is known to have AIDS or is medi- adopted a Drug-Free Workplace Policy and cally diagnosed as a carrier of the HIV virus, implemented a Drug Awareness Program to the university physician will make appropri- prevent the illicit use of drugs and the abuse ate recommendations as may be medically of alcohol by students and employees. necessary. The welfare of the student and the The SHSU Drug-Free Workplace Policy prevention of transmission of the disease are prohibits the unlawful possession, use, or Student 70 Guidelines distribution of drugs and alcohol by employ- and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students ees on university property or as any part of certain rights with respect to their education the university activity. records. They are: The unlawful use, possession, or distribu- (1) The right to inspect and review the tion of drugs or alcohol will result in a dis- students’ education records within 45 ciplinary penalty of disciplinary probation, days of the day the university receives demotion, suspension without pay, or termi- a request for access. nation, depending upon the circumstances. Students should submit to the regis- The SHSU Drug Awareness program is trar, dean, head of the department, or a three part program to inform employees other appropriate offi cial, written re- about: quests that identify the record(s) they 1. Health risk involved in the use of wish to inspect. The university offi cial illicit drugs and the abuse of alcohol will make arrangements for access and which often result in poor health and notify the student of the time and place premature death. where the records may be inspected. If 2. Help available for drug and alco- the records are not maintained by the hol counseling, treatment, and reha- university offi cial to whom the request bilitation that is offered to all SHSU was submitted, that offi cial shall advise employees. the student of the correct offi cial to 3. Local sanctions which include fi nes whom the request should be addressed. and/or imprisonment for violation of (2) The right to request amendment local, state, or federal drug laws. of the student’s education records that SHSU is obligated to uphold laws which the student believes are inaccurate or prohibit the possession, use, or distribution misleading. of controlled substances. Any employee who Students may ask the university to is found to be in violation of these laws will amend a record that they believe is be dismissed and referred to the appropriate inaccurate or misleading. They should legal authority for prosecution. The SHSU write the university offi cial respon- Human Resources Department is the source sible for the record, clearly identify the of information and confi dential assistance part of the record they want changed, for any employee who is seeking help for a and specify why it is inaccurate or drug or alcohol related problem. Please con- misleading. tact the Human Resources Department, lo- If the university decides not to cated in the College of Humanities & Social amend the record as requested by the Sciences Building, Suite 410, phone number student, the university will notify the (936) 294-1070 if you need additional infor- student of the decision and advise the mation about this program. student of his or her right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. FAMILY EDUCATIONAL Additional information regarding the RIGHTS AND PRIVACY hearing procedure will be provided to ACT OF 1974 the student when notifi ed of the right to a hearing. 1. Access to Records (3) The right to consent to disclosures Compliance with the Family Educa- of personally identifi able informa- tion Rights and Privacy Act requires that tion contained in the student’s educa- a university policy be provided to eligible tion records, except to the extent that students upon request. (Subpart A Section FERPA authorizes disclosure without 99.5) The following information complies consent. with this act. The Family Educational Rights One exception which permits dis- Student 71 Guidelines closure without consent is disclosure and Date of Award, (7) Honors and Awards, to school offi cials with legitimate edu- (8) Classifi cation, (9) Extracurricular Ac- cational interests. A school offi cial is tivities, (10) Birthdate and Place of Birth, a person employed by the university (11) Names and Addresses of Parents/Legal in an administrative, supervisory, aca- Guardians, (12) Weight, Height, and Relat- demic or research, or support staff po- ed Information of Athletic Team Member. sition (including law enforcement unit The above directory information will be personnel and health staff); a person or available for release to the general public. company with whom the university has However, the act states that each student has contracted (such as an attorney, auditor, the right to inform Sam Houston State Uni- or collection agent); a person serving versity that any or all of the above informa- on the Board of Trustees; or a student tion is not to be released. Sam Houston State serving on an offi cial committee, such University will honor the student’s request as a disciplinary or grievance commit- to restrict the release of “Directory Infor- tee, or assisting another school offi cial mation” as listed above, but cannot assume in performing his or her tasks. responsibility to contact the student for sub- A school offi cial has a legitimate sequent permission to release the informa- educational interest if the offi cial needs tion. Regardless of the effect upon the stu- to review an educational record in or- dent, the institution assumes no liability for der to fulfi ll his or her professional honoring the student’s instructions to restrict responsibility. the release of “Directory Information.” A Upon request, the university disclos- student may restrict the release of directory es education records without consent information by either using the “My Sam” or to offi cials of another school, in which submitting written notifi cation to the Regis- a student seeks or intends to enroll. trar’s Offi ce, in the Estill Building. Notifi ca- [Note: FERPA requires an institution tion must be given prior to the twelfth class to make a reasonable attempt to notify day of the Fall and Spring semesters and the student of the records request un- the fourth class day of each summer term. less the institution states in its annual A student who has restricted the release of notifi cation that it intends to forward personal information (FERPA) will not have records on request. The right to fi le a his or her name listed in the Dean’s List of complaint with the U.S. Department of Academic Honors or the President’s Honor Education concerning alleged failures Roll, the Commencement Program, and/or by State University to comply with the Honors List. requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the offi ce that administers FIRST YEAR REQUIRED FERPA is: HOUSING AND MEAL Family Policy Compliance Offi ce PLAN POLICY U.S. Department of Education All fi rst year students are required to re- 400 Maryland Ave., SW side in university housing and to purchase Washington, DC 20202-4605. a specifi c day meal plan during their fresh- 2. Directory Information man year, which will normally include the Under the terms of the Family Educa- fall and spring semesters. Anyone signing an tional Rights and Privacy Act, Sam Hous- academic year housing/meal plan contract ton State University has established the will be required to fulfi ll the terms of that following as directory information: (1) contract. Exceptions to the First Year Re- Name, (2) Local/Home Address, (3) Major, quired Housing and Meal Plan Policy may (4) Minor, (5) Local/Home Telephone Num- be made by the Department of Residence ber, (6) Degrees, Diplomas, and Certifi cates Student 72 Guidelines Life. Please refer to the current Residence tion 46.01, includes the following; Life policies on line for complete informa- 4.521 “Club” meaning and tion on Residence Life policies. You may instrument (for example, a also contact the Department of Residence blackjack, nightstick, mace, Life at (936) 294-1812. nunchuck or tomahawk) that is specifi cally designed, PROHIBITION OF made, or adapted for the WEAPONS purpose of infl icting serious bodily injury or death by 4.5 Prohibition on Weapons. It is a vi- striking a person; olation of these Rules and Regulations 4.522 “Explosive weapon” to possess, carry or otherwise cause a meaning any explosive or fi rearm, handgun or other prohibited incendiary bomb, grenade, weapon, licensed or otherwise, con- rocket, or mine that is de- cealed or otherwise, to be brought onto signed, made, or adapted for the premises of a System Component. the purpose of infl icting seri- 4.51 “Premises of a System ous bodily injury or death, or Component” as used in this Sec- substantial property damage, tion means a structure and the or for the principal purpose land (including parking lots, ga- of causing such a loud re- rages, or other appurtenances, port as to cause undue public on which the structure is situ- alarm or terror (whether such ated) over which this Board has a weapon is designed, made, ownership or control. This pro- or adapted for delivery or hibition extends to leased, bor- shooting); rowed or other facilities where 4.523 “Firearm” meaning a System or Component func- any device designed, made, tion, event, or activity takes or is adapted, or readily adaptable taking place but does not apply to expel a projectile through to: a) presidentially–approved a barrel by using the energy academic or other programs (for generated by an explosion or example, ROTC or administrator burning substance (excluded residences, or Component spon- are antique or curio fi rearms sored or approved events); b) law manufactured before 1899 enforcement personnel, acting in or replicas thereof, provided performance of their duties; c) they do not use rim fi re or the transporting of such fi rearms center fi re ammunition), handguns, or other prohibited including, but not necessar- weapons for registration with and ily limited to handguns, ma- storage by the Component public chine guns, rifl es, “zip guns,” safety offi ce; or the president’s stun guns, and “short-barrel home and grounds; or, d) permit- fi rearms;” ted tracts of the Christmas Moun- 4.524 “Illegal knife,” mean- tains area with a special access ing any bladed, hand instru- permit as outlined in the System ment that: a) has a blade over Christmas Mountains Ranch fi ve and one-half inches; b) Policy. is capable of infl icting seri- 4.52 “Prohibited Weapons” as ous bodily injury or death on defi ned by Texas Penal Code, sec- a person by cutting, stabbing, Student 73 Guidelines or throwing (for example, a RACIAL HARASSMENT dagger, dirk, stiletto knife, POLICY poniard, bowie knife, switch- Policy on Prohibition of Racial Harassment blade knife, sword, or spear); System universities shall provide equal 4.525 “Knuckles,” meaning educational opportunities for all students any instrument that consists and equal employment opportunities for all of fi nger rings or guards applicants and employees, and otherwise made of a hard substance foster an environment free of racial intimi- and that is designed, made, dation, humiliation, and harassment. Racial or adapted for the purpose harassment, as defi ned herein, is expressly of infl icting serious bodily prohibited. injury or death by striking a 1. Defi nition of Racial Harassment person with a fi st enclosed in “Racial Harassment” is defi ned as ex- the knuckles. treme or outrageous acts or communications 4.526 “Hoax bomb,” mean- that are intended to harass, intimidate, or hu- ing a device that: a) reason- miliate students, faculty, staff, or visitors on ably appears to be an explo- account of race, color, or national origin and sive or incendiary device; that reasonably cause them to suffer severe or, b) by its design causes emotional distress. alarm or reaction of any a. It is a violation of the Texas State type by policy, public safety, University System’s (TSUS) RULES or other administrators at a AND REGULATIONS for any student, system component, who are faculty, or staff employee to engage in charged with assuring cam- racial harassment of any person on the pus safety; campuses of the component universi- 4.527 “Chemical dispensing ties or in connection with a university device,” meaning a device sponsored activity. (other than a chemical for b. It is a violation of the RULES AND the purpose of dispensing a REGULATIONS for any student, fac- substance capable of caus- ulty, or staff person to use authority ing adverse psychological or granted by state law, by system rule, or physiological effect on a hu- by university policy to deprive any per- man being. son of his or her civil rights on a com- ponent campus or in connection with a

Student 74 Guidelines university sponsored activity. Emergency Room at the Huntsville c. If a violation of a TSUS’s rule and/ Memorial Hospital. Be sure to tell the or of a university regulation or policy examining physician or nurse that you is committed on campus and/or in con- were sexually assaulted. nection with a university sponsored Making a complaint of sexual assault: activity because of the race, color, or A. Sexual assault is a crime. If you national origin of any person directly have been sexually assaulted, SHSU harmed by such violation, the viola- strongly recommends that you make a tor’s discriminatory purpose shall be report to the police who, where war- treated as an aggravating factor for the ranted, will pursue criminal charges. purpose of determining the appropri- However, the decision to make a re- ate penalty. port to the police must be made by the 2. Disciplinary Rules victim. Except where the university Students, faculty, and staff employee of- believes there is a threat of imminent fenders are subject to disciplinary action as harm to the university, the university appropriate under the circumstances for vio- will not make a report of an alleged lation of this policy. sexual assault to the police without the Procedures for Redressing Racial Harass- victim’s consent. ment Complaints of Students, Faculty, Staff, B. Sexual assault also violates SHSU’s or Visitors shall be in accordance with pub- rules and regulations governing student lished procedures established by the com- conduct. The university has instituted ponent universities. All complaints shall be this policy to protect the accused, and considered informal until they are filed in to maintain the confidentiality of the writing. identity of those involved to the extent Once a disciplinary penalty is imposed, possible. the accused, whether a student or a faculty or 1. How to report sexual assault at staff employee, shall have his/her full right SHSU: to invoke applicable appeal procedures ac- A student who chooses to make cording to existing university policies. a complaint through the Universi- ty’s internal disciplinary proceed- SEXUAL MISCONDUCT ings must make a report to the POLICY Title IX Office. 2. What happens once a com- Statement of Policy plaint is made Sam Houston State University is commit- The Title IX Office will inves- ted to creating and maintaining an environ- tigate the allegation. This will ment that discourages sexual assault. Sexual require interviews with the vic- assault is defined with in the context of this tim and the alleged assailant. In policy as sexual intercourse or other sexual some circumstances, interviews act committed against another without their with other persons who have consent. knowledge of the circumstances What to do if you are sexually assaulted: surrounding the alleged incident A. If you believe that you are still in may also be conducted. Whenever danger, you should call the University possible the identity of the victim Police Department at 936-294-1000. will not be revealed during the in- B. Seek medical attention as soon vestigative process or without the as possible. You can call the campus victim’s consent. Health Center at 936-294-1805 dur- What to do if you are accused of sexual ing regular business hours or go to the assault: Student 75 Guidelines A. Take the allegation seriously. formal complaints and the results of such B. You may wish to consult an attor- complaints. Sexual harassment is a form ney, especially if a criminal complaint of sex discrimination and will be treated as has or may be filed with the local police. such by the University. Sexual harassment, which includes acts of sexual violence, is For more information on the univer- a form of sex discrimination prohibited by sity’s specific policy prohibiting dis- Title IX. Sam Houston State University, crimination and sexual misconduct, visit: in accordance with applicable federal and Texas State University System Sexual state law and institutional values, prohibits Misconduct Policy And Procedures http:// discrimination or harassment on the ba- gato-docs.its.txstate.edu/jcr:34b2382b- sis of race, creed, ancestry, marital status, 8c81-4793-a3fd-4098b82737e7//.pdf citizenship, color, national origin, sex, reli- gion, age, disability, veteran’s status, sexual DISCRIMINATION, orientation, or gender identity. All person- SEXUAL HARASSMENT, nel actions, including recruitment, employ- AND EQUAL ment, training, upgrading, promotion, EMPLOYMENT demotion, termination, and salary adminis- OPPORTUNITY (EEO) tration are reviewed to ensure Equal Em- ployment Opportunity (EEO) compliance. To provide an educational and working 1.0 Definitions environment free of unlawful discrimina- a. DISCRIMINATION — Defined as tion or harassment to all members of the conduct directed at a specific individu- university community and to establish a al or a group of identifiable individuals complaint resolution policy to help iden- that subjects the individual or group to tify and eliminate discrimination, including treatment that adversely affects their sexual harassment and to resolve such com- employment or education because of plaints in a fair and timely manner. their race, creed, ancestry, marital sta- It is the policy of Sam Houston State Uni- tus, citizenship, color, national origin, versity to review and resolve complaints of sex, religion, age, disability, veteran’s discrimination and/or sexual harassment by status, sexual orientation, or gender any member of the University community, identity. including faculty, staff, students or visi- b. HARASSMENT — A form of dis- tors. Each supervisor has a responsibility crimination that’s defined as verbal or to maintain the workplace free of sexual physical conduct that is directed at an harassment. This duty includes discussing individual or group because of race, this policy with all employees and assuring creed, ancestry, marital status, citizen- them that they are not to endure discrimi- ship, color, national origin, sex, reli- nation, to include insulting, degrading or gion, age, disability, veteran’s status, exploitative sexual treatment; and that false sexual orientation, or gender identity accusations will result in disciplinary ac- when such conduct is sufficiently se- tion up to and including termination. For vere, pervasive, or persistent so as to employee-related complaints, the Associ- have the purpose or effect of interfer- ate Vice President for Human Resources ing with an individual’s or group’s and Risk Management or designee will be academic or work performance; or of responsible for maintaining records of all creating a hostile academic or work formal complaints and the results of such environment. This conduct can in- complaints. For student-related complaints, clude technology-based communica- the Dean of Students or designee will be tions such as texting, online classroom responsible for maintaining records of all chats, or social networking sites. Student 76 Guidelines c. SEXUAL HARASSMENT — A questions, anecdotes, or remarks form of sex discrimination and is of a sexual nature about clothing described as unwelcome sexual ad- or bodies; vances, requests for sexual favors, and (3) gratuitous remarks about sexual other verbal or physical conduct of a activities or speculation about sexual nature, including but not lim- sexual experiences; ited to technology-based communica- (4) persistent, unwanted sexual or tions such as texting, online classroom romantic attention; chats, or social networking chats, (5) subtle or overt pressure for sex- even if carried out under the guise of ual favors; humor, and constitutes sexual harass- (6) exposure to sexually suggestive ment when: visual displays such as photo- (1) submission to or tolerance of graphs, graffiti, posters, calen- such conduct is made either explic- dars, or other materials; itly or implicitly a term or condition (7) deliberate, repeated humiliation of an individual’s employment or or intimidation based upon sex. education; or 2.0 Reporting (2) submission to or rejection of A person who believes that he or she has such conduct by an individual is been subjected to any type of discrimina- used as the basis for academic or tion, including sexual harassment, should employment decisions (including report the incident to the appropriate Uni- admissions and hiring) affecting versity official, administrator, or supervi- that individual; or sor. Students are encouraged to report such (3) such conduct has the purpose incidents to the Assistant Dean of Students or effect of substantially interfering for Parent Relations and Special Programs with an individual’s academic or or the Associate Vice President for Human professional performance or creat- Resources and Risk Management. Employ- ing an intimidating, hostile or of- ees and visitors are encouraged to report fensive employment, educational or to the Associate Vice President for Human living environment. Resources and Risk Management. The As- Physical conduct that, depending on sociate Vice President for Human Resourc- the totality of circumstances present, es and Risk Management and the Assistant including frequency and severity, may Dean of Students for Parent Relations and constitute sexual harassment includes, Special Programs are both designated as Ti- but is not limited to, tle IX Coordinators for the University. The • unwelcome intentional touching; Associate Athletics Director for Student • deliberate physical interference Services is designated as the NCAA Title with or restriction of movement IX Coordinator for Athletics. Incidents or; should be reported as soon as possible after • sexual violence. the time of their occurrence. Every attempt Verbal conduct, defined as oral, will be made to keep the information con- written, or symbolic expressions, that, fidential and restricted to only those who depending on the totality of circum- have an absolute need to know. A person stances present, may constitute sexual who makes a complaint of sexual harass- harassment includes, but is not limited ment should be advised that principles of to, fairness and due process may require dis- (1) explicit or implicit propositions closure to the alleged harasser, who shall to engage in sexual activity; be warned against retaliation upon pain of (2) gratuitous comments, jokes, disciplinary action. Student 77 Guidelines The Associate Vice President for Human ent Relations and Special Programs. Resources and Risk Management office is (2) The Dean of Students’ Office located on the fourth floor of the College of will investigate the allegation(s). Humanities and Social Science Building at This may require interviews with 1901 Avenue I, Suite 410, Huntsville, TX the alleged victim and the accused 77340. The main Human Resources phone student(s). In some circumstances number is (936) 294-1070. The Assistant interviews with other persons who Dean of Students for Parent Relations and have knowledge of the alleged inci- Special Programs office is located on the dent may also be conducted. When- second floor of the Lowman Student Center ever possible the identity of the vic- at 1802 Avenue I, Suite 215, Huntsville, TX tim will not be revealed during the 77340. The main Dean of Students phone investigation process or without the number is (936) 294-1785. The Associate victim’s consent. Athletics Director for Student Services b. FORMAL COMPLAINT office is located in the Ron Mafrige Field To be considered a formal complaint, House at 620 Bowers Blvd., Room 321-C, the complaint must be submitted to the Huntsville, TX 77340. The main Athletics CRC Officer in writing within ninety phone number is (936) 294-3286. (90) days of the incident. The com- 3.0 Procedure for Resolving Complaints plaint should contain the following Any student, staff employee, or faculty information: member who feels he/she is the victim of • Name of the complainant; discrimination and/or sexual harassment • Contact information, including should follow these steps: address, telephone number, email a. INFORMAL COMPLAINT address; All complaints will be considered in- • Name of person(s) directly formal until they are filed in writing. responsible for alleged A person who believes he/she is the violations(s); victim of discrimination and/or sexual • Date(s) and place(s) of alleged harassment is encouraged to seek an violation(s); informal resolution as follows: • Nature of alleged violation(s) as [STEP ONE] defined in this policy; In circumstances where it is perceived • Detailed description of the spe- that personal safety or employee/ cific conduct that is the basis of student status is not in jeopardy, the alleged violation(s); offended individual should clearly • Copies of documents pertaining communicate to the offender that the to the alleged violation(s); behavior is unwelcome and must cease • Names and contact information immediately. (if known) of any witnesses to al- [STEP TWO] leged violation(s); (1) If Step One fails or is deemed in- • Action requested to resolve the appropriate, the offended individual situation; should report the incident(s) to the • Complainant’s signature and date University Civil Rights Compliance of filing; (CRC) Officer. The University CRC • Any other relevant information. Officer is the Associate Vice Presi- dent for Human Resources and Risk RETALIATION PROHIBITED — A su- Management. Students may report pervisor, employee, or student commits an student on student incidents to the unlawful employment practice and/or vio- Assistant Dean of Students for Par- lation of the Student Code of Conduct and Student 78 Guidelines Discipline if the supervisor, employee or 3. GUIDELINES student retaliates or discriminates against 3.01 If a student resigns from the 1st a person, who (a) opposes a discriminatory class day through the 12th class day (4th or harassing practice, (b) makes or files a class day in the summer), no record of complaint alleging employment discrimi- the resignation will appear on the stu- nation or harassment, (c) or testifies, as- dent’s academic record. sists, or participates in any manner in an 3.02 If a student resigns after the 12th investigation or proceeding. Any employee class day (4th class day in the summer) or student who retaliates against another and prior to taking any final examination, employee or student violates the univer- a record of the resignation will appear sity’s policies and procedures and may be on the student’s academic record with a subject to disciplinary action up to and in- mark of “W.” cluding termination of employment and/or 3.03 To resign (officially withdraw) suspension. Instances of alleged retaliation from the University, a student must either shall be investigated pursuant to the proce- report to the Registrar’s Office to com- dures of this policy. plete a Resignation Request or use the SANCTIONS — University sanctions online resignation form. for violations of this policy may include 3.04 The resignation becomes effec- any disciplinary action listed in section 5.9 tive on the date the form is received by of the Code of Student Conduct and Disci- the Registrar’s Office. This date will pline. As required by Title IX, the universi- be used for determining any eligible ty will use a preponderance of the evidence refund. standard (i.e., it is more likely than not 3.05 The Refund Policy of the Univer- that sexual harassment, discrimination, or sity is directed by the Texas Education violence occurred) when investigating al- Code, Section 54.006. legations of sexual harassment or violence. 4. REQUEST TO WITHDRAW AFTER Unlawful discrimination and sexual ha- DEADLINE BASED ON EXTENUATING rassment are illegal under state and federal CIRCUMSTANCES law. Official governmental investigations 4.01 A resignation request after the by the Equal Employment Opportunity deadline will be considered where, in Commission, the Texas Commission on the University’s judgment, the student Human Rights, and/or the Office of Civil has demonstrated extenuating circum- Rights of the Department of Education may stances such as incapacity due to a sig- result in civil lawsuits against any person nificant personal injury or to an injury guilty of unlawful discrimination or sexual and/or illness requiring an extensive harassment. period of recuperation; a significant personal emergency; or inability to contact the University by the dead- STUDENT RESIGNATION line because of a medical or personal POLICY emergency. 4.02 The student will need to make this 1. PURPOSE request in writing to the academic dean To establish a standard procedure for the of the major field of study. processing of student resignations from the 4.03 Written verification of emergency University. must be provided by a physician, hospi- 2. DEFINITION tal, etc. Death in the immediate family Resignation refers to a situation in which may be verified by an obituary notice or a student withdraws from all classes in a memorial folder. which he/she is enrolled at the University. 4.04 The student will be notified of the Student 79 Guidelines dean’s decision. to other institutions of higher education. 4.05 The student may appeal the dean’s (c) A student who has transferred from an- decision to the Office of the Provost and other institution of higher education shall Vice President for Academic Affairs. provide the institution awarding the degree an official transcript from each institution at- TUITION REBATES tended by the student in order that the period FOR CERTAIN during which the student has been enrolled UNDERGRADUATES in a general academic teaching institution and the total number of hours attempted by (a) A qualified student is eligible for are- the student can be verified. bate of a portion of the undergraduate tuition (d) To qualify for a rebate under this section, the student has paid if the student: the student must have been a resident of this (1) is awarded a baccalaureate degree state and entitled to pay tuition at the rate from a general academic teaching insti- provided by this chapter for a resident stu- tution within the period prescribed by dent at all times while pursuing the degree. Section 56.462(1)(A) or (B), as applica- (e) All institutions of higher education shall ble, to qualify for forgiveness of a Texas notify each first-time freshman student of B-On-time loan; and the tuition rebate program. (2) has attempted no more than three (f) The institution awarding the degree shall hours in excess of the minimum number pay the rebate under this section from local of semester credit hours required to com- funds. plete the degree, including: (g) If a student entitled to a rebate under (A) transfer credits; and this section has an outstanding student loan, (B) course credit earned exclu- including an emergency loan, owed or guar- sively by examination, except anteed by this state, including the Texas that, for purposes of this subsec- Guaranteed Student Loan Corporation, the tion, only the number of semester institution shall apply the amount of the re- credit hours earned exclusively bate to the student’s loan. If a student has by examination in excess of nine more than one outstanding loan, the institu- semester credit hours is treated as tion shall apply the amount of the rebate to hours attempted. the loans as directed by the student or, if the (b) The amount of tuition to be rebated to student fails to provide timely instructions a student under this section is $1,000, un- on the application of the amount, the institu- less the total amount of undergraduate tu- tion shall apply the amount of the rebate to ition paid by the student to the institution of the loans according to priorities established higher education awarding the degree was by the coordinating board. If the amount of less than $1,000, in which event the amount the rebate exceeds the amount of the loan of tuition to be rebated is an amount equal to indebtedness, the institution shall pay the the amount of undergraduate tuition paid by student the excess amount. the student to the institution. (h) The legislature shall account in the However, a student who paid the institu- General Appropriations Act for the rebates tion awarding the degree an amount of un- authorized by this section in a way that pro- dergraduate tuition less than $1,000 may vides a corresponding increase in the gen- qualify for an increase in the amount of the eral revenue funds appropriated to the insti- rebate, not to exceed a total rebate of $1,000, tution. It is the intent of the legislature that for any amount of undergraduate tuition the rebates authorized by this section shall be fi- student paid to other institutions of higher nanced by savings to the state resulting from education by providing the institution with reductions in the number of courses taken by proof of the total amount of that tuition paid undergraduate students. Student 80 Guidelines (i) The coordinating board, in consultation jured and description of injuries with the institutions of higher education, • Stay on the phone for instructions on shall adopt rules for the administration of what to do this section, including a rule to allow an otherwise eligible student to receive a rebate DISRUPTIVE BEHAVIOR: under this section if the student is not award- • Contact University Police at ed a baccalaureate degree within the period (936) 294-1000 (4-1000 on campus) required by Subsection (a)(1) solely as a re- • Give your name, location, what is hap- sult of a hardship or other good cause. The pening and number of people involved performance of active duty military service (shooters/victims) if known by a student shall be recognized as “good • If possible, exit the building or area cause” for purposes of this section. immediately • If exit is impossible, get to a room, lock Added by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 1073, or barricade the door, keep quiet, remain § 1.09, eff. Aug. 1, 1997. Amended by Acts in place until all clear is given by law en- 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 611, § 1, eff. June 20, forcement officials 2003; Acts 2005, 79th Leg., ch. 292, § 3, eff. June 17, 2005. BOMB THREATS/SUSPICIOUS ITEMS: • Pay close attention to the exact words EMERGENCY the caller is using, document the call PROCEDURES • Contact University Police at QUICK REFERENCE (936) 294-1000 (4-1000 on campus) • Do not touch or handle suspicious items FIRE – In case of fire or when the fire alarm or packages sounds: • Keep others away from area • Evacuate the building immediately • Notify your supervisor • Do not use the elevators • Assist those with mobility problems HAZARDOUS SITUATIONS: • Contact University Police at • Contact University Police at (936) 294-1000 (4-1000 on campus) (936) 294-1000 (4-1000 on campus) • Report to supervisor at the designated • Provide information on type and size of site spill (if known) • Do not re-enter the building until • Evacuate the immediate area and build- instructed ing as directed • Get decontamination instructions from SEVERE WEATHER: authorities • Stay away from windows • Do not re-enter area until all clear is • Take immediate shelter given • Monitor local radio and television stations Sam Houston State University provides • Today @ Sam for University closings this report to comply with the Students • Contact University Police at Right To Know and Campus Security Act (936) 294-1000 (4-1000 on campus) of 1990. Sam Houston State University is a MEDICAL EMERGENCIES: state-assisted institution of higher education • Contact University Police at located in Huntsville, Texas. The campus, (936) 294-1000 (4-1000 on campus) including its agriculture facilities, consists • Provide your name, location, number in- of approximately 225 acres in and outside the city of Huntsville, Texas, which has a

Student 81 Guidelines STUDENT RIGHT TO KNOW AND CAMPUS SECURITY ACT OF 1990 population of approximately 35,000. The Reporting Crimes and Emergencies university enrolls approximately 15,000 stu- [§ 204(A)] All criminal offenses that dents supported by 1,500 faculty and staff. occur on campus should be reported to the University Police Department immediately. STUDENT RIGHT TO KNOW The Sam Houston State University Po- lice is operational twenty-four hours a day, The Student Right to Know and Cam- year around. University Police is housed pus Security Act, in Section 103, Title I on campus. You have easy access either by requires institutions to provide information telephone, (936) 294-1794, or by going to about the completion or graduation rate of the University Police Building, Sam South, degree seeking, full time undergraduate located at 843 South Sam Houston Avenue. students entering the institution. In place of This location is clearly marked on university completion or graduation rates, institutions campus maps. University Police officers are may elect to publish the percentage of stu- licensed police officers and are trained to dents in each entering class who re-enroll respond to criminal actions or other emer- each successive year until completion or gencies that may occur on campus. All Uni- graduation. These are called persistence versity Police reports are entered into com- rates. SHSU has elected to provide both puters and are printed on approved standard forms of information. forms for criminal offense. A copy of every The persistence rates for first time fresh- University Police offense report is forward- men who entered Sam Houston State Uni- ed to the Dean of Students’ Office. versity in summer or fall semester and also who were enrolled for 12 or more hours of Emergency Call Boxes and Telephones credit during their first fall semester. The university currently has sixteen The annual security report may be ac- emergency free standing call boxes located cessed on the University Police Department at strategic locations on campus. In addi- website www.shsu.edu/~upd_www/ tion, most residence halls have emergency telephone boxes outside the main entrance DISCLOSURE OF CAMPUS to the halls. The call boxes allow direct com- SECURITY POLICY AND munication with the police department and CAMPUS CRIME provide a rapid means for reporting emer- STATISTICS gencies and crimes, in addition to request- Title II, § 204(A-I), Crime Awareness and ing police assistance. University telephones, Campus Security Act, provides for disclo- after punching “9” for an outside line, may sure of the following: be used to dial 911 (i.e., 9,911).

Student 82 Guidelines Access to Campus Facilities the University Police Department in crime [§ 204(B)] Section 51.209 of the Texas deterrence and investigations. This requires Educational Code states “The governing the ownership and operation of these sys- board of a state institution of higher educa- tems to be directed by the University Police tion or it’s authorized representatives may Department, with assistance from the Uni- refuse to allow persons having no legiti- versity community. Signs will be posted in mate business to enter on property under all public areas covered by the surveillance the board’s control, and may eject any un- system. These signs are intended to provide authorized person from the property on his persons notification that their activity is be- refusal to leave peaceably on request. Iden- ing recorded. Access to live video feeds and tification may be required of any person on archival data will be regulated by the Univer- the property.” It is advised that members of sity Police Department. Copies of the video the university community should have their archives shall not be disclosed to persons university issued identification card with outside of the University Police Department them at all times. The Sam Houston State without the Police Department’s prior writ- University Police have been vested with the ten approval. The University Police Depart- above authority by the Board of Regents. ment retains control over any device used to monitor or record locations on the Univer- Patrol of Campus, Student Patrol, & Hall sity Campus. Any unauthorized recording Safety Personnel devices can be considered a violation to a Uniformed University Police officers pa- person’s right to privacy, and may be confis- trol the campus area 24 hours each day in cated by the University Police Department marked police units with a superior police and appropriate disciplinary action taken. radio system. In addition, during the day, uniformed student parking control person- Electronic Alarm System nel are on patrol in the parking areas; each The University Police monitor a compre- person is issued a two-way radio for con- hensive system of intrusion and fire alarms. tact within the university police system. In the evening and early morning hours there Surveys are uniformed student foot patrol personnel The University Police conduct surveys of patrolling the main campus who will pro- security and safety of buildings throughout vide escort service to anyone whom may be the year, an annual lighting survey of the concerned with their safety. The university campus, and an annual survey to see that assigns housing safety personnel to each shrubbery, trees and vegetation are properly housing facility to unlock the entry for the trimmed. residents. The housing units are locked from 11:00 p.m. - 7:00 a.m., except on Saturday Crime Victims Assistance when the buildings are locked at 1:00 a.m. The SHSU Crisis Team is available to as- Residents must have a key or be admitted by sist crime victims and family members in the housing safety personnel on duty. Hous- dealing with the emotional and psychologi- ing managers and residents assistants are on cal aftermath of violent crime. The SHSU duty in the Housing Units. Crisis Team may be reached by contact- ing the University Police Department at Security Camera System (936) 294-1794. In an effort to reduce unwanted activity and provide a safe environment, SHSU has Emergency Physical Plant Services chosen to implement a closed circuit video The Physical Plant has an emergency after surveillance system. The primary function normal hours call out policy for maintenance of these surveillance systems will be to assist and repair for educational and non-residence Student 83 Guidelines buildings on campus. These calls are re- employs the peace officer or otherwise in the ceived and processed through the University performance of their duties.” Police dispatcher. In residence halls, the hall The University Police enjoy a good work- director will determine if the physical plant ing relationship with federal, state, local, personnel should handle the emergency. The city and county law enforcement authorities. responding physical plant personnel shall The University Police Department’s work- sign in at the University Police Department. ing relationship with other area law enforce- In most cases this should be before respond- ment agencies ensures that crimes and alco- ing to the emergency call. However, if this hol violations at these off-campus sites may would cause an unnecessary delay result- be reported to the University Police. ing in further damages, injuries, losses, etc., the craftsmen may log in at the University Code of Conduct Requirement Police upon completion of the emergency [§ 204(C)(ii)] Sam Houston State Uni- work. Every craftsman who is called out versity’s Code of Student Conduct and will log his or her arrival and exit times Discipline 5.1, Acquaintance with Policies, with the University Police. A call-out sheet Rules, and Regulations, states the follow- is provided to the University Police for the ing: Each student is expected to be fully ac- purpose of logging all information regarding quainted with all published policies, rules, an emergency call-out. Physical Plant per- and regulations of the university, copies of sonnel will at all times, while on duty wear which shall be available to each student for their photo identification badge in a manner review in a specific place on each campus. that it is plainly visible to others. The university will hold each student re- sponsible for compliance with these poli- Law Enforcement Authority cies, rules, and regulations. Students are [§ 204(C)(i)] University Police officers also expected to comply with all federal and have full law enforcement authority on prop- state laws. THIS PRINCIPLE EXTENDS erty owned and controlled by the university, TO CONDUCT OFF CAMPUS WHICH including streets contiguous to and running IS LIKELY TO HAVE AN ADVERSE EF- through the campus. University Police of- FECT ON THE UNIVERSITY OR ON ficers are licensed “Peace Officers” by the THE EDUCATIONAL PROCESS. state of Texas. University Police officers are authorized by State statute to enforce federal Rights and Responsibilities on Campus and state laws within their jurisdiction, in Students, faculty, staff, and visitors are addition to rules and regulations issued by expected to maintain standards of personal the Board of Regents of Sam Houston State discipline that are in harmony with the edu- University on property under the control and cational goals of Sam Houston State Uni- jurisdiction of Sam Houston State Univer- versity, to observe federal, state, and local sity. Under Section 51.203, Texas Education laws, university rules and regulations, and Code; Campus Peace Officers, states in part, to respect the rights, privileges, and property “The governing boards of each state institu- of others. Students, staff, and faculty are en- tion of higher education and public technical couraged to give accurate information to the institute may employ and commission peace University Police when reporting crimes, as officers for the purpose of carrying out the The Texas Penal Code, Chapter 37., Section provisions of this subchapter. The primary 37.08. False Report to Peace Officer, states: jurisdiction of a peace officer commissioned (a) A person commits an offense if he: (1) under this section includes all counties in reports to a peace officer an offense or inci- which property is owned, leased, rented, or dent within the officer’s concern, knowing otherwise under the control of the institution that the offense or incident did not occur; or of higher education or technical institute that (2) makes a report to a peace officer relating Student 84 Guidelines to an offense or incident within the officer’s names of all property of value. concern knowing that he has no information Protect Yourself: relating to the offense or incident. An offense 1. Lock your doors when you take a under this section is a Class B misdemeanor. nap or retire for the evening. Do not Filing a false report to the University Po- block open entry doors to residence lice could place a student in violation of the halls after hours. Code of Student Conduct and Discipline, 2. Require identification before admit- under section 5.2, (1). The University Po- ting someone unfamiliar into your resi- lice may request a copy of an offense report dence or your vehicle. from any law enforcement agency, if such 3. Avoid walking alone at night, if pos- report reflects conduct of a student which sible, and stay on lighted routes. is deemed to have an adverse effect on Sam 4. Report suspicious persons or cir- Houston State University or the educational cumstances. This could stop a crime process. The University Police may forward before it happens. You may offer con- a report regarding such incident to the Dean fidential assistance to the University of Students’ Office. Police directly or through the Dean of Students’ Office. Security Awareness and Presentations Crime prevention is important to the cam- [§ 204(D)] An example of the type of in- pus community and you can help by report- formation given to students during each se- ing any crime or suspected crime to your mester is provided below. This information University Police immediately. By doing so, is presented by the Residence Life Depart- you may be preventing someone from be- ment during their housing unit group meet- coming a victim of a serious crime. ings with residents. Officers meeting with students on campus supply this information Crime Prevention Programs and Other also. This type information is also published Law Enforcement Interaction in the campus newspaper. Dean of Students [§ 204(E)] Throughout the academic year personnel also discuss this information at all there will be group programs and individual orientation sessions for new students. counseling on crime prevention presented by the University Police, Huntsville Police, Crime Prevention on Campus the local Sheriff’s Department, Residence If a crime is to be committed, the offender Life, and the Dean of Students’ Office. There must have the desire, ability, and opportu- are also programs given by the College of nity to commit the crime. Law enforcement Criminal Justice. can do little to remove the offender’s desire and ability to commit crimes, but together Disseminating Information on Campus WE can remove the element of opportunity. Crime THIS IS CRIME PREVENTION. Together The university has taken measures to ensure we can remove the temptation of opportu- that the university community is fully aware nity by taking a few simple precautions. of campus crime. These measures include: Protect Your Property: Media Relations: Public Information pre- 1. Lock your residence every time you pares news release on crimes for distribution to leave, even for a short time. This in- campus and Huntsville news media or U.P.D. cludes your motor vehicle. web page at www.shsu.edu/~upd_www/. 2. Do not leave valuables lying out in University Newspaper: The Houstonian car- the open or in unlocked vehicles. ries stories on serious criminal offenses. 3. Engrave your driver’s license num- Crime Stoppers: Huntsville Police, working ber on all valuable property. with the University Police, develop Crime 4. Record the serial numbers and brand Stopper information for local news media. Student 85 Guidelines not necessarily be limited to, the student’s Monitoring of Criminal Activity motive for engaging in the behavior; dis- [§ 204(G)] The Dean of Students’ Office ciplinary history; effect of the behavior on attempts to monitor any criminal activity of safety and security of the university or col- off-campus student organizations which are lege community; and the likelihood that the recognized by the institution and that are behavior will recur. A student who has been engaged in by students attending the insti- suspended, dismissed, probated or expelled tution, including those student organizations from any system component shall be ineligi- with off-campus housing facilities. Refer to ble to enroll at any other system component university’s Code of Student Conduct and during the applicable period of discipline. Discipline 5.1, which states in part, Stu- The registrar of each component is autho- dents are also expected to comply with all rized to make an appropriate notation on the federal and state laws. THIS PRINCIPLE student’s transcript to accomplish this objec- EXTENDS TO CONDUCT OFF CAMPUS tive and to remove the notation when the stu- WHICH IS LIKELY TO HAVE AN AD- dent’s disciplinary record has been cleared. A VERSE EFFECT ON THE UNIVERSITY second infraction for a drug-related offense OR ON THE EDUCATIONAL PROCESS. shall result in permanent expulsion from the component and from all other institutions in Nonviolent Crimes Reported, Sam Hous- The Texas State University System. ton State University Campus The Sam Houston State University Drug- Under Texas Penal Code § 46.03 “Places Free Work Place Policy (ER-10), which be- Weapons Prohibited,” it is a FELONY OF- came effective March 1989, prohibits the FENSE to go on a school or educational in- unlawful use, possession, or distribution of stitution with a firearm. illicit drugs and alcohol by employees. Uni- versity employees who violate this prohibi- DRUG FREE SCHOOLS tion are subject to the sanctions set out in the AND COMMUNITIES policy, including possible discharge.

STANDARDS OF CONDUCT HEALTH RISKS OF Section 5.9 (20) of Chapter VI of the ALCOHOL AND DRUGS Rules and Regulations of the Board of Re- Alcohol gents, Texas State University System pro- Alcohol consumption causes a number vides for disciplinary action against any of marked changes in behavior. Even low student who engages in conduct that is pro- amounts significantly impair the judgment hibited by state, federal, or local law and for and coordination required to drive a car safe- illegal use and for unauthorized use of in- ly. Low to moderate doses of alcohol also toxicating beverages, and illegal use of any increase the incidence of a variety of aggres- drug, narcotic or controlled substance. sive acts. Moderate to high levels of alcohol A student who, by a preponderance of the cause marked impairments in higher mental evidence, under these Rules and Regula- functions, severely altering a person’s abil- tions, is found to have illegally possessed, ity to learn and remember information. Very used, sold or distributed any drug, narcotic, high levels cause respiratory depression and or controlled substance, whether the infrac- death. If combined with other depressants of tion is found to have occurred on or off the central nervous system, much lower lev- campus, shall be subject to discipline, rang- els of alcohol use can lead to dependence on ing from mandatory, university or college alcohol. Sudden cessation of alcohol intake approved counseling to expulsion. Mitigat- is likely to produce withdrawal symptoms, ing or aggravating factors in assessing the including severe anxiety, tremors, hallucina- proper level of discipline shall include, but Student 86 Guidelines tions, and convulsions. Alcohol withdrawal drugs to produce analogs known as designer can be life threatening. Long term consump- drugs. These drugs can be several hundred tion of large quantities of alcohol can lead times stronger than the drugs they are de- to permanent damage to vital organs such signed to imitate. Many of the so-called as the brain and the liver. Prolonged alcohol designer drugs are related to amphetamines abuse causes bleeding from the intestinal (MDMA, X, speed). Bootleg manufacture tract, damage to nerves and the brain, psy- creates overdose and contamination risks. chotic behavior, loss of memory and coor- These substances can produce severe neuro- dination, damage to the liver often resulting chemical damage to the brain. The narcotic in cirrhosis, impotence, severe inflammation analogs (fentanyl, china white) can cause of the pancreas, and damage to the bone symptoms such as those seen in Parkinson’s marrow, heart, testes, ovaries, and muscles. disease: uncontrollable tremors, drooling, Damage to the nerves and organs is usually impaired speech, paralysis, and irreversible irreversible. Cancer is the second leading brain damage. Analogs of amphetamines cause of death in alcoholics and is 10 times and methamphetamines cause nausea, more frequent than in non-alcoholics. Fe- blurred vision, chills or sweating, and faint- males who drink during pregnancy may give ness. Psychological effects include anxiety, birth to infants with fetal alcohol syndrome. depression and paranoia. As little as one These infants have irreversible physical ab- dose can cause brain damage. The analogs normalities and mental retardation. In ad- of phencyclidine cause illusions, hallucina- dition, research indicates that children of tions, and impaired perception. alcoholic parents are at a greater risk than other children of becoming alcoholics. In Cocaine addition, research indicates that children of Cocaine stimulates the central nervous alcoholic parents are at a greater risk than system. The use of cocaine can cause death other children of becoming alcoholics. by cardiac arrest or respiratory failure. Its immediate effects include dilated pupils and Tobacco (Nicotine) elevated blood pressure, heart rate, respira- The smoking of tobacco products is the tory rate, and body temperature. Occasional chief avoidable cause of death in our soci- use can cause a stuffy or runny nose, while ety. Smokers are more likely than nonsmok- chronic use can ulcerate the mucous mem- ers to contract heart disease. Some 30 per- brane of the nose. Injecting cocaine with cent of cancer deaths are linked to smoking. contaminated equipment can increase the Chronic obstructive lung diseases such as risk of AIDS, hepatitis, and other diseases. emphysema and chronic bronchitis are 10 Cocaine can produce psychological and times more likely to occur among smok- physical dependency, a feeling that the user ers than among nonsmokers. Smoking dur- cannot function without the drug. In addi- ing pregnancy poses serious risks such as tion, tolerance develops rapidly. Crack or spontaneous abortion, preterm birth, low freebase rock is extremely addictive, and its birth weights, and fetal and infant deaths. effects are felt within ten seconds. The phys- Because nicotine is highly addictive, addicts ical effects include dilated pupils, increases find it very difficult to stop smoking. Fewer pulse rate, elevated blood pressure, insom- than 20 percent of typical smokers succeed nia, loss of appetite, tactile hallucinations, in stopping on the first try. paranoia, and seizures. Designer Drugs Illegal drugs are defined in terms of their Other Stimulants chemical formulas. To circumvent these le- Stimulants can cause increased heart and gal restrictions, underground chemists mod- respiratory rates, elevated blood pressure, ify the molecular structure of certain illegal dilated pupils, and decreased appetite. In ad- Student 87 Guidelines dition, users may experience sweating, head- actions to LSD, mescaline, and psilocybin. aches, blurred vision, dizziness sleepless- The user may experience panic, persistent ness, and anxiety. Extremely high doses can memory problems, and speech difficul- cause a rapid or irregular heartbeat, tremors, ties. Users who discontinue use experience loss of coordination, and even physical col- “flashback” consisting of distortions of vir- lapse. An amphetamine injection creates a tually any sensation for long periods after sudden increase in blood pressure that can discontinued use. Mood disorders, such as result in stroke, very high fever, or heart fail- depression, anxiety and violent behavior, ure. In addition to the physical effects, users also occur. In later stages of chronic use, report feeling restless, anxious and moody. users often exhibit paranoid and violent Higher doses intensify the effects. Persons behavior. Large doses may produce convul- who use large amounts of amphetamines sions and coma, as well as heart and lung over a long period of time can develop an failure. Withdrawal may require psychiatric amphetamine psychosis that includes hallu- treatment for the accompanying persistent cinations, delusions and paranoia. psychotic states. Suicide is not uncommon.

Anabolic Steroids Solvent Inhalants, e.g., Glue, Lacquers, Anabolic steroids are a group of powerful Plastic Cement compounds closely related to the male sex The immediate negative effects of inhal- hormone testosterone. Steroid users subject ants include nausea, sneezing, coughing, themselves to more than 70 side effects side nosebleeds, fatigue, lack of coordination, effects ranging in severity from liver cancer and loss of appetite. Solvents and aerosol to acne, as well as psychological as well as sprays also decrease the heart and respira- physical reactions. The liver and cardiovas- tory rates and impair judgement. Amyl and cular and reproductive systems are most butyl nitrite cause rapid pulse, headaches, seriously affected by steroid use. In males, and involuntary passing of urine and feces. use can cause withered testicles, sterility, Long term use may result in hepatitis or and impotence. In females, irreversible mas- brain damage. Deeply inhaling the vapors, culine traits can develop along with breast or using large amounts over a short time, reduction and sterility. Psychological effects may result in disorientation, violent behav- include very aggressive behavior known ior, unconsciousness, or death. High concen- as “roid rage” and depression. While some trations of inhalants can cause suffocation side effects appear quickly, others, such as by displacing the oxygen in the lungs or by heart attacks and strokes, may not show up depressing the central nervous system to the for years. point that breathing stops. Long term use can cause weight loss, fatigue, electrolyte imbal- Hallucinogens or Psychedelics ance, and muscle fatigue. Repeating sniffing Lysergic Acid (LSD), mescaline, peyote, of concentrated vapors over time can perma- and phencyclidine (PCP or “angel dust”) nently damage the nervous system. Fumes cause illusions and hallucinations, and their from these substances cause problems simi- use impairs and distorts one’s perception of lar to alcohol. Incidents of hallucinations and surroundings, causes bizarre mood changes permanent brain damage are more frequent. and results in visual hallucinations that in- volve geometric forms, colors, and persons Marijuana (Cannabis) or objects. The physical effects may include All forms of cannabis have negative phys- dilated pupils, elevated body temperatures, ical and mental effects. Use of cannabis may increased heart rate and blood pressure, impair or reduce short-term memory and loss of appetite, sleeplessness, and tremors. comprehension, alter sense of time and re- It is common to have bad psychological re- duce ability to perform tasks requiring con- Student 88 Guidelines centration and coordination, such as driving expulsion, or such other penalty as may be a car. Research also shows that students do deemed appropriate under the circumstances. not retain knowledge when they are “high.” Employees Motivation and cognition may be altered, The unlawful use, possession, or distribu- making the acquisition of new information tion of drugs or alcohol will result in a dis- difficult. Marijuana can also produce para- ciplinary penalty of disciplinary probation, noia and psychosis. Because users often demotion, suspension without pay, or termi- inhale the unfiltered smoke deeply and then nation, depending upon the circumstances. hold it in their lungs as long as possible, marijuana is damaging to the lungs and pul- monary system. Marijuana smoke contains AVAILABLE DRUG more cancer causing agents than tobacco COUNSELING OR smoke. Long term users of cannabis may de- REHABILITATION velop psychological dependence and require SERVICES more of the drug to get the same effect. The CAMPUS SERVICES drug can become the center of their lives. Students The university Counseling Center is Narcotics available to assist students in dealing with Narcotics initially produce a feeling of eu- alcohol and substance abuse problems. Con- phoria that often is followed by drowsiness, fidential treatment, education, and referrals nausea, and vomiting. Users may experience are available to students at no cost. The constricted pupils, watery eyes, and itching. Counseling Center may be reached by dial- An overdose may produce slow and shallow ing (936) 294-1720. breathing, clammy skin, convulsions, coma, and possible death. Tolerance to narcotics Employees develops rapidly and dependence is likely. The Texas State University System group The use of contaminated syringes may in- health insurance program provides for treat- crease the risk of such diseases as AIDS, en- ment of drug and alcohol abuse for all ben- docarditis, and hepatitis. Addiction in preg- efits eligible employees. Human Resources nant women can lead to premature, stillborn, Department will provide assistance to em- or addicted infants who experience severe ployees seeking treatment for drug or alco- withdrawal symptoms. hol abuse. UNIVERSITY PENALTIES COMMUNITY SERVICES • Alcoholics Anonymous, 1214 12th Street, Students Huntsville, Texas; (936) 291-3376 The university will impose a minimum • Montgomery-Walker County Council on disciplinary penalty of suspension for a Alcohol and Drug Abuse, 724 Thomason, specified period of time or suspension of Huntsville, Texas; (936) 291-7433 rights and privileges, or both, for conduct related to the use, possession, or distribution of drugs that are prohibited by state, federal, or local law. Other penalties that may be imposed for conduct related to the unlawful use, possession, or distribution of drugs or alcohol include disciplinary probation, pay- ment for damage to or misappropriation of property, suspension of rights and privileges, suspension for a specified period of time,

Student 89 Guidelines CRIME STATISTICS

The following crime statistics are recorded from January 1, 2012 to December 31, 2012. University Police Department Criminal Offenses 2012

Residential Non-Campus Public On-Campus Halls Buildings Property Hate Crimes Murder 0 0 0 0 0 Manslaughter 0 0 0 0 0 Sexual Assault/Forcible 0 3 0 0 0 Sexual Assault/Non Forcible 0 0 0 0 0 Robbery 0 0 0 0 0 Aggravated Assault 1 0 0 0 0 Simple Assault 9 6 0 0 0 Burglary 1 1 2 0 0 Larceny/Theft 32 2 1 0 0 Vandalism 25 5 4 2 0’ Arson 0 0 0 0 0 Intimidation 0 0 0 0 0 Motor Vehicle Theft 0 0 0 0 0

University Police Department 2012 Arrest- On-campus*

On-Campus/ Disciplinary Actions/ On-Campus Residence Halls Judicial Referrals Liquor-Law Violations 7 10 0 Drug Abuse Violations 11 10 4 Weapons Possessions 0 0 0

University Police Department 2012 Arrest-Non-campus*

Non-Campus/ Disciplinary Actions/ Building Public Property Judicial Referrals Liquor-Law Violations 0 3 6 Drug Abuse Violations 0 31 14 Weapon Possessions 0 1 0

*Statistics Do Not Include The Following: Public Intoxication; Driving Under The Infl uence/Minor; Driving While Intoxicated

Previous Academic Years University Police Department Criminal Offenses 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2010 Murder/Non-Negligent Manslaughter 0 0 0 0 0 Negligent Manslaughter 0 0 0 0 0 Sexual Assault/Forcible 0 1 2 6 1 Sexual Assault/ Non Forcible 0 0 0 0 0 Robbery 0 1 1 4 0 Aggravated Assault 0 1 1 2 1 Burglary 7 4 3 4 4 Motor Vehicle Theft 1 0 2 1 2 Larceny/Theft N/A N/A N/A 136 95 Vandalism N/A N/A N/A 38 16 Intimidation N/A N/A N/A 6 0 Arson 1 0 0 0 0

University Police Department Arrest For: 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2010 Liquor-Law Violations 95 94 45 100 26 Drug Abuse Violations 38 39 28 75 41 Weapons Violations 0 0 0 7 2

Student 90 Guidelines PENALTIES UNDER STATE AND FEDERAL LAW I. Texas Law Offense/Authority Minimum Punishment Maximum Punishment Manufacture or Delivery of Con- Confi nement in jail for a term no less Confi nement in TDCJ for life or for trolled Substances (Drugs) than 180 days and no more than 2 a term of not more than 99 years or Health & Safety Code § 481.113 years, as well as a fi ne not to exceed less than 10 years, and a fi ne not to $10,000. exceed $100,000. Possession of Controlled Substances Confi nement in jail for a term no less Confi nement in TDCJ for life or for (Drugs) than 180 days and no more than 2 a term of not more than 99 years or Health & Safety Code § 481.115 years, as well as a fi ne not to exceed less than 10 years, and a fi ne not to $10,000. exceed $100,000. Delivery of Marihuana Confi nement in jail for a term of not Confi nement in TDCJ for life or for Health & Safety Code § 481.120 more than 180 days, and a fi ne not a term of not more than 99 years or to exceed $2,000. less than 10 years, and a fi ne not to exceed $100,000. Possession of Marihuana Confi nement in jail for a term of not Confi nement in TDCJ for life or for Health & Safety Code § 481.121 more than 180 days, and a fi ne not a term of not more than 99 years or to exceed $2,000. less than 5 years, and a fi ne not to exceed $50,000. Driving While Intoxicated Confi nement in jail for a term of not Confi nement in Jail for a term of no (Includes Intoxication From Alcohol, less than 72 hours or more than 180 less than 72 hours or more than 1 Drugs, or Both) days, and a fi ne not to exceed $2,000. year in jail, and a fi ne not to exceed Texas Penal Code § 49.04, 49.09 $4,000. Public Intoxication A fi ne not to exceed $500. Texas Penal Code § 49.02 Purchase of Alcohol by a Minor A fi ne not to exceed $500. Confi nement in jail not to exceed 180 Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § days, a fi ne of not less than $250 and 106.02 no more than $2,000, or both. Consumption of Alcohol by a Minor A fi ne not to exceed $500. Confi nement in jail not to exceed 180 Texas A.B.C. § 106.04 days, a fi ne of not less than $250 and no more than $2,000, or both. Possession of Alcohol by a minor A fi ne not to exceed $500. Confi nement in jail not to exceed 180 Texas A.B.C. § 106.05 days, a fi ne of not less than $250 and no more than $2,000, or both. Purchase of Alcohol for a Minor Confi nement in jail for a term not Confi nement in Jail for a term of 1 Texas A.B.C. § 106.06 to exceed 1 year and a fi ne not to year and a fi ne not to exceed $4,000. exceed $4,000.

ABC 106.05 (D) Exemption of Possession of Alcohol by a Minor **STUDENTS** If you suspect that another student or yourself may have alcohol poisoning you WILL NOT BE PROSECUTED by the state or this University for minor in possession if you call 911. Do not hesitate to Call Emergency Medical Assistance if you suspect alcohol poisoning. After calling you must remain on location until assistance is provided and cooperate with all law enforcement and medical personnel.

Federal Law Offense/Authority Minimum Punishment Maximum Punishment Manufacture, Distribution or Dis- Imprisonment for a term not to ex- Imprisonment for life (without pos- pensing Drugs (Includes Marijuana) ceed 5 years, and a fi ne not to exceed sibility for parole) and a fi ne not to 21USCS §841 $250,000. exceed $8,000,000. Possession of Drugs (Including Imprisonment for no more than 1 Imprisonment for no more than 20 Marijuana) year, and a fi ne no less than $1,000. years or less than 5 years, and fi ne 21USCS § 844 not to exceed $5,000 plus costs of investigation and prosecution. Operation of a Common Carrier Un- Imprisonment for not less than 1 year. Imprisonment for no more than der the Infl uence of Alcohol or Drugs 15 years, and a fi ne not to exceed 18USCS § 2D2.3 &5a $250,000.

Student 91 Guidelines IMPORTANT INFORMATION FROM YOUR UNIVERSITY HEALTH CENTER IMMUNIZATION IS AN INTEGRAL PART OF YOUR HEALTH CARE

Although Sam Houston State University does not Hepatitis B have mandatory immunization requirements at this time, Hepatitis B is caused by a virus that attacks the liver. we encourage all students entering the university to check It is spread by exposure to contaminated blood or body immunization records to ensure that they have met all of fl uids. This virus (HBV) can cause lifelong infection, cir- the minimum requirements for these immunizations. rhosis of the liver, liver cancer, liver failure, and death. HBV is spread when blood from an infected person en- Measles (Rubella, Red Measles, Hard Measles, ters the body of a person who is not infected. Hepatitis B 10-Day Measles) vaccine is available for all age groups to prevent Hepati- Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. Antibiot- tis B virus infection. ics are not available to treat persons infected with this organism. Recent outbreaks of this illness have resulted Meningitis in hospitalization and some deaths among college-aged Meningitis is an infection of the fl uid of a person’s persons. For these reasons it is strongly recommended spinal cord and the fl uid that surrounds the brain. People that students in Texas have two doses of the vaccine prior sometimes refer to it as spinal meningitis. Meningitis is to entering college. Most young adults have had only one caused by a viral or bacterial infection. Viral meningi- dose. The measles vaccine is most often given in combi- tis is generally less severe and resolves without specifi c nation with the vaccines for mumps and rubella, which treatment, while bacterial meningitis can be quite severe are also caused by viruses. This combination vaccine is and may result in brain damage, hearing loss, learning referred to as MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella). disability, or even death. Bacterial meningitis is spread through the exchange of respiratory and throat secretions Tetanus (Lockjaw) (i.e., coughing, kissing). The illness caused by tetanus results from the poison produced by bacteria. Again, this is a very diffi cult ill- Symptoms may include high fever, headache, and ness to treat once it occurs and prevention is the most stiff neck, nausea, vomiting, discomfort looking into appropriate choice. The vaccine is effective for about 10 bright lights, confusion, and sleepiness. Early diagnosis years and needs to be boosted at that interval. The tetanus and treatment are very important. If symptoms occur, the vaccine should be given in combination with the diph- patient should see a doctor immediately. There are vac- theria vaccine. cines against some types of meningitis. The vaccine is required for all new incoming college students residing Poliomyelitis (Polio) in residence halls. In the United States, polio immunization is not rou- tinely recommended for people 8 years of age or older. Infl uenza However, if travel to other parts of the world is planned, The fl u is a contagious respiratory illness caused by a physician should be contacted for specifi c recommen- infl uenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and dations. at times can lead to death. Symptoms of fl u include fever, Tuberculosis (TB) headache, extreme tiredness, dry cough, sore throat, run- Due to the reappearance of tuberculosis as a major ny or stuffy nose, and muscle aches. The best way to pre- public health issue in the United States and particularly vent this illness is by getting a fl u vaccination each fall. Texas, it is recommended that all students have a yearly Vaccine Availability Mantoux skin test to assure that they are free of the dis- The Health Center can provide most of these immuni- ease. Main symptoms are persistent heavy cough, cough zations and tests at a reduced rate. For more information with sputum or blood, fatigue, distressed breathing, fe- on immunizations contact the University Health Center at ver, or weight loss. Students doing observation, volunteer 294-1805. work, fi eld placement, student teaching, or employment in a Texas school district, correctional facility or medical The absence of mandatory immunization require- facility will be required to have a negative TB test before ments at Sam Houston State University is, by no means, entering some placement sites. an indication of their importance. On the contrary, immu- Varicella (Chickenpox) nization can mean the difference between life and death. Varicella is a highly contagious virus of the herpes Students are strongly encouraged to review their immuni- family that is spread by coughing and sneezing. The symp- zation records to ensure they have received the following toms include a skin rash of blister-like lesions, usually on vaccines recommended by the American College Health the face, scalp, or trunk with an increased potential for Association (ACHA). serious complications in children 13 or older and adults. Student 92 Guidelines Vaccine Age Indicated Major Indications Measles, mumps and 1st dose at age 12-15 months or later, 2nd All entering college student born rubella (MMR) dose at age 4-6 years or later. after 1956.

Tetanus, Diphtheria, Primary series in childhood with DTaP or DTP All college students. Pertussis (DTP) (Td) booster at age 11-12 years with Td, then every 10 years.

Varicella Childhood, adolescence, young adulthood. All students without history of the Two doses at least one month apart, if over disease or without age appropriate age 13. immunization or with a negative antibody titer.

Hepatitis B Series of three doses given at All college students. 0, 1-2 months, and 6-12 months.

Meningococcal Single vaccination or booster Recommended for college students and required for new students living in residence halls. *See SHSU Health Center website http://www.shsu.edu/~uhc_www/immunizations.html for up-to-date information on Meningococcal Conjugate Vaccine requirements.

Infl uenza Each fall for college students. Encouraged for all students.

The table below is the Texas Board of Health immunization requirement for any student doing an internship in a health care facility of any kind as part of their educational program. These Allied Health students must have the following immu- nizations prior to their entering the health care facility. These immunizations are not required at this time for the general student population of Sam Houston State University. However, each student at Sam Houston State University is urged to use this table to determine their individual immunity to the diseases below. If you do not meet each of the criteria in the “Schedule for Immunization,” we recommend that you update your immunizations immediately.

Student Classifi cation Immunization Needed Schedule for Immunization Medical Interns and Residents, Fellows Tetanus/Diphtheria Must have had one dose within past 10 years. and students enrolled in health-related courses who have or will have any direct Measles Those born since January 1, 1957 must have patient contact. two doses since 12 months of age. The two doses must be at least 30 days apart.

Mumps Those born since January 1, 1957 must have at least one dose since 12 months of age.

Rubella At least one dose since 12 months of age is required.

Dental students and medical students, Hepatitis B A primary series must be begun or, preferably interns, residents, and fellows completed prior to beginning direct patient care (if not already immune).

All students enrolled in health-related Hepatitis B A complete series of proof of immunity is courses which have or will have direct encouraged prior to beginning direct patient contact, especially contact with patient care. patient’s blood.

Student enrolled in school of veterinary Rabies A primary series is required prior to contact medicine. with animals or their remains. Also a booster dose is needed every two years (or documentation of protective antibodies).

For more information see the amended Sections 2.09 and 2.09a of the Texas Education Code and the Texas Board of Health rules including the revision adopted July 20, 1991, or call the Texas Department of Health, Immunization Division, 1-800-252-9152. Student 93 Guidelines UNDERSTANDING AND PREVENTING HIV/AIDS INFECTION

ABCs of STDs two uninfected people reduces the risk of A sexually transmitted disease (STD) is a contracting an STD. However, protection disease caused by a virus or bacteria spread should still be used. through direct sexual contact (vaginal, oral, 3. Do not pressure someone into having or anal sex) from person to person. STDs sex and do not allow someone to pressure can affect both males and females of all you. Having sex with someone that has not ages, backgrounds, and races. or cannot give consent is a criminal offense. There are many STDs, but some of the 4. Avoid all drugs. Alcohol and other more common forms include Gonorrhea, drugs affect your judgment and reduce your Syphilis, Chlamydia, HIV, HPV, and Geni- inhibitions making it more likely that one tal Herpes. These diseases are transmitted will make unwise choices. through body fl uids such as blood, semen, 5. THINK OF THE CONSEQUENCES and vaginal secretions or contact with an in- OF YOUR ACTIONS! A bad decision re- fected lesion. STDs may be transmitted from garding sexual activity could leave you male to male, female to male, female to fe- dealing with an STD, unplanned pregnancy, male, and male to female during any type of legal problems, and/or regrets. sexual activity. Get Tested STDs can cause permanent health prob- It is important to know your status. STD lems such as infertility, chronic pelvic pain, testing is recommended for those who have ectopic or tubal pregnancies, chronic pain- engaged in ANY form of sexual activity. In ful sores and blisters on the genitals, genital addition to getting tested, talk to your part- warts, cancer and even death. A person’s be- ner about STDs before you make a decision havior determines the probability of risk that regarding sexual activity. Learn about your they will become infected. partner’s past behaviors (sex and drug use), Your behavior-Your responsibility and consider the consequences and risks to Sexual abstinence is the only 100% effec- your health if you choose to engage in sexual tive way of avoiding STDs and unplanned activity. Ask your partner if they have re- pregnancies. Abstinence until marriage is an cently been tested for STDs including HIV; acceptable practice among college students. if not encourage them to do so. Again, if you In fact, we strongly promote this choice. choose to engage in sexual behavior, use a However, some students will not choose latex condom every time. It is important that abstinence and will engage in sexual activ- you seek treatment if you believe that you ity. For these students, we encourage them may have been exposed to a STD. STDs can to take certain steps to reduce the probability increase your risk of contracting HIV. of STDs, unplanned pregnancies, and other Remember that abstaining from sexual possible consequences of sexual activity. activity is the only 100% effective way to These steps include: avoid STDs and unplanned pregnancies. 1. Use protection — Always use protec- However, if you make the decision to have tion if you are sexually active. Proper use sex, take control of your health, get tested of LATEX condoms containing spermicidal and know your status. lubricant reduces the risk for STDs and un- For further information on STD testing, planned pregnancies. Please note that con- contact the Health Center at (936) 294-1805. doms reduce, but do not eliminate the risk. 2. Limit the number of sexual partners. A mutually monogamous relationship between

Student 94 Guidelines Student 95 Guidelines THE TEXAS STATE UNIVERSITY SYSTEM BOARD OF REGENTS

Donna N. Williams Chairman Arlington

Ron Mitchell Vice Chairman Horseshoe Bay

Charlie Amato San Antonio

Jaime R. Garza San Antonio

Kevin J. Lilly Houston

David Montagne Beaumont

Vernon Reaser III Bellaire

Rossanna Salazar Austin

William F. Scott Nederland

Matthew Russell Student Regent San Marcos

Brian McCall Chancellor Austin

Student 96 Guidelines Student 97 Guidelines Student 98 Guidelines