Jenzabar University

Dominican University students experience an environment that encourages intellectual growth through free inquiry. We recognize that freedom to teach and learn depends upon truthful and caring conditions in the classroom, on the campus and in the larger community. The maintenance of the traditions of truth and caring demands a high standard of respect for the rights and dignity of others and for adherence to the necessary policies established to give order to our daily lives. Dominican University expects responsible social conduct of students, which reflects well on themselves and the university.

Dominican University is committed to fostering a campus environment that is conducive to academic inquiry, productive campus life, thoughtful study and discourse. A community exists on the basis of shared values and principles. At Dominican University, student members of the community are expected to uphold and abide by the standards of conduct that form the basis of the Student Code of Conduct. These standards are embodied within a set of core values that include integrity, social justice, respect, community and responsibility. When members of the community fail to exemplify these values, campus conduct proceedings are used to assert and uphold the Student Code of Conduct. 

Ultimately, each member of the Dominican University community is expected to assume responsibility for his/her conduct and to assume reasonable responsibility for the behavior of others. On occasion, this may involve bystander intervention when one member observes another in inappropriate conduct. At other times it will involve cooperation when the authorities are investigating instances of alleged misconduct.

The Student Code of Conduct is committed to an educational and developmental process that balances the interests of individual students with the interests of the University community.  The student conduct process at Dominican University is not intended to punish students. Rather, it exists to protect the interests of the community and to challenge those whose behavior is not in accordance with our standards. Sanctions are intended to challenge students’ moral and ethical decision-making and to help them bring their behavior into accord with our community expectations. When a student is unable to conform his/her behavior to community expectations, the student conduct process may determine that he/she should no longer share in the privilege of participating in this community.

Students should be aware that the student conduct process is quite different from criminal and civil court proceedings. Procedures and rights in student conduct proceedings are conducted with fairness to all, but do not include the same protections of due process afforded by the courts. Fair process, within these procedures, assures written notice and a hearing before an objective decision is made. It assures that no student will be found in violation of university policy without information showing that it is more likely than not that a policy violation occurred, and that any sanction will be proportionate to the severity of the violation and to the cumulative conduct history of the student.

Standards of Behavior

In accordance with the university motto Caritas et Veritas, compassion and truth, Dominican University has developed standards of behavior in support of the intellectual, physical, spiritual and emotional development of each student.

Integrity
Dominican University students exemplify honesty, honor and a respect for truth in all of their dealings. 

Community
Dominican University students build, enhance and value their community. 

Social Justice
Dominican University students are just and equitable in their treatment of all members of the community and act to discourage and/or intervene to prevent unjust and inequitable behaviors.

Respect
Dominican University students show positive regard for self, each other, for property, and for the community. 

Responsibility
Dominican University students are given and accept a high level of responsibility to self, to others and to the community.

Jurisdiction Over Student Conduct

Students at Dominican University are annually emailed a link to the Student Code of Conduct and are responsible for knowing the information, policies and procedures outlined.  The Student Code of Conduct and the student conduct process applies to the conduct of individual students and university-affiliated groups, organizations, teams, etc.  

The Student Code of Conduct is based on shared values and sets a range of expectations for the Dominican University student no matter where or when their conduct may take place.  Therefore, the Student Code of Conduct will apply to behaviors that take place on the campus, at college-sponsored events, and may also apply off campus when the administration determines that the off-campus conduct affects a substantial college interest.  A substantial University interest is defined to include:

• • Any situation where it appears the student’s conduct may present a danger or threat to the health or safety of him/herself or others; and/or
  • Any situation that significantly impinges upon the rights, property or achievements of self or others or significantly breaches the peace and/or causes social disorder; and/or
  • Any situation that is detrimental to the educational mission and/or interests of the University.

The Student Code of Conduct may be applied to conduct that takes place during the time a person is enrolled as a student, including intra-semester breaks and between semesters.  Further, the Student Code of Conduct applies to guests of community members, whose hosts may be held accountable for the misconduct of their guests. The Student Code of Conduct also protects visitors to and guests of Dominican University, and they may initiate grievances for violations of the Student Code of Conduct committed by members of the Dominican University community against them.

The Student Code of Conduct may be applied to behavior conducted online, vie email or other electronic medium.  Students should be aware that online postings such as blogs, web postings, chats and social networking sites are in the public sphere and are not private.  These postings can subject a student to allegations of conduct violations if evidence of policy violations is posted online.  The University does not regularly search for this information but may take action if and when such information is brought to the attention of University officials.

There is no time limit on reporting violations of the Student Code of Conduct; however, the longer someone waits to report an offense, the harder it becomes for University officials to obtain information and witness statements and to make determinations regarding alleged violations.

Dominican University reserves the right to take disciplinary action against any student whose behavior undermines the academic or social purposes, safety or order of the campus community. Disciplinary action is usually initiated by a written complaint or report submitted by any member of the Dominican community or guest. While it is possible to submit an anonymous report, an individual filing a report is encouraged to include his/her name on the report in order to expedite a disciplinary inquiry. Reports can be filed with the Office of the Dean of Students, Campus Safety or Student Life.

Behavioral Expectations

The following types of misconduct, whether committed by a student or his or her guests, are only examples and not exhaustive of the kinds of behavior subject to student disciplinary action. In addition to university regulations, all federal, state and municipal laws must be obeyed. All policy violations will be reported to the Office of the Dean of Students.

1. Threat or cause of physical or psychological abuse to any person
2. Harassment or the infringement of the rights of another person.
3. Engaging in any action or series of actions with specific intent to intimidate or harass another person because of that person’s gender, age, race, color, marital status, order of protection status, religion, national origin, military status, medical condition, gender identity, ancestry, physical or mental disability, pregnancy, or sexual orientation. This includes but is not limited to any of the following: physical contact; damaging, destroying or defacing any personal property of another; or threatening by word (in person, on-line, text messaging, etc.) or act to do the preceding. See One Process Policy.
4. Interference with activities at or sponsored by the university. Activities include special events and the normal daily operation of the institution.
5. Academic dishonesty, cheating, plagiarism, forgery, misuse or falsification of university documents or official papers, or dishonest acts.
6. Theft or damage to university or individual property, or known possession of stolen property.
7. Theft or misuse of services of any kind.
8. Commercial solicitation, which is not permitted on campus except by recognized student organizations and athletic teams and approved by the Office of the Dean of Students.
9. Failure to appropriately comply with the directions of a university official and/or with the policies and procedures of any official university document and/or processes.
10. Unauthorized entry to or inappropriate use of university premises, facilities or property.
11. Misuse of fire safety equipment; setting fires; failure to evacuate the building during a fire alarm or violation of any fire safety policy. Any open flame or burning substances such as candles, incense, etc., are not allowed. Using emergency exits in non-emergencies is prohibited.
12. Possession or use of explosives (including fireworks and ammunition) firearms (including air, BB, paintball, facsimile weapons and pellet guns), or other weapons or dangerous objects such as arrows, axes, machetes, nun chicks, throwing stars, switchblades or knives, including the storage of any item that falls within the category of a weapon in a vehicle parked on University property. 
13. Demonstrations that are disorderly or disruptive. 
14. Use, possession, manufacturing, selling or distribution of any illegal drug; possession of any device or property used in connection with illegal drugs. Please see the Alcohol and Drug Policy for further clarification.
15. Possession of alcohol by individuals under 21 is prohibited. See the Alcohol and Drug Policy for further clarification.
16. Students are expected to abide by the federal laws and the laws of the State of Illinois prohibiting illegal gambling. See the Gambling Policy for further clarification.
17. Students must carry their student ID card at all times. The student ID card must be presented and/or surrendered at any time it is requested by a university official, including Coughlin Commons Resource Desk Attendants. During an alleged policy violation, students must present their Dominican University ID card when asked by a university official (this includes Resident Assistants). Falsifying, changing or altering any data or knowingly providing false information on the student identification card, or other documents issued by the university is prohibited.
18. All acts of hazing by any individual student and university registered student club or organization and any of its members or alumnae/i are prohibited. See Hazing Policy.
19. Behavior that causes disturbance or distress to the university community.
20. Smoking and tobacco products are prohibited in all university buildings and on all university property.
21. Breaking any local, state or federal law either on or off campus.
22. Violation of any policy or regulation contained in the Student Handbook, Student Involvement Manual, Residence Hall Housing Contract and Guidelines, IT Acceptable Use Policy, or any other publication of the university.
23. Violation of the university Guest Responsibility and Visitation Policy.
24. Loud and/or inappropriate noises are prohibited. Residential students must comply with the quiet and courtesy hours in the residence halls

University as Complainant
As necessary, Dominican University reserves the right to initiate a complaint, to serve as complainant and to initiate conduct proceedings without a formal complaint by the victim of misconduct.

False Reports
Dominican University will not tolerate intentional false reporting of incidents. It is a violation of the Student Code of Conduct to make an intentionally false report of any policy violation, and it may also violate state criminal statutes and civil defamation laws. 

Group Violations
When members of groups, individuals acting collusively, or members of an organization act in concert in violation of any policy, they may be held accountable as a group, and a hearing may proceed against the group as joint accused students. In any such action, however, determinations will be made with respect to the involvement of each accused individual. 

Immunity for Victims
Dominican University encourages the reporting of conduct code violations and crimes by victims. Sometimes victims are hesitant to report to college officials because they fear that they themselves may be accused of policy violations, such as underage drinking at the time of the incident. It is in the best interests of this community that as many victims as possible choose to report to university officials. To encourage reporting, Dominican University pursues a policy of offering amnesty from policy violations related to the incident.

Bystander Intervention 
The welfare of students in our community is of paramount importance. At times, students on and off campus may need assistance. Dominican University encourages students to offer help and assistance to others in need. Sometimes, students are hesitant to offer assistance to others for fear that they may get in trouble themselves. Dominican University pursues a policy of limited immunity for students who offer help to others in need. While policy violations cannot be overlooked, the university will provide educational options, rather than punishment, to those who offer their assistance to others in need.

Parental Notification
Dominican University reserves the right to notify parents/guardians of dependent students regarding any conduct situation, particularly alcohol and other drug violations. The university may also notify parents/guardians of non-dependent students who are under age 21 of alcohol and/or drug policy violations. Where a student is non-dependent, Dominican University will contact parents/guardians to inform them of situations in which there is a health and/or safety risk. Dominican University also reserves the right to designate which university officials have a need to know about individual conduct complaints pursuant to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act.

Notification of Outcomes
The outcome of a campus hearing is part of the educational record of the accused student and is protected from release under a federal law, FERPA. However, Dominican University observes the legal exceptions as follows:

1. Complainants in sexual misconduct and sexual harassment incidents, as well as other incidents as deemed by the dean of students or his/her designee, have a right to be informed of the outcome and sanctions of the hearing, in writing, without condition or limitation.
2. The university may release publicly the name, nature of the violation and the sanction for any student who is found in violation of a college policy that is a crime of violence, including: arson, assault offenses (including stalking), burglary, robbery, criminal homicide, destruction/damage/vandalism of property, kidnapping/abduction, robbery, forcible sex offenses, and non-forcible sex offenses.  The university may release this information to the complainant in any of these offenses regardless of the outcome, but complainants are cautioned that FERPA does not permit them to re-release this information to others.

Defenses

Dominican University respects and values the self-reflection that is required to explain behavioral patterns leading to policy violation. The justification of your actions is admitting to a policy violation. While your reason will not excuse your actions, Dominican University will take the legitimacy of your reason into consideration in addressing the proper sanction. 

Interim Action

Under the Student Code of Conduct, the Dean of Students or designee may impose restrictions and/or separate a student from the community pending the scheduling of a conduct hearing on alleged violation(s) of the Student Code of Conduct when a student represents a threat of serious harm to others, is facing allegations of serious criminal activity, to preserve the integrity of an investigation, to preserve University property and/or to prevent disruption of, or interference with, the normal operations of the University.  Interim actions may include separation from the institution or restrictions on participation in the community pending the outcome of a conduct hearing.

During an interim suspension, a student may be denied access to University housing and/or the University campus/facilities/events.  As determined by the Dean of Students, this restriction may include classes and/or all other University activities or privileges for which the student might otherwise be eligible.  At the discretion of the Dean of Students and with the collaboration with the appropriate College Dean(s), alternative coursework options may be pursued to ensure as minimal impact as possible on the responding student.

Students' Rights and Responsibilities

The Dean of Students and/or her/his designee(s) is responsible for the interpretation and implementation of university policy regarding student rights and responsibilities. In the event that a student violates the code of conduct, he/she will be given fair process according to the guidelines of the conduct process and the student’ rights and responsibilities.

1. Students are responsible for reading the Student Code of Conduct and Policies and being familiar with its contents. Not knowing its content does not preclude the student from being responsible for the information provided.
2. Students will be notified of the date, time and place of the conduct hearing at least 72 hours (three business days) in advance. The notice will include a description of the policies allegedly violated. Students will be notified of all conduct proceedings and results through their Dominican University email account unless informed otherwise by the conduct officer(s). Student may request a waiver of the 72 hour notice to request an expedited hearing.  When possible, those requests will be accepted.
3. Students may be assisted at hearings by only one Dominican University faculty or staff member. The faculty or staff member cannot speak for the student; the faculty or staff member can only advise the student. Communication from the advisor can only happen between the student and the faculty or staff member and can be limited at the discretion of the conduct officer. Students must notify the conduct officer if they intend to bring a faculty or staff member and must provide the faculty or staff member’s name at least 24 hours in advance of the hearing. No one other than the principals in the case, one advisor per student, any direct witnesses, and conduct officers are allowed to be present.
4. The conduct officer(s) determination will be made on the basis of whether it is more likely than not that the accused student violated the student code of conduct.
5. The accused student(s) have a right to review a list of witnesses in advance of the hearing and review written statements in advance by contacting the conduct officer(s) hearing the case.
6. Both the accused student(s) and complainant(s) will have the opportunity to bring direct witnesses and present information. The accused student(s) will have the right to speak on his/her behalf, hear and respond to witnesses, and review any written statements at the hearing. Students are not allowed to have copies of any of the materials. If the accused student is bringing witnesses, they must inform the conduct officer at least 24 hours in advance of the hearing.
7. The decision in each case will be based on information presented at the hearing. The conduct history of the accused student(s) will not be used in determining the student’s culpability, but will be used in determining the appropriate sanction(s). If the alleged violation is a pattern offence (relationship violence, stalking etc.) and the evidence of pattern is relevant, an exception will be made.
8. A decision will be presented to the student within 72 hours (three business days) of the hearing or as defined by the conduct officer(s).
9. All witnesses, in any hearing, must attend if called. If a student is called as a witness and does not appear, this will be considered a failure to comply, and the student is subject to disciplinary action. Witnesses must be truthful and appropriate in all their testimony.
10. If the accused student fails to appear for the hearing, the conduct hearing will be held in the student’s absence.
11. The conduct officer(s) will deliberate in private and render a decision based on the information presented at the hearing.
12. If there are multiple conduct officers, decisions will be made by a majority vote.
13. No recording devices of any kind are allowed.
14. A student may request a review of the decision of a hearing. See the Review Process section for clarification on how to appropriately request a review of a decision.
15. A student may waive their fair process rights and accept responsibility and a sanction. This action may be initiated by the student or the University.

Conduct Procedures

There are three types of student conduct hearings outlined below, depending on the violation. The rights of a student are the same in each hearing type as stated in the Student’s Rights and Responsibilities section. The conduct officer(s) will decide if a student is responsible or not responsible for the alleged violation(s). The conduct hearing will be scheduled around the student’s academic schedule.

ADMINISTRATIVE HEARING
Single or multiple designee(s) of the Dean of Students. These can be both faculty and/or staff, and have participated in special training offered by the Dean of Students office. These individuals hear cases delegated to them by the Dean of Students and have the same powers and responsibilities as the other hearing bodies.

DEAN OF STUDENTS CONDUCT BOARD
A conduct board made up of staff and/or faculty, all acting as Dean of Students designees. This type of hearing is used for the most egregious violations or repeat offenders.

ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION
The University reserves the right to utilize, at its discretion, an Alternative Dispute Resolution. These may include, but are not limited to; arbitration, mediation, and restorative justice approaches.

Mediation is an alternate dispute resolution process intended to facilitate restoration and reconciliation of relationships. If mediation is determined an appropriate alternative, all parties agree to meet with an impartial trained mediator(s) to discuss the incident and attempt to resolve it amicably. Mediation is successful when the parties have reached a consensus about the details of the incident and how it will be resolved. Mediation is a voluntary process and any party may request that mediation be terminated at any time.

All parties must agree to an Alternative Dispute Resolution and to be bound by the decision with no Review available.  Any unsuccessful Alternative Dispute Resolution can be referred to a conduct hearing.

At no time will complaints of physical sexual misconduct or violence be mediated as the sole institutional response. 

The Dean of Students may also suggest that complaints that do not involve a violation of the Student Code of Conduct be referred to an Alternative Dispute Resolution.

Review Process

A student has the right to request a review of a decision made at the initial hearing by a conduct officer(s). If a review request is denied, no further requests are allowed for the same case. If a review is granted, the review board’s decision is final and no further reviews will be considered.

A request for a review must be submitted using the online form on the Dean of Students myDU page, to the office of the Dean of Students within 72 hours (three business days) after a student is notified of the outcome of the conduct hearing. Please note you must be logged in to myDU to utilize this form.

Except as required to explain the basis of new information, a review will be limited to review of the initial hearing and supporting documents for one or more of the following purposes:

1. To consider new information, unavailable at the time of the original hearing, that could be outcome determinative;
2. To assess whether a material deviation from written procedures impacted the fairness of the hearing;
3. To decide if a sanction(s) is grossly disproportionate to the severity of the offense;
4. To determine that the finding does not accord with the information; or
5. To assess whether bias on the part of a conduct board member deprived the process of impartiality.

The Dean of Students, and/or his/her designee(s), will conduct an initial review to determine if the review request meets the grounds and is timely.  If the Review Request is not timely or substantively eligible, the original finding and sanction will stand and the decision is final.

If the review request is considered to have merit, a review board will be convened. A review is heard by a review board made up of three individuals designated by the Dean of Students, none of whom have been involved in the original hearing. If the reason for Review is to consider new information, the Dean of Students may decide to return the information to the original hearing board for Review.  Any sanctions given to the students in the initial hearing are not binding unless the Dean of Students decides otherwise. The review board has the right to call the initial conduct officer(s).

A review of the decision made at the initial hearing is NOT a rehearing of the case. The review board will consider the merit of the student(s) allegations and decide a course of action by majority vote. The review board may choose to affirm the original decision or if overturned, a new sanction may be given, an alternate action may be imposed, and/or a new hearing may be convened.

Possible Sanctions

Following is a list of possible sanctions. Sanctions not on this list may be given for violation of the Code of Conduct.

• Warning/Reprimand: An official written notice that the behavior is in violation of policy with notification that further violations will result in more serious sanctions.
• Educational/Creative Project(s): These sanctions are directly related to the incident or behavior and are designed to help educate the student about the consequences of his/her actions. These might include video or book review, attending a program, planning a program and/or assisting university staff.
• Community Service: Student participation in an activity designed to assist the university or surrounding community, i.e., volunteer activities at local churches, hospitals, agencies, campus projects or facilities.
• Restitution: Compensation for damage caused to the University or any person’s property. 
• Fines: Reasonable fines may be imposed for violation of University policy.
• Confiscation of Prohibited Property: Items whose presence is in violation of University policy will be confiscated and will become the property of the University.
• Loss of Privileges: The student will be denied specified privileges for a designated period of time.
• Visitation Privilege Loss: A student may have his/her visitation privileges to the residence halls suspended or revoked indefinitely.
• Behavioral Requirement: This includes required activities including, but not limited to, seeking academic counseling or substance abuse screening, writing a letter of apology, etc.
• Probation(s): Supervision of the student’s conduct for a designated period of time during which a subsequent infraction of any university regulation or any standard will result in more serious conduct action. Terms of probation are to be decided by the conduct body and can include but are not limited to: a) inability to represent the university in an official capacity such as student leadership positions, athletics, etc. and b) inability to participate in university activities or designated events.  Probationary meetings may also be imposed.  The student is deemed “not in good disciplinary standing” for the period of probation.
• No-Trespass Order: The student will not be allowed to enter university buildings or other university property as defined in the sanction.
• Relocation of Housing: The student’s room assignment may be changed to an alternate room or building.
• University Housing Suspension: Removal from University housing for a specified period of time after which the student is eligible to return.  Conditions for re-admission to University housing may be specified.  A student is required to vacate the residence hall at the date and time specified in the Hearing Outcome Letter.
• Expulsion From Residence: The student’s privilege to live in, or visit, any University housing structure is revoked for an extended period of time or permanently. 
• Suspension: Separation of the student from the university for a specified minimum period of time, after which the student is eligible to return.  Eligibility may be contingent upon satisfaction of specific conditions noted at the time of suspension.  During the suspension period, the student is banned from university property, facilities and events.  
• Termination of Scholarship: Removal/termination of any scholarship provided by Dominican University.
• Expulsion: Permanent separation of the student from the university. The student will not be allowed to re-enroll in the university.  The student is banned from university property, facilities and events.
• Other Sanctions: Additional or alternate sanctions may be created and designed as deemed appropriate to the offense with the approval of the Dean of Students of designee.

Any of the above sanctions may be imposed upon groups or organizations found in violation of the Student Code of Conduct.  In addition, deactivation, de-recognition, loss of all privileges (including status as a University registered group or organization), for a specified period of time.

Failure to Complete Conduct Sanctions

All students, as members of the University community, are expected to comply with conduct sanctions within the time frame specified by the Dean of Students or designee. Failure to follow through on conduct sanctions by the date specified, whether by refusal, neglect or any other reason, may result in additional sanctions and/or suspension from the University.

Disciplinary Records

All conduct records are maintained by the University for seven years from the time of their creation except those that result in separation (suspension or expulsion, including from housing) and those that fall under Title IX, which are maintained indefinitely.

Academic Policies

For a full listing, consult the University Bulletin at http://bulletin.dom.edu/.

Alcohol and Drug Policy

Drug Free Campus/Workplace Policy Statement

The Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act mandates that institutions of higher education adopt and implement a policy designed to prevent the unlawful possession, use, dispensation or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by faculty, staff and students and, provide certification to the Department of Education that such a policy is in place. The university has developed this policy not only in response to this federal anti-drug legislation, but also to provide a healthy environment by preventing the use of illegal drugs or the abuse of alcohol within the university community.

Any faculty, staff or student who violates this policy or does not cooperate with the university in its attempts to maintain a drug-free environment will face disciplinary action up to and including termination/expulsion from the university. Such persons also may be required, as a condition of continuing their relationship with the university, to enroll in substance-abuse counseling and/or a treatment program at their own expense. Individuals violating any town ordinances, state criminal laws or federal laws relating to alcohol or drug use also risk fines and imprisonment.

Faculty, staff and students are encouraged to familiarize themselves with resources available in the area for substance-abuse counseling and treatment. In addition, the counseling services in the Wellness Center are available to assist students with substance-related problems. In emergency situations, faculty and staff may also request their assistance in the identification of referral services. The Wellness Center respects the confidential nature of information shared by participants in its programs. If questions arise related to any of these guidelines or policies, please direct them to the appropriate university department.

This policy applies to all Dominican University faculty, staff and students.

1. In compliance with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988, Dominican University is committed to the maintenance of a drug-free workplace and is committed to rigorous enforcement of applicable laws and policies to support those trying to cope with drug-related problems.
2. Dominican University is committed to maintaining a drug-free workplace in compliance with applicable laws. The unlawful possession, use, distribution, dispensation, sale or manufacture of controlled substances is prohibited on university premises. Violation of this policy may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment and or expulsion from the university in the case of students. .
3. The illegal or improper use of controlled substances can: seriously injure the health of others: adversely impair the performance of responsibilities: and endanger the safety and well-being of fellow employees, students and members of the general public. It is therefore the policy of Dominican University to discourage the use of controlled substances by its faculty, staff and students at any time. Faculty and staff seeking resources for substance abuse issues may confidentially contact Human Resources. Students can contact the Wellness Center for confidential support and resources.
4. An employee of Dominican University will notify his/her supervisor if he/she is convicted of a criminal drug offense involving the workplace within five days of conviction (this includes student workers). Such conviction will be grounds for mandatory evaluation and possible treatment for a substance abuse disorder, and for disciplinary action up to and including termination. In the event any such conviction involves an employee working on a federal contract or grant, the University will notify the granting or contracting federal agency within 10 days of receiving notice of a conviction.
5. This statement and its requirements are promulgated in accordance with the requirements of the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 enacted by the U.S. Congress. The university will continue its effort to maintain a drug-free environment by adhering to the above policy and by providing on-going drug awareness programs.
6. Failure to comply with the foregoing rules will be grounds for disciplinary action up to and including termination. The terms of this policy statement are conditions of employment at the university.

ALCOHOL POLICY

• Alcohol is not allowed in public areas of the university. This includes, but is not limited to, classrooms, lounges, parking lots, library, etc.
• The purchasing or selling of alcohol is never allowed, unless the event has been approved by the Dean of Students.
• No one under the age of 21 is allowed to possess or consume alcohol.
• Any alcohol that is possessed by a minor, and/or is present during any policy violation, may be confiscated and/or emptied.
• Excessive drinking and intoxication will not be tolerated. Members of the community who choose to drink will be held fully responsible for their behavior while under the influence of alcohol. Loss of control due to intoxication in no way excuses or justifies violation of state law, university regulations or the rights of others.
• Any violation of state laws regarding alcohol will be considered grounds for university disciplinary action.

Any event sponsored by a university department, organization or group at which alcohol will be served or consumed must be approved by the Dean of Students. A checklist assuring all standards have been adhered to will be completed by the hosting/sponsoring department or division.  Student organizations or groups are encouraged to meet with the Dean of Students early in the event planning process to determine if approval will be granted.

The hosting/sponsoring department or division of the event is responsible for all aspects of the event including, but not limited to, the following standards:

• Registering and purchasing all liquor licenses in compliance with local, state and federal laws.
• Hiring of sufficient security personnel.
• Supervision of underage persons to ensure there is not underage consumption of alcohol (i.e., carding). No one under the age of 21 is allowed to serve, possess or consume alcohol.
• Removal and disposal of all unused alcohol.
• Any and all costs for insurance or damage to university property.
• No kegs, beer bongs, party balls or other common containers of alcohol are allowed, unless advance written notice is made by the appropriate university official and approved by the Dean of Students. 

RESIDENCE HALLS

• Only those 21 or older may possess or consume alcohol, and this is permissible only in the residence halls room of those that are 21 or over. Both residents and visitors in the room where alcohol is being consumed must be 21 or over.
• Those who are 21 or older are prohibited from giving alcohol to minors.
• No one under 21 may be present in a residence hall room where alcohol is being consumed, unless it is a host student’s roommate.
• Anyone of legal drinking age bringing alcohol into the residence hall must cover it.
• Common-source containers (kegs, etc.) are not allowed, and will be confiscated and not returned.
• Students may not display empty containers, including but not limited to, shot glasses, wine bottles, etc.
• Students are not allowed to display alcohol promotions or advertisements. 

DRUG POLICY

The unlawful use, possession, manufacturing, selling, and/or distribution of illicit drugs are strictly prohibited at Dominican University. Students, who illegally use, sell, create, possess, distribute or provide controlled substances will be subject to disciplinary action as outlined in the student code of conduct.

Any drug or drug paraphernalia will be confiscated from the student and not returned. This includes, but is not limited to, roach clips, scales, bowls, baggies, hookahs, bongs, etc. 

When adjudicating any case involving drugs, physical evidence of drug use is not required for a finding of responsibility in a case.  Scent or smell of drug use, or other behaviors and/or observations made by students and/or university officials and personnel, may be used in determining the outcome.  

Bookstore

Return Policy

• Non-textbook items in resalable condition may be refunded or exchanged within 30 days of purchase with original receipt. Clothing must have original tag attached.
• Electronics may be returned if in original unopened condition.
• Textbooks in resalable condition may be refunded with receipt by date listed in the bookstore, after the date within two business days of purchase thereafter.
• Textbooks purchased during or after mid-term exams are non-returnable, but may be sold back to the bookstore at any time.
• Upon proof of dropping a course or course cancellation, Stepan Bookstore will accept textbook returns until the end of the official drop/add period. Rental textbooks must be checked-in by the last day of finals.

Please note:

• Original receipt and photo ID are required for all refunds/exchanges.
• All shrink-wrapped books must remain unopened, all supplemental materials must be present and unopened, and all materials must be in original condition.
• Coursepacks, exam review books and magazines are non-returnable.
• Students are not allowed to use parents’ credit cards unless the parent is present. Parents may purchase textbooks or gift cards for their students online at www.stepanstore.com.

Copyright

Definition of copyright:  The U.S. Copyright Office defines copyright as: a form of protection provided by the laws of the United States for “original works of authorship,” including literary, dramatic, musical, architectural, cartographic, choreographic, pantomimic, pictorial, graphic, sculptural and audiovisual creations.”  “Copyright” literally means the right to copy but has come to mean that body of exclusive rights granted by law to copyright owners for protection of their work. Copyright protection does not extend to any idea, procedure, process, system, title, principle, or discovery, though these may be protected by a patent. Similarly, names, titles, short phrases, slogans, familiar symbols, mere variations of typographic ornamentation, lettering, coloring, and listings of contents or ingredients are not subject to copyright, though they may be protected by a trademark. For more information please consult: http://copyright.gov/title17/circ92.pdf

Copyright infringement is the act of exercising, without permission or legal authority, one or more exclusive rights granted to the copyright owner under section 106 of the Copyright Act (Title 17 of the United States Code). These rights include the right to reproduce or distribute a copyrighted work. In the file-sharing context, downloading or uploading substantial parts of a copyrighted work without authority constitutes an infringement.

Penalties for copyright infringement include civil and criminal penalties. In general, anyone found liable for civil copyright infringement may be ordered to pay either actual damages or “statutory” damages affixed at not less than $750 and not more than $30,000 per work infringed. For “willful” infringement, a court may award up to $150,000 per work infringed. A court can, in its discretion, also assess costs and attorneys’ fees. For details, see Title 17, United States Code, Sections 504-505.

Willful copyright infringement can also result in criminal penalties, including imprisonment of up to five years and fines of up to $250,000 per offense.

For more information, please see the website of the U.S. Copyright Office at http://www.copyright.gov/.

In addition to potential civil and criminal penalties, unauthorized distribution of copyrighted material, including (but not limited to) unauthorized peer-to-peer file sharing, constitutes a violation of University policy, and may result in disciplinary action by the University, up to and including termination/dismissal for employees and dismissal/expulsion for students.

Students must follow the copyright guidelines when doing research, publishing, or presenting material in a classroom or public setting.  You should also note the following:

Cite where you obtained your material.  Even for PowerPoint presentations (and especially for Prezi presentations on the web), it is important to indicate where you obtained your material.  Just because it’s “on the web” does not mean it is free from copyright.  Fair use—while definitely in your favor as a student—does not mean “free to copy,” especially when it is an entire work. 

If using photographic material, limit your photos/illustrations to material with a Creative Commons license.  Both Flickr and Google Images allow you to limit searches using their advanced searches to materials with a Creative Commons license.

Information regarding Fair Use for students is available in the Fair Use & TEACH Act Resources tab of this guide.

It is likewise important to realize that your work as a student is protected by copyright.  Any work you author is automatically copyrighted—whether you filed for copyright or not.  While parts of your work may be used under fair use guidelines, other reproduction requires your approval.

Detection services such as Turnitin do NOT violate your copyright, as decided in 2009 by the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.

Drones and Hover Boards

Due to safety concerns hover boards and drones are banned from all Dominican University properties and buildings.  Hover boards include but are not limited to self-balancing scooters, hands free segways & electric powered skateboards. Drones are unmanned aerial vehicles, similar to remote controlled model airplanes, many with camera/video capabilities.

Facilities Use

Students must abide by the posted hours and purpose for facilities and buildings.

Only recognized student organizations and groups may reserve university facilities for approved events and activities.

Gambling

Students are expected to abide by the federal laws and the laws of the State of Illinois prohibiting illegal gambling, including online gaming. Prohibited activities include, but are not limited to, betting on, wagering on, or selling pools on any university athletic event; possessing on one’s person or premises (e.g., room, residence unit, car) any card, book or other device for registering bets; knowingly permitting the use of one’s premises or one’s telephone or other electronic communications device for illegal gambling; knowingly receiving or delivering a letter, package or parcel related to illegal gambling; offering, soliciting or accepting a bribe to influence the outcome of an athletic event; and, involvement in bookmaking or wagering pools with respect to sporting events.

Guest Responsibility and Visitation

Students and student organizations are responsible for the behavior of their guest(s) while they are on property owned or controlled by the university or in attendance at its sponsored events. The host student or student organization assumes full responsibility for the guest compliance with all prescribed university policies and procedures, including those specific to residence hall visitation.

The visitation policy allows for 24-hour visitation on all floors in the residence halls. Residence hall students are allowed to have guests under the following policy:

• All guests must check-in and comply with the guest policy and university policies. Residents will be held responsible for the actions of their guests and/or anyone checked in under their name.
• Main campus residents must register as guests at Aquinas Hall, and Aquinas residents must check in as guests when visiting the main campus residence halls.
• All non-DU guests must present a government issued picture ID. Dominican University commuter students must present their Student IDs.
• Guests under 16 years of age are exempt from showing ID, but must be checked-in.
• No one under the age of 12 is allowed in the residence halls after 8 p.m. and before 8 a.m.
• The host student must escort his/her guest(s) at all times, including when a guest is leaving the residence halls and checking out. Guests who are not escorted by their hosts may be asked to leave the hall.
• University officials, members of law enforcement and/or other approved personnel are allowed in the residence halls without checking in or having a host.

The 24-hour visitation policy has several conditions:

• A resident must have the agreement of his/her roommate in order to host a guest.
• Members of the opposite sex are not allowed to stay as overnight guests.
• No cohabitation is allowed. Individuals not assigned to the room may not live in the room.
• A resident student may have no more than three guests at one time.
• Guests may stay in the residence halls for a maximum of three nights per three-week period.

Residents and guests abusing this policy will forfeit the privilege of having guests.

Hazing

All acts of hazing by any individual student, athletic team and university registered student club or organization and any of its members or alumni are prohibited. Students are entitled to be treated with consideration and respect, and no individual may perform an act that is likely to cause physical or psychological harm or social ostracism to any other person within the university community. Accordingly, the following behavior is expressly forbidden as hazing when related to the admission, initiation, pledging, joining or any other group-affiliation activity:

• Physical abuse (on or off campus), including but not limited to paddling, slapping, kicking, choking, scratching and exposure to extreme (i.e. cold or hot) water temperatures, the consumption of disgusting and/or dangerous concoctions;
• Causing excessive mental stress, including but not limited to placing prospective members of an organization or group in ambiguous situations which lead to confusion and emotional stress, sleep deprivation;
• Verbal abuse, including but not limited to shouting, screaming or use of derogatory, profane or obscene language; or
• Subservience, including but not limited to any activity which promotes a class system within organizations or activities which facilitate inappropriate levels of authority over students. 

This list is not exhaustive and any student or organization found to be involved in any hazing activity will face conduct action. Violation of this policy exists irrespective of the voluntary or consensual participation in the hazing activity by the person being hazed.

Health Insurance

All F1 or J1 Visa holders must be covered by health insurance that meets University guidelines.  Students with an F1 or J1 Visa must present qualified coverage to the Wellness Center by the first day of class or they will be enrolled in health insurance at the student’s expense.

Immunizations

All students, graduate and undergraduate, taking 6 or more hours are required to comply with Illinois requirements for documenting immunizations before the first day of class.

Students must go to Wellness Center Online, login and document these Immunizations: 

          Two MMR (measles/mumps/rubella) after the first birthday.

          A TDAP (tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis) within the past 10 years.

          One Meningitis vaccine since the 16^th birthday for students under 22 years of age.

Students over 57 years of age need document only the TDAP requirement.

          International students are required to have a history of two additional tetanus.

Waivers require an appointment at the Wellness Center. Please call 708-524-6229 to schedule.

Illinois state law requires that these immunizations be documented, and if not that students may be subject to removal from classes if there is an outbreak of communicable diseases.

Fines: Failure to comply with the law will result in the assessment of fines of $75 per semester and/or the withholding of registration, grades or transcripts until compliance is complete.

Immunization records are available from your high school, previous university or your personal physician and may be uploaded at dom.edu/Wellness. The Wellness Center can affordably provide any missing immunizations and blood tests to verify and document immunity. If you are submitting a blood test as proof of immunity, you need to supply numerical values.

If you have any questions regarding immunization records, please call the Wellness Center at (708) 524-6229.

Information Technology

The policies listed below represent an abridged version of the IT policies. For a detailed list of all IT policies and procedures, please visit the website at: http://duit.dom.edu. All changes will be documented on the website.

E-MAIL
Website: http://mail.dom.edu

Dominican University email is an official form of communication from the university. Students are responsible for communication received from the university through their email account. Staff, faculty, and students are expected to check their official e-mail address on a frequent and consistent basis in order to stay current with University communications. All student records are established so that their Dominican email address is the first used by all university systems.

Student email is hosted by Microsoft Office 365 and will be provided for life to alumni, when requested prior to their graduation. Student emails are formed by your username and “@my.dom.edu”.

You may have your email electronically redirected to another email address; however, if you use email redirection from your DU email address to another email address (e.g., @yahoo.com, @hotmail.com), you do so at your own risk. The University will not be responsible for the handling of email by outside vendors.

It is up to you to take the steps that may be necessary with your personal email account to allow for the receiving of email forwarded from their dom.edu email account. These steps may include, but are not necessarily limited to, adding the dom.edu address to a ‘safe-senders’ list and/or adjustment of any spam filters. Having email redirected does not absolve anyone of the responsibilities associated with communication sent to his or her official email address.

• For more information on accessing and setting up mobile devices to access your student email account, please visit our IT website at http://duit.dom.edu.

EMERGENCY NOTIFICATIONS

DU provides an Emergency Notification System that will send you a text to a cell phone number that you designate. The intent of this system is to send you a text when an Emergency exists on our campus. You cannot opt out of getting messages to your Dominican email, but you can choose to get email messages and texts to other email address and phone numbers.

• To enroll in the Emergency Notification System, login to MyDU (http://mydu.dom.edu) and click on the Emergency Notification System link on the left hand side of the page.
• To check the status of an emergency, visit our online alert system at http://www2.dom.edu/alert

IDENTIFICATION CARDS

The Star Card is a vital component of your day-to-day experience at Dominican University.  Students are required to have their Star Card on them at all times while on campus.  In addition to identification purposes, the Star Card is used for checking out materials in the library, Meal Plan or Dining Services and building/facility access.

Please refer to the website for more details and FAQ. http://www2.dom.edu/starcard

One Process

We are committed to supporting the dignity of every human person and the development of a community marked by truth, love and justice. Gender-based and sexual misconduct compromise the integrity of human relationships and threaten the security and well-being of all individuals. Not only are gender-based and sexual misconduct unlawful but they also undermine the atmosphere of trust and respect that is essential to creating an authentic, supportive community. The Dominican community expects that interpersonal relationships and interactions will be grounded in mutual respect, open communication and clear consent. Through these policies, the University strives to eliminate all forms of gender-based and sexual misconduct as well as prevent their recurrence, and address their effects on individuals and our entire community.

Members of the university community, guests and visitors have the right to be free from all forms of gender based and sexual misconduct. This includes the right to be free from discrimination and harassment based on gender identity and expression.

In order to foster a campus environment that is safe space for all, Dominican University has a responsibility to investigate and resolve allegations of gender-based and sexual misconduct.  When an allegation of such behavior emerges from the community or from any individual making a complaint, the University will take prompt action to maintain the safety of its community members and will act to protect all parties.  If an investigation reveals violations of the gender-based and sexual misconduct policy, the University will impose sanctions and/or other corrective actions to address the violation and prevent its recurrence.

Please visit One Process for the complete policies and procedures. 

Parking

Campus Safety is responsible for monitoring vehicles parked on campus. Campus Safety officers patrol the parking garage and parking lots to help create a safe environment. They are also charged with the responsibility of ticketing parking violators and enforcing parking regulations.

The Dominican University parking garage and parking lots are only open to properly registered and permitted vehicles. The three parking lots are: the East Lot with an entrance on Park Avenue, the West Lot with an entrance on Division Street and off Thatcher Avenue, and the Greenfield lot adjacent to the parking garage. The parking garage, accessible from the West Lot, is located on the northwest side of the Main Campus. Dominican also offers remote parking at the Priory Campus at 7200 West Division Street. Shuttle service is available seven days a week. A shuttle schedule is available at the Welcome and Information desk, through the DU Mobile App, or at http://www2.dom.edu/parking.

Visitor parking is reserved for the parking of a non-student, non-faculty or a non-staff member.

Short-term visitor parking, without a permit, is located around the circle, inside the main entrance at 7900 West Division Street. Short-term visitor parking is for visitors who are on campus for less than two hours.

Long-term visitor parking is for visitors who are on campus for longer than two hours. They should not park around the circle, but rather register for a temporary permit and park in the East or West lot or parking garage. Temporary permits are available at the Campus Safety Office or the Welcome and Information Desk.

The East lot is reserved for Resident Parking ONLY. Vehicles not displaying the Resident permit will be ticketed. **Please note that this restriction will be waived during all home athletic events held in the Igini Sports Forum**

Campus Safety will be enforcing the 2am-6am overnight restriction for all vehicles including resident permits in all parking areas seven days a week. Residents can only park in the East Lot overnight or by special instruction from Campus Safety during inclement weather. All overnight guests who need to leave their vehicle on campus overnight will need to obtain a temporary overnight permit.

Roof level parking in the parking garage will only be allowed Monday thru Friday 8am– 8pm. Any vehicles parked outside of those hours will be ticketed. Access to the roof level will be blocked outside of those hours.

Parking Permits

Parking permit information can be found online at http://www2.dom.edu/parking

Parking Tickets

Dominican University parking tickets are issued for parking violations on campus. The due date for fine payment or appeal is 14 days from the date of the ticket. The amount of the fine may be added to your tuition bill or deducted from your paycheck.

Campus Safety officers will ticket the following violations:

• Vehicles without a valid permit.
• Vehicles improperly parked in lots, fire lanes, near fire hydrants, handicapped spots, loading docks, resident sister’s parking, other restricted areas, and vehicles exceeding the speed limit.
• River Forest Police also ticket violations in fire lanes, handicapped spaces, and near fire hydrants.

Additionally any vehicle displaying a falsified permit, counterfeit permit, unregistered permit or an unauthorized copy of a permit will be considered in violation of the parking policy and will be ticketed.

Parking enforcement is in effect 24 /7 and 365 days a year. Parking at Dominican University is allowed by permit only, which includes both Main and Priory campuses.

Vehicles receiving a third ticket will have an orange tow warning sticker placed on the driver’s side window. This warning sticker is to inform the vehicle operator that the vehicle is eligible to be towed away at the owner’s expense. On the fourth violation, the vehicle will be ticketed and towed.

The River Forest Police Department also patrols and tickets on campus. River Forest Police generally ticket vehicles blocking fire lanes or throughways and handicapped parking violators. River Forest tickets are completely independent of Dominican University. To appeal, one may have to appear in front of a village hearing officer or in court.

Parking Ticket Appeals

To appeal a Dominican parking ticket, submit a Support Center case at http://supportcenter.dom.edu. A review board will meet and communicate to you via your DU email address only. 

You must file for an appeal within 14 days of the violation or you will be unable to appeal the ticket.

The purchase of a parking permit allows you to park on campus. It does not guarantee you a spot.

The following types of reasons are not acceptable grounds for appeal:

• lack of knowledge of the regulations(i.e. have not read regulations)
• other vehicles were also parked improperly
• late to class or appointment
• disagreement with or inability to pay the amount of fine(s)
• lack of space
• unread or misunderstood signs

Posting

The following is the university posting policy enforced by the Office of the Dean of Students.

1. General Guidelines
1. Publicity can be posted only on designated bulletin boards, limited to 23 posters, including the Priory Campus. An additional 20 fliers may be given to Student Life to be posted in the Residence Halls.
2. Publicity may not be posted on any doors, doorways, windows or walls.
3. Publicity must be posted on bulletin boards using a push pin or staple. Do not use tape on the bulletin boards.
4. Publicity must be in good taste and professional looking. 
5. Only post one poster per bulletin board.
6. Publicity is to be removed within 24 hours after the event by the sponsoring department/organization. Removing your outdated publicity will reduce the problem of space limitations. 
7. Publicity may not be posted over existing approved publicity.
8. All publicity will be permitted to be posted for a 14-day period. After that time, the publicity must be removed or re-approved by the Office of Student Life or Office of the Dean of Students.
9. Publicity that is posted incorrectly will be removed and discarded.
10. All publicity must state “Sponsored by your organization/department” and “For more information contact (708) xxx-xxxx/xxx@dom.edu.”
11. Additional guidelines are below for student organizations, departments and off-campus postings.
2. Posting Areas
   
   There are specific posting areas on campus for Dominican University-sponsored events/activities. Publicity may only be posted on these bulletin boards. Any publicity found posted inappropriately will be removed immediately. The following is a list of bulletin boards where approved publicity may be posted. Each bulletin board is designated as an on-campus posting area.
3. Fliers are not to be posted in the Banner/Large Poster areas.  Fliers from these areas will be removed and recycled.

• “L”- on the bulletin board near the bookstore
• Lower Level of the Crown Library – next to the elevator
• Lower Level of Lewis Hall – near Technology Center
• Center Lewis Stairwell – on bulletin boards only
• Parmer Hall - bulletin boards by elevator on first floor, bulletin board by vending machine on first floor, bulletin board in North entrance foyer
• Parking Garage - both stairwells
• Fine Arts Building – first floor by the copier
• Lower Level Student Center – bulletin board at the bottom of the stairwell from the Clock Lobby to the Underground
• MAC – second floor near 210
• Priory Campus – first and second floor bulletin boards

The following are NOT approved areas: South and North Stairwells in Lewis; Lewis Alcove; Social Hall; Clock Lobby; Cyber Café Pillars; Cyber Café entrance (between sliding glass doors); Parmer Hall Atrium, Parmer stairwells and doors; lockers; elevators; bathrooms/bathroom stalls; floors; sidewalks.  

3. Banner/Large Poster Policy
   Due to the limited space available to post large publicity, large publicity/banners will be posted for no more than seven days. Fliers are not to be posted in the Banner/Large Poster areas. 
   
   The following are approved areas for posting banners:
• Dining Hall
• Lower Level of Crown Library or Lower Level of Lewis Hall (publicity may only be in one of these locations)
• Dining Hall at Priory

All banners and large posters must be posted using masking tape. All banners must be stamped/approved; otherwise, it will be removed and recycled. 

4. Table Tents
   Table tents may be displayed in the Dining Hall, Cyber Café, and Priory Dining Hall. Table tents must follow the guidelines outlined in section one. All student organization table tents must be approved and stamped by the Office of Student Life. Table tents for departments must be approved by the Dean of Students office.  Fliers on tables do not constitute table tents and will be removed and discarded.
   
   Information may also be placed on the "Things to DU" table tent that is distributed each week. To have your information placed on the "Things to DU" table tent please contact the Office of Student Life at beinvolved@dom.edu.

5. Clubs and Organizations
• The Office of Student Life must stamp all advertising: posters, fliers, banners, table tents and other similar notices.
• Publicity must state “Sponsored by your organization.” Also, you should always include: “For more information contact (708) xxx-xxxx.”
• Publicity will not be approved if all necessary paperwork is not completed and the event/activity has not been approved.
• A club or organization found to be in violation of these guidelines will be sanctioned as appropriate.

6. University Departments/Offices
   Publicity that is posted by a university department or office does not need to be approved/stamped, with the exception of Banners and Table Tents. It is the responsibility of the department to follow the guidelines outlined in section one which includes the posting and removal of publicity. Publicity that does not follow the guidelines will be removed and discarded. All publicity must state:  “Sponsored by your department” and “For more information, contact (708) xxx-xxxx.”
   
   Publicity can only be posted for 14 days.

7. Non-Dominican University Events, Jobs, Items for Sale
• All non-Dominican University publicity must be approved through the Welcome and Information Desk .
• There are only two bulletin board areas on the Main Campus for non-Dominican University items on the main campus: lower level of Lewis Hall near the Vending Machines and the L (near the computer kiosks) and one bulletin board at the Priory Campus.
• Fliers will only be posted for 14 days. 

If you would like to request an exception to this policy, a written request must be submitted to the Office of the Dean of Students 14 days in advance.

Residence Halls

Each student in the residence halls is expected to exercise self-discipline and to respect the rights and privacy of other students. In a community living environment, certain rules and policies must be observed by everyone in order to maintain the operation of the residence halls, as well as the personal and academic success of all residents.

If a student engages in behavior that violates residence life or university policies, an incident report can be filed. Any student or staff member may file an incident report. Students and staff members should inform the involved parties when they are being documented for an incident. Policy violations will be subject to the Student Conduct process or One Process.

Appliances and Electrical Equipment

Students may not cook in their room. Electric skillets, broilers, hot plates, toasters and other equipment normally used to cook food are not allowed. For safety reasons, halogen lamps, space heaters, candle warmers, electric blankets, electric sheets or mattress pads, soldering tools and sun lamps cannot be used in student rooms. Students will be held financially responsible for damages caused. Other small appliances, such as coffee makers and popcorn poppers, can be used if the heating element is completely enclosed. Incandescent and fluorescent study lights are allowed. Small refrigerators and small microwaves are allowed. The electrical requirement limits are 120 volts, 60 hertz, 2.5 amps.

No antennas of any type are to be attached to the outside of the residence halls. This includes CB antennas and satellite dishes outside windows of student rooms.

Air conditioners are not allowed in the public areas or private rooms of residents. The buildings are not equipped to handle the electrical needs of such items. Anyone needing a window unit A/C must submit proper documentation to the Disability Support Services office and receive approval prior to installing any air conditioning units.  .  A room assignment may need to be shifted to accommodate the electrical requirements in the building.

Check-In/Out Procedures and Dates

All residents must officially meet with a member of the Student Life staff when checking into a room, when checking out of a room or when changing rooms. Failing to check in and check out is a violation of residence hall policy. Improper check-out will result in a fine of $150 or more. Students not leaving by the closing date will be charged $150/day. Damages or missing items will result in additional charges to the students’ account.

When moving into a room, students must fill out and sign a room condition report indicating necessary repairs, along with a checklist indicating the general condition of the room. When students check out of the room, students will fill out and sign the same room condition report. Students will be held responsible for damages to their rooms during the time they lived there or any missing furniture.

Students may also elect to do an express check out, in which case they return their keys and ID in an envelope provided by Student Life. By selecting this option, students agree that any charges that may be applied at check-out cannot be disputed.

Students must check out either 24 hours after their last final or by noon on the Saturday of winter closing, or 5 p.m. the Friday of spring closing. Any belongings left in the student’s room after the official date of closing becomes property of the university and will be disposed of appropriately.

Dates for check-in are as follows: August 24, 2018, for new students and August 25, 2018, for returning students for the fall semester. Halls close for the winter break at 12 p.m. on December 15, 2018. Halls re-open on January 6, 2019 at 12 p.m. for the semester. Halls close for the year on May 5, 2019, at 5 p.m.

Common Areas

Commons areas are available for studying, socializing, meetings and programs. The lounge furniture is not to be removed for use elsewhere. If furniture is missing from a lounge or damaged or unusual cleaning is needed, the hall, floor, cluster, suite and/or wing will be held financially responsible. A charge of $25 per day will be assessed for unauthorized university furniture found in a student’s room. Resident students may not leave any furniture from their rooms or any other personal belongings in any common area of the university. Student Life may conduct searches for missing common area furniture at any time.

A kitchen is available for student use adjacent to the Coughlin Commons. Students must supply their own cookware. Any damages in the kitchen will be included in the resident’s damage billing. Residents choosing to use it are expected to maintain the cleanliness of the kitchen. The kitchen may be closed down due to lack of cleanliness.

Sporting Equipment

Students are not allowed to use any type of sporting equipment in the residence halls, including student rooms, hallways, lounges, stairwells and restrooms. Wearing cleats, roller blades or skates is not permitted in any building.  Dribbling, kicking, or other playing of balls/athletic equipment is also prohibited.

Disruptive Behavior

Each Resident student can have a maximum of three additional individuals in their room at one time.  This includes guests and other resident students.  If, in the opinion of a university official, the number of people in a room is disruptive to the community, the individuals may be asked to leave. 

Pets

 

Fish are the only pets allowed in the residence halls, with all roommates’ permission. Spot inspections will be made if there is a probable cause to believe that animals other than fish are living in the residence halls. Aquariums must be removed from the residence halls during all breaks. Students who are found to have animals other than fish living in their rooms will be referred to the student conduct process.

Quiet Hours

Quiet hours are in effect from 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. Sunday through Thursday and midnight to 7:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday. During these hours, residents are expected to reduce their noise level, both inside and in the vicinity of the residence halls, to a level that will not disturb other residents. During final examinations, the Student Life staff will institute a strictly enforced 24-hour quiet hour policy.

Courtesy Hours

Courtesy hours are in effect at all times, 24 hours a day. A student should request another resident to alter their noise level if it is disruptive.   A student or staff member can document a situation if noise is excessive, including loud music, yelling, etc. 

Room Changes

Room changes are not encouraged and are not allowed until the third week of the semester. After this time, a room change is warranted only after all residents of the room have attempted to work out any differences. Any resident wishing to change rooms should contact his or her RA who will mediate a conflict resolution meeting. If a room change is still requested, Student Life staff will meet with the students involved to determine a resolution and/or room change. Roommate agreements will be utilized as a tool during mediation conversations and will be revised to meet the changing needs and expectations in the resident’s shared space. Students must follow proper check-out and check-in procedures when changing rooms. If a student changes a room without authorization from the Office of Student Life, he/she is subject to a $150 fine.

For room changes that are mutual swaps and agreed upon by all parties, students need to fill out the room change form from the Student Life website. For students whom are unhappy with their current room and would like to change rooms, they can go on the wait-list, also available on the Student Life website. Student Life will review the wait-list periodically each semester. For any students switching rooms at the semester break, all rooms must be completed prior to leaving campus in December.  Room change requests will not be accommodated after April 1 unless there is an emergency or safety concern approved by Student Life.

Room Condition

Rooms should be in the same general condition when residents move out as when they moved in. Residents should be careful not to cause any permanent damage to their rooms.

If a resident damages his or her room, the Student Life will bill the resident’s account for the damage, replacement and labor cost. Student Life has discretion with regard to billing students for damages and improper check out. Final charges for damages will be assessed after check-out and cannot be appealed after June 15, 2019.

Students may not make permanent structural changes in their rooms. This includes painting, wallpapering, wallpaper borders, attaching loft panels and paneling. Residents are asked to use masking tape to fasten pictures and posters to the walls. Glued picture hooks, nails, and/or scotch tape are not permitted. Waterbeds are not permitted. Lighted signs, alcoholic beverage or drug related signage, alcohol container displays, and street or public works signs are not permitted and will be considered stolen property. Window screens must remain in place and closed at all times. Residents may be charged for screens that are not in place.

The outside of a room, including doors and windows, is considered a common area. Displays offensive to others or decorations that are a fire hazard are prohibited.  Nothing is permitted to be visible in the windows, hanging or attached outside the window.

Room Consolidation

Student Life has the authority to move a resident into a double room that is being occupied by only one person. First-year students are rarely allowed to occupy single rooms. First-year students will be consolidated into double rooms if at all possible. Any student who has been assigned to a double room as a single may be assigned a roommate at any time. Advance notice will be given to those students, when possible.

Room Entry and Search

The university reserves the right to inspect residential rooms and regulate the use of these premises in accordance with university rules and regulations at any time. 

University officials may enter rooms without the consent of the residents in the following circumstances:

• When the staff has reasonable cause to suspect violations of health or safety regulations or of university or residence hall policy.
• When the staff has reasonable cause to believe an emergency exists involving immediate danger to life, safety, health and/or property.
• When the staff has reasonable cause to suspect that a particular item or piece of information (such as medication or telephone number) is located in the room and would be useful in responding to an emergency involving immediate danger to life, safety, health or property.
• When a disturbance exists in the room (i.e. continual alarm sounding, telephone ringing or loud stereo playing).
• When the staff has reasonable cause to suspect illegal use of drugs or alcohol or evidence of another crime or policy violation.
• When the staff has reasonable cause to think some act of vandalism has occurred or is occurring.
• For periodic environmental checks (i.e. furniture inventory, engineering/cleanliness concerns). These will be conducted during fall, winter and spring breaks and at the discretion of the university.

Room Inspections

Scheduled room inspections will occur before breaks and after the halls have closed. These inspections are conducted to ensure that building maintenance, safety, sanitation and property control requirements are being followed. The Director of Student Life and/or his/her designee will notify students of a room inspection explaining how to properly prepare the room. Failure to prepare one’s room is considered a violation of policy.

An unscheduled room inspection may happen at any time. Students should be aware that any items prohibited by law or residence hall policy may be confiscated. Disciplinary action will follow such instances.

If a student leaves belongings in their room after they move out of the residence halls, those items become property of the university and the student will be charged an improper check-out fee.

Theft

Thefts should be reported to campus safety and security staff immediately. Doors should be locked at all times and personal belongings should not be left unattended. Dominican University does not accept any responsibility for loss or theft occurring in the halls. Residents are financially responsible for all damage and loss of university property. Students are encouraged to obtain renters’ insurance policies.  If students would like the River Forest Police called for an alleged theft, they can make that request to the Campus Safety staff.

Vacation and Break Housing

Residents are expected to vacate the residence halls during break periods. Dining, recreational and other university services may not be available during university break periods. Students who receive permission to stay during school breaks may be assessed a housing charge and may be required to participate in a university meal plan. At the end of each semester, all students must officially check out of the residence halls within 24 hours after completing their last final examination or by the time the residence halls officially close, whichever occurs first.

Since students receive the university schedule at the beginning of each year, travel plans must be made accordingly. Extensions to arrive prior to the start of a semester or stay after will not be given readily. Early arrivals or drop-offs will only be made in special situations.

All students must vacate the residence halls by May 5, 2019, at 5:00 p.m.

 Service and Assistant/Emotional Support Animals

As outlined in Dominican University’s One Process policy, Dominican University provides reasonable accommodations for qualified students with disabilities. The University allows individuals with Service Animals access to buildings on campus, including University Housing. The University will allow qualified students with disabilities to have Assistance/Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) in University Housing on a case-by-case basis according to the policy outlined below.

 

Service Animals

Per Titles II and III of the Americans with Disabilities Act, Dominican University allows a person with a disability to be accompanied by a service animal in all places where students and members of the public are permitted to go, except where animals are specifically prohibited due to a health or safety hazard. Service animals are defined as dogs (and in some cases miniature horses) that are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for people with disabilities. Examples of such work or tasks include guiding people who are blind, alerting people who are deaf, pulling a wheelchair, and alerting/protecting a person who is having a seizure. The provision of emotional support, well-being, comfort, or companionship do not constitute work or tasks for the purposes of defining a service dog. The work or task a dog has been trained to provide must be directly related to the person’s disability.

 

Assistance/Emotional Support Animals (ESAs)

Per the Fair Housing Act, Dominican University provides reasonable accommodations for a student with a disability to have an assistance/emotional support animal (ESA) in University housing. An ESA is an animal that is necessary to afford a person with a disability an equal opportunity to use and enjoy a dwelling when there is an identifiable relationship or nexus between the person’s disability and the assistance the animal provides. Assistance or Emotional support animals include species other than dogs and miniature horses. An ESA is prescribed to an individual with a disability by a health care or mental health professional and is an integral part of a person’s treatment process. Assistance or emotional support animals are generally only allowed within a student’s residence in University housing, though requests for the emotional support or assistance animal to accompany the student to other campus locations will be considered on a case by case basis. Requests should be made to the Disability Support Services Coordinator, located in the Lower Level of Parmer Hall. There must be a link between the animal and a disability. Emotional distress resulting from having to give up an animal because of a “no pets” policy does not qualify a person for an accommodation under federal law.

  

Dominican University Service and Assistance and Emotional Support Animal Policy Requirements

1.         Students who seek to have a service or assistance animal in University Housing must notify the Disability Support Services Coordinator as soon as possible, ideally at least 45 days prior to move-in.

2.         The student must complete the Service and Assistance Animal Agreement in full and comply with its rules.

3.         The student must provide documentation of the disability and disability-related need for an emotional support animal from the student’s health care professional.

4.         Review and approval by the Dominican University DSS Office.

 

No animal may be permitted in University housing that:

1. Is not approved by the Disability Support Services office (DSS Office).
2. Is out of control or not housebroken.
3. Poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others.
4. Would cause substantial physical damage to University property or the property of others.
5. Would pose an undue financial and administrative burden.
6. Results in a fundamental alteration of the University’s program(s).
7. Is too large for the space.

 

Appeal

If a requested accommodation is not approved, or a student is required to remove a service or assistance animal due to a violation of the Service and Assistance Animal Agreement, the student may attempt to work with the Disability Support Services Coordinator informally to resolve the complaint. If the informal process is unsuccessful or if the student does not wish to use it, a formal grievance may be initiated. All formal grievances should be submitted via Dominican University’s One Process Policy.

Student Complaints and Grievances

Dominican University provides several means by which student complaints and grievances may be addressed. In all cases, students are advised to put their complaints in writing and carefully document the events that led to the complaint or grievance.  For complete information click here 

Tobacco

The use of tobacco products is prohibited at all times while on Dominican University property.

• Tobacco is defined as all tobacco‐derived or containing products, including, but not limited to, cigarettes (clove, bidis, kreteks), electronic cigarettes, cigars and cigarillos, hookah‐smoked products, and oral tobacco (spit and spitless, smokeless, chew, snuff).
• Use of tobacco product is defined as follows: The inhaling, exhaling, burning, or carrying of any lighted smoking material on campus property, including but not limited to all outside property or grounds owned or wholly leased, sidewalks, parking lots, outdoor seating areas, stadium seating and all landscaped and recreational areas and all university vehicles and moving equipment.
• Smoking materials must be extinguished and disposed of prior to entering upon Dominican University property*, or exiting your vehicle. Improper disposal includes but is not limited to: littering (i.e. discarded cigarette butts and/or throwing cigarette butts out of windows).

* The Priory Campus main entrance is accessed through property owned by the Village of River Forest: ORDINANCE 111201: AN ORDINANCE REGULATING USE OF THE PARKS OF RIVER FOREST, COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS states that the smoking of cigarettes, cigars, or pipe tobacco is prohibited inside or within 25 feet of any building, facility or structure, or within 100’ of any organized activity within the Park System.