If you do not have the Adobe Acrobat Reader, you will not be able to view our PDF files. You can download it for free at the Adobe Website.
I.
IV.
V.
A. Introduction
Welcome to Santa Clara University. Santa Clara’s distinctive tradition expects from each of its community members an uncompromising commitment to excellence and to social responsibility that seeks to fashion a more humane and just society. To achieve our common goals, we must create a community environment that is shaped by its expressed values. The Student Handbook seeks to reflect the values of the community and unite them into a usable guide.
The Santa Clara University community includes students, faculty, staff, parents, alumni, neighbors, guests, and friends of the University. As a community, enriched by men and women of diverse backgrounds, we respect differences, encourage open dialogue, and commit to caring for all members of the community. Every member of the community serves as a representative to other members of our community, both on and off campus. Members of this community freely affiliate with the University and should be prepared to contribute to and abide by the standards set forth in this handbook.
Santa Clara University believes that the life of the University rests in the hands of each and every community member. Sharing this responsibility should lead all community members to make the most of their talents, to be sensitive to one another and work together, and to seek justice within and beyond the Santa Clara University community.
All community members are called upon to promote actions and behaviors that are consistent with the values of Santa Clara University and to confront, challenge, and respond to actions that are inconsistent with the established standards.
This Student Handbook has been designed to frame your role within the Santa Clara University community. Every attempt has been made to provide a clear explanation of the standards, policies, and procedures that reflect the type of community that you are joining. Familiarizing yourself with the contents of this handbook is an investment of time that you will not regret.
B. Statement of Community Values
The Santa Clara University community is dedicated to the promotion of values consistent with academic and personal excellence. Choosing to join this community evidences your acceptance of these values.
As a member of this community, I will practice personal and academic integrity.
Living this value looks like:
- Being a “person of conscience,” a person who acts ethically, whose decisions reflect moral sensitivity, judgment, commitment, and courage
- Showing consistency in my beliefs, my words, and my actions personally and professionally
- Being honest, responsible, and accountable in my scholarly activities, making course work my top priority, and taking credit only for my own work
Living this value is inconsistent with:
- Failing to take responsibility for my behavior
- Engaging in dishonest behavior such as cheating or falsifying information
- Tampering with data systems or computer networks
As a member of this community, I will respect and care for myself, my friends, other people, and their property.
Living this value looks like:
- Maintaining my health in mind, body, spirit, and soul
- Treating other people and the environment with dignity, as I expect to be treated
- Being a “person of compassion,” who stands with others in their need and takes action to help build a more just and humane world
- Recognizing and actively protecting the property rights of others in my apartment, neighborhood, residence hall, on campus, and in the surrounding community
Living this value is inconsistent with:
- Behaving in ways that cause others emotional distress, threaten or discourage the freedom, personal safety, and respect that all individuals deserve
- Hurting myself and others through the use or distribution of drugs or alcohol
- Creating a dangerous environment by tampering with safety equipment or smoke detectors
As a member of this community, I will value diversity and learn from differences in people, ideas, and situations.
Living this value looks like:
- Understanding that differences in gender, socioeconomic status, ethnic background, race, culture, religion, sexuality, physical abilities, and other differences are rich opportunities for learning about other people, the world, and myself
- Working to understand and overcome personal, institutional, and societal biases, injustices, prejudices, and stereotyping
- Being fair, assigning benefits and burdens to people according to consistent, equitable, and just criteria
Living this value is inconsistent with:
- Harassing or threatening other members of the community
- Using degrading language toward any person or toward members of a specific group
- Arguing or hampering my community’s right to the communication of ideas and ideals just because they don’t represent my own
- Validating unequal behavior toward a person because of gender, socioeconomic status, ethnic background, race, culture, religion, sexuality, physical abilities, and/or other differences
As a member of this community, I will seek, share, and contribute to our common good.
Living this value looks like:
- Basing my actions on the belief that my own good is inextricably bound to the good of the whole community
- Contributing my talents and participating fully in the life and events of the community
- Engaging in the open dialogue and deep communication necessary to create a real rather than “pretend” community
- Showing careful stewardship of common space, property, and equipment
Living this value is inconsistent with:
- Not conveying a respect and responsibility for my University community
- Resisting learning about the perspectives shared by other community members
- Engaging in selfish or inconsiderate behavior
As a member of this community, I will be a leader-in-service to campus and the greater community beyond campus.
Living this value looks like:
- Seeking to understand not only “what is” but “what should be” and working actively to bring that about
- Making no decision without considering its effects on people who are poor, in need, and with the least resources
Living this value is inconsistent with:
- Not valuing the efforts of community service activities
- Perceiving leadership as someone else’s responsibility to the campus and outside community
C. Statement of Responsibilities & Standards of Conduct
A goal of Santa Clara University is to provide students with a general education so that they will acquire knowledge, skill, and wisdom to deal with and contribute to contemporary society in constructive ways. As an institution of higher education rooted in the Jesuit tradition, the University is committed to creating and sustaining an environment that facilitates not only academic development, but also the personal and spiritual development of its members.
This commitment of the University encourages the greatest possible degree of freedom for individual choice and expression with the expectation that individual members of the community will:
- Be honest
- Demonstrate respect for oneself
- Demonstrate respect for others
- Demonstrate respect for the law and University standards, policies, and procedures, their administration, and the process for changing them
In keeping with this commitment, this Statement of Responsibilities and Standards of Conduct and related policies and procedures have been formulated to guarantee each student’s freedom to learn and to protect the fundamental rights of others. The University administration has established standards, policies, and procedures that are necessary to achieve its objectives as a Catholic, Jesuit University. These standards, policies and procedures are inclusive of the laws of the nation, the state of California, and the local community.
All members of the Santa Clara University community are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that is consistent with the goals of the institution and demonstrate respect for self, others, and their property. Students living off campus are members of this community and as such are representatives of the University to the community at large. In this regard, students living off campus maintain an equal measure of accountability to the values and expectations of all members of this community as identified in the Student Conduct Code.
Whether living in or traversing through the neighborhood, or parking in the street, students are expected to adhere to the same high standards of conduct and behavior that are consistent with the students’ developing role as responsible and accountable citizens and reflect well upon the Santa Clara University community.
D. Student Conduct Code
All members of the University community have a strong responsibility to protect and maintain an academic climate in which the fundamental freedom to learn can be enjoyed by all and where the rights and well-being of all members of the community are protected. To this end, certain basic regulations and policies have been developed to govern the conduct of all students as members of the University community. The University reserves the right to review student conduct that occurs on and off campus when such behavior is inconsistent with these expectations and the Student Conduct Code. In addition, students are responsible for the actions of their guests and will be held accountable for any violations of University standards, policies, and procedures by a guest. Students should accompany their guests while on campus. If necessary, the University reserves the right to limit the guest privileges of a student. The following acts will subject students to disciplinary action:
- Engaging in any form of academic dishonesty, such as plagiarism (representing the work or ideas of others as one’s own without giving proper acknowledgment), cheating (e.g., copying the work of another person, falsifying laboratory data, sabotaging the work of others), and other acts generally understood to be dishonest by faculty or students in an academic context. (Law students refer to School of Law code.)
- Illegal use, possession, or distribution of drugs. The use or possession of equipment, products, or material that is used or intended for use in manufacturing, growing, using, or distribution of any drug or controlled substance.
- Falsification or misuse, including non-authentic, altered, or fraudulent misuse, of University records, permits, documents, communication equipment, or identification cards and government issued documents.
- Knowingly furnishing false or incomplete information to the University, a University official, or judicial hearing board in response to an authorized request.
- Disorderly, lewd, indecent, or obscene conduct; excessive or prolonged noise; behavior that interferes with the orderly functioning of the University, or interferes with an individual’s pursuit of an education on University-owned or -controlled property or during an authorized University class, field trip, seminar, competition or other meeting, or University-related activity.
- Detention, physical abuse, or conduct that threatens imminent bodily harm or endangers the physical well being of any person, including harm to self.
- Nonconsensual physical contact of a sexual nature such as sexual misconduct, sexual assault, and rape.
- , damage, or misuse of University property or the property of any other person or group.
- Theft or conversion of University-owned property or the property of any other person or group.
- Hazing, harassing, threatening, degrading language or actions, including stalking, or any practice by a group or individual that degrades a student or employee, endangers health, jeopardizes personal safety, or interferes with an employee’s duties or with a student’s class attendance or a person’s educational pursuits.
- Intentional obstruction or disruption of teaching, research, administration, disciplinary procedures, or other University activities; or obstruction or disruption that interferes with the freedom of movement, both pedestrian and vehicular.
- Possession or use of firearms, explosives, dangerous chemicals, or other dangerous weapons or instruments except as expressly authorized by University regulation.
- Unauthorized entry into or use or defacement of University facilities, including residence halls and other buildings and grounds, including unauthorized entry into or presence in or on a University building; unauthorized erection or use on University property of any structures including specifically but not limited to tents, huts, gazebos, shelters, platforms, and public address systems; or unauthorized use of University property for dances, concerts, assemblies, meetings, sleeping, cooking, or eating if said activity interferes with the operation of the University or surrounding community.
- Publication, posting, or distribution through the use of University resources (e.g., computer networks, telephone lines, e-mail services, Internet connections), or at authorized University activities of material that violates the law of libel, obscenity, postal regulations, the fair use of copyrighted materials, or any law or statute or University policy.
- Failure to comply with a reasonable request or order of a University executive or other authorized official(s); refusal or failure to leave such premises because of conduct prescribed by this code when such conduct constitutes violations of this code or a danger to personal safety, property, or educational or other appropriate University activities on such premises; or refusal or failure to identify oneself when requested by a University official provided the official is identified and indicates legitimate reason for the request.
- Possession, consumption, sale, or action under the influence of alcoholic beverages by persons under the age of 21; furnishing alcoholic beverages to persons under the age of 21; consumption of alcoholic beverages in a public place (all areas other than individual residences, private offices, and scheduled private functions); excessive and inappropriate use of alcoholic beverages. (See also Alcohol Policy Within the Residence Halls.)
- Misconduct in which a student is detained, arrested, cited, or otherwise charged with violations of local, state, or federal laws that materially or adversely affect the individual’s suitability as a member of the Santa Clara University community.
- Tampering with, removing, damaging, or destroying fire extinguishers, fire alarm boxes, smoke or heat detectors, emergency call boxes, and other safety equipment anywhere on University property; creating a fire, safety, or health hazard; or failure to respond to fire alarms, evacuate buildings during alarm activation, or respond to the directions of emergency personnel.
- Any behavior that disrupts or causes disruption of computer services; damages, alters, or destroys data or records; adversely affects computer software, programs, systems, or networks; or uses data, computer systems, or networks to devise or execute any scheme to defraud, deceive, or extort, or wrongfully obtain money, property, or data.
A. Academic Integrity
Both the University Bulletin and the Student Handbook outline the University’s expectations that all members of the University community are expected to be honest in their academic endeavors. Engaging in any form of academic dishonesty or other acts generally understood to be dishonest by faculty or students in an academic context subjects a student to academic and judicial action. For the full text of the academic integrity protocol, go to the Provost’s website at www.scu.edu/provost/ and look for the link to Academic Policies and Procedures.
B. ACCESS Card Policy
1. Card Use
The ACCESS card is Santa Clara University’s multi-purpose photo identification card issued to each student. Beyond identification of student status, this card enables library circulation, facility access, and cashless purchasing. The card, related accounts, and access privileges are nontransferable. The individual identified by the card is responsible for all usage of his or her card and is the only one authorized to present the card for services, access, or purchases. A student using a card that does not belong to him or her may have that card confiscated and may be referred to the Vice Provost for Student Life for disciplinary action. The ACCESS Card Office is responsible for the issuance of all ACCESS cards and the maintenance of all card reader locations. If a card does not function properly at any location, the card owner should seek assistance at the ACCESS Card Office.
2. Lost, Stolen Card, and Replacement Fees
The card owner is responsible for suspending any lost or stolen ACCESS card immediately 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The loss may be reported and the card suspended anytime online at the ACCESS Card website, in person at the ACCESS Card Office during business hours, or by phone at (408) 551-1647. After hours, Campus Safety Services (open 24 hours a day) may be notified either in person or by phone at (408) 554-4441. The card owner is responsible for all use of his or her card prior to the request for card suspension, whether it was made online, at the ACCESS Card Office, or at Campus Safety Services. If the suspension request is reported within 48 hours of the loss of the card, the card owner liability does not exceed $50 in unauthorized charges. If the suspension request is made within 60 days, the card owner liability does not exceed $500 in unauthorized charges. If the suspension request is not made within 60 business days of the loss, the liability to the card owner for unauthorized charges may be limited only to funds available on account. ACCESS cards damaged or defaced are no longer valid and must be replaced. A $15 fee is charged to replace a lost/stolen card. A damaged or defaced card is replaced for a $5 fee. The fee for former card re-activation is $3.
3. ACCESS Card Accounts
The card owner agrees to be bound by all account terms and conditions set forth in the ACCESS Card Agreement signed when the card is obtained. All ACCESS accounts are debit accounts, not credit accounts, and must maintain deposits sufficient to cover the cost of purchases. The card owner may review recent charges made to his or her account online at www.scu.edu/access and may request written statements of detailed account activity through the ACCESS Card Office. The ACCESS Card Office may disclose account activity to a parent or benefactor only if written authorization is received from the card owner in advance.
4. Closing Accounts, Refunds, and Returns
All ACCESS Dining Plans are nonrefundable. ACCESS Resident Dining Plans are quarterly allocations that expire on the Sunday following the last day of finals. At the end of the resident contract, the plan is closed and any unused balance is forfeited. ACCESS Dining Plus Plans expire at graduation or withdrawal from the University. Refunds of Flex Account balances may be requested upon separation from SCU for a $10 processing fee. If a balance remains in a student’s University Bursar Account at the time of the refund request, that balance is deducted from the Flex Account before a refund is issued. An ACCESS Flex Account left inactive expires 18 months after the last day of a student’s enrollment with any remaining balance reverting to the University. Any returned purchase originally made on an ACCESS account is credited back to that account. There are no cash refunds or withdrawals from an active ACCESS card account. The card owner is charged $15 for any check submitted to the ACCESS Card Office which is subsequently returned by the bank. An ACCESS card may be suspended until the returned check is cleared. A deficit balance created by an unresolved returned check may be charged to a card owner’s University Bursar Account.
5. Account Error Resolution
If an error is noticed on an ACCESS receipt or statement, the card owner should contact the ACCESS Card Office no later than 60 days after the error appears. If the report is made orally, a written confirmation may be required within 10 days. The investigation results should be available within 10 days of notification; if more time is needed, the investigation may take up to 45 days. If no error is found, a written explanation is provided within three business days after the close of the investigation. The card owner may request copies of the documents used in the investigation.
C. Alcohol & Controlled Substance Violations: Parental Notification Policy
The vice provost for student life is responsible for determining if and by what means parents or legal guardians will be notified when students under the age of 21 are found to have committed serious or repeated violations of federal, state, or local law or University policies related to the possession, use, or distribution of alcohol or a controlled substance. The Vice Provost for Student Life may assign the notification of parents or legal guardians to other University officials.
Notification of parents or legal guardians is indicated for violations of federal, state, or local laws, or for violations of any institutional policy regarding alcohol or controlled substances, in the event that these violations are also violations of the Student Conduct Code. Notification is also indicated in any of the following circumstances:
- The violation involved harm or threat of harm to self, other persons, or property.
- The violation involved an arrest in which the student was taken into custody.
- The violation suggests a pattern of alcohol or controlled substance abuse.
- The student who committed the violation required medical intervention or transport as a result of consumption of alcohol or a controlled substance.
- The violation resulted in or could result in the student being disciplined by the University including but not limited to the minimum judicial sanctions for alcohol and other drug violations housing contract probation, housing contract cancellation, disciplinary probation, deferred suspension, suspension, or expulsion.
The University supports students assuming personal responsibility and accountability for their actions as they learn to establish their independence. The University also recognizes that the process of establishing personal independence requires support and, at times, assistance or intervention. In the appropriate circumstances, notification of parents or legal guardians can be a means of support in that transition. Consistent with this approach, the Vice Provost for Student Life or designee—whenever possible—will involve the student in a discussion about the decision to notify his/her parents or legal guardian and will inform the student that notification will take place.
Nothing in these proposed guidelines shall prevent University officials from notifying parents or legal guardians of health or safety emergencies, regardless of the judicial status of the student.
D. Alcohol Policy Within the Residence Halls
Students of legal drinking age (21 years or older) may consume alcoholic beverages in the privacy of their own rooms in the residence halls and apartments, provided the space is not shared with an underage roommate. Students hosting guests, (including fellow SCU students and non-SCU guests) are responsible for their guests’ adherence to the policy. Any person under the age of 21 who is in possession of alcohol or is in a room where alcohol is knowingly or unknowingly present will be assumed to have been consuming alcohol as it is difficult to determine who was drinking and who was not.
Possession and/or consumption of alcoholic beverages in public areas is prohibited. Public areas are all areas other than individual living spaces. Rooms with open doors, rooms with closed doors to which public attention is attracted by excessive noise, hallways, lounges, restrooms, and outdoor areas are considered public areas.
No kegs, beer bongs, or other equipment for the sole use of consuming alcohol, will be allowed in the residence halls or apartments. Empty alcohol containers and/or packaging within a student’s room will be considered the property of the student. A student and guests can be held in violation of the Alcohol Policy if empty containers and/or packaging are in their rooms.
E. Alcoholic Beverage Policy
The Alcoholic Beverage Policy of Santa Clara University is based on the central and fundamental educational focus of the University to create an environment that fosters learning. The University believes in personal responsibility, moral growth and development, awareness of communal consequences of personal choices, obligation of citizenship, and responsible decision making. The University strives to build a community that is welcoming, hospitable, fair, inclusive, rooted in mutual understanding and appreciation, and respectful of diverse perspectives, traditions, and practices. Therefore, it is critical that the members of the University community are committed to the physical and emotional health and well-being of those who work, study, or congregate at the University. The policy serves as a guide and applies to all members of the campus community including students, parents, staff, faculty, alumni, and guests of the University.
The Alcoholic Beverage Policy is set in the context of the legal requirements governing the sale, consumption, and distribution of alcoholic beverages and in the context of community expectations for not only upholding the laws but also sharing responsibility for the safety and welfare of other members of the community. The University will not tolerate disregard for the law, or behaviors and practices that counter the education of the whole person, compromise rigorous and imaginative scholarship, inhibit moral and spiritual development, and constrain the University’s fundamental values. Consequently, the University does not condone underage drinking and considers intoxication, disorderliness, or offensive behavior deriving from the use of alcoholic beverages to be unacceptable, regardless of a person’s age or on-campus or off-campus status. To cultivate a campus environment consistent with the stated goals and purposes of an educational institution, the University has adopted the following policies and procedures for the use of alcoholic beverages:
1. Service of Alcohol
The service and consumption of alcoholic beverages on the University campus and at University-sponsored events off campus shall be done in compliance with applicable municipal, state, and federal laws and regulations, and in accordance with University policies and procedures. All persons on the University campus or at any University-sponsored event off campus where alcoholic beverages are being served or consumed are expected to abide by and respect all such laws, regulations, policies, and procedures. (Copies of applicable laws are available from the Office of Student Life. See the end of this section for a partial listing of laws.)
2. Events
Alcoholic beverages at events held on campus shall be supplied and sold only by the University food service provider or another designated, licensed agent of the University, except in situations covered by No. 5 of this policy. No other individual person or private party shall supply or sell alcoholic beverages at on-campus events or hold the license for the sale of alcoholic beverages on campus.
3. Location
Alcoholic beverages shall not be served or consumed in public areas of the University except at authorized University events. Public areas include all indoor and outdoor spaces on the campus except individual residences and private departmental work areas and offices.
4. Clubs & Recreation
Alcoholic beverages shall not be served or consumed at any University sponsored intercollegiate or club sport athletic event or recreational sports activity.
5. Sponsorship
The sponsorship of events by alcoholic beverage companies or distributors is limited to cash donations, donated products (other than those that directly promote or advertise alcoholic beverages) in support of fundraising or other special events as approved by the appropriate vice president, vice provost, or dean; and materials for University educational programs. The use of donated products for events that are held in Benson Memorial Center must also be approved by the University liaison to the food service contractor.
6. Age of Majority of Participants
Alcoholic beverages may be served at on-campus events sponsored by University-affiliated student organizations whose membership is predominantly 21 years of age or older, provided that university operating funds are not used to purchase the alcohol for the event.
7. Alcohol Management Plan
The service of alcoholic beverages at all events on campus shall be in accordance with the Office of Student Life’s Alcohol Management Plan, which should be submitted and approved by the Vice Provost for Student Life or designee.
8. Addendum to Agreement
For student organization-sponsored events off campus that include the service of alcoholic beverages and that require University approval of the contract or agreement with the off-campus facility, an Addendum to Agreement must be signed by the service provider and received by the Vice Provost for Student Life or designee. (Copies of this addendum are available in the Center for Student Leadership.)
Copies of the Alcohol Management Plan and Guidelines For Serving Alcohol At Events are available in the Office of Student Life.
9. Partial Listing of Laws - California State Laws on Alcohol
- It is a crime to sell, furnish or give alcoholic beverages to a person under the age of 21 or to any obviously intoxicated person.
- It is a crime for a person under the age of 21 to purchase or possess alcoholic beverages.
- It is a crime to sell alcohol without a valid liquor license or permit.
- It is a crime for any person to drink while driving, to have an open container of alcohol in a moving vehicle, or to drive under the influence of alcohol.
- It is a crime to be intoxicated in a public place.
- Intoxication is presumed at blood levels of .08% or higher, and may be found with blood alcohol levels from .05% to .08%.
10. Penalties for Drunk Driving Offenses
- First offense: required attendance at an alcohol/drug program, fines of up to $1,000, up to six months in jail and driver’s license suspension up to six months.
- Second offense: fines up to $1,000, imprisonment up to one year, driver’s license suspension up to 18 months and/or a required drug/alcohol program of up to 30 months.
- Third offense: similar sanctions to #1-2 above plus revocation of driver’s license.
- Fourth offense: revocation of driver’s license; one year in a state prison or county jail.
- Refusal to submit to a blood alcohol content test: driving privileges are suspended for one year, for two years if there is a prior offense within seven years, and for three years with three or more offenses within seven years.
- Drivers under the age of 21 found with any measurable amount of blood alcohol will have their driver’s license suspended for one year. If the driver does not have a license, there will be a one-year delay in obtaining one.
For University Sanctions, see “Judicial Sanctions for Alcohol and Drug Violations”.
F. Building Evacuation and Fire Safety
The following standards are for the safety of all resident and nonresident students:
Violation of many of these standards is also punishable by local and state law. Evacuation for fire alarms is required of all occupants of University buildings whenever an alarm is sounded. Be familiar with emergency evacuation routes from buildings in which you spend time.
Specific procedures are:
- Exit the building immediately by the proper pathway.
- Lock your door and take your key if you are a resident and in your room at the time the alarm sounds.
- Use stairways, do not use the elevators.
- Once outside, move to your designated emergency assembly point.
- Do not return to an evacuated building until the all-clear signal is given by the designated incident commander.
Failure to evacuate for an alarm is a violation of city and state ordinances and will be treated as a serious violation of the Student Conduct Code. Fire alarms and fire-safety equipment are located in each building to save lives and property. Initiating a false alarm or tampering with fire-safety equipment is a violation of University policy and Santa Clara City Ordinance Number 103.4. Violators face criminal prosecution with penalties of $1,000 and/or six months in jail, in addition to University sanctions.
G. Communicable-Diseases Policy
Communicable diseases may be a potential health problem for the University population. As with any community, students studying and functioning in close proximity to one another are susceptible to communicable diseases. Communicable diseases are transmitted from one person to another by direct contact, through inhalation of infectious droplets, or through contact with contaminated objects.
The Cowell Student Health Center provides evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of infectious disease. Educational materials are available at the Cowell Student Health Center and the Wellness Center.
One measure to prevent communicable diseases is to maintain appropriate immunizations/vaccinations. Santa Clara University encourages incoming students to have completed all recommended immunizations and to be aware of the availability of the meningococcal and influenza vaccines. Cowell Student Health Center sponsors a yearly vaccination clinic which provides the influenza and the meningococcal vaccines, and maintains a limited supply of certain other immunizations.
Students diagnosed with certain communicable diseases must be isolated during the infectious period of their illness. Therefore, they may not be able to continue attending class, obtaining meals in the various University dining facilities, or living in the residence halls. There is no provision made by the University for offering accommodations to contagious students who are required to leave the residence halls. Students with communicable diseases who live in a residence hall will need to consider returning home if the distance is reasonable, staying with local relatives or friends, or checking into a nearby motel. Off-campus housing and travel arrangements are made at the student’s expense.
Cowell Student Health Center routinely communicates and coordinates with the Santa Clara County Public Health Department. Should a communicable disease occur which requires campus wide notification and/or treatment, Cowell Student Health Center would coordinate this process with the Public Health Department as needed.
H. Computing Resources Policy
General guidelines for use of computing and communication facilities on campus are based on principles of etiquette, fairness, and legality. In using these resources at SCU, community members are expected to be respectful of other individuals’ ability to enjoy equal access to the resources, refrain from malicious or annoying behavior, and abide by state and national laws, including those related to intellectual property and copyright. More details are available in the University’s Acceptable Use Policy accessible from Information Technology.
I. Contraception Availability Policy Statement
Santa Clara University, a Catholic, Jesuit university, provides educational information regarding contraception and related issues. The Cowell Student Health Center strives to ensure students have clear, up-to-date, and candid information regarding contraception, sexual health and related issues. The Cowell Student Health Center does not provide condoms or prescribe contraception. Cowell Student Health Center’s staff of qualified physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, registered nurses, and health educators provide education regarding contraception and related health issues. The goal of this educational approach is not only to provide information but to assist students in clarifying their values, making decisions, and assuming personal and social responsibility for their choices.
J. Crime Reporting
The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act) requires colleges and universities across the United States to disclose information about crime on and around their campuses.
It is the policy of Santa Clara University that the campus community will be informed on a timely basis of all reports of crime and other information affecting the security of our campus and the personal safety of our students, faculty, staff, and guests. The director of campus safety services is responsible for gathering, recording, and disseminating such information and for decisions regarding the content, time, and manner of distribution. Depending on the circumstances, the director of campus safety services may request the assistance of various University departments and/or administrators in carrying out this responsibility. For more information, view the Campus Statistics On Crime.
K. Death of a Parent or a Student
If students, faculty, or staff members become aware of the death of a student, Campus Ministry (408) 554-4372 or the Office of Student Life (408) 554-4583 should be notified immediately. This is so during holiday periods as well. When the parent of a student dies, the student, a friend of the student, or a faculty or staff member who is aware of the situation, notifies Campus Ministry. With the students’ permission, Campus Ministry staff will notify others in the University so that assistance can be offered to the student or the family. The Office of Student Life will notify faculty members of student deaths as appropriate.
L. Disabilities Resources
Santa Clara University seeks to respect each person’s dignity and desire for personal growth and accomplishment and is committed to achieving equal educational and employment opportunities for qualified persons with disabilities. No qualified person with a disability shall be excluded from participating in any University program, nor be denied benefits of any University program, or otherwise be subject to discrimination. The University will make every reasonable effort to remove existing barriers, whether physical, programmatic or attitudinal and to ensure that new barriers are not erected. Santa Clara University is committed to providing access for qualified students with disabilities, faculty, staff, and visitors to University programs. This policy is in line with the University’s nondiscrimination policy, which applies to all qualified participants with disabilities in employment, access to facilities, student programs, activities and services.
The Office of Disabilities Resources has been designated by the University to ensure access for all qualified students with disabilities to all academic programs and University resources. Types of disabilities include medical, physical, psychological, attention-deficit, and learning disabilities. Reasonable accommodations are provided to minimize the effects of a student’s disability and to maximize the potential for success. Disabilities Resources is located in the Drahmann Center, Benson Center, Room 214. The Drahmann Center is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
M. Drug-Free Policies
Santa Clara University complies with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 and the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act (as amended in 1989). The Santa Clara University environment is a community in which there are responsibilities and freedoms governed by policies and codes of behavior, including sanctions for violations of these standards.
1. Drug-Free Schools Policy
Santa Clara University prohibits the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and/or alcohol by students and employees on Santa Clara University property or as a part of Santa Clara University activities. The University will impose disciplinary sanctions on students and employees up to and including expulsion or termination of employment. Education, counseling, and/or rehabilitation may also be required. Violations may also be referred for prosecution. Employees should contact the Department of Human Resources at (408) 554-4392 or the Student Employment Office at (408) 554-3000 x6444 for more information.
2. Additional Information
The Office of Student Life can provide information related to the disciplinary sanctions in place for violation of this policy. The Cowell Health Center, Counseling and Psychological Services, and Wellness Center have information related to the effects of alcohol, information on alcohol and drug counseling, and information on referrals for alcohol and drug treatment. The Office of Student Life maintains a list of applicable legal sanctions under federal, state, or local laws for the unlawful possession or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol.
3. Drug-Free Workplace Policy
All employees are required to abide by the University’s Drug-Free Workplace Policy. The full text is available online at the Human Resources Staff Policy Manual. Employees should contact The Department of Human Resources at (408) 554-4392 or the Student Employment Office at (408) 554-3000 x6444 for more information.
N. Eating Disorders
Santa Clara University recognizes the prevalence of eating disorders, eating related problems, exercise obsession, and body-image concerns in students. Eating disorders affect student learning in numerous ways, including depleting students’ energy, distracting their attention, diminishing their intellectual resources, causing depression and social withdrawal, and adversely affecting the morale of students around them. The University is committed to educating the whole student and sees the student’s mind, body, character, and spirit as interrelated.
The philosophy underlying our approach to disordered eating is one of treating the whole student through a team approach. Medical evaluation is the standard of care used to evaluate students with eating disorders. An Eating Disorder Multidisciplinary Team meets on a regular basis to coordinate the treatment of students with eating disorders.
Santa Clara University and Cowell Health Center do not have the expertise or the specialized comprehensive resources and extended time to treat students who present themselves or are referred for evaluation of severe eating disorders. This is particularly the case with students who resist treatment. Students with serious eating disorders may be referred to outside providers or treatment facilities when so doing is deemed necessary for appropriate medical management. This may necessitate a medical withdrawal from the University.
See also “Psychological Emergencies”.
O. Eligibility Policy for Participation in Student Activities: Academic Standing & Discipline Status
Involvement outside the classroom provides significant opportunities to explore interests, develop skills and abilities, apply classroom learning in practical situations, gain professional experience, develop leadership competencies, and cultivate an appreciation of the diverse world in which we live. It also provides opportunities to meet new friends, participate in community service, work with others around shared goals and interests, and become peer mentors. Involvement, however, should not be at the expense of academic success. Those enrolled at Santa Clara University are college students before they are student leaders. As such, the University has adopted this policy to assist with the students’ academic success.
1. Conditions for Involvement
Students at Santa Clara University who are involved in student activities that are funded by the University (e.g., intercollegiate scholastic activities or intercollegiate athletic activities), and students who occupy a leadership position in organizations or associations recognized by the University, must fulfill the following conditions:
- Academic Standing: Student must be in good academic standing with the University. To be in good academic standing, an undergraduate student must normally be enrolled full time, maintain a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0 based on all courses taken at Santa Clara, and must have completed at least a minimum number of units as specified in the Undergraduate Bulletin for acceptable progress toward a degree. Graduate students involved in student activities must meet the academic status requirements of their division, school, or program.
- Discipline Status: The student must be in good behavioral standing with the University. Students on disciplinary probation are not allowed to hold leadership positions. Members of the University’s intercollegiate and club athletic teams and members of the debate team on disciplinary probation are allowed to practice with the team, but are not allowed to compete. Students on deferred suspension or suspension are not allowed to participate in co-curricular and intercollegiate activities.
2. Affected Groups
The following groups of students are affected:
- All officers and major leaders of the eight Chartered Student Organizations. The terms “officer” and “major leader” will be defined by the Center for Student Leadership. All officers and major leaders must also be undergraduate students.
- All officers and major leaders of all recognized student clubs and organizations. The terms “officer” and “major leaders” will be defined by the Center for Student Leadership. All officers and major leaders must also be undergraduate students (Associated Students of Santa Clara University (ASSCU) Bylaws, Section V, Article b.vii.2.).
- Members of the Residential Learning Community association.
- Members of the University’s intercollegiate and club athletic teams.
- Members of the University’s intercollegiate debate team.
- Members of the Emergency Medical Service.
- Students who apply to study abroad or are admitted to a study abroad program.
- Students who are interested in auditioning or performing in a theatre production.
- Students involved in other organizations and activities that the University Policy Committee on Student Affairs shall periodically recommend to the University administration and that shall be so declared by the University administration.
The financial aid of students who may be receiving aid from the University as a result of their participation in any of the above activities will be affected according to the policy defined in the current Limitations on Financial Aid Eligibility: Undergraduates published by Financial Aid and the Financial Aid Qualification detailed in the Undergraduate Bulletin. Nothing in the above shall prohibit any department or division in the University or the advisor(s) of any regulated student activity from setting their own higher standards.
P. Medical Marijuana Policy
Santa Clara University does not permit the use of marijuana for any purpose on university property. Students who qualify under California Proposition 215 to use marijuana for medical purposes are not permitted to possess, store, provide, or use the marijuana on University-owned or controlled property (including but not limited to residence halls, academic buildings, athletic facilities, and parking lots), or during a University-sanctioned activity regardless of the location. Students who violate this policy are in violation of the Student Conduct Code and are subject to disciplinary action.
Q. Posting Printed Material & Chalking
The University policy on posting printed material and chalking applies to all printed materials on mini A-frames, bulletin boards, and display cases in Benson Memorial Center; bulletin boards in the residence halls; and chalking on campus grounds. Materials may be placed on bulletin boards inside academic or administrative buildings subject to the approval of the office with administrative jurisdiction over the area. Officially registered student organizations, academic departments, administrative offices, and faculty and staff groups may post written information concerning programs or activities sponsored by Santa Clara University or one of its groups. Off-campus groups and individuals may post written material concerning their events, goods, and services in designated areas within the Benson Memorial Center. All posting and chalking on campus, whether by a University-affiliated group, an off-campus organization, or an individual, must comply with University regulations and any applicable municipal, state, and federal laws.
1. Approval
Printed material for posting in Benson Memorial Center must be approved at the center’s Information Desk. Printed material for residence halls must be approved by the Residence Life Office (Benson Center, Room 2) or by the resident director of the building. Posting for all events where alcohol will be served must also be approved by the facility manager for the event (see “Alcoholic Beverage Policy”). The appropriate staff will do all posting.
2. Content
All printed material and chalk messages posted by University organizations must contain the name of the sponsoring organization and words SCU or Santa Clara University in the description of the event. Printed material posted by off-campus organizations or individuals must contain the name, telephone number, and address of a contact person. Printed material posted on campus and chalk messages may not be libelous, slanderous, or obscene or incite violence.
Printed material publicizing an event covered by the Speakers Policy must contain the following statement: The presence of a guest speaker on the campus of Santa Clara University does not necessarily imply approval or endorsement by the University of the views expressed by the guest speaker or by anyone else present at the event.
In compliance with the ADA/504 please direct your accommodation requests to (name of the sponsor/ organizer/ coordinator responsible for the event) at (phone number of the sponsor/ organizer/ coordinator of the event) or call TTY-California Relay, at (800) 735-2929 at least (number of hours you decide this) prior to the event.
3. Size
Printed material placed on the bulletin boards in the Benson Memorial Center may be no larger than 12 inches by 24 inches. Printed material on mini A-frames may be no larger than 30 inches by 36 inches. Printed material placed on bulletin boards in residence halls may be no larger than 11 inches by 14 inches. Balcony banners in Benson Memorial Center may not be larger than 6 feet long by 3 feet wide.
4. Location
Printed material and chalk messages may be placed only in approved areas of campus. Printed materials may not be placed over other posters or flyers, and no more than one poster/flyer per event per bulletin board is allowed. Posting on light poles, trees, floors, ceilings, elevators, planter boxes, and on exterior walls and other building surfaces, is prohibited and such items will be removed; the responsible group or individual may be subject to a removal and/or cleanup charge.
Printed material may be placed on the bulletin boards in the Benson Memorial Center and on the bulletin boards in residence halls, subject to the limitations (e.g., rental housing, buying and selling of goods and services, carpooling and riding arrangements) for specific bulletin boards and kiosks. All employment-related information must be posted by the Career Center on the designated employment bulletin board(s).
Printed material pertaining to University-sponsored events may be placed on mini A-frames available through the Event Planning Office by officially registered student organizations, academic departments, administrative offices, and faculty and staff groups. Mini A-frames may be placed on the paved sidewalk areas in and around the residence halls, on the east plaza of Benson Memorial Center, and on the paved sidewalk areas immediately adjacent to Benson Memorial Center.
Banners pertaining to University-sponsored events may be placed on the balcony areas of Benson Memorial Center by officially registered student organizations.
Chalk messages pertaining to University-sponsored events may be placed in the designated areas by officially registered student organizations, University offices, academic departments, administrative offices, and faculty and staff groups. Chalk messages, using water-soluble chalk, may be placed on paved sidewalk areas in and around residence halls, on the east plaza of Benson Memorial Center, on the west porch of Benson Memorial Center, and on paved sidewalk areas immediately adjacent to the Benson Memorial Center. Chalk messages on sidewalks in other campus locations, on outdoor stairs and ramps, on planter boxes, on fountains, on walls and on other ground and building surfaces are prohibited.
5. Time
Printed material on the bulletin boards, display cases, and banners in Benson Memorial Center and on the bulletin boards in residence halls may be posted for a maximum of two weeks. Printed materials on mini A-frames and chalk messages may be posted a maximum of one week. All printed material, banners, and chalk messages must be removed within 24 hours following the event by the group responsible for the event. Failure to remove such materials within that time frame may subject the responsible group or individual to a removal and/or cleanup charge.
6. Violations
Violation of any of the provisions of this policy will result in the removal of the printed material or chalk message. In addition, the responsible group or individual may be subject to appropriate University sanctions and/or legal action by the University.
7. Posting Within the Residence Halls
Posting in the residence halls is permitted. All posters and flyers must be approved by the Residence Life Office (Benson Center, Room 2), or by the resident director of the building. To ensure that posters are not placed on walls, doors or windows, all posters will be hung by staff members of the Offices of Housing and Residence Life.
Hanging banners, posters, and stickers on the exterior of a residence hall or apartment is expressly prohibited.
R. Prevention of Harassment & Discrimination
Santa Clara University prohibits discrimination and harassment on the basis of race, color, religious creed, sex, gender, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, registered domestic partner status, veteran status, age, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition including genetic characteristics, or any other consideration made unlawful by federal, state, or local laws in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarships and loan programs, athletics, or employment-related policies, programs, and activities; or other University-administered policies, programs, and activities.
Additionally, it is the University’s policy that there shall be no discrimination or retaliation against employees or students who raise issues of discrimination or potential discrimination or who participate in the investigation of such issues. The University will provide reasonable accommodations for the known physical or mental limitations of an otherwise qualified individual with a disability under the law.
Inquiries regarding equal opportunity policies, the filing of grievances, or requests for a copy of the grievance procedures covering discrimination and harassment complaints should be directed to John Ottoboni, General Counsel and Interim Affirmative Action Officer, c/o Office of Affirmative Action, Loyola Hall, Second Floor, Santa Clara, CA 95053 or (408) 554-4178.
S. Psychological Policies
Santa Clara University endeavors to provide a safe living and learning environment, insofar as possible, in which all students are able to pursue their education. In so doing, the University reserves the right to require professional evaluation and treatment, withdrawal from on-campus housing, and/or withdrawal from the University in the event a student’s behavior is incompatible with minimal standards or academic performance and/or social adjustment.
This policy applies to:
- Students who are deemed to be a danger to themselves or others. Danger to self or others is here defined to include any danger of suicide, self mutilation, accident, or assault substantially above the norm for college students which necessitates unusual measures to monitor, supervise, treat, protect, or restrain the student to ensure his/her safety and the safety of those around him/her.
- Students whose behavior is severely disruptive to others. Disruptive is here defined to include behavior which causes emotional, psychological, or physical distress to students, faculty, or staff above that normally experienced in daily life. Such disruption may be in the form of a single behavioral incident or somewhat less severe but persistent disruption over a more extended period.
- Students (a) who refuse or are unable to cooperate with recommended assessment and/or treatment and (b) whose behavior or physical condition suggests a disorder, such as an eating disorder, which is likely to deteriorate to the point of permanent disability, disfigurement, impairment, or dysfunction without such assessment and/or treatment. When standard assessment is impossible because of the student’s resistance, indirect behavioral observations will constitute the basis for such judgment.
- Students whose physical or psychological disorder is such as to require highly specialized services beyond those available on campus or locally and whose condition will deteriorate without additional resources.
The Vice Provost for Student Life or designee (in consultation with the appropriate mental and physical health professionals and other staff as deemed necessary) is responsible for the implementation of this policy. If a student fails to comply with this policy, the end result may be mandatory withdrawal from the University, disciplinary action, and/or notification of the student’s parents or guardians.
T. Sexual Assault Reporting Protocol
Santa Clara University seeks to provide a consistent, caring, and timely response when sexual assaults occur within the University community. The University prohibits any nonconsensual physical contact of a sexual nature, including sexual assault and sexual misconduct. The following procedures were created to:
- Facilitate the recovery of a sexual assault victim by providing prompt and compassionate support services.
- Create a campus environment that both expedites and encourages the prompt reporting of sexual assaults against students.
- Facilitate the apprehension of assailants when such assaults are committed and/or process cases through the campus judicial system.
- Establish and cultivate a climate of community involvement in sexual assault prevention.
- Increase the safety of the campus community.
- Ensure accurate reporting of crime statistics.
Students are encouraged to report all instances of sexual assault and sexual misconduct. Victims/complainants who have engaged in alcohol or other drug use at the time of the assault will not be subject to disciplinary action for such use. Every effort will be made to ensure that students are informed of rights and resources, including options for reporting through the university or the appropriate police department.
Faculty and staff who have significant responsibility for student and campus activities are required to inform Campus Safety Services of incidents of sexual assaults reported by students. The University seeks to provide accurate and timely information to the campus community related to public safety. Faculty and staff are encouraged to consult with the Office of Student Life about accessing campus resources to support student victims.
1. Sexual Assault Reporting Protocol for Student Victims
If you are the victim of an assault, your personal safety is most important. Go to a safe place if you are somewhere you do not feel comfortable. Tell someone what has occurred. Try to be as specific as possible. This account could corroborate your account if you decide you want to report the assault. The following guidelines do not need to be followed in the order they appear.
2. Academic and Living Accommodations
The Office of Student Life, located in Benson Center, Room 205, or at (408) 554-4583, can assist you by informing you of your rights, resources, reporting options, and the university judicial process. They can also assist with academic and living accommodations, schedule an interview with Campus Safety, connect you with Campus Advocate, and begin judicial proceedings. More detailed information about university and local resources are available through the Office of Student Life.
3. Advocacy and Crisis Counseling
- Seek out the support of family, friends, and/or a counselor.
- Call the YWCA Rape Crisis Hotline at (408) 287-3000. Counselors on the hot line are trained to help rape victims and offer support and information about legal, medical, and mental health resources.
- Make an appointment at Counseling and Psychological Services, located in Cowell Health Center, (408) 554-4172. If you do not want to wait, you can request to see the on-call counselor for the day. Except in cases when students are under the age of 18, Counseling and Psychological Services are not required to report incidents of rape.
- Connect with a Campus Advocate. Campus Safety Services or the Office of Student Life can connect you to a campus advocate who can support you through university-related matters, including reporting and the hearing process.
4. Physical Health
Get medical attention. You are the victim of an assault and should be examined by a doctor as soon as possible for injuries you may not be able to see. You might also want to preserve evidence this way. Under certain circumstances, medical health care providers are required to report crimes such as sexual assault to the police.
Go to Valley Medical Center for an evidence exam. This is the forensic medical facility in the area. If you want to have an evidence exam conducted, go to the emergency room and tell them you have been sexually assaulted. Campus Safety Services at (408) 554-4441 can arrange for transportation at no cost.
You can have a medical-only (non-evidence) exam to treat cuts, infections, and internal injuries. It is important to know that you will lose the opportunity to collect evidence at this time. Before making this decision, consider talking to a rape crisis counselor through the YWCA Rape Crisis Hotline at (408) 287-3000.
Cowell Health Center can offer pregnancy, STD testing, or baseline HIV testing. They do not prescribe emergency contraception and do not collect evidence.
5. Preserve Evidence
Do what you can to preserve any evidence, even if you are not certain you want to file a report with the police department or the university. Preserving evidence now will give you the options should you decide to report later. It is best for any physical evidence to be collected within the first 24 hours.
If you can avoid it, do not wash your face or hands, bathe, brush your teeth, drink or eat, douche, or change clothes. If you must change your clothes, place each garment in a separate paper (not plastic) bag.
6. Reporting Options
If you decide to report, you will be asked to give a detailed account of what has occurred. This can be a difficult process and you are encouraged to bring a friend or advocate for support. YWCA advocates can support you with off-campus proceedings and Campus Advocates can assist you with on-campus proceedings.
7. Filing a Police Report
Call 911 for immediate response, or call the police department in the city where the assault occurred. If the assault occurred in the city of Santa Clara, contact the Santa Clara Police Department, located at 601 El Camino Real or at (408) 615-4700. An officer can meet you at your residence or somewhere else on campus such as Campus Safety. As a part of their investigation you may be examined by a physician.
Reporting to the police does not necessarily mean prosecution will occur. If you do not want to call the police, call a friend to take you to a hospital or health center for referral.
8. Filing a University Report
You can begin the process for filing a report through any of the following departments:
- Call Campus Safety Services at (408) 554-4444 to file a report involving another student, even if the assault occurred off campus. Campus Safety can also connect you to the appropriate police department to file a report. Under certain circumstances, Campus Safety may be obligated to report crimes such as sexual assault to the police.
- Go to the Office of Student Life in Benson Center, Room 205 or schedule an appointment about “student misconduct” by calling (408) 554-4583. If the assault was committed by another student, the Office of Student Life can schedule an interview with Campus Safety, introduce you to a Campus Advocate who can support you through the process, and begin University judicial proceedings.
- If the assailant is a staff or faculty member, report the incident to the Office of Affirmative Action, located in Loyola Hall or at (408) 554-4178. Faculty/staff should report any assault committed by another member of the University community to the Office of Affirmative Action, not the Office of Student Life.
9. University Response to Sexual Assault and Sexual Misconduct
As authorized by the Board of Trustees and the University president, the vice provost for student life or designee will adjudicate a charge of sexual misconduct or assault under the Student Conduct Code, Section 7: Nonconsensual physical contact of a sexual nature such as sexual misconduct, sexual assault, and rape. The University’s definitions of sexual assault and sexual misconduct are explained in this section and are the standards by which the University holds its students accountable. The University reserves the right to review all student conduct which occurs on and off campus when such behavior is inconsistent with the Student Conduct Code.
Violations of the Student Conduct Code do not necessarily constitute violations of the law and vice versa. A report of sexual assault or sexual misconduct filed with the university is evaluated according to university standards through a university process and is separate from a criminal investigation.
Disciplinary sanctions for findings of sexual misconduct or assault will be imposed regardless of whether the nonconsensual sexual activity was preceded or followed by consensual sexual activity.
The use of alcohol or other drugs can blur the distinction between consensual and nonconsensual sexual activity. If the accused person knew or reasonably should have known that the victim was incapable of providing consent due to the use alcohol or another drug, the accused person is in violation. The accused person’s use of alcohol or other drugs does not diminish his or her responsibility for committing the sexual misbehavior.
10. Definitions
Consent means mutually understandable words or actions that demonstrate a voluntary agreement to engage in mutually agreed-upon sexual activity. Consent must be informed, active and freely given. Consent is invalidated when it is forced, coerced, or nullified by a person’s incapacitation. Nonaction as a response does not constitute active or affirmative consent. In reviewing a report of sexual misconduct or assault, consent is a critical factor in determining whether there is a violation of Section 7 of the Student Conduct Code. It is the responsibility of individuals to engage only in mutually agreed upon sexual activity and it is the responsibility of the person initiating sexual activity to obtain consent.
Act referenced in the terms below, includes but is not limited to sexual intercourse, sodomy or sexual penetration with an inanimate object, the touching of a person’s intimate parts (defined as genitalia, groin, breast or buttocks, or clothing covering them), or compelling a person to touch his or her own, or another person’s intimate parts without consent.
Coercion means compelling another person to do something through emotional or physical pressure, threats, or other forms of intimidation. Real or perceived power differentials between individuals also may create an atmosphere of coercion that can significantly impair the ability to consent.
Sexual assault occurs when the act is intentional and is committed by a) physical force, violence, threat, or intimidation; b) ignoring the objections of another person; c) causing another’s intoxication or impairment through the use of drugs or alcohol; or d) taking advantage of another person’s incapacitation, state of intimidation, helplessness, or other inability to consent.
Sexual misconduct occurs when the act is committed without intent to harm another and where, by failing to correctly assess the circumstances, a person believes unreasonably that consent was given without having met his/her responsibility to obtain consent. Situations involving physical force, violence, threat or intimidation fall under the definition of sexual assault, not sexual misconduct, and will be treated as such. Sexual misconduct or assault can occur between people of different genders or of the same gender. In some cases, consensual sexual activity occurs before an assault or after an assault.
U. Sexually Transmitted Infections
Santa Clara University, a Catholic, Jesuit university, is aware that sexually transmitted infections are a potential health problem for the entire population. Santa Clara University and the Cowell Student Health Center provide educational opportunities about the transmission and prevention of sexually transmitted infections. These educational opportunities are provided with consideration of confidentiality, sensitivity and compassion. Educational programs address medical information, issues of prevention, and the social, psychological, spiritual and legal ramifications related to sexually transmitted infections.
The Cowell Student Health Center provides confidential appointments with physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants and registered nurses regarding sexual health issues. These appointments may include evaluation, testing and treatment of sexually transmitted infections.
V. Smoking Policy
The purpose of the smoking policy is to promote and foster the health, comfort, and safety of all members of the Santa Clara University community. Santa Clara University, in compliance with the City of Santa Clara Ordinance No. 1654, has adopted a nonsmoking policy. Smoking is prohibited at all times in all University facilities that house offices, work areas, classrooms, or residence rooms. Members of the community who choose to smoke must maintain a distance of 25 feet from any building openings (doors, windows, air intakes).
W. Solicitation Polity
In order to protect students’ right to privacy, and to maintain and promote efficient operations, the University has established rules applicable to all students, faculty, and staff that govern solicitation, distribution of written material, and entry into premises and work areas. (Staff members are also directed to Staff Policy 308: Solicitation and Distribution.)
Solicitation that is prohibited includes, but is not limited to, selling products or services, door-to-door collections or campaigning, flyer delivery or posting of materials in facilities owned, operated or controlled by SCU, including kiosks, light poles, and in parking lots. Solicitors or tradespeople, including those who may be Santa Clara University students, faculty, or staff, are prohibited from entering the residence halls for the purpose of transacting business and should be reported immediately to the Event Planning Office, Campus Safety and/or the service desk.
X. Speakers Policy
The purpose of this policy is to assure the right of free expression and exchange of ideas, to minimize conflict between the exercise of that right and the rights of others in the effective use of University facilities, and to minimize possible interference with the University’s responsibilities as an educational institution. The time, place, and manner of exercising speech on campus are subject to regulations adopted by the University administration. Orderly conduct, noninterference with University functions or activities, and identification of sponsoring groups or individuals are required. Outdoor sound amplification will be permitted only with explicit approval of the Vice Provost for Student Life or designee. (Refer to “Amplification of Sound.”)
Members of the faculty, academic departments, staff, administrative offices, or student organizations registered by authorized student government bodies may invite non-University speakers to address meetings on campus. Student groups that have not been registered by authorized student government bodies may not invite non-University speakers to address meetings on campus. If there would likely be extensive public notice or controversy associated with the presence of any speaker on campus, prior notice should be given to the head of the Office of Marketing and Communications in the case of likely inquiries from external constituencies of the University or media; and to the Director of Campus Safety Services in the case of possible protest or disruption. Except for unusual circumstances, the notice should be at least one week before the meeting or event is to occur.
The presence of a guest speaker on the campus of Santa Clara University does not necessarily imply approval or endorsement by the University of the views expressed by the guest speaker or by anyone else present at the event.
The person or organization sponsoring a speaker around whom there would likely be extensive public notice or controversy is responsible for including the above statement in its advertisement, announcements, and news releases. If deemed appropriate, the University administration may also require the above statement be read at the beginning of the event.
Whenever the University administration considers it appropriate in furtherance of educational objectives, it may require either or both of the following:
- That the meeting be chaired by a person approved by the University administration.
- Any invitation to a non-University speaker extended by a registered student organization, member of the faculty, staff, academic department, or administrative department may be rescinded only if the President, or his authorized designee, determines, after appropriate inquiry, that the proposed speech will constitute a clear and present danger to the orderly operation or peaceful conduct of campus activities by the speaker’s advocacy of such actions as: (1) Willful damage or destruction, or seizure of University buildings or other property; (2) Disruption or impairment of, or interference with, classes or other University activities; (3) Physical harm, coercion, intimidation, or other invasion of the rights of University students, faculty, staff, or guests; (4) Violation of law; (5) Other disorder of a violent or seriously disruptive nature.
1. Student Events, Activities, and Organizations
The Catholic, Jesuit character of the University is defined by both spiritual and moral values that arise from Scripture, are rooted in the teachings of the Church and the Society of Jesus, and are consistent with human wisdom. These values
