Student Handbook A Guide to Policies and Procedures |
Revised 20 October 2009
REGENT UNIVERSITY OFFICE OF STUDENT SERVICES
This handbook is provided to students for their general guidance only. It does not constitute a contract; either expressed or implied, and is subject to change at the University's discretion. If there are any inadvertent inconsistencies between this Student Handbook and the Faculty and Academic Policy Handbook, the Faculty and Academic Policy Handbook governs.
Regent University admits students without discrimination as to disability, veteran status, age, gender, race, color, national or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the university. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, veteran status, age, gender, race, color, national or ethnic origin in administration of educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other university administered programs.
Table of Contents
PURPOSE OF THE STUDENT HANDBOOK
History
Mission Statement
Statement of Faith
Principle of Integrity
THE REGENT UNIVERSITY COMMUNITY
Center for Student Development
Facility Scheduling for Activities
Regent Undergraduate Council (RUC)
Relocation to the Hampton Roads
SPIRITUAL LIFE at REGENT UNIVERSITY
STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES and PRIVILEGES
Academic Honor Code and Disciplinary Policy
Disruptive or Dangerous Behavior Policy
Proactively Seeking Support and Help
Inclusion of (Academic) Deans of the Schools
Non-Residential Student Process
Waiving the Right to a Council Hearing
Student Academic Appeals & Grievances
Emergency Information and Procedures
Inclement Weather/Class Cancellations
UNIVERSITY POLICIES and PROCEDURES
Academic Probation and Dismissal
Academic Dismissal- Petition for Reinstatement
Disabilities Anti-discrimination & Accommodation Policy
Faculty/Staff-Student Relationships
Financial Holds on Academic Records
Student Records Confidentiality
Access to Student Educational Records by Others
Fundraising (See Student Fundraising)
Partisan Political Activity Policy
Endorsement or Support of Candidates
Illicit Drugs and Health Risks
Legal Consequences Regarding the Illegal Use/Possession of Drugs/Alcohol
Counseling, Treatment, and/or Rehabilitation
Policy Distribution to Employees
University Media and External Relations
STUDENT PROCEDURES from The Faculty and Academic Policy Handbook
Admission Criteria and Procedures
Admission for International Students
Enrollment Status Classification
Graduate Full-Time Classification
Undergraduate Full-Time Classification
Independent Study
Internship
Joint Degrees Programs (Graduate Students Only)
Practicum
Registration and Payment
Repeating a Course
Withdrawal from the University
Academic Honor Code and Disciplinary Policy
Academic Probation and Dismissal
Advising
Attendance and Participation
Degree Program Audit
Financial Holds on Academic Records
Grading System including Withdrawal and Incomplete Courses
Graduation Requirements and Commencement
Information Research and Resources CourseProcedure for Student Appeals to a University Vice President
Course Evaluation
Student Discipline
Accommodation for Disabilities
Evaluation of Student Academic Performance
Student Grievances
Faculty Grievance Against a Student
Student Records Confidentiality
Thesis and Dissertation Writing Guidelines
Thesis/Professional Portfolio
Transcripts
Credit by Advanced Standing and Transfer
Virginia Tidewater Consortium Exchange Program
Writing Skills
Center for Academic Support Services
Dear Student,
It is my sincere pleasure to welcome you to Regent University. Whether you are beginning an undergraduate or graduate program at Regent or continuing your academic work, you will find that your education at Regent goes far beyond the classroom and other strictly educational pursuits.
While you will receive excellent instruction in your specific discipline, personal growth encompasses far more than formal academic learning. Your studies will undoubtedly include scholarly matters and also provide a chance to use many of the very practical skills that will assist you to succeed and, indeed, excel professionally. Studying at Regent also provides an opportunity to experience Christian community with other students, faculty, and staff. Above all, while at Regent, I encourage you to open yourself in order to gain spiritual insight through Biblical principles and direction from our Lord.
One of the greatest challenges in your pursuit of a bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree, may be in balancing all aspects of your life: spiritual, academic, family, social, and finances. Let me exhort you with the scripture that is one of the foundations of Regent University,
"And these things which you have heard
from Me in the presence of many witnesses,
these entrust to faithful men, who will
be able to teach others also."
2 Timothy 2:2
As you grow in knowledge and, hopefully, wisdom in your Regent studies, please remember to serve others above yourself. By doing this you will bless our Lord and all those with whom you come into contact. You are also likely to find yourself blessed by the Lord in return for your attitude of servant leadership.
Sincerely,
Jeffrey Pittman, Ph.D.
Vice President for Student Services
PURPOSE OF THE STUDENT HANDBOOK
This handbook is provided as a service to the Regent University student body and contains information regarding student life and services at the university. Issues and concerns regarding student life are addressed in the Student Handbook. For information concerning academic policies and procedures, please refer to the Regent University Graduate and Undergraduate Catalogs, as well as the Student Operations section of the Faculty and Academic Handbook, upon which various of the policies contained herein are based. This handbook is a guide only and not a contract. Specific policies and procedures may be changed at any time without prior notice.
Dr. M. G. "Pat" Robertson, founder and president of the Christian Broadcasting Network, had an inspired vision of establishing a graduate-level institution (now also undergraduate-level ) that would train mature men and women for the challenge of representing Christ in their professions. In 1977, that dream materialized when CBN University was incorporated as a nonprofit educational institution in Virginia Beach, Virginia. In the fall of 1978, 77 students began classes in modest, rented facilities.
By October 1989, CBN University had grown from a College of Communication and the Arts (now known as the School of Communication and the Arts) to seven professional schools with nearly 800 students. On January 1, 1990, in recognition of this growth, the Board of Trustees, with the blessing of the Christian Broadcasting Network, unanimously voted to change the name of CBN University to Regent University. A regent is one who represents a king in his absence. For us at Regent University, a regent is one who represents Christ, our Sovereign, in whatever sphere of life s/he may be called to serve Him.
The university has grown to over 4,500 students, offering associates, bachelors, masters and doctoral degrees through on-campus and online programs.
Preamble--Regent University is an institution of higher learning that exists to bring glory to God the Father and His Son Jesus Christ through the work of the Holy Spirit.
Mission--Our mission is to serve as a leading center of Christian thought and action providing an excellent education from a biblical perspective and global context in pivotal professions to equip Christian leaders to change the world.
Vision--Our vision, through our graduates and scholarly activities, is to provide Christian leadership in transforming society by affirming and teaching principles of truth, justice and love as described in the Holy Scriptures, embodied in the person of Jesus Christ and enabled through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Soli Deo Gloria.
Regent University is a Christ-centered institution. The Board of Trustees, along with the faculty, staff and students of the university, are committed to an evangelical interpretation and application of the Christian faith. The campus community is closely identified with the present-day renewal movement, which emphasizes the gifts, fruit and ministries of the Holy Spirit. All employees are expected to understand and adhere to the following articles of belief:
- That the Holy Bible is the inspired, infallible and authoritative source of Christian doctrine and precept.
- That there is one God, eternally existent in three persons: Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
- That man was created in the image of God but, as a result of sin, is lost and powerless to save himself.
- That the only hope for man is to believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, the virgin-born son of God, who died to take upon Himself the punishment for the sin of mankind, and who rose from the dead so that by receiving Him as Savior and Lord, man is redeemed by His blood.
- That Jesus Christ will personally return to earth in power and glory.
- That the Holy Spirit indwells those who receive Christ for the purpose of enabling them to live righteous and holy lives.
- That the Church is the Body of Christ and is composed of all those who through belief in Christ have been spiritually regenerated by the indwelling Holy Spirit. The mission of the Church is worldwide evangelization and the nurturing and discipling of Christians.
Regent University certifies that the institution is committed to the principle of integrity in all its dealings, both internal and external, including its relationship to the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Regent University's commitment to integrity is an underlying principle that is reflected in all aspects of the university. The University provides accurate information to the public regarding college activities. Inaccurate information is never knowingly disseminated, either on campus or off campus. The university maintains open communication with, and provides timely information to the Commission on Colleges. Integrity is a seminal value that guides all university actions, decisions, and programs, including its relationship with students, faculty, staff and the Commission.
The entire voting power, except as provided within the Articles of Incorporation, is vested in the Board of Trustees of Regent University. The Executive Committee, comprised of five trustees, exercises the power of the Board in the management of the business and affairs of the university between Board meetings, to the extent permitted by law. (Articles of Incorporation, Article 6)
The chancellor is the principal liaison between the Christian Broadcasting Network and Regent University. As such, s/he consults with the president and the Board of Trustees on such matters as the mission of the university, its scope and its direction. S/he gives guidance on fiscal expenditures, general resource development and coordinates such matters with the parent Christian Broadcasting Network. Her/his primary responsibility, however, shall be to work with the president to assure that the university faithfully adheres to the founding purposes delineated in the Articles of Incorporation. S/he is a member of the Board of Trustees and the Executive Committee thereof. (Bylaws, Article 6)
The Board of Trustees consists of not less than 12 and not more than 48 members, the number of which is determined by the Board, to be nominated and elected in accordance with the provisions of the Articles of Incorporation. The term of office for the trustees is four years. (Articles of Incorporation, Article 6; Bylaws, Article 2, SECTION II)
The Board is governed by the following officers elected solely from among their membership: a chairman, one or two vice chairmen, a secretary, and other officers as the Board may, from time to time, deem necessary. All officers except for the chairman are elected at the annual meeting with each serving for one year or until her/his successor is elected and qualified. (Bylaws, Article 3)
The Board of Trustees meets two times annually, with other meetings held during the calendar year as deemed necessary. A majority of the members constitutes a quorum for the purpose of transacting business. As a matter of practice, business is not conducted except by unanimous vote of the Board.
The Executive Committee retains all power of the Board in the intervals between meetings except in the election of the members of the Executive Committee, the power to amend the university Bylaws, and the power to rescind or alter previous actions of the Board. The membership of the Executive Committee includes the chairman, vice chairman and secretary of the Board of Trustees, and the chancellor and president of the university. (Bylaws, Article 4, SECTION VI)
As recommended by the chairman and elected by the Board, the following standing committees are currently operative: Executive Committee, Finance and Investment Committee, Building and Grounds Committee, Educational Policies, Public Relations and Development Committee, Audit Committee, and Academic and Student Affairs Committee.(Bylaws, Article 4, SECTION I)
University Administrative Officers
University Administration: |
|
| Dr. M.G. "Pat" Robertson | President |
| Dr. Carlos Campo | VP for Academic Affairs |
| Mr. Lou Isakoff | VP and General Counsel |
| Mr. Sal Iaquinto | VP for Advancement |
| Dr. Jeffrey Pittman | VP for Student Services |
| Ms. Martha Smith | VP for Human Resources |
| Ms. Tracy Stewart | VP for Information Technology |
| Ms. Sherri Stocks | VP for University Marketing and Public Relations |
| Mr. Dean Wooten | VP for Finance |
President
The president is the chief executive of Regent University. The president's main duty is to provide focus and direction for the institution and to recommend appropriate policies to the board of trustees. The president serves as a member of both the board and its executive committee and submits an annual report to the board concerning the work, condition and needs of the University and any other matters pertinent to the institution or to the cause of higher education.
Further, the president recruits and develops a first-rate administrative team with whom he works to establish a strong, cohesive community within the University. He represents the institution and interprets its mission and purposes to its various constituencies, as well as provides leadership in developing the resources and assuring the fiscal viability of the University. The president has ultimate control of the University's fund-raising activities.
In regards to faculty relationships, the president calls and presides at meetings of the faculty except as otherwise provided in the bylaws of the University and makes sure that the regulations and policies of the trustees affecting the administration and work of the University are observed. The president recommends the appointment of all members of the faculty to the board and, except as otherwise provided for in the bylaws, appoints all committees thereof, maintaining veto power of any action of any faculty, or committee, or agency of the faculty.
Vice President for Academic Affairs
The vice president for academic affairs is the chief academic officer of the University. The individual in this position is a member of the faculty of each school. The vice president for academic affairs promotes and leads in the development of academic programs and schools and maintains primary responsibility for the development of academic and related administrative policy. The vice president for academic affairs chairs the Academic Council and supervises the deans, the executive director of central enrollment management, and the registrar.
Vice President for Advancement
The vice president for advancement provides leadership for services related to the advancement of the University. The individual in this position is responsible for supporting the president in a successful university-wide fund development effort, including annual fund initiatives, corporate and foundation relations, planned and deferred giving, and special events. The vice president for advancement advises the president and other senior staff on revenue generation and constituency development working to implement the strategic plan for Regent University. The individual in this position also is responsible for maintaining and enhancing the University's relationships with targeted constituents and for increasing the University's image and reputation with key publics. The vice president for advancement provides guidance and training to the advancement staff in biblical stewardship, comprehensive fund development programs, and institutional marketing and communications. The vice president for advancement supervises the departments of advancement, alumni relations, advancement marketing and research, and advancement events.
Vice President for Finance
The vice president for finance is responsible for establishing policies and procedures to ensure the proper safeguarding of university assets and the proper use of university funds. The individual in this position is responsible for the planning, implementing, and monitoring the university's annual budget. The vice president for finance acts as liaison to the Board of Trustees for fiscal and administrative matters. The individual in this position oversees the management of the university's endowment assets as the liaison with the university's endowment consultant and the Investment Committee. The vice president for finance serves as liaison with external auditors conducting the annual audit of the university. The vice president for finance provides leadership and direction to the employees in Mail and Copy Services, Administrative Services, Purchasing, and the Business Office.
Vice President and General Counsel
The vice president and general counsel is the chief legal officer of the University. The individual in this position provides legal counsel to each school and to the central administration. The vice president and general counsel maintains primary responsibility for the development of legal and related administrative policy as well as representing the university in outside legal and administrative proceedings. The vice president and general counsel supervises outside legal counsel.
Vice President for Human Resources
The vice president for human resources is responsible for leading the University's strategic management of its human resources as a vital part of overall marketplace competitiveness. The individual in this position is responsible for developing and implementing strategies to establish and maintain a healthy and positive workplace environment for faculty, staff, and students. The vice president for human resources develops university-wide personnel policies and procedures to improve organizational effectiveness and oversees all record keeping and procedural functions required to ensure that employment, compensation, benefits, safety, personnel and equal opportunity policies and practices comply with applicable criteria of accrediting agencies, governmental agencies, and federal and state labor laws. The vice president for human resources supervises the benefits manager, director of employment services, and the human resources information systems manager.
Vice President of Information Technology
The vice president for information technology has responsibility for supporting all the academic and administrative computing needs of the University. The individual in this position provides leadership, strategic planning, budgetary management, technical contribution and the direction or assignment of the work activities for all employees within the computer services department. The vice president for information technology supervises the director of instructional technology support, the university webmaster, the staff of the information technology department and the staff of the media services department.
Vice President for Student Services
The vice president for student services is responsible for the total student affairs operation, working within a long-range plan that integrates the spiritual, academic and personal development goals indicated by the University's mission statement. The individual in this position is responsible for developing and maintaining an environment that fosters the development of students as whole persons. The vice president for student services also designs and implements policies that protect the rights of both the students and the University in matters related to counseling, student records and student discipline. The vice president for student services formulates student programs for personal, professional and spiritual development, enlisting the assistance of the faculty, administration, Council of Graduate Students (COGS), International Student Organization (ISO), and other student organizations. The vice president for student services supervises the director of campus ministries, the director of central financial aid, the director of food services (Regent Ordinary), the director of international student services, the coordinator of the university shuttle service, the director of student development, the director of student housing, the director of student life, and the director of the university writing center.
Vice President for University Marketing and Public Relations
The vice president for university marketing and public relations initiates and oversees the establishment of integrated strategies, plans and programs designed to ensure that all institutional communication, marketing and public relations efforts are cohesive, consistent and effective in supporting the university's mission and advancement goals. This individual in this position focuses the brand message pertaining to the university's distinction in academic excellence, and uses print and other media to communicate and market the message to major constituencies; formulates and presents a strategic communications plan to senior university leadership. The vice president for university marketing and public relations oversees the university's communication with the media and provides counsel to university leaders as they manage issues that place the university in the public eye. The individual in this position also serves as a source of expertise and support to colleagues and constituencies across the university in the development and implementation of outreach communication and marketing strategies.
Deans and Executive Director of the Schools
School Deans/Director: |
|
| Dr. Alan Arroyo | Dean, School of Education |
| Ms. Sara Baron | Dean of University Libraries |
| Mr. Jeffrey Brauch | Dean, School of Law |
| Dr. Charles Dunn | Dean, Robertson School of Government |
| Dr. William Hathaway | Acting Dean, School of Psychology & Counseling |
| Dr. Michael Palmer | Dean, School of Divinity |
| Mr. Michael Patrick | Dean, School of Communication and the Arts |
| Ms. Tracy Stewart | Executive Director, School of Undergraduate Studies |
| Dr. Bruce Winston | Dean, School of Global Leadership & Entrepreneurship |
Dean of the University Library
The dean of the library is responsible for the overall management of all library functions. S/he plans for and authorizes the acquisition of all materials, equipment, supplies and recommends policies to facilitate their use.
Dean/Director of a School or College
The dean of a school serves as its chief administrative officer. The dean is appointed by the trustees upon the recommendation of the president. As the academic leader of a school, the dean is charged to maintain academic standards in teaching, research and other services performed by his or her faculty, and to conduct academic relations with other schools and colleges. All the deans are members of the President's Cabinet and the Academic Council.
Currently, we have deans of the following schools:
- Communication & the Arts
- Divinity
- Education
- Global Leadership & Entrepreneurship
- Government (Robertson School of Government)
- Law
- Psychology & Counseling
and an Executive Director of Regent Undergrad.
For a complete listing of Regent University faculty and staff, please refer to the Regent University Catalog and the Regent Undergraduate Catalog.
Regent University Phone Number:
(757) 757.352.4000
Student Services:
(757) 757.352.4103
Business Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
| OFFFICE | EXTENSION | DIRECT DIAL # |
|---|---|---|
| Academic Affairs | 4320 |
352+ extension |
| Advancement/Development | 4009 |
" |
| Alumni Relations | 4027 |
" |
| Bookstore | 4065 |
" |
| Business Office | 4050 |
" |
| Campus Ministries | 4840 |
" |
| Career Services | 4103 |
" |
| Cashier | 4059 |
" |
| Classroom Reservations | 4049 |
" |
| Class Schedules | 4049 |
" |
| Community Building (Regent Village) | 4890 |
" |
| Conflict Resolution | 4103 |
" |
| Counseling (Personal) | 4488 |
" |
| Counseling (Career) | 4927 |
" |
| Diplomas/Degree Clearance | 4045 |
" |
| Facilities Scheduling | 4008 |
" |
| Facilities Services | 4444 |
" |
| Financial Aid | 4125 |
" |
| Food Pantry | 4486 |
" |
| Graduation Procedures | 4048 |
" |
| Housing (on & off campus) | 4890 |
" |
| Intramurals/Recreation | 4103 |
" |
| Libraries | ||
University Library Circulation |
4150 |
" |
University Library Information |
4150 |
" |
University Library Reference |
4159 |
" |
Law Library |
4450 |
" |
| Lost and Found | 4927 |
" |
| Mail Services | 4198 |
" |
| Marketing | 4034 |
" |
| Office of the President | 4015 |
" |
| Psychological Services Center | 4488 |
" |
| Regent Ordinary (Cafe) | 4931 |
" |
| Regent University Commons | 4652 |
" |
| Regent University Village | 4890 |
" |
| School of Communication & the Arts | 4389 |
" |
| School of Divinity | 4417 |
" |
| School of Education | 4136 |
" |
| School of Global Leadership & Entrepreneurship | 4225 |
" |
| Robertson School of Government | 4579 |
" |
| School of Law | 4640 |
" |
| School of Psychology & Counseling | 4252 |
" |
| School of Undergraduate Studies | 4410 |
" |
| Security | 2075 |
" |
| Special Events | 4036 |
" |
| Student Activities (COGS) | 4637 |
" |
| Student Emergency Fund | 4103 |
" |
| Student Employment | 4491 |
" |
| Student Health Insurance | " |
" |
| Student Life | 4486 |
" |
| Student Loan Deferment | 4049 |
" |
| Student Organizations | 4103 |
" |
| Student Services | 4103 |
" |
| Transcripts | 4124 |
" |
| University Calendar | 4103 |
" |
| University Computing (Helpdesk) | 4076 |
" |
| University Personnel | 4021 |
" |
| University Relations | 4045 |
" |
THE REGENT UNIVERSITY COMMUNITY
The average age of the Regent University student is approximately 35 years old. Most of our students are in school as a means to further their present career or to change professions altogether.
Nearly all 50 states and over 50 foreign nations are represented in the Regent University community. It is a diverse community, where there is a dynamic unity centered in the person of Jesus Christ.
About 40 percent of our students are married, and about 12 percent have dependent children.
In addition to student housing, there are six main buildings on campus, which currently house academic and administrative offices.
Academic Affairs Administrative Services Advancement Alumni Relations Business Office Creative Marketing Development Facility Services Human Resources President's Office Purchasing School of Education University Relations
Psychological Services Center School of Undergraduate Studies School of Psychology & Counseling
School of Communication & the Arts Information Technology Theatre
Atrium Auditorium Central Enrollment Management Law Library University Library Mail & Copy Services Library Prayer Chapel University Receiving School of Undergraduate Studies (1333 Regent University Dr.)
[Not on map below]
School of Global Leadership & Entrepreneurship
American Center for Law & Justice (ACLJ) Campus Ministries (Director) Career Planning Services (Gov't. & Law) School of Divinity Robertson School of Government School of Law School of Undergraduate Studies Student Bar Association (S.B.A.)
Computer Lab Council of Graduate Students (COGS) Financial Aid (Central) International Students Organization (ISO) Regent Bookstore Regent Ordinary (Cafe/Dining Services) Regent undergraduate Council (RUC) Registrar's Office Undergraduate Admissions Student Services Office of International Student Services (OISS) Student Development Student Life University Shuttle Service University Writing Center
A Regent University (including CBN) campus map.
Regent University is located in the southwest corner of Virginia Beach, Virginia, about 15 miles from the Virginia Beach resort strip and about one mile from Chesapeake and Norfolk.
Virginia Beach is a young city. Prior to its annexation with Princess Anne County, Virginia Beach was limited to the strip that is commonly known as the oceanfront resort area. The local municipal facilities (i.e. courthouse, etc.) are found on Princess Anne Road traveling east, not far from the small community of Pungo (known for its Strawberry Festival).
Students who are residents of Virginia Beach will find excellent resources for recreational activities within the city. The Parks and Recreation Department operates a number of parks, pools and gymnasium facilities. The Virginia Beach Recreation Center, which is located at 800 Monmouth in the Kempsville Area, provides excellent pool, gymnasium, weight and exercise facilities. Theater and meeting rooms are included in the complex. A small annual fee is charged.
Virginia Beach's climate is best described as "mild and moderate" with wonderful changes of season. The average annual snowfall is around three inches, and January and February are typically the coldest months.
In this section, information on a variety of topics related to student life is presented. These details make up an important part of day-to-day life at Regent University and should be carefully reviewed. They will assist students in taking maximum advantage of university resources. While each student is an individual in terms of goals and progress toward God's ideal, there are some significant commonalties to our commitment.
Intellectually, Regent University students agree to receive an education in accordance with our Philosophy of Education. Affirming the principle that all knowledge and wisdom come from God, each student's intellectual pursuit is characterized by a unique combination of disciplined academic preparation and compassionate, service-motivated application. Regent University students recognize that the discovery of truth may take them in a variety of directions. There is a commitment to the proposition that all truth is "God's Truth." Students are challenged to filter through various avenues of learning to discover the essence of God's undergirding Truth.
Socially and culturally, Regent University students come to grips with the meaning of Christ's command that His followers are "to be in the world but not of it." Each student submits to the Standard of Personal Conduct and The Honor Code of Regent University throughout the time of his or her enrollment. The maturing Regent University student is committed to the highest standards of personal and professional integrity, a growing sensitivity to the needs of mankind, deepening personal humility which recognizes the hand of God in all that is accomplished and a sincere desire to cultivate and maintain meaningful life-long personal relationships. As a community of committed scholars, students recognize that it is necessary to maintain a posture of both contributing to and receiving from that community.
Although spiritual growth is ultimately an individual responsibility, Campus Ministries encourages and facilitates spiritual development among Regent community members.
In summary, Regent University students are preparing to live a life of honor to God, of service to mankind and of fullness to oneself. The goal is to help each student actualize his or her inherent potential and make a meaningful contribution to the activities of the university and society. You can obtain more information on Student Services on line at: www.regent.edu/admin/stusrv/.
Recognizing the unique needs of students for social and recreational activities, the Council of Graduate Students (COGS), Regent Undergraduate Council (RUC), and the International Student Organization (ISO) promote programs that bring the university family together at the school/college level and university-wide. Banquets, intramural sports, coffee houses, field trips and other related activities are offered periodically throughout the school year. Students who have special interests or suggestions on various activities, or who would be interested in coordinating an activity, are encouraged to contact their COGS senators, RUC representatives, or the ISO leadership.
Students with mail for university faculty and staff may deposit it at any of the mail drop locations on campus for inter-campus distribution. Student Housing residents will receive their US mail at the Regent Commons or Regent Village complex where they reside. Students living off campus should make arrangements to receive their US mail at their private residence or at a nearby post office. The closest US Post Office to Regent University is Acredale, located on Kempsville Road beside Kemps River Shopping Plaza. The next closest is at 1425 Battlefield Blvd. in Chesapeake. University correspondence to students (i.e. grades, financial aid notifications, etc.) will be delivered to students' home addresses.
Regent schools offer career assessment and counseling on an individual and/or group basis. Career services include the exploration and development of interests, gifts and career opportunities. The use of personality and interest inventories, current career information, literature and job lists, and the sensitive and skilled counsel of a career counselor contributes to the individual's knowledge and understanding of God's purpose and plan for one's life. Various career tests/inventories are also available through the Career Resource Center, which is located in Student Services.
Students in good standing may cash personal checks in the Business Office and Bookstore during posted hours. Each student is permitted to cash one check per day not to exceed $10 in the Bookstore or $25 in the Business Office.
Center for Student Development
The Center for Student Development (CSD) offers training designed to help students succeed academically, professionally, and as whole persons. Most training materials are available online, with live workshops offered on campus in the Fall and Spring semesters of each year. A monthly email from CSD alerts students to upcoming workshops, and provides links to either subscribe for materials via iTunesU or register online to attend workshops on campus. CSD training is offered in four broad categories.
Academic Excellence
- Speed Reading, Scheduling for Success, and similar pragmatic workshops
- Insider's View workshops give students insights into Regent heritage, provide opportunities to interact with faculty, etc.
Personal Development
- Relationships
- Finance
- Life Skills to develop character and leadership qualities
- Spiritual Formation
Professional Touch
- Job & Career
- Professional Skills
- Public Speaking
Software
Visit the CSD website to view a current workshop calendar , to register for events, to learn more, or to request additional assistance.
The office of Student Life in Student Services is available to mediate with respect to relational disputes and complaints by students. Contact the Student Life Office for further information.
Working with Student Services and the dean of each school, the Council of Graduate Students participates in planning and implementing university programs. The council is governed by a constitution, which calls for election and appointments of student representatives from each of the university's graduate schools. Students are encouraged to work closely with their senators in communicating needs and concerns to the university administration. A current listing of members is available in the Office of Student Services and each school.
The Psychological Services Center (PSC) is located on the first floor of the Classroom Building. Various counseling services are offered by the PSC.
Facility Scheduling for Activities
University student activities that involve the use of university facilities, equipment or personnel must be scheduled with the appropriate department. Students who desire to promote an activity must have approval from the Office of Student Services.
Upon inquiry and application to the university, prospective students receive financial aid information. For additional information, please contact the Central Financial Aid Office or the individual schools.
The university does not maintain a health center or retain a campus physician. Students are urged to establish themselves with a family physician early in the school year. The university does work with an insurance brokerage firm in making available a student health insurance plan, which is available for a fee to all students enrolled in on-campus courses.
Student identification cards are provided during initial registration. ID cards will be required for attending many Regent University sponsored activities and checking out library books. Students should carry and display their ID cards at all times. ID cards can be obtained by visiting the Office of Student Services.
For international students, all matters of admission are coordinated by the school of the individual student in consultation with the Office of International Student Services. Immigration matters and cultural adaptation issues are coordinated through the Office of International Student Services
.
A variety of seasonal intramural sports are offered by Student Services in collaboration with the Council of Graduate Students. The programs vary in competition level and structure to meet the needs in the community. Intramural sports include flag football, volleyball, basketball, and softball.
The King's Pantry is an emergency food pantry located in the Community Building at Regent University Village and is available for students who are in need. The Pantry is sustained by donations from the Regent community and the Food Bank of Southeastern Virginia. If you have a need for food items, or if you have any questions, please contact Student Services. To make a donation of non-perishable food items, bring them to the Community Building at the Regent University Village. For monetary donations please make your check payable to the "Student Emergency Fund," specifically designated for "The King's Pantry." For more information contact Student Services.
Lost and found is located in the Office of Student Services on the second floor of the Student Center.
The Regent Bookstore is located on the first floor of the Student Center and is open to both the university community and the general public. Store hours are Monday - Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The Regent Bookstore is closed for holidays coinciding with university closings. During the first week of the semester, the bookstore is open extended hours. All schedule changes are posted 48 hours in advance.
The bookstore accepts personal checks, Visa, MasterCard and Discover for the amount of the purchase. Personal checks are cashed up to a whole-dollar amount of $10. Current identification is necessary for all check handling.
The Regent Bookstore offers much more than textbooks and school supplies. There are also complete lines of Christian greeting cards, Regent insignia products, the nation's best-selling trade books and Bibles, gift items, snacks and much more!
Textbook return and refund policies coincide with the university's drop-add policy. Students returning unused textbooks in new condition during the first two weeks of classes will receive a 100 percent refund, a 50 percent refund during the third and fourth weeks; returns will not be accepted after the end of the fourth week. Books submitted for return must be in their original condition (no pencil or pen marks, folds or tears) and accompanied by the sales receipt. Used textbooks may not be returned.
The Regent Bookstore is here to serve you. The Bookstore telephone number is 757.352.4065.
In colonial days, an Ordinary was an establishment that served good food at reasonable prices. Regent Ordinary is the university's effort to replicate the past today with good food in a delightful setting. Come and visit us soon at Regent Ordinary in the new Student Center. We believe you will find it an extraordinary experience.
The Ordinary serves soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers, pasta, pizza, plated meals, as well as a variety of breakfast items. Starbucks coffee (espresso and other coffee/tea specialty drinks) and Coca Cola products are also featured. For menus and additional information, see Regent Ordinary.
Regent Undergraduate Council (RUC)
Regent Undergraduate Council is a body of undergraduate students consisting of representatives from each undergraduate program with the goal of connecting students with University administration and faculty. Elected by the student body, RUC representatives are dedicated to fostering and supporting an environment that integrates Christian principles and enables the student body to pursue their academic goals to their fullest potential. A current listing of representatives is available in the University Office of Student Services and in the School of Undergraduate Studies Office of Student Services
Relocation to the Hampton Roads
As many new students quickly discover, the transition to student life can be a major undertaking. Settling into the Regent University community involves decisions such as where to work, where to live, opportunities for spiritual growth, finding a local church, student activities, student housing, etc. Please refer to Appendix A, Welcome to Hampton Roads Newcomer's Guide, for information regarding transitioning to the Hampton Roads area.
The Office of Student Life is responsible for non-academic advising of students with disabilities at Regent University. A list of agencies and services has been compiled to provide additional information and resources. In addition, the Regent University Library has equipment available to assist the visually impaired. For more information contact Student Services. Also see the Disabilities Anti-discrimination and Accommodation Policy in the University Policies and Procedures section of this handbook.
The Student Emergency Fund, sponsored by Student Life, is available to assist enrolled students who are experiencing a financial emergency, excluding tuition related expenses. The fund is sustained by monetary contributions made by students, staff, alumni and friends of the university community.
Students who are experiencing a financial emergency and who have exhausted other resources are encouraged to avail themselves of this ministry. Requests for emergency assistance are considered on the basis of what is clearly recognized as a bona fide emergency. As such, the Student Emergency Fund Committee considers each request separately. This fund is not to be viewed as a means of regular support.
Contributions to the fund may be made through the Student Services Office. Normally, contributions to the fund are tax deductible. For more information contact Student Services.at 757.352.4103.
Regent University has an excellent student medical insurance plan for students and student dependents. In order to get lower premiums for students, the plan is administered on a "tight waiver" basis. This means that all Virginia Beach area students enrolled in three or more on-campus credit hours are required to enroll in the plan. Students have the option of purchasing coverage for spouses and children as well. Students with comparable health insurance may waive out of this plan by showing proof that they already have coverage. Brochures that describe the plan more fully are available in the Office of Student Services and the Business Office, along with a listing of some of health professionals in the Tidewater Area. See, Additional Information.
Regent Commons is located on campus, adjacent to the Communication and Performing Arts Center. The complex consists of a total of 300 beds. The Commons is comprised of three types of furnished housing units: 1) one-bedroom, 2) studios (single room with a private bath), and 3) four-bedroom/two bath suites (four single students per suite). Rental fees for these units include furniture, electricity, cable television, internet service, water/sewage, and use of the fitness center. For more information call 757.352.4890.
Regent University Village is located three quarters of a mile from campus. The complex consists of 224 two and three bedroom, unfurnished units between 1,000-1,190 square feet each. The apartments are equipped with refrigerators, ranges, and dishwashers. For more information call 757.352.4890.
Student Housing also maintains an off-campus housing referral service. This housing referral service does not arrange or provide housing for students; however, information is provided to assist students. Student Housing maintains listings of rooms, apartments, townhouses and houses for rent. There are also limited listings on real estate offered for purchase. While off-campus housing is a self-service operation, the housing staff will send housing information upon request.
Student Housing strives to provide as many housing options as possible. However, it does not assume responsibility for arranging or supplying housing for Regent University students.
The university invites and encourages the establishment of a variety of student organizations for the purpose of meeting the varied interests and needs of the campus community. While students will normally find the rigorous responsibilities of a higher education curriculum somewhat limiting for involvement in extracurricular organizations, such groups are desirable as a complement to the developmental philosophy of the institution. Students wishing to form such organizations are encouraged to talk with the appropriate school dean who will coordinate action with the Office of Student Services. A current list of officially chartered student organizations and the applications for chartering a student organization may be obtained from the Student Services website.
The purpose of these periodic meetings shall be to provide an informal forum for the expression of students' ideas, suggestions, and concerns. Town meetings are held in the individual schools. These meetings are designed to:
- Solicit and understand the students' ideas, needs and concerns;
- Solicit suggestions for student events and activities;
- Relay communication from the University Council and the Executive Board;
- Involve students in the aspects of the determination, creation, and execution of
programs, events, and activities which affect them academically, spiritually and socially.
The University Library occupies the first two floors of the Library Building. The Law Library is located on the third floor. Orientation tours are scheduled regularly at the beginning of each semester. Other individual and group tours may be arranged at the Reference Desk. A slide/tape program on library use is also available for individual and group viewing. The Library Handbook (available in the library) describes the services offered.
University sponsored events and information are normally publicized in one or more of the following ways:
- Official University Bulletin Boards are located throughout the university buildings. Some are for general university use, some are designated for each school/college and others are for student use. All of these bulletin boards are for official university use only. Students desiring to post information must obtain approval from Mail Services for general use bulletin boards and from the appropriate school/college for individual school/college bulletin boards. Students wanting to place announcements on the student bulletin boards in the Student Center must have their announcement approved by the Office of Student Services. Unapproved announcements and information will be removed. Students are strongly encouraged to read announcements and information publicized on these boards.
- The University Master Calendar is updated weekly on the Internet. All activities and events should be registered with the Student Services Office in an attempt to alleviate any conflicts and facilitate communication. Before scheduling any event, students, faculty and staff should review the University Master Calendar to determine open dates.
- Electronic Newsletters - University announcements are distributed weekly via the Regent Upcoming Events email and in a more expanded version monthly through the Student Services E-newsletter.
The university Shuttle Service provides free shuttle transportation from Regent Village to the main campus and at various stops on the main campus Monday through Friday on a regular schedule: 7:30 to 9:00 AM, 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM, 5:00 to 6:30 PM, and 9:00 to 10:30 PM. For further information, email us.
The University Writing Center offers free, one-on-one assistance to any Regent student working on an academic writing assignment. The Writing Center staff follows a coaching model, offering individualized guidance in applying principles of effective writing and in identifying the source of the student's writing problems. Coaching sessions are available in person and over the phone, making it feasible for local and distance education students to take advantage of available services. Coaching sessions are 45 minutes in length and focus on any aspect of the writing assignment.
The Writing Center also offers Academic Writing Seminars to help students navigate through academic writing assignments. The seminars are a semester long and follow an Oxford study model format. There is a fee charged to participate in the AWS. Students can register for the seminars via Genisys or through their advisors.
Throughout each semester, the Writing Center also offers workshops to help students with their writing needs. These workshops are designed to instruct students how to avoid several of the most common errors in writing, write papers in the different styles required by the various Regent schools, improve the overall structure and presentation of their papers, and avoid plagiarism.
SPIRITUAL LIFE at REGENT UNIVERSITY
The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts; and though all its parts are many, they form one body. So it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one Spirit into one body--whether Jews or Greeks, slave or free--and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. 1 Corinthians 12:12-13
Nearly 40 Christian denominations make up the Regent community. What can unite this startling display of diversity? Jesus Christ! He unites the many under one head, one Lord, one mission. We are enriched, not divided, by our differences.
Campus Ministries exists to encourage Regent Students on their spiritual growth journey. When we as a body grow together, there is more faith, more love, more hope for all. Together, we are becoming a community that "grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work." For more information regarding programs and services offered contact Campus Ministries.
To get involved, contact the Director of Campus Ministries at 757.352.4840.
- Chapel--University Chapel meets each Wednesday at noon in the Moot Courtroom of Robertson Hall. Attendance is encouraged of all students, faculty, and staff as a visible expression of our spiritual unity. Services are also streamed live and archived on the Campus Ministry tab of the My Regent web portal. Scripture encourages us not to "give up meeting together..." but to "encourage one another" by our communal worship and prayer. You'll attend and participate, because you want to!
- Prayer--Prayer is the key to growth in all phases of our Christian walk. Individuals at Regent University are encouraged to develop and participate in various intercessory prayer groups in and around the campus community. Special calls to prayer are made throughout the year. Often, entire chapel services are devoted to corporate prayer and worship.
- Personal Walk with God--Each individual must assume responsibility for his or her own spiritual life. The university undergirds this by providing materials and teachings related to developing skills in personal devotion, Bible study, and prayer.
- Fall Convocation--At the start of the fall semester of each academic year, the Regent community gathers for a time of spiritual renewal and preparation for the coming year. This special time includes a variety of special chapels, guest speakers, and praise and worship experiences.
- Seven Days Ablaze/Week of Prayer--The autumn is a season of in-gathering both at the Christian Broadcasting Network's television outreach and at Regent University. Each year between the Jewish holy days of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, the Regent University family joins CBN for a special weeklong chapel series to pray and seek God's blessing and guidance.
- Spiritual Life Committee (SLC)
- Be in intercessory prayer for the campus.
- Focus attention on spiritual matters.
- Facilitate programs and activities that will lead to spiritual growth for all.
- Comments and suggestions regarding spiritual life at Regent University should be addressed to the Director of Campus Ministries Office at 757.352.4840.
- Spiritual Life Seminars & Workshops--Various seminars and workshops are offered addressing topics related to spiritual life such as Marriage Enrichment, Interpersonal Communication, Prayer and Fasting, and Worship. Students and spouses are encouraged to participate in these programs.
- Regent Serves: Several outings each academic year are sponsored jointly by Campus Ministries and the office of Community Life to aid in serving ministry and non-profit organizations in the Hampton Roads area. Recent activities have included opportunities for students to serve Union Mission of Norfolk, People in Need (PIN) of Virginia Beach, Habitat for Humanity, the Crisis Pregnancy Center, and Loving and Caring Homeless Ministry of Virginia Beach.
- Ministry Training: Periodic training is given in personal evangelism, apologetics, prayer and counseling ministry, coaching, hearing the voice of God, as well as pastoral internships.
- Missions Trip: Each Spring term join a group of students and staff as we venture out to serve a ministry or evangelism need in a specific area of the United States or internationally. The Campus Ministries office coordinates this annual trip, which is typically slated for the week of Spring break. Visit the Campus Ministry website for more information.
STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES and PRIVILEGES
Attendance at the university and participation in institutional activities are viewed as privileges rather than rights. Along with these privileges come a variety of responsibilities. It is assumed that all students are mature individuals needing limited guidance and direction regarding personal and behavioral activities. Biblical standards for personal conduct are assumed to be understood by university participants. By agreeing to follow the Standard of Personal Conduct, a student certifies that he or she will submit himself or herself to the standards of the Regent University community throughout the time of enrollment as a student. Regent University members maintain a life of discipline, which promotes the well being of both themselves and other members of the institution.
Regent University admits students without discrimination as to disability, veteran status, age, gender, race, color, national or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the university. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, veteran status, age, gender race, color, national or ethnic origin in administration of educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other university administered programs.
Regent University holds the right of expression as necessary as the right of inquiry and that both must be preserved as essential to the pursuit and dissemination of knowledge and truth. Consequently, university members--individually and collectively--may express their views through the normal student, faculty and administrative channels of communication.
Students, particularly those producing theses, dissertations, portfolios and other creative works may pursue truth within their disciplines by research, discussion and other forms of inquiry. Exercising academic freedom requires a responsibility to truth and scholarly integrity as well as complete honesty and loyalty to the Mission Statement, the Standard of Personal Conduct and the Student Honor Code.
Academic Honor Code and Disciplinary Policy*
*This Academic Honor Code and Disciplinary Policy applies to all Regent University schools other than the School of Law, which has its own policies and procedures with respect to plagiarism, penalties, and disciplinary procedures for law students.
Foundation and Student Responsibility
Regent University affirms the biblical truth that God made men and women in His own image. Part of God's essence is His social nature, reflected best in the perfect society of the Trinity. God seeks community with men and women, and because of God's concern with community among men and women, He has provided them with laws to govern community. One such law prohibits a person from stealing the property of another. That is, God in His divine wisdom has chosen to protect private property by prohibiting its theft by others. Part of a person's property is the product of his/her intellect and creativity. Yet another law of God to guide people in community is honesty, which prohibits deceit, fraud, or dishonesty. Both of these laws are a reflection of God's love, and we reflect love to both God and our fellow men and women by following these laws. Both of these laws are the foundation for this Academic Integrity Policy.Students are responsible for knowing what constitutes plagiarism, how to avoid it, and what constitutes dishonesty. Students are also responsible for understanding that if they allow a fellow student to cheat or plagiarize, or if they complete an assignment for a fellow student, they are accomplices to academic dishonesty and are subject to the same penalty.
This policy is purposely found in the Student Handbook, and it is referenced in the catalog and the Faculty & Academic Policy Handbook. A student's failure to know this policy is not a defense. Moreover, a lack of understanding of what constitutes dishonesty, plagiarism, and/or a lack of intent (e.g., that the student did not intend to copy the material into his/her paper) is not a defense. Finally, failure to follow the procedural deadlines in the appeals section will result in the dismissal of the appeal.
Definition: Conduct that violates the Academic Honor Code includes the following:
Whenever you draw on another's work, you must specify what you borrowed whether facts, opinions, or quotations and where you borrowed it from. Using another person's ideas or expressions in your writing without acknowledging the source constitutes plagiarism. . . . In short, to plagiarize is to give the impression that you wrote or thought something that you in fact borrowed from someone, and to do so is a violation of professional ethics. (p. 151)
Plagiarism is a pervasive threat to academic integrity because of the emergence and expansion of the Internet. Any time a student downloads content from the Internet or any electronic document, the student risks committing plagiarism. The student must summarize or paraphrase the material first (with, of course, proper citation) rather than simply cutting and pasting blocks of downloaded text in his/her paper without using quotation marks.
Because of the importance of ensuring academic integrity, the University subscribes to SafeAssign® offered through Blackboard's HELP tab and listed under Blackboard Basics. The University has asked its instructors to submit student papers to the scrutiny of the SafeAssign software or other academic integrity software at their discretion including when they suspect the presence of plagiarism in a student's paper. Note that these submissions of assignments to SafeAssign or other software do not necessarily constitute an accusation or suspicion of plagiarism.
Levels of Plagiarism
Because of the wide range of acts which constitute plagiarism, the following levels of plagiarism are provided to give guidance to instructors. If the particular act of plagiarism is not provided below (especially with respect to plagiarized artwork including films, plays, and other visual or audio arts), the instructor should use his/her best judgment in light of the circumstances or should consult with his/her Dean (The Dean may, at his/her discretion, delegate any or all of his/her responsibilities under this Policy to an administrator or faculty member in his/her School. When used hereafter, "Dean" means either the Dean or his/her designee.).
Minor Plagiarism means doing any of the following without attributing it to a source:
- Using the source's idea or logic;
- Inserting verbatim phrases of five or more words (but less than two sentences) without quotation marks or using minimal content from an audiovisual source;
- Revising the source's work by inserting a few synonyms in one original sentence;
- Revising the sentence by reordering the phrases but not changing any words.
Major Plagiarism means doing any of the following without attributing it to a source:
- Repeatedly committing minor plagiarism in one or more papers in one or more courses;
- Using verbatim two or more sentences from a source without quotation marks or using substantial content from an audiovisual work;
- Revising the source's work by inserting a few synonyms, and/or minimal paraphrasing, in one or more paragraphs.
Complete Plagiarism means doing any of the following:
- Submitting a paper or other work obtained from a Website or other source;
- Submitting another person's work for an assignment;
- Obtaining a score of 70 or more on a SafeAssign® assessment after the removal of quoted material.
Penalties for Violations of the Academic Honor Code
1. Penalty for Minor Plagiarism
The faculty member shall give the student a verbal warning and shall counsel the student about academic integrity and the serious consequences resulting from the breach of integrity. In addition, the faculty member may, at his/her discretion, do one or more of the following:
- Give the student a written warning using the Academic Dishonesty Notice (see Appendix in this Handbook);
- Give the student an assignment grade penalty;
- Require the student to reformulate and resubmit the assignment (with or without grade penalties).
2. Penalty for Major Plagiarism
The faculty member may, at his/her discretion, do the following for the first two offenses:
- First offense--Normally, give a zero (or a failing grade if the School does not use a numerical grading scale) for the assignment for which the student submitted the plagiarized work or post and no opportunity to resubmit the assignment;
- Second offense (in the same or more courses)--Normally, give a failing grade in the course for which the student submitted the plagiarized assignment.
The Dean may, at his/her discretion, do the following:
- Third offense (in the same or more courses)--Normally, dismiss the student from the University.
3. Penalty for Complete Plagiarism/Cheating
The faculty member may, at his/her discretion, do the following for the first offense:
- Normally, give a failing grade in the course for which the student submitted the plagiarized assignment.
The Dean may, at his/her discretion, do the following for the second offense (in the same or in multiple courses):
- Normally, dismiss the student from the University.
4. Penalty for Dishonesty Other Than Plagiarism
Because of the varied nature and severity of other types of academic dishonesty (e.g., lying, cheating, defrauding, or deceiving), the Dean of each School, in conjunction with the charging faculty member (the faculty member who initiates the academic dishonesty process is sometimes called "the charging faculty member"), has discretion to exercise his/her judgment about the propriety of sanctions in light of the circumstances presented (including the fact that the student may have been guilty of other Honor Code provisions).
Procedure for Faculty to Follow When Suspecting Violations of the Academic Honor Code
1. Gather and Examine the Evidence.
Because of the widespread and growing problem of academic dishonesty as reported in the literature, the Regent University administration strongly encourages the faculty to explore any suspicions of academic dishonesty. The first step in this process is to gather and examine any evidence of academic dishonesty. Examples of this step are using SafeAssign® for any suspected plagiarism, finding the original work suspected of being plagiarized, or talking to other students if cheating or lying is suspected.
2. Reach a Preliminary Conclusion After Reviewing the Evidence.
After reviewing the gathered evidence, the faculty member should reach a preliminary conclusion as to whether the suspected student has committed any academic dishonesty. If the faculty member concludes that the student has not committed any academic dishonesty, then no further action is required. If, on the other hand, the faculty member concludes that academic dishonesty has occurred, the faculty member should preliminarily determine whether the incident is minor, major, or complete plagiarism, or another act of academic dishonesty.
3. Communicate with the Student.
After reaching a preliminary conclusion, the charging faculty member should meet with the student either in person or telephonically and share the evidence that led the charging faculty member to conclude preliminarily the student committed academic dishonesty. At this meeting, the student may refute the charge and, if the faculty member is satisfied no academic dishonesty has occurred, no further action is necessary. If the faculty member is not satisfied and remains convinced the student committed an act of academic dishonesty, the faculty member should complete the Academic Dishonesty Notice (see Appendix in the Faculty and Academic Handbook). In completing this form, the faculty member must note the sanction he/she recommends and when he/she spoke with the student. The faculty member must keep a copy of the Academic Dishonesty Notice and a copy of the evidence of dishonesty and forward the original copy of the Academic Dishonesty Notice with the original copy of the evidence of dishonesty to his/her Dean.
During this process, faculty should consider instances of academic dishonesty as a spiritual and educational learning opportunity for the student. Part of the educational component for this process is re-emphasizing instruction on how to avoid plagiarism. The faculty member should also stress the spiritual dimensions of plagiarism and should note repeated instances of minor plagiarism result in major plagiarism.
4. Dean's Action Upon Receipt of the Academic Dishonesty Notice and the Evidence of Dishonesty
Upon receipt of the Academic Dishonesty Notice (see Appendix in the Faculty and Academic Handbook) and the evidence of dishonesty, the Dean will (a) review the documentation and the case, (b) review the student's file to determine whether or not the student has committed other acts of academic dishonesty, and (c) evaluate whether or not the sanction imposed by the faculty member is appropriate. If the penalty imposed by the faculty member is inconsistent with similar infractions or the student has committed other acts of academic dishonesty which warrant a more substantial penalty than the one recommended by the faculty member, the Dean must consult with the faculty member about changing the penalty for the student. After reviewing the Academic Dishonesty Notice and meeting (if needed) with the charging faculty member, the Dean should determine the appropriate sanction and then complete the lower portion of the Academic Dishonesty Notice and mail a copy of the form and evidence to the student.
Documentation of the incident will be retained in the student's permanent file.
Procedure for the Student to Follow in Appealing the Academic Dishonesty
Decision
1. Student's Request for Dean to Reconsider--If the student wants to appeal the sanction imposed by the Dean, the student must first ask the Dean to reconsider his/her decision. In seeking this reconsideration, the student must send to the Dean an e-mail with a return receipt requested or a letter by certified mail or overnight courier (with a copy to the charging faculty member) within 14 days of the date the Dean mailed the Academic Dishonesty Notice (see Appendix in the Faculty and Academic Handbook) to the student. In this e-mail or letter, the student must state in detail his/her grounds for the request to reconsider (i.e., why he/she disagrees with the Dean's decision). The Dean may, at his/her discretion, either limit his/her review of the matter to the new information provided by the student, meet either in person or telephonically with the student, or both. Thereafter, the Dean must notify the student in writing of the Dean's decision with respect to the student's request for reconsideration.
2. Student's Appeal to the Vice President of Academic Affairs--Within 7 days of the Dean's transmittal electronically or by mail of his/her reconsidered decision to the student, the student may appeal the Dean's decision by sending a letter by certified mail or overnight courier or e-mail with a return receipt requested to the Vice President of Academic Affairs or his/her designee (hereafter "VPAA") with a copy to the Dean. In this letter or e-mail of appeal, the student shall state in detail why the decision by the Dean lacks substantial evidence. The VPAA may, at his/her discretion, limit his/her review to the written record provided or may appoint a panel of three members of the faculty/administration to hear the appeal. If the VPAA appoints a panel, the panel will conduct a hearing and recommend a decision to the VPAA within 30 days after appointment. The VPAA and the panel shall affirm the decision of the Dean unless the VPAA and the panel determine that the Dean's decision is arbitrary and capricious (i.e., the Dean's decision lacks substantial evidence) or the Dean has failed to follow the proper procedure, in which case the VPAA may remand the matter to the Dean with instructions. The decision of the VPAA shall be final.
References
Bloomfield, L. (2006). The plagiarism resource site:
Charlottesville, Virginia. Retrieved July 15,
2006, from plagiarism.phys.virginia.edu/
Calvin College. (n.d.). English 101 at Calvin College. Retrieved
July 15, 2006, from
www.calvin.edu/academic/engl/101/tresources/handling_plagiarism.htm
Gibaldi, J. (1998). MLA style manual and guide to scholarly
publishing (2nd ed.). New York: MLA.
McKeon, D. (2000). Avoiding plagiarism: A guide for graduate
students at Virginia Tech. Retrieved July 15, 2006,
Regent University. (2006). Catalog 2006-2007. Retrieved
August 2, 2006, from
Regent University. (n.d.). Policy guidelines and procedures
concerning plagiarism in written work for the
School of Education. Retrieved August 1, 2006, from www.regent.edu/acad/schedu/pdfs/SOE_Plagiarism_Policy_Guidelines.pdf
Westmont College. (2002). Westmont College plagiarism policy.
Retrieved July 16, 2006, from
www.westmont.edu/_academics/pages/provost/curriculum/plagiarism/
Wheaton College. (1985). Plagiarism policy. Retrieved July 16,
(Academic Council, Approved February 2007)
Regent University encourages a close and edifying relationship between faculty, staff, and students, one that will deepen the spiritual growth of each and stimulate a vigorous intellectual life in the Regent Community. In order to accomplish these aims, it is imperative that Regent University faculty, staff, and students conduct themselves in a Christ-like and professional manner and maintain an exemplary and involved lifestyle. Students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to become involved in church and to attend church regularly. In addition, community members are also invited and encouraged to participate in activities of the Regent community and its founding organization, CBN.
Regent University has developed its Campus policies from a Christian perspective and desires to be a redemptive community. In order for this to occur, the university believes that students need the opportunity to learn and grow through accepting responsibility for their actions. Therefore, Regent University has initiated the following policies:
In the spirit of pro-active Christian concern and care, Regent University is committed to maintaining a safe living, working, and learning environment for students, faculty, and staff. The University recognizes that situations may arise where a student's behavior is a potential threat to self or others, or where a student's behavior significantly disrupts the ability of other students, faculty, or staff to participate in Regent's educational programs, living environments, or employment opportunities. Disruptive behavior may or may not include actions which lead to voluntary or involuntary hospitalization.
- Definitions
Students may be administratively removed from student housing assignments, or have disciplinary sanctions imposed as a condition of continued classroom attendance or participation, in situations where their behavior is considered by the university, at its sole determination, to be:
- Potentially dangerous to themselves or others.
Danger to self or others includes, but is not limited to excessive use of alcohol, misuse of prescription medications or illegal drugs, gestures or threats of harm to self or others, suicidal ideation or behaviors, self-mutilation, violence or threats of violence, or assaults.
- Significantly disruptive to others, but not an immediate threat to self or others.
Disruptive behavior includes behaviors that interrupt or impair a student, faculty, or staff member's ability to carry out their daily activities and responsibilities. Such disruption may be in the form of a single behavioral incident or a series of incidents.
Disruptive behavior includes, but is not limited to, students whose behavior potentially may deteriorate to the point of serious harm or dysfunction without assessment, intervention or treatment. When standard assessment is impossible because of the student's resistance, behavioral observations will constitute the basis for such judgment.
Implementation
If a student's behavior is determined by the University to be detrimental to self or the University community, the University reserves the right, at its sole determination, to administratively intervene and impose conditions designed to enhance the student's opportunity to succeed at Regent University, or to remove the student if the University deems appropriate, and to minimize disruptive influence on the University community.
These measures may include but are not limited to mandatory mental health or alcohol/drug assessment/evaluation, adherence to a treatment plan, removal from or reassignment within student housing, behavioral contract, or mandatory withdrawal from the University. A behavioral contract is an agreement between the University and the student, in which certain specified conditions must be met as a condition for the student's continued participation at the University, or the student's return to the University after withdrawal.
Students may seek a voluntary withdrawal through the Registrar's Office. Undergraduate students must complete this withdrawal form: http://www.regent.edu/admin/registrar/documents/FormStudent-UG_WITHDRAWAL.pdf Graduate Students must complete this withdrawal form: http://www.regent.edu/admin/registrar/documents/FormStudent-GR_WITHDRAWAL_000.pdf
Students who are disruptive, but not a threat to self or others may be referred to the Psychological Services Center and may be subject to the university disciplinary process.
Emergency response procedures, including Virginia laws governing involuntary commitment, are in place to respond to students who are determined by the university to be an immediate danger to self or others. Students who exhibit potentially dangerous behavior shall meet with a Student Services staff member(s) designated by the Vice President for Student Services. The purpose of this meeting will be to:
Review available information concerning behaviors and/or incidents that have caused concern;
Review this policy and discuss the procedures;
Allow the student to present information on his/her behalf;
Determine the student's ability and willingness to be a non-disruptive participant in the University community.
This meeting is private between the University and the student. At this meeting the student will not be allowed to be represented by an attorney or other persons.
Return to Campus/Class Participation Guidelines
Students who have been removed from student housing and/or class attendance/participation following administrative intervention, judicial sanctions, or mental health hospitalization may be required to be assessed by a counselor or health care professional prior to being reinstated. This assessment process may include an off-campus mental health assessment by a qualified mental health or other health care professional, or an alcohol/drug assessment by a substance abuse counselor, as a condition of returning to campus. In all cases, the counselor or health care professional must be deemed acceptable to the University. The student may be required to sign a two-way release form to allow for dialogue regarding assessment and/or treatment between the treating professional(s) and the Student Services staff member(s) designated by the Vice President for Student Services. The two-way release allows the university to release information regarding the behaviors and circumstances leading to the administrative intervention to the health care professional conducting the assessment/treatment and to receive information regarding the student's participation in treatment.
In all circumstance, return or readmission to full participation in the university community will require a meeting with the Student Services staff member(s) designated by the Vice President for Student Services. As stated above, this will be a private meeting between the student and the Student Services staff member(s). This meeting must be conducted before the student is permitted to return to campus. As a condition of return, the university may stipulate ongoing conditions or requirements for a student to remain on campus or participate in class.
It is the goal of the University to provide a safe, secure, and positive environment in which our students can learn in accordance with God's plan for their lives. Therefore, the University reserves the right to remove from class, suspend or dismiss any student who is deemed to pose a threat to the health, safety or security of that student or others. In addition, the University may require that a student obtain medical or psychological evaluation and/or counseling when the University believes this necessary for the student's well being, and for the safety of others, and may require that the student be removed from class until that occurs. The student may also be prohibited from being on campus while the medical evaluation / treatment / counseling are in process and during any appeal.
Regent University policies and regulations are intended to provide a safe and God-honoring experience for each student. In doing so, we believe we must individually order our lives with love and justice. We do not pretend that our policies and regulations are perfect nor do we condemn other Christians whose judgments are different from our own. Rather, policies and regulations will be for the greater good of the community and assist us to deepen our relationship with the Lord.
We believe in the biblical concept of holding ourselves and our peers accountable. Therefore, we adhere to the Matthew 18:15-17 and Matthew 5:23-24 concepts regarding the relationship and interactions with one another in community. We attempt to administer community policies and regulations from a developmental perspective with the belief that consequences for the violation of community standards should lead an individual toward redemption with God, restoration with the community and reconciliation with people. However, it should be understood, that it may be necessary at times to remove a student from the university community either for a specified period of time or permanently, based on the individual circumstances. Students who demonstrate an inability to adjust to the Standards of Personal Conduct through repeated violations, may be suspended or dismissed from the university.
The judicial process of Regent University does not take the place of any legal proceedings of which a student may be a part.
Students who are struggling with issues and behaviors that violate behavioral or disciplinary policies are encouraged to seek support and help.
- Any student who initiates contact with a staff member in Student Services, the Director of Campus Ministries, or the Psychological Services Center regarding issues and behaviors of this nature will be required to participate in an accountability contract and/or seek professional assistance, rather than proceed through the judicial structure.
- Students who request help will be asked to abstain from behaviors that violate university policies. If violations continue while engaged in the accountability contract or professional assistance, the student will be subject to the university judicial process.
- Student Services may still impose reasonable and applicable expectations or boundaries for students holding a leadership position on campus who seek support.
- In cases where safety of the student or others is a concern, Student Services professionals reserve the right to proceed accordingly.
Students are strongly encouraged to go to one another in brotherly love and speak truth. However, if a student is fearful for his/her safety or otherwise uncomfortable approaching the offending student, he or she should not approach the student but rather report the suspected violation to the Office of University Student Services or Student Housing.
Judicial proceedings may be initiated when the Director of Student Life receives information (written or oral) regarding alleged student misconduct. To report an incident of community standards violation, a student must do one of the following:
- Report it to Student Housing staff (RA, Area Director, or Director of Student Housing)
- Report it to the Director of Student Life.
- Submit a report to the Regent Behavioral Intervention Team (RUBIT) via the form located at http://www.regent.edu/general/RUBIT/concern_report.cfm
In certain circumstances the Director of Student Life, in consultation with the Vice President for Student Services, may impose an intermediate suspension prior to the hearing process. It may be imposed only when, in the judgment of the Director of Student Life in consultation with the Vice President for Student Services, the presence of the accused student on the university campus, would constitute a threat to the safety or well being of individual members of the campus community or the campus community in general. Before implementing the intermediate suspension, the accused student will be given oral or written notice of the intention to impose the intermediate suspension. After the student has been intermediately suspended, the student shall be provided the opportunity to participate in the standard judicial process in a timely manner. The intermediate suspension is not to exceed 5 days. During the intermediate suspension, the student may not enter the campus without obtaining prior written permission from the Vice President for Student Services or the Director of Student Life.
Director of Student Life may consult with appropriate university personnel such as Deans of Schools, prior to beginning the hearing process. Due to the unique nature of the professional requirements upon students in the School of Law, the judicial process for Regent University law students will proceed under the collaborative direction of the School of Law Dean for Student Affairs (or other individual designated by the Dean of the School of Law) and the University Student Services Director of Student Life.
Students will be encouraged at all levels of discipline to share the information with their parents/guardians. Parents will be contacted if the student is under the age of 18 or if safety or health concerns exist. Additionally, parents will be notified if a student under the age of 21 violates the alcohol policies.
Minor infractions such as violations of housing guidelines, roommate conflicts, noise level, smoking, and the first offense of alcohol will be handled by the residential life staff through the Area Director and/or the Director of Student Housing. All other community violations of a non-academic nature will be processed through the Residence Hall Judicial Council.
Steps:
- Report submitted.
- Preliminary Investigation conducted by the Director of Student Life.
- Investigator determines if there are reasonable grounds to conduct a hearing.
- If there are reasonable grounds to proceed, the student has the right to a hearing with the Residence Hall Judicial Council.
- If the student waives his/her right to a hearing with the Residence Hall Judicial Council the student could choose to have an administrative meeting with the Area Director of the respective Residence Hall.
- If the student desires to appeal the decision of the Residence Hall Judicial Council, he/she may appeal to the University Judicial Council.
- All decisions from an appeals council are final.
Steps:
- Report submitted.
- Preliminary Investigation conducted by the Director of Student Life.
- Investigator determines if there are reasonable grounds to conduct a hearing.
- If there are reasonable grounds to proceed, the student has the right to a hearing with the University Judicial Council.
- If the student waives his/her right to a hearing with the University Judicial Council the student could choose to have an administrative meeting with the Director of Student Life.
- If the student desires to appeal the decision of the UJC, he/she may appeal to the University Judicial Appeals Committee.
- All decisions from an appeals council are final.
The university reserves the right to convene an administrative judicial council to adjudicate extremely sensitive incidents on a case-by-case basis at the discretion of the Director of Student Life and the Vice President for Student Services. Cases of an extremely sensitive nature include, but are not limited to, sexual issues, addictions, and cases in which expulsion from the university is a possibility. The administrative council will be comprised of Student Services professionals and the Director of the Psychological Services Center. If a student wishes to appeal a decision of the administrative council, the appeal will be heard by the Vice President for Student Services.
Students may choose to waive their right to a council hearing and accept consequences under the following conditions:
- The violation is the student's first violation.
- The student wishes to address the violation through an administrative meeting, rather than a council hearing.
- The student admits guilt to the violation.
- The student accepts the disciplinary sanctions as suggested by the administrator.
If the student waives his/her right to a hearing with the respective council based on the above criteria, the student could choose to have an administrative meeting with the Area Director of the respective Residence hall (residential students), or the Director of Student life (non-residential students).
Every student has the right to one appeal. An appeal must be requested within 72 hours of the decision being rendered (weekends and holidays excluded).
An appeal must be in writing and consist of:
- A completed appeal request form (available in Student Services), and
- A statement outlining and supporting in detail, the specific grounds on which the student is appealing.
- The completed appeal form and written statement must be submitted to the Director of Student Life in the Student Services Office within 72 hours of the decision being rendered.
- An appeal must be based on one or more of the following:
- A process or procedural error occurred.
- New information that was not available or known to the student appealing at the time of the hearing has come to light which, when considered, may materially alter the outcome. Information that the student chose not to present at the hearing is not considered new information.
- The decision was arbitrary and capricious (lacks substantial evidence).
During the appeals process, sanctions given by the original hearing body may be temporarily delayed until the appeals process is completed. The appeals council will make one of three decisions:
- A decision may be overturned;
- A decision may be amended; or
- A decision may be upheld.
If the appeals council chooses to amend the original decision, sanctions will not be increased; they can only be decreased, modified, or revoked.
After a decision has been rendered by the appeals council, the originating council will not have the opportunity to respond. The decision of the appeals council is final. The student will be notified verbally of the decision immediately, and will also be notified by letter within 5 days of the decision being rendered.
If a student fails to appear at a scheduled hearing or meeting with the Director of Student Life or Area Director, the adjudication process will continue without the student's representation.
No audio or visual recordings of any kind may be made at the hearing. Formal court procedures and state and federal rules of procedure and evidence do not apply. Legal counsel, friends, relatives, and anyone not directly related to the case, are not allowed to attend the hearings with the accused student. University Counsel is authorized to attend the hearings when determined to be appropriate by the Vice President for Student Services. Minutes will be taken at the hearing.
The general format for disciplinary hearings will be as follows: (exceptions may be made according to the nature of the case)
- Prayer
- Presentation of charges by the chair of the council
- Presentation of evidence by the chair of the council
- Presentation by student charged
- Questioning of student charged and/or witnesses by the council members
- Questioning of any witnesses by the student charged
- Deliberation (student charged not present)
- Decision/notification (immediate notification verbally with written notification to follow)
Student Academic Appeals & Grievances
Procedures for Academic Appeals by Students
An appeal is defined as a request governed by this policy to a higher authority to change a decision that was made, typically a decision that the student believes adversely affects his or her academic career. The procedures for addressing academic appeals are described below. Different time limits or procedures may apply for Appeals Policy for the Law School. Students should consult the specific Law School policies and procedures.
- When a student wants to make an academic appeal concerning course grades, comprehensive exam results, thesis, program requirements or dissertation decision, he or she must schedule a meeting with the faculty or staff member who is most responsible for the decision within 30 days from the date when the decision or course grade was rendered (e.g., comprehensive exam decision). The meeting may be in person or telephonically, depending on the circumstances. If the faculty member is unavailable within 30 days of the date of the actual or supposed circumstance (e.g. summer), the student shall notify the department chair of his or her attempts to contact the faculty member and then discuss the matter with the chair. An appeal related to a grade may be filed only if one or both of the following conditions apply:
- The student can provide evidence that an assigned grade was based on arbitrary or non-academic criteria; or,
- The student can provide evidence that the criteria for evaluating the assignment or coursework were not applied or were misapplied, such that the assigned grade does not accurately reflect his or her fulfillment of course requirements and/or course policies as stated in the syllabus (e.g. class attendance/participation, grade standards, penalty for late or incomplete work) and/or other applicable requirements of the university
- At the meeting referenced in the prior paragraph, the responsible faculty or staff member will explain the reason for the grade or decision and, if warranted, change the original decision.
- If the student's appeal concerns a faculty or staff member's decision and the discussion with the faculty or staff member has not brought resolution of the issue within 30 days of the submission of the appeal, the student shall contact the chair of the faculty member's department (if one exists) in order to seek resolution.
If the school in which the faculty member is employed does not have department chairs, the student shall proceed directly to step #4.
- If there is no resolution of the issue--or, for schools that do not have department chairs--the student may then submit a formal letter of appeal to the Dean of the school in which the faculty member or staff member is employed. The formal letter of appeal must be submitted within 5 days of the rendering of the decision by the faculty chair or 5 days of the meeting with the faculty member if there is no chair. Students may also notify the Dean directly if the situation occurred in a school without department chairs and the student has been unable to reach the faculty member within a 30-day period. In this latter case, the student will need to verify his or her attempts to contact the faculty member.
- The student must submit a written appeal to the Dean that includes:
- Student's full name
- Regent University student identification number
- Student current address
- Student current phone number
- Semester and year enrolled
- Course number, and name if applicable
- Name of responsible faculty or staff member
- Grade received or decision made
- Reason for appeal
- Supporting documents
- The Dean may reply to the appeal or send the written appeal on to the Dean's designee. The student will be notified if a designee is involved.
- The Dean or Dean's designee shall respond in writing within 30 days of the date of the meeting or appeal.
- If the student believes he or she has not received a satisfactory resolution of the appeal from the Dean or Dean's designee, he or she has 15 days from the Dean's decision to submit a written appeal to the Vice President for Academic Affairs. The appeal should include the same information submitted in the appeal to the Dean or the Dean's designee.
- The Vice President for Academic Affairs or designee reviews the appeal.
- If the Vice President for Academic Affairs or designee determines that there is insufficient justification to warrant review by the Academic Council, the appeal will be rejected and this action will be considered final. If the Vice President for Academic Affairs determines that the appeal warrants further review, the matter will be referred to a subcommittee of Academic Council appointed by the Vice President for Academic Affairs for a final decision. A grade or academic decision will not be changed unless it is determined to have been arbitrary and capricious. No further appeals will be entertained by the university regarding the matter.
- The Vice President for Academic Affairs or designee will inform the instructor, Dean and student in writing of his or the Academic Council's decision within 30 days of the date the appeal was submitted.
Procedure for Student Grievances and Other Appeals
A grievance is defined as an actual or supposed circumstance regarded as just cause for complaint or protest or a circumstance that adversely affects a student's academic career or personal well being. This procedure should be used in all appeals other than academic appeals, appeals from non-academic disciplinary decisions and sexual harassment policies.
- The student should discuss the circumstance with the individual(s) involved to seek a resolution. This should first be done in the context of Matthew 18:15-17.
- If a student is fearful for his/her safety or otherwise uncomfortable approaching the individual, the student should involve a faculty or staff advisor. If a faculty or staff advisor is not willing or available, the student should proceed to step #3.
- If there is no resolution of the issue, the student may submit a letter regarding the matter to the Dean of the school or department supervisor in which the individual is employed. The letter must be submitted within 30 days of the date of the actual or supposed circumstance and must include the following information:
- Student's full name
- Regent University student identification number
- Student current address
- Student current phone number
- The school in which the student is enrolled
- Explanation of the grievance and supporting documents
- Upon receiving the student's letter, the Dean, Dean's designee, or department supervisor will contact the Director of Student Life and may suggest mediation as an alternative to the grievance process. If mediation is agreed upon, the Dean, department supervisor, or Director of Student Life will schedule mediation to work out an agreement based on the university's Mediation Agreement policy.
- If mediation is not chosen or if it was not successful, the Dean, Dean's designee, department supervisor, or Director of Student Life must respond in writing to the student within 15 days of receiving the student's letter stating his or her decision and the reason for such decision.
- If the student is not satisfied with the Dean's, Dean's designee's, department supervisor's, or Director's decision, the student may submit a written appeal of the decision to the Vice President for Academic Affairs or to the Vice President for Student Services within 2 days of receiving the Dean's or director's decision. The appeal must include the materials described above and the Dean's or director's response.
- The Vice President for Academic Affairs or Vice President for Student Services will review the appeal within 15 days. The original decision may be overturned only if the Dean's, Dean's designee's, department supervisor's, or Director's decision is determined to be arbitrary and capricious. If the Vice President for Academic Affairs or Vice President for Student Services does not believe the appeal is sufficient to warrant review, the appeal will be rejected. This decision will be final. If the Vice President for Academic Affairs or Vice President for Student Services determines that the appeal warrants further review, it will be referred to a subcommittee of the Academic Council or the President's Cabinet appointed by the Vice President for Academic Affairs or Vice President for Student Services for a final decision.
- The subcommittee will meet and render a decision within 30 days of the referral. Their decision will be communicated to the student and all concerned parties in writing and the subcommittee decision will be final. (Academic Council, Approved December 2007)
Building Days Hours Administration Building Classroom Building Communications Building Library Robertson Hall Student Center Variations of the above hours typically occur on holiday weekends and during semester breaks. Changes in normal building hours will be posted in advance on university bulletin boards. Please use a "buddy" system in university buildings especially when studying after 5 p.m. Do not study alone and do not leave someone else alone during late night hours. The university reserves the right to restrict access at anytime and to any person.
Emergency Information and Procedures
The Security Department handles all emergencies on university premises. The emergency telephone number is extension 2911. Non-emergency calls should be placed to extension 2075 or 757.352.2075 if calling from off campus.
Fire drills are periodically scheduled throughout the year. When fire alarms sound, leave the building immediately. Regent University considers this a very serious matter; students not fully cooperative with quick evacuation procedures will be reported and appropriate action will be taken. Floor plans and exit routes are displayed in office areas and classrooms. Students are responsible for familiarizing themselves with appropriate emergency exits.
Student identification cards are provided during initial registration. ID cards will be required for attending many Regent University sponsored activities and checking out library books. Students should carry and display their ID cards at all times. ID cards can be obtained by visiting the Office of Student Services.
In the event of serious injury or illness while on campus either during regular hours or after hours, Security should be contacted immediately. The security dispatcher is on duty 24 hours a day at ext. 2075 or 757.352.2075. The dispatcher is trained to contact the appropriate emergency squad, as well as to send a security officer trained for interim emergency treatment. For minor medical emergencies, first aid kits are available in the main hallways of each university building floor.
Subsequent to any medical emergency, the Administrative Services office should be notified as soon as possible at ext. 4008 or 757.352.4008. If the emergency involves a student, the vice president of Student Services should also be contacted at ext. 4103 or 757.352.4103.
Inclement Weather/Class Cancellations
Class cancellations due to inclement weather are announced on numerous local radio and television stations. See HR website http://www.regent.edu/admin/prsnel/weather.html for a complete listing. You may also telephone the university emergency hot line at 757.352.4777 for closing information.
Handicapped parking spaces are provided on campus. This parking privilege is under the jurisdiction of the State of Virginia, which requires handicapped license plates or handicapped permits on vehicles occupying these spaces. Handicapped plates may be obtained through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in your state of permanent residence before arrival. To apply for Virginia license plates, obtain appropriate forms through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), State of Virginia. Applications for handicapped plates should be made as soon as possible.
Parking permits may be obtained during registration or at other times in the Administrative Services or Student Services Offices. The permit is mandatory for all student vehicles parked on campus. Students may park in any paved, lined university parking area, which is not marked as reserved. Automobiles inappropriately parked in spaces that are reserved, parked in No Parking zones, or without proper permits are subject to fines, wheel booting and/or towing.
Virginia Beach students who enroll for more than three credit hours in the Fall term of the academic year are assessed a $50 parking fee by the university. The fee provides a parking permit and students use of on-campus parking for the academic year in which the fee is paid.
UNIVERSITY POLICIES and PROCEDURES
- When a student's cumulative grade point average (for joint degree students, the grade point average is determined in each separate degree) falls below the minimal acceptable level (probationary GPA may be different by degree level or program--please refer to the current on-line catalog for details), the student shall be placed on academic probation for the next term of enrollment.
- Students on academic probation should consult with their academic advisors to improve their academic performance. Academic probation status is recorded in the student's academic record. When a student is placed on probation, the Dean or Dean's designee shall notify the student in writing of any specific instructions for improving academic performance. A student will be removed from academic probation when his or her cumulative grade point average reaches the minimal acceptable level or above.
- Students who have been dismissed may petition for reinstatement through the school, after one academic year, unless other criteria for possible reinstatement were contained in the dismissal letter. All petitions for reinstatement will be considered on an individual basis. Reinstatement will be granted only on a petition demonstrating that there is a strong likelihood that the student possesses motivation and capacity to successfully complete the academic requirements. The Dean shall notify the student in writing of the school's decision regarding reinstatement. Students who are reinstated shall be required to comply with any conditions set forth in the letter of reinstatement.
- The school sends a copy of the reinstatement form and all letters regarding academic status to the Registrar's Office to be placed in the student's university file.
- At the time of formal admission, the school or center shall inform new students in writing of the name of their assigned academic advisor and shall enter the advisor assignment in each student's record.
- At the beginning of each academic term, the school or center shall provide each academic advisor with a list of all advisees who are enrolled for that term.
- Students shall be responsible for taking the initiative to obtain advisement.
- Faculty, students or Deans may request a change of advisors through the Dean's office. The Dean shall approve all advisor changes.
- Advisors shall approve the schedule and course load of all advisees for each academic term and shall meet with advisees each term as appropriate.
- Students shall obtain their advisor's written approval on the Drop/Add Request form to drop or add a course during the authorized drop/add period. Courses may be dropped after the authorized date only for unusual reasons and with the advisor's approval.
- Students wishing to enroll in a class offered by a school other than the school in which they were admitted shall obtain approvals from the following:
- Advisor
- Dean of the school or center in which they are enrolled
- Instructor of the course
- Dean of the school in which the course is taught
- Students shall obtain the approval of their advisor and Dean on the Individual Study form for the following academic experiences:
- Practicum
- Independent Study
- Internship
- Professional portfolio/project
- Thesis
- Tutorial
- Students may request a printout of their approved degree program from their school. Changes to students' approved degree programs shall require approval on an academic petition form, which is available in the Dean's office.
- Students voluntarily withdrawing from the university during a term shall complete a Withdrawal form and obtain approvals from the appropriate advisor and Dean.
- As a general principle, students should seek admission to a joint degree program before the completion of one-third of any single degree program. This should coincide with the completion of the student's approved degree program.
- Upon admission to two schools or colleges, the student will be assigned two advisors, one from each school or center.
- The student must obtain approval of the joint degree program from both advisors in the registration process each term. Ordinarily, this process will require a joint meeting with both advisors and the student.
- The student's culminating experience will be supervised and evaluated by a committee with members from both schools.
- In consultation with both advisors, the student is responsible for planning and executing the joint degrees, taking into account sequencing of core courses, major courses, and electives in both schools.
- The student is responsible for fulfilling the specific requirements of individual schools and centers, such as prerequisites and residency.
Graduate Courses-- Class attendance is essential for satisfactory academic achievement. Students are responsible for knowing and meeting all course requirements including tests, assignments and class participation. Regular attendance at classes and laboratories is expected and for Law School is mandatory. It is left to the individual faculty member to evaluate each student's record of attendance in arriving at a final grade.
Undergraduate Courses
Regent University recognizes the importance of class attendance and participation for students' learning. While attendance alone does not guarantee learning, engagement with the class through regular attendance and participation is essential to learning, both to the individual student and to the class itself as all benefit by others' contributions. At Regent University, class attendance, understood as the act of being present, is considered to be separate from participating in the class, understood as active engagement through discussion and other forms of interaction. Both are valuable to student learning.
Like other institutions of higher education, Regent University is required to maintain accurate attendance records by the U.S. Department of Education. Instructors are responsible to maintain accurate records regarding attendance and to follow course policies for grading student work, including students' participation. Students are responsible to attend and participate in class and to follow campus policies. The instructor (not the student) is responsible to establish and make decisions about applying the class attendance policy.
Normally, expectations for participation--such as those for quality work in the group discussions (including those in Blackboard)--differ from the minimal requirements for attendance. Thus, at the instructor's discretion, a student who is merely present or absent might lose participation points. Instructors determine whether students may gain back lost participation points (for example, through additional work). Students should be aware that work turned in late (papers, discussion board posts, etc.) could result in the loss of participation points or other components of the final course grade, as instructors follow their posted policy for receiving late work from students.
Attendance is tracked weekly. For any week (7 days) in which a student does not attend class or, for online courses, log into the course in Blackboard, the student will be marked absent in the Blackboard grade book. The standard by which a final date of attendance in the class is measured will be the last date on which the online student logs into the course in Blackboard or the on-campus student attends the on-campus class for a course, whichever is more recent. Students should be aware that this date could affect their financial aid and financial obligations.
In all classes, it is the student's responsibility to contact his/her instructor(s) to notify them of illness when the illness prevents the student from meeting academic requirements, such as attending class or meeting stated deadlines. In the case of illness which prevents students from attending a campus class, students are normally expected to notify the professor either prior to the scheduled class or at least within 24 hours after the absence. In all cases, the instructor may request of the student a medical excuse from a health professional or other appropriate person (such as a resident director).
Students who are excused from a campus class (or from meeting an academic deadline) due to an illness or authorized activity (see below) maintain the responsibility to meet course requirements; the absence does not remove the responsibility for the student to complete required work. Students are advised to seek communication with the instructor as soon as possible regarding how they may make up missed work. Conversely, a student who has unauthorized absences normally may not make up missed work. In all cases, communication with the instructor about how to meet the academic requirements of the course is critically important since the instructor establishes these requirements.
Students are responsible for notifying and seeking approval from the instructor whose classes will be missed due to an academic activity authorized by the administration, such as a theatre production or similar, planned event approved by the university. . A student's absence due to an approved out-of-course activity shall not be considered authorized unless 1) the absence is in fact a result of participation in the approved out-of-course activity; 2) the student has notified the faculty member whose class will be missed before the date of the anticipated absence and has arranged to make up any missed work; 3) the student is absent only for the dates originally approved. Additional absences shall not be considered acceptable. The student must notify the instructor in writing before the class occurs and, when approved by the instructor, make arrangements to make up the missed work. Such arrangements may include additional assignments in lieu of class attendance. When, in the judgment of the instructor, the student is performing so poorly in class or the nature of the class session is such that the student will be put at risk by the absence, the instructor will notify both the student and the other faculty member about the risks, with the intention of working out a mutually agreeable solution. The final decision for administering the class attendance policy resides with the faculty member whose class is missed.
- Commencement
- Regent University holds an annual commencement at the end of the spring term. Students must obtain approval to participate. Students approved to graduate in the spring, summer or fall terms are strongly encouraged to participate in commencement for the conferring of the degree. Students who are unable to attend should notify the Registrar's Office in writing at least one month prior to commencement.
- All students must have completed all requirements for graduation prior to participating in commencement. However, due to the uniqueness of some programs and the fact that there is only one commencement yearly, Regent provides the opportunity for students who have not completed all requirements to participate in commencement, if they meet the following criteria:
1. The student has no more than two courses remaining for graduation and these courses are completed in the summer. The coursework may include an internship or practicum experience, which can also be completed during the summer, but NOT a thesis, dissertation or portfolio. 2. Theses, dissertations and portfolios must have been successfully defended or approved before the spring deadline. All that may remain are final edits ONLY.
- All Students requesting permission to participate in the commencement ceremony who have not completed all graduation requirements but who are eligible to walk under the above criteria MUST:
- Receive from the Dean of the school from which they are graduating certification of eligibility to participate in commencement. The school must send certification to the Registrar's Office by March 1 .
- Receive final written approval from the Registrar's Office that they are eligible to participate in commencement.
- Register and pay for coursework during summer registration.
- Understand that participating in commencement exercises prior to completing all graduation requirements is a privilege and does not guarantee the student's right to graduate until all requirements have been met.
- Disabilities, Anti-discrimination & Accommodation Policy
- Definitions: A "disability" is defined as a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activity. The definition of disability also includes having a record of such impairment or being regarded as having such an impairment.
- A "physical or mental impairment" is any physiological disorder or condition, cosmetic disfigurement, or anatomical loss affecting any of several body systems, including neurological, musculoskeletal, special sense organs, respiratory (including speech organs), cardiovascular, reproductive, digestive, genitourinary, hemic and lymphatic, skin, endocrine, and any mental or psychological disorder. It does not include nonchronic impairments of short duration with little or no long-term impact, such as broken limbs, sprained joints, concussions, appendicitis, and influenza. Physical characteristics such as left-handedness and personality traits such as being irresponsible or having poor judgment are not covered impairments.
- A "major life activity" is a function such as caring for oneself, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning, sitting, standing, lifting, reaching, and working. Exercising cognitive functions is also a major life activity. Multiple impairments that combine to substantially limit a major life activity may also be considered a form of disability.
- A "qualified individual with a disability" is a person with a disability who is able to perform the essential functions of his or her job and/or academic activities, with or without reasonable accommodation.
- A "reasonable accommodation" is any change or adjustment to a job or academic environment that permits a qualified student, faculty or staff with a disability to participate in the academic process and job application process, to perform the essential functions of a job, or to enjoy benefits and privileges of employment equal to those enjoyed by employees without disabilities. Accommodations must be considered and made on a case-by-case basis. Some examples of accommodations that may be considered are job restructuring, reassignment, flexible leave, light duty, acquisition or modification of equipment and devices, and adjusting or modifying examinations, training materials, and policies.
- An "undue hardship" is determined on the basis of the size of the university, the nature and composition of the workforce, the nature and cost of the accommodation, whether the individual with the disability will pose a health and/or safety threat, and the possibility that other prospective student, faculty or staff members will be able to use the same accommodation. An accommodation would generally be determined to represent an undue hardship if it would be unduly costly, extensive, substantial, or disruptive, or would fundamentally alter the nature or operation of the university.
- Service Animals
- A Regent University student, faculty or staff member whose disability requires the use of a service animal must inform the Regent University Human Resources Department and/or the Office of Student Services of that need, and describe the tasks the animal has been trained to perform.
- The student, faculty or staff member may be asked to provide relevant documentation relative to the need for a service animal. Service animals are animals that are individually trained to perform tasks for people with disabilities, such as guiding people who are blind, alerting people who are deaf, pulling wheelchairs, alerting and protecting a person who is having a seizure, or performing other special tasks related to the person's disability.
- Service animals are working animals, not pets. Pets are not allowed on university premises.
- Service animals will be allowed on university premises, (including food service areas where state and/or local health codes prohibit animals other than service animals) except when:
- The animal is out of control and the animal owner does not take effective action to control it, e.g. a dog that barks repeatedly; or
- The animal poses a direct threat to the health and safety of others. Allergies and fear of animals are generally not valid reasons for denying an employee the right to have a service animal on university premises. Regent University will not provide care or food for a service animal or provide a special location for the animal to relieve itself. Service animals should be leashed while on university property.
Requesting a Reasonable Accommodation
- Faculty/Staff-Student Relationships
- Financial Holds on Academic Records
- Once the account is settled, the Business Office will notify the Registrar's Office that the financial hold has been removed. The Registrar's Office will then release any requested academic documentation or information to the individual.
- Grading Systems
- The following grading system shall be used for all undergraduate courses & degree programs:
Grade Quality Point Meaning of Grade
- The following grading system shall be used for all graduate course & degree programs:
Grade Quality Point Meaning of Grade
- Additional symbols that may be used on any grade report are defined below:
Symbol Meaning Pass
(Used for pass/fail courses only)
No Pass
(Used for pass/fail courses only)
Audit
(No credit--used for audit courses only)
- All grades are determined by the instructor. The basis for evaluation and grade calculation shall be published in the course syllabus available at the first formal class meeting. Formative grade assessment may utilize systems different than the required system for final grading, as long as the system allows for equitable conversion.
(See Honor Code section) and Student Appeals in the Faculty and Academic Policy Handbook)
A student who receives a grade of F in a required course must repeat the course in order to graduate. A student may elect to repeat any other course in order to obtain a higher grade. When a course is repeated, the last grade points and credit hours earned replace the previous grade points and credit hours in computing the grade point average. However, all grade entries on the transcript remain a part of the student's permanent academic record. If the course being repeated is offered under a different course number than when the student first took the course, the student must indicate that it is a repeat course at the time of registration.
- The total grade points for all earned letter grades in the repeated courses will be divided by the total credit hours taken in calculating the average grade points to be assigned per credit hour. The average grade points per credit hour shall not exceed 2.00 (C grade).
- The average grade points (not to exceed 2.00) will be assigned only to the final repeat credit hours. The credit hours and grade points earned for each prior taking of a course shall be deleted from the transcript. However, all grade entries on the transcript remain a permanent part of the student's academic record.
Repeating an Undergraduate Course
Students who do not earn a C- (1.67) or above in any course applied to the major or minor must repeat that course in order to graduate. Additionally, students are required to demonstrate competency in writing, reading, mathematics, oral expression, and computer skills. Students who do not earn a C- or better in each of these areas must re-take the courses until at least a C- is obtained. See the Regent Undergraduate Catalog for further details.
Regent University protects the confidentiality of the education records of current and former students. This policy is in compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA), as amended. FERPA rights apply once a student is considered "in attendance" by the institution. Regent defines "in attendance" as being registered for at least one class at 12:01 a.m. on the first day of the student's first term, as determined by the official university academic calendar. At its discretion, the institution may provide directory information to include: student name, address, email address, telephone number, date and place of birth, major field of study, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, the most recent previous educational agency or institution attended by the student, photograph and participation in officially recognized activities. Students may withhold directory information by notifying the Registrar's Office, in writing, within two weeks of the posting of the annual fall notice that advises students of their rights.
Access to Student Educational Records by Others
At the end of the fall add/drop period the Registrar's Office will send to students a notice of the students' right not to have student directory information released. Students may, at any time, request that directory information not be released by writing to the Registrar's Office. Information already published will not be affected by this request. Without such written request, the university may release directory information to outside parties if considered appropriate. Students may request in writing that future releases of directory information not be made.
Directory information includes: name, address, email address, telephone number, date and place of birth, major field of study, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, the most recent previous educational agency or institution attended by the student, photograph and participation in officially recognized activities. Only the Registrar's Office should disseminate directory information. All inquiries for such information should be forwarded to the Registrar's Office.
Student Services may distribute in-school directories to students if this policy is followed. If additional information is added, the Registrar's Office must receive signed waivers from students whose names and other information will appear in the directory. Names or lists must not be released to outside parties.The university will maintain the confidentiality of student educational records and such non-directory information may be released only with the student's written request. However, information may be released to the following:
- Officials of other institutions in which students seek to enroll;
- Persons or organizations providing students financial aid.;
- Accrediting agencies carrying out their accreditation function;
- Persons in compliance with a judicial order;
- Persons in an emergency in order to protect the health or safety of students or other persons;
- As otherwise legally required as the university deems appropriate.
School officials with "legitimate educational interests." A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the information aids the official in fulfilling his or her professional functions. Regent University identifies the following as "school officials," depending on their duties and only within the context of those duties:
- University faculty and staff, agents of the University;
- Students employed by the University or serving on official University committees; and
- Representatives of agencies under contract with the University, including but not limited to the CBN/Regent University Police Department.
Health and counseling records may be provided to physicians and licensed psychologists of the student's choosing. Students may have access to appropriate information as designated by the dean or department head. If a breach of confidentiality occurs, appropriate formal disciplinary action will be taken up to and including dismissal from employment.
The definition of "student" under FERPA refers to a person who either has reached the age of 18 or who is attending an institution of post-secondary education. At the post-secondary level parents have no inherent rights to inspect student records; this right is limited solely to the student. It is the University's policy to release academic or financial information to parents and/or guardians of students (whether or not the student has reached the age of 18) only upon the student's written authorization. The student may complete a "Student Information Release" (FERPA waiver), available in the Registrar's Office or online at http://www.regent.edu/admin/registrar/studentforms.cfm, to grant this authorization.
- Transfer of Graduate Credit
- Procedure for transferring graduate credit:
- A student who wants to transfer graduate credits to a Regent University degree program shall initiate an official request for transfer credit through the dean's office or the student's academic advisor.
- The student must submit an official transcript for each proposed transfer course.
- Each school may establish other requirements for evaluating the transfer credit such as a copy of the course syllabus or a copy of the course description from the institution's graduate catalog. Each school shall make available to students the specific procedures it requires for evaluating transfer credit requests. The school's decision with regard to transfer requests is final.
- When the evaluation process is complete and courses are approved for transfer, the dean's office shall forward a copy of the official transcript(s) and Transfer Credit Evaluation form to the Registrar's Office for entry of the transfer courses and credits on the student's academic transcript and degree program audit.
- Students who transfer from one Regent degree program to another must complete the transfer of credit procedure for all courses taken in the previous degree program that they desire to apply to the new degree program.
Fundraising (See Student Fundraising)
Please visit http://www.regent.edu/it/infosec/policies.cfm for a complete listing of university policies related to information technology issues.
- General Provisions:
- Privacy Provisions:
- As university property, any computer data is subject to disclosure to law enforcement or government officials or to other third parties through subpoena or other legal process. Consequently, employees and students should always ensure that the information contained in e-mail and other content is accurate, appropriate and lawful. Regent University, or its designated authority, reserves the right to disclose e-mail messages and other records to law enforcement or government officials or to other third parties, at its sole discretion, without notification to or permission from those creating or receiving the information.
- Access to User Data:
- Information Systems Misuse:
- University information systems should not be used in a way which may constitute intimidating, hostile or offensive material on the basis of sex, gender, race, color, religion, national origin or disability. The university's policy against sexual or other harassment applies fully to its information systems, including e-mail and other Internet content.
- The university's policy prohibiting use of university facilities, equipment and letterhead for partisan political purposes applies fully to its information systems, including e-mail and other Internet content.
- The university takes reasonable steps to ensure that its information systems are free of computer viruses, worms, Trojan horse programs, or other harmful components. Tools for checking and disinfecting disks are provided by Information Technology for all university-owned computers. Regent University is not responsible for damage to personally owned computers or the loss of data due to viruses, worms, Trojan horse programs, or other harmful components obtained through a Regent University computer system.
- Unauthorized use of software or other copyrighted material is illegal and could result in legal action. Installation of university-licensed software on a personally owned computer is illegal unless permitted by the software license. Installation of non-university licensed software on university computers is permitted only with the prior consent of the Information Technology department.
- Policy Violations:
- Regent University reserves the right to modify the Information Systems Acceptable Use Policy without prior notice at its sole discretion.
- Online Safety Notice:
- Regent University strongly discourages students from posting personal information on publicly available web sites. Students should protect, at all times, phone numbers, home addresses, date of birth, and social security number. There exist criminal predators who seek to harvest personal information for either financial gain (identity theft) or to carry out more targeted physical acts.
- Regent University encourages all students to become familiar with inherent security controls that vendors make available to their subscribers. Employing these controls may help to keep personal information confidential. Maintaining confidentiality will help prevent identity theft or physical crimes.
- Increasingly, employers, law enforcement agencies, and other organizations are utilizing public networking sites (during investigations) to harvest information regarding individuals. Because of this, the university recommends that students exercise sound judgment regarding content published both about one's self and others.
- Notwithstanding the fact that some students do not utilize university resources to access these sites and insofar as each of the following apply, all student Codes of Conduct, Regent University policies, and local, state, and federal laws apply to student usage of these sites.
- Questions about student use of Facebook and MySpace, other similar sites, or general inquiries about online safety may be referred to the Regent University Student Services department at 757.352.4103 or email stusrv@regent.edu.
Partisan Political Activity Policy
If you are considering a political activity on campus, before proceeding please contact Human Resources (757.352.4053) or Student Services (757.352.4103).
Section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code prohibits Regent University, as a tax-exempt organization, from participating or intervening in any political campaign on behalf of, or in opposition to, any candidate for public office. Accordingly, neither Regent University, nor its representatives, shall use University funds or assets to engage in, either directly or indirectly, impermissible political campaign intervention as set forth in Revenue Ruling 2007-41, 2007-25 I.R.B. 1421. This policy applies to domestic and international activity.
In keeping with Regent University's mission to train people to change their world by affecting the ways in which people think and conduct their affairs, Regent University students retain all rights and obligations of citizenship provided in the Constitution and laws of the United States of America. Each student is encouraged to be actively involved as a citizen by supporting the party and candidates of his or her choice.
Specific guidelines and restrictions applicable to Regent University and its students are contained in this policy statement.
1. Endorsement or Support of Candidates
a. Regent University will not endorse or oppose, or provide support for or against, any candidate for public office. "Public office" includes, but is not limited to, all federal, state, and local elective positions, delegates to party conventions, and any office of a political party. A "candidate" is someone who is a candidate for public office as defined in the Federal Election Regulations.
b. University students engaging in partisan political activity must do so in their individual capacity, and not as representatives of Regent University.
c. Regent University will not make any contributions or expenditures in connection with any election to any political office, or in connection with any primary election, political convention, or caucus to select candidates for political office. Except as expressly provided in section 5.d., below, no expenses related to partisan political activity be reimbursed to University students.
Neither Regent University nor any University student acting as a representative of the University will sponsor, support, or participate in rallies or other forms of assembly at which candidates (or persons who may reasonably be considered candidates) for public office appear for the purpose of advancing their candidacies, or in which persons appear for the purpose of supporting or opposing candidate(s) for public office. This does not prohibit students from acting in their individual capacity, provided that they make that fact clear. Candidates may appear on campus in such circumstances provided that an event hosted by the University at which a candidate appears meets the nonpartisan and unbiased nature requirements set forth in Rev. Rul. 2007-41. Such appearances shall require approval of the vice-president for student services or the vice-president and general counsel.
Regent University will not permit any mailing list owned or controlled by it to be used by, or for the benefit of, any candidate for public office or any organization controlled by or supporting a candidate for public office, including any political party or political action organization.
4. Facilities, Equipment, and Letterhead
Subject to the exceptions applying to student organizations contained in section 5:
a. Regent University will not make facilities or assets owned, controlled, or operated by it available to candidates for public office or organizations controlled by or supporting such candidates for use in connection with their campaigns.
b. Regent University equipment, facilities, or letterhead may not be used for any partisan political activity.
c. Regent University systems, such as electronic mail and interoffice mail, may not be used for commercial or partisan political purposes or to promote political candidates.
d. Posting of signs, meeting notes, posters, or petitions of a partisan political nature on Regent University property is prohibited. These restrictions do not extend to the wearing of political buttons on one's person or the placement of bumper stickers on one's personal vehicle.
Regent University recognizes that a campus community should be a place that fosters the free exchange of ideas. Accordingly:
a. The University, at its discretion, may recognize student political organizations, including, but not limited to, Young Democrats/Regent Democrats or Young Republicans/Regent Republicans. Once officially recognized by the University as approved student organizations, these groups shall be treated like other approved student organizations. All student organizations shall, among other things, have a faculty advisor prior to University-recognition, and shall comply with all the requirements found at Student/Service Organizations website.
b. Student organizations may conduct certain voter education activities (including the presentation of public forums and the publication of voter education guides). They may also sponsor voter registration and get-out-the-vote drives.
c. A student organization may invite political candidates (in their capacity as candidates or in their individual capacity) to speak at its events. Candidates may also appear without an invitation at organization events that are open to the public. When a candidate is invited to speak as a political candidate, the student organization is not required to ensure that the event is conducted in a nonpartisan manner, because the expression and dissemination of political views of the individual students comprising a student organization does not represent the views of the University or its representatives.
d. Regent University may allow approved student organizations to use institutional facilities and funds allocated to such student organizations for partisan political purposes, provided that such groups pay the usual and normal charges. If fees are generally not charged, then the student organization need not be charged. If funds are allocated by the University to a student organization, the student organization may determine what activities those funds may be used for, provided such use is aligned with the goals and mission of Regent University. Care should always be maintained to avoid the appearance of any endorsement by Regent University and to observe all the principles of this policy. Accordingly, student organizations hosting or sponsoring partisan political events using institutional facilities and/or funds must clearly communicate that the event is hosted by the student organization and not the University.
e. All literature or other materials of a University-approved student organization shall indicate that the views and activities expressed therein are those of the organization and are not endorsed by the University.
f. Student organizations may post signs and banners of a partisan political nature, as well as distribute campaign literature on campus, provided that any such communication clearly state that the communications represent the views of the student organization and not the University. Such postings and distributions shall be coordinated through the Office of Student Services, and shall comply with all procedures and guidelines generally applicable to student organizations.
g. If a student organization wants the University to announce that organization's event, the organization shall coordinate through the Office of Student Services. In such event, the University may, in its discretion, post via e-mail a notice of the event, but shall clearly state that the event is sponsored by the student organization and not the University.
This policy is not intended to preclude or restrict Regent University, its officers, faculty, staff, and/or students from speaking out on public issues of importance to the University's mission. These issues include, but are not limited to, abortion, sexuality, schooling, war and peace, crime, public morality, public finance, health, religious liberties, and similar issues of broad public concern and moral content.
If you are considering a political activity on campus, before proceeding please contact Human Resources (757.352.4053) or Student Services (757.352.4103).
Regent University specifically prohibits the solicitation of sales information and items not expressly sponsored by the university. There shall be no solicitation or sales of non-university sponsored items on school premises. Listings of students, faculty, and staff will not routinely or normally be provided to outside organizations or agencies. University sponsored and approved organizations desiring to engage in sale or promotion activities must receive approval from the Office of Student Services prior to engaging in such business activity.
- Definitions:
- Making unwelcome comments about a person's clothing, body, or personal life;
- Offensive or abusive physical contact;
- Use of offensive nicknames or terms of endearment;
- Offensive jokes or unwelcome innuendoes;
- Any suggestion that sexual activities would affect one's job, promotion, performance evaluation, working condition, course grade, course enrollment or graduation;
- Displaying offensive objects or pictures; or
- Other conduct that even if not objectionable to some employees, creates a working environment that may be considered by others to be offensive or hostile.
- Submission to or rejection of such conduct is made a term or condition of an individual's employment or a student's enrollment or performance;
- Submission to or rejection of such conduct is used for the basis of an employment decision, such as promotion, demotion, termination, or pay, etc., or a student decision such as grade, nomination, graduation, etc.; or
- Such condition interferes with an employee or student's work performance or creates a hostile, intimidating or offensive work environment.
- Complaint Procedure:
- Any member of the university community who believes that he or she has experienced sexual harassment or who witnesses what he or she believes to be sexual harassment should use the following procedure.
- In accordance with Matthew 18:15-17, any member of the university community who believes that he or she is being harassed or believes he or she has witnessed such behavior is encouraged to speak to that individual about his or her offensive conduct and seek resolution.
- Any member of the university community who is uncomfortable approaching the offender, has done so without success or simply wishes to report such behavior to the University should report such facts immediately to their supervisor so the University can take appropriate action.
- If the university member is uncomfortable approaching his or her supervisor for any reason, e.g., the supervisor is the person he or she feels is engaging in the harassing behavior, or he or she feels the matter is not being adequately addressed, they should bring the matter to the attention of the Dean or Department Head, the Vice President for Student Services or the Vice President for Human Resources as soon as possible after the alleged harassment occurred. If a Dean or Department Head receives a complaint of sexual harassment, or is informed of such a complaint by a supervisor, he or she should immediately bring the matter to the attention of the Vice President for Student Services (in matters involving one or more students) and/or the Vice President for Human Resources. In all cases, the Vice President for Human Resources shall be notified of all complaints of sexual harassment, whether or not the complaint involves an employee of the university.
- The university member should file a written complaint explaining the nature of the harassment and indicating what remedy he or she seeks.
- The Dean/Vice President shall forward a copy of the complaint and a copy of this policy to the accused member of the university community and the appropriate supervisor/administrator and advise them that an investigation of the charges will be conducted.
- If the supervisor/administrator is involved in the complaint, the Vice President for Student Services/Vice President for Human Resources should choose another appropriate supervisor/administrator to be involved in the investigation.
- The supervisor/administrator, working with the Dean/Vice President, shall promptly and confidentially investigate the complaint. Confidentiality will be maintained to the extent possible without jeopardizing a full investigation. In determining whether the alleged conduct constitutes sexual harassment, the supervisor/administrator will consider all the circumstances, such as the nature of the sexual conduct, the context in which the conduct occurred and the history of the relationship between the parties.
- During the investigation, the accused member of the university community will be given an opportunity to respond, orally and/or in writing, to the complaint.
- After the investigation of the complaint, the supervisor/administrator may propose mediation in order to secure a written agreement that satisfies all parties. (See Mediation Agreement in the Appendix.) A resolution by agreement of the parties may include the imposition of a sanction upon the accused individual, which the accused individual agrees to accept as a sanction.
- If such an agreement is reached, a copy of the agreement shall be provided to each of the parties involved and the Vice President for Student Services or Vice President for Human Resources.
- If, within 30 days of the receipt of a written complaint, the complaint is not resolved, the Vice President for Student Services or Vice President for Human Resources shall notify the parties in writing that the matter cannot be resolved and shall advise the complainant of his or her right to proceed with the charge.
- If the complainant desires to proceed with the charge, the record of the complaint shall be provided to a committee appointed by the Vice President for Academic Affairs in consultation with the Vice President for Human Resources. The committee will be appointed within 10 business days and be composed of two deans and three representatives from the university community of faculty, staff or students, depending on the individuals involved.
- Within 45 days, the committee shall hear testimony and evidence from both parties and shall make a finding regarding the truthfulness of the charge(s).
- If the charge is proven true, the committee shall make a recommendation regarding sanctions, if appropriate. The imposition of sanctions shall occur in accordance with applicable university disciplinary and sanction procedures. The sanctions that may be recommended by the committee shall include, but not be limited to, censure/reprimand, demotion, suspension without pay or recommendation for termination.
- If the charge proves to be false, all references to the charge shall be expunged from the records of the accused.
- If the charge is found to be false and malicious, the matter should be referred to the Vice President for Academic Affairs for further action.
- The final decision rests with the President acting on behalf of the Board of Trustees.
- Any questions regarding special speakers may be directed to the Office of Student Services. The campus speaker request form can be downloaded at http://www.regent.edu/admin/stusrv/student_life/Forms/RequestforSpeaker.doc
Regent University is fully supportive of the charity and fundraising efforts of our Student Organizations and individual students. As a Christian university, it is important that we model Christ likeness to those in need in our communities. In order to best provide the support needed to student organizations in their philanthropic efforts, all fundraising or charity collection efforts must be coordinated through Student Services. Please contact the Director of Student Life at ext. 4867 (757.352.4867). NOTE: this policy should not be construed to prohibit students from soliciting assistance from their families, friends, or their local church.
- In accordance with the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act of 1989, as amended, it is the policy of Regent University that as a condition of employment, an employee will notify the University of any criminal drug statute conviction for a violation occurring in the workplace no later than five (5) days after such conviction.
- Regent University employees are expected to conduct themselves in a professional and Christ-like manner at all times and are expected to live by exemplary standards. Regent University requires that members of the Regent community--faculty, staff and students--refrain from the illegal use of drugs and the abuse of addictive substances controlled by law. Regent University also forbids the use of alcohol and tobacco on campus and prohibits the abuse of these substances. The Apostle Paul exhorted the body of Christ that, if they truly loved their fellow man, they would set aside their personal freedom by refraining from behavior that might be a stumbling block to their weaker brother. Regent University encourages members of the Regent community to exercise their personal responsibility and, guided by Paul's admonition, appropriately set aside their personal freedom and refrain from the use of alcohol and tobacco.
- Regent University employees are also prohibited from engaging in the following activities:
- Using, purchasing, selling, possessing, distributing, or accepting illegal drugs or drug-related paraphernalia while on or off the job and on or off campus;
- Using, purchasing, selling, or distributing alcohol while on campus;
- Using, purchasing, selling, or distributing alcohol at university-related activities off-campus;
- Showing up for work or being on the job while impaired by illegal drugs and/or alcohol;
- Transporting illegal drugs, drug-related paraphernalia, and/or alcoholic beverages in a university-owned, leased, or hired vehicle.
For purposes of this subsection, "on the job" shall be deemed to include meal periods, breaks, stand-by duty, and any time that an employee is acting in his or her capacity as a Regent University employee, whether on or off university property.- Although the medically-authorized use of prescription drug(s)/medication(s) is not prohibited, any employee who is taking prescription or nonprescription drug(s)/medication(s) and has reason to believe, based on information provided by his or her physician, pharmacist, or the drug/medication label, that the drug/medication may impair the ability to safely and effectively perform the duties and responsibilities required of his or her position, shall promptly advise his or her immediate supervisor of the use of such drug(s)/medication(s).
- In order to comply with the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act of 1989, as amended, Regent University has developed the following guidelines in conjunction with the Personal Standards of Conduct:
- Regent University requires that members of the Regent community--faculty, staff and students--refrain from the illegal use of drugs and the abuse of addictive substances controlled by law.
- Under no circumstances are the above to be used, possessed, sold, or distributed on or away from campus.
- Regent University also forbids the use of alcohol and tobacco on campus and prohibits the abuse of these substances. The Apostle Paul exhorted the body of Christ that, if they truly loved their fellow man, they would set aside their personal freedom by refraining from behavior that might be a stumbling block to their weaker brother. Regent University encourages members of the Regent community to exercise their personal responsibility and, guided by Paul's admonition, appropriately set aside their personal freedom and refrain from the use of alcohol and tobacco.
- Students violating this policy will be subject to university disciplinary procedures up to and including the possibility of dismissal and referral for prosecution. For the purposes of this subsection, "student" shall be deemed to include anyone taking one or more classes for any type of academic credit, regardless of the length of the student's program of study. Also included are the students in the university's programs in a foreign country and off-campus in the United States.
- Marijuana
- Possession (under 1/2 ounce for personal use - misdemeanor)
- Up to 30 days in jail and/or a fine up to $500
- For a second or subsequent violation - up to one year in jail and/or fine up to $1,000
- Possession with intent to sell or distribute (based on weight)
- 1/2 ounce (misdemeanor) - up to one year in jail and/or a fine up to $1,000
- 1/2 ounce to 5 pounds (felony) - from one to ten years in jail and/or fine up to $1,000
- 5 pounds or more (felony) - from five to 30 years in jail and/or a fine up to $10,000
- A person 18 years old or older selling to someone under 18 and three years their junior (felony) - from ten to 50 years in jail and/or fine up to $50,000
- Manufacturing (felony - growing, producing, processing, etc.). 5 to 30 years in jail and/or fine up to $10,000
- Drug Related Material (Drug Paraphernalia)
- Possession (misdemeanor) - up to one year in jail and/or a fine up to $1,000
- Providing to minors (felony) - 1 to 10 years in jail and/or a fine up to $1,000
- Providing to adults (misdemeanor) - up to one year in jail and/or a fine up to $1,000
- Controlled Substances (marijuana, cocaine, narcotics, and hallucinogens)
- Possession (dependent upon the classification of the substance)
- Misdemeanor offenses - up to one year in jail and/or fine up to $1,000
- Felony offenses - from one to ten years in jail and/or a fine up to $1,000
- Distribution/Manufacturing (dependent upon the classification of the substance)
- Misdemeanor offenses - up to one year in jail and/or fine up to $1,000
- Felony offenses - from five years to life in jail and/or a fine up to $100,000
- Employees and students should also be aware that, under the provisions of the United States Code, conviction for the use, possession, or distribution of illicit or unlawful drugs may result in the following criminal sanctions.
- Prohibited/Unlawful Acts
- To manufacture, distribute, dispense, or possess with the intent to manufacture, distribute, or dispense a controlled substance
- To create, distribute, dispense, or possess with the intent to distribute or dispense a counterfeit substance
- Penalties (dependent upon substance and number of violations)
- Narcotic Drugs
- First offense - up to 15 years in jail and/or a fine up to $25,000
- Second offense - up to 30 years in jail and/or a fine up to $50,000
- Other controlled substances
- First offense - from up to one year to five years in jail and/or a fine up to $15,000
- Second offense - from one to ten years in jail and/or a fine up to $30,000
- Under Virginia law, a conviction for the unlawful use, possession, or distribution of alcohol may result in the following criminal sanctions.
- Underage Possession and/or Transportation (misdemeanor)
- up to 12 months in jail
- fines up to $1,000
- loss of drivers license for up to one year
- Using a False Drivers License (misdemeanor)
- fines up to $100
- loss of drivers license for up to one year
- Buying for a Minor (Misdemeanor)
- up to 12 months in jail
- fines up to $1,000
- loss of drivers license for up to one year
- Selling to Minors or Intoxicated Persons (misdemeanor)
- up to 12 months in jail
- fines up to $100
- Drunk in Public (misdemeanor)
- fines up to $100
- Disorderly Conduct (misdemeanor)
- up to 12 months in jail
- fines up to $1,000
- Abusive Language (misdemeanor)
- fines up to $1,000
- Driving Under the Influence (misdemeanor)
- loss of drivers license for six months (first offense) TO loss of drivers license for up to three years (second offense)
- fines from $200 to $1,000
- Unlicensed Sale (misdemeanor)
- up to 12 months in jail
- fines from $100 to $1,000
- Drinking in Public (misdemeanor)
- fines up to $100
- Policy on Sanctions:
- A memo will be delivered to each employee annually giving detailed instructions for electronic access via the World Wide Web. Each employee who accesses the policy will sign a statement verifying receipt and review of the policy. The signed verification will be placed in the employee's personnel file. Employees who are unable to electronically access the policy will be given a paper copy by the Human Resource Department and will be required to sign a receipt/review form to be placed in the employee's personnel file.
- New employees will be given a copy of the policy at orientation.
- Policy Distribution to Students: This policy will be reviewed by the Vice President for Student Services at least every two years to ensure that it is effective and is applied consistently to the Regent University student body. The policy will be distributed annually to all students, as follows:
- New students will be given a copy of the policy during the New Student Orientation session for the school they are attending.
- Returning students will be given a copy of the policy during the Final Registration process.
- Hampton Roads: The Hampton Roads area has several qualified clinics and therapists who work with addictive behaviors. Some are listed in this appendix, but the university does not recommend any particular clinic or therapist. Additional information may be obtained from the Human Resources Office or from the Office of Student Services.
- Chesapeake Community Services Board - 757. 547.9334
- Christian Psychotherapy Services - 757. 490.0377 - Virginia Beach ; 757. 312.8002 - Chesapeake
- Covenant Counseling Services - 757. 547.7877
- Eden Counseling Services - 757. 431.3600
- Hampton Newport News Community Services Board - 757.826.6714
- Maryview Behavioral Medicine, Portsmouth, Va.- 757.398.2400
- Intensive Out- Patient Substance Abuse Program (IOP); Norfolk Community Services Board - 757. 441.5300
- Norfolk Psychiatric Center - 757. 627.5433
- Portsmouth Substance Abuse Treatment Center - 757.393.8311
- Portsmouth Community Services Board - 757.393.8618
- Regent University Psychological Services Center - 757.352.4488
- Regent University Student Services - 757.352.4103
- Resource Guidance Services - 757.463.9600
- Restoration Counseling Services - 757.497.5608
- SENTARA Mental Health Management Employee Assistance Program - 757.363.6777; 1.800.899.8174
- Shepherd's Staff Counseling Center - 757.499.7722
- Virginia Beach Community Services Board - 757.437.6150
- Additional Organizations:
- AL-ANON World Service Office - 757.499.1443 Southside; 757.875.9429 Peninsula
- Alcoholics Anonymous Hotline -757. 490.3980 Southside; 757. 592.1212 Peninsula; 757.253.1234 Williamsburg
- Cocaine Hotline - 1.800.COCAINE
- Drug Information -- National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA); (for Confidential Referral) 1.800.622.HELP
- Lawyers Helping Lawyers - 804.644.3212; 877.545.4682; www.valhl.org ( State-wide service available to all members of Virginia's legal community and their families)
- Narcotics Anonymous - 1.800.777.1515
University Media and External Relations
The Office of the President holds responsibility for official university statements to both print and broadcast media. Students are encouraged to refer questions from the media to the Office of the President. Public comments of personal opinions should not be made as representative of the university, either verbally or in writing, without first consulting with the Office of the President. This includes the use of official university letterhead for the statement of personal views. For more information call 757.352.4015.
- The Creative Marketing department is responsible for creating and maintaining the university's presence on the web. Creative Marketing speaks for the university as a whole by publishing general information about the university. Creative Marketing authors the main university home page, and all other home pages that are outside school, departmental, and personal web areas.
- Creative Marketing is responsible for the overall organization, style, and quality of the university's web site. They communicate guidelines for style, quality and consistency for all university web publishers to follow. They will chair the Web Publishing Advisory Committee consisting of unit web publishers, perhaps a COGS representative and others as needed, who will assist them in maintaining practical style guidelines and give input for overall web development.
Students, staff and faculty are encouraged to publish information on personal home pages. However, Regent reserves the right to deny students the right to have or maintain a personal home page. Personal home pages are on a server maintained by the university and should not detract from its mission and objectives. Personal home pages should be professional in nature and quality and must conform to Creative Marketing's decorum and consistency standards.
The complete description of this policy may be viewed in the office of Student Services.
- Regent University makes a web server available to support and promote its mission. The web server is designed to provide information to university community members and the public with clarity and accuracy. It enables individual members to publish their own information on the Internet within the following general guidelines.
- Information published by an officially recognized school, program or department is considered official information. Information published by individual faculty, staff or students is considered unofficial information. Publishing information on a personal home page is a privilege granted by the university that may be withdrawn at any time for any reason at the sole discretion of the university.
WELCOME to Hampton Roads--A Newcomer's Guide
STUDENT PROCEDURES from The Faculty and Academic Policy Handbook*
*Note that should a disparity exist between this Student Handbook and The Faculty and Academic Policy Handbook, the Faculty Handbook governs.
Admission Criteria and Procedures
Admission for International Students
Enrollment Status Classification
Graduate Full-Time Classification
Undergraduate Full-Time Classification
Independent Study
Internship
Joint Degrees Programs (Graduate Students Only)
Practicum
Registration and Payment
Repeating a Course
Withdrawal from the University
Academic Honor Code and Disciplinary Policy
Academic Probation and Dismissal
Advising
Attendance and Participation
Degree Program Audit
Financial Holds on Academic Records
Grading System including Withdrawal and Incomplete Courses
Graduation Requirements and Commencement
Information Research and Resources CourseProcedure for Student Appeals to a University Vice President
Course Evaluation
Student Discipline
Accommodation for Disabilities
Evaluation of Student Academic Performance
Student Grievances
Faculty Grievance Against a Student
Student Records Confidentiality
Thesis and Dissertation Writing Guidelines
Thesis/Professional Portfolio
Transcripts
Credit by Advanced Standing and Transfer
Virginia Tidewater Consortium Exchange Program
Writing Skills
Center for Academic Support Services
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