University Housing Information and Policies

HOUSING

Student Affairs Policy STAF 4.00

Policy
A binding contractual lease relationship exists between the University and those students living in residence halls. As the institution is committed to the quality of life in the community and within the institution, it is a privilege to live in the residence halls. The University is also committed to fostering responsible, adult behavior within a community setting. The following regulations are part of the contract and are designed to enhance residence hall life for all students. The University provides single undergraduate and graduate/family housing on campus, which is available according to the eligibility, regulations and procedures outlined below.

Procedures

Eligibility
USC Columbia is committed to the educational development of its students in the classroom and in the residence halls, with the residence hall program contributing to the educational objectives of the University. As such, the University requires all first-year students to live on campus as long as space is available. The University may make exceptions to this policy for a year or a semester. Students may receive exemption status based upon marital status, commuting status, military status, non-traditional age, or medical circumstances. Requests for exemption are made to University Housing, hereafter referred to as “Housing”.

Priority to live in University residence halls is given to students carrying a normal course load. Any undergraduate who is enrolled for fewer than 12 credit hours may be required to vacate. Requests for remaining in campus housing must be presented to Housing, 1309 Blossom Street.  Freshmen have first priority in all Freshman Centers and upper class students have priority for all other available spaces. 

Any person required to register under Article 7, Sex Offender Registry, is prohibited from living in campus student housing. (SC Code of Laws Ann. 23-3-465 (2005))  In the event it is determined that any person in campus student housing is subject to the above, law enforcement officials and appropriate University officials will be informed, and the housing contract will be deemed null and void and terminated immediately without refund.

The housing contract is for an entire academic year. The University reserves the right to cancel contracts with residents who do not abide by University rules as specified in the Carolina Community (e.g., violation of drug policies) and Housing regulations (e.g., destruction of housing property). Residents may not be entitled to a refund of rental fees if removed for the above reasons or suspended from the University for disciplinary reasons. (Refunds in such cases are subject to approval by the Assistant Director for Administration or his/her designee.)

Personal Property
The University assumes no liability for bodily injury, personal damages or losses. The University urges residents to lock their doors for protection of persons and property. Residents are advised not to keep valuable property or large sums of money in their rooms. In addition, residents are strongly encouraged to obtain insurance to cover personal belongings and valuables. University insurance covers only University property.  Items remaining in a student's room after the contract has expired and/or after the student completes checkout, will become University property and/or be disposed of.

Missing items should be reported immediately to the University Police (777-4215) and to a residence hall staff member or the Housing Office. Articles found in residence halls should be turned in to the Housing Office. Articles that are found elsewhere on campus should be turned in at the Russell House Information Desk.

Telephone Accounts
As of the Fall 2007 semester, landline phone access in the USC residence halls (Columbia-campus) will be available only by request and at an additional charge. Students who wish to have optional landline telephone access can do so through VIP, through the technology tab. A one-time fee will be charged to set this up, along with a semester charge. This service along with long-distance plans can be purchased online through VIP.  To obtain rates please go to http://uts.sc.edu/connected/phone.shtml

Other Landline Phone Services information:

• If you leave the University campus before the semester ends, make sure you cancel your student phone service. This can be done in VIP. No refund will be issued for cancellation before the end of the term.
• No refund will be issued for cancellation before the end of the term.
• Phone services will be deactivated on or before the first business day following commencement at the end of each semester. For Maymester, Summer I and II, the Voice Service will be deactivated at the close of each term. A new application for Voice Service is required for each semester.
• Students should provide one Touch Tone© phone for each room. Touch tone phones are the only types compatible with the University’s System 85 communication system. Phones that are not compatible may damage the system.
• Voicemail instructions and information can be found at http://uts.sc.edu/infrastructure/telephoneVoiceMail.shtml. 

Contact the UTS Help Desk (7-1800) with questions. Residents are responsible for all charges from individual rooms, authorized or not, as well as resulting administrative charges.

Line service is not provided in Carolina Gardens. Those residents should contact BellSouth to arrange for phone service.

Room Occupancy:  After entering students are officially admitted to the University, have signed residence hall contracts, and paid the required application and advance room fees, they are assigned a room as space permits.  Assignment is determined by the date of application, within the priority groups.  Whenever possible, written requests for a specific hall and roommate(s) will be honored, but the University reserves the right to make whatever room assignments are considered in the best interest of the institution and student body.  Students may not move into any room other than the one assigned. 

If a resident fails to occupy his or her assigned space on or before the first day of classes, the assignment may be canceled if proper notice of late arrival is not given to Housing.  However, a resident who enrolls but fails to occupy his or her assigned space will be required to pay full rental fees.  Residents, who withdraw from the University at the end of or during the fall semester or spring semester, must officially check out with Housing.  Residents may request and pay extra for a single room if space is available.  This includes rooms designed for double occupancy.

 Room changes:  Room changes may be made as often as requested during scheduled room change periods provided space is available.  Only in unusual circumstances will requests received outside of the scheduled period be approved by the Director for Administration or his/her designee. 

Unauthorized room changes may result in a charge of $75 and the individual(s) involved may be required to move back to the regularly assigned room(s).  Depending on the circumstances, changing rooms for the balance of the semester may not be permitted.

Consolidation policy:  Housing may initiate and implement a consolidation program in order to: (1) better meet the demand for students requesting to room together; (2) better meet the demand for private rooms; and (3) support the private room policy regarding payment.  The consolidation process is applied to unoccupied spaces on a floor or within the building.  As such, students are not required to move to another floor or building to accomplish consolidation, but may choose to do so if it would meet their needs.  Students in half-vacant rooms will be encouraged to voluntarily consolidate with another resident prior to the implementation of consolidation. 
Specifically:
       1.  Students will be notified of the need to have a roommate at
             the beginning of each semester.
        2.  Students without roommates can:
             a.  Pay the private room rate, if it is available in their hall at   
             that time and for the remainder of the academic year.
             b.  Voluntarily consolidate with another student in a half-
              vacant room.
        3.  By the established date, students still in a half-vacant, non-
             private room will be included in the consolidation drawing. 
             All affected students will be invited to the drawing.
        4.  Each floor with half-vacant rooms will hold its own random
             drawing to determine which students will be required to
              move to one of the other half-vacant rooms on their floor.
        5.  Students will be notified, in writing, of the outcome of the
             drawing the following day.  Students drawn to move will
             have until the following Monday at 8:00 am to complete the
             room change.
        6.  Failure to comply with consolidation outcomes may result
             in additional room fees and/or disciplinary actions.

Illegal occupancy: If a new or non-resident student occupies a room without the consent of Housing, the student will be charged $100 plus pro-rated rent.  The student may also be required to vacate and is subject to disciplinary action. Unregistered non-student occupants are subject to arrest.

Vacation periods: During vacation periods most residence halls are closed. Designated halls will remain open and some break housing may be available.  Due to scheduling pressure, renovations may be going on in the halls kept open for vacation housing.  Prior to each break period specific information regarding the availability of break housing and special regulations will be distributed.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 4.01

ROOM FEES

Room fees and cancellation/refund policies depend on whether the student in question is a newly assigned or continuing student. For all students, an advance room fee/deposit of $100.00 must be paid when a student's initial application and contract are submitted.

All students are required to pay an additional $45.00 non-refundable application fee. The housing fees must be paid on or before the last day of registration.

STIPULATIONS REGARDING CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS

Please visit www.housing.sc.edu/crefund.asp for a complete schedule of fees.

SUMMER HOUSING

With the exception of the items noted below, summer school housing policies and procedures mirror those outlined above for the academic year undergraduate housing.

1. Eligibility: Students do not need to be enrolled in either summer session to be eligible to reside on campus during both summer sessions, but intend to enroll for the next fall term or have been enrolled during the previous spring. Residents must abide by all housing regulations including those outlined in the Carolina Community.
2. Cancellations and Refunds: Specific cancellation dates for summer housing are available after March 1st each year at the Housing Office (777-4283).

 ROOM CHANGES

Room changes may be made as often as requested during scheduled room change periods provided space is available. Only in unusual circumstances will requests received outside of the scheduled period be approved by the Assistant Director for Administration or his/her designee.

Appeals to be released from the housing contract may be made to the Housing Contract Appeals Committee. A written request should be submitted within thirty (30) days of the billing date stating the reasons for the appeal and accompanying documentation must be submitted to the chairperson of the Housing Contract Appeals Committee. Forms for filing the appeal may be obtained from Housing at 1309 Blossom Street. The Housing Contract Appeals Committee reviews written appeals and delivers its decision in writing. The action taken by the Housing Contract Appeals Committee is final. 

Summer Housing

With the exception of the items noted below, summer school housing policies and procedures mirror those outlined above for the academic year undergraduate housing.

Eligibility

Students do not need to be enrolled in either May or summer session to be eligible to reside on campus during both May/summer sessions, but must be pre-registered for the next fall term. Residents must abide by all housing regulations including those outlined in the Carolina Community.

Cancellations and Refunds

Specific cancellation dates for May/summer housing are available after March 1st each year at the Housing Office (777-4283).

Room Changes

Room changes may be made as requested during scheduled room change periods provided space is available. Only in unusual circumstances will requests received outside of the scheduled period be approved by the Director for Residence Life or his/her designee.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 4.02

Apartment Units

Eligibility

To be eligible to occupy Family and Graduate Housing the student must be enrolled full time, continue to make normal progress toward a degree as determined by the dean of his/her college or school, and be considered part of a family unit, which is defined as a husband and wife with or without children; or a single parent, widow, widower, or divorcee who has one or more dependents living with them; or a single graduate student. In family units, a minimum of two members of the family must occupy the apartment at least 90 percent of the time to retain eligibility. 

Students who are not eligible for occupancy because of insufficient hours, non-enrollment or change in family status are required to notify Housing as soon as they are aware they are no longer eligible. Students who fail to do so are subject to having their contract terminated immediately.

 Assignment

Applications are filed according to the date they are received by Housing. When an apartment becomes available for assignment, it is offered to the student with the earliest application date who has requested an apartment for that semester.

Transferring to another apartment is permitted under these circumstances:

• A change in family status makes residents eligible for larger apartment;

• Any unpaid housing balance must be paid in full prior to acceptance of the request to transfer and prior to assignment;

• A $25 administrative fee is paid at the time of transfer;

• All requests are filled on a space-available basis.

 Occupancy

Occupancy shall begin and terminate as provided in the Contract for Graduate and Family Housing. Once an apartment is assigned, the student (and spouse, if married) must sign a contract and pay the required rent before the unit can be occupied. Occupancy shall be limited to one family per apartment.

 Guests are not permitted to occupy an apartment beyond a five (5) day period without prior approval from the Coordinator of Graduate and Family Housing. Current and specific information regarding the registering of guests can be received from the Graduate and Family Housing Office.  

The student shall have the option to terminate this contract at the end of any given academic term (date determined by published University calendar) upon 30 day written notice to Housing preceding the end of that term; or if he/she is graduating or withdrawing from the University during or at the end of a given academic term, upon 30 day written notice given prior to such graduation or withdrawal; or for any reason following 30 day written notice to Housing provided there is a waiting list for prospective tenants in sufficient number to occupy vacated premises. Such waiting list shall consist of those persons having filed applications for student family housing and who are verified to be ready and willing to take up occupancy. 

Lease Terms

Rents are payable to Housing on the first day of every month. Rent unpaid on the 11th day of the month will be considered delinquent and a fee of 5% will be assessed. Failure to pay as agreed, including checks returned by banks for insufficient funds, may result in eviction. Residents who are evicted for nonpayment of rent will be ineligible for readmittance to campus housing. 

For the term of the contract the University requires a security deposit of $100 which may be used for replacing keys, more than normal cleaning upon a resident’s vacating, repairing damages, and/or delinquent rents. Any amount remaining will be refunded within a reasonable time after the apartment is vacated. Additionally, a nonrefundable application fee is required for all applicants.

 All federal, state and applicable local laws, as well as policies and regulations of the University, have full force and effect within licensed property, and violations of such laws and regulations by the student, the student’s family, or the student’s guests, are prohibited under this agreement.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 4.03

As a community of scholars, students are encouraged to engage in behaviors that are consistent with the Carolinian Creed.

University Housing and the Office of Student Judicial Programs are responsible for promoting positive community standards and responding to violations of policies published in two areas: The Student Code of Conduct Regulations and University Housing Policies and Regulations. Students are advised to read both sources of information to understand expectations for their behavior while in or on the premises of University residence halls. Violations of the regulations contained in this section may result in a fine or disciplinary action. 

Regulations may be changed, or new ones may be added, in the best interest and protection of persons and property. Residents will be advised promptly of such changes and/or additions through normal channels of communication. For the most current information and updated policies and procedures, consult the Carolina Community on the USC website at http://www.sa.sc.edu/carolinacommunity/

Alcohol
In compliance with state law, no person under 21 years of age may possess or consume alcoholic beverages in the residence halls or on adjoining property outside the residence halls. No person may possess open containers or consume alcoholic beverages in public areas inside or outside of the residence halls including, but not limited to, stairwells, residence hall lobbies, study rooms, community baths, kitchens, hallways, etc. Alcohol containers (full or empty) are prohibited from being displayed in student rooms/windows.  Residents that are 21 years of age or older may consume alcoholic beverages in the following places only: in their room or in a room with an assigned occupant also 21 years of age or older. Rooms in which only underage residents live are considered "dry" rooms. Alcohol is prohibited in all dry rooms. No person under 21 years of age may possess alcoholic beverages in their room. 

Apartment and Room Care
Residents are held responsible for reasonable care in the use of all housing facilities including the good order, safety, and cleanliness of space leased.

Accumulation of trash and/or materials in apartments or common areas that could constitute a fire or safety hazard is not permitted.

All University controlled housing is subject to scheduled health, safety, and maintenance checks. An authorized staff member will make periodic checks of facilities after adequate advance notice to residents. Where there is due cause, premises may be entered without notice. Violations of health and safety regulations may result in a $25 fine, disciplinary action, or appropriate cleaning fee. 

Apartment and Room Condition Reports
Residents will be required to sign an Apartment or Room Condition Report upon initial occupancy. Upon vacating a room or apartment the condition of that space will be checked against the initial report. Residents will be required to pay for damage other than normal wear and tear. (This includes damage to furniture, equipment, or structural aspects of the area rented.) Grades, transcripts, diplomas, and/or registration materials may be withheld pending final settlement of damage charges.

Appeals

Charges issued through processes other than the resident student conduct system may be appealed to the supervisor of the Housing staff member issuing the charge. A written request should be submitted within thirty (30) days of the billing date.

Apartment and Room Personalization
All rooms are furnished with beds, dressers, and desks. All University furniture must remain in the room. Some students may wish to supplement or complement these furnishings by constructing a loft in their room. Such additions are allowed within certain guidelines. Contact the Campus Office for guidelines. Plan for building any such furnishings must be approved in writing prior to the construction.  Liquid-filled furniture is not permitted because of the extra weight and danger of damage to property.

Room alterations without written approval of the Area Office are not permitted. All large pieces of furniture must be approved by the Area Office before being brought into the residence hall. Decals and stickers are not to be affixed to any University owned property, including furniture, walls, doors, ceiling, windows and floors. Posters should be hung with white "sticky-tack". No tape, nails, or tacks may be used on the walls, doors, furniture, or ceiling. Any violations of these may result in possible restitution for damage and a referral to the Office of Student Judicial Programs.

A student paint program has been established for residents who wish to paint their rooms or apartments. Prior to painting, residents need approval from the Area Office. Normally, rooms that have been painted within the past two years will not be approved for repainting.

Apartment and Room Vacating
When residents vacate their space, they must officially check out with the appropriate staff according to published procedures. Failure to do so may result in additional charges or forfeiture of the security deposit. Upon withdrawal, suspension, removal, or graduation from the University, residents must vacate their space in accordance with procedures outlined in their contract. At the end of each semester, residents must vacate their room or apartment within 24 hours of their last exam.

Asbestos
The following residence halls on the Columbia campus contain asbestos that is accessible to residents: Bates House, Bates West, Capstone, Patterson, and South Tower. Do not disturb the ceiling, pipe insulation, or any soft material surface coverings in any of the previously listed buildings. The University will continue to monitor the areas that contain asbestos and post additional warnings or otherwise communicate special concerns as necessary. WARNING: Medical research has determined that breathing asbestos fibers is dangerous to one’s health when exposure occurs at concentrated levels of asbestos dust or when one is exposed over extended periods of time.

Bicycles/Motorized Vehicles/Scooters/Rollerblades/Skateboards
Bicycles are permitted in residence hall rooms only in accordance with regulations and the approval of the roommate(s). Riding bicycles, rollerblades, scooters, or skateboards inside the residence hall is prohibited. Bicycles kept outside must be kept in a bike rack. Do not chain bicycles or scooters to fence posts, guard rails, stairwells, sign posts, light posts, fire equipment, trees, or anywhere that interferes with an exit from a building. Improperly chained bicycles/scooters will be subject to impoundment. Bicycles abandoned after the residence halls close after the end of the academic year will be impounded by campus police. Mopeds are not allowed in residence halls. Motorized vehicles, with the exception of motorized wheelchairs, are not permitted within 50 feet of residential areas.

Breaking the Plane of a Window, Balcony, or Breezeway
Breaking the vertical plane of a window, balcony, breezeway or similar structure is not permitted. This includes antennas, satellite dishes, flags, signs, and apparel. This applies to throwing or causing to fall, objects and liquids (including bodily fluids) from any residence hall. Failure to abide by this policy may result in immediate removal from Housing. Posters/signs are not permitted on windows.

Cable Television
Tampering with cable equipment or the unauthorized receiving of cable is a federal offense and is considered a violation of University regulations related to compliance with general laws, disruptive activity and theft or misappropriation. Residents of Carolina Gardens must contact Time Warner of Columbia to initiate service.

Cooking of Food
The cooking of food in residence halls is primarily restricted to established kitchens. The only cooking equipment allowed in rooms are Underwriters Laboratories (UL) approved appliances that have no exposed heating coils (such as coffee pots and sandwich makers), and microwave ovens which do not exceed the one cubic foot and/or 700 watts of power.

Electrical Equipment

One privately owned refrigerator per resident is permitted provided it does not exceed limitations established by the University. Extension cords and multiple socket plugs are prohibited due to electrical circuitry design limitations as well as health, fire and safety regulations. Surge protectors with a circuit breaker and an on/off switch are approved for use in rooms or apartments. Only one surge protector may be plugged into a socket and at no time may one surge protector be plugged into another surge protector.

Elevators
Each resident is responsible for the proper use and care of residence hall elevators. Residents are not to overload or force doors of elevators. Unauthorized personnel are prohibited from entering the elevator shaft. Emergency call buttons are to be used only in case of an emergency.

Emergency Exits
Using fire escapes and/or roof doors or other emergency exits, except during emergency situations, is strictly prohibited.

Fire Drills
In accordance with state law and for the safety of students, fire drills will be conducted at various times throughout the semester. All persons must vacate the building during drills and remain outside until instructed to return by residence hall staff. Evacuation procedures will be posted in each residence hall. Regulations related to fire alarms, fireworks, and fire safety equipment regulations are included in the Student Code of Conduct Regulations.  Failure to properly vacate the building will result in disciplinary action.

Guest Responsibility
Each student is responsible for the behavior of his/ her guest(s). It is the responsibility of the host to make sure that the guest(s) understands and abides by all University and residence hall rules and regulations. If a resident’s guest is involved in any violations of rules and regulations, the hosting resident as well as the guest may be subject to disciplinary action. Students may be held responsible for violations of policy that occur in their room.

Halogen Lamps
Halogen lamps are permitted in residence hall rooms only if safety "cage" cover is properly attached. Their covers are mandatory.  Other types of lamps with an open cover on top of the light bulb are prohibited unless they have a safety “cage” devise attached on top.  All spider lamps are prohibited.

Keys
Students are responsible for the security of their room keys. Students should not loan their key to anyone at any time. If a student is locked out of his/her room, a backup key may be obtained from the Area Office. Graduate and Family Housing keys are distributed at South Campus Area Office located in Bates House and are available from the Resident Manager. If the backup key is not returned within 72 hours, the lock will be changed without prior notification to the student and the student will be billed for this service. Students who are certain their key is lost may request an emergency lock change.

Personal Property

The University assumes no liability for bodily injury, personal damages or losses. The University urges residents to lock their doors for protection of persons and property. Residents are advised not to keep valuable property or large sums of money in their rooms. In addition, residents are required  to obtain liability insurance to cover personal belongings, valuables, and university property. University insurance covers only University property.

Missing items should be reported immediately to the University Police (777-4215) and to a residence hall staff member or the Area Office. Articles found in residence halls should be turned in to the Area Office. Articles that are found elsewhere on campus should be turned in at the Russell House Information Desk.

 Pets 

Small fish are the only pets permitted in the residence halls.  Fish tanks should not exceed 20 gallons.

 Private Party Policy

A private party can be planned within a room or apartment by following the Private Party Guidelines, which are available from the Student Life Office. The private party registration process must be completed whenever beer or wine is provided and/or when more than ten people will attend. This process also applies when alcohol is not present and more than ten people will attend. The registration packet must be submitted to the Director of Residence Life 72 hours before the event. All University policies and procedures must be followed.

 Property and Equipment Damage/Destruction

Behavior which causes damage to property whether personal or University property is prohibited. This policy includes, but is not limited to, window restrictors, security screens, and other types of property.

Public Area Damage 

When hallways, bathrooms, elevators, and other public areas in a residence hall receive undue abuse, the residents of that area are expected to aid in finding the person(s) responsible. Costs of repairing damages to community property (hallways, bathrooms, lounges, etc.) may be assessed to all residents of the hall or floor when the identity of the individual(s) responsible for such damages cannot be identified. University furniture and equipment may not be removed from lounges, studies, rooms, or other areas where the items are located without specific permission from the Area Office.

Quiet Hours and University Noise Code 

All students are expected to respect the rights of others by refraining from making loud noises or causing other disturbances that interfere with study or sleep. All residents are expected to respect 24-hour courtesy hours. Regardless of the time or day, if a student makes a reasonable request of another student to be less noisy, that student should comply. Quiet hours are in effect from 10pm - 10am Sunday through Thursday. On Friday and Saturday, quiet hours are from 12 midnight - 10am. During exam periods, quiet hours are extended to 24 hours. This regulation also applies to residence hall and area lobbies. In the event that a group makes a disturbance (ex. card or game playing, watching TV or yelling loudly), staff may request violators to leave immediately.

Note: All sound systems and stereos must be kept inside and speakers must be kept out of window areas, balconies, etc. Musical instruments may be used in the residence halls only in designated places and for properly scheduled events. Music students and band members are expected to use practice rooms available elsewhere on campus.

Roommate Contract
Roommate contracts are available to all roommates, suitemates, and apartment mates in undergraduate housing when moving in together. The roommate contract outlines specific living agreements. Violating the terms of a roommate, apartment mate, or suitemate contract previously agreed to as evidenced by the signatures of the occupants of the room and/or suite is considered a violation of residence hall regulations. In apartment-style housing, the “Head of Household” is identified when the roommate contract is completed.

Security Screens
The removal, loss of damage or opening of a security screen in student rooms or public areas in a residence hall is prohibited.  Tampering with or removal of window restrictions is also prohibited.  Failure to abide by this policy will result in billing and/or disciplinary action.

Smoking/Tobacco Products

I.         In conjunction with the University policy, smoking and the use of tobacco products is prohibited in all campus residence halls including:

·        Entrances, balconies, decks, patios, and outside stairways to residence halls and outdoor passageways to entrances, decks, patios, and stairways

·        Within twenty-five (25) feet of a residence hall or an air intake unit/opening

·        Courtyards or other areas where the air circulation may be impeded by architectural, landscaping or other barriers

·        Outdoor entry or service lines such as bus stops near a residence hall

·        Outdoor seating areas provided by University Housing or USC Dining Services on campus

·        Outdoor areas where there is fixed seating

II.        The sale, sampling or advertisement of all tobacco products or their use is prohibited in or around any residence hall building and in all residence hall publications (fliers, brochures, event postings, etc.)

III.       All members of the USC residence hall community, including visitors and vendors working on campus, are expected to comply with this policy.  This policy relies on the consideration and cooperation of tobacco users and non-users.

Smoke Detectors

Should a smoke detector or alarm malfunction and/or its batteries wear out, residents are required to notify Housing Staff immediately so it may be repaired or replaced. Students should not remove batteries, disconnect or otherwise disable smoke detectors or alarms. Disabling or maliciously triggering fire safety equipment may result in immediate removal from University Housing as well as additional disciplinary action, including restitution/fines up to $500.00.

Solicitation in the Residence Halls

The use of a residence hall room or apartment for selling of goods or services is strictly prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, babysitting and personal grooming services.

In order to protect the privacy of students, the following policy governing solicitation in residence halls has been adopted:

Solicitation is defined as door to door contact for the purpose of:

• Soliciting funds or sales or demonstrations that result in sales
• Distributing/displaying advertising or other materials
• Compiling data for surveys or other programs
• Recruitment of members or support for an organization or cause

Materials may not be posted or distributed on residence hall property unless they are approved by the Department of Housing or the Office of Greek Life. Door to door solicitation or solicitation in common areas of residence halls is prohibited for all groups and individuals (official University business excepted). Newspaper subscriptions may be delivered by resident students or district managers after they have the proper authorization from the Director for Residence Life.

Use of lobby tables for soliciting funds/sales/distribution of materials is prohibited for external vendors or organizations other than hall governments. Residence hall governments may approve the setting up of tables for the purpose of recruiting members, compiling data, or distributing materials relevant to the needs and wishes of residents.

Use of lobby tables is permitted for campus organizations and University offices only after permission has been received through:

• The residence hall government president, and
• The Residence Hall Director/Residence Life Coordinator, and
• The Assistant Director for the area or the Director for Residence Life.

External vendors may not advertise, distribute, or leave coupons in the residence halls.

(also refer to the Campus Solicitation Policy)

Sports Areas 

Athletics are to be confined to areas designated for such use and regulated in accordance with the requirements of quiet hours. Hallways are not designated for these activities. Weights used for weight lifting by residents must be of the variety which are plastic covered to minimize noise and damage. Items prohibited in rooms include, but are not limited to, dart boards, darts, paint ball guns, airsoft guns, etc.

 Window Screens 

The removal, loss or damage of a window screen from student rooms, or public areas in a hall is prohibited.  Failure to abide by this policy will result in billing and additional disciplinary action.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 4.04

Visitation is defined as those times during which residents may have guests in their rooms, suites, or apartments, or in the public areas of residential floors. Specific visitation plans outline the maximum hours during which visitors or guests may visit. Within these plans, the shared concerns and wishes of the roommates are of paramount importance and determine what are acceptable or unacceptable visitation privileges within a specific room. Visitation is a privilege that is subordinate to a resident’s right of privacy within her or his room. Residents may not exercise their visitation privileges if doing so interferes with the rights of the roommate or of other residents.

Policy
USC’s residence halls differentiate in their visitation hour plans.  Each of the four plans outlined below show when members of the opposite gender are allowed in the halls under that plan.:

Plan A
Opposite gender visitation in this facility is restricted 24 hours/day, seven days/week.

• Wade Hampton basement

Plan B
Opposite gender visitation in these facilities will be from 10a.m. – 2 a.m seven days/week.

• Bates House
• Bates West
• Capstone
• Columbia Hall
• Maxcy
• McBryde (freshmen)
• McClintock
• Patterson
• Roost

• Sims

• South Tower (2^nd-9^th floors)

• Wade Hampton (1^st-4^th floors)

At the conclusion of the fall semester, each plan B floor may, if they choose, vote to adjust their visitation to Plan C if the majority of students favor such a change.  Roommate Contracts, however, ALWAYS prevail when it comes to visitation guidelines.

Plan C
Opposite gender visitation in these facilities will be from 10a.m. – 2a.m. Monday through Thursday; and 10a.m. Friday – 2a.m. Monday.

• South Tower (10^th-18^th floors)

Plan D
Visitation in these facilities will be self-regulated by residents of each living unit due to the nature, population, and construction of these facilities.

• Carolina Gardens
• Cliff Apartments
• East Quad
• Horseshoe Apartments
• McBryde (upperclass)
• Preston College
• South Quad
• Thornwell
• Green (West) Quad
• Woodrow
• 820 Henderson 

Visitation Procedures
Staff members are available to assist residents in signing in their guests.  It is the residents’ responsibility to register their guests.

Within the approved visitation hours, all guests must be signed in at the entrance of each residence hall desk and escorted by the host at all times. Each guest and host must present picture ID’s to the staff member working at the main entrance. The staff member at the desk will enter the name of the guest in the sign-in log and will retain the guest ID. The guest ID will be returned when the host and guest sign out at the desk. A resident is permitted to sign in a maximum of four (4) guests but only if the resident has approval from the roommate(s) for all guests. At all times, residents must have their student ID.

C and D Plans only: For late night visitation (between 2:00 am and 8:00 am), on days and at times when visitation is permitted, a resident must have the approval of all roommates. Any time a resident prefers to have no guest in their room, that preference supersedes any visitation privileges.

Additional regulations may be implemented by residence hall governments or staff. Residents will be advised of such additions or changes.

Certain residence halls are exceptions in which residents are not expected to sign in their guests (Carolina Gardens Apartments, Cliff Apartments, East Quad, the Horseshoe, 820 Henderson, South Quad, and West Quad). Visitation privileges in no way alter other residence hall regulations, including quiet hours.

The hosting resident will be responsible for the conduct of his/her guest(s) at all times and must be present with the guest(s) at all times. Guests and hosts alike are responsible for knowing and abiding by all regulations and either or both may be subject to disciplinary action for violations.

Please note that cohabitation is strictly prohibited within all single student residence halls.

Residents may be permitted to have overnight same gender guests for a maximum of two consecutive nights (according to hall visitation plan), provided that approval is given by all roommates and that the guest is appropriately registered. No guest may stay more than two nights by changing hosts.

Persons under 16 years of age may not be overnight guests at anytime without the written permission of the Director for Residence Life or designee. Persons under 16 years of age visiting at any time must be registered at the desk with the host’s ID, and escorted at all times by the host. No babysitting is allowed in the undergraduate residence halls. Residents having children visiting the residence hall will need prior approval from their roommate and the Director of Residence Life.

Failure to gain the approval of roommates or to register the guest will result in the guest being asked to leave and referral of the resident student for disciplinary action. A resident’s visitation privileges may be suspended until the case is resolved.

This policy is not intended for the safety and security of any residents, but is designed to address the privacy of roommates.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 4.05

The philosophy and purpose of resident student conduct policies are similar to that of the student judicial system. The Department of University Housing is responsible for promoting positive community standards and responding to violations of policies published in two areas:  General Student Conduct Regulations and Housing Information and Regulations. Students are advised to read both sources of information to understand expectations for their behavior while in or on the premises of University residence halls.  These policies may be found by going to the Carolina Community at http://www.sa.sc.edu/carolinacommunity/

Students who violate terms of the housing contract, General Student Conduct, or other housing policies may be subject to disciplinary action.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 4.06

Based on a concern for the welfare of the total University residence community, as well as the individual, the following policy outlines procedures and reasons for responding to violations.

Options for Resolution of Discipline Violations
Violations of rules and regulations occurring in or on the premises of University residence halls may be referred to a Residence Life Coordinator, Assistant Residence Life Coordinator, Residence Hall Director, Resident Manager, or Housing Hearing Officer for appropriate action. The case may be resolved by these individuals or referred to the Office of Student Judicial Programs for resolution. 

In buildings that have a Residence Life Coordinator, Assistant Residence Life Coordinator, Residence Hall Director, or Resident Manager, violations are usually responded to first by that staff member who meets with students in educational conferences. Some cases may be resolved by those staff members. The Residence Life Coordinator, Assistant Residence Life Coordinator, Residence Hall Director, or Resident Manager may also refer cases to a Housing Hearing Officer or for a Residence Hall Conduct Hearing. 

When evidence exists that indicates a resident may be responsible for one or more violation(s), charge(s) may be filed. After the resident responds to each charge by indicating he or she is "responsible" or "not responsible," he or she may indicate a preference for having the charge(s) resolved through:

Mediation
 This option is reserved for situations where all of the immediate parties in the incident agree to have a conflict resolved in this fashion, and the option is considered appropriate by the housing staff member referring the case. Failure to fulfill the terms of a mediation agreement could lead to reactivation of the charges as well as additional disciplinary action.  Sexual assault cases are not subject to mediation.

Informal Administrative Hearing
Cases may be resolved in an Informal Administrative Hearing when the student(s) accepts responsibility for the charges.

Residence Hall Conduct Hearing
The Carolina Student Judicial Council is composed of students who have been selected and trained specifically to operate as hearing authorities for discipline cases. A hearing board consists of no more than five and no less than three Carolina Student Judicial Council members

The Housing Hearing Officer may assign the case to a Residence Hall Conduct Hearing to expedite resolution of a particular case.  The following restrictions apply to choosing a preference for case resolution:

• If a student indicates he/she is "not responsible", he/she may not choose an informal administrative hearing with the Hearing Officer;
• If more than one person is charged in connection with the same incident, they may be required to choose the same option for resolution, unless exceptional conditions are present;
• If the Housing Hearing Officer filing charges believes one of the sanctions may be termination of the housing contract, the case must be resolved through a hearing conducted by the Carolina Student Judicial Council, a Housing Hearing Officer from another area, or the Office of Student Judicial Programs.

Specific procedures for Residence Hall Conduct Hearings will be provided to the charged student prior to the hearing.

Sanctions
Sanction decisions will be made after a documentation of the violation(s) is presented by a staff member, reviewed by the resident, and determination of responsibility is made. Responsibility for violating Housing policies will be determined by a preponderance of evidence. Once a determination of responsibility has been established by the Hearing Officer (or designee), information concerning the resident student's previous violations and cumulative documentation by the hall staff as well as the impact of a particular student on the residential environment will be reviewed and taken into consideration before a sanctioning decision is made. Sanctioning decisions are made with the goal of achieving the following six objectives:

• Educating the student
• Holding the student accountable;
• Deterring future violations;
• Demonstrating the University's position regarding the behavior;
• Providing an opportunity for the student to make restitution;
• Where appropriate, providing an opportunity for other students to learn from the incident.

Sanctions for the violation of any contractual agreement, residence hall regulation, and/or University conduct policy may include the following:

Written Warning
An official written reprimand making the misconduct a matter of record in University files for a specified period of time. Any further misconduct could result in more sever disciplinary action.

Conditions/Restrictions
Limitations upon a student's behavior for a period of time, or an obligation to complete a specified activity.  This sanction may include, but is not limited to, restriction of visitation privileges, denial of the right to hold an office with a departmental organization, required attendance at a workshop, or participation in public service.

Fines and Restitution
A student may be ordered to make restitution or to pay a fine when the student has engaged in conduct including but not limited to: the damage or destruction of property, or the theft or misappropriation of property, or fraudulent behavior, or violations of the alcohol and/or drug policies. Such property may belong to an individual, group, or the University. Restitution may be in the form of financial payment, community service, or special activities designated by the hearing authority. Additional fines may be assessed as a punitive measure.

Housing Probation
Notification that further misconduct, failure to complete assigned sanctions, or failure to comply with official requests may result in permanent removal from University Housing without entitlement to a refund for the remainder of the period originally contracted.

Relocation
Transfer of the resident's housing contract to another room on campus. The room may be designated. The resident will be given a reasonable time to relocate. When a resident has been relocated, he/she is not permitted to return to the original residence hall for any reason including visiting, unless special permission has been obtained from University Housing or the Office of Student Judicial Programs.  The resident is responsible for any increase in cost associated with a relocation.

Removal from University Housing
Termination of the resident's housing contract requires the resident to vacate his or her room. Removal from University housing is justified if it is judged that a resident's continued presence in University housing would prove detrimental to either the residential community or the resident. The resident will be given a reasonable time, usually no less than two (2) calendar days, to vacate University housing after the decision to terminate his/her housing contract. Students removed from University housing are not permitted to return to any University residence hall without special permission from University Housing or the Office of Student Judicial Programs. A student removed from University housing is not entitled to a refund for the remainder of the semester in which they are removed.

Appeal Process for Residence Hall Conduct Hearings
Decisions of the Carolina Student Judicial Council in a Residence Hall Conduct Hearing may be appealed by a resident student found responsible for a violation to the Vice President for Student Affairs/Vice Provost for Academic Support. The reasons for an appeal are limited to the following:

• The original Hearing Officer/Council committed a procedural error in hearing the case which significantly prejudiced the findings of the Hearing Council; and/or
• New evidence, which could not have been available at the time of the hearing, and which is material to the outcome of the case, is available.

 An appeal to the Vice President for Student Affairs/Vice Provost for Academic Support must be made in writing within five (5) University business days of receipt of the original written decision to the Office of Student Judicial Programs who will submit it to the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs/Vice Provost for Academic Support. A decision is assumed to be received three (3) University business days from the date of the mailing.  On appeal the Vice President for Student Affairs/Vice Provost for Academic Support or designee shall review the appeal.

If an appeal is in process, sanctions of relocation or removal may be implemented until after the appeal decision is made.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 4.07

Emergency removal from housing or relocation to another housing assignment is an action requiring that a student immediately leave the residence hall or residential area. It may be implemented by University Housing when there is reasonable cause to believe that the student is an immediate threat to the safety, health or welfare of himself or herself, other members of the residence hall community, residence hall property and/or when the students' continued presence may be disruptive to the community or to the mission of University Housing. When a student is removed, that student is prohibited from entering any residence hall without written permission from the Office of Student Judicial Programs or the Director of Residence Life.

When a student is removed or relocated on an emergency basis, he or she is given notice explaining the reasons for the removal or relocation, the duration, and any special conditions that apply. A student notified of such action will also be referred for appropriate disciplinary action. The emergency removal or relocation will remain in effect until all disciplinary charges are resolved. If a student is not found responsible for any violation of University policy and is readmitted to University Housing, he/she may be entitled for a refund for the time period they were removed from the hall. Any refunds for the time period are not automatic, and will be determined on a case by case basis by the Director of Residence Life for University Housing.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 4.08

I.  POLICY

A. The University Housing Conference Center, a unit of University Housing, provides the University with facilities large enough to accommodate University-affiliated conferences, meetings and seminars.  During the summer months, the Conference Center coordinates University housing in residence halls for adult and youth conferences and seminars on campus.

 B. As State property, University Housing Conference Center’s reservable facilities may not be used for individual or financial gain.

 C. Eligible groups and priority of requests

1.       The Conference Center facilities are for use by the members of the University of South Carolina community.  Request for facilities are processed in the following priority order:

a.       activities of special importance to the University;

b.       traditional activities - A traditional activity is an activity that has been presented for three consecutive years during the past five-year span.

* With the exception of conferences housing groups with the Conference Center, reservations for meetings will not be taken until after May 15 of that year;

c.        activities sponsored by academic or administrative units – The Conference Center facilities are not available for regular classroom instruction with the exception of the Capstone Scholars program.  Faculty organizations recognized by the Faculty Senate may reserve the facilities;

d.       activities sponsored by registered student organizations

The Russell House is the primary meeting space for student activities.  Only if all facilities are booked at the Russell House may registered student groups reserve meeting rooms at Conference Center.  Register student organizations are those student organizations at the University of South Carolina registered and in good standing with the Division of Student Affairs. Registered student groups are limited to one Conference Center facility usage per semester.

2.       Within these priorities the reservationist accepts requests for facilities on a first-come basis.  The Conference Center reserves the right to assign facilities on the basis of the most efficient utilization of space.  Certain situations may require changes in the facilities reserved by a group and may be done so by the Conference Center coordinator.

D. Failure to comply with the policies and procedures regarding the Conference Center may subject the person or group to University and University Housing penalties.  These can range from cancellation of the event, forfeiture of organization license, ban from use of University facilities and/or equipment as well as other University disciplinary action.

E. The University assumes no responsibility at any time during the year for any loss or damage to property or person.

F. Summer Conference Housing Facilities

1.       Eligibility

a.       The Conference Center is available to groups with educational objectives for resident conferences, meetings and seminars.  The groups must be sponsored by a USC academic or administrative department, which shall make all necessary arrangements with the Conference Center.  All information requested must be provided, and a designee of the department must be physically present during the time of the conference.  The charges incurred are directed to the sponsoring department.

b.       The sponsoring party assumes full responsibility for the acts of the participants using University facilities and agrees to reimburse the University for any and all damages to facilities by the groups. This includes loss of linen, key, equipment or furniture.

c.        The sponsor agrees to make all arrangements for food service (including banquets, luncheons and breaks) with University Dining Services.

2.       Request for facilities are processed in the following priority order:

a.       conferences, meetings and seminars of special importance to the University;

b.       conferences, meetings and seminars that have 200 residents or more;

c.        seniority -- continuing conferences, meetings and seminars that utilize University housing on a year-to-year basis;

d.       all other requests are processed chronologically with priority given to earlier reservations.

3.       Alcohol

The consumption of beer, wine and other alcoholic beverages on the University of South Carolina campus is subject to South Carolina law and University rules and regulations.

4.       University Rules

a.       Possession of fireworks, firearms, air guns or other weapons is strictly prohibited.  Possession may result in eviction from the residence hall and/or University disciplinary action.

b.       Mopeds are not permitted in residence halls.  Bicycles are permitted in residence halls only in accordance with posted regulations.

c.        Pets are not permitted.

d.       Hot plates and similar appliances are not permitted in rooms, nor is any type of cooking allowed in any of the rooms.

e.       Attaching an object to the premises by nails or screws or altering the premises in any manner whatsoever without prior permission of the University is prohibited.

5.       Conference Center Rules

a.       Male and female guests will share floors but have separate bathroom facilities.  Shared rooms are reserved for married couples or occupants of the same sex in accordance with South Carolina law.

b.       All individuals staying one or more nights must be paying guests.

c.        If participants are minors, there must be one adult counselor for every ten participants.

6.       Reservation of Rights

                The University reserves the following rights:

a.       to reassign facilities to assure the maximum and most appropriate utilization of University facilities;

b.       to reassign residents within a building after notification, in order to accomplish necessary repairs and renovations to the building;

c.        to revoke the campus privilege, including residency in its buildings, of any occupant whose conduct becomes, in the University's opinion, injurious or potentially injurious to the academic community;

d.       To terminate the reservation of the renting party should unforeseen emergencies occur making it advisable, illegal or impossible to provide facilities;

e.       to add or delete from these policies any clause(s) whatsoever upon timely notification.

7.       Liability

The University assumes no responsibility for any property of the Licensee which is lost, stolen, damaged or destroyed in the Conference Center at any time, including periods when the Licensee is not in occupancy.  The Licensee agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the University of South Carolina, its officers, employees and agents from any and all claims or losses accruing or resulting to any person during the performance of this contract.

8.       Laws Applicable

This agreement is made and entered into in the County of Richland, State of South Carolina and is governed and construed in accordance with the laws of South Carolina.  All groups using University space are expected to adhere to all University policies, regulations, guidelines and all local, State and Federal laws concerning health, safety and public orders.  Failure to comply with these regulations may result in forfeiture of the privilege of using the conference facilities.

 II. PROCEDURE

 A. Reservations for Capstone

1.       Reservations for Conference facilities are to be made with the Conference Coordinator (7-6636).  Reservations include provisions for the following:

a.       space requirements;

b.       room arrangements;

c.        personnel requirements;

d.       summer conference requirements.

2.       The following form(s) must be completed:

a.       Lease - specifications of meeting premise(s) and specified time

1)       Attachment A - rules that apply to the use of meeting space

2)       Attachment B - rules governing use of beer, wine and /or distilled spirits in meeting space(s)

3)       distribution:

• original - Conference Center

• copy - Office of the President

b.       Reservation Card

1)       As the Russell House is the primary meeting facility for student groups, students must obtain a reservation card from the Russell House Reservationist before reserving a room at the Conference Center.  The reservation card states that all facilities at the Russell House are in use.

2)       distribution:

• original - Conference Center

c.        USC Event Registration Form

1)       This form must be filled out by any organization/department sponsoring an event involving alcohol and/or sound systems in which a student is in attendance.  Student is defined as any person enrolled in the USC System.

2)       distribution:

•  white - USC Police

•  yellow - Student Affairs

• pink - Conference Office

• goldenrod - organization/department

3.       Alcohol

a.       Arrangements for serving alcoholic beverages must be made through the Conference Coordinator.  A Statement of Understanding and, if applicable, an Event Registration form must be signed and adhered to (as well as the University Policy on Use of Alcohol as stated in the Carolina Community).

b.       The Conference Coordinator reserves the right to designate under what conditions and in what areas group events may involve the use of beer, wine and distilled spirits.  Kegs of beer are prohibited in the Campus Room.

4.       All advance reservations must be confirmed (set-ups, group size, times) a minimum of one week prior to the event scheduled.

5.       All cancellations of the use of the meeting facilities must be made one week (during the academic year) or ten days (summer months) prior to the date reserved.  Failure to do so can result in loss of eligibility for use of the facilities and/or a $50 non-cancellation fee.

B. During Events at Capstone

1.       All food must be served by the University Dining Services.  Arrangements for catering must be made directly between function sponsors and University Dining Services (7-7919) which will bill the sponsor directly for catering charges.

2.       If food is served, accurate participant counts must be reported to both Dining Services and the Conference Coordinator.

3.       Any music or other noise producing activity must be conducted at a level appropriate to the facility (no amplified music permitted).

4.       Dancing is not permitted.

5.       Standard set-ups are provided.  Where special set-ups, custodial services and/or overtime payments are required, a minimum charge of $50 will be made.

6.       All functions will terminate no later than 11:30 p.m. with the area clear not later than 12:00 midnight.

7.       It is the responsibility of the person heading the meeting to establish guidelines and/or regulations to ensure order within the group and maintain proper consideration of other groups using the facilities.

C. Summer Conference Housing Facilities

1.       Reservations for summer conference housing are to be made with the Conference Coordinator (7-6636). Reservations include provisions for the following:

a.       number of bed spaces required;

b.       type of linen/maid service required;

c.        dates of conference, meeting, or seminar;

d.       method of payment.

2.       The following form(s) must be completed:

a.       Preliminary Housing Request - specifications of housing needs and specified dates

1)       This form must be completed before a tentative hold will be place on bed space.

2)       distribution:

• original - Conference Center

• photo copy - Dining Services

b.       Conference Center Housing Agreement - a contractual agreement between the University and the Licensee.  Distribution:

• original - Conference Center

• photo copy - Office of the Board of Trustees

• photo copy - Licensee

3.       Method of Payment

a.       Licensee must indicate method of payment at least 60 days before tentative arrival date.

b.       The University requires that payment be made within ten days after receipt of the final  bill unless other arrangements have been made with the Conference Coordinator.

c.        Group billings are to be paid to University Housing Services/Business Office, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina  29208.  This is the only office on campus authorized to accept payment.

d.       Bill must be paid via a lump sum billing or transfer of funds. Individual payments are not accepted.

e.       Any error in billing must be reported to the Conference Coordinator within 10 days of receipt of bill.

4.       Check-Out

Check-out time is 1:00 p.m. on the last day of the conference, meeting or seminar.  All personal items should be removed from the rooms prior to this time. All doors should be locked and keys returned to the front desk.  Anyone leaving the conference center after this time will be charged for an additional night.

5.       Cancellations

Group cancellations will be accepted provided that notification is given in writing to the Conference Center at least 30 days before tentative arrival. Canceling within the 30-day period forfeits 10% of the estimated fee.  The University also reserves the right to charge any group for direct costs incurred by the University prior to the group's canceling the conference.

6.       Changes in Group Size

a.       A ten percent (10%) variation is permitted on the guaranteed estimate.  This written guaranteed estimate must be made at least ten days prior to the start of the conference.

b.       If the group size is decreased or increased by more than 10%, Licensee must notify the Conference Coordinator ten days prior to arrival. If this does not occur, Licensee  will be liable for the total number of group members accounted for in the original reservation.  The Licensee agrees to be financially responsible for 90% of the guaranteed estimate.  The Conference Center is under no obligation to house participants once the 110% guaranteed estimate is reached.

7.       Keys

Upon departure, the Licensee will be responsible for a $75 charge for any issued key that must be replaced or is not returned to the main desk.  This charge covers the cost of a lock change.

8.       Room Assignments

Room assignments will be made by the Conference Center staff from the list provided by the Licensee ten days prior to arrival. Assignment changes will not be permitted at the time of check-in. Ten days prior to tentative arrival date, the Licensee must provide the Conference Coordinator with the name of an on-site supervisor of the conference for communication purposes.

9.       Meeting Spaces

During the conference season, groups with participants housed in the conference center will have access to the meeting spaces in University Housing facilities (by availability, by date). Where special set-ups, custodial services or overtime are required, a charge for the labor is made.  Any rearrangement of the standard set-up in meeting rooms must be done by members of the Conference Center staff.  Conferences housing 100 or more participants will have priority on the Campus Room meeting facility.

10.    Emergency Information

Ten days prior to tentative arrival date, Licensee must provide the Conference Coordinator with a schedule of all conference events, including time and place, in case of emergency contacts.

11.    Right of Entry

The University reserves the right to enter Licensee's rooms to inspect the premise for purposes of management, safety, health and maintenance.

12.    Maintenance

The Licensee agrees to provide reasonable care to rooms and furnishings and to make payment for any damages.  The Licensee also agrees to be financially responsible with other residents for the protection of furnishings and equipment.  The amount of such damages are to be replacement cost including material, labor and overhead to be determined by the Conference Coordinator.

13.    Publicity

In order to ensure that the University of South Carolina and its auxiliaries are properly represented, Licensee shall provide the Conference Coordinator with an advance copy of proposed advertising for approval.

 III. SERVICES

 A. Meeting and Dining Rooms

All events held in the meeting rooms must be University sponsored. Except in events where special set-up is required, there is no charge for the meeting rooms. All food and/or prepared beverages must be served by University Dining Services.

 B. Housing * (late May until mid-August only)

Facilities -- all have central heat and air.

• Bates House (hall baths)                  546

• Bates West (apartment style)           402

• Capstone House (suite baths)         579

• Columbia Hall (suite baths)              488

• DeSaussure (apartment style)            48

• Harper/Elliott (apartment style)            48

• Legare - Pickney (apartment style)     48

• Patterson Hall (hall baths)                 615

• Rutledge (apartment style)                   44

• Sims (suite baths)                               251

• South Tower (hall baths)                    391

• Wade Hampton (hall baths)              176

• Woodrow (apartment style)               102

• McClintock

• South Quad

• West Quad

• East Quad

* Number of spaces based on bed occupancy.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 6.28

The statement of student rights and responsibilities was passed by the Student Senate, the Faculty Senate, and approved by the Board of Trustees of the University.

General Understandings
The statement in no way intends to abrogate the legal powers invested in the Board of Trustees under American corporate law and the laws of the State of South Carolina.

The statement is recognized as a statement of principles only and that the interpretation of the statement, its principles, and procedures is a continuing joint process.

The implementation of the joint statement must be in harmony with our stated educational purposes and must be worked out in a number of subsidiary implementing documents.

The statement is clearly understood as not giving complete autonomy to any sector of the academic community but promotes a community approach to those problems which are of proper concern to the University as a whole.

Preamble
Academic institutions exist for the transmission of knowledge, the pursuit of truth, the development of students, and the general well being of society. Free inquiry and free expression are indispensable to the attainment of these goals. As members of the academic community, students should be encouraged to develop the capacity for critical judgment and to engage in a sustained and independent search for truth. Institutional procedures for achieving these purposes may vary from campus to campus, but the minimal standards of academic freedom of students outlined below are essential to any community of scholars.

Freedom to teach and freedom to learn are inseparable facts of academic freedom. The freedom to learn depends upon appropriate opportunities and conditions in the classroom, on the campus, and in the larger community. Students should exercise their freedom with responsibility.

The responsibility to secure and to respect general conditions conducive to the freedom to learn is shared by all members of the academic community. The University has a duty to develop policies and procedures that provide and safeguard this freedom. Such policies and procedures should be developed within the framework of general standards with the broadest possible participation of the members of the academic community. The purpose of this statement is to enumerate the essential provisions for student freedom to learn.

Freedom of Access to Higher Education
The admissions policies of the University are a matter of institutional choice provided that the University makes clear the characteristics and expectations of the students that it considers relevant to success in the institutional program. Under no circumstances should a student be barred from admission on the basis of race, creed, sex, handicap, religion, ancestry, or national origin. Thus, within the limits of its facilities, the University should be open to all students who are qualified according to its admission standards.

In the Classroom
The professor in the classroom and in conference should encourage free discussion, inquiry, and expression. Student performance should be evaluated solely on an academic basis, not opinions or conduct in matters unrelated to academic standards.

Protection of Freedom of Expression
Students should be free to take reasoned exceptions to the data or views offered in any course of study and to reserve judgment about matters of opinion, but they are responsible for learning the content of any course of study for which they are enrolled.

Protection Against Improper Academic Evaluation
Students should have protection through orderly procedures against prejudiced or capricious academic evaluation. At the same time, they are responsible for maintaining standards of academic performance established for each course in which they are enrolled.

Protection Against Improper Disclosure
Information about student views, beliefs, and political associations which professors acquire in the course of their work as instructors, advisors, and counselors should be considered confidential. Protection against improper disclosure is a serious professional obligation. Judgments of ability and character may be provided under appropriate circumstances, normally with the knowledge and consent of the student.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 6.25

University of South Carolina Honor Code

It is the responsibility of every student at the University of South Carolina Columbia to adhere steadfastly to truthfulness and to avoid dishonesty, fraud, or deceit of any type in connection with any academic program. Any student who violates this Honor Code or who knowingly assists another to violate this Honor Code shall be subject to discipline.

The Law School and Medical School have a long-standing history of high academic integrity standards grounded in the ethical obligations of their professions.  As such, the Medical School and Law School may adopt procedural rules different from procedures set forth in this current code, but should still report any results to the Office of Academic Integrity.

General Provisions and Definitions

The USC Honor Code is the University’s policy regarding incidents involving academic integrity.  The Honor Code codifies the values espoused in the tenets of the Carolinian Creed.

This Honor Code applies to all students of the University of South Carolina Columbia. 

A “Student” is defined as any person who is admitted, enrolled or registered for study at the University of South Carolina for any academic period. Persons who are not officially enrolled for a particular term but who have a continuing student relationship with, or an educational interest in, the University of South Carolina are considered “students”.  A person shall also be considered a student when the person is attending or participating in any activity preparatory to the beginning of school including, but not limited to, orientation, placement testing, and residence hall check-in.

An “Instructor of Record” is defined as anybody responsible for the academic evaluation of work.   

A “Dean” is defined as the Dean of a school or college offering the academic program in which the alleged violation occurred or his or her designee.

The “Assistant Vice Provost for Academic Integrity” is defined as the Assistant Vice Provost or any member of the Office of Academic Integrity designated by the Assistant Vice Provost.

A “College Committee” is defined as the group of faculty and students who hear cases of alleged violations of the Honor Code, and is composed of faculty members selected from a pool of faculty from the college where the alleged violation occurred designated by the Dean of the College and students from the College and/or the Carolina Student Judicial Council.  Faculty members are appointed annually by the Dean, and student members are selected annually according to the guidelines set in the Constitution of the Carolina Student Judicial Council, or may be appointed by the Dean of the College.

The “University Committee of Academic Responsibility” shall consider appeals cases decided by the college academic responsibility committees when any party to the case formally appeals on grounds set forth in the University Academic Disciplinary Procedures.  This committee shall perform any other functions provided for in the Academic Disciplinary Procedures.  This committee consists of five faculty members, two undergraduate students, and two graduate students.  (University of South Carolina Faculty Manual)

The “Office of Academic Integrity” is the office responsible for managing all administrative functions relating to complaints and allegations of Honor Code violations including investigations, making recommendations to the Dean, coordinating College Committee hearings, and convening the College Committee.

An “academic program” is defined as any graduate or undergraduate course, independent study or research for academic credit, laboratory, internship, externship, clinical program, practicum, field placement, or other form of study or work offered in furtherance of the academic mission of the University. Academic work includes any work performed or assigned to be performed in connection with any academic program.

This Honor Code is intended to prohibit all forms of academic dishonesty and should be interpreted broadly to carry out that purpose. The following examples illustrate conduct that violates this Honor Code, but this list is not intended to be an exhaustive compilation of conduct prohibited by the Honor Code:

1.       Giving or receiving unauthorized assistance, or attempting to give or receive such assistance, in connection with the performance of any academic work.

2.       Unauthorized use of materials or information of any type or the unauthorized use of any electronic or mechanical device in connection with the completion of any academic work.

3.       Access to the contents of any test or examination or the purchase, sale, or theft of any test or examination prior to its administration.

4.       Use of another person’s work or ideas without proper acknowledgment of source.

5.       Intentional misrepresentation by word or action of any situation of fact, or intentional omission of material fact, so as to mislead any person in connection with any academic work (including, without limitation, the scheduling, completion, performance, or submission of any such work).

6.       Offering or giving any favor or thing of value for the purpose of influencing improperly a grade or other evaluation of a student in an academic program.

7.       Conduct intended to interfere with an instructor’s ability to evaluate accurately a student’s competency or performance in an academic program.

Whenever a student is uncertain as to whether conduct would violate this Honor Code, it is the responsibility of the student to seek clarification from the appropriate faculty member or instructor of record prior to engaging in such conduct.

Investigation of Complaints – Office of Academic Integrity

1.1.              Upon receiving a report of an alleged violation of the Honor Code, the Assistant Vice Provost for Academic Integrity will review the report and relevant evidence, has the duty to investigate, and consult with relevant parties regarding the incident in question. The Assistant Vice Provost will consult the Dean to determine if the evidence warrants a charge.  The Dean will ultimately determine whether a charge is warranted.   If a charge is warranted, the Office of Academic Integrity will send written notification to the charged student indicating what sections of the Honor Code were allegedly violated.

Options and Resolution Procedures for Allegations of Violations of the Honor Code 

Students who have violated the University of South Carolina Honor Code are subject to both academic and non-academic penalties.

2.1          Outcomes of the initial meeting with the student.  When an instructor of record or the Assistant Vice Provost for Academic Integrity meets initially with a student regarding an allegation of a Honor Code violation, there are four possible outcomes of that meeting:

1.       Student does not contest the allegation(s) or sanctions.  If a student does not contest the allegation(s) of a Honor Code violation, please see section 2.2.2.1 for procedures for resolution.

2.       Student does not contest the allegation(s), but contests the sanctions.  If a student only contests the sanctions of a Honor Code violation, please see section 2.2.2.2 for procedures for resolution.

3.       Student contests allegations.  If a student contests the allegation(s), please see section 2.2.2.2 for procedures for resolution.

4.       Allegation is dismissed by the Dean.

2.2          Procedures for Resolution of allegations of Honor Code violations.

2.2.1       Academic Resolution. The student should have the opportunity to meet with the instructor of record to discuss any academic penalty that may be applied.  The instructor of record will determine the academic evaluation of the student’s work and any academic penalty if necessary.

Non-Academic Resolution.  A non-academic resolution is the disciplinary punishment imposed by the university, which may be in addition to any grade penalty.  All allegations must be referred to the Office of Academic Integrity for investigation. The instructor of record may also make a recommendation to the Office of Academic Integrity regarding non-academic sanctions (see Section 5). The student will have the opportunity to meet with the Assistant Vice Provost for Academic Integrity to determine the nature of the recommended non-academic penalty, if any.

At the conclusion of the meeting between the charged student and the Assistant Vice Provost, the Assistant Vice Provost will recommend to the Dean either:

1.       to dismiss the charges if they are unsupported by evidence  OR

2.       recommend one of the options below to resolve the charges.

The final determination will be made by the Dean.  This matter may also be forwarded to the Office of Student Judicial Programs for additional disciplinary action, if appropriate.

If the charged student fails to meet with Assistant Vice Provost, a hold may be placed on the student’s registration preventing him/her from registering for future classes until the matter is resolved. Any student who has an outstanding Honor Code allegation cannot graduate until the matter has been resolved.

2.2.2.1    Informal Administrative Hearing - An informal conference with the Assistant Vice Provost for Academic Integrity, pending final approval by the Dean.

An informal administrative hearing allows the charged student to present evidence for consideration and suggest witnesses that the Assistant Vice Provost may consider interviewing before a recommendation is rendered. The Assistant Vice Provost may contact other parties who have knowledge/information regarding the incident in question. The charged student waives the right to question such parties or otherwise participate in these meetings. Informal administrative hearings are not to be recorded without permission of the Office of Academic Integrity. After investigation the Assistant Vice Provost will make a recommendation to the Dean regarding findings and sanctions.

Upon receiving approval from the Dean, the Assistant Vice Provost will send the charged student a letter indicating the finding and any sanctions imposed, with copies to the appropriate Dean and instructor of record.  If the Dean does not approve of the resolution, the Dean will refer the matter to a College Committee.

2.2.2.2College Committee Hearing - A formal hearing before the College Committee.

A case can be referred to the College Committee for one    of three reasons:

1.       there is a material question of fact that cannot be resolved by the Assistant Vice Provost or the Dean of the College.

2.       the charged student does not wish to resolve the matter informally.

3.       the Dean does not approve the Informal Administrative Hearing resolution.

Within ten (10) business days of the hearing, barring special circumstances requiring an extension of this time limit, the College Committee or designee will send the charged student a letter which indicates the finding of “Responsible” or “Not Responsible” for the charges and any sanctions imposed.

NOTE: Should a charged student fail to appear for a College Committee Hearing, that student will be considered to have waived his/her right to represent themselves in the hearing and a decision will be made in their absence.

Composition of College Committee

3.1          The College Committee is composed of faculty members selected from a pool of faculty from the college where the alleged violation occurred designated by the Dean of the College and students from the College and/or the Carolina Student Judicial Council.  Faculty members are appointed annually by the Dean, and student members are selected annually according to the guidelines set in the Constitution of the Carolina Student Judicial Council, or may be appointed by the Dean of the College.

For a hearing, the College Committee shall consist of at least five (5) members: three (3) faculty members selected from the pool designated by the Dean of the College; and two (2) students selected from the College and/or the Carolina Student Judicial Council.

Findings

4.1          The outcome of an informal administrative hearing or a College Committee Hearing will be one of the following:

1)     Responsible: The College Committee or Dean determined beyond a preponderance of the evidence ("...more likely than not") that a violation of the Honor Code occurred.

2)   Not Responsible: Insufficient evidence exists to warrant a responsible finding.

3)   For Information Only (FIO): This finding is ONLY available in an informal administrative hearing.  An FIO finding indicates that the record of the alleged offense is for internal USC Office of Academic Integrity records only, and will not be shared without consent to anyone outside the USC system. 

Sanctions

5.1          The academic evaluation of all work remains the purview of the instructor of record.  However, an instructor of record who issues an academic penalty when an informal administrative hearing or College Committee hearing issues a finding of “Not Responsible” should be aware that such penalty may be subject to the University grievance policy. (Please see http://www.sa.sc.edu/carolinacommunity).  All academic penalties are separate from, but may be taken into account in determining non-academic sanctions.

5.2          The College Committee or the Dean is the final authority for the imposition of sanctions for violations of this Code.  The following sanctions may be imposed upon a student found to have violated the Honor Code:

1.       Expulsion from the University.

2.       Suspension from the University for a period of no less than one semester.

3.       Probation. A period of review and observation during which a student is under an official warning that subsequent violations of the Honor Code are likely to result in a more severe sanction including suspension or expulsion from the University.

4.       A Letter of Warning (first offense only).  A letter of warning indicates that any additional violations may result in immediate suspension from the University.

5.       “X” on the transcript before a grade denoting an Honor Code Violation.

6.       Academic Integrity Workshop.  This sanction may be offered by the Office of Academic Integrity. It is a four-week workshop (meeting once per week) and may be offered twice per semester.  The Office of Academic Integrity will notify the Deans and College Committees when such workshops will be available.

7.       Research Project.  This sanction typically should be assigned for the educational benefit of the student and should be related to academic integrity or ethics on the whole or in the discipline in which the offense occurred.  They will be monitored by the Office of Academic Integrity.   

8.       A combination of the above sanctions.

5.3                The sanctioning of an “X” before a grade (e.g. “XF”) is intended to denote an Honor Code violation in the course.  The University reserves the right to place this denotation on classes whether there is a grade assigned for the class or not (e.g. where a student withdrawals from the class and receives a “W” or “WF.”  The grade assigned by the instructor shall be recorded on the student’s transcript with the notation “violation of the USC Honor Code”.  The grade shall be treated in the same way as any grade would be for the purposes of Grade Point Average, course repeatability, and determination of academic standing. 

5.3.1           The sanctioning of an “X” will be given in the most serious breaches of academic dishonesty, as well as all second academic dishonesty offenses.  These more serious breaches involve premeditation, conspiracy and/or intent to deceive, and deliberate failure to comply with assignment(s) directions.  Sanctioning of an “X” will be determined by the Dean or the designated College Committee. 

5.3.2           The student may submit a written petition to the Office of Academic Integrity to have the “X” removed and permanently replaced with the assigned grade.  The Office of Academic Integrity will notify the College Committee and other relevant parties of the petition submission within 10 days of receipt of the petition.  The decision to remove the “X” and replace it with the assigned grade only shall rest in the discretion and judgment of a majority of a quorum of the College Committee; provided that:

a.       at the time the petition is received, at least twelve months shall have elapsed since the “X” was imposed, and,

b.       at the time the petition is received, the student shall have successfully completed a non-credit Academic Integrity Workshop, as administered by the Office of Academic Integrity; or, for the person no longer enrolled at the University, an equivalent activity as determined by the Office of Academic Integrity; and,

c.        the Office of Academic Integrity certifies that to the best of its knowledge the student has not been found responsible for any other act of academic dishonesty or similar disciplinary offense at the University of South Carolina or another institution. 

When these conditions are met and the College Committee so directs, the Dean will instruct the Registrar to remove the “X” from the transcript leaving no past evidence of the “X”. 

A prior violation will be treated as a significant aggravating factor in determining the appropriate sanction for a subsequent offense.

The sanctions provided for in this Section are intended to be disciplinary, and nothing in these procedures, including the imposition of any sanction, shall be interpreted to limit the academic authority of an instructor to determine an appropriate grade for a student who has violated the Honor Code.

It shall be the responsibility of the Office of Academic Integrity to notify proper University offices of the suspension or expulsion of a student.

Appeals

6.1          All sanctions determined by the College Committee shall remain in place during the appeals process. An “appeal” of an Informal Administrative Hearing will be considered a request for a College Committee hearing.  All exceptions to this policy shall be at the discretion of the Dean.

1.       Grounds for Appeal. The charged student may appeal the decision to the University Committee of Academic Responsibility on any or all of the following grounds:

a.       that deviations from procedural rules had significantly prejudiced the findings of the College Committee;

b.       that there is new evidence, which was not available at the time of the hearing and which would significantly impact the finding of the original hearing.

2.       Notice of Appeal. A student appealing the finding of the College Committee must notify the Office of Academic Integrity in writing no later than ten (10) business days after the receipt of the letter indicating the findings of the College Committee. The student should set forth the specific ground (s) of the appeal. The Office of Academic Integrity will notify all relevant parties, including the Chair of the University Committee, regarding the appeal within ten (10) business days and will compose a response memorandum.

3.       Consideration of Appeal. The University Committee of Academic Responsibility shall meet to consider the matter of appeal within fifteen (15) business days of receiving the appeal.  The University Committee of Academic Responsibility shall issue a written decision that either:

a.       the decision of the College Committee has been affirmed in its entirety; or

b.       the case is remanded to the College Committee with a clear statement of specific reasons for further proceedings and with directives to attend to procedural errors or new evidence.

The Chair of the University Committee of Academic Responsibility shall send copies of the written decision to the appealing student and the Office of Academic Integrity within ten (10) business days (barring exigent circumstances) of the Committee meeting.  The Office of Academic Integrity will forward copies to the appropriate parties within ten (10) business days (barring exigent circumstances).

Procedures for College Committee Hearings 

7.1          When a case is referred to the College Committee for a hearing, the Office of Academic Integrity shall set a date and location for the hearing and notify the charged student, the Committee, and relevant witnesses and participants. 

7.2          Rules Governing Committee Hearings

7.2.1       Hearings shall be considered closed and confidential and are subject to FERPA. All statements, information, or comments given during hearings shall be held in strictest confidence by Committee members, University staff, witnesses, advisors, and observers before, during, and after deliberation in keeping with relevant law and policy. Video, audio, stenographic, or photographic recording of hearing proceedings are prohibited, except as authorized by the Office of Academic Integrity. 

7.2.2       If any material facts are in dispute, relevant testimony of witnesses and other evidence shall be heard. The Dean, Assistant Vice Provost, or designee and the College Committee may call and question witnesses.  Character witnesses and/or testimony of character not directly relevant to the incident are not permitted. 

7.2.3       A student charged with a violation of the Honor Code is responsible for presenting his/her own case. Advisors (including attorneys) are not permitted to speak for the student or to participate directly in the hearing.  

7.2.4       The Chair of the Committee, with the assistance of the Dean, Assistant Vice Provost or designee, will exercise control over the hearing to avoid needless consumption of time through repetition of information and/or to prevent the harassment or intimidation of participants. Any member of the Committee may require the Committee to go into private session to discuss and decide a matter by majority vote. The Chair can recess the hearing at any time. The Chair of the Committee shall ensure that all procedures are appropriately followed. 

7.2.5       The charged student, the Dean, Assistant Vice Provost or designee, and the Committee members shall have the right, within reasonable time limits set by the Chair, to present questions for witnesses who testify orally.  

7.2.6       All hearings shall be conducted in an informal manner, and technical rules of evidence will not be applied. Witnesses (except for the charged student) shall be present during a hearing only during the time they are testifying. 

7.2.7       The charged student shall have access to examine any evidence and has a right to review documentary evidence and summaries of likely witness testimony at least three (3) days before the hearing, barring exigent circumstances. The charged student shall provide the Office of Academic Integrity with copies of relevant evidence, statements, and a list of witnesses no less than three (3) days prior to the date of the hearing.  A statement summarizing the relevant testimony of all witnesses must accompany the witness list.  The Office of Academic Integrity reserves the right to limit the witness list. The Office of Academic Integrity reserves the right to prohibit the presentation of any witness testimony not submitted within these guidelines. 

7.2.8       If the charged student chooses not to attend the Committee hearing, the Committee will proceed with the hearing without the student’s participation. 

7.2.9.      A tape or video recording of the hearing shall be kept by the Office of Academic Integrity until any appeal has been concluded, or ninety (90) days from the date of the hearing, whichever is longer. No typed record shall be required. The charged student and advisor shall have the right, upon request, to listen to the recording in the presence of a staff member from the Office of Academic Integrity. 

7.2.10.    The charged student may request a duplicate copy of the recording at his/her own expense within a period of ninety (90) days from the date of the hearing. 

7.2.11     After all information has been presented, the Committee shall meet in private to deliberate the case and reach its decision regarding responsibility. Decisions of the Committee must be by majority vote. If the student is found “Responsible” of violating the Honor Code, the Committee will hear any information concerning any past infractions by the student, which will be provided by the Associate Dean.  The Committee will then deliberate in private to determine appropriate sanctions. 

7.2.12     The Assistant Vice Provost shall be responsible for forwarding the written decision of the College Committee to the charged student. The letter from the College Committee shall consist of:

a. findings of the College Committee;
b. sanction(s);
c. statement regarding the right to appeal and the appeal procedures. 

7.3          Provisions for Charged students:  The following provisions apply to participants in all hearing processes conducted by the University or conducted by the University’s delegated authority. 

7.3.1       Each individual charged with Honor Code violations has the following rights that are protected throughout the hearing process. 

7.3.1.1.   The right to be notified in writing of the charges against him/her with sufficient time to prepare for a hearing. In the event that additional charges are brought, a further written notice must be forwarded to the student. The charged student may waive the right to separate written notice of additional charges in order to expedite the hearing process. 

7.3.1.2. The right to be notified of the date, time, and place of formal hearings at least three (3) University business days prior to the hearing. 

7.3.1.3. The right to know the nature and source of the evidence used in a hearing process. This includes the right upon the student’s request to review all documents and exhibits to be introduced at a hearing as well as a list of witnesses asked to testify at the hearing.

7.3.1.4    The right to present evidence on his or her own behalf.  A person’s knowledge or intent may be inferred from the circumstances of an alleged violation.

7.3.1.5. The right to elect not to appear at the hearing, in which case the hearing shall be conducted in the absence of the charged student. 

7.3.1.6    The right to refuse to answer any questions or to make a statement. However, the hearing authority may draw inferences from this refusal.

7.3.1.7    The right to question witnesses. The Committee may rule on the relevance of these questions.  

7.3.1.8. The right to be accompanied by an advisor throughout the hearing process. The advisor, with the written permission of the charged student, may: 

a. advise the charged regarding preparation for the hearing;
b. accompany the charged to all proceedings;
c. have access to evidence to be introduced at the hearing.  

NOTE: Advisors are not permitted to participate directly in the hearing process or to speak for the charged student.

Retention of Honor Code Records 

8.1                Records pertaining to Honor Code violations will be retained by the Office of Academic Integrity. 

8.2                Records of violations of the Honor Code will be kept in the same manner as academic records retained by the Registrar.

 Effective Date
This Honor Code shall take effect on August 15, 2007, and shall govern all proceedings commenced on or after that date.  Proceedings commenced prior to the effective date shall continue to be conducted in compliance with procedural rules in effect at the time the proceedings commenced.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 6.26

Introduction
1.1. This discipline system extends and applies the general principles of the Statement of Student Rights and Freedoms Within the Academic Community to specific actions and responsibilities of students and student organizations at the University of South Carolina. It accepts the proposition that “academic institutions exist for the transmission of knowledge, the pursuit of truth, the development of students, and the general well-being of society,” and that “free inquiry and free expression are indispensable to the attainment of these goals.” As such, the University strives to maintain an educational community that fosters the development of students who are ethically sensitive and responsible persons.

1.2. The University of South Carolina strives to protect this educational community and to maintain social discipline among its students and student organizations. Consistent with its purposes, reasonable efforts will be made to foster the personal and social development of those students who are held accountable for violations of University social regulations.

1.3. The purpose of this document is to set forth the specific authority and responsibility of the University in maintaining social discipline, the educational process of determining student and student organization accountability for violating the regulations, and the proper procedural safeguards to be followed in this process to insure fundamental fairness and protect the students and student organizations from unfair imposition of serious penalties and sanctions.

Application of Laws and Regulations
2.1. Students should be aware that educational institutions are not sanctuaries beyond the reach of the criminal laws of the communities and states wherein such institutions exist. While the rules and regulations of the University of South Carolina are not meant to duplicate general laws, there are some aspects in which the lawful interests of the institution as an academic community coincide with the broader public interests treated in general laws. Students, or student organizations, who commit offenses against the laws of municipalities, states, or the United States, are subject to prosecution by those authorities and may be subject to disciplinary action under University rules when their conduct violates institutional standards.

2.2. Students, no less than other citizens, are entitled to be secure in their personal lodgings, papers, and effects against unreasonable searches and seizures. Searches and seizures by law enforcement personnel incident to investigations or arrests are conducted only under proper warrant. This does not prohibit normal inspections of University housing or other facilities for maintenance, health, or safety purposes.

2.3. Students enjoy the same freedoms of speech and peaceable assembly as all citizens, but they are under certain legal obligations in the exercise of these freedoms by virtue of their membership in the University community. Expression may be subjected to reasonable regulations of time, place, number of persons, and form under established regulations. Expression in the form of action that materially interferes with the normal activities of the institution or invades the rights of others is prohibited. The University is pledged to protect lawful exercise of the rights of free speech and assembly and will invoke appropriate legal and disciplinary sanctions when necessary in the pursuit of this goal.

Authority and Responsibility
3.1. Responsibility for good conduct rests with students as individuals, for both themselves and their guests. Student organizations have similar responsibility for maintaining good conduct among their members and guests and at activities they sponsor. All members of the University community are expected to use reasonable judgment in their daily campus life and to show due concern for the welfare and rights of others.

3.2. The Board of Trustees is the governing body of the University and the powers of the President and the faculty are delegated by the Board in accordance with its policies. The faculty, subject to review by the President and the Board of Trustees, has legislative powers in all matters pertaining to the discipline of students and student organizations. The student discipline system is administered by the Division of Student Affairs. Student Government as an elected and representative voice of the student body, has the right to comment on any proposed changes pertaining to the discipline of students.

3.3. The Vice President for Student Affairs, in turn, designates the Office of Student Judicial Programs as directly authorized and responsible for the total operation of the Student Judicial System. This responsibility includes formulating and implementing policies and procedures, in cooperation with other appropriate University bodies, for the judicial consideration of conduct violations and the imposition of sanctions in an efficient, consistent, fair, legal, and educationally meaningful manner. The Office of Student Judicial Programs may further delegate its responsibility to various judicial bodies and administrative staff.

Student Code of Conduct - General Provisions
4.1. This section establishes the rules and regulations all students and student organizations of the University of South Carolina are expected to follow under the duty and corollary powers inherent in educational institutions to protect their educational purposes through the setting of standards of student conduct and scholarship and through the regulation of the use of University facilities.

4.2. Students and student organizations have a right to expect enforcement of these rules and regulations. The University also has the right to expect students and student organizations to abide by them as befits the responsibilities of students as members of the University community. Knowledge of these rules and regulations can prove most beneficial to students and student organizations in utilizing and protecting their guarded rights. It is important to add, however, that unfamiliarity with institutional regulations or rules is no ground for excusing infractions.

4.3. Scope of Application - The University may take disciplinary action for a violation of the Student Code of Conduct when the offense takes place on University premises or at University sponsored, endorsed, supported or related events which occur off campus, or when an offense which occurs off campus may adversely affect any interest of the University.

4.4. Definition of a “Student”
4.4.1 For the purpose of this policy a “student” is defined as any person who is admitted, enrolled or registered for study at the University of South Carolina for any academic period, and those who attend post-secondary educational institutions other than the University of South Carolina and who reside in a USC residence facility. Persons who are not officially enrolled for a particular term but who have a continuing student relationship with, or an educational interest in, the University of South Carolina are considered “students”.  A person shall also be considered a student during any period while the student is under suspension from the institution or when the person is attending or participating in any activity preparatory to the beginning of school including, but not limited to, fraternity or sorority rush, orientation, placement testing, and residence hall check-in.

4.5. General Principles of Group Responsibility for Student Organizations
4.5.1. Although not all acts of individual group members can or should be attributable to the group, any group or collection of its members acting in concert should be held responsible for its actions. In determining whether a group may be held collectively responsible for the individual actions of its members, all of the factors and circumstances surrounding the specific incident will be reviewed and evaluated. As a guiding principle, groups will be held responsible for the acts of their members when those acts grow out of, or are in any way related to group life. Isolated violations of individuals should not be chargeable to the group, but evidence of group conduct exists where:

1. Members of the group act in concert to violate University standards of conduct.
2. A violation arises out of a group-sponsored, financed, or endorsed event.
3. A group leader (s) has knowledge of the incident before it occurs and fails to take corrective action.
4. The incident occurs on the premises owned or operated by the group.
5. A pattern of individual violations is found to have existed without proper and appropriate group control, remedy, or sanction.
6. Members of a group act in concert, or the organization provides the impetus for violation of University rules and regulations.

4.6. Students who are arrested by any law enforcement agency are required to inform the Office of Student Judicial Programs of such matters within 72 hours of the arrest.  Students arrested may be subject to University disciplinary action when their conduct violates University standards.  Failure to report this information to the Office of Student Judicial Programs will result in a “Failure to Comply” charge and may result in further disciplinary action.

Student Code of Conduct - Other Provisions
The following statements constitute the official record of all general conduct rules and regulations at the University of South Carolina Columbia. Individual students and student organizations are expected to abide by these regulations and administrators are expected to enforce them. These regulations should be read broadly and are not designed to define prohibited conduct in exhaustive terms. Additional rules and regulations may be promulgated during the year; announcements will be made upon adoption of the changes or additions.
NOTE: Attempting, abetting, or being an accessory to any act prohibited by the General Student Conduct Regulations shall be considered the same as a completed violation.

5.1. Compliance with General Laws: Students or student organizations involved in alleged violations of any federal, state, or local laws may be subject to disciplinary action. Disciplinary action imposed by the University may precede and/or be in addition to any penalty imposed by an off-campus authority.

5.2. Damage to Property: Damage to or destruction of property, or actions that have the potential for such damage or destruction is prohibited. Conduct which threatens to damage, or creates hazardous conditions such as dropping, throwing, or causing objects or substances to fall from windows, doors, ledges, balconies or roofs and the placing of trash, garbage, etc. in areas not designated for such is also prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, unauthorized application of graffiti, paint, etc. to property or removal of window restrictors, security screens, etc.

5.3. Harm to Persons: Actions which result in physical harm, have the potential for physically harming another person, which create conditions that pose a risk of physical harm to another, or which cause reasonable apprehension of physical harm are prohibited. Conduct which threatens to cause harm to persons, or creates hazardous conditions for persons, such as dropping, throwing, or causing objects or substances to fall from windows, doors, ledges, balconies or roofs is also prohibited.

5.4. Possession of Weapons: The unauthorized possession or use of firearms or weapons of any other kind (including but not limited to knives, slingshots, metal knuckles, razors, paintball guns, BB guns, and air pistols) is prohibited. The use or display of any object or instrument in a dangerous or threatening manner is prohibited. The University Police provide temporary storage of these items with scheduled access by owners.

5.5. Use of Fireworks and Explosive Materials: The ignition or detonation of anything which could cause damage to persons or property or disruption by fire, smoke, explosion, noxious odors, stain, corrosion or similar means:  Possession of anything in the nature of fireworks, explosives or chemical explosives is prohibited on any property owned or operated by the University or off campus University sponsored events without prior University authorization.

5.6. Fire Hazard: No person shall start a fire or create a fire hazard on University property without University authorization. This regulation is also intended to prohibit the possession and/or use of candles, torches, incense burners, other open flame apparati, as well as extension cords and other devices or materials which may create a fire hazard if used without authorization or in unauthorized areas including, but not limited to, residence hall rooms.

5.7. Misuse of Fire Alarms and Safety Equipment: No person shall make, or cause to be made, a false fire alarm, or emergency report of any kind. No person shall tamper with, damage, disable or misuse fire safety equipment including, but not limited to, fire extinguishers, fire hoses, fire alarms and fire doors.  Tampering with or disabling any fire safety equipment in a residence hall may result in your immediate removal from University Housing and a fine.

5.8. Theft or Misappropriation: Theft of any kind, including seizing, receiving, or concealing property or services with knowledge that it has been stolen, is prohibited. Sale, possession, or misappropriation of any property or services without the owner’s permission is also prohibited.

5.9. Unauthorized Sale of Textbooks: The sale of a textbook by any student who does not own the book is prohibited without prior written authorization from the owner of the book. Books that are found should be turned in to the Russell House Lost and Found.

5.10 Disorderly Conduct: Individual or group behavior that is lewd, indecent, or a breach of peace.  Such conduct includes, but is not limited to, unwelcome physical contact, or noncompliance with University officials, staff, or law enforcement when acting in the scope of their duties.

5.11. Hazing as defined by the University Policy on Hazing (STAF 3.05).

5.12. Misuse of  Documents: Forgery, alteration, or misuse of any document, record, or officially issued identification is prohibited, including, but not limited to, furnishing false information or withholding material information from the University processes or procedures.

5.13. Fraud or Lying: Lying or fraudulent misrepresentation in, or with regard to, any transaction with the University, whether oral or written, is prohibited, including but not limited to misrepresenting the truth before a hearing of the University or knowingly making a false statement orally or in writing to any University official which materially interferes with University processes or procedures.

5.14. Misuse of University Student Identification Cards: Lending a University Student ID card to anyone for reasons not authorized by the University Student ID policy, failing to present a Student ID card when requested by a University official acting in the performance of his or her duties, or possessing or using a fraudulent ID card, may subject the owner and/or the holder to disciplinary action (Refer to University Student Identification Card Policy).

5.15. Failure to Comply with Official Requests: Students and student organizations are expected to comply with and respond appropriately to the reasonable and lawful requests of University officials in the performance of their duties. Students are expected to appear at disciplinary hearings to respond to allegations or testify as a witness when reasonably notified to do so. A failure to properly comply with or complete a sanction or obligation resulting from a disciplinary hearing or adjudication may also be considered failure to comply with an official request. (Note to resident students: The definition of University officials in this regulation includes Housing staff).

5.16. Unauthorized Presence/Use of University Facilities: Unauthorized entry into, presence in, or use of University facilities equipment or property which has not been reserved or accessed through appropriate University officials is prohibited.

5.17. Misuse of Keys: No person may use or possess any University key without proper authorization. No student is allowed under any condition to have a University key duplicated. (Note to resident students: Loaning a residence hall room key to a person not assigned to that room may be considered a violation of this regulation).

5.18. Disruptive Activity: No person or organization may interfere with, disrupt normal activity and operations of, or promote the interference or disruption of students, faculty, administration, staff, or the educational mission of the University, or of the University or its buildings, equipment or facilities. Any form of expression that materially interferes with such activities and operations or invades the rights of persons may be proscribed or prohibited.

Noncompliance with reasonable time, place, or manner restrictions on expression is considered a violation of this section. Such activity includes, but is not limited to, behavior in a classroom or instructional program that interferes with the instructor or presenter’s ability to conduct the class or program, or the ability of others to profit from the class or program.

NOTE: To remain in the vicinity of activity which threatens to disrupt or is disrupting normal University functions may have serious legal and disciplinary implications. Bystanders, if their presence incites or adds to the disruption, as well as more active participants in the disruptive activity may be charged with jointly engaging in an enterprise which is prohibited by law. Students should accordingly avoid the scene of any disruptive or potentially disruptive action. In any case, failure to leave when asked to disperse by University or law enforcement officials will result in disciplinary and/or legal action.

NOTE: In any case wherein students of the University of South Carolina are involved in action which is disruptive of the normal activities of the institution or its personnel, or which exceeds the bounds of normal internal discipline in its impact, the Board of Trustees may exercise its right to name a Special Hearing Board, Committee, or Officer to investigate the questioned action and to initiate appropriate disciplinary or other measures.

5.19. Misuse of Telephones and/or other Communication Technology: No student shall misuse or abuse, or assist in the misuse or abuse of communication equipment at the University. Such activity includes, but is not limited to, using any form of communication equipment to harass or threaten any person or persons, or using any form of communication equipment to disrupt the normal operations or activities of any person, organization, or the University. Communication equipment includes, but is not limited to, electronic mail, pagers, voice mail, computers, printers, etc.

5.20. Alcohol Policies: Students and student organizations must comply with the published regulations, and any and all applicable laws, concerning the transport, display, provision, possession and consumption of beer, wine, and other alcoholic beverages. A complete outline of these regulations is available in the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs. Common containers of beer or wine (kegs, party balls, etc.) are not permitted at student organization functions or by any individual students at any time in a residence hall.   Beverages must be used in individual containers.  Violating any other provision of the Student Code of Conduct while under the influence of alcohol is a violation of this Alcohol Policy. Such conduct includes, but is not limited to, public intoxication.

5.21. Drug Policies: The unauthorized possession, use, manufacture, sale, or distribution of any counterfeit, illegal, dangerous, “designer,” or controlled drug or other substance is prohibited. This includes prescription medications.  Violating any other provision of the Student Code of Conduct while under the influence of any illegal or illegally obtained drug is also a violation of this policy (Refer to the University Drug Policy).  The possession of drug paraphernalia is also prohibited (i.e., pipes, bongs, blunts).  Any dilute, late, missed, forged, or failed university required drug screen will constitute a violation of this policy.  

5.22. Failure to comply with University Policies and Procedures: Failure to abide by any published University policy or procedure is prohibited.

5.23. Sexual Assault: Committing or attempting to commit an act of sexual assault as defined by the University Sexual Assault Policy is prohibited.

5.24. Computer Misuse: In addition to adhering to the University’s “Computer Network and Access Policy” (ACAF 7.01), misusing University computing resources by intentionally making, receiving, accessing, altering, using, providing or in any way tampering with files, discs, programs, passwords, messages or other computer users without their permission is prohibited. Using computer resources to harass others or in ways that violate institutional computer use policies is prohibited.

5.25. Harassment: Conduct that creates or attempts to create an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment for another person. Such conduct includes, but is not limited to, action(s) or statement(s) that threaten harm or intimidate a person, stalking, voyerism (or peeping) or any other form of unwanted contact.

5.26. Voyeurism: Voyeurism is defined as viewing, photographing, audio recording, video recording, producing, or creating a digital electronic file or filming another person without that person's knowledge and consent, while the person is in a place where he or she would have a reasonable expectation of privacy.

Sanctions, Individual Students
6.1. The following disciplinary sanctions may be imposed upon students found responsible for a violation of the Student Code of Conduct. All sanctions may be imposed either singularly or in combination. The purposes of imposing sanctions are twofold: one, to protect the University community from behavior which is detrimental to the community and/or the educational mission of the University; and two, to assist students in identifying acceptable parameters and consequences of future behavior. The sanction(s) imposed is(are) intended to correspond with the severity or frequency of violations, as well as the student’s willingness to recommit himself or herself to good citizenship through behaviors that fall within the Student Code of Conduct of the University.
6.1.1. Expulsion: Dismissal from the University without the ability to apply for readmittance.
6.1.2. Suspension: Denial of enrollment, attendance, and other privileges at the University for a specified period of time. Permission to apply for readmission upon termination of the period may be granted with or without conditions/restrictions. Students may be required to complete a period of disciplinary probation upon their return to the University.
NOTE: Any student suspended or expelled for disciplinary reasons must vacate the campus within the period of time noted in the notice of suspension. The student may not return to campus or University property during the term of the suspension without prior written permission by the Director of Judicial Affairs or designee.
6.1.3. Conduct Probation: A period of review and observation during which a student is under an official warning that subsequent violations of University rules, regulations, or policies are likely to result in a more severe sanction including suspension or expulsion from the University. While on conduct probation, a student may be considered to be “not in good standing” and may face specific limitations on his or her behavior and/or University privileges (see Conditions/Restrictions).
6.1.4. Conditions/Restrictions: Limitations upon a student’s behavior and/or University privileges for a period of time, or an active obligation to complete a specified activity. This sanction may include, but is not limited to: restricted access to the campus or parts of campus, denial of the right to represent the University in any way, denial of housing or parking privileges, required attendance at a workshop, or participation in public service.
6.1.5. Written Warning: An official reprimand that makes the misconduct a matter of record in University files. Any further misconduct could result in further disciplinary action.
6.1.6. Fines and Restitution: An order may be issued to make restitution or to pay a fine when a student has engaged in conduct including but not limited to: the damage or destruction of property, the theft or misappropriation of property, fraudulent behavior, violations of the alcohol and/or drug policies, or violations of the fire safety policies. Such property may belong to an individual, group, or the University. Restitution may be in the form of financial payment, community service, or other special activities designated by the hearing authority. Additional fines may be assessed as a punitive measure.
6.1.7. Housing Sanctions: These sanctions include Written Warning, Conditions, Restitution, Housing Probation, Relocation, and Removal, as described in Housing policies.

Sanctions, Student Organizations
7.1. The following disciplinary sanctions may be imposed upon student organizations when they have been found responsible for violating the Student Code of Conduct. All sanctions may be imposed either individually or in combination. Disciplinary sanctions are imposed for the purpose of holding student organizations and their membership accountable for their actions and the actions of their guest(s), whether on campus or at any organization sponsored function.
7.1.1. Permanent Revocation of Organizational Registration: “Permanent revocation” of the organization’s registration means revocation without leave to apply for new registration. Any organization whose registration is permanently revoked must cease all organizational activities upon receipt of the notice of permanent revocation. Any member of an organization whose registration has been permanently revoked shall relinquish any appointed or elected office held with that organization’s governing body. Balances of all organizational funds granted by the Student Government Senate Finance Committee are to be surrendered to the custody of the Senate Finance Committee. Office or housing space assigned by the University shall be vacated within five (5) work days (an organization under emergency suspension may be required to vacate space more quickly) from the date the notice of suspension is issued. Space vacated due to suspension may be reassigned to other eligible University organizations.
7.1.2. Suspension: Suspension means denial of rights and privileges of a registered organization for a specified period of time. Any organization whose registration is suspended or revoked must cease all organizational activities upon receipt of the notice of revocation or suspension. Any member of a suspended organization may not hold an appointed or elected office with that organization’s governing body for the duration of the organization’s period of suspension. Balances of all organizational funds granted by the Senate Finance Committee are to be surrendered to the custody of the Senate Finance Committee. Office or housing space assigned by the University shall be vacated within five (5) work days (an organization under emergency suspension may be required to vacate space more quickly) from the date the notice of suspension is issued. Space vacated due to suspension may be reassigned to other eligible University organizations. Leave to reapply for registration as a student organization may be granted with or without qualifications. Office or housing space assigned prior to suspension will not automatically be reassigned. The organization may reapply for a space assignment, subject to availability. Suspended organizations will automatically be placed on probationary status for a minimum of one academic year following their renewed registration.
7.1.3. Conduct Probation: A period of review and observation during which a student organization is under an official warning that their misconduct was very serious. Subsequent violations of University rules, regulations, or policies could result in a more severe sanction including suspension. During the probationary period, a student organization is deemed “not in good standing” with the University and may be subject to one or any combination of the following conditions and/or restrictions:
7.1.3.1. Denial of the right to represent the University;
7.1.3.2. Denial of the right to maintain an office or other assigned space on University property;
7.1.3.3. Denial of the privileges of:

1. Receiving or retaining funding;
2. Participating in intramurals;
3. Sponsoring any social event;
4. Sponsoring any speaker or guest on campus;
5. Participating in any social event;
6. Cosponsoring any social event or other activity;
7. Rush or membership recruitment.

7.1.4. Conditions/Restrictions: Limitations upon a student organization’s privileges for a period of time or an active obligation to complete a specified activity or activities. This sanction may include, for example, denial of housing or social privileges, etc.
7.1.5. Written Warning: An official written reprimand making the misconduct a matter of record in University files for a specified period of time. Any further misconduct could result in more severe disciplinary action.
7.1.6. Restitution/Fines: An organization may be ordered to make restitution or to pay a fine when the organization has engaged in conduct including but not limited to: the damage or destruction of property, the theft or misappropriation of property, fraudulent or disruptive behavior, or violations of the alcohol and/or drug policies. Such property may belong to an individual, group, or the University. Restitution may be in the form of financial payment, public service, or other special activities designated by the hearing authority. Additional fines may be assessed as a punitive measure.

Disciplinary Procedures, Individual Violations
8.1. The following is a format of rights, responsibilities, and procedures to be used in assuring fundamental fairness in disciplinary proceedings involving one or more students or student organizations accused of an infraction of the Student Code of Conduct.
8.2. Jurisdiction and Resolution of Complaints
8.2.1. University Housing- Incidents allegedly involving students living in University Residence Halls and/or which occur in University Residence Halls are resolved by University Housing and may be referred to the Office of Student Judicial Programs. Specific procedures for adjudicating these cases can be found under the “Housing” section of this handbook.
8.2.2. Greek Life - Discipline cases involving individual members of Greek letter organizations that take place within Greek housing may be resolved administratively by the Residence Hall Director or Greek Life staff. Greek Life staff may refer cases to the Office of Student Judicial Programs. In addition, the case may be referred to the chapter’s peer conduct review board. The Office of Greek Life is notified of outcomes of cases referred to a chapter and reserves the right to take additional action if necessary. Members of Greek organizations, as well as the organizations themselves, are governed by requirements from multiple sources including those of the national organization and local chapter, the Student Code of Conduct and requirements of the Greek Life Office. As such, individual members, as well as Greek organizations, can face disciplinary action by multiple sources.
8.2.2.1. Discipline cases involving allegations of group responsibility (see General Principles of Group Responsibility) by a sorority recognized by the Sorority Council are referred to the Sorority Council Conduct Board. This Board is comprised of one representative from each organization recognized by the Sorority Council, and is advised by a staff member in the Office of Greek Life.
8.2.2.2. Discipline cases involving allegations of group responsibility (see General Principles of Group Responsibility) by a fraternity recognized by the Fraternity Council may be heard by either an informal or formal conduct board hearing. In an Informal Conduct Board hearing a chapter leader represents the chapter in an informal mediation with the Fraternity Council President, Fraternity Council Chief Justice, and a staff member from the Office of Greek Life. During the mediation the responsibility of the chapter is determined and appropriate sanctions imposed. The Formal Fraternity Council Conduct Board is comprised of six (6) justices from member organizations and is advised by a Greek Life staff member. The board adjudicates the case, determines responsibility of the chapter and imposes appropriate sanctions.
8.2.2.3. The Greek Life Office may refer cases to the Office of Student Judicial Programs if they involve allegations more appropriately resolved by that office. In addition, the (inter)national headquarters of chapters involved in incidents may conduct proceedings, reach determinations, and impose sanctions on Greek organizations under their own authority.
8.2.3. Office of Student Judicial Programs - The Office of Student Judicial Programs resolves alleged violations by individual students and student organizations excepting those cases noted under Housing and Greek Life.

Investigation of Complaints - Office of Student Judicial Programs
9.1. Upon receiving a complaint of misconduct, or upon his or her own initiative, the Director of Judicial Affairs or designee may review relevant evidence and consult with relevant parties regarding the incident in question. If the evidence warrants disciplinary action, the Office of Student Judicial Programs will send written notification to the accused student or student organization representative indicating the nature of the activity in question and what University rules were allegedly violated.

Options for Resolution of Disciplinary Charges - Office of Student Judicial Programs
10.1. The student or student organization representative is given the opportunity to meet with the Director of Judicial Affairs or designee to discuss the charges. If the student fails to meet with the Director or designee a hold may be placed on the student’s registration preventing him/her from registering for future classes until the matter is resolved. Additionally, the student may be charged with a violation of the “failure to comply” provision of the Student Code of Conduct (section 5.15). A student organization may be restricted from any or all activities until the representative meets with the Director or designee. The Director or designee may make a determination and impose a sanction by considering whatever evidence is available. At the conclusion of this discussion regarding the charges, the Director or designee may either drop the charges if they are unsupported by evidence, or offer the following options to resolve the charges:
10.1.1. Mediation - An agreement to participate in a mediation process. This option is reserved for situations where all of the immediate parties in the incident agree to have a conflict resolved in this fashion, and the option is considered appropriate by the Director or designee. Failure to fulfill the terms of a mediation agreement could lead to reactivation of the charges as well as additional disciplinary action.
10.1.2. Informal Administrative Hearing - An informal hearing with the Director or designee (The Director or designee may decline to hear the case in this manner and require one of the following two options). An informal hearing allows the charged party (ies) to present evidence for consideration and suggest witnesses that the Director or designee may consider interviewing before a decision is rendered. The Director or designee may contact other parties who have knowledge/information regarding the incident in question. The charged student (s) /student organization representative waives the right to question such parties or otherwise participate in an evidentiary hearing. Informal hearings are not required to be tape-recorded. Within three weeks of this hearing, barring special circumstances requiring an extension of this time limit, the Director or designee will send the charged party(ies) a letter that indicates the finding of “responsible” or “not responsible” for the charges, and any sanctions imposed subsequent to a finding of responsibility.
10.1.3. Formal Administrative Hearing - A formal hearing with the Director or designee (The Director or designee may decline to hear the case and require that a Carolina Student Judicial Council Hearing be held). This option allows the party(ies) charged to respond to the charges, present witnesses and present questions for the witnesses to answer. Formal hearings are tape-recorded. Within ten (10) business days of this hearing, barring special circumstances requiring an extension of this time limit, the Director or designee will send the charged party(ies) a letter which indicates the finding of “responsible” or “not responsible” for the charges, and any sanctions imposed subsequent to a finding of responsibility.
10.1.4. Formal University Conduct Hearing - A formal hearing before the Carolina Student Judicial Council. The Carolina Student Judicial Council shall consist of at least five (5) members selected by the Director of Judicial Affairs or designee from a pool of student members appointed by the University President or designee; faculty members appointed by the Chairperson of the Faculty Senate or designee, and administrative staff members appointed by the University President or designee. Faculty members are appointed for staggered two (2) year terms, staff members are appointed annually, and student members are selected annually. University Conduct Hearings are tape-recorded.

Within ten (10) business days of this hearing, barring special circumstances requiring an extension of this time limit, the Director or designee will send the charged party(ies) a letter which indicates the finding of “responsible” or “not responsible” for the charges, and any sanctions imposed subsequent to a finding of responsibility.

NOTE: Should a student fail to appear for a Formal Administrative Hearing or a University Conduct Hearing, that student may be considered as having waived his/her right to represent themselves in the hearing, and a decision may be made in their absence.

Carolina Student Judicial Council
11.1. Selection, Composition and Dismissal

11.1.1. The Carolina Student Judicial Council (“Council”) is comprised of a pool of student members selected by the Director of Judicial Affairs or designee, and volunteer faculty and staff members, approved and selected by the Director of Judicial Affairs. All members are appointed/selected/approved annually.

11.1.2. For a University Conduct Hearing, the Council will form a hearing panel.  It shall consist of at least five (5) members, selected by the Director of Judicial Affairs or designee.  Should a quorum not be available for a hearing, the Director of Judicial Affairs may appoint ad-hoc members to this Council to hear the case. Decisions will be by majority vote of the hearing panel. The Council will elect a Chair prior to the hearing. With the voluntary consent of the Director and the charged party(ies), the provisions related to Council composition and quorum may be waived in order to expedite the scheduling and completion of hearing procedures. A majority vote of the hearing panel is needed to reach a decision regarding a finding and, if appropriate, a sanction.

11.1.3. Members have a right to recuse themselves from a case. If challenged by the person whose case is being heard, a member may be excused for cause by the chairperson of the panel. Cause will be determined by the Council members and any alternates present.

11.1.4. Members of the Carolina Student Judicial Council who are charged with any violation of the Student Code of Conduct or with a criminal offense may be temporarily suspended from their position on the Council. Student members found responsible for any such violations or offenses may be permanently or temporarily removed from their position. All removals shall be administered by the Director of Judicial Affairs based upon sufficient evidence and cause for action.

11.2. Rules Governing Formal Hearings
11.2.1. When a student/student organization representative chooses an option of a formal administrative hearing, or a Formal Hearing before the Carolina Student Judicial Council, or when a case is referred to a council hearing, the Office of Student Judicial Programs shall set a date and place for a hearing and notify those charged, the Council and relevant witnesses and participants as to the scheduling of the hearing.
11.2.2. Hearings shall be considered closed and confidential. All statements, information, or comments given during hearings shall be held in strictest confidence by Hearing Officers/Council members, University staff, witnesses, advisors, and observers before, during, and after deliberation in keeping with relevant law and policy. Video, audio, stenographic, or photographic recording of hearing proceedings are prohibited, except as authorized by the Office of Student Judicial Programs.
11.2.3. If any material facts are in dispute, testimony of witnesses and other evidence shall be heard.
11.2.4. A party charged with a violation is responsible for presenting his/her own case. Advisors are not permitted to speak or to participate directly in any hearing.
11.2.5. The Hearing Officer/Chair of the Council, with assistance of the representative for the University, will exercise control over the hearing to avoid needless consumption of time through repetition of information and/or prevent the harassment or intimidation of participants. Any member of the hearing Council may require the Council to go into private session to discuss and decide a matter by majority vote. The Chair can recess the hearing at any time. The Hearing Officer/Chair of the Council shall insure that all procedures are appropriately followed.
11.2.6. The party(ies) charged with a violation(s) and the Hearing Officer/Council members shall have the right, within reasonable time limits set by the chair, to present questions for witnesses who testify orally. The Hearing Officer/Council or Director, subject to provisions in the Student Code of Conduct, may require that questions by the charged party(ies) be addressed to the Hearing Officer/Chair who can ask these questions of the witnesses.
11.2.7. All hearings shall be conducted in an informal manner and technical rules of evidence will not be applied. Witnesses (except for the charged party or parties) shall be present during a hearing only during the time they are testifying.
11.2.8. The Council, or Hearing Officer, may proceed independently to secure evidence for the hearing. The charged party(ies) shall have access to any evidence at least three (3) days before the hearing, unless exigent circumstances preclude this possibility. The charged party(ies) shall have reasonable time to respond to it.
11.2.9. A staff member from the Office of Student Judicial Programs serves as an ex-officio member of the Council, and may assist in administering the hearing by answering questions regarding procedural issues. This representative may also facilitate the deliberation process, as well as aid in maintaining order at the hearing. The Office of Student Judicial Programs may authorize University agents to be present to advise the Council.
11.2.10. If the charged student/student organization representative chooses not to attend the formal hearing, the Hearing Officer/Council may proceed with the hearing and reach decisions and impose sanctions without the student’s/representative’s participation.
11.2.11. A tape or video recording of the hearing shall be kept by the Office of Student Judicial Programs until any appeal or any external judicial review has been concluded, or ninety (90) days from the date of the hearing, whichever is longer. No typed record shall be required. The charged party(ies) and advisor shall have the right, upon request, to listen to the recording in the presence of a staff member from the Office of Student Judicial Programs.
11.2.12. The charged student or student organization representative may request a duplicate copy of the recording at his/her/its own expense within a period of ninety (90) days from the date of the hearing.

11.3. Deliberation and Decisions of the Council
11.3.1. After hearing the evidence, the Hearing Officer/Council may choose to continue the hearing at a later date if additional evidence or witnesses are needed.
11.3.2. After all information has been presented and the charged party has made a final statement, the hearing Council shall meet in private to discuss the case, reach its decision, and if appropriate, determine a sanction. Decisions of the Council must be by majority vote. If the student(s) is(are) found responsible of violating the Student Code of Conduct, the Hearing Officer/Council may hear any information concerning any past disciplinary record(s) of the student(s) or student organization(s) in determining an appropriate sanction(s).
11.3.3. The Director of Judicial Affairs, or designee, shall be responsible for forwarding the written decision of the hearing authority to the charged party(ies). The letter from the hearing authority shall consist of:
a. findings of the hearing authority;
b. sanction(s); and
c. statement regarding the right to appeal and the appeal procedures.

Appeals - Office of Student Judicial Programs
12.1. Decisions of the Director of Judicial Affairs or designee, or from a University Conduct Hearing, may be appealed by a student/student organization found responsible for a violation to the Vice President for Student Affairs/Vice Provost for Academic Support. The reasons for an appeal are limited to the following:
12.1.1. The original Hearing Officer/Council committed a procedural error in hearing the case which significantly prejudiced the findings of the Hearing Officer/Council; and/or,
12.1.2. New evidence, which could not have been available at the time of the hearing, and which is material to the outcome of the case, is available.
12.2. All appeals must be made in writing within five (5) University business days of receipt of the original written decision to the Office of Student Judicial Programs who will submit it to the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs and Department of Academic Support. A decision is assumed to be received three (3) University business days from the date of mailing.  After review, the Vice President or designee may either:
(a) affirm the finding(s) of the original hearing authority, in which case the decision is final; or
(b) remand the case to the original hearing authority for further proceedings with directives to attend to procedural errors or new evidence.

In extraordinary circumstances, the Vice President or designee may direct a new hearing with a Hearing Officer/Council. All deadlines expressed in any section are subject to change if exigent circumstances exist.

12.3. The Vice President or designee shall send written notification of the decision regarding the appeal to the appealing party within fifteen (15) University business days of receiving the appeal barring special circumstances requiring an extension of this time limit. A copy of the decision will be sent to the original Hearing Officer/Council.

12.4. The decision of the Vice President in all appellate matters is the final decision for the University.

General Provisions
13.1. The following provisions apply to participants in all hearing processes conducted by the University or conducted by the University’s delegated authority.
13.2. Rights of Those Charged With Violations of the Code of Conduct
13.2.1. Those individuals and groups charged with violations have the following rights that are protected throughout the hearing process.
13.2.1.1. The right to be notified in writing of their rights in the disciplinary process.
13.2.1.2. The right to be notified in writing of the charges against him/her/them with sufficient time to prepare for a hearing. In the event that additional charges are brought, a further written notice must be forwarded to the student (s) or student organization (s). The charged student (s) or student organization (s) may waive the right to separate written notice of additional charges in order to expedite the hearing process.
13.2.1.3. The right to be notified of the date, time, and place of formal hearings at least three (3) University business days prior to the hearing.
13.2.1.4. The right to know the nature and source of the evidence used in a hearing process. This includes the right to review all documents and exhibits to be introduced at a hearing as well as a list of witnesses asked to testify at the hearing, upon the student’s request.
13.2.1.5. The right to present evidence on one’s own behalf.
13.2.1.6. The right to elect not to appear at the hearing, in which case the hearing shall be conducted in the absence of the charged party(ies).
13.2.1.7. The right to refuse to answer any questions or make a statement. However, the hearing authority may draw inferences from this refusal.
13.2.1.8. The right to present questions for the witnesses to answer. The Hearing Officer/Council may rule on relevance of these questions.
13.2.1.9. The right to be accompanied by an advisor throughout the hearing process. The advisor, with the written permission of the charged student(s) or student organization(s), may:
a. Advise the accused regarding preparation for the hearing;
b. Accompany the accused to all disciplinary proceedings;
c. Have access to evidence to be introduced at the hearing.

NOTE: Advisors are not permitted to participate directly in the hearing process, or to speak for the charged student(s) or student organization(s).

13.3. Rights of Victims of Violent Crime Including Sexual Assault
13.3.1. Alleged victims of sexual assault and other violent crime as defined by federal statute, are afforded the following rights pursuant to the signing of a confidentiality agreement:
13.3.1.1. The right to be notified in writing of their rights in the disciplinary process.
13.3.1.2. The right to have an advisor of their choosing accompany them throughout their participation in the disciplinary process. The advisor, with the written permission of the alleged victim, may:
a. Advise the alleged victim regarding preparation for the hearing;
b. Accompany the alleged victim to all disciplinary proceedings;
c. Have access to evidence to be introduced at the hearing.
13.3.1.3. The right to submit a victim impact statement to the Hearing Officer or Council for consideration.
13.3.1.4. The right to have past behavior excluded from the determination process.
13.3.1.5. The right to accommodations in giving testimony consistent with providing a safe atmosphere, and consistent with the rights of the accused.
13.3.1.6. The right to be notified in writing of the final determination and any sanction imposed as result of the disciplinary process.

13.4. Additional Rights of Victims of Sexual Assault
13.4.1. Alleged victims of sexual assault are afforded these additional rights, pursuant to the signing of a confidentiality agreement:
13.4.1.1. The right to receive a copy of the formal charges sent to the alleged assailant;
13.4.1.2. The right to be notified of the date, time, and place of formal hearings at least three (3) University business days prior to the hearing;
13.4.1.3. The right to have the hearing authority consider providing alcohol or other drugs in the commission of a sexual assault as an aggravating factor when sanctioning the perpetrator.
NOTE: For further information regarding accommodations and rights consult the Campus Sexual Assault Policy, Victim’s Bill of Rights.

13.5. The University reserves the right to withhold the diploma and/or degree certification of students who have been charged with a violation of University policy even though they may have completed all academic requirements. In circumstances where dismissal is a possibility for disciplinary infractions, the diploma and/or degree certification may be withheld until the disciplinary charges have been resolved and/or sanctions completed.

13.6. When a case involves Code of Conduct charges against more than one party, the hearing authority shall have the option of choosing the hearing option for all parties and holding one hearing to resolve charges against all parties. Any accused student/student organization will have the right to have separate time during the hearing to discuss their particular case with the Hearing Officer/Council without the other parties being present.

13.7. If a party(ies) charged with a violation of the Code of Conduct, regardless of which hearing authority may hear the matter, wishes to have the hearing postponed because there is pending or possible civil or criminal litigation which he/she feels might be prejudiced by the findings of a disciplinary process, such postponement may be granted by the Director of Judicial Affairs or designee, provided that the student agrees to accept conduct probation or suspension in the interim, which may include being banned from parts of or the entire campus and/or other conditions/restrictions. The student shall be informed of what the interim action will be prior to his or her decision to postpone a hearing. The University also has the right to choose to postpone a hearing pending the outcome of a criminal or civil process.

13.8. Any person charged with a violation of University rules shall have, when needed, the aid of the University in the reasonable attainment of the information necessary to answer the charges, or requesting the attendance of witnesses at the hearing. When a witness is unable to attend a scheduled hearing, the Office of Student Judicial Programs may, if it does not conflict with due process requirements, authorize the witness to make a signed statement that may be introduced at the hearing.

13.9. Sanctions imposed by any of the hearing authorities noted (not including Emergency Action) may not be implemented until the internal University appeal process or time period for an appeal has been exhausted.

13.10. The charged party(ies) is/are responsible for presenting his/her own case; advisors are therefore not permitted to speak to the hearing authority or participate directly in any hearing.

13.11. The standard of proof utilized in all hearings and appeals to resolve Code of Conduct charges shall be that of “preponderance of evidence”.

13.12. Deviations from prescribed procedures will not necessarily invalidate a decision or proceeding unless significant prejudice to the charged student or student organization is shown to have resulted.

13.13. Unless otherwise stated, extended in writing, or in exigent circumstances, the time limit for a decision-maker to issue a decision is twenty (20) University business days from the date of the first meeting with the charged student. For good cause, a decision-maker may extend time limits for decisions. Good cause shall include, but not be limited to, the fact that a deadline falls during finals week or during a period such as vacations, finals week, holidays, intersessions, summer sessions, or if decision-makers are absent from the University.

13.14. The decision of the Vice President for Student Affairs in all appellate matters is the final decision for the University. However, the President has the discretionary authority to review decisions at the Vice President level or below, and the Board of Trustees has the discretionary authority to review decisions of the President. Such review of disciplinary decisions will take place only in extraordinary cases, such as where serious procedural issues seem to have occurred or where the decision appears to be in direct violation of University policy. Requests for such review normally will be considered only after the prescribed avenues of appeal have been completed. Requests shall be made by written statement that includes the facts of the case, the type of hearing and appeal and the reasons justifying extraordinary review. Such requests must be filed in the Office of the President within five (5) University business days of the receipt of the appeal decision. If review is granted, the reviewing authority will determine appropriate procedures. New evidence will not normally be considered.

Emergency Action
14.1. The University may impose emergency action upon a student or student organization when there is reason to believe, based upon available evidence, that the student/student organization poses an immediate threat to the safety, health or welfare of persons, property or the orderly operation of the University. This action is warranted by potential or threatened danger or disruption, and indicated only when the serious nature or immediacy of the threat requires immediate action. The action is interim in nature, pending the outcome of disciplinary procedures. Emergency action authorized by this policy includes:
14.1.1. Emergency Suspension, Individual Student(s) - This action requires a student to leave University property immediately, and not return during the suspension period, and/or comply with other stated conditions for a specified period. Emergency suspension may be used to temporarily suspend a student’s eligibility for enrollment or attendance, as well as for denial of the student’s access to University facilities or property. The Office of Student Judicial Programs may impose emergency suspension.
14.1.2. Emergency Limitation of Privileges, Individual Student - This action may place a limitation on a student’s eligibility to enjoy certain privileges, or participate in or attend certain events (or certain kinds of events) without the suspension of enrollment status. This action may prohibit a student’s presence on University property or certain facilities, or impose conditions that must be met in order for that student to enjoy certain privileges, participate in activities, or attend events. The Office of Student Judicial Programs may impose this action.
14.1.3. Emergency Housing Relocation/Removal, Individual Student- This action may be imposed upon a student by University Housing as outlined in the Housing policy section of this handbook.
14.1.4. Emergency Suspension and/or Restriction, Student Organization - This action may suspend or restrict a student organization for an interim period of time pending the outcome of disciplinary proceedings when there is reasonable cause to believe that the continued activities of the organization and its members may pose an immediate threat to the safety, health or welfare of persons, property or the orderly operation of the University. During the time of suspension the organization may be required to cease all organizational activities and vacate any assigned University space immediately upon written notice. This action may be imposed by the Office of Student Judicial Programs for all student organizations, or the Office of Student Life, for Greek organizations.

14.2. When emergency action is taken against a student or student organization the student or student organization representative is given notice explaining the nature, reason for, and duration of the action, as well as any conditions that may apply. A student notified of such action shall, upon written request, be given an opportunity to meet with the University authority taking the action within five (5) business days from the date of the request. This meeting shall be held to consider only the following issues related to the emergency action:
a. The reliability of information alleging misconduct; and
b. Whether the conduct or surrounding circumstances reasonably indicate the student’s presence on campus or continued unrestricted participation in campus affairs or the organization’s unrestricted activities would pose an immediate threat to the safety, health, or welfare of persons or property and/or interfere with the orderly operation of the University. It is not the purpose of the meeting to hear evidence concerning guilt or innocence related to pending or possible charges against the student.

14.3. Any student who is suspended on an emergency basis and returns to the campus or University property and/or violates other stated conditions during the specified period shall be subject to further separate action and may be treated as a trespasser. Permission to be on campus for a specific purpose must be requested and obtained in writing or by telephone from the Office of Student Judicial Programs or designee prior to any conduct contrary to the suspension or restrictions.

14.4. Following the imposition of emergency action, standard University disciplinary procedures shall be provided as expeditiously as possible.

Retention of Student Discipline Records - Office of Student Judicial Programs
15.1. Type of Records - Records subject to this policy include, but are not restricted to the following:
15.1.1. Student Academic Responsibility Committee reports and decision statements which have been forwarded to the Office of Student Judicial Programs for retention;
15.1.2. Department of Housing information and documentation, which have been forwarded to the Office of Student Judicial Programs for retention or action;
15.1.3. Department of Student Life information and documentation which have been forwarded to the Office of Student Judicial Programs for information or action;
15.1.4. USC Police Student Conduct Referral forms and Policy Violation Report Forms; and
15.1.5. Records of disciplinary proceedings.

15.2. The student records of cases which have been resolved with a sanction less than suspension or expulsion will be maintained in the Office of Student Judicial Programs for 6 years from the last day of the spring semester of the academic year of the offense. Students graduating before that time may petition the Office of Student Judicial Programs in writing to request that their records be destroyed upon graduation. Records may be retained by the University beyond the normal 6 year period in special circumstances, including, but not limited to, situations when off-campus legal action is taken by any party(ies) involved.

15.3. When a date for purging records has been reached, records in all formats, are to be destroyed. (NOTE: Statistical database may be retained but all information that would identify an individual will be removed.)

15.4. Records where the discipline sanction was suspension or expulsion will be maintained for a period of at least ten (10) years from the date of the last incident.

15.5. All record formats used for Student Academic Responsibility Committee records will be disposed of in accordance with the current Honor Code.

Parental Notification Guidelines (regarding violations of alcohol and drug policies)

In keeping with federal legislation, the University of South Carolina (USC) and the Office of Student Judicial Programs (OSJP) have adopted the following:

Parents/guardians may be notified when the following circumstances apply:

1. The student is under 21 years old at the time of offense.
2. This student is found “Responsible” for a violation of the University’s drug or alcohol policies, and:

1. The student is placed on either University or Housing probation. This places the student on notice that any additional offense may effect either of these privileges, or
2. The resulting sanction(s) affects the student’s ability to live on campus or attend the University (e.g. housing removal/relocation, suspension, or expulsion).

Because not all Student Code of Conduct violations involve alcohol or drug policies and result in this level of sanctioning, parents will not automatically be notified when their student becomes involved in the disciplinary process. The University, however, reserves the right to notify a student’s parents or legal guardian whenever the first two criteria alone are met. Additionally, if parents would like information regarding their student’s disciplinary history or status at the University from the Office of Student Judicial Programs, they can request that their son/daughter sign a Waiver of Confidentiality Form allowing the Office of Student Judicial Programs to release that information.  These forms are available at the Office of Student Judicial Programs at 901 Sumter Street, suite 201, or by phone at (803)777-4333.

Note: If your student meets the legal standard for “independent status” (e.g. for tax purposes), then parents will not be notified without the student’s express written consent.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 6.27

Policy

Preface
The University of South Carolina is committed to a policy of treating all members of the University Community fairly in regard to their personal and professional concerns. This procedure is designed to provide students an opportunity to address non-academic complaints and problems that they have not been able to resolve through other channels.

Purpose
The primary objective of the grievance procedure is to insure that concerns are promptly dealt with and resolutions reached in a fair and just manner. It is essential that each student be given an adequate opportunity to bring non-academic complaints and problems to the attention of the University administration with assurance that each will be given fair treatment.

Definition
A grievance is defined as dissatisfaction occurring when a student thinks that any condition affecting him/her is unjust, inequitable, or creates unnecessary hardship. Such grievances include, but are not limited to, the following problems: mistreatment by any University employee, wrongful assessment and processing of fees, records and registration errors, racial discrimination, sex discrimination, handicapped discrimination, as they relate to non-academic areas of the University.

The grievance procedure shall not be used for appeals of disciplinary decisions, housing appeals decisions, residency classification decisions, or traffic appeals decisions, or any other type of decision where a clearly defined appeal process has already been established.

Process
1. Initiating a Grievance -The initial phase of the student grievance procedure requires an oral discussion between the student and the person(s) alleged to have caused the grievance. This discussion must take place within 10 working days of the incident that constituted the grievance.
2. First Appeal

1. If the initial oral discussion phase is not successful in resolving the complaint or problem, and if the student wishes to file a formal grievance, the grievance form must be completed and filed with the immediate supervisor of the person alleged to have caused the grievance. The grievance form must be filed with the person’s immediate supervisor within five (5) working days of the initial discussion referred to in paragraph 1. above.
2. The supervisor shall immediately acknowledge receipt of the grievance form and shall begin an investigation reaching a decision; the supervisor shall inform the student in writing (with a copy to the appropriate Vice President) within three (3) working days of the conclusion of the investigation.
3. If the student feels the grievance has been resolved, the process is complete. If not, an appeal may be brought before the Grievance Committee.

Grievance Procedure
If the grievance is unresolved, the student may bring the grievance before the Grievance Committee by presenting a written statement within five (5) working days of the date of the supervisor’s decision. This statement shall be forwarded to the appropriate Vice President (and Director) in a sealed envelope and shall:
1. State the grievance;
2. State why the response is unacceptable; and
3. Request a hearing before the grievance committee.

Any related materials (including a copy of the grievance form and the written response from the supervisor) must accompany the letter. The Vice President shall immediately notify the Chairperson of the Grievance Committee of the appeal.

Upon receipt of the appeal, the Chairperson of the Grievance Committee shall send a copy of the appeal to the members of the Committee and the major parties involved. The major parties include: the person(s) against whom the grievance was initiated, the supervisor of that individual(s), and the appropriate Vice President (and Director). The Chairperson of the Committee shall ask the major parties to respond in writing to the appeal within 5 working days. At the end of the five (5) working day period, the Chairperson shall meet with the Grievance Committee to examine the grounds for the request for an appellate hearing. A hearing shall be granted if a majority of the quorum finds that grounds for the appeal have been substantiated. A tie vote shall result in a hearing being granted. The Chairperson shall notify in writing, all involved parties of the decision of the committee to either hear or not hear the grievance.

The hearing shall be conducted not sooner than five (5) working days after the decision to grant the request for the hearing, and not later than 15 working days after the decision to grant the request for the hearing.

A postponement may be granted by the Chairperson upon written request of either party. The request shall state why the postponement should be granted.

Conduct of the Hearing
The Chairperson of the Grievance Committee shall open the hearing by reading the request for an appeal, and informing the parties involved of the jurisdiction of the committee and its procedures. The Chairperson shall ascertain that all the parties involved are aware of their rights, answer any questions they have in regard to these matters, and conduct the hearing.

All hearings shall be closed to the public, unless all parties agree that the hearing be opened to members of the University Community.

A tape recording shall be made of the proceedings.

All parties involved in a hearing shall maintain in the strictest confidence the identity of the individuals appearing before the Committee, as well as the information presented to the Committee.

Hearings shall be conducted in an informal manner. The taking of statements from the parties to the grievance (and witnesses, if any) may be done by discussion format, though each individual appearing before the Committee may be subject to cross examination. Witnesses shall be present only during the time they are testifying. The major parties involved in the grievance shall be required to attend all hearings of the Committee.

At the conclusion of the hearing, each party shall submit a proposed solution of the grievance to the Committee.

After receiving the proposed solutions to the grievance, the Chairperson shall dismiss all individuals who are not members of the Grievance Committee. The Committee shall reach its decision based on the information presented during the hearing, and according to the Statement of Student Rights and Responsibilities.

The Committee shall decide by a majority vote the solution of the grievance. In the case of a tie, the Chairperson shall vote and thus break the tie. The Chairperson (or his or her designee) shall forward a written copy of the Committee’s decision to the major parties involved and to the Office of the President of the University, within 5 working days of the conclusion of the hearing.

Decisions of the Committee shall be final.

The decisions of the committee shall be kept on file with the Office of the General Counsel. Any of the parties involved shall have the right, upon request, to listen to the tape recordings of the hearing in the presence of a staff member of the Office of the General Counsel.

The Grievance Committee
The Grievance Committee shall be composed of seven members as appointed by the President.

Composition
1. Two (2) students
2. One (1) Faculty member
3. Three (3) Administrators
4. One (1) Chairperson

Term of Membership
1. All members shall serve for two calendar years. The original appointments shall be staggered.
2. If vacancies occur, the Chairperson shall notify the President. Individuals appointed to fill a vacancy shall serve for the unexpired portion of the original appointee’s term.
3. All individuals may be appointed to additional terms. Appointments shall become effective on the first day of the fall semester.

Rules
1. The Committee may adopt additional rules and guidelines not in contradiction of the spirit of this policy.
2. A majority shall constitute a quorum of the Grievance Committee. Unfilled vacancies shall not count against the quorum. The Chairperson shall not count in constituting a quorum.
3. The Committee shall file an annual report with the President of the University, the Chairman of the Faculty Senate, and the President of the Student Government. This report shall include a summary of the Committee’s activity during the previous academic year, and any suggestions that the Committee may deem necessary.

Hearing Procedures
Rights of the Parties Involved in a Grievance
1. If a grievance hearing is granted, the parties involved are entitled to:
a. a written notice of the complaint; and
b. a written notice of the time and place of the hearing.
This should be forwarded to all parties at least five (5) work days prior to the hearing unless all parties waive all or part of the notice period.
2. Review all available evidence, documents, exhibits, and a list of witnesses that each party may present at the hearing. This is to be considered a continuing obligation by all parties involved.
3. Appear in person and present information on his or her behalf; call witnesses; ask questions of any person present at the hearing.
4. Be assisted by an advisor or counsel of his or her choice. The advisor upon request may:
a. advise the individual on the preparation and presentation of his or her case;
b. accompany the individual to all grievance hearings; and
c. advise the individual in the preparation of the appeals.

Disability Discrimination
It is the policy of the University of South Carolina to provide students a prompt and suitable method of resolving complaints alleging any action prohibited by the U.S. Department of Education regulations implementing Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended (29 U.S.C. 794). Section 504 states, in part, that “no otherwise qualified handicapped individual . . . shall, solely by reason of his/her handicap, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving federal financial assistance...”

Procedures

1. Student complaints of discrimination based on a disability must be forwarded in writing to the Director of Disability Services, 106 LeConte, Columbia, SC 29208. For additional information, call 777-6142.
2. A complaint must be filed in writing within 15 working days after the complainant becomes aware of the alleged violation. If a complainant needs assistance composing the complaint, appropriate assistance may be arranged through the Office of Educational Support Services.
3. An appropriate investigation shall follow the filing of the complaint. The investigation shall be conducted by the Director of Judicial Affairs, and may be informal but thorough, affording all interested persons and their representatives, if any, an opportunity to submit evidence relevant to the complaint.
4. A written determination as to the validity of the complaint and a description of the resolution, if any, shall be issued by the Director of Judicial Affairs and forwarded to the complainant as soon as the investigation is concluded, normally no later than 30 working days after the filing of the complaint.
5. The Section 504 coordinator for students on the Columbia campus shall maintain the files and records of Section 504 complaints filed by students at USC Columbia. In addition, such files and records as are necessary for system-wide Section 504 monitoring and reporting purposes shall be maintained by the Office of Equal Opportunity Programs.
6. The complainant may request a reconsideration of the case if dissatisfied with the resolution. The request for reconsideration must be made in writing to the Office of Equal Opportunity Programs, 900 Assembly Street, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208 within 10 working days after the complainant’s receipt of the notification of the resolution.
7. The right to a prompt and equitable resolution of a complaint filed hereunder shall not be impaired by the person’s pursuit of other remedies such as the filing of a Section 504 complaint with the appropriate federal department or agency.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 6.30

The procedures herein shall not extend to matters of grading student work where the substance of a complaint is simply the student’s disagreement with the mark or grade placed on his work. Such matters shall be discussed by a student and his/her teacher; final authority shall remain with the teacher.

Each college or school shall establish a grievance committee of appropriate size. The unit will determine student representation (if any) and the manner of selection, provided that students do not constitute a majority. The dean shall not serve as a member. All aggrieved students must deal first with the faculty member concerned and then with the appropriate departmental, program, or area head; and finally, with the designated person in the dean’s office.

A grievance will be referred to the college committee if either the student or the faculty member concerned has not been satisfied with previous administrative action. In each college, the faculty must approve the procedures to be followed in handling student grievances. The implementation of a grievance committee’s recommendations shall be in accordance with procedures established by a college.

A faculty member who feels that he/she has been aggrieved as a result of student grievance proceedings has the right to appear before the Faculty Grievance Committee and present his/her case to the committee.

The basis of a student grievance shall be a violation of Teaching Responsibility policies contained in the Faculty Manual or a violation of the policies on Protection of Freedom of Expression, or Protection Against Improper Disclosure, as stated in the Carolina Community.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 6.29

This policy outlines how the University may respond to any disturbances by a student that may be related to a mental health concern.

Definition of Disturbances Related to Mental Health Concerns The following are examples of some of the disturbances that may be covered by this policy. They include, but are not limited to:

Self-injurious behaviors: Overt, self-injurious physical behaviors (e.g. actions indicating a suicide attempt, self-inflicted wounds, ingestion of toxic substances, overdoses of prescribed medicines).

Other behaviors:

• Threats of self-injurious behavior;
• Threats of damage to property or other persons;
• Interference with the normal operations or activities of the University, its students, faculty, and staff;
• Damage to property of the University, its students, faculty, and staff;
• Acts indicating that the student is out of contact with reality and/or unaware of the consequences of his/her actions.

Procedures for Handling Disturbances Related to Mental Health Concerns

The Office of Student Judicial Programs, when made aware of such behaviors, will work with the Counseling and Human Development Center, University Housing, and any other offices involved or necessary to determine the best course of action for the University and the involved students according to the procedures outlined in the Behavioral Intervention Team protocol.  This protocol may be found at www.sc.edu/BIT.

This action may include a student’s immediate removal from the University or from University Housing. The University, through the Assistant Vice Provost of Judicial Affairs or a designee, may additionally require a student to engage in a cooperative, committed relationship with a counselor, the University Psychiatrist, or with an appropriate outside counseling or psychiatric agency before continuing as a student at the University.

 The University may also require that a student provide information from an outside counselor, counseling agency, or psychiatrist indicating the student’s ability to continue at the University to the Assistant Vice Provost of Judicial Affairs or a designee and the Director of the Counseling and Human Development Center or a designee. The Assistant Vice Provost of Judicial Affairs or a designee and the Director of the Counseling and Human Development Center or a designee will make a determination regarding the student’s status.

Any other departments, faculty, and staff determined to have a “need to know” will be notified by the Assistant Vice Provost of Judicial Affairs, the Director of the Counseling and Human Development Center, or a designee of either. Examples of such offices/departments/staff with a “need to know” include, but are not limited to: University Housing, the Office of Student Judicial Programs, the Student Disability Services Office, Student Health Services, appropriate medical personnel, the Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships, the International Programs for Students office, Law Enforcement and Safety, USCPD, Office of Multicultural Student Affairs, and the Department of Student Life.  

Additionally, if it is determined by the Director of the Counseling and Human Development Center, the University Psychiatrist, or another mental health professional that contacting the family or guardian is appropriate, they may do so in concert with the Vice President for Student Affairs.

 In all cases, the Assistant Vice Provost of Judicial Affairs and the Director of the Counseling and Human Development Center, or their designees, will notify the student as soon as is reasonably possible regarding their decisions; and the student will be given an opportunity to speak with a counselor or mental health professional as soon as reasonably possible.

Emergency Removal

In cases determined to warrant immediate action, the Assistant Vice Provost of Judicial Affairs or a designee and the Director of the Counseling and Human Development Center, the University Psychiatrist, or a designee shall contact the Vice President for Student Affairs to initiate an emergency removal from the University.

 Appeal

Should a student wish to appeal a decision of the Assistant Vice Provost of Judicial Affairs and/or the Director of the Counseling and Human Development Center, the appeal must be made in writing to the Vice President for Student Affairs within five (5) University business days of the receipt of the decision. All decisions sent to the student via U.S. mail will be considered received in three (3) business days. The decision of Vice President for Student Affairs is the University’s final decision.

Student Affairs Policy STAF 6.31

As a matter of policy, the courteous, safe and lawful use of bicycles, skateboards, roller skates or in-line skates, and similar conveyances is permitted on University property in approved areas and at appropriate times on University property provided that use is primarily as a means of travel or transportation, rather than for demonstration, competition or sport.

Operators of, or passengers on, such conveyances shall refrain from use when conditions are such that the risk of accident, injury or damage exists, such as when pedestrians or bystanders are in the area, automobile traffic is heavy or congested, or when weather, construction activity or other circumstances present more treacherous conditions.

Nonrestricted areas for their use include the paved campus trafficways of such size and grade to permit their safe and courteous operation.

This restriction of time, place and manner of use is a result of the institution’s concern for the safety of property and persons in the area, and the safety of individuals participating in the use of or operation of such conveyances.

Students and others wishing to use bicycles, roller skates or in-line skates, and similar vehicles on campus or in Columbia should acquaint themselves with the various applicable state laws and local ordinances.

Students found responsible for use of such conveyances other than as approved above may be subject to prosecution under state statutes and/or city ordinances, and/or subject to disciplinary action for an alleged violation of the University’s general conduct regulations which prohibit disorderly conduct, disruptive activity, unauthorized use or presence in University facilities, and the failure to comply with official requests, and/or published policies and procedures.

Bicycles must be registered in accordance with State law and University regulations. This may be done through the Parking and Vehicle Registration Office in the Pendleton Street Garage (777-5160). There is no charge for registering bicycles; this service is provided because it is the best way to ensure operators are aware of these policies and to assist law enforcement officials in their efforts to identify the owner or operator in the event a stolen bicycle is recovered or a violation, accident or injury should occur.

Two weeks after May graduation, all abandoned and/or unregistered bicycles will be impounded by the University Police Department. The University is not responsible for damage to any such bicycles or locks.