2020-2021 Student Handbook

All those who enroll in the university accept the terms and conditions stated in the Student Code of Conduct and Policies. Students must also follow the policies and procedures in all university publications when applicable. The university reserves the right to suspend or dismiss any student at any time when, in the judgment of university authorities, the general welfare demands such action.

All policies, practices, procedures and regulations listed in university publications are subject to change. Policies may change due to State of Illinois Reopening Regulations, Illinois Department of Public Health, Cook County Department of Public Health, or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, particularly as it relates to COVID-19. Every effort will be made to provide appropriate supplements and announcements indicating major alterations in current policies, practices, procedures and regulations.

To receive more information about university policies and procedures, contact the Office of the Dean of Students at (708) 524-6822.

MISSION STATEMENT

As a Sinsinawa Dominican-sponsored institution, Dominican University prepares students to pursue truth, to give compassionate service and to participate in the creation of a more just and humane world.

VISION STATEMENT

Dominican University will be an innovative leader in empowering graduates from diverse backgrounds to meet the challenges of an increasingly interdependent world.

IDENTITY STATEMENT

Dominican University is a diverse, relationship-centered community rooted in a vibrant liberal arts and sciences education, offering rigorous, integrative, and innovative undergraduate, graduate and professional programs. At the heart of the University is its Catholic, Dominican tradition, grounded in the compatibility of faith and reason, which affirms the dignity of the human person and concern for the common good. The University's curricula, research and campus life demonstrate a commitment to ethics, community service, social justice and global citizenship. Dominican University educates one student at a time in the company of others, engaging a multiplicity of cultural, religious and secular worldviews, transforming students, faculty and staff into agents of positive change.

COMMITMENT TO NONDISCRIMINATION

It is the policy and practice of Dominican University to provide and promote employment and academic opportunities for all students, faculty and staff members without regard to race, color, gender, age, marital status, order of protection status, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, medical condition, national origin, ancestry, military status, physical or mental disability, or pregnancy (collectively, “the bases for unlawful discrimination”). All students, faculty and staff members are expected to abide by this policy and to assist in its enforcement.

It is the policy of the University to hire, accept, train, educate, promote, compensate and/or administer all employment and/or academic practices, as the case may be, without regard to any of the bases for unlawful discrimination. Harassment, including sexual harassment, of staff members, students or faculty members because they are members of any of the previously-stated protected groups is strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated. Any student, faculty member or staff member who engages in such prohibited conduct will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action, up to and including termination or dismissal, depending on the seriousness of the conduct in question and the surrounding circumstances.

The University will periodically develop and mandate training programs for students, faculty and staff members in furtherance of this policy. Failure to participate in mandatory training may result in registration holds for students and notices of non-compliance or other disciplinary action for members of the faculty and staff.

CARITAS COMMITMENT

The COVID-19 pandemic has been a disruptive, stressful influence on all of our lives. As a member of the Dominican University community, I understand that I have an important role in keeping myself healthy and in protecting others from the spread of this virus. I also am committed to extending compassion and support to others while we, as a community, cope with this unprecedented situation.

My commitment to the following safety measures is a lived expression of Dominican caritas and veritas.

Community

Extending patience and support to others, knowing that this is a complex and stressful situation for all
Fostering a just and humane campus climate by treating each person fairly and with respect, and helping one another to adhere to this commitment with compassion and empathy

Prevention

Wearing a mask in all spaces as directed by the University
Practicing physical distancing and respecting the personal space of others
Observing guidelines for use of space on campus
Following University rules related to visitors and guests on campus, including in the residence halls
Following recommendations and requirements related to travel and social gatherings on and off campus, including the number of people, physical distancing and wearing a mask
Washing my hands frequently with soap and water or sanitizing them regularly
Practicing respiratory etiquette and covering my cough/sneeze
Cleaning and disinfecting my personal space, shared common space, and my belongings daily

Monitor and Care

Conducting daily monitoring for symptoms of COVID-19 and reporting my health status every day on the #CampusClear app
Staying home if I am feeling sick or have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 and reporting this on the #CampusClear app
Participating in COVID-19 testing and quarantining if I am identified as a contact of anyone who has tested positive for COVID-19
Agreeing to self-isolate if I test positive for COVID-19 and following guidance to return to campus
Participating fully and honestly with contact tracing to determine whom I may have exposed to COVID-19

I understand that Dominican University may modify these guidelines and expectations as more information is known about the response to COVID-19. It is my responsibility to stay informed to protect myself and the University community. I also acknowledge that these expectations are a condition of my enrollment and/or employment and that any failure to comply with the Caritas Commitment may lead to disciplinary action.

I understand COVID-19 is a highly contagious virus and it is possible to contract the disease, even if I follow all of the safety precautions above and those recommended by the CDC, local health department, and other agencies. I understand that, although the University is following the guidelines issued by the CDC and other experts to reduce the spread of infection, I can never be completely shielded from all risk of illness caused by COVID-19 or other infections.

I have read this document and understand it is my responsibility as a member of the Dominican community to uphold the Caritas Commitment.

Student Code of Conduct

Code of Conduct

Student Code of Conduct Philosophy

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

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

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

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

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

Standards of Behavior

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jurisdiction Over Student Conduct

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Behavioral Expectations

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

Threat or cause of physical or psychological abuse to any person
Harassment or the infringement of the rights of another person.
Bias against an individual based on their identity, such as gender, ability, race, ethnicity. This includes but is not limited to: gender based violence, sexual misconduct, sexual assault, stalking, harassment, and discrimination. See One Process Policy.
Interference with activities at or sponsored by the university. Activities include special events and the normal daily operation of the institution.
Academic dishonesty, cheating, plagiarism, forgery, misuse or falsification of university documents or official papers, or dishonest acts. See the University Bulletin for additional information regarding Academic Integrity.
Theft or damage to university or individual property, or known possession of stolen property.
Theft or misuse of services of any kind.
Commercial solicitation, which is not permitted on campus except by recognized student organizations and athletic teams and approved by the Office of the Dean of Students.
Failure to appropriately comply with the directions of a university official and/or with the policies and procedures of any official university document and/or processes.
Unauthorized entry to or inappropriate use of university premises, facilities or property.
Misuse of fire safety equipment; setting fires; failure to evacuate the building during a fire alarm or violation of any fire safety policy. Using emergency exits in non-emergencies is prohibited. Any open flame or burning substances such as candles, incense, etc., are not allowed.
Possession or use of explosives (including fireworks and ammunition) firearms (including air, BB, paintball, facsimile weapons and pellet guns), or other weapons or dangerous objects such as arrows, axes, machetes, nunchucks, throwing stars, or knives, including the storage of any item that falls within the category of a weapon in a vehicle parked on University property.
Demonstrations that are disorderly, disruptive, obstructs teaching, study, research or administration of the university, endangers the safety of others, or is meant to coerce, intimidate, target, or demean members of the community.
Violation of the Drug policy, which includes, use, possession, manufacturing, selling or distribution of any illegal drug; possession of any device or property used in connection with illegal drugs. See the Alcohol and Drug Policy for the full policy.
Violation of the Alcohol policy, which includes possession of alcohol by individuals under 21, alcohol in common area spaces, public intoxication. See the Alcohol and Drug Policy for the full policy.
Students are expected to abide by the federal laws and the laws of the State of Illinois prohibiting illegal gambling. See the Gambling Policy for further clarification.
Falsifying, changing, or altering any data or knowingly providing false information on any university documents, including producing false documents, is prohibited. Students must carry their student ID card at all times. The student ID card must be presented and/or surrendered at any time it is requested by a university official, including Welcome Information Desk Attendants. During an alleged policy violation, students must present their Dominican University ID card when asked by a university official (this includes Resident Assistants).
All acts of hazing by any individual student and university registered student club or organization and any of its members or alumnae/i are prohibited. See Hazing Policy.
Behavior that causes disturbance or distress to the university community.
Smoking and tobacco products are prohibited in all university buildings and on all university property. See the Tobacco Policy for additional information.
Breaking any local, state or federal law either on or off campus.
Violation of any policy or regulation contained in the Student Handbook, Student Involvement Manual, Residence Hall Housing Contract and Guidelines, IT Acceptable Use Policy, or any other publication of the university.
Violation of the university Guest Responsibility and Visitation Policy.
Loud and/or inappropriate noises are prohibited. Students and their guests must comply with the quiet and courtesy hours in the residence halls

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Interim Action

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

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

Students' Rights and Responsibilities

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

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

Conduct Procedures

CONDUCT OFFICERS
Conduct officers can be both faculty and/or staff and have participated in special training offered by the Dean of Students office. These individuals hear cases delegated to them by the Dean of Students. The conduct officer(s) will decide if a student is responsible or not responsible for the alleged violation(s).

CONDUCT HEARINGS
There are three types of conduct processes. The conduct type will be determined on the severity of the alleged violation and/or the conduct history of the student(s) involved. The rights of a student are the same in each hearing type as stated in the Student’s Rights and Responsibilities section. The conduct hearing will be scheduled around the student’s academic schedule.

Administrative Hearing
Single or multiple designee(s) of the Dean of Students and have the same powers and responsibilities as the other hearing bodies.

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

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

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

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

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

Review Process

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

A request for a review must be submitted using the online form on Star Tracker, to the office of the Dean of Students within 72 hours (three business days) after a student is notified of the outcome of the conduct hearing.

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

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

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

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

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

Possible Sanctions

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

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

Violations of the Caritas Commitment are violations of the Code of Conduct and can result in the following sanctions:

1^st Report: No conduct hearing; Violation of the Code of Conduct; Warning; Educational Video
2^nd Report: No conduct hearing; Violation of the Code of Conduct; $50 fine; Educational Video
3^rd Report: No conduct hearing; Violation of the Code of Conduct; $150 fine; Creative project
4^th Report: Conduct Hearing with a possible sanction of a 3 day suspension from the University

A student is responsible for all tuition and fees during a suspension or if an expulsion is implemented. Any of the above sanctions may be imposed upon groups or organizations found in violation of the Student Code of Conduct. In addition, deactivation, derecognition, loss of all privileges (including status as a University registered group or organization), for a specified period of time.

Failure to Complete Conduct Sanctions

All students, as members of the University community, are expected to comply with conduct sanctions within the time frame specified by the Dean of Students or designee. Failure to follow through on conduct sanctions by the date specified, whether by refusal, neglect or any other reason, may result in alternate sanctions being implemented (such as a fine for non-compliance), a new hearing, and/or suspension from the University.

Disciplinary Records

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

University Policies: A through H

University Policies (A-H)

Academic Policies

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

Alcohol and Drug Policy

Drug Free Campus/Workplace Policy Statement

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

Any faculty, staff or student who violates this policy or does not cooperate with the university in its attempts to maintain a drug-free environment will face disciplinary action up to and including termination/expulsion from the university. Such persons also may be required, as a condition of continuing their relationship with the university, to enroll in substance-abuse counseling and/or a treatment program at their own expense.

Individuals violating any town ordinances, state criminal laws or federal laws relating to alcohol or drug use may risk fines and imprisonment. In the event prosecution occurs outside the University, students may also be subject to the University’s Student Conduct process.

Faculty, staff and students are encouraged to familiarize themselves with resources available in the area for substance-abuse counseling and treatment. In addition, the counseling services in the Wellness Center are available to assist students with substance-related problems. The Wellness Center respects the confidential nature of information shared by participants in its programs. Faculty and staff may utilize the resources in the Employee Assistance Program available through Human Resources to receive referrals. If questions arise related to any of these guidelines or policies, please direct them to the appropriate university department.

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

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

ALCOHOL POLICY

Dominican University’s alcohol policy, written in accordance with the Drug-Free Campus Act and Illinois State law, supports the mission of the institution and its academic goals.

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

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

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

Registering and purchasing all liquor licenses in compliance with local, state and federal laws.
Providing proof of liability insurance and liquor license, if the venue is off-campus.
Hiring of sufficient security personnel.
Hiring approved bartenders that are trained and certified in TIPS or other equivalent training program. If the venue is off-campus, proof of training and certification is required for the bartenders.
Supervision of underage persons to ensure there is not underage consumption of alcohol (i.e., carding). No one under the age of 21 is allowed to serve, possess or consume alcohol.
Removal and disposal of all unused alcohol.
Any and all costs for insurance or damage to university property.
No kegs, beer bongs, party balls or other common containers of alcohol are allowed, unless advance written notice is made by the appropriate university official and approved by the Dean of Students.

RESIDENCE HALLS

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

DRUG POLICY

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

Although Illinois has passed laws allowing the use of medical marijuana and recreational marijuana in certain circumstances, federal laws classify marijuana as a controlled substance and prohibit marijuana use, possession, and distribution on property owned by institutions of higher education or in any activities operated by such institutions. In addition, the applicable Illinois laws indicate that colleges and universities are not prevented from prohibiting marijuana consistent with federal law. As such, the use, possession, and distribution of marijuana on DU’s campus (or other DU property) or as any part of its activities remains prohibited, notwithstanding Illinois laws legalizing the use of medical and recreational marijuana.

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

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

Bookstore

Return Policy

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

Please note:

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

Copyright

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dance Policy

These policies apply to ALL dances that take place on- or off-campus.

Only registered student organizations in good standing with Student Life or campus groups with support of a department/office may sponsor a dance. All groups must follow the Dance Policy.
A Dance Request Form must be submitted to Student Life at least 30 days prior to the event through the event request process on engageDU.
The total number of attendees that a group would like host must be indicated on the event request form and be reflected by the number of tickets the organization sells. This number and location of the event will be used in determining the amount of security staff necessary for the dance.
Security staff must be coordinated by the group(s) requesting the dance at least 30 days prior to the date of the dance by working with Campus Safety. A final count of security staff needed will be due at least 15 days prior to the date of the dance. Campus Safety can provide security at dances at no cost; however, it deadlines and procedures are not followed there could be a charge for security.
At minimum, the following staff will be required for the event. If these individuals are not present at their designated times your event may be delayed or canceled.
There may be different needs of security, but generally the expectation is one (1) security staff person will need to be hired for each 50 individuals attending the dance (50:1). All security staff will be hired or subcontracted through Campus Safety.
Three (3) students representing the sponsoring organization(s) will need to be present at the dance for its entirety. These students will also be required to have an organization meeting with Student Life and any other requested meetings with Student Life leading up to the dance. These students may not have consumed alcoholic beverages and/ or illegal drugs 12 hours prior of the event start and may not do so during their dance responsibilities.
Two (2) faculty/staff members are required to be present at the dance for its entirety. The responsibilities of these individuals will begin at set up for the dance and concludes upon completion of clean-up of the event. These staff members may not have consumed alcoholic beverages and/or illegal drugs 12 hours prior of the event start and may not do so during their dance responsibilities.
One (1) faculty/staff member must be an advisor from the sponsoring organization(s) or a designee approved by Student Life
One (1) in person mandatory meeting with Student Life will be required for the student leaders and the advisor of group three (3) weeks prior to the dance. The week of the dance Student Life will confirm all student and faculty/staff chaperones via email that chaperones must respond to.
When marketing and selling tickets, all dance policies must be communicated to those attending the dance before the date of the dance ie no alcohol, guest policy, no bags, etc.
No off-campus publicity will be allowed for dances.
ALL tickets printed for the event must be numbered.
Wristbands must be worn by all student event staff and attendees. Wristbands are available through Student Life in the SIRC. The sponsoring organization(s)’ account may be charged for the costs of all wristbands.
No entry to dance without ticket.
No machine or device, including but not limited to, fog machines, dry ice, etc. which can obscure vision or create artificial smoke, may be used.
No backpacks or large purses will be permitted in the dance. All bags and purses are subject to search.
No outside food or beverages may be brought into the dance by attendees.
All Dominican University students and guests will need to show a current photo ID at the door. Dominican University students must have their student ID.
The number of guests per Dominican student will be limited to three (3). In accordance with the Code of Conduct, the Dominican student hosting these guests will need to check in their guests to enter the dance and will be held responsible for the behavior of their guest(s) throughout the event. If a guest is removed from the event, their Dominican host, and any other guests attributed to the Dominican student, will be removed as well. Any guests removed from the dance will be removed from campus.
Age restrictions: Minimum age for entry to the dance is 18. The only exceptions will be for Dominican University students who can show a current Dominican University ID.
Any students/guests that appear to be intoxicated, under the influence of illegal drugs, or who demonstrate inappropriate behavior will be removed from the dance and will be referred to/documented by campus safety and security and/or professional staff members as appropriate.
All dances must conclude by 1:00 a.m.

Drones and Hover Boards

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

Emergency Contact Information

All students are required to provide the University with the name of an emergency contact person. Emergency contact information can be completed, reviewed and updated through myDU. If the student is under the age of 18, the emergency contact person must be a parent or legal guardian.

The emergency contact person may be contacted during medical emergencies, depending on the severity of the situation. Students are also able to identify different contact information if there is a missing student report or a mental health emergency.

Failure to submit emergency contact information may result in a fine.

Emergency Notifications

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

To enroll in the Emergency Notification System, login to MyDU (http://mydu.dom.edu) and click on the Emergency Notification System link on the left hand side of the page.

To check the status of an emergency, visit our online alert system at http://www2.dom.edu/alert

Facilities Use

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

Only recognized student organizations and groups may reserve university facilities for approved events and activities. All facilities reservation processes must be followed.

Events with Food

Student groups that require food at their meetings must follow the guidelines established by Dining Services. Dining Services is the contracted catering provider for Dominican University and menus are available to groups upon request. Any outside food, either catered, purchased, or homemade, must be approved by Student Life for events and meetings. The only exceptions to this policy are individually wrapped and sealed items that do not require heat or refrigeration. Requests for approval must be received one week prior to your event or meeting.

For any food being distributed by student organizations, information must be posted and available regarding where the food was purchased as well as ingredients contained in the food.

A food vendor may donate food items to an event or organization in exchange for publicity or marketing purposes. However, such donations must be approved through Student Life.

If food is being provided by a third party vendor, student organizations must first complete the waiver process with Dining Services. Food Handling Licenses must be on site at any event with food from outside restaurants.

Student organization events sponsored with food are subject to further review by Student Life.

Food Guidelines

All food must be at a temperature as set out by FDA or recommended guidelines
Any food reheated must be reheated to an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees (within two hours of cooking). Take temperature in various places. Stir where applicable prior to taking temperature.
Individual condiment packages are recommended. Condiments must be covered.
Keep raw products separate from ready-to-eat foods.
Raw foods, including fruits and vegetables, must be washed thoroughly in a proper sink and held in a sealed container.
Obtain food and other supplies from reputable, licensed sources.
Plastic and wooden utensils are not to be reused.
Do not reuse opened foods (such as bread); they can easily become contaminated by customers or servers.
Plastic gloves are MANDATORY for all ready-to-eat food. Washing hands frequently is the most effective means of sanitation. When using gloves, they must be changed if anything other than food is touched.
Food and money must be handled separately. A food server should handle food and a cashier should handle the money.

Film Policy

The Federal Copyright Act (Title 17, United States code, Public Law 94-553, 90 Stat. 2541) governs how copyright materials, such as movies, may be utilized publicly. Neither the rental, nor the purchase or lending of a videocassette or DVD, carries with it the rights to exhibit a movie publicly outside of the home unless the site where the video is used is properly licensed for copyright compliant exhibition.

Furthermore, copyrighted movies borrowed from other sources such as colleges, public libraries, personal collections, etc. cannot be used legally for showings in colleges and universities or in any other site which is not properly licensed.

Things to note regarding copyrighted movies:

Any film shown that is not part of an academic class must have a license
Any film shown in an individual’s residence hall room is considered private viewing and does not require a license
Any film shown in a common area of a residence hall is considered public viewing and requires a license
A license is required for a film viewing regardless of whether the event is open to the public or not
A license is required for a film regardless of the size of the audience
A license is required for a film regardless of whether admission is charged
A license is required for a film regardless of the year of the film’s production
Rented films, regardless of source, require a license for public viewing
Purchased or personally owned films require a license for public viewing

Under the “Educational Exemption,” copyrighted movies may be exhibited in a college without a license only if the movie exhibition is:

An “integral part of a class session” and is of “material assistance to the teaching content”
Supervised by a teacher in a classroom
Attended only by students enrolled in a registered class of an accredited nonprofit educational institution
Using a movie that has been legally produced and obtained through lawful rental or purchase

Student Life will work with registered student organizations to acquire licenses (organizations will be responsible for covering any fees). Once obtained, licenses are designed for a specific, designated time frame for an individual film.

Failure to obtain licenses may result in legal action. The Motion Picture Association of America and its member companies are dedicated to stopping film and video piracy in all its forms, including unauthorized public performances. The motion picture companies will go to court to ensure their copyrights are not violated. Fines can range from $750 to as high as $150,000 for each work illegally shown.

Gambling

Students are expected to abide by the federal laws and the laws of the State of Illinois prohibiting illegal gambling. Though gambling is permitted under the law in some contexts, students should familiarize themselves with Illinois’ criminal statute on gambling found at 720 ILCS 5/28-1. For example, this statute allows gambling on sports consistent with the Sports Wagering Act, but the Sports Wagering Act requires that a person placing a wager on sports must be at least 21 years of age. In addition, note that Dominican University prohibits all forms of gambling on its property or as any part of its activities, as well as the use of the University’s computers or network for gambling purposes.

Guest Responsibility and Visitation

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

Any guests on campus must check-in at a WID location.

Residence Hall Visitation

Guests are not allowed in the residence halls for any reason.

Hazing

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

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

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

Health Insurance

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

University Policies: I through Z

University Policies (I- Z)

Identification Card – Star Card

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

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

Immunizations

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

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

Two MMR (measles/mumps/rubella) after the first birthday.
A TDAP (tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis) within the past 10 years.
One Meningitis vaccine since the 16^th birthday for students under 22 years of age.
Students over 57 years of age need document only the TDAP requirement.
International students are required to have a history of two additional tetanus.

Students living on campus are required to document a negative COVID-19 test within 7 days prior to move-in. Alternate testing requirements are given to students from states without access to testing.

Students in education, nutrition, nursing and physician assistant programs must meet additional requirements.

Any waiver of these immunizations requires an appointment at the Wellness Center. Please call 708-524-6229 to schedule.

Illinois state law requires that these immunizations be documented, and if not that students may be subject to removal from classes if there is an outbreak of communicable diseases. Please be aware Chicago area schools have experienced such outbreaks recently.

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

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

Flu Shot

Due to COVID-19, all students are encouraged to get a flu shot to prevent an outbreak of flu or co-infection with flu and COVID-19.

Tuberculosis Screening

All incoming students are required to be screened for risk factors for Tuberculosis (TB) through a screening questionnaire. International students and students arriving from or having traveled for extended time to countries with an increased incidence of TB will be tested because this subpopulation has been identified epidemiologically as having a higher incidence of Latent Tuberculosis Infection and an increased risk for developing active TB disease. While all incoming students will be screened, only those students with identifiable risk factors for exposure to TB and/or for TB disease will be tested. Incoming students at low risk will not be tested for TB. Students with a documented previous positive test will not be retested.

Completion of TB clearance is mandatory for all students with a positive TB test. Failure to complete the process outlined below will result in a $ 75.00 fine per semester that will be charged to your student account and potential removal from classes according to state law.

The following procedure will apply:

All students will be screened. (Online only designated programs are exempted)
All screened at risk students will be required to show proof of a quantiferon or IGRA (T-Spot).
If the student has had a previous positive skin test (PPD), then the student must have a quantiferon or T-Spot blood test.
If the student has had a previous positive quantiferon or T-Spot, they have been exposed to TB and must have a chest x-ray. The chest x-ray must be done in the United States in the past 12 months.
Students who need a quantiferon blood test may schedule an appointment with their primary medical doctor or the Wellness Center.
Students with a negative TB test are compliant with matriculation requirements for TB screening.
Borderline or inconclusive TB test will be repeated at the Wellness Center. Repeat TB tests that are still borderline or inconclusive will be treated as a positive TB test.
Students with a positive TB test and a negative chest x-ray will be referred to an Infectious Disease Specialist. The student is diagnosed with latent tuberculosis and treatment will be recommended.
Students with a positive TB test and a chest x-ray suggestive of active TB will need to be cleared by Infectious Disease before attending or returning to class.
Counseling will be provided for any student with concerns about latent or active tuberculosis.

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

Information Technology

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Meal Plan Requirement

Dominican University requires all students living on campus to purchase a meal plan. Meal plan modifications and exemptions are rare, and these decisions are made based on documented health conditions that require special diets for which Dining Services is unable to accommodate. Please contact Dining Services to discuss your dietary needs.

Missing Person

A student shall be deemed missing when it is reported that the student has been absent from the University for more than 24 hours without any known reason. All reports of missing students should be directed to Campus Safety to begin an investigation. The report of the alleged missing student and any information related to the investigation is maintained confidentially, will be accessible only to authorized campus officials, and may not be disclosed, except to law enforcement personnel in furtherance of a missing person investigation.

If a missing student is under the age of 18 years of age and is not an emancipated minor, the Dean of Students is required to notify the parent or guardian of the missing student, as well as any additional contact person designated by the student, no later than 24 hours after the determination by Campus Safety that the student is missing. Regardless of whether the student has identified a contact person, is above the age of 18, or is an emancipated minor, Campus Safety will notify the River Forest Police no later than 24 hours after it determines that any student is missing.

One Process

The university is committed to fostering a work and educational environment free of bias-motivated offensive conduct, racial and ethnic harassment, discrimination, and hate crimes. The university prohibits any member of the community, including faculty, staff, administration, students, or visitors to campus whether they are guests, patrons, independent contractors, or clients from discriminating against another person or member of the university community. One Process prohibits such conduct in accordance with federal and state laws including Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and the Illinois Human Rights Act. One Process policy to all employees, students, vendors, and outside guests and applies equally to all members of our community regardless of sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, ethnicity, nationality, disability or age of any of the individuals involved.

Please visit One Process for the complete policies and procedures.

Parking

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Parking Permits

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

Parking Tickets

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

Campus Safety officers will ticket the following violations:

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

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

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

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

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

Parking Ticket Appeals

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

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

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

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

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

Posting

General Guidelines

Publicity must be consistent with the University mission and values.
Publicity can be posted only on designated bulletin boards, limited to 23 posters, including the Priory Campus. An additional 20 fliers may be given to Student Life to be posted in the Residence Halls.
Publicity may not be posted on any doors, doorways, windows or walls.
Publicity must be posted on bulletin boards using a push pin or staple. Do not use tape on the bulletin boards.
Only post one poster per bulletin board.
Publicity can be sent to sse@dom.edu to be included on the TV Monitors on campus.
Publicity is to be removed within 24 hours after the event by the sponsoring department/organization. Removing your outdated publicity will reduce the problem of space limitations.
Publicity may not be posted over existing approved publicity.
All publicity will be permitted to be posted for a 14-day period. After that time, the publicity must be removed or re-approved by the Office of Student Life or Office of the Dean of Students.
Publicity that is posted incorrectly will be removed and discarded.
All publicity must state “Sponsored by your organization/department” and “For more information contact (708) xxx-xxxx/xxx@dom.edu.”

Additional guidelines are below for student organizations, departments and off-campus postings.

Posting Areas

There are specific posting areas on campus for Dominican University-sponsored events/activities. Publicity may only be posted on these bulletin boards. Any publicity found posted inappropriately will be removed and disposed of immediately. The following is a list of bulletin boards where approved publicity may be posted. Each bulletin board is designated as an on-campus posting area.

Fliers are not to be posted in the Banner/Large Poster areas. Fliers from these areas will be removed and recycled.

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

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

Banner/Large Poster Policy
Due to the limited space available to post large publicity, large publicity/banners will be posted for no more than seven days. Fliers are not to be posted in the Banner/Large Poster areas.

The following are approved areas for posting banners:

Dining Hall
Lower Level of Crown Library or Lower Level of Lewis Hall (publicity may only be in one of these locations)
Dining Hall at Priory

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

Table Tents

Table tents are not allowed on Dining Hall, Cyber Café or other tables.

Clubs and Organizations

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

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

Publicity can only be posted for 14 days.

Non-Dominican University Events, Jobs, Items for Sale

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

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

Residence Halls

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

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

Appliances and Electrical Equipment

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

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

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

Check-In/Out Procedures and Dates

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

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

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

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

Dates for check-in and check-out are defined by Students Life to align with the terms in the Housing Contract.

Common Areas

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

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

Courtesy Hours

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

Disruptive Behavior

Each resident student can have a maximum of one additional resident student in their room at one time. Both students are required to wear masks and practice physical distancing. Students that live in a Murray suite can have two additional students in the community/lounge space in the suite. Students are required to wear masks and practice physical distancing

If, in the opinion of a university official, the number of people in a room is disruptive to the community or not following community expectations, the individual may be asked to leave.

Quiet Hours

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

Pets

Fish are the only pets allowed in the residence halls, with all roommates’ permission. Spot

inspections will be made if there is a probable cause to believe that animals other than fish are

living in the residence halls. Aquariums cannot be larger than 10 gallons and must be removed from the residence halls during all breaks. Students who are found to have animals other than fish living in their rooms will be referred to the student conduct process.

Room Changes

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

For room changes that are mutual swaps and agreed upon by all parties, students need to fill out the room change form from the Student Life website. For students whom are unhappy with their current room and would like to change rooms, they can go on the wait-list, also available on the Student Life website. Student Life will review the wait-list periodically each semester. For any students switching rooms at the semester break, all room changes must be completed prior to leaving campus in December. Room change requests will not be accommodated after March 31, 2021 unless there is an emergency or safety concern approved by Student Life.

Room Condition

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

If a resident damages his or her room, the Student Life will bill the resident’s account for the damage, replacement and labor cost. Student Life has discretion with regard to billing students for damages and improper check out. Final charges for damages will be assessed after check-out and cannot be appealed after June 15, 2021.

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

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

Room Consolidation

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

Room Entry, Room Search and Confiscation

Students can expect to have a reasonable degree of privacy in their residential spaces and in the community at large. However, when circumstances warrant, Campus Safety Officers are authorized to enter a student's room. Circumstances warranting entry relate to safety, security, health, legal, student conduct, or general well-being concerns. Students are expected to cooperate with those conducting a search and/or carrying out their duties associated with room entry. Reasonable effort will be made to ensure that the student whose room or property being searched is present. If a student(s) is present and does not permit a search, Campus Safety will inform the student(s) that local law enforcement may be contacted and an involuntary search may be conducted. If the student is not present, the student will be notified in writing of the search, the reason for the search, and its outcome.

Campus Safety personnel and/or Student Life staff may enter rooms when staff has reasonable cause in the following circumstances:

A violation of health or safety regulations or of university or residence hall policy is suspected.

Possibility of an emergency exists involving immediate danger to life, safety, health and/or property.
When a noise disturbance exists in the room.
Illegal use of drugs or alcohol or evidence of another crime or policy violation is suspected.
It is suspected that an act of vandalism has occurred or is occurring.
If a particular item or piece of information (such as medication or telephone number) is located in the room and would be useful in responding to an emergency involving immediate danger to life, safety, health or property.
For periodic environmental checks (i.e. furniture inventory, engineering/cleanliness concerns). All efforts will be made to conduct these checks during fall, winter and spring breaks and at the discretion of the university.

Confiscations

Any items confiscated during a room search will be photographed where found as evidence. Those items seized in a search will be secured in a locked evidence locker by Campus Safety personnel. If the item(s) are legal but not allowed in the residence halls, they may be returned depending on the circumstances and/or the outcome of the student conduct hearing. Returning items is at the sole discretion of the university.

Room Inspections

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

An unscheduled room inspection may happen at any time. Students should be aware that any items prohibited by law or university policy may be confiscated and the incident will be referred to the Student Conduct process.

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

Sporting Equipment

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

Theft

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

Vacation and Break Housing

Residents are expected to vacate the residence halls during break periods. Dining, recreational and other university services may not be available during university break periods. Students who receive permission to stay during school breaks may be assessed a housing charge and may be required to participate in a university meal plan.

At the end of each semester, all students must officially check out of the residence halls within 24 hours after completing their last final examination or by the time the residence halls officially close, whichever occurs first.

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

Service and Assistant/Emotional Support Animals

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

Service Animals

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

Assistance/Emotional Support Animals (ESAs)

Per the Fair Housing Act, Dominican University provides reasonable accommodations for a student with a disability to have an assistance/emotional support animal (ESA) in University housing. An ESA is an animal that is necessary to afford a person with a disability an equal opportunity to use and enjoy a dwelling when there is an identifiable relationship or nexus between the person’s disability and the assistance the animal provides. Assistance or Emotional support animals include species other than dogs and miniature horses. An ESA is prescribed to an individual with a disability by a health care or mental health professional and is an integral part of a person’s treatment process.

Assistance or emotional support animals are generally only allowed within a student’s residence in University housing, though requests for the emotional support or assistance animal to accompany the student to other campus locations will be considered on a case by case basis. Requests should be made to the Disability Support Services Coordinator, located in the Lower Level of Parmer Hall. There must be a link between the animal and a disability. Emotional distress resulting from having to give up an animal because of a “no pets” policy does not qualify a person for an accommodation under federal law.

Dominican University Service and Assistance and Emotional Support Animal Policy Requirements

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

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

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

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

No animal may be permitted in University housing that:

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

Appeal

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

Student Complaints and Grievances

Dominican University provides several means by which student complaints and grievances may be addressed. In all cases, students are advised to put their complaints in writing and carefully document the events that led to the complaint or grievance. For complete information go to: http://www2.dom.edu/about/concerns-and-complaints.

Student Record

All students are required to keep their student information (name, address, phone number, etc) up to date in their student record maintained through Stars Connect. This includes submitting a local address if living off campus and not in your permanent home.

Title IX

Consistent with the University’s Non-Discrimination Notice and the U.S. Department of Education’s implementing regulations for Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (“Title IX”) (see 34 C.F.R. § 106 et seq.), the University prohibits Title IX Sexual Harassment that occurs within its Education Programs or Activities pursuant to this Title IX Sexual Harassment Policy (“Policy”).

For purposes of this Policy, Title IX Sexual Harassment includes Quid Pro Quo Sexual Harassment, Hostile Environment Sexual Harassment, Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, and Stalking.

Administrators, faculty member, staff, students, contractors, guests, and other members of the University community who commit Title IX Sexual Harassment are subject to the full range of University discipline including verbal reprimand; written reprimand; mandatory training, coaching, or counseling; mandatory monitoring; partial or full probation; partial or full suspension; fines; permanent separation from the institution (that is, termination or dismissal); physical restriction from University property; cancellation of contracts; and any combination of the same.

The University will provide persons who have experienced Title IX Sexual Harassment ongoing remedies as reasonably necessary to restore or preserve access to the University’s Education Programs or Activities.

This Policy applies to Title IX Sexual Harassment that occurs within the University’s Education Programs or Activities and that is committed by an administrator, faculty member, staff, student, contractor, guest, or other member of the University community.

This Policy does not apply to Title IX Sexual Harassment that occurs off-campus, in a private setting, and outside the scope of the University’s Education Programs and Activities. This Policy does not apply to Title IX Sexual Harassment that occurs outside the geographic boundaries of the United States, even if the Title IX Sexual Harassment occurs in the University’s Education Programs and Activities, such as a study abroad program. Title IX Sexual Harassment that occurs either off-campus, in a private setting, and outside the geographic boundaries of the United States is governed by the University’s Non-Discrimination Policy.

Tobacco

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

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

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