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Welcome to Upper Iowa University. We want your experience to be both enjoyable and educational. This handbook provides information, resources and services you should know as a UIU student, including our expectations of students, and student rights and responsibilities.  Simply click each section below to review it in detail. If you have additional questions, please contact Student Life. A pdf or printed Student Handbook is available upon request by emailing [email protected].

Academic Calendars and Schedules

Emergency Information

UIU Services

Student Enrollment Center

The Student Enrollment Center (SEC) coordinates functions across the university to provide enrollment services to prospective and current student through graduation.  The SEC includes eight different offices to support our students: Registrar, Student Accounts, Financial Aid, Military and Veteran Services, Data Processing, Student Services, Admissions and Academic Advising for our distance education programs.

Location:  Second floor of Garbee Hall on the Fayette Campus
Telephone: 563-425-5200 or toll free at 1-800-553-4150
Email: [email protected]

Services Specific to Fayette Campus

Health and Health Insurance

Students are able to make medical appointments at the Winneshiek Medical Center – UIU Clinic located on the second floor of Garbee Hall. Students can schedule appointments by calling 563-425-5500.

At Upper Iowa, we want to ensure students are protected in the event of a medical emergency. Though not required for domestic students, UIU strongly encourages all students to carry health insurance. If you do not have health insurance through a parent or guardian and would like to discuss how to find coverage, please contact Student Life at [email protected].

All international students are required, and will be automatically enrolled, in the UIU Student Health Insurance Plan. International students cannot waive participation in the plan. Since the cost changes from year-to-year, please contact the Coordinator for International Education for rates at 563-425-5884 or email [email protected].

Special Health Needs

Accident/Death. If a student should sustain a serious injury, notify Student Life (daytime) or Campus Police (day or night) immediately. A member of the staff will assist the injured student and assure that prompt medical care is received. In the event of the death of a student, the AVPSL will notify appropriate family members. Residence hall staff will notify floor members and friends.

 

Allergy Shots. Allergy shots are available at the local medical clinic or contact the Winneshiek Medical Center – UIU Clinic at 563-425-5500 to inquire on availability.

 

Immunizations. Student athletes should visit https://uiupeacocks.com/ for forms required.  Non-student athletes are not required to provide immunizations, but are welcome to submit their records by emailing them to [email protected].

 

Prescription Medications. Students needing prescription medications may obtain them from Scott Pharmacy in Fayette. The costs of all medicines are the students’ responsibility. The pharmacy honors all major health insurance and credit cards. If a student has a current prescription from home that needs filling, they have two options:

  1. The student’s personal physician can call or fax (563-425-4530 or 1-800-246-0024) the prescription in to Scott Pharmacy, OR
  2. The student can bring the prescription bottle to Scott Pharmacy, and the pharmacist will have the prescription transferred. Scott Pharmacy’s local number is 563-425-4530.

Specialists. If a student needs a specialist (sports medicine, optometrist, dental, OB/GYN, internal medicine, etc.), they will be given a list of professionals from which to choose.

 

Health and Injury Insurance for Student-Athletes. If the student is a student-athlete participating in one of the 22 sponsored sports on campus, all injuries must be reported to the Athletic Training staff to ensure proper care and documentation. Each student-athlete is required to be covered by a primary insurance policy prior to the start of any athletics activity (practice, weights, meetings etc.). The student-athlete must also have a physical prior to the beginning of each academic year. According to the NCAA, this physical must be completed by one of the following providers: MD, DO, PA, or an NP. The physical form and all associated medical documentation asked for by the Athletic Training staff must be completed prior to any participation. Please contact the Athletic Training staff with any questions.

Personal Accompaniment Safety Service

The Campus Police will provide a free service to those individuals who feel more comfortable having someone to walk with them at night.  The Personal Accompaniment Safety Service will be provided from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. and will also provide service beyond this time on a request basis only. Contact Campus Police at (563) 425-5372.

Other Fayette Campus Services

After-Hour Access. After regular business hours (8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.), all University academic buildings are closed and secured.  For academic reasons, students may gain access to University buildings by approval from a faculty member and Student Life.  For this privilege, students must contact their instructor.

Check Cashing and ATMs.   Students who have University payroll checks may cash them at Northeast Security Bank in Fayette for a fee. Student may also choose to enroll in direct deposit.

There are ATM machines conveniently located in various places in Fayette; some are indicated below:

  • UIU, First floor of Student Center: Shazam, Cirrus, Plus, Visa, MasterCard and American Express
  • Northeast Security Bank, Main Street:  Shazam, Cirrus, MasterCard, American Express and Discover/Novus
  • The Pumper, West Water Street:  Shazam, Cirrus and MasterCard

ID Cards. Student ID card provides free entry to all University-sponsored functions and athletic events; and for students, it is their identification in the Servery and Rec Center. Students are to carry their ID at all times. If a student ID is misplaced, lost or stolen, report to Student Life.  A fee is imposed for the reissuance of ID cards.

Postal Service. Residence hall students will be issued a post office box combination for their personal mailbox located in the lower level of the Student Center. Commuting students may request to have their own mailbox assignment.  Post office box assignments are issued by the post office service.  Our post office service, nicknamed “Peacock Express,” is provided by the University and includes all regular mail plus intra-campus mail such as -memorandums and announcements.

Students: Let your friends and relatives know that your address will be: “(Your Name), Upper Iowa University, PO Box 1857, Fayette, Iowa 52142.”  To send packages via FedEx or UPS, please use “605 Washington Street” for the street address.

 Transportation. Webpage

Residence Life

Residence Hall Contract Terms and Conditions – effective 11/10/21

All students living in the residence halls are required to participate in the university board plan, no exceptions or appeals. Changes in board plan selection must be made by the Friday of the first week of Fall Semester (Session 1) and Spring Semester (Session 3) classes.

Food service for the Fall and Spring Semester begins with dinner on the Sunday prior to the start of classes and ends with the evening meal on the last day of the resident’s final exams.

Residence halls and food service will be available during Fall Break, Easter holiday and between the Spring Semester and Interim (two meals a day). Residence hall occupancy is available during Thanksgiving and Spring Break.  Meal plans are not in effect during these periods.  To be eligible to stay over these vacation periods, the Resident must register with Student Life prior to the vacation. Students may stay in the residence hall during Winter Break upon approval and at an additional charge.

TERMS:  The Residence Hall Room and Board Contract consists of room and board and is available only on a combined basis.  This contract is the resident’s official record of residence hall room and meal plan selection for the academic year.  This contract is binding for the full academic year (Fall and Spring semester), except for the resident who has selected and been approved for a shortened enrollment period.  The University’s acceptance of this agreement guarantees a space in a residence hall, not in a specific building or room. Terms and conditions of the contract extend throughout your residency on campus.

CANCELLATION OF THE CONTRACT:  Any resident student requesting off-campus status must apply to Student Life in writing 30 days prior to the subsequent enrollment period.  Only approved requests will release the student from this contract.

RELEASE FROM THE CONTRACT:  Once the contract becomes binding, the student will be released from this contract only for the following reasons:  1) Called to active duty for military service or 2) Participation in an academically sponsored study abroad, co-op, student teaching, or internship program out of the NE Iowa area. Students will be charged for room and board until the check-out is completed.

  • Failure to check into a residence hall, reside in the assigned room, accept a student ID card, eat meals, or pay room and board charges does not release a student from the obligations of this contract.Except for those enrolled students released from this contract, students who fail to move into their assigned room will be billed for room and board charges for the current enrollment period.
  • Students who have occupied a room and then move out without being officially released from this contract or unofficially withdraw from the University, will continue to be billed room and board charges for the current enrollment period.
  • Residents must be enrolled and in good standing with the business office in order to remain in housing.

Engage with UIU (Fayette Campus)

Recreational Services

Recreational equipment and games are available on a checkout basis at the Front Desk, located in the Main Lobby of Garbee Hall Complex. In order to use this equipment, students must present their student ID card. Hours are posted. Additional equipment includes a ping pong and pool table in the lower level of Garbee Hall.

Intramurals

Outdoor Pursuits

Recreation Center

Student Center Game Room

Located on the 2nd floor of the Student Center is the Game Room which offers billiards, foosball, air hockey, ping pong, shuffleboard, and an arcade game. There is space to study as well as televisions to catch up on the news or a favorite TV show. Connected to the TV is a Wii console to also play different games with friends as well.

Equipment Check Out

If a student or a student group would like to use University equipment for a University-sponsored event, see the Director of Student Engagement and Leadership on the 2nd floor of the Student Center.

Student Activities

Clubs and Organizations

Know the Code

Student Conduct and Discipline

UIU expects all its students to conduct themselves in accepted standards of good taste, both on and off campus. As an adult college student, you are expected to demonstrate good citizenship and respect for the rights of others.

The University’s policies and guidelines have been established to protect your rights as students (Section 700: Student Life Policies).

Similarly protected is your right to accept or disagree with the established policies and procedures. However, if you do disagree with these guidelines, you should do so in a positive way. Present your proposals for constructive change to the appropriate University administrators, who will consider them carefully and thoroughly.

Respect for the University Environment

A university is a place where ideas are conceived, explored, discussed, debated, and transformed.  In order for this to happen, it must be agreed that all members of the academic community participate in the exchange of ideas in a respectful and courteous manner.  Disagreement is expected and valued.  By entering the academic milieu with open minds, all members of the university community will experience the intellectual growth that is the essence of the university experience.

In order for the true university experience to benefit all members of the UIU community, whether they are participating in classrooms, online or through correspondence, the University enforces the following expectation:  all academic discussion and University business will be conducted in a respectful and courteous manner.

Admission to the University implies acknowledgement and acceptance of the University’s policies and conduct expectations.

Code of Student Responsibility

As a UIU student, your basic responsibilities are outlined below. As a member of the UIU community, you are expected to:

  1. Become familiar with the policies and procedures explained in the University Catalogs, the Student Handbook and policies on our website.
  2. Respect the right of freedom of expression of all students, faculty and staff members, following University guidelines for channels of expression.
  3. Be willing to assume the consequences of your own actions, and avoid conduct that is detrimental in its effect upon other students and the University.
  4. Recognize designated authority and comply with directives by staff members.
  5. Practice the rules of good conduct—be truthful, respect the rights of others and respect and protect private and public property.
  6. Take the responsibility to meet your financial obligations and University deadlines. This includes completing your work-study or departmental assistantship duties as assigned by the Workstudy Coordinator and the departmental supervisor.
  7. Take the responsibility for class attendance, in accordance with the instructors’ stated attendance policies.

University Community Standards and Regulations

The following are specific offenses to the University community that will subject offenders to disciplinary action by the University, and in some cases to conduct action by public authorities.

  1. Endangering personal safety. A student or group of students may take no action that disrupts or tends to disrupt the peace or endangers or tends to endanger the safety, health or life of any person.
  2. Physical, sexual or verbal abuse. Physical, sexual or verbal abuse of persons is prohibited, as is subjecting persons to painful or humiliating ordeals. Public posting or utterance of obscene language or the display of lewd or pornographic material or erotic art is not allowed on campus. Sexual harassment, sexual abuse, bullying and hazing are in violation of student conduct regulations, state and/or federal laws. For more specific information, please reference UIU policies on Discrimination and Harassment in the policies section of the student handbook.
  3. Destruction of property. Vandalism is prohibited on campus; this includes misuse of, destruction of or damage to all property—University, public and private.
  4. Mass demonstrations and/or disorderly conduct. Any assembly or individual act that interferes with the normal operation of the University or that could result in damage to public or private property or injury to persons is prohibited, and participants will be asked to disband by designated University officials. Drunken conduct, inciting mass disturbances, and riots are also considered disorderly.
  5. Failure to comply with directives. While performing their University duties, staff or faculty members may give directives and instructions to students. Failure to comply with these directives will result in disciplinary action.
  6. Theft. Any form of acquiring private or public property to one’s own use and/or possession is considered as, and will be dealt with as, theft.
  7. False information or dishonesty. Furnishing false information or misleading statements (oral or written) to University officials with intent to deceive is fraudulent.
  8. Forgery. The alteration or misuse of University documents, records or identification cards is fraudulent, as is the deceptive alteration or use of personal checks.
  9. Alcoholic beverages and alcohol abuse. Students are expected to abide by the federal, state, and local alcohol laws of the United States or the laws of country in which he/she resides.  United States law forbids the use or possession of alcoholic beverages by any person under age 21. Possession of empty or full containers or use of alcoholic beverages such as liquor, beer or other forms of intoxicants by any student is not permitted on University property that is owned, leased, or occupied by UIU, general campus buildings, athletic fields, campus recreational areas and residence halls (except in the privacy of their rooms when the student is over the age of 21). Consumption of alcoholic beverages by any student to the point of losing control and/or not functioning mentally or physically in a normal manner will result in disciplinary action (limited to 24 cans or 64 oz of liquor). See the Substance Abuse Policy for all University guidelines governing the use of alcohol both on and off-campus.  Violation of this policy is subject to disciplinary action.
  10. Drugs. In consideration of federal and state laws, the possession, use or sale of marijuana, other illegal drugs or drug paraphernalia is prohibited on University property that is owned, leased, or occupied by UIU. University property includes general campus buildings, residence halls, athletic fields and campus recreational areas.
  11. Fire. Setting fire to combustible materials in or on University property that is owned, leased, or occupied by UIU is in violation of the law. Setting off a false alarm is a serious offense, as is tampering with fire equipment or the alarm system.
  12. Firearms, explosives, weapons or noxious substances. For reasons of safety, the use or possession of firearms/weapons of any type, knives with a blade longer than 3 inches, firecrackers, explosives, dangerous chemicals or noxious substances is not allowed on University property that is owned, leased, or occupied by UIU or in University buildings.  (See Weapons Policy for complete definitions and any exceptions.)
  13. Misuse of keys. Keys to University housing and buildings are not to be duplicated or used for unauthorized access. Students may not possess University keys unless issued to them by a University official. Keys that are found must be turned in immediately to Student Life (Fayette Campus) or the respective staff member at that UIU location, national or international.
  14. Improper entry into buildings. Entering a building after its posted hours of operation or after it has been locked and secured is considered improper entry. Only those individuals or authorized groups who have been granted permission by the proper person in charge may enter buildings after regular closing hours.
  15. Misuse of technology. UIU computer resources are shared by all members of the University community. Individuals must use these resources responsibly in pursuit of University-related functions, and in doing so, not infringe on the rights, integrity or privacy of others. Responsible use covers, but is not limited to, behavior in the computer labs, use of e-mail and use of the Internet. Students must obey all appropriate federal, state and local laws. Students must adhere to all guidelines as detailed in UIU statement of “Policy on Acceptable Use of Technology.”
  16. Bullying/Hazing.Any action taken or situation created, intentionally, whether on or off University premises, to produce mental or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, or ridicule.  Hazing may include but is not limited to the following: use of alcohol; paddling in any form; creation of excessive fatigue; physical and psychological shocks; quests, treasure hunts, scavenger hunts, road trips or any other such activities carried on outside or inside of the confines of the University; wearing of public apparel which is conspicuous and not normally in good taste; engaging in public stunts and buffoonery; morally degrading or humiliating games and activities; and any other activities which are not consistent with fraternal law, ritual or policy or the regulations and policies of the University. Hazing Policy can be found within the Club and Organization Handbook located here. Also see Bullying Policy.
  17. Disruptive classroom behavior.  Disruptive classroom behavior is any conduct that substantially interferes with or obstructs the teaching or learning process in the context of a classroom or education setting.  As determined by the instructor, it is an individual’s conduct that distracts of intimidates others in a manner that interferes with instructional activities or fails to adhere to classroom rules or instructions.
  18. Stalking.  Stalking is a course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to feel fear.  Course of conduct is defined as “a pattern of actions composed of more than one act over a period of time, however short, evidencing a continuity of conduct.”  Stalking includes any behaviors or activities occurring on more than one occasion that collectively instill fear in a victim, and/or threaten her or his safety, mental health, or physical health. Such behaviors and activities may include, but are not limited to, the following:
    • Non-consensual communication, including face-to-face communication, telephone calls, voice messages, e-mails, text messages, written letters, gifts, or any other communications that are undesired and place another person in fear.
    • Use of online, electronic, or digital technologies, including:
      • Posting of pictures or information in chat rooms or on web sites
      • Sending unwanted/unsolicited e-mail or talk requests
      • Posting private or public messages on Internet sites, social networking sites, and/or school bulletin boards
      • Installing spyware on a victim’s computer
      • Using Global Positioning Systems (GPS) to monitor a victim
    • Pursuing, following, waiting, or showing up uninvited at or near a residence, workplace, classroom, or other places frequented by the victim
    • Surveillance or other types of observation including staring, “peeping”
    • Trespassing
    • Vandalism
    • Non-consensual touching
    • Direct verbal or physical threats
    • Gathering information about an individual from friends, family, and/or co-workers
    • Threats to harm self or others
    • Defamation – lying to others about the victim

Amnesty Protocol

A. Purpose

UIU primary concern is the health and safety of its students. UIU is aware that students are sometimes reluctant to seek medical attention in substance use-related emergencies out of fear that they may face sanctions related to possessing or consuming alcohol and/or drugs. Because these emergencies are potentially life-threatening, UIU wants to do what it can to reduce barriers that prevent students from seeking assistance.

We strongly encourage students to seek emergency medical treatment when an alcohol poisoning or a drug overdose is suspected. To minimize any hesitation students or student organizations may have in obtaining help due to these concerns, the University has enacted the following amnesty procedure.

B. Applicability

  1. Amnesty only applies when a student initiates the call for emergency medical attention and only when the emergency medical attention is needed to address alcohol or drug emergencies. It does not apply when the individual suffering from the alcohol or drug emergency is discovered by a University official (e.g., security, Resident Assistant, etc.).
  2. Students who seek emergency medical attention for themselves or someone else related to the consumption of alcohol or drugs will be referred for substance abuse evaluation and/or treatment instead of receiving the University-imposed sanctions for substance-related policy violation. Also, the student must agree to complete any and all recommended educational programming or other treatment recommended by the Director of Counseling Services.
  3. Additionally, this policy is intended as an opportunity for the student to learn about responsible decision making. The University reserves the right to review further incidents if the student has previously activated Amnesty during their time at UIU. The Dean of Students will determine the applicability of Amnesty in these cases.

C. Exceptions

Amnesty does not apply to other University violations that may have occurred including, but not limited to, property damage, sexual misconduct, weapons possession, possession of drugs that induce incapacitation (e.g. “date rape drugs”), and all drug offenses beyond mere possession.

Disciplinary Matters

UIU expects its students to be accountable for their actions; the following guidelines provide a structure to ensure that all students are treated fairly in the disposition of disciplinary matters.

  1. UIU Administration reserves the right to discipline a student whose personal conduct on or off campus is regarded as undesirable. Sanctions can range from a reprimand to expulsion. Examples of undesirable personal conduct are outlined herein.
  2. If a student is removed from the residence hall, suspended, dismissed or expelled, the student is responsible for all financial obligations for that semester.  No refunds are given to students in violation of University Community Standards and Regulations.
  3. At the time of a student’s suspension, dismissal or expulsion, all outstanding financial obligations to the University must be met. A student under suspension or dismissal may not be readmitted until these obligations are first cleared.

Disciplinary Hearing Officers

The following individuals or groups are responsible for handling disciplinary incidents of students, depending on severity of the disciplinary matter:

  1. Assistant Vice President for Student Life (AVPSL) [including cases that may warrant suspension]
  2. Residence Area Coordinator
  3. Student Conduct Board (including cases that may warrant suspension, dismissal or expulsion)
  4. Center Director/Assistant V.P. for U.S. Centers

Student Conduct Board

The Student Conduct Board conducts hearings on cases referred to it by the Assistant Vice President for Student Life (AVPSL). Cases referred to the Student Conduct Board are those involving violations severe enough to warrant suspension, dismissal or expulsion. The Student Conduct Board reports its verdicts and sanction recommendations to the AVPSL. Sanctions are determined by the AVPSL.  The AVPSL will communicate with the parties involved.  The AVPSL will be the Hearing Advisor.  The AVPSL will determine the size of the board based on the sensitivity of the case.

Disciplinary Hearing Procedures

The following administrative procedures have been established for hearing disciplinary cases.

Hearing proceedings begin when a student, staff, faculty, community member, law enforcement official or University Police witness or report an incident, situation or questionable behavior which appears to violate the standards expected of University students. An individual wishing to report an incident should contact an official in Residence Life, Campus Police, Assistant Vice President for Student Life or Center Director/Assistant V.P. for U.S. Centers.  A report is prepared describing pertinent facts and the names of persons involved. If the incident is deemed sufficiently serious and a representative of the appropriate office considers the report to indicate probable violation of the Code of Student Responsibilities or the University Community Standards and Regulations, the incident will be heard by the designated disciplinary hearing officer.

When a violation is alleged to have occurred, the accused student is entitled to receive written notification of the following:

  1. A statement of the violation(s) he or she is being charged with.
  2. The date, time (no less than 24 hours advance notice) and place of the disciplinary hearing, and the officer(s) who will conduct the hearing.
  3. The name(s) of witness(es) who initially reported the alleged violation.
  4. That the hearing will occur in the absence of the student if he or she opts to not participate in it.

Testimony of individuals and the names of person(s) involved in the cases heard will be kept confidential. Hearings shall be conducted in private in order to protect the confidential nature of the proceedings.

At the hearing, the respondent is entitled to the following:

  1. To appear in person to present a defense to the hearing body or officer and to call witnesses. Witnesses must have observed the situation or have supporting evidence. All witnesses are required to submit written statements one day in advance of the hearing.  If the respondent does not appear, this will be taken as indication of guilt and must be noted. A hearing can be held if the respondent does not appear.
  2. To ask questions of the committee or hearing officer. To pose questions for witnesses in writing that may be asked at the discretion of the chief hearing officer.
  3. To refuse to answer questions.
  4. To receive an expeditious hearing of the case.
  5. To be represented by another student, staff or faculty member as an advisor. A non-University person may not serve as an advisor, since this is not a legal hearing. The student is entitled to an explanation of the decision. He or she will receive written notification of that decision within 7 business days.
  6. The rudiments of fair play will be observed in all disciplinary proceedings.

A record of the alleged violation, accompanying documents and recommended action will be maintained in the files of Student Life.

Right of Appeal

An accused student may appeal a hearing decision.  Appeal requests must be submitted in writing (including electronic means) by the accused student to the appropriate University appellate officer within 24 hours after receiving notice of the hearing decision:

  • Appeal of disciplinary sanctions involving a reprimand, disciplinary probation, fine, or suspension of three (3) days or less shall be submitted to the Assistant Vice President for Student Life.
  • Appeal of disciplinary sanctions involving the interruption or termination of an accused student’s enrollment—including suspension of more than three (3) days, dismissal or expulsion—shall be submitted to the Assistant Vice President for Student Life.

The decision of the disciplinary hearing officer will be stayed until the student appeal is decided by the University appellate officer. The University appellate officer has the authority to uphold, reverse, reduce or escalate the level of sanctions levied by the disciplinary hearing officer. The decision of the respective University appellate officer is final and cannot be further appealed.

Types of Disciplinary Sanctions

The following types of disciplinary sanctions may be imposed by the University in handling disciplinary cases. Fines and restitution may be included in any disciplinary action.  The types of action are listed as follows:

A. Reprimand – a verbal or written warning.

B. Disciplinary Probation – A strong official warning in writing to the student informing him or her that enrollment is made conditional for a stated period. The action constitutes notice that further violation of any kind will result in more serious penalties or suspension. Disciplinary probation may be carried into and/or through another semester. Disciplinary probation also may include:

  1. Loss of privileges, which include specific residence hall restrictions and/or obligations; removal from class for one class session (60 or 90 minutes), denial of use of University parking areas; ineligibility to represent the University in any capacity, including, but not limited to, athletic teams,  RAs, etc.
  2. Cancellation of campus employment, effective immediately with repayment of awards, grants or assistantships, on a prorated basis.

C. Temporary Suspension – Pending the adjudication of a disciplinary hearing and appeals, the Assistant Vice President for Student Life/Center Director/Assistant V.P. for U.S. Centers has the authority to impose a temporary suspension, which becomes effective immediately. The accused and the victim will be informed. Such action will be taken only in those cases presenting a clear and present danger of harm to the individual(s) charged, the victim(s), other members of the University community, the educational process, University property, or guests and/or visitors of the University and their property. The respondent or accused student under temporary suspension is denied permission to return to the University and its facilities, owned or leased grounds, University vehicles and any planned or sponsored University activity.

D. Suspension – An interruption of the student’s enrollment at the University for a definite, stated time. This may be for a short, definitely prescribed period, as set by the imposing authority. Generally, the period of time is at least the balance of the current semester. The action may be made applicable for the following semester, with the student permitted to finish the current semester. The student is eligible for consideration for readmission upon petition to the appropriate authority upon the conclusion of the suspension period.

E. Dismissal – The student’s enrollment is immediately terminated for an indefinite period, usually for a minimum of one calendar year, until the authority imposing the action sees fit to reinstate the student. The student must petition to the appropriate authority before such possible reinstatement is considered.

F. Expulsion – The student is permanently excluded from the University and is not eligible for consideration for readmission.

G. Fines – Fines are due as designated in the written notice or by the date agreed upon in the hearing.  Failure to pay may result in:

  1. Impoundment of student records (transcripts/credentials)
  2. Inability to receive diploma on graduation day
  3. Withholding registration of student
  4. Inability to apply for Lee Tower, Hofmaster Apartments, South Villages or other special interest housing options
  5. Inability to reserve current room for the following academic year
  6. Increase of fine amount
  7. 3-Day Suspension
  8. Banned from the residence halls

H. Other sanctions as deemed appropriate by the University, which may include but are not limited to restitution, community service, counseling, substance abuse assessment or educational reports.

Categories D, E, F, G and H involve financial obligations to the University. No refunds of any type will be made by the University.

Disciplinary Record and Reports

Confidential records of all misconduct reports, investigations and disciplinary actions are maintained by and kept in Student Life. Those individuals who are a part of the University community who have a need to know will be granted access as approved by the Dean of Students.

Upon written request, the alleged victim of a crime of violence or a non-forcible sex offense may be informed of the final determination/sanction of the University disciplinary hearing.  This same right is granted to alleged victims’ next of kin in the event of the victims’ death.

Parent(s) or guardian(s) may be notified in writing of the decisions, when appropriate, in disciplinary cases if written permission is granted by the student charged for violating University regulations and/or local, state or federal laws. UIU will exercise its ability to notify parents of students under the age of 21 when they are found in violation of University alcohol and drug policies.  The complete policy is found in the “It’s Our Policy” section of this handbook.

The following are University violations and the minimum sanctions for each:

Violations                                                                                  Minimum Consequences

  • Alcohol                                                                                 See alcohol sanctions
  • Bullying                                                                                Sanction (Bullying Policy)
  • Indoor Bikes, Skateboards, Skates or Scooters     Reprimand or Sanction
  • Cheating and Plagiarism                                                Disciplinary Probation to Expulsion
  • Controlled Substance Use, Possession,

Sharing, Pooling, or Distribution of  Resources for Purchase                    See Drug Sanctions

  • Cooking in Rooms                                                            Reprimand or Sanction
  • Damage to Property                                                       Restitution and Disciplinary Probation
  • Destructive Demonstration/Riot                                Disciplinary Probation to Expulsion
  • Disruptive Classroom Behavior                                   Reprimand or Sanction
  • Drug Possession/Use/Paraphernalia                        See Drug Sanctions
  • Electrical Appliances                                                       Reprimand or Fine
  • Endanger Personal Safety                                             Disciplinary Probation and Sanction
  • Failure to Comply                                                             Disciplinary Probation and Sanction
  • False Information or Dishonesty                                Disciplinary Probation and Sanction
  • Fire (Tampering of Equipment)                                  Disciplinary Probation to Expulsion
  • Forgery                                                                                Disciplinary Probation and Sanction
  • Gambling                                                                             Reprimand or Sanction
  • Hazing                                                                                   Sanction (Hazing Policy)
  • Improper Entry                                                                 Disciplinary Probation and Sanction
  • Incense/Candles                                                              Sanction or Fine
  • Lewd/Obscene Behavior or Language                      Disciplinary Probation and Sanction
  • Misuse of Keys                                                                  Disciplinary Probation and Sanction
  • Pets                                                                                       Reprimand and Sanction
  • Possession of University Property                             Disciplinary Probation and Sanction
  • Quiet Hours/Noise                                                          Reprimand or Sanction
  • Removal of Window Screen                                         Reprimand or Sanction
  • Sexual Harassment/Misconduct                                See Title IX Sexual Misconduct Policy
  • Theft (any amount)                                                         Disciplinary Probation to Expulsion
  • Vandalism                                                                           Disciplinary Probation to Expulsion
  • Verbal Abuse                                                                     Disciplinary Probation and Sanction
  • Weapons (any type)                                                       Disciplinary Probation to Expulsion

Base sanctions given for violations:

Minor in possession of alcohol

1st offense:        $50 fine and educational sanction, which may include an appointment with the Director of Counseling Services.

2nd offense:      $150 fine, disciplinary probation, substance abuse assessment and educational sanction.

3rd offense:       $250 fine, disciplinary probation, substance abuse assessment, which includes mandatory counseling to be determined by staff.

Contributing alcohol to a minor/in room or common space with minors

1st offense:        $100 fine and disciplinary probation

2nd offense:      $200 fine and appear before the AVPSL or Student Conduct Board.

3rd offense:       $300 fine and possible suspension or expulsion.

Possessing greater than the allowed number of containers (24 cans or 64 oz. of hard liquor) or possession of funnels or other binge consumption/paraphernalia

1st offense:        $50 fine and educational sanction, substance abuse assessment.

2nd offense:      $150 fine, disciplinary probation, substance abuse assessment, and educational sanction.

3rd offense:       $250 fine, disciplinary probation, substance abuse assessment, which includes mandatory counseling to be determined by staff.

Possessing a container in a public area

1st offense:        $50 fine and educational sanction, which may include an appointment with the Director of Counseling Services.

2nd offense:      $150 fine, disciplinary probation, substance abuse assessment, and educational sanction.

3rd offense:       $250 fine, disciplinary probation, substance abuse assessment, which includes mandatory counseling to be determined by staff.

Possession of a keg or other “common source” of mass consumption

1st offense:        $250 fine for room occupant(s), disciplinary probation and substance abuse assessment, which includes mandatory counseling to be determined by staff. Students in room (guests) $100 fine, disciplinary probation, substance abuse assessment and educational sanction.

2nd offense:      Referred to the AVPSL or Student Conduct Board with possible suspension or expulsion.

* Common source:  any alcohol that is shared by multiple persons from a single source, i.e., tub, bucket, trash container, etc.

Drug possession/Use/Paraphernalia

1st offense:        $250 fine, random drug testing, disciplinary probation for a minimum of one year, educational sanction, substance abuse assessment.

2nd offense:      $250 fine, restricted from the residence halls indefinitely, disciplinary probation until graduation, educational sanction, assessment with Director of Counseling, appear before AVPSL or Student Conduct Board

3rd offense:       Expulsion from the University.

Drug sale/distribution or Intent to sell/distribute

Pending due process; temporary suspension from housing

1st offense:        One year dismissal

Firearms, Weapons and Destructive Devices

1st offense:        $100 fine and Disciplinary Probation

2nd offense:      Referred to the AVPSL; sanctions will be imposed in consultation with the Director of Counseling Services.

3rd offense:       Suspension

Tobacco

1st offense:        $25 fine and educational sanction, which may include an appointment with the Director of Counseling Services.

2nd offense:      $50 fine, disciplinary probation, substance abuse assessment, and educational sanction

3rd offense:       $100 fine, disciplinary probation, substance abuse assessment, which includes mandatory counseling to be determined by staff

All offenses may include additional disciplinary sanctions as deemed appropriate by the hearing officer or the Student Conduct Board. All violations from any year will be taken into consideration in adjudicating individual cases.

In accordance with federal laws and regulations, and Board of Trustees mandates, UIU has established several policies and procedures to protect students’ and employees’ safety on University property.  These are set forth below.

It's Our Policy

Parental Notification for Alcohol/Drug Violations

The Higher Education Amendment of 1998 (Public Law 105-244) allows institutions of higher education to disclose information to parents or legal guardians of students who have violated Federal, State, or local law, or any rule or policy of the institution, governing the use or possession of alcohol or a controlled substance.  The student must be under the age of 21 and the institution must determine that the student has committed a disciplinary violation with respect to such use or possession.  The amendment limits the information that an institution may give out.  The information that may be given out is the name of the offending student, the violation committed and any sanction imposed.

UIU will exercise its ability to notify parents of students under the age of 21 when they are found in violation of University alcohol and drug policies.  That notification will be conducted under the following protocol.  If a student is over 21 years of age, the Vice President for Student Life and International Education reserves the right at his/her discretion to notify parents or legal guardians.

Goals of the Notification Policy

  • To partner with parents or legal guardians to assist students in making responsible choices about drugs and alcohol.
  • To assist parents or legal guardians and students in getting the best possible treatment for any alcohol or drug problem(s).

Procedures

Non-Emergency Situations

When an alcohol or drug violation occurs the student will be notified of the violation in writing that a hearing will follow.  The hearing officer will research the student’s disciplinary record for prior alcohol or drug violations.  At the hearing the student will be notified that their parents or legal guardians may be informed of hearing results.  The hearing officer will review all the information.  If the student is found in violation, the hearing officer will do the following:

Alcohol Violations

1st and 2nd Violation:  Violation with no indicator of an alcohol problem – no letter sent to parents or legal guardians.  If behaviors* are present at the time of the incident, hearing officer will notify the parents or legal guardians in writing.  This protocol may be adjusted if the student on the first violation or subsequent violations demonstrates behaviors that indicate a serious alcohol problem.

3rd Violation:  Letter will be sent to parents or legal guardians.

Drug Violations

1st and subsequent violations:  Letter will be sent to parents or legal guardians.

All disciplinary letters to students will state that parents or legal guardians will be notified of this or future violations depending on the violation.

*Behaviors which might indicate an alcohol problem are fighting, vomiting, vandalism, inability to control bodily functions, verbal abuse or a blackout or a “passed-out” state.  This is not an inclusive list.  The hearing officer will have to use his/her judgment based on the incident.

Emergency Situations

Should a student be involved in an incident in which alcohol or drugs were consumed and the student is transported to a medical facility or jail, the staff member will notify the student that the University will be contacting his/her parents or legal guardians.  The staff person will notify the professional staff member on duty.  The professional staff member will notify the Vice President for Student Life and International Education.  The Vice President for Student Life and International Education will contact the student’s parents or legal guardians.  If the Vice President for Student Life and International Education is unavailable, the professional staff member on duty will contact the parents or legal guardians.

UIU Student Complaint Procedures

The student complaint procedures are established to address concerns that arise within the University community.  There are various procedures available to students depending upon the complaint.  A complaint is a concern regarding a policy or procedure that has been inappropriately or unjustly applied or a charge against an individual’s behavior.

The following issues are not subject to the student complaint procedures but should follow established University policy governing each area as delineated in the Student Handbook and UIU Catalog(s):

  • Non- Discrimination Policy Violations,
  • Grade Appeals,
  • Affirmative Action violations
  • Academic Suspension Appeals
  • Student Conduct Violations
  • Sexual Abuse/Harassment

All other complaints may use the Informal and Formal Student Complaint procedures as spelled out below.  All steps and timeframes must be followed for the complaint to be considered.  Students must file a complaint within 30 days of the incident.  The University will work to resolve the complaint within a reasonable amount of time depending upon the situation and the date of the complaint.    Any complaint involving a hearing will be resolved a month from the date the complaint was filed.

 

Informal Complaint Procedure

Most complaints can be worked through informally by addressing the concern with the person involved and his/her immediate supervisor.

  • The student will initiate the process by formulating the complaint.
  • The student will discuss the concern with the employee and his/her immediate supervisor.
  • The supervisor will be allowed to discuss and investigate the concern with all those involved and develop options for resolution within 5 business days of the formulation of the complaint.
  • The supervisor will discuss the options with the students.  If the student is not satisfied with any of the options, he/she may file a formal complaint utilizing the Formal Complaint Form.
  • For all those complaints that are resolved, the supervisor will complete the Informal Complaint Form to notify the Assistant Vice President for Student Life (AVPSL) of the informal student complaint and the final resolution.

 

Formal Complaint Procedure

The University provides procedures to ensure that all student grievance and complaints are given a fair hearing. The following procedure has been established as the formal grievance or complaint procedure.

  • To initiate the formal process the student will complete the Student Complaint Form on the UIU website: https://uiu.edu/experience/safety-security/report-an-incident-or-crime/.
  • When the form is submitted the student will receive the following message:  “The Assistant Dean of Students (AD) has been forwarded your complaint. Our goal is to assist you as soon as possible. If you have not heard from someone within five business days, please contact the AD at [email protected].”

Hearing Committee Selection and Procedures

  • When a hearing is requested in writing to the University, the AD will select a 3-person hearing committee.  One individual must be from the division/department where the complaint is alleged to have occurred.  This individual can have no direct supervision of the person involved.  If it is a policy question, the individual can be from the department/division, but not directly involved.  The second and third person must be a student or employee that is not within the division/department where the complaint occurred and has no bias regarding any individuals involved in the incident.  The AD will select the chairperson from the three individuals.
  • A verbatim record will be kept of the hearing and a copy of the record will be made available to both parties.
  • In case of disagreements concerning interpretations of procedures, the judgment of the chairperson of the hearing committee will prevail.
  • Each party to the dispute will be entitled to have one or two representatives, plus not more than five observers, present at the hearing, unless the aggrieved party requests a private hearing, in which case no observers may attend.

After a period of private deliberation, the hearing committee will make the decision by simple majority vote or consensus, with the chairperson as a voting member.

  • The chairperson of the hearing committee will submit in writing the committee recommendations to the AD for final action.

 

The AD will utilize the informal and formal complaint process to document the numbers and kinds of complaints the University is receiving to determine if there are specific issues or concerns that need to be addressed.  Any significant number of common complaints will be forwarded on to the appropriate administrator for resolution.

 

External Complaint Process
Students who are not satisfied with their efforts to resolve their complaint with UIU have the option to file a complaint online with any of the following regulatory authorities:
Higher Learning Commission (www.hlcommission.org/Student-Resources/complaints.html)

Iowa College Student Aid Commission  (www.iowacollegeaid.gov/sdrf-start or 877-272-4456)
Information on filing a complaint at another state can be found on our website at:
http://www.uiu.edu/support/student-complaint-procedure.html

Student Records and Release of Student Information Procedure

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) afford students certain rights with respect to their education records.  They are:

  1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 24 days of the day the University receives a request for access. Students should submit to the Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs, registrar, dean, head of the academic department, or other appropriate official, written requests that identify the record(s) they wish to inspect.  The University official will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.  If the records are not maintained by the University official to whom the request was submitted, that official shall advise the student of the correct official to whom the request should be addressed.
  2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes is inaccurate or misleading. Students may ask the University to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading.  They should write the University official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading.If the University decides not to amend the record as requested by the student, the University will notify the student of the decision and advise the student of his or her right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment.  Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.
  3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.  One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests.  A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. At its discretion, the University may provide directory information in accordance with the provisions of the act to include: student name, local and home address, University e-mail address, local telephone number, date and place of birth, major field of study, name of advisor, academic classification, class schedule, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, the most recent previous educational agency or institution attended by the student, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, and weight and height of members of athletic teams. Students will be notified annually of their right to nondisclosure, but must notify the Registrar’s Office within a specified amount of time if they intend to exercise their right. Students must file a nondisclosure form with the Registrar’s Office. Records other than directory information may be released under the following circumstances: 1) through the written consent of the student; 2) in compliance with a subpoena; 3) to the student’s parents by submission of evidence by the parents that the student is declared as a dependent on the parents’ most recent federal income tax form. The institution is not required to disclose information from the student’s educational records to the parents of a dependent student. The University may; however, exercise its discretion to do so. At the University’s discretion, violations of federal, state and local law, or of any policy of the University governing the use or possession of alcohol or a controlled substance may be reported to parents if the student is under the age of 21 and the University determines that the student has committed a disciplinary violation with respect to such use or possession.
  4.  The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the University to comply with the requirements of FERPA.  The name and address of the office that administers FERPA are:

Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202-4605

Request for nondisclosure will be honored by the University for only one academic year; therefore, authorization to withhold directory information must be filed annually in the office of the Registrar.  Refer to annual notification for specific guidelines.

This statement is not the FERPA policy in its entirety.  For specific details concerning FERPA, contact the Office of the Registrar at (563) 425-5340.

Weapons Procedure

UIU is committed to providing a safe environment in all of its facilities. In support of this commitment, UIU regulates the possession and use of weapons on all University facilities and grounds and, for the purpose of safety, prohibits the possession of weapons in owned, leased or occupied buildings, in areas where outdoor classroom activities are held, and in locations where college sanctioned events are held unless specifically approved as part of an educational event or student activity.

Any weapons used for the purposes of training or competition may only be stored in a personal vehicle, designated on-campus club storage space, or at a specific Recreation Center designated location. Transport of such weapons may only take place to and from an organized training session and permitted only during approved University clubs or other activities.

For purposes of this policy, a weapon is defined as:  Any instrument or device designed primarily for use in inflicting death or injury upon a human being or animal, and which is capable of inflicting death upon a human being when used in the manner for which it was designed.  Weapons may include, but are not limited to: any offensive weapon, firearms of any kind such as pistols, revolvers, or other guns, BB or pellet guns, bows and arrows, crossbows, knives such as daggers, razors, stilettos, switchblade knives or knives with a blade exceeding three inches in length, tasers, stun guns, or other portable devices directing an electric current that are designed to immobilize a person , explosives or incendiaries such as bombs, grenades, or fireworks, poison gas, or simulations of any such items (devices that appear to be real such as a realistic toy, replica, paint-ball gun, etc.). A weapon may also include an object of any sort whatsoever that is used in such a manner as to indicate that the person using the object intends to inflict death or serious injury upon another person, or that is threatened to be used in such a manner, and which, when so used, is capable of inflicting death upon a human being. A weapon may also include any part or combination of parts either designed or intended to be used to convert any item into a weapon or to assemble into a weapon.

Because these weapons may pose a clear risk to persons and property at UIU, violation of the regulations may result in administrative action from the University and/or prosecution under the appropriate local, state, federal or national laws. UIU will fully support and abide by the weapons policies in place at host institutions (technical colleges, military installations, etc.) provided those institutions provide a level of safety at least equal to those contained in UIU’s policy.

UIU prohibits all  persons* from carrying firearms or other weapons, concealed or not concealed, with or without a concealed weapon permit, while on properties owned or controlled by the University, without the advance, express written permission of the Dean of Students or his/her designee.  In Wisconsin only, firearms or other weapons may be brought onto UIU properties so long as the firearms or other weapons are encased in a vehicle,, and out of plain site with the unoccupied vehicle fully secured (e.g. windows up, vehicle locked, etc).  In all other locations in which UIU has a physical presence firearms or other weapons are absolutely prohibited except as described in this policy.

* Certified law enforcement officers and others required to carry an issued weapon as part of their duties are exempt from this prohibition.

Please note that violators of UIU Weapons Policy are subject to conduct affairs proceeding or employee discipline as appropriate, and may be prosecuted under local, state and national laws.

If a person has or is suspected of having a weapon, or it is brought to your attention that there may be a weapon on campus, or a weapon is discovered on campus, the established critical incident reporting procedures must be followed.

Young Visitors on University Property

When visiting the University grounds after dark or in University buildings at any time, young visitors under the age of sixteen (16) must be accompanied by an adult when not participating in a university-sanctioned program.  Young visitors of the Recreation Center are an exception; visitors under the age of fourteen (14) must be accompanied by an adult. Visitors who are not students at UIU must have a valid reason (i.e., attending an athletic event or other University sponsored event open to the general public) to be in the buildings or on University property and courteous to others at all times.