College Policies and Regulations
In this section you’ll find information about all College policies and regulations such as fundraising, college travel, and publicity and advertising. For more information contact the Office of the Dean of Students.
Alcohol and Other Drugs
The College strongly discourages illegal and irresponsible use of alcoholic beverages by Meredith students. North Carolina State law prohibits the use or possession of alcoholic beverages for persons who are under twenty-one years of age. The possession and/or consumption of alcoholic beverages on campus or in any College building is prohibited except by those of legal age in individual on-campus apartments. Any amount of alcohol possessed or consumed by persons under the age of twenty-one shall be considered “possession.” Memento bottles are not allowed in residence halls. Providing alcohol to any person who is under the age of twenty-one is illegal. A student may not attend class while under the influence of alcohol. Inappropriate or illegal behavior related to alcohol use will result in disciplinary action.
Meredith students are expected to represent the College with dignity at all times. Students who choose to possess and consume alcohol are encouraged to do so responsibly and not in a manner that would disrupt the living community or endanger themselves or others. Students shall not possess or consume intoxicants at any College-sponsored functions sponsored by Meredith students or any Meredith student organization. Students participating in any Meredith or Meredith-affiliated study abroad program are expected to follow the laws of the host country and host institution during any study abroad program.
Meredith believes it essential to the well-being of students to make every effort to maintain a campus environment free of such influences as illegal drugs. In view of this belief, the Board of Trustees has articulated the following policy related to illegal drugs. The policy simply stated is as follows:
Meredith College students shall not illegally manufacture, possess, sell or deliver a controlled substance or counterfeit controlled substance or possess drug paraphernalia. The terms “controlled substance” and “counterfeit controlled substance” shall be defined in accordance with the definitions set out in the North Carolina General Statutes. Any student suspected of a violation of this policy is subject to a hearing by the Honor Council of Meredith College. If found responsible, the student will be suspended or expelled in accordance with the drug policy as enunciated by the Board of Trustees. The violator is also subject to North Carolina law. Paraphernalia that tests positive for any illegal substance shall be considered possession of a drug.
Drivers deemed by campus police to be impaired will not be allowed to operate vehicles on campus. The threshold of impairment is very low (any alcohol or controlled substance previously consumed remaining in the body) for persons under the age of twenty-one. Campus Police will send a report to the Dean of Students in the case of any student deemed to be driving while impaired. In the case of a resident student deemed to be driving while impaired, an immediate report will be made to the residence director on duty or the apartment manager.
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Apartment Policies
www.meredith.edu/apartments/policies.pdf
Automobile Regulations and Fees
Student Parking Permits
At the beginning of each semester, all students may qualify for the privilege of bringing a car on campus by signing the appropriate agreement, paying the parking permit fee, and displaying a numbered decal. Decals for students living in residence halls and commuting students must be affixed permanently with the decal’s adhesive to the rear window of the car. Decals may not be taped to the rear window. Decals for apartment residents must be affixed to the front windshield of the car. Forms and decals may be obtained from Campus Police. Adequate parking is provided for all those who qualify.
Fee Schedule for Parking Permits
Annual residence hall permit $175
Annual apartment resident permit $175
Annual commuter permit $100
Annual commuter evening only $50
(This decal is only valid after 5 pm. Any vehicle displaying the decal must get a temporary pass if on campus during the hours 7 am-4 pm. There will be a limit of 5 temporary passes issued. After that, a regular commuter permit must be purchased.)
Permits are payable each fall. Refunds will be prorated by semester. A student who does not have a vehicle registered may purchase a temporary permit for $1.00 per day for a period not to exceed two weeks. The temporary permit must be for a specific need and is not intended for the purpose of avoiding the purchase of a permanent permit.
Parking Regulations
Parking regulations are enforced year-round (7 days per week, 24 hours per day), including breaks. The following parking practices are specifically prohibited:
- Parking on the front drive
- Double parking.
- Parking on lawns, grass, landscaped areas, side- walks, or other areas not set aside for parking.
- Parking in such a manner as to block traffic, parked vehicles, or roadways.
- Parking in fire lanes, loading areas, emergency areas marked as NO PARKING ZONES, including areas marked with diagonal yellow lines.
- Parking in an area designated for registration decals other than the one displayed (for example, students in reserved spaces or underclass parking in senior parking spaces).
- Parking in visitors’ area with a Meredith decal.
- Parking an unregistered vehicle anywhere on the Meredith campus.
- Students driving any vehicle on campus other than their registered vehicle must apply for a temporary pass.
- Parking is prohibited in the circle in front of Johnson Hall (Fire Lane). Exceptions will be allowed on move-in or move-out days as long as a driver remains with the vehicle at all times. Unattended vehicles will be ticketed.
- Anyone receiving a parking ticket that she may think is unwarranted may appeal the ticket with the Parking Director. An appeal form is available at the Campus Police Office. Appeals must be submitted within fifteen days of the date of the violation. Please consult the Student Handbook and the parking brochure for the campus parking policies. A lack of knowledge of parking rules will not be considered as a valid appeal.
- Parking tickets may be appealed by completing an appeal form at Campus Police. All appeals must be submitted within 15 calendar days from date of offense. A lack of knowledge of parking rules will not be considered as a valid appeal.
- Apartment resident students are not allowed to park on main campus. Students displaying decals other than apartment resident decals are not allowed to park in the apartment parking lots.
No warning tickets are given. Parking fines are $25; fines for parking in handicapped and fire lanes are $50; Auto-boot and towing fines are $50. Unregistered cars will be Auto-booted and will not be released until all fines are paid. (An Auto-boot is a device that clamps to the wheel of a car. Attempts to move a car with an Auto-boot will result in serious damage to the car.)
Handicap parking is provided in many locations across campus. Vehicles displaying a handicap permit may park in any handicap space. Any student who has a state issued Handicap Placard registered in their name, must provide a copy of the placard and Handicap Registration card to Campus Police when getting a Meredith parking permit.
Campus parking privileges may be revoked in cases when a student repeatedly parks in any space other than authorized for her assigned decal. Fifteen-minute parking spaces may be used for loading and unloading only. Meredith College does not assume responsibility for any vehicle parked on campus.
Consult campus police for complete parking information, including identification of open parking lots at designated times.
Temporary Parking Permits
Faculty, staff and students with a valid parking permit may obtain a temporary parking permit, free of charge, when their registered car is unavailable.
Family and Guest Parking
All cars are required to be registered. Students are responsible for the proper parking and registration of guest vehicles. There is no charge for permits for family and guests. Students should become familiar with all visitor parking areas and direct their guests to proper areas. Guests’ vehicles are also subject to being ticketed.
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Baby Sitting
Baby sitting is not permitted on campus regardless of the age of the child. Baby sitting includes hosting family members with young children or watching young relatives regardless if services are paid or voluntary. Residence halls and on-campus apartments are not appropriate communities for young children, especially infants.
CamNet Responsible Computing Policy
This document sets forth the CamNet Use Policy for Meredith College. Please read it—you are responsible for knowing and following these policies. All students, faculty and staff are responsible for using Meredith’s computing resources in an effective, ethical, moral and legal manner.
Purpose
Technology Services has responsibility for providing voice and data support services to Meredith College. In terms of systems, Technology Services is responsible for telecommunications, administrative computing, academic computing and library computing activities. Computers and networks provide access to resources on and off the campus, as well as the ability to communicate with other users worldwide. Such access is a privilege and requires the user act responsibly.
Users must respect the rights of other users, respect the integrity of the systems and observe all relevant laws, regulations and obligations. All existing laws, federal and state and college regulations and policies apply. Illegal reproduction of software protected by US Copyright Law is subject to civil and criminal penalties including fines and imprisonment.
The practice of unauthorized downloading and file sharing runs counter to the college’s commitment to integrity. Use of illegally copied software is a violation of federal law as detailed in the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (Title 17 United States Code). The introduction of software programs that enable the sharing of illegal files over the college’s network often introduce adware, spyware, worms and viruses that adversely affect the performance of the individual’s computer; infect and even damage the college’s network resources requiring costly time consuming repair efforts; and deny the use of these electronic resources to others in the college community. A student who has obtained unauthorized software is encouraged to bring her computer to the Technology Services department for assistance in deleting unauthorized software. If the College receives an Infringement Notification showing that a computer belonging to the college network has been illegally downloading and sharing digital music, movies, or game files, Meredith College will comply with the request to remove the specified files.
When a student is notified that her computer has been identified in an “Infringement Notification,” she will first be given a warning and assistance by the Technology Services department in deleting unauthorized software from her computer.
If a student, after receiving a warning, again violates copyright law, she will be referred to the Honor Council for further action.
Misuse of computing, networking, or information resources may result in the loss of computing privileges. Certain infringements may lead to prosecution under the applicable statutes. Users will be held accountable for their conduct under applicable College policies. Complaints alleging misuse should be directed to Chief Information Officer, Technology Services, Meredith College, by sending an e-mail to cio@meredith.edu.
Use of College Owned Resources
The following policies apply to all College owned technology resources provided for use by the Meredith College Community—faculty, staff and students. The intent is to give an overview of acceptable and unacceptable uses. This document is not to be considered as an exhaustive enumeration of all uses and misuses.
Acceptable Use
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Consistent with the mission of the college
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For the purpose of and in support of education and research
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By students, faculty and staff who have been trained, have a current network account and a valid password
Unacceptable Use
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Unauthorized copying of copyrighted material
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Destruction of or damage to the equipment, software or data belonging to the college and/or other users
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Use of computers or network that violates federal, state or local laws or statutes
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Providing, assisting in or gaining unauthorized or inappropriate access to Meredith’s computing resources
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Activities that interfere with the ability of others to use resources effectively
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Use of printers as copiers—one copy of output should be made and taken to the copiers for the production of multiple copies
Activities that result in the loss of another person’s work/data or unauthorized access to another person’s work/data.
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All Meredith students are required to have and carry a Meredith picture identification card called the CamCard. “Meredith student” is defined to be any student registered for at least one academic credit course through the Meredith College registrar or the John E. Weems Graduate School. CamCards are required of all individuals in order to check out library materials, for student access to residence halls, and for general identification purposes around the campus. Resident students must use the CamCard for
Meredith dining services. Identification cards are made free of charge in the Security Office. Any person using campus facilities or entering classrooms or other buildings must have a college ID.
Any individual who has a CamCard may open a Secure Spending Account by making a deposit to her/his Secure Spending Account. Funds on deposit will allow the identification card to be used for access to the Secure Spending Account for purchases in the Meredith Supply Store, certain campus vending operations, campus photocopy machines, and for individual meal purchases in the dining hall and the snack bar. Deposits may be made in person at the Accounting Office or by mail. Cash withdrawals are not allowed. For more information related to depositing money in a “Secure Spending” account, please contact the Accounting Office.
Lost or stolen CamCards should be reported immediately to the Security Office. There is a $5.00 charge to replace lost or stolen IDs.
Complaint/Grievance Procedures for Students
Academic Problems
Students who are experiencing academic problems either with a grade or other conditions of the course should first discuss the matter with the professor. It is the professor’s responsibility to explain fully all grades and requirements of the course. If the problem is not resolved, the student or professor should consult the department head. Should further action be required, the matter should be taken to the dean of the school.
Any grievance concerning a grade that has not been satisfactorily resolved by the teacher, the department head, or academic dean may be appealed to the vice president for academic programs. The grade may be appealed on the basis of a question concerning: (1) clerical or numerical error, (2) personal bias or arbitrary grading. The formal appeal must be made within the first eight weeks of the term immediately following the grading period in which the grade is received. If the grievance can be equitably settled, the matter will be closed. If an agreement acceptable to the teacher and the student cannot be reached through the vice president’s mediation, the case will be referred to Academic Council for action. The decision of Academic Council will be final.
Housing Problems
A student who experiences a housing problem during the academic year should discuss the problem with the resident assistant responsible for her floor or the residence director responsible for her residence hall. If the problem cannot be resolved through discussion with the resident assistant or the residence director, the student may make an appointment with the director of residence life for further consideration.
General Student Complaints
Meredith College provides a learning environment that prepares students for responsible lives of life-long learning, professional development and global citizenship. The Meredith experience is designed to encourage collaborative learning among students, faculty and staff. Meredith College has a long and rich history in student self-governance and in promoting the general welfare of all students. To continue to enhance the quality of services and resources offered to students, Meredith College welcomes opinions, feedback and constructive ideas. The College is committed to ensuring that students have an avenue for articulating concerns, complaints and grievances.
In communicating specific concerns, complaints and grievances, students are encouraged to follow established policies and procedures outlined in the online Meredith College Student Handbook and the Meredith College Undergraduate Catalogue These methods include grievance and appeal procedures for academic problems or grades, academic suspension and other academic policies, harassment and non-discrimination policy complaints, reports of sexual assault and rape, Honor Code violations, housing issues, financial aid probation or suspension, disability services, student employment, and access to educational records.
In communicating general concerns, complaints or grievances that do not follow one of the specific grievance procedures indicated above, students have recourse through the following avenues:
Communication of Concerns through the Student Government Association - Any Meredith student may bring a concern to any branch of the Student Government Association. The Student Life Committee, a branch of the Student Government Association, directs attention and study to the concerns and well-being of the students at Meredith College. Students are also invited to participate in forums and student body meetings sponsored by the Student Government Association in fall and spring semesters.
Informal Process for General Complaints – A student is encouraged to resolve concerns or complaints by directly discussing the matter with the staff member or department in which the issue originated. If the complaint is not resolved, the next contact will be the supervisor or responsible administrator to investigate the issue. The student should attempt to resolve the complaint informally as soon as possible but at least within 30 days of the occurrence. Staff members in the Office of the Dean of Students are also available as a resource for students who have complaints.
Formal Process for General Complaints – If the matter is unresolved after following the informal complaint process, the student may complete a formal written complaint by completing a Student General Complaint Form available in the Office of the Dean of Students, 2nd floor Park Center. The formal complaint form must be submitted to the Office of the Dean of Students within ten (10) College working days following the date that the informal complaint process is completed. If the complaint is about the staff in the Office of the Dean of Students, the student may submit the complaint form to the Vice President for College Programs. The formal complaint must contain the following information:
- Name of student filing the formal complaint
- Name of the staff member or department the complaint is against
- Date(s) of the incident(s)
- Statement of facts and nature of the concern/complaint
- Description of steps already attempted to resolve concern through informal procedures
- Resolution being sought by student
- Student signature and contact information
Procedures for resolution of Formal Complaints:
The staff in the Office of the Dean of Students will log all general formal complaints and send the complaint to the appropriate administrator for review, investigation and decision.
The responsible administrator will usually respond within ten (10) working days to the complainant. Depending on the nature of the complaint, the responsible administrator may call together involved parties to mediate the situation and determine a solution or decision. The administrator will inform the student of the decision in writing. When a decision is made about a formal complaint, a copy of the written decision should be sent to the Dean of Students, who maintains the general complaint log.
If the resolution is unsatisfactory to the student, she may then contact the Dean of Students for a referral to the appropriate Vice President. The Vice President shall respond to the complaint within twenty (20) College working days after receipt of the formal complaint and inform the student of the decision in writing. Decisions and resolutions made by a Vice President are final.
If the complaint is submitted about a Vice President, the complaint will be referred to the President for response and decision.
No person against whom a complaint is filed shall intimidate, threaten, coerce, or discriminate against any student submitting a complaint. Complaints about retaliation may be communicated to the Office of the Dean of Students.
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Contractual Agreements
Any contractual agreement for which the College must issue a check or upon which the name of Meredith College appears must have the signature of the vice president for business and finance or the president. This policy includes any club, organization, group, or individual acting directly or indirectly as a part of the College. Organization advisors and/or sponsors must approve the agreement which is to be signed by the director of student activities and leadership development and, if necessary, by the vice president for college programs and the vice president for business and finance.
Copyright Policy
Meredith College expects students, faculty and staff to be familiar with and obey copyright law. At a minimum, members of the Meredith community should have a basic understanding of Fair Use concepts. Users of Blackboard should be aware of additional limitations as described in the TEACH Act. Refer to the Meredith College copyright web page at www.meredith.edu/copyright for more information. Supplementary copyright instruction sessions will be offered annually to the Meredith community.
Corrections to College Records
Students should notify the Office of the Registrar of name, address, phone, and marital status changes in addition to changes in the student’s academic program, anticipated completion or catalogue.
Dress
For reasons of health and safety, shoes must be worn in the dining hall and science laboratories.
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Family Communications
The College reserves the right to contact the family of Meredith students in accordance with the Federal Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974. For more information visit The U.S. Department of Education's website at:
www2.ed.gov/policy/gen/guid/fpco/ferpa/parents.html
Meredith College Statement of Philosophy on Freedom of Expression
Meredith College values freedom and openness in the pursuit of truth. The lively and free exchange of ideas is essential to the intellectual life of the College as well as to the expansion of knowledge itself. Freedom of thought, free speech, and peaceful assembly are rights of citizens and are fundamental to this open inquiry and search for knowledge.
Members of the Meredith College community express their views through a variety of established means, including Student Government, faculty governance, and staff affairs committees. The College also recognizes the right of an individual to express views through dissent and peaceful protest. The College has an obligation and responsibility to protect the rights of individuals who do not wish to participate in demonstrations and whose educational or employment pursuits must not be disrupted.
The College has the obligation to ensure the safety of individuals, the protection of property, and the continuity of the educational process. Demonstrations and assemblies may not infringe on the rights of others or disrupt essential operations of the College.
Meredith College protects the rights of all of its students, faculty, and staff.
Meredith College Policy on Demonstrations
Meredith College requires notice in advance of any proposed demonstration on campus as follows: students should contact the Office of Student Leadership and Service at least 24 hours in advance; all others should contact the Vice President for College Programs (111-113 Johnson Hall) at least 48 hours in advance. With less notice, the College will try to accommodate a demonstration but may not be able to do so. For demonstrations that are to take place over the weekend, notification should occur before the close of business on Thursday.
Be prepared to tell the College:
- Number of people involved with demonstration
- Proposed nature of the demonstration
- Contact info for responsible person
- Plans to advertise/inform others about the demonstration.
Any persons on College property should be prepared to present a picture ID at the request of campus police. Failure to do so may result in exclusion from campus.
Demonstrations may not interfere with any classes or campus events.
All demonstrations, including distribution of flyers or brochures, must take place outside of campus buildings, stay at least 30 feet from the main entrances to those buildings, and refrain from blocking access to and from the buildings, roads or sidewalks. The College will clearly mark the 30 foot boundary at public events.
No one may harass, abuse, or intimidate any person on campus.
No sound amplification equipment may be used.
All people on campus must follow all directives of campus police or other College officials acting in their official capacity.
In normal circumstances, no demonstrations or assemblies will be allowed near campus housing between the hours of 9 pm and 9 am.
Meredith College reserves the right to deny requests for access to the campus by individuals or groups who are not affiliated with Meredith College faculty, staff, or students or that are commercial in nature.
Freshman Regulations
Traditional-aged freshmen observe the same regulations as all other students with the addition of the following:
- Freshmen must attend the required hall or commuter meetings during freshman orientation. Other required meetings are noted in the Student Planner.
- Freshmen must attend both sessions of the Discovery Series. The two sessions take place during the fall semester on Monday mornings and evenings. Sessions are designed to enhance each first year student’s college experience by introducing her to campus and community resources and informing her about issues which may affect her life as a student and as a woman.
Fundraising, Vending, and Sales
Fundraisers organized by students and student organizations must be registered before a begining a fundraising activity. Information regarding fundraisers and the sale ofitems can be found on the Sale of Items section of the Tool Box avaiable on the Office of Student Leadership and Service website.
Belk Dining Hall has one table that can be used to conduct fundraisers or publicity campaigns for student organizations or other approved Meredith groups. This table is available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Please contact the Director of Dining Services before making plans to use the table. To reserve a table in the Cate Center Lobby, near the Information Desk (first floor), contact the Office of Student Leadership and Service.
Meredith College does not permit the sale of items advertising or advocating the use of drugs, including alcohol or tobacco. Meredith reserves the right to deny permission to any group selling or distributing materials that are not in accord with the philosophy of the College. All student organizations planning to sell an item must be registered, even if the group is not using the sales for fundraising purposes.
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Guests
A Meredith student is responsible for the appropriate behavior of her campus guests. A guest is expected to observe the same regulations as the Meredith student. Guests will be responsible for paying for all meals eaten in the dining hall (see dining hall fee schedule). A guest should carry a photo ID while visiting campus.
Apartment Guests
Overnight guests are permitted to stay up to three consecutive nights in any seven-day period. An apartment resident is responsible for her guest’s behavior. If a guest is
disruptive to the living community, he/she may be asked to leave the apartments. Apartment resident must complete an Extended Stay form for any guest wanting to stay more than three consecutive nights, and the apartment resident must turn the form in to apartment staff in advance of the guest’s stay. Apartment residents and their guests shall be considerate of others and the living community while using common spaces.
Residence Hall Guests
Female Guests, Residence Hall
A female guest is allowed to stay overnight on campus only if her host is also on campus. When hosting a female guest, a student should respect the rights of her roommate regarding the behavior and length of stay of the guest. Female guests should be accompanied by a Meredith student. The host should register her guest (female) before 11 p.m. with her residence director, who will issue her a guest pass. If the guest arrives after closing hours, the student must register her with a security guard. The security guard may request identification of any guest coming in after closing hours. A guest will not be permitted onto campus if she does not have a guest pass or is not accompanied by her Meredith host.
Residents are permitted to host the same guest for a maximum of three nights within a 30-day period.
Male Guests, Residence Hall
Except during an Open House for reasons of privacy and security, male guests are allowed in the residence halls only in first floor parlors and only when accompanied by a Meredith student.
During Open House hours, male guests may enter through any residence hall door when accompanied by a Meredith student. During non-Open House hours, male guests must enter only through the first floor parlor doors (during hours in which the campus is not closed).
Males are not allowed on campus after closing hours (1:00 a.m. Sunday – Thursday; 2:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday) except to accompany students to their residence halls. Then the male guest must immediately leave campus.
Open House hours for male guests: Beginning the first weekend in September and the weekend after classes start in January, Open Houses are planned for:
Thursdays 5 p.m.- 9 p.m.
Fridays 3 p.m. – 1 a.m.
Saturdays 10 a.m. – 1 a.m.
Sundays 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
No Open Houses are held during exams. All open house weekends are listed in the Student Planner. Freshman residents are required to sign in and sign out their guests.
Residence directors may grant special permission for men to carry heavy items to or from a student’s room (heavy items include: refrigerators, heavy trunks, book shelves, heavy furniture, unusually bulky or large items). This permission is a privilege; therefore, men should not linger on the halls after they have completed the task for which they were granted permission.
The person giving permission to a male to carry things onto the hall is responsible for checking to make certain the male vacated the hall. Residents are expected to announce “male on the hall.” They are to escort their helper out of the building within 15 minutes.
Fathers of Meredith students and brothers under the age of 12 are allowed in the residence halls at any time before closing hours provided they are escorted by the Meredith student to and from her room.
Males unaccompanied by a Meredith student are not allowed in the courtyard after dark unless they are en route to a residence hall first-floor parlor for an arranged meeting.
Other campus locations for visiting with male guests:
- Weatherspoon Gymnasium during the hours posted by the department of Health, Exercise and Sports Science. Equipment must be returned to its proper place upon leaving. (Note: No guests may use equipment in the Margaret W. Parker Fitness Center).
- Cate Center including the Bee Hive Cafe, lounges, and supply store.
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Harassment and Non-Discrimination Policy and Complaint Procedures
Introduction
Meredith College prohibits discrimination and harassment in the administration of any of its educational programs, admissions policies , scholarship and loan programs, and other school administered programs as well as employment. Meredith College prohibits and does not engage in discrimination or harassment that is based on a person’s religion, race, color, national origin, age (as defined in the Age Discrimination in Employment Act), sex, disability, veteran’s status, sexual orientation or any other category protected by applicable law. The College views violations of this policy as very serious matters and any person who violates this policy will be subject to corrective action, up to and including dismissal (please see disciplinary information in appropriate handbook whether faculty, staff, student or board policies), whether such conduct occurred on or off campus.
Meredith College provides notice of intent to comply with the regulations effectuating Title IX of the Higher Education Amendments of 1972, as amended by Public Law 93-568 Inquiries concerning Title IX compliance by the College may be made to the Title IX Coordinator or Office of Civil Rights. The College’s Title IX Coordinator is the Director of Human Resources, who may be contacted at 3800 Hillsborough Street, Raleigh, NC 27607; davispam@meredith.edu; 919-760-8760.
Reports made to the Title IX Coordinator under this policy requires the College to promptly investigate to determine what occurred and then take appropriate steps to resolve the situation.
Descriptions
I. Discrimination. Discrimination is treating someone unfavorably because of his or her religion, race, color, national origin, age, sex, disability, veteran’s status, sexual orientation or any other category protected by applicable law.
II. Harassment. Harassment is any action (oral, written or electronic), repeated or persistent series of actions, or expressions that are reasonably perceived as creating an offensive, hostile educational, employment or college living environment for a student or College employee. Harassment may rise to the level of being so severe and pervasive as to create an offensive or hostile work or educational environment and adversely affect a student’s participation or educational environment or adversely affect an employee’s terms or conditions of employment.
Sexual harassment is a particular form of harassment also prohibited by the College. Sexual harassment will vary with the circumstances but the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has defined sexual harassment with regard to employment as follows:
“Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature constitute sexual harassment when:
- Condition of an individual’s employment;
- Submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as a basis for employment decisions affecting such individual; or
- Such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s work performance or creating an intimidating hostile or offensive working environment.”
By way of example, verbal or written sexual harassment can include sexual innuendoes, offensive remarks about another person’s clothing or body, suggestive or insulting sounds, implied or overt sexual propositions, cyberstalking or harassment, or pressure for sex. Examples of physical sexual harassment can include leering or ogling, obscene gestures, inappropriate touching, fondling or kissing, and coerced sexual contact. Sexual harassment can be perpetrated upon members of the opposite gender or one’s own gender. Occasional compliments of a socially acceptable nature do not normally constitute sexual harassment. Similarly, depending upon the circumstances (including the nature of course materials or the context of an action), not all verbal or physical conduct will be considered sexual in nature. The classroom in an academic setting is distinct in the workplace, and the College will maintain and encourage academic freedom. The academic setting will be considered with regard to complaints and to be harassment such behavior must be not germane to the subject matter.
A more serious form of sexual offense is sexual violence.
Sexual violence is defined as any incident of forcing another person to perform a sexual act against his or her will. Force can be implicit through the use of threatening words, gestures, or tone of voice, or explicit through actions of physical restraints. According to North Carolina state law, rape is defined as forced sexual intercourse against the will of another person. Rape is also considered to be sexual intercourse with a person who is physically, mentally, or otherwise incapacitated (including incapacitation from the use of alcohol and drugs), when the person performing the act knows of the victim’s incapacity. Individuals should refer to the College’s Sexual Violence Policy for more information found in the online student handbook, and on the websites of the Offices of Human Resources and Dean Students on College’s policy against sexual violence.
III. No Retaliation. It is a violation of this policy to retaliate against a person who has complained about discrimination or harassment (to include sexual violence, or for assisting, participating or cooperating in an investigation or grievance of a complaint hereunder.
IV. Wrongful Allegations. It is a violation of this policy to bring a knowingly false complaint under this policy. However, failure to prove a claim of harassment does not alone constitute proof of a false and/or malicious accusation.
V. Confidentiality. The College will make reasonable efforts to keep all information relating to complaints under this policy confidential on a need-to-know basis, to the extent consistent with the College’s legal obligations, its need to investigate allegations, and its need to take corrective and/or disciplinary actions. Complainants may use the chaplain and/or counselors as confidential resources to learn more about sexual harassment and its effects. However, reporting to the College chaplain and/or counselors as confidential resources is not reporting to the College under this policy and they are obligated to keep confidentiality unless the complainant asks for assistance in reporting. All participants in the grievance process or any investigation of any allegation hereunder shall respect the confidentiality of the process and violation of confidentiality on a need-to-know basis is a violation of this policy. Individuals have the right to report incidents of sexual violence to law enforcement official at any point in this process, in addition to any remedies sought under this policy.
VII. Grievance Materials. Once grievance proceedings are completed, all materials related to the case, including statements, evidence and documents, and all other materials examined, shall be retained in a separate file in the Office of Human Resources or Office of the Dean of Students (as appropriate) for a period of ten years, unless the findings result in termination of employment or expulsion, in which case records are to be kept permanently on file. Complaint information is not placed in personnel or student files.
VIII. Corrective and/or Disciplinary Action. Violations of this policy subject the violators to corrective and/or disciplinary action, up to and including termination or expulsion in accordance with College procedures. If sanctions result, documentation of such will be placed in the personnel or student files, and may be taken into consideration for other situations as appropriate. Sanctions of expulsion would be kept permanently on file and reflected on a student’s academic transcript. In allegations of sexual violence, the College may be required to report incidents to law enforcement officials. The College is obligated to take prompt and effective steps to end sexual violence, harassment and/or discrimination, prevent its recurrence, and address its effects, whether or not there is a criminal investigation.
Harassment or Discrimination by Undergraduate Students: Methods of Resolution
At any point in the grievance process, the Office of the Dean of Students may be contacted and will receive a complaint or provide assistance as appropriate. In the event of employee involvement, the Office of Human Resources may be contacted. Discussing a complaint does not commit one to making a formal charge. Complainants may use the College chaplain and/or counselors as confidential resources to learn more about sexual harassment and its effects. However, reporting to these resources is not reporting to the College and they are obligated to keep confidentiality unless the complainant asks for assistance in reporting. Complaints should be presented within a timely manner usually within thirty (30) business days of the conduct giving rise to the grievance.
I. Informal Resolution. Either directly, or with the assistance of a third party (current student, faculty or staff) chosen by the complainant, complainants are encouraged to make their discomfort known to perceived harassers in a timely manner. Perceived harassers have a responsibility to attempt to understand both the intentional and unintentional effects of their behavior and to respond in a thoughtful, sensitive manner to those perceived effects. In serious instances of harassment (including sexual violence), it is unreasonable to expect complainants to confront their perceived harassers.
If appropriate, the dean of students may arrange a meeting between the two parties to facilitate discussion of the complaint. Mediation is designed to encourage each person to be honest and direct with the other and to accept personal responsibility where appropriate. Its goal is to facilitate the resolution of the incident to the satisfaction of both persons involved, and to reach an agreement that is binding on both parties. In cases involving allegations of sexual violence, mediation will not be used in the resolution process. If the complainant is satisfied with the outcome, the matter will be considered resolved. If the outcome of mediation is unsatisfactory to the complainant, the complaint will be returned to the dean of students within five business days and the formal process may be enacted A complainant can end an informal resolution process at any time and proceed to formal resolution.
II. Formal Resolution. If complainant prefers to proceed to formal resolution directly or at any time during informal resolution, the incident should be reported by the complainant to the solicitor general or the dean of students as a violation of the Honor Code. The accused student will be asked to report to the solicitor general of Honor Council or the dean of students. The accused student and the complainant will be afforded all rights outlined in the procedures of the Honor System, as described in the Constitution of the Student Government Association in the Student Handbook and Activities Calendar (Article IV, Section II). In Honor Council cases involving sexual violence, preponderance of the evidence standard will be applied. The College reserves the right to discipline, including immediate suspension or expulsion at any time, any student whose conduct is regarded by Meredith as undesirable, unacceptable or a violation of this policy.
Harassment or Discrimination by Graduate Students: Methods of Resolution. At any point in the grievance process, the dean of the school of the student’s program (hereafter referred to as “dean of the school”) may be contacted and will receive a complaint or provide assistance as appropriate. In the event of employee involvement, the Office of Human Resources may be contacted. Discussing a complaint does not commit one to making a formal charge. Complainants may use the College chaplain and/or counselors as confidential resources to learn more about sexual harassment and its effects. However, reporting to these resources is not reporting to the College and they are obligated to keep confidentiality unless the complainant asks for assistance in reporting. Complaints should be presented within a timely manner usually within thirty (30) business days of the conduct giving rise to the grievance.
I. InformalResolution. Either directly, or with the assistance of a third party (current student, faculty or staff) chosen by the complainant, complainants are encouraged to make their discomfort known to perceived harassers in a timely manner. Perceived harassers have a responsibility to attempt to understand both the intentional and unintentional effects of their behavior and to respond in a thoughtful, sensitive manner to those perceived effects. In serious instances of sexual harassment, it is unreasonable to expect complainants to confront their perceived harassers.
If appropriate, the dean of the school may arrange a meeting between the two parties to facilitate discussion of the complaint. Mediation is designed to encourage each person to be honest and direct with the other and to accept personal responsibility where appropriate. Its goal is to facilitate the resolution of the incident to the satisfaction of both persons involved, and to reach an agreement that is binding on both parties. In cases involving allegations of sexual violence, mediation will not be used in the resolution process. If the complainant is satisfied with the outcome, the matter will be considered resolved. If the outcome of mediation is unsatisfactory to the complainant, the complaint will be returned to the dean of the school within five business days and the formal process may be enacted.
II. Formal Resolution. If complainant prefers to proceed to formal resolution directly or at any time during informal resolution, the incident should be reported by the complainant to the dean of the school of the student’s program (hereafter referred to as the “dean of the school”) as a violation of the Honor Code. The dean of the school will receive the complaint or provide assistance as appropriate. In Honor Council cases involving sexual violence, preponderance of the evidence standard will be applied. The accused student and the complainant will be afforded all rights outlined in the procedures of the Honor System, as described in the Graduate Catalogue.
The College reserves the right to discipline, including immediate suspension or expulsion at any time, any student whose conduct is regarded by Meredith as undesirable, unacceptable or a violation of this policy.
Harassment or Discrimination by Faculty or Staff: Methods of Resolution. At any point in the grievance process, the Office of Human Resources may be contacted and will receive a complaint or provide assistance as appropriate. In the event the complainant is a student, the dean of students or the dean of the school may be contacted. Discussing a complaint does not commit one to making a formal charge. Complainants may use the College chaplain and/or counselors as confidential resources to learn more about sexual harassment and its effects. However, reporting to these resources is not reporting to the College and they are obligated to keep confidentiality unless the complainant asks for assistance in reporting. Complaints should be presented within a timely manner usually within thirty (30) business days of the conduct giving rise to the grievance.
I. Informal Resolution. Either directly, or with the assistance of a third party (current student, faculty or staff) chosen by the complainant, complainants are encouraged to make their discomfort known to perceived harassers in a timely manner. Perceived harassers have a responsibility to attempt to understand both the intentional and unintentional effects of their behavior and to respond in a thoughtful, sensitive manner to those perceived effects. In serious instances of sexual harassment, it is unreasonable to expect complainants to confront their perceived harassers.
Complainants are encouraged to report acts of harassment or discrimination to the immediate supervisor of the alleged harasser/discriminator or the Office of Human Resources, the Office of the Dean of Students or the Office of the Dean of the school, as appropriate. Upon notification of a complaint, the supervisor/dean should contact the Office of Human Resources to assist with the review of the complaint and to take any appropriate actions. The supervisor will hear the complaint and should respond verbally to the complainant as to the findings and outcome within ten business days of notification of the complaint.
In some situations, mediation may be an appropriate option for resolution. Mediation is designed to encourage each person to be honest and direct with the other and to accept personal responsibility where appropriate. If the complainant is satisfied with the outcome, the matter will be considered resolved. In cases involving allegations of sexual violence, mediation will not be used in the resolution process.
II. Formal Resolution. If step I does not resolve the situation to the satisfaction of the complainant or if complainant prefers to proceed directly to the formal resolution option, the complainant should submit a Formal Grievance Form or give a verbal statement documented by the individual receiving report within five business days of receiving the response from the supervisor. The Formal Grievance Form is available from the Office of Human Resources, the Office of the Dean of Students, or the Office of the Dean of school or online at the Meredith web site (www.meredith.edu/humres/forms.htm). Complainants may proceed directly to step II if so preferred and in cases of sexual violence. A representative from the Office of Human Resources, the Dean of Students or the dean of the school (as appropriate for complainant’s status) will assist with completion of forms or explanation of process as requested.
The College will promptly and thoroughly investigate any allegation that has not been resolved informally. Such investigation may involve review of documents, statements and/or interviews of the complainant, the alleged harasser/s and any witnesses whom the investigator determines may have relevant information. The alleged harasser and the complainant will each have access to provide information to the investigator and will be provided full information about the allegation. Most investigations will be completed within 30 business days. If an investigation cannot be completed in that time, the investigator will communicate to the complainant and the alleged harasser that the investigation will take longer and will advise when the investigation is anticipated to be complete. The results of the conclusion of whether the policy has been violated will be reported to both parties.
Complaints regarding the director of human resources should be made to the vice president for business and finance. Vice presidents of the college who wish to bring a complaint should communicate it to the President of the College or the President’s designee; likewise, complaints about vice presidents should be taken to the President of the College. When a complaint concerns a vice president, the President shall direct the complaint to be investigated and provide a prompt response to the complainant.
Complaints about the President of the College should be communicated to the chairperson of the Board of Trustees. In such a case, the trustees shall devise an appropriate procedure for handling the complaint. Any individual who needs assistance initiating contact with the Board of Trustees may contact the Office of Human Resources.
Complaints regarding vendors, contract workers, guests or others who may be visiting the campus should be brought to the attention of the appropriate vice president or Office of Human Resources.
The College reserves the right to discipline, including immediate suspension or termination, of any employee whose conduct about which Meredith becomes aware is regarded by Meredith to be a violation of this policy. Any dismissal should be in keeping with the dismissal policy in the Faculty Handbook.
III. Appeals - Grievance Hearing Subcommittee. If the situation is still not resolved to the satisfaction of the complainant after Step II, he or she may submit a Grievance Appeal Form to the Office of Human Resources within five days of receiving the response to the Formal Grievance. The Grievance Appeal Form is available from the Office of Human Resources, Office of the Dean of Students, and Office of the Dean of the school or online at the Meredith web site (www.meredith.edu/humres/forms.htm). A representative from The Office of Human Resources will notify the employee and all levels of supervisor through to the vice president’s office that the grievance has progressed to this level. A representative from the Office of Human Resources will assemble the grievance hearing subcommittee as outlined below, ensuring that no member has a known conflict of interest.
The subcommittee will review the complaint, study all pertinent facts, carefully examine any policies involved, and may take statements or call witnesses to evaluate the complaint. Both parties can propose questions of witnesses to be asked through the committee in its discretion. Both parties have the option of having another member of the Meredith community (current student, faculty or staff) not otherwise involved in the matter present for moral support but not speaking during any discussions. The basis for a decision will be based on a preponderance of the evidence, with the simple majority decision of the subcommittee. The subcommittee may find that no discrimination or harassment has occurred or they may find in whole or in part for the complainant and recommend action to remedy the situation. The chair will prepare a written report within 30 business days with findings and recommendations to go to the vice president.
The vice president then has the option to accept the recommendations of the committee, return the case to the committee for further consideration, or reject the findings after reviewing the case. The vice president will then prepare a letter to both parties within five days to notify them of the decision and any actions to be taken. The decision of the vice president is final.
Grievance Subcommittee: At the time a complaint is received, the complainant will select one person from the grievance committee (see below), and the Office of Human Resources will select four individuals and one alternate to complete the subcommittee which will hear the complaint, ensuring no member of the committee has a known conflict of interest. The subcommittee should include individuals from each segment of the campus community represented by the concerned parties. For example, if the complaint is from a student against a faculty member, HR should try to select two students (undergraduate students or graduate students, depending upon the student’s enrollment in either an undergraduate or graduate program) and two faculty members to hear the case; the student would select either another student, or a faculty or staff member; and the alternate could be either a student, faculty or staff member. The chair will be selected by committee vote.
A representative from the Office of Human Resources shall serve as an ex-officio, non-voting facilitator, to provide technical assistance on procedural and policy matters. The subcommittee will receive training on this policy on at the time they are convened to ensure they understand the policy and their responsibilities as a member of the subcommittee.
Grievance Committee: The grievance committee shall be composed of the Faculty Council, the Staff Affairs Committee, six undergraduate students to be selected based on student positions appointed for the year (Honor Council Chair, Student Life Chair, Residence Hall Association President, Association of Meredith Commuters President, WINGS President and the Apartment Association President), and one graduate student from each school with graduate programs.
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Consensual Relationships
Meredith College strives to maintain a safe and intellectually stimulating environment where students and employees can live, work and think without undue negative influences, concerns of favoritism, intimidation, and/or hostile working or learning environments. To that end, consensual romantic, intimate and/or sexual relationships are prohibited when they occur between faculty, staff and/or students when a professional power differential exists in these situations in terms of the influence and authority that the one can exercise over the other.
A “power differential” relationship is defined to include relations between a student and any faculty, staff member or student who 1) now supervises or would have a reasonable or usual expectation of supervising the student in the future; 2) now provides or would have a reasonable or usual expectation of providing the student with oral or written recommendations; 3) now grades and/or formally evaluates or would have a reasonable or usual expectation of grading and/or formally evaluating the student in the future; and/or 4) now makes significant decisions, or would have a reasonable or usual expectation of making significant decisions in the future affecting the student’s living space, financial aid, and/or access to essential College programs and services.
The College strongly discourages faculty or staff from engaging in any consensual sexual, intimate or romantic relationships with any student, even where a “power differential” is not present. Of course, non-consensual sexual, intimate or romantic relationships are unlawful and strictly prohibited by College policy.
This information is available on the Meredith College web site.
Meredith only admits to and serves females in its undergraduate program, as it is permitted by law.
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Sexual Violence
The Meredith College community will not tolerate sexual assault or rape which are acts of sexual violence.
Sexual assault is defined as any incident of forcing another person to perform a sexual act against his/her will. Force can be implicit through the use of threatening words, gestures, or tone of voice, or explicit through actions of physical restraints. According to North Carolina state law, rape is defined as forced sexual intercourse against the will of another person. Rape is also considered to be sexual intercourse with a person who is physically, mentally, or otherwise incapacitated (including incapacitation from the use of alcohol and drugs), when the person performing the act knows of the victim’s incapacity.
Meredith College recognizes the importance of assisting a member of the Meredith College community who is a victim of sexual violence in regaining a sense of personal control.
The College is obligated to take prompt and effective steps to end the sexual violence, prevent its recurrence, and address its effects, whether or not the sexual violence is the subject of a criminal investigation.
In this respect, several College departments coordinate efforts to offer services to a victim and others upon whom the sexual violence might have an impact. Meredith College strongly urges anyone who is the victim of sexual violence to:
- Seek medical assistance as soon as possible following the incident (within 72 hours), being sure to advise medical personnel that treatment is necessary because of assault or rape. If a victim decides to press charges, medical information is essential. An individual may contact Campus Police (919-760-8888), Interact 24 hour Rape Crisis Line (919-828-3005), or Wake Medical Safe Center (919-828-3067) for assistance.
- For crisis support, individuals may call the counselor on call through Campus Police (919-760-8888).
- For additional counseling, resources and information, contact the Counseling Center (919-760-8427) or the chaplain (919-760-8346). Individuals may use the chaplain and/or counselors to learn more about sexual violence and its effects; however, reporting to these resources is not reporting to the College as they are obligated to keep information confidential unless the individual is asking them to assist in reporting. A person may report incidents of sexual violence to Campus Police or local law enforcement authorities at any time in the complaint or resolution process. Campus Police is available to offer advice about legal options. In cases involving potential crime, the College must determine, consistent with State and local law, whether appropriate law enforcement or other authorities should be notified.
Sexual violence allegedly committed by a Meredith College community member violates the Harassment and Non-Discrimination Policy. Complainants may refer to this policy for information about filing a complaint and seeking resolution. Reports of harassment or discrimination may be made to the College’s Title IX Coordinator, the director of human resources. It is a violation against the Harassment and Non-Discrimination Policy to retaliate against a person who has complained about discrimination or harassment (including sexual violence or for assisting, participating or cooperating in an investigation or grievance of a complaint.
Students who are accused of sexual violence can be reported to and adjudicated by the College Honor System. During a College on-campus disciplinary case, the accuser and the accused are entitled to the same opportunities to have others present during the disciplinary hearing. In Honor Council cases involving sexual violence, the preponderance of evidence standard will be used. Upon request of the assaulted student, sexual violence committed by a student from another campus can be referred by the dean of students to that student’s campus for judicial action.
Sexual assault programming is available throughout the year to students through Campus Police, the Counseling Center and the Office of the Dean of Students. Residence life staff training, Discovery sessions for first year students and events such as the Take Back the Night March are representative of the College’s efforts to educate the campus community. Students who wish to be involved in sexual violence prevention activities may contact the Office of the Dean of Students or the Counseling Center.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases
STD testing is available and confidential at the Health Center. Students may choose to be tested by the health center staff for a fee, or some STD testing is provided FREE to students by a collaborative agreement with Wake County Human Services and the Meredith College Health Center every 2nd and 4th Wednesday from 12:00-3:00 p.m. fall and spring semesters.
HIV
Students with HIV (human immunocompromised virus) will have access to enrollment or employment, unless medically-based judgment in individual cases establishes that restriction is necessary for the welfare of the individual or other members of the College community. Individuals with HIV will be expected to maintain appropriate health practices in relationship to other members of the Meredith community and in accordance with the law.
Other Communicable Diseases
The College reserves the right to request that a student with a highly communicable disease leave the campus immediately and remain away until she is medically no longer deemed contagious.
The College attempts to respect the privacy of students in all health–related matters, except when required by law.
Immunization Records
A law enacted by the General Assembly of North Carolina requires all new enrollees in a private or public college/university system to present proof of immunization prior to matriculation. The enforcement of this law is to help prevent outbreaks of dangerous communicable diseases (e.g., mumps, measles), which have been a problem on some campuses in recent years. Outbreaks are preventable if students are vaccinated adequately. The law became effective July 1, 1986, and requires proof of certain immunizations as evidence of protection against specific vaccine preventable diseases.
Students must present, as a minimum, the following verification:
1) Three (3) DPT or DT Series, proof of Td or Tdap Booster within the last 10 years.
2) Proof of two (2) Rubeola, Rubella, and Mumps vaccines (MMR).
3) Students born after 7/1/1994 need three (3) Hepatitis B doses.
4) Proof of TB screening test (PPD), within one year prior to enrollment.
If you need further information about immunizations, please see the health Form in the Enrollment handbook. the health Form can also be located on-line at: http://meredith.edu/students/health/documents/healthform.pdf The imuunization record is on page 16.
Influenza, meningoccocal and cervical cancer vaccines are recommended but not required.
All immunization records will be screened carefully and, if deficiencies are found, the student will be notified. Please note that if the immunization requirement is not met, dismissal from school 30 days after registration is mandatory under NC State law.
Important Information about Meningococcal Disease and Vaccine
Neisseria meningitidis is the bacterium responsible for meningococcal disease. This particular bacterium can live unnoticed in individuals (“carrier state”) with no symptoms. Occasionally, the bacteria will invade the bloodstream or other body tissues and cause meningococcemia, meningitis, pneumonia or pharyngitis (sore throat). Individuals who have had close, intimate contact with a “carrier” or with an individual who has one of these illnesses may become infected with the bacteria also. Even if treated promptly, meningococcal disease may progress rapidly and cause serious medical problems including death.
Overall, college students do not seem to be at higher risk for meningococcal disease, and in fact have lower rates of disease than the general populations of 18 to 24-year-olds. However, freshmen, particularly those who live in residence halls, constitute a group at modestly increased risk of meningococcal disease relative to other persons their age.
There are two vaccines against N. meningitidis available in the United States. Meningococcal polysaccharide vaccine (MPSV4 or Menomune®) has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and available since 1981. Meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MCV4 or Menactra™) was licensed in 2005. Both vaccines can help to prevent 4 types of meningococcal disease (serogroup A, C, Y, and W-135). Meningococcal vaccines cannot prevent all types of the disease (e.g. serotype B), but they do help to protect many people who might become sick if they didn’t get the vaccine.
On May 27, 2005, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices of the CDC (ACIP) recommended that all college freshmen living in residence halls be vaccinated against meningococcal disease using either of the currently available vaccines (the conjugate vaccine is preferred). Other undergraduate students wishing to reduce their risk of meningococcal disease can also choose to be vaccinated.
The American College Health Association concurs with the ACIP recommendations. NC Session Law 2003-194, HB 825 requires that any private or public institution that offers postsecondary degrees “provide meningococcal disease information to students if the institution has a residential campus.”
A Meredith student who decides to get the meningococcal vaccine should get it from their family physician or local health department. The vaccine is also available at Wake County Health and Human Services. For more information on Meningococcal Disease, please go to the CDC website at www.cdc.gov/meningitis/index.htm.
Request to Return to Campus after Psychiatric Evaluation or Hospitalization
Any student who harms or threatens to harm herself or another will be referred immediately to an off -campus mental health facility for assessment. The student must be assessed off campus by a mental health professional and deemed safe to return to campus prior to her return to the College. It is the student’s responsibility to facilitate communication between the off-campus mental health professional(s) and the college counseling center. The student will need to sign a release of information authorization form requesting the off campus provider share information with the Meredith College Counseling Center.
The student is required to meet with a Meredith College counselor in the counseling center during normal hours of operation. The counselor will utilize the outside mental health assessment coupled with an in-person session to provide a recommendation to the vice president for college programs. The vice president will make a decision regarding the student’s return to Meredith’s campus. The College reserves the right to request an opinion from another counselor or physician to determine the student’s fitness to return to campus.
Students may appeal any denial of return to campus by submitting a written statement regarding the grounds for appeal to the vice president for college programs within five (5) business days of the college’s decision. The vice president for college programs will submit the student’s written appeal along with any position she may have to the president who will make a decision within five (5) business days of the appeal. The president’s decision shall be final.
At any time, parents/family of the student involved and appropriate College officials may be notified at the discretion of the vice president for college programs and other personnel on duty. If a student withdraws or takes a temporary leave of absence, she still must comply with the above requirements.
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Imprinted Items Policy for Student Organizations
Designs for student organization and class T-shirt, sweatshirts and other imprinted items must be approved through a process established by the Office Student Leadership and Service and the Office of Marketing and Communications. Information regarding design approvals can be found on the Sale of Items section of the Tool Box on the Office of Student Leadership and Service website.
I. Introduction
Meredith College (the “College”) is dedicated to teaching and scholarship. In these pursuits, intellectual property is often created by members of the College community. The purposes of this intellectual property policy are to establish means for allocating ownership of such intellectual property and any revenues obtained on account of the commercialization of such intellectual property in compliance with applicable law and agreements and to provide guidance respecting the protection and enforcement of the College’s intellectual property rights and the resolution of disputes that may arise from time to time. This intellectual property policy applies to all College employees, students and independent contractors as well as anyone else using College facilities and resources under the supervision of or with the permission of College personnel. The universe of intellectual property is as boundless as the collective imagination of humankind. This intellectual property policy is concerned chiefly with works of original authorship and inventions created by covered individuals acting alone or with collaborators, whether all collaborators are members of the College community or not.
II. Definitions
As used in this intellectual property policy, the following terms have the meanings set forth below:
A. “College facilities and resources” means funds, work space, equipment and supplies, library collections, release time and administrative and technical support ownedor provided by Meredith College.
B. “Covered individual” means any employee, independent contractor, student and anyone else using College facilities and resources for work or study under the supervision or with the permission of Meredith College personnel, including, without limitation, volunteers.
C. “Employee” means all faculty including full-time, part-time, adjunct and visiting teaching and administrative faculty; all staff; and all students who are employed by the College.
D. “Faculty” means the President, the Vice Presidents, all teaching faculty and such other persons as may be so designated by the President and approved by the Executive Committee.
E. “Funded invention” means an invention funded in whole or in part by third-party grants or sponsorships awarded to the College or administered by the College on behalf of the grantee.
F. “Funding agreement” (also “sponsorship agreement”) means a written agreement whereby an individual or entity provides monetary support for the creation of a work or conception of an invention by a covered individual.
G. “Independent contractor” means a person or entity retained by Meredith College to perform certain duties under the terms of a written professional services or vendor agreement.
H. “Invention” means, collectively, any new, useful and nonobvious process, machine or composition of matter and any new or useful improvement thereto conceived by one or more individuals. Notwithstanding its status as a literary work under the Copyright Act, computer software may in some instances also be regarded as an invention.
I. “Net revenues” means all revenues attributable to the exploitation of a work or invention (i.e., gross revenues) less any deductions or overhead expenses agreed in writing between or among the applicable parties.
J. “Original work of authorship” means any literary, musical, dramatic, choreographic, artistic, audiovisual or architectural work that owes its creation to the independent effort of an author.
K. “Royalty” means a periodic payment made by an assignee or licensee of one ormore intellectual property rights to the owner or licensor of such intellectual property rights pursuant to a written agreement respecting the commercialization of a work or invention.
L. “Staff” shall mean all Meredith College employees other than teaching faculty and administrative faculty.
M. “Student” shall mean any individual who registers for any course through the Meredith College Registrar’s Office or the Graduate and Professional Studies Program Office.
N. “Substantial use of College facilities and resources” shall mean requires resources of a degree or nature not routinely made available to all faculty.
O. “Work made for hire” as it relates to copyrightable works of original authorship shall mean either (i) a work prepared by a Meredith College employee within the scope of his or her employment or (ii) a work specially commissioned by Meredith College under the terms of a written agreement which fits one of nine categories specifically enumerated in the Copyright Act.
III. Copyrights
A. Works by Faculty.
Generally, it is fairly simple to determine who owns a copyright under the law. Copyright typically vests in the author or authors of a protectable work. Where a work is created by an author within the scope of his or her employment, however, copyright vests in the employer because under the law the employer is the author, and the work is a so-called work for hire. In the academic setting courts have frequently recognized a so-called teacher, or academic, exception, which presents a perpetual conundrum. Even when faculty create works within the scope of their employment, this teacher exception operates to allocate the ownership of any resulting copyright, not to the employing institution, but to the author. This is not a provision of the copyright statute, and some courts have declined to follow it.Under the terms of this policy, for clarity and in keeping with the value the College places on scholarship and teaching, the College recognizes the teacher exception. Unless otherwise provided in a writing, the copyright in a work of original authorship created by a member of the faculty, whether working alone or in collaboration with others (be they covered individuals or not) is allocated to the author or authors without implicating the work-made-forhire rules, which might otherwise pertain. As consideration the College requires that faculty members benefiting from the teacher exception grant back to the College a nonexclusive right to use their works for educational purposes identified by the College in its sole discretion. When the College specially commissions a member of the faculty to create a work of original authorship which does not fall within the scope of that faculty member’s employment but does fit within one or more of nine categories specifically enumerated in the Copyright Act, that work may be deemed a work made for hire if and only if the College and faculty author sign a written agreement to that effect. If such an agreement is signed, the College becomes the owner of copyright. The College in its sole discretion may require that such an agreement be signed prior to commissioning the work.
Where a member of the faculty enters into a collaboration with another covered individual, including a student, or with someone who is not a member of the College community, with the intention that the parties’ contributions be merged to create a joint work, each author owns a fractional interest in the copyright in the entire work. In other words, if there are two authors, each one owns a one-half interest in the entire copyright and not simply an interest in the copyright in his or her individual contribution to the work. Each author may enter into nonexclusive licensing agreements respecting the joint work, provided he or she renders an accounting of revenues earned to each coauthor.When joint authorship with a student or an individual who is not a member of the College community is contemplated, this intellectual property policy requires the signing of a written acknowledgment of the collaboration by each participant as a condition of participation in the collaboration. The Office of the Vice President for Academic Programs will provide appropriate form agreements for execution by the parties.
B. Works by Staff
Pursuant to the work-made-for-hire doctrine of U.S. copyright law, the College is regarded as the author and owner of copyright in all works of original authorship created by staff, including administrators with faculty status when acting in their administrative (nonteaching) roles.
C. Works by Students
Students are presumed to own the copyrights in their individual works of original authorship except when such works are the product of a student’s College employment. In that event, the work-made-for-hire rules apply. In the case of joint works created by two or more students as part of a collective class project, any resulting copyrights shall be assigned in writing by each student to the College as a condition precedent to participating in the project. The College requires that students grant to the College a nonexclusive right to use their works for educational purposes identified by the College in its sole discretion.
D. Works by Independent Contractors and Others
Absent a written assignment of copyright to the College, independent contractors, volunteers and visitors who are specifically commissioned by the College to create works of original authorship own the copyrights in such works. Typically, the College will require a written assignment of copyright in such cases.
E. Registration of Copyrights
The College has the right, but not the obligation, to register its copyrights in its own name in the U.S. Copyright Office. In the case of works of original authorship in which the College is not the owner of copyrights, the College encourages, but does not require, the author or authors to register the applicable copyrights in the U.S. Copyright Office. Federal courts are generally barred from exercising jurisdiction in disputes involving unregistered copyrights.
F. Exceptional Circumstances
The foregoing allocation of copyrights notwithstanding, under certain exceptional circumstances, the College may claim copyright in works of original authorship created by faculty and/or students, that is, works that do not come within the purview of the work-made-forhire doctrine. From time to time works of original authorship are funded by third-party grants or sponsorships awarded to the College or administered by the College on behalf of the grantee. Where a funding or sponsorship agreement stipulates that the College will be the owner of any resulting intellectual property rights, the affected author will execute a written assignment of his or her intellectual property rights in the work to the College as a condition for the release of funds or other resources.From time to time, the development of works of original authorship by faculty and/or students requires an extraordinary allocation of College facilities and/or resources. An extraordinary allocation is defined as an allocation exceeding what is normally provided to faculty members generally in the preparation of course materials, to be determined by the College. As consideration for granting a request for an extraordinary allocation of College facilities and/or resources, the College may require the author to assign his or her intellectual property rights in the work to the College as a condition for permission to use the facilities and/or resources.The College understands that adjunct and visiting faculty may be subject to conflicting intellectual property policies that restrict the College’s claims of ownership in their works of original authorship. Such conflicts will be considered on a case-by-case basis by the Vice President for Academic Programs.
G. Permitted Uses of Works of Original Authorship by the College
The College is the owner of all right, title and interest, including, without limitation, copyright, in all works made for hire and may exercise all of the exclusive rights granted to such owners by the Copyright Act. In addition, the College is the owner of those rights assigned to it and may exercise all such rights without seeking permission of the authors. The College may make any use of any works of original authorship pursuant to any of the exemptions set forth in the Copyright Act.
IV. Patents
There are multiple distinctions between the doctrines of copyright and patent. Originality and creativity are the hallmarks of a copyrightable work of original authorship. Neither novelty nor utility is a prerequisite. Patentability, by contrast, requires both novelty and utility. A work of original authorship only becomes copyrightable when it is expressed in a tangible medium, while the elements of an invention must be articulated but need not be rendered—and in some cases cannot be rendered—in concrete form. An individual or organization can qualify as an author. Only individuals working alone or in collaboration with others can qualify as inventors; organizations cannot. Understandably then the concept of a work made for hire, which is a critical in the realm of U.S. copyright, does not exist in the realm of patent law.
A. Inventions
The College encourages its faculty and staff to engage in the types of innovative activity that could lead to inventions and respects the ownership rights that arise from such activity. Therefore, other than in exceptional circumstances (discussed below), the College does not seek to challenge those rights and regards each invention as the property of the covered individual(s) who can be properly regarded as inventors. Each covered individual acknowledges, however, that when an invention has been developed using College facilities and resources, the College typically obtains what is known as a “shop right,” which provides the College with limited, nonexclusive rights to use the invention. The College shall not exercise any shop right, however, before (a) the filing of a patent application by the inventor or his or her attorney or agent or (b) receipt of written confirmation from the inventor that patent protection will not be sought.So that patent rights are not inadvertently forfeited, inventors who are members of the College community and their collaborators, if any, must refrain from commercializing and publishing inventions without, first, disclosing the invention in confidentiality to the Vice President for Academic Programs; and second, obtaining counsel from a patent attorney or agent who is registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (the “PTO”). If the invention is owned by one or more covered individuals and not by the College, then the covered individual(s) can decide whether to seek patent protection. The cost of seeking such protection will be borne by each inventor. Confidential disclosure of all inventions conceived by College employees is required under this policy. The Vice President for Academic Programs will provide confidential disclosure forms for this purpose.
B. Exceptional Circumstances
Where funding or sponsorship agreements stipulate that the College will be the owner of any intellectual property rights relating to inventions conceived and reduced to practice by employees, each inventor shall irrevocably assign his or her rights in the funded invention to the College as a condition for the release of funds or other resources. From time to time thereafter, the inventor may be required by the College to execute additional instruments as the College deems necessary for the filing or prosecution by the College of any and all patent applications directed to the funded invention through to a final action on each such application by the PTO. Ultimately, the College in its sole discretion shall decide whether to seek patent protection, and the College shall be solely responsible for the costs of doing so. In accordance with U.S. patent law, any issued U.S. patent covering a funded invention shall name the original inventor(s) despite patent ownership by the College.In addition, as in the case of works of original authorship developed with the assistance of extraordinary allocations of College facilities and/or resources, the College may require each inventor to assign his or her intellectual property rights in the invention to the College as a condition for permission to use such facilities and/or resources. For example, providing a faculty member with his or her own dedicated lab space or extended IT support from a staff member would be considered substantial use of College resources. However, ordinary use of computers or library resources or use of a departmental lab space that is available to all department members would not be considered use of substantial resources.
V. Distribution of Revenues
In the absence of any other agreement, Meredith College will share the net revenues it receives from an invention owned by or assigned to the College with the employee(s) who developed the property. The formula is:
Net Revenue for |
Entire Invention |
Employee(s) Academic School |
Budget |
Appropriate |
Vice President |
Budget |
Meredith College |
General Fund |
First $20,000 100% 0 0 0 |
$20,001 - $75,000 50% 15% 15% 20%7 |
5/11/09 |
Over $75,001 50% 10% 10% 30% |
A. If the employee is not associated with an academic school then the academic school revenue share will be allocated to the division.
B. The academic school share may be used for equipment purchases, research and instructional activities, and other purposes approved by the Vice President for Academic Programs, but it may not be used to create or support regular faculty or staff positions.
C. Where covered individuals enter into collaboration across academic schools or college divisions, allocations to schools and vice presidents will be made in equal shares.
VI. Trademarks and Service Marks
From time to time, the College may claim ownership of certain registered or unregistered trademarks and service marks. Such marks are for the exclusive use of the College in connection with the goods and services, among others, identified in federal and state registrations and pending federal applications. It is a violation of this policy for any member of the College community to make use of such marks without the express authorization of the Vice President for Academic Programs.
A. Allegations of Infringement
From time to time members of the College community or others might claim that a work of original authorship or invention owned by the College by assignment infringes a third-party’s rights. Conversely, a member of the College community might from time to time become aware that a third party is infringing the College’s rights in a work or invention. In either case, it is important that all College parties with an interest in the matter notify the Vice President for Academic Programs of any such claims of infringement so that appropriate action can be initiated.
The College has the right, but not the obligation, to take action to stop third parties from infringing its intellectual property right. If the College elects to do so, all damages, costs or other amounts recovered by the College as a result of any such action shall be the sole property of the College.
VII. Miscellaneous
The President, or the Vice President for Academic Programs, if so delegated, has the authority to administer and enforce this policy.If a dispute arises between a covered individual and the College, between two or more covered individuals or between a covered individual and a collaborator who is not a member of the College community, such dispute will be referred to the Vice President for Academic Programs.
VIII. Effective Date
This policy will be effective as of July 1, 2009. Any instances for which the Vice President for Academic Programs has been provided confidential disclosure prior to that date will not be subject to the terms of this policy unless negotiated by a separate agreement.
Approved by Faculty Council on May 7, 2009
Intra-Campus Mail Service
Intra-Campus Mail Services are provided for the convenience of Meredith students and organizations. Only Meredith organizations may use the intra-campus mail distribution. All student organizations must secure approval from the Office of Student Leadership and Service to use Meredith campus mail (Post Office) and commuter mail pockets for information distribution.
Jurisdiction of the College
Students are expected to maintain at all times a high standard of personal conduct in keeping with Meredith principles. The College reserves the right to exclude, suspend or expel at any time any student whose academic standing or conduct is regarded by Meredith as undesirable or unacceptable.
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Use of the lake area after sunset is discouraged for security reasons. Swimming in the lake is prohibited. Sunbathing is prohibited in this area. Any visitor to the lake must be accompanied by student, staff or faculty in possession of a valid CamCard. Unaccompanied minors are not allowed near the lake at any time.
Meredith Seal and Wordmark
The Department of Marketing oversees the College’s Graphic Identity Program and maintains a style guide that provides specific information on proper use of the visual identity elements.
Meredith’s seal is the official symbol of the College and should be used formally on College-wide event programs, documents, diplomas, certificates, and programs for official functions (convocations or commencement). The seal was designed in 1909 by Ida Poteat, professor of art, 1899-1940. Below the band running diagonally across the shield are pines symbolizing the State of North Carolina. The lighted torch illustrates Meredith’s motto, the single word LUX, meaning light—the light of the mind and the light of the soul.
The Meredith College wordmark, redesigned in 1993 by the Marketing design staff, is the official identifier for the College. It should be used as designed and always should be reproduced from authorized art work, which is available in the Department of Marketing.
The wordmark and the seal may be printed in either black or PANTONE 1955 maroon. Use of departmental or other individualized logos is prohibited. Incorporating this wordmark, the College has adopted exact specifications for letterhead, envelopes, business cards, and other components of Meredith’s official stationery program.
See the Department of Marketing website for more information.
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All college policies as stated in the Meredith Student Handbook shall be followed at all off-campus events sponsored by Meredith. Meredith students are expected to represent the College with dignity at all times. An “off-campus, College-sponsored function” is any event or activity held off of campus grounds that is organized and hosted by Meredith College or a recognized campus organization(s). “College-sponsored” means that Meredith College is aware of and has approved the event or activity. “Recognized campus organization(s)” refers only to those listed in the Student Organizations section of the Student Handbook.
- Students shall not possess or consume alcoholic beverages at any College-sponsored function.
- Students shall not demonstrate inappropriate behavior at any College-sponsored function. Inappropriate behavior is any behavior by any person present at a College-sponsored function reflecting negatively upon Meredith College or resulting in an unreasonable risk or harm to that person or others. That person will be asked to leave a function if she/he demonstrates inappropriate behavior such as fighting, shoving, disruption of others’ enjoyment, getting sick publicly, passing out, or wearing inappropriate dress.
- Meredith students shall not possess or consume illegal drugs at any College-sponsored function.
- Meredith students shall be responsible for informing their guests attending off-campus functions of College policies to be followed.
- Anyone violating these policies will be brought before Honor Council.
Procedures to be followed for off-campus, College-sponsored functions
- The advisor to the group sponsoring an off-campus event shall be notified as to the time, place, date, and nature of the event. The organization advisor or a substitute from the Meredith faculty or staff must attend the following: any event that is held outside of Wake County, any major off-campus event held locally by an organization or any high risk event (i.e. horseback riding, ropes course, etc.) and any event or activity that uses the Meredith College mini-buses. In the case that there is not an advisor, the director of student leadership and service shall be notified.
- Organizations are asked to get prior approval for these events from the Office of Student Leadership and Service.
- The Meredith Campus Police Office shall be notified as to the time, place, date, and nature of off- campus social events.
- Meredith College security officers shall be hired by the sponsoring organization to attend each off-campus, College-sponsored dance or other social functions requiring them. The purpose of hiring the security officers shall be to aid the sponsoring organization in its responsibility to maintain order and prevent inappropriate behavior. Any person exhibiting inappropriate behavior shall be asked to leave the function immediately. However, if by leaving the person presents a clear danger to her/himself or others, the sponsoring organizations may take reasonable steps to insure that the person is safely transported from the function, including, but not limited to, calling the appropriate law enforcement agency.
- Additional security shall be hired by the organization sponsoring the event if required to do so by the management of the off-campus building or area being used.
- Some events require release forms, which can be picked up in the Office of Student Leadership and Service.
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Off-Campus Responsibility
Meredith College assumes no liability for any student when that student is off the Meredith College campus. Each student is personally responsible for her own safety, her own actions, and the results of her own decisions.
Performances
All public performances will be discussed in advance with the member of the faculty or administration sponsoring or advising the organization.
Publications
See Student Opportunities.
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Publicity and Advertising
See Student Services.
Reservations for Space for Unofficial Meredith Groups
Groups of Meredith students who are not recognized as official groups at Meredith have the opportunity to reserve space at Meredith College from 9–11 p.m. on weekdays and at other times during the weekend. Groups with a religious affiliation must see the campus chaplain, and other groups must see the director of student leadership and service for approval to be placed on the list. Students in the requesting group would be allowed to contact the campus events office to be able to reserve space. Space can only be reserved on a week-to-week basis and on a first-come, first-served basis.
Residence Hall Regulations
Residence hall students also are responsible for abiding by rules and policies governing the residence halls. These rules and policies are listed in the Residence Life section of this Handbook.
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Residence Requirement
Campus residence halls are living/learning environments that provide supportive communities for student development. Traditional-aged students are encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity for building friendships, developing interpersonal and communications skills, and participating in programs and activities that are all part of the residential living experience.
1. Freshman and sophomore students under the age of 23 must live in the residence halls or reside with their parents, husbands, or (with special permission) another close relative. Freshman and transfer students who enter the College over the age of 21 may apply to live off campus. Housing contracts are for the entire academic year.
2. Continuing juniors and seniors with at least a 2.0 GPA may request to live off campus by a designated deadline in the spring semester. Along with at least a 2.0 GPA, students must have at least 60 hours or have resided four semesters in the residence halls. Transfer students who meet established eligibility requirements as stated on the transfer application for admission may apply as commuting students under the off-campus housing option. Requests are available in the Office of Residence Life.
3. Campus housing is available to undergraduate degree-seeking students, including students in the 23+ program.
4. Resident students must be enrolled as full-time (at least 12 hours) students while living in the halls. If a student drops below full-time, she will not be eligible to live on campus unless approved by the dean of students.
5. Students interested in housing during the summer terms must check with the Office of Residence Life for housing options and stipulations.
6. The cost of health services and meals in the dining hall are included in the payment for room and board. Students who live off campus must pay a health fee in order to receive services from the Health Center. Students who live off campus must pay for any meals eaten in the dining hall.
7. Students who do not meet the requirements to live off campus but choose to do so can be charged the full amount of room and board for the academic year.
8. Residential policies will be reviewed annually.
Returned Checks
In the case of returned checks, the College will automatically redeposit the check at no charge. If the check is returned a second time, a $35 handling fee is added.
Two returned checks will result in the loss of check cashing privileges on campus for the remainder of the academic year.
The Meredith College community will not tolerate sexual assault or rape which are acts of sexual violence.
Sexual assault is defined as any incident of forcing another person to perform a sexual act against his/her will. Force can be implicit through the use of threatening words, gestures, or tone of voice, or explicit through actions of physical restraints. According to North Carolina state law, rape is defined as forced sexual intercourse against the will of another person. Rape is also considered to be sexual intercourse with a person who is physically, mentally, or otherwise incapacitated (including incapacitation from the use of alcohol and drugs), when the person performing the act knows of the victim’s incapacity.
Meredith College recognizes the importance of assisting a member of the Meredith College community who is a victim of sexual violence in regaining a sense of personal control.
The College is obligated to take prompt and effective steps to end the sexual violence, prevent its recurrence, and address its effects, whether or not the sexual violence is the subject of a criminal investigation.
In this respect, several College departments coordinate efforts to offer services to a victim and others upon whom the sexual violence might have an impact. Meredith College strongly urges anyone who is the victim of sexual violence to:
- Seek medical assistance as soon as possible following the incident (within 72 hours), being sure to advise medical personnel that treatment is necessary because of assault or rape. If a victim decides to press charges, medical information is essential. An individual may contact Campus Police (919-760-8888), Interact 24 hour Rape Crisis Line (919-828-3005), or Wake Medical Safe Center (919-828-3067) for assistance.
- For crisis support, individuals may call the counselor on call through Campus Police (919-760-8888).
- For additional counseling, resources and information, contact the Counseling Center (919-760-8427) or the chaplain (919-760-8346). Individuals may use the chaplain and/or counselors to learn more about sexual violence and its effects; however, reporting to these resources is not reporting to the College as they are obligated to keep information confidential unless the individual is asking them to assist in reporting. A person may report incidents of sexual violence to Campus Police or local law enforcement authorities at any time in the complaint or resolution process. Campus Police is available to offer advice about legal options. In cases involving potential crime, the College must determine, consistent with State and local law, whether appropriate law enforcement or other authorities should be notified.
Sexual violence allegedly committed by a Meredith College community member violates the Harassment and Non-Discrimination Policy. Complainants may refer to this policy for information about filing a complaint and seeking resolution. Reports of harassment or discrimination may be made to the College’s Title IX Coordinator, the director of human resources. It is a violation against the Harassment and Non-Discrimination Policy to retaliate against a person who has complained about discrimination or harassment (including sexual violence or for assisting, participating or cooperating in an investigation or grievance of a complaint.
Students who are accused of sexual violence can be reported to and adjudicated by the College Honor System. During a College on-campus disciplinary case, the accuser and the accused are entitled to the same opportunities to have others present during the disciplinary hearing. In Honor Council cases involving sexual violence, the preponderance of evidence standard will be used. Upon request of the assaulted student, sexual violence committed by a student from another campus can be referred by the dean of students to that student’s campus for judicial action.
Sexual assault programming is available throughout the year to students through Campus Police, the Counseling Center and the Office of the Dean of Students. Residence life staff training, Discovery sessions for first year students and events such as the Take Back the Night March are representative of the College’s efforts to educate the campus community. Students who wish to be involved in sexual violence prevention activities may contact the Office of the Dean of Students or the Counseling Center.
Smoking Policy
Out of consideration for members of the College community who choose not to smoke or are allergic to smoke, smoking is prohibited in residence halls and all other campus buildings. Smoking is also prohibited within 30 feet of campus buildings. Each residence hall floor sets policies for its porches.
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Social Sororities and Secret Societies
Students do not have social sororities of any name or kind on the campus, whether national or local, affiliated or unaffiliated. Also, secret societies are not permitted at Meredith. All organizations must be approved by Senate.
Solicitation Policy
Members of the Meredith community enjoy protection of their rights of privacy. Solicitation by on- or off-campus persons, organizations, or businesses is strictly prohibited unless authorized by the vice president for college programs or by the director of student leadership and service. Any use of College facilities by off-campus persons for purposes of solicitation, even those sponsored by campus organizations, must also be approved. Under no circumstances are off-campus persons allowed to solicit door-to-door.
Any business or company requesting to give a program or presentation is to be referred to the director of student leadership and service to be channeled through the appropriate organization.
Any religious organization wanting to give a program or presentation is to be referred to the campus chaplain for approval.
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Student Activities Fee
All undergraduate part-time and full-time degree-seeking students pay a student activities fee per semester. This fee is used to fund a variety of activities to enhance campus life and reduce the cost of tickets to some events.
Sunbathing
Sunbathing is permitted only in the area surrounded by Faircloth, Brewer, Heilman and Barefoot. The sunbathing area is restricted to women only.
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Transportation—College
The Meredith College 15-passenger buses are used for the purpose of providing transportation for faculty, students, and staff to College-sponsored or related activities/events on a first-come, first-served basis. There are three buses limited to destinations within 300 miles from campus, unless approved by the appropriate vice president. All drivers must be 21 years or older, complete Bus Driver Training conducted by Campus Police and be employed by the College as faculty or staff. Student drivers are not allowed. To be eligible to drive, one must have a valid driver’s license. For student organizations using the Meredith buses, an advisor must accompany the group and buses on the trip. For further information about the Meredith College Vehicle Transportation and Safety Policy, please contact the Campus Police at 919-760-8888. All student organizations planning to use the Meredith buses also must receive permission from the Office of Student Leadership and Service. Buses may be reserved by contacting the Parking Director at the Campus Police Office.
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T-shirt and Sweatshirt Design Approval
Designs for student organization and class T-shirts and sweatshirts must be approved by the assistant director of student activities and leadership development. Designs for any residence hall T-shirts and sweatshirts must be approved by the resident director and the assistant director of student leadership and service. All student organizations must complete a T-shirt/ Sweatshirt Approval Form and have it approved and on file in the Office of Student Leadership and Service. All copyright laws apply. Please contact the Office of Student Leadership and Service at 760-8338 for more information.
Weapons/Firearms
Possession of weapons/firearms is strictly prohibited on-campus and at College-sponsored functions. Violators will be reported to campus police and to the Honor Council. Violators are subject to arrest and prosecution.
Withholding Grades
All services in the Office of the Registrar are contingent upon satisfactory college accounts and other College obligations. Transcripts and grades may be withheld at the discretion of College officials for lack of payment of College fees and fines and for failure to complete other College obligations.
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