Non-Academic Student Policies

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Degree Withholding

In order to certify completion of a degree program, to participate in Commencement exercises, and to receive a diploma, a student must be in good standing under all applicable university policies. A student is not in good standing if a conduct case is pending.

The university reserves the right to withhold the awarding of any degree for conduct matters, including but not limited to Student Conduct Code, Sexual Misconduct, and academic integrity violations. If the violation occurred prior to a degree completion and is not yet resolved, the university may postpone the awarding of the degree and prohibit participation in Commencement exercises pending the outcome of the appropriate proceedings and imposition of sanctions. A student’s refusal to participate in the proceedings will have no effect on the withholding of the degree.

Intellectual Property

The University is committed to providing an environment that supports the research and teaching activities of its faculty, students and staff.  Students are expected to comply with 106.0 Furman University Intellectual Property Policy.

Leaves of Absence & Withdrawals

1. Administrative University Withdrawal

   1. The University may deem it necessary to impose an Administrative Withdrawal from the University when
      • a student’s behavior constitutes a credible risk of material harm to other persons and/or property or is disruptive to the community, other individuals, or educational processes of the University;
      • a student is unable to participate in academics and/or campus life due to self-harm, threats to self-harm, threats to harm others, or any other actions that seriously endanger any person, including but not limited to the student; or
      • a student is unable to participate in academics and/or campus life due to a demonstrated inability to care for oneself.
   2. In such cases, the Associate Vice President for Student Life and Dean of Students or designee (“DOS”), in conversation with other professional resources, may enact an administrative withdrawal from the University.
   3. A student withdrawn under this procedure may not be re-enrolled in the University without proper approval through the University’s Readmission Process.
   4. Parents and/or family will be notified by the DOS in the case of an administrative withdrawal.
   5. Administrative Withdrawals are initiated at the discretion of the DOS. The DOS will consider information and recommendations provided by medical professionals, University staff/administrators, and/or the student. The decision to initiate an administrative withdrawal will be based on an individual analysis.
   6. When the University determines that a student’s inability to participate in academics or campus life due to a physical or mental condition is limited to one course (rather than more generally), the University may require an LOA - and withdraw the student - from that course. In such a case, the University will follow the process set forth in this section in implementing the LOA.
   7. Notice of the decision will be given by the DOS in writing. Notice will explain the rationale supporting the decision, the details of the withdrawal, any conditions the student is expected to satisfy prior to requesting a return, and plans for return.
   8. A student may appeal the Administrative Withdrawal as follows:
      1. Submit an appeal request to the Vice President for Student Life or designee (“Vice President”) no later than three (3) calendar days from the date notice was given to request a “show cause” hearing to provide the student with the opportunity to demonstrate why the action should not take place.
      2. The appeal request must be made in writing.
      3. The appeal must include detailed information supporting the request to overturn or modify the decision.
      4. The student may present additional information, including but not limited to an independent psychiatric or psychological evaluation.
      5. The show cause hearing with the Vice President or designee will take place within three (3) business days from receipt of the request.
      6. The student and the student’s parents/legal guardians will be given an opportunity to meet with the Vice President for Student Life or designee.
      7. The Vice President will review all pertinent information associated with the Administrative Withdrawal decision and may consult with other campus partners.
      8. Within three (3) business days, the Vice President will affirm, overturn, or modify the decision.
      9. All deadlines may be extended for extenuating circumstances.
      10. Notice of the Vice President’s decision will be delivered to the student in writing.
      11. The Vice President’s decision is final.
   9. The conditions of the Administrative Withdrawal decision made by the DOS will remain in effect during an appeal.

2. ​Interim Withdrawal

   1. As a general rule, the status of students accused of violating University regulations shall not be altered until a final determination has been made in regard to the charges against said student.
   2. However, the Associate Vice President for Student Life and Dean of Students or designee (“DOS”) may impose an interim withdrawal upon finding that the student’s presence on campus constitutes a threat or significant disruption to the community, to the physical safety and wellbeing of the accused or of any member or guest of the university community, or that said student’s presence threatens the orderly progression of university academic or extracurricular activities.
   3. The student may not be eligible to attend classes and may not be allowed to continue residing in campus housing unless approved by the DOS.
   4. A student conduct hearing shall be scheduled within five (5) business days with the appropriate student conduct body and said student shall be notified of the hearing date, time and location.
   5. A student may appeal an Interim Withdrawal as follows:
      1. Submit an appeal request to the Vice President for Student Life or designee (“Vice President”) no later than three (3) calendar days from the date notice was given to request a “show cause” hearing to provide the student with the opportunity to demonstrate why the action should not take place.
      2. The appeal request must be made in writing.
      3. The appeal must include detailed information supporting the request to overturn or modify the decision.
      4. The student may present additional information, including but not limited to an independent psychiatric or psychological evaluation.
      5. The show cause hearing with the Vice President or designee will take place within three (3) business days from receipt of the request.
      6. The student and the student’s parents/legal guardians will be given an opportunity to meet with the Vice President for Student Life or designee.
      7. The Vice President will review all pertinent information associated with the Interim Withdrawal decision and may consult with other campus partners.
      8. Within three (3) business days, the Vice President will affirm, overturn, or modify the decision.
      9. All deadlines may be extended for extenuating circumstances.
      10. Notice of the Vice President’s decision will be delivered to the student in writing.
      11. The Vice President’s decision is final.

3. Leave of Absence

   1. Any registered student may request a Leave of Absence (“LOA”).
   2. A student may take LOA from the University for one (1) regular term by submitting a request to the Associate Academic Dean that includes the reason for the leave.
   3. When deemed appropriate, the Associate Dean of Student Success and Wellbeing or designee (“ADSSW”) will make an individualized assessment of the student’s situation, in consultation with campus partners, to determine recommendations during the leave and upon returning.
      • Notice of any recommendations of the leave as well as plans for return will be provided by the ADSSW to the student in writing. This includes, but is not limited to, academic information, medical documentation, or releases of information to appropriate providers.
   4. The ADSSW will consult with the Assistant Academic Dean on any academic matters related to the LOA, including but not limited to grade determinations for courses the student is enrolled in at the time of the leave.
   5. LOA cannot be used to avoid University disciplinary measures related to the Student Conduct Code, Academic Integrity, or Sexual Misconduct. Any sanctions assigned by the University as a result of its disciplinary process must be completed before a student on LOA may return.
   6. A student may apply for a second consecutive LOA semester by submitting a letter of explanation to the Associate Academic Dean. Approval of a second semester of LOA will be made by the Associate Academic Dean in consultation with the ADSSW and with related campus partners.
   7. No student will be permitted to take a LOA for longer than two (2) consecutive, regular terms.

4. Expectations for Students on Leave of Absence

   1. Students may seek treatment during the leave; on-campus treatment resources only available to enrolled students may not be used.
   2. Students and their treating professionals may consult with University staff to develop and follow through on a treatment plan.
   3. Students should consult with the ADSSW regarding interpretation or clarification of any conditions or recommendations of the leave or return plan.
   4. Students cannot live on campus (refer to the Housing & Residence Life policies for check-out procedures), be employed on campus, attend classes, participate in extracurricular/co-curricular activities or organizations, participate in athletics, participate in research or internships, study away, use facilities such as the Physical Activities Center, or use their University ID without written permission from the DOS.
   5. Students may return to campus temporarily and participate in University activities open to the public unless a no trespass order or similar was included in the condition of the leave. Abuse of this privilege may result in a no trespass or similar order being issued by the DOS and/or Furman Police to the student.
   6. Students on leave may continue to use their University email address so long as it remains active.
   7. Students on leave may take classes from other institutions. Courses taken while on leave are eligible for transfer credit but are subject to all Transfer Credit regulations.
   8. Students on leave will have a course registration hold placed on their account by the Assistant Academic Dean.

5. International Students

   1. International students should consult the Center for Inclusive Communities (“CIC”) to obtain current regulatory information related to a leave of absence.
   2. It is the responsibility of the student, however, to know the terms of their visa.

6. Financial Considerations

   1. The University will prorate tuition and fees consistent with its policies on withdrawals from the institution.
   2. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure that all charges for the term are paid in full or that a satisfactory payment arrangement is in place.
   3. A student with federal educational loans may consult with the University’s financial aid office regarding options during the leave.

7. Notifications

   1. The DOS and Assistant Academic Dean will notify appropriate offices, as appropriate, that the student is on a leave of absence.
   2. The DOS will notify the Center for Inclusive Communities when an international student is on leave.
   3. Notifications will not include details about the reason for the leave.

8. Requesting Return from Leave of Absence

   1. Students wishing to return from a LOA must contact the Associate Dean of Student Success and Wellbeing (“ADSSW”) or the Assistant Academic Dean to initiate the reenrollment process.
   2. The student may be requested to provide documentation from treating professionals or similar to the ADSSW, or designee, showing compliance with any conditions or recommendations established at the time of the medical leave.
      • If conditions or recommendations have not been satisfied as determined by the ADSSW, in consultation with the Assistant Academic Dean, an extension of the LOA may be recommended or the institutional withdrawal process may be initiated.
   3. Students may be required to meet with the ADSSW prior to their return to campus to review their plan for successful return and any additional recommendations as appropriate.
   4. If ample time is not given to complete the reenrollment process, the student’s reenrollment or return to campus may be delayed until the next semester.

Missing Student

Most missing student reports occur in the University environment as a result of a student changing their normal routine and failing to inform roommates or friends of this change. Upon receiving a missing student report, the University Police Department will immediately conduct a preliminary investigation in order to verify the report and to determine the circumstances which exist relating to the reported missing student.  If the student is not located or otherwise accounted for during the preliminary investigation, University Police are required to place the missing person’s name into a national police database, known as the National Crime Information Center, or NCIC, and notify local law enforcement agencies.  Students can designate a contact person who will be notified within 24 hours if a student is believed to be missing by visiting MyFurman online.  A parent/guardian will also be notified if the missing student is under the age of 18, or if it is necessary to contact them in the course of the investigation.  Contact information is confidential and will only be accessible to authorized campus officials. Missing student reports should be referred to the University Police at 864.294.2111.

Motor Vehicles, Motorcycles, Mopeds, Scooters and Golf Carts

All motor vehicles, including but not limited to mopeds, scooters and golf carts are all regulated through the Furman University Traffic and Parking Committee. Individuals with disabilities may have wheelchairs, including but not limited to mobility scooters and manually powered mobility aids, are permitted anywhere that pedestrian travel is permitted. Otherwise, the presence and use of motorized vehicles within University space is prohibited.

The speed limit on campus is 20 miles per hour, and all applicable South Carolina traffic codes are enforced on campus.  Registration and operation requirements can be found at the Furman Parking webpage.  Students may not operate a moped on university property without first attending a moped safety course.  All mopeds on Furman University property must be registered.  Golf carts are only permitted for students with a valid medical need and the approval of the University Police Department.  A violation of these rules and regulations may result in a citation, fine, or other disciplinary measures.

Students must purchase a parking permit for any motor vehicle operated or stored on campus. Students who purchase a parking permit are assigned color-coded parking decals, which indicate the location where they are permitted to park their motor vehicles, mopeds, scooters, and motorcycles.  Students are prohibited from altering any permanent or temporary parking decal.  Students are also prohibited from lending or giving their parking decal to another student or visitor.  Failure to obtain or altering a parking decal in any way may result in a citation, fine, and/or a referral to Student Conduct.

Parent Communication

As an institution of higher education, the University’s primary relationship is with the student. On matters affecting the student the University may include the student in communications-including but not limited to, email, phone calls, and letters-to parents when deemed appropriate by a university official. Any communications with parents will be in accordance the Family Educational Rights & Privacy Act (FERPA).

Readmissions

Following an absence from Furman of one or more semesters, a student who was withdrawn or suspended from the university must apply for re-admission. The Associate Academic Dean guides the process and reviews the application. As an element of the review process, the Associate Academic Dean will consult with appropriate university officials to determine if a returning student has satisfied any requirements for a possible return. If approved, the student must meet the requirements for graduation and the minimum academic standards effective at the time of re-admission.  The Associate Academic Dean may place conditions on the acceptance that the student must meet in order to maintain their enrollment. The student should contact the Associate Academic Dean’s Office to determine eligibility and information regarding the re-admission application. Applications for re-admission for the Fall term must be submitted no later than August 1 and by December 1 for the Spring term.

Responsibility for Student Properties

Although precaution is taken to maintain adequate security, the University cannot assume responsibility for the loss of or damage to student possessions. Students or their parents are encouraged to carry appropriate insurance to cover such losses.

When students are driving personal vehicles in relationship to University activities and are involved in an accident, the student’s personal automobile insurance will be the primary insurance. This is an insurance industry standard applicable to all personal vehicles used for business reasons. The University’s automobile insurance will act as secondary coverage if limits exceed the coverage on a student’s vehicle.

Service and Assistance Animal Policy for Students

It is the policy of Furman University that students are generally prohibited from bringing animals, including but not limited to Pets, onto University property.

However, Furman recognizes the importance of Service Animals and Assistance Animals to individuals with disabilities and has established the following policy regarding Service Animals and Assistance Animals. Furman welcomes the presence of trained Service Animals assisting students on its campus in areas open to the public consistent with the provisions of this policy and applicable law. Furman is also pleased to allow Assistance Animals that are necessary to provide students with disabilities an equal opportunity to use and enjoy campus housing consistent with the provisions of this policy and applicable law. Therefore, students with disabilities are permitted to bring Service Animals and Assistance Animals onto University property as described below.

Section I. Definitions

1. Assistance Animal.  An “Assistance Animal,” as defined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, is an (1) animal that works, provides assistance, or performs tasks for the benefit of a person with a disability, or an (2) animal that provides emotional support that alleviates one or more identified symptoms or effects of a person’s disability, in order for the person to have an equal opportunity to use and enjoy the University’s housing facilities.  Assistance Animals perform many disability-related functions, including but not limited to guiding individuals who are blind or have low vision, alerting individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing to sounds, providing protection or rescue assistance, pulling a wheelchair, fetching items, alerting individuals to impending seizures, and providing emotional support to persons with disabilities who have a disability-related need for such support.  Some Assistance Animals are professionally trained.  Other Assistance Animals are trained by their owners.  In some cases, no special training is required.  An Assistance Animal does not accompany a person with a disability at all times.  An Assistance Animal is not a Pet.
2. Pet.  A “Pet” is an animal kept for ordinary use and companionship. A Pet is not considered a Service Animal or an Assistance Animal. Students are not permitted to keep or bring Pets onto University property (other than fish in containers not to exceed 10 gallons, which are permitted in campus housing), with the exception that Pets are permitted on University property in outdoor areas that are open to the public (such as on the paths around Furman Lake), provided that they are controlled by a leash, harness, or other tether and the presence of and behavior of the Pet are in compliance with applicable state and local laws, regulations, and ordinances.
3. Service Animal.  A “Service Animal,” as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (the “ADA”), is a dog that has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including but not limited to a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability.  In some cases, a miniature horse may be permitted as a Service Animal.  Other animals, whether wild or domestic, do not qualify as Service Animals. The work or task a Service Animal has been trained to provide must be directly related to the person’s disability.  Examples of such work or tasks include guiding a person with impaired vision, alerting a person with a hearing impairment, pulling a wheelchair, alerting and protecting a person who is having a seizure, reminding a person with mental illness to take prescribed medications, calming a person with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) during an anxiety attack, and/or performing other duties. The potential crime-deterrent effects of an animal’s presence and the provision of emotional support, well-being, comfort, or companionship do not constitute work or tasks for purposes of this definition.  Service Animals are working animals, not Pets.

Section II. Documentation Requirements and Approval Process

Service Animals

Furman welcomes the use of Service Animals by students who qualify under the ADA as having a disability. A disability under the ADA includes a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities.

It is not necessary that the animal be certified or licensed as a Service Animal. No request to bring a Service Animal on campus is required, no registration of the animal is required, and no documentation supporting the need for a Service Animal is required (al- though the University will accept and consider documentation voluntarily provided by the student). However, when the need for a Service Animal is not readily apparent, University staff may make the following two inquiries of the student:

1. Is the animal required because of a disability?
2. What work or task has the animal been trained to perform?

Although not required to do so, students who wish to bring Service Animals to campus are encouraged to voluntarily make that known to the Student Office for Accessibility Resources (“SOAR”). Advance notice can allow for effective communication with University staff and more flexibility in meeting a student’s specific needs in campus housing.

If applicable, the University will inform the student’s roommate(s), suitemate(s), and/or apartment-mate(s) that a Service Animal will be residing in their shared assigned living space. The information shared will be limited to notice about the animal’s presence and will not include information about the student’s disability or the specific reason that the animal is required.

A Service Animal will not be permitted if the animal is not under the control of the student (e.g., uncontrolled barking, wandering, displaying aggressive behavior) and the student does not take effective action to control it; if the specific animal in question poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others that cannot be eliminated or reduced to an acceptable level by a reasonable modifica- tion to other policies, practices, and procedures or if it has a history of such behavior; or if it is not housebroken.

It is recommended, but not required, that Service Animals wear some type of commonly recognized identification symbol indicating that the animal is a working animal.

Assistance Animals

The University allows the use of Assistance Animals by students who qualify under the Fair Housing Act (“FHA”) and its implementing regulations as having a disability. A disability under the FHA includes a physical or mental impairment that sub- stantially limits one or more major life activities. The disability must be of lengthy or perpetual duration in order to be covered by the FHA.

Students must request the use of Assistance Animals through SOAR. Students may make their requests by completing and submit- ting the appropriate Housing Accommodation Form as well as an Assistance Animal Verification Form (accessible from the SOAR website). Students should complete this form at least 30 days prior to their desired move-in date (or, if the need for the Assistance Animal arises after the student’s move-in date, then as soon as pos- sible after the need arises) so that the University can best accommodate the student and the animal. Please note that students may not keep an Assistance Animal in campus housing at any time before a request for an Assistance Animal is approved pursuant to this policy.

Students must present documentation demonstrating that:

• The student has a disability.  (Please note that emotional discomfort resulting from living in campus housing without one’s Pet does not qualify as a disability.)
• The Assistance Animal is necessary for the student to have an equal opportunity to use and enjoy, or to participate in, campus housing.  
• There is a relationship or nexus between the student’s disability and the assistance the animal provides.  

The University will evaluate all requests, on a case-by-case basis and in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, to determine whether the use of an Assistance Animal is a reasonable accommodation.  In doing so, the University must balance the needs of the student with the impact of animals on other campus patrons.  As part of the accommodation review process, the requesting student and SOAR may engage in further discussions.

The University will consider the following criteria in determining whether the use of an Assistance Animal is a reasonable accommodation:

• The size of the animal in relation to available assigned housing space;
• Whether the animal’s presence would force another individual from individual housing (due to, e.g., serious allergies);
• Whether the animal’s presence violates other individuals’ right to peace and quiet enjoyment;
• Whether the animal’s vaccinations are up to date;
• Whether the animal is housebroken or is unable to live with other individuals in a reasonable manner.

The use of an Assistance Animal is not reasonable and therefore will not be permitted (irrespective of the consideration of the above-listed factors):

• If allowing the Assistance Animal would impose an undue financial or administrative burden on the University or fundamentally alter the nature of campus housing, which is unique in a number of respects, including but not limited to the mandatory assignment of roommates for many individuals and the mandate that certain individuals must share a room, suite, or apartment in certain residences;
• If the specific animal in question poses a direct threat to the health and safety of others that cannot be eliminated or reduced to an acceptable level by a reasonable modification to other policies, practices, and procedures; or
• If the specific animal in question has caused substantial physical damage to the property of others (beyond reasonable wear and tear) the reoccurrence of which cannot be eliminated or reduced to an acceptable level by a reasonable modification to other policies, practices, and procedures.

The University will make a determination regarding the accommodation request as soon as is reasonably practicable following receipt of the request and will notify the student in writing as to whether the request has been granted or denied. If the request is granted, the University will inform the student’s roommate(s), suitemate(s), and/or apartmentmate(s), if applicable, that an Assistance Animal will be residing in their shared assigned living space.  The information shared will be limited to notice about the animal’s presence and will not include information about the student’s disability or the specific reason that the animal is required.  (Please note that to ensure that the presence of Assistance Animals is not an undue administrative burden or a fundamental alteration of campus housing, Furman may (but is not required to) assign a student with an Assistance Animal to a single room without a roommate.)  If the request is denied, the University will notify the requesting student of the reasons for the denial.

It is recommended, but not required, that Assistance Animals wear some type of commonly recognized identification symbol indicating that the animal is a working animal.

An Assistance Animal is allowed in campus housing only as long as it is necessary because of the student’s disability.  If an approved Assistance Animal is no longer needed or no longer in residence, the student must notify SOAR in writing.

To replace an Assistance Animal, the new animal must be necessary because of the student’s disability, and the student must again follow the procedures set forth in this policy for requesting an Assistance Animal.

Section III. Places of Access

Service Animals are permitted to accompany students with disabilities in all areas of the University campus, including but not limited to campus housing, where students are allowed to go.

However, the University may prohibit the use of Service Animals in certain locations where health or safety restrictions prevent their presence, where Service Animals may be in danger, or where the use of Service Animals may cause health or safety issues, for example: laboratories, food preparation areas, mechanical rooms, or other places where the health or safety of others may be compromised.  The Director of SOAR and other appropriate individuals will be consulted when determining if the presence of the Service Animal can be allowed.  If the animal cannot be present, every effort will be made to provide reasonable accommodations to help the student have equal access to the required tasks.

Approved Assistance Animals are permitted to accompany students with disabilities in (and only in) campus housing.  Specifically, Assistance Animals may access only the student’s personal residence unit; the hallways, elevators, stairwells, and entryways necessary for the animal’s entrance to and exit from the student’s residence unit; and certain designated outdoor areas appropriate for the animal’s natural relief.   Assistance Animals are not permitted in other areas of the campus (e.g., libraries, academic buildings, the Student Center).

Section IV. Rules and Responsibilities Regarding Service Animals and Assistance Animals

All students are responsible for complying with University policies and procedures.

Care and Supervision of Service Animals and Assistance Animals

The student is fully responsible for the care and supervision of the animal and for the animal’s health, hygiene, and well-being, including but not limited to toileting, feeding, grooming, veterinary care, and cleaning up after the animal, in each case including any associated costs.

Animals must be housebroken (e.g., trained so that, absent illness or accident, an animal controls its waste elimination).  The student must, where appropriate, toilet the animal in certain designated outdoor areas appropriate for the animal’s natural relief.  Outdoor animal waste, such as dog feces, must be immediately retrieved by student, placed in a sturdy plastic bag that is then securely tied and disposed of in an outside trash dumpster. Indoor animal waste, such as cat litter, must be placed in a sturdy plastic bag that is then securely tied and disposed of in an outside trash dumpster.

Animals must be current on all state and local vaccination requirements and should have the normal vaccines required for a healthy animal.

The student is responsible for compliance with state and local laws, regulations, and ordinances concerning animals.  It is the student’s responsibility to know and understand these laws, regulations, and ordinances.  The University may require documentation of compliance with such ordinances, laws, and regulations.

The student must abide by all equally applicable residential policies, such as assuring that the animal does not interfere with the routine activities of the residence or cause difficulties for those who reside there.

For the avoidance of doubt, University personnel are not required to provide food or care for a Service Animal or an Assistance Animal, including but not limited to, removing the animal during emergency evacuation events.  Emergency personnel will determine whether to remove the animal and may not be held responsible for the care, damage to, or loss of the animal.

Control of Service Animals and Assistance Animals

The student is fully responsible for the control of the animal at all times. The animal may not be left unattended at any time, except for animals left in the student’s University residence by the student (such as an Assistance Animal left in a student’s apartment while the student is attending classes or other activities), which may be for no longer than a reasonable period of time.   

When a Service Animal is outside the student’s personal residence unit, it must have a harness, leash, or other tether, unless either the student is unable because of a disability to use a harness, leash, or other tether, or the use of a harness, leash, or other tether would interfere with the Service Animal’s safe, effective performance of work or tasks, in which case the Service Animal must be otherwise under the student’s control (e.g., voice control, signals, or other effective means).

When an Assistance Animal is outside the student’s personal residence unit, it must be in an animal carrier or controlled by a leash or a harness.  An Assistance Animal may not go loose or run at large.  When an Assistance Animal is left alone in the student’s University residence, it must be contained.

Injury or Damage Caused by Service Animals and Assistance Animals

The student is fully responsible for any injury caused by the animal.

The student is fully responsible for any property damage (beyond reasonable wear and tear) caused by the animal and must pay the associated costs (such as the replacement of furniture, carpet, windows, wall covering, and the like), to the same extent that other individuals are charged for damages beyond reasonable wear and tear, at the time of repair or move-out, whichever is first.

If fleas, ticks, or other pests are detected (as a result of routine inspection or otherwise), the residence will be appropriately treated by a University-approved pest control service. The student will be billed for the expense of any pest treatment above and beyond standard pest management in the residence halls.

The University will have the right to bill the student’s account for unmet obligations under this section.

Other University Policies

Students with Service Animals and Assistance Animals must continue to abide by all other University policies.

Section V. Notice to Others Regarding the Presence of Service Animals and Assistance Animals

If the animal resides with the student on campus, it may be necessary for Housing and Residence Life staff to provide notice to certain members of the campus community living and working in close proximity to the animal (such as employees and/or potential and/or actual roommate(s)/neighbor(s)).  The information shared will be limited to notice about the animal’s presence and will not include information about the student’s disability or the specific reason that the animal is required.

Section VI.  Removal of Service Animals and Assistance Animals

The University may remove (or require the student to remove) a Service Animal if the University detects mistreatment, abuse, or neglect of the Service Animal; if the animal is out of control (e.g., uncontrolled barking, wandering, displaying aggressive behavior) and the student does not take effective action to control it; if the specific animal in question poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others that cannot be eliminated or reduced to an acceptable level by a reasonable modification to other policies, practices, and procedures; if the specific animal in question has caused substantial physical damage to the property of others (beyond reasonable wear and tear) the reoccurrence of which cannot be eliminated or reduced to an acceptable level by a reasonable modification to other policies, practices, and procedures; if it is not housebroken; or if the student does not comply with his or her obligations under this policy.

The University may remove (or require the student to remove) an Assistance Animal (and/or may discipline the student (or other responsible individual) pursuant to the University’s Student Handbook) if the University detects evidence of mistreatment, abuse, or neglect of the Assistance Animal; if the animal’s presence results in an undue financial or administrative burden on the University or a fundamental alteration of the nature of campus housing; if the specific animal in question poses a direct threat to the health and safety of others that cannot be eliminated or reduced to an acceptable level by a reasonable modification to other policies, practices, and procedures; if the specific animal in question has caused substantial physical damage to the property of others (beyond reasonable wear and tear) the reoccurrence of which cannot be eliminated or reduced to an acceptable level by a reasonable modification to other policies, practices, and procedures; if the animal is not housebroken; if the animal is out of control (e.g., uncontrolled barking, wandering, running at large, displaying aggressive behavior) and the student does not take effective action to control it; if the animal or its presence creates an unmanageable disturbance or interference with the community; or if the student does not comply with his or her obligations under this policy.

The University will base such individualized determinations upon consideration of the behavior of the particular animal and resident on a case-by-case basis and in consultation with SOAR, the Office of Housing and Residence Life, the student, and other parties as appropriate.  The University will not base this determination on speculation or fear about the harm or damages an animal may cause.

Should an animal be removed for any reason, the student is expected to fulfill his or her housing, academic, and other obligations as applicable.  Moreover, a student’s failure to comply with their obligations under this policy may be reviewed through the University’s student conduct system.

Section VII. Conflicts and Complaints

Individuals who come into contact with a Service Animal or Assistance Animal regularly and who experience reactions to the animal (for example, as a result of respiratory disease, asthma, allergies, or a fear of dogs) should request accommodations through SOAR.  SOAR will resolve any conflict in a timely manner and will consider the conflicting needs and/or accommodations of all persons involved.

Students other than the animal’s owner may make a complaint about a violation of this policy (e.g., about excessive noise, aggressive behavior, or lack of hygiene) to the Department of Housing and Residence Life.  The complaint will be handled under the University’s discipline procedures.  Note that Service and Assistance Animals on campus have been approved as an accommodation for a student with a disability; therefore, third-party complaints may not be submitted about the mere presence of the animal.

Section VIII. Appeals and Grievances

Students who are dissatisfied by a decision made in accordance with this policy may appeal through the University’s Student Disability Grievance Procedure.

Section IX.  Service Animals in Training

The University recognizes the importance of and welcomes Service Animal in Training.  A “Service Animal in Training” is a dog that is being individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability.  Individuals who are qualified to train animals to aid and guide persons with disabilities are, while engaged in the training of a Service Animal in Training, afforded the same rights as those individuals who require the assistance of a Service Animal with respect to access to University facilities.  Trainers must register Service Animals in Training with SOAR and comply with the rules and responsibilities set forth in this policy with respect to Service Animals (including but not limited to those set forth in Section IV of this policy).  The portions of Sections VI through VIII of this policy that apply to Service Animals apply to Service Animals in Training as well.

Questions about this policy may be directed to SOAR at soar@furman.edu or to the University’s Title IX and ADA/Section 504 Coordinator, Melissa Nichols, at melissa.nichols@furman.edu.

Sexual Offender’s Law

Any student designated by law enforcement agencies as a sex offender is required by law (SC 23-3-450) to register with local law enforcement agencies where they reside, even in temporary residence locations such as a college residence hall or apartment. Each academic year, the registration should be completed with the Furman University Police Department and the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office and updated as required by state law. The South Carolina Sex Offender Registry can be found at this webpage. Students can appropriately register with the Furman University Police Department by contacting the office via phone at (864) 294-2111 and following appropriate protocol.

Student Businesses

Furman University believes student entrepreneurship fosters creativity, business management skills, and ethical leadership and thus supports such engaged learning.

Students must receive approval from the Student Business Committee in order to operate a business on campus. Students may contact the Director of Auxiliary Services to commence the process of obtaining approval. Approval is granted for one year, and students must submit a request to have their business plan reviewed and approved by the Committee for a one-year extension. Student businesses may not continue to operate businesses on campus following graduation.

The following rules apply to student-operated businesses:

1. Student businesses may only be operated by enrolled undergraduate students in good standing with the University.
2. Student businesses must be legally incorporated, organized, or otherwise formed and in good standing under the laws of the relevant jurisdiction and, where required, duly qualified to do business in the State of South Carolina.
3. Student businesses must have all requisite governmental licenses, authorizations, and approvals necessary to operate their business.
4. Student businesses are responsible for compliance with all federal, state, and local laws and regulations, including but not limited to those related to employment, immigration, and intellectual property.
5. Student businesses and their owners and operators must adhere to all applicable University policies, including but not limited to the Solicitation Policy, the Use of University Space Policy, University Policy 72.1 (Electronic Communication and Web Content), and all Housing and Residence Life Policies.
6. Student businesses may not compete with a service that Furman University already provides without approval from the Student Business Committee.
7. In operating their student businesses, students may not use University resources without the approval of the Student Business Committee. This includes resources that are provided to students for use in connection with their enrollment at the University, such as printing, use of space on campus, and IT services.
8. When engaging in communication regarding their student businesses, students may not directly or indirectly claim to represent Furman, use their Furman email addresses to conduct business, or use the Furman email database to find contacts.
9. Student businesses may not employ non-students to work on campus.
10. Students may store products related to their student businesses in their residence hall units with the approval of their roommate(s) as long as the products take up no more space than the space underneath the student’s unlofted bed in the residence hall unit.
11. If a student business transgresses or fails to abide by University policy, action may be taken against the student owner and/or operator(s) by the Student Life Office.
12. The University may revoke its approval of a student business at any time.

Students seeking advice regarding a business they wish to start or operate are encouraged to contact The Hill Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship for advice.

Student Disability Grievance Procedure

Furman University is committed to ensuring that no otherwise qualified individual with a disability is excluded from participation in, subjected to discrimination in connection with, or denied the benefits of any University programs or activities due to his or her disability. The University will take steps to prevent the recurrence of any discrimination and to correct discriminatory effects on the affected individual and others, if appropriate.

The University has adopted this internal Student Disability Grievance Procedure to provide for the prompt and equitable resolution of student complaints alleging any action prohibited by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (“Section 504”) or Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (“Title III”) or otherwise alleging disability-related discrimination or harassment. Section 504 prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance, and Title III prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability by private entities (including universities) that provide places of public accommodation. These laws and accompanying regulations may be examined in the office of the Title IX and Section 504/ADA Coordinator, whom the University has designated to coordinate its efforts to comply with Section 504 and Title III (“the ADA Coordinator”). The following is the ADA Coordinator’s contact information:

Melissa Nichols, Title IX and Section 504/ADA Coordinator
Trone Student Center, Suite 215
3300 Poinsett Highway
Greenville, SC 29613
864.294.2221
melissa.nichols@furman.edu

Who May Grieve?

Any student currently enrolled at the University who believes he or she has been discriminated against or harassed on the basis of disability by a University employee (e.g., administrator, faculty, staff, or other agent of the University), University student, or, in certain circumstances, by a visitor to the University, may use this process to file a grievance (the “Grievant”).

What May Be Grieved?

An action or decision may be grieved if it involves alleged discrimination or harassment by a University employee; University student; or, in certain circumstances, by a visitor to the University against a student on the basis of that student’s disability. Such actions may include, but are not limited to, unfavorable treatment of a student because of his or her disability, denial and/or inappropriate implementation of reasonable accommodations, and lack of physical access to University facilities or programs.  Other alleged violations of the ADA and/or Section 504 may also be grieved under this Policy, including but not limited to perceived retaliation due to a pending disability discrimination complaint.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, University Policy 107.4 governs the provision of academic accommodations to students, including grievances and/or appeals related to determinations reached pursuant to such policy.  This Student Disability Grievance Procedure, therefore, is only applicable to grievances and/or appeals regarding academic accommodations to the extent set forth in Policy 107.4.  Students may obtain a copy of Policy 107.4 from the Office of the Associate Academic Dean.

Time Limit for Filing a Grievance

A grievance may be filed at any time.  However, the University strongly encourages individuals to file grievances promptly.  A delay in filing a grievance may limit the University’s ability to investigate, as well as to address discrimination and its effects.

Confidentiality and Prohibition Against Retaliation

The University will treat all information submitted in connection with a grievance as confidential.  Subject to FERPA and other applicable privacy laws, however, the University official investigating the grievance will inform individuals with a legitimate need to know of the grievance and may provide them related information as necessary to allow the University official to conduct a meaningful and thorough investigation. The University official investigating the grievance will inform all involved parties of the need to maintain the confidentiality of such information.

The University prohibits retaliation for submitting a grievance or participating in a grievance investigation. Retaliation includes threats, intimidation, reprisals, and adverse actions. The University official investigating the grievance will advise all involved parties of this strict prohibition against retaliation.

Informal Grievance Procedure

The Informal Grievance Procedure is designed to facilitate a satisfactory resolution of the grievance in an informal manner. The Grievant has the option to forego the Informal Grievance Procedure and move immediately to the Formal Grievance Procedure.

A Grievant initiates the Informal Grievance Procedure by contacting the Director of the Student Office of Accessibility Resources (SOAR) (the “SOAR Director”). If the SOAR Director is the subject of the grievance, the Grievant initiates the Informal Grievance Procedure by contacting the ADA Coordinator, who will assign an administrator in lieu of the SOAR Director. The Grievant may contact the appropriate official by e-mail, phone, or in person. To initiate the Informal Grievance Procedure, a Grievant is not required to submit the grievance in writing, but the SOAR Director/assigned administrator may ask the Grievant to do so or to submit other evidence, if necessary to facilitate a satisfactory resolution.

The SOAR Director/assigned administrator will attempt to expeditiously facilitate a satisfactory resolution. The SOAR Director/assigned administrator may meet in person with the Grievant, confer with the individual(s) against whom the grievance is filed, attempt to arrange a meeting between the Grievant and the individual(s) against whom the grievance is filed, or take any other steps the SOAR Director/assigned administrator believes will be useful in promoting resolution.

Within 21 calendar days after the Grievant initially contacts the SOAR Director/assigned administrator regarding the grievance, the SOAR Director/assigned administrator will inform the Grievant and, as appropriate, the individual(s) against whom the grievance is filed in writing of the outcome of the Informal Grievance Procedure.

Formal Grievance Procedure

If the Grievant is not satisfied with the resolution reached using the Informal Grievance Procedure, or if the Grievant chooses not to use the Informal Grievance Procedure, the Grievant may initiate the Formal Grievance Procedure by submitting a written complaint to the ADA Coordinator. The Grievant may, but is not required to use, the Student Disability Grievance Form. If the ADA Coordinator is the subject of the grievance, the Grievant initiates the Formal Grievance Procedure by contacting the senior officer in Human Resources (currently the Assistant Vice President for Human Resources), who will assign an administrator in lieu of the ADA Coordinator.  A Grievant who chooses to initiate the Formal Grievance Procedure after participating in the Informal Grievance Procedure must do so within 14 calendar days of receipt of the SOAR Director’s/assigned administrator’s written notification of the outcome of the Informal Grievance Procedure.  The written complaint must:

1. be dated;
2. state the problem or action alleged to be discriminatory and the date of the alleged action;
3. state how the action is discriminatory (or how the decision is unreasonable if it is a denial of a requested accommodation);
4. name the individual(s) against whom the grievance is filed;
5. state the requested remedy; and
6. be signed by the Grievant.

Within seven calendar days of receiving the written complaint, the ADA Coordinator/assigned administrator will provide written notification of receipt of the complaint to the Grievant and to the individual(s) against whom the grievance is filed. The ADA Coordinator/assigned administrator will also conduct a thorough and impartial investigation of the complaint, affording all relevant persons an opportunity to present witnesses and submit evidence regarding the allegations. Within 30 days of receipt of the written complaint, the ADA Coordinator/assigned administrator will provide the Grievant and the individual(s) against whom the complaint is filed a written decision regarding the grievance. The decision will include findings of fact, a conclusion, and, if applicable, an explanation of remedies.  If the individual against whom the complaint is filed is a student, the ADA Coordinator/assigned administrator will, if applicable, refer the decision to the student conduct system for the determination and imposition of sanctions.  If the individual against whom the complaint is filed is a member of the faculty, the ADA Coordinator/assigned administrator will, if applicable, refer the decision to the Dean of the Faculty for the determination and imposition of disciplinary sanctions. If the individual against whom the complaint is filed is a staff member, the ADA Coordinator/assigned administrator will, if applicable, refer the decision to the senior officer in Human Resources for the determination and imposition of disciplinary sanctions.

Appeal

The Grievant or the individual(s) against whom the grievance is filed may appeal within ten calendar days of receiving the ADA Coordinator’s/assigned administrator’s written decision and/or any associated disciplinary sanctions by writing to (1) the Associate Academic Dean, if the grievance involves an issue related to academic accommodations or alleged discrimination by a faculty member (2) the Vice President for Student Life, if the grievance does not involve an issue related to academic accommodations (the “Appeals Officer”). If the individual designated to be the Appeals Officer is the subject of the grievance, the Grievant may file an appeal by submitting a written appeal to the senior officer in Human Resources, who will assign an Appeals Officer.  The written appeal must clearly set forth the grounds for the appeal and must include all supporting evidence. Generally, the Appeals Officer will limit his or her review of the ADA Coordinator’s/assigned administrator’s decision to determining whether the ADA Coordinator/assigned administrator considered the proper facts and whether there were any procedural irregularities. Within 21 days of receipt of the appeal, the Appeals Officer will provide the Grievant and the individual(s) against whom the complaint is filed a written decision regarding the appeal. The decision of the Appeals Officer is final, and the University will disregard any subsequent appeals (in any form) to any University representative, including but not limited to the University President.

Adjustment of Deadlines

The ADA Coordinator or the Appeals Officer may change the above deadlines for good cause, such as semester or summer breaks. Likewise, if the application of time deadlines creates a hardship due to the urgency of the matter or the proximity of an event, then at the request of the Grievant, the ADA Coordinator or the Appeals Officer will determine whether an expedited procedure can be created.

Interim Measures

If necessary while any grievance investigation is ongoing, the University will take interim measures to stop discrimination and prevent its recurrence and to correct discriminatory effects on the complainant and others. Such interim measures may include, but are not limited to, limiting interaction between the parties, arranging for the provision of temporary accommodations, or staying a course grade.

Confidentiality of Records

Once the ADA Coordinator or the Appeals Officer has made the final decision regarding the grievance, the records related to the grievance will be confidentially maintained for three years in the ADA Coordinator’s Office or electronically.

Disability Accommodations

The University will make arrangements to ensure that students with disabilities are provided appropriate accommodations as needed to participate in this Student Disability Grievance Procedure. Requests for accommodations must be made to the SOAR Director, whose office is located in the SOAR office on the first floor of the Hipp Hall. The SOAR Director will review the supporting disability-related documentation, make a decision about the request, notify the student about the decision, and, if applicable, make arrangements for approved accommodations. Accommodations may include, but are not limited to, providing interpreters for individuals who are deaf, providing recordings of materials for individuals who are blind, and assuring a barrier-free location for the proceedings.

External Complaints

The availability and use of this Student Disability Grievance Procedure does not prevent a student from filing a complaint of discrimination with external agencies such as the U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights.

Student Grievance Process

Disputes may occasionally arise between members of the Furman University community.  For complaints related to behavior that violates the Student Conduct Code or Housing Policies, refer to the appropriate sections outlining procedures for resolving those complaints.  Students having serious complaints about any other matter at the University are strongly urged to attempt an informal reconciliation with the parties involved. Complaints should be presented openly, without fear of reprisal and as soon as possible following an incident.

If a student elects not to pursue the matter informally or if the informal resolution does not resolve the differences, the student may initiate a formal written complaint. Complaints which involve only students should be sent to the Associate Vice President for Student Life and Dean of Students and will be resolved according to the student conduct procedures outlined in the Student Handbook. Complaints which involve a faculty member should be sent to the Associate Academic Dean, who will work in conjunction with the chair of the department. Complaints which involve a staff member should be sent to the Assistant Vice President of Human Resources.

If, at any step in the process, a designated decision maker was involved in the substance of the grievance, those individuals will not participate in any way in the disposition of the grievance. Anyone who submits a good faith complaint, either informally or formally, will be protected from retaliation or discipline. Any student who willfully makes accusations that are proven to be false will be charged with a violation of the Student Conduct Code.

For complaints related to accommodations, refer to the University’s Student Disability Grievance Procedure.

Student Identification Cards

When students first arrive on campus, they will receive a non-transferable identification card which will be used throughout their enrollment. The card entitles students to all university services and programs. A fee is charged to replace lost identification cards.

Student Information

Notice of Student Rights with Respect to Education Records (FERPA)

A. Student Information Rights

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and its subsequent regulations provides students of Furman University certain rights with respect to their education records:

1. Students have the right to inspect and review their own education records (with certain limited exceptions) within 45 days of the date that the University receives the student’s request for access. A student wishing to inspect or review his or her education records must submit a request in writing to the appropriate office identified below identifying the records the student wishes to inspect and review. Arrangements for access will be made, and the student will be notified of the time and place where the records may be inspected and reviewed. 
   • Requests for education records should be made to the following offices: 
     • Requests for academic records should be directed to Enrollment Services - University Registrar (Administration Building, 864-294-2030). 
     • Requests for records related to academic misconduct should be directed to the Office of the Academic Deans - Associate Academic Dean (Administration Building, 864-294-2064). 
     • Requests for records related to student conduct should be directed to the Division of Student Life - Vice President for Student Life (Trone Student Center, 864-294-2202). 
   • Requests for any records not specifically listed here should be directed to the University Registrar. 
2. Students have the right to ask the University to amend education records that they believe are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of their privacy rights. 
   • Process for Requesting an Amendment of an Education Record: 
     • A student must first confer informally with the custodian of the education record. (The custodian of the education record is the University official heading the applicable office identified in the preceding section; this individual is responsible for creating and maintaining the education record.) The student must (a) clearly identify the part of the education record he or she wants amended and (b) explain why this disputed part is inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of his or her privacy rights. The custodian of the education record shall decide whether to amend the record as requested within a reasonable time after he or she receives the request. If the custodian of the education record decides to amend the record, he or she will amend the education record and notify the student that the record has been amended as requested. If the custodian of the record decides not to amend the record as requested, he or she shall inform the student of his or her decision and of the student’s right to a hearing pursuant to the provisions in the following section. 
     • If a student is not satisfied with the decision of the custodian of the record, he or she may submit a written request for hearing to the Associate Academic Dean. Additional information regarding hearing procedures will be provided to the student at that time. 
3. Students have the right to provide consent before the University discloses personally identifiable information contained in their education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. 
   • The University can make disclosures such as the following without students’ consent: 
     • Disclosures to “school officials” with a “legitimate educational interest” in the information. A “school official” is any person employed by the University; any person or company under the direct control of the University with respect to the use and maintenance of the education records and with whom the University has contracted to provide a service or function that the University would otherwise use its own employees to provide (such as an attorney or an auditor); any person serving on the University’s Board of Trustees; or any student serving on an official committee, such as a conduct board or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a “legitimate educational interest” in a student’s education record if the official needs to review the education record in order to fulfill the official’s professional responsibility; if the official is acting for the educational benefit of the student; or if the information in the record is necessary to perform a task related to the discipline of a student or to provide a service or benefit relating to the student or the student’s family, such as health care, counseling, job placement, or financial aid. 
     • Disclosures of students’ “Public Information,” as that term is used in Section (B) below. 
     • Disclosures to comply with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena, after first making a reasonable effort to notify the student (except as prohibited by the order or subpoena).
     • Disclosures to parents of a student if the student is a dependent for federal tax purposes. 
     • Disclosures to parents of students under the age of 21 regarding the student’s violation(s) of the University’s drug and alcohol policy, provided that the student has been found responsible by the University for such violations. 
     • Disclosures in connection with financial aid for which the student has applied or which the student has received, if the information is necessary for such purposes as to determine eligibility for the aid, determine the amount of or the conditions for the aid, or enforce the terms and conditions of the aid. 
     • Disclosures to another higher education institution where a student seeks or intends to enroll, or where the student is already enrolled, so long as the disclosure is for purposes related to the student’s enrollment or transfer. 
     • Disclosures to appropriate parties in connection with a health or safety emergency if knowledge of the information in the education record is necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or other individuals. 
   • Information on other disclosures that can be made without students’ consent is available from the University Registrar. 
4. Students may file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning an alleged failure on the part of the University to comply with the requirements of FERPA and its implementing regulations. Inquiries should be directed to: Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20202-4605. 

B. Notice of Intent to Disclose Certain Public Information:

As required by FERPA, Furman University hereby provides current students notice of its intent to disclose the following personally identifiable information relating to them: name, name of parents or spouse, local and home address, telephone listing, e-mail address, date and place of birth, field of study, class year, enrollment status (e.g., undergraduate or graduate, full-time or part-time), participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees, honors, and awards received, most recent previous educational institution attended, and photograph (“Public Information”).

This allows for the routine release of information that will help the student, such as to potential employers and to other interested and appropriate parties.

Students who desire that their Public Information not be released without their consent can manage access to this information via the MyFurman online tool where changes will be applied prospectively.

Student Media

The Furman University student media organizations function as a means of bringing student concerns to the attention of the faculty and University authorities, of helping the University community formulate opinion on various campus and off-campus issues, and of providing a forum for debate. The student communications media will operate free of censorship. (The term “censorship” in reference to student communications media shall mean any attempt to threaten or coerce any editor, manager or staff member of a student-run publication in order to prevent the dissemination of any factual account or the expression of any informed opinion, or generally, to hinder the free flow of ideas.) Student communications media are governed by the constitution of the Furman University Student Media Board (on file in the Office of Student Life). The board’s responsibilities include the appointment and removal (as needed) of editors and managers. Editors and managers will be responsible for developing their own editorial policies and methods of news coverage within the framework of the philosophies and objectives of the University. Because Furman University, designated publisher of the student publications, may have certain responsibility for the contents of the publications, certain policies are considered inherent in the editorial freedom granted to student editors and managers. These policies include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. Avoidance of publication of statements of libel, indecency, undocumented allegations, harassing statements, the use of innuendo and attacks on personal integrity;
2. Observation of any applicable regulations of the Federal Communications Commission;
3. A show of regard for Furman University standards, philosophies and objectives;
4. The use as a student organization of such University marks as, “Paladin,” “Bonhomie,” “Echo,” “Paladin Network,” and any future such marks affiliated with a Student Media organization so long as the organization remains in good standing with the University; and
5. A statement on the editorial page that the opinions there expressed are not necessarily those of the University or the student body.

Student Tailgates

The following guidelines and expectations are applicable to student and student organization hosted tailgates. For information regarding non-student tailgates, visit Tailgating at Major Athletic Events under the University’s non-academic administrative policies.

1. Students are only allowed to host tailgates in the area designated by Athletics (NCAA events) or Student Life (Club Sports events) for student tailgates. If Athletics or Student Life has not designated a space for an event, students may not tailgate. Accordingly, students should plan ahead in making their request for an event.
   1. A student or student organization is considered to be the host of a tailgate if they setup the space; are primarily responsible for the planning, funding, and execution of the tailgate; or are so associated with the tailgate that a reasonable person would conclude the organization or person has primary responsibility for it (e.g. a tent flying the name or letters of an organization in which organizational members are present even if alumni setup the space).
2. Students may setup tents and supplies on Friday afternoons for football games. Athletics will designate a weekly time. For all other sporting events, students should consult with Athletics or Student Life at the time of their reservation. Tent locations are on a first-come basis.
3. Students are encouraged to register 14 days in advance of the athletic event. 
4. Students may leave tailgating tents up for the entirety of the football season. All other items must be removed 2 hours after the game ends. Any remaining items will be disposed of by Athletics at their discretion.
   1. Tents left at the football stadium may be removed and stored by Athletics at its discretion in the event of severe weather or other circumstances. The owner of the tent is responsible for any loss or damage if choosing to leave the tent or supplies at the stadium.
5. On game day, each registered organization will receive a parking lot pass to drop-off other tailgating supplies. Any vehicle without a pass is subject to ticketing and towing. Students may not park their vehicle in the tailgating area after unloading is complete.
6. Gas grills, tables, chairs, generators, unopened beverages, and food may be brought into the tailgating area. Coolers will be checked at entry to ensure compliance with expectations outlined in this policy. Charcoal grills are not allowed. Open containers of any beverage are not allowed.
7. Amplified music is not allowed in the tailgating area due to Southern Conference rules, except as provided or agreed to by Athletics.
8. Access to the student tailgate area will open 3 hours before the start of the game.
   1. Any individual planning to consume alcohol must enter through the access point(s) for the identification of individuals 21 and older. A Furman ID or government issued identification with ticket is required.
   2. Any individuals not planning to consume alcohol or who are not of age should enter through alternatively designated access point(s).
   3. Students and those with tickets are allowed to come and go from the tailgating area. However, students who are of age and who intend to consume alcohol must go through the identification process again to re-enter with alcohol.
9. The alcohol that each person may bring and consume to a BYOB event is only beer, beer-equivalent (Whiteclaw, Truly, Smirnoff, Ciders, etc.), and wine. Beer and beer equivalent may be no more than six individually packaged, 12-ounce containers. Wine may be no more than six individually packaged, 187 ml containers. Liquor and glass containers are not allowed. The alcohol may only be consumed by the person who brought it. Regardless of allowed amounts, each student is expected to engage in low-risk drinking.
10. No common sources of alcohol are allowed (e.g. kegs, punch bowls, etc.).
11. Consumption of alcohol outside the designated tailgating area is not allowed. Students lingering outside the tailgating area may be asked to enter or disperse. Alcohol may not be brought into the stadium from the tailgating area.
12. All alcohol consumption will end at the conclusion of the 3^rd quarter for football or at the time designated by Athletics for all other events. Students may remain in the tailgating area or move into the stadium seating area.
13. The following behaviors are prohibited:
    1. Consumption of alcohol by underage individuals;
    2. Providing alcohol to an underage person;
    3. Use of false identification;
    4. Activities/games that encourage binge drinking;
    5. Belligerence toward any other individual;
    6. Public drunkenness;
    7. Public urination;
    8. Littering in or around tailgating areas;
    9. Throwing beer cans or other items;
    10. Intentional disruption of other tailgating areas; and
    11. Inappropriate language, aggressive behavior or other misconduct that is disruptive to the Furman community
14. Individual misconduct will be addressed by police or security to determine if referral to Student Life is warranted. Violation of state law could result in arrest or citation.
15. Any organizational misconduct, such as failing to stop the use of alcohol by guests at the end of the 3^rd quarter, underage consumption, or other violations of tailgating rules or University policy will have the following minimum sanctions:

    1. 1st offense - risk management training and fine up to $300.

    2. 2nd offense - fine up to $600 and loss of tailgating spot for 2 games (including into next season)

    3. 3rd offense - fine up to $600 and loss of tailgating spot for 6 games (including into next season)

    4. The University reserves the right to ban any group from tailgating regardless of the escalating sanctions outlined above if the misconduct is so egregious as to endanger the health and safety of others or is so disruptive as to substantially interfere with others enjoyment of game day activities.  

16. Furman University reserves the right to cancel or end a tailgate early as necessary.