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Important Policies

Note: The Policy Statements here are, in some cases, summaries of longer, more complex statements and procedures. For complete statements students are welcome to obtain full copies from the Office of the Vice President for Student Development.

Violations of any part of the policies named herein constitute grounds for campus disciplinary action under the Conduct System or under the grievance procedures guaranteed as rights to each person by the policy statement.

Please read each policy carefully.

Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS)

Administrative Review Upon Re-Entry

Administrative Withdrawal

Affirmative Action Policy

Alcohol Policy

Bias Protocol

Campus Safety and Crime Report

CAS Dining Services Code of Conduct

Drug and Alcohol Free Campus and Work Environment

Equal Opportunity Statement

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA)

Grievance Procedure for Review of Allegations of Discrimination

Hazing

Information Technology Services/Computers and Network

Mandatory Health Records

No Discrimination on the Basis of Disability

Non-Smoking Policy

Personal Transportation Policy

Racial Harassment Policy

Refund Policy

Selling/Solicitation

Sexual Harrassment & Prevention Policy

Special Circumstances Administrative Withdrawal

Vehicle Registration and Parking Regulations

Violence and Unacceptable Behavior Policy

 


Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS)

Since there is no evidence that persons with AIDS or those who test positive for the HIV virus pose a risk to the general public through casual (non-sexual) contact, the College does not support mandated testing of any group or individual. Furthermore, the College takes a strong position that the civil rights of any person or group cannot be abridged without sufficient evidence that such action is necessary. Accordingly, the College does not discriminate against persons with AIDS.

Students have access to free, confidential, HIV testing at the Wellness Center. Anonymous HIV testing is available in Albany, call 1-800-962-5065.

The Director of Health and Counseling Services acts as the spokesperson for SUNY Cobleskill with regard to information about AIDS. A procedure for reviewing specific situations pertaining to students is in place under the jurisdiction of the Vice President for Student Development.

Administrative Review Upon Re-Entry

Students who are removed from campus for emergency medical evaluation and/or treatment are required to be processed through an administrative re-entry review. This process will be scheduled on the business day following the student’s discharge from medical care to consider the student’s requested return to the campus and will include the participation of the Assistant Vice President for Student Development or designee (and others, as deemed appropriate, for example: a counselor, the student’s Residence Hall Director/Complex Coordinator [if an on-campus student] Vice President for Student Development, UPD). The purpose of this review process will be to consider the request for re-entry, the circumstances for removal from campus, discharge referrals, treatment recommendations, and campus support services available to the student. The review process will determine if the student is fit to return to the academic and social rigors of a college environment. If the student is approved for re-entry, the campus’ expectations regarding student behavior and good citizenship following return to the campus will also be reviewed and must be agreed upon by the student. If the student is not approved for re-entry or if the student fails to participate in the administrative re-entry process, a recommendation will be made for an administrative withdrawal review and determination.

Administrative Withdrawal

Students may be administratively withdrawn from the College if their behavior poses an appreciable risk of harm to the safety or well-being of the campus community, or others or for failure to participate in the disciplinary and/or administrative review process.

To determine whether to implement an administrative withdrawal, a Review/Hearing is conducted by the Vice President for Student Development or his designee based upon a report(s) by a member of the College's professional staff or faculty, and in consultation, as necessary, with appropriate legal and/or mental health providers.

Students administratively withdrawn must be given an opportunity for appeal before the Vice President within 48 hours of receipt of the withdrawal decision. Such an appeal hearing on the withdrawal will be held by the Vice President within seven class days after receipt of the student’s submitted written appeal request. The student may be assisted in this hearing by a member of the faculty or staff. The student may also be accompanied by legal counsel, who will be limited to providing legal advice to the student. The hearing shall be conversational and non-adversarial.

A written decision shall be delivered by the Vice President within three class days after the appeal hearing on the decision to withdraw such student.

If the student chooses not to request or fails to attend the appeal hearing, the administrative withdrawal decision will be final, with no further option for appeal.

Any time frame set forth herein within which any action is to be undertaken may be extended by the Vice President for good cause shown.

Affirmative Action Policy

The Affirmative Action policy on the SUNY Cobleskill campus applies to both employees and students.

The substance of the policy insists on equal opportunity for all persons without regard to race, creed, color, national origin, age, marital status, arrest record, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or disability. The policy applies both to employment on the campus (including student employment) and to educational opportunity.

While the College is proud of the recent gains in full opportunity provided to both employees and students, the College must maintain a vigorous program in recruitment, promotion, in-service education, training, awareness-building, education, counseling, financial aid, career development, and all other services and programs.

The State University of New York has established procedures for handling discrimination complaints. A copy of this procedure is available from the campus Affirmative Action Officer.

Alcohol Policy

Alcoholic beverages are not permitted on the campus, in buildings (including residence halls, except portions of Vroman Hall), grounds, athletic fields, or facilities of the College or of the Cobleskill Auxiliary Services except by special authorization (approval) by the College President or designee. The possession, use or involvement of any kind with alcoholic beverages and alcohol-related paraphernalia (for example: beer taps, funnels, kegs, or empty or full alcohol containers, etc.) is prohibited.

Bias Protocol

What are Bias Acts and Hate Crimes?

A bias act is conduct that adversely and unfairly targets an individual or group based on the social identity categories of national origin, ethnicity, race, age, religion, gender, gender identity & expression, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, color, creed, marital status or any other protected class or combination of these characteristics. The perpetrators may be known or unknown to the victim(s)and the act may be verbal, written or physical and occur on the SUNY Cobleskill campus or at a location connected to the campus community. Activity protected by the First Amendment (freedom of speech) will not be considered a bias act.

According to New York State Penal Law §485.05, a person commits a hate crime when he or she commits a specified criminal offense and either intentionally commits the act or intentionally selects the person against whom the offense is committed in whole or in substantial part because of a belief or perception regarding the race, color, national origin, ancestry, gender, religion, religious practice, age, disability, sexual orientation, or other protected class of a person, regardless of whether the belief or perception is correct.

College Response to Bias Acts and Hate Crimes

SUNY Cobleskill responds to bias acts, including hate crimes, according to procedures outlined herein. Reports of bias acts will be taken seriously and reviewed by appropriate college staff. The policy has been reviewed and ratified by the President’s Cabinet and is re-evaluated on a regular basis.

Responses to a report of a bias act or hate crime may include investigation and adjudication as appropriate by the University Police Department (UPD), the Office of Student Development, or Human Resources. Other kinds of responses (e.g., training or programming about bias act prevention, facilitated meetings among those who have perpetrated bias acts, or those who have been targeted, etc.) are arranged on a case-by-case basis. Persons or communities who have been targeted will be contacted to discuss possible responses and options for investigation and adjudication.

If You Are a Target of or a Witness to a Bias Act or Hate Crime:

  1. Be a pro-active, pro-social bystander. Take action (as noted below) if you observe or encounter bias or hate on campus.
  2. Contact UPD at 518-255-5555 (ext. 5555 from a campus phone) or call x911 or via any of the emergency blue light phones on campus. Please provide a detailed description of the incident; OR
  3. Submit a report via the Bias Act Reporting Form. This report will go to UPD; OR
  4. Submit an anonymous report to UPD.
  5. Utilize the confidential services of the Wellness Center, which are available to support victims of bias or hate.

Bias Act Reporting Guidelines

If you think you are the target of a bias-related act or if you witness a bias-related act, please follow the reporting procedures outlined below:

Graffiti 

Other Property Damage 

Verbal Harassment and/or Threats

Physical Attack

Anonymous Reporting

Resources

University Police Department | 518.255.5317/5555/x911

Human Resources | 518.255.5465

Judicial Affairs | 518.255.5215

Title IX | 518.255.5465

Vice President for Academic Affairs | 518.255.5523

Vice President for Student Development | 518.255.5265

Wellness Center | 518.255.5225

Campus Safety and Crime Report

A copy of the State University of New York at Cobleskill campus crime statistics as reported annually to the U.S. Department of Education will be available for review at the University Police Department in Johnson Hall or a copy can be requested by calling 518-255-5317 or by writing to University Police, Johnson Hall, SUNY Cobleskill, Cobleskill, NY 12043. This report is also available on the University Police area of the SUNY Cobleskill webpage at: www.cobleskill.edu and at http://ope.ed.gov/security.

CAS Dining Services Code of Conduct

Dining Services is committed to providing you, our customer with a fresh, quality conscious meal of your choice in a courteous and timely manner.

We ask that you recognize that the campus as a whole dines together as a community and in that spirit, please acknowledge appropriate interactions while in our campus facilities.

 

To ensure everyone has the option of enjoying their meal in our dining rooms we ask your cooperation in observing the above guidelines. Dining Services reserve the right to refuse admission to our dining facilities in the event these guidelines are not followed.

Drug and Alcohol Free Campus and Work Environment

SUNY Cobleskill is committed to development and maintenance of a Drug and Alcohol Free Campus and Work Environment. In accordance with the Federal Drug Free Act of 1988, the State of New York Policy on Alcohol and Controlled Substances in the work place, the State of New York Beverage Control Act, and the College Policy under the Student Conduct Codes which prohibits both drugs and alcoholic beverages, the College will not tolerate the presence of either alcoholic beverages or controlled substances on the campus.

Students are subject to enforcement through the campus Conduct System and the provisions of law. Employees are subject to enforcement through applicable disciplinary procedures consistent with laws, rules, regulations, and collective bargaining agreements.

The College will make every effort to maintain a drug and alcohol free campus and work place. Those who seek assistance with a problem related to one of these conditions should seek assistance from a campus resource, such as the Counseling Service, the Health Service, or consult with the Office of the Vice President for Student Development or the Director of Human Resources.

Equal Opportunity Statement

SUNY Cobleskill is strongly committed to Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, marital status, or sexual orientation in any of its programs or activities.

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA)

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students who are 18 years of age or older ("eligible students") certain rights with respect to the student's education records. These rights are:

  1. The right to inspect and review the student's education records within 45 days after the day SUNY Cobleskill receives a request for access.

    Parents or eligible students should submit to the College Registrar a written request that identifies the records they wish to inspect. The school official will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.
  2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA.

    Parents or eligible students who wish to ask SUNY Cobleskill to amend a record should write the College Registrar, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it should be changed. If the school decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the school will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.
  3. The right to provide written consent before the school discloses personally identifiable information (PII) from the student's education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without con-sent.

    One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the school as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel) or a person serving on the school board. A school official also may include a volunteer or contractor outside of the school who performs an institutional service of function for which the school would otherwise use its own employees and who is under the direct control of the school with respect to the use and maintenance of PII from education records, such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist; a parent or student volunteering to serve on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee; or a parent, student, or other volunteer assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.

    Upon request, the college may disclose education records without consent to officials of another school in which a student seeks or intends to enroll, or is already enrolled if the disclosure is for purposes of the student’s enrollment or transfer.
  4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the SUNY Cobleskill to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA are:

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

SUNY Cobleskill has designated directory information, according to FERPA as Amended, to be the student’s: full name, campus or local address, local telephone number, home address, major, department, dates of attendance, date(s) of graduation, degree(s) awarded, awards, full-time/part-time status, birth date and e-mail address. This information can be released without written prior consent from the student. All other education records will be released only under compliance with FERPA. Students currently enrolled at SUNY Cobleskill may object to the release of certain categories of “directory information” pertaining o them by providing written notification to the Registrar’s Office, Knapp Hall 101, within fourteen (14) days following the first day of classes each semester.

Emergency situations will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

 

Grievance Procedure for Review of Allegations of Discrimination

  1. A grievance must be submitted in writing on forms provided by the State University of New York. Forms are available from the affirmative action officer.
  2. Employees must file a grievance within 90 calendar days following the alleged discriminatory act or the date on which the grievant first knew or reasonably should have known of such act if that date is later. Students must file a grievance within 45 calendar days following the alleged discriminatory act or 90 calendar days after a final grade is received, if that date is later.
  3. Grievance must be filed with the campus affirmative action officer.
  4. The complete State University of New York Discrimination Complaint Procedure can be viewed at www.cobleskill.edu/HumanResources.

Hazing

Hazing in every form is prohibited. Hazing is considered to be interference with personal liberty of others and includes any act of domination by some students over others which may lead to injury, emotional disturbance, physical discomfort or humiliation.

Harassment by banter, ridicule or criticism or playing abusive and humiliating tricks or pranks is prohibited.

Hazing which involves the forced consumption of alcohol or drugs is prohibited.

Information Technology Services/Computers and Network

Whether you connect to campus computing resources through a wireless or wired network port with your personal computer or log on to the campus network from a computer in an open access lab, you have agreed to abide by the Computing Resources Policy of SUNY Cobleskill.

AUTHORIZED/RESPONSIBLE USE OF CAMPUS COMPUTING RESOURCES: Access to computing is provided to facilitate access to the Internet, e-mail, and user data files necessary to conduct campus-related activities. All users who access campus resources have the responsibility to use them within the guidelines specified in the Campus Computer Resources Policy and Student Conduct Codes.

Effective, efficient, ethical and legal use of any computer account issued by SUNY Cobleskill is the responsibility of the person in whose name it is issued. Unauthorized use of computer services will be considered to be theft of services; will result in immediate suspension of your account privileges; and will be dealt with according to the "appropriate disciplinary process" and/or Chapter 514 of the New York State Penal Law. The full text of the Computer Resources Policy is in the Information Technology Student Handbook located at: /information-technology/ITSstudenthandbook.pdf. Other useful links to Information Technology Services (ITS) resources and services are located on the ITS Home page: /information-technology.

NETWORK ACCOUNTS AND EMAIL: A computer account is established for all officially registered students to provide authorized access to the following computing resources at SUNY Cobleskill.

 

Activation of access to SUNY Cobleskill’s network and MS Live email services is processed online on the Network Account Activation/Password Change page. This page can also be used at any time to unlock an account’s access or to reset/change its network password. To use this service, a student is required to login with his/her Banner Web User ID and PIN. The Registrar’s Office (registrar@cobleskill.edu or 518.255.5522) may be contacted for assistance with the Banner Web PIN. SUNY Cobleskill Network Account Activation | Password Reset | Unlock Account Access can be done from any Internet connection on or off campus. At Cobleskill, email is the official means of communication for the campus, so it is imperative that each student activate and use her/his Cobleskill network account and email service.

WEB ACCESS RESOURCES (accessible from any web browser):

 

RESIDENCE HALL NETWORK ACCESS POLICY: In accordance with the Computer Resources Policy and the Student Conduct Code, ITS employs a Network Port Activation process. This process is automated and maintained to ensure that students are in compliance with all campus network requirements. Any student desiring access to the Cobleskill network and the Internet from a residence hall is required to successfully activate his/her network port. While this process is self-explanatory and help is available online during activation, ITS will be available to assist students. Students who successfully complete this online procedure verify that their computers are compliant with all of the following campus network requirements and accept responsibility for any and all activities on this port:

  1. All computers are required to have a valid registered copy of an operating system.
  2. All computers are required to have all available MS Windows and Mac OS critical updates applied.
  3. All computers are required to have valid and regularly updated anti-virus software; students without anti-virus software may obtain it through the ITS Helpdesk (x5800) located in Warner Hall 023.
  4. File-sharing programs, Internet/Intranet gaming and networking devices and services (such as servers, routers/switches, web servers, etc.) that compromise network integrity and/or stability are prohibited on the residence hall network.
  5. All portable, Internet capable wireless devices also require activation. Each user is limited to 5 device registrations.

Once registered to a specific student, all activities conducted through the registered port are the responsibility of that resident. ITS routinely maintains and monitors residence halls to maintain a secure and stable network environment. Sanctions will be imposed for any student not in compliance in accordance with the Campus Computer Resource Policy.

PROCEDURES FOR SUSPECTED ABUSE/MISUSE OF COMPUTER OR NETWORK HARDWARE, SOFTWARE AND SYSTEMS

Due to the potentially serious impact upon other users and the potential damage to the integrity of College records and resources, any suspected abuse or misuse of College computer and/or network hardware, software, and systems must be addressed immediately. Therefore, upon discovery or notification of an alleged abuse or misuse, the student’s computer account and/or network access will be temporarily deactivated. The student will be notified of the status of his/her account and/or network access. He/she will need to meet with the Information Technology Services Systems and Network Administrator and/or his/her designee before the account and/or network access can be reinstated. The Systems and Network Administrator or designee will explain to the student the nature of the alleged violation and seek to determine whether the incident or condition is deliberate, intentional, or unintentional and to determine any associated facts, involvement of others, and the like. If the Systems and Network Administrator or designee determines that the incident was unintentional, caused by inexperience or lack of understanding, the account and/or network access may be reactivated without further hearing. If, however, the intentional abuse or misuse is determined, the student’s account and/or network access will remain deactivated and the Administrator or designee will convene a meeting of the Student Access Violation Committee. The Committee shall take one of two actions: reactivate the student’s account and/or network access and provide appropriate education, or file conduct charges with the Office of the Vice President for Student Development for action through the Student Conduct System. (Temporary reactivation may be implemented by the Committee.) Additional incidents will be viewed as very serious.

Mandatory Health Records

SUNY Cobleskill is committed to maintaining a learning environment conducive to personal health and safety. A complete health history prior to initial registration is required of all matriculated students. This requirement is waived for non-matriculated and Weekend College students only.

In order to minimize the risk of communicable diseases, ALL students are required to provide proof of immunity to Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR), Tetanus, Diptheria and Pertussis as well as the results of a TB test, unless they have been granted a specific exemption. These immunization requirements exceed the New York State Public Health Law. In addition, New York State requires that we inform students about Bacterial Meningitis and the vaccination against it. Students must read and acknowledge receipt of this information found in the Health & Immunization Record. Contact the Wellness Center if you have any questions about this disease at 518-255-5225.

Any student who is not in compliance with these mandatory Health Record, MMR, TB and Tetanus, Diptheria and Pertussis requirements within thirty days of initial registration will be excluded from residential living and/or class participation with no special consideration for refunds.

No Discrimination on the Basis of Disability

In accordance with Section 504 of the Federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, State Executive Law and Governor's Executive Order 40, the College does not discriminate against disabled persons in access to or conditions of employment, or in the administration of any of its programs, services, or activities.

Non-Smoking Policy

Smoking is prohibited in all campus buildings and within 25 feet of residence halls. Smoking is prohibited in fleet vehicles (cars and vans) used by multiple campus employees. Permanent signs indicating that smoking is prohibited have been placed at the entries of all campus buildings.

Personal Transportation Policy

A. For the purpose of this Policy, personal transportation items include but are not limited to the following:

B. Prohibited Behavior:

  1. Persons using any means of transportation are strictly prohibited from engaging in tricks, loitering or seasoning of any sort (including but not limited to: sliding, grinding, spins or jumps) anywhere on College grounds.
  2. Persons who utilize these means of transportation must maintain safe speeds at all times. At no point in time should person’s speed exceed 10 miles per hour.
  3. Persons using personal transportation must always give pedestrians the right of way and should not come within three feet of any pedestrian. With the exception of persons who are utilizing transportation for a temporary or permanent disability, during heavy traffic persons using personal transportation must not pass pedestrians and will dismount and walk in heavy pedestrian traffic areas.
  4. At no point in time shall any means of transportation be utilized outside of walkways (sidewalks) or the road.
  5. With the exception of persons who are utilizing transportation for a temporary or permanent disability, the use of any means of transportation inside campus buildings is strictly prohibited.
  6. With the exception of persons who are utilizing devices for a temporary or permanent disability, use of auditory limiting devices (such as earphones) is prohibited for any person operating any means of transportation.

C. Designated Dismount Zones:

With the exception of persons who are utilizing transportation for a temporary or permanent disability, a designated dismount zone is an area in which use of personal transportation is prohibited. Dismount zones include areas of heavy foot traffic, academic areas, and designated safety concern areas such as poorly lit areas or where a steep incline/decline exists. When entering designated dismount zones, the person must dismount their transportation device and travel via foot through the end of the dismount zone. Designated dismount zones include the Academic Quad (Frisbee, Old Gym, Alumni Hall), entrance and common areas adjacent to all campus buildings, walkways that extend downhill from the Academic Quad through the High Rise Commons (Fake, Ten Eyck, Porter, Parsons, and Davis Hall), and the steep walkway traveling eastward downhill from the Dairy Barn.

Racial Harassment Policy

I. BACKGROUND

The Cobleskill campus community depends on trust and civility. A willingness to recognize the dignity and worth of each person at the college is essential to our mission.

It is the responsibility of each person on campus to respect the personal dignity of others. Cobleskill celebrates the growing diversity of its community. Students, faculty and staff come to Cobleskill from many different backgrounds. Learning to understand the differences among us as well as the similarities is an important dimension of education, one that continues for a lifetime. Tolerance alone, however, is not enough. Respect and understanding are also needed. We should celebrate our differences, and should seek to appreciate the richness and personal growth which our diversity provides to us as members of this community.

As an educational community, it is important that we be knowledgeable about racial harassment issues and be responsible for its prevention. The Cultural Diversity and Equity Committee is one source of education and prevention programs on this topic. The Cobleskill campus cannot accept discriminatory acts of racially based harassment and therefore has adopted the following policy concerning racial harassment.

II. PURPOSE AND DEFINITION

A. PURPOSE

Racial harassment shall not be tolerated at Cobleskill, not only because it is reprehensible and discriminatory, but because it constitutes a form of conduct that seriously undermines the atmosphere of trust and mutual respect that is essential to an academic environment and a democratic society.

B. DEFINITION

For the purpose of college policy, the term "racial harassment" refers to any behavior, verbal or physical, that stigmatizes or victimizes individuals on the basis of race, ethnic or national origin which includes:

  1. Creating an intimidating or offensive academic living or work environment for the individual.
  2. Interfering with an individual's academic or work performance.
  3. Involving a stated or implicit threat to an individual's academic or employment status.
  4. Using inappropriate or offensive language or behavior based on racial stereotypes.

The College regards such behavior as a violation of the standards of conduct required of all persons associated with the institution and a violation of the Violence and Unacceptable Behavior Policy (see pg. 36). The prohibition against racial harassment applies to all interactions occurring on campus, in college facilities, or within the context of college related activities. It also applies to acts of retaliation against members of the community who have filed complaints under this policy.

In determining whether an act constitutes racial harassment, the totality of the circumstances that pertain to any given incident in its context must be carefully reviewed and due consideration must be given to the protection of individual rights, freedom of speech, academic freedom, and advocacy.

III. RESOLUTION

Members of the campus community (faculty, staff, and students) who feel that they have been the victim of racial harassment have the following options available to them to facilitate resolution:

  1. Mediation with a neutral third party, see page 43 of this handbook.
  2. File a charge of infraction or violation with the campus Conduct Board, see page 40 of this handbook.
  3. File a grievance with the campus Affirmative Action Officer (Knapp Hall, Room 123).

This procedure, which may be used by any State University of New York student or employee, is in no way intended to supplant or duplicate any already existing grievance procedures, including the informal process presently in practice on many campuses. This procedure does not deprive a complainant of the right to file with outside enforcement agencies, such as the New York State Division of Human Rights, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the Office for Civil Rights of the Department of Education, and the Office of the Federal Contract Compliance of the Department of Labor.

IV. IMPLEMENTATION

The Office of the President will be responsible for the implementation of this policy. 

Refund Policy

The full-time student refund schedule outlined below has been established by the State University Board of Trustees. In order to obtain a refund, however, the student must fill out the official withdrawal form with the Registrar’s Office and specifically request a refund of room and board and tuition.

TUITION REFUND SCHEDULE

Withdrawal During | Refund

1st Week 100%

2nd Week 70%

3rd Week 50%

4th Week 30%

5th Week 0%

REFUNDS FROM OVERPAYMENTS AND FINANCIAL AID

Refunds are done based on the information we have on the date the refund is processed. Billed college charges are deducted from payments and credits first before the refund is done. Refunds occurring from credit card payments are generally done back to the credit card used for payment, and parent loans are generally done back to the parent borrower. Changes to account charges and/or financial aid may occur after this date. These changes are the student’s responsibility to pay or follow up with Financial Aid. Students receiving federal financial aid must “earn” this aid per federal regulations. In order to

earn 100% of federal aid for the semester, a student must be enrolled at SUNY Cobleskill at least until the 60% point of the semester. If a student withdraws before this point, and has received federal aid, significant monies may be owed to the college.

Selling/Solicitation

The College reserves the right to approve or disapprove requests to provide or advertise services on the campus. Students and visitors must inquire regarding an application at the Office of the Vice President for Student Development. The College does not approve advertising involving sale or distribution of alcoholic beverages or credit cards. The Cobleskill Auxiliary Services, Inc. has the major responsibility for providing auxiliary services on the campus.

Sexual Harassment & Prevention Policy

Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination which is unlawful in the workplace under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended, and the New York State Human Rights Law.  Under Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, sexual harassment also is prohibited in the provision of educational services and protects students and employees from sexual harassment.

Sexual harassment can occur between males and females, or between persons of the same sex. Sexual harassment will not be tolerated at SUNY. The University has implemented measures to address and prevent sexual harassment and is taking additional affirmative steps to increase awareness of, and sensitivity to, all forms of sexual harassment in order to maintain a workplace and learning environment free of its harmful effects.   

In accordance with applicable law, sexual harassment is generally described as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when:

Sexual harassment can include physical touching, verbal comments, non-verbal conduct such as leering or inappropriate written or electronic communications, or a combination of these things.  Examples of sexual harassment may include, but are not limited to: 

Sexual harassment is considered a form of employee and student misconduct which may lead to disciplinary action.  

Instances of sexual harassment or gender discrimination should be reported to Lynn Berger,  Director of Human Resources and Affirmative Action.

 

Special Circumstances Administrative Withdrawal

An enrolled student or the Vice President for Student Development may engage in the college withdrawal process for that student upon receipt of documentation indicating a circumstance (e.g. medical and/or mental health issue) which comes to light and is determined to have a serious, negative influence on the student’s ability to successfully persist through the remainder of the current semester of enrollment. Action initiated by the administration may be appealed by the student by filing an appeal statement, with justification, with the President or his designee (the Provost) within 24 hours of receipt of notification of the decision to withdraw. The President’s decision will be final.

 

Title IX

As a unit of the State University of New York, the College complies and enforces Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972. Specifically, Title IX states: No person in the United States shall on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefit of, or be subject to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving federal financial assistance.

Students and employee complaints alleging action prohibited under Title IX will be handled under the grievance procedure developed by the State University of New York. Complaints should be filed with the Affirmative Action Officer.

Vehicle Registration and Parking Regulations

VEHICLE REGISTRATION

  1. Annual Registration is required of all students, faculty, and staff parking on university property.
  2. On-Line Registrations. All vehicles must be registered on-line through the SUNY Cobleskill website (www.cobleskill.edu) prior to picking up the decal. All decals are issued at the University Police Department, which is located at Johnson Hall, from 8:30 am to 11:30 am and from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm Monday thru Friday.
  3. Display of Decal. The decal must be displayed on the side window behind the operator, in the upper right corner with the number facing out.
  4. Temporary Permits. All vehicles parked on campus MUST display some type of permit. If the vehicle does not have a permanent sticker affixed, a temporary permit must be obtained at the University Police Department from 8:30 am - 11:30 am or from 1:00 to 4:00 pm.
  5. Decals and Permits are not transferable from one vehicle to another and must be affixed with their own adhesive. If you change vehicles permanently during the time your permit is valid, a replacement is available at the University Police Department for a fee of $3.00.
  6. A refund of the parking fee will be given upon request and proof of withdrawal from college during the first week of classes only.

PARKING ASSIGNMENT

A. Resident students must park only in areas which are assigned as follows:

  1. Residents of Wieting and Vroman Halls must park in the W-Lot.
  2. Residents of Porter, Davis and Parsons Halls must park in P-Lot.
  3. Residents of Pearson, Draper, Dix, Fake and Ten Eyck Halls must park in the F-Lot.
  4. If/when your assigned lot is full, you must park in the North end of the W-Lot.

B. Commuter students and Weekend College students must park in the Commuter/W Lot. However, between 5:00 pm and 3:00 am vehicles with a “C” permit may park in any student, visitor, or faculty/staff parking area (except the area reserved for admissions visitors).

C. Temporarily disabled students may be issued a special two week only parking permit that allows parking in any legal parking area (except spaces reserved for the disabled as described below). Special permits are issued at the University Police Department and require a physician’s certification.

D. In accordance with State Law, disabled parking spaces are reserved for vehicles displaying either disabled license plates, or a New York State Department of Motor Vehicles approved hang tag issued by a municipality.

TRAFFIC & PARKING REGULATIONS

  1. Laws in Effect. The Vehicle and Traffic Laws of the State of New York and the State University of New York traffic ordinances are in effect on University property.
  2. Speed Limit. The speed limit on campus property is 20 mph, unless otherwise posted.
  3. Accidents. Motor vehicle accidents on University property must be reported to the SUNY Cobleskill University Police Department, phone number 5317.
  4. There is no parking at any time on campus roadways.
  5. Parking anywhere on the grass is prohibited.
  6. Vehicles must park between painted lines.

FINES & PENALTIES

  1. The person in whose name a vehicle is registered with the University is responsible for all traffic violations and is liable for all fines or disciplinary action.
  2. Fines: $15 for first violation; $20 for second; $25 for all subsequent violations. All disabled violations are $50.
  3. Violations should be paid at the Office of Student Accounts within ten (10) business days of issuance. Unpaid violations may be added to your semester bill and deducted from any refunds due. Violations remaining unpaid are submitted for collection where additional costs related to collection may be assessed.
  4. Vehicles parked in tow-away zones, disabled zones, or parked inappropriately as determined by the University Police, may be towed at the owner’s expense.
  5. Vehicles that have been issued five violations are subject to being towed for any and all additional violations.
  6. Three or more unanswered complaints in an 18-month period by the same person regarding violations of a campus parking rule, shall result in a referral to the New York State Commissioner of Motor Vehicles for review in considering the renewal of an operator's license and/or motor vehicle registration, and the imposition of a fee as approved by the campus president or designee, or by the Board of Trustees, as the case may be, to meet the administrative costs of such referral.

APPEALS

  1. Parking violation appeals may be made by any person receiving a notice of violation within ten business days from the date of issuance. After this 10 day period, the right to appeal expires and all violation charges and/or expenses incurred become automatically due and payable.
  2. Appeals may be filed at the University Police Department in Johnson Hall. You must bring the ticket with you to file an appeal.
  3. The college assumes no responsibility for the vehicle, its contents or for any situation resulting from bringing and operating the vehicle on campus. This includes any damage caused by towing a vehicle. 

Violence and Unacceptable Behavior Policy

A basic tenet of our society is that every citizen has the right to security in both person and property. Our laws prohibit the physical abuse of persons and the illegal appropriation and destruction of property. The effect of these laws is to provide a context in which persons can realize their potential as social, political, economic and creative beings.

SUNY Cobleskill is a place of learning, where students of all ages, races, creeds, sexual orientations, and ethnic origins have the opportunity to develop skills and knowledge toward goals that will make them effective citizens and promote their well being. The College expects that all members of the community share these goals.

Behaviors undertaken which flagrantly and consistently disrupt the educational process, and/or physically abuse or harass other persons will not be tolerated and, after determination by the campus judiciary process, will subject the responsible student to campus disciplinary sanctions (which may include College Dismissal) as well as criminal prosecution.

Similarly, behaviors undertaken which displays willful damage and/or destruction to the property of the campus or members of the campus community or campus visitors, thereby degrading the quality of student life and increasing the cost of education, will subject the responsible student to campus disciplinary sanctions (which may include College Dismissal) as well as criminal prosecution.

Moreover, behaviors undertaken which diminish the dignity of other members of the community through sexual harassment or racial, sexual, religious, or ethnic disparagement, which are unlawful and inconsistent with the College's aspiration to produce citizens respectful and tolerant of the diversity of people, will subject the responsible student to campus disciplinary sanctions (which may include College Suspension and/or Dismissal).

SUNY Cobleskill attempts to provide a clean, attractive, healthy and safe learning environment for its students. However, the degree to which all students can realize their intellectual and social potential depends on the willingness of the entire community to promote and maintain mutual respect and dignity.