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Student Handbook 2009 - 2010 University City Main Campus & Center City Hahnemann Campuses |
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INDEX ACADEMICS Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) Academic Year Academic Transactions Academic Evaluation Academic Standing (Probation) Graduation Requirements Class Attendance Forms of Academic Dishonesty
Examinations
Grades
Calculation of Honors Majors/Minors Bachelor’s/Master’s Dual Degree Program Graduate Courses Open to Undergraduate Day Students Graduates Academic Policies
ACADEMIC HONORS, Contact us at: BOOKSTORE OFFICE OF CAMPUS ACTIVITIES Campus Engagement within Student Life oversees the many aspects of connecting students to campus by engaging students. Our mission is to provide social, cultural and educational opportunities that promote student involvement outside of the classroom-for all students. The Assistant Dean for Campus Engagements has oversight of the development of leadership programs; program planning; commuter, off-campus, graduate, and transfer student programs and services; community service at the institution; the fraternity and sorority life experience; the funding of all student organizations through the student allocation fee; and orientation for all new students at the University. The areas within Campus Engagement include the Office of Campus Activities, the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life, the Office of New Student and Family Programs, the Office of Commuter, Transfer, and Graduate Students Programs and Services, and the Student Activity Fee Allocation Committee (SAFAC), in strategic planning and the creation and implementation of mission, vision, and goals for the department and as they relate to the Division and University. Activities Unlimited Office of Campus Activities (OCA) A valuable part of the Drexel experience lies in engagement within student organizations or groups where leadership, community responsibility, intellectual curiosity, and social interests can be met. The Office of Campus Activities (OCA) advances the mission of Drexel University and the Division of Student Life by providing students and enriched collegiate experience through meaningful opportunities to learn and develop leadership, interpersonal, programming, and organizational skills so that they may connect and contribute to the University community and society. The OCA staff will serve as student-focused advocates, navigators, advisors, educators, and administrators while working collaboratively to support programs that meet the needs and interests of students. The Three (3) Pillars of OCA that support student development and engagement are:
Student Organizations Student organizations provide students the opportunity to explore interests and hobbies outside of the classroom. Membership information is provided to interested students and available from the OCA, in the Student Organization Resource Center (SORC), lower level of the Creese Student Center, or online at www.drexel.edu/oca. In addition, if you do not find an organization that meets your needs, the Office of Campus Activities (OCA) will help you start a new one. CEO’s leadership workshops provide educational lessons that can the interpersonal and organizational leadership skills students need to create excellent organizations. Students can refine their leadership styles and broaden their understanding of what it takes to excel and succeed in today’s work environment. The Alternative Spring Break (ASB) program places teams of Drexel students in communities around the nation to engage in community service and experiential learning during their spring breaks or on various weekends throughout the year. The objectives of ASB are to involve college students in “weeklong” community based service projects and to give students opportunities to engage in activities that will benefit the environment, the community, and the needy. Visit www.drexel.edu/oca/cs/what_is_asb.asp for more information. Late Night and Weekend Programming Commuter, Graduate and Transfer Student Programs and Services Other efforts to keep commuters informed include a weekly newsletter sent via email and weekly emails from students Commuter and Transfer Assistants (CA’s and TA’s). CA’s and TA’s are a group of peer paraprofessionals who work with small groups of commuter and transfer students, just like a Resident Assistant (RAs) would do with resident students. These students serve as mentors to help freshmen and transfer commuter students navigate all facets of their Drexel experience, including co-curricular, social, academic, professional, and home life. CA’s and TA’s aid in extending and expanding services and programs, connecting students, and supporting students through the transitions of their first year at Drexel. Incoming commuters and transfers are automatically enrolled in this program.
For more information about Commuter, Graduate and Transfer Student Programs and Services, Creese 215, call 215.895.1328, email commuters@drexel.edu or transfers@drexel.edu, or visit www.drexel.edu/oca/commuters or www.drexel.edu/transfers. The Off Campus Housing search website (www.drexel.edu/offcampushousing) will also allow students to post sublets, find roommates, buy and sell furniture, and connect with other students living off campus. In addition, OCH sponsors information sessions to educate students on what they should know when becoming apartment renters. These include sessions on legal rights, signing leases, landlord/tenant responsibilities, and being a good neighbor. The SAFAC Allocation Committee, which is advised by the Budget Coordinator, is made up of currently enrolled Drexel University students and exists to support the initiatives, goals, and activities of Drexel student organizations and Student Life by allocating student activity fees. SAFAC Location and Office Hours New Student and Family Programs (NSFP) New Student and Family Programs see many initiatives that involve our new students and families. New Student Orientation is a program that welcomes our new students and their families to Drexel University in the summer before the first term of classes occur. New Student Days (NSD) is an extension of the New Student Orientation that takes place on campus the week before the summer term takes place. During NSD, new students can take part in a variety of activities and programs developed to orient the students to campus, college life, and the Philadelphia experience. New Student and Family Programs also support the Drexel Family Association in their efforts to keep families connected to Drexel University. Family Weekend, which typically occurs in November, welcomes families back to campus. New Student and Family Programs Office Hours
FRATERNITY & SORORITY LIFE Fraternity and Sorority Life Location and Office Hours COMPLAINT RESOLUTION, Steinbright Career Development Center Career Services Employer Directed Resume Search Individual Career Counseling and Pre-Professional Advising Career Library Direct Apply Events Co-operative Education Policies COUNSELING & HEALTH
A resource that will serve both faculty and students is the Don’t Cancel That Class initiative. The goal of the program is to create an option to canceling class when faculty can’t be there, by bringing in a workshop or presentation on a health related issue. For more information on the office and programs contact John Watson, Director of Alcohol, Other Drug, and Health Education in the Choices Center, Van Rensselaer Hall, 3320 Powelton Ave. 1st Fl. at 215.895.2049 or watsonjc@drexel.edu Counseling Center DINING SERVICES
Dining Plan Offerings
The University offers five dining plan options to active Drexel University students: |
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| Photocopiers are available in the libraries, both black-and-white and color, using either Dragon Dollars or cash. The libraries also provide scanners, and audio/visual listening and viewing facilities. Lockers may be rented in Hagerty Library for $5.00 per term. | Hahnemann Library Hours |
Both Libraries provide secure 24-hour study space; Hagerty Library hours are also extended to 24-hours for study access during exam periods. Library hours vary on holidays, between terms, and during the summer. Reference/information desk hours are somewhat shorter. More detailed information on library hours may be found on the web site.
Visit www.library.drexel.edu for a complete description of services, collections, and policies, or call 215.895.1500 for more information.
MULTICULTURAL PROGRAMS & SERVICES
The Office of Multicultural Programs (OMP) seeks to lead and inspire both students and professional staff of Student Life to create and maintain an engaged and vibrant university environment that promotes inter-cultural interaction and understanding. OMP strives to provide a variety of intentional settings where students can learn from each other by examining their preconceptions and prejudices, challenging themselves and each other to reach new levels of understanding and insight. OMP develops and builds a network of resources in the University and local community to support and further the vision of the office. OMP sets the vision for, develops, and implements systems, policies, and programs that work to ensure an engaged, informed and equitable learning environment for all students.
Thus, OMP is a support for all Drexel University students, faculty, and staff. We work with and provide constituents with certified trainers and facilitators in the areas of diversity workshops, human relations, peer education, conflict resolution, mediation, and classroom instruction. We interact and provide additional guidance to many multicultural student organizations
OMBUDSMAN
The president of the University appoints the ombudsman. He or she is not any group or person’s advocate or representative, but impartially seeks to assist any member of the University community who believes an informal dispute resolution process might be helpful.
It is the ombudsman’s role to seek to resolve conflicts and complaints from the University community, students, faculty, and staff that are not subject to other dispute resolution processes. The ombudsman seeks resolutions of problems by serving as an independent resource for listening to complaints, investigating facts, and offering advice and possible solutions.
In the course of this work, the ombudsman has direct access to the president and all University offices and records germane to the matter being reviewed. Confidentiality is maintained to the extent possible, in accordance with the interests of the complainant.
The Ombudsman does not make decisions or set policy, but makes suggestions and recommendations. With the permission of the complainant, the ombudsman may present his or her findings and recommendations for resolution to the appropriate person(s) who may be part of the administration, faculty senate, staff, and/or community at large.
PARKING - University City Main Campus
Drexel Parking Services is located at 34th and Market Streets in the lobby of the General Services and Parking Garage Facility. Office hours are from 8:00am to 5:00pm Monday through Friday. During the first week of each term, additional evening hours are provided from 5:00pm to 7:00pm, Monday through Friday.
In Fall 2009, Drexel Parking Services is opening Lot K-99 on 36th Street between Market Street and Lancaster Avenue. When you purchase a term parking permit, parking is only $99 per month ($297 for the term). 200 of these special student parking permits are available for purchase and are sold on a first-come first-served basis.
A valid Drexel ID is required in order to purchase a term parking permit. Any lost parking permit will be replaced for a fee. Please see the Drexel Parking Services web site (www.drexel.edu/parking) for current policies, procedures, rates and fees.
To Purchase a Drexel Parking Permit
To purchase a term parking permit, simply complete a parking registration form and make the appropriate payment- $297 for Lot K-99 and $399 for other permit lots. Parking permits may be purchased for one, two, three, or four consecutive terms of parking through Summer term 2009.
Parking permits are sold on a first come first served basis; sales continue until all lots are full after which time requestors will be placed on a waiting list.
How to Obtain A Permit
Forms can be obtained in the Drexel Parking office or printed in advance from the web at: http://www.drexel.edu/depts/parking/forms/PermitSalesContract.pdf
Payment may be made by personal check, money order, or major credit card and parking permits can be picked up at Drexel Parking Services.
Ticket and Enforcement Policies
All Drexel parking regulations and policies are enforced 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. Campus lots and garages are patrolled by Drexel Parking Services staff who are authorized to issue parking violation notices and may also order violators immobilized or towed. On-street parking is regulated by the Philadelphia Parking Authority.
Please visit Drexel Parking Services for detailed information about parking at www.drexel.edu/parking
For further assistance you may contact the Drexel Parking Services Office by telephone at 215-895-2813 or via e-mail at parking@drexel.edu
The Drexel Bike Share
Drexel Bike Share is open to all students and employees with a valid Drexel University ID and in good standing with the University. There is no rental fee to use a Drexel Bike Share bike. To be eligible to participate in Drexel Bike Share, the student or employee must complete a Drexel Bike Share Membership Agreement and, prior to each use of Bike Share equipment, a Drexel Bike Share User Agreement. For more information about Bike Share please visit http://www.drexel.edu/depts/parking/bikeshare.html
Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC)
The primary purpose of Army ROTC is to provide leaders of character for the 21st century for America’s Army and our nation. Students can enroll in ROTC and participate in a uniquely interactive program focused on leadership development with emphasis on self-discipline, integrity, confidence, responsibility and fitness. It is the intent of ROTC to help students mentally and physically improve themselves, whether they decide to pursue a career as an officer in the Army or pursue a career in the private sector.
Students can participate in the Army ROTC Program through the end of their sophomore year with no military service obligation whatsoever. Army ROTC scholarship students incur a military service obligation only after they begin receiving their scholarship benefits. Qualified non-scholarship students must decide to commit to completing the Army ROTC program at the beginning of their pre-junior year. Upon completion of the Army ROTC program, students are commissioned as 2nd Lieutenants in the U.S. Army and serve either on active duty or in an Army National Guard or Army Reserve unit of their choice.
Army ROTC courses complement the educational experience at Drexel. Co-op periods provide an opportunity for the students to apply what they have learned in ROTC courses directly to the civilian work environment. In co-op, students will put principles of management and leadership skills into action, learn to accept and handle responsibility, and increase their self-confidence.
Army ROTC’s merit-based two-, three-and four-year scholarships offer an excellent incentive to join Drexel’s Army ROTC program. The scholarship provides financial assistance for the education and training of highly qualified and motivated young men and women who desire to be commissioned as officers in the Army after graduating from college. For the 2008-2009 academic year, Army ROTC scholarships paid up to $34,000 for tuition and fees. Additional scholarship benefits include $1,200 a year book allowance and a tax-free allowance of $300-500 a month while in school and not on co-op. Additionally, Drexel students who earn Army ROTC scholarships are provided free room and are discounted 25% on their meal plan. The Army scholarship benefits listed above are not subject to decrease—only increase.
The program has approximately 105 highly motivated cadets from Drexel and our partnership schools in Philadelphia and surrounding areas. Typical activities cadets experience in our program are rappelling, orienteering, rifle marksmanship, confidence courses, Field Leadership Reaction Course, paint ball – just to name a few. The Drexel ROTC program offers Ranger Challenge (Army ROTC’s varsity sport) which is a team competition pitting Drexel ROTC Cadets against other Cadets from schools within the region on their abilities to master competitive events such as rifle marksmanship, assembly and disassembly of an M16A2 rifle, construction and crossing of a one rope-bridge and a few other events that provides cadets with the ultimate physical and mentally demanding challenge that can be experienced through this two day competition.
The Drexel Army ROTC Color Guard is very active in supporting the university, the city of Philadelphia and surrounding communities as well as providing support to the Philadelphia Phillies, Flyers and Sixers games. There are many other extra-curricular activities to participate in within the program, so if you are up to the challenge, come out and be a part of the Task Force Dragon team.
If you are interested in learning more, contact the Army ROTC Department at Drexel University by calling 215.590.8808 or 215.590.8809, or by emailing the ROTC Department through its website at www.taskforcedragon.com.
RESIDENTIAL LIVING OFFICE
OFFICE OF UNIVERSITY HOUSING
Residential Living Statement of Purpose
The Residential Living Office facilitates residential student learning, engagement and connections to the University.
University Housing Mission Statement
University Housing provides an efficient, customer-oriented and cost-effective housing operation through appropriate technology, timely communication and established partnerships.
Living on campus can be an exciting part of the college experience. Sharing close quarters with fellow classmates gives students the opportunity for fun, social, athletic, and educational activities. More than 4,000 students call Drexel’s eleven distinct residence halls their “home away from home.” Each building has staff to assist students. Resident Assistants (RAs) are undergraduate students who live on each floor and provide assistance to students. Full-time professional Assistant Director/Resident Directors (AD/RDs) oversee the student experience in the residence halls. The halls have 24 hours-a-day controlled access staffed by professional desk staff or Public Safety officers.
In addition to having amenities such as laundry facilities, telecommunication services (ResNet), common kitchens, and recreation and/or TV lounges, all residence halls are air conditioned.
| Residence Hall Locations and Contact Information | ||
| Residence Hall | Address: Philadelphia, PA 19104 |
Phone Number |
| Calhoun Hall |
3301 Arch Street | 215.571.3080 |
| Caneris Hall | 115 North 32nd Street | 215.571.3179 |
| Kelly Hall Street | 203 North 34th Street | 215.571.3015 |
| Millennium Hall | 223 North 34th Street | 215.571.3150 |
| Myers Hall | 3301 Race Street | 215.571.3046 |
| North Hall | 3200 Race Street | 215.571.3087 |
| Race Street Residences | 3300 Race Street | 215.571.3103 |
| Stiles Hall | 325 N. 15th Street | 215.553.7400 |
| Towers Hall | 101 North 34th Street | 215.571.3028 |
| University Crossings | 15 North 32nd Street | 215.382.5299 |
| Van Rensselaer Hall | 3320 Powelton Ave. | 215.571.3068 |
For more information about the residence halls, visit the Residential Living & University Housing Office in Towers Hall at 101 North 34th Street, call 215.895.6155 or visit www.drexel.edu/rlo.
Assistant Director/Resident Directors (AD/RDs) are full-time masters-level professional staff members who live in the residence halls. AD/RDs supervise professional desk staff and Resident Assistants in the halls. They create an environment for student engagement within the hall. Additionally, AD/RDs serve as a resource for student concerns that may arise.
Residential Desk Coordinators (RDCs) monitor building access, provide various services to residents and enforce University policies. These full-time professional staff members work to create a safe and welcoming environment for all students. It is a priority for the desk staff to maintain a safe and secure living environment while also providing a welcoming atmosphere for the residential community.
Resident Assistants (RAs) are trained graduate and undergraduate students who live on the floors with the residents. RAs serve as mentors, resources and facilitators of community. RAs set norms for the residential community and work with residents to plan social and educational events; they also play a role in enforcing Drexel University’s Student Code of Conduct.
Residence Hall Policies and Procedures
The following policies and regulations were developed in accordance with the fire, health, safety, and maintenance standards critical to maintaining a safe residential community while protecting students’ rights and acknowledging student’s responsibilities. Compliance with these policies and regulations contributes to the creation and maintenance of a productive living and learning residence hall environment. Drexel University students are responsible for knowing and abiding by the following residence hall policies. Failure to abide by any of the following policies will subject the student to disciplinary action.
Section I. Residential Living Office Policies
Section II. Individual Room Policies
Section III. Building Specific Policies And Information
Section IV. University Housing: Policies
Section V. University Housing: Services
Section VI. Administrative Sanctioning Policy
Residential Living Office Policies
1. Alcohol and Other Drugs
The Residential Living Office supports and expects adherence to established University policies and state law regarding the use of alcohol and other drugs.
- Residents from other buildings and non-resident guests are not permitted to enter the residence halls with alcoholic beverages regardless of age.
- At check in, all residents living in the residence halls will be required to fill out the Drexel University Alcohol Policy Acknowledgement Form.
- Alcohol consumption is not permitted in public areas of the residence halls. A public area is anywhere in the residence hall except a student room/suite/apartment with a closed door. A student room/suite/apartment with an open door is considered a public area.
- Drinking games are prohibited.
- Alcohol consumption is not permitted by anyone in the adjacent area to the residence halls such as balconies, parking lots, patios, loading docks, porches, lawns, etc.
- Residents are not permitted to keep empty alcohol containers in their rooms at any time for any reason, including decorative purposes.
- Drinking paraphernalia including, but not limited to, funnels are not permitted.
- Regardless of ownership or origin, any of the following items found in the residence halls will be confiscated and disposed of: unauthorized alcoholic beverages such as alcoholic beverages found in the possession of minors, kegs, beer balls, taps or other mechanisms used to dispense alcohol. Public Safety staff is authorized to confiscate and dispose of such items.
2. Community Developed Policies
Upon the approval of the Assistant Director/Resident Director of a particular building, residents within a defined area (floor, building, etc.) can create policies that further the quality of the living experience for all its members (community living agreements).
Policies must:
- Be congruent with current University and RLO policies and procedures
- Be agreed upon by ALL community members
- Remain in place for a designated period of time
Residents and their guests are expected to treat others with respect and consideration and to maintain a comfortable and safe living environment. Residents are required, as a condition of continued residence, to comply with the University’s Code of Conduct.
4. Compliance with RLO Staff Member RequestAll Drexel University students and their guests are expected to adhere to requests made by any Residential Living staff member performing his/her duties (including contracted workers, RAs, AD/RDs, RDCs, etc.)
5. Compliance with RLO Staff Member Request
All Drexel University students and their guests are expected to adhere to requests made by any Residential Living staff member performing his/her duties (including contracted workers, RAs, AD/RDs, RDCs, etc.)
6. Damage/Vandalism
Students are encouraged to report any information regarding specific acts of vandalism to their, RA, RDC, AD/RD, University Housing or Public Safety.
- Residents are expected to treat the residence halls with respect and care for the environment. Residents cannot paint, damage or otherwise alter the private or public spaces of the hall.
- Residents who are found responsible for damage will be liable for any damage and/or loss to a residential facility or its furnishings and may face disciplinary action through the Student Conduct Process.
- Whenever possible, repair or replacement costs will be assessed to the individual(s) responsible; when this is not possible, costs will be prorated among the residents of a building floor or wing, room suite or apartment. When costs are prorated among the residents this is referred to as “Common Area Damage.” Common Area Damage charges cannot be appealed.
- The resident agrees to satisfy all damage assessment charges billed by the Office of Student Accounts by the indicated due date.
- Residents will be held responsible for the condition of the room to which they are assigned as well as for the repair of any damages to public areas.
- Each room is inspected during check-in and a Room Condition Report (RCR) is completed. The residents of each room will be asked to check the information on the RCR and sign it. As each resident checks out, the room will be inspected against the RCR to determine if there are any damages. Resident Assistants may not excuse any damages and final inspection by an AD/RD or designee will be completed at a later date. University Housing will place damage charges onto student account. In the case of damages to public areas, a bill will be issued to the responsible person as soon as the cost of repairs can be determined.
- Damage or Loss of Personal and College Property
- The University is not liable for any loss or damage incurred to the resident’s personal property, whether by flood, fire, theft or any other cause.
- Residents of University housing are expected to provide adequate insurance coverage for all personal property. At check in, students are asked to select one of the following options to ensure their property has the necessary coverage; covered through Parent/Guardian’s homeowner’s insurance policy, has individual renter’s insurance coverage or will obtain renters insurance coverage by move in date.
- Residents assume any and all liability for damage or claims that result from their own negligence, as well as any negligence of visitors or guests.
- Residents are liable for any damage and/or loss to a room, its furnishings, or any other part of the residence hall.
- Misuse, abuse, theft or damage to personal property by one resident or group of residents to another is not permitted.
7. Endangering Behavior
Any student action that may lead to physical harm to oneself or others is considered endangering behavior and will typically result in removal from University residence halls, disciplinary action (including cost of repair and/or cleaning), and/or criminal charges.
- Residents are not to engage in behaviors of disorderly or disruptive conduct at any time of day or night that is inconsistent with the healthy functioning of our residential community.
- Residents found responsible for causing unnecessary garbage and debris in the hallway will be billed accordingly.
In situations when an individual or group poses an immediate threat to the health, safety or property of others or of oneself, the individual or group can be relocated or removed from University residences prior to a hearing to address the specific behaviors. The decision to remove or relocate rests with the Assistant Dean of Residential Living or his/her designee.
8. Hall Sports
Sports activity or any other type of physical activity that causes disruption in the residence halls is prohibited. Activities include, but are not limited to skateboarding, rollerblading, bike riding, water gun usage, ball and Frisbee tossing, boxing or wrestling.
9. Privacy
In a residence hall environment: Living together with many fellow students in a University residence is a wonderful experience that can truly enhance your academic career. All residents are encouraged to communicate clearly their needs, using roommate agreements, regarding privacy matters with roommates, suitemates and floor mates. All residents should expect to maintain personal privacy within their student rooms and community bathroom facilities. Students who violate an individual’s privacy by entering their room without permission or invade their privacy within bathroom facilities will likely face disciplinary action.
- Male and female residents will not be assigned to the same room/suite and residents of the opposite gender are not permitted to reside in the same room/suite.
- Cohabitation is prohibited.
- When having guests, each resident should be conscious of the privacy of his/her roommate. Residents should exercise their right to privacy responsibly and conduct themselves appropriately, being mindful of extra responsibilities and social obligations of having guests.
- The right to privacy does not imply the rights to violate the applicable regulations of the Residence Hall Regulations, University, City, State or Federal laws.
Sharing of Personal Information: When a student applies for housing, they indicate their privacy wishes (how and if personal information can be shared with the campus community such as email address and phone numbers). Residents who reserve the right of privacy will not have any information given out regarding their hall and room assignment, home address, or phone number buy the Residential Living or University Housing staff to unauthorized parties.
10. Pets
While pets can add to and enhance the lives of many of us, they can be a health or emotional risk for others. For example, animal dander can stay in a room for months after the pet has vacated the room, endangering members of our residential community who have severe allergies.
- Students may not at any time be in possession of animals except for fish, even for short term visits, in University owned or operated residential facilities.
- Fish may be kept in a 15-gallon or smaller tank. The occupants of the room will assume all charges for damages related to the use or malfunction of the aquarium.
11. Quiet/Courtesy Hours and Noise
Courtesy Hours serve as a reminder to all residents of the primary rights to sleep and study in residential communities. Students are expected to exercise courtesy when playing music or participating in other activity that may disturb other residents and/or interfere with the attempts of others to study.
- All residential communities will adhere to 24 hour courtesy hours.
- Quiet hours are Sunday-Thursday from 10:00pm until 10:00am and Friday/Saturday from 12:00am to 10:00am or as deemed appropriate by the AD/RD.
- During final exams, 24 hour quiet hours are enforced in the halls.
- Quiet Hours are times when noise from stereos, televisions and conversations must not be clearly audible in private rooms from areas such as hallways, adjoining rooms or through open windows.
- Courtesy Hours are times when residents are expected to keep from unduly interfering with anyone else’s ability to sleep, read or study.
12. Smoking
Smoking is not permitted in any university owned/leased residential facility. Students found smoking residence halls (or Drexel floors of University Crossings apartments) will face disciplinary action. Students will be charged for any related maintenance or cleaning as the result of smoking in a residential facility. Smoking is prohibited around all entrances, exits, and perimeters of residence hall buildings (See Smoke-Free University in the Drexel University Code of Conduct).
1. Cooking
The only cooking permitted in residents’ rooms is that which can be done in a microwave oven. Because of the danger of electrical overload, high-wattage appliances are prohibited. Residents in Stiles Hall and Van Rensselaer Hall are allowed to cook in the suite.
All approved appliances must be used in the floor kitchen and not in rooms or suites. Never leave items you are cooking unattended.
2. Decorations
Residents are encouraged to decorate their assigned rooms in order to make their residential community feel like home. Residents are expected to decorate with adherence to the following:
- All decorations must be fire-resistant.
- Only Underwriters Laboratory (UL) or Factory Mutual (F.M.) approved cool bulbs are allowed.
- Natural trees and cut tree bough are not allowed in residence halls. Students are not permitted to hang any items from the sprinkler piping, sprinkler heads, or any room electrical wiring.
- Decorations may not obstruct free passage of the hallways or entry/exit to the room.
- Electrical decorations must be kept away from metal doorframes; lights must be strung so a door will not close on the wiring.
- No permanent alterations may be made to the residence hall rooms.
3. Guests & Visitors
At the start of the academic year roommates are required to complete roommate agreement forms that outline basic expectations of all occupants of a particular room or suite. Guests are defined as individuals who are not assigned to the resident host’s room. All guests to a room are subject to the agreement of all room residents. The presence of guests may not restrict free access for legitimate occupants to any common space and any private space they may have or create any situation that infringes on the need of roommate and/or suitemate(s) to remain undisturbed. Residents should work to reach an amicable agreement on the presence of guests in a residence hall room, while the primary purpose of these spaces are to provide a safe and welcoming environment for learning, it is also a home. Roommates and/or suitemate(s) unable to reach a livable solution should work with residence halls staff to find common ground.
- Resident hosts must sign in their guest(s) following proper procedure at the front desk. The host must escort all guests back to the front desk to sign the guest out of the building at the end of the visit. If a guest is not properly signed out, then the guest would be considered still in the building. Students may not sign in or sign out guest(s) for other residential students.
- Photo identification will be required for each guest. It is the responsibility of each host to inform his/her guest(s) that they need identification to be permitted into the residence halls. The guest(s) photo identification will remain at the desk until the guest(s) vacate the building.
- Acceptable forms of photo identification include: a driver’s license, university/college/school ID or a passport. No other forms of ID will be accepted.
- Guests without ID will not be allowed access into the hall, except in emergencies (See emergency ID section).
- Resident hosts must escort their guest(s) at all times within the hall.
- Resident hosts are limited to three guests at any one time, unless otherwise permitted by the AD/RD or designee.
- Residents are allowed to have overnight guests. An overnight guest is defined as anyone in the resident host’s room anytime between 3:30am and 7:00am. Guests are allowed to visit in a student room for a period not to exceed three (3) consecutive nights. Guests may stay no more than three (3) consecutive nights on campus.
- Hosts must check with their roommate(s) for approval before inviting a guest to the room. If the roommate(s) do not approve, the guest cannot stay in the room.
- Students with concerns regarding guests should talk to the host, and then, if necessary, with their RA and/or AD/RD.
- During term break, a fee will be accessed for each night a guest stays on campus. The maximum amount of time is three (3) consecutive nights.
- Hosts are responsible for the actions of their guests and will face disciplinary action if their guest violates University or Residential Life policies.
- Hosts should familiarize guests with community expectations.
4. Lock Out Policy
- When locked out, a student should report to the front desk to notify the desk staff that access will be needed.
- Students will be allowed to sign out a spare (or “lock out”) key utilizing the “Lock Out Key Issuance Form” in order to gain access to their room. Spare room keys should be returned to the front desk immediately. Students who have lost keys will be able to check out a spare room key for a maximum of 24 hours. Following that period, the spare room key must be returned. If the initial room occupancy key is not located, the lock core will be changed and the student will be billed a $75 fee per affected lock.
- Students may access their spare room key two times in an academic year without charge. Students who access their spare occupancy room key on a third and any subsequent occurrence per academic year are subject to a $25 issuance fee per occurrence. Furthermore, students who abuse the lock out policy are subject to disciplinary sanctions.
- Students who are locked out of their rooms between 8:00am and 5:00pm can have the main office open their apartment. The resident must be verified through “Inside Housing”, they must present their Drexel ID card, and they must prove they have their apartment key inside the apartment.
- When a student is locked out after 8:00pm, they must go to the security desk and the RA on duty will be contacted to let them in. The resident must be verified through ”Inside Housing”, they must present their Drexel ID card, and they must prove they have their apartment key inside the apartment.
- Students who are locked out three times in an academic year may face disciplinary action.
- If a student loses their key, a lock change is completed immediately by the head engineer or the on-call engineer in the event it is not within the normal staff schedule. Stiles Hall does not sign out keys and the students are immediately billed for the lock change.
- Open flames are not permitted. Open flames are a leading cause of residence hall fires nationwide. The lighting and burning of candles incense, or any other item with an open flame is not permitted. Candles are not permitted for decorative purposes.
- Candles
- Coffee makers
- Extension cords
- Flammable liquids, gases or other substances
- Halogen lamps
- High wattage electrical appliances
- Hot plates
- Illegal drugs
- Incense and incense holders
- Indoor grills
- Live or cut Christmas trees
- Lofts
- Outside antennas and/or satellite dishes for television/radio reception
- Outside routers for internet usage (see IRT website)
- Pets
- Popcorn poppers
- Portable space heaters; electrical appliances with a heating element
- Sandwich makers
- Toasters
- Toasters ovens
- Waterbeds
- Weapons
- 2.4 GHz cordless phones
- Students are encouraged to lock their doors at all times.
- Students are encouraged to report the presence of any suspicious persons or unusual activities in the residence halls to your Resident Assistant, Front Desk staff, or Public Safety.
- Room keys or entrance door access devices are not provided to guests.
- Students should not enter another resident’s room without the knowledge and consent of the occupant(s), regardless of whether or not the door is closed and locked.
- The University reserves the right to enter a resident’s room for the purpose of investigation, inspection, and repair or in cases of clear emergency. (See Room Inspection/Search Policy for additional information).
- Residents are not to tamper with automatic door locks or prop open doors with automatic closures.
Residents are not to enter/exit through fire doors except during fire alarms/fire drills. - In a life-threatening emergency, students should call 911
- Department of Public Safety, 215.895.2822
- Emergency call boxes located outside of the residence halls
- Residence hall front desks, which are staffed 24 hours a day
- Residential Living Staff ( i.e., AD/RDs, RDCs, and RAs)
- A resident’s safety may be in jeopardy.
- A room or its furnishings may be damaged.
- Custodial or maintenance functions must be performed.
- There is reasonable cause to believe that University, city, state or federal laws are being violated.
- Sanitation, safety, and/or damage inspections are to be completed (see Safety and Sanitation/Maintenance Policy).
- There is reasonable information to suggest stolen property is located in the residence hall space.
- Under no circumstances should an inspection be authorized or conducted without the approval of the Assistant Dean of Residential Living, an Associate Director of Residential Living or a designee. An AD/RD or designee must be on site supervising the inspection procedure.
- Only upon the approval of the AD/RD or designee can a staff member enter the room alone.
- The actual inspection in the room will be conducted only to the extent necessary to locate the object(s) being sought.
- All policy violation related inspections will be authorized by the Assistant Dean of Residential Living or designee and must be completed by Public Safety personnel accompanied by an AD/RD.
- A report detailing the inspection will be made by the AD/RD or designee to the Assistant Dean of Residential Living.
- All supplied furniture must stay in its designated room.
- Furniture cannot be removed from assigned room.
- Furniture must be used for intended purposes.
- Students are not permitted to leave room furnishings in common areas, hallways, or corridors.
- Furniture found in any of these areas will be returned to the student’s room and a fine for obstruction of egress and a moving charge will be assessed to the student for each incident.
- Cinder blocks are not permitted in University residences.
- Lofts of any type are not permitted in Residence Hall rooms (unless issued by the university).
- Ping pong tables, pool tables, video arcade games and other large game tables (by use or function) are not permitted due to limited room space and potential disruption to other students.
- All residents of a room are responsible for what occurs in their room.
- University Housing and Residential Living expect that rooms in University residences are to be occupied by the students that are assigned to the space in the University Housing database.
- Any individual found to be residing in a student room without a room assignment will face disciplinary action for theft of services.
- All bicycles must be registered with the Department of Public Safety.
- All unregistered/unclaimed bicycles will be removed from the halls by Public Safety staff and a fee will be charged to recover removed bicycles.
- Residents can store bicycles in bike storage areas only in the hall to which they are assigned and only during the quarters in which they are residing in the hall.
- Residents are expected to exercise caution when using the bike racks by providing the necessary locks.
- Residents may store bicycles in their rooms provided their roommates are in agreement.
- All nonresident guests must be registered (see Guest Policy).
- The desk staff can assist residents in registering guests.
- Desk staff reserves the right to inspect all bags, carts, trunks, luggage, etc. of students and/or guests attempting to gain building entry or exit. In the event that staff indicates an inspection, they should have reasonable grounds to perform the search and will remain mindful of a student’s right to privacy. Random bag searches may also be performed at the discretion of the Assistant Dean of Residential Living or designee.
- RLO reserves the right to deny admittance to any person to the residence halls.
- Common area furniture must remain in common rooms:
- A fee may be assessed if common area furniture needs to be moved back to its appropriate location.
- If common area furniture or other equipment placed in common areas for the benefit of the residents is found in a student room the occupants of the room will face disciplinary action.
- Common areas cannot be used for sales or solicitation.
- Common areas should not be physically modified in any way without prior approval by the Residential Living Office.
- Due to health and safety concerns, students are expected to keep common areas reasonably clean and orderly for community use. Cleanliness is a major concern in group kitchens; thus, all dishes, pots and pans should be washed and stored immediately after use, Counters should be cleaned following use and trash/garbage should be disposed of properly. Garbage should not be flushed down sink drains. Continued failure to adhere to standards of cleanliness in group kitchens could result in disciplinary action.
- The Residential Living Office reserves the right to monitor the event and take any action necessary to ensure the security of the participants, residents and facilities.
- A group exceeding twenty-five (25) requires the hiring of an additional desk staff to be paid by the sponsoring group.
- Certain locations also require the hiring of security guards through the Department of Public Safety; the sponsoring group is responsible for payment.
- Publicity for the event must be limited to the residence halls and academic buildings of the University.
- All non-resident groups are expected to adhere to residence hall regulations.
- Priority for the use of these facilities is given to residents and resident groups.
- Any costs resulting from use will be passed on to the responsible parties.
- A fine will be assessed to individuals found responsible for tampering with fire safety equipment or intentionally setting off a fire alarm.
- Fire drills are conducted each quarter. Each building is completely evacuated.
- Any resident that fails to leave the building whenever the fire alarm is engaged will be subject to disciplinary action and possible fines.
- In the event of a false fire alarm, the City of Philadelphia may fine the University to cover the cost of responding to the false fire alarm. Be advised that this fine, which could be in excess of $500, will be assessed to any resident(s) found responsible for initiating a false fire alarm.
- The person staffing the front desk will immediately notify the fire department and Drexel Public Safety. When residents hear the fire alarm, they should leave at once.
- Feel the door that leads from the room to the corridor before opening it. If the door is hot or smoke is seeping in, do not open the door. If trapped in the room and unable to reach the fire exit, keep the door closed and seal any cracks. If a telephone is available in the room, call the fire department by dialing 911. Give the name and location of the building and the room number. If a telephone is not available, open a window for air and signal for help.
- If the door feels cool, open it cautiously. Be braced to slam it shut if the corridor is full of smoke or if heat pressure is felt against the door. If the corridor is clear, close the door when leaving the room, proceed to the nearest fire exit, descend to street level, and leave the building. Move to the designated evacuation area.
- If caught in smoke or heat, stay low where the air is better. Take short breaths through the nose until a fire exit is reached.
- Do not use elevators. Elevator shafts are like chimneys. Smoke could enter the elevator shaft, thereby asphyxiating the occupants trying to evacuate the building.
- Disabled persons: Responsible individuals who live in the same area as a disabled person should assist that person to the fire towers and notify building staff.
- Important: Be sure the fire exit doors are kept closed at all times so smoke cannot enter the stairway. If at any time, a fire exit door is observed being tied or propped open, please report the information to the RA or desk staff.
- Advertising posted in the residence halls for parties or events may not refer to alcohol, tobacco, and/or other drugs.
- One poster may be displayed in the entrance area only.
- Floor bulletin boards are for posting residence hall and University events only. Residential Living must approve any exceptions.
- Any posters not approved by Residential Living or any posters appearing in non-approved areas will be removed.
- University organizations not following this procedure will forfeit their right to post any future events.
- Residents of Kelly Hall may not open the upper section of the window(s) to their room.
- Residents in Myers Hall may only use the regular tracked position for raising and lowering the window units.
- All hall window screens must be kept in position at all times. Students found responsible for removing screens from residence hall room windows will be fined per screen.
- Remove all belongings from bedroom (and suite if appropriate).
- Clean the bedroom and suite if appropriate prior to departure, which includes wiping down all surfaces, vacuuming/sweeping the floor, and disposing of all trash.
- Return the room key by completing an Express Check Out Envelope at the front desk of the hall (University Crossings residents should report to Caneris Hall to do so).
- Due to the immediate need to assign rooms to students who are on the waiting list at the beginning of each quarter, room changes will not be granted during the first two weeks of a quarter.
- If a resident wishes to move at any time after room change day, the resident should contact his/her RA. Room change requests are subject to approval by the AD/RD of the residence hall.
- If two roommates are unable to resolve their differences and both refuse to move, the Residential Living Office has the right to relocate both parties.
- Room changes are not permitted without the written permission of the Residential Living Office.
- Residents are required to maintain their rooms in a clean and safe condition. Custodial service is provided for public areas only.
- Food must be kept in the room stored in sealed containers. Any spills of solid food or liquids must be cleaned up immediately.
- Before vacating the assignment, residents are required to remove all trash and debris from their rooms, place all trash in plastic or paper bags and dispose of the bags in the proper location.
- A RLO Staff Member becomes aware of a possible violation of a residential standard via the incident reporting system.
- A student is notified that they are potentially in violation of a standard. At this point, violations will be addressed by the AD/RD in one of the following ways:
- AD/RD will impose administrative sanctions based on the information available to them in the Incident Report
- At the discretion of the AD/RD, reported incidents will become conduct matters. In such cases, a complaint will be forwarded to the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards where it will be handled accordingly.
- Severity of the sanction imposed.
- Significant procedural irregularities which denied the accused student the right to a fundamentally fair process and a fair decision.
- Substantial new evidence or information not available at the time the decision was made.
- Students are encouraged to report any information regarding specific acts of vandalism to their House Director, University Housing or Public Safety.
- Residents are expected to treat the house with respect and care for the environment. Residents are expected to adhere to their Chapter License Agreement with respect to improvements of the Chapter house.
- Residents who are found responsible for damage will be liable for any damage and/or loss to a residential facility or its furnishings and may face disciplinary action through the Student Conduct Process.
- Whenever possible, repair or replacement costs will be assessed to the individual(s) responsible; when this is not possible, costs will be assessed to the Chapter organization.
- The resident agrees to satisfy all damage assessment charges billed by the Office of Student Accounts by the indicated due date.
- Residents will be held responsible for the condition of the room to which they are assigned as well as for the repair of any damages to public areas.
- Each room is inspected during check-in and a Room Condition Report (RCR) is completed. The residents of each room will be asked to check the information on the RCR and sign it. As each resident checks out, the room will be inspected against the RCR to determine if there are any damages. University Housing will place damage charges onto student account. In the case of damages to public areas, a bill will be issued to the responsible person as soon as the cost of repairs can be determined.
- Candles
- Extension Cords
- Flammable liquids, gases or other substances
- Halogen lamps
- High wattage electrical appliances
- Hot plates
- Illegal drugs
- Incense and incense holders
- Indoor grills
- Live or cut Christmas trees
- Lofts
- Outside antennas and/or satellite dishes for television/radio reception
- Outside routers for internet usage (see IRT website)
- Pets
- Popcorn poppers
- Portable space heaters; electrical appliances with a heating element
- Sandwich makers
- Toasters
- Toasters ovens
- Waterbeds
- Weapons
- 2.4 GHz cordless phones
- A resident’s safety may be in jeopardy.
- A room or its furnishings may be damaged.
- Custodial or maintenance functions must be performed.
- There is reasonable cause to believe that University, city, state or federal laws are being violated.
- Sanitation, safety, and/or damage inspections are to be completed (see Safety and Sanitation/Maintenance Policy).
- There is reasonable information to suggest stolen property is located in the residential space.
- Under no circumstances should an inspection be authorized or conducted without the approval of the Office of Student Life through the Dean-On-Call.
- A professional member of the University Housing staff must be on site supervising the inspection procedure.
- The actual inspection in the room will be conducted only to the extent necessary to locate the object(s) being sought.
- All policy violation related inspections will be authorized by the Dean-On-Call.
- A report detailing the inspection will be made to the Office of University Housing.
- Your Name & Contact Information
- Name of Missing Student
- Any/All Contact Information for the Student
- Time & Date Last Seen
- Location Last Seen
- Last Known Destination
- Names Of Acquaintances
- Any Additional Information That May Be Important In Helping To Locate The Missing Person
- Ask any Public Safety police or security officer on patrol or inside a building
- Call the Department of Public Safety Communications Center at 215-895-2822
- Use one of the many University emergency telephones located across campus
- Keep your personal items secured at all times
- Always lock and never prop doors
- Secure your bicycle with a U-Lock
- Remove personal and electronic items from vehicles that are in plain view
- Report suspicious activity to Drexel Police by calling 215-895-2222 or from any emergency phone
- Documentation of bicycle description, serial number, and owner information
- Engraving your bicycle with a registration number
- A registration program sticker applied to your bicycle
- An information booklet
- Preserve all documentation and material relevant to the case.
- Consult with the department head or designee.
- Notify the student of the suspected infraction and the faculty member’s intention to submit a complaint, and seek the student’s explanation.
- Undertake any further investigation the faculty member considers appropriate, and initially determine whether a violation of the Academic Integrity policy has occurred. If the student agrees a violation has occurred, the faculty member will inform the department head or designee, program director, or equivalent administrator (hereafter referred to as department head) offering the course of the alleged violation, and the infraction will be referred to the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards with an appropriate sanction.
- If the student disagrees that a violation has occurred, the faculty member will require the student to meet with the department head who will make a final determination whether a violation of the Academic Integrity policy has occurred.
- If, based on the information presented by the faculty member, the student, and with the results of any further investigation the department head may undertake, the department head agrees that an academic integrity infraction has occurred, the department head and faculty member will determine the appropriate sanctions and inform the student of their decision. The infraction will be referred to the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards with an appropriate sanction.
- - The student has the right to request from the Department of Public Safety that any confiscated items be returned to them. This request must be made within seven (7) business days of the confiscation. The approval of requests and the manner/mode by which the request is granted is at the sole discretion of the Department of Public Safety.
- The burden of proof will rest upon the person(s) bringing the complaint.
- The student will be given an opportunity to present his/her case, including the presentation of information and witnesses. He/she will have an opportunity to hear and question witnesses. In no case will the Conduct Board consider statements against a charged student unless he/she has been advised of their content and of the names of those who submitted the disciplinary complaint and unless the student has been given an opportunity to rebut the unfavorable inferences that might otherwise be drawn.
- All matters upon which the decision may be based must be introduced before the Conduct Board. The decision will be based solely upon such matters.
- A student will have the right to appeal an adverse decision against him/her.
- Proceedings before the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards staff, all hearing officers, the Conduct Board, and the Appellate Board are private, subject to the provisions of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) or other legal requirements.
Lock Out Policy: Stiles
5. Open Flame
6. Permitted and Non-Permitted Items
There are various items that are not appropriate for use in student rooms for safety reasons. Possession of one or more of these items can subject the occupant(s) of the room to a fine and possible disciplinary action. Examples of Non-Permitted Items (This list is not exhaustive):
7. Room Access
In cases of emergency, students are encouraged to use the following emergency resources:
8. Room Keys
Students are responsible for carrying their keys with them at all times. The room occupancy key issued to each resident is the property of the University and is issued to that particular resident for his/her exclusive use. Students are not permitted to lend or give their room keys to anyone or any group. It is unlawful to duplicate any residence hall key. Students are not permitted to put their own locks or alarms on any residence hall doors.
Keys must be returned when a student vacates his/her residence hall assignment. A lost or unreturned key will result in a lock core change and a $75 fee per affected lock. In the event of a broken key, a replacement fee will be charged. Lost or misplaced keys should be reported immediately to the front desk staff.
9. Room Inspections/Searches
The University recognizes and respects each resident’s desire for privacy, especially within the context of a group living environment, however the University reserves the right to enter and to inspect any student room at any time without permission or consent of the room occupant(s) to provide emergency service or general maintenance work, make safety or condition (see Safety and Sanitation/Maintenance Policy) inspections or investigate possible violation(s) of University, city, state or federal regulations. The following procedures have been developed as a guide for University employees in the performance of duties and maintaining a resident’s privacy.
The rooms shall be entered in the resident’s presence or absence by authorized University personnel when there is reasonable cause to believe:
General guidelines for administrative room searches are as follows:
10. Room Furnishings
In all University residences, each resident is provided with a bed frame, mattress, desk, desk chair, dresser and closet/wardrobe.
11. Room Use & Occupancy
12. Safety and Sanitation Inspections/Maintenance
Maintenance Needs. Students should report maintenance needs by filing a work order request; instructions on how to complete a work order request can be found here: http://www.drexel.edu/housing.
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Safety and Sanitation Inspections: Safety and sanitation inspections are conducted each term. The specifics regarding these inspections (day/date/time) will be posted in the lobby of the residence hall and on each floor. Should a resident not be available at the time the room is to be inspected, staff members will conduct the inspection in the resident’s absence.
Building Specific Policies And Information
1. Art Projects
Students are expected to exercise extreme caution when completing art projects. Proper ventilation must be maintained and floors, walls and furniture must be protected. The use of spray paint or any aerosol spray is prohibited.
2. Bicycles
3. Building Access
All residence hall entrance doors are locked for student safety 24 hours each day. Access to the residence hall is only through the front door. All other doors are locked from the outside and equipped with exit alarms that sound when the door is opened. These doors are to be used only in case of an emergency. To enter a building, residents must scan their ID at the proximity reader by the lobby doors. The ID will allow access to the front lobby. Resident students must then hand their ID to the staff person working the desk. The desk staff will scan the ID to allow access into the hall.
4. Common Areas
The use of residence hall common areas is restricted to the building occupants, their guests/visitors, and College affiliated groups and organizations that have reserved a space through the building’s AD/RD or Event Services respectively. The size of the group must be limited to the number of persons that can be accommodated in the lounge to be used.
Lounge Reservations for nonresidents:
5. Emergency ID
Emergency IDs will only be issued when non-admittance to the residence halls could impact the individual’s life safety. Emergency IDs will not be issued to guests simply because they forget proper identification. Immediate family members who come to visit and do not have proper ID can be issued an emergency ID by the desk staff. Requests from non-family members without ID who request building access will be handled on a case by case basis by the desk and residence hall staff on duty.
6. Equipment Use
The front desk is responsible for administering the use of residence hall equipment (sports, recreation and cleaning equipment). A University ID is required for the use of this equipment.
7. Fire Safety
Fire Equipment/Drills:
The residence halls are required by law and insurance regulations to provide a fire alarm system. Fire safety equipment in the residence halls include fire alarm pull stations, fire hoses, smoke and heat detectors, fire extinguishers, water standpipes in high rise buildings and sprinkler systems. Door closers and posted evacuation plans are considered fire safety equipment.
Fire Evacuation Procedures
The Philadelphia Fire Department has approved the following fire evacuation procedures. If a resident discovers fire or smoke, the building alarm should be activated. Each resident should be familiar with the location of the alarm signal stations and how they operate.
To vacate in the safest possible manner, residents should:
8. Identification Card: Dragon Card
Students must carry their Drexel ID at all times. Students are required to present their Drexel ID to Residential Living/University staff when requested by the staff person acting in accordance with his/her responsibilities. Students may not attempt to falsify or tamper with a Drexel ID to gain entry to the residence halls or for any other purpose. Damaged or non-working IDs must be replaced. A student may not give his/her ID to another individual to gain entry into the residence halls or for any other purpose. A student may not use another individual’s ID to gain entry.
9. Lounges
The use of the lounges is restricted to residents of the hall and their guests. Since these are public areas of the halls, residents should conduct themselves accordingly, respecting the rights of all residents to use these areas. Residents may utilize these facilities for group activities per the approval of the AD/RD or designee. The size of the group must be limited to the number of persons that can be accommodated in the lounge to be used.
10. Mail and Package Delivery
Each resident is assigned a mailbox in the residence hall. Stiles Hall residents will receive a key for this box. All other residents will be issued a combination when the resident checks in. Mail is sorted and placed in the mailboxes five days per week, excluding holidays and weekends. Each building will establish times for residents to pick up any large packages or registered mail.
The official mailing address on campus for a student is the mailbox to which they are assigned. All mail from the United States Postal Service and official University communications via mail will be placed in the student’s assigned box. Students are responsible for collecting any mail that is placed in this assigned mailbox. Students are also responsible for contacting all creditors when they vacate a room to provide an updated mailing address. The Residential Living Office cannot forward mail to off campus locations once students have vacated their rooms.
Addressing Mail to the Residence Halls:
Student Name
Student Room #
Building Street Address
Philadelphia, PA 19104
The building’s street address can be found under the Residence Hall Locations and Contact Information section at the beginning of the Residential Living Section of this document.
11. Posting
Any university or individual organization wishing to advertise an event in the residence halls must have posters and fliers approved by the Residential Living Office located in the first floor of Tower Hall. Approved posters must comply with the University’s posting policy.
12. Rooftops/Windows/Balconies
Rooftops
Students who are present on the roof or any other architectural feature not designed for recreational or functional use will be subject to fines and possible disciplinary action, assessments for any damage, and possible disciplinary action if the student’s presence is not cause by a valid emergency. The University assumes no financial or legal responsibility for any student injured as a result of such action.
Windows:
Balconies
Residents of Van Rensselaer Hall may not access any balconies.
13.
Solicitation and Selling
Solicitation and selling by students and all others is not permitted in University owned residential facilities except by written authorization from the Assistant Dean of Residential Living.
No person, organization or department can conduct a business, sales or solicitation in the residence halls.
No person, organization or office may enter these facilities to distribute or collect questionnaires and surveys and/or to collect any other information in person from students in their place of residence, without obtaining advance written permission from the Assistant Dean of Residential Living.
No deliveries may be made to individual rooms unless the Residential Living Office has granted prior permission.
No advertisements or flyers are permitted on or under the doors of residence hall rooms.
By agreeing to the terms of the Housing Agreement, the resident agrees to adhere to all federal, state and local laws and ordinances, and University policies, procedures and regulations, including the Student Handbook. If a resident breaches any provision of this Agreement, the resident may be subject to loss of housing, disciplinary action and may be liable for the damages. This agreement becomes legally binding on the date next to the resident’s signature on the Application. The housing agreement can be found in its entirety here: http://www.drexel.edu/housing/Forms/HousingAgreement2009.pdf.
1.
Checking In
Upon the initial arrival to the residence hall, residents are required to complete the check-in section of the paperwork. After the paperwork has been completed, the resident will receive a key to his/her room. It is the responsibility of the resident to review the condition of the assigned room and inform the staff of any additions to the form within 48 hours of check in. The Room Condition Report (RCR) officially documents the condition of the room at check in. Failure to complete the RCR will result in the resident being responsible for all damages assessed at check out.
2. Checking Out
All students are required to officially check out of their space at the end of their assignment. In order to avoid an improper check out fee, students are required to do the following:
3. Closure and Term Break Housing
Residents of first-year halls are not eligible for housing during breaks between the fall and winter quarters, as these halls are closed during this period. Residents in returning student halls are eligible for housing during breaks, with the exception of the end of the year holiday period. The closing notices for each term should be consulted for specific closing dates. Students requiring housing during the break period must sign up as instructed in the closing notice and will be charged the per diem rate.
The per diem rate will be specified in the closing notice prior to the end of each quarter. The resident will be billed per diem term break rate for any guest signed in to the hall from 3:30am to 7:00am during term break period. The resident will not be granted access to any residential facility without permission of the AD/RD, Residential Living or University Housing. Various custodial and maintenance functions are performed during the term break and a term break resident is expected to cooperate with the custodial and maintenance personnel in these matters.
A resident on co-op, who applies for term break housing by the deadline as stated in the closing notice, will not be charged the per diem rate.
4.
Failure to Check In (No Show)
A resident is required to check into the residence halls during the approved check in periods. In the event that the resident does not check in during the approved check in period he/she may be designated as a No Show. The Office of University Housing may cancel the agreement or assign another student to that room. The resident will be held accountable for fees totaling one quarter until a Request for Release is approved by the Office of University Housing.
If a resident will not be able to arrive during the check in period, it is important that he/she contact the Office of University Housing no later than the last check in day, as specified in the check in notice. This contact will ensure that the assignment is not inadvertently canceled or transferred to another student.
5.
Housing Deposit
A $200 housing deposit must be paid each year a student submits an application. A returning resident who is a member of the ROTC or awarded a full athletic scholarship may waive payment of the housing deposit, provided they are identified as such by the respective program.
New First-Year or Transfer Resident:
The housing deposit is non-refundable and will only be credited to the resident if all agreement requirements are met.
Returning Resident:
The housing deposit will only be refunded after a resident lives on campus for all quarters indicated on the application or if a student cancels housing to pursue a verified co-op or study abroad program. In the event of a room deposit forfeit, an additional room deposit will be required to maintain housing or waiting list status for future quarters.
6.
Meal Plan
It is mandatory for all first year students living in residence halls to participate in a meal plan. Resident first year students must subscribe to the meal plan for the entire period they are living in the residence halls their first year.
7. Personal Property Insurance
The University recommends that residents secure personal property insurance or homeowners or renters insurance to cover their personal items while on campus (See the Damage or Loss of Personal and College Property section of this document).
Residents should keep a record of the serial numbers of all appliances, including television, stereo, computer and camera equipment. All valuables should be marked with the resident’s first initial and last name.
8. Refunds
Refunds are based on when the Office of University Housing received the request for release form. Acceptable reasons are outlined in the Request for Release (Termination) section of the Housing Agreement. All other reasons are subject to the Termination Fee schedule outlined in the Housing Agreement. Residents should refer to the Housing Agreement for the Refund Schedule for Acceptable reasons.
9. Request for Release (Cancellation)
The housing agreement constitutes a serious two way agreement between the resident and Drexel University. In the event that you may be unable to continue to live in Drexel housing, you are required to complete the Request for Release Form. This request is subject to approval and cancellation fees up may be imposed. Full details are available in the Housing Agreement at www.drexel.edu/housing/forms.
10. Residency Requirements
The University requires all residents who are non-transfer, first-year students under the age of 21 at the time of application to live in the University residences for their first three academic quarters or two semesters, depending on whether the resident is on a quarter or semester academic schedule. The only exceptions to this residency requirement are for residents who are married students or students who reside with their parents and/or permanent guardian and commute to campus. The University requires that all residents who are firs year students, including students transferring from other institutions, living in the main campus residence halls to participate in the Gold or Blue Meal Plan.
11. Room Assignments
The Office of University Housing issues all housing assignments to students with signed Housing Agreements and submitted housing deposits. First and second year students who complete Housing Agreements by the posted deadlines are guaranteed on campus housing. When making assignments, the Office of University Housing takes into consideration the request of each student. Specific information regarding the housing assignment process for the different resident types (first year and returning students) is available on the University Housing webpage.
12.
Room Change Policy
The Residential Living Office is committed to promoting the growth and development of our students. Every attempt is made to provide an environment for students to work through any differences or conflicts they may experience as roommates.
Cable Television
ResNet cable television provides a package of broadcast and basic cable channels. No premium channels are available.
Custodial Services
Custodial services are provided for all common areas in the residence halls such as corridors, shared bath/shower rooms, lounges, lobby areas, and laundry room. These services are provided Monday through Friday, with “light” custodial services offered on Saturday and Sunday. Students are provided an option for requesting additional services through University Housing.
Computer Networking
ResNet provides each on campus resident with an active computer network jack that provides access to the Drexel network and internet. To use this service, residents will need to provide their own Ethernet-equipped computer.
Parking
Students may purchase parking permits at the Parking Services Office located at 3030 Market Street, Room 124. Please visit www.drexel.edu/parking or call 215-895-2813 for more information.
Payments
All housing fees are payable to “Drexel University.” Payments are due in full according to the amounts and schedules posted by the Bursar’s Office.
Pest Control
Pest control is of particular concern in an urban environment. The Residential Living Office and University Housing provide weekly service to all public areas and provide an on-going, aggressive extermination program for all buildings.
Any resident wishing to have his or her room exterminated during the course of the year may do so. This service can be requested by submitting a work order request. Private room exterminations re completed on the same day the public areas are completed in a particular building.
Repairs
Any repairs needed to a residence hall room can be obtained by completing a maintenance request form on the University Housing website, www.drexel.edu/housing. The residence halls are staff with full time maintenance personnel who are equipped to handle most routine jobs. Emergencies or special problems should be reported immediately to the front desk. Residential Living and University Housing recognize its obligation to maintain its facilities in reasonable working order. Occasionally, breakdowns will occur that require complete replacement or extensive repairs of equipment. The University will pursue the necessary repairs or replacement as quickly as conditions allow, but the University cannot accept responsibility for any inconvenience or loss to residents in such an event.
ResNet
ResNet provides each student living in the residence halls with connections for telephone, computer networking and cable television services. This fee is included in the housing rate each quarter. The ResNet helpline is extension 2020.
Room Cleaning
Custodial services are provided to every University owned or operated residential facility. The duties of the custodians are to keep the common living areas clean, empty trash and recycling in common areas and otherwise keep buildings up to University standards.
Telephone/Voice Mail Service
Residents have their own phone jack and personal voicemail box but will share the same telephone number with their roommate. Each resident needs to provide his or her own touchtone telephone. All local and campus to campus call, including 911 is provided through ResNet. Students who need to make long distance phone calls should either purchase a calling a card or use their personal cell phones.
Utilities
The residence halls purchase electricity, water and steam from public utilities for heating, lighting, and air conditioning. Occasionally, disruptions in service will occur, particularly during storms. Drexel is not responsible for any inconvenience or financial loss to residents during such external or internal disruptions. Repairs are handled on an emergency basis due to the nature of the use of our buildings. Drexel works closely with the utility companies to ensure that service is restored at the earliest possible moment. Repairs to internal equipment are also handled on an emergency basis seven days a week by Drexel staff.
In regard to heating and air conditioning, note that uncertain and sudden changes in the weather (particularly in October and April) often cause some slight discomfort to residents, since it takes two to three days for residual heat or cold to “work out” of the buildings and their environment systems. Therefore, a decision to turn heating or air conditioning on or off is made by the residence hall staff based on the severity of the change in weather as well as the forecast for the continuation or immediate moderation of the weather change.
Vending Machines
A snack area with vending machines is located in each hall. In case of malfunctions of any of these machines, refunds can be requested at the Creese Student Center Information Desk which is located at 3210 Chestnut Street or on the Center City campus in the Student Life office. Reports of broken vending machines should be directed to cocacola@drexel.edu.
Administrative Sanctioning Policy
Administrative Sanctioning Policy
The Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards partners with the Residential Living Office to uphold the standards of conduct within the community in accordance with University policy; administrative sanctions may be issued to responsible parties when a reliable determination is made, and is not arbitrary or capricious.
Residential Living Process Outline:
Appeal Process:
If a student feels that they were not treated fairly through the above stated process, they may request, in writing to the Assistant Dean of Residential Living, reconsideration of their sanction within seven business days of receiving the final decision. Written appeal request must be submitted in writing and include the following information; student’s name, Drexel ID number, reason for the appeal (please review the grounds for appeal section listed below), and any additional information necessary to establish your rationale for requesting an appeal. Please note that decisions regarding your appeal will be solely based on the information you provide in your written appeal, if you have additional questions please contact the Residential Living Office at 215.895.6155.
Grounds for an appeal include:
SANCTIONS:
The following sanctions are normally issued separately or in combination for violations:
Banned from Residence Halls: The Residential Living Office and the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards reserve the right to restrict access to any or all residence halls.
Deferred Loss of Housing: Deferred loss of housing serves as a final warning that any further violation(s) of University policy obligates the university to consider loss of housing privileges as a primary educational response.
Loss of Guest Privileges: A student is not permitted to have guests for a specific period of time.
Removal from Housing: Removal from university housing is a sanction that is typically used for serious violations or standards including endangering behavior, theft, and significant damage to property and for students who repeatedly violated policies and show no signs of changing behavior.
Residential Warning: This sanction is typically imposed for minor violations.
Residential Probation: This sanction is typically imposed for more serious violations of standards, as well as for repeated minor violations.
Residential Educational Sanctions: Educational sanctions are used for students in situations where they would benefit from further learning about their behavior, or from completing a project that allows them to contribute positively to their community. Examples of such sanctions include: community service, organizing a program, doing a survey, attending a presentation, etc.
Restricted Access: The guest privileges of the student are revoked for a specific period of time. Additionally, residents are required to sign in and out of their residence hall in the Restricted Access log.
Restitution: The student is required to make a monetary reimbursement to the university or other persons, groups, or organizations for specified damages by ad date designated by the AD/RD.
Required Move (Administrative Relocation): Some situations may warrant moving a resident to a new residence hall, either for their own benefit or for the benefit of their residential community.
| The Office of University Housing manages ten properties which house fraternity/sorority organizations as part of the 34th Street Housing program: | |
| 200 North 34th Street | Sigma Phi Epsilon |
| 202 North 34th Street |
Delta Zeta |
| 204 North 34th Street | Alpha Epsilon Pi |
| 206 North 34th Street | Alpha Chi Rho |
| 208 North 34th Street | Alpha Sigma Alpha |
| 210 North 34th Street | Pi Kappa Alpha |
| 212 North 34th Street | Delta Phi Epsilon |
| 3411A Powelton Avenue | Phi Sigma Sigma |
| 3411B Powelton Avenue | Phi Mu |
| 3401 Powelton Avenue |
Sigma Alpha Epsilon |
| Likewise, the Office of University Housing has a relationship with the respective Alumni boards who manage the following houses: | |
| 216 North 34th Street |
Theta Chi |
| 216 North 33rd Street | Alpha Pi Lambda |
| 3405 Powelton Avenue | Pi Kappa Phi |
All students living in the 13 residential buildings which make up 34th Street Housing are subject to all residential policies and procedures.
House Directors
Each house has a live-in House Director, a member of the University Housing staff, who acts as a liaison to between University Housing and the respective fraternity or sorority.
Residential Policies and Procedures
The following policies and regulations were developed in accordance with the fire, health, safety, and maintenance standards critical to maintaining a safe residential community while protecting students’ rights and acknowledging student’s responsibilities. Compliance with these policies and regulations contributes to the creation and maintenance of a productive living and learning residential experience. Drexel University students are responsible for knowing and abiding by the following residential policies. Failure to abide by any of the following policies will subject the student to disciplinary action.
Section I. Residential Policies
Section II. Individual Room Policies
Section III. Building Specific Policies and Information
Section IV. University Housing: Policies
Section V. University Housing: Services
Section VI. Administrative Sanctioning Policy
Residential Policies
Alcohol and Other Drugs
The Office of University Housing supports and expects adherence to established University policies and state law regarding the use of alcohol and other drugs.
Only those residents residing in the Chapter House who are of legal age may possess and/or consume alcohol.
Fraternities and Sororities wishing to host an event where alcohol will be served must adhere to the Social Policies supervised by the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life.
At check in, all residents living in the 34th Street properties will be required to fill out the Drexel University Alcohol Policy Acknowledgement Form.
Drinking paraphernalia including, but not limited to, funnels are not permitted.
Regardless of ownership or origin, any of the following items found in the 34th Street properties will be confiscated and disposed of: unauthorized alcoholic beverages such as alcoholic beverages found in the possession of minors, kegs, beer balls, taps or other mechanisms used to dispense alcohol.
Public Safety staff is authorized to confiscate and dispose of such items.
Community Developed Policies
Residents of each Chapter House are required to abide by all policies of the Office of University Housing, the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life, and any Chapter-related policies.
Compliance with Behavior Standards
Residents and their guests are expected to treat others with respect and consideration and to maintain a comfortable and safe living environment. Residents are required, as a condition of continued residence, to comply with the University’s Code of Conduct.
Compliance with University Housing Staff Member Request
All Drexel University students and their guests are expected to adhere to requests made by any University Housing staff member performing his/her duties.
Damage/Vandalism
Damage or Loss of Personal and College Property
The University is not liable for any loss or damage incurred to the resident’s personal property, whether by flood, fire, theft or any other cause.
Residents of University housing are expected to provide adequate insurance coverage for all personal property. At check in, students are asked to select one of the following options to ensure their property has the necessary coverage; covered through Parent/Guardian’s homeowner’s insurance policy, has individual renter’s insurance coverage or will obtain renters insurance coverage by move in date.
Residents assume any and all liability for damage or claims that result from their own negligence, as well as any negligence of visitors or guests.
Residents are liable for any damage and/or loss to a room, its furnishings, or any other part of the residence hall.
Misuse, abuse, theft or damage to personal property by one resident or group of residents to another is not permitted.
Endangering Behavior
Any student action that may lead to physical harm to oneself or others is considered endangering behavior and will typically result in removal from University provided housing, disciplinary action (including cost of repair and/or cleaning), and/or criminal charges.
Residents are not to engage in behaviors of disorderly or disruptive conduct at any time of day or night that is inconsistent with the healthy functioning of our residential community.
Residents found responsible for causing unnecessary garbage and debris in the hallway will be billed accordingly
In situations when an individual or group poses an immediate threat to the health, safety or property of others or of oneself, the individual or group can be relocated or removed from University residences prior to a hearing to address the specific behaviors. The decision to remove or relocate rests with the Director of University Housing or his/her designee with consultation from the Assistant Dean of Residential Living.
Privacy
Living together with many fellow students who share common themes and values in a University residence is a wonderful experience that can truly enhance your academic career. All residents are encouraged to communicate clearly their needs, using roommate agreements, regarding privacy matters with roommates and housemates. All residents should expect to maintain personal privacy within their student rooms and community bathroom facilities. Students who violate an individual’s privacy by entering their room without permission or invade their privacy within bathroom facilities will likely face disciplinary action.
All houses are single-gendered.
Cohabitation is prohibited.
When having guests, each resident should be conscious of the privacy of his/her roommate. Residents should exercise their right to privacy responsibly and conduct themselves appropriately, being mindful of extra responsibilities and social obligations of having guests.
The right to privacy does not imply the rights to violate the applicable regulations of the Residence Hall Regulations, University, city, state or federal laws.
Sharing of Personal Information: When a student applies for housing, they indicate their privacy wishes (how and if personal information can be shared with the campus community such as email address and phone numbers). Residents who reserve the right of privacy will not have any information given out regarding their hall and room assignment, home address, or phone number by the University Housing staff to unauthorized parties.
Pets
Students may not at any time be in possession of animals except for fish, even for short term visits, in University owned or operated residential facilities.
Fish may be kept in a 15-gallon or smaller tank. The occupants of the room will assume all charges for damages related to the use or malfunction of the aquarium.
Quiet/Courtesy Hours and Noise
Courtesy Hours serve as a reminder to all residents of the primary rights to sleep and study in residential communities. Students are expected to exercise courtesy when playing music or participating in other activity that may disturb other residents and/or interfere with the attempts of others to study.
All residential communities will adhere to 24 hour courtesy hours.
Quiet hours are Sunday-Thursday from 10:00pm until 10:00am and Friday/Saturday from 12:00am to 10:00am or as deemed appropriate by the AD/RD.
During final exams, 24 hour quiet hours are enforced in the 34th Street houses.
Quiet Hours are times when noise from stereos, televisions and conversations must not be clearly audible in private rooms from areas such as hallways, adjoining rooms or through open windows.
Courtesy Hours are times when residents are expected to keep from unduly interfering with anyone else’s ability to sleep, read or study.
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted in any university owned/leased residential facility. Students found smoking will face disciplinary action. Students will be charged for any related maintenance or cleaning as the result of smoking in a residential facility. Smoking is prohibited around all entrances, exits, and perimeters of residence hall buildings (See Smoke-Free University in the Drexel University Code of Conduct).
Individual Room Policies
Cooking
Each house has a community kitchen which serves as the primary source for cooking and storing food.
Decorations
Residents are encouraged to decorate their assigned houses in order to make their residential community feel like home. Residents are expected to decorate with adherence to the following:
All decorations must be fire-resistant.
Only Underwriters Laboratory (UL) or Factory Mutual (F.M.) approved cool bulbs are allowed.
Natural trees and cut tree bough are not allowed in any University residential properties. Students are not permitted to hang any items from the sprinkler piping, sprinkler heads, or any room electrical wiring.
Decorations may not obstruct free passage of the hallways or entry/exit to the room.
Electrical decorations must be kept away from metal doorframes; lights must be strung so a door will not close on the wiring.
No permanent alterations may be made to the house.
Guests & Visitors
Guests are defined as individuals who are not assigned to the Chapter House through the Office of University Housing. All guests to a room are subject to the agreement of all room residents. The presence of guests may not restrict free access for legitimate occupants to any common space and any private space they may have or create any situation that infringes on the need of roommate(s) and/or housemates(s) to remain undisturbed. Residents should work to reach an amicable agreement on the presence of guests in the Chapter House, while the primary purpose of these spaces is to provide a safe and welcoming environment for learning; it is also a home. Roommates and/or suitemate(s) unable to reach a livable solution should work with their House Director staff to find common ground.
Residents are allowed to have overnight guests. An overnight guest is defined as anyone in the resident host’s room anytime between 3:30am and 7:00am. Guests are allowed to visit in a student room for a period not to exceed three (3) consecutive nights. Guests may stay no more than three (3) consecutive nights on campus.
Hosts must check with their roommate(s) for approval before inviting a guest to the room. If the roommate(s) do not approve, the guest cannot stay in the room.
Students with concerns regarding guests should talk to the host, and then, if necessary, with their House Director.
Hosts are responsible for the actions of their guests and will face disciplinary action if their guest violates University or Residential Life policies.
Hosts should familiarize guests with community expectations.
Lock Out Policy
When locked out, a student should first contact their House Manager and then the House Director on-duty for entrance.
Open Flame
Open flames are not permitted. Open flames are a leading cause of house fires nationwide. The lighting and burning of candles, incense, or any other item with an open flame is not permitted. Candles are not permitted for decorative purposes.
Permitted and Non-Permitted Items
There are various items that are not appropriate for use in student rooms for safety reasons. Possession of one or more of these items can subject the occupant(s) of the room to a fine and possible disciplinary action.
Examples of Non-Permitted Items (This list is not exhaustive):
Room Access
Students are encouraged to lock their doors at all times.
Students are encouraged to report the presence of any suspicious persons or unusual activities in or around the Chapter House to the Office of University Housing or Public Safety.
Room keys or entrance door access devices are not provided to guests.
Students should not enter another resident’s room without the knowledge and consent of the occupant(s), regardless of whether or not the door is closed and locked.
The University reserves the right to enter a resident’s room for the purpose of investigation, inspection, and repair or in cases of clear emergency. (See Room Inspection/Search Policy for additional information).
Residents are not to tamper with automatic door locks or prop open doors with automatic closures including Chapter House front doors.
Residents are not to enter/exit through fire doors except during fire alarms/fire drills.
In cases of emergency, students are encouraged to use the following emergency resources:
In a life-threatening emergency, students should call 911
Department of Public Safety, 215.895.2822
Emergency call boxes located throughout campus
Residence hall front desks, which are staffed 24 hours a day during the Academic year
Residential Living Staff ( i.e., AD/RDs, RDCs, and RAs)
University Housing staff
Room Keys
A room key is issued to each student assigned to a University owned or leased residence.
Students are responsible for picking up their keys and locking their rooms.
Keys are the property of Drexel University.
Only one room key per occupant will be issued.
Students are not permitted to lend or give their room keys to anyone.
Students may not make copies of their room key.
Students are not permitted to put their own locks or alarms on any doors.
Keys must be returned to the House Director of the building from which you are checking out prior to your departure.
Residents will be charged the cost of replacing the locks for that room if keys are not returned.
Lost or misplaced keys should be reported to the House Director immediately.
Room Inspections/Searches
The University recognizes and respects each resident’s desire for privacy, especially within the context of a group living environment. However, the University reserves the right to enter and to inspect any student room at any time without permission or consent of the room occupant(s) to provide emergency service or general maintenance work, make safety or condition (see Safety and Sanitation/Maintenance Policy) inspections or investigate possible violation(s) of University, city, state or federal regulations. The following procedures have been developed as a guide for University employees in the performance of duties and maintaining a resident’s privacy.
The rooms shall be entered in the resident’s presence or absence by authorized University personnel when there is reasonable cause to believe:
General guidelines for administrative room searches are as follows:
Room Furnishings
In all University residences, each resident is provided with a bed frame, mattress, desk, desk chair, dresser and closet/wardrobe.
All supplied furniture must stay in its designated room.
Furniture cannot be removed from assigned room.
Furniture must be used for intended purposes.
Students are not permitted to leave room furnishings in common areas, hallways, or corridors.
Furniture found in any of these areas will be returned to the student’s room and a fine for obstruction of egress and a moving charge will be assessed to the student for each incident.
Cinder blocks are not permitted in University residences.
Lofts of any type are not permitted
Ping pong tables, pool tables, video arcade games and other large game tables (by use or function) are not permitted due to limited room space and potential disruption to other students.
Room Use & Occupancy
All residents of a room are responsible for what occurs in their room.
University Housing and Residential Living expect that rooms in University residences are to be occupied by the students that are assigned to the space in the University Housing database.
Any individual found to be residing in a student room without a room assignment will face disciplinary action for theft of services.
Safety and Sanitation Inspections/Maintenance
Maintenance Needs. Students should report maintenance needs by filing a work order request; instructions on how to complete a work order request can be found by logging into the DrexelOne portal.
Safety and Sanitation Inspections: Safety and sanitation inspections are conducted each term. The specifics regarding these inspections (day/date/time) will be posted. Should a resident not be available at the time the room is to be inspected, staff members will conduct the inspection in the resident’s absence.
Building Specific Policies And Information
Art Projects
Students are expected to exercise extreme caution when completing art projects. Proper ventilation must be maintained and floors, walls and furniture must be protected. The use of spray paint or any aerosol spray is prohibited.
Bicycles
All bicycles must be registered with the Department of Public Safety.
Residents can store bicycles in bike storage areas only in the House to which they are assigned and only during the quarters in which they are residing in the House.
Residents are expected to exercise caution when using the bike racks by providing the necessary locks.
Residents may store bicycles in their rooms provided their roommates are in agreement.
House Access
All Chapter House entrance doors are locked for student safety 24 hours each day. Access to the Chapter House is only through the front door. All other doors are locked from the outside and may be equipped with exit alarms that sound when the door is opened. These doors are to be used only in case of an emergency. To enter a building, residents must either scan their ID at the proximity reader by the lobby doors or utilize their assigned Chapter House key.
Common Areas
The use of Chapter House common areas is restricted to the building occupants, their guests/visitors, and College affiliated groups. The size of the group must be limited to the number of persons that can be accommodated in the lounge to be used.
Common area furniture must remain in common rooms.
Common areas cannot be used for sales or solicitation.
Due to health and safety concerns, students are expected to keep common areas reasonably clean and orderly for community use. Cleanliness is a major concern in group kitchens; all dishes, pots and pans should be washed and stored immediately after use, Counters should be cleaned following use and trash/garbage should be disposed of properly. Garbage should not be flushed down sink drains. Continued failure to adhere to standards of cleanliness in group kitchens could result in disciplinary action.
Fire Safety
Fire Equipment/Drills:
All University residences are required by law and insurance regulations to provide a fire alarm system. Fire safety equipment in 34th Street Housing includes fire alarm pull stations, fire hoses, smoke and heat detectors, fire extinguishers, water standpipes in high rise buildings and sprinkler systems. Door closers and posted evacuation plans are considered fire safety equipment.
A fine will be assessed to individuals found responsible for tampering with fire safety equipment or intentionally setting off a fire alarm.
Fire drills are conducted each quarter. Each building is completely evacuated.
Any resident that fails to leave the building whenever the fire alarm is engaged will be subject to disciplinary action and possible fines.
In the event of a false fire alarm, the City of Philadelphia may fine the University to cover the cost of responding to the false fire alarm. Be advised that this fine, which could be in excess of $500, will be assessed to any resident(s) found responsible for initiating a false fire alarm.
Fire Evacuation Procedures
The Philadelphia Fire Department has approved the following fire evacuation procedures. If a resident discovers fire or smoke, the building alarm should be activated. Each resident should be familiar with the location of the alarm signal stations and how they operate.
To vacate in the safest possible manner, residents should:
Feel the door that leads from the room to the corridor before opening it. If the door is hot or smoke is seeping in, do not open the door. If trapped in the room and unable to reach the fire exit, keep the door closed and seal any cracks. If a telephone is available in the room, call the fire department by dialing 911. Give the name and location of the building and the room number. If a telephone is not available, open a window for air and signal for help.
If the door feels cool, open it cautiously. Be braced to slam it shut if the corridor is full of smoke or if heat pressure is felt against the door. If the corridor is clear, close the door when leaving the room, proceed to the nearest fire exit, descend to street level, and leave the building. Move to the designated evacuation area.
If caught in smoke or heat, stay low where the air is better. Take short breaths through the nose until a fire exit is reached.
Do not use elevators. Elevator shafts are like chimneys. Smoke could enter the elevator shaft, thereby asphyxiating the occupants trying to evacuate the building.
Disabled persons: Responsible individuals who live in the same area as a disabled person should assist that person to the fire towers or appropriate egress and notify building staff.
Important: Be sure the fire exit doors are kept closed at all times so smoke cannot enter the stairway. If at any time, a fire exit door is observed being tied or propped open, please report the information to the House Director.
Identification Card: Dragon Card
Students must carry their Drexel ID at all times. Students are required to present their Drexel ID to any University staff member when requested by that staff member acting in accordance with his/her responsibilities. Students may not attempt to falsify or tamper with a Drexel ID to gain entry to the Chapter house or for any other purpose. Damaged or non-working IDs must be replaced. A student may not give his/her ID to another individual to gain entry into the Chapter house or for any other purpose. A student may not use another individual’s ID to gain entry to a Chapter house.
Mail and Package Delivery
The United States Postal Service (USPS) delivers mail to each Chapter House directly when the parcel is correctly addressed. Chapter House leadership are responsible for developing a system for mail to be distributed within the Chapter House.
The University Housing Office is not responsible for forwarding mail to off campus locations once students have vacated their rooms.
Rooftops/Windows/Balconies
Rooftops
Students who are present on the roof or any other architectural feature not designed for recreational or functional use will be subject to fines and possible disciplinary action, assessments for any damage, and possible disciplinary action if the student’s presence is not cause by a valid emergency. The University assumes no financial or legal responsibility for any student injured as a result of such action.
Solicitation and Selling
Solicitation and selling by students and all others is not permitted in University owned residential facilities except by written authorization from the Director of University Housing
No person, organization or department can conduct a business, sales or solicitation in any University residential building.
No person, organization or office may enter these facilities to distribute or collect questionnaires and surveys and/or to collect any other information in person from students in their place of residence, without obtaining advance written permission from the Director of University Housing.
No deliveries may be made to individual rooms unless the Office of University Housing has granted prior permission.
UNIVERSITY HOUSING: POLICIES
By agreeing to the terms of the Housing Agreement, the resident agrees to adhere to all federal, state and local laws and ordinances, and University policies, procedures and regulations, including the Student Handbook. If a resident breaches any provision of this Agreement, the resident may be subject to loss of housing, disciplinary action and may be liable for the damages. This agreement becomes legally binding on the date next to the resident’s signature on the Application. The housing agreement can be found in its entirety at www.drexel.edu/housing.
Checking In
Upon the initial arrival to the Chapter House, residents are required to complete the check-in section of the paperwork. After the paperwork has been completed, the resident will receive a key to his/her room. It is the responsibility of the resident to review the condition of the assigned room and inform the staff of any additions to the form within 48 hours of check in. The Room Condition Report (RCR) officially documents the condition of the room at check in. Failure to complete the RCR will result in the resident being responsible for all damages assessed at check out.
Checking Out
All students are required to officially check out of their space at the end of their assignment. In order to avoid an improper check out fee, students are required to do the following:
Remove all belongings from bedroom (and Chapter House if appropriate)
Clean the bedroom prior to departure, which includes wiping down all surfaces, vacuuming/sweeping the floor, and disposing of all trash.
Return the key by completing an Express Check Out Envelope.
Closure and Term Break Housing
There is no fee associated with Term Break housing for 34th Street Housing for those residents who have an Individual Housing Agreement for both the preceding and following academic term surrounding the Term Break.
Failure to Check In (No Show)
In the event that the resident does not check in/move in to the Chapter house, he/she may be designated as a No Show. The Office of University Housing may cancel the agreement or assign another student to the vacant room. The resident will be held accountable for fees totaling up to one quarter until a Request for Release is approved by the Office of University Housing.
All Requests for Release are reviewed with the Chapter house leadership before being approved.
If a resident will not be able to arrive during the check in period, it is important that he/she contact the Office of University Housing no later than the last check in day, as specified in the check in notice. This contact will ensure that the assignment is not inadvertently canceled or transferred to another student.
Housing Deposit
A $200 housing deposit must be paid each year a student submits an application. A returning resident who is a member of the ROTC or awarded a full athletic scholarship may waive payment of the housing deposit, provided they are identified as such by the respective program.
The housing deposit will only be refunded after a resident lives on campus for all quarters indicated on the application or if a student cancels housing to pursue a verified co-op or study abroad program. In the event of a room deposit forfeit, an additional room deposit will be required to maintain housing or waiting list status for future quarters.
Personal Property Insurance
The University recommends that residents secure personal property insurance or homeowners or renters insurance to cover their personal items while on campus (See the Damage or Loss of Personal and College Property section of this document).
Residents should keep a record of the serial numbers of all appliances, including television, stereo, computer and camera equipment. All valuables should be marked with the resident’s first initial and last name.
Refunds
Refunds are based on when the Office of University housing received the request for release form. Acceptable reasons are outlined in the Request for Release (Termination) section of the Housing Agreement. All other reasons are subject to the Termination Fee schedule outlined in the Housing Agreement. Residents should refer to the Housing Agreement for the Refund Schedule for Acceptable reasons.
Request for Release (Cancellation)
The housing agreement constitutes a serious two way agreement between the resident and Drexel University. In the event that you may be unable to continue to live in Drexel housing, you are required to complete the Request for Release Form. This request is subject to approval and cancellation fees may be imposed. Full details are available in the Housing Agreement at www.drexel.edu/housing/forms. Under the Chapter License Agreement, University Housing will consult with the fraternity/sorority before releasing a student from their Individual Housing Agreement.
Room Assignments
The Office of University Housing issues all housing assignments to students with signed Housing Agreements and submitted housing deposits. Chapters may provide input on House rosters by submitting their rosters to the Office of University Housing prior to the start of the academic term.
University Housing: Services
Cable Television
Cable television is provided by a local cable provider. The Organization is responsible for choosing their cable package. University Housing invoices the Chapter for their cable services quarterly.
Custodial Services
Light custodial services are provided for the Chapter House to supplement cleaning organized by the Chapter residents. Students are provided an option for requesting additional services through University Housing.
Computer Networking
ResNet provides each on campus resident with an active computer network jack that provides access to the Drexel network and internet. To use this service, residents will need to provide their own Ethernet-equipped computer.
Parking
Students may purchase parking permits at the Parking Services Office located at 3030 Market Street, Room 124. Please visit www.drexel.edu/parking or call 215-895-2813 for more information.
Payments
All housing fees are payable to “Drexel University.” Payments are due in full according to the amounts and schedules posted by the Bursar’s Office.
Pest Control
Pest control is of particular concern in an urban environment. The Office of Residential Living and University Housing provide weekly service to all public areas and provide an on-going, aggressive extermination program for all buildings.
Any resident wishing to have his or her room exterminated during the course of the year may do so. This service can be requested by submitting a work order request. Private room exterminations are completed on the same day the public areas are completed in a particular building.
Repairs
Any repairs needed to a residential room can be obtained by completing a maintenance request form on the University Housing website, www.drexel.edu/housing. Emergencies or special problems should be reported immediately to the front desk. Residential Living and University Housing recognizes its obligation to maintain its facilities in reasonable working order. Occasionally, breakdowns will occur that require complete replacement or extensive repairs of equipment. The University will pursue the necessary repairs or replacement as quickly as conditions allow, but the University cannot accept responsibility for any inconvenience or loss to residents in such an event.
ResNet
ResNet provides each student living on campus with connections for telephone, computer networking and cable television services. This fee is included in the housing rate each quarter. The ResNet helpline is extension 2020.
Room Cleaning
Custodial services are provided to every University owned or operated residential facility. The duties of the custodians are to keep the common living areas clean, empty trash and recycling in common areas and otherwise keep buildings up to University standards.
Residents are required to maintain their rooms in a clean and safe condition. Custodial service is provided for public areas only.
Food in the room must be kept stored in sealed containers. Any spills of solid food or liquids must be cleaned up immediately.
Before vacating the assignment, residents are required to remove all trash and debris from their rooms, place all trash in plastic or paper bags and dispose of the bags in the proper location.
Utilities
Drexel purchases electricity, water and steam from public utilities for heating, lighting, and air conditioning. Occasionally, disruptions in service will occur, particularly during storms. Drexel is not responsible for any inconvenience or financial loss to residents during such external or internal disruptions. Repairs are handled on an emergency basis due to the nature of the use of our buildings. Drexel works closely with the utility companies to ensure that service is restored at the earliest possible moment. Repairs to internal equipment are also handled on an emergency basis seven days a week by Drexel staff.
In regard to heating and air conditioning, note that uncertain and sudden changes in the weather (particularly in October and April) often cause some slight discomfort to residents, since it takes two to three days for residual heat or cold to “work out” of the buildings and their environment systems. Therefore, a decision to turn heating or air conditioning on or off is made by the University Housing staff based on the severity of the change in weather as well as the forecast for the continuation or immediate moderation of the weather change.
Administrative Sanctioning Policy
The Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards partners with the Office of University Housing to uphold the standards of conduct within the community in accordance with University policy; administrative sanctions may be issued to responsible parties when a reliable determination is made, and is not arbitrary or capricious.
When the Office of University Housing is made aware of possible violations to the Student Code of Conduct, the situation will be referred to the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards for adjudication. All processes in these situations including sanctions and appeals can be found in the Student Handbook under “Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards.”
The Drexel University Department of Public Safety is a comprehensive public safety organization. The Department accomplishes its mission which is “To enrich the quality of life of our community by providing a safe and secure environment based upon effective relationships and excellence in service” by integrating the best practices of modern public and private security, law enforcement, fire safety, emergency preparedness and state-of-the-art technology. The Department provides numerous safety and security services, safety awareness training and administers many community oriented programs.
The Drexel University City Main Campus, Center City Hahnemann Campus and the Queen Lane Medical Campus are situated in an urban environment. Keeping this in mind, consideration in any new construction or renovation planning includes lighting, video surveillance, electronic security systems, and environmental design techniques to provide the highest level of safety for our students, faculty and staff.
The Department of Public Safety maintains a close working relationship with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies, local businesses and academic institutions.
Responsibility for Campus Security
The Department of Public Safety is responsible for providing security on all Drexel’s campuses. To meet this responsibility, the Department collaborates with a host of governmental and private public safety organizations along with departments within the university to address safety and security concerns.
The Department of Public Safety is made up of six (6) operating units that report to the Senior Associate Vice President for Public Safety. They are: Police, Security, Operations, Fire & Life Safety, Training & Accreditation and Finance & Administration. The Department is staffed by 48 full-time employees and more than 135 contracted security personnel. All Public Safety employees receive a variety of specialized and continuous training including First Aid, Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Automated External Defibrillator (AED).
Drexel University Police Department
The Drexel University Police Department (DUPD) is composed of twenty (20) full-time, armed, sworn police officers who are empowered to enforce Federal and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania laws as well as City of Philadelphia Ordinances at the University’s three campuses. Drexel Police Officers may also initiate campus judicial board proceedings for violations of the Student Code of Conduct as a sole process for incident resolution or in addition to criminal charges.
Drexel University Police Officers are certified through the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and are required to complete Pa. Title 53 basic certification training mandated by the Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Act. These officers are also required to attend annual update training under Pa. Act 180.
Officers conduct vehicle, bicycle and foot patrols and regularly meet and consult with students, faculty and staff regarding crime prevention and safety issues and share tactical, strategic and investigative information with other law enforcement agencies.
DUPD Detectives are responsible for investigating crimes, complaints and incidents that occur on campus property or within the University’s patrol boundaries.
Security Services
Security services, combined with effective community policing and relations is imperative to providing a safe environment and towards improving the quality of life on and around the campus. The Security Services Unit is responsible for security officer management of our contracted security partner AlliedBarton Security.
The security officer force is comprised of 98 officers assigned to the University City Main Campus and 37 officers assigned to the Queen Lane Medical Campus and Center City Hahnemann Campus. Additional security services for the Center City Campus are provided and managed by Tenet Health Care Systems.
Public Safety security officers provide service to the Drexel community 24/7 and are responsible for enforcing the policies and procedures set forth by Drexel University. Their primary role includes community patrols by vehicle, bicycle and on foot which are coordinated with Drexel University Police. They also provide a security presence in residential, academic and administrative buildings as well as special event security and perform 24/7 Walking Escorts. These officers are unarmed and equipped with two-way radios with which they maintain communication with the Public Safety Communications Center.
Drexel Public Safety security officers may detain individuals for violations, when appropriate, until custody can be transferred to a University police officer. For violations of the University Student Code of Conduct, Public Safety security officers also make referrals requesting student judicial conduct proceedings.
Background investigations are conducted on all officers and include pre-employment and annual criminal history checks, Department of Motor Vehicles operator license validation, pre-employment drug screening, education level verification, and previous employment history checks.
All security officers receive training in security principles, patrol techniques, authority of arrest, defensive tactics, emergency procedures, crisis intervention, Drexel community orientation and 24 hours of field instruction prior to assignment. Public Safety security officers also receive CPR/First Aid and AED training and are required to complete a certification examination.
Security Services is also responsible for performing security assessments, crime prevention awareness and education and managing the Rape Aggression Defense Program.
Fire & Life Safety
The Fire & Life Safety Unit manages safety programs and provides emergency response, safety education and awareness training for all three University campuses.
They also perform life safety inspections of campus buildings, fire system reliability testing, evacuation and shelter-in-place drills. In addition, they participate in construction and renovation planning, serve as the University authority and liaison with regulatory agencies and are responsible for special event fire/life safety.
This unit also has the important responsibility for the development, review and oversight of the University’s Emergency Management Plan.
Operations
The Operations Unit is responsible for radio and telephony communications, alarm monitoring, installation and management of security technology, crime data analysis, crime mapping, crime reporting and Clery compliance for the Department of Public Safety.
Requests for service are processed through the Public Safety Communications Center (DPSCC) which operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The DPSCC is staffed with highly trained personnel certified by the Association of Public Safety Communications Officials (APCO). In addition to receiving, processing and responding to calls for service, DPSCC personnel also monitor burglar, fire and duress alarms from University buildings. They manage the University electronic access control system, perform “virtual video patrols” of the campus using state-of-the-art Closed Circuit TV (CCTV) and monitor the campus emergency telephone system.
Oversight of the DrexelALERT Notification System also falls under the Operations Unit. This system enables fast and efficient dissemination of critical information to students, faculty and staff of the Drexel University community and the Drexel University College of Medicine through e-mail, text messaging and by phone, when necessary.
Reporting of Incidents
Any student, faculty or staff member who is a victim of crime, observes an incidence of crime or witnesses suspicious activity is strongly encouraged to promptly report the information to the Department of Public Safety by calling 215-895-2222, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, or by using one of the many emergency call boxes that directly establishes communication with the Public Safety Communications Center.Calls for service will be answered by a certified Department of Public Safety Dispatcher who is trained to gather information and to dispatch the appropriate personnel to the location to take the necessary steps to address the situation and /or document the incident.
Anyone reporting an incident should be prepared to provide as much detailed information as possible such as name, location, time, date, and a description of the incident and to speak in a clear and calm manner.
All calls to the Public Safety emergency number (215-895-2222) or the non-emergency number (215-895-2822) and all emergency call box lines are digitally recorded for safety and quality assurance purposes.
Reporting of a Sexual Assault
Drexel University seeks to foster a safe and healthy environment built on mutual respect and trust. At the very basis of the University's mission is the recognition of the essential dignity and worth of each member of our community. Sexual assault is a very serious violation of these principles and will not be tolerated in any form. The University encourages all members of its community to be aware of the trauma caused by sexual assault and challenges its members to work together to prevent its occurrence.
Drexel provides support for victims through the University's Office of Victim Support & Intervention Services. The University handles complaints of sexual assault with due regard to the victims’ concerns for confidentiality. If occurrences of sexual assault pose a general threat to the University community, Drexel will take affirmative steps to notify students, faculty and staff of any potential danger.
If a sexual assault occurs, a victim is encouraged to come forward for support and assistance as well as to report the incident. Victims are encouraged to immediately contact the Victim Support & Intervention Services in the Office of Counseling & Health at (215) 895-0353 for assistance.
When a sexual assault has occurred, it is very important to preserve any potential evidence. Victims are urged to assist in this effort by not showering or straightening up the crime scene. Once in contact with the Office of Victim Support & Intervention Services, the individual can be accompanied to the Rape Trauma Unit at Jefferson University Hospital for immediate medical attention.
The Office of Victim Support & Intervention Services will advise the victim of hospital procedures, including the involvement of the Philadelphia Police Special Victims Unit. The individual is advised of all options for filing a complaint, both on campus and off, including the right to report fully to the Philadelphia Police, to file an anonymous report with Philadelphia Police or to file no report with the Philadelphia Police. The choice is solely up to the victim. The Office of Victim Support & Intervention Services will outline the procedures and potential consequences of all these options.
Upon request, the University will assist in changing a sexual assault victim's academic and /or housing assignments if the changes requested are reasonably available.
The Department of Student Life sponsors a series of seminars designed to increase students' sexual awareness and steps to take to enhance personal safety. Announcements are distributed informing students of dates and times of these events.
The University will pursue criminal and/or disciplinary action in cases of sexual assault, taking into account the wishes of the victim. The procedures for student disciplinary proceedings in cases of an alleged sex offense are fully described in the University Student Judicial Policy and the University Sexual Assault Policy located in the Student Handbook.
Both the accuser and the accused have the right to have an adviser of their choice from the University community accompany them throughout the entire judicial process and the right to be informed of the University's final determination and sanction, if any, imposed against the accused student. Sanctions imposed for violation of the University's sexual assault policy may include, but are not limited to, suspension or permanent expulsion. Students who are victims of sexual assault may also choose to pursue criminal charges. The University's judicial process acts independently of any legal proceedings.
Missing Student Reporting Procedure
Drexel University seeks to establish a framework of cooperation among members of the University community aimed at locating and assisting students who are reported missing.
A student shall be deemed missing when someone has a concern regarding the safety and security of a student who has been missing for 24 hours or if there is an immediate concern for an individual’s safety that may be missing.
All reports of missing students must be directed to Department of Public Safety, which has the responsibility and authority to investigate each report and make a determination whether the student is missing in accordance with this policy.
If you suspect that a student may be missing, contact the Department of Public Safety immediately ay 215-895-2222. Students, faculty members and staff may also call the Office of Victim Support and Intervention Services for assistance and as a resource at 215-895-0353.
When reporting a missing person be prepared to provide the following information:
If the Drexel University Department of Public Safety’s investigation determines that a student for whom a report has been filed is missing, they will work in conjunction with the Philadelphia Police Department to determine the whereabouts of the student. If the student is determined to have been missing for more than twenty-four (24) hours, the Dean of Students and the Senior Associate Vice President of Public Safety or designee will determine how best to make contact.
Campus Incidents - Dissemination of Information
The Department of Public Safety works directly with the Philadelphia Police Department, other law enforcement agencies, businesses and academic institutions to share information related to crimes that impact our campuses and the surrounding communities. The sharing of information allows the Department of Public Safety to provide the students, faculty and staff with information that allows individuals to make informed decisions while on campus or traveling in the surrounding communities.
Daily Crime Log
The Department of Public Safety maintains a daily crime log of all incidents in the Public Safety Office located at 3201 Arch Street, Suite 350, during normal business hours. An online version of the daily crime log and crime pin map is available at www.Drexel.edu/PublicSafety. In order to provide the Drexel University Community with the most accurate information available, the crime log notes how each incident is classified related to the reporting requirements under state and federal laws. Printed copies of the of the daily crime log are also maintained in the Queen Lane Medical campus security office and in the security office of the Bobst Building located at 1400 Race Street on the Center City Hahnemann Campus.
Please visit www.Drexel.edu/PublicSafety for the daily updated information related to campus crime.
Student Newspaper
The Department of Public Safety provides a summary of incidents and a copy of the Daily Crime Log to the editing staff of the student run newspaper, The Triangle. The Triangle includes a summary of campus and community incidents during the regularly published edition of the paper.
Public Safety Alerts - (Timely Warnings) 
Emergency Notification to the University Community
Drexel University has implemented an emergency notification system called DrexelALERT which enables fast and efficient dissemination of critical information to the Drexel University community including students, faculty and staff of the Drexel University College of Medicine. The system would be activated upon confirmation of a significant emergency or dangerous situation posing an immediate threat to the health or safety of the community.Within minutes, DrexelALERT allows the University to send alerts through text messaging, phone, and e-mail to numerous devices, such as mobile phones, Drexel-owned landline phones, and e-mail accessible devices. This system provides Drexel University students, faculty and staff with an additional layer of security and protection for emergency response, in conjunction with the University's already well-established emergency communication methods, such as Drexel-wide broadcast e-mails, online updates via the Drexel web site homepage, and the coordinated use of public media outlets. The same procedures will be implemented for disseminating information to the larger community.
The effectiveness of this emergency notification system depends upon individuals providing accurate up-to-date personal contact information.
For further assistance and more information about this system, please visit the DrexelALERT web site http://www.drexel.edu/publicsafety/technology/DrexelALERT/faq.aspx.
Web Site
The Department of Public Safety web site contains current security and safety related information for the Drexel University Community. The web site provides instant access to policies and procedures, security tips, public safety alerts, reporting information and information related to the Student Right to Know and Campus Security Act. http://www.drexel.edu/PublicSafety
Situational Awareness & Crime Prevention Programs
Emergency Call Boxes
Emergency call boxes are strategically placed throughout the University City Main Campus for safety and security. The emergency call boxes, when activated, automatically contact the Department of Public Safety Communications Center and notify the dispatcher of the caller's exact location. Whenever a call is received from an emergency callbox, the Public Safety dispatcher will automatically dispatch security personnel to that location. The Public Safety dispatchers are trained to send officers to call box activations regardless if someone answers or not.
Students and staff are encouraged to learn the locations of the emergency call boxes and to use them for all security-related and emergency communications. For more information visit http://www.drexel.edu/publicsafety/technology/telephones.
Walking Escort Services
The Drexel University Department of Public Safety provides walking escorts for all Drexel students, faculty and staff, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to allow safe travel from one location to another. Walking escorts are provided on all campuses to any location within the Department of Public Safety patrol area. On the University City Main Campus it is 30th to 36th Streets / Chestnut to Spring Garden Streets. The Queen Lane Campus also provides a mobile escort service to approved designated areas.
Escorts are also available from 10:00am until 3:00am between 30th & 50th and Spring Garden Street to Woodland Avenue via the University’s partnership with the University City District Ambassador Program.
To Request a Walking Escort:
Medical Escorts
The Drexel University Department of Public Safety provides medical escorts on all campuses for non-life-threatening medical conditions to Drexel University approved hospitals, emergency rooms and healthcare centers. For additional information, contact the Drexel University Communications Center at (215) 895-2822.
Campus Shuttle
The Department of Facilities Management provides campus shuttle service to the University community. Illuminated rooftop signs permit easy shuttle identification from a distance. Members of the Drexel community are permitted unlimited usage at no charge. Upon boarding the shuttle, individuals are required to present a valid Drexel ID card to the driver. Schedules for the shuttle are available at the Creese Student Center and online at http://www.drexel.edu/facilities/ShuttleBrochure.pdf.
Safeguard Your Valuables
Safeguard Your Valuables is an ongoing public safety awareness program, launched in collaboration with the Undergraduate Student Government Association (USGA) and the Office of Student Life, to further promote the idea that “safety and security is a shared responsibility”.
We encourage our Drexel University community to embrace the philosophy that “safety and security is a shared responsibility” and take simple, yet important steps to keep their personal items safe.
Bicycle Registration
All Drexel students, faculty and staff members are encouraged to register their bicycles with Drexel Public Safety. The goals of this program are to heighten awareness in the University community, deter would-be thieves and provide law enforcement with valuable crime-solving information. This free service takes only a few minutes to complete and includes:
Bicycle registration can be completed 24/7 at 118 North 34th Street. For more information, call 215-895-1550.
Rape Aggression Defense Program (RAD)The Rape Aggression Defense Program (RAD) is a comprehensive course for women that begins with the fundamentals of awareness, prevention, risk reduction and avoidance and progresses to basics of hands-on self-defense training. RAD is not a martial arts program. The course is taught by certified RAD instructors and includes a workbook/reference manual that outlines the entire Physical Defense Program for continued personal growth. For more information and a RAD schedule visit Drexel University’s Office of Victim Support & Intervention Services at http://www.drexel.edu/studentlife/ch/VSIS_Main.html.
The Drexel University Police/Residential Living Liaison Program
This program is designed to develop and maintain open lines of communication between residence hall managers and student residents and the Drexel University Police Department. A Drexel police officer is assigned to each residence hall and provides safety and security programming for that building, answers questions and addresses issues that staff or residents may have.
Crime Prevention Seminars
A series of crime prevention seminars and orientations are offered at the start of each semester and periodically throughout the year for all students, faculty and staff. Crime prevention seminars may also be requested by calling 215-895-1550.
Emergency Preparedness
The Department of Public Safety, Office of Fire and Life Safety, has developed an emergency preparedness and response plan. An outline of the plan along with procedures and tips for dealing with an emergency can be located at http://www.drexel.edu/publicsafety/emergencypreparedness.
University Policies
To provide for the safety and security of individuals using Drexel facilities, certain policies have been established. Students and employees are held to the policies and procedures found in the Student Handbook or Human Resource policies and procedures.
The following are of particular importance:
Identification (DragonCards)
All current students, faculty and staff are issued identification cards for the purpose of entering campus buildings and events, as well as to access many University services. All students, faculty and staff are required to produce a proper Drexel ID (DragonCard) upon request from a Public Safety or University official when on any University property. Individuals are not permitted to lend their ID (DragonCard) to another person, use another individual’s Drexel University ID Card or tamper with the ID card in any manner. It is the responsibility of the ID card (DragonCard) holder to notify the DragonCard office if their ID card fails to operate correctly. If an ID card is lost or stolen it should be immediately reported to the Department of Public Safety at 215-895-2822.
Access Control
University buildings are equipped with electronic access control devices that monitor the activity of individuals entering certain University buildings during normal business hours and the activity of all individuals entering buildings after normal business hours.
All University residential halls require that students use their ID card to enter their assigned hall. Guests entering a residence hall are required to show ID and follow all policies and procedure as a guest. Drexel University students are responsible for the actions and behaviors of their guests at all times.
It is a violation of University policy to attempt to use your ID card to enter any area in which access authorization has not been approved by the Department of Public Safety or an authorized department administrator.
Building Access
All University buildings and residence halls are the private property of Drexel University and are posted as such. These buildings are opened at a designated time each morning and secured at a designated time each evening by assigned personnel. Any unauthorized person entering a University building is considered to be trespassing. After-hours access to University buildings is determined by the needs of each department. Once a building has been secured for the evening, only authorized individuals are permitted to enter.
Health and Life Safety Concerns
Individuals are not permitted to bring bicycles or any other vehicle, either manually powered or powered by a motor of any type, into any building owned or operated by Drexel University without authorization from the Office of the Senior Vice President of Student Life and Administrative Services or his designee. Individuals who are granted permission to bring a bicycle into a building must store the bicycle in their private office and cannot impede the access and egress from a building in the event of an emergency.
Pets
Individuals are not permitted to bring pets of any kind into any University building without receiving approval from the Office of the Senior Vice President of Student Life and Administrative Services or his designee.
Possession and Use of Weapons Policy
No student, faculty, staff or visitor shall keep, use, possess, display or transport any rifles, shotguns, handguns, pellet or BB guns, dangerous knives, billy clubs, makeshift weapons, martial arts weapons or any other lethal or dangerous devices capable of casting a projectile by air, gas, explosion, or mechanical means on any property or in any building owned or operated by the University, or in any vehicle on campus. Realistic facsimiles of weapons are also specifically not allowed.
The Senior Vice President for Student Life & Administrative Services and the Senior Associate Vice President for Public Safety have the authority to permit the use and possession of weapons on campus by recognized law enforcement officials.
The Drexel Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) is authorized to store, transport in a secured manner and use firearms only in designated areas approved by the ROTC program when performing functions associated with their official duties.
Alcohol and Drug Policy
The possession, use, distribution or sale of narcotics or drugs, other than those medically prescribed, properly used and stored in the original container, by students, staff or visitors on University property or while on University business is prohibited. Off-campus possession, use, distribution or sale of narcotics or drugs by students or staff are inconsistent with the University's policies and goals, a violation of local and state laws and therefore prohibited. Any and all types of drug paraphernalia including, but not limited to bongs, pipes, and any items modified or adapted so that they can be used to consume drugs are not permitted on University property.
Drexel's policy regarding alcohol is consistent with the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The consumption, distribution or service of alcoholic beverages must comply with the Pennsylvania Liquor and Crimes Code which defines the lawful consumption and service of alcohol and prescribes sanctions for violations.
These policies are further addressed in the Alcohol and Drug Prevention brochure, which is distributed to all students by the Dean of Students Office. This brochure sets forth the prevention, counseling and treatment programs available through the University to students and staff. Copies of this brochure are available in the Office of Student Life and the Department of Human Resources.
Criminal Records
Known criminal records of students and employees are considered during the admission or hiring process. Employees with known criminal records are not permitted to work in security or in public safety assignments.
Important Contact Numbers:
Emergency
University City Main Campus Security 215-895-2222 or 911
Center City Hahnemann Campus Security
(Tenet Health Care Services) 215-762-7111 or 911
Queen Lane Medical Campus Security 215-991-8132 or 911
NON-Emergency
University City Main Campus Security 215-895-2822
Environmental Health and Safety 215-895-5907
Fire and Life Safety 215-895-1550
Medical and Walking Escorts 215-895-2822
Residential Living and University Housing 215-895-6155
Snow Emergency and Closing Information 215-895-MELT (6358)
Victim Support and Intervention Services 215-895-1550
Medical
Student Health Services 215-895-5800
Poison Control Center 800-222-1222
JAMES CREESE STUDENT CENTER
www.drexel.edu/creesestudentcenter
The James Creese Student Center opened in 1963, and is named for Drexel’s sixth president. It is comprised of three connected buildings (Creese Student Center, Mandell Theater, and MacAlister Hall.) The center complements the educational mission of the university through an extensive variety of cultural, educational, social, and recreational programs. While many of the programs are geared towards the needs of students, the center is the main gathering place for all members of the Drexel community by providing services and conveniences that members of the university community need in their daily lives, as well as creates an environment for getting to know and understand others through formal and informal associations.
The Creese Student Center has lounges, meeting rooms, retail dining locations, a fully-equipped theater, a ballroom, and more. The center houses administrative and academic offices and is home to many student organizations via the Greenawalt Student Development Center.
The Creese Student Center is more than just facilities and services - it is also people and programs. Whether it is to become involved in the various student organizations, eat a meal, or find a place to gather with friends, you’ll find it in the Creese Student Center.
Administrative Offices
The Student Union Operations staff is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Creese Student Center and Ross Commons with offices located on the first floor of the Creese Student Center. Student Union Operations staff are dedicated to making your experience in these facilities satisfying and enriching.
Event Services
Conference and meeting rooms within the Creese Student Center, as well as additional areas on campus used for non-academic purposes may be reserved by recognized student organizations, University departments, and outside groups through the Event Services office. Reservations can be made by submitting a request form which can be found at www.drexel.edu/eventservices or by filling out a form at the Events Services office, located in the garden lower level, room 001 of the Creese Student Center. All services pertaining to the event or meeting are also coordinated in this office. For additional information on event reservation, please contact the Event Services at 215.895.2520 or via email at reservations@drexel.edu.
Drexel University Student Technicians (DUST)
Drexel University Student Technical (DUST) staff technically supports the audiovisual needs for an array of campus functions, including lectures, films, teleconferences and concerts. They assist event planners in deciding upon equipment needs. To reserve DUST Services, please submit a request form which can be found at www.drexel.edu/eventservices. For additional information on DUST services, please contact the DUST office 215.895.1330 or via email at dusttech@drexel.edu
Main Lounge
Located conveniently off the Creese entrance, the main lounge offers students an informal place to relax and meet friends. Amenities include comfortable seating, light music, and a fireplace. Various entertainment programs are presented throughout the year.
The Information Desk
Located on the first floor of Creese, the Information Desk is the hub of the center, offering information on what is happening in the center, on campus, and in the city. This one-stop-shop for all of your questions is also the coordinating point for all building operations. Services available at the Information Desk include:
- SEPTA regional rail schedules
- SEPTA token machine
- Discounted movie tickets
- Umbrella sales
- SEPTA ComPass Program
- SmartCard (parking meter) sales
- Lost and found
- ID validation
- Temporary ID issuance
- Laptop borrowing
- Area attraction information
- Flyer approval and posting
Charlotte Alletag Commuter Lounge
The commuter lounge is located on the garden lower level of Creese and is open to all students. The lounge is an informal space for students to relax, study, and socialize with small tables for informal group study, internet portals, and a big screen television with cable.
Quiet Lounge
The quiet lounge is located between the main lounge and the Mandell Theater and is a designated quiet place for students to relax and study.
The George D. Behrakis Grand Hall
Located off the main lounge, the George D. Behrakis Grand Hall is the center’s ballroom. Accommodating up to 1,200 people, the Grand Hall is used for banquets, lectures, meetings, dances, concerts, and other entertainment programs. To reserve Grand Hall, please contact Event Services office at 215.895.2520.
The Greenawalt Student Development Center
Located on the lower level of Creese, the Greenawalt Student Development Center houses various student organization offices.. The Student Development Center also has four conference rooms that student organizations can be reserve by contacting Event Services office at 215.895.2520.
Mandell Theater
The Mandell Theater is a fully equipped proscenium theater seating 424 people. Serving the Drexel community through its regular use as a performing arts and programming facility, the Mandell Theater can be reserved through the College of Media Arts and Design at 215.895.2528.
The University Club at the Drexel Conference Center
The University Club is located on the sixth floor of MacAlister Hall. It is a private club that offers faculty/staff and their guests a dining area for lunch. The private dining room may be reserved by student organizations for a variety of functions. For rental rates please contact the Events Services Office at 215.895.2520.
The Dragon Shops
Located on the first floor of MacAlister Hall, the Dragon Shops are retail operations that provide students with a variety of supplies and services.
Barnes & Noble Drexel University Bookstore
Source for all required class textbooks and leisure reading, among Drexel spirit wear, gifts, cards, snacks and refreshments. 215.895.2860
The Hair House
Provides hair styling services to men and women, no appointment necessary. 215.895.2519
A.J. Drexelbank
Providing online banking services. For information, visit www.AJDrexelbank.com or stop by their campus convenience center.
Drexel Copy Center
Operated by Drexel Printing & Mailing Services, the Copy Center provides services including copies, printing, posters, oversize prints, digital color copies, bindery, mailing services, give-away items and fax services. Visit www.drexel.edu/copyshop or call 215.895.2898.
Dragon Shop Lounge
Located on the first floor of MacAlister Hall next to the retail shops. With large study tables and chairs, it is an ideal place to work on group projects
ROSS COMMONS
www.drexel.edu/rosscommons
Located at 34th Street & Powelton Avenue, Ross Commons is a unique facility on the north side of the Drexel University City Main Campus offering students a combination of lounge, eating, computer, event and study spaces. Designed by T.P. Lonsdale and built in 1888 as a “railroad magnate” mansion, the four-story Ross Commons is a limestone Victorian Gothic building acquired by Drexel in 1928. This elegant mansion has been restored due in part to a generous gift from Lyn and George Ross ‘55, Hon. ‘99, a Drexel Trustee and former Chairman of the Drexel University Board of Trustees.
On the 1st Floor of Ross there are two dining locations: TAKE 3! featuring Freschetta Pizza and the Grille, as well as an enclosed porch and a patio with table seating.
Dining plan customers may TAKE 3! by choosing an entrée, a side, and a beverage (as well as a bonus cookie of the day) and swap their Handschumacher lunch or dinner for TAKE 3!, Monday through Friday from 11am to 8pm.
The 2nd Floor houses a Game Room that features flat screen TVs, two pool tables and a mega touch game screen. The 2nd Floor also features two lounges with TVs, chairs and sofas that can be reserved by contacting Event Services at 215.895.2520.
The 3rd floor features the new Ross Resource Center with printers, a copier, PCs and iMacs and additional meeting rooms and offices.
Meeting rooms and other available space at Ross can be reserved by contacting Event Services at 215.895.2520.
For activities and programs, as well as what’s new at Ross, please call the hotline at 215.895.1000 or visit www.drexel.edu/rosscommons.
DRAGONCARD STUDENT ID
www.drexel.edu/dragoncard
The DragonCard is the official identification card of Drexel University. It serves to identify students, staff, and faculty of Drexel University and is a tool to access buildings, meal plans, Dragon Dollars, and other on-campus services. The DragonCard is the property of Drexel University and is governed by regulations as set forth by the University.
There is a DragonCard office located at each of the three Drexel campuses to manage card issuance and card services:
University City Main Campus
124 Creese Student Center
3210 Chestnut Street
215.895.6095
Center City Hahnemann Campus
608 New College Building
245 N 15th Street
215.762.6680
Queen Lane Medical Campus
Room 100
2900 Queen Lane
215.991.8132
Card Issuance
DragonCards are issued only to students who are registered for classes (or are on an official co-op assignment) for the current term. In order to receive a DragonCard, students must show the DragonCard representative a valid photo driver’s license, valid state-issued photo non-drivers ID, or a valid passport. Recipients must physically visit one of the DragonCard Offices in order to have their photo taken and receive their DragonCard. DragonCards can not be mailed and cannot be issued to another person on the cardholder’s behalf. Hats and sunglasses must be removed for the photo. Students who are also faculty/staff members will receive only one DragonCard that states their primary function at the University. In most cases this is “Faculty” or “Staff”, and not “Student”.
Temporary identification cards are issued as a service at the request of the student. These temporary cards are valid for a one-week time frame and students may only receive one temporary identification card per term. In order to receive a temporary ID card, students must be registered for the current term.
Card Possession
The DragonCard must be carried at all times while on University-owned property as students may be required to produce proper Drexel identification to a Public Safety officer or University official. Students may only have one DragonCard in their possession; additional DragonCards must be turned in to the DragonCard Office.
The DragonCard is not transferable and is not permitted to be used by anyone other than the cardholder. The DragonCard must be surrendered on demand if requested by a Public Safety officer or University official.
Validation
Each calendar year, it is the responsibility of the student to bring their DragonCard to one of the validation locations to have their registration status verified and receive a validation sticker noting the current calendar year. Students without validated DragonCards are not permitted access to most buildings and services on campus.
Card Replacement
There is a $20.00 fee to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged DragonCard. Examples of damaged cards include, but are not limited to, punched holes, bends, cracks, and tears. DragonCards that no longer work, but show no visible damage to the card, will be replaced at no cost. Faded cards with no visible damage will also be replaced at no cost.
There is a $20 fee to replace a card due to a name change. A card that is replaced due to a change in primary status of “Faculty, Staff, Grad, or Student”, however, will not be assessed a fee.
Fees must be paid by cash, credit card, or Dragon Dollars at the time of replacement.
Card Access
Access is granted, as appropriate, to currently enrolled, active students. Students who are inactive, or have a hold on their account, will not be able to use their DragonCard for access to buildings, meal plans, Dragon Dollars, or other University services. If your DragonCard is not working, please visit one of the DragonCard Offices to resolve the issue.
Students utilize the DragonCard to access to the following buildings and services:
Residence Halls
University Housing will activate a student’s card to gain access to the residence hall in which the student is assigned. Students must also present the card to the desk representative once inside the building.
Parking
Upon purchase of a parking permit from Drexel Parking Services (web site) access will be granted to gated garages and lots via the DragonCard.
Daskalakis Athletic Center (DAC)
Drexel students are automatically given access to the DAC based on their primary status of “Student”. Faculty and Staff gain access once a membership fee is paid to the Athletic Department. Please call 215-895-1419 for more information.
Campus Buildings
If the student’s academic or co-curricular program requires after-hours access to a campus facility, access is granted after approval by the appropriate University department, facility manager, and Public Safety.
Laptop Checkout
Present your DragonCard at the Creese Information Desk, Ross, Korman Center or Hagerty Library to borrow a laptop to utilize Drexel’s wireless network within the building.
Drexel Shuttles
All Drexel University students, staff, and faculty must show a current, validated DragonCard to ride the Drexel Shuttles.
Library
A valid DragonCard is required for entrance into the library and to checkout materials.
Dining and Stored Value Services
Students can use their DragonCard to access their meal plans and Dragon Dollars accounts. After the initial sign-up is complete, simply present to the cashier your DragonCard.
Jointly Funded Accounts on the DragonCard
Parents and Guardians can jointly fund the Dragon Dollars account by also signing the
Stored Value Escrow Agreement. Parents and Guardians listed on the account can obtain access to account balance and transaction history information. Those wishing to add funds to an account without jointly funding the account can still do so by making “gift payments”.
Adding Funds to the Dragon Dollars Account
Additions to the account can be made at any time and in any amount you choose. There are many ways to add funds:
■ Over the phone with a credit or debit card number
■ Through the mail with a check payable to Drexel University
■ In person at the DragonCard office with cash, check, or credit card
■ At the on-campus load stations with cash
STUDENT CONDUCT and
COMMUNITY STANDARDS
Student Conduct Policy 2009-10
Section 1: General Information
Responsible Dragon Protocol
Section 2: Code of Conduct
Policies A to Z
Section 3: Procedures
Disciplinary Procedures
General Procedures
General Procedures for Students Subject to Drug Testing
General Procedures – Academic Integrity Cases
Section 4: Rights
Section 5: Conduct Board and Hearing Format
Section 6: Sanctions
Section 7: Appeals
NOTE:
Information about the Academic Integrity policy can be found in Section 2: Code of Conduct, Section 3: Procedures and Section 7: Appeals.
SECTION 1: GENERAL INFORMATION
Authority and Responsibility
In furtherance of its responsibility to make known the rules and regulations concerning student conduct and ensure basic procedural protections to students charged with violations of the University’s policies, the University has adopted a student conduct policy. The President of the University has conferred upon the Senior Vice President the responsibility of administering this policy. Any question of interpretation regarding it shall be referred to the Assistant Dean of Student Conduct and Community Standards for final determination.
Students have the responsibility to be aware of, and abide by, the University’s policies, rules, regulations, and standards of conduct. This Handbook is available on-line for all students and student organizations (hereafter: students) so they may become knowledgeable concerning the standards of conduct Drexel requires of its students and, more generally, the policies by which all members of the University community must abide.
Drexel also expects that every student abide by the laws of the United States and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Drexel subscribes to the view that, where practical, it shall deal with matters of student misconduct internally. However, where student misconduct implicates federal, state, or local laws, the appropriate law enforcement officials may be contacted.
Statement of Philosophy and Purpose
Drexel University strives to be a leader in the higher education world, and expects students’ conduct to reflect the highest standards of global citizenship. Therefore, all students should conduct themselves responsibly and in a manner that reflects favorably upon themselves and the University. When students do not conduct themselves responsibly, fail to recognize or violate the rights and privileges of other individuals, or behave in a manner inconsistent with University policies, rules, regulations, or standards of conduct, formal disciplinary action may result.
The conduct process at Drexel reflects the University’s concern that students maintain high standards. It provides procedural protections to any student charged with a violation of a University policy, rule, regulation, or standard of conduct. The conduct process attempts to foster personal learning and growth, while at the same time holding individuals and organizations accountable for unacceptable behavior.
Jurisdiction
Cases of alleged violations of University policies, rules, regulations, or standards of conduct are handled through the University conduct process for the following:
- Full-time or part-time undergraduate, graduate, and/or continuing education students.
- All recognized student organizations.
- Behaviors occurring on and off campus.
In all cases, if a student withdraws from the University after engaging in conduct that may violate any of the University’s policies, rules, regulations, or standards of conduct, but before the alleged violation has been adjudicated through the conduct process, the student’s record is placed on hold and the student shall not be permitted to return to the University until a final decision is made. If a previously-enrolled student is not currently enrolled and engages in conduct that may violate any of the University’s policies, rules, regulations, or standards of conduct, the University may place a hold on the student’s record and require them to account for this conduct prior to allowing them to re-enroll.
In addition, if a prospective student has engaged in any conduct that may violate any of the University’s policies, rules, regulations, or standards of conduct, depending upon the nature of the alleged violation, the prospective student may not be permitted to enroll or re-enroll in the University until and unless conduct proceedings are conducted in his/her favor. A student will not be approved for graduation until all proceedings have been completed.
If a student engages in prohibited activity on behalf of their student organization, both the student and the student organization may be charged with a violation(s) of the code of conduct.
Prohibited Conduct
The University’s policies, rules, regulations, and standards of conduct are set forth herein. It is incumbent upon every student to familiarize himself/herself with the standards of conduct that the University requires of all members of its community. All conduct that violates those policies, including any conduct that occurs off campus but which, in the University’s sole judgment, has a direct and immediate effect on the discipline and general welfare of the University and/or the pursuit of the University’s mission, shall be subject to the University’s conduct process.
Responsible Dragon Protocol (RDP)
Drexel University’s primary concern is the health and safety of its students. The University is aware that students are sometimes reluctant to seek medical attention in alcohol- and other drug-related emergencies out of fear that they may face sanctions related to possessing or consuming alcohol or other drugs. Because these emergencies are potentially life-threatening, Drexel University seeks to create a culture of trust and care paired with safety and responsibility while reducing any barriers that would prevent students from seeking assistance by implementing the Responsible Dragon Protocol (RDP).
Description of the Responsible Dragon Protocol (RDP)
The RDP provides consideration for alternative consequences for students who, while under the influence of alcohol or other drugs, responsibly report alcohol and/or other drug-related emergencies to the proper authorities for the intention of seeking medical or safety assistance for anyone in need of emergency care. Alternative consequences should not be confused with amnesty.Description of and Requirements during Emergency Situations
Students who find themselves in a situation that requires emergency care of another should contact the Department of Public Safety at 215-895-2222, call 911 if off-campus, and/or immediately seek assistance from a Residence Hall/University staff member to report the details needed by emergency response personnel.Scope of Protection
The University will consider the positive impact of reporting an incident when determining the appropriate sanctions for policy violations. In such cases, any possible negative consequences for the reporter of the situation will be evaluated against the possible negative consequences for the student who needed assistance.Students needing medical assistance during an alcohol- or other drug-related emergency will not face disciplinary/conduct action for the mere possession/use of alcohol or drugs. However, staff from the University’s Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards will seek a mutually agreeable resolution to the matter, when possible, while meeting with the same student to discuss the incident. This student may be required to participate in an appropriate educational program.
Other Requirements / Conditions
Even if there is not a disciplinary action, the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards will maintain a file of each case that may be used to establish a pattern of history should subsequent alcohol or other drug violations occur. Conduct violations do not appear on the student’s academic transcript.Institutional Discretion Statement
Based on the totality of the incident, the University hearing officer will make the final determination as to the applicability of the Responsible Dragon Protocol and reserves the right to reduce any sanctions or outcomes, including dismissing any and all charges against a student.Important Policy Limitations
Students should be aware that the Responsible Dragon Protocol does not prevent action by local and state authorities when the situation warrants outside involvement.Credit to: Clemson University, Drake University, The University of Georgia, Lehigh University, Northeastern University, Northern Iowa University, The University of Vermont
Violations of the Law and University Policies
University disciplinary proceedings may be instituted against a student charged with a violation of the law that is also a violation of a University policy, rule, regulation, or standard of conduct. Disciplinary action at the University may proceed without regard to pending civil litigation or criminal arrest and prosecution. Such proceedings may be carried out prior to, simultaneously with, or following civil or criminal proceedings. The University’s disciplinary action will not be subject to challenge on the ground that external charges or litigation involving the same incident have been dismissed or reduced.
Disciplinary Files and Records
All disciplinary records are kept in accordance with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) and the Clery Act (1990). Subject to the provisions and exceptions of FERPA, all disciplinary files are private. Files may only be reviewed in the presence of the Assistant Dean of Student Conduct and Community Standards or designee. Nothing may be removed, added, or copied.
The University will retain physical disciplinary records (non-Clery) for resolved cases for one year after the graduation of the student or one year after the expected graduation for inactive students. The University reserves the right to keep records for a longer period of time if unresolved or deemed necessary. In cases of expulsion, the University will retain records indefinitely. The University may disclose the final results of a disciplinary proceeding against a student found in violation of a University policy, rule, regulation or standard of conduct involving any crime of violence or a non-forcible sex offense. In such cases, the University will only release the name of the student found in violation, the violation committed and any sanctions imposed on the student.
Responsibilities of the Assistant Dean of Student Conduct and Community Standards or Designee
The Assistant Dean of Student Conduct and Community Standards or designee directs the efforts of students, faculty, and staff Conduct Board members in matters involving student behavior.
Responsibilities include:
- Receiving and reviewing formal complaints.
- Advising parties of the conduct process.
- Supervising, training, and advising the Conduct Board members.
- Maintaining all student conduct records.
- Collecting and disseminating research and analysis concerning student conduct.
- Submitting quarterly statistical reports, reporting the number of cases referred to the office, the number of cases resulting in disciplinary action, and the range of sanctions imposed.
The Conduct Review Process
The Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards shall meet with the Conduct Board members and other members of the University community, such as the Assistant Dean of Residential Living, Dean of Students, and/or Senior Associate Vice President for Public Safety on an annual basis. Together, this group shall make recommendations to the Senior Vice President concerning improvements and revisions to the conduct process, standards of conduct, and sanctions.
SECTION 2: CODE OF CONDUCT
What follows is a listing of the University policies, rules, and regulations that prescribe the standards of conduct the University requires of students and members of the University community. You are required to become familiar with these policies and must comply with them. Violations of any of these policies will be dealt with in accordance with the appropriate University procedure.
Academic Integrity
Violations of the Academic Integrity policy include, but are not limited to: 1. Plagiarism, 2. Fabrication, 3. Cheating, and 4. Academic Misconduct. The intent to violate this policy also represents a violation on this policy.
1. Plagiarism
Plagiarism is the inclusion of someone else’s words, ideas, or data as one’s own work. When a student submits work for credit that includes the words, ideas, or data of others, the source of that information must be acknowledged through complete, accurate, and specific references, and, if verbatim statements are included, through quotation marks as well. By placing his/her name on work submitted for credit, the student certifies the originality of all work not otherwise identified by appropriate acknowledgments. Plagiarism covers unpublished as well as published sources. Examples of plagiarism include, but are not limited to:
- Quoting another person’s actual words, complete sentences or paragraphs, or an entire piece of written work without acknowledgment of the source.
- Using another person’s ideas, opinions, or theory, even if it is completely paraphrased in one’s own words without acknowledgment of the source.
- Borrowing facts, statistics, or other illustrative materials that are not clearly common knowledge without acknowledgment of the source.
- Copying another student’s essay test answers.
- Copying, or allowing another student to copy, a computer file that contains another student’s assignment, and submitting it, in part or in its entirety, as one’s own.
- Working together on an assignment, sharing the computer files and programs involved, and then submitting individual copies of the assignment as one’s own individual work.
Students are urged to consult with individual faculty members, academic departments, or recognized handbooks in their field if in doubt regarding issues of plagiarism.
2. Fabrication
Fabrication is the use of invented information or the falsification of research or other findings. Examples include, but are not limited to:
- Citation of information not taken from the source indicated. This may include the incorrect documentation of secondary source materials.
- Listing sources in a bibliography not used in the academic exercise.
- Submission in a paper, thesis, lab report, or other academic exercise of falsified, invented, or fictitious data or information, or deliberate and knowing concealment or distortion of the true nature, origin, or function of such data or information.
- Submitting as your own written work, printing, sculpture, etc. prepared totally or in part by another.
3. Cheating
Cheating is an act or an attempted act of deception by which a student seeks to misrepresent that he or she has mastered information on an academic exercise that he/she has not mastered. Examples include, but are not limited to:
- Copying from another student’s test paper.
- Allowing another student to copy from a test paper.
- Unauthorized use of course textbook or other materials, such as a notebook to complete a test or other assignment.
- Collaborating on a test, quiz, or other project with any other person(s) without authorization.
- Using or processing specifically prepared materials during a test such as notes, formula lists, notes written on the students clothing, etc. that are not authorized.
- Taking a test for someone else or permitting someone else to take a test for you.
4. Academic Misconduct
Academic misconduct includes other dishonest acts such as tampering with grades or taking part in obtaining or distributing any part of an administered or unadministered test/assignment. Examples include, but are not limited to:
- Stealing, buying, or otherwise obtaining all or part of an administered or unadministered test.
- Selling or giving away all or part of an administered or unadministered test including questions and/or answers.
- Bribing any other person to obtain an administered or unadministered test or any information about the test.
- Entering a building or office for the purpose of changing a grade in a grade book, on a test, or on other work for which a grade is given.
- Entering a building or office for the purpose of obtaining an administered or unadministered test.
- Changing, altering, or being an accessory to the changing and/or altering of a grade in a grade book, on a test, a “change of grade” form, or other official academic records of the University that relate to grades.
- Continuing to work on an examination or project after the specified allotted time has elapsed.
- Any buying or otherwise acquiring any theme, report, term paper, essay, computer software, other written work, painting, drawing, sculpture, or other scholastic art work, and handing it in as your own to fulfill academic requirements.
- Any selling, giving, or otherwise supplying to another student for use in fulfilling academic requirements, any theme, report, term paper, essay, computer software, other written work, painting, drawing, sculpture, or other scholastic art work.
- Scientific Misconduct. See http://www.drexel.edu/provost/policies/scientific_misconduct.asp
Sanction Guidelines for Violating the Academic Integrity policy
First offense:
If an act of academic dishonesty is determined to have occurred, for a first offense, one of the following sanctions will be imposed, depending on the severity of the offense:
- Reduction of a course grade.
- An “F” for the assignment or exam.
- Failure for the entire course with the inability to withdraw.
- Other action deemed appropriate by the faculty member.
Examples of other action deemed appropriate include, but are not limited to, requiring the student to re-take the exam, re-complete an assignment, or complete an assigned exercise. The decision of the faculty member and the department head shall be reported to the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards, which is responsible for maintaining student conduct records. The incident will result in an official disciplinary record for the student(s).
Second offense:Suspension or expulsion.
A violation of the Academic Integrity policy discovered after the conferral of a degree is grounds for Withdrawal of (Rescind) Degree.
Aiding and Abetting
Attempting, encouraging, assisting, conspiring, hiring, or being an accessory to any behaviors prohibited herein shall be considered a violation of the University’s policies, rules, and regulations and standards of conduct to the same extent as if a student had engaged in the prohibited conduct him/herself.
Alcohol
Drexel University’s policy regarding alcohol is consistent with the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The consumption, distribution, or service of alcoholic beverages must be in compliance with the Pennsylvania liquor and crime codes, which define the lawful consumption and service of alcohol and prescribe sanctions for violations. The consumption, distribution, or service of alcoholic beverages must also comply with University regulations and policies.
Violations of the University alcohol policy include, but are not limited to:
- Possession, use, or distribution of alcohol by underage persons.
- Disruptive conduct due all or in part to being under the influence of alcohol.
- Providing alcohol to underage persons or providing a space for the consumption of alcohol by underage persons.
- Possession of an open alcohol container in a public area regardless of the individual’s age.
- Possession or use of bulk containers on campus including, but not limited to, kegs, beer balls, or any other object that would promote binge drinking.
The University expects that all of its students, whether on or off campus, will abide by the University’s regulations concerning alcohol and other drug use. When a student engages in conduct off-campus that violates the University’s regulations concerning alcohol and drug use and such violation results in behavior which, in the University’s sole judgment, is destructive, abusive, or detrimental to the University’s interests, the University’s conduct process shall apply and such matters will be processed accordingly.
See also Residence Hall and 34th Street Housing policies on alcohol consumption and possession located in the Residential Living Office and 34th Street Housing sections of the Student Handbook.
Sanction Guidelines for Violating the Alcohol Policy
The University considers the sanctions listed below to be guidelines when adjudicating alcohol violations. Each incident is reviewed on an individual basis. Depending on the specifics of the incident, more or less severe sanctions may be imposed.
First Violation: Alcohol education; $100.00 fine; Disciplinary probation for one year; Parental Notification.
Second Violation: Substance abuse referral; $200.00 fine; Deferred Loss of Housing and/or Deferred Suspension; Parental Notification; Extension of probation.
Third Violation: Suspension from the University and/or one or more of the following: Loss of Housing Privileges; Deferred Suspension from University; $200.00 fine; Parental Notification.
Bicycles
No bicycle may be kept inside academic, administrative, or restricted areas of residential buildings. Damages caused by the storage or transportation of a bicycle are the responsibility of the bicycle’s owner.
Bicycles are not to be ridden inside any University buildings. Bicycles may not be stored or parked in hallways, stairways, or the public areas in University buildings, as this poses a safety hazard. Motorcycles or motorbikes must not be stored or parked within University buildings, on the walkways, landscaped areas, or in the entrance areas of any University buildings.
Residence halls are equipped with bike racks. Students may store their bikes in the halls only if they are current residents. Residents are expected to exercise caution when using the bike racks by providing the necessary locks.
Camping or Shelter Construction
Constructing shelters, camping, or sleeping on Drexel-owned or operated properties is prohibited at all times unless otherwise authorized by the Department of Public Safety.
Computer/Network Acceptable Use Policy
Drexel University’s Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) sets forth the standards by which all students, faculty, staff and authorized guests (hereafter referred to collectively as User(s)) may use their assigned computer accounts, email services and the shared Drexel University network. The use of Drexel’s computer and network resources including all electronic communication systems and equipment (hereafter referred to collectively as the Drexel Network) is a revocable privilege.
The Drexel Network is provided to support Drexel University business and its mission of education, service and research. Any other uses, including uses that jeopardize the integrity of the Drexel Network, the privacy or safety of other Users, or that are otherwise illegal are prohibited.
By using or accessing the Drexel Network, Users agree to comply with the AUP and other applicable Drexel policies which may be implemented from time to time, as well as all Federal, state, local laws and regulations. Using and/or accessing the Drexel Network without proper authorization is strictly prohibited.
I. Principles
General guidelines for acceptable use of the Drexel Network are based on the following principles:
- Users are expected to behave responsibly with respect to the Drexel Network at all times.
- Users are expected to respect the integrity and the security of the Drexel Network.
- Users are expected to behave in a manner consistent with Drexel’s mission and comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and Drexel policies.
- Users are expected to be considerate of the needs of other Users by making every reasonable effort not to impede the ability of others to use the Drexel Network and show restraint in the consumption of shared resources.
- Users are expected to respect the rights and property of others, including privacy, confidentiality and intellectual property.
II. Access Requirements
The following statements govern access to the Drexel Network:
- All access is denied unless expressly granted. The Office of Information Resources and Technology (IRT) generally grants access in the form of computer and network accounts to registered students, faculty, staff, and others as appropriate for such purposes as research, education (including self study), or University administration. Passwords and/or personal identification numbers protect university accounts.
- Accounts are assigned to individuals and are not to be shared unless specifically authorized by IRT. Each User is solely responsible for all functions performed from accounts assigned to them. It is a violation of the AUP for any User to allow others (including other Users within the Drexel Network) to use or have access to their account. It is a violation to use another User’s account, with or without that person’s permission. Intentionally or negligently revealing one’s password is prohibited. It is a violation to attempt to learn the password to another User’s account, whether the attempt is successful or not
- The password used with an account, is the equivalent of an electronic signature. The use of User ID and password authenticates an identity and gives online affirmations the force of a legal document.
- Users are responsible for ensuring that they also comply with all IRT policies, including those related to keeping the Drexel Network secure such as the Security of Information and Networked Systems Plan and the Security of Enterprise Systems Plan, which can be found at www.drexel.edu/irt/policies.
III. Prohibitions
The following activities are specifically prohibited:
- Users may not attempt to disguise their identity, the identity of their account or the machine that they are using. Users may not attempt to impersonate another person or organization. Users may not appropriate Drexel University‘s name, network names, network number spaces, or Drexel University logos, trademarks or servicemarks. Users may not use Drexel University‘s assigned Internet number space for their own domain without the prior express permission of IRT.
- Users may not attempt to intercept, monitor, forge, alter or destroy other Users’ communications. Users may not infringe upon the privacy of others’ computer or data. Users may not read, copy, change, or delete another User’s data or communications without the prior express permission of the owner.
- Users may not engage in actions that disrupt or interfere with the legitimate use by other Users of any computers and/or networks, including the Drexel Network, that interfere with the supervisory or accounting functions of the systems, or that are likely to have such effects. Such conduct includes, but is not limited to: placing of unlawful information on the system, transmitting data or programs likely to result in the loss of an individual’s work or system downtime, sending “chain letters” or “broadcast” messages to lists or individuals, or any other use that causes congestion of any networks or interferes with the work of others, i.e. spam.
- Users may not distribute or send unlawful communications of any kind, including but not limited to threats of violence, obscenity, child pornography and/or harassing communications (as defined by law).
- Users may not attempt to bypass computer or network security mechanisms, including the Drexel Network, without the prior express permission of the owner of that computer or network system. Possession of tools that bypass security or probe security, or of files that may be used as input or output for such tools, shall be considered as the equivalent to such an attempt. The unauthorized scanning of the Drexel Network is also prohibited.
- Users must obey all established guidelines for any computers or networks used both inside and outside Drexel University. For example, individuals using computing resources provided by IRT, Drexel University Libraries, individual Colleges, Schools or Departments must adhere to the policies established for use of those resources. Users accessing off-campus computers via external networks must abide by the policies established by the off-campus owners of those computers and networks as well.
- Users may not engage in the unauthorized copying, distributing, altering or translating of copyrighted materials, software, music or other media without the express permissions of the copyright holder. Information on the Digital Millennium Copyright Act can be found at www.copyright.gov/legislation/dmca.pdf and the Copyright Act at www.copyright.gov/title17.
- Users may not use the Drexel Network for private business, commercial or political activities, fundraising, or advertising on behalf of non-Drexel organizations, unlawful activities or uses that violate other Drexel University policies. Users may not extend or share the Drexel Network.
- Users may not violate any laws or ordinances, including, but not limited to, copyright, discrimination, harassment, and/or export controls. Drexel University may contact local or federal law enforcement authorities to investigate any matter at its sole discretion.
The use of the Drexel Network is also required to conform to the following Drexel University policies:
- OGC – 5 The Code of Conduct
- HR – 1 Affirmative Action & Equal Opportunity
- HR – 2 Non-Discriminate/Reasonable Accommodation of Individuals with Disabilities
- HR – 3 Harassment Policy
IV. Monitoring
In appropriate circumstances, Drexel University reserves the right to review and/or monitor any emails or transmissions sent or received through the Drexel Network, at its sole discretion.
Penalties for violating the AUP may include restricted access or loss of access to the Drexel Network, termination and/or expulsion from Drexel University and in some cases, civil and/or criminal liability.
Drexel University reserves the right to update or revise the AUP or implement additional policies in the future. Users are responsible for staying informed about Drexel University policies regarding the use of computer and network resources and complying with all applicable policies. The most current version of the IRT AUP is at http://www.drexel.edu/IRT_new/policies/acceptableUse.html
Destruction/Attempted Destruction of Property
No student shall intentionally or negligently damage, attempt to damage, or participate in the damage of property belonging to or in the care of the University, a member of the University community, or a campus visitor. Acts of vandalism on and off-campus shall be considered a violation of this policy. Damage that is caused accidentally should be promptly reported to a residence hall staff member or to an appropriate University official. Failure to report accidental damage will be considered a violation of this regulation.
Detrimental Behavior
All members of the University community are expected to uphold standards that reflect credit to themselves and the institution and abide by all University policies, rules, regulations, and standards of conduct while on and off campus. Should the conduct or action of a student, or group of students, be detrimental to the general welfare of the University, regardless of whether such conduct is specifically prohibited by any University policy, rule, regulation, or standard of conduct, such student or group of students shall be immediately subject to disciplinary action in accordance with the University’s conduct process.
Discrimination
The University prohibits discrimination and harassment against individuals based on race, color, religion, gender (sex), pregnancy, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, identify and expression, and veteran status. All complaints of student discrimination, harassment, and retaliation should be reported to the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards who will work in conjunction with the Office of Equality and Diversity. All complaints of non-student discrimination, harassment, and retaliation should be reported to the Office of Equality and Diversity. http://www.drexel.edu/eo/Policies.html
Dishonesty
Any student who furnishes false information to the University or to University officials or who is aware of false information being furnished by others with the intent to deceive (and does not correct that false information), or any student who withholds information pertinent to student misconduct, or who alters or misuses any official documents including, but not limited to, grade change forms, academic transcripts, course change forms, course withdraw forms, or evaluation forms may be in violation of this policy and separated from the University. Taking a test for someone else or soliciting someone to take a test for you is a violation of this policy. Lying to a University official is a violation of this policy (See also Academic Integrity and Falsification of Information).
Sanction Guidelines for Violating the Dishonesty Policy
Dishonesty related to disclosure in a drug policy case is grounds for suspension.
Disruption
Conduct that a reasonable person would view as substantially or repeatedly interfering with the normal functioning of a class, clinical setting, coop setting, residence hall or other setting is prohibited. Such conduct includes, but is not limited to, repeatedly leaving and entering a classroom without authorization, making loud or distracting noises, persisting in speaking without being recognized, repeatedly dominating online discussion boards or forums, or resorting to physical threats or personal insults. Students are responsible to comply with a request from a professor, instructor, supervisor, or other official regarding appropriate behavior.
Additionally, conduct that interferes with, impairs, or obstructs the orderly conduct, processes and functions of the University or which may adversely and unreasonably impinge on the legitimate interest of others is prohibited. Such conduct includes, but is not limited to, excessive noise, public intoxication, loud or indecent conduct, interference with the ability of others to enter, use, or exit any University facility, service, or activity, intentionally interfering with the freedom of expression or movement of others, interfering with University activity such as teaching, research, recreation, meetings, and public events, physical violence, reasonable apprehension of harm, or threat of violence against oneself or any member or guest of the University community. This prohibition extends to conduct outside the University that, in the University’s sole judgment, is detrimental to its mission and interests.
Drugs
The possession and/or use of narcotics or drugs, other than those medically prescribed, properly used, and in the original container is prohibited. Providing a space for the consumption of narcotics or drugs is prohibited. The distribution and/or sale of narcotics or drugs is prohibited.
Off-campus possession, use, distribution, or sale of narcotics or drugs is inconsistent with the University’s policies and goals, and is therefore prohibited. The University reserves the right to invoke the University Conduct process to the extent that off-campus drug use leads to behavior that in the University’s sole judgment is destructive, abusive, or detrimental to the University’s interests.
Any and all types of drug paraphernalia including, but not limited to, bongs, pipes, water pipes, or any items modified or adapted so that they can be used to consume or use drugs, are not permitted on University property. Drugs and drug paraphernalia will be confiscated when found on University property.
Sanction Guidelines for Violating the Drug Policy
The University considers the sanctions listed below to be guidelines when adjudicating drug policy violations. Each incident is reviewed on an individual basis. Depending on the specifics of the incident, more or less severe sanctions may be imposed.
First Violation: Suspension; Loss of Housing; Ban from Residence Halls; Counseling Evaluation; Parental Notification; possibility of Expulsion.
NOTE: While not directly related to the Student Conduct process, students should be aware of amendments to the Higher Education Act of 1965 and the penalties under section 484(r) that address criminal convictions for drug-related offenses. Section 484 has been amended to include the following information:
(r) SUSPENSION OF ELIGIBILITY FOR DRUG-RELATED OFFENSES-
(1) IN GENERAL- A student who has been convicted of any offense under any Federal or State law involving the possession or sale of a controlled substance shall not be eligible to receive any grant, loan, or work assistance under this title during the period beginning on the date of such conviction and ending after the interval specified in the following table:
If convicted of an offense involving:
| The possession of a controlled substance: | Inegibility period is: |
| First Offense | 1 year |
| Second Offense | 2 years |
| Third Offense | Indefinite |
| The sale of a controlled substance: | Inegibility period is: |
| First Offense | 2 years |
| Second Offense | Indefinite |
(2) REHABILITATION- A student whose eligibility has been suspended under paragraph (1) may resume eligibility before the end of the ineligibility period determined under such paragraph if--
(A) the student satisfactorily completes a drug rehabilitation program that--
(i) complies with such criteria as the Secretary shall prescribe in regulations for purposes of this paragraph; and
(ii) includes two unannounced drug tests; or
(B) the conviction is reversed, set aside, or otherwise rendered nugatory.
(3) DEFINITIONS- In this subsection, the term `controlled substance' has the meaning given the term in section 102(6) of the Controlled Substances Act (21 U.S.C. 802(6)).
Explosives
The use and/or possession of firecrackers, smoke bombs, ammunition, dangerous chemicals, explosive or flammable fuels, bottle rockets, or explosives is prohibited throughout the University. Facsimiles of any of the above mentioned items are also prohibited.
Sanction Guidelines for Violating the Explosives Policy
A violation of this policy is grounds for separation from the University.
Failure to Comply with an Appropriate Directive or Disciplinary Decision
No student shall fail to comply with any reasonable request or appropriate directive, identify oneself, or show respect to security personnel, residence hall staff, other University officials, or public authorities (e.g., police) acting in performance of their duties or with any disciplinary conditions imposed by an authorized University official or group.
Falsification of Information
No student shall alter, or have in his/her possession an altered identification card of any form. No student shall alter, or enter any false information on any official document including, but not limited to, grade change forms, academic transcripts, admissions applications, evaluations or course withdrawal forms. Counterfeiting, forgery, providing false information or failing to provide current information for the purpose of defrauding Drexel University or other parties is prohibited.
Fire Safety
All occupants must vacate a building whenever a fire alarm sounds. Intentionally, negligently, or accidentally setting a fire, tampering with fire safety equipment such as, but not limited to, fire extinguishers, fire hoses, alarm pull stations, smoke detectors, heat sensors or sprinklers is prohibited. Making a false fire report, warning, or threat of fire by any means of communication is prohibited. A student found responsible for a violation of this policy may be held responsible for damages incurred to property of the University or others. Anyone caught setting fires or maliciously destroying fire protection equipment may be subject to prosecution by external authorities. Any improper use of a flame or lit object, including, but not limited to, smoking, candles, incense, etc. may be considered a violation of this policy.
Sanction Guidelines for Violating the Fire Safety Policy
The University considers the sanctions listed below to be guidelines when adjudicating fire safety policy violations. Each incident is reviewed on an individual basis. Depending on the specifics of the incident, more or less severe sanctions may be imposed.
First Violation: Loss of Housing; Ban from Residence Halls; $100 fine (1st offense), $200 fine (2nd offense), Parental Notification; possibility of Suspension/Expulsion and/or higher fine depending on the severity of the violation.
See Residential Living and 34th Street Housing sections for additional policies and information.
Gambling
Students are expected to abide by the federal and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania laws prohibiting illegal gambling. Gambling for money or other things of value on campus or at University-sponsored activities is prohibited except as permitted by law.
Such prohibited activity includes, but is not limited to, betting, wagering on, or selling pools on any athletic event, possessing any card, book or other device for registering bets, knowingly permitting the use of one’s premises or one’s telephone or other electronic communications device for illegal gambling, knowingly receiving or delivering a letter, package or parcel related to illegal gambling, offering, soliciting or accepting a bribe to influence the outcome of an athletic event, and involvement in bookmaking or wagering pools with respect to sporting events.
Guest Policy-Residence Halls
A guest is any person not assigned to the resident host’s room. All visitors or guests to a room are subject to the agreement of all room residents. Any student wishing to visit a hall other than the hall to which s/he is assigned must be signed in as a guest by a resident of that hall. Residents may have overnight guests. An overnight guest is defined as anyone in the resident host’s room anytime between 3:30am and 7:00am.
Resident hosts must sign in their guest(s) following proper procedure at the front desk. The host must also escort all guests back to the front desk to sign the guest out of the building at the end of the visit. If a guest is not properly signed out, then the guest would still be considered in the building. Students may not sign in or sign out guest(s) for other residential students.
An ID card will be required for each guest. It is the responsibility of each host to inform his/her guest(s) that they need identification to be permitted into the residence halls. The guest(s) ID card(s) must remain at the desk until the guest(s) vacate the building. Acceptable forms of ID include a photo ID, driver’s license, university/college/school ID or passport. No other forms of ID will be accepted. Guests without ID will not be allowed access into the hall, except in emergencies.
Resident hosts must escort their guest(s) at all times within the hall. Resident hosts are responsible for their guest’s actions. A guest may not occupy a resident host’s room when the host is not present. Residents are limited to three guests at any one time, unless otherwise permitted by the AD/RD or designee.
Harassment
The University prohibits discrimination and harassment against individuals based on race, color, religion, gender (sex), pregnancy, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, identify and expression, and veteran status. All complaints of student discrimination, harassment, and retaliation should be reported to the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards who will work in conjunction with the Office of Equality and Diversity. All complaints of non-student discrimination, harassment, and retaliation should be reported to the Office of Equality and Diversity. http://www.drexel.edu/eo/Policies.html
Hazing
Hazing activities in any form are prohibited. The University supports and will strictly enforce the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s anti-hazing law, Act 175 of 1986. This law defines hazing as “any action or situation which recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health of a student or willfully destroys or removes public or private property for the purpose of initiation or admission into or affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in any organization operating under the sanction of or recognized as an organization by an institution of higher education. The term shall include but not be limited to any brutality of a physical nature, such as whipping, beating, branding, forced calisthenics, exposure to the elements, forced consumption of any food, liquor, drug, or other substance, or other forced physical activity which could adversely affect the physical health and safety of the individual and shall include any activity which would subject the individual to extreme mental stress, such as sleep deprivation, forced exclusion from social contact, forced conduct which could result in extreme embarrassment, or any other forced activity which could adversely affect the mental health or dignity of the individual, or any willful destruction or removal of public or private property. For the purposes of this definition, any activity as described in this definition upon which the initiation or admission into or affiliation with or continued membership in an organization is directly or indirectly conditioned shall be presumed to be ‘forced’ activity, the willingness of an individual to participate in such activity notwithstanding.”
In addition, the University adheres to the Fraternity Executives Association’s definition of hazing: “…any action taken or situation created, intentionally, whether on or off University or fraternity/sorority premises, to produce mental or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, or ridicule. Such activities and situations include paddling in any form, creation of excessive fatigue, physical and psychological shock… or any other such activities, wearing publicly apparel which is conspicuous and not normally in good taste, engaging in public stunts and buffoonery, morally degrading or humiliating games and activities, late work sessions which interfere with scholastic activities, and any other activities which are not consistent with fraternal law, ritual, or policy or regulations and policies of the educational institution.”
Individuals and/or organizations as a whole found in violation of this policy will be subject to disciplinary action.
Interference with Student Conduct Procedures
Interfering with the University’s student conduct procedures is prohibited. Such behavior includes, but is not limited to, falsification, distortion, or misrepresentation of information before a hearing officer, the Conduct Board, or the Appellate Board, knowingly instituting a complaint without cause, harassment and/or intimidation of any witness, member of the Conduct/Appellate Board, or University personnel before, during, or following the conclusion of the conduct proceeding, and/or interference with the implementation of the results of any conduct proceeding, or interference with the processing of any appeal.
Key Duplication and Possession of Master Key
The University prohibits the duplication of any University-owned or issued key. Any student found with an unauthorized master or building key may be subject to fines. If any student uses a key (including a master key) to enter a room, office, or other facilities, they will be subject to disciplinary action and the penalties of the police and state statues (See also Residence Hall and 34th Street Housing policies regarding keys).
Littering
No student shall intentionally dispose of refuse of any kind in or near any building owned or operated by Drexel except in receptacles provided for that purpose. No receptacle used for trash shall be overturned.
Off-Campus Regulations
Students are expected to conduct themselves in accordance with the law. Violations of city laws and ordinances, state, or federal laws are considered to be a violation of this policy and shall be subject to action by the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards.
Any felony conviction of a student will be investigated by the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards and will be subject to the student conduct process. The University’s student conduct process acts independently of any legal proceedings.
Pets
Students shall not bring any pet belonging to them or under their control into any University-owned or operated building, or chain a pet outside any building where it may disrupt classroom activities or the resident students through barking or other noise. Owners must keep pets on a leash at all times while on campus. All actions of any pet will be the responsibility of the owner (See also Residence Hall Regulations on Pets).
Service dogs are the only exception to this policy.
Policy Regulations
Violations of University policies described or referenced throughout this or any other official departmental Handbook or violations of any portion or provision of this or any other official departmental Handbook will be considered violations of the University’s standards of conduct. Examples of other official departments include, but are not limited to, the Office of Campus Engagement, the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life, and Athletics including Recreational Sports.
Posting
Fliers and posters may be hung throughout the campus on approved posting locations only. All materials for posting must be stamped prior to distribution. The “Approved for Posting” stamp is maintained at the Creese Student Center Information Desk and the Residential Living Office for the residence halls.
Advertising, both inside/outside of buildings, electronic/print, and on/off campus, for parties or events may not refer to or promote alcoholic beverages, drugs, or tobacco products. Any materials of an explicit sexual nature are prohibited as well as materials that may be viewed as demeaning or degrading to a person or group of persons.
Postings not approved by the appropriate University personnel will be removed immediately and the student or organization that posted said flyers will be subject to disciplinary action. Fliers or posters should not exceed 11” x 18” in size.
Mounting flyers or posters on University signage, information showcases or other surfaces not intended for posting is prohibited. Using paint on University sidewalks, trees, benches, and other surfaces is prohibited. Posting of notices with adhesives such as duct tape, which may damage surfaces, is prohibited. The cost for removal of this type of publicity will automatically be charged to the group or individuals responsible for the posting. Groups/individuals failing to adhere to the posting policy will be subject to disciplinary action.
See also Residence Hall policy on Posting, located in the Residence Hall section of the Student Handbook.
Projectiles
No student shall throw or cause to be projected any object or substance that has potential for damaging or defacing University or private property or causing personal injury or disruption. Dropping any item, or causing any item to be dropped from a window, is a violation of this policy. The owner/occupant of a residence hall or fraternity/sorority property room is responsible for anything that leaves his/her window.
Sanction Guidelines for Violating the Projectiles Policy
The University considers the sanctions listed below to be guidelines when adjudicating projectiles policy violations that occur in University Housing. Each incident is reviewed on an individual basis. Depending on the specifics of the incident, more or less severe sanctions may be imposed.
First Violation: Loss of Housing
Residence Hall Regulations and Policies
Failure to abide by Residence Hall Regulations and policies as stated in the residence halls occupancy agreement and in this Handbook will be considered violations of the University’s Code of Conduct.
Sexual Assault
Sexual contact without consent and includes:
- Sexual intercourse without consent, whether by an acquaintance or stranger.
- Attempted sexual intercourse.
- Oral sex or anal intercourse without consent.
- Sexual penetration with an object without consent.
Taking into account the wishes of the victim/survivor, the University will pursue disciplinary action in the cases of Sexual Assault. Sanctions imposed for violation of the University’s Sexual Assault Policy may include, but are not limited to, suspension or permanent expulsion.
Students who are victims of sexual assault may also pursue criminal charges. The University’s conduct process acts independently of any legal proceedings.
The University seeks to foster a safe and healthy environment built on mutual respect and trust. At the very basis of the University’s mission is the recognition of the essential dignity and worth of each member of its community.
Sexual misconduct of any kind is a very serious violation of these principles and will not be tolerated in any form. The University encourages all members of its community to be aware of trauma caused by sexual misconduct and challenges its members to work together to prevent its occurrence.
The University will handle all complaints of a sexual nature with due regard to the parties’ concerns of confidentiality. If any occurrences of a sexual nature pose a general threat to the University community, the University will take affirmative steps to notify students, faculty and staff of the potential danger.
Drexel University will provide support for victims/survivors and urges victims/survivors to seek assistance using any appropriate resources. (The University will publish annual statistics on the occurrences of Sexual Assault.)
With all cases of a sexual nature, “consent” is defined as positive cooperation in act or behavior. The person consenting must act freely and voluntarily, have knowledge of the nature of the act and be capable of making a reasonable judgment concerning the nature of the act. Members of the community should be aware that by intoxication, youth or mental disability, a person may not be capable of valid consent. The University does not consider a lack of protest to imply consent. Further, a current or previous dating relationship is not sufficient to constitute consent. Any member of the University community who encourages, aids, assists or participates in any act of sexual misconduct against another will also be in violation of the University’s Code of Conduct.
Sanction Guidelines for Violating the Sexual Assault Policy
The University considers the sanctions listed below to be guidelines when adjudicating Sexual Assault Policy violations. Each incident is reviewed on an individual basis. Depending on the specifics of the incident, more or less severe sanctions may be imposed.
First Violation: Suspension; Loss of Housing; Ban from Residence Halls; Counseling Evaluation; Parental Notification; possibility of Expulsion.
Sexual Misconduct
Sexual contact without consent, and includes intentional touching, either of the victim or when the victim is forced to touch directly or through clothing another person’s genitals, breasts, thighs, or buttocks.
Skateboards/Skates/In-Line Skates/Scooters
The use of in-line skates, skateboards, scooters and/or other kinds of skates in University buildings, blocking University entranceways or driveways, along railings, benches, or on steps is prohibited.
Smoke-Free University
This policy was established to maintain a smoke-free environment for students, faculty, staff, contractors and visitors. Consistent with a smoke-free University and in support of a smoke-free Philadelphia, the sale of all tobacco products is prohibited on campus property.
Smoking is prohibited within 20 feet of any entrance, exit, operable window, or air in-take of a University owned and/or operated building to include sidewalks and thoroughfares.
The University prohibits the smoking or carrying of lighted tobacco products in all indoor facilities, including interior connections to buildings, covered walkways, all building stairwells, hallways, restrooms, fire escapes, parking structures, University owned vehicles, outdoor athletic/recreation facilities, and during all University-sponsored indoor or outdoor events.
All University sponsored activities taking place at facilities not owned or operated by the University will be smoke-free in those areas under the University’s control.
Solicitation and Sales
Solicitations and sales are not permitted except by written authorization from the Office of Campus Activities. Such authorization will be made only for items that are of express service to the community and only after a written request has been submitted and reviewed.
Door-to-door solicitation is prohibited at all times. Students may not act as agents for business that entails solicitations or receiving of business offers or goods on University property. University telephones may not be used for selling or offers to sell merchandise, services, or the like. This includes going door to door and slipping anything under residence hall doors.
University buildings or student rooms may not be used for business purposes of any nature.
Sound Amplification Equipment
Various outdoor student activity programs require the use of sound amplification equipment. The University reserves the right to specify where and when such amplification equipment may be used. Permission and specification for use of sound amplification equipment on campus must be obtained from the Executive Director for Student Union Operations or designee.
Stalking
A course of conduct, whether electronic or physical, directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person fear. This conduct includes, but is not limited to electric communications, third party communication and/or an individual's behaviors.
Theft
No student shall steal, attempt to steal, or assist in the theft of money, property, services, identity, or any item of value not belonging to him or her.
No student will attempt to use property or services without proper authorization. Students must not take for their own, or use property of another person without permission, even if it is intended to be returned. Knowledge, possession, retention or disposal of any stolen property is prohibited.
Sanction Guidelines for Violating the Theft Policy
The University considers the sanctions listed below to be guidelines when adjudicating Theft Policy violations. Each incident is reviewed on an individual basis. Depending on the specifics of the incident, more or less severe sanctions may be imposed.
First Violation: Deferred Suspension; Suspension; Loss of Housing; Ban from Residence Halls; Restitution; Parental Notification; possibility of Expulsion.
Trespassing
Any person refusing to leave an area as directed by a University official or any unauthorized person entering a University-owned or operated building or room that has been closed or locked shall be considered as trespassing.
Unauthorized Entry
No student shall enter, attempt to enter, or remain in a private room, office, or restricted area under control of another student, faculty/staff member, and/or University official except by permission or invitation of the student or the appropriate University official. No student shall permit access to private or restricted space to another person who does not have permission or authorization to be in that space.
Unauthorized Use of University Property or Documents
No student shall use, possess, lend, or sell any parking decal, ID card, dining hall pass, keys, or official University documents or property issued by the University to or for another individual. Lending ID cards is prohibited, and cards may be confiscated.
Examples of prohibited behavior include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Use, possession, or sale of a parking decal that was not specifically issued to and paid for by the student holding the decal.
- Use, possession, or sale of a University ID card to obtain entry or services to which a person is not entitled. Examples include, but are not limited to, using another person’s University ID for entry to the DAC, the Dining Hall, the Library, and other ID-required buildings/facilities.
- Use, possession, or sale of any University keys not specifically issued to the student.
- Use of official University documents or identifying information by a student not authorized to do so.
- Use of official University property or services for personal use or for use other than originally intended.
Violence
No student shall engage in any form of violence directed toward another person or group of people. Responding to violence with violence is also a violation of this policy.
Weapons
No student shall keep, use, possess, display, or transport any rifle, shotgun, handgun, pellet or BB gun, stun gun, dangerous knives, billy club, makeshift weapons, martial art weapons, decorative swords, or any other lethal or dangerous devices capable of casting a projectile by air, gas, explosion, or mechanical means on any property or in any building owned or operated by the University or in any vehicle on campus.
Realistic facsimiles of weapons are also specifically prohibited. The ROTC is authorized to store, transport, and use firearms when engaging in University-authorized or ROTC-authorized activities.
Windows/Balconies/Rooftops
The University prohibits access to windows, roofs, balconies, railings, ledges, and fire escapes of all University-owned or operated buildings except in cases of repair by the proper University authority or dire emergency.
SECTION 3: PROCEDURES
Disciplinary Procedures
Filing a Disciplinary Complaint
Any person may file a formal complaint against any student or student organization for alleged violation(s) of a University policy, rule, regulation, or standard of conduct. Such complaints, which must be signed by the complainant, shall be forwarded to the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards.
The person(s) making the complaint shall provide in writing the following information:
- The name and address of the student(s) involved or a sufficient description of the student and premises involved in order to identify the individual.
- Date, time, and location of incident.
- The nature of the alleged violation.
- A detailed statement of the circumstances.
General Procedures
Having received a formal complaint against a student, the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards will conduct a preliminary review of the complaint in order to determine whether or not a violation of a University policy, rule, regulation, or standard of conduct has occurred and whether the circumstances detailed in the formal complaint are sufficient to cause a formal charge to be made. It is in the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standard’s sole judgment to proceed with a complaint. If the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards concludes that the complaint is sufficiently complete and involves a violation of a University policy, rule, regulation, or standard of conduct, the person(s) making the complaint will be expected to appear before the Conduct Board as the accuser unless the accused student agrees that a violation has taken place and waives the right to a hearing. In certain cases when the accuser decides not to file or pursue a formal complaint, the University reserves the right to continue to process the matter.
The accused student shall be informed of the charge(s) via their assigned Drexel University e-mail address, by mail, delivery to residence hall desk, and/or by signed receipt.
The notice of charge shall state:
- The nature of the alleged offense stating the place of the occurrence and name of the individual(s) and/or department(s) filing the formal complaint.
- A request to schedule a Pre-hearing Conference by the date designated in the letter.
If a student fails to comply with scheduling or attending a Pre-hearing Conference within the specified period of time, the facts may be reviewed by the Assistant Dean of Student Conduct and Community Standards or designee and a decision will be rendered in the student’s absence. An appeal in this case may only be made based on Severity of Sanction.
Students are responsible for ensuring that the University has an updated mailing address (both local and permanent). The University is not responsible for communications not received due to an improper address listed in the Drexel Information System. Students are responsible for checking their assigned Drexel University e-mail account.
At the Pre-hearing Conference, the student will:
- Have the conduct process for the University explained.
- Have the charges explained.
- Be given the opportunity to respond to the charge(s).
The accused student may choose not to contest the charge(s) and give up the right to a hearing by pleading “In Violation” and verifying this decision with their signature. The Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards will impose the appropriate sanction(s). The Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards may consult with the Conduct Board concerning sanctions. The student will be notified of the sanction(s) in writing, and this sanction decision may only be appealed based on Severity of Sanction.
If the student contests the charges, it is the right of that student to have a formal hearing before the Conduct Board. If the organization charged is a Fraternity/Sorority and contests the charge(s), it is the right of the Fraternity/Sorority to have a formal hearing before the Fraternity/Sorority Conduct Board.
The student will be notified in writing as to the time, date and location of the hearing. If the student fails to attend the hearing or fails to arrive at the scheduled time after notification has been given, the Conduct Board may consider all presented information and a decision will be rendered.
Sessions with the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards and the hearings before the Conduct Board are not open to the public. The accuser(s) and the accused may be present throughout the Board hearing. Those who invoke the conduct process will be required to maintain its confidentiality. Except as required by lawful subpoena, neither the content of the hearings nor their outcome shall be disclosed to any third party.
There will be a single verbatim audio recording of all hearings before the Conduct Board which will be the sole property of the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards. This recording will be maintained only until the appeal process has concluded or until the time of appeal has lapsed.
General Procedures for Students Subject to Drug Testing
(See: Drug Testing Flowchart)
Students enrolled in programs that subject students to drug testing should expect more stringent procedures which may not allow for the same processes. When a student’s drug screening results in a “positive” outcome, the student will be required to immediately meet with the program chair or his/her designee. The program is obligated to report all positive drug screens for licensed students to appropriate licensure agencies. If the student does not contest the positive drug screen, this will be considered an admission of being “In Violation” and the case will be referred to the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards for sanctioning in addition to the program providing information to the student on treatment/assistance related to drug use. If the student contests the positive drug screening, a “same-specimen” retest will be conducted concurrent to the student being placed immediately on Interim Suspension. If the “same-specimen” retest yields a positive outcome, this result will be considered an admission of being “In Violation” and the student will be referred immediately to the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards for sanctioning. Students in this situation may only appeal their cases based on “Severity of Sanction.” If the retest yields a negative outcome, the Interim Suspension will be lifted and the student will be subject to random retests with a new sample at the discretion of the program.
When a student’s drug screening results in a “diluted sample” or other outcome determined by the program, the student will be subject to an immediate but random re-test with a new sample at the discretion of the program. If the student does not comply with the written instructions for an immediate but random retest, this will be interpreted as a positive test and an admission of being “In Violation”, and the student will be referred immediately to the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards for sanctioning. If that retest yields a positive outcome, this result will be considered an admission of being “In Violation” and the student will be referred immediately to the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards for sanctioning. Students in this situation may only appeal their cases based on “Severity of Sanction.” If the retest yields a negative outcome, the student will be subject to random retests with a new sample at the discretion of the program.
Students enrolled in the College of Nursing and Health Professions Nurse Anesthesia Program are subject to a specific and separate “Substance Abuse Policy” that can be found at CNHP-SAP
General Procedures – Academic Integrity Cases
In order to articulate fully its commitment to academic integrity and protect members of its community from the results of dishonest conduct, the University has adopted policies to deal with cases of academic dishonesty. These policies are intended not only to emphasize the imperative of integrity, but also to protect the rights of all members of the University community.
When a student is suspected of violating academic integrity standards, the faculty member will, as soon as reasonably possible, take the following actions:
Any Academic Integrity violation beyond a first offense is subject to the sanctions determined by the academic department as well as to disciplinary sanctions that may be imposed through the University conduct process as administered through the Division for Student Life and Administrative Services/ Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards. These sanctions may include suspension or expulsion from the University and are subject to an appeal process described in this handbook.
All cases of academic integrity will be communicated to the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards. Interpretation of this information as it relates to alleged violations of the Drexel University Academic Integrity policy are left to the discretion of the faculty member, department head, dean of the college, and Provost. Students are strongly encouraged to request that the faculty member specify his/her individual expectations prior to the commencing of projects and/or assignments. Consultation and advice are available through the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards.
SECTION 4: RIGHTS
Student/Organization Rights
Any person may bring charges against a student or student organization (hereafter “student”) for alleged misconduct. The accused student has the right to a hearing. Drexel University endorses as students’ rights the following procedural protections:
- The Conduct Board consists of those students, faculty, and staff who serve both on the University Hearing Board and/or the University Appellate Board. No member of the Conduct Board who is otherwise interested in the particular case will serve during the proceeding.
- Students will be informed, in writing, of the nature of the complaint against them and in sufficient time to ensure an opportunity to prepare for the hearing.
- Any student involved in the conduct process will have the right to be assisted in his/her case by an advisor internal to the University. Though the student conduct process does not allow the accused to be represented by an attorney during the process (including the Pre-hearing Conference, Conduct Board hearings, and Appeal Board hearings), the University will allow such advisement if criminal charges are pending concurrent to the University proceedings. Proof of such charges must be presented to the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards by 5:00 p.m. the business day preceding the scheduled hearing/conference. During such time, the attorney may only advise his/her client and may not speak during the proceedings and/or serve as an active participant in the process. The Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards has the right and authority to excuse the attorney should his/her behavior be deemed inappropriate during the process.
Victim’s Rights
In a case involving acts of violence, including sexual misconduct/assault, the rights of the victim(s) include:
- The right to have an advisor of his/her choice from the University community to accompany him/her throughout the entire conduct process.
- The right to be present throughout the entire Conduct Hearing.
- The right to have past unrelated behavior excluded from the hearing process.
- The right to question the accused.
- The right to be provided during the hearing, whenever practical, a waiting area that does not require the victim to be in close proximity to the accused or such person’s family, friends or witnesses.
- The right to be informed of the outcome of the proceedings in a timely manner.
- The right to change academic and housing assignments.
- The right to provide a written victim’s impact statement for submission to the Conduct Board or Hearing Officer, which shall be available for later use should the accused be found in violation of this policy and which shall describe the harm the victim sustained as a result of the alleged misconduct. This statement will be reviewed prior to the imposition of sanctions.
SECTION 5: CONDUCT BOARD AND HEARING FORMAT
The University Conduct Board
The University Conduct Board is established to provide a fair hearing and appeal process. In cases in which a student is found responsible for a violation of a University policy, rule, regulation, or standard of conduct, the University Conduct Board recommends sanctions to the Assistant Dean of Student Conduct and Community Standards or designee. The Assistant Dean of Student Conduct and Community Standards or designee shall serve as the official spokesperson of the University Conduct Board.
The University Conduct Board is comprised of students, faculty, and staff, who are members of both the University Hearing Board and University Appellate Board. The University Conduct Board, while in session, shall be chaired by a student appointed by the Assistant Dean of Student Conduct and Community Standards or designee. The University Conduct Board shall be advised by the Assistant Dean of Student Conduct and Community Standards or designee, who shall serve as an ex-officio non-voting member of the board. A quorum of three, including two students and a faculty or staff member, must be present to hold a hearing or appeal.
The University Conduct Board is comprised of at least 44 members from the University community as follows:
- At least 13 faculty members, 12 appointed by the faculty senate and one appointed by the College of Medicine Biomedical Graduate program.
- At least eight staff members appointed by the Senior Vice President.
- At least 20 undergraduate student members appointed by the Undergraduate Student Government Association (USGA).
- At least three graduate student members appointed by the Graduate Student Association (GSA).
Faculty appointees shall represent a broad spectrum of the University faculty, including faculty from the Center City Hahnemann Campus. Student appointees shall represent a broad spectrum of the student body.
Hearing board members shall be eligible to serve only in a single capacity for a case. Members who serve on the Hearing Board will not be eligible to serve on the Appellate Board for the same case.
The Fraternity/Sorority Conduct Board
The Fraternity/Sorority Conduct Board is established to provide a fair hearing and appeal process for those fraternity/sorority chapters recognized by the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life. In cases in which a fraternity/sorority is found responsible by the Fraternity/Sorority Hearing Board for a violation of a University policy, rule, regulation, or standard of conduct, the Fraternity/Sorority Hearing Board recommends sanctions to the Assistant Dean of Student Conduct and Community Standards or designee.
The Chair of the Fraternity/Sorority Conduct Board shall be the Interfraternity Council (IFC) Vice President for IFC cases, the Multicultural Greek Council (MGC) Vice President for MGC cases, and the Panhellenic Council (PHC) Vice President for PHC cases. If the appropriate vice president is unable to attend, another council’s vice president will serve as chair. If all vice presidents are unable to chair the proceeding, the Assistant Dean of Student Conduct and Community Standards or designee will appoint a Chair from the pool of Fraternity/Sorority Conduct Board members.
The Fraternity/Sorority Conduct Board shall be advised by the Assistant Dean of Student Conduct and Community Standards or designee who shall serve as an ex-officio, non-voting member of the board. The Fraternity/Sorority Conduct Board shall be co-advised by a faculty member from the faculty senate student life committee who shall serve as an ex- officio, non-voting member of the board.
The Fraternity/Sorority Conduct Board shall consist of up to five members: three fraternity/sorority students, one female sorority alumna, and one male fraternity alumnus. A quorum of three, including two fraternity/sorority students and one alumnus/a, must be present to hold a hearing or appeal.
The Assistant Dean of Student Conduct and Community Standards shall serve as the official spokesperson of the Fraternity/Sorority Conduct Board.
The Fraternity/Sorority Conduct Board is comprised of members from the fraternity/sorority community as follows:
- One representative from each recognized IFC fraternity.
- One representative from each recognized Multicultural Greek Council (MGC) organization.
- Two representatives from each recognized PHC sorority.
- One alumni representative from each recognized IFC fraternity.
- One alumni representatives from MGC organizations.
- One alumnae representative from each recognized PHC sorority.
Fraternity/Sorority Conduct Board members must be in good standing with the University and affiliated with a recognized fraternity/sorority organization. Membership is subject to change based on the number of recognized fraternity/sorority organizations at the University.
Fraternity/Sorority Conduct Board members shall be eligible to serve only in a single capacity for a case (members who serve on the Fraternity/Sorority Hearing Board will not be eligible to serve on the Fraternity/Sorority Appellate Board for the same case).
University and Fraternity/Sorority Hearing Format
Except in the case of a student charged with failing to obey a summons of the Hearing Board or University official, no student may be found to have violated the University’s policies, rules, regulations, or standards of conduct solely because the student failed to appear before the Hearing Board.
In all cases, the information in support of the charges shall be presented and considered. Any party involved in the hearing may challenge a board member on the grounds of personal bias. Board members may be disqualified upon majority vote of the remaining members of the board, conducted by secret ballot.
Hearings shall proceed to the extent possible according to the following form:
- The Chair shall open the proceedings by reading the statement of charges.
- The accuser shall then present his or her case against the accused student. This shall be completed by the submission of written, physical, and testimonial information. Witnesses will be asked to affirm that the accuser’s testimony is truthful and may be subject to charges of dishonesty. The accused student and the board members shall have the right to conduct reasonable questioning of the accuser and the accuser’s witnesses.
- At the conclusion of the accuser’s presentation, the accused student shall present a response to the charges. This shall be done by the submission of written, physical, and testimonial information. The accuser and the board members shall have the right to conduct reasonable questioning of the accused student and the accused student’s witnesses. Witnesses may only speak of the specific incident in question; character witnesses are not permitted.
- After both cases have been presented, the Chair may allow a presentation of rebuttal information.
- At the close of the hearing, the Chair may allow closing arguments by the parties.
- The Hearing Board may call witnesses or request additional documentation. Failure to comply with a summons of the Hearing Board may result in disciplinary action.
- Only after deliberations have been completed and if, and only if, the organization was found “in violation,” will the Hearing Board consider the following information, shared by the Assistant Dean of Student Conduct and Community Standards or designee, before recommending the appropriate sanction(s):
- Previous conduct record.
- Academic records (when applicable to the nature of the case).
The University and Fraternity/Sorority Hearing Boards shall recommend sanction(s) to the Assistant Dean of Student Conduct and Community Standards or designee who will determine the final sanction(s).
The determination by the Hearing Board of a student’s responsibility for an alleged violation shall be made on the basis of whether it is more likely than not that the student charged violated a University policy, rule, regulation, or standard of conduct. The final decision of the Hearing Board shall be by majority voice vote unless any member of the board requests a written secret vote of the members present and voting. The student charged will receive written notification of the board’s decision and the resultant sanction(s) (if applicable), within 10 business days of the close of the hearing (excluding University holidays), except in extraordinary circumstances. Proceedings before the Conduct Board are private.
SECTION 6: SANCTIONS
Individuals or student organizations found to have violated University policies, rules, regulations, or standards of conduct shall be subject to a range of disciplinary actions, as imposed by the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards. There may be situations in which a fraternity or sorority is in violation of the established minimum standards as well as other University policies or regulations. In such cases, the Dean of Students or designee may impose sanctions in addition to or more severe than any discipline imposed by the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards and/or the Fraternity/Sorority Conduct Board.
More than one sanction may be imposed for any single violation. Note that after a sanction has been determined, should information come to light that changes the disposition of a case, the Assistant Dean of Student Conduct and Community Standards or designee has the right to re-open the case and to change the prior sanction.
Penalties and sanctions that may be imposed include, but are not limited to, the following:
Expulsion
Expulsion is a permanent disaffiliation between the student and the University. An expelled student shall not be permitted on University property. Tuition and general University fee refunds will be determined in accordance with the University refund policy as approved by the Board of Trustees. In the case of a student organization, the group will lose its official recognition, allocated funding, and all other privileges.
Withdrawal of (Rescind) Degree
Withdrawal of degree is a permanent disaffiliation between the student and the University evidenced specifically by the University’s decision to rescind a degree already conferred as cited at http://www.drexel.edu/provost/policies/withdrawal_degree.asp. Tuition and general University fees will not be refunded. This sanction would be imposed at the recommendation of the Provost and in response to a student being in violation of the Academic Integrity policy.
Suspension
Suspension is a separation of the student from the University for a specified period of time. A suspended student will be withdrawn from all courses and may not attend classes, take exams, receive grades, maintain a position as a co-op student, hold a leadership position, or be on University premises without the authorization of the Senior Associate Vice President for Public Safety or designee throughout the entire duration of the suspension period. A suspended student must surrender his/her University-issued identification card to the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards for the duration of the suspension. In the case of a student organization, suspension will result in the loss of privileges including, but not limited to, the use of campus facilities, participation in University activities, use of allocated funds, and sponsorship of official activities. Loss of privileges may also include recruitment and pledging activities.
Deferred Suspension
Deferred Suspension serves as a final warning to a student that if he/she is again found in violation of any University policy, the University is obligated to consider suspension as a primary response.
Disciplinary Probation
Disciplinary Probation is a specific period of time during which the University provides the student or organization with the opportunity to prove that he/she/it will contribute in a positive manner to the University community. Should a student or organization violate University policies while on Disciplinary Probation, more severe sanctions shall be imposed. Disciplinary Probation will specify any restrictions with which the individual must comply, such as not representing the University in any extra-curricular activity or holding an office in any student group or organization.
Loss of Housing
A student is involuntarily removed from University housing for a designated period of time. Removal from University housing means the student must properly check out of his/her room in accordance with existing University procedures within the time constraints established by the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards. As indicated in the occupancy agreement, the resident will be liable for the full room charge specified if a replacement assignment cannot be made by the Office of University Housing. The sanction conferred by the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards may stipulate requirements that must be fulfilled for reinstatement into University housing.
Deferred Loss of Housing
Deferred Loss of Housing serves as a final warning that any further violation(s) of University policy obligates the University to consider loss of housing privileges as a primary response.
Ban from University Housing/Ban from Residence Halls
A student is prohibited from entering all residence halls or a specific residential hall(s) and/or all fraternity/sorority properties or a specific fraternity/sorority property for a designated period of time.
Housing Reassignment
A student is involuntarily reassigned to a new campus location.
Restricted Access
The residence hall visitation and guest privileges of the resident student are revoked for a designated period of time. Additionally, the student must sign in and out of the building in the Restricted Access Log each time the student enters or exits the building.
Assignment of a Constructive/ Educational Task
A student is required to complete a task that benefits the individual, campus, or community. Examples include, but are not limited to, performing compensatory service, writing reaction or research papers, attending programs or lectures, or other educational sanctions deemed appropriate by the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards or designee.
Hold on Records
The enforcement of university policies may necessitate a hold on transcripts, grades, diplomas, or other official records pending the disposition of cases.
Notification of Parent or Legal Guardian
The University will inform a student’s parent(s) or legal guardian(s) that the student has been found in violation of University rules and policies.
Restitution
The student or student organization is required to make monetary reimbursement for repair/replacement of property or service rendered to the University or to other persons, groups, or organizations for specified damages by a date designated by the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards. These charges may not be in excess of the damage or loss incurred.
Disciplinary Reprimand
The student or student organization is warned that further misconduct shall result in more severe disciplinary action.
Interim Suspension
In certain circumstances, the Dean of Students or a designee may impose a University or residence hall suspension prior to a hearing before the Conduct Board or Administrative Hearing Officer.
Interim Suspension may be imposed:
a. to ensure the safety and well-being of members of the University community or preservation of University property.
b. to ensure the student’s own physical or emotional safety and well-being.
c. if the student poses a definite threat of disruption or interference with the normal operations of the University.
d. if the Dean of Students or designee determines that the interim suspension is in the best interests of the University community.
During the Interim Suspension, students shall be denied access to University housing and/or other University activities or privileges for which the student might otherwise be eligible, as the Dean of Students or designee may determine to be appropriate.
In the case of a student organization, the organization’s activities and participation in University events may be limited as specified by the Dean of Students or designee. If appropriate, Interim Suspension may include the cessation of all activities and the withdrawal of recognition and allocated funding by the University, pending the final outcome of the proceedings.
A hearing will be conducted before the Conduct Board or Administrative Hearing Officer as soon as possible to determine the outcome of the case.
A student suspended on an interim basis has the right to request an opportunity to appear personally before the Dean of Students or designee within five business days from the effective date of the Interim Suspension to discuss the suspension. This request should be made to the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards in writing. The decision of the Dean of Students or designee as to whether or not to impose an Interim Suspension will hold as final.
SECTION 7: APPEALS
Procedures for Appeal
A student may appeal a decision made by the Assistant Dean of Student Conduct and Community Standards or designee to the Appellate Board. The appeal must be submitted in writing to the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards within seven business days from the date of the written documentation informing the student of the decision of the University’s hearing officer and the sanction(s) imposed. Appeal hearings are document hearings; the student is not present.
- If an appeal is made based solely on the severity of the sanction imposed, the Appellate Board must determine whether the sanction imposed was appropriate for the violation of the student code that the student has taken responsibility for committing.
- If the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards does not receive written notification for an appeal within the seven day period, the sanction shall be implemented. In cases for which the appeal is granted, the Appellate Board will amend and implement the sanction.
A student may appeal a finding of “In Violation” made by the University Hearing Board to the University Appellate Board. A Fraternity/Sorority may appeal a finding of “In Violation” made by the Fraternity/Sorority Hearing Board to the Fraternity/Sorority Appellate Board.
Appeals may be made for the following reasons:
- Improper procedure: To determine whether the original hearing was conducted fairly in light of the charges and information presented, and in conformity with prescribed procedures giving the complainant a reasonable opportunity to prepare and present information that the Code of Conduct was violated, and giving the accused student a reasonable opportunity to prepare and present a rebuttal of those allegations.
- New information that has become available, but was not available at the time of the hearing: To consider new information sufficient to alter a decision or other relevant facts not brought out in the original hearing, because such information and/or facts were not known to the person appealing at the time of the original hearing.
- Insufficient information: To determine whether the decision reached regarding the accused student was based on a preponderance of the information, that is, whether the facts in the case were sufficient to establish that “it is more likely than not” that a violation of the Code of Conduct occurred. In making such a determination, the Appellate Board shall not substitute its judgment for the judgment of the Hearing Board, but instead will review the Hearing Board’s determination only to see whether there was information sufficient enough to support the result reached.
- Severity of sanctions: To determine whether the sanction(s) imposed was appropriate for the violation of the Code of Conduct the student has taken responsibility for committing.
In the case of new information, the appeal must be submitted within seven days of when the new information becomes available, but audio recordings will only be maintained as noted in this policy. Except as required to explain the basis of new information, all appeals shall be limited to the review of the audio recording of the initial hearing, when necessary, and supporting documents.
In cases in which an appeal is requested, an automatic stay of sanctions will be granted. All sanctions will be held in abeyance pending the outcome of the appeal. The Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards reserves the right to deny a stay of sanctions in cases in which it deems appropriate.
Final decision of the Appellate Board shall be by majority voice vote by the members present and voting.
In cases in which the appeal is based on severity of sanction, the Appellate Board may amend the sanction or deny the appeal. If the Appellate Board grants an appeal for a reason other than severity of sanction, the matter shall be returned to the original Hearing Board to allow reconsideration of the original decision. In re-opening all cases, the decision of the Board regarding sanctioning may not result in more severe sanction(s) for the accused.
Procedures for Appeal – Academic Integrity Cases
Any student who believes that s/he has been referred for a violation of the Academic Integrity policy unjustly may request a meeting with the faculty member and/or program director/department head or designee offering the course. Likewise, if the student views the sanction as excessive, given the circumstances, the appeal process may be initiated.
If such a meeting does not resolve the disagreement, and the student still believes the charge to have been unjust, s/he can appeal, in turn, to the dean of the college or director of the school or designee offering the course. If still not satisfied, the student can pursue a final level of appeal that should be forwarded in writing to the Provost.
STUDENT TRANSPORTATION
BLUE, GOLD, DRAGON, AND QUEEN LANE CAMPUS SHUTTLE SERVICES
The mission of the Drexel University Campus Service is to provide transportation for students as a means of enhancing safety between campuses. This service includes three fixed bus routes, Blue Gold, Dragon, and Queen Lane. These services operate from 5:30am to 11:15am Monday through Friday. Weekend service from 4:15pm to 11:15pm operates only on University City Main Campus.
The busses carry up to 49 passengers and are Drexel University branded for easy identification. The routes and stops have been designed to allow easy access to Hagerty Library, academic buildings, General Services Building, Drexel Parking Garage, residence halls, popular student housing areas, local eateries, Creese Student Center, Vidas Athletic Complex, shopping areas, Queen Lane Medical Campus, and Hahnemann University Hospital at 15th and Race Streets. This service connects with local Public Transportation services such as 30th Street Station for Amtrak rail service, SEPTA service subways and light rail trolleys to Center City Philadelphia and Regional Rail train service to Philadelphia International Airport.
Students, staff, and faculty are permitted unlimited use of this service. Upon boarding the buses all passengers are required to present a valid Drexel University ID card to the driver. Bus service schedules are available online through the University Facilities website: www.drexel.edu/facilities and information kiosks at campus bus stops.
Drexel University also has a reciprocity agreement with the University of Pennsylvania allowing Drexel University students to ride the University of Pennsylvania fixed route campus bus service, free of charge. This service generally operates as far west as 48th Street and Woodland Avenue and as far east as 20th and South Streets. This reciprocity arrangement does not apply to the University of Pennsylvania Escort Service.
TEMPORARY TRANSPORTATION ASSISTANCE POLICY
The Transportation Department provides limited transportation service to members of the University community Monday through Friday from 8am to 4pm. To schedule this service call the Office of Disability Services at 215.895.1401
Escort Services
The Department of Public Safety is available to provide walking escorts to all Drexel students, faculty and staff 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to any location on campus. To schedule this service call the Public Safety Dispatch Center at 215.895.2822
Medical Escorts
The Department of Public Safety provides medical escorts for nonlife- threatening medical conditions to Drexel University-approved hospitals, emergency rooms, and healthcare centers. Medical escorts are currently provided to the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Presbyterian Hospital, and Hahnemann University Hospital. For additional information, call the Public Safety Dispatch Center at 215.895.2822
Limited Holiday Service
During University holidays the Campus Bus Service will be operating at a reduce schedule with one vehicle per route with service every hour from the hours of 4:00pm to 11:15 pm
Campus Shuttle Stops
For passenger safety, the Shuttle Service will only stop and pick up passengers at posted bus stop.
Rider Rights & Responsibilities
• All passengers must present a valid Drexel University ID when entering the vehicle
• No Smoking
• No Alcoholic beverages are permitted
• Passengers are not to interfere or distract the operator while the vehicle is in operation
• Shuttle driver can deny service to any disruptive passenger
WOMEN’S SERVICES & PROGRAMS
Women’s Issues
A variety of offices throughout campus address the needs of women students. The Office of Campus Activities addresses women’s issues by collaborating with different university constituents in order to create and promote programming and services for women. Such programs include a women’s leadership track within the CEO program and Women’s History programming initiatives. Campus Activities also provides resources for individual and women’s organizations.
Women’s Studies
The women’s studies minor offers excellent courses on a variety of topics from a feminist/womanist perspective. They also sponsor programs and activities.
If students are concerned about issues of harassment or discrimination, they should refer to the Office of Equality and Disability or Student Conduct and Community Standards. See also the policy on harassment and discrimination in this handbook.
The Counseling Center provides emotional support, psychological assistance and referrals for women dealing with relationship, sexual orientation, family issues or concerns, dating violence, domestic abuse, pregnancy options, and other issues or concerns.
Victim Support and Intervention Services provides immediate assistance to women who may be victims of sexual assault, domestic violence, or stalking.
UNIVERSITY TRADITIONS & LEGENDS
Drexel Dragon
The Dragon has been the school’s mascot for nearly 80 years; there seems to be no special reason for its selection other than its obvious alliterative appeal. The Dragon represents ferocity and combativeness, desirable qualities in a mascot. Before they became Dragons, the school’s sports teams had been known by a variety of names, including the Blue & Gold, the Engineers, and the Drexelites. The first published reference to the Drexel Dragons appears in a 1928 edition of The Triangle, in an article on the football team; a dragon logo appears on the jerseys of the men’s basketball team in a photo in the 1929 Lexerd. Today, the Drexel Dragon is known as “Mario the Magnificent” in honor of the late Mario Mascioli, class of 1945 and past Board of Trustees Member.
“Meet me at the Dragon”
“Mario the Magnificent,” the bronze statue of the school mascot, the Drexel dragon, is the work of renowned Philadelphia sculptor Eric Berg. The statue and the Dragon Park at 33rd and Market Streets were dedicated on December 4, 2002; donations funded 100% of the project. Mario is 14 feet long, 10 feet high and weighs 4,100 pounds, on a 17-ton granite base. He is an easily visible landmark at which people can meet, especially when they are unfamiliar with the campus.
Water Boy Statue
“The Water Boy,” one of the Drexel Collection’s proudest treasures, is by Frédéric-August Bartholdi (1834-1904), the French sculptor of the Statue of Liberty. Originally called “The Alsatian Vintner,” the statue was designed as a fountain with a stream of water pouring from the cask into the boy’s mouth. While an aged patina covers the statue, the right toe remains a shining bronze—generations of Drexel students passing through the Main Building’s Great Court have rubbed the toe for good luck in exams.
Drexel Ode
The music to the University’s school song was written by organist James M. Dickinson, with lyrics by a young Library School student, Virginia Carter Castleman, Class of 1899:
Hail, Drexel, hail to thee,
accept our praise.
To you this joyful song
thy children raise.
Drexel is in our eyes like
a guiding star;
Bright with illuming rays,
shining afar.
Splendid in beauty sure,
wave our banners bold.
Proclaiming truth with blue;
great worth with gold.
Now, as our music swells,
rings this ancient song:
Hail, Drexel, hail to thee!
Our star shines strong.
Drexel Fight Song
The original Drexel Fight Song was written by Gay V. Piercy (Class of 1939) and Todd Groo (Class of 1941) and appeared for the first time in the October 1938 edition of the Drexel Athletic News. The following is the recently modified version reflecting Drexel’s changes over the previous 70 years:
Fight on for Drexel University,
We’ve got the stuff we need to win this game
We’re gonna fight on for Drexel,
Take the Dragon on to fame.
Fight on for Drexel,
The gold and blue is on another spree.
We’re gonna fight, fight, fight, fight for Drexel U.
On to Victory!
D-D-D-D … R-R-R-R … E-E-E-E … X-EL – X-EL
DREX-EL … DREX-EL
Fight – Team – Fight
Drexel Colors
H. D. Cady, class of 1896, wrote that his school pin was “the regular design used when the Institute opened its door fifty years ago. The colors, orange and silver, were the colors in those days.” In the early 1920s, the Athletic Association adopted blue and gold for Drexel teams. Later, the University’s Board of Trustees approved the colors “gold with blue.”
Blue & Gold Days
Alumni and special friends gather during Blue & Gold Days each spring, celebrating reunions, sharing memories, seeing campus improvements and expansion and engaging in social and sports events.
Chippendale Tall-Case Astronomical Clock
Philadelphia’s most noted astronomer and mathematician during the 18th century, David Rittenhouse (1732-1796), built this clock in 1773. With 16 sets of chimes that play 10 tunes, it is regarded as the most important clock in America. The widow of George W. Childs, publisher of The Public Ledger, donated the clock to Drexel Institute of Art, Science and Industry in 1894; it is exhibited in the A.J. Drexel Picture Gallery in the Main Building.
Convocation and Founders Day
Convocation and Founders Day honors the legacy of Anthony J. Drexel as well as the founders of Medical College of Pennsylvania and Hahnemann University, the predecessors of the Drexel University College of Medicine. As part of the same ceremony, Convocation welcomes new faculty to the University, and the Provost’s Medal for Excellence is awarded to a student.
Curtis Organ
Cyrus H.K. Curtis, the publisher of The Saturday Evening Post, purchased the large pipe organ built for Philadelphia’s Sesquicentennial Exposition of 1926, and presented it to the University of Pennsylvania. William Sylvane Thunder, the organist at Drexel and at Curtis’s suburban residence, suggested that Curtis might present a similar organ to Drexel. When Curtis asked how much it would cost, Thunder, having never considered the matter, blurted out, “$40,000.” Mr. Curtis promptly replied, “Have it installed.” In 1928, the Austin Organ Company of Hartford, Conn., placed in the Drexel Main Auditorium a 70-rank, four-manual instrument, according to Thunder’s specifications. The organ is maintained by an annual gift of Mary Louise (Mrs. Efrem) Zimbalist, daughter of Mr. Curtis.
The Drexel 100
Created in 1991, this group consists of the University’s most successful living alumni, recognized for their professional accomplishments. New inductions are made every two years.
White Coat Ceremony
At this ritual during the first week of medical school at the Drexel University College of Medicine, alumni present new medical students with their first white coat. The theme is professionalism, and the students recite the Hippocratic Oath for the first time. In their third year, they go through a similar rite, the Clinician’s Ceremony, reciting the ancient oath once again.
Lankenau Collection
When John D. Lankenau needed money to finish his hospital, he went to his brother-in-law, Anthony J. Drexel. Drexel said he would give Lankenau the needed money if, in turn, Lankenau would will his painting collection to Drexel Institute. Many Lankenau paintings hang in the A.J. Drexel Picture Gallery along with paintings from Drexel family homes.
Portraits of Mr. Drexel and Mr. Childs
Two portraits in the boardroom of the Paul Peck Alumni Center are of the founder of the Institute, Anthony J. Drexel, and his close friend and business associate George W. Childs, publisher of The Public Ledger. The portraits were painted at the same time by the French artist, M. Benjamin Constant. Drexel stipulated that his portrait could be hung only after he had passed away.
Statue of Anthony J. Drexel
Moses Ezekiel (1844-1917) crafted the bronze statue of Anthony J. Drexel in 1904. On the University’s 75th anniversary, it was moved from Fairmount Park to 33rd and Market Streets, and it was moved in 2003 to its present site overlooking the pedestrian plaza at 32nd and Market. Kenneth Matheson, Drexel’s president from 1922 through 1931, was reported by his son (later a Drexel dean himself) to have snapped to attention before the statue when passing through Fairmount Park, saluting it as he had seen Alexander Van Rensselaer (Anthony J. Drexel’s son-in-law) do before. Ever after, the Matheson offspring waved to the statue when they passed by.
Peter Thompson Sailor Suit
“A Parisian Wedding” (1880), a painting by Julius L. Stewart (1855-1919) in the Paul Peck Alumni Center, purportedly depicts the marriage of a Drexel family member. The boy at the base of the steps is wearing a Peter Thompson Sailor Suit, very popular with young girls and boys at the time, and supposedly designed by an English tailor in America for Anthony J. Drexel’s son George.
Ryder Clock
The first dean of men, J. Peterson Ryder, had a penchant for punctuality, standing in the court, pocket-watch in hand, spurring on students late to class. He provided funds for the clock in the Great Court, inscribed, “Be on Time.”
The Drexel University Student Handbook is written and issued by Student Life under the direction of David A. Ruth, Ph.D., Dean of Students. It is the University’s official notification of its policies, rules, regulations, and standards of conduct. The student is responsible for knowledge of these policies, rules, regulations, and standards of conduct; enrollment is considered as acceptance of all conditions specified in this handbook.
The provisions of this handbook are not to be regarded as a contract between any student and the University. The University reserves the right to change any of the policies, rules, regulations, and standards of conduct at any time as may be necessary in the interest of the University. The University also reserves the right to modify or discontinue any of the services, programs, or activities described in this handbook.
The University may reproduce or modify this handbook, or parts of it, for distribution in other formats (for example, on a web page or in other forms for computer access, or in school or academic department publications). As a result, students, applicants, and other users of this handbook should consult with appropriate University offices to verify the current text or status of the policies, procedures, or information contained herein and to determine whether information in this handbook or other publications has been superseded or changed.
This handbook contains general University and School-specific policies. Program-specific handbooks or guidelines distributed to students at the beginning of each academic year may contain more detailed information about program policies and requirements. Students in the Drexel University College of Medicine should consult the appropriate handbook within their college for specific polices, rules, and regulations.
Please forward any comments or questions to Dr.
David A. Ruth, Dean of Students.