STUDENT SERVICES POLICIES
 

SUBJECT: USCA STUDENT SOCIAL EVENT POLICIES
Number: 400
Issued by: Dr. Deb Kladivko; Assoc. Chancellor for Student Life and Services
Date: April 3, 2000
 
 

The following policies have been adopted to protect USCA students and property. These policies are intended to regulate any social events held by student organizations on the USCA campus. Failure to abide by these policies could result in disciplinary action as outlined in the USCA Student Handbook under "Student Organization Non-Academic Discipline System Procedures".
 

  1. All parties/dances sponsored by student organizations must be held in the Food Court area of the SAC unless special permission has been obtained from the Director of Student Activities to hold the event in another location.

  2. The entry table for the event must be located near the Student Life Office and it must be supervised by the advisor (or designated faculty/staff person) and one student at all times.

  3. All persons entering the event must show a valid ID. Only USCA students and their guests (one guest per student) will be permitted to enter the event. If the sponsoring organization wishes to invite special outside groups (such as a student organization from another college) to attend their event, they must indicate this on their original facilities request form. The Director of Student Activities will approve or disapprove this request and will communicate his decision to the sponsoring group. No one under the age of 18 will be admitted unless they are a USCA student or a member of an approved outside group.
    4.  

  4. No alcohol will be served at or brought in to any student event.

    5.  

  5. Sponsoring organization and Public Safety will deny entrance to any person who is deemed to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

  6. No weapons of any kind will be permitted at events. For safety reasons, metal detectors will be used at the entrance to all events.

  7. Once a person leaves the event (leaves the building), he or she must pay again to re-enter the event.

  8. The sponsoring organization will be required to hire and pay for one or more Public Safety Officer(s). Public Safety, in conjunction with the Director of Student Activities, will determine the number of officers necessary to ensure the safety of those attending the event.

  9. Non-alcoholic beverages must be available (free or for a reasonable fee) at the event.
    10.  
  10. The sponsoring organization will be responsible for monitoring the party area and surrounding areas and reporting any problems immediately to the advisor (or designated faculty/staff member). Any vandalism that occurs during or immediately following the event will be the responsibility of the sponsoring organization (if the person who is responsible for the vandalism is not identified).

    11.  

     
     
     

  11. The sponsoring organization will be responsible for cleaning up the area (including the bathrooms and the parking lot) after the event.
The advisor or designated faculty/staff member must be present for the entire dance/party.
 
SUBJECT: Use of Campus Vehicles by Student Organizations
Number: 401
Issued by: Dr. Deborah J. Kladivko, Vice Chancellor for Student Life and Services
Date: March 30, 2001 (Revised)

PURPOSE
This policy provides the procedures required for use of University vehicles by representatives of officially registered
organizations. This policy permits student representatives to utilize University vehicles for official business and special occasions.

PROCEDURES
A. To reserve a vehicle from the USCA Motor Pool, the following must be done:
1) Submit a completed/approved Form 13/20 (Vehicle Reservation Request) to the operations office prior to actual travel.
(You may want to call and verify vehicle availability first.)
2) All drivers must be approved through the Driver Safety/Training Program prior to use of a University vehicle.

B. Students traveling in a University vehicle outside the Aiken, Augusta or Columbia area must be accompanied by a member
of the USCA faculty, staff or administration and that person's name must appear on the Form 13/20.  Any exception to this
policy must be approved by the Vice Chancellor for Student Life and Services.

C. All mileage will be charged to the relevant student organization.

D. It is the responsibility of the user organization to return the vehicle in good condition (general cleanliness, removal of debris
and personal belongings, etc.) to the Supply and Maintenance Building immediately after use.

E. All drivers must abide by the regulations outlined in the Driver Safety Training Program (Policy 122).  Any violation of
University regulations may result in an organizational and/or personal loss of privileges to use University vehicles by the
organization and/or the student driver. Any damage to the vehicle and/or personal injury resulting from any violation of
University regulations regarding usage is the responsibility of the driver.

 
 

SUBJECT: Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy for Financial Aid Eligibility

Number: 402

Issued by: Mr. Glenn Shumpert, Director of Financial Aid

Date: REVISED December 2007

 

I. Introduction

The intent of this policy is to insure that all USCA students who are receiving federal financial aid funds for their education are making measurable progress towards completion of degree requirements within a reasonable period of time.  This policy is established pursuant to regulations issued by the United States Department of Education, and is designed in compliance with both federal regulation and institutional academic policy.

II. Scope

This policy applies to all students who apply for federal student aid under Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended.

III. Assessment Cycle

Each student’s record is assessed for compliance with the standards set forth in this policy at the time he or she applies for financial aid and at the end of each semester if he or she is placed on academic suspension.

IV. Standards

Pursuant to federal regulation, the USCA Office of Financial Aid is required to monitor the academic progress of all students who apply for federal financial aid.  Financial aid funds can be awarded only to students who are making measurable progress toward the completion of degree requirements within a reasonable period of time.

Students are considered to be making satisfactory progress only if they are meeting all of the standards set forth in this policy.  If a student fails to meet any particular standard or combination of standards, he or she will become ineligible for federal financial aid. Students are considered to be making satisfactory progress only if they:

A.     Are admitted and enrolled as degree-seeking students.

B.     Meet the University standards for continued enrollment as specified in the Academic Regulations section of the University of South Carolina Aiken Undergraduate Studies Bulletin.

C.     Meet the maximum total enrollment and minimum earned hours stipulations specified below:

1.                  Maximum Total Enrollment - This assessment applies to all work attempted at any post-secondary institution as it directly relates to USCA’s academic policies.  It is not limited to enrollment at USCA or to semesters in which financial aid is received.  To be eligible for financial aid, a student's total enrollment must be within the applicable time limitations as follows:

    a.   The total number of semesters of full-time enrollment (12 or more semester

hours attempted) at any post-secondary institution does not exceed ten   semesters.

b.    The total number of semesters of part-time enrollment (fewer than 12 semester hours attempted) at any post-secondary institution does not exceed the equivalent of ten full-time semesters.

c.    The total number of full-time and part-time semesters combined does not exceed the equivalent of ten full-time semesters.

2.                  Minimum Earned Hours - To be making satisfactory progress, a student must earn a minimum number of semester hours each year, based upon his or her enrollment status.  Each period of enrollment included in the student's record is assessed.  This assessment is not limited to semesters in which financial aid is received.  To be eligible for financial aid, a student must:
 

a.    Earn no fewer than 24 semester hours of undergraduate credit per academic year if enrolled as a full-time student (12 or more hours attempted per semester).

 

b.    Earn no fewer than 18 semester hours of undergraduate credit per academic year if enrolled as a three-quarter-time student (9-11 hours attempted per semester).
 

c.    Earn no fewer than 12 semester hours of undergraduate credit per academic year if enrolled as a half-time student (6-8 hours attempted per semester).

Summer session enrollment is not assessed in the determination of a student’s total semesters of enrollment.  However, semester hours earned during the summer session are assessed with regard to the student meeting the minimum earned hours requirement.  Therefore, a student who is not meeting the minimum earned hours requirement may restore his or her record to compliance with this standard through summer session enrollment at USCA or approved transient work at another USC system school.  If a student who has been deemed ineligible successfully changes his or her standing relative to this policy, it is the responsibility of the student to notify the Office of Financial Aid of this change.  Otherwise, the student’s financial aid file will remain in an inactive status.

A student whose total number of credit hours earned is not greater than three hours below the minimum number of credit hours required for that student shall be allowed to receive student financial aid for two consecutive major semesters following this determination.  At the conclusion of this probationary period, the student must meet the University’s non-probationary Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards in order to receive future student financial aid.  This probationary standard will never be applied more than once for any student.

The standards set forth in this policy apply to all federal financial aid programs including grants, loans and work funds.  These standards will be applied to any determination or certification of satisfactory progress standing.

USCA has an established Academic Forgiveness Policy.  When reviewing satisfactory academic progress for a student who has been granted Academic Forgiveness in consultation with the Scholastic Standing and Petitions (SS&P) Committee, the Office of Financial Aid insures that the monitoring complements the SS&P policy and is in compliance with Title IV satisfactory academic progress regulations.

V. Declaration of Ineligibility Procedures

Following review, if a student is deemed not to be making satisfactory progress he/she will be sent a financial aid ineligibility notice along with a copy of this policy.

VI. Reinstatement

A student shall be reinstated for financial aid eligibility at such time as he/she has successfully completed sufficient hours to meet the minimum requirements for eligibility as set forth in this policy. It is the student's responsibility to present evidence to the Office of Financial Aid at the time he/she has met minimum requirements for reinstatement.

If a student is suspended from school or financial aid eligibility, he/she must appeal before receipt or further financial aid.

 

VII. Appeal of Financial Aid Ineligibility

  1. An ineligible student may appeal by indicating in writing the (a) reasons why he/she did not achieve minimum academic standards, and (b) reasons why his/her aid eligibility should not be terminated, but re-instated. Each appeal will be considered on its merit. Individual cases will not be considered as precedent.

 

  1. A first level committee will review the appeal within a reasonable amount of time, and determine whether the financial aid suspension action is justified. The student will be advised in writing of the committee's decision.

If the student is denied by the first level committee or does not meet stipulations imposed by that committee, he or she can appeal to the University Financial Aid Committee.  The student must provide a written appeal and any documentation for the committee’s review and is given the option to appear in person before the committee, if she or he so chooses.  This committee is sanctioned by the University as the final authority on the reappeal per federal financial aid regulations; therefore, the committee’s decision is final.

VIII. Enforcement

The Office of Financial Aid shall have primary responsibility for enforcing this policy. The Office of the Registrar and other University offices which maintain student information relevant to this enforcement responsibility shall provide such information, when requested by the financial aid officer, as it is necessary for the efficient enforcement of this policy.

 

 

 
SUBJECT: Emergency Loan Policies
Number: 403
Issued by: Mr. Glenn Shumpert, Director of Financial Aid
Date: August 1, 2000 (reviewed- no changes)
 
Policies for Emergency Loans
1. Emergency loans are available for registered students at USC Aiken only during semesters for which they are registered. These should be used only for situations which are beyond the student's control such as returning home for a family
emergency or something that would prevent the student from attending school or work.
2. The amount of loan normally shall never exceed $150.00.
3. Loans can be written for a maximum of 30 days; however, the due date must be on or before the last day of classes for the semester in which the loan was made.
4. Students may have only one outstanding debt at a time to USC Aiken. This includes both emergency loans and delayed payment agreements.
5. Once the loan becomes more than 10 days past due, the student is not longer eligible to receive emergency loans or any other University based financial assistance.
6. Before the loan becomes due, a student can arrange to extend the due date up to 30 days. The new date must fall within the semester in which the loan was originally written. Extensions will be granted one (1) time only and are at the discretion of the Vice Chancellor for Student Services.
7. Students should only be approved for one emergency loan per academic year.
 
Collection Procedures
1. If the note becomes 5 days delinquent, the student will be sent a letter by the Vice Chancellor for Student Services. The letter will explain that he/she is no longer eligible to receive emergency loans, and that the loan must be paid in full within l0 days of the letter or it will be turned over the courts for collection.
2. Once the note becomes 5 days delinquent, a late processing fee will be added onto the balance owed. The fee charged will be ten ($10) dollars for every five days the note remains outstanding.
3. In addition, if after ten days the loan has not been repaid, the University will place a hold on all the student's records, registration, financial aid checks, et al.
 
Counseling Students
1. The student must fill out a loan request form.
2. If the student asks how much he can borrow - ask him how much he needs. Do not volunteer the $150.00 figure.
3. Agree on a suitable payment date keeping date restrictions in mind. Emphasize importance of meeting this debt within the allotted time.
4. Find out how the student plans to pay off the loan.
 
Procedure
1. Pull the student's folder and make sure there are no outstanding notes or loans.
2. Have the student fill out a loan request form and initial check list.
3. Fill out an emergency loan check authorization and forward it to the Finance Office.
4. Student takes the form to Finance Office. The Finance office writes the check and places the debt on accounts receivable.
5. A bill/reminder is sent to the student approximately 5 days before the due date.
 
SUBJECT: Scholarships
Number: 404
Issued by: Mr. Glenn Shumpert, Director of Financial Aid
Date: rev. April 10, 2000
 
The USCA Development Office raises money for scholarships through the Family Fund, the Annual Fund, corporate solicitation and through gifts to the Partnership. Scholarships are made available for USCA students and potential students from endowment funds and yearly contributions. The Development Office, the Financial Aid Office and the Admissions office staff review current scholarship and future scholarship programs to ensure that these programs support the overall mission of USC Aiken.
 
The applicable policies and procedures for each of the scholarships awarded by USCA are listed below. The following represents general guidelines for these scholarships.
 
USCA Scholarships Awarded by HAS Committee
The mission of the Honors, Awards and Scholarship Committee as defined in the USCA Faculty Manual is to establish criteria for awards, to organize and facilitate an annual awards day program and to administer Educational Foundation funds as well as other scholarship funds entrusted to the University. Membership shall include five faculty; the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, the Director of Financial Aid, and the Vice Chancellor for Development are ex officio members.
 
Application Requirement for Scholarships
All students awarded scholarships through the HAS committee must have completed and submitted an academic scholarship application to the USCA Financial Aid Office by the specified application date. Late applications may not be given full consideration. The only exception to the application requirement is if no applicant meets the donor's awarding criteria, then the HAS committee may solicit nominations from faculty and staff in the particular discipline of the scholarship.
 
The academic scholarship application is the only application necessary to be considered for all scholarships at USCA administered by the HAS committee. The HAS committee will match applicants' qualifications with the donor's awarding criteria.
 
To be considered for a Chancellor's Scholarship, applicants must complete the academic scholarship application, score at least l000 on the SAT and rank in the top 10% of their high school class. The Financial Aid Office will distribute and advertise the availability of Academic Scholarship applications as well as the deadline date.
 
Awarding Procedures
The HAS committee will award each scholarship according to the criteria set by the individual donor. If a suitable applicant is not found, one of two options will occur:
 
1. The scholarship is not awarded and when permissible, carried over to the next year. 2. Nominations are solicited from faculty and staff.
 
It is the policy of USCA to award one scholarship per student. The only exceptions to this are when several small awards are combined to equal a more meaningful dollar figure or if a student is the only qualified applicant for several scholarships. If more than one award is offered, the combined value may not ordinarily exceed full-tuition for a full-time student.
The majority of scholarships awarded by the HAS committee go to students who are enrolled full-time (12 or more hours or 10 or more hours for nursing majors). Chancellor's Scholarship recipients are required to take a minimum of 15 hours each semester. The remaining scholarships awarded by HAS may be awarded to part-time students, but the dollar amount awarded may not ordinarily exceed the tuition charged. This is to help support the evening/non-traditional recruitment/ retention effort. Exceptions to the hour requirement may be granted on a case by case basis by the Director of Financial Aid and, if necessary, in consultation with the student's academic advisor.
 
Renewability
Unless otherwise stated by the individual scholarship, USCA scholarships are not renewable. Recipients must apply each year for future consideration. Receipt of a scholarship in one year does not necessarily guarantee future awards. At the time of this policy, the following scholarships are renewable. The list is subject to change:
 
Chancellor's Scholarship -
Renewable for 3 additional years pending a 3.0 GPA.
 
Valedictorian Scholarship
The Valedictorian Scholarship is offered annually by USCA to the valedictorian of each Aiken, Barnwell, Edgefield, Allendale, Richmond County (Georgia) and Columbia County (Georgia) high school. This is a four-year full tuition scholarship paid through the use of fee waivers. Valedictorian applicants must have a minimum 1000 SAT or ACT equivalent or a predicted USCA GPA of 3.0 or greater. Renewability is based upon a 3.0 GPA and 15 hours each semester. There is no application for this scholarship. GPAs will be checked after spring semester. If the student requests, grades will again be checked after the Summer II session. Under exceptional circumstances, the Director of Financial Aid, in consultation with the USCA Financial Aid Committee, may waive the grade requirement for one semester.
 
Other Scholarships
The following scholarships are awarded by USCA through means other than the HAS committee. Unless otherwise noted, the terms and conditions are the same as those awarded by the HAS committee.
 
Palmetto Fellows
Palmetto Fellows are selected by the CHE and USCA matches the state award through private resources.
 
Chancellor's Discretionary Scholarships
The Chancellor of USCA or his designees may award discretionary scholarships for special circumstances. Before the student may receive the award, the scholarship must be approved by the executive board of the Aiken Partnership or HAS, depending on the source of the funding. If the board cannot approve the request in a timely manner, the Financial Aid Office will write a tuition deferment at no charge to the student until approval is granted.
 
The following form must be completed for all students receiving discretionary scholarships. This form will be put in the student's file in the Financial Aid Office.
 
Recruiters Scholarships
USCA Admissions staff are authorized to award recruiters scholarships each year. The number of scholarships available for the following year will be determined prior to the Fall semester. The purpose of the recruiters scholarships is to attract high quality students to USCA, particularly in targeted academic, service, or extracurricular areas of need. Candidates must meet regular admissions requirements at USCA. This is a non-renewable scholarship for full-time students. Exceptions to the full-time requirement may be made on an exceptional, case by case basis. Students receiving recruiters scholarships may be granted other USCA scholarships.
 
Etherredge Center Scholarships
The Etherredge Center endowment provides scholarship funds for students in the areas of art, music, and drama. The recipients are recommended by the faculty, and approved by the HAS committee.
 
Cheerleaders Scholarships
USCA annually provides $250.00 in scholarship funds each semester to every member of the USCA cheerleading squad.
 
Athletic Scholarships
The USCA Athletic Department has its own budget and awards scholarships to students based on their athletic abilities and in accordance with NCAA rules and USCA admissions/financial aid criteria.
 
Waiver of Out-of-State Fees
Pursuant to section 59-112-70 of the S.C. Code: "Any out-of-state student receiving scholarship aid of $250.00 or more per semester or term from the university will be allowed to pay fees at the in-state rate." All such scholarships involving waiver of out-of-state fees (athletics, Etherredge Center, academic) are approved by the HAS committee.
 
 
SUBJECT:  Student Employment
Number: 405
Issued by: Angela Hensley, Program Coordinator
Date: October 3, 2000 (revised)
 

The student employment program at USC Aiken provides part-time on-campus and community service employment to USCA students.  There are two categories of student employees at USC Aiken:  Federal Work-Study (FWS) students and Institutional Student Employment (ISE) students.  The following procedures should be followed when a department wishes to hire a student employee.

Each department must submit a request for student employees to the Monday Group.  This request should include a brief description of the duties to be performed by the student employee.

Once a student employment position has been established, the department must complete a USCA Student Employee Job Advertisement form for each position.  The department will specify on this form if they wish to hire a FWS student or ISE student.  This form is returned to the Career Services Office for posting on the student employment bulletin board.

Departments will be allocated specific dollar amounts for FWS and ISE in the departmental budget.  Supervisors will monitor their student workers earnings in relation to the departmental budget and the student’s FWS award.

Students wishing to work on campus should refer to the job advertisements posted on the student employment bulletin board.  The student can apply for any of these positions by notifying the contact person listed on each job advertisement.  Students seeking employment under the FWS program must apply for financial aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).  FWS awards will be made by the Financial Aid Office based on Federal Regulations.

Once a student has been hired for on-campus employment, he/she must obtain a Student Employment Packet from Career Services.  This packet includes a Student Employee Registration form, USC PBP-3 form, W-4 form, USCA Confidentiality Agreement, Student Employment Training Agreement and I-9 form.  These forms will be completed by the student and the student’s supervisor.  FWS students will receive a pre-printed PBP-3 form listing the student’s FWS award as total expected earnings.

Students must be paid at least the current minimum wage.  Higher salaries may be paid based on the nature and complexity of the duties of the position.

Each student employee must complete a weekly time card to be returned to the USCA Human Resource Office.

Most student employees are required to attend a one time student employment training session given by the Career Services Office.

Student employees are paid semi-monthly based on the number of hours worked.

 
 
SUBJECT: Solicitation Policy
Number: 406
Issued by: Dr. Deborah J. Kladivko, Vice Chancellor for Student Life and Services
Date: March 30, 2001 (Revised)

I. PURPOSE
The University of South Carolina Aiken has the duty and responsibility to maintain a safe
and healthy environment
conducive to its principal mission of education. At the same time, the University recognizes
and respects the
constitutional protection of free speech as well as the individual student's right to privacy.
Accordingly, the University
hereby adopts this solicitation policy for the purpose of establishing reasonable time, place
and manner restrictions on
campus solicitation.

II. DEFINITION OF SOLICITATION
Solicitation is defined as contact for the purpose of:
1. soliciting funds or sales or demonstrations that result in sales;
2. distributing advertising or other materials;
3. compiling data for surveys, programs, or other purposes;
4. recruiting members or support for an organization or cause;
5. providing educational information sessions (exclusive of formal University of South
Carolina Aiken academic
classes).

Even within areas open to solicitation, this contact may not substantially disrupt or
materially (or significantly) interfere with the educational, administrative, or operational
activities of the University. Commercial speech which is false, fraudulent, or
misrepresentative is not permitted. Events which are in violation of local, state, or federal
law, Board of Trustees policy, or rules, regulations, and guidelines of the University, are
prohibited.

An event that places an undue burden on campus facilities; interferes with the use of
campus facilities by other persons; disrupts normal operations; infringes on the protected
rights of others; has as a principle goal to incite a riot or to disrupt other activities, may be
denied the privilege to use University facilities or grounds for solicitation.

III. AREAS AVAILABLE FOR SOLICITATION
Although the University is devoted to the public in many ways, the entire campus is not a
public forum. Public access to some portions of the campus must be limited to achieve the
school's educational mission, to retain student privacy, and to meet safety and health
requirements. However, some areas are open for solicitation within the guidelines
established by this policy. Prior approval through established registration and reservation
procedures (available at the
Student Life Office) and the approval of the Vice Chancellor for Student Life and
Services (or designee) are necessary in order to utilize these areas. These areas are:

A. designated areas in the front and back patios of the Student Activities Center;
B. a designated area within the Student Activities Center;
C. other specifically designated areas formally contracted through the University for the
purpose of advertising goods and services to the USCA community upon the approval of
the Chancellor, Vice Chancellor for Student Life and Services, or designee.

IV. DISTRIBUTION OF LITERATURE
Distribution of literature by University or non-University individuals or organizations is
subject to this solicitation policy to prevent harassment of students and to maintain the
campus environment. The person to person distribution of literature by University or
non-University individuals or organizations is restricted to the areas available for solicitation
and must be registered and reserved in advance through the Vice Chancellor for
Student Life and Services (or designee). The posting of literature by University or
non-University individuals or organizations is restricted to appropriate reserved areas of
bulletin boards in all University buildings subject to the documented approval and
instruction of the Director of Student Activities. Some bulletin board space is designated
for University activities only. The posting or attachment of flyers, posters, advertisements,
or announcements of any type on the exterior of buildings, trees, sidewalks, light posts,
parked cars, or other similar structures is prohibited.

V. DIRECT MAIL SOLICITATION
The University of South Carolina Aiken mailroom is responsible for providing services for
USC faculty, staff, and students for official University business only. Mail determined to be
of a personal nature (such as checks, bank statements, utility bills, personal packages) will
be returned to the sender. The only exception to the policy is mail service to Pacer Downs'
resident students whose mail is delivered to their residence.

University Intra-Campus Mail Service cannot be used by faculty, staff, students, or outside
businesses or organizations for advertising, campaign notices, solicitation, or for any
purpose that is not determined official University business. No USC Aiken mailing list will
be available for use other than for official University of South Carolina business. (Student
organizations may be contacted through the Office of Student Activities.)

VI. POLICY ON SALES SOLlCITATION
Solicitors and tradesmen, including students, faculty, or other University personnel, are
prohibited from entering University grounds or buildings of the University of South
Carolina Aiken for the purpose of transacting business with students, faculty, or other
University personnel, unless they have been issued a letter of permit for this purpose by the
office of the Vice Chancellor for Student Life and Services (or designee).

VII. EMPLOYEE SOLICITATION
Employees of the University may not solicit for non-University sponsored activities during
working time regardless of whether they are in their working area or not. (See System
Policy A1.07, Personnel, 08/85.)

VIII. STUDENT ORGANlZATIONS
Registered USC Aiken student organizations may solicit in designated areas under the
following conditions:

A. The organizations must complete a space reservation form available from the Director
of Student Activities' Office.
B. The Vice Chancellor for Student Services must be made aware of outside
speakers and/or performers being brought through sponsorship by USCA student
organizations to the campus.
C. The Vice Chancellor for Student Services (or designee) must approve student
fund raising activities; a fund raising audit sheet must be completed after each event.
D. Any use of space not normally designated for use by student organizations and
University departments must be requested in writing from the Vice Chancellor for
Student Services (or designees).

IX. STATEMENT OF EQUITY
- Approval to solicit on the University of South Carolina Aiken campus shall not be
granted in an arbitrary or capricious manner upon the basis of the content of the proposed
speech related activity. Any constitutionally protected speech will be permitted within the
reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions of this policy.

X. OUTSIDE ORGANIZATIONS AND INDIVIDUALS
Any outside organization or individual wishing to come on campus for the purpose of
solicitation must be sponsored by a registered USCA organization or University
department. After obtaining sponsorship, the outside organization or individual must follow
the procedure outlined for USCA student organizations. Additionally, an alternative means
of communication is available through the student newspaper.

XI. DISCLAIMER
The Solicitation Policy of the University of South Carolina Aiken must undergo constant
revision to reflect prevailing community standards and the most recent case law which
constitutionally defends the rights of students as citizens as well as protecting the individual
privacy of students on the University campus. Contact the Student Life Office in the
Student Activities Center for the most recent revisions of this Solicitation Policy. .

 
 
SUBJECT: Awarding Procedures - 2% Fee Waivers
Number: 407
Issued by: Mr. Glenn Shumpert, Director of Financial Aid
Date:  August 1, 2000 (revised - no changes)
 
DESCRIPTION
The 1988-89 State of South Carolina Appropriations Act enables public institutions of higher education to offer educational fee waivers to undergraduate students in an amount based on two percent of the prior year's tuition revenue. The two percent calculation is determined yearly by multiplying the prior academic year's (fall & spring) undergraduate enrollment, reduced for bonded indebtedness times two percent. USCA has established a base program funded in the amount of $56,000. For the purpose of this policy, an educational fee waiver will be called a "tuition award."
 
The basic tuition award program at USCA is a component of the Chancellor's scholarship program. Private donations fund year 1 of the Chancellor's Scholarship and the tuition award will fund years 2, 3 & 4. This, in combination, provides a total of 48 full tuition awards. The basic usage of the tuition award program will not change, as USCA has chosen to use it for long term commitments to exceptional entering freshmen.
 
Any usage of tuition awards generated beyond the "basic" program as a result of an increase in tuition revenues will be reviewed annually by the Finance Office, Financial Aid Office, Admissions Office and Honors and Awards Committee. Excess revenue usage will be modified each year as is necessary to meet the recruiting needs of the campus. Examples of such usage are: to increase the pool of underrepresented majors, to secure early admission commitments from high school scholars or specially talented students, to attract outstanding transfer students for specific majors, etc.; to assist in the recruitment of academically superior and specially talented students; to provide an additional source of student aid based on the student's unmet financial need; to accomplish desegregation and affirmative action objectives and in consideration for University service.
 
Both the basic and additional tuition award programs (dollar amount and planned usage) will be incorporated into the annual USCA operating budget, and as such, be presented to the Board of Trustees as a line item in the budget for their approval.
 
AWARDING PROCESS
The Honors and Awards and Scholarship Committee will award the basic tuition awards through the established scholarship application process. Until the program is in existence for 4 years and funds are fully utilized by the Chancellor's program, the H.A.S. Committee may, at its discretion, award 1 /4, 1 /2 or full tuition awards to upper classmen based on the strength of the scholarship application. Awards will be renewable for up to 2 additional years pending grades (Sophomores - 1 + 2 years, Juniors - 1 + 1 year, Seniors - 1 year). There will always be an even distribution of approximately $18,600 in years 2, 3 and 4 at any given time. Students will be notified of their selection to receive a tuition award by the Financial Aid Office through the regular scholarship award letter. Excess tuition awards will be awarded by the Admissions and Financial Aid Office in accordance with the yearly policies set. The Financial Aid Office will publish the existence of these awards as a component of the Chancellor's Scholarship Program.
 
CONSTITUENT ELIGIBILITY
1. Recipients must register for a minimum of 15 credit hours per semester. In special circumstances, we will allow combinations of enrollment as long as the total annual enrollment equals 30 hours. Students in their senior year will be allowed 12 hours per semester if the academic advisor provides documentation that the student requires only 24 additional hours to allow graduation.
 
2. Students are eligible for tuition awards for a maximum of four years or eight semesters. Tuition awards are not available for summer sessions. Students must maintain a 3.5 GPA to remain eligible for full tuition awards and 3.0 GPA to remain eligible for 1/4 or 1/2 tuition awards. GPA's will be monitored at the end of the Summer ll session to determine Fall Semester eligibility.
 
Students failing to meet stated GPA's will no longer be entitled to receive the tuition award. If funds are made available through the attrition process, the Financial Aid Office will monitor said funds and provide the H.A.S. Committee with available funds to be awarded. Funds will be awarded to scholarship applicants in the academic year equal to that of the money available. Example: If a junior fails to maintain the necessary grades the funds MUST be awarded to another junior.
 
3. Tuition awards may not be dually awarded with other University controlled scholarship funds. They may be combined with outside scholarships or federal aid programs.
 
 
SUBJECT: Special Loan Funds
Number: 408
Issued by: Mr. Glenn Shumpert, Director of Financial Aid
Date: August 15, 2000
 
 
THE TOWN AND COUNTRY LOAN
The Town and Country Loan fund is available to Aiken County residents who attend USCA. The loan is not transferable to any other institution. Students accepted for admission or currently enrolled at USCA may apply for up to $4000 per academic year July 1- June 30). The total aggregate loan may not exceed $14,000.
 
No interest will be charged on the loan as long as the student maintains at least half time enrollment at USCA. The aggregate loan amount shall bear interest at the rate of 5% per annum for a period of two years commencing six months after graduation, or termination of enrollment, or dropping below half time enrollment at USCA. After expiration of the said two years, the said sum shall bear interest at the rate of 10% per annum until fully paid; the said sum shall be repaid in up to sixty equal successive monthly installments with a minimum payment of $50 each month together with interest. The privilege of payment, in whole or in part, before maturity with interest then to cease on any sum so paid, is permitted.
 
To apply for the Town and Country Club Loan, students must complete an application, available from the USCA Financial Aid Office. The Financial Aid Office will act on the application, giving priority to students who do not qualify for federal aid programs. The number of loans awarded annually will vary and will be based on collections from the previous year and the number of outstanding notes. USCA may obtain a credit bureau report on both the borrower and the guarantor.
 
THE RICH LOAN
The Rich Loan is a short term, (one year) emergency loan for students attending USCA. The amount of the loan cannot exceed $500 for any student at any one time. Students can apply for the loan through the Financial Aid Office and must demonstrate the ability to repay the loan within the year. The Financial Aid Office will determine the student's eligibility based upon federal aid guidelines and upon the memorandum of agreement on file in the Development Office.
 
 
SUBJECT: Campus Posters/Publicity Policy
Number: 409
Issued by: Dr. Deborah J. Kladivko, Vice Chancellor for Student Life and Services
Date: August 27, 2007 (Revised)

*This campus policy is in addition to the Solicitation policy already in existence.

PUBLICITY POLICY

The Offices of Student Involvement and Marketing & Community Relations are interested in assisting student organizations and campus departments in their efforts to publicize their activities while maintaining the beauty of the USCA campus. A variety of avenues including Post Time Notes, Pacer Times, Café’ News, and Stall Wall Weekly are available for publicizing. To best meet the needs of the entire campus, the following policy addresses the use of posted publicity.

o         All publicity must be approved by the Office of Student Involvement.

o         With the exception of registered banners in designated banner areas in each building, all publicity must be placed in approved areas. Approved areas include:

§          Sidewalks

§          Designated Big Board areas

§          Sandwich Boards

§          Open Bulletin Boards

§          Other areas approved by the Director of Student Involvement or a designee

o         All publicity hung in University Housing facilities must be approved by the University Housing office.

o         Bulletin boards located across campus are assigned by the Director of Student Involvement or a designee. Bulletin boards are assigned based on availability and usefulness to the campus community.

o         There are a designated number of open boards that are for the use of the entire University of Aiken community. All items on these boards must be date-stamped and approved by the Office of Student Involvement. Student organizations are responsible for removing their outdated materials. A map of all open boards is available in the Student Involvement Office.

o         No flyer larger than 22” by 16” (L x W) will be allowed on open bulletin boards.

o         Each student organization will be assigned 4 stakes for the year. The organization will be responsible for the maintenance of their stakes and will not be assigned any other ones unless they show damage to the stakes they currently have.

o         If an organization does not follow the publicity policies, the Director of Student Involvement or designee will be able to impose sanctions on that organization.

o         Big Boards and/or banners may be hung on the interior and exterior entrances of the Student Activities Center and in designated areas on campus approved by the Director of Student Involvement or designee.

o         Student organizations may chalk sidewalks in designated areas and all designs must be approved by the Director of Student Involvement or designee.

o         Table tents are not allowed on public tables (including food services areas) unless specifically approved by the Director of Student Involvement or designee and the Director of Food Services.

o       Stall Wall/Café News

§    If you would like to have something published in the Stall Wall Weekly or the Café’ News, please send your announcement to stall@usca.edu or stop by our office and fill out an announcement form.  All announcements must be into our office the Monday prior to when you would it to be published.  The Stall Wall is a weekly publication put out on Monday and the Café’ News comes out every other Monday.

o       Student List Service Policies

§    If a department or student organization would like to inform the student population about an event or program through the student list serve, the following guidelines will be used:

§     The event or program announcement must be related to University business (final determination will be left to the Director of Student Involvement or designee);

§      Announcement emails must be sent to the studentnews@usca.edu account by 1pm on the day sender would like the announcement to be sent;

§     One announcement email will be sent out daily by 4pm to students.  Exceptions to this rule include announcements made by the Business Services Office, Financial Aid, Records, and any emergency announcements.  All other announcements will be included in the daily email.

 

o Publicity is not allowed to be hung for more than 10 days unless specific approval is given by the Director of Student Activities or designee.


 


 
SUBJECT: Immunization Policy
Number: 410
Issued by: Dr. Deborah J. Kladivko, Vice Chancellor for Student Life and Services
Date: March 30, 2001 (Revised)

      I.    Effective spring 1998, all students born after 1956, and initially enrolling at USC Aiken,  must prove immunity to Rubeola
      (Red Measles) and Rubella (German Measles). Proof of immunity requires the following:

           A.  Rubeola (Red Measles):  Two vaccinations received after January 1, 1968, and on or after the first birthday;
           or, a positive serum blood titer; or, a physician diagnosed history of Rubeola.

           B.  Rubella (German Measles):  One vaccination after 1968 and on or after the first birthday; or, a positive serum
           blood titer.  A history of rubella does not meet the requirement.

      The above requirements provide substantial compliance with immunication recommendations of the Centers for Disease
      Control (CDC).

      II.  All Aiken campus students must have their immunization status verified and a clearance issued by the Enrollment  Services
      Office prior to registering for classes.

      III.  Faculty and Staff: Vaccination is optional but recommended for all employees born after 1956.

      IV.  Students attending classes at off-campus sites are not subject to this policy.

    
 
SUBJECT: Georgia In-State Tuition Program
Number: 411
Issued by: Randy Duckett, Interim Director of Enrollment Services
Date: February 5, 2001 (revised)
 
 
The University of South Carolina Aiken may offer in-state tuition to any student whose legal residence is in the Richmond/Columbia County area of the neighboring state of Georgia, provided the student is accepted as a USC Aiken undergraduate or graduate student taking USC Aiken undergraduate or graduate courses. This provison shall not be in effect should the Georgia Board of Regents discontinue the Georgia tuition program offering in-state tuition to those students residing in the Aiken/Edgefield County area of South Carolina.
 
In order to quality as a legal resident of Richmond and Columbia County for tuition purposes, students must meet the same requirements to establish residency (as Richmond and Columbia County residents) that South Carolina students meet to be considered South Carolina residents for tuition and fee purposes.
 
I. Be a dependent (claimed on federal income tax return) of a person who has physically resided and established domicile in Richmond or Columbia County for at least 12 months preceding the term the student is requesting admission.
 
II. Be an independent person who has physically resided and established a domicile in Richmond or Columbia County for at least 12 months immediately preceding the term the student is requesting admission.
 
(If an independent student or dependents' parents are full-time employees in South Carolina, Richmond or Columbia County and appropriate steps have been made to establish permanent domicile in one of these areas -- the 12 month waiting period 'may be' reduced.)
 
III. Be a dependent or the one who is on active military duty in Richmond or Columbia County and also reside in Richmond or Columbia County.
 
 
Procedure:
Submit residency application and legal documents requested therein to establish appropriate classification to the USCA Admissions Office.
 
 
SUBJECT: Disabled Student Services
Number: 413
Issued by: Dr. Deborah J. Kladivko, Vice Chancellor for Student Services
Date: August 30, 1993
 
Philosophy
The purpose of Disabled Student Services is to insure that students with disabilities have equal access to all programs and activities offered at the University of South Carolina Aiken. Services are coordinated within the University community such as general counseling, the location and referral of special assistants, aid in obtaining and maintaining special equipment and supplies, and consultation for the prevention of architectural and attitudinal barriers.
 
Eligibility for Services
Disabled Student Services provides services to students who have either a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more life activity. Examples of disabilities include cerebral palsy, hearing impairments, psychological disorders, quadriplegia, acquired brain injuries, cardiac disease, deafness, or blindness. The federal definition of learning disabilities (Public Law 94-142) states, "(students) ...with specific learning disabilities are those ... (individuals) ... who have a disorder in one or more of the basic psychological processes involved in understanding or using language, spoken or written, which disorder may manifest itself in imperfect ability to listen, think, speak, read, write, spell or do mathematical calculations. Such disorders include such conditions as perceptual handicaps, brain injury, minimal brain dysfunction, dyslexia and developmental aphasia.
 
If students have a verifiable disability, they may qualify for services. In order to gain special assistance, students must provide the following documentation to the office of Disabled Student Services:
 
a. Application for Special Services
b. Complete medical, psychological or educational evaluations from qualified health professionals (Evaluations must be completed within the last 3 years.)
 
Upon receipt of the Application for Special Services and medical and/orpsychological evaluation, the Coordinator for Learning Support Services in consultation with the USCA Counseling Center Coordinator/School Psychologist will determine whether or not the student qualifies for special services. At this point, the Coordinator for Learning Support Services will contact the appropriate faculty, staff and/or external agencies for the services required.
 
Temporary disabilities such as illnesses, accidents, etc. which will not interfere with the student's work for more than two or three weeks may be dealt with by the individual instructor(s) with the approval of the Chairperson of the Department without involvement of the office of Disabled Student Services.
 
What Services are Available?
Disabled Student Services coordinates and provides a variety of services based on the student's individual needs. Services may include the following:
 
- Priority preregistration
- Weekly appointments with counselor
- Faculty consultation
- Orientation to campus
- Individual counseling
- Note-taking services
- Special parking
- Textbook recording
- Reader services
 
General Information
Offices hours are 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. For more information, call (803) 648-6851.
 
 
SUBJECT: Identification Cards
Number: 414
Issued by: Ms. Vivian Grice Registrar
Date: August 31, 2000 (review, no changes)
 
The Office of the Registrar makes identification cards for all students, staff, faculty, and special user groups. These cards are made during all major registration periods and once each week thereafter.
 
Students receive their first card free, and each subsequent card is $10.00 which is billed to the students on the accounts receivable system. These cards are required for checking books out of the library, getting into the various areas after hours, and a variety of other purposes. Each time a student registers and pays fees, the card becomes valid for that semester. They can be used at other USC campuses.
 
Faculty and staff ID cards are also made at no charge, even for subsequent ones. These ID cards are valid through 1999 at which time all faculty and staff cards must be updated by the office of the Registrar.
 
Special user groups may have ID cards made so that members of these groups may use the library and other University services. The Office of the Registrar charges the user group $1.00 per ID card to cover materials and labor for the first card and for any replacement card that must be made.
 
Students at Aiken Technical College may purchase an ID card for use at the Gregg-Graniteville Library. See Policy and Procedures #260 for more details.
 
 
SUBJECT: Sexual Assault Policy
Number: 415
Issued by: Deborah J. Kladivko, Assoc. Chancellor for Student Life and Services
Date: January 15, 1997
 
 
I. POLICY STATEMENT
As a matter of policy, the faculty, staff and students that comprise the University of South Carolina Aiken will not tolerate sexual assault.
 
II. RATIONALE
The University of South Carolina Aiken is an educational institution bound by common standards of conduct and a commitment to its educational mission. Sexual assault is considered particularly abhorrent because it interferes with our educational mission:
 
by endangering the physical and emotional safety;
by damaging trust;
by offending the dignity and violating autonomy;
by disrupting the academic progress of victims during their recovery
 
The purpose of this policy statement is to describe the University efforts to provide:
 
resources aimed at reducing the risk of sexual assault, including educational programs for men and women;
a statement of expectations for behavior with regard to sexual conduct;
procedural interventions to offer support and information following a sexual assault; and campus judicial procedures that provide for the needs of victims and protect the rights of alleged assailants.
 
Statistically, members of college communities are at great risk of being assaulted or exploited sexually and most probably by someone known to or trusted by the victim. Studies have shown that sexual assaults occur with disturbing frequency among college age men and women but are very often unreported. In order to provide for the needs and care of victims, as well as to enforce the behavior standards critical to our mission, it is important that all violations of this policy are reported to appropriate authorities, including the law enforcement officials or agencies with jurisdiction in the location of the incident. Portions of this policy may parallel published laws, but are in no way intended to substitute or supplant those laws. USC Aiken students are expected to comply with and abide by University policies and the laws of the State of South Carolina.
 
Because research has shown that alcohol and other drug use is typically associated with sexual assault, especially date and acquaintance rape, it is important to be aware of and manage health and safety risks while complying with all University policies, and state and federal laws related to alcohol and drug use. The use of these substances, in conjunction with an incident of sexual assault, does not mitigate responsibility or diminish the seriousness of the crime.
 
This policy is subject to change to comply with changes in relevant laws or University operating procedures or regulations.
 
III. VICTIM'S BILL OF RIGHTS
Victims of sexual assault who report their experience to University officials can anticipate that:
1. All sexual assaults will be treated seriously.
2. Victims will be treated with dignity and respect and in a nonjudgmental manner.
3. Campus organizations and services which can assist victims will be identified.
4. When a crime is reported to University officials, those officials will offer assistance in notifying proper authorities.
5. When victims report and choose to pursue action against alleged assailants, assaults will be investigated and adjudicated by appropriate criminal and/or University officials.
6. University personnel will not discourage victims from reporting, nor encourage them to under-report the incident as a lesser crime.
7. Victims may invite an advisor they choose to accompany them through University disciplinary proceedings.
8. A victim will be notified of the outcome of related University discipline proceedings. The victim and charged student must respect the privacy rights of all involved.
9. University personnel will cooperate in obtaining, securing and maintaining evidence (including a medical examination) necessary in legal proceedings.
l0. Victims will be made aware of any state or federal laws regarding mandatory testing of sexual assault suspects for communicable disease and whether these professionals can notify a victim of the results of these tests.
11. Victims will be informed of mental health services available.
12. Victims will be afforded the opportunity to request immediate on-campus housing relocation, transfer of classes, or other steps to prevent unnecessary or unwanted contact or proximity to an alleged assailant when reasonably available.
13. All students have the right to an environment free from sexual or physical intimidation, or any continuing disruptive behavior, by persons sharing rooms or their guests, that would prevent a reasonable person from attaining their educational goals.
Disruptive behavior of this nature should be reported to appropriate University staff, so it can be addressed.
14. The sexual history of the victim is not considered relevant to the truth of the allegation; therefore, information regarding sexual history external to the relationship between the victim and the alleged assailant will not be considered in discipline hearings.
 
IV. UNIVERSITY DEFINITIONS:
For the purpose of this policy and related procedures, the term sexual assault is defined as "unwilling or unconsenting sexual intercourse or penetration of any bodily opening with any object; the touching of an unwilling person's intimate parts (such as genitalia, groin, breast, buttocks, mouth, and/or clothing covering them); touching an unwilling person with one's own intimate parts; or forcing an unwilling person to touch another's intimate parts."
 
Behavior contemplated in this definition includes acts that are unwanted and/or may be committed either by force, threat, intimidation, or deceit, or through exploitation of another's mental or physical condition of which the assailant was aware or should have been aware.
 
USC Aiken student conduct regulations incorporate this definition by obliging students to comply with all published policies and procedures of the University (see USC Aiken Student Handbook). Behaviors prohibited by this policy may also be prohibited by the general student conduct regulations obliging students to comply with all published state, local and federal (see "Compliance with General Laws" under "Student Discipline System" in the USC Aiken Student Handbook). Such behaviors may also be simultaneously covered by the general regulations prohibiting "disruptive activity" and "disorderly conduct". Attempting, abetting or being an accessory to any prohibited act is considered the same as a completed violation.
 
V. CRIMINAL DEFINITION:
By publishing this policy, USC Aiken does not intend to substitute or supersede related civil and criminal law. It is the policy of this institution to strongly encourage victims to report all incidents and violations to the law enforcement agencies or officials with appropriate jurisdiction and to avail themselves of all the services and rights to which they are entitled by law.
 
It should be clearly understood that there is a fundamental difference between the nature and purpose of student discipline and criminal law. Regardless of the charge(s) issued or procedures employed, sanctions issued by the University can be expected to be consistent with the educational mission of the institution.
 
According to USC Aiken's Student Handbook, Student Discipline section, students who are apprehended and charged by law enforcement agencies with felony criminal charges off campus are required to inform University officials. The University may bring disciplinary action against the student for the same incident if the alleged conduct is prohibited by the institution and/or if it is judged to be adverse to the recognized mission of the institution. University disciplinary procedures should be considered distinct and independent of any and all criminal procedures. Discipline procedures may precede, occur simultaneously, or follow and consider the results of any relevant court action. When necessary, temporary action may be taken in the form of summary suspension, summary restrictions or officially requesting no contact between the victim and accused assailant. Any of these measures may result in a student's restricted participation in University events outside attendance of classes and appointments related to the resolution of discipline matters.
 
The South Carolina State Code of Laws (SC Code Ann. Sec. 16-3-651 to 16-3-656) defines criminal sexual conduct, including rape, with the respective penalties as follows:
 
Sec. 16=3-65l. Definitions used in sections 16-3-65l to 16-3-659.1.
For the purposes of sections 16-3-651 to 16-3-659. 1:
(a) "Actor" means a person accused of criminal sexual conduct.
(b) "Aggravated coercion" means that the actor threatens to use force or violence of a high and aggravated nature to overcome the victim or another person, if the victim reasonably believes that the actor has the present ability to carry out the threat, or threatens to retaliate in the future by the infliction of physical harm, kidnapping or extortion, under circumstances of aggravation, against the victim or any other person.
(c) "Aggravated force" means that the actor uses physical force or physical violence of a high and aggravated nature to overcome the victim or includes the threat of the use of a deadly weapon.
(d) "Intimate parts" includes the primary genital area, anus, groin, inner thighs, or buttocks of a male or female human being and the breasts of a female human being.
(e) "Mentally defective" means that a person suffers from a mental disease or defect which renders the person temporarily or permanently incapable of appraising the nature of his or her conduct.
(f) "Mentally incapacitated" means that a person is rendered temporarily incapable of appraising or controlling his or her conduct whether this condition is produced by illness, defect, the influence of a substance or from some other cause.
(g) "Physically helpless" means that a person is unconscious, asleep, or for any other reason physically unable to communicate unwillingness to an act.
(h) "Sexual battery" means sexual intercourse, cunnilingus, fellatio, anal intercourse, or any intrusion, however slight, of any part of a person's body or of any object into the genital or anal openings of another person's body, except when such intrusion is accomplished for medically recognized treatment or diagnostic purposes.
(i) Victim" means the person alleging to have been subjected to criminal sexual conduct.
 
Sec. 16-3-652. Criminal sexual conduct in the first degree.
(1) A person is guilty of criminal sexual conduct in the first degree if the actor engages in sexual battery with the victim and if any one or more of the following circumstances are proven:
(a) The actor uses aggravated force to accomplish sexual battery.
(b) The victim submits to sexual battery by the actor under circumstances where the victim is also the victim of forcible confinement, kidnapping, robbery, extortion, burglary, housebreaking, or any other similar offense or act.
 
(2) Criminal sexual conduct in the first degree is a felony punishable by imprisonment for not more than thirty years, according to the discretion of the court.
 
Sec. 16-3-653. Criminal sexual conduct in the second degree.
(1) A person is guilty of criminal sexual conduct in the second degree if the actor uses aggravated coercion to accomplish sexual battery.
 
(2) Criminal sexual conduct in the second degree is a felony punishable by imprisonment for not more than twenty years according to the discretion of the court.
 
Sec. 16-3-654. Criminal sexual conduct in the third degree.
(1) A person is guilty of criminal sexual conduct in the third degree if the actor engages in sexual battery with the victim and if any one or more of the following circumstances are proven:
(a) The actor uses force or coercion to accomplish the sexual battery in the absence of aggravating circumstances.
(b) The actor knows or has reason to know that the victim is mentally defective, mentally incapacitated, or physically helpless and aggravated force or aggravated coercion was not used to accomplish sexual battery.
 
(2) Criminal sexual conduct in the third degree is a felony punishable by imprisonment for not more than ten years, according to the discretion of the court.
 
Sec. 16-3-656. Assault with intent to commit criminal sexual conduct.
Assault with intent to commit criminal sexual conduct described in the above sections shall be punishable as if the criminal sexual conduct was committed. (NOTE: one charged with Criminal Sexual Conduct may not be considered for pretrial intervention. SC Code section 17-22-SO)
 
VI. PROCEDURES FOR VICTIM:
A. Immediate Care and Treatment
Medical attention is crucial to assess possible internal injuries or sexually transmitted diseases, as well as to collect medical evidence should the victim choose to pursue prosecution. The police will be contacted by the hospital to take possession of the evidence collected while the victim makes a decision about whether to pursue charges.
 
Any student who feels that he or she has been sexually assaulted and requires medical attention should immediately:
 
IF AN ASSAULT OCCURS ON CAMPUS:
Contact USCA Public Safety at 648-4011 (6111 from a campus phone extension); or Rape Crisis Center at 641-4162 (after hours and weekends at 648-9900). The sooner a sexual assault is reported, the easier it is to collect valuable evidence. To facilitate evidence collection, the victim:
Should not bathe or douche.
Should not urinate.
Should not drink any liquids.
If oral contact has occurred, the victim should not smoke, eat or brush teeth.
If clothes are changed, soiled clothes should be placed in a paper bag (plastic destroys crucial evidence).
USCA Public Safety may transport the victim to Aiken Regional Medical Center for medical attention and a rape protocol exam. If the victim does want not to contact the police, a friend or relative may transport the student to the hospital. When the victim arrives at the emergency room, the hospital may call the Rape Crisis Center to arrange for a victim advocate to accompany the victim throughout the exam and any law enforcement procedures. The hospital staff may also contact USCA Public Safety and/or the police where the incident occurred.
 
IF AN ASSAULT TAKES PLACE OFF CAMPUS:
Contact area police via 911 system (Aiken County) or if no 911 system is available, call your local police, or in Aiken call the Rape Crisis Center at 641-4162 (after hours and weekends at 648-9900). The sooner a sexual assault is reported, the easier it is to collect valuable evidence. To facilitate evidence collection, the victim:
Should not bathe or douche.
Should not urinate.
Should not drink any liquids.
If oral contact has occurred, the victim should not smoke, eat or brush teeth.
If clothes are changed, soiled clothes should be placed in a paper bag (plastic destroys crucial evidence). The police department with jurisdiction in the area will most often direct the victim to an area hospital for medical attention and a rape protocol exam. If the victim does not want to contact police, a friend or relative may transport the student to the hospital. When the victim arrives at the emergency room, the hospital staff may call a Rape Crisis Center in that area and/or may contact the local police where the incident occurred. The hospital staff may also contact USCA Public Safety. If a victim chooses not to go to the hospital, the victim is strongly urged to seek appropriate medical attention.
 
B. Reporting
All victims of sexual assault/battery are encouraged to report the incident to law enforcement agencies. Should the victim choose not to immediately involve law enforcement officials, the victim is strongly urged to go through the rape protocol exam for medical attention and for the purpose of preserving important physical evidence of the assault. This evidence may be used if the victim chooses to pursue legal prosecution at a later date. The rape protocol exam should be completed as soon as possible. Physical evidence can be obtained up to 72 hours after the assault, recognizing that as time passes, the quality of the evidence diminishes.
 
A student victim may also choose to file a report with USCA's Vice Chancellor for Student Life and Services or the Coordinator of the Student Counseling Center. An explanation of this procedure can be obtained in the student handbook. The disciplinary procedures are also described in a separate section below and published in the student handbook.
 
Whether or not legal or disciplinary action is desired, an anonymous report may be filed, at any time, with the Coordinator of the Student Counseling Center. This report provides USCA staff with information about the crime that may be valuable in their efforts to prevent future crimes and educate other students about the high risk areas. The Coordinator of Student Counseling can be reached by calling 641 -3317.
 
C. Discipline Policies and Procedures for Victim and/or Witness:
Witnesses to or victims of the above described sexual misconduct may wish to contact the Vice Chancellor for Student Life and Services if the accused is a USC Aiken student. In this event, the Vice Chancellor will meet with the witness or victim to discuss the report and determine whether there is reason to believe a conduct code offense has occurred. At the same time, discipline procedures will be reviewed and the possible roles the witness or victim may play in the gathering of this information and/or the resolution of the complaint will be explored.
 
At this meeting, if the victim or witness is willing and prepared, staff may conduct an investigative interview. At the victim's or witness's request, an advisor, counselor, attorney, parent, friend or the Coordinator of the Student Counseling Center may attend. In this meeting, and as needed, the Vice Chancellor will answer questions and provide offended individuals with general information about civil and criminal options available to victims or witnesses.
 
When it is determined that there exists sufficient reason to believe a violation of University policy has occurred, disciplinary procedures may be initiated. It should be understood that victims and witnesses need not "press charges", instead, the University is responsible for initiating this investigative process. Furthermore, the University is not required to await the outcome of any criminal action against the accused before initiating disciplinary action, if such is deemed necessary. Victims or witnesses can expect to be asked to contribute testimony and information to assist in the resolution of the complaint.
 
D. Follow-up and Recovery Services for Victim
Research has shown that follow-up counseling is of significant benefit to a victim of sexual assault and/or related trauma. This counseling may be initiated at any time after an assault (from hours to years).
 
On or off campus counseling and other services are available to a student victim whether or not the crime was reported or prosecuted.
 
The Rape Crisis Center (division of the Coalition to Assist Abused Persons "CAAP") is an off-campus resource that provides short-term counseling, as well as crisis intervention. Services are provided for all victims, no matter when the assault occurred. Their 24 hour hotline number is 64S-5500.
 
The Student Counseling Center is an on-campus resource that provides free counseling to students. The phone number is 641-3317.
 
The Vice Chancellor for Student Life and Services can assist a victim with filing a discipline complaint, notifying instructors of absences or other needs, and/or helping a student withdraw. The phone number is 641-3588.
 
VII. PROCEDURES FOR ACCUSED PARTY
A. Discipline Policies and Procedures for Accused Party
To begin discipline procedures, individuals thought to have relevant information or testimony, including the accused party, will be contacted and interviewed by appropriate University officials. If sufficient information is available to conclude there is reason to believe, or "reasonable grounds" to do so, the University will issue charges from the general student conduct regulations and will follow the judicial procedures for non-academic offenses as set forth in the USCA Student Handbook.
 
A summary of this procedure follows:
 
The accused party will be offered the opportunity to choose one of two possible hearing procedures.
 
The accused party may choose an administrative hearing, in which the Vice Chancellor for Student Life and Services or designee is authorized to consider testimony and act as hearing officer, deciding whether the accused is responsible for the charge(s) as issued, and what the University response or sanction, if indicated, should be.
 
Also available to accused students is a hearing before the University Judicial Board (UJB), a group of faculty and students who are trained and authorized to conduct hearings to determine responsibility and appropriate sanctions. In each hearing procedure, the burden of proof shall be on the University as the adjudicating party. Decisions regarding responsibility for charges shall be based on a "preponderance of evidence" standard, meaning responsibility does not have to be proven beyond a shadow of a doubt. The University need only demonstrate that the charged student is more likely than not responsible for the charge.
 
In these investigative hearings, regardless of the procedure chosen, the hearing officer or UJB members will not be restricted from testimony by technical rules of evidence. Charged students are assured a right of access to a list of witnesses invited to testify, as well as an opportunity to review all available physical and documentary evidence to be presented at the hearing. In these informal, non-adversarial hearings, there is no formal cross examination. Charged students are, however, entitled to question and rebut any evidence presented. In order to conduct a fair, orderly hearing, special accommodations may be made in hearing procedures, such as indirect questioning, or special seating arrangements in the hearing room. Both the charged student and the victim may be accompanied by an advisor of their choice and remain present while all testimony is presented.
 
The advisor or counsel may, with written permission of the charged student:
Advise the accused student about the preparation and presentation of the case; Accompany the charged student to all judicial proceedings;
Have access to evidence, witness lists, documents and exhibits relating to the case.
 
Should the hearing authority determine a student is responsible for the charges issued, the student's disciplinary record may be made available to the authority. The hearing authority will then adjourn again to determine what sanction(s) are appropriate to the circumstances and individual. Possible sanctions include permanent suspension, suspension for a period of time, suspension held in abeyance, disciplinary probation, restitution, an official warning, or any combination of these. Conditions, restrictions or specific prohibitions may be issued with or attached to any of these sanctions.
 
B. Follow-up Services for Accused Party
Follow-up counseling may be of significant benefit to an accused party. on or off campus counseling and other services are available to an accused party whether or not the crime was reported or prosecuted.
 
The Student Counseling Center is an on-campus resource that provides free counseling to currently enrolled students. The phone number is 641-3317.
 
The Coalition to Assist Abused Persons (CAAP) provides referrals to counseling services for men who commit sexual assault or abuse their partners. Their phone number is 649-0480.
 
The Vice Chancellor for Student Life and Services can assist an accused party with notifying instructors of absences or other needs. This office also handles the investigation and resolution of discipline complaints. The phone number is 641-3588.
 
The South Carolina Bar Association, Lawyer Referral Service, can assist an accused party in finding an attorney to represent them in civil and/or criminal proceedings. The phone number is 1-800-868-2284 or 799-7100.
 
VIII. PROCEDURES FOR REPORTING TO CAMPUS COMMUNITY
Federal law requires that timely notice of assaults be made to the campus community if it is felt that a threat to any other person(s) exists. In these cases, the Director of Public Safety, in consultation with the Vice Chancellor for Student Life and Services, will notify the campus community through whatever means are appropriate for the particular case.
 
IX. EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES
The following offices within the University of South Carolina Aiken and the Aiken community provide a variety of educational offerings related to sexual assault, personal safety, appropriate use of alcohol, healthy relationships, etc.
 
For more information, the following offices should be contacted:
USC Aiken Student Counseling Center, Administration Building, 64l -3317.
USC Aiken Department of Public Safety, 648-4011 (from off campus) or 6111 (from on-campus).
Coalition to Assist Abused Persons, Rape Crisis Center, 641-4162.
Aiken Regional Medical Center, The Resource Center, 655 Medical Park Dr., Aiken, 641-5926.
Aiken-Barnwell Community Mental Health Ctr., 104 Florence St., Aiken, 641-7700.

   

Subject: Deceased Students
Number: 416
Issued by: Mr. Randy Duckett;  Enrollment Services and Institutional Planning
Date: January 2, 2001


    In the event a University student dies while enrolled, the Records Office will submit to the Records Office at USC Columbia a request to have the "deceased indicator" placed on the student’s records. An obituary will suffice as proof of death. Records in Columbia will then withdraw the student from current classes and take other precautions to prevent his/her name appearing on any data regarding current students. All of the student’s professors are notified that the student’s name will disappear from the class rolls for that semester. No grades will be recorded.

   A student’s rights under the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 expire at the time of the student’s death. The University may release directory information on the student. The student’s academic records, however, are still sealed for a period of 25 years as protection from the media and other entities. The University may release, upon request, other student records information to the individual listed as the deceased student’s next of kin. The next of kin would need to provide identifying information such as birth and death certificate of the deceased.

    If the student’s death is under investigation by law enforcement agencies, the University can release directory information. If other students who knew or have been in contact with the deceased are thought to be in danger, directory information on those individuals can also be released to law enforcement. Photos from the student ID card data base are considered as directory information and as such can be used for identifying purposes; however, they will not be released to the media.

    Other student records information, such as grades, GPA, etc., can only be released to law enforcement agencies with a subpoena issued by a judge. Such requests are forwarded to the Records Office at USC Columbia, since USC Aiken does not have the official transcripts.

     The Vice Chancellor for Business and Finance will process a 100% refund for the student for the semester in which the death occurs so that funding can be directed back to financial aid sources as necessary or to the next-of-kin of the deceased student, whichever is applicable. The Office of Financial Aid will also require an obituary as proof of death so that federal aid providers and lending agencies can also be notified of the student’s death.

     The University of South Carolina Aiken may deem it appropriate to award a degree to a deceased student on who said degree was not officially conferred.

     A degree may be awarded posthumously when death occurs during the term of enrollment in which the student would, based on normal expectations, have completed degree requirements. Such action must be requested and endorsed in writing by the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs. The Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs should affect completion of a degree application on behalf of the student and submit it to the Registrar, accompanied by the letter of request.

     A posthumous degree may be awarded to a graduate student who was not currently enrolled, but whose active degree pursuits can be documented by the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and the program chairperson.

     The Office of the Registrar will take appropriate actions to ensure that the awarding of the degree appears in the appropriate commencement program and on the student’s official record.
  



Subject: Student Email Policy
Number: 417
Issued by:  Mike Lemons, Chief Information Officer
Date:  June 2, 2004

Introduction:
 Electronic mail or "email" is considered an official method for communication to students at the University of South Carolina Aiken because it delivers information in a convenient, timely, and cost effective manner.
To assure all students access to this important form of communication, USCA provides a University email account to each enrolled student.  The primary purpose of these accounts is to ensure a standardized channel for faculty and staff to communicate with students of the University as needed.  Official university communications sent to all students will include reminders of important dates such as deadlines to pay tuition and fees, to withdraw from a course with grade of “W,” to apply for graduation, etc…  Students are responsible for reading, in a timely fashion, University-related communications sent to their official student email accounts.

Assignment of Student Email:
The official University email accounts are created and maintained by the Computer Services Division (CSD) and are activated upon a student’s acceptance to the University.  Specific student email directions are on-line at http://www.usca.edu/helpdesk/studentemail.   Additional assistance is available at the CSD “helpdesk” located in the Business and Education Building, room 238.  Official email addresses will be published as directory information unless students request otherwise.

Redirecting of Email
Students who redirect (autoforward) messages sent to their official USCA student email address to another address (such as AOL, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc…) do so at their own risk.  Having email lost as a result of redirection does not absolve the student from responsibilities associated with communication sent to his/her official USCA email address.  The University is not responsible for the handling of email by outside vendors or unofficial servers.   The USCA assigned email address will be the address used by USCA staff/faculty to communicate to students.

Expectations of Student use of Email
Students are expected to read and respond as appropriate to their USCA official email on a frequent and consistent basis.  The University recommends checking email daily.  
Faculty Expectations and Educational Uses of Email and Class Listservs
Since faculty members determine how email is used in their classes, faculty may require students to check their email on a specific basis.  Faculty may also require students to confirm their subscription to University provided class listservs.  For example, messages sent to University-provided class listservs (those established by the faculty member) are considered official communications for all students enrolled in the class designated by the class listserv address.  USCA CSD will not provide support service for personal email accounts such as AOL, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc, in conjunction with university listservs.

Appropriate Use of Student Email
All use of email will be consistent with other University policies, including the “Acceptable Use of USCA Computer and Network Resources Policy”, (USCA Policy #502), which can be found at: http://www.usca.edu/CSD/policies/ethic.htm

Procedures
The Chief Information Officer and the Campus Technology Committee will review this policy as needed.  Students with questions about the policy should contact the Computer Services Division.



Subject: International Students Health Insurance
Number: 418
Issued by:  Katya Terry, Director of  International Programs
Date:  August 10, 2004
 
        
I.      POLICY
 
        All international students with F-1 non-immigrant status are required to have adequate health insurance coverage. 
International students are required to provide proof of adequate insurance each semester they are enrolled at USCA. 
International students are free to select either the University's student health insurance policy or any other policy that 
offers adequate coverage (including major medical coverage of at least $50,000). Medical evacuation to the home country and 
repatriation in the event of death should be included in the policy selected.  
 
II.     PROCEDURE
 
        International students will be informed in writing of the policy upon admission to the University. 
        Before registering for classes each semester, international students will document their coverage by submitting the name of the 
insurance provider, policy number, dates of coverage and other insurance information to the Office of International Programs.
If the proof of insurance is not presented, a registration hold barring a student's future enrollment will be imposed.  
The hold will be removed only when a student provides satisfactory documentation of health insurance to the Office of International Programs.



Subject: Policy on the Use of Alcohol by Students
Number: 419
Issued by:  Dr. Deb Kladivko, Vice Chancellor for Student Life and Services
Date: June 25, 2005

 

This policy governs students’ consumption of alcohol (defined as beer, wine, and distilled spirits) on the University of South Carolina Aiken campus and at University‑sponsored off‑campus events. Based on a concern for the welfare of all student members of the University community and in keeping with state and local laws, this policy is designed to promote the responsible use or non‑use of alcoholic beverages. Consistent with our institutional mission statement, USCA values responsible citizenship. Students are expected to assume responsibility for their own behavior while consuming alcoholic beverages and to understand that being under the influence of alcohol in no way lessens accountability to the University and the community. Behavior and conduct by students whose judgment is impaired due to substance abuse and which interferes with the decorum and atmosphere of the University will not be tolerated. As members of the University community, students are expected to comply with and abide by all of the laws and policies stated below.

 

I.      South Carolina Law

 

It is against South Carolina law and USCA policy to:

A.    purchase, possess* or consume any alcoholic beverage if you are under the age of twenty‑one

B.    provide any alcohol to a person under twenty‑one by transfer, gift or sale

C.    misrepresent your age for the purpose of procuring alcohol including possessing a false or altered driver’s license or ID

D.    drive while under the influence of alcohol

E.     have a blood alcohol level of .02 or higher while driving a vehicle if you are under the age of 21 (zero tolerance)

F.     have an open container of alcohol in a moving vehicle

G.    be intoxicated in public

*  including constructive possession which is defined as being in the immediate area of alcoholic beverages

 

II.    Local Ordinance (City of Aiken)

 

It is against local ordinance and therefore University policy to consume alcohol in public within the city limits. Pacer Downs and Pacer Commons are located within the city limits. Therefore, consuming alcohol on apartment balconies or on the grounds of Pacer Downs or Pacer Commons is a violation of this local ordinance and University policy.

 

III.   Statement of Policy

 

A.    This policy is subject to change to comply with new local, state, or federal laws or changes in University operating                procedures pertaining to the possession and consumption of alcoholic beverages.

B.    Legal consumption of alcohol is permitted only at events and locations approved by the Chancellor or a designee. Consumption of alcohol is also permitted in private residences within University housing provided all individuals present are of legal drinking age and all related policies as outlined in the University Housing handbook are followed.  Underage residents whose roommate(s) are 21 years of age or over may be present when alcohol is present or being consumed in their apartment, but are not permitted to consume alcoholic beverages.

C.    Students living in or visiting University housing are subject to additional policies as outlined in the University      Housing Handbook (also printed in the USCA Student Handbook).

 

F.     On‑campus consumption of alcohol is prohibited at all Student Activity and Student Organization events.

D.    Any containers of alcohol that are being transported must be sealed and covered while on University premises.

E.     The possession or use of an empty or full keg, party ball, or other common container of alcohol is strictly prohibited.

G.    Individuals will be held responsible for their behavior while under the influence of alcohol. Failure to comply with South Carolina State law and University policy may subject the person or group to State and/or University    penalties.

H.      Students under 21 who are in the direct vicinity of alcoholic beverages may be charged with constructive possession of alcohol and/or referred for University judicial action.

I.         Regardless of the age of the student, the abuse of alcohol that results in significantly impaired behavior is considered a violation of the alcohol policy.

J.        If a student fails to comply with the request of a University Police Officer to complete a sobriety test , it will be considered an automatic admission of having consumed alcohol.

 

IV.   Sanctions

 

Individual students or student organizations who violate USCA policies are subject to civil, criminal and University proceedings and sanctions. The University campus is not a sanctuary that relieves students of their responsibilities as citizens to abide by local, state and federal laws, and University regulations, policies, and procedures. Violations of this Campus Alcohol Policy will be referred to appropriate University agencies. Students and student organizations may be subject to sanctions by more than one appropriate agency. Sanctions for the violation of University policies are based on the severity and frequency of violation. Sanctions may include, but are not limited to: referral to on or off‑campus alcohol assessment and/or counseling, alcohol education, community service, disciplinary probation, suspension of individual students, suspension from use of University facilities for a designated period of time, and suspension of student organization status.

 

V.    Related Issues

 

B..   Students, faculty or staff who serve or sell alcohol to students at off-campus events assume liability for enforcing the law and assuring appropriate behavior. In such instances, USCA assumes no responsibility or liability.

A.    Students or student organizations suspected of violating federal, state or local laws may be subject to University judicial proceedings. Disciplinary action may be imposed by the University under the USCA Code of Conduct, whether or not a civil or criminal conviction is made.

C.    USCA Student Activities funds may not be used to purchase alcohol for any on or off-campus event.

D.    Students who are apprehended and charged by law enforcement agencies with alcohol-related criminal conduct off campus are required to inform the Director of Housing and Judicial Affairs.

 

VI.   Parental Notification Policy

 

In 1998, changes in the law that governs the privacy of student records, the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), permitted colleges and universities to inform the parents/guardians of students under the age of 21 when they determined the student violated University alcohol and drug policies. We at the University of South Carolina Aiken believe such notification can help us in educating our students. While we constantly strive to educate and empower students to make more responsible decisions about drug and alcohol usage, we know that the support of parents in this process is critical.

 

The University of South Carolina Aiken typically exercises its right to notify parents of students under 21 in the following situations:

 

·          Cases involving drug violations

·          Repeat or serious alcohol violations

 

The University also reserves the right to notify parents for first alcohol violations if deemed appropriate.

 

 
Subject: Policy on the Use of Drugs by Students
Number: 420
Issued by:  Dr. Deb Kladivko, Vice Chancellor for Student Life and Services
Date: June 25, 2005

 

Policy on the Use of Drugs by Students

The University of South Carolina Aiken recognizes that drug abuse is one of the major problems confronting our society.  Within the University community, services are available to reduce the problems associated with drug abuse.  Students with drug problems may seek confidential counseling and advice through the USCA Counseling Center and the USCA Student Health Center.  A list of additional resources can be found in the USCA Student Handbook.

Although the University recognizes the need for providing remedial services, it does not intend to shelter persons who violate state or federal drug or narcotics laws.  University officials will assist and cooperate with law enforcement personnel as they perform their duties in controlling drug abuse.  Students charged with violating state and federal laws are subject to further disciplinary action by the University.

I.  Statement of Policy

The possession, use, manufacture, sale or distribution of any counterfeit, illegal, or controlled drug without a prescription or the possession of drug paraphernalia, such as pipes, bongs, or an items modified or adapted so that they can be used to consume drugs are not permitted on University premises or at any University-sponsored event.

Specific prohibited actions include:

1.     the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, or use of illegal drugs or controlled substances*

2.     being in the presence of illegal drugs or controlled substances

3.     the possession or sale of drug paraphernalia (such as roach clips, bongs, water pipes, cocaine spoons, etc.)

4.     the distribution or delivery of an imitation (“look alike”), non-controlled substance which is represented as a controlled substance

*The term “controlled substances” refers to those drugs and substances whose possession, sale or delivery results in criminal sanctions under South Carolina Law.

II.    Sanctions

        1.             Legal

As citizens, students have the responsibility for knowing and complying with the provisions of state and federal law related to drugs.  A student who violates any of these laws is subject to prosecution and punishment through the legal system.  Information on federal and state drug laws and penalties is provided in the USCA Student Handbook.

(Students who are apprehended and charged by law enforcement agencies with drug-related criminal conduct, off campus are required to inform the Director of Housing and Judicial Affairs).

        2.             University Disciplinary 

        In addition to any federal and state charges, a student is subject to disciplinary action through the University judicial process.  This process may precede criminal or civil proceedings.  It is not “double jeopardy” for both the civil authorities and the University to proceed against and sanction a person for the same specified conduct.

 

        The University considers any violation of the drug policy to be a serious offense.  The University will respond to all reported violations of this policy in accordance with disciplinary procedures included in the Student Handbook.

 

        Although violations will be handled on a case by case basis, any violation that is deemed to be a threat to the safety and health of the campus community will result in summary suspension prior to a formal hearing.  Sanctions that may be imposed by the University include, but are not limited to, the following:

                l  Suspension

                l  Summary Suspension

                l  Suspension Held in Abeyance with Conditions

                l  Expulsion

                l  Counseling

                l  Educational Programs

                l  Conditions and Restrictions 

        3.             University Housing

        A student who is suspected of violating the drug policy while living in on-campus housing will be subject to immediate removal from housing as a response to violating the terms of the housing contract.   

III.   Eligibility for Federal and State Financial Assistance

Students found in violation of the drug policy jeopardize their ability to receive federal and state financial assistance for which they might otherwise be eligible.

IV. Parental Notification Policy

In 1998, changes in the law that governs the privacy of student records, the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), permitted colleges and universities to inform the parents/guardians of students under the age of 21 when they determined the student violated University alcohol and drug policies.  At the University of South Carolina Aiken, we believe such notification can help us in educating our students.  While we constantly strive to educate and empower students to make more responsible decisions about drug and alcohol usage, we know that the support of parents in this process is critical.

The University of South Carolina Aiken typically exercises its right to notify parents of students under 21 in the following situations:

·          Cases involving drug violations

·          Repeat or serious alcohol violations 

The university also reserves the right to notify parents for first alcohol violations if deemed appropriate.

 

V.    Future Revision

The University of South Carolina Aiken reserves the right to update this policy.  Students are responsible for being aware of changes as they are disseminated to the campus community.




Subject: Mandatory Health Insurance Requirement for International Students
Number: 421
Issued by:  Dr. Deb Kladivko, Vice Chancellor for Student Life and Services
Date: August 1, 2006

POLICY:

International students in F-1 student non-immigrant status registered for classes at USC Aiken are required to have health insurance coverage that meets or exceeds certain campus standards as defined by the Office of International Programs as acceptable insurance coverage for international students.

PROCEDURE:

International students are informed of the policy in writing upon admission to USC Aiken as part of the pre departure material provided by the Office of International Programs.

Each semester the cost of insurance will be added to the student's account. This cost will be based upon minimal coverage as defined in the plan offered by the University contracted provider. Students may either pay the campus insurance charge or provide proof of alternative coverage.

 International students may show evidence of comparable or better insurance coverage by completing the insurance waiver form and/ or providing information to the Office of International Programs that the student has acceptable alternative coverage.

Students may also obtain coverage upon paying the charges added to the students account. Failure to pay the insurance charge or provide proof or alternative coverage will result in cancellation of the students’ classes.

 If proof of insurance coverage is not provided and classes are cancelled, a hold barring further enrollment at USC will be imposed. The student will be able to enroll only upon providing proof of health insurance to the USC Aiken Office of International Programs.

 

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