Activities
Bookstore
Bulletin Boards
Campus Facilities
Campus Police
Campus Speakers
Emergency Situations
Food Services
Health Services
Inclement Weather
Lost and Found
Parking and Traffic
Appeal Procedure
Phone Calls
Small Children

Activities  TOP

The student activities program is designed to provide a variety of meaningful educational, cultural, and social experiences and includes the following: student government, publications, music activities, departmental clubs, and special interest groups as approved by the College. All of the activities will have a staff advisor or sponsor. The vice president for Academic Affairs and Student Services will coordinate such student activities.

All student clubs or activities are responsible to the elected Student Government. College social activities are planned and operated under the direction and control of the Student Government Association. Listed below are approved CVCC activities and organizations. Additional information about these organizations and publications can be obtained from an S.G. representative or the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Services.

• Administration of Justice (Chi Lambda Chi)
• American Society of Certified Engineering Technicians (ASCET)
• Art Club • Black Student Alliance
• Campus Crusade for Christ
• Drama Club • Electronics Club
• Games Club
• IAAP (International Association for Administrative Professionals)
• Medical Laboratory Club
• Phi Beta Lambda
• Phi Theta Kappa
• Radiography Club
• Respiratory Therapy Club
• Spanish Club

Approval of Campus Organizations  TOP

The following procedures should be followed in organizing student clubs:

Student Activities Fund

A Student Activities Fund is established to support the program of student activities. This fund evolves from a $1.50 per credit activity fee collected from students and from receipts from specific student activities. The funds in this account are to be spent only for student activities which have been authorized by the College and by the duly elected Student Government. The CVCC Board is responsible for the operation and control of these funds under the specific methods and procedures established by the State Department of Community Colleges and approved by the State Auditor.

Approval of Dances and Special Functions

Approval is obtained through the Office of the Vice President of Instruction and Student Services.

Bookstore   TOP

Books and supplies may be purchased in the student bookstore located in the Student Center. The bookstore is operated for the convenience of students.

Bookstore Hours - Bookstore hours are listed in the course schedule each semester.

Books Out of Stock - If a book which is required for your course is out of stock, please notify your instructor immediately. The instructor may use this information to determine the total number of books to order to meet the class needs.

Checks - Make payable to “CVCC Bookstore” for amount of purchase only. Put your phone number on the check; also if the check is other than your own (parent, employer, etc.), your driver’s license will be required. During rush periods, write your check in advance except for the amount. This will help us serve you faster.

Authorizations - The Bookstore manager is the only person authorized to approve replacements, exchanges, or refunds.

Replacements - Books found defective due to publisher’s error (misprints, pages missing, etc.) can be exchanged upon our inspection if presented for exchange during the semester in which purchased. Please check your books thoroughly at time of purchase.

Refund/Exchange Policy - Refunds will normally be made during the first week of the semester under the following conditions: 1) cash register receipt/credit card slip required, 2) Master/Visa charges will be credited to the credit card account, and 3) new books must be in new condition (absolutely no markings).

Charges - Students who have scholarships may charge books and supplies through the second week of each semester.

Suggestions - Students should purchase texts and supplementary items needed at the beginning of each semester. Books are stocked only for the individual semester needs and are usually returned to the publisher sometime before the end of the semester. Keep your cash register receipt or charge copies. Examine books fully for publishing or other defects and report them promptly to the bookstore. Keep books free of soil, damage, marking or writing until after the refund period.

Buy back - Buy back is held during exam week at the end of each semester. ID is required for these transactions.

Bulletin Boards  TOP

Information of interest to all CVCC students is posted on bulletin boards located throughout the College. Items to be posted on bulletin boards are to be cleared for approval by the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Services, at which time a removal date is recorded on each item.

Bulletin boards serve the student body best if the material posted is current and the boards are neat and readable. “Lost and Found” and “Items for Sale or Rent” may be reported on bulletin boards in certain areas, when approved. The College assumes no responsibility for the validity of other than official College notices.

Campus Facilities  TOP

Space at CVCC is at a premium. Requests for rooms to be used for student meetings should be reserved by contacting the Buildings and Grounds Department.

At least two weeks notice should be given for meetings prior to the event. Failure to reserve a room with the proper office could result in conflicts. In such cases, only those activities which have been correctly reserved will be allowed to use the facilities. In posting signs or notices of such meetings, only established bulletin boards may be used.

Fund-raising in or on College facilities must have approval of the College President. Sale of food or beverages on campus by clubs or activities is not generally authorized. Requests for exception to this rule should be referred to the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Services.

Campus Police  TOP

CVCC has its own police officers, who are sworn officers with full police powers, including that of arrest. Their primary function is to afford protection of your rights, safety, and security while on campus. Feel free to call upon their service when needed. The Campus Police Office is located in Room 2120, next to the Counseling Department in Amherst Hall.

If a situation should develop which appears to be serious enough for police assistance, the following personnel should be contacted:

Campus Speakers  TOP

Requests for speakers who will have the privilege of appearing on campus before students, faculty, and staff of Central Virginia Community College should be made in writing by the President of a recognized student club or activity of the College. The request must be submitted to the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Services at least two weeks prior to the proposed speaking date and before the invitation is extended to the proposed speaker so that suitable reception and protocol procedures can be assured.

There must be a moderator for each speaker. The moderator will determine in advance from the speaker if questions are to be entertained from the audience after or during the speech. If a speaker desires to answer questions from the audience, the moderator will recognize the person desiring to ask a question and thereby ensure control for the speaker.

The advisor and officers of the club or activity assume responsibility in selection of speakers to assure that topics and discussions do not adversely affect the reputation or well-being of CVCC and its student body.

Emergency Situations  TOP

General

The college has “Emergency Call Boxes” placed in strategic positions around campus.  They provide direct access to campus security.  Once campus security is notified they will follow established procedures as determined appropriate for the situation. 

If you are unable to access security through the Call Boxes system, please dial 911 using standard campus phones.  Please give complete details of the situation, including your name, location and the nature of the emergency.  Once you have completed contact with 911, please dial the switchboard and advise the operator of your call. 

Fire

Please use the Call Boxes as noted above, or dial 911.   College Fire Wardens will evacuate buildings in accordance with established procedures. Instructions for evacuation are posted throughout the college.   Fire extinguishers are strategically placed about the buildings for small fires.

Police

Please use the Call boxes as noted above, or dial 911. Campus Police are available for your assistance as needed.

Food Services  TOP

The Student Center offers facilities for hot and cold food and drinks. When classes are in session the hot food section is open each day from 7:30 a.m. until 8:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday and 7:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. on Fridays. Vending machines are available at all other times. It is the responsibility of each student to keep the Center clean..

Health Services  TOP

First aid kits are located in the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Services Office, the Office of the Campus Police and in various Engineering and Technology labs. First aid kits have been placed in these locations for your use in case of minor cuts or scratches. If the student feels faint or ill and more extensive medical attention is needed, the switchboard operator or Office of Campus Police should be notified in order to secure immediate medical treatment.

The Lynchburg Fire Department is within minutes response time to the campus and is available in cases of emergencies.

Inclement Weather  TOP

Recognizing that the instructional mission of the College requires as much continuity as possible and that students at Central Virginia Community College are adults, it is the policy of the College that classes will be continued in all but extreme cases of inclement weather.

When weather conditions are severe, but classes have not been suspended, each student is expected to evaluate the situation in light of their own circumstances and exercise prudence. Instructors are requested to be liberal in the application of attendance requirements in the event of severe weather and recognize that road conditions can vary greatly within the College’s service area. When classes for an entire morning or entire day are postponed due to inclement weather, the make-up schedule will be announced at a later date.

When classes are canceled for a portion of the morning, public service announcements over local radio, television stations and website will indicate when classes will resume. When classes resume under these conditions, the regular class schedule for that day will be followed.

When evening classes must be canceled, they will meet at their next regularly scheduled time. Make-up classes, if necessary, will be announced by the instructor or the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Services after resumption of classes. Friday evening and Saturday make-up sessions may be required when unusual or prolonged cancellations have been encountered.

Announcement of cancellation or delay will be made as early as possible, and a reasonable attempt will be made to notify each radio and television station listed below. Also, College closing is announced by a recorded message on (434) 832-7600 as well as on the web site at www.cvcc.vccs.edu.

Lost and Found  TOP

All personal articles found at the College are forwarded to the Institutional Police Office, Room 2120, Amherst Hall. These items may be claimed upon demonstration of ownership.

Parking and Traffic  TOP

Vehicle Registration

Students who desire to use a vehicle on the campus should obtain a parking decal during the registration period. This decal will authorize the driver of the vehicle to park in student designated areas. It must be placed on the left side (driver’s side) of the rear bumper so as to be clearly visible. Decals for motorcycles and motorbikes should be placed on the vehicle so that they will be clearly visible during inspection.

Central Virginia Community College will not be responsible for loss or damage to motor vehicles or their contents while they are on College property.

Special Parking Authorization

There are two types of special parking authorizations.

Designated Parking Areas

Lot No. 1—Bottom of hill in front of the Appomattox Administration Building.

Parking for students, visitors, registration, and the College library.

Lot No. 2—South of Bedford Library and North of State Route 368.

Parking for students, visitors, registration, and the College library.

Lot No. 3—South of Bedford Library and South of State Route 368.

Parking for students, visitors, registration, and the College.

Lot No. 4—Adjacent to Bedford Learning Resource Center.

A restricted parking area reserved strictly for faculty and staff.

Lot No. 5—East of Amherst Hall.

A restricted parking area to be used by visitors, College-owned vehicles, and those authorized to park in special parking spaces.

Lot No. 6 —North side of Amherst Hall.

Restricted parking area reserved strictly for faculty and staff.

Lot No. 7—Between Amherst and Campbell Halls.

A restricted parking area reserved strictly for faculty and staff; for emergency vehicles; use as loading zone; delivery and service vehicles.

Lot No. 8—West of Campbell Hall.

Restricted parking area reserved strictly for faculty and staff.

Penalties for Violation of Parking Regulations

Offenses

Vehicles operated within the boundaries of Central Virginia Community College must be in compliance with all state, local, and College regulations. Disregard for these regulations will result in a citation being issued. All signs and curb markings must be observed and parking must be in authorized lots.

Fines

There is a $15 fine for all violations with the exception of Handicapped Parking violations which is a $100.00 fine. Repeated offenses will result in disciplinary action which may include removal of campus parking privileges or other measures deemed appropriate.

Removal of Vehicles

Where circumstances warrant, the College may have a vehicle removed at the owner’s expense. Vehicles obstructing traffic or blocking other vehicles are circumstances that warrant removal. Any unauthorized vehicle parked in the “special” or designated “handicapped” and faculty/staff areas may be towed away at the owner’s expense.

Enforcement of Parking Regulations

Parking regulations will be enforced by an agent of the College. A hold will be placed on the student’s record to whom the citation was issued. All fines for violations must be paid within one week in the accounting office (unless the case is on appeal). Persons receiving four or more citations within an academic year may be considered to be chronic offenders and will be subject to disciplinary action which may lead to loss of parking privileges or suspension from the College.

Appeal Procedure  TOP

Under normal circumstances assuming fair and consistent enforcement of the parking regulations, no appeal will be necessary. However, for those instances in which the individual feels that there have been errors in the process, there are two avenues of administrative review and appeal.

The Appeals Committee shall hear appeals of parking citations when such matters have not been resolved through discussions with the Campus Police Officer, and to summon those individuals who have become chronic offenders. The Appeals Committee shall communicate its findings in writing to the individual and the Campus Police Officer. The Appeals Committee’s action is final and concludes the process of administrative review.

In the case of an appeal of a traffic citation, the Appeals Committee shall have the authority to:

In the case of an individual summoned to appear because of chronic offenses, the Committee shall determine, if possible, whether legitimate misunderstandings exist as to the individual’s responsibility to comply with traffic and parking regulations and if the nature of the regulations is clear. The Committee shall establish the fine (not to exceed $25) for the fourth and each subsequent offense. Additionally, the Committee may admonish the individual privately, may direct that the campus parking privileges be removed from the individual, or may refer the case for disciplinary action by the Vice President of Instruction and Student Services, if the offender is a student. A chronic offender is one who has four or more citations within one academic year.

Phone Calls  TOP

The phones in the College are limited and should be used only by the staff for official College business. However, there are pay telephones available throughout the College for student use.

Incoming emergency telephone calls will be received by the Office of Admissions and Records. In such an emergency, the student will be located as quickly as possible and given the message.

Small Children  TOP

The College does not have facilities for unsupervised children of persons attending classes at CVCC. There are no child-care facilities in the Student Center or elsewhere on campus at this time. Since the College does not permit the presence of unattended children at the College, parents should be aware of this restriction and make appropriate plans and allowances. Children not being allowed in computer, science, and engineering classrooms and laboratories is especially pertinent because of the expensive and potentially life-threatening equipment located in these areas. This policy will be announced by the faculty in these classrooms and laboratories, and a statement addressing this matter shall be included in all course syllabi. Violations of the above policy should be reported to the appropriate dean.

Campus Policies  TOP

AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) Policy
Campus Demonstrations
Campus Security and Crime Awareness
Cellular Phones and Pagers
Drug and Alcohol Policy
Information Technology Ethics Guidelines
Sexual Misconduct Policy
Smoking Policy
Student Bill of Rights
Student Conduct
Student Disciplinary Procedures
Student Grievance Procedure
Student Honor Code
Student Government
Student Government Constitution

AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) Policy  TOP

The College policy on AIDS is: AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), ARC (AIDS-Related Complex), or a positive HIV antibody test normally does not pose a health risk to other students or employees in an academic setting. Therefore, students or employees who have AIDS, ARC, or a positive HIV antibody test should be allowed regular classroom attendance and use of all institutional facilities.

Campus Demonstrations  TOP

Each campus organization participating in a demonstration must file three copies of a registration form in the Office of the President of the College for all demonstrations 96 hours in advance of the demonstration.

The following regulations apply:

All assemblies or demonstrations on the campus must have prior registration with the Office of the President of the College.

To prevent misunderstanding, the State Board has issued the following clarification:

Campus Security and Crime Awareness  TOP

The College complies with the Campus Security Awareness Act of 1990. The College makes available a brochure concerning crime statistics over a three-year period. The College employs campus police and encourages the reporting of any criminal actions and other emergencies to that office or to the College’s switchboard. Access to campus facilities for students is during classroom hours. Access is restricted at other times in accordance with the College’s access and security policy.

While on campus, students and visitors are cautioned as follows:

Copies of information related to Campus Security and Crime Awareness are available through the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Services.

Cellular Phones and Pagers  TOP

Cellular phones and pagers are not to be used in any CVCC classroom, laboratory, library or at any function or activity where they could be a distraction to others. Pagers and cellular phones are allowed on campus, and can be used in any setting where they will not disturb any student, faculty or staff. Pagers set to vibrate may be kept on at all times, but students are not expected to leave class to respond to any page until class is over or when on break.

Violation of this policy will be considered a violation of the Student Conduct Policy and will be governed by the Student Disciplinary Procedures.

Drug and Alcohol Policy  TOP

Central Virginia Community College is committed to protecting the health, safety, and welfare of the citizens it serves by ensuring that a drug-free campus is maintained. In compliance with this commitment and consistent with the guidelines provided by the U. S. Department of Education and the Virginia State Council of Higher Education, the College has established the following substance abuse policy for students.

Standards of Conduct

The unlawful manufacture, possession, use or distribution of illicit drugs and controlled substances and the use or distribution of alcohol on College property or at off-campus course locations is strictly prohibited. All actions consistent with the law and individual privacy rights will be taken with individuals found in violation of Virginia’s statutes and federal laws pertaining to such substances.

All incidents involving the suspicion of drug distribution or the recovery of suspected drugs, contraband, or paraphernalia should be immediately reported to the Campus Police Office, who will notify the Lynchburg Police Department. In the event a Vice Officer is unavailable, College officials should call 911 and request the Watch Commander, or designee. The individual finding the suspected item(s) should keep it in their immediate possession until a police officer arrives. No attempt should be made to transport the suspected item(s) to the police department or any other location on campus.

Disciplinary Sanctions

Students are further warned that illegal involvement with drugs or alcohol on campus will result in disciplinary action by the College above and beyond any criminal penalties. The disciplinary action may include suspension or dismissal from the College.

The College’s established procedure for student discipline would be applied to any student suspected of violating this drug and alcohol policy. If a suspected student is found guilty of the offense, the student would be subject to the following action:

Health Risks

Numerous adverse health problems can occur from the use of illicit drugs and the abuse of alcohol. Both substances can cause physical and psychological dependence. Individuals become addicted and have difficulty withdrawing from a substance. The result is illness or adverse  effects on the central nervous and/or cardiovascular systems.

Alcohol is a sedative and depressant. Therefore the bodily functions are affected. Coordination and speech can be adversely impacted. Operation of motor vehicles and/or other machinery can be hazardous. While the substance is legal, it can have serious effects on individuals, families, and friends.

Drugs and controlled substances are by and large illegal. Some controlled substances are available as medication and usage is strictly according to prescription. Drugs that are used  by individuals may consist of narcotics, depressants, stimulants, hallucinogens and cannabis. All of these alter the normal function of the body. The individual is unable to control the effects which can range from slowing the individual and creating a false sense of euphoria to a speeding up, curbing of appetite, and insomnia.

Education

Central Virginia Community College recognizes that substance abuse is a serious problem. Educating students on the health dangers inherent in substance abuse is an important aspect in addressing the problem. The College will focus its educational efforts on the incorporation of information into existing courses and the dissemination of informational brochures.

Health courses offered by the College will provide information concerning the harmful effects of substance abuse on the body. The STD 100 (Orientation) course will discuss these effects and also reemphasize the College’s stand on substance abuse.

Counseling and Referral

Students who think they are having difficulty because of substance abuse have counseling and referral services available. It is the responsibility of the Counseling Department to act as a referral agent for students. The Counseling Department has knowledge of community programs and is prepared to direct students to those programs which best meet their needs. Students will be made aware of this service during their orientation class.

Central Virginia Community College personnel understand the seriousness of the substance abuse problem which currently exists and they are fully committed to providing a learning and working environment which is free of substance abuse. The College administration enacts this policy and expects full compliance of all employees and students in the achievement of this goal. This policy is applicable to all CVCC students. It will be reviewed at least biennially to determine its effectiveness and to ensure that disciplinary sanctions are consistently enforced. Upon review of the policy, changes will be implemented, if needed.

CVCC Information Technology Acceptable Use Policy  TOP

Central Virginia Community College (CVCC) is one of twenty three community colleges within the Commonwealth of Virginia that comprise the Virginia Community College System (VCCS). To meet its Information Technology (IT) requirements, CVCC uses a combination of IT resources. Some of these resources are owned and managed by CVCC, independent of the VCCS, and others are owned and managed by the VCCS. The CVCC IT resources are used by thousands of users and the VCCS IT resources are used by hundreds of thousands of users. Irregardless of the resource owner, the unethical use of these resources by as little as one user can have a devastating impact on the entire system. Therefore all users of CVCC and VCCS IT resources are required to comply with the terms of this policy.

This policy and the enforcement thereof, are independent of other legal statues that govern the use of IT resources (see the non-inclusive list of legal statues provided below).

State Law (Article 7.1 of Title 18.2 of the Code of Virginia) classifies damage to computer hardware or software (18.2-152.4), unauthorized examination (18.2-152.5), or unauthorized use (18.2-152.6) of computer systems as (misdeameanor) crimes. Computer fraud (18.2-152.3) and use of a computer as an instrument of forgery (18.2-152.14) can be felonies.

The following terms shall govern the use of all CVCC/VCCS IT resources; this includes VCCS-owned IT resources used by CVCC:

Information Technology Student/Patron Acceptable Use Agreement

As a student/patron of Central Virginia Community College (CVCC), I understand and agree to abide by the terms of this acceptable use agreement. These terms govern my access to and use of CVCC’s and the Virginia Community College System’s (VCCS) information technology resources. This agreement is binding to me as a student/patron at all times when I have, or have the opportunity to have access to CVCC and/or VCCS information technology resources.

My enrollment at CVCC serves as my acknowledgment of this agreement and I hereby certify that I understand the preceding terms and provisions and that I accept the responsibility of adhering to the same. I further acknowledge that should I violate this agreement, I will be subject to disciplinary action.

Sexual Misconduct Policy  TOP

An educational institution is a community of trust whose very existence depends on the recognition of each individual’s importance and value. This trust creates the freedom for each individual to live, think, act, and speak without fear of physical harm. Sexual assault is a violent crime that shatters the bond of trust within our community.

The Virginia Community College System will not tolerate sexual assault in any form. Sexual assault is a flagrant violation of the values and behavioral expectations for our College community and all reported violations will be aggressively investigated. Sexual misconduct is punishable through civil and criminal proceedings, as well as through College disciplinary processes.

The policy is written with four distinct objectives: (1) to define the various types of sexual misconduct, (2) to increase awareness of the negative consequences of sexual misconduct for the victim, perpetrator, and institution; (3) to encourage victims to report incidents of abuse and seek help; and (4) to provide information regarding resources, support, and options for victims.

Sexual Assault

Sexual assault is defined as sexual intercourse without consent, including rape (whether by acquaintance or stranger), sodomy or other forms of sexual penetration. To constitute lack of consent, the acts must be committed either by force, threat of force, intimidation, or through use of the victim’s mental helplessness of which the accused was aware or should have been aware. Mental helplessness includes incapacitation by alcohol or other drugs. Sexual assault also includes intentional touching, either directly or through clothing, of the victim’s genitals, breasts, thighs, or buttocks without the victim’s consent, as well as, touching or fondling of the accused by the victim when the victim is forced to do so against his or her will. Verbal misconduct, without accompanying physical contact as described above, is not defined as sexual assault. Verbal misconduct may constitute sexual harassment, which is also prohibited under VCCS regulations and is specifically addressed elsewhere.

If the assault occurs on College property, it should be reported to the Campus Police. A counselor will assist in obtaining medical assistance and discuss the rights and options with the assaulted individual. Complaints of sexual assault may be filed in writing with the Vice President of Instruction and Student Services or the College’s Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Officer.

Sexual Harassment

CVCC strives to provide a working and educational environment for all faculty, staff and students that is free from sexual harassment. Sexual harassment directed to a student, employee, or applicant for employment or matriculation is contrary to the policy of the State Board.

Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal or physical conduct or written communication of a sexual nature which is intimidating, hostile, or offensive. Sexual harassment shall be considered to have occurred when: (1) accepting or tolerating such conduct is made a term or condition of a student’s status or an individual’s employment either explicitly or implicitly; (2) accepting or rejecting such conduct is used as the basis for academic or employment decisions affecting the student or employee; or (3) such conduct creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive working or learning environment, or substantially interferes with an employee’s work performance or a student’s academic performance.

Complaints of sexual harassment may be handled through established grievance procedures or complaints may be discussed or filed in writing with the Vice President of Instruction and Student Services or the College’s Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Officer.

Smoking Policy  TOP

Since the Virginia Indoor Clean Air Act (SB 150), passed by the Virginia General Assembly on April 18, 1990, requires all buildings owned or leased by the Commonwealth to have areas designated as non-smoking areas, the classroom buildings have been so designated. Smoking is permitted only in the smoking shelters located around the campus. These areas are clearly marked:   Designated Smoking Area

Student Bill of Rights  TOP

The following enumeration of rights shall not be construed to deny or disparage other rights retained by students:

Student Conduct  TOP

Each individual is considered a responsible adult, and it is assumed that men and women of college age will maintain standards of conduct appropriate to membership in the college community. Emphasis should be placed on standards of student conduct rather than on limits or restrictions of students. Guidelines and regulations governing student conduct will be developed by representatives of the students, faculty, counseling staff, and administration. The College should refrain from imposing a rigid code of discipline but should reserve the right to take disciplinary action compatible with its own best interests when it is clearly necessary.

The Virginia Community College System guarantees to each student the privilege of exercising the rights of citizenship under the Constitution of the United States without fear of prejudice. Special care must be taken to assure due process and to spell out defined routes of appeal when a student feels these rights have been violated.

Student Disciplinary Procedures TOP

I. Purpose

The purpose of this procedure is to provide an equitable and orderly process for student disciplinary actions.

II. Definitions and Scope

A. Student - Student herein is used to mean any person who is officially registered at Central Virginia Community College during the specific academic semester in which the alleged disciplinary violation takes place.

B. Prescribed Conduct - The following actions are considered to be misconduct and are subject to disciplinary action by the College:

III. Procedures

Instances in which students are accused of committing infractions of the College rules and regulations are to be referred to the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Services. The Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Services shall conduct a careful and thorough investigation of the alleged infraction. In the event the investigation shows that there is no substantial evidence to support the allegations of wrongdoing on the part of the student, the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Services shall drop the charges.

Level I - If the investigation indicates sufficient evidence, the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Services shall set a date to meet with the student to discuss the charges. Within five calendar days of the conference with the student, the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Services shall render a decision to dismiss the charges, to impose an administrative reprimand, or to place the student on probation for up to one calendar year. The decision of the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Services will be presented in writing to the student. The student may, within five calendar days of receipt of the notice from the Vice President, appeal this decision, in which case a Hearing Committee shall be established as provided in Level II. In cases of sexual assault or other violations where reasonable belief has been established that a serious violation has occurred and suspension or dismissal may be imminent, the procedure will be as stated in Level II. The results of any recommended disciplinary action will be forwarded to the Coordinator of Admissions and Records for notation on the student’s record.

Level II - If the student appeals the decision of the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Services or if the decision of the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Services is to recommend disciplinary suspension or dismissal, a Hearing Committee will be convened. The Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Services shall within five calendar days select an ad hoc committee of disinterested persons from the panel provided in the Faculty and Staff Manual which consists of one faculty and one administrator and, the one student member selected from the honor council. The Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Services shall designate a chair.

Within five calendar days after the Hearing Committee has been designated, the Chair of the committee shall set a time and place of the hearing and notify the student and the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Services. The hearing shall begin ten calendar days after the ad hoc committee has been designated. The ad hoc committee shall make its decision by simple majority vote and communicate its findings in writing to the President within five calendar days after the hearing is completed. The committee may recommend to the President that: the charges be dropped, a reprimand be issued, disciplinary probation be imposed for a period not to exceed two years, disciplinary suspension be imposed for a specified time, or a student be dismissed from the College.

Level III - Within ten calendar days of receipt of the Committee report, the President will communicate a final decision to the student. The President may impose a sanction equal to or less than that recommended by the Committee, but may not increase the severity of the sanction. The President shall provide a copy of the written decision, including the Committee report to the student, and, if the decision includes probation, suspension, or dismissal, to the Coordinator of Admissions and Records. The decision of the President shall be final and binding on all parties.

IV. Time Limitation

V. General Provisions

Student Grievance Procedures  TOP

I. Purpose

The purpose of the student grievance procedures, as described herein, is to provide equitable and orderly processes by which students at Central Virginia Community College may resolve grievances.

II. Definitions and Scope

III. Procedure

Step I - Recognizing that grievances should be raised and settled promptly, a grievance must be raised within ten calendar days following either the event giving rise to the grievance or within ten calendar days from the time when the student reasonably should have gained knowledge of its occurrence. The student shall discuss the grievance with the College employee involved. Every reasonable effort should be made by both parties to resolve the matter at this level. If the student is not satisfied with the disposition of the grievance at Step 1, the student should consult with a counselor for direction in following the proper grievance procedure. The role of the counselor shall be to explain the grievance procedure to the student and the importance of the time element.

Step II - If the student is not satisfied with the disposition of the grievance at Step 1, the student may within five calendar days of the final decision at Step 1, file a written appeal with the Dean, coordinator, director, or manager having direct supervision of the employee. Within five calendar days of receipt of the written grievance, the dean (or other administrator) will schedule a conference with the student and the employee in an effort to resolve the grievance. Within seven calendar days after the conference, the administrator involved shall prepare a report of the disposition of the matter with copies to the student, the employee, and the appropriate vice president.

If the administrator supervising the employee does not report directly to a vice president or the President, and if the student is not satisfied with the resolution of the grievance by the immediate supervisor, the appeal shall proceed to the next level of supervision, step by step as outlined above until reaching the administrator reporting directly to the vice president or the President. The appeal process shall proceed from Step I to Step III, as provided below.

Step III - If the student is not satisfied with the disposition of the grievance at Step II, the student may file a written appeal to the appropriate vice president within five calendar days of receipt by the student of the final decision rendered at Step II. Within five calendar days after receipt of the written report, the vice president shall select an ad hoc committee of four disinterested persons from the panel in the Faculty and Staff Manual, Section V(G). The vice president shall designate a chair. The committee shall consist of two students (Honor Council) and two College employees. If the grievance is against a classified staff member, the two employees shall consist of one classified staff member and one administrator. If the grievance is against a faculty member or an administrator, the two College employees shall be one faculty member and one administrator.

Within five calendar days after the ad hoc committee has been designated by the appropriate vice president, the chair of the ad hoc committee shall set a time and place for the hearing and notify the student, the employee being grieved against and the supervisors of this employee. The hearing shall begin within ten calendar days after the ad hoc committee has been designated. Within five calendar days after the hearing is completed, the ad hoc committee shall make its decision by simple majority vote and communicate its findings in writing to the student, the supervisors, and the appropriate vice president. Within ten calendar days of the receipt of the findings of the committee, the vice president shall accept or reject the findings of the committee. Should the vice president reject the findings of the committee, the vice president shall do so only on the basis of the requirements of law and shall set forth the rationale for this action in writing. The vice president shall provide a copy of the written decision to the student, the employee being grieved against, the supervisors of this employee, and the chair of the ad hoc committee.

Step IV - If the student is not satisfied with the findings of the ad hoc committee and the review by a vice president, within ten days after notification of the decision, the student may request a review by the President. The President can meet with the student and review the facts of the grievance. The decision of the President is final and binding on all parties.

IV. Time Limitations

V. General Provisions

Student Honor Code  TOP

Rationale

In accordance with a belief in the value of fundamental honesty, the student body of Central Virginia Community College hereby declares its unwillingness to tolerate within itself anyone who knowingly engages in unauthorized practices pertaining to any classroom or College procedure. Therefore, it establishes the Honor Code of Central Virginia Community College, hereafter called the Code, to require fundamental honesty among all members of the student body, both full-time and part-time. The student body exercises its privilege to assume responsibility for maintaining a standard of honorable conduct, including the right to investigate any breach of this Code and, if a student is found guilty, to recommend action to the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Services.

Objective

This Code is enacted by the student body of Central Virginia Community College so that, in the responsible exercise of its privilege, it may conduct itself with honor and in an atmosphere of trust.

Article I

It is the objective of this Code and these Articles to set forth and define regulations, violations, punishments, and responsibilities of the students, faculty, administration, and the Honor Council. Dishonesty, academic and personal, and dishonorable behavior shall be considered in violation of the Code. Specifically, violations are lying, stealing, cheating, knowingly receiving stolen property, or failing to report a suspected Honor Code violation. (See Appendix #4).

Article II

Section A.
There shall be an Honor Council consisting of nine members of the student body, officially registered and not on probation.

Section B. Nominations
No later than the third week after classes begin for the fall semester, nominations will be received by the presiding officer of the student government. No fewer than fifteen names will be submitted before a motion for closure of nominations can be recognized by the chair.

Clause 1.

Following the nominations, the Secretary of the student body shall submit to the Vice President for Academic Affairs the list of names for certification that the students nominated and meet the qualifications as stated in the Code.

Clause 2.

No later than fourteen days after nominations are closed, an election will be held among the general student body to determine Honor Council members. An election to the Honor Council will be based upon the nine greater pluralities with the next two following designated alternates.

Clause 3.

It shall be the responsibility of the President of the student body to hold an election and to notify the Vice President for Academic Affairs that the election is correct; within seven days after such certification, the Vice President for Academic Affairs will swear in the elected members of the Honor Council.

Clause 4.

At its first meeting, to be held no later than ten days after election of the Council membership, Council members shall elect among themselves certain officers of the Honor Council. Elected by the Council membership will be a Chairperson, a Vice-Chair person, a Recorder, an Attorney General, a Public Defense Attorney, and a Jury of four.

Clause 5.

Replacements to the Honor Council will be elected by the student body. The Student Government Executive Committee will receive nominations for and conduct the elections as vacancies occur.

Section C.

Any hearing or meeting of the Honor Council shall require the presence of the Chair or the Vice-Chair and no fewer than five members of the Honor Council.

Clause 1.

The Honor Council shall have a faculty member of instructor rank or above to act in an advisory capacity. They shall be elected at the first meeting and shall take office immediately upon approval from the Vice President for Academic Affairs. They shall serve for a period of one year (three semesters) at all meetings of the Honor Council.

Clause 2.

In the event of the incapacity of the faculty advisor another faculty advisor will be elected by the Council and approved by the method set forth in Clause 1.

Section D. Qualification for Membership to the Honor Council

All candidates shall have and, if elected, maintain at least a 2.2 grade point average for no fewer than nine credits per semester, except freshman candidates, who must maintain those qualifications after the first semester.

Section E. Interim Honor Code

During the Summer Semester, the Honor Council shall consist of the members of the Spring Honor Council and if this number is not nine, an election will be held in the first week of the Summer session to fill the necessary vacancies. The Interim Honor Council will then elect all necessary officers and will operate under the same standards and qualifications as set forth in the Code for Honor Council members.

Article III
Duties of Honor Council

It shall be the responsibility of the Chairperson or the Vice-Chairperson in the unavoidable absence of the Chairperson to preside over all meetings of the Honor Council and to assume all responsibilities of the overall conduct of its activities. They shall be the designated recipient of all reports that show evidence of a violation of the Code. They shall inform all members promptly when the reports are made. In writing, they shall inform the person accused, and they shall submit to that person the rights of those accused of Honor Code violations. A trial must be convened within 30 days of receipt of a suspected violation.

Section A. Responsibilities of the Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson

It shall be the responsibility of the Chairperson or Vice-Chairperson to see that the hearing is conducted in a dignified and orderly manner and that the rights of the accused are fully protected. They shall assure themselves that accurate records are kept, to include a tape recording of the Honor Council hearing.

Section B. Responsibilities of the Attorney General

It shall be the responsibility of the Attorney General or alternate to investigate charges in order to obtain all possible evidence and to show that evidence to the Jury in a formal hearing in as clear and accurate a way as possible. It shall be the responsibility of the Attorney General to seek a conviction based upon a reasonable interpretation of the evidence obtained. The Attorney General will be a non-voting member of the Honor Council.

Section C. Responsibilities of the Recorder

It shall be the responsibility of the Honor Council Recorder or alternate to attend all meetings and hearings of the Honor Council and to keep a complete record of all proceedings. It will be their responsibility to make sure that a tape recording is kept of the proceedings, and also shall be responsible for safeguarding this tape until it is presented to the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Services. Both tapes and written reports will be presented to the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Services, where they will be kept in a confidential file for reference and future use by members of the Honor Council, by the faculty, and by student body by special permission from the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Services

Section D. Responsibilities of the Public Defense Attorney

It shall be the responsibility of the Defense Attorney to be available to any accused person and to serve on their behalf. The Defense Attorney shall investigate charges, obtain all possible evidence, and present these facts to the Honor Council at a formal hearing. It shall be the Defense Attorney’s responsibility to give any aid and advice that the accused person desires to accept and to seek a verdict of not guilty on their behalf. The Public Defense Attorney will be a non-voting member of the Honor Council.

Section E.

It shall be the responsibility of all Honor Council members to weigh the evidence as presented by the Attorney General and the Defense Attorney and to request any clarifications necessary to an understanding of the charges and evidence presented at the hearing. Furthermore, it is the responsibility of each Honor Council member to determine the innocence or guilt of an accused person.

Section F.

A decision of guilty shall be obtained when two-thirds of the members present (not to include Public Defense Attorney and Attorney General) find that an accused person is guilty of an Honor Code violation beyond reasonable doubt. Specifically, a vote of guilty is three of four, four of six, or five of seven voting members present.

Section G.

If an accused person is found guilty by the prescribed method, a recommendation for further action will be made to the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Services. If possible, this recommendation will be made known orally to the accused as soon as possible after the hearing has concluded. No later than two days after the hearing has been closed, the Recorder shall notify the person in writing of the recommendation of the Honor Council and the action that the Council has recommended to the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Services. In the event that the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Services refuses to support the Honor Council recommendation, the student may request that the case be taken to the appellate body for a review.

Section H. Prescribed Punishments

Based on the evidence and nature of the violation, the Honor Council shall recommend one of the following actions if a person is found guilty:

Article IV
Rights of the Accused

Section A.

All persons shall be considered innocent until proven guilty. All students charged with Honor Code violations shall be notified in writing of that violation. Each accused person shall receive a letter which consists of a summons to a time and place where the Honor Council shall hear the case in question.

Section B.

Any accused person shall have an opportunity to consult with the Defense Attorney of the Honor Council; and if the accused desires, the Defense Attorney will defend or assist the accused in the preparation of the student’s defense.

Section C.

All persons accused of an Honor Code violation may choose to have a public or private hearing. If a public hearing is chosen, the Honor Council will hand out ground rules of spectator conduct as spectators enter the room where the hearing is held.

Section D.

Any person accused of an Honor Code violation will be entitled to call witnesses, present evidence, and to have one student of the accused’s choice present in the hearing room at all times during the proceedings and to have this student act, if necessary, in defense of the accused.

Section E.

If a student is found guilty of an Honor Code violation, they shall have the right to appeal this verdict to an appellate body consisting of three faculty members appointed by the President of the College and three members of the student body (not on the Honor Council) appointed by the President of the student government.

Clause 1.

This body shall review the Honor Council tape of the appealed case and, if necessary, may hold an informal hearing to call in anyone involved in the case for clarification.

Clause 2.

If two-thirds of this body find the accused to be guilty, they will recommend that the Honor Council recommendation be upheld by the Vice President for Academic Affairs. No further appeal is possible under the Code; however, the decision may be appealed to the President of the College. In cases where suspension is the recommended punishment, the College President automatically reviews the case.

Clause 3.

If less than two-thirds of this body find the accused guilty, the person will be found innocent, charges will be dropped, and no recommendation will be made to the Vice President for Academic Affairs. No further appeal is possible.

Section F.

If a student is found not guilty of an Honor Code violation, charges will be dropped and no recommendation will be made to the Vice President for Academic Affairs. No appeal may be made of an innocent verdict.

Article V
Obligation of the Student Body

Section A.

Students of the College are obligated to conduct themselves in accordance with the Honor Code and must guard against any action that would weaken the Code or bring it into disrepute. Students are reminded to abide by the Honor Code. An application for admission to CVCC implies that a student, if admitted, will read the Honor Code in the Catalog/Handbook and will uphold the honor of the College by observing the Honor Code.

Section B.

Each student will be honor bound to report any breach of this Code to the Honor Council. Finally, it is the responsibility of the student to become thoroughly acquainted with the Code and any changes thereafter.

Section C.

It will be assumed that all students’ work, each assignment, quiz, test, or examination, including work delivered other than by written means, is covered by the Honor Code. The Honor Pledge will be written on the work at the direction of the instructor.

Section D.

Students are obligated to appear as witnesses in any case called by the Honor Council.

Section E.

A report of suspected Honor Code violation and request for investigation must be submitted within 30 calendar days of the date of the occurrence of the suspected violation. Requests submitted after the 30 calendar day period will not be tried.

Article VI
Obligation of Faculty and Administration

Section A.

It shall be the responsibility of the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Services or alternate to clarify the contents of the College Honor Code during orientation and/or to any inquiring student.

Section B.

It shall be the responsibility of the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Services to maintain and, if necessary, make inquiries regarding the effective functioning of the Honor Council or its advisor.

Section C.

A faculty member or an administrator involved in an Honor Council meeting will be expected to offer clear and concise evidence.

Section D.

The Honor Council Advisor shall assist members of the Council in obtaining information during hearings. This is to insure the accused received due process and that information is presented in a clear and concise manner. They shall also assist the chair in maintaining order during the hearing.

Section E.

A report of suspected Honor Code violation should be investigated and brought to the student’s attention within 30 calendar days of the date of the first knowledge of the suspected violation. Requests submitted after the 30 calendar day period cannot be tried by the Council.

Article VII
Impeachment of Honor Council Members

With the advice and consent of the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Services, following a recommendation by the Chair of the Honor Council or the Advisor, a hearing will be held to determine whether a member or members of the Honor Council are functioning in an improper or ineffective manner. If, by a majority vote of those present, (a tie to be broken by the Chair), excluding the members accused of the inefficiency, the person or persons shall be removed from the Honor Council, and the alternates in order of their plurality shall be sworn in to fill the vacancies of the disbarred members. Members disbarred from the Council forego future right of election to this high body.

Article VIII
Ratification of Amendments

Section A.

This Honor Code shall become effective upon the ratification by a majority vote of the student body present and voting in the election. All amendments to this Code must be submitted in writing to the President of the student body for discussion in open student body meetings; thereafter, an amendment is referred to the Honor Council for its unanimous approval; thereafter, no less than 50% of the students present and voting in a special election to be called by the President of the student body no fewer than 7 or more than 30 days after Honor Council approval shall be necessary for the ratification of the amendment; thereafter, it shall be submitted to the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Services for presentation to the faculty.

Section B.

The ratification of this Co