Core Christian Values Return to: Student Handbook
When choosing to attend Andrews University, students agree to adopt a wholesome lifestyle and to maintain high standards of conduct. These standards are part of the unique mission and spiritual heritage of Andrews University and reflect core values that are grounded in biblical principles. These values include honesty, modesty, sexual purity, respect for others, healthful living and safety.
Admission to the University is not a right. It is a privilege that entails acceptance of individual responsibility and exercising the self-discipline to uphold our academic standards and community values. The University can ask any student to leave whose presence seems to damage the mission and function of the institution or who persists in violation of these core values and the Code of Student Conduct.
Code of Student Conduct Return to: Student Handbook
The Code of Student Conduct is detailed in this Student Handbook (see Code of Student Conduct ) and provides examples of violations that may result in serious consequences. Any expectation adopted and published by the administration in more informal written communication or online requires the same respect and compliance as expectations printed in official publications.
The Community Values Agreement is signed by each undergraduate student during the registration process of his/her first semester and during the fall registration process of each subsequent academic year. Students may obtain a copy of the Handbook at the Student Life office (or online at andrews.edu/SL).
Academic Integrity Return to: Student Handbook
Academic Integrity
University learning thrives on the rigor of individual investigation, the authentic exchange of ideas, and a corporate commitment to integrity and mutual respect. It requires all members of the academic community to behave honestly—speaking truthfully to colleagues, co-learners and teachers and completing all homework, tests, papers and projects with integrity. Andrews University anchors its practices in the teachings of the Bible as well as in widely established and honorable academic traditions. Much as the apostle Paul calls us to authenticity in our Christian walk, so the educational institution demands of its participants true and accurate self-representation. In Ephesians, Paul invites believers “to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to clothe yourselves with the new self, created according to the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness” (Eph. 4:23–24, NRSV). As scholars and as Christ’s servants, we build His living body through our honesty in all things, both small and great. To that end, Andrews University’s students pledge to learn and grow together, committing to the following standards and affirming honesty as a core component of an Andrews University education.
Integrity Standards
Students promise to:
- Present assignments, lab reports and research findings that are not falsified in any way
- Respect copyrighted and/or licensed material (whether it be directly quoted or paraphrased) by citing print or electronic sources as appropriate
- Follow the source citation guidelines outlined by the course professor
- Submit work that is solely created by the person to whom it is assigned
- Contribute equitably when participating in group work
- Prepare for quizzes and examinations by study and review without stealing, accepting or using unauthorized quizzes or examination materials
- Follow the professor’s instructions regarding allowable aids during a quiz or examination
- Complete quizzes and tests without seeking answers from or sharing answers with other students or unauthorized sources
- Encourage others to high standards of integrity by refusing to assist in acts of academic dishonesty
Integrity Pledge
Because academic honesty is central to who we are and what we do at Andrews University, the following pledge is required of every student scholar that agrees to join this community:
I promise on my honor as a member of the learning community at Andrews University that I will faithfully adhere to these Integrity Standards in the completion of all coursework requirements and scholarly projects.
Academic Integrity Policy
As of fall semester 2014, the written academic policy is in the process of being accepted as part of University Working Policy. When this process is completed, reference will be made in the Student Handbook to the appropriate sections. Until that time, the written policy is available on the AU Academic Integrity Website.
The following is a synopsis of the University’s academic integrity policy. This synopsis is not exhaustive and students are referred to the online version of the academic integrity policy to view it in its entirety.
Andrews University has adopted a policy that aims to create an environment in which academic integrity is considered by all members of the community to be the expected norm. Two councils have been established to administrate and lead in this area.
Student Academic Integrity Council (SAIC)
This council consists of 11 students chosen from undergraduate and graduate schools in the spring to be representatives for the following year. Students interested in serving on the SAIC should apply to the chairs of their departments by March 15 to be chosen for the following year.
Among the council’s responsibilities are the following:
- Educating the Andrews campus regarding the academic integrity policy through activities such as:
- Educating new students at orientation and new faculty at faculty orientation
- Working with ITS to provide web-based resources aimed at enriching academic integrity on campus
- Organizing and initiating a yearly chapel focused on academic integrity
- Provide members to serve on Integrity Panels as required
- The panels consist of three students, two faculty and one non-voting faculty moderator
- These panels meet to determine whether a student is to be considered responsible for a breach of the integrity policy and to determine the appropriate consequence of any breach when:
- A student accumulates multiple violations
- A student disputes a charge of having violated the integrity policy
- Consider requests from students to have records cleared of violations of the academic integrity policy
- Give annual reports to the University community on all actions taken by the SAIC that year
- Give an annual report to the provost of the University on any recommended changes to the Integrity Policy they feel are needed
Faculty Academic Integrity Council (FAIC)
This council also consists of 11 members chosen from programs across the University.
Among the council’s responsibilities are the following:
- Provide two members to act as advisors to the SAIC
- Provide members to serve on Integrity Panels as required
- The panels consist of three students, two faculty and one non-voting faculty moderator
While the intent of the policy is to educate the campus in ways to avoid breaches of integrity and to bring us together in a community of honest academic effort, the consequences of intentionally breaking a pledge to the University community are also spelled out and should be considered carefully.
What happens when a student is accused of violating the academic integrity policy?
- A faculty member that believes a student is responsible for violating the academic integrity policy will:
- Discuss the matter with the student, asking for a response
- Should the faculty member believe there has been a violation, they will determine the level of violation committed and assign a sanction
- There are five levels of violation described in the integrity policy
- The faculty member will file a report of the violation electronically
- The student will have the opportunity to respond to this report, either accepting or rejecting the allegation
- The only persons with access to this electronic record are the student, the student’s advisor and the chair of the student’s department
- An overall record of all a student’s reported violations is kept electronically
- In most situations where the student agrees that they are responsible for the violation and accepts the recommended sanction, no further action is taken
- In cases where the student denies the charges, disputes the recommended sanction, or where the electronic record alerts the SAIC that multiple violations have occurred, an Integrity Panel is formed
- The number of violations that will trigger the formation of an Integrity Panel depends on the level of the violations
- Three level 1 violations (or two level 1 and one level 2)
- Two level 2 violations
- One level 3 or 4 violation
- Level 0 violations are considered to be those committed without any intent on the part of the student and are not considered toward the formation of an Integrity Panel
- Integrity Panels consist of three students, two faculty and one non-voting faculty member acting as a moderator
- Integrity Panels are responsible for
- Determining whether a student is responsible for committing a violation
- And, when responsibility is assigned to the student, determining the appropriate sanction
The “XF” Grade
In cases where an Integrity Panel has determined that a student is responsible for violating the integrity policy, they will then determine the sanction to be applied. The Integrity Panel has the authority to apply the sanction recommended by the faculty member or to render a different sanction in cases where the majority feels the original sanction was too harsh or too lenient. Any sanction, from minor ones through expulsion from the University, that is considered appropriate by the Integrity Panel may be applied.
One possible sanction is the application of the XF grade to the student’s record for the class in question. The XF indicates that the student received an “F” in the class for violation of academic integrity policies and is recorded on the student’s transcript with the notation “failure due to academic dishonesty.”
The following applies to the XF grade:
- It is treated in the same way as an “F” for the purposes of grade point average, course repeatability, and determination of academic standing.
- No student with an “XF” notation on his or her transcript shall be permitted to represent the University in any extracurricular activity or to run for or hold office in any student organization that is allowed to use University facilities or receives University funds.
A student may apply to the SAIC to have the “X” portion of the “XF” removed if
- 12 months have passed since the violation was imposed
- The student has not been found in violation of any other academic integrity policies in that 12-month period
- The SAIC makes all decisions regarding removal of the X. For breaches of integrity committed with significant planning and intent, the X will not typically be removed.
A Last Word on Integrity
The SAIC and the FAIC encourage all students to become acquainted with the University Academic Integrity Website when it becomes available. There you will find information on the policy itself, ways to avoid plagiarism, correct methods of utilizing media from outside sources, etc.
Student Leadership Return to: Student Handbook
Andrews University values student leaders and is committed to developing the leadership abilities of all students. Holding a student leadership position, however, is a responsibility and privilege granted to students who meet minimum qualifications. Candidates for student leadership positions must:
- Have a current semester and cumulative grade point average of at least 2.25. Students who have been on academic probation in the 12 months prior to an election or appointment are not eligible to hold leadership positions.
- Have a satisfactory citizenship record. Serious citizenship concerns, regardless of when or where they occurred, may impact a student’s leadership eligibility. Students who have been on citizenship probation or suspended in the 12 months prior to an election or appointment are not eligible to hold leadership positions. Leadership candidates who are part of a current citizenship inquiry may lose their eligibility as well.
- Have a demonstrated commitment to the standards and objectives of Andrews University.
A student who is placed on citizenship probation, suspended or whose current or cumulative grade point average falls below 2.25 will be required to resign his/her office.
Student Organizations Return to: Student Handbook
The Right to Associate
Students have the right to organize and join registered student organizations to promote their common interests consistent with the values, mission and policies of the University. The University reserves the right to determine which pursuits are suited to student-led organizations and which may be carried out only within the context of an institutional department or program.
Student organizations should exist:
- To encourage students to engage in activities which complement classroom instruction
- To broaden and strengthen students’ abilities and interests
- To enrich the campus culture and promote an ethic of service
- To offer students opportunities to develop leadership skills
Recognition of Student Organizations
All student groups must be recognized by the University in order to function on- or off-campus. Affiliation with an external organization will not of itself guarantee the recognition of a student organization. Recognition is granted solely by the University. In order to be recognized, student organizations must:
- Register annually with the Office of Student Activities & Athletics, located in Student Life
- Be overseen by an approved faculty or staff advisor/sponsor
- Have a minimum of ten currently enrolled students as members, including three who serve as officers
- Have a constitution on file in the Office of Student Activities & Athletics
- Be open to all Andrews University students
- Be in conformity with University policies and values
- Send an advisor/sponsor and at least one officer to a student organization orientation session or its equivalent
The failure of a registered student organization to meet the policies and expectations of the University could result in the revoking of University approval.
Unauthorized Student Organizations
Student groups that do not meet the criteria above are not permitted to function, recruit or otherwise have an influence on the Andrews University campus. Students belonging to organizations that exist without the approval of the University will be found in violation of the Code of Student Conduct and will jeopardize their student status. Unauthorized organizations that have attempted to recruit University students in the past include Raw Dogs, Rubies, Fam One and O.M.E.G.A. Students who are uncertain of an organization’s legitimacy should call the Office of Student Activities & Athletics for more information.
Protection of Individual Student Rights
The right to associate must be practiced with respect to the individual rights of students who are either a part of the organization or seeking membership within it, as well as those outside of the organization. These rights include, but may not be limited to, the right to learn; the right to be free from discrimination and harassment; the right to discuss, inquire, express and petition; and the right to appeal. On this basis:
- Admission to organizations must be open to all students without respect to race, color, sex (except residence hall clubs), national origin, religion, age, disability or any protected characteristic.
- Organizations may establish membership requirements as long as these are made public and do not 1) discriminate against any protected characteristic, 2) deny a student’s rights as outlined in this Handbook, or 3) place an undue hardship on a student’s ability to maintain academic success and progress.
- Membership is the right of any student who meets an organization’s membership requirements and may not be determined by organizational vote or come solely at the invitation of an organization. Officers, however, may be elected by an organization, as outlined in an organization’s constitution and bylaws.
- Membership is to be granted only to currently enrolled students. Former students and alumni may maintain a connection to a student organization (as they would to the University) but may not participate as members or hold voting privileges.
- Students have the right to full disclosure of an organization’s existence, purpose, policies and procedures so as to make an informed choice for or against membership. Likewise, organizations must conduct their business and activities in a transparent fashion, with the full knowledge and participation of their advisor/sponsor.
- Students seeking to resolve differences within a student organization should do so through the established channels of the organization. However, a student always has the right to seek assistance from University personnel, especially in cases of misconduct, threatening or harassing behavior, etc. (see Right to Appeal/Grievance ).
- Commitment to membership in a student organization is voluntary in nature and may be withdrawn by a student at any time without consequence. Refunds of paid organizational dues, however, are at the discretion of the charging organization.
Advisors/Sponsors
All student organizations are required to have a University-approved faculty or staff advisor. Each organization is free to recruit and present a faculty or staff nominee to the Office of Student Activities & Athletics for approval. Large organizations or those with multiple functions may be required to select a second sponsor.
Members of the Andrews faculty and staff perform an important educational role when they accept the responsibility to advise student organizations. They will guide the student officers and units, but they will not arbitrarily seek to control the policies and decisions of the student organizations.
The advisor/sponsor or the vice president for Student Life may exercise the right to suspend or reverse a decision by the student officers or organization when that decision is found to be contrary to the philosophy of the University. An advisor’s/sponsor’s decision to suspend or reverse a decision may be appealed to the assistant director for Student Activities and eventually to the vice president for Student Life.
Activity Approval
All student activities must be sponsored by a University department, registered student organization, or student association (AUSA, AUGSA) and be approved by the Office of Student Activities & Athletics. All activities and trips must be supervised by the presence of a full-time faculty or staff member for the full duration of the activity or trip. Activity Approval Forms are available online at orgsync.com/login/andrews-university.
- On- or Off-Campus Day Activities. Student activities held on- or off-campus without an overnight stay must be approved by the Office of Student Activities & Athletics at least two weeks prior to the activity.
- Overnight Off-Campus Trips. Student trips to off-campus locations involving at least one overnight stay must be approved by the Office of Student Activities & Athletics as well as by the University Trips and Tours Committee. This is done by submitting a Non-Academic Trip Request Form at least two months prior to the trip.
- Fund-raising. Student organizations may engage in fund-raising activities with the approval of the Office of Student Activities & Athletics based on the following stipulations:
- Fund-raising promotional materials must clearly identify the recipient(s) of the funds and the purpose for which they will be used.
- All funds must be deposited into the student organization’s account.
- Funds may be disbursed to non-profit organizations holding 501c3 status and whose mission and practices do not conflict with those of the University.
- Loose cash collections may be taken up on behalf of charities; however, donors wishing to receive a tax deduction must donate directly to the benefiting organization.
- Donations made to University student organizations will not be tax deductible.
- Student organizations may disburse cash payments to individuals or families in need but only after a disbursement plan has been approved by the Office of Student Activities & Athletics.
Financial Accountability
The University requires financial accountability of student organization officers, including statements of an organization’s income, income sources and expenses.
Dues. Each organization is responsible for the collection and management of its own dues. Club dues may be charged to students’ accounts within the first monthly billing cycle of the semester with the submission of the proper charge forms. Yearly dues may not exceed $50.
Deposits. All student organization funds must be deposited with the University cashier into an organizational account to reduce the loss from misappropriation or the lack of proper custodianship when there is an officer turnover.
Use of funds. Dues or funds collected from the membership may not be used by the executive officers for gifts or activities that are restricted to the executive officers or any other select group within the club.
Accounts. The advisor/sponsor is responsible for the proper auditing of club accounts. Notices will be sent to the advisor/sponsor or assistant director for Student Activities & Athletics when an organizational account has reached a minimum balance and is in danger of being overspent. Major charges made to an organization’s account by a University department may require a balance verification before business can be transacted.
Tax status. The University’s tax-exempt status does not extend to student organizations, and therefore purchases made by organizations are not tax-exempt.
Student Associations Return to: Student Handbook
Andrews University Student Association (AUSA)
The AUSA is the hub of undergraduate campus activity. All undergraduate students taking at least five credits are automatically members of the Andrews University Student Association.
The purposes of the AUSA are to:
- Serve the University community and contribute to the fuller unfolding of the Adventist program of education
- Serve as a channel for organizing student activities
- Provide a vehicle for the expression of student opinion
- Provide opportunity for leadership experience and the development of skills in organization and administration
The AUSA source of authority is provided through the policies voted by the University faculty and the Board of Trustees as interpreted by the president through the vice president for Student Life and the AUSA advisor.
The AUSA may vote its own constitution, bylaws and working policies. The AUSA may make its own decisions and elect officers. The Constitution, bylaws and working policies shall be consistent with the University policies and shall require the approval of the faculty and the Board of Trustees. The AUSA constitution and bylaws shall provide that all legislation be processed through standing committees, comprised of Student Senate members with the right to vote.
AUSA Elections
Candidates for Student Association offices, appointees for offices and editors of the Student Association communications media shall be approved by the vice president for Student Life. This is done after consultation with the Student Life Council, taking into consideration the standards published in the Student Handbook and the qualifications included in the Student Association constitution, bylaws and working policies.
The Student Life Council will advise the vice president by secret ballot. The vice president’s decisions are final and reasons will not be made public. The AUSA election board will not announce the candidates publicly, nor will the candidates campaign until they have been approved by the vice president for Student Life.
- Candidates for AUSA elections will be members of the AUSA.
- Candidates must meet the student leadership requirements with the increased expectation that in order to be eligible to run for AUSA office, candidates must have a current semester and cumulative grade point average of at least 3.00. A 3.00 current or cumulative grade point average must be maintained in order for an AUSA officer to continue holding office.
- Those who wish to run for office should secure application blanks and guidelines from the AUSA or Student Life.
- Candidates will have presented a platform to the vice president for Student Life for approval. Platforms will be in harmony with the standards and objectives of the University.
- All posters for campaigns will conform to the regular University policy regarding posters. In the Campus Center during elections, exceptions to the policy may be authorized by the vice president for Student Life.
Andrews University Graduate Student Association (AUGSA)
All graduate students registered in regular or provisional status in all the schools and colleges of the Berrien Springs campus of the University shall be voting members of the AUGSA.
The purposes of the AUGSA are:
- To work together more diligently for the common good within the University’s working policies
- To maintain and uphold the objectives and purposes of the University and its sponsoring denomination
- To promote awareness of the skills, capabilities and services available to graduate students in all disciplines
- To maintain academic integrity, research, responsibility and privileges
- To promote a clear understanding of the peculiar needs, challenges and responsibilities of graduate students
- To provide a means of training for leadership and service to God and humanity
AUGSA Elections
All AUGSA candidates must maintain a 3.00 cumulative GPA to be eligible for and to hold office. Only one representative from each school may hold a major office. Candidates must exemplify good citizenship and receive endorsement from a faculty advisor and the dean of the school they represent.
Student Activities (SA) Return to: Student Handbook
The Office of Student Activities & Athletics exists to create and maintain a Christian environment of social and recreational activities that foster healthy and rewarding relationships within a diverse student body.
SA coordinates social events such as Labor Day Blast and Almost Anything Goes as well as Splash for Cash and the Dodgeball Tournament. SA activities are often planned in collaboration with the Andrews University Student Association (AUSA). SA co-sponsors, with the Howard Performing Arts Center, a Christian Artists Concert Series that brings well-known artists to campus. Each year, SA plans a ski trip to Steamboat, Colorado. One (1) P.E. credit is offered for this trip. Also under the SA umbrella is the Cardinal athletic program that consists of men’s and women’s soccer teams, men’s and women’s basketball teams, and a club ice hockey team. The Cardinal athletic program (soccer and basketball) is a Division II member of the United States Collegiate Athletic Association. For more information visit SA online at andrews.edu/sr.
The SA Intramural office offers a wide variety of intramural sports. For more information or to register online, visit andrews.edu/intramurals.
Campus Center
The Campus Center is a gathering place where students can both socialize and study. In order to provide a welcoming environment for all students, please adhere to the following guidelines:
- Each student is responsible for throwing away his/her trash in the receptacles provided.
- Furnishings should be left clean and in order. Tables and chairs, if moved, must be returned to their proper place.
- Use of personal equipment for playing music or for viewing videos, etc., is permitted only with the use of headphones. Material viewed must be in harmony with Christian values.
- Appropriate decorum is expected and should not include public displays of affection such as kissing, sitting on laps, etc.
- Groups wishing to rehearse or practice must first reserve space with the Student Life office.
Please also be aware that stairwells and stairs are unoccupied areas—students found in these areas will be asked to vacate.
Students wishing to set up a booth in the Campus Center hallway should contact the Office of Student Activities & Athletics (meat and caffeinated beverages may not be served or sold on campus). The Student Life and Leadership Lab may be reserved through the Student Life office.
William Mutch Recreation Center
The William Mutch Recreation Center, located on the lower level of the Campus Center, is an additional meeting place for students. Table tennis, foosball, air hockey, video games and other games are available. Recreation equipment may be checked out.
Philosophy and Principles of Dress Return to: Student Handbook
Andrews University’s philosophy of dress is grounded in biblical ideals and the professional standards expected of a university. As members of a Christian community, we aspire to glorify our Creator and to show respect for self and others in our dress.
The specifics of the “Andrews Look” illustrate the fundamental principles of modesty, simplicity and appropriateness.
- Modesty—Appropriately covering the body, avoiding styles that are revealing or suggestive.
- Simplicity—Accentuating God-given grace and natural beauty rather than the ostentation encouraged by the fashion industry.
- Appropriateness—Wearing clothing that is clean, neat and suitable to occasion, activity and place.
As a Seventh-day Adventist university, we interpret these principles in accordance with our faith tradition. While respecting individuals who may view them differently, we ask all who study, work or play on our campus to abide by our dress code while here.
Specifics of the Andrews Look:
- Men’s Attire—Pants or jeans with shirts or sweaters are the most appropriate dress for everyday campus wear. Examples of inappropriate attire are tank tops, bare midriffs and unbuttoned shirts. Modest shorts are acceptable; however, athletic shorts are appropriate only for sporting activities.
- Women’s Attire—Dresses, skirts, pants or jeans with shirts, blouses, sweaters and/or jackets are appropriate for most occasions. Examples of inappropriate attire are sheer blouses, tube tops, low necklines, bare midriffs, spaghetti straps or no straps, tank tops, short skirts and two-piece bathing suits. Modest shorts are acceptable; however, athletic shorts are appropriate only for sporting activities.
- Accessories—These should be minimal and carefully chosen after considering the principle of simplicity above. Examples of jewelry and accessories that are not appropriate at Andrews University are ornamental rings and bracelets, necklaces and chains, and piercings of all kinds. Modest symbols of a marital commitment, such as wedding and engagement rings, are acceptable.
Students not conforming to these standards of dress should anticipate being asked to come into compliance. This is especially true in the workplace, in leadership positions and when taking a role in activities representing Andrews University.
Substance Abuse Return to: Student Handbook
Andrews University is committed to providing a drug-free environment for learning and working. Such a commitment led the University to establish a Drug-Free Policy, which outlines clearly the University’s zero-tolerance position and strives to educate its student body on the advantages of a drug-free lifestyle. The University also helps chemically dependent students find resources to aid in their recovery.
Students are expected to remain drug-free. Drug-free means abstaining from the use of alcohol, tobacco and other mind-altering drugs. It also means refraining from the misuse and/or abuse of prescription drugs. The University also upholds all laws which prohibit the possession, use, manufacturing or distribution of controlled substances. The possession of drug paraphernalia and use of “look alike” or designer drugs including e-cigarettes are also prohibited and considered an offense of the Drug-Free Policy. A K-9 handler team is authorized by the University to conduct searches of campus facilities (see Campus Safety Services and Information ).
Students who have reportedly used alcohol, tobacco or illegal substances or who have appeared to linger in close proximity to alcohol, tobacco or illegal substances or drug paraphernalia should be prepared to participate in random, on-demand tobacco, alcohol and drug screenings as well as to engage in an educational course. In cases where there is not confirmed usage, costs related to tests required for students will be covered by the University if the results are negative and will be the responsibility of the student if the results are positive.
Voluntary Referral
All students can choose to voluntarily seek assistance in remaining drug- and alcohol-free. Faculty members, Counseling & Testing or Student Life professionals are available for consultations. No disciplinary action will typically be taken if the student initiates (without the information being already reported to or known by a University or law enforcement official) a voluntary effort to seek assistance and is faithful in following the established plan for attendance, removing triggers and for personal growth.
Substance use/abuse counseling is available from the Counseling & Testing Center. Limited services include the following:
- Professional substance abuse assessment
- Individual counseling
- Support groups for chemical dependency
Mandatory Referral
If students are found in violation of the policy, the University will activate the following response.
A first substance use offense or possession will result in a suspension from the University. To be eligible to regain and/or continue student status, the student must fulfill the following protocol:
- Review and reaffirm commitment to a re-entry contract with a Student Life professional
- Sign a release of information consent form with a Student Life professional
- Serve a suspension from classes and all organized campus activities for a minimum of three class days
- During the suspension and prior to returning to classes the student must:
- Make an appointment with the Counseling & Testing Center within three days to begin the process to obtain a Substance Abuse Assessment and make arrangements to accept responsibility for fees related to the assessment
- Request that the Counseling & Testing counselor submit to the referring entity a summary report of your assessment with recommendations for ongoing care
- Request that the Counseling & Testing counselor submit verification of compliance with all recommended appointments for ongoing counseling sessions and care
- Complete with the Counseling & Testing Center an educational course and related assignments which includes attendance of six sessions as outlined with the course counselor
- Complete an exit interview with the course counselor
- Submit documentation of the completion of a minimum of 12 hours of community service
- Complete a 10-week citizenship probation that includes the removal of privileges (see Citizenship Disciplinary Procedures )
Violations related to illegal substances or to the responsibility of planning and/or hosting events where alcohol and illegal substances are served and/or consumed, or to being the seller or supplier of the substances, will result in a more major suspension. A stronger response may also be put into effect when a student is underage or provides alcohol and/or illegal substances to underage individuals. To be eligible to regain and/or continue student status the student must fulfill the following protocol:
- Review and reaffirm commitment to a re-entry contract with a Student Life professional
- Sign a release of information consent form with a Student Life professional
- Serve a suspension which may be a minimum of one semester, during which time the student will be separated from the campus and all campus activities
- Expect that a report will be made to the appropriate legal authorities if the student has violated laws regarding illegal drugs and controlled substances
- Prior to returning to classes the student must:
- Make an appointment with a licensed community Substance Abuse Counselor to obtain an assessment, and accept responsibility for fees related to the assessment
- Sign a release of information consent form with the community Substance Abuse Counselor
- Request that the Substance Abuse Counselor submit a summary report of the assessment, with recommendations for ongoing care and verification of compliance with all recommendations, to the vice president for Student Life
- Submit documentation of the completion of a minimum of 20 hours of community service
Upon returning and registering for a future semester the student must:
- Complete with the Counseling & Testing Center an educational course and related assignments which includes attendance of six sessions as outlined with the course counselor
- Participate in random, on-demand drug testing and accept responsibility for related fees
- Complete an exit interview with the course counselor
- Complete a minimum 10-week citizenship probation that includes the removal of privileges (see Citizenship Disciplinary Procedures )
A second substance use offense or possession will result in, at minimum, a suspension from the University for the current semester and the ensuing semester during which time the student will be separated from the campus and all campus activities. A request for reinstatement will first require reapplication to the University.
Medical Marijuana
Michigan state law permits the use of medical marijuana, i.e., use by persons possessing lawfully issued medical marijuana cards. However, marijuana use, possession and/or cultivation is prohibited at educational institutions, which are recipients of federal funds and must be compliant with federal laws (including the Controlled Substances Act and the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act). The use, possession or cultivation of marijuana for medical purposes is therefore not allowed on the property of Andrews University nor is it allowed at any University-sponsored event or activity off-campus.
Health, Wellness and Safety Return to: Student Handbook
At Andrews University the health and well-being of students and of our campus community is of primary importance. The University remains committed to assuring that all students have the opportunity to achieve optimal performance and receive the best and most appropriate care. The University retains the right to intervene as deemed necessary to help protect the educational environment or the health and safety of the campus.
Observations of behaviors, reports of activities or conduct that appear to disrupt, jeopardize or threaten the educational environment or the health or safety of a student or others should be shared with the vice president for Student Life and/or the University Student Intervention Team (USIT) via usit@andrews.edu. If there is a direct or imminent threat the observation should be directed immediately to Emergency Services (911) and to the Office of Campus Safety (269-471-3321).
Such observations may include disruptive or dysfunctional behaviors; a suicidal ideation or gesture; self-injurious actions; aberrant actions; threatening statements or behaviors or other symptoms or conduct that may compromise the educational environment or the health and safety of the student or others.
The vice president for Student Life and/or the USIT will facilitate a comprehensive evaluation process that includes a professional assessment and/or investigation of the observations for the purpose of determining the current level of risk or disruption and recommended intervention plan.
Following the evaluation process, the vice president for Student Life may activate an intervention that could result in a medical leave, a change in residential setting, a suspension for a Code of Student Conduct violation, an interim suspension or a separation from campus.
General Processes
- The University will facilitate standard due processes, in which the student will have the opportunity to explore with a member of the USIT or a Student Life dean the nature of the reported concern, as well as the Health, Wellness and Safety policy and appeal process.
- The University will assess the level of risk and take steps to facilitate the safety of the student and/or the campus community.
- When deemed necessary, the University will initiate a plan to provide protective care for the student and/or take steps to ensure the safety of the campus community until an evaluation can take place that includes an individualized professional assessment. University Medical Specialties and/or the Counseling & Testing Center may be consulted. (In some cases, students may be transported by ambulance directly to a local emergency facility following a 911 call.)
Evaluation Processes
- To assess the level of risk, the student may be asked to obtain a comprehensive medical and/or psychological assessment from a licensed physician or psychologist and sign a release of information (ROI) to the vice president for Student Life and the USIT. Information may include a written report of the findings of the assessment and recommended intervention plan.
- The student may be asked by the licensed physician or psychologist to provide pertinent reports and corroborative information from former educational entities or healthcare professionals.
- In cases of potential harm to self, residence hall students may not be able to reside in the residence hall during the assessment process due to the potential disruption to other students and the inability of residence hall staff to provide monitored care. Parents or students may be asked to provide a plan of monitored care during the assessment process.
- In the case of an investigation regarding threats to others, a background check may be conducted and the student may be asked to provide additional information.
- Parents, legal guardians, spouse or family designee (as reflected in the student’s emergency contact records) generally are notified and encouraged to share relevant information.
- The student is responsible for all fees related to medical or psychological assessment.
- The vice president for Student Life and/or the USIT will review all corroborative information, professional assessments and recommendations to determine the appropriate University response.
Medical Accommodation (Within Semester)
A medical accommodation offers a student a limited time away during the semester for documented physical or psychological health reasons. A student can remain enrolled while exploring with the Student Success Center the potential for receiving accommodations in one or more classes. A revised academic plan will vary depending upon course load, course requirements and current academic standing within the course.
Medical Leave
A medical leave may be granted for documented physical or psychological health reasons and may result in a withdrawal from all classes while retaining general student status. During this time access to campus services will be limited. The medical leave and related reinstatement process is designed to insure that the student is sufficiently recovered to return to rigor inherent in academic and campus life expectations that apply to all students. Criteria for reinstatement address the University’s need to be confident, in consultation with the student and healthcare providers, that the student will be safe in an unsupervised environment and can adequately monitor his or her health.
A medical leave (with appropriate documentation), in certain circumstances, may help students protect their academic record, maintain their visa status (if applicable) and avoid adverse effects to their student loans, grants and scholarships.
- A student and his/her parents may request a medical leave when appropriate documentation is obtained from a licensed physician or psychologist.
- The vice president for Student Life and/or the USIT may approve and facilitate a student’s request for a medical leave.
- Students should expect that the established tuition adjustment schedule will be followed based on the number of calendar days they have been enrolled.
- Students are strongly encouraged to consult with their academic advisor and student financial advisor. International students should seek counsel from the Office of International Student Services & Programs to insure compliance with governmental visa regulations.
- A student and his/her parents may request an extension of a medical leave when appropriate documentation is obtained from a healthcare professional.
Reinstatement from Leaves
- In considering a student’s request for reinstatement from a leave, the vice president for Student Life and/or the USIT may require current documentation from a licensed physician or psychologist of:
- a student’s readiness to return to the rigor inherent in academic and campus life expectations for all students,
- a student’s ability to be safe in an unsupervised environment and an ability to adequately monitor his or her health and
- any recommendations for follow-up or aftercare intervention and support.
Conclusion
The continuing status of a student will be contingent upon the fulfillment of this Health, Wellness and Safety policy. Failure to follow a directive of a University official is a violation of the Code of Student Conduct and may jeopardize the status of the student.
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