Student Campus Life Student Campus Life ADULT PROGRAMS Office Adult Returning Students www.uafortsmith.edu/Future/AdultStudents (479) 788-7319 The Office of Adult and Returning Students (OARS) is located in the Smith- Pendergraft Campus Center, room 107. The mission of OARS is to encourage lifelong learning and assist students in their personal, educational, and career success. OARS provides a support system for students to meet the challenges of work, school, and family life, including programs for single parents and those who have families serving in the armed forces. Many services addressing adult needs are available to facilitate the transition into the University and to provide support for academic success. Services offered include adult college preview programs, a mentoring program, and adult organizations. CAREER RESOURCES Student Advisement Career www.uafortsmith.edu/Advising (479) 788-7400 Professional academic advisors are available to assist students with goal setting, career exploration, selection of a major, and course requirements. Advisors encourage career exploration by assisting students in the use of the Career Resource Center’s services which include: personal assessments, a resource library, and the career exploration computer program, E- Discover. Advisors are available to work with students by appointment, walk-in visits, and e-mail. Students are encouraged to meet with an advisor prior to their assigned registration date. Except for designated holidays, the hours for Student Advisement and Career Planning are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday. Student Advisement and Career Planning is located on the Upper Level of the Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center. Career Services Office http://jobs.uafortsmith.edu (479) 788 -7017 Career Services offers employment assistance and graduate school information for current students and graduates. Employment services include resume building and interview skills assistance, job listings, job-market information, and job/career fairs. In addition, the Career Services Office serves as a link between UA Fort Smith students and employers in an effort to provide applicable work experience by way of cooperative education and internship opportunities prior to degree completion. The Career Services Office website allows students to access job listings, post resumes, and send resumes to prospective employers. Career Services is located on the Upper Level in the Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center. College Preparatory The College Preparatory program offers a wide array of academic courses and services to assist students in achieving basic levels in mathematics, reading, writing, computer literacy, and study skills appropriate for university work and to complement their academic aspirations and performances. This program assists those students whose education has been interrupted or delayed and those who need additional, basic-skill competencies to qualify for admission to a degree/ certificate program. (LAC) Gordon Kelley Learning Assistance Center UA Fort Smith’s concern for the individual student is reflected in the Gordon Kelley Learning Assistance Center, which provides programs designed to meet individual student needs not met through the general curriculum. Supplemental materials, free group tutoring for many UA Fort Smith courses, core-skills instruction, motivational programs, and learning programs are all provided to encourage student success. Instructors provide the supplemental materials, which consist of old class notes and tests, audiovisual tapes, and computer-aided instruction. Free group tutoring is provided for any UA Fort Smith credit course. Time management, self-discipline, and motivational programs are all provided for the student who wants improved study skills and grades. Learning programs focus on specific strategies to understand, retain, and apply new information, as well as traditional study skills techniques. LAC programs are individually designed to meet student needs and are free to any University student. The LAC is located on the first floor of the Vines Building. The LAC also provides academic support for students who are on academic probation. Individualized guided study and self-assessment instruments are used to develop a formal plan of action to succeed in college. Students taking advantage of this service will learn usable techniques for academic success. LAC Hours: Monday - Thursday: 7:45 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. Friday 7:45 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Saturday 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Sunday 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Vacation and intersession hours may vary and are posted in advance. Foundations of Learning Recognizing the unique challenges facing beginning college students, Foundations of Learning (FOL), a freshman success course, has been designed by UA Fort Smith faculty and staff. FOL (IDS 1202) is an elective two-hour credit course for new and returning students. The course emphasizes the development of college study skills; the development of a sense of community and identification with the campus; and, the improvement of reading, writing, critical-thinking skills, and other academic skills that will aid the student through the college experience and life. These skills are incorporated into the six UA Fort Smith University Learning Outcomes that students gain upon completion of their degree program. Peer Leadership A peer leader program is available for students interested in developing or strengthening their leadership skills. Students selected to serve as peer leaders assist instructors with Foundations of Learning classes and provide direct resource service to freshmen. Peer leaders also enroll in the Leadership Development Seminar (IDS 1401). The seminar provides an advanced opportunity for students to learn about leadership skills. Records Office www.uafortsmith.edu/Records (479) 788-7230 The Records Office provides official student records and transcripts, processes graduation and registration forms, and provides student ID cards. The Records Office is located in the Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center, Upper Level. Students can visit the Records Office or request services via the website. Enrollment Students can print enrollment verifications 24/7 by using LionsLink. Verifications can be used for scholarship, student loans, or insurance purposes. The 31 Records Office has authorized the National Student Clearinghouse to provide this service. Changes in Student It is the responsibility of all students to maintain their correct addresses, telephone number(s), and legal name and to report any changes in information promptly to the Records Office. Failure to do so may result in undeliverable registration notices, financial aid, invoices, invitations, and official correspondence. The University considers information on file with the Records Office to be official. Forms for correcting student information are available from the Records Office and website. Legal documentation of a name change is required. Transcript The Records Office will accept academic transcripts by fax transmission only as a working (unofficial) document for advisement. An official transcript must be received from the sending institution for official evaluation and awarding of credit. The Records Office will process a request from a student for a transcript to be sent from the University only when the request bears the signature of the student and the student ID number. This request may be presented in person, via LionsLink, by fax or by mail. There is no charge for transcripts. ID Cards Photo ID cards are made for staff, faculty and currently enrolled UA Fort Smith students, as well as 60 Plus activity cards. There is no charge to have the first ID card made, but a replacement card will cost $5. The ID card provides admission to University activities – social, cultural, athletic and recreational events. The card also serves as the Boreham Library card, security clearance for e-mail logon, and Fitness Center pass. Students are issued a sticker for the ID card each semester they are enrolled. (ROTC) Reserve Officer Training Corps Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) offers programs on the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville campus for interested UA Fort Smith students. UA Fort Smith students enroll for this program through UA Fort Smith and take the ROTC courses on the Fayetteville campus. Students may take the ROTC program through the U.S. Air Force or the U.S. Army. The ROTC programs prepare men and women for careers as professional military officers. The freshman and sophomore courses may count for elective hours for non-scholarship ROTC students with no military obligation. The advanced courses (junior- and senior- level) are available to students who meet specific requirements and prepare students for responsibilities of a commissioned officer. Scholarships and financial assistance are available for interested, qualified students. For further program information, contact the Air Force ROTC Office (AERO), University of Arkansas, at (479) 575-3651, or the Army ROTC Office (MILS), University of Arkansas, at (479) 575- 4251. Interested students can coordinate the ROTC courses with their programs of study at UA Fort Smith. Students register for the AERO and MILS ROTC courses with UA Fort Smith Student Advisement. TESTING CENTER www.uafortsmith.edu/Future/TestingCenter (479) 788-7682 Located in the Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center, room 205, the Testing Center offers the following services : COMPASS and computer-literacy placement tests, CLEP testing, Challenge Exams, chemistry and Spanish language placement exams, individual make-up tests for UA Fort Smith students and exam-proctoring for students taking classes at other institutions. Advance arrangements must be made with the Testing Center. Please see the “Tuition and Fees” section for associated costs. The Residual ACT is offered once a month. The PRAXIS, TEAS (Nursing), and PSB Health Occupations Aptitude Examination are scheduled at various times during the year. Students may contact the Testing Center or visit the website for further information on these services. Testing Center Hours: Monday-Thursday 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Upward Bound www.uafortsmith.edu/UB (479) 788-7119 Upward Bound challenges students to develop the essential skills, study habits, discipline, and attitudes necessary for success in high school and college. The mission of Upward Bound is to prepare and motivate high school students to pursue and complete a baccalaureate degree. The project serves 50 students in grades 10-12. Participants commit to the program until graduation from high school and participate in both an academic-year component and a summer- academy program. STUDENT PROGRAMS Athletics www.uafortsmith.edu/Athletics (479) 788-7590 UA Fort Smith athletic teams engage in intercollegiate competition in men’s baseball, basketball, golf, and tennis, and women’s basketball, golf, tennis, and volleyball. UA Fort Smith is known nationally for its strong tradition in intercollegiate athletics. The Lions men’s basketball team has won fourteen Bi-State Conference championships, thirteen Region II championships, and two NJCAA national championships. The Lions women’s basketball team has won seven Bi-State East Conference championships, six Region II championships, and one NJCAA championship. The Lions baseball team has over 200 wins in the past five years while competing in one of the toughest conferences in the nation. The Lions volleyball team has won four Region II championships and has been recognized as an Academic All-American team every year from 1999 through 2005. The Lions men’s golf team won the Region II championship and, along with the Lions women’s golf team, qualified for national tournament play in their inaugural year of competition. Also in their first year of competition, the Lions men’s and women’s tennis teams won their respective regional championships and participated in national tournament play. Scholarships are awarded for participation on all intercollegiate teams, and “walk-ons’’ are encouraged to try out for UA Fort Smith teams. Athletic participation rates and financial support data are available from the Athletic Department upon request. University students, faculty, staff, and fans take great pride in their support of UA Fort Smith athletics. University students are admitted free to all athletic events by presenting a current UA Fort Smith student ID card. Campus Activities Board also boasts the Blue Crew which is the student cheering section for Lions athletics. pom Tryouts for the Cheer and Pom Squads are held during the spring semester. Fall tryouts are held only if necessary. The squads cheer at the home basketball, volleyball, and baseball games, plus a limited number of the away games. For eligibility requirements, contact the box office, Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center, room 103. Cub Camp www.uafortsmith.edu/Cubcamp (479) 788-7695 Cub Camp is an off-site experience for first-time, full-time freshmen, designed to prepare students for a realistic view of college life. It also promotes school spirit, loyalty, and pride, as well as developing leadership skills of those students involved in the program. Cub Camp is held prior to the fall semester. GREEK LIFE www.uafortsmith.edu/Life/GreekLife (479) 788-7694 The purpose of Greek Life at the University of Arkansas - Fort Smith is to foster student development through involvement in Greek organizations. A positive environment is promoted, placing equal emphasis on leadership development, philanthropy, education, and social development. Greek Life at UA Fort Smith is another opportunity for students to become involved with the University and unify the mission and goals of the Student Activities Office and the University as a whole. To accomplish this mission, the following goals have been set: • Develop leadership skills • Develop interpersonal skills • Support the academic mission of the institution • Assist students in cultivating life-long friendships • Increase spirit and participation related to campus and community activities • Create a strong relationship between the students of the University and the Fort Smith community through community service and networking • Educate students regarding issues such as alcohol and drug abuse, sex and relationships, interpersonal skills, health related topics, continuing education, employment information, etc. Four Greek-letter organizations are recognized student organizations by UA Fort Smith: Sororities Delta Gamma Gamma Phi Beta Fraternities Kappa Alpha Order Sigma Nu Greek Governing Bodies UA Fort Smith Panhellenic Council: The governing body over the sororities UA Fort Smith Interfraternal Council: The governing body over the fraternities Sports www.uafortsmith.edu/Life/IntramuralSports Intramural sports complement the program of intercollegiate athletics. Students with a 2.00 cumulative GPA who are enrolled in six credit hours are welcome to participate. Sports are offered each semester, and include flag football, ping pong, basketball, ultimate frisbee, bowling, softball, and more. MUSIC The Department of Music offers performance opportunities and music study. Performing ensembles include Chorale, Women’s Chorus, Symphonic Band, Jazz Band, Brass Ensemble, Woodwinds Ensemble, Percussion Ensemble, and UA Fort Smith Vocal Jazz. Organizations www.uafortsmith.edu/Life/StudentOrganizations Student organizations are a vital piece of the entire collegiate experience provided at UA Fort Smith. Organizations provide students with a way to get involved on campus, develop and enhance leadership skills, become active in the community, and learn more about others and their cultures. UA Fort Smith offers more than 50 organizations to its students. There are six categories of organizations: academic, arts and culture, honor society, religious, special interest, and Greek Life. The following is a list of organizations on the UA Fort Smith campus: ACADEMIC American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Amicus Curiae Chancellor’s Leadership Council (CLC) Collegiate Entrepreneurial Organization (CEO) College of Business Society of Students Collegiate Middle Level Association Future Educators Organization (FEO) Math Club Phi Beta Lambda (PBL) Psychology Club Radiography Student Association (RSA) SkillsUSA Student American Dental Hygienists Association (SADHA) Student Nurses Association (SNA) Student Premedical Association (SPMA) Surgical Technology Student Association ARTS and CULTURE Applause Drama Club International Club Kappa Kappa Psi Low Brass Passagio HONORS SOCIETIES Alpha Lambda Delta Alpha Sigma Lambda Kappa Delta Pi International for Education Sigma Delta Mu Sigma Tau Delta RELIGIOUS Baptist Collegiate Ministry (BCM) Campus Crusade for Christ Catholic Campus Ministries (CCM) Chi Alpha Christ on Campus 33 Latter Day Saints Student Association Lions for Christ The Bridge GREEK LIFE Sororities Delta Gamma Gamma Phi Beta Fraternities Kappa Alpha Order Sigma Nu SPECIAL INTEREST Campus Activities Board (CAB) Campus Girl Scouts College Democrats College Republicans Cub Camp First Generation Freshmen Assisting Students Together (FAST) Gay Straight Alliance Lion Guard Lion Rifles Organization for Adult and Returning Students (OARS) Ozark Mountain Adventure Club Students Together Effectively Progressing (STEP) University Student Ambassadors STUDENT SENATE Student Senate serves as the elected representative body of the students at UA Fort Smith. The Senate provides a forum to openly discuss student affairs, advise the administration, and recommend services to improve the quality of campus life. Membership includes a representative from each recognized student organization, the various colleges and two representatives from each class (freshman, sophomore, etc.). The President and officers of the Senate are elected in April by a vote of the student body, as are the class and college representatives. Season Entertainment The Season is composed of events including concerts by the Jazz Band, Symphonic Band, and Chorale, as well as national touring productions. Students who are enrolled in six or more hours are eligible for either one free or reduced-price ticket per show; those enrolled in fewer than six hours, receive a discount on touring shows. The Box Office is located on the Lower Level, Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center. Student Activities www.uafortsmith.edu/Life/Index (479) 788-7699 Where Students Become Leaders. Student Activities serves students of UA Fort Smith to complement the programs of study and to create and foster leadership development within the context of student-led organizations, programs, and events. The purpose of Student Activities is to enhance the out- of-class learning experiences by creating an enjoyable campus life through activities and events. The Student Activities office is located in the Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center, room 115. Student Center The Student Center/Student Activities Office provides guidance and assistance to all students and is located in room 115 of the Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center. Staff and members of Freshman Assisting Students Together (FAST), a student organization, are available to assist freshmen in beginning their college careers, as well as assisting any student in need. The Student Center/Student Activities Office plays an important part in UA Fort Smith’s commitment to student success. Information on fulfilling the University scholarship service activities and service learning projects is available in the Student Center/ Student Activities Office. CAMPUS SERVICES Boreham Library www.uafortsmith.edu/library (479) 788-7200 toll free 800-935-9341 The Boreham Library is a 21st-century library in terms of its facilities, services, and resources. It has a long tradition of providing excellent service to the University and of being at the forefront of new technologies and resources. The library offers specialized services such as reference by e-mail, a copy center, a media room, and desktop productivity software including word-processing and graphics applications. It is a gathering place for students during 34 the school year, offering a convenient place to study and to work on group or individual projects. The Boreham Library contains extensive electronic resources available to students both in-house and from remote locations. The library maintains database licenses for over seventy electronic databases such as Lexis Nexis, BioOne, and the World Catalog. Databases cover many subject areas and provide full- text for over 17,000 journals. Additional electronic resources include a collection of over 20,000 electronic books. Students can do research on databases, search the Internet, or access the library’s online catalog from the 44 library workstations and four laptop computers. The library also maintains other traditional collections. There are over 85,000 book volumes, 360 current periodical subscriptions, eight newspaper subscriptions, over 3,000 audiovisual titles, and over 84,510 microforms. Special collections include the Pebley Center for Arkansas Historical and Cultural Materials and the Foundation Center Grants Collection. Books, articles, documents, and other items not available locally may be requested through the OCLC interlibrary loan system. Document delivery is provided by mail, fax, and Internet. As a convenient feature for students, the library’s electronic reserves module allows off-campus access to articles, class notes, homework solutions, and similar materials. One of the library’s goals is to educate users, especially students, by helping them acquire lifelong learning skills, the information literacy that will enable them to find, use, and evaluate information in all formats. The Boreham Library offers a variety of instructional programs and services designed to improve library skills for the University community. In addition to instruction on campus, the library also provides a link from its website to TILT, an online library skills program. The library building is open 77 hours per week when classes are in session, and many online library resources are available on a 24-hour basis. Library Hours Monday - Thursday 7:00 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. Friday 7:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Saturday 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Sunday 2:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Vacation and intersession hours may vary and are posted in advance. With a current UA Fort Smith ID, any University employee or student may check out materials from the Boreham Library, the Fort Smith Public Library, or the Scott-Sebastian Regional Library. A current ID also entitles the holder to apply for an ArkLink Statewide Library Card. This card permits reciprocal borrowing privileges at any other ArkLink-participating library. Lions’ Campus Store Located in the Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center, the Lions’ Campus Store stocks the required textbooks for all classes offered on the UA Fort Smith campus, as well as a variety of supplies, University souvenirs, clothing, snacks, and miscellaneous items. The Lions’ Campus Store is in operation the following hours: Fall and Spring Semesters Monday - Thursday 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Friday 7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Saturday/Sunday Closed Summer Terms Monday - Friday 7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Book buy-back is conducted the last two days of the fall and spring semesters. Students are entitled to a full refund for textbooks purchased through the second week of the fall and spring semesters and through the first week of each summer term. This refund is contingent upon the condition of the textbook being returned. Textbooks and other resources are also available at off-campus locations. Dental Hygiene Clinic The UA Fort Smith dental hygiene program operates a clinic in which the students treat patients under the supervision of dental hygiene faculty. The clinic is on the first floor of the Pendergraft Health Sciences Center. Preventive services offered to UA Fort Smith students, faculty, staff, and the general public include: • medical/dental history and vital signs • oral hygiene education • radiographs (x-rays) • blood pressure screening • prophylaxis (dental cleaning) • oral examination • dental examination • fluoride treatment • periodontal assessment 35 • dental sealants • nutritional counseling All procedures performed by the students are under the supervision of dentist/hygienist faculty, and they usually require more than one visit to be completed. To schedule an appointment, please call the College of Health Sciences at (479) 788-7270. The Counseling Clinic of UA Fort Smith supports the mission of the University by enabling students to maximize their educational experience through counseling and psychotherapy. The clinic is open from 10 a.m. until 6:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Friday and is located on the third floor of the Pendergraft Health Sciences Center. Appointments may be made by dropping in or calling (479) 788-7398. Walk-in appointments will be accommodated as soon as possible. POWELL STUDENT health Clinic The Powell Student Health Clinic provides high quality non-emergency health care services to UA Fort Smith students to assist with improving their health and safety so they may benefit from the educational process and achieve their full potential. The Powell Student Health Clinic is located on the second floor of the Pendergraft Health Sciences Center. The clinic is open from 8 a.m. until 12 noon Monday and Friday and 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday. Appointments may be made by calling (479) 788-7444. Types of services provided include: • Non-emergency primary care professional services for the diagnosis and treatment of common diseases and acute illness with medications provided to treat non-emergent care cases • Prescriptions phoned in to student’s pharmacy • Wellness exams • Wound care • Chronic disease evaluation, monitoring, and care management • Treatment of minor injuries • Wellness programs • Administration of flu shots Health Chronic Communicable Diseases UA Fort Smith places a high priority on the need to prevent the spread of chronic communicable diseases on campus. Because there is currently no cure or vaccine for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) or many types of hepatitis, prevention of transmission is essential. Approximately one to two percent of middle-class Arkansans under the age of 20 will test positive for tuberculosis (TB), a disease of the lungs. The transmission risks of chronic communicable diseases such as AIDS, hepatitis, and tuberculosis can be greatly reduced by providing a program of education on prevention to students and employees. Equally important is to establish a policy regarding victims of chronic communicable diseases which safeguards individual rights while protecting others on campus from needless, careless exposure. Consequently, the following guidelines are hereby instituted: 1. Individual Responsibility A student who has a chronic communicable disease or who is a carrier of a chronic communicable disease may attend the University and participate in programs and activities whenever, through reasonable accommodation, there is no significant risk of transmission of the disease to others. A student who has a chronic communicable disease or who is a carrier of a chronic communicable disease may be denied admission to, or may be dismissed from, a particular program or course of study whenever such chronic communicable disease presents significant risks of transmission having a direct effect on the student’s ability to perform effectively, thereby rendering the student not qualified for the program or course of study. No other person who has a chronic communicable disease, or who is a carrier of a chronic communicable disease, shall be denied the use of the University facilities or service whenever, through reasonable accommodation, there is no significant risk of transmission of the disease to others. Willful or careless exposure of other persons by an individual who has or is a carrier of a chronic communicable disease is a reckless, inconsiderate, negligent act which endangers everyone. If it is determined that a person has or is a carrier of a chronic communicable disease and that person has not taken adequate precautions to prevent 36 transmission of the disease to others, then that person will be subject to dismissal from the University. 2. Reporting Procedures Students shall notify the dean of students if they have, or are carriers of, chronic communicable diseases. Such notification allows the University to evaluate each individual case and take the necessary precautions to minimize the risks of transmission to others. Students suspecting they are suffering from TB or other chronic communicable diseases must contact their doctor immediately. Local county health departments will be informed of all confirmed TB cases. Additionally, students are required to notify the dean of students if TB is confirmed. The response to reported TB cases on campus will be fully coordinated with the Sebastian County Health Department. Students and faculty who shared classroom or office space with the individual will be notified. Confidentiality of the student will be protected. International students, as a part of the application for admission process, are required to obtain a medical doctor’s certification that no symptoms of the disease are present. Following enrollment and in accordance with ACT 96 of 1913, international students are required to do additional testing to confirm the lack of TB symptoms. A confidential appointment with the dean of students may be arranged by calling (479) 788-7310. Student ADA Services www.uafortsmith.edu/ADA (479) 788-7660 UA Fort Smith seeks to make every effort to offer equal educational opportunities for all students. To ensure a total university experience for students with disabilities, UA Fort Smith provides reasonable accommodations and services to students who are physically and/or learning disabled. The underlying philosophy of the program is to provide support, where possible, that will maximize each student’s opportunities for academic success. Working in partnership with the student, the Student ADA Services coordinator will develop an individualized plan for services which may include academic advisement and accommodations in testing and instruction. A student with disabilities may present validation of the disability and request services by contacting the Student ADA Services coordinator at (479) 788-7577. Registration with Student ADA Services is a separate process from the application for admission to the University. In order to be considered for accommodations, a student must first submit verification of the condition based on Student ADA Services’ guidelines and meet with the Student ADA Services coordinator to discuss accommodation requests. UA Fort Smith is committed to a policy of ensuring that no otherwise qualified individual with a disability is excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or subjected to discrimination in University programs or activities due to his or her disability. The University is fully committed to complying with all requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504) and to providing equal educational opportunities to otherwise qualified students with disabilities. Any student who believes he or she has been subjected to discrimination on the basis of disability, or has been denied access or accommodations required by law, shall have the right to file a grievance. To obtain a copy of a Services for Students with Disabilities brochure, which includes application information and the grievance procedure, contact the Student ADA Services Office at (479) 788- 7794, or the Office of the Dean for College Preparatory at (479) 788-7660 or visit our website for a printout. Food Court/Dining Services The Food Court is located on the Lower Level of the Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center. Food Court Hours Monday - Thursday 7:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Friday 7:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Health Education/Fitness Center The UA Fort Smith Health Education/Fitness Center is located in the Gymnasium. The fitness center houses state-of-the-art Nautilus Nitro selectorized equipment, circuit training, a full line of Nautilus cardio equipment, and a free-weight area, housing a Smith machine, power rack, and a variety of benches and dumbbells. All UA Fort Smith students are admitted to the fitness center by presenting a current UA Fort Smith student ID card. 37 Parking/traffic Students may park in any of the University’s unrestricted parking spaces. The restricted spaces are designated and enforced. Parking and traffic violations such as speeding, careless or prohibited driving, operating a vehicle producing excessive noise, or failure to report an accident occurring on campus carry a fine that must be paid to the cashier in the Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center within five days of issuance. In lieu of University sanctions, municipal citations may be issued for serious/repeat violations. Additional student parking spaces are available at the Church of Christ parking lot off Waldron Road. Students are only authorized to park south of the white line in the church lot. Students may not park in the church parking lot on Wednesday nights. Handicapped All students, faculty, and staff who use handicapped parking on campus are asked to obtain a UA Fort Smith handicapped parking permit. Permits are available at no charge from the office of the dean of students, Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center, room 111. Hours of operation are 8 a.m. through 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Physically challenged persons may obtain the required UA Fort Smith permit by bringing their Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration- issued “Disabled Persons Access to Parking Application” to the above referenced location. This document is provided by the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration at the time of issuance of the special license plate or placard for a disabled person. Oklahoma residents should bring a letter from a physician declaring the disability. UA Fort Smith permits must be displayed by ALL students, faculty, and staff parking in a disabled space on campus. Temporary permits are available for one to 30 days for those with short-term physical limitations. Please remember to bring the following items: 1. Disabled Person’s Access to Parking Application (issued at Revenue Office); Oklahoma residents bring a letter from their physician. 2. Driver’s license 3. UA Fort Smith ID card 4. License plate number on car 5. Hanging handicapped placard Sebastian Commons Apartments An exclusive community for UA Fort Smith students, Sebastian Commons Apartments offers one-, two-, and four-bedroom floor plans with affordable rates and all utilities paid including wireless internet access and expanded basic cable TV services. Apartments are fully furnished and provide private bedrooms with study desks and locking doors; full kitchens with refrigerator, oven/range, and dishwasher. Conveniently located adjacent to campus, Sebastian Commons is a gated community with unit intrusion alarms. From move-in days, luaus, self-defense classes, pumpkin-carving nights, and more, there is always something for residents to enjoy. Join friends in the Sebastian Commons study room for a study group, or meet with friends in the fitness center. Living in Sebastian Commons is a unique experience. Contact the leasing center at (479) 783-7577 for additional information. university police UA Fort Smith strives to provide a safe and secure environment for its students, faculty, staff, and guests. Every member of the campus community has a role in campus safety. Students, faculty, staff members, and visitors are encouraged to be vigilant and report crimes, suspicious activity, and emergencies to the University Police Department at (479) 788-7140. If the fire department or EMS are needed, first call 9-1-1, then notify University police. Responding campus police officer(s) will determine whether additional agencies are needed or may be cancelled. The University Police Department consists of a force of certified police officers, providing 24-hour coverage. Emergency phones are in each of the four gazebos on the Campus Green. An important component of on-campus safety and security is student behavior. Students are expected to comply with the standards of conduct published in the Student Handbook, distributed and available through the Student Activities Office. alert To promote campus safety and effective communication, UA Fort Smith offers students LionsAlert. LionsAlert is a voluntary text messaging and e-mail subscription service that allows students 38 to sign up to receive timely electronic message announcements of campus closings because of inclement weather and notifications of campus emergencies. LionsAlert messages can be received on any device that has an e-mail address including desktop and laptop computers, cellular phones, pagers, and personal digital assistants (PDAs). Additionally, LionsAlert provides text-to-voice messaging capability to one registered phone number to accommodate visually impaired students and those without a text capable cellular phone. The signup interface for LionsAlert may be accessed via the UA Fort Smith home page, www.uafortsmith.edu. STUDENT CONDUCT Family Educational Rights Act (FERPA) Notification Students’ Rights The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect to their education records. They are: (1) The right to inspect and review the student’s college education records as soon as possible, but not later than 45 days from the day the University receives a request for access. Students should submit to the registrar written requests that identify the record(s) they wish to inspect. The registrar will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. If the records are not maintained by the registrar, the registrar shall advise the student of the correct official to whom the request should be addressed. (2) The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes are inaccurate or misleading. Students may ask the University to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the University official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the University decides not to amend the record as requested by the student, the student will be notified of the decision and advised of his or her right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing. (3) The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception which permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. (4) The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by UA Fort Smith to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is the: Family Policy Compliance Office U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20202-4605 (5) Directory Information as defined by the U.S. Department of Education means information contained in an educational record of a student that would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed. Students may request UA Fort Smith not release directory information by completing the proper form and submitting it to the Records Office, Upper Level, Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center. Directory Information at UA Fort Smith includes name, address, major field of study, degrees and awards received, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, telephone listing, electronic mail address, photograph, date and place of birth, dates of attendance, grade level, enrollment status (i.e., undergraduate or graduate; full- or part-time), honors received and most recent educational agency or institution attended. It is important to note that the institution, at its sole discretion, designates what is considered “directory information,” as well as what is released in each circumstance. 39 Additionally, educational records and personal information may be released in the following circumstances: • Judicial subpoena of records, upon condition that the University makes a reasonable effort to notify the student in advance of the release of records. • Emergency situations, if knowledge of personal information is necessary to protect the health and safety of a student or other person(s). UA Fort Smith is required to comply with military requests for student information, in accordance with the Solomon Amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act, 1995/1996, and the Omnibus Consolidated Appropriations Act, 1997. Intoxicants/Drug Abuse UA Fort Smith recognizes its responsibility to provide a healthy environment within which students may learn and prepare themselves to be fully functioning and productive individuals. The abuse of alcohol and other drugs is considered to be detrimental to the attainment of the educational mission of this institution. UA Fort Smith has implemented the following policy regarding substance abuse: 1. Any student found in violation of these procedures shall be subject to immediate disciplinary action which may include dismissal from UA Fort Smith. 2. The dean of students shall make available to students information about the dangers of drug abuse, the availability of counseling, and the penalties for violations. Such information will be promulgated in the student handbook, visual displays, drug-awareness sessions, etc. 3. Students who have no record of conviction for drug abuse and who voluntarily seek counseling for drug-abuse problems may not be dismissed from the University. However, if a drug-abuse conviction occurs after counseling/rehabilitation has begun, the student is liable for the full range of University disciplinary measures. 4. The dean of students shall be responsible for the implementation of these procedures. All violations will be reported to the vice chancellor for student and campus life. 5. Specific degree programs may have additional policies related to prevention and management of substance abuse. Students enrolled in these degree programs are responsible for adhering to College- specific policies as well as University policies. Standards Conduct Students The administration of UA Fort Smith has the authority to establish operating policies which will facilitate the operation of the University and which are in the best interests of the students, staff, and the University. By the act of registering to attend UA Fort Smith, each student agrees to obey all rules and regulations formulated by the University and to obey all federal, state, and local laws. Each student is responsible for reading the standards of conduct and becoming familiar with the policies, regulations, and procedures. The conduct of the individual student is an important indication of character and future usefulness in life. It is therefore important that each student maintain the highest standards of integrity, honesty, and morality. All students are expected to conform to ordinary and accepted social customs and to conduct themselves at all times and in all places in a manner befitting a student of UA Fort Smith. Conduct unbefitting a student which reflects adversely upon him or the institution will result in disciplinary action. Students must not commit acts which are defined as criminal by state, federal, or local laws. An adjudication of guilt by a criminal court is not necessary for the application of discipline by the University if it is determined by the University that the student engaged in the prohibited conduct. If a student’s conduct fails to meet these standards, if it jeopardizes the safety or rights of others, or if it reflects adversely on the reputation of the University or any of its programs, the student can expect to be reprimanded, have restrictions imposed, or be denied the privilege to continue as a student. Disciplinary due process procedures are outlined below and are also published in the Student Handbook. Due Disciplinary Actions To guarantee that the rights of UA Fort Smith students will be protected, the following process will be used for nonacademic disciplinary issues. For academic issues, refer to the Academic Honesty section of this catalog. Consult the individual college or program for additional policies or procedures that may apply. Sanctions for violations of residential housing contracts or the resident manual will be issued by the property manager. Additional sanctions may be administered by the dean of students. Students may appeal residential housing sanctions to the dean of students. If the student remains unsatisfied the appeal goes forward using the procedures described below Violations of the Standards of Conduct, not concerning academic honesty or specific program policies, will be referred to the dean of students for disciplinary action or appeal in the case of residential housing sanctions. If the disciplined student feels the action taken is too severe or unjustified, he may appeal the action within three days of notification to a five-member disciplinary appeals committee. This committee will be appointed by the vice chancellor for student and campus life and will be comprised of three faculty members, selected from five names nominated by the Provost, and two students selected by the vice chancellor. The Committee will be provided the complete record of the investigation and any other materials deemed relevant by the dean of students. The student is allowed to submit any written or other documentary evidence in support of the appeal. The committee will hold an initial meeting to choose a chairman, establish the process and timeline by which it will evaluate the appeal, and determine if additional documentation is needed to properly hear the appeal. The committee shall be convened within 14 business days from receipt of the appeal. They will review the investigative report and all documentation provided by the dean of students. The documentation may come from property management staff, University Police Department, dean of students, or other entity in order to provide a clear rationale in support of the sanctions imposed. The student may be offered the opportunity to answer questions from the committee. Other witnesses, as deemed necessary by the committee, may be called to assist the committee in its deliberations. However, the student is not entitled to present other witness testimony unless deemed necessary by the committee. The committee shall submit its recommendations no later than 21 business days from receipt of the appeal. The committee will recommend to the vice chancellor for student and campus life to uphold, reduce, or increase the sanctions imposed based upon the facts presented to the committee in the investigative reports, testimony and other documentation. Both the student and the dean of students have the right to appeal the committee’s recommendation to the vice chancellor for student and campus life. The vice chancellor may uphold, reduce, or reverse the decision of the dean of students and the recommendation of the disciplinary appeals committee. Tobacco-Free Campus The use of any tobacco product is prohibited on the grounds of UA Fort Smith in order to establish a healthier and more beautiful learning environment. The tobacco-free environment includes all University property, which according to State Statute 25-17-301, “...shall include all highways, streets, alleys and rights-of-way that are contiguous or adjacent to property owned or controlled by the institution.” Policy Faculty, Staff, Students, Visitors Everyone on campus (faculty, staff, students, and visitors) has a responsibility to encourage peers and others to adhere to the tobacco-free campus policy. As such, an environment of positive peer support can move the campus community significantly toward the goal. When peer or supervisor encouragement is not effective, the primary responsibility for enforcement rests with the appropriate supervisors in each area with the assistance of the University Police Department. Failure to adhere to policy will be handled as would any other disciplinary issue. Employees should refer to the Employee Handbook. Visitors will be informed of the policy and asked to comply. Student compliance will be addressed by the three-level process listed below. The intent of the progressive corrective action models in the Employee Handbook and listed below are to create a better learning environment for everyone on campus. Corrective Actions (Students) First Level: Warning A verbal warning will be given to the offending tobacco user by anyone observing the behavior. The first-level warning is done to ensure that the person is aware that tobacco use on campus is not allowed and to help the person change the behavior. An attempt to identify the offender will be made by ascertaining the person’s name or vehicle license plate number. Verbal warnings will be documented by reporting the same to the University Police Department or the dean of students. Second Level: Written Warning A written warning will be issued when the offending behavior continues following a verbal warning. The offending person’s name and the circumstances should be reported to the University Police Department, the dean of students, or the dean’s office in that area/ building. A report will be prepared by the University Police Department, and the person(s) involved will be counseled by the dean of students with a written warning to the student/file to document the behavior and assist the person in ceasing the use of tobacco on campus. Third Level: Administrative Sanctions including Suspension from the University Should the second-level written warning be ineffective, additional administrative sanctions will be levied to include required attendance at a tobacco-use information session or suspension from the University for a semester or longer. The sanctions imposed must be delivered in writing. Due Process – Appeal of Action The normal disciplinary action due process procedures in the Student Handbook and Course Catalog will be used should an appeal be filed.