Minnesota State University, Mankato encourages scholarship and is committed to the acquisition of knowledge. A student's first responsibility is to study. To allow individuals to pursue successfully their educational, professional, and personal objectives, the University identifies responsibilities expected of students as members of their learning community. The "Statement of Student Responsibilities" was established by students, faculty, and staff to clarify behavioral expectations of students as a condition of membership. The "Statement of Student Responsibilities" promotes a sense of community where maturity, personal accountability, and positive regard for the well-being of others frame choices and decision-making.
The student conduct system promotes and enforces the "Statement of Student Responsibilities" following a philosophy of educational discipline. Through involvement in the adjudication process, students have an opportunity to learn new ways of resolving difficulties and relating to others while strengthening their comprehension of rules and regulations necessary to maintain a safe environment conducive to learning and growth.
Students are dual members of the University community and society. Good citizenship is expected of all students regardless of location. Students who engage in alleged violations of the "Statement of Student Responsibilities" may also face civil or criminal penalties. This Statement is not intended to replace federal, state, or local legal processes. An action involving the student in a legal proceeding does not free the student of responsibility to participate in a University proceeding. The University will decide whether to adjudicate before, after or simultaneously with a legal proceeding.
All students have a responsibility to maintain the academic integrity of the university and each student must at all times keep in mind that his or her behavior reflects not only upon him/herself, but upon other students, upon the faculty and upon the university as a whole. Each and every student is responsible for becoming familiar with and abiding by the University policy on plagiarism and academic honesty as well as the guidelines and policies established by their instructors and programs of study.
Examples of violations include but are not limited to: plagiarism (such as using another's phrasing, concepts or line of reasoning as your own); submitting course assignments that are not your own; submitting the same paper in different classes without prior approval from both instructors; cheating on assignments, laboratory reports or examinations; acquiring or using test materials without faculty knowledge; failure to follow class policy; obtaining academic benefits through inappropriate application of technology; computer fraud or unauthorized access; engaging in academic fraud alone or with others; downloading material off the Internet without proper citation; illicit attempts to influence grading; failing to abide by test-taking procedures; signing the class attendance roster for an absent student.
Minnesota State Mankato exists to promote learning, and as such, students must behave in such a way so as to allow the process of learning to take place by group or individual.
Examples of violations include but are not limited to: harassment of a faculty member; disrupting teaching or learning; excessive noise that disrupts classes, studying or University activities; other activities that seriously disrupt the educational process; intentionally altering, inhibiting, or stealing another person's research.
Those records are the property of the University and must be treated as such.
Examples of violations include but are not limited to: acting alone or with others to misrepresent academic status, performance, awards or graduation material; omitting materials from or manipulating records; falsifying, altering, stealing, or destroying University documents; altering, forging, or misusing University academic records; obtaining grades, course access, awards or endorsements dishonestly; computer fraud.
When students accept admission to Minnesota State Mankato, they accept the responsibilities that go along with membership in the University community. The University complies with federal, state, and local laws, and expects students to act in accordance with the law. The University holds students to high standards of conduct and ethical behavior which may exceed legal obligations.
Examples of violations include but are not limited to: sexual violence; unauthorized or illegal consumption or possession of alcohol; public drunkenness; possession, sale, or distribution of illegal material or substances; violation of University or departmental policies; violation of law; defenestration (throwing items out of a window); violation of University email or computer usage policy; possession of false identification; engaging in riotous behavior or encouraging others to do so; illegal gambling; inappropriate use of electronic devices, e.g. cell phones.
Living in community requires that students respect another's personal space. Students have the right to pursue their academic and personal goals free from the threat of injury, threats or unwanted contact. Self-injurious behavior has the potential to adversely disrupt the academic and personal success of both the student involved and other Minnesota State Mankato students. Physical safety is a prerequisite for maintaining an educational environment. Violations of these expectations need to be addressed in order to maintain the boundaries of all students.
Examples of violations include but are not limited to: sexual violence; indecent exposure; stalking (persistent unwelcome contact or observation); threatening with a weapon or simulated weapon; fighting; physical violence; unsolicited, nonconsensual sexual or physical contact with another person; endangering the health or safety of self or others; reckless actions taken with disregard for the harm that may ensue to self or others; participation in a disturbance which may endanger self or others.
As member of the Minnesota State Mankato community, all students owe to their fellow students, as well as to the faculty, staff and other members of the community, a basic level of respect; and students have a right to be treated with respect as well. Minnesota State University respects and protects the right of students, faculty, staff and visitors to engage in argument, to advance their opinions and beliefs without fear of reprisal or punishment, and to disagree with one another provided that the exercise of those rights takes place within a context of civility and respect for others.
Examples of violations include but are not limited to: disruptive noise; terroristic threats; sexual harassment; verbal or written intimidation; severe or persistent harassment through verbal, written, or graphic expression; hazing, (defined as mandating undesirable activities, a pattern of banter/ridicule/criticism and/or the use of humiliation, as a form of initiation); calumny (making false statements with the intent to harm another); actions that substantially interfere with another person's right to learn and participate.
As a member of the Minnesota State Mankato community, all students will recognize, value, and appropriately regard personal and University property.
Examples of violations include but are not limited to: identity theft; vandalism; theft; actual or threatened damage to property; acting fraudulently to obtain goods, services, or funds from University departments, student organizations, or individuals; misuse and/or wrongful use of University facilities, equipment, or services; failure to return University equipment; wrongful sale or use of another's property; knowingly possessing or using stolen property; littering; public urination; trespassing; unauthorized possession, distribution or duplication of a University key(s); providing a key or ID to another person without proper authorization; providing another person with unauthorized access to a secured area; intentional harm to computer equipment and programs.
The University is a community and requires the active participation of all members in keeping the community peaceable and safe. Students are encouraged to respect and be proactive about their own safety and the safety of others.
Examples of violations include but are not limited to: possession of weapons, incendiary devices or explosives; possession of articles or substances that are used as weapons or simulated weapons; misuse of University keys; willful failure to identify or false identification of oneself or one's guest(s); failure to assume responsibility for the actions of one's guest(s); misuse or damage of fire fighting, safety, or other emergency equipment; failure to comply with appropriate requests from Security or other University staff members; intoxication that disrupts other individuals or the University's activities; self-injurious substance abuse; or interference with law enforcement or University staff performing their duties.
Successful operation of the University requires adherence to policies and procedures by its members. It is the responsibility of all University students, staff, and guests to cooperate at all times with the University in order to maintain a safe environment.
Examples of violations include but are not limited to: retaliation towards an individual for involvement in a University activity; disruption of activities of the University; harassment of University staff (including student staff); submission of a false or purposely incomplete statement/report; misuse, alteration, or transference to another person of the MavCard; failure to appear in response to a proper summons when requested to do so by a University official; disruption of disciplinary activities; dishonesty as part of a University hearing; misuse of one's position within the University; failure to comply with sanctions from a disciplinary hearing; failure to comply with restriction from areas on campus; demanding inordinate amounts of attention from faculty or staff.
For additional information regarding the "Statement of Student Responsibilities," including procedures used, contact the Minnesota State University, Mankato Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs, 228 Wigley Administration Center, Mankato, Minnesota 56001, 507-389-2121 or 507-389-2246 (fax). Information can also be found on the Student Rights and responsibilities Web site at www.mnsu.edu/conduct. .
In addition to the basic constitutional rights enjoyed by all citizens, students in colleges and universities have specific rights related to academic freedom and their status as students. Freedom to teach and freedom to learn are inseparable facets of academic freedom. The freedom to learn depends upon appropriate opportunities and conditions in the classroom, on the campus, and in the larger community. Students are expected to exercise their freedom with responsibility.
Individual student and student organizations shall be free to examine and to discuss all questions of interest to them and to express opinions publicly and privately. They shall be free to support causes by orderly means that do not disrupt the regular and essential operation of the institution. Students shall be free to take reasoned exception to the data or views offered in any course of study and to reserve judgment about matters of opinion, but they are responsible for learning the content of any course of study for which they are enrolled.
Students shall be free to organize and join organizations to promote their common and lawful interests, subject to institutional policies or regulations. Registration or recognition may be withheld or withdrawn from organizations that violate institutional regulations.
Students shall have the right to assemble, to select speakers, and to discuss issues of their choice. The college or University shall establish reasonable time, place and manner restrictions to assure that the assembly does not substantially disrupt the work of the institution or does not interfere with the opportunity of other students to obtain an education or otherwise infringe upon the rights of others. Such regulations shall not be used as a means of censorship. The president or designee may prohibit any forum when there is a likelihood of harm to individuals or damage to property if the event is held. Prior to any such prohibition, the president shall make his or her best effort to consult with the student association.
Student-funded publications shall be free of censorship and advance approval of copy, and their editors and managers shall be free to develop their own editorial and news coverage policies. Editors and managers of student publications shall be protected from arbitrary suspension and removal because of student, faculty, administrative, or public disapproval of editorial policy or content. The student fee allocation process shall not be used as a means of editorial control of student-funded publication. All student publications shall explicitly state on the editorial page that the opinions there expressed are not necessarily those of the college, university, system, or student body.
The Policies of the college or university regarding student expectations, rights and responsibilities shall be readily accessible to students.
To the extent possible, students will be provided relevant and accurate information regarding courses prior to enrollment. Catalog descriptions and website postings will be accurate and based on information existing at the time of publication. To the extent possible, class schedules will list the names of faculty teaching courses.
Students shall have access to accurate information for establishing and maintaining acceptable academic standing, information which will enable students to determine their individual academic standing, and information regarding graduation requirements.
Student academic performance shall be evaluated solely on the basis of academic standards, including any requirements that are noted in the catalog, course syllabus, or student handbook. Students shall have protection against prejudice or capricious evaluation and shall not be evaluated on the basis of opinions or conduct in matters unrelated to academic standards. Students shall have the right to review their corrected examinations or other required assignments used by the faculty in evaluating the student's academic performance.
Term papers, essays, projects, works of art, and similar property, including property in which the student has intellectual property rights pursuant to Board Policy 3.26, shall be returned to a student upon request, within a reasonable time frame, when no longer needed for evaluation purposes, unless the student grants written permission for them to be retained.
Students shall have the right to appropriate levels of participation in college and university decision-making pursuant to Policy 2.3 and Procedure 2.3.1, Student Involvement in Decision-Making.
In order for an academic community to teach and support appropriate educational values, an environment of trust, cooperation, and personal responsibility must be maintained. As members of this University community, students assume the responsibility to fulfill their academic obligations in a fair and honest manner. This responsibility includes avoiding such inappropriate activities as plagiarism, cheating or collusion. Students found responsible for one or more of these activities may face both academic sanctions (such as lowering a grade, failing of a course, etc.) and disciplinary sanctions (such as probation, suspension, expulsion).
It is the intent of Minnesota State University, Mankato to encourage a sense of integrity on the part of students in fulfilling their academic requirements. To give students a better understanding of behaviors that may constitute academic dishonesty, the following definitions are provided:
Submission of an academic assignment as one's own work, which includes critical ideas or written narrative that are taken from another author without the proper citation. This does not apply only to direct quotes, but also to critical ideas that are paraphrased by the student. The following examples are all acts of plagiarism:
Use of unauthorized material or assistance to help fulfill academic assignments. This material could include unauthorized copies of test materials, calculators, crib sheets, help from another student, etc.
Assistance to another student or among students in committing the act of cheating or plagiarism.
A qualified individual with a disability must be ensured the same access to programs, opportunities, and activities at the University as all others.
All programs, services, and activities of the University when viewed in their entirety, will be accessible to and usable by qualified students with disabilities. All classes, meetings, programs , or other events will be held in facilities that are accessible. Announcements of meetings or other events will contain a statement indicating the availability of accommodation of disabilities upon request.
Requests for accommodation must be initiated by the student and supported by documentation of the disability indicating a current need for accommodation. Reasonable accommodations may include the following: alterations to rules, policies, or practices, removal of architectural or communication barriers, or the provision of auxiliary aids.
Minnesota State University Mankato has the right to refuse to provide an accommodiation that poses a direct threat to the health and safety of others, constitutes a substantial change or alteration to an essential element of a course or program, results in undue financial or administrative hardship, or is considered a personal device or service (i.e. wheelchairs, hearing aids, personal transportation).
All students with a disability may request accommodation through the Office of Disability Services.
This grievance process shall apply to situations where a student has followed the established procedures to request accommodations on the basis of disability and the request has been denied or otherwise not provided.
All disability-related documentation will be centralized in a confidential file in the Office of Disability Services and is only shared with others with the expressed written permission of the student. Departments, faculty, and staff may not access diagnostic or other information regarding a student's disability and may not keep copies of such documentation. Information concerning a student's disability should be disclosed only to those with a legitimate "needs to know". Sharing of information with other faculty and staff needs to be balanced with the student's interest while maintaing their privacy. Disability documentation and / or record of accommodation provision do not become part of the students' permanent record. Confidentiality is not maintained in the case of child abuse, suicidal or homicidal intent.
A confidential file is maintained on each student that includes demographics, documentation of the disability, a record of each contact and action taken. An electronic database is utilized for caseload management purposes with limited access. Student records will be shredded seven years aft the last contact, but the Center will maintain a record of each student and their dates of affiliation with the Center.
Minnesota State University, Mankato, is committed to achieving equal educational opportunity and full participation for qualified persons with disabilities. Achieving full participation and intergration of people with disabilitis requires all cooperative efforts of all the departments, offices, and personnel. Assurance of equal educational opportunity rests upon legal foundations established by federal law, specifically the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 including Section 504, and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.
By federal law, a person with a disability is any person who: 1) has a physical or mental impairment; 2) has a record of such impairment; or 3) is regarded as having such an impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activities such as selfcare, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, or learning.
A qualified individual is a person who, with or without reasonable modifications to rules, policies, or practices, the removal of architectural, communication, or transportation barriers, or the provision of auxiliary aids and services, meets the essential eligibility requirements for receipt of services or participation in a university program or activity. Essential eligibility requirements include, but are not limited to, academic and technical standards requisite to admission or participation in an education program or activity. (MnSCU Board POlicy 1B.4, Subpart C)
(Under revision at time of publication.)
For more current versions see: http:mnsu.edu/acadaf/policies/AlcoholandOtherDrugs_2008.pdf
These policies apply to academic and administrative buildings only. Policies for residence halls and the Student Union are available in Residential Life and Student Union offices.
Faculty and staff members are important to the security of individuals working after hours in University buildings and in the protection of the equipment and materials housed within University buildings. The following policies are established to provide maximum security and protection for all concerned while providing convenient access to the buildings:
Passes are available from the department office. Common mistakes that may invalidate a building pass are more than one name on an individual building pass, different color ink, completed in pencil instead of ink, any rooms/areas listed after the verbiage "and no others," or different handwriting. Authorized individuals remaining within the buildings have the right to request to see another valid ID and/or pass. If an authorized individual notices something suspicious, or if assistance is required, call Security at 389-2111.
Students under the direct supervision of a faculty or staff member do not need a building pass to remain after a building is locked. "Direct supervision" is defined as physically being in the same space as the faculty or staff member(s) in order to confirm that the individual(s) present have authorized access. The supervising faculty or staff member must have a University faculty or staff ID in their possession. Individuals remaining within University buildings after they are secured do so at their own risk.
Security officers will request a University ID from all persons encountered in locked buildings or those found in department offices outside of University business hours. Individuals who do not provide a University faculty/staff ID or University student ID accompanied by a valid building pass will be escorted from the building. Security will confiscate any University keys in the possession of persons found not in compliance with this policy. Confiscated keys may be picked up the following business day after the verification from the authorizing department that all confiscated keys were checked out to the individual. Security will request assistance from the Mankato Department of Public Safety in cases of persons refusing to provide identification and/or refusing to leave the premises.
If an alarm violation is received, an office will be dispatched ti respond to the location.
Use of chalk on sidewalks, walls, windows, etc. is prohibited, unless a specific exception is made by contacting University Event & Meeting Services at 389-2223.
Policy Statement: Computer and information technology resources are essential tools in accomplishing the mission of Minnesota State Colleges and Universities and its individual institutions. These resources must be used and managed responsibly in order to ensure their availability for the competing demands of teaching, scholarship, administration and other mission related uses. This policy establishes responsibilities for acceptable use of Minnesota State Colleges and Universities information technology resources.
System information technology resources are provided for use by currently enrolled System students, administrators, faculty, other employees, and other authorized users. System information technology resources are the property of Minnesota State Colleges and Universities, and are provided for the direct and indirect support of the System's educational, research, service, student and campus life activities, administrative and business purposes, within the limitation of available System technology, financial and human resources. The use of Minnesota State Colleges and Universities information technology is a privilege conditioned on adherence to this policy and any procedures or guidelines adopted pursuant to this policy.
Nothing in this policy shall be interpreted to expand, diminish or alter academic freedom, articulated under Board policy and System collective bargaining agreements, or the terms of any charter establishing a System library as a community or public library.
This policy applies to all users of System information technology, whether or not the user is affiliated with Minnesota State Colleges and Universities, and to all uses of those resources, wherever located. Minnesota State Colleges and Universities is not responsible for any personal or unauthorized use of its resources. Security of data transmitted on its information technology resources cannot be fully guaranteed.
For purposes of this policy, System means the Board of Trustees, the Office of the Chancellor, the state colleges and universities, and any part or combination thereof.
System information technology means all System facilities, technologies, and information resources used for information processing, transfer, storage and communications. This includes, but is not limited to, computer hardware and software, computer labs, classroom technologies such as computer-based instructional management systems, and computing and electronic communications devices and services, such as modems, e-mail, networks, telephones (including cellular), voicemail, facsimile transmissions, video, and multimedia.
Transmit means to send, store, collect, transfer or otherwise alter or affect information technology resources or data contained therein.
User means any individual, including, but not limited to, students, administrators, faculty, other employees, volunteers, and other authorized individuals using System information technology in any manner, whether or not the user is affiliated with Minnesota State Colleges and Universities.
The chancellor shall adopt procedures under this policy, including, but not limited to: security; employee use, consistent with Minnesota Statutes section 43A.38 and other applicable law; monitoring; unauthorized uses and other limitations on use; and adoption of college and university procedures.
Users who violate this policy or related System, college or university procedures shall be subject to disciplinary action through appropriate channels. Violations may be referred to appropriate law enforcement authorities.
The policies and procedures published in the Residence Hall Student Guide provide useful information on services available in the residence halls and how you can use them. They also outline expectations developed to safeguard the rights and property of all residents. Living in a residential community requires the cooperation of each person in the group and the policies are designed to provide a framework for behavior that represents an understanding of the group living situation. Reading your Residence Hall Student Guide is an excellent way to familiarize yourself with the services available and to learn more about your rights and responsibilities as a resident..
U.S. Department of Education guidelines require post-secondary institutions participating in federal student aid programs to publish annual reports on gender equity in intercollegiate sports. The regulations implement the 1994 Equity in Athletics Disclosure Act (EADA). In compliance with EADA, Minnesota State University prepared the first Equity Act report in October 1996. Updated reports are annually released by October 31st.. Included are data on the amount spent on men's and women's teams, and recruiting efforts, participation rates, personnel and operating expenses, revenues generated, and sports-related financial aid allocations. The report is readily accessible to students, prospective students and the public. For more information on obtaining a report, contact the Office of Finance and Administration, 238 Wigley Administration Center, 507-389-6622.
Except as provided in MnSCU Board Policy 5.15 Part 3, no gambling or betting, as commonly understood and / or defined in Minnesota Status, Chapter 609.75-609.76 is allowed on college, university or system property.
Open flame cooking devices, such as barbecue/ roasting grills, pits, and campfires, are prohibited on University property, UNLESS used in conjunction with an approved and sanctioned University event. Those planning to grill outdoors on the University campus must file a Facility Use Form and receive approval prior to the event.
Any vehicle located on the Minnesota State University, Mankato campus that in itself is causing a safety hazard to the property or persons located on the campus may be, under the discretion of the Parking and Traffic Services/Security, removed from campus to an off-campus impound lot. Safety hazard means a vehicle leaking a hazardous substance, i.e. gas, oil, transmission fluid, etc. A safety hazard is also when a vehicle's horn or intruder alarm is sounding so as to disturb others. Any fines or costs related to the relocating or removing of the vehicle shall be the responsibility of the vehicle owner/operator.
Part 1. Policy Statement. Minnesota State Colleges and Universities is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination in employment and education opportunity. No person shall be discriminated against in the terms and conditions of employment, personnel practices, or access to and participation in programs, services, and activities with regard to race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, or sexual orientation. In addition, discrimination in employment based on membership or activity in a local commission as defined by law is prohibited.
Haraassment on the basis of race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, marital status, status wirh regard to public assistance, or sexual orientation is prohibited. Harassment may occur in a variety of relationships, including faculty and student, supervisor and employee, student and student, staff and student, employee and employee, and other relationships with persons having business at, or visiting the educational or working environment.
This policy is directed at verbal or physical conduct that constitutes discrimination / harassment under state and federal law and is not directed at the content of speech. In cases in which verbal statements and other forms of expression are involved, Minnesota State Colleges and Universities will give due consideration to an individual's constitutionally protected right to free speech and academic freedom. However, discrimination and harassment are not within the protections of academic freedom or free speech.
The system office, college, and universities shall maintain and encourage full freedom, within the law, of expression, inquiry, teaching and research. Academic freedom comes with a responsibility that all members of our education community benefit from it without intimadation, exploitation or coercion.
This policy shall apply to all individuals affiliated with Minnesota State Colleges and Universities, including but not limited to, its students, employees, applicants, volunteers, agents, and Board of Trustees, and is intended to protect the rights and privacy of both the complainant and respondent and other involved individuals, as well as to prevent retaliation or reprisal. Individuals who violate this policy shall be subject to disciplinary or other conrrective action.
This policy supersedes all existing system, college, and university non-discrimination policies.
Subpart A. Consensual Relationship. A sexual or romantic relationship between two persons who voluntarily enter into such a relationship. Employees who are members of the same household should also refer to the Board of Trustees nepotism policy 4.10.
Subpart B. Discrimination. Discrimination is defined as conduct that is directed at an individual because of his or her protected class and that subjects the individual to different treatment by agents or employees so as to interfere with or limit the ability of the individual to participate in, or benefit from, the services, activities, or privileges provided by the system or college and universities or otherwise adversely affects the individual's employment or education.
Subpart C. Discrimantory harassment. Discriminatory harassment is defined as verbal or physical conduct that is directed at an individual because of his or her protected class, and that is sufficiently severe, pervasive, or persistent so as to have the purpose or effect of creating a hostile work or educational environment.
As required by law, Minnesota State Colleges and Universities has further defined sexual harassment as a form of sexual discrimination which is prohibited by state and fedeal law. Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, sexually moivated physical conduct, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when.
Subpart D. Employee. Minnesota State Colleges and Universities personnel include all faculty, staff, administrators, teaching assistants, graduate assistants, residence directors and student employees.
Subpart E. Protected Class. Protected class for the purpose of this policy means that discrimination and harassment in employment and education are prohibited on the basis of race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, marital status, status with regard to public assistance or sexual orientation. In addition, membership or activity in a local human rights commission is a protected class in employment.
Subpart F. Retaliation. Retaliation includes, but is not limited to, intentionally engaging in any form of intimidation, reprisal or harassment against an individual because he or she made a complaint under this policy or assisted or participated in any manner in any investigation, or process under this policy, regardless of whether a claim of discrimintaion or harassment is substantiated; or associated with a person or group of persons who are disabled or one of a different race, color, creed, religion, sexual orientation or national origin. Retaliation may occur whether or not there is a power or authority differential between the individuals involved.
Subpart G. Sexual harassment and violence as sexual abuse. Under certain circumstances, sexual harassment or violence may constitute sexual abuse according to Minnesota law. In such situations, the system office and colleges and universitities shall comply with the reporting requirements in Minnesota Statues Section 626.556 (reporting of maltreatment of minors) and Minnesota Statutes Section 626.557 (Vulnerable Adult Protection Act). Nothing in this policy will prohibit the system office or any college or university from taking immediate action to protect victims of alleged sexual abuse. Minnesota State Colleges and Universities 1B.3 Sexual Violence Policy addresses sexual violence.
Subpart H. Student. "Student" means an individual who is:
Part 3. Consensual Relationships. An employee of Minnesota State Colleges and Universitits shall not enter into a consensual relationship with a student or an employee over whom he or she exercises direct or otherwise significant academic, administrative, supervisory, evaluattive, counseling, or extracurricular authority or influence. In the event a relationship already exists, each college and universitiy and system office shall develop a procedure to reassign evaluative authority as may be possible to avoide violations of this policy. This prohibition does not limit the right of an employee to make a recomendation on personnel matters concerning a family or household member where the right ot make recommendations on such personnel matters is explicity provided for in the applicable collective bargaining agreement or compensation plan.
Part 4. Retaliaton. Retaliation as defined in this policy is prohibited in the system office, colleges and universities. Any individual subject to this policy who intentionall engages in retaliation shall be subject to disciplinary or other corrective actions as appropriate.
The chancellor shall establish procedures to implement this policy. The nondiscrimination in employment and education opportunity policy and procedures of colleges and universities shall comlply with Policy 1B1.1 and Procedure 1B.1.1.
For more information, contact the Office or Affirmative Action, AH 112, or call 507-389-2986 (V) or 800-267-3529 or 711 (MRS/TTY).
Part 1. Policy statement. Sexual violence is an intolerable intrusion into the most personal and private rights of an individual, and is prohibited at Minnesota State Colleges and Universities. Minnesota State Colleges and Universites is committed to eliminating sexual violence in all forms and will take appropriate remedial action against any individual found responsible for acts in volation of this policy. Acts of sexual violence may also constitute violations of criminal or civil law, or other Board Policies that may require separate proceedings. To further its commitment against sexual violence, Minnesota State Colleges and Universities provides reporting options, internal mechanisms for dispute resolution, and prevention training or other related services as appropriate.
Subpart A. Application of policy to students, employees, and others. This policy applies to all Minnesota State Colleges and Universities students and employees and to others, as appropriate, where alleged incidents of sexual violence have occurred on System property. Incidents of sexual violence alleged to have been committed by a student at a location other than System property are covered by this policy pursuant to the factors listed in Minnesota State Colleges and Universities Board Policy 3.6, Part 5. Incidents of sexual violence alleged to have been commted by a Minnesota State Colleges and Universities employee at a location other than System property are covered by this policy.
Individuals alleged to have committed acts of sexual violence or System property who are not studens or employees are subject to appropriate actions by Minnesota State Colleges and Universities, including, but not limited to, pursuing criminal or civil action against them.
Allegations of discrimination or harassment ar governed by Board Policy 1B.1.
Subpart B. College and university policies. Each Minnesota State Colleges and Universities college and university shall adopt a clear, understandable written policy on sexual violence that applies to its campus community, including, but not limited to, its students and employees. The policy content and implementation shall be consistent with the standards in this Policy and Procedure 1B.3.1
Part 2. Definitions.
The following definitions apply to this Policy and Procedure 1B.3.1.
Subpart A. Sexual violence. Sexual violence includes a continuum of conduct that includes sexual assault, and non-forcible sex acts, as well as aiding acts of sexual violence.
Subpart B. Sexual assualt. "Sexual assualt" means an actual, attempted, or threatened sexual act with another person without that person's consent. Sexual assault is often a criminal act tht can be prosecuted under Minnesota law, as well as form the basis for discipline under Minnesota State Colleges and Universities student conduct codes and employee disciplinary standards. Sexual assault includes but is not limited to:
1. Involvement without consent in any sexual act in which there is force, expressed or implied, or use of duress or deception upon the victim. Forced sexual intercourse is included inthis definition, as are the acts commonly referred to as "date rape" or "acquaintance rape." This definition also includes the coercing, forcing, or attempting to coerce or force sexual intercourse or a sexual act on another.
2. Involvement in any sexual act when the victim is unable to give consent.
3. The intentional touching or coercing, forcing, or attempting to coerce or force another to touch an unwilling person's intimate parts (defined as primary genital area, groin, inner thigh, buttocks, or breast).
4. Offensive sexual behavior that is directed at another such as indecent exposure or voyeurism.
Subpart C. Consent. Consent is informed, freely given and mutually understood. If coercion, intimidation, threats, and / or physical force are used, there is no consent. If the complainant is mentally or physicall incapacitated or impaired so that the complainant cannot understand the fact, nature, or extent of the sexual situation, and the condition was known or would be known to a reasonable person, there is no consent; this includes conditions due to alcohol or drug consumption, or being asleep or unconscious. Whether the respondent has taken advantage or a position of influence over the complainant may be a factor in determining consent.
Subpart D. Non-forcible sex acts. Non-forcible acts include unlawful sexual acts where consent is not relevant, such as sexual contact with an individual under the statutory age of consent, as defined by Minnesota law, or between persons who are related to each other within degrees wherein marriage is prohibited by law.
Subpart E. System property. "System property" means the facilites and land owned, leased, or under the primary control of Minnesota State Colleges and Universities, its Board of Trustee, Office of the Chancellor, colleges and universities.
Subpart F. Employee. "Employee" means an individual employed by Minnesota State Colleges and Universities, its colleges and universities and Office of the Chancellor including student workers.
Subpart G. Student. "Student" means an individual who is:
The Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect to their education records.
Additional requirements concerning education records are found in the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act.
Minnesota State University, Mankato has designated the following items as Directory Information. As such, this information may be released to the public without the consent of the student:
*Students may request that Directory Information be kept private. Please contact the Office of the Registrar, 132 Wigley Administration Center, 507-389-6266.
*This information is not maintained by the Registrar..
Requests for outdoor music events anywhere on campus require an Application for Use of University Facilities form submitted at least four weeks prior to an event (form can be obtained from the University Events & Meeting Services Office). A planning session will be scheduled with all parties involved approximately two weeks prior to the event. University Security and the Mankato Department of Public Safety will determine the number of guards/officers that will be required for the event. If deemed necessary, these expenses will be charged to the department requesting the event. Amplified sound will be allowed on the campus mall only between the hours of 12:00 p.m.–1:00 p.m. to alleviate disruption of classes in nearby buildings. There are no exceptions to this policy.
All materials posted or displayed in the Centennial Student Union must be stamped in the Student Union Office, 220 Centennial Student Union. All materials posted or displayed in the Residence Halls must be approved by the Department of Residential Life in Carkoski Commons. All materials posted or displayed in the academic buildings must be stamped with "posted" in the Student Union Office, 220 Centennial Student Union. These posters can only be hung on the "General Use Bulletin Boards" in the academic buildings. Student activity fee funded programs, Recognized Student Organizations (RSO's), and Minnesota State Mankato Departments will receive priority posting privileges. All posters must have a contact name and number. After one warning, failure to follow the policy guidelines will result in the loss of posting privileges.
For the protection of all members of the University community and to ensure compliance with federal legislation, any suspected criminal activity is to be immediately reported to Security, 507-389-2111, or a Campus Security Authority. Detailed information on reporting procedures can be found in the "Minnesota State Campus Crime Reporting Requirements" policy available from the Office of Student Affairs, 228 Wigley Administration Center. Minnesota State University, Mankato has a moral and legal responsibility to inform law enforcement agencies of crimes committed on public property owned or controlled by the University. Individuals requesting that details of an alleged incident not be reported to law enforcement agencies will be informed of the University's position not to withhold information. It is University policy to inform the University community in a timely manner when an incident considered to be a threat to others has occurred. For persons who desire advocacy and support, the University will provide assistance through the Women's Center and the Counseling Center.
University Security has a Personal Safety Hotline, 507-389-2594. The safety hotline is a recorded message with reported information concerning security and safety issues and current reports involving assaults or incidents which may put the campus community at risk. Do not speculate — call the hotline for facts!
Security Web site www.mnsu.edu/security
Student Rights:
Minnesota State University, Mankato, is committed to achieving equal educational opportunity and full participation for qualified persons with disabilities. Achieving full participation and integration of people with disabilities requires the cooperative efforts of all the departments, offices, and personnel. Assurance of equal educational opportunity rests upon legal foundations estabilished by federal law, specifically the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 including Section 504, and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.
A qualified individual with a disability must be ensured the same access to programs, opportunities, and activities at the University as all others. All programs, services, and activities of the Univeristy when viewed in their entirety, will be accessible to and usable by qualified students with disabilities. All classes, meetings, programs, or other events will be held in facilities that are accessible. Announcements of meetings or other events will contain a statement indicating the availability of accommodation of disabilities upon request.
Minnesota State University, Mankato has the right to refuse to provide an accomodation that poses a direct threat to the health and safety of others, constitutes a substantial change or aleration to an essential element of a course or program, results in undue financial or administrative hardship, or is considered a personal device or service (i.e. wheelchairs, hearing aids, personal transportation).
Student responsibilities:
All students with a disability may request accomodations through the Office of Disabiltiy Services. Responsibilities of students with a disability seeking accommodation include:
Confidentiality and Maintenance of Records:
All disability-related documentation will be centralized in a confidential file in the Office of Disability Services and is only shared with others with the expressed written permission of the student. Departments, faculty, and staff may not access diagnostic or other information regarding a student's disability and may not keep copies of such documentation.
(Under revision at time of publication. )
For the most current version, see http://www.mnsu.edu/acadaf/policies/SmokingPolicy.pdf
Background:
The purpose of this policy is to promote the campus Health & Wellness Initiative by establishing guidelines for smoking on campus and to address the concerns and rights of non-smokers and smokers.
Policy:
A. Smoking is prohibited in all facilites except in Room 42 in the Centennial Student Union. Exceptions are granted when associated with a spiritual ritual or culture instrucional activity. Prior approval needs to be obtained throught the Environmental Health and Safety (EHS), and Risk Management office.
B. Smoking is prohibited in all Minnesota State mankato owned or leased vehicles.
C. Smoking is prohibited with 15 feet of ventilation system intake ducts or windows used to provide fresh air to building spaces.
D. Smoking is prohibited within 15 feet of building entrances excet those designated as Smoke Free Entrances where smoking is completely prohibitted.
E. Staff, faculty, students and vistors shall not block the route of entrance or exit on sidewalks where smoking is allowed.
F. Staff, students and faculty, and vistors shall dispose of all cigarette butts in containers designated for this purpose.
G. Cigarette recetpacles will be placed at least 15 feet from all entrances.
H. Smoking is prohibited in entrances designated as smoke free.
For the complete policy and a campus map of designated entrances and related procedures see www.mnsu.edu/acadaf/Resources/Polices/html.
Residence Halls: No commercial solicitation is permitted in the residence halls either by a company or students acting on their behalf. However, students may invite a representative of a commercial enterprise to visit them in their rooms. Non-commercial solicitation by student government or recognized student groups between 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m. is allowed if it is approved by the Area Director at least 24 hours in advance.
Centennial Student Union, Academic Buildings and the Mall Area: All solicitation activities must receive prior approval in the University Scheduling and Conference Services Office in SU 219. Further details regarding the solicitation policy are available in the Policy Booklet. Solicitation is not allowed in academic buildings.
The Student Right-to-Know and Campus Security Act increased the level of information universities must collect and provide to current and prospective students and employees and to the Department of Education. The first part of the act, entitled the Student Right-to-Know Act, requires colleges and universities to compile and release institution-wide graduation rates for all students, with more detailed statistical information submitted on the graduation rates of athletes. The graduation rate for Minnesota State University, Mankato's new entering freshmen, fall term 2002 cohort, is 51.6 percent. This percentage reflects the number of first-time, full-time degree-seeking students either received a baccalaureate degree within six years or an associate degree within three years. The 2002 cohort is the most recent cohort for which a six year graduation rate is available.
Part II of the act, entitled the Jeanne Cleary Campus Security Act, requires colleges and universities to annually make available to all current employees, students, and applicants for enrollment or employment a description of policies concerning the security of and access to all campus facilities, policies and procedures for reporting campus crime, policies concerning law enforcement, along with crime prevention educational programs relating to campus security, and statistics concerning the occurrence of certain categories of campus crimes. Institutions are also required to issue timely warnings to the campus community about criminal activities representing a continued safety threat to aid in crime prevention. In addition, the University complies with the 1998 Higher Education Amendments Act that amended the Campus Security Act by expanding the geographic scope and categories of offenses that must be included in the annual statistics. This information is available in Minnesota State's "Partners in Safety" brochure, which is made available to each enrolled student and employee annually via the Internet at www.mnsu.edu/safety. Copies are available from Security, WC 222, 389-2111, the Womens Center, SU 218, 389-6416, First Year Experience, GC 10, 389-5498, and Human Resources, WA 336, 389-2015.
General Guidelines
EFFECTIVE JULY 2008: Drivers of state vehicles or private vehicles used for state busienss must complete and sign a Vehicle Use Agreement (VUA) prior to driving (view timelines listed in link for July 2008 announcement.) The Department of Administration, Risk Management will conduct an annual Motor Vehicles Record (MVR) check to verify eligible drivers. These eligible drivers will be permitted to drive on university business. The purpose of this program is to ensure we have the safest drivers possible operationg vehicles on our behalf.
Minnesota State University, Mankato announcement July 2008: vehicles/policies/new_vehicle_usage_guidelines_president_s_letter.pdf
Vehicle Use Agreement: vehicles/policies/vehicleusagreement-june2008.pdf Each driver must complete, sign and return this form to Helen Walters, WC 358 in a secured envelope.
Fleet Safety Motor Vehicle Records (MVR) Check Elibility Guidelines: http://www.finance.mnscu.edu/facilities/insurance-risk-mgmt/docs/Fleet_Programs.pdf
Only authorized drivers shall only use state vehicles for university business and related activites. Drivers include state employees, contract employers (if the authorization to drive a state vehicle is specifically mentioned in the contract with the vendor) and students on university approved business.
State Business (a.k.a. MnSCU or university Business). State law requies that public funds, facilities, and equipment not be used for activities other than those clearly supporting the business of the state. Approved travel incorporates business meetings, authorized conventions, conferences and workshops, and employee teaching assignmnets. Student travel to and from on-campus or off-campus classes, clinics, and practicums is not considered to fall within the scope of authorized MnSCU or University travel. Field trips which are an intergral part of the academic curriculum are authorized.
Procedures
Minnesota State University, Mankato is committed to providing a safe environment for individuals on campus property.
Prohibited Weapons: Possession and/or use of any weapon on facilities or land owned, leased, or under the control of Minnesota State Mankato is prohibited except as allowed by Minnesota Law, Board Policy, or University Policy. This prohibition extends to any University sponsored event.
Prohibited Firearms: Students, employees, acting within the scope and course of their employment, and visitors are prohibited from carrying firearms on University grounds or in any University building.
Permitted Firearms: Visitors may only possess pistols (handguns) on University grounds, and in University buildings, with a valid permit to carry. All other firearms are prohibited.
Children's House: The Children's House area of Wiecking Center is a school and possession of all weapons is prohibited.
Leased Premises: Businesses leasing property from the University can post their leased space with "no firearm" signs in accordance with MCPPA.
Parking Lots: Possession of firearms in University parking lots is permitted in accordance with all Minnesota Laws.
Academic Purpose: Use or storage of weapons on campus property for academic purposes must be approved in writing by the President's Office.
Storage: Minnesota State Mankato does not provide storage facilities for any weapons except if approved for academic purposes.
Suspected violations of MCPPA, Minnesota Colleges and Universities policy 5.21 or this University policy must be reported to Security (V/TTY 2111
