Center for Residence Life Services

Residence Hall
Handbook
2013-2014

rules
regulations
policies
student conduct

www.clarion.edu/placestolive

1

table of contents
Welcome........................................................................................................................................3
Residence Hall Staff. ........................................................................................................................4
Interhall Council/Hall Council/NRHH....................................................................................................4
Housing Requirement.......................................................................................................................4
Room and Hall Assignment Procedures..................................................................................................5
Residence Hall Facilities....................................................................................................................8
Student Responsibilities.................................................................................................................. 12
Prohibited Activities/Appliances........................................................................................................ 14
General Information........................................................................................................................ 17
Dining Options. ............................................................................................................................. 19
Appendix I: On-Campus Housing Agreement......................................................................................... 21
Appendix II: Weapons/Firearms and Dangerous Devices Policy...................................................................23
Appendix III: Safety Reminders..........................................................................................................24
Appendix IV: Frequently Asked Questions.............................................................................................26
Campus Map.................................................................................................................................28

2

“We all have to
live together,
so we might as well
live together happily.”
Dalai Lama

Dear Student:
Welcome to Clarion University of Pennsylvania and to our
residence life program.

Clarion University,
A Commitment to Civility:

The Center for Residence Life Services staff, believe that
out-of-the-classroom learning experiences play a significant
part of your college education. You will have plenty of
opportunities to associate with students of different backgrounds, attitudes, and lifestyles. Hopefully you will use
your time in the residence hall to participate in activities,
to develop new friendships, and to grow as an individual.

Clarion University is committed to the advancement
of learning and service to society. This is best accomplished in an atmosphere of mutual respect and civility,
self-restraint, concern for others, and academic
integrity.

Each student living in a residence hall will contribute to,
and be affected by, the total environment of the building.
The degree to which these corresponding influences are
positive or negative will depend, to a large extent, on
the willingness of each student to cooperate in and be
responsible for this community living experience.

By choosing to live in our community you understand
that at Clarion University we aspire to:

You, the student, are expected to regulate your own
conduct and behavior in accordance with the standards
of reasonable and responsible citizenship. It is your
responsibility to familiarize yourself with the policies
and procedures of the university.
This handbook has been developed to provide you with a
general introduction to our residence halls and programs.
We hope that the time you spend in the residence halls is
enjoyable and rewarding. The Center for Residence Life
Services staff will assist you in making your college career
meaningful and productive.
Best wishes for a successful year,

•

Embrace the concept of a civil community which
abhors violence, theft, and exploitation of others;

•

Pursue knowledge with personal integrity and
academic honesty;

•

Create a learning environment which avoids
disruptive and deceitful behavior toward other
members of the campus community;

•

Create a culture of diversity which is respectful of
the rights of others;

•

The development of a caring community where
compassion for others and freedom of thought and
expression are valued;

•

Honor, challenge and contribute to the scholarly
heritage left by those who preceded me and work
to leave this a better place for those who follow.

Clarion University is dedicated to creating a community
of scholars which contributes to a civil campus environment.

Clarion University
Center for Residence Life Services Staff
3

Residence Hall Staff

Interhall Council/
Hall Council/NRHH

The professional staff and graduate assistants (GAs)
are members of the Center for Residence Life Services
staff who reside in and supervise the residence halls.
They are responsible for the operation, programming
and functioning of the halls.

Interhall Council is the governing body of the residence
halls. The student group, comprised of representatives
from each of the Hall Councils and members of the
residence halls, is a recognized university organization.
Residence Life Services staff serve as advisors to
the group. Interhall Council provides funds to the
individual halls and establishes policies relative
to residence hall life. It also plans and implements
campus-wide activities and fundraisers.

GAs work in conjunction with professional staff to
supervise community assistants (CAs). They may also
advise hall government; develop, implement and
evaluate hall programs; and act as administrators
of the student conduct code when requested by the
vice president for Student and University Affairs.
Professional staff members and GAs counsel individual
students and act as referral agents to other campus
offices.

Hall Councils within each residence hall implement
Interhall policies and make policies specific to the hall.
Hall Council is responsible for planning and developing
many interesting hall activities such as dances,
recreational events, ice cream socials, and the
purchase of equipment for the hall. It is an opportunity
to get involved and have some fun!

As university administrators, they are in a unique
position to observe student progress.
Graduate assistants (GAs) are university staff members
working in the residence halls. GAs are live-in staff
members. They are given indirect supervisory authority
and responsibility of hall operations. All GAs report to a
professional staff member.

Both the Hall Councils and Interhall Council are
integral parts of student government at Clarion.
The Golden Eagle Chapter of the National Residence
Hall Honorary (NRHH) is an organization whose main
purpose is to recognize student leaders that reside in
Clarion University’s six residence halls and Reinhard
Villages. The organization also recognizes faculty and
community members that have made a contribution to
residence halls at Clarion.

Community assistants (CAs) are student members
of the Residence Life Services staff who live in the
residence halls. CAs are responsible for building a
community on the floor and in the building, and to
serve as a resource and referral agent.
In seeking to create and maintain a positive community,
the CA plans and implements wing activities and
building-wide programs, supports rules and regulations,
and assists with administrative responsibilities as
directed by the GA or professional staff members.

Housing Requirement
Effective fall 2013, all incoming undergraduate
students who meet the following criteria are required
to live in university-affiliated housing (on-campus
residence halls or Reinhard Villages) for their first four
semesters of enrollment:

The Center for Residence Life Services is committed
to the educational mission of the university. The
residence hall staff is here to be of assistance in
making the residential experience a meaningful part
of your college life.

1. First-time-in-college students who are enrolled
full time
2. Transfer students who have earned less than
24 credits at a previous institution (who are
enrolled full time)

4

Exemptions:

Requests will be reviewed by the appropriate
personnel and a decision will be communicated
in writing within 10 days of receipt. See
www.clarion.edu/199678.pdf

1. First-time-in-college students or transfers who
are living with a parent or guardian at their
permanent address within a 30-mile radius
of Clarion

note: All decisions are final.

2. Married students
3. Students over the age of 21
4. Part-time students
5. Single parents
6. Military veterans who have been honorably
discharged

Room and Hall Assignment
Procedures

TERMINATION/CANCELLATION PROCESS/
FEES AND REFUNDS

All housing applications are filed online. After you’ve
completed the admission process with fees paid and
forms returned, the Admissions Office will send you
a packet containing information on how to complete
your online housing application, select your room, sign
your Residence Hall Agreement and pay the housing
application fee.

Students may request to cancel the Housing Agreement/
License Agreement by completing an online cancellation request form. Cancellation fees may be assessed
depending on the date of cancellation and the reason
for the request. Cancellation requests may be reviewed
by the Housing Appeals Board as deemed appropriate.

Students can use the “Find a Roommate” feature to
search for a roommate. You will have the best chance
of having your choices honored by completing your
housing application promptly.

No cancellation fee is assessed for the following
circumstances (if cancellation form and formal written
documentation are provided prior to departure):
•

Student is participating in an education program
that requires out-of-town residency (30 miles) for
part of the academic year (i.e. student teaching,
study abroad, clinical rotation, and co-op/internship). This requires a one-semester premium lease.
Please see a professional staff member for details.

YOU SEND:
A completed admission forms and all files
to the Admissions Office with your admission deposit.
ADMISSIONS SENDS:
A packet with information and instructions to log onto
www.clarion.edu/placestolife to complete your housing
application, electronically sign your binding Residence
Hall Agreement, and use a credit card to pay your
housing application fee.
WE EMAIL:
Your room assignment and roommate’s name, email
and home phone number to your Eagle email account
(mid July).

•

Student can provide proof of graduation. This
requires a one-semester premium lease. Please see
a professional staff member for details.

•

Student must withdraw due to deployment for an
armed service.

The following special circumstances might reduce the
cancellation fee if formal documentation is provided:
•

Residence Hall Agreements are binding for both the
fall and spring academic semesters.

5

Student has a medical condition requiring special
accommodations that cannot be met by universityaffiliated housing.







• Student withdraws and is not registered at Clarion
University.
•

Student can document significant change in
financial aid (such as a loss of scholarship, job,
etc.). Students must notify housing as soon as
they receive this information.

semester housing fees and 50% of the spring
housing fees plus the loss of the $200 nonrefundable housing application fee. If the fee
has been waived at the time of application, a
$200 application fee may be assessed.

•

Within the Spring 2014 Semester:
o Students who cancel spring housing before
January 1, 2014 will be held accountable for
50% of the spring semester housing fees plus
the loss of the $200 non-refundable housing
application fee.

•

Prior to December 15, 2012:
o Students canceling by December 15, 2012,
will be allowed to cancel with no penalty;
however, with loss of $200 non-refundable
housing application fee. If the fee has been
waived at the time of application, a $200
application fee may be assessed.

o Students who cancel spring housing after
January 1, 2014 will be held accountable for
the full spring semester housing fees plus the
loss of the $200 non-refundable housing
application fees.

•

December 16, 2012 to May 17, 2013:
o Students canceling with/without special
circumstances, will be assessed a $500
cancellation fee plus the loss of the $200
non-refundable housing application fee. If the
fee has been waived at the time of application,
a $200 application fee may be assessed.

REFUND POLICY
For refunds after opening, housing and meal plans will
be prorated. Residence Life Services follows the
university refund schedule which is available at
www.clarion.edu/37772.

•

May 18, 2013 to July 31, 2013:
o Students canceling with/without special
circumstances, a $700.00 cancellation fee will
be assessed to their account plus the loss of
the $200 non-refundable housing application
fee. If the fee has been waived at the time of
application, a $200 application fee may be
assessed.

Room Change/Transfer Fee:
Students who request a room change or Reinhard
Village transfer will be assessed $150 transfer fee.

•

August 1, 2013 through the end of 2013 Drop/Add
period:
o Students canceling or who do not cancel their
application yet fail to move into their assigned
space will be held responsible for 50% of the
fall semester’s housing fees plus the loss of
the $200 non-refundable housing application
fee. If the fee has been waived at the time of
application, a $200 application fee may be
assessed.

NOTE: FEES ARE ASSESSED BY DATE THE CONTRACT RELEASE FORM
IS RECEIVEVD BY THE RESIDENCE LIFE SERVICES OFFICE, NOT THE
SIGNATURE DATE ON THE FORM.

HOUSING
While the university is committed to housing as many
students as possible, demand sometimes exceeds
housing capacity. If this happens, students with junior
and/or senior class status may not have access to the
housing application. If vacancies develop, these students requesting to live in university-affiliated housing
will be contacted to complete the housing application.

•

Within the Fall 2013 Semester:
o Students granted release after Drop/Add for
the fall semester for a special circumstance
will be held accountable for the full fall
semester housing fees plus the loss of the
$200 non-refundable housing application fee.
If the fee has been waived at the time of
application, a $200 application fee may be
assessed.

As of fall 2013, our housing requirement states
students in their first two years at Clarion are required
to live in university-affiliated housing.

o Students granted release after Drop/Add for the
fall semester not qualifying for special circum stances will be held responsible for the fall
6

TEMPORARY HOUSING

Students who lose roommates are required to
consolidate or pay single room rate (singles are not
available in the suites) or must be prepared to accept
a roommate any time throughout the semester. That
requires keeping belongings on one side of the room in
preparation for a new roommate.

During the fall semester, a high demand for residence
hall rooms may necessitate the establishment of
temporary housing in some residence halls. Temporary
assignments may include adding a third person to a
double room, converting lounges or study rooms, or
housing students in university guest facilities. As
permanent spaces become vacant, usually within the
first few weeks of the semester, students will be moved
from temporary rooms to regular student rooms. Every
effort is made to reassign students in the same hall.

The Center for Residence Life Services Services has the
option of assigning a student to a vacant space if there
is a need. Double rooms cannot be retained as a single
in the event other students are housed in overflow or
temporary housing.
Consolidation is in effect at all times to enhance
operational efficiencies. Students discouraging potential
roommates in an attempt to keep their room as a single
may face judicial action.

BREAK HOUSING
Students currently living on campus who are required
by the university to remain on campus will be provided
break housing in predetermined spaces.

Other Aspects of Consolidation
A. If two students are to consolidate, they may do
so either in one of the rooms they already
occupy or in any other vacant room.

ROOM CHANGES
In-hall room changes must be authorized through the
GA or professional staff member. Changes between
halls must be cleared through the Residence Life
Services office. Any unauthorized room or hall change
shall be considered a violation of the housing agreement
and may subject the resident to disciplinary action.
Specific instructions will be given in August and January
regarding room/hall changes for the beginning of each
semester. A $150 room change/transfer fee applies.

B. Students will not be asked to change halls in
order to consolidate.
C.











ROOM CONSOLIDATION POLICY
Students who find themselves in a double room without
a roommate have the following options:
A. Consolidate with a student in the same
residence hall who is in a similar situation
without a roommate.



When consolidation takes place between two
individuals, the student with the lowest
number of credits will be required to move with
a student with greater credits unless the latter
decides otherwise. If the number of credits is
equal, the quality-point average (QPA) will be
used to make the determination. If this is also
equal, the date of completed applications will
be used. For new or transfer students with less
than 15 credits or less than one semester in an
on-campus residence hall (if the credits are
equal) or as new students (any credits), the
date the Residence Hall Application was
completed will be the determining factor.

EXCEPTION: Students who do not attend their
building consolidation meeting will be placed

with a roommate and will be required to move.

B. Request assignment by the GA or professional
staff member to a double room with a room mate. Residence hall staff, upon request, will
provide students with lists of individuals with
whom the student may be consolidated.

D. Following customary practice, room changes
will be coordinated by the Center for Residence
Life Services. Residence hall staff coordinate
the consolidation process. It takes place within
each residence hall under the professional staff
member and GA’s supervision. Students who
fail to comply with the consolidation policy will
be subject to disciplinary action. Consolidation
is conducted at any point in the academic year.

C. Retain the room as a single by paying the
established single room rate. Students will be
notified in writing during the beginning of the
semester as to the dates by which a room may
be paid for as a single.
D. No singles allowed in the suites.
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CONTRACT TERMINATIONS
C. Damage and/or abuse of residence hall
facilities or furnishings.

The university reserves the right to terminate occupancy,
repossess or reassign rooms, and take such other steps
as it may, from time to time, deem necessary and advisable for the proper conduct of its housing program.

D. Behavior which is disruptive.
E. Failure to comply with stated check-in and
check-out procedures.

Among those situations which should be considered
cause of termination are listed below (termination/
cancellation fees may apply):

F. Disciplinary actions recommending contract
termination or contract reassignment for
student conduct violations.

A. Failure to comply with the stated occupancy
calendar.

G. Failure to complete class registration
procedures.

B Failure to comply with the stated contract
procedures.

Residence Hall Facilities
Residence hall privileges are restricted to students
residing in the halls. Students will therefore be held
responsible for the general conditions (cleanliness,
damage, etc.) of their living quarters. Restrooms, study
rooms, lounges, and corridors in the non-public areas
are part of the living quarters. All residents are
collectively responsible for the general condition of
these areas and will each be charged for excessive
common area damages which cannot be attributed
to one individual or group of individuals.

EXPRESS CHECK-OUT

We anticipate students will find their rooms in
satisfactory condition when they check in. However, if
there is a problem, it should be reported immediately
to the hall staff and also documented on the Room
Inventory Form which students will be asked to
complete during the first week of the semester. It is
important that students review the Room Inventory
Form carefully before signing, because students will be
held responsible for any damages in their room which
were not listed when they checked in.

NOTE: When selecting this option, students waive the right
to appeal/dispute any charges which may be placed on their
account due to damages to the room.

At the end of the semester, students who are checking
out of their room and would prefer not to wait for a
Center for Residence Life Services staff member to
complete their Room Inventory Form, may select the
Express Check-Out option. To take advantage of this
process, a student must contact a staff member to
obtain a form. Students must read the form, sign, and
return it to the residence hall staff or the hall office.

Residence hall staff will go through the room after the
student’s departure, with the Room Inventory Form
(which was completed at check-in), and document any
changes which are beyond ‘normal’ wear and tear.

RESIDENCE HALL OPENING AND CLOSING

During the checkout process that takes place when
students vacate their rooms at the end of the contracted
period, each room will be checked twice for damages.
The preliminary checkout takes place during the last
week of the semester and is conducted by a CA. The
final damage check is carried out by the professional
staff and occurs after the students have vacated the
rooms and all belongings have been removed from
beds, walls, etc.

Residence halls open the Friday prior to the first day
of classes for freshmen and transfer students and open
on Sunday for upperclassmen. Procedures for moving
out of the residence halls for closings or breaks will
be posted in each residence hall and emailed to each
residence hall student.
Unless otherwise stated, the residence halls close at
10 p.m. on the last day of classes or examinations.
Students who are not graduating should vacate their
8

residence hall room within 24 hours of their last exam,
or the 10 p.m. deadline, whichever comes first.

mirrors should use only water-soluble paint.
It is the responsibility of those who decorate
the window or mirror to remove the paint.
Cleaning charges may be applied.

BANNERS AND SIGNS

G. All holiday decorations outside of student rooms
must be removed before the holiday break and
are not to be left until students return for the
spring semester.

Hanging signs in the hall is a good way to advertise an
event or show your school spirit.
Any student or student organization wishing to post
signs or posters in the residence halls must deliver
them to the Center for Residence Life Services for
approval and distribution by the hall staff.

Additional information regarding the residence halls is
found in the Undergraduate Catalog, Student Rights,
Regulations, and Procedures Online handbook
(www.clarion.edu/studentrights.pdf), individual
residence hall regulations, and the Residence Hall and
Food Service Agreement (included in this document).

GUIDELINES FOR RESIDENCE HALL
DECORATIONS

HALL MAINTENANCE

In order to conserve energy, and in the interest of safety
and fire prevention, the following guidelines have been
adopted regulating decorations for the residence hall
rooms and corridors.

Repair, replacement, remodeling, or refurbishing of
residence hall facilities is the responsibility of the
residence hall management. Throughout the year, any
damage or breakdown of equipment should be promptly
reported to a CA, GA, or professional staff member.
Students should not attempt to make repairs themselves. Periodically, maintenance personnel will be
present in the building to repair and inspect residence
hall facilities.

A. In corridors, decorations and posters may be
placed only on student room doors (where
permissible, check with hall staff) or on
university-installed bulletin boards. No items
may be placed on or hung from the hallway or
room ceilings and light fixtures, or any corridor
areas except the student room doors and
bulletin boards. Residents should exercise
caution when hanging items on doors as they
may be billed for damages to the door surface.

RESIDENCE HALL FURNISHINGS
Residence hall furnishings are marked for identification
and placement, and the removal of these items from
the areas in which they are placed, including removal
from the building or removal to other areas of the building without authorization, is considered an act of theft.
The presence of university property (such as unauthorized university furniture, cafeteria equipment, or items
such as road signs or commercial signs) shall be
considered evidence of theft and treated as such by
the university administration unless rightful ownership
can be proven. Room occupants may be assessed a fee
for each item of furniture which must be removed from
student rooms.

B. No lights or other electrical apparatus may be
used to decorate corridor areas, including
student room doors.
C. Decorations may not be strung from door to
door.
D. Items on student room doors or bulletin boards
should not extend into the corridor.
E. All materials used in areas where decorations
are permitted should be noncombustible, such
as foil-type papers. The use of crepe paper and
the practice of completely covering student
room doors with sheets of paper are prohibited.
The university reserves the right to remove
items which may be hazardous or inappropriate.
Students who fail to remove hazardous or
inappropriate items may be billed for removal.

Many student room furnishings such as desks, dressers,
and wardrobes are modular units and should not be
dismantled and moved. These items are not constructed
as freestanding, moveable furniture, and such use
results in damage. Students will be charged a damage
fee if room furniture is disassembled.

F. Students wishing to decorate windows or
9

ALCOHOL POLICY

Students may want to add some personal touches such
as plants, posters, and rugs to make their room a little
more “homey.” Residents are asked not to use materials which may damage or remove painted surfaces
within the room. Nails are not permitted.

The possession, consumption, or serving of alcoholic
beverages on the grounds of Clarion University is
prohibited. Being present where alcohol is present
or being served may be considered a violation of the
university’s alcohol policy. Any use or possession of
alcohol on campus, which violates university policy,
will result in disciplinary and/or legal action.

CANDLES, INCENSE, FIREWORKS,
FIREARMS, FLAMMABLES, AND
EXPLOSIVES

Because CU is a state institution, we are required to
follow all state and local laws regarding alcohol possession and consumption. Police may be called if alcohol
is found in your residence hall room.

Due to fire safety and personal safety, both the
possession and the use of any items that might be
classified under these headings are strictly forbidden
in university residence halls.

Note: The Center for Residence Life Services has adopted
a “No Empties” policy. The presence of empty alcohol
containers will result in documentation for violating the
University Alcohol Policy.

See: Appendix II: Procedure No. 70.300; WEAPONS, FIREARMS
AND DANGEROUS DEVICES POLICY.

FURNITURE REMOVAL/STORAGE

DRUGS

Every piece of furniture in your room at the time you
move in must stay in your room for the duration of
your residency. You may not remove, store, or trade CU
furnishings. Furniture may not be taken from lounges
or public areas and kept in student rooms.

The use, possession, or sale of drug paraphernalia,
narcotics, marijuana, or other legally controlled
substances is strictly prohibited in the residence halls
and on the CU campus.
The use of substances which violate this law will result
in disciplinary and/or legal action. Suspected drug or
alcohol overdoses should be reported immediately to
the staff, student health center, or hospital for
evaluation.

The university does not provide storage facilities for
personal belongings. The university assumes no responsibility for personal belongings left in the residence
halls. All personal belongings not removed from student
rooms at the end of the academic year will be disposed
of by the university.

24-HOUR SERVICE DESK
DAMAGES

There is one 24-hour service desk on campus. It is
located on the first floor of Givan Hall. The office is
staffed with student clerks and full-time university
personnel. During the year, students may check out
items (which may include games, sporting equipment,
various cleaning items, laptop computers, temporary
room keys, and cooking utensils) by presenting their
Eagle Card (student ID).

Common Area:
When hallways, bathrooms, elevators, and other
residence hall public areas receive undue abuse, we
expect the assistance of residents in identifying the
responsible individual(s).
When the individual cannot be identified, all residents
in that area will be required to pay a share of repairing
such damages.

A full computer lab, including fee printing, is located
at the service desk. Students will receive notification
when there are packages to pick up at the service desk.

Room:
You are responsible for any damage that occurs in your
room during your occupancy. If damages are accidental,
you must still pay repair costs.
10

LAUNDRY FACILITIES

VENDING MACHINES

Washers and dryers operate by coin or Eagle Dollars
and are located in every residence hall. If students lose
money in a machine, they should report the problem
to the 24-hour Service Desk. The university is not
responsible for clothing damaged by, or removed from,
washers and dryers.

Coin-operated and Eagle Dollar-access vending
machines are available in each residence hall and
across campus. All vending machines are contracted
by the university with local firms. If a machine is not
functioning properly, or if students lose money in a
machine, they should report it to the 24-hour Service
Desk.

COMPUTER lab

BICYCLE STORAGE/FACILITIES

A computer lab is available at the 24-hour Service
Desk for residence hall students only. Residence hall
students may access the computers by logging in
with their student ID. Laptop computers with wireless
Internet are available for residence hall student checkout at the 24-hour Service Desk with appropriate
university ID.

Students are permitted and encouraged to bring bicycles
to the university. For security reasons, bicycles are
permitted to be stored in student rooms. The university
is not responsible for theft or damage to any bicycle.
Bicycles may not block exits such as windows or
doorways and may not be hung from walls, ceilings, or
furniture.

EQUIPMENT
Equipment such as games, athletic equipment,
billiards, Ping-Pong, Vacuums, and recreational
equipment may be checked out by contacting the
residence hall staff or the 24-hour Service Desk.

Bike racks are located at various points around the
campus, including locations near or in the residence
halls. Bicycles should be locked when not in use.
Students should check with the hall staff or the
24-hour Servcie Desk if there are questions concerning
bicycles. Interior bicycle storage is not provided.

TELEVISIONS/INTERNET/PHONE

ELEVATOR USE

Students in all residence halls have cable television,
high-speed Internet, and local phone service in their
rooms.

Elevator occupancy cannot exceed the maximum
allowed at any time. Elevators are located in Nair and
Wilkinson Halls and Campus View and Valley View
suites.

STUDY LOUNGES/Tv lounges/
recreation areas
Every residence hall has areas designated for quiet
study. Students are expected to conduct themselves in
an appropriate manner in and around the study lounge.
In-hall recreation rooms are designed for use by building
residents and their guests. Recreation rooms may offer
a variety of entertainment features including televisions,
game tables, and meeting space (offering may vary by
hall), and can be reserved for private use by contacting
the GA or professional staff member. Recreational
areas are subject to all residence hall policies,
(including, but not limited to, smoking, alcohol, and
noise policies) and any additional posted regulations.
11

Student Responsibilities
Resident students are expected to comply with both
Student Conduct Code (found in the Student Rights,
Regulations, and Procedures Online handbook), and
the Residence Hall policies (found in this Residence
Hall Online handbook and the Undergraduate Catalog).
In addition, residents are expected to respect one
another, the residence hall staff, and the housekeeping
and maintenance personnel. Use of profane or obscene
language is not acceptable behavior and may result in
disciplinary action.

NOISE POLICY
Residents are expected to refrain from interfering
with other residents’ ability to sleep, read, and study.
An atmosphere that supports sleep and studying takes
precedence at all times in the residence halls.
Students who are asked to lower their volume during
quiet or courtesy hours by fellow students or staff are
expected to do so.
Unreasonable noise consists of slamming of doors,
running or shouting in the halls, carrying on conversations from windows, and excessive noise in rooms,
halls, lounges, stairwells, or bathrooms. Sound
speakers, unless for official hall-sponsored activities,
are not to be played or placed out of windows.

Conduct which interferes with, interrupts, or inconveniences the normal and usual activities of others
violates the Student Conduct Code. Residents should
be aware of the possible effects of their behavior on
others. Residents are also responsible for the behavior
of their guests.

Violations of any of these forms of noise may result in
judicial action and/or removal of audio equipment from
the residence hall, housing reassignment, or loss of
on-campus housing privileges for the student.

Students are accountable for conduct violations which
occur in their rooms. They may be held accountable for
conduct violations due to their presence in a situation
where a violation occurs. They may also be held
accountable for conduct violations if such accountability
is reasonably concluded from the circumstances of the
incident.

A. Quiet hours are specific times designated by
the Center for Residence Life Services and
individual halls when noise from stereos,
televisions, conversations, and other activities
must not be clearly heard in residence
hallways, nearby rooms, or through open
windows.

CONSIDERATION OF OTHERS
Living in close quarters with other students requires
sensitivity as to how one’s own behavior affects other
people. Every resident has the right to a living
environment which allows him or her to sleep and
study within their room. With this right, all residents
accept responsibility for monitoring their own behavior
so it does not violate the rights of others.

B. Quiet hours are in effect for all residence halls,
seven days a week. Quiet hours extend from
10 p.m. until 10 a.m., Sundays through
Thursdays, and from Midnight until 10 a.m.
on Fridays and Saturdays. “Courtesy Hours”
are in effect at all other times (24 hours).
Other excellent study places are residence hall
study lounges, the library, Gemmell Student
Complex, and some classrooms in certain
academic buildings.

occupancy

C. Courtesy hours are always in effect, and
residents should respect the rights and
requests of their fellow students with regard
to noise levels in the residence hall. Therefore,
music or noise should not extend beyond three
doors down the hallway during courtesy hours.
Courtesy hours also apply to the immediate
perimeter of each building (including courtyard
areas).

For safety reasons, no resident’s room shall have more
than eight people occupying it at one time. Residents
who reside in rooms other than standard double or
triple rooms must see their professional staff member
or GA regarding occupancy of their particular room.

12

D. In order to maintain an appropriate environ ment within residence halls, shouting to or
from windows, playing loud music which
carries strongly into hallways or outside of
windows is prohibited. Students wishing to
plan an activity which may include high levels
of noise (such as a hall barbecue or dance)
must obtain permission from the residence hall
staff of all nearby residence hall(s) at least
one week prior to the event.

prosecution and university disciplinary action. All
students must evacuate the building when the alarm
sounds. Failure to do so will subject the student to
disciplinary action.

FIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEMS
(sprinklers)
All residence halls have sprinkler systems. These
systems are designed to operate when an area reaches
extremely high temperatures. Tampering with any part
of the suppression system is considered destruction of
or misuse/abuse of university property and is a violation
of Pennsylvania state law and additionally will be
considered a violation of the code of conduct.

E. All residence hall doors should be shut after
midnight to help the community adhere to an
atmosphere of quiet. Doors open after midnight
will be shut by residence hall staff and/or
security aides.
F.





Twenty-four hour quiet hours will be in effect
near the end of each semester in order to
facilitate studying for final exams. Additional
information regarding quiet hours will be
posted in individual halls late in the semester.

personal property/liability/damage
The university assumes no responsibility for theft or
damage to student’s personal property. It is essential
that students check their family insurance policies
concerning the extent of coverage under their existing
homeowner’s insurance policy. Students are strongly
encouraged to consider carrying some form of personal
insurance if their policy does not cover them while they
are away from home.

As with any of our policies, students are responsible
for their guests’ behavior and compliance with the
noise policy. Students are also expected to respect
the requests of others for quiet and share in the
responsibility for developing and maintaining a positive
atmosphere in their hall.

RESTROOM/SHOWER FACILITIES

MISUSE OF FIRE ALARM AND
FIRE FIGHTING EQUIPMENT

Unless designated otherwise, all hall restroom facilities
are intended for use by the sex designated on the
restroom door. Members of one sex are not permitted to
use the bathroom facilities of the opposite sex. Shower
stalls are single occupancy only.

Placement of the fire hoses, extinguishers, alarms,
sprinkler heads, and other firefighting apparatus is
required by law. The presence and conditions of these
items are periodically inspected by the Department
of Labor and Industry. Any missing or non-working
equipment results in a citation against the university.
The university is required to conduct periodic fire drills
in its residence halls.

SMOKING IN AND AROUND THE
RESIDENCE HALLS

It is expected students know the rationale for firefighting equipment (such as smoke detectors and
pull stations) in the residence halls and understand
their intended functions. Any student who violates
campus safety regulations by setting fires, tampering
with fire safety or supression equipment, reporting
false fire alarms, or otherwise threatening the safety
of member(s) of the campus community, will be liable
under both the university judicial system and Pennsylvania state law. The Department of Public Safety
prosecutes for these violations.

All residence halls are smoke free. Students, staff,
visitors, or guests may not smoke within a 25-foot
perimeter of any residence hall.

FIRE SAFETY
Any student who willfully compromises the safety of
fellow residents by tampering with fire safety equipment
or sounding false alarms will be subject to criminal
13

According to Pennsylvania law, false alarms to agencies
of public safety are misdemeanors of the first degree,
punishable by imprisonment up to five years and/or a
fine of up to $10,000. The Center for Residence Life
Services considers such actions a violation of the
housing contract. University sanctions may include
suspension or dismissal.

are open. They should also dress appropriately and
should carry a towel. Residents must close their doors
upon leaving. Students should leave the residence hall
through the nearest fire exit and exit at least 100 feet
from the building. A signal will be given when students
may re-enter the building.
During an alarm, particularly one which takes place
during inclement weather, residents may go to an
alternate facility until informed they may re-enter their
residence hall. Designated residence hall staff will
accompany residents to alternate facilities.

FIRE EVACUATION PROCEDURES
As mandated by state law, Clarion University is
required to conduct monthly fire drills in all residence
halls. Because students will not know of the fire drills
in advance, they will be expected to respond each time
as though there were a real fire. Failure to leave the
building during a fire drill may result in
disciplinary action. During evacuation, students may
not use the elevator. Instructions for evacuation will be
discussed at your first floor meeting with your CA.

Alternate facilities:
Wilkinson to Nair
Nair to Wilkinson
Ballentine to Valley View
Givan to Campus View
Campus View to Givan
Valley View to Ballentine

When the alarm sounds, students should check to
see that their windows are closed and their drapes

PROHIBITED
ACTIVITIES/APPLIANCES
The following are prohibited in and around universitysupervised housing units; on the campus, or at any
university-sanctioned event (without special permission).
Note: The following is not an all-inclusive list:
•

possession/consumption of alcoholic beverages;

•

possession/consumption of illegal drugs and
narcotics and paraphernalia associated with such
items;

•

candles, incense, or other articles employing an
open flame (lit or unlit);

•

possession of animals, reptiles, and birds;

•

halogen lamps;

•

sports in the hall;

•

throwing of objects from or at windows;

•

gambling;

•

possession/use of firearms, BB, and paint and
pellet guns, firecrackers, explosives, or chemicals
or hazardous materials of any type
(See: Appendix II: Procedure No. 70.300; WEAPONS, FIRE
ARMS AND DANGEROUS DEVICES POLICY);
14

•

unapproved radio and television masts and aerials,
including the illegal wiring or tampering with cable
television services;

•

radio transmitters of any type;

•

waterbeds;

•

metal-tipped darts;

•

propping doors/tampering with building safety;

•

air conditioners/portable AC;

•

George Foreman-type grill/toaster ovens;

•

Non-grounded electrical connectors;

•

Electric heaters;

•

Candle warmers, tart burners;

•

Empty alcohol containers;

•

Items with open heating coils;

•

electric skillets;

•

toasters/toaster ovens;

•

deep fat fryers, and

•

extension cords.

ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES

regular microwave per suite and one refrigerator per
two residents.

All appliances must be UL-approved and surge
protectors must be used.

Care should be taken in the storage of food so it does
not create a health hazard. Residents who store food
in their rooms must make certain food is kept in tightly
closed containers. Items should not be stored outside
windows.

The unsafe, improper, or careless use of any electrical
appliance may result in its confiscation. Personal possession of cooking appliances other than those listed
in “Cooking and Food Storage” below is not permitted.
Residents should exert reasonable caution to make certain approved appliances are used on a non-flammable
surface, and never on upholstery, bedding, or wood
surfaces. Appliances should be attended while in use,
and unplugged when not in use.

UNIVERSITY VISITATION POLICY
and guest GUIDELINES
Visitation is the privilege of a resident student to
entertain a guest, including a member of the opposite
sex, in his or her room within the limits of these
guidelines. Visitation privileges are permitted subject
to the following conditions:

Residents may use extension cords on a temporary
basis, provided the cord is not placed across aisles,
wrapped around metal fixtures or furniture, run through
doorways, or under carpets or bedding. Extension
outlet bars equipped with circuit breakers are the
recommended extension devices. Overloaded electrical
outlets and any appliances with frayed cords are
prohibited.

A. The hall council, in conjunction with the staff
of the hall, may institute a hall-wide election in
the event there is sufficient student interest in
limiting the maximum visitation hours for the
residence hall.
B. Residents of individual wings or floors have the
option of restricting visitation hours for their
wing or floor. An 80 percent majority, secret ballot vote of the residents of the unit is
required for this determination.

COOKING AND FOOD STORAGE
Student rooms and living areas do not have adequate
disposal facilities, ventilation, and safety design for
food preparation, and such activities are violations
of health and safety regulations. Cooking of food is
prohibited in student rooms and should be done in
areas designated for cooking. Students may use coffee
makers (equipped with an automatic electrical
shut-off) or thermal/insulated carafes in their rooms.

C. The Center for Residence Life Services retains
authority to review and evaluate a hall visitation
program at any time and must be notified of
proposed changes.
All residence halls have extended visitation of 24-hours
per day/seven days a week. This allows students to
entertain non-residents and visitors of the opposite sex
at any time of the day as long as the conditions listed
are followed:

The following are permitted in student rooms:
•

hot air popcorn poppers,

•

hot pots/coffee makers with automatic shutoff

•

refrigerators (no larger than 4.0 cubic feet), and

•

microwaves (700 watts or less)

A. Students are permitted to entertain visitors
only if there is agreement from their
roommate(s).
B. All visitors must be escorted to and from a
student’s room at all times. Any unescorted
visitor found in the hall shall be presumed to
be there improperly and be requested to leave.
If the individual is a student of the university,
he or she shall be subject to university
discipline. If a non-student, the individual’s
failure to comply with such a request places

Microfrige rentals are the only sanctioned legal microwave appliance allowed in Ballentine and Givan. One
refrigerator unit and one regular microwave oven with a
wattage setting of no more than 700 are permitted in
both Nair and Wilkinson Halls. Coffee makers should
have a disposable filter system, an automatic shut-off,
and make no more than 12 cups of coffee at one time.
Campus View and Valley View suites are allowed one
15



CARD ACCESS SYSTEM

the individual in violation of the trespass law
and subject to arrest.

Tampering with the card access system is considered
destruction of or misuse/abuse of university property
and will be considered a violation of the code of
conduct. Tampering includes forcing or propping
doors open; permitting other individuals to gain access
illegally “tailgating;” and transferring student
identification to another individual.

Note: A visitor is someone who does not live in a
particular hall.
C. Visitors and non-residents are not permitted to
be left in the building/room.
Residence hall facilities are not intended for the
provision of living accommodations for transients,
non-students, or students who have not contracted
for housing. Any non-resident found to be in a hall is
considered to be in violation of trespass laws unless
registered as a guest.

Your Eagle (ID) Card acts as your cardkey in buildings
that utilize the card access system. Cost of a replacement Eagle Card is the responsibility of the student.

Guest registration may be accomplished by registering
at or calling the 24-hour Service Desk. A guest may not
be registered for more than three nights in any sevenday period without the approval of the professional
staff member in charge of the hall. Residents may be
documented if their guest(s) are found to have violated
this policy. Regardless of the number of nights, all
residents must have the roommate’s permission before
a guest can stay the night.

LOCK OUT POLICY/PROCEDURE
Students who are locked out of their room may contact
a staff member to be admitted to their room. Each
student is allowed one “free” lockout per semester.
In the event a staff member is unavailable, it is the
student’s responsibility to contact the 24-hour service
desk to temporarily sign out a key to their room. The
student has 30 minutes to return the temporary key or
risk a financial charge.

No student’s bed should be utilized by a guest without
the student’s knowledge and consent. Meals may be
purchased on an individual basis at dining facilities.
Residents are held responsible for the actions of their
guests and visitors while in the residence hall, on the
campus, and at any university-sanctioned event.

Givan, Ballentine, Campus View, and Valley View
residents also have the ability to encode a temporary
room card to access their room by using the kiosk in
the Givan lobby. Once a temporary room card is issued,
the student must re-encode their student ID card
within three days or they will be locked out of the
room. Students re-encode their ID card by going to 236
Egbert and turning in their temporary ID card. Failure
to return temporary ID cards will result in a fee.

KEYS
Students may be issued a room/mailbox key. The key
is meant for personal use only. Students who lend or
duplicate room keys are subject to disciplinary action. Loss of a key should be reported immediately to
the hall staff. If a room/mailbox key is lost, the core
of the locks for the door and mailbox will be changed
at an approximate cost of $50. These charges include
replacement keys for the student, the roommate, and
the area desk. The student who loses the key assumes
responsibility for the charge.

Whenever a student is locked out of his or her room,
the procedure outlined below should be followed:
A. Attempt to locate roommate.
B.






Residents of Ballentine and Givan halls and Campus
View and Valley View suites utilize their Eagle (ID) Card
as their room key.

Check to see if a CA is available to let you in
your room. The CA must verify you are the
resident of the room. Note: Understand that
this service is a privilege and not a right,
therefore, please be considerate of hall staff
when requesting this service.

C. If no staff member is available, proceed to the
24-hour Service Desk where a staff member
will record your name, room number, and
Clarion ID number in the lockout log. A series
of questions will be asked to determine if you
are the resident of the room.
16

D.



Once a temporary key to your room is issued,
you have 30 minutes to return the key to the
area desk. Failure to return the key within the
allotted period results in a lock change and
assessment of charges to the individual who
requested the key.

• The fish owner assumes all responsibilities and
consequences resulting from improper care
and for violation of fish ownership rules and
regulations.

ADDITIONAL POLICIES

Note: Excessive lockouts may result in disciplinary action
and possible loss of the lockout service.

Additional policies regarding residence halls are
found in the Undergraduate Catalog, individual hall
regulations, posted signs, and periodic university
mailings such as break or closing notices in residence
halls.

RIGHT OF ENTRY

Reserving Residence Hall Facilities
Lounges, meeting rooms, and other areas of the halls
may be requested for use by recognized student
organizations or groups of students. Such use, however,
must be approved by the professional staff member or
GA. Kitchen space is available in each hall. See hall
staff for details.

The university unconditionally reserves the right to
enter and/or inspect rooms.

SALES/SOLICITATION
Residents are not permitted to use their rooms or
other facilities of the building for any commercial
purpose. Solicitation by residents or outsiders is
strictly forbidden.

Parking
Parking regulations are available from the Department
of Public Safety. Automobiles parked in campus lots
must be registered with Public Safety. Visitors may
obtain temporary parking permits by registering their
cars at the Public Safety Office located in Thorn I.
Illegally parked student automobiles may be ticketed,
booted/immobilized, or towed.

PET POLICY
•




Students may have fish. They must be kept in
a fish bowl or aquarium with a maximum size
of l0 gallons. One 10-gallon aquarium per
person is allowed.

•


Fish must be removed from the residence halls
at the end of each semester, and during some
breaks.

Note: Spaces reserved for professional staff members are
enforceable 24-hours a day, seven days a week.

General Information
TELEPHONE SERVICE

RESIDENCE HALL TECHNOLOGY SERVICES

The university provides an outlet for telephone hook-up
and working line service in each student room. Payment
of charges for installation, line service, and local telephone service is covered by the university. The university
also provides unlimited campus and local telephone
service to each room. Students must provide their own
telephone. University addresses and phone numbers
may be found in the Campus Directory, published and
distributed in each hall, or in the online directory.

Clarion provides a comprehensive set of technologybased services. These services primarily involve
television, computer, and telephone offerings.
Available services for students include:

17

•

high-speed Internet access to the university’s
network and the Internet,

•

cable television offers more than 100 channels
(including HBO and HD channels), and

An added feature of the ID card is the Eagle Dollars
program. Students can make a variety of purchases on
campus, and in the local community, by using their
Eagle Card as a debit card.

• a student help desk located on campus to
assist students with telephone, computer, and
television questions.
Tampering with residence hall technology equipment is
considered destruction of, or misuse/abuse of, university
property and will be considered a violation of the code
of conduct. Tampering includes the defacing or
destruction of the modular wall unit that contains the
room’s telecommunications connection outlet.

For an minimum original deposit of $25, students can
open an account from which they can use their Eagle
Dollars at
•
•
•
•
•
•

Note: Students are subject to the university Computer Use
Policy. For questions, contact ResNet at ext. 2452.

MAILBOXES

the university book store,
vending machines,
washers and dryers,
all food service locations,
printing, and
PAGES

Additional deposits can be made ($25 minimum) at
236 Egbert by cash, check, or credit card, or by going
online at https://clarionu.managemyid.com

Mailboxes are located in every residence hall. To
ensure prompt delivery, the following address form
is recommended:

Additionally, cash deposits from $1 to $20 can be
added at the value port on the first floor of the
Gemmell Rotunda.

Student name
Name of hall and room number
Clarion University of Pennsylvania
840 Wood Street
Clarion, PA 16214-1232

Because student Eagle Cards serve a variety of purposes, it is essential they are kept in a safe, secure
place. Loss of an Eagle Card card should be reported
immediately to the Center for Residence Life Services
at 814-393-2352.

Only students’ first-class mail will be forwarded to them
in the summer. However, if their summer address is
different from their home address, students must
submit a “change of address” form to the Registrar’s
Office, 122 Carrier.

ILLNESS

Note: Students are expected and required to check their
mailboxes, as well as their university email accounts, as
the university sends official notices through this system.

Students who become ill at any time or suffer any
injury, should notify their CA or other staff members.
The Keeling Health Center’s hours of operation are
posted at the health center. Emergency after-hour care
is available at the Clarion Hospital. Contact your hall
staff for assistance. Sick trays are available
for students who are ill. Students should contact the
dining hall for more information.

EAGLE CARDS
Each student is provided with a college identification
card known as an Eagle Card. Students should carry
their card with them at all times and must present the
ID upon request of university officials. Failure to do so
may result in disciplinary action. Replacement cards
are available in the Center for Residence Life Services,
236 Egbert.

NEEDLE/SYRINGE DISPOSAL
Students who require use of hypodermic syringes
must dispose of them in a container designed for that
purpose. Containers may be obtained by contacting
Keeling Heath Services at ext. 2121, or Public Safety
at ext. 2111.

The Eagle Card is used to gain entrance to residence
halls, the student recreation center, and campus
activities. It is also used for meals and as a library
card.

Note: Needles are not to be disposed of in the residence
hall garbage.
18

Dining options
EAGLE COMMONS DINING HOURS

All students residing in any of the six on-campus
residence halls are required to have one of four meal
plans:
• The Ultimate—
19 meals per week with $200 Flex
•


The Fab 14—
14 meals with $200 flex

•

Unlimited Supreme with $200 flex

•

Unlimited Value with $200 flex

Breakfast


7 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
Monday through Friday.

Lunch


10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Monday through Friday.

Dinner
3 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Sunday through Thursday;



3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Friday and Saturday.

Brunch
10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday.

Students must present their Eagle Card to the checker
at each meal for admission to the dining or snack areas
depending upon their meal plan. Fees are subject to
change without notice. Students are not permitted to
lend their Eagle Card to other students or visitors.

GEMMELL FOOD COURT
During the academic year, Gemmell Food Court is
open Sunday through Friday. Orders for delivery will be
taken from 5 p.m. to 10:45 p.m., Monday-Friday. The
cash equivalent portion of students meal plans can be
used only during the following meal zones:

Meal plans carry over from fall to spring semesters
unless the ID Office is notified of the changes in writing.
There is no refund for unused flex dollars. Unused flex
dollars will carry over from fall to spring semester;
however, flex dollars do not carry over to the next
academic year.

Monday-Thursday
11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Friday
11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Saturday Closed
Sunday
4 p.m.-9 p.m.


Note: Meal plans can not be downgraded after the drop/
add period each semester.

Carlson Cafe

Students have the opportunity to change meal plan options between the fall and spring semester. Information
is sent before the close of the fall semester. Additional
information concerning meal plans is available in the
Center for Residence Life Services, 236 Egbert Hall.

Monday-Thursday
Friday

8:30 a.m.-9 p.m.
8:30 a.m.-2 p.m.



Starbucks
Monday-Thursday
Friday
Saturday-Sunday

Unlimited portions of most food items are available
at Eagle Commons, and you may return to the serving
line for seconds. Following the meal, trays and eating
utensils should be returned to the dish room, and no
china, glassware, tableware, or food should be removed
from the dining hall. Students found in violation of the
policy are subject to university disciplinary sanctions.

7:30 a.m.-9 p.m.
7 a.m.-7 p.m.
8 a.m.-7 p.m.

denny’s all-nighter
TBA

PACKED LUNCHES
Packed lunches are available to students for field trips,
student teaching or internships, or any university-related function that requires them to be off-campus.
Arrangements for packed lunches can be made in the
manager’s office of Eagle Commons or Gemmell Food
Court.
19

CALENDAR FOR OCCUPANCY
AND DINING HALL SERVICE

CARE OF RESIDENCE HALL FACILITIES
Residence hall privileges are restricted to students
residing in each hall; therefore, residents will be held
responsible for the general conditions (cleanliness,
damages, etc.) of their living quarters. Misuses of
university property and poor personal hygienic
conditions which are dangerous to the well-being
of roommates and other students will be dealt with
promptly by hall staff and may be grounds for contract
termination.

Occupancy and dining hall service will be in
accordance with the university academic calendar.
It can be accessed at www.clarion.edu/4930.

FEES AND PAYMENTS
A $200 housing application fee must be submitted
online with the housing agreement during the housing appplication process. This fee is non-refundable.
The housing agreement is binding for both the fall
and spring academic semesters. Food and housing are
billed to student accounts. Students can contact the
Student Accounts Office for a payment schedule. Fees
are subject to change without prior notice.

THEFT OR DAMAGES
When a specific individual is known to have caused
damages, charges will be levied exclusively to the
responsible person or group of persons. University
property which is damaged may result in the student
being charged with institutional vandalism under the
crime codes of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
in addition to being charged according to university
judicial procedures. Vandalism carries a possible jail
term and/or fine.

WITHDRAWAL FROM THE
RESIDENCE HALLS
Rooms must be vacated the manner in which they
were found not more than 24 hours after a student
withdraws from the university or after his or her last
scheduled examination, unless the student has
received written approval from the professional staff
member of their hall to remain longer.
Students must officially withdraw through the Office
of the Registrar and, if refunds are due, they will be
processed by the Center for Residence Life Services.
When withdrawal occurs, the student is responsible
for returning keys and other loaned property to the hall
office, and must have a hall staff member make an
end-of-occupancy room inspection.

It is the policy of Clarion University of Pennsylvania that
there shall be equal opportunity in all of its educational
programs, services, and benefits, and there shall be no
discrimination with regard to a student’s or prospective
student’s race, color, religion, sex, national origin,
disability, age, sexual orientation/affection, gender identity,
veteran status or other classifications that are protected
under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972,
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the
Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and other
pertinent state and federal laws and regulations. Direct
equal opportunity inquiries to: Assistant to the President
for Social Equity, 207 Carrier Administration Building,
Clarion, PA 16214-1232, 814-393-2109, and direct
inquiries regarding services or facilities accessibility to
504/ADA Coordinator (Assistant Director for Social Equity),
207 Carrier Administration Building, Clarion, PA 162141232, 814-393-2109; (or to the Director of the Office for
Civil Rights, Department of Education, 330 Independence
Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20201).

A minimum charge of $50 will be assessed for the
replacement of lost hall keys. An improper checkout
fee is $25. Other assessments are made for missing
or damaged furnishings, unclean rooms, and failure
to check out of the residence hall properly.

ASSIGNMENTS
After rooms have been assigned, all changes are to be
made in the Center for Residence Life Services office
(except during consolidation and single room sign-up).
A $150 fee applies.
20

Appendix I
Fall 2013-Spring2014

II. GENERAL CONDITONS:

on-campus housing
agreement

The Housing Agreement (hereinafter referred to as the “agreement”)
is between Clarion University (hereinafter referred to as the “university”) or Clarion University Foundation, Inc. (hereinafter referred to
as the “foundation”) if you are assigned to the residence hall suites
and you (and your parent/guardian if you are under 18 years of age)
when your signature(s) appears on this agreement. The agreement is
non-transferable. Failure to comply with the terms of the agreement
may result in cancellation of the agreement and/or judicial action at
the discretion of the director of Residence Life Services (or designee)
and/or the foundation (or designee). During the terms of the agreement, the university, by action of the Board of Governor’s or Board
of Trustees or the foundation, reserves the right to alter any rates for
housing or food services. Rates are not guaranteed from one year to
the next. Your eligibility to live in a residence hall from year to year
is not guaranteed. A record (judicial, criminal or psychological) or an
outstanding bill may preclude you from contracting or re-contracting
for housing as determined by the director of Residence Life Services
(or designee) and/or the foundation (or designee). You may have your
agreement cancelled before it takes effect if your judicial and/or
criminal record so warrants. Once assigned, you may not downgrade
your housing assignment unless you have found another student, not
currently living at Reinhard Villages or the suites, of the same gender, who wishes to take your space. However, you can upgrade your
assignment at any time, space permitting.

In order to complete the on-campus housing reservation process
for the 2013-2014 school year, you must answer the application
questions; “Accept” the Residence Hall Agreement below; and pay
your $200 housing application fee. The application fee can be paid
on-line with a credit card. You are responsible for complying with all
provisions of the residence hall agreement and therefore we encourage you to thoroughly read the entire agreement prior to accepting it.
The College and University Student Vaccination Act states all
students living in university owned residence halls must receive the
meningitis vaccine or sign a waiver indicating that they decline the
vaccination prior to moving in to the residence hall. The University
encourages students to receive the vaccination before coming to
campus, and bring the appropriate vaccination documentation with
them, if it has not already been submitted to Keeling Health Center.
The vaccine will be available in limited quantities at the University
Health Center, for a fee, for students unable to obtain the vaccine
from their medical provider. Please contact the Health Center at
814-393-2121 if you require further information.
Please note that once the application is “accepted”, you are financially obligated for the entire 2013-2014 academic year as long as
you are enrolled. If you are no longer interested in living on campus,
you may log out at any time. However, please keep in mind that the
University has a housing requirement which stipulates that all freshmen or transfer students who live more than 30 miles from campus
and have not yet earned at least 24 credits are required to live in university affiliated housing. If you have additional questions regarding
the housing requirement, please contact an Admissions Counselor.

III. ELIGIBILITY:
To be eligible for residence you must be admitted and enrolled as
a full-time undergraduate, graduate or special non-degree student
at the university and have paid required university fees. However,
dropping below the university fulltime course load of 12 credits per
semester (nine credits for graduate students) during any contract period does not automatically release you from the financial responsibility for your agreement during that period. In addition, you must fulfill
mandatory immunization requirements, as outlined by the Keeling
Health Center, to live in the residence halls.

Carefully read the terms and conditions of the Residence Hall
Agreement prior to accepting it. Please note that the residence halls
are closed over all University breaks. Students are not permitted to
remain in the halls over any breaks or vacations except when required
to be here for University related activities. If you have any questions,
please contact us by email at reslife@clarion.edu or by phone at
814-393-2352.

IV. REQUIRED MENINGITIS VACCINE FOR STUDENTS:
Pennsylvania state law requires that students who reside in university housing must be vaccinated against meningitis. You may elect
to waive this requirement if: (1) the university provides you (or your
parent/guardian if under 18 years of age) detailed information on the
risks associated with meningitis and the availability and effectiveness of any vaccine; and (2) you sign a waiver stating that you have
received and reviewed information provided and have chosen that you
will not receive the meningitis vaccine as well as a place to waive the
requirement. The form must be returned to the Keeling Health Center
by August 1 in order for you to be able to check in and receive your
room key at the beginning of the semester.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS
I. INTRODUCTION:
All residence hall students must comply with the terms and conditions noted within the Housing Agreement, all current rules, regulations, procedures and responsibilities stipulated within the Clarion
University Undergraduate Catalog , schedule of classes, Residence
Hall Handbook, Student Rights and Regulations Online Handbook ,
and any other relevant university documents. The suites at Clarion
University are owned by Clarion University Foundation, Inc.
and operated by Clarion University Residence Life Services. All
on-campus residence hall facilities are provided as a service to
students and are unique to the university community. Therefore,
the relationship between you and the university should not be
construed to constitute a landlord/tenant relationship.
21

V. AGREEMENT PERIOD:

University personnel provide housekeeping services only in common
areas, such as stairwells, TV/study lounges, hallways, laundry rooms
and community bathrooms.

The agreement is for the entire academic year, or if entered into
after the beginning of the academic year, for the remainder of the
academic year. The period of occupancy begins upon issuance of
a key and will end within twenty-four (24) hours of the agreement
release unless specific hours are announced in advance with/by the
Residence Life Services department. You are permitted to remain in
your residence hall room no more than twenty-four (24) hours after

Charges for damages in a room and charges for loss or damage to
furnishings or equipment in a room will be assessed to the student(s)
assigned to that room. Damages/charges for public/common areas
will be split among all residents of the floor or building unless the
responsible individuals are identified.
Occupancy is defined as a signed agreement, and/or issuance of a
key to you for a specified room and does not require actual physical
presence by you or your belongings.

you cease attending classes, complete finals or until 10 p.m. on the
+ accounts. Collection costs incurred in collecting delinquent accounts will be charged to the debtor.
X. ACCEPTANCE OF THIS CONTRACT:

Failure to check out properly (over any breaks, after release or upon
completion of your contract) will result in a $25 improper check-out
fee.

The agreement is effective upon execution by the Residence Life Services, provided that Residence Life Services has received the agreement, signed by you (and your parent or guardian if you are under 18
years of age), without any change to the terms of the agreement, with
the $200 application fee paid by the posted deadline.

Authorized university officials and/or the foundation (or designee)
reserve the right to enter/inspect your room

XI. HOUSING APPLICATION FEE:

a) at initial occupancy and prior to departure;

You must submit a $200 housing application fee as an indication of
your commitment to reside on campus. The housing application fee
is non-refundable if the agreement is cancelled, released, or terminated for any reason.

b) to make repairs at any time during the school year;
c) when there are reasonable grounds to believe a condition
exists which constitutes a danger to the health, safety, and
security of the occupants of a room or residence hall in which
unauthorized equipment is present in a room, or where unauthorized person(s) are living in the room;

XII. MEAL PLANS:
Students living on campus are required to select one of the on
campus meal plans available. Students will be assigned the 14-meal
plan with $200 flex if they do not choose a plan. Campus dining
services will try to accommodate special diet needs, where practical.

d) to make routine inspections for maintenance, health and
safety, and to perform required services as announced by Residence Life Services; or

XIII. CONTRACT RELEASE REQUEST:

e) when there is reason to believe a specific violation of university or Residence Life Services policy is taking place. Authorized
university officials and/or the foundation (or designee) reserve
the right to conduct an administrative search of your space
in the case of a health emergency, or when there is reason to
believe that a specific violation of Residence Life Services or
university policies is taking place that has the potential to have
serious impact on your health and/or safety and/or the university
community.

In order to request a release from the agreement you must submit
a completed Housing Contract Release Request (available at
www.clarion.edu/287648.pdf or in our office). Release from the
agreement for any reason during the agreement period will result in
forfeiture of the $200 application fee. You may incur other charges
dependent on the date of release. If the housing bill is paid and you
are later released from your agreement, a prorated refund will be
processed if applicable (see “University Refund” schedule).
If the agreement release is approved, your check-out and removal
of personal items must be completed within twenty-four (24) hours
of the agreement release. If you are not granted a release from the
agreement, you remain financially responsible under the terms of this
agreement until the end of the agreement period.

XVI. LIABILITY:
Neither Clarion University nor the Clarion University Foundation, Inc.
shall assume responsibility for accident, personal injury, or illness
sustained by you, guests, or visitors, nor for the damage, theft or loss
of personal property. You release Clarion University and the Clarion
University Foundation, Inc., its officers, agents, and employees from
any liability on account of any accident, injury, illness, property damage, theft or loss. Neither Clarion University nor the Clarion University Foundation, Inc. is responsible for loss or damage to property
in your room/suite FOR ANY REASON and you are encouraged to
contact an insurance carrier to ensure proper protection against harm
or loss.

XIV. ALTERATION OF THE CONTRACT:
In the event that you (with permission from Residence Life Services)
change rooms or meal plans resulting in alteration of room and board
rates, the appropriate refund or billing will be made to your student
account.
XV. GENERAL PROCEDURES AND POLICIES:
You will not perform your own repairs in rooms or on furnishings and
equipment, nor alter furnishings or equipment from its intended use.
Charges for repairs, if appropriate, are determined by Residence Life
Services and/or the Facilities Department. You are expected to maintain your room in an orderly, safe, and sanitary condition at all times.
22

Appendix II
Procedure No. 70.300
WEAPONS, FIREARMS AND
DANGEROUS DEVICES POLICY
Date Issued: 07/09/01
Date Effective: 03/19/01
Issued By: Public Safety
Other exceptions to this policy may be granted in
appropriate circumstances by the Director of Public
Safety.

Purpose:
To define university policy regarding the possession of
weapons, firearms and dangerous devices on campus.

A facility to temporarily store weapons is located at the
Public Safety Building, Thorn 1. Failure to comply with
the Weapons, Firearms and Dangerous Devices Policy,
will result in campus administrative or judicial actions
by the Department of Public Safety.

Policy:
Clarion University of Pennsylvania is an institution
of Higher Education. As an academic environment
there is no legitimate purpose to possess or control
weapons, firearms or dangerous devices on University
property. Weapons, firearms and dangerous devices are
instruments capable of causing harm and injury to the
campus population.

This policy complies with Clarion University of
Pennsylvania President’s authority under Act 188
to adopt policies governing the use of institutional
facilities and property, and to do and perform those
things necessary and required for the orderly operation
of the institution.

Accordingly, it shall be prohibited for anyone to possess
or control weapons, firearms or dangerous devices at
Clarion University of Pennsylvania, except as provided
for in the following paragraph. Prohibition of such
devices and instruments on University property is
an attempt to reduce the possibility of injury to the
campus population.
Exceptions to this policy include the following:
•

Small canisters of pepper spray such as those
sometimes carried on key chains for personal
protection.
•

Pocketknives and other similar devices

•

Tools carried by maintenance employees
in furtherance of their assigned job
responsibilities.
•


Weapons carried by Law Enforcement officers
in the performance of their duties.

23

Appendix III
SAFETY REMINDERS

•

Adapted from guidelines by the Pennsylvania Crime
Prevention Practitioners Association

If someone is following you on foot, cross the
street, change directions, or vary your pace.

•

If you are followed by someone in a car, turn
around and walk in the opposite direction.
If the follower persists, record the car’s license
number and call the police.

At home, your family takes responsibility for the safety
of its members, its dwelling, and its property. At CU,
you are living in a much larger “family” whose members are also responsible for their own and each other’s
safety. In the larger university family, each member
must take extra care to ensure the safety of everyone.

ON CAMPUS

No member of the university community should feel
afraid, but all members should exercise extra ordinary
prudence. The Public Safety Department has been
established to protect you and everyone at CU, but
many safety factors are under your control. Here are
some reminders of common-sense precautions you can
take. Your home is as safe as you make it. So is your
university.

IN OFFICES, CLASSROOMS, LIBRARIES,
OR LABORATORIES
•

•

Always keep personal belongings in view. Keep
petty cash and other valued items in a locked
drawer. Keep your purse with you or in a locked
cabinet or drawer. Never leave it in, on top of,
or underneath a desk.
Never prop doors open, especially fire doors,
even for a short time.

•

Avoid working or studying alone in a building
at night.

•

Report anyone who behaves suspiciously to Public
Safety. Remember his or her appearance and relay
the information to the dispatcher. Advise Public
Safety of any hazards or security problems.

ON THE STREET
•

Stay in well-lit areas. Walk at the mid-point
between curbs and buildings. Stay away from
alleys, entries, and bushes.

•

Walk with someone whenever possible. Participate
in the buddy system. Use the Escort Service if you
must travel after dark. It’s worth the wait.

•

If you are followed, act suspicious. Keep looking
behind you and you may discourage the follower.
24

•

Keep doors locked, even if you are away for only a
few minutes. Don’t leave notes on your door saying
that you are out. Lock your door before you go to
sleep. An unlocked door, night or day, can be an
invitation to trouble.

•

Always keep your keys in your possession. Never
place them under mats, over doors, or in any other
obvious “hiding place.”

•

Remember that most losses occur during the day.

•

Close and lock all windows when you leave your
room, especially if you are on the first floor or off
of a fire escape.

•

Keep an accurate inventory of your possessions.
Engraving tools are available through Public Safety.

•

If you should return to your residence and suspect
that it has been illegally entered, do not enter. Call
Public Safety at ext. 2111.

•

In the event of an emergency, call 911.

•

If you see a suspicious person in a hallway or
lounge, or if someone knocks on your door to
solicit, call Public Safety.

•

Never confront a stranger. In all activities, use
common sense and be conscious of your
surroundings.

•

In a residence hall, screams could sound like
horseplay. In an emergency, be specific. Shout,
“Help,” “Police,” or “Fire.”

•

Know your neighbors.

•

Don’t ignore hazardous situations and don’t create
them for others.

IN CASE OF FIRE

•

•

a. Cross at crosswalks; look both ways before
crossing.

When the fire alarm rings, all occupants must
evacuate the building immediately using the nearest exit. Reentry into the building may be authorized only by Public Safety officers or members of
the Fire Department.

In general, do the things a walker would do:

b. Cross only on proper traffic signal.
c. Watch for turning cars.
d. Never go into the roadway from between
parked cars.

WALKING, JOGGING, AND BIKING SAFETY
Rules for Safe Walking

Rules for Safe Bicycle Riding

•

Always use sidewalks when provided. If no sidewalk
exists, always walk facing opposing vehicular traffic
as far as possible from the edge of roadway.

•

Keep to the right side of the roadway and ride in
single file.

•

Pass other cyclists with caution.

•

Always cross a roadway at an intersection or a
well-defined crosswalk, and look both ways before
crossing.

•

Obey all traffic lights.

•

Use hand signals.

•

Always carry identification with you.

•

•

At night, do not walk alone unless absolutely necessary; walk in well-lighted areas; and wear light
colored or reflective clothing.

Ride cautiously through parking areas, driveways,
and congested intersections.

•

For night riding, equip your bike with front/rear
lights, use reflectors, and wear light colored or
reflective clothing.

Rules for Safe Running

•

Run on sidewalks, to the right of walkers. If sidewalks are not available, run on the shoulder of the
road, facing traffic.

Give pedestrians and motor vehicles the right
of way and use a warning device.

•

Use caution when passing parked vehicles because
doors can be opened without warning.

•

Be alert for cars at sharp curves and on crests of
hills where you cannot see oncoming traffic.

•

Watch out for potholes, rocks, broken glass, and
other road hazards.

•

Run in parks, on the track, or on grass whenever
possible.

•

Always lock your bicycle properly when not in use.
Use a high security lock.

•

Never run alone, but do not run in large groups.

•

Communicate to your partner about oncoming
traffic.

a. Secure at least the back wheel and frame tube
to something immovable.

•

•

Wear or carry white, bright, or glow-in-the-dark
clothes, if you must run at night.

•

Be extra careful in inclement weather.

•

Observe crosswalks, traffic lights, stop signs, etc.
Run in place if necessary.

•

When making turns, look behind you and back over
to traffic facing running side as soon as possible.

•

Do not intimidate or provoke automobile drivers.

b. Always lock your bicycle in a well-lit area.
c. Register your bike with the Public Safety
or Clarion Area Police.
REMEMBER…
These rules are not only for your safety, they are the
law. The Pennsylvania vehicle code requires joggers,
cyclists, and pedestrians to obey the traffic laws.
The police can issue you a citation for failing to follow
these rules.

25

Appendix IV
card. The electromagnetic locks are activated 24-hours a day.
Community assistants are on duty in each residence hall
nightly, along with students who work at the 24-Hour Service
Desk throughout the weekdays and weekends.

frequently asked questions
What can I bring to make life more comfortable?
We provide a bed, closet, dresser, desk, desk chair, bookshelf,
and study lamp for each student, along with a window shade,
and curtain rod for each room. Please visit www.clarion.edu/
placestolive to get an additional list of items which our office
suggests for students to bring to campus. If you bring a stereo,
please bring headphones. We encourage roommates to contact each other to discuss what each will bring to campus.

Can I stay on campus during vacation and breaks?
Generally, no; but we understand that there are exceptions.
Students interested in break accommodations should contact
the Center for Residence Life Services before the vacation
or break is to begin. There is a daily charge. See important
vacation dates under residence hall opening and closing
dates.

What shouldn’t I bring?
Large appliances such as refrigerators (over four cubic feet),
microwaves (over 700 watts), cooking appliances (except
those with automatic shutoff–i.e. hot pots/coffee-makers),
ceiling fans, air conditioners, and weight equipment. If you’re
not sure about what to bring–and what not to bring–call
Residence Life Services staff, at 814-393-2352 or visit
www.clarion.edu/412133.pdf.

What are my residence hall choices?
We have single-sex residence halls–(female) Givan Hall and
(male) Ballentine Hall, Co-educational residence halls, single
rooms (limited quantity), double rooms, suites, and apartments at Reinhard Villages.
What’s a common area?
A common area is any area in a residence hall which is not .
being used for living quarters, offices, etc. These include
hallways, bathrooms, lobbies, lounges, stairwells, laundry
rooms, TV lounges, etc.

What defines a guest/visitor?
A guest is anyone who does not live in that particular residence
hall.
What’s visitation?
Visitation is the period of time when a guest is permitted in the
residence hall and/or room. All residence halls offer 24-hours
a day/seven days a week visitation. Students can have
guests in their room only if there is no objection from their
roommate(s). Any guest of a hall resident can only enter or
leave the residence hall by the main lobby doors and must be
escorted by their host/hostess. Guests can stay no more than
three days in a seven-day period.

Can I have a car on campus?
Yes. There are various parking lots on campus for residents,
labeled “Student Parking,” and all student vehicles parked on
campus must show a “Student Parking Permit.” Permits are
available at Public Safety at an annual cost.
When can I check in?
The Center for Residence Life Services traditionally sends a
letter or email to students in July with the date that a residence
hall student may check into his/her hall/room. See important
opening dates. First-year students check in the Friday before
classes begin. Upperclassmen move in the Sunday before
classes begin.

Does the university insure my belongings?
Clarion University does not insure your personal belongings
and does not assume liability for theft or damages. A parent’s
homeowner’s insurance policy may provide insurance .
coverage.

What if I lose my room key?
You can get a temporary key by contacting the 24-hour .
Area Desk. Students should report this to their Community .
Assistant right away. Residents will be billed in the event of
door lock changes.

Can I make a room/hall change?
Yes. The information will be made available to all students .
during floor meetings. Occasionally, room/building changes
are permitted later in the semester. Fees apply

Can I get a refrigerator in my room?
A refrigerator company delivers rented refrigerators to campus
prior to the first week of school. The company rents 2-4 cubic
foot refrigerators, or combination microwave and refrigerator.
Rental information is mailed to students during the summer.

What’s the security like on campus?
University police (Public Safety) work round-the-clock on .
campus and can be reached 24-hours-a-day at 814-3932111. Residence hall staff members are trained to deal with
emergency situations. There are fire alarm systems, smoke
detectors and sprinklers in all halls. We also have an electronic.
card access system in each hall. The system requires every
student who wishes to enter the building to use his/her ID

How about a fish tank?
Yes. The volume limit is one 10-gallon tank per person. .
The tank may only contain fish!
26

Can I get a phone? Are there any restrictions?
You must bring a phone! A phone line is available in all
university residence hall rooms and comes with unlimited
basic/local calling. One active phone line is available for each
room. We encourage residents to provide an answering machine (or use the university voicemail system).

What size bed sheets do I need?
All halls use standard-sized twin sheets.
Who is responsible for the Residence Halls?
The Center for Residence Life Services employs a number of
professionals, some who live and work right in the residence
halls and others who are responsible for maintenance,
custodial, and administrative needs of the office.

What’s the rule on firearms and weapons?
Objects with potential to cause bodily harm to residents are
not allowed in the residence halls–or anywhere on campus.
Such objects include fireworks, explosives, handguns, BB
guns, shotguns, stun guns, knives, bows and arrows, various
martial arts weapons, etc. Storage of handguns, BB guns,
shotguns, stun guns, knives, bows and arrows, various martial
arts weapons is made available through the Public Safety .
Office.

The Center for Residence Life Services is led by a director and
associate director. In addition, the office employs several .
support staff members and a large number of student .
assistants who work to make the residence halls a comfortable
place to live and learn.
A professional staff member and Graduate Assistant (GA) staff
supervise six residence halls. Professional staff have master’s
degrees in student personnel or a related field. They are live-in
staff who directly supervise the GAs and CAs on campus.

What happens if I lose my Eagle card?
The Eagle card serves as a student’s identification, meal card,
and access key to the residence halls (through the residence
hall security access system). The ID card will need to be .
presented to check out library materials, attend athletic
events and student actitities, printing and for Eagle Dollars
usage.

GAs are graduate students with at least an earned bachelor’s
degree. They indirectly supervise student staff (Community
Assistants), coordinate educational programs, support .
policies and rules, and are available if students want to talk
about residence hall, university, or personal concerns.

Students who lose their ID card must go to the Center for .
Residence Life Services, in 236 Egbert Hall, to replace the ID
card. A replacement fee must be paid to receive a new ID. Call
814-393-2352 for more information.

A full list of
Frequently Asked Questions
is available at
www.clarion.edu/12959.

Do I clean the room?
Yes. While housekeepers attend to the public areas and
bathrooms (except in Campus View and Valley View suites
where students are required to clean their own bathrooms),
students are expected to clean their own rooms.
Do I have to have a contract for a meal plan?
Yes. All residence hall students are required to purchase a full
meal plan. See page 19 for plans.
Can I cook in my room?
Yes. Cooking in residence hall rooms is permitted only with
appliances that have automatic shut-off. Hot pots, coffee
makers, and microwave ovens that draw 700 watts of power or
less are allowed in Nair, Wilkinson, Campus View, and Valley
View Suites. No open-coil or open-flame appliances are
permitted.
Where are the good places to study?
Quiet hours are in effect for all residence halls, seven days a
week. Quiet hours extend from 10 p.m. until 10 a.m., Sundays
through Thursdays, and from Midnight until 10 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. “Courtesy Hours” are in effect at all other
times (24 hours). Other excellent study places are residence
hall study lounges, the library, the Gemmell Student Complex,
and some classrooms in academic buildings.
27

28

Residence Life Mission Statement:
“To collaborate with students, faculty and staff in
providing services that support students’ academic,
social and personal development by fostering
diverse, engaging and responsible communities.”
Updated January 2011

It is the policy of Clarion University of Pennsylvania that there shall be equal opportunity in all of its educational programs, services, and benefits, and there shall
be no discrimination with regard to a student’s or prospective student’s race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation/affection, veteran status or other classifications that are protected under local, state, and federal laws. Direct equal opportunity inquiries to Assistant to the
President for Social Equity, Clarion University of Pennsylvania, 207 Carrier Administration Building, Clarion, PA 16214-1232, 814-393-2109.

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