VENANGO
COLLEGE
PENNSYLVANIA

OF

CLARION

UNIVERSITY

OF

2014 Annual Safety, Security & Crime
Statistics Report
THE CAMPUS SECURITY ACT: LEGAL REQUIREMENTS
The Campus Security Act requires colleges and universities to publish an annual report by October 1st that contains three
years of campus crime statistics and certain campus security policy statements; disclose crime statistics for the campus,
pubic areas immediately adjacent to or running through the campus, and certain non-campus facilities and remote
classrooms. The statistics must be gathered from campus police and security, local law enforcement and other
University officials who have “significant responsibility for student and campus activities; provide “timely warning”
notices of those crimes that have occurred and pose an ongoing threat to students and employees; and disclose a public
crime log of any crime that occurred on campus within the patrol jurisdiction of the campus police or the campus
security department and is reported to the campus police or security departments.
Clarion University Department of Public Safety is responsible for preparing and distributing this report.

VENANGO COLLEGE SAFETY PROTOCOLS
Venango College falls under the jurisdiction of the Oil City Police department, and all emergency calls are handled by the
Oil City Police. Emergency calls are dispatched through the Venango county 911 system. The college employs a Security
Officer, who is available to provide building security and escort services 5 days per week. Venango College is located at
1801 West First Street, Oil City, Pennsylvania on 68 acres.

ARREST AUTHORITY
In Pennsylvania, the State System of Higher Education Act 188 of 1982, as amended by Act 48 of 2003, establishes and
defines the powers and duties of Campus Police Officers. This act granted campus police officers the authority to
exercise the same powers that are granted to municipal officers under the Statewide Municipal Police Jurisdiction Act
(Title 42, 8953). Clarion University Police officers are commissioned police officers in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
and have arrest authority when investigating incidents related to Venango College. All officers carry firearms and are
granted powers of arrest through the Governor of the Commonwealth. The department's sworn police officers have all
received police training and regularly attend in-service training.

WORKING RELATIONSHIP WITH OTHER AGENCIES
The Clarion University Department of Public Safety is the primary agency handling criminal incidents on Venango
Campus. The Department is equipped with a telecommunications system to contact and exchange information with Oil
City Police Department. Clarion University maintains a working relationship with the Oil City Police Department.

MONITORING AND RECORDING CRIMINAL ACTIVITY OFF-CAMPUS
The University relies on the close working relationship with Oil City Police Department to receive information about
incidents they receive concerning or involving a member of the campus community. If the Department of Public Safety
is notified of a crime or other serious incident that involves a member of the campus community and occurs in Oil City,
the incident will be referred to Student Affairs for disciplinary action. If the University is notified of a situation in which a
campus community member is the victim of a crime, the Department may issue a Campus Safety Alert, detailing the
incident and providing tips so that other community members may avoid similar incidents.
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REPORTING OF CRIMINAL OFFENSES
Venango College encourages all members of the campus community and visitors to accurately and promptly report all
on-campus crimes and emergencies to Oil City Police Department by calling “911”, or by using the “blue-light”
emergency telephones located throughout campus. Crimes can also be reported in person at the Frame Administration
Building of Venango College or the Dispatch Center of Thorn 1 on the Clarion Campus. Clarion University’s Department
of Public Safety investigates all reported on-campus crimes and initiates prosecutions through the legal systems, when
warranted.
Students and employees should report any potential criminal offenses to Clarion University Department of Public Safety
or a Campus Security Authority at Venango College for the purpose of making timely warning reports and inclusion in
the annual statistical disclosure.

VOLUNTARY CONFIDENTIAL REPORTING
If you are the victim of a crime and do not want to pursue action within the University’s student conduct system or the
criminal justice system, please consider making a confidential report. With your permission, the Chief or designee of
Clarion University’s Police force can make a report on the details of the incident without revealing your identity. The
purpose of a confidential report is to comply with your wish to keep the matter confidential, while taking steps to ensure
the future safety of yourself and others. With such information, the University can keep an accurate record of the
number of incidents involving students, employees and visitors; determine where there is a pattern of crime and alert
the campus community to potential danger. Reports filed in this manner are counted and disclosed in the required
Annual Security Report.
Anonymous crime tips can be reported by using the Anonymous Tips Reporting form found on the police web page at
www.clarion.edu/policetip.
Professional Counselors are not required to report crimes to be included in the Annual Security Report statistics; unless
mandated under scope of license or law. They are encouraged, however, to inform the person being counseled of the
procedures to report crimes on a voluntary basis for inclusion in the annual crime statistics.

CAMPUS SECURITY AUTHORITIES
As required by the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, or Clery Act,
colleges and universities must annually compile and publish crime, fire and security information about their campuses.
Under this law, “Campus Security Authorities” are mandated to report crimes brought to their attention for inclusion in
Clarion University’s Annual Security and Fire Safety Report and for the purpose of issuing Timely Warning Notices if
deemed necessary. If you or someone you know wishes to report a crime; you may contact any of the following of
“Campus Security Authorities”.
Director of Student Affairs

Executive Dean

Director of Marketing & University Relations

Director of Finance and Administration

Assistant to the Executive Dean

Director of the School of Nursing and Allied Health

Chair of Applied Technology

Chair of Department of Humanities, Science and Technology

Coordinator of Intermural and Recreation

Coordinator of Admissions & Financial Aid

Graduate Assistants

Community Assistants

Assistant Coordinator Admissions and Financial Aid

Chair of the Department of Allied Health

Chair Department of Nursing

Coordinator of Career Services

Coordinator of Learning Support

Security Officer Public Safety

Counselor
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NOTIFICATIONS OF MISSING STUDENTS
If a member of the Venango community has reason to believe that a student who resides in on-campus housing is
missing her/him should immediately notify University Police/Public Safety at 814-393-2111. University Police will
generate a missing persons report once information is provided and initiate an investigation. After investigating the
missing person report, should Clarion University Police determine that the student is missing and has been missing for
more than 24 hours, Clarion University will notify the student’s Missing Person Contact no later than 24 hours after the
student is determined to be missing. If the missing student is under the age of 18 and is not an emancipated individual,
Clarion University will notify the student’s parent or legal guardian immediately after University Police has determined
the person has been missing for more than 24 hours. The local law enforcement agency with jurisdiction will also be
notified no later than 24 hours after the student is determined to be missing. The student’s Missing Person Contact
information is collected at the MyClarion area of the www.clarion.edu website. This information is registered as
confidential and is only accessible to Clarion University Police in furtherance of an official investigation where a student
is determined to have been missing for 24 hours or more.

MISSING STUDENT EMERGENCY CONTACT
The Center for Residence Life Services will provide annual notice to all students in University Housing regarding this
policy. Students are given an opportunity at the beginning of the fall semester to designate an individual to be
contacted by the University if the student is determined to be missing. The designation remains in effect until changed
or revoked by the student.
The online form provided for designation states the circumstance in which the designated emergency contact
information will be used, and will include a statement that the University is required by law to also notify the student’s
custodial parent or guardian if the student is under 18 at the time he or she is discovered to be missing. Students are
advised that their contact information will be registered confidentially, will be accessible only to authorized university
officials, and will not be disclosed to any third party except to law enforcement personnel in furtherance of a missing
person investigation.

EMERGENCY RESPONSE & EVACUATION PROCEDURES
Emergency preparedness is the responsibility of the Emergency Management Team and done under the direction of the
Director of Emergency Management. Members of the team include, the Vice President of Finance & Administration, the
Vice President of Student Affairs, the Director of Facilities Maintenance, and the Director of University Relations as well
as the Director of Public Safety.
The Office of Emergency Management works to develop an Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) and a Campus Evacuation
Plan to address response to emergency incidents/situations related to all types of hazards (natural, man-made, utilities,
and technological) that may arise. The campus EOP is National Incident Management Systems (NIMS) compliant and
incorporates the principles of the Incident Command System (ICS) as required by State and Federal law. Both the EOP
and Campus Evacuation Plans provide responders with guidelines for documentation, sheltering-in-place and other
pertinent information for managing emergencies.

FIREARMS/WEAPONS 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.
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
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instruments on University property is an attempt to reduce the possibility of injury to the campus population.
Exceptions to this policy include the following:
1.) Small canisters of pepper spray as those sometimes carried on key chains for personal protection.
2.) Pocketknives and other similar devices
3.) Tools carried by maintenance employees in furtherance of their assigned jobs.
4.) Weapons carried by Law Enforcement officers in the performance of their duties.
Other exceptions to this policy may be granted in appropriate circumstances by the Director of Public Safety.
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. 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.

ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY FOR ALCOHOL AND ILLEGAL DRUGS
The University will not tolerate the use, possession, and/or distribution of alcohol or illegal drugs. These activities
present a danger to the University community and detract from the educational mission of the institution. Students
may be denied admittance into University facilities if it is believed they are under the influence of, or in possession of,
alcohol or illegal drugs. Negative behavior that results from the use of alcohol and/or other drugs will not be tolerated
in the University community. All instances of drug and alcohol usage will be formally adjudicated by the office of
Student Affairs and, wherever possible, police authorities. The university reserves the right to provide alcohol
amnesty to the person reporting the act of sexual violence and/or to the reported survivor of sexual violence in efforts
to increase the likelihood of reporting such incidents.

DRUG AND ALCOHOL POLICY
No persons regardless of age are permitted to possess, transport, or consume alcoholic beverages on campus with the
exception of certain presidential legally approved non-student activities.
It is unlawful to sell, furnish or provide alcohol to a person under the age of 21. The possession, sale, use, manufacture,
or distribution of any controlled substance (drugs) is illegal under both state and federal law and prohibited by university
policy as denoted in the Code of Conduct contained within the Student Rights, Regulations, and Procedures Online
handbook which is available at http://www.clarion.edu/studentrights. Limited numbers of hard copies are also available
at the Office of Judicial and Mediation Services.
Venango College strictly enforces all drug law and liquor law violations. Violators of the law are subject to criminal
prosecution under state and/or federal laws as well as under the student conduct system as outlined in the Student
Rights, Regulations, and Procedures Online handbook.
Clarion University has developed a program to prevent the illicit use of drugs and abuse of alcohol by students and
employees. The program services related to drug use and abuse include dissemination of information materials,
educational programs through Wellness Programs, counseling services, referrals, individualized meetings, and by way of
disciplinary actions.

DRUG FREE LEGISLATION
In addition to this publication and in accordance with the Drug-Free Schools and Campuses Act and Drug-Free
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Workplace Act, the University makes available and distributes, on an annual basis, a Student Rights, Regulations, and
Procedures Online handbook brochure which contains specific information concerning the use and abuse of alcohol and
illegal drugs, and programs available both on and off campus. The Student Rights, Regulations, and Procedures Online
handbook contains a compliance manual section which details information regarding drug use and sale as well as
information related to alcohol.

DRUG AND ALCOHOL INTERVENTION SERVICES
Venango College provides alcohol and other drug prevention and intervention services to its students and employees
through Counseling Services located in Montgomery Hall. Some of the services provided include alcohol
education/intervention workshops. The Office of Health Promotions and Programs supports a Clarion University-Clarion
Community Coalition on the prevention of alcohol abuse and violence task force. The staff offers presentations to
university groups, classes, treatment referral service, student field experiences, and literature distribution.
Clarion University, in conjunction with all Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education institutions provides Brief
Alcohol Screening and Interactions (BASICS) for all known first-time offenders of the Clarion University Alcohol Policy.
BASICS is a two-session preventative alcohol program offered to Clarion University students who want to further explore
their

CRIME PREVENTION AND SECURITY AWARENESS PROGRAMS
The Office of Emergency Management is dedicated to the safety of employees and students and offers training in
A.L.I.C.E. (Active Shooter), bomb threat and severe weather emergencies. This training is held periodically through out
the academic year to introduce students and employees to campus security procedures and practices. Information
regarding all emergency plans is located on the Office of Emergency Management’s website and all employees and
students are encouraged to personally prepare themselves for a campus emergency by attending training events and
familiarizing themselves with the information on the website.
The Student Rights, Regulations, and Procedures Online handbook is available online for student use and public
viewing/inspection at http://www.clarion.edu/studentrights. A brochure version is sent to all new students and new
employees and information is conveyed electronically to the campus community on the Wednesday prior to the start of
fall and spring classes. The Student Rights, Regulations, and Procedures Online handbook contains information
regarding University policies, procedures, and information on personal safety, fire safety, and other policies.
Each student is responsible for familiarizing him/herself with the information contained in this document. Students
must carry their University identification card at all times and must present it to a University Official upon request in
accordance with the Student Rights, Regulations, and Procedures Online handbook.
Safety, security, self-defense (Rape Aggression Defense System or RAD), theft awareness, sexual assault awareness and
prevention, sexual harassment training, security awareness, vandalism reduction, alcohol and other drug awareness and
education, and overall crime prevention are some of the programs implemented by University Police and Student Affairs
on an annual basis. Additional efforts are utilized during summer orientation sessions, Discovery Weekend Programs,
and through meetings held by Community Assistant staff.
Each Community Assistant provides a minimum of two mandatory meetings each school year to verbally emphasize
applicable residence hall policies and procedures as well as safety and security procedures. Other meetings are held as
needed to disseminate information or follow up on concerns. Community Assistants are also required to complete
programs for students in their building/floor/wing

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SAFETY ESCORTS
Venango campus security officer provides on-campus safety escorts during specified hours and can be scheduled by
contacting the security officer at 814-393-1238.

EMERGENCY PHONES
The Emergency Phones have been installed for safety. All students, faculty, staff and visitors are encouraged to activate
the phones if they encounter any situation that makes them feel uncomfortable. Some situations when the Emergency
Phones may be used:
1. If a crime is in progress or being witnessed.
2. If emergency assistance is needed.
3. If you are being harassed/feeling threatened.
4. If you are ill or require medical attention.
5. If you require assistance or directions.

NOTIFICATION OF DAILY CRIME LOGS
Venango campus is not required to maintain a daily crime log but any crime that is reported to Clarion University Police
at Venango campus would be entered in Clarion daily crime log and is available at the Public Safety office, Clarion
Campus 24 hours, seven days a week.

TIMELY WARNING NOTICES AND EMERGENCY NOTIFICATIONS
In accordance with the Clery Act, Clarion University will immediately notify the campus community upon the
confirmation of a significant emergency or dangerous situation involving an immediate threat to the health or safety of
students or staff occurring on campus. The University will, without delay, and taking into account the safety of the
community, determine the content of the notification and initiate the notification system, unless issuing a notification
will, in the professional judgment of the responsible authorities, compromise efforts to assist a victim or to contain,
respond to, or otherwise mitigate the emergency. Such authorities, include, but are not limited to, the Clarion
University Department of Public Safety, the office of the President, the office of the Vice President of Finance and
Administration and University Relations.
The University will send a Timely Warning Notice to the campus community, notifying of any crimes that pose a serious
and continuing threat to the community in an attempt to aid in the prevention of similar crimes on campus or in Clarion
University owned or controlled property off campus. Timely Warning Notices are usually distributed for the following
Uniformed Crime Reporting Program (UCR)/National Incident Based Reporting System (NIBRS) classifications: arson,
criminal homicide, and robbery. Cases of aggravated assault and sex offenses are considered on a case-by-case basis,
depending on the facts of the case and the information known by the Department of Public Safety. Cases involving
sexual assault usually are reported long after the incident has occurred, and there is no ability to distribute a “timely”
warning notice to the community. Sex offenses will be considered on a case by case basis depending on when and
where the incident occurred, when it was reported, and the amount of information known by the Department of Public
Safety. The Chief of Police, or designee, will review all reports to determine if there is any ongoing or immediate threat
to the community and if the distribution of a Timely Warning Notice is warranted. Timely Warning Notices may also be
posted for other crime classifications, as deemed necessary.
Public Safety, will issue a campus wide timely warning notice or emergency notification through the Office of University
Relations. Public Safety will provide University Relations with the content of the timely warning and determine the
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appropriate segment or segments of the campus community to receive them. University Relations will send the
notifications to the community as instructed. This notification will consist of information being disseminated via the
Eagle Alerts System; which includes email messages, emergency text messages and inner-office voice messages.
Students and employees can sign up at http://www.clarion.edu/alert. Students may also include family members to be
notified when an alert is issued during their registration for this service. Active crime alerts are found on the Clarion
University Police webpage at http://www.clarion.edu/publicsafety.
Any person with information about a crime or other situation that may warrant a timely warning should report it
immediately to Public Safety at 814-393-2111 or 2111 from a campus phone or in person at Public Safety, Thorn 1.

TESTING OF THE EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION SYSTEM
Each semester, Clarion University test its emergency notification system-Eagle Alerts. The process is collaboration
between Finance and Administration, Marking and Communication and Computing Services. The Eagle Alert system is
designed to provide time-sensitive information to university students, faculty and staff in the event of life threatening
events. The system will also be used to let participants know if the campus will be closed for any reason, or if classes are
delayed or cancelled. The information you enter into this system will not be shared with any outside vendors, nor will it
be retained by the university beyond the opt-out date.

SECURITY CONSIDERATIONS IN THE MAINTENANCE OF CAMPUS FACILITIES
Each semester the Campus Safety Inspector, within the Department of Public Safety, and various members of the
Venango College community participate in a Safety Walk of the campus grounds to conduct regular inspections of the
facilities and grounds to note and correct deficiencies that may exist inclusive of landscaping, grounds-keeping and
outdoor lighting. Security Officer on routine patrols, report any safety hazards that are noticed and submit work orders
for the necessary corrections to be made by the Facilities Management Department.

SECURITY OF AND ACCESS TO CAMPUS FACILITIES
Clarion University is a public educational institution. The academic and administrative buildings are typically open during
normal business hours and into the evening hours for night classes and activities. Most facilities have individual hours
which may vary at different times of the year. Access to some campus buildings is controlled by a card access system;
which has various levels of access to authorized individuals. There are various areas of the campus that are posted, in a
manner prescribed by law, to serve notice not to intrude, under penalty of law. These areas include, but are not limited
to hazardous and utility areas, residence halls and academic buildings that are closed after normal operating hours.
Administrative and academic buildings are typically locked between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m., unless there is a need to keep
them open for extended hours. Unauthorized persons are not permitted in the buildings during these hours. In most
buildings on campus, a building authorization form must be completed and signed by faculty, department head and
dean. To gain admittance to a building that is closed, proper identification must be present to Public Safety after the
proper authorization has been verified by dispatch.

STAFFING IN THE APARTMENTS
The Student Apartments at Venango College are privately owned and operated by the Clarion University Foundation,
Inc., are staffed with graduate and student staff members hired by the Foundation and directly supervised by the Direct
of Student Affairs at Venango College. Staff members undergo a screening and interview process prior to official
commencement of duties assigned. The Graduate Assistant for Student Life and Housing resides at the complex and
provides oversight to three student paraprofessionals, referred to as Community Assistants. Student staff receives two
weeks of intensive training in August and three days of intensive training in January with other staff development
trainings occurring throughout the course of the semester. Weekly staff meetings are also held to for both
informational and training purposes. Training topics include but are not limited to policies, procedures, referral systems,
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emergency systems, and fire/safety training as well as training regarding active shooters and other emergency
preparedness.

TYPE OF AVAILABLE HOUSING
Students residing in the Student Apartment Complex are live in four bedroom, two bathroom apartments. Each unit has
an outside entrance accessible with a key card, and each student has a private bedroom accessible with a hard key. In
addition to general lease policies, students are expected to abide by the rights and regulations outlined in the Clarion
University Student Code of Conduct

POLICIES FOR ASSIGNMENT & ON-CAMPUS HOUSING CHANGES
Students can select their room and may select a roommate or roommates using our online housing system. Students
who do not select a roommate will be automatically assigned a roommate based upon a roommate preferences
questionnaire. Assignments are not made with regard to race, creed, color, religion, or sexual orientation. The
University and the Foundation reserve the right to make assignments, temporary assignments, consolidations, and
reassignments. The University and the Foundation reserve the right to cancel any housing agreement and terminate a
student’s housing if the conduct of the student disrupts others, disregards the rights of others, or is in violation of the
terms of the Housing Agreement, local, state, or federal law. Involuntary moves may also occur in regards to a request
of a victim/survivor

VISITATION POLICY
Students may have overnight guest no more than three consecutive nights and no more than seven nights per month.

HOUSING WHILE THE UNIVERSITY IS ON RECESS
Students are able to remain in their apartments over breaks and recesses.

SEXUAL OFFENSE PROGRAMS
Venango College, through Orientation, Discovery Weekend, student activities, Counseling Services, residence hall
programming and academic departments, produces a wide array of programs and services which promote the
awareness of rape, acquaintance rape and other sexual offenses. Public Safety provides crime prevention and self
defense instruction through the RAD (Rape Aggression Defense) program throughout the academic year.
An education brochure entitled ”Have You or Someone You Care About Survived an Incident of Sexual Violence” is a
campus resource that is provided in print and digital forms. This brochure is available online. The resource provides
information about sexual misconduct policies, relationship violence, educational information, safety tips, victim
resources and information about how to respond and report sexual violence.
If you are the victim of a sexual assault report to the Public Safety office, Thorn 1, or call 814-393-2111. Because all
allegations of sexual assault have the potential to involve criminal conduct, the university strongly advises all victims to
first report directly to Public Safety. If the assault occurred off campus, dial 911 and the appropriate police agency will
respond.
You should seek medical attention immediately because you could be injured, internally or externally. A medical
examination could also provide important evidence of assault that is vital for the prosecution of the offender. It is
possible that you could become pregnant or contract a sexually transmitted disease. PPC, The Violence Free Network,
can provide trained support staff to assist you. Don’t bathe until you have had a medical exam; you literally could be
washing away valuable evidence. Save the clothing you were wearing; place in a paper bag to preserve for evidence as
well.
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NOTICE OF NON DISCRIMINATION AND SEXUAL HARASSMENT

Clarion University is committed to cultivating a learning, teaching and working environment that is free of discrimination
on any basis, which includes discrimination of the basis of sex in accordance with Title IX of the Education Amendments
Act of 1972, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in educational programs and activities at institutions that
receive federal financial assistance. Title IX prohibits sexual offenses in all collegiate aspects and requires a prompt and
equitable resolution of complaints. Sexual harassment, which includes acts of sexual violence (including, but not limited
to rape, sexual assault, sexual harassment and sexual exploitation as well as domestic violence, dating violence and
stalking) is a form of sexual discrimination prohibited by Title IX. In the context of Clarion University of Pennsylvania’s
Sexual Harassment Policy and Procedures, sexual assault, or violence occurs when there are physical sex acts
perpetrated against the will of a student or employee when that student or employee is incapable of giving consent.
Acts of rape, sexual assault, sexual battery, and sexual coercion all constitute sexual violence. Allegations of sexual
harassment involving employees or students will be investigated pursuant to the process outlined in the University’s
Sexual Harassment Policy and Procedures found at sexual harassment policy and Students Rights, Regulation and
Procedures found at http://www.clarion.edu/studentrights.
The University offers many resources for addressing complaints of sex discrimination. Inquiries, concerns or
complaints of faculty, staff and students regarding sex discrimination should be directed to the attention of
University’s Title IX coordinator by phone 814‐393‐2109. The Office of Social Equity (Carrier 207) works closely with the
Offices of Public Safety (campus police) and the Judicial and Mediation Services in addressing complaints
regarding sexual assault, and sexual violence. Please visit our website for the institution’s sexual harassment
policy, including a copy of grievance procedures or Title IX and the Clery Act.

Clarion University, upon written request, will disclose to the alleged victim of a crime of violence or a non‐forcible
sex offense, the report of the results of any disciplinary proceeding conducted by the institution against a student who
is the alleged perpetrator of such crime or offense. If the alleged victim is deceased as a result of such crime or
offense, the next of kin of such victim shall be treated as the alleged victim for purposes of this paragraph.
Throughout the entire on‐campus student conduct process, both the complainant and respondent will have access
to the same rights including the opportunity to have an advocate present during the process and to be informed of
the outcome without condition. The complainant will be afforded certain rights while the university hearing
process is ongoing as defined in the Sexual Offenses Policy. Some of the rights include, but are not limited to,
changing academic and/or living situations, if those changes are requested by the victim and are reasonably
available, protection against discussion of past sexual history, and to be free from intimidation and harassment. All
sexual offenses are considered major violations of the Student Code of Conduct. A student found responsible by the
student conduct process is subject to disciplinary probation, suspension or dismissal.
REPORTING OPTIONS



FILING A REPORT WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

If the victim of a sexual assault elects to contact the Department of Public Safety to file a report, an
officer trained to investigate sexual assault will work with the victim to gather information. The victim
always retains the right to decide whether or not to participate in any criminal prosecution. The officer
will ensure that the survivor gets the counseling and other assistance they need.



CONTACTING ANOTHER LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCY
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Victims may also contact local law enforcement agencies to report a sexual assault or other crime.
Members of the Department of Public Safety and other University officials will assist the victim in
notifying the appropriate agency in the applicable jurisdiction.



FILING AN INTERNAL COMPLAINT WITHIN THE UNIVERSITY

If you have been sexually assaulted, you have several options to address your situation. You may simply
wish to speak with a counselor or member of the Student Affairs staff privately. To file a formal written
complaint, you should go to www.clarion.edu/judicial to submit an incident report or contact the Office
of Judicial and Mediation Services directly.
The University’s judicial procedures and policies are fully detailed in the “Guide to Clarion University Judicial
Policy Manual” found at http://www.clarion.edu/studentrights . These procedures are sensitive to the
rights of all concerned in the matter. The accused and accuser are each entitled to have a person
accompany them to the hearing and all related proceedings. Attorney(s) will not be allowed to address the
University Judicial Board, but may serve in an advisory capacity. Both the accused and the accuser shall be
informed of the outcome of the proceedings involving alleged sex offenses.
Clarion University’s response system is designed to afford a complainant (the person who is bring the
charge) and a respondent (the person who is answering the charge) a fair, prompt and appropriate
resolution. The process is designed to help persons who need support as they address these incidents, and
incorporates both informal resolutions and formal disciplinary procedures.
The resolution of a formal sexual assault complaint is handled by the appropriate University judicial system.
The full text of the protocol for handling informal and formal complaints s available from the Dean of
Student Development. The full context by which the alleged sexual incident occurred must be considered in
determining whether the alleged conduct constitutes sexual harassment or assault. Procedures for
resolving complaints regarding sexual assault or harassment are handled through the Office of Judicial
Mediation Services or the Department of Human Resources. In any case, both the accuser and the accused
are entitled to the same opportunity to have others present during the disciplinary processing.
Clarion University has a wide range of latitude when determining sanctions involving sexual assault
complaints proceedings. Those sanctions may range from probation to expulsion from the university.
Complainants may file a confidential report with the Office of Judicial Mediation Services or University
Police.

INTERIM MEASURES
If a Clarion University student who is a survivor of sexual assault or relationship violence requests a change in her or his
living arrangements, academic schedule, working arrangements, and/or transportation arrangements, the Office of
Student Affairs and/or Office of Academic Affairs will assist the student. In addition, the university may issue “no
contact” letters and provide assistance for the victim to obtain a Protection from Abuse order.

CHANGING LIVING AND ACADEMIC SITUATIONS
If a Venango College student who is a survivor of sexual assault or relationship violence requests a change in her or his
living arrangements or academic schedule Student Affairs and/or Office of Academic Affairs will assist the student.
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REPORTING ANNUAL DISCLOSURE OF CRIME STATISTICS
Campus crime, arrest and referral statistics are compiled from statistics reported to the Public Safety office and to
Campus Security Authorities, (including but not limited directors, deans, department head, designated housing
personnel, Residence Life and Dining Services staff, advisors to students/student organization, athletic coaches, trainers,
and local law enforcement agencies). University Counseling Services staff is encouraged to inform their clients of the
procedures to report crime to the Public Safety Department on a voluntary or confidential basis, should they feel it is in
the best interest of the client.
In accordance with applicable State and Federal Regulations, the University publishes and distributes crime statistics to
all current students, faculty and staff on an annual basis. The crime statistics are also available upon request to all
applicants for enrollment or employment. View the crime statistics report on line at http://www.clarion.edu/crimestats.

CRIME STATISTICS
Statistical data for this report is compiled by the Public Safety Department. Information about crime is obtained from
Public Safety crime statistics, University employees, campus judicial records, Oil City Police and West Penn Hospital
Security Department. Individuals who wish to report crimes for inclusion in the Annual Security Report may contact the
Department of Public Safety at 814-393-2111. In seeking to maintain a safe, secure educational setting, the Public Safety
department encourages the reporting of crimes and other emergencies. Individuals who report crimes are not
compelled to seek criminal prosecution of suspects. University policy requires all employees, except professional and
pastoral counselors, to report certain serious crimes to Public Safety for inclusion in the annual report. The identity of
the person reporting the crime to the employee does not have to be disclosed to Public Safety. Information about
selected serious crimes can be found in the statistical report below. This publication is available, upon request, from the
Department of Public Safety or can be found at http://www.clarion.edu/crimestats.
Crimes reported to the Clarion University Public Safety Department, Campus Officials or other Law Enforcement Agencies,
at the Venango Campus. These reports of crime are compiled in accordance with the provisions of the Jeanne Clery
Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act.
Reported Crimes

On Campus Property

On Campus Student Housing
Facilities

Non Campus Property

Public Property

2011

2012

2013

2011

2012

2013

2011

2012

2013

2011

2012

2013

Murder/NonNegligent
Manslaughter

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Negligent
Manslaughter

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Agg. Assault

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Robbery

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Motor Vehicle Theft

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Arson

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Burglary

0

1

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

11

Forcible Sex Offense

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Non-Forcible Sex
Offenses

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Domestic
Violence

-

-

0

-

-

0

-

-

0

-

-

0

Dating
Violence

-

-

2

-

-

0

-

-

0

-

-

0

Stalking

-

-

1

-

-

0

-

-

0

-

-

0

Liquor Laws

1

0

0

0

1

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Drug Laws

0

1

0

0

1

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Weapons Laws

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Liquor Laws

0

0

6

0

0

6

0

0

0

0

0

0

Drug Laws

0

1

0

0

1

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Weapons Laws

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Arrests

Referrals

Definitions and Caveats
Public Property is considered the roads and sidewalks adjacent to, but not part of University Property.
Non-Forcible Burglary is the unlawful, non-forcible entry into a building or room with the intent to commit a crime therein. A
forcible “breaking and entering” is not required. For example, entering a room through an unlocked or open door form the purpose
of committing a crime is a non-forcible burglary.
Statistics for Liquor Law Referrals and Drug Law Referrals reflect incidents where arrests were not made for those violations but
where instead handled through the Student Disciplinary system.
No hate crimes were reported for Venango College in 2013.

Domestic Violence, Dating Violence and Stalking are Crimes that have been added to the Clery Statistics as a requirement
of the Violence against Women Act. 2013 is the first year the stats were included.
The crime statistics information year 2013 as shown above does include data that was collected by the Oil City Police Department
and West Penn Hospital. West Penn hospital had no reportable crimes.

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DEFINITION OF REPORTABLE CRIME
Clarion University is required to report crime statistics as defined by the Clery Act for the following crimes which are
reported and may have occurred in a geographic location as detailed below.
Criminal Homicide
Murder and Non-negligent manslaughter: The Killing of a person through gross negligence.
Negligent Manslaughter: The killing of a person through gross negligence.
Forcible Sex Offenses
Forcible Rape: The carnal knowledge of a person, forcible and/or against the person’s will; or not forcible or
against the person’s will, where the victim is incapable of giving consent because of his/her temporary or
permanent mental or physical incapacity (or because of his/her youth).
Forcible Sodemy: Oral or anal sexual intercourse with another person, forcibly and/or against the person’s will;
or not forcible or against the person’s will where the victim is incapable of giving consent because of his/her
youth or because of his/her temporary or permanent mental or physical incapacity.
Sexual Assault with an Object: The use of an object or instrument to unlawfully penetrate, however slightly, the
genital or anal opening of the body of another person, forcibly and/or against that person’s will; or not forcibly
or against the person’s will where the victim is incapable of giving consent because of his/her youth or because
of his/her temporary or permanent mental or physical incapacity.
Forcible Fondling: The touching of the private body parts of another person for the purpose of sexual
gratification, forcibly and/or against the person’s will; or not forcibly or against the person’s will where the
victim is incapable of giving consent because of his/her youth or because of his/her temporary or permanent
mental of physical incapacity.
Non-Forcible Sex Offenses
Incest: Non-forcible sexual intercourse by persons who are related to each other within the degrees wherein
marriage is prohibited by law.
Statutory Rape: Non-forcible sexual intercourse with a person who is under the statutory age of consent.
Domestic Violence: Felony for misdemeanor crimes of violence committed by a current or former spouse of the
victim, by a person with whom the victim shares a child in common, by a person who is cohabitating with or has
cohabitated with the victim as a spouse, by a person similarly situated to a spouse of the victim under the domestic or
family violence laws of the jurisdiction receiving grant monies, or by any other person against an adult or youth victim
who is protected from that person’s acts under the domestic or family violence laws of the jurisdiction.
Dating Violence: Violence committed by a person who is or has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate
nature with the victim and where the existence of such a relationship shall be determined based upon a consideration
of these factors: the length of the relationship, the type of relationship, the frequency of interaction between the
persons involved in the relationship.
Stalking: Engaging in a course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to fear
for his/her safety or the safety of others, or suffer substantial emotional distress.
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Robbery: The taking or attempting to take anything of value from the care, custody, or control of a person or persons,
by force or threat or violence and/or by putting the victim in fear.
Aggravated Assault: An unlawful attack by one person upon another for the purpose of inflicting severe or aggravated
bodily injury. This type of assault usually is accompanied by the use of a weapon or by means likely to produce death or
great bodily harm. (It is not necessary that injury result from an aggravated assault when a gun, knife, or other weapon
is sued which could or probably would result in a serious potential injury if the crime were completed successfully
Burglary: The unlawful entry of a structure to commit a felony or a theft. For reporting purposes, this definition
includes: unlawful entry with intent to commit a larceny or a felony, breaking and entering with intent to commit a
larceny, housebreaking, safecracking, and all attempts to commit any of the aforementioned acts.
Motor Vehicle Theft: The theft or attempted theft of a motor vehicle. (Classify as motor vehicle theft all cases where
taken by persons not having lawful access, even though the vehicles are abandoned; including joy riding).
Arson: The willful of malicious burning or attempt to burn , with or without intent to defraud, a dwelling house, public
building, motor vehicle or aircraft, or personal property of another kind.
Other Offenses
Liquor Law violations: The violations of laws or ordinances prohibiting: the manufacture, sale, transporting,
furnishing of intoxicating liquor; maintaining unlawful drinking places; bootlegging, operating a still, furnishing
liquor to a minor or intemperate person; using a vehicle for illegal transportation of liquor; drinking on a train or
a public conveyance; all attempts to commit any of the aforementioned activities. (Drunkenness and driving
under the influence are not included in this definition).
Drug Abuse violations: Violations of state and local laws relating to the unlawful possession, sale, use, growing,
manufacturing, and making of narcotic drugs. The relevant substances include opium or cocaine and their
derivatives (morphine, heroine, codeine); marijuana; synthetic narcotics (Demerol, methadone); and dangerous
non-narcotic drugs (barbiturates, Benzedrine).
Weapon Law violations: The violation of laws regulatory in nature, such as: manufacture, sale or possession of
deadly weapons; carrying deadly weapons, concealed or openly; furnishing deadly weapons to minors; aliens
possessing deadly weapons; all attempts to commit any of the aforementioned acts.
Hate Crimes
A hate crime is a criminal offense committed against a person or property which is motivated in whole or in part, by
the offender’s bias. Bias is a pre‐formed negative opinion or attitude toward a group of persons based on their
a c t u a l o r p e r c e i v e d race, gender, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnicity or national
origin.

GEOGRAPHIC LOCATION REQUIRED
The following is a statement of the geographic location for which the University is required to report crime statistics
and issue timely warnings under the Clery Act.
The University is required to report crime statistics for Clery-designated crimes and to issue timely warnings for those
crimes that represent a severe and continuing threat in the following geographic locations: on campus, public property
and non-campus buildings and property.

14

On-Campus
Any building or property owned or controlled by an institution within the same reasonably contiguous geographic
area and used by the institution in direct support of, or in a manner related to, the institution’s educational
purposes, including residents halls; and any building or property that is within or reasonably contiguous to
paragraph (1) of this definition, that is owned by the institution but controlled by another person, is frequently
used by students and supports institutional purposes.
Definition for Clarion University: campus buildings and property on the Venango Campus. Campus student housing (not
owned by the University at Venango Campus) would be included as on-campus.
Public Property
All property, including thoroughfares, streets and sidewalks that are within the campus, or immediately adjacent
to and accessible from the campus is considered public property.
Definition for Venango College: streets, alleys and sidewalks that are adjacent to campus or that bisect campus, would
be included as public property.
Non-Campus buildings or Property
Any building or property owned or controlled by a student organization that is officially recognized by the
institution; or any building or property owned or controlled by an institution that is used in direct support of, or in
relation to, the institution’s purposes, is frequently used by students, and is not within the same reasonably
contiguous geographic area of the institution. West Penn Hospital would be considered non-campus.

GEOGRAPHIC LOCATON NOT REQUIRED
The following is a statement of the geographic locations for which the University is NOT required to report crime
statistics or issue timely warnings.
The University is NOT required to report crime statistics or issue timely warnings for Clery-designated crimes that occur
off campus, with the exception of those crimes committed on public property or in (on) non-campus buildings and/or
properties, as defined and described above. However, the University recognizes that in certain cases timely warnings,
even if not required by the Clery Act, may benefit the campus community. The following criteria must be met for the
University to issue a timely warning for an off-campus crime that does not require a timely warning under the Clery Act.
1. The crime is a murder, rape, or other serious or violent assault; or the local municipality requests that the
University issued a timely warning.
2. The crime occurred in a geographic area frequented by Venango College students
3. The crime represents a continuous threat to the Venango College campus community.

15

16

Clarion University-Venango College
2014 FIRE SAFETY AND STATISTICAL REPORT
Clarion University is committed to provide a safe environment for all students, faculty, staff and visitors. It is the
University’s intent to protect members of the campus community against avoidable and undue risks of injury or death
due to fire. Fire prevention measures also minimize loss of property due to fire. It is the intent of the University to
provide a safe environment with respect to fire and emergency safety by following the International Fire Code (IFC). To
request more information or to speak with the Clarion University Safety Inspector, call 814-393-2009.

FIRE SAFETY STATISTICS
This report complies with the Clery Act and the Campus Fire Safety Right-To-Know Act, and is based on reporting
documents which includes housing affiliated with the Venango College campus.
Reported Fires

FIRES

INJURIES

DEATHS

2011

2012

2013

2011

2012

2013

2011

2012

2013

Black Hall

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Hughes Hall

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Barnes Hall

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Leadership Hall

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Peters Hall

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

PROCEDURES IN CASE OF FIRE OR A FIRE ALARM
If a fire alarm is heard or seen, immediately begin evacuation of the building.
Close all windows and doors behind you.
If a fire or smoke is discovered, sound the building fire alarm.
Dial 911.
Close the window to your room.
Proceed quickly to the nearest exit, closing room and stairwell doors as you leave (do not
lock doors). Closing doors helps to confine the fire by reducing oxygen flow.
DO NOT USE ELEVATORS.
Alert others as you leave.
Activate the fire alarm as you leave the building.
If you encounter smoke, stay near the floor and below the smoke.
Exit the building and assemble in the area established by your Residence Staff. Do not leave the area
as you must be accounted for. If you do not know where your designated area is located, contact your GA.
If unable to leave your room due to heat, smoke or fire, call 911 to give your location so firefighters may
find you. If possible, hang a brightly colored towel or article of clothing out your window to signal for
assistance.
17

Do not return to an evacuated building unless told to do so by an authorized university official.

GENERAL FIRE SAFETY
Refrigerators, microwaves, hot pots, hot-air popcorn poppers, and coffee makers with automatic shut-off features are
allowed in dorm rooms. All other cooking appliances are prohibited. There may be additions to the restrictions placed
on what students may bring into the residence halls as deemed necessary by the Residence Life Services office.
Be aware of the possible primary and secondary emergency exit routes, fire alarm pull stations, and emergency
procedures of your place of residence. Those with physical disabilities should notify Residence Life, in advance, to plan
for an evacuation. If you become temporarily disabled due to an injury or illness, Residence Life should also be
informed.
Become familiar with the fire exits nearest your room and the evacuation plans posted on each floor of your building.
Generally speaking, you should use the closest stairwell to your room; but you should also be aware of a secondary exit
in the event your primary exit becomes unusable.

FIRE DRILLS
In compliance with state regulations, Venango College Student Affairs conducts fire drills (evacuations) a minimum of
four times annually. In addition, Venango College conducts one fire drill per semester in academic and administrative
buildings. Drills shall be held at random and are conducted during all hours of the day to avoid distinction between drills
and actual fires. All building occupants are required to evacuate during fire drills. Individuals who ignore fire alarms and
required evacuations may face disciplinary action or criminal charges. Fire drill documentation will be maintained in
Frame Hall.

PROCEDURE FOR REPORTING A FIRE
Students, faculty and staff are instructed to call 911 to report a fire emergency.
Clarion University is required to disclose statistical data on all fires that occur in on-campus student housing facilities.
The fire should be reported to:
Public Safety Office Dispatch Center

814-393-2111

Safety Inspector

814-393-2009

If you find evidence that a fire may have occurred, after the fact (e.g. evidence that something burned), please notify
Public Safety at 814-393-2111 as soon as possible. Do not attempt to remove or clean up any debris until the situation
has been assessed.

FIRE DETECTION AND PROTECTION
All residence halls and suites are equipped with fire alarm systems, including smoke detectors, manual pull stations and
automatic sprinkler systems.
Automatic Sprinkler System Information
The sprinkler systems installed in the apartments are “wet-pipe” sprinkler systems. This means that there is
enough water throughout the pipes in the system right up to each sprinkler head.
Sprinkler heads are heat sensing devices. They are set to activate once the area around the sprinkler reaches a
predetermined temperature. Sprinkler heads do not sense smoke.
18

Each sprinkler head operates individually. In other words, the activation of one sprinkler head will not cause
the entire system to operate.
Never hang on sprinkler pipes or hang anything on a sprinkler head. Tampering with sprinkler pipes and
sprinkler heads can cause significant flooding and water damage.
Do not cover or otherwise obstruct sprinkler heads, smoke detectors and or other fire detection and
suppression equipment.
Never tamper with any fire protection equipment or block any fire protection devices or other fire protection.
Do not open windows during the winter months. Some areas are not heated well enough to prevent water
from freezing in the pipes. This can cause leaks and flooding from broken pipes.
The automatic sprinkler systems and fire detection systems installed in the residence halls are there for your protection.
Please do not tamper with them or use them for any other purpose. Your cooperation is needed to help insure that
these systems. Tampering with fire protection/detection equipment is considered to be a crime and could be subjected
to disciplinary action. Your cooperation is appreciated.

USE OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
Properly trained and competent residence hall staff may attempt to put out fire using fire extinguishers.
extinguishers are not meant to fight large or spreading fires.
Apply the

Fire

following guidelines when using a fire extinguisher:
Only trained personnel should use a fire extinguisher.
Activate a fire alarm prior to using a fire extinguisher.
Always position yourself with an exit or means of escape at your back before using a fire
extinguisher to put out a fire.
If the fire is producing large amounts of smoke that you may inhale fighting it, do not try to extinguish it.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING
Residence Hall Faculty and Staff participate in (live-burn) fire extinguisher training and classroom fire safety training at a
minimum of once a year.
Topics

addressed during this training include:
Fire prevention in the residence halls
What to do in the event of a fire
How to report a fire or other
emergency How residence hall fire safety
systems operate.

Additional fire safety training and education programs for residence hall students are coordinated by Community
Assistants. Students, faculty and staff may request fire training at any time by calling 814-393-2009.

FIRE LOG
A fire log

is maintained in the Frame Administrative office and is available for public inspection. The log includes:
Nature of the fire
Date/Time fire occurred
Date/Time fire reported
19

General location of the fire

PLANS FOR FUTURE IMPROVEMENTS IN FIRE SAFETY

Clarion University and Venango College continues to
monitor trends related to residence hall fire incidents and alarms to provide a fire safe living environment for all
students. New programs and policies are developed as needed to help insure the safety of all students, faculty and staff.

20