2010-2011 Undergraduate & Graduate Catalog
Campus Security
Campus Security Information - Grand Valley State
Grand Valley State University, a community of approximately 26,000 people, consists of a 1,280-acre campus in Allendale, a 37-acre campus in downtown Grand Rapids, a 20-acre campus in Holland, and approximately one acre of waterfront property in Muskegon. The campuses are considered to be safe. They are, however, subject to many of the same problems that occur in the surrounding communities. Grand Valley's crime rate is very low in comparison to the national average, as well as to other state universities.
Grand Valley is concerned about the well-being of everyone on its campus and has prepared this information to increase your awareness of the current programs that exist for your protection.
The university employs a professionally trained, licensed police force. We also encourage students to take responsibility for their own belongings and safety.
Emergency Contact
Occasionally the university needs to inform students, faculty, and staff of urgent information, such as closure due to inclement weather and issues related to public safety or health. It is important that each student submits their contact information at www.gvsu.edu/emergencycontact/.
Messages will be sent only when the university believes that the information is vital and that it must be disclosed immediately. If you have questions about the emergency notification service, please contact the GVSU Telephone Business Office at (616) 331-2145.
Timely Warning Policy
In the event a situation arises, either on or off a university campus that, in the judgment of the Director of Public Safety or designee (after consultation with the Crisis Response Coordinators if time and availability permit), constitutes an ongoing or continuing threat, a university-wide "timely warning" will be issued. The warning will be issued via the university website, www.gvsu.edu, email and other means deemed appropriate. Depending on the particular circumstances of the crime or threat, additional notices may be posted in each residential facility and within academic buildings.
Anyone with information warranting a timely warning should report the circumstances to the Department of Public Safety by telephone (616) 331-3255 or in person at the Service Building on the Allendale campus or the Pew Security Office at 102 Eberhard Center on the Pew campus.
Crime Rates and Statistics
In compliance with the Student Right-to-Know and Campus Security Act of 1990, GVSU annually provides information on security procedures and crime statistics to all its employees and enrolled students.
The university Department of Public Safety reports all incidents to the Uniform Crime Reporting program. The department makes reasonable efforts to monitor and record, through local police agencies, criminal activity of students at off-campus locations of student organizations recognized by the University. This includes student organizations with off-campus housing facilities. Crime statistics for the most recent three-year period are shown below. The crime rate is calculated by dividing the total number of incidents reported by the number of students enrolled in the fall semester. Enrollment figures reflect students who take one or more classes at listed site.
Grand Valley State University - Allendale Campus
|
Criminal Offenses - On-Campus |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
a. Murder/Non-negligent manslaughter |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
b. Negligent manslaughter |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
c. Sex offenses - Forcible |
4 |
1 |
2 |
|
d. Sex offenses - Non-forcible |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
e. Robbery |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
f. Aggravated assault |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
g. Burglary |
5 |
7 |
1 |
|
h. Motor vehicle theft |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
i. Arson |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
j. Larceny |
80 |
119 |
83 |
|
Criminal Offenses - On-Campus Residence Halls (Residence Halls are a subset of On-Campus) |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
a. Murder/Non-negligent manslaughter |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
b. Negligent manslaughter |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
c. Sex offenses - Forcible |
3 |
1 |
1 |
|
d. Sex offenses - Non-forcible (incest and statutory rape only) |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
e. Robbery |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
f. Aggravated assault |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
g. Burglary |
3 |
3 |
1 |
|
h. Motor vehicle theft |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
i. Arson |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
j. Larceny |
12 |
22 |
21 |
|
Criminal Offenses - Public Property |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
a. Murder/Non-negligent manslaughter |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
b. Negligent manslaughter |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
c. Sex offenses - Forcible |
1 |
0 |
1* |
|
d. Sex offenses - Non-forcible (incest and statutory rape only) |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
e. Robbery |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
f. Aggravated assault |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
g. Burglary |
0 |
1 |
0 |
|
h. Motor vehicle theft |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
i. Arson |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
j. Larceny |
0 |
0 |
0 |
*Incidents reported in this report occurred in 2007
|
Hate Offenses - On-Campus |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO HATE OFFENSES REPORTED |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Hate Offenses - On-Campus Residence Halls |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO HATE OFFENSES REPORTED |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Hate Offenses - Public Property |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO HATE OFFENSES REPORTED |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Arrests - On-Campus |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
a. Illegal weapons possession |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
b. Drug law violations |
23 |
29 |
34 |
|
c. Liquor law violations |
241 |
207 |
191 |
|
Arrests - On-Campus Residence Halls |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
a. Illegal weapons possession |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
b. Drug law violations |
20 |
19 |
26 |
|
c. Liquor law violations |
183 |
151 |
146 |
|
Disciplinary Actions/Judicial Referrals - On-Campus |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
a. Illegal weapons possession |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
b. Drug law violations |
1 |
0 |
1 |
|
c. Liquor law violations |
2 |
0 |
0 |
|
Arrests - Public Property |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
a. Illegal weapons possession |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
b. Drug law violations |
0 |
1 |
0 |
|
c. Liquor law violations |
11 |
5 |
1 |
|
Disciplinary Actions/Judicial Referrals - Public Property |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
a. Illegal weapons possession |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
b. Drug law violations |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
c. Liquor law violations |
0 |
0 |
0 |
Grand Valley State University - Pew Campus
|
Criminal Offenses - On-Campus |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
a. Murder/Non-negligent manslaughter |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
b. Negligent manslaughter |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
c. Sex offenses - Forcible |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
d. Sex offenses - Non-forcible (incest and statutory rape only) |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
e. Robbery |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
f. Aggravated assault |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
g. Burglary |
1 |
0 |
0 |
|
h. Motor vehicle theft |
1 |
0 |
0 |
|
i. Arson |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
j. Larceny |
40 |
40 |
25 |
|
Criminal Offenses - Noncampus |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO CRIMINAL OFFENSES REPORTED |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Criminal Offenses - On-Campus Residence Halls |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
Larceny |
0 |
2 |
1 |
|
Criminal Offenses - Public Property |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
a. Murder/Non-negligent manslaughter |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
b. Negligent manslaughter |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
c. Sex offenses - Forcible |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
d. Sex offenses - Non-forcible |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
e. Robbery |
1 |
0 |
1 |
|
f. Aggravated assault |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
g. Burglary |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
h. Motor vehicle theft |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
i. Arson |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
j. Larceny |
0 |
1 |
0 |
|
Hate Offenses - On-Campus |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO HATE OFFENSES REPORTED |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Hate Offenses - On-Campus Residence Halls |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO HATE OFFENSES REPORTED |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Hate Offenses - Noncampus |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO HATE OFFENSES REPORTED |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Hate Offenses - Public Property |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO HATE OFFENSES REPORTED |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Arrests - On-Campus |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
a. Illegal weapons possession |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
b. Drug law violations |
1 |
1 |
0 |
|
c. Liquor law violations |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Arrests - On-Campus Residence Halls |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
a. Illegal weapons possession |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
b. Drug law violations |
1 |
1 |
0 |
|
c. Liquor law violations |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Disciplinary Actions/Judicial Referrals - On-Campus |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
a. Illegal weapons possession |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
b. Drug law violations |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
c. Liquor law violations |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Arrests - Non-Campus |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
a. Illegal weapons possession |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
b. Drug law violations |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
c. Liquor law violations |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Disciplinary Actions/Judicial Referrals - Non-Campus |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
a. Illegal weapons possession |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
b. Drug law violations |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
c. Liquor law violations |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Arrests - Public Property |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
a. Illegal weapons possession |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
b. Drug law violations |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
c. Liquor law violations |
1 |
0 |
0 |
|
Disciplinary Actions/Judicial Referrals |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
a. Illegal weapons possession |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
b. Drug law violations |
1 |
0 |
0 |
|
c. Liquor law violations |
2 |
0 |
0 |
Grand Valley State University - Holland Campus
|
Criminal Offenses - On-Campus |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO CRIMINAL OFFENSES REPORTED |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Criminal Offenses - On-Campus Residence Halls |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO CRIMINAL OFFENSES REPORTED |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Criminal Offenses - Public Property |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO CRIMINAL OFFENSES REPORTED |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Hate Offenses - On-Campus |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO HATE OFFENSES REPORTED |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Hate Offenses - On-Campus Residence Halls |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO HATE OFFENSES REPORTED |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Hate Offenses - Public Property |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO HATE OFFENSES REPORTED |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Arrests - On-Campus |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO ARRESTS |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Arrests - On-Campus Residence Halls |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO ARRESTS |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Disciplinary Actions/Judicial Referrals - On-Campus |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Arrests - Public Property |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO ARRESTS |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Disciplinary Actions/Judicial Referrals - Public Property |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS |
0 |
0 |
0 |
Grand Valley State University - Muskegon Campus
|
Criminal Offenses - On-Campus |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO CRIMINAL OFFENSES REPORTED |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Criminal Offenses - On-Campus Residence Halls |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO CRIMINAL OFFENSES REPORTED |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Criminal Offenses - Public Property |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO CRIMINAL OFFENSES REPORTED |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Hate Offenses - On-Campus |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO HATE OFFENSES REPORTED |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Hate Offenses - On-Campus Residence Halls |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO HATE OFFENSES REPORTED |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Hate Offenses - Public Property |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO HATE OFFENSES REPORTED |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Arrests - On-Campus |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO ARRESTS |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Arrests - On-Campus Residence Halls |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO ARRESTS |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Disciplinary Actions/Judicial Referrals - On-Campus |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Arrests - Public Property |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO ARRESTS |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Disciplinary Actions/Judicial Referrals - Public Property |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS |
0 |
0 |
0 |
Grand Valley State University - Traverse City Campus
|
Criminal Offenses - On-Campus |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO CRIMINAL OFFENSES REPORTED |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Criminal Offenses - On-Campus Residence Halls |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO CRIMINAL OFFENSES REPORTED |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Criminal Offenses - Public Property |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO CRIMINAL OFFENSES REPORTED |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Hate Offenses - On-Campus |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO HATE OFFENSES REPORTED |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Hate Offenses - On-Campus Residence Halls |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO HATE OFFENSES REPORTED |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Hate Offenses - Public Property |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO HATE OFFENSES REPORTED |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Arrests - On-Campus |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO ARRESTS |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Arrests - On-Campus Residence Halls |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO ARRESTS |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Disciplinary Actions/Judicial Referrals - On-Campus |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Arrests - Public Property |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO ARRESTS |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Disciplinary Actions/Judicial Referrals - Public Property |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
NO DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS |
0 |
0 |
0 |
FBI Definitions of Crime Categories
Murder: The willful (non-negligent) killing of one human being by another.
Negligent Manslaughter: The killing of another person through gross negligence.
Non-negligent Manslaughter: The willful non-negligent killing of a human being by another. As a general rule, any death due to injuries received in a fight, argument, quarrel, assault, or commitment of a crime.
Forcible Sex Offense: Any sexual act directed against 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 due to age and mental impairment.
Nonforcible Sex Offense: Unlawful, nonforcible sexual intercourse consisting of person(s) who are related to each other or who are under statutory age of consent.
Robbery: The taking of money and/or other valuables under the threat of physical harm or force, with or without a threat.
Aggravated Assault: An unlawful attack by a person(s) upon another for the purpose of inflicting severe or aggravated bodily injury.
Arson: Any willful or malicious burning or attempting to burn with or without intent to defraud a dwelling, house, public building, motor vehicle, aircraft, or personal property of another.
Burglary: The breaking and entering, with no personal threat involved and usually no confrontation between burglar and victim.
Larceny: The act of stealing in which neither illegal entry nor the threat or use of force is present.
Motor Vehicle Theft: The theft or attempted theft of a motor vehicle.
Liquor Law Incidents: Prohibits the manufacture, sale, purchase, transportation, possession, or use of alcoholic beverages.
Drug Abuse Incidents: Prohibits the production, distribution and/or use of certain controlled substances and the equipment or devices utilized in their preparation and/or use.
Weapons Possessions: The violation of laws prohibiting the possession, concealment, and use of a firearm or other deadly weapon.
Hate Crimes: Any of the above crimes that manifest evidence of prejudice based on race, religion, sexual orientation, or ethnicity.
Sexual Assault Procedures
Grand Valley State University recognizes the importance of support and encouragement in dealing with instances of sexual assault. A variety of support services are available at the university and in the community to assist students in dealing with sexual assault. The following information outlines a variety of options that are open to victims of sexual assault.
Law Enforcement Options/Considerations
Victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the Campus Police. Officers can assist victims in connecting with a variety of services including contacting the Counseling Center, transportation to a nurse examiner program, obtaining a personal protection order, or contacting other police agencies in the event that the assault did not occur on campus.
Victims should be aware that just because they contact the Campus Police Department, this does not mandate they make an official police report. Officers will assist victims by notifying them of various options they have in reporting the incident and will respect the choices made by the victim, including non-reporting. If the victim wants an investigation, officers will contact appropriate personnel to assist. If the victim prefers to speak with a female officer, every reasonable attempt will be made to make one available.
The university will make all reasonable efforts to ensure the preservation of confidentiality, restricting information to those with a legitimate need for it. The university Counseling Center may notify the victim about university and community resources and students are strongly encouraged to connect with this support.
Health/Personal Safety Considerations
It is highly recommended that victims seek medical treatment from a nurse examiner program following a sexual assault. Nurse examiner programs have the ability to collect the evidence that is necessary for medical and/or forensic evaluation and court testimony if the accused is prosecuted. Both Ottawa and Kent Counties have nurse examiner programs (see addresses below). In some cases, a victim may prefer to be treated at a hospital closer to their home.
Hospital treatment is recommended in situations where there is serious physical harm including loss of consciousness or blow to the head, continual vaginal bleeding following the assault, possible broken bones, a laceration requiring stitches, abdominal or chest pain present, pregnancy, or other serious medical or emergency conditions.
Although it is not an absolute deadline, it is strongly encouraged that physical evidence be collected within 48 hours or as soon as is reasonably possible. The collection of medical evidence does not presume that charges will be filed against the assailant; the filing of a criminal charge is always the choice of the victim. To protect important physical evidence, victims should not shower, bathe, brush their teeth, or change clothing prior to going to a nurse examiner program or the hospital. If possible, the student should maintain the scene exactly as it was at the occurrence of the assault if they intend to report the incident to the police. Even if a victim has showered or a time lapse of five days has occurred, it is still strongly encouraged that an assault victim seek medical treatment.
Nurse Examiner Programs
Victims are encouraged to call in advance before going to either location. Someone is on call 24-hours a day.
|
YWCA of Grand Rapids |
Center for Women in Transition |
University Judicial Options/Considerations
Victims of sexual assault that occur on university property and/or by another GVSU student may file a judicial referral with the Coordinator for University Judiciary. This referral can be filed regardless of whether the victim decides to file criminal charges. With regard to the University Judicial Process, victims will be treated with respect and sensitivity at all times.
When a victim expresses a concern about sexual assault, they will be informed of the availability of a university employee, designated to provide support. The role of the sexual assault support person includes the following: to share resources (both on and off campus), to explain the university's sexual assault policy; to assist with the filing of a complaint (internal and external to the university); to accompany the individual to any meetings related to the complaint; and to help the individual sort through their options and choices.
If the accused student denies the charges and requests a hearing, the victim will be notified of the hearing. The victim may present written evidence to be used at the hearing, may testify at the hearing, and is entitled to a copy of the written decision and sanction. If the incident was reported to the Campus Police, an officer may attend the hearing and assist in presenting facts learned during the investigation.
The accused student and the victim may each have one advisor present at the hearing. If the accused student admits the policy violation, the victim is entitled to a copy of the written sanction. The victim or the accused student may appeal the decision and/or sanction.
Sanctions for students found responsible through the University Judicial Process for committing sexual assault may include one or more of the following: warning; restitution; work assignment/community service; probation; loss of privileges; loss of the right to live in university housing; counseling; denial or revocation of a university honor; scholarship or degree; suspension; and/or dismissal from the university.
Michigan Law
Under Michigan law, sexual assault is called "criminal sexual conduct'' (CSC). There are four degrees or categories. First, second, and third degree CSC are felonies. Fourth degree CSC is a misdemeanor. Assault with intent to commit criminal sexual conduct is a felony. Conviction of any CSC charge can carry a substantial prison term. However, severity of the sentencing depends on a number of factors. These laws can be very complicated. Additional information about Michigan Law can be found at www.legislature.mi.gov/. Sections 750.520A-750.520L are specific to sexual assault.
Sexual Assault Programs
Programs dealing with rape, acquaintance rape, and other sex offenses are presented on a regular basis at a variety of student educational activities, including orientation prior to classes, on-campus residential life programs and first-year orientation classes. Most of the programs are sponsored by the Counseling Center, the Office of Housing and Residential Life, the Women's Center, Public Safety Services or Eyes Wide Open Peer Sexual Assault Education Student Group. In addition, self-defense classes are offered each semester through a program called R.A.D. (Rape Aggression Defense System). The sessions are taught by community police officers and other employees who are nationally certified R.A.D. instructors.
The Grand Valley State University Counseling Center provides counseling for victims of sexual assault. Students are also made aware of counseling and support services in the community for victims of sexual assault.
Sex registry information is available at www.mipsor.state.mi.us/.
Safety and Security Services
The primary responsibility for law enforcement on the Allendale campus rests with Grand Valley State University's Department of Public Safety Services (GVSU DPS). All Grand Rapids facilities owned or controlled by Grand Valley are served by the Grand Rapids Police Department. The Holland, Muskegon, or Traverse City police departments serve Holland, Muskegon, and Traverse City facilities owned or controlled by Grand Valley respectively.
All Grand Valley Department of Public Safety Services officers are licensed by the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards. Public Safety officers have full law enforcement authority and responsibilities. They work closely with the Ottawa County Sheriff's Department, Michigan State Police, and other law enforcement agencies.
Grand Valley employs a fully equipped and trained university police department providing 24-hour police services and assistance. The Department of Public Safety Services maintains a non-emergency dispatch service and office hours on the Allendale campus and relies on 24-hour emergency service from Ottawa County Central Dispatch Authority.
In addition to law enforcement officers, the Grand Valley DPS employs a number of student personnel on a part-time basis. Student security personnel provide crowd control, monitor pedestrian crosswalks, direct traffic, and enforce traffic ordinances.
Criminal incidents and emergencies at the Pew Grand Rapids Campus are reported to the Grand Rapids Police Department and Pew Security. Criminal incidents and emergencies at the Holland, Muskegon, and Traverse City campuses are reported to the Holland, Muskegon, and Traverse City police departments as well as to Pew Campus Security.
Policies and Procedures
Approximately 1,985 faculty and staff and 24,540 students work and study at Grand Valley. More than 6,300 students live in housing on the Allendale Campus. Students and employees have access to campus facilities. Students may have guests visit in their room or apartment, provided they have made specific arrangements with the roommate(s) and have received their permission. Visitation does not mean cohabitation and a guest's stay should never exceed two nights in a given week. The university reserves the right to limit the frequency of guest visits. Guest must observe all university regulations and must be accompanied by his/her host at all times. The student whom the guest is staying with is responsible for any infractions or damage caused by his/her guest. Guests may also be asked to leave the community if their behavior is inappropriate. Guests are welcome on the university's campuses. Visitors have access to buildings that are open to the public and to those in which events are scheduled.
The Grand Valley State University DPS enforces laws concerning alcohol consumption and the use of controlled substances. The unlawful possession, use or distribution of illegal narcotic or hallucinogenic drugs or alcohol by faculty, staff, and students on Grand Valley property or as a part of a university activity is specifically prohibited by Grand Valley policy and by state and federal law. Grand Valley will impose sanctions for violation of the Standards of Conduct consistent with state and federal law (see Student Code).
Any student, faculty, or staff member may report criminal incidents by calling Grand Valley's Department of Public Safety Services at (616) 331-3255. Medical, police, and fire emergencies should be reported by calling 911. Public Safety officers are dispatched by the Ottawa County Central Dispatch Authority (911), as well as through the Department of Public Safety Services office. Criminal activities may be reported anonymously to Silent Observer at (800) 825-0221.
Counseling Services
The Grand Valley Counseling Center provides individual and group counseling throughout the academic year on such topics as alcohol and substance abuse, rape, personal and relationship concerns, and career planning. More information can be obtained from the Counseling Center or by calling (616) 331-3266.
Security on Campus
The Allendale campus has three traditional-style living centers housing approximately 866 students, 11 suite-style living centers housing 987 students, seven apartment style living centers housing 1,034 students and the Ravines, Laker Village, Calder Art, Murray, South B, C, D, E, Grand Valley apartments and the Glenn A. Niemeyer Learning and Living Center, which accommodate 3,081 students. Secchia and Winter Hall on the Pew Grand Rapids Campus house 379 students. Off-campus housing consists of private apartment complexes located near both the Allendale and Grand Rapids campuses.
Non-academic living center entrances are always locked. The Glenn A. Niemeyer Learning and Living Center is open for classes inside the building Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. Residents of the Ravines, Laker Village, and Grand Valley apartments are responsible for locking their own doors. Secchia and Winter Hall entrances are locked at all times. Students living in the living centers are allowed to have visitors of the opposite gender during visiting hours, which are 10 a.m. to 2 a.m., Sunday through Thursday and open visitation in all areas with their roommates' consent on Friday and Saturday. In other housing facilities, residents are allowed open visitation with the roommates' consent.
Special security procedures are in effect during low-occupancy periods. Students staying in on-campus housing over Thanksgiving, winter holiday, and spring break periods must register with a Housing and Resident Life staff member to do so. (For more information on housing security, refer to www.gvsu.edu/housing/.)
The Department of Facilities Services maintains the university buildings and grounds, with concern for safety and security. Parking lots are illuminated at night, as are all main campus walkways and building entrances. Overnight parking is prohibited except in residence lots. Landscape plantings are arranged and maintained so that building entrances are easily visible from a distance.
Individual Responsibility
A safety program such as the one at Grand Valley could not reach its highest potential without student cooperation. Students must take responsibility for themselves and their belongings by using common sense and by taking advantage of the programs that are available to them.
Larceny is the most frequent crime on campus, many of which could be prevented. Do not leave book bags, books, purses, bikes, or other personal effects unattended in the living centers, classrooms, or other public areas. When parking on campus close your vehicle's windows and lock your doors.
The information in this catalog is accurate as of the date of printing. This catalog is intended to be informational and is not a guarantee of services. The university reserves the right to modify its programs, services, and levels of staffing.
Phone numbers to call to receive assistance:
|
Police, Fire, Emergency |
911 |
|
Public Safety Services |
(616) 331-3255 |
|
Pew Campus Security |
(616) 331-6677 |
|
University Judicial |
(616) 331-3585 |
|
Counseling Center |
(616) 331-3266 |
|
GVSU Women's Center |
(616) 331-2748 |
|
Assault Center |
(616) 776-7273 |
|
Center for Women in Transition |
(616) 392-2829 |
Drug and Alcohol Policy
Philosophy
Consistent with Grand Valley State University's commitment to provide the safest environment for the highest quality education, the university has set forth a policy regarding the use of alcohol and other drugs on all properties and in all facilities owned or operated by Grand Valley.
The university upholds and enforces local, state, and federal laws and the alcohol and drug policies of all collegiate governing bodies that are responsible for the activities of their Grand Valley affiliates. Grand Valley State University encourages a campus environment where healthy lifestyle choices are made and where the use of alcohol or other drugs will not be permitted to interfere with learning.
The university recognizes the right of legal adults to choose to use or abstain from alcoholic beverages. However, abusive consumption of alcohol is discouraged because it can pose a threat to property and the health and safety of others.
Chemical-free activities are encouraged and programs that lead to informed decision-making are supported. Recognizing that an individual with an alcohol and drug problem may be rehabilitated, Grand Valley State University offers counseling and referral to its faculty, staff, and students.
Standards of Conduct
The unlawful manufacture, possession, use, distribution, or dispensation of illicit drugs and the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of alcohol by faculty, staff, and students on Grand Valley property or as part of a university activity is specifically prohibited by Grand Valley policy and by state and federal law.
I. Legal Sanctions and Summary of Laws
Local, state, and federal laws make unlawful manufacture, possession, use, distribution, or dispensation of drugs and alcohol serious crimes. Violations of local, state, or federal law may result in conviction of a misdemeanor and/or felony that can lead to imprisonment, fines, confiscation of real and personal property, and/or assigned community service, or any combination of these penalties. As a general rule, courts do not excuse persons convicted of drug or alcohol abuses from jail to go to college or to get to their jobs. Even more importantly, a record of a felony conviction will prevent an individual from entering many careers. Further, the university may impose sanctions pursuant to its policies.
The following summary covers sections of the Michigan Liquor Control Act, MCLA 436.1 et seq., relating to the possession, consumption, and sale of alcoholic beverages.
Laws and administrative rules governing establishments licensed by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission, as well as sections of the law dealing with licensure, importation, taxation, wholesaling, and manufacture of alcoholic liquor are not included in the summary. Also excluded from this summary are Michigan's drunk driving laws.
It is possible that not all laws relevant to a particular situation are included in this brief summary; therefore, no one should take action in reliance upon it. The summary is intended strictly as an educational tool and should not be construed as legal advice.
A. Alcoholic Liquor Defined
"Alcoholic liquor" means any spirituous, vinous, malt, or fermented liquor, liquids, and compounds, whether or not medicated, proprietary, patented, and by whatever name called, containing one-half of one percent or more of alcohol by volume which are fit for use for beverage purposes. In this document, the terms "alcoholic liquor,'' "alcoholic beverage,'' and "beverage alcohol'' are used interchangeably.
B. Drinking Laws
It is illegal for a person under 21 years of age to purchase alcoholic liquor, consume alcoholic liquor in a licensed premises, or possess alcoholic liquor except in the following circumstances:
1. The law does not prohibit a person less than 21 years old from possessing alcoholic liquor during regular working hours and in the course of his/her employment if employed by an organization possessing a liquor license, by the Liquor Control Commission, or by the Commission's agents if the alcoholic liquor is not possessed for his/her personal consumption.
2. The law does not prohibit the consumption of alcoholic liquor by a person under the age of 21 years who is enrolled in a course offered by an accredited college or university in an academic building and under the supervision of a faculty member if the purpose is solely educational and a necessary ingredient of the course.
A person under the age of 21 years who violates this law is liable for misdemeanor penalties, which may include jail. If under 18 years of age, parents will be notified.
a. First offense: a fine of not more than $100.00. May be ordered to perform community service and undergo substance abuse screening and assessment. Subjects may petition the court for a deferred judgment
b. Second offense: a fine of not more than $200.00. May be placed on probation and ordered to participate in substance abuse prevention or substance abuse treatment and rehabilitation services, to perform community service, and to undergo substance abuse screening and assessment. Judges have discretion to order jail time (no more than 30 days in the event of a prior MIP conviction with violations of probation. The person's driver's license will also be suspended for 90-180 days, with a restricted license available after 30 days.
c. Third and subsequent offense: a fine of not more than $500.00. May be ordered to participate in substance abuse prevention or substance abuse treatment and rehabilitation services, to perform community service, and to undergo substance abuse screening and assessment. Judges have discretion to order jail time (no more than 60 days) in the event of a prior MIP conviction with violation of probation. The person's driver's license will also be suspended for 180 days-1 year, with a restricted license available after 60 days.
PBT: A peace officer who has reasonable cause to believe that a person under 21 has consumed alcoholic liquor may ask that person to submit to a preliminary breath test (PBT). If the blood alcohol level is .02 or more, there is a presumption that the person has consumed or possessed alcoholic liquor.
C. Fraudulent Identification
A person who furnishes fraudulent identification to a person less than 21 years old or a person under the age of 21 who uses fraudulent identification to purchase alcoholic liquor is guilty of a misdemeanor. In addition to penalties pursuant to the misdemeanor, the driver's license of a person convicted of using fraudulent identification shall be suspended for 90 days.
D. Regulation of Sale Laws
Under Michigan law, the sale, trade, or giving away of alcoholic liquor, including alcoholic liquor for personal use, requires a license or other prior written authorization from the Liquor Control Commission. A person who conducts any activity for which a liquor license is required without first obtaining the requisite license is guilty of a felony, punishable by imprisonment for not more than one year, and/or by a fine of not more than $1,000.
E. Open Container Laws
The consumption of alcoholic liquor on the public highways of Michigan is forbidden by law. It is unlawful to transport or possess any alcoholic liquor in a container which is open, uncapped, or upon which the seal is broken, within the passenger compartment of a motor vehicle on the highways of Michigan.
II. Health Risks Associated with the Use of Illicit Drugs and the abuse of Alcohol
Health (and other) risks associated with the use of alcohol and other drugs include, but are not limited to: impaired academic or work performance; lost potential; absenteeism from class or work; financial problems; doing things one later regrets; conflicts with co-workers, classmates, families, friends, and others; sexual assault and other unplanned sexual relationships; unwanted pregnancies; sexually transmitted diseases; unusual or inappropriate risk-taking which may result in physical or emotional injury, or death; blackouts; hangovers; long-term health problems, including cirrhosis of the liver, organic brain damage, high blood pressure, and heart disease; and legal problems, including imprisonment.
III. Drug and Alcohol Prevention, Counseling and Rehabilitation, and Re-entry Programs
Grand Valley State University is concerned about the effect of alcohol and/or drugs on students, faculty, and staff members, their families, and the university community as a whole. The university recognizes that an individual with an alcohol and/or drug problem may be rehabilitated. Grand Valley will continue to make efforts to increase the awareness about the dangers of drugs.
Grand Valley encourages students, faculty, and staff with alcohol or other drug dependency problems to use the services of the university or community counseling centers for assistance. Assistance for students is available through the Office of Alcohol Education located in the Counseling Center and for faculty and staff through the Faculty Staff Assistance Program, administered at a confidential off-campus location by the Employee Assistance Center.
If treatment for drug and/or alcohol dependency is needed, students are encouraged to contact the Office of Alcohol Education at (616) 331-3220, and faculty and staff are encouraged to contact the Faculty Staff Assistance Program (EAC) at (616) 458-8540, the Human Resources office at (616) 331-2215, or their insurance carrier to obtain information concerning coverage.
IV. Sanctions
Grand Valley will impose sanctions for violation of the Standards of Conduct consistent with state and federal law, and with applicable university policies, collective bargaining agreements, and faculty and staff handbooks and the Student Code. Violations will result in disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion, termination of employment, and referral for prosecution. Sanctions imposed will depend upon the severity and frequency of the violation. In addition to, or in lieu of, discipline, violators may be required to complete an appropriate rehabilitation program. All university faculty and staff will abide by this policy as a condition of their employment.
If you have any questions or concerns about the university's Drug and Alcohol Policy, please contact the Human Resources Office or the Dean of Students Office.