IV. University Policies & Procedures

Oklahoma City University adheres to all federal and state civil rights laws prohibiting discrimination in private institutions of higher education. The University will not discriminate against any employee, applicant for employment, student or applicant for admission on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, pregnancy, political affiliation, religion, creed, ethnicity, national origin (including ancestry), citizenship status, physical or mental disability, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, veteran or military status (including special disabled veteran, Vietnam-era veteran, or recently separated veteran), predisposing genetic characteristics, domestic violence victim status or any other protected category under applicable local, state or federal law, including protections for those opposing discrimination or participating in any resolution process on campus or within the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or other human rights agencies.

This policy covers nondiscrimination in employment and access to educational opportunities. Therefore, any member of the campus community who acts to deny, deprive or limit the educational and/or employment access, benefits and/or opportunities of any member of the campus community, guest, or visitor on the basis of their actual or perceived membership in the protected classes listed above is in violation of this policy. When brought to the attention of the University, any such discrimination will be appropriately addressed and remedied by the University according to the Equity Resolution Process described below. Non-members of the campus community who engage in discriminatory actions within University programs or on University property are not under the jurisdiction of this policy, but can be subject to actions that limit their access and/or involvement with University programs, services, and property as the result of their alleged misconduct. All vendors serving Oklahoma City University through third-party contracts are subject to these policies and procedures, to which their employer has agreed to be bound.

Click here to view the Nondiscrimination Policy.*

Click here to view the Equity Resolution process.

* The Nondiscrimination Policy also addresses sexual harassment and misconduct. Specifically, sexual harassment and misconduct are discussed in section 1.3 of the Nondiscrimination Policy.

Click here to access the complete OCU Student Code of Conduct.

Standard of Conduct

Oklahoma City University prohibits the unlawful manufacture, distribution dispensation, possessions, or use of controlled substances and alcohol on Oklahoma City University’s property or at any Oklahoma City University sponsored function, whether on or off-campus, except as exempted. Oklahoma City University is intended to be a safe environment free from alcohol and other drugs. The university recognizes that the use of alcohol and illegal drugs diminishes the strength and vitality of human resources and the integrity of the institution. It is the intent of the University to educate students about the risks associated with drugs and alcohol along with skills to help maintain a safe student experience. Any student found using or distributing alcohol and/or other drugs on campus, in on-campus housing, or during campus-sponsored activities will face disciplinary action by the administration, including but not limited to a mandatory drug assessment, referral for counseling, and/or treatment as recommended by a University-approved counselor or counseling service, and/or suspension or expulsion.

Alcohol and Substance Abuse Policy for Students

Oklahoma City University prohibits, the use, possession, or sale of alcoholic beverages (including under-age drinking), tobacco, illegal drugs, firearms, or other dangerous weapons on University-owned or controlled property is strictly prohibited. Any student found to be in violation of this policy is subject to University discipline, up to and including suspension or expulsion from the University. Criminal charges may also be filed with the Oklahoma County District Attorney if violations are applicable for prosecution.

Oklahoma City University provides drug and alcohol abuse education, awareness programs, and counseling through the University Counseling Center. Current campus drug and alcohol policies related to University students are available in the Oklahoma City University Student Handbook and Student Code of Conduct. Current campus drug and alcohol policies related to University employees are available in the Campus Drug and Alcohol Policy for University Employees document.

Drug and Alcohol Dependency Testing

The University may require any student who is reasonably suspected of drug use to undergo drug testing. Any drug tests required will be conducted by a state certified laboratory during or immediately following regular working or classroom hours. The tests will be paid for by the University. Any student who requests a retest of a sample in order to challenge the results of a positive test is required to pay all costs of additional tests.

The University may also require a drug and alcohol dependency evaluation with either an in-house or contracted program that provides substance abuse counseling, treatment, or rehabilitation. A “Release-Of-Information” form provided by the University must be signed by the student prior to any referral for testing or counseling.

Students receiving sanctions requiring treatment may use any other certified program. In any case, a student must provide proof of treatment before consideration is given to his or her reinstatement.

Disciplinary Action for Drug and Alcohol Use

Any student found using or distributing alcohol and other drugs on campus, in on-campus housing, or during campus- sponsored activities can face disciplinary action by the University. The disciplinary action may include a drug assessment, referral for counseling, and/or treatment as recommended by a University approved counselor or counseling service.

The University may take disciplinary action against a student who refuses to undergo drug and alcohol testing. The University will take no disciplinary action against a student, except for temporary suspension, until the first test result has been confirmed by an additional test. Any student has the right to an explanation, in confidence, of the test results and may obtain all information and records related to testing. Information related to drug and alcohol tests will be kept confidential and apart from other student records.

Notification to State and Federal Authorities

The University may refer individuals to applicable local, state, or federal law enforcement authorities for prosecution. Any student who is convicted under a criminal drug statute for a violation occurring in any campus owned or leased facility must notify the University within five working days of the conviction. Within ten working days, Oklahoma City University is required to notify the Department of Education of the disciplinary action. Within thirty days, the University will take appropriate disciplinary action. Any questions concerning this policy may be directed to the Vice President for Student Affairs.

Federal Financial Aid Penalties for Drug Violations (under section 484(r) of the Higher Education Act):

Conviction for an offense under any federal or state law involving the possession or sale of illegal drugs that occurred during a period of enrollment when a student was receiving federal financial aid (grant, loan, or work assistance under Title IV), can affect the student’s eligibility for federal student aid for a period of time :

• First offense - for one year from the date of conviction for possession or for two years from the date of conviction for sale of illegal drugs
• Second offense - for two years from the date of conviction for possession of illegal drugs or for an indefinite period for sale of illegal drugs
• Third (and subsequent) offenses – for an indefinite period for the possession and/or sale of illegal drugs
• Students convicted of both possession and sale will be ineligible for the longer of the two periods.

A student whose eligibility is suspended as a result of penalties under section 484(r) of the Higher Education Act will be provided written notice of the loss of eligibility and advised of the ways in which eligibility can be regained. The student may resume eligibility prior to the end of the ineligibility period by completing a qualified drug rehabilitation program that includes two unannounced drug tests.

Effect of Drug Law Violations on Financial Aid

A student who is convicted of a state or federal offense involving the possession or sale of an illegal drug that occurred while the student is enrolled in school and receiving Title IV aid is not eligible for Title IV funds. A borrower’s eligibility is based on the student’s self-certification on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Students with eligibility issues as determined by the Department of Education are notified via their Student Aid Report and are directed to contact the Department of Education for a year-specific Worksheet to determine eligibility for federal student aid. Convictions that are reversed, set aside, or removed from the student’s record, or a determination arising from a juvenile court proceeding do not affect eligibility and do not need to be reported by the student.

Chalking must be approved by the Oklahoma City University Office of Student Engagement. In order to obtain approval, a requester, using their University login, may fill out the Chalking Request Form

Chalking is only allowed on sidewalks and may not be within 30 feet of any building.

Chalking is prohibited on all other surfaces on campus including but not limited to:

• McDaniel University Center covered patio (outside of Alvin’s)
• McDaniel University Center Patio Cobblestones
• Brick surfaces
• Furniture
• Metal Tables, Benches, or Chairs
• Planters
• Trash Cans
• Walls
• Building exteriors
• The Pavilion

Any violation of this rule will result in a $200 fine to the student organization. The organization will also be responsible for cleanup with a power washer to be coordinated with facilities.

As an institution of higher education, Oklahoma City University will implement and maintain computer and electronic network systems to enhance, promote, and support the academic advancement and administrative services of the University. Students, faculty, staff, and guests may be granted access to and use of these systems as deemed appropriate by the University President or his or her authorized representatives. Authorized users of campus resources should use campus networks and computers wisely and consider the rights of others. The following policy provides guidelines and regulations for the proper use of computer and network resources on campus. The University will not tolerate the misuse of these resources.

Scope

This policy applies to all students, faculty, staff, and guests who use OCU networks, computer systems, and PCs. It covers all university-owned equipment and non-university-owned equipment residing on university property connected to University networks. It is applicable to all residence hall facilities, including the Cokesbury Court Apartments. All references in this policy to residence halls include Cokesbury Court apartments.

Use of any computer attached to a University network binds the user to this policy regardless of the ownership of said computer.

Click here to view the entire computer use policy.

Copyright is designed to promote science and the arts by protecting the rights of the creators of new works to reproduce, adapt, publish, perform, and display these works. These exclusive rights are limited by the concept of “fair use” which allows the use of copyrighted works “for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching (including multiple copies for classroom use), scholarship, or research.” (U.S. Code Title 7 Section 107). Oklahoma City University strongly supports the rights of creators of copyrighted works and the fair use of such works in the educational setting. Oklahoma City University faculty, staff, and students are expected to comply with copyright law.

Click here to view the entire policy.

Electronic skateboards, including self-balancing boards/scooters, and any other similar equipment are prohibited from being used, stored and/or charged in or on any Oklahoma City University Property due to a potential fire hazard.

A financial hold will be placed on the records of any student who has a past-due financial obligation to the University or is in default on a student loan. A hold prevents the student from pre-enrollment and receiving transcripts and/or other student records. The hold may remain in place for up to seven business days after payment to allow for funds to transfer before it is released. In case of a default of a student financial program, the hold will remain until the Office of Student Account Services receives notification from the Office of Financial Aid, or from the loan guarantee agency, that the student is no longer in default and owes no money to any financial program. Additional financial holds may be placed on a student’s account for the following:

• Overdue library books
• Parking tickets
• Student conduct

For questions, please contact the Office of Student Financial Services.

Location: Room 340 in the Clara E. Jones Administration Building

Phone: (405) 208-5146

Please click here to access the Student Financial Services web page.

Weapons, fireworks, and explosives are not permitted on campus. Firearms are not permitted on campus; however, a firearm may be kept in a personal vehicle on any property specifically set aside for the use or parking of any vehicle, whether attended or unattended, provided the firearm is carried or stored as required by law and the firearm is not removed from the vehicle. Violation of this policy is cause for suspension or expulsion from the University and may lead to submission to the District Attorney’s Office for criminal prosecution.

Click here to view the entire policy.

A hazardous material, as defined IHMM (Institute of Hazardous Materials Management) is any item or agent (biological, chemical, radiological, and/or physical), which has the potential to cause harm to humans, animals, or the environment, either by itself or through interaction with other factors.

The possession or use of kerosene, gasoline, benzene, naptha and similar flammable liquid is strictly forbidden. This prohibition includes but is not limited to any substance, material, or ingredient that may potentially be used for bomb making.

Should members of the OCU community encounter any kind of hazardous materials, please report to facilities or OCU-PD (depending on circumstance) for appropriate substance management.

Please see OCU's Emergency Procedures page on hazardous materials for information.

Bribery and Extortion

Bribery, attempted bribery, acceptance of a bribe, or failure to report a bribe by any member of the University community is prohibited. Extortion, the act or attempt to obtain money or anything of value by violence, misuse of authority, or improper threats is also prohibited. Such conduct may result in criminal charges in addition to University disciplinary action.

Falsification of Records

Students are personally responsible for the correctness and accuracy of information supplied to the University. Any student who knowingly gives incorrect information to the University is subject to disciplinary action, which may lead to suspension.

Forgery

Imitating or counterfeiting signatures, works of art, University documents, enrollment forms requiring a professor’s, dean’s or other official’s signature, or other productions with the intent to deceive, and/or the unauthorized use of names, titles, or signatures may result in University disciplinary action or criminal prosecution.

Oklahoma City University complies with Oklahoma law requiring all students, including undergraduate, graduate, and law students, to provide documentation of having received the following vaccinations:

• MEASLES, MUMPS, RUBELLA (MMR): Documentation of 2 shots or serologies is required. List either the two dates of the MMRs received or the individual titer dates and results. The first MMR must have been received on or after your first birthday and there must be at least 28 days between the first and second MMR. If received prior to your first birthday or there is less than 28 days between the two MMRs received, you are required to have another MMR or show proof of positive titers.
• HEPATITIS B: If you are in the process of receiving your Hep B immunizations for the first time, you are required to have the three-shot series and provide the date. If you have completed your Hep B immunizations more than one year ago, please provide the date vaccines were received or the titer date and result. If the 3-dose series is needed, then the doses should be in a 0, 1, 6 month interval.
• TETANUS: Booster is not required, but highly recommended within the last 5 years.
• MENINGITIS: All students living in on-campus housing are required to either get the Meningitis vaccine or sign a waiver against the vaccine.
• TUBERCULIN SKIN TEST: (Required Mantoux PPD): International students are required to have a TB skin test within the first 6 weeks of the first semester of enrollment. For 2019-2020 academic year, the official dates to have the TB skin test completed are October 1st for the Summer and Fall semester and March 1st for the Spring semester. The TB skin test is a small injection given in the forearm. All skin tests need to be read within 48 -72 hours or another test must be done. The cost for the test at Campus Health is $20. Please list the dates and results (in millimeters) for previous PPD’s received. Instead of a PPD, it is acceptable annually to provide negative QuantiFERON gold blood test results within 60 days prior to the first semester. QuantiFERON gold blood tests can be completed at Campus Health at the students cost for $75. If the PPD is positive (10mm and above), a chest x-ray is required. The x-ray date along with a copy of the physician’s report must be submitted to Campus Health. An x-ray older than one year will be accepted if you have completed the full INH treatment and have been symptom free for one year. Documentation must be submitted to campus health in person.

Note: For international students who have received the Bacille Calmette-Guerin Vaccine (BCG), your PPD will likely test positive regardless of any exposure, this procedure is still required since the vaccine is not resistant to all strains of TB.

Personal or Religious Exemptions:

The law allows that some students or their parents may have personal or religious tenets or beliefs that prohibit them from being immunized. In order to claim this exemption, a student over age 18 (or a parent or guardian if the student is under age 18) must sign a waiver that must be on file with the University. The student vaccine waiver is available for download here.

An enrollment hold will be placed on the records of any student who is not in compliance with Oklahoma law. An enrollment hold restricts students abilities to enroll for additional semesters. Enrollment holds will be placed after October 1st in the Fall semester and March 1st in the Spring semester.

When turning in records:

• No original records will be accepted. Make a copy of the immunization record for Admissions and keep the original in a safe location for your records. Write your name and student ID number on the records before submitting them online here.
• Call or email Campus Health with questions about immunization records and requirements at [email protected] or (405)208-5090. Do not email immunization records directly to the Campus Health Clinic

The Division of Student Affairs recognizes that the potential for disciplinary action by the Dean of Students Office may act as a barrier to students seeking medical assistance for themselves or other students in alcohol or other drug-related emergencies; therefore, the Division of Student Affairs maintains a medical amnesty protocol. In these incidents, the primary concern is the well-being, health, and safety of students.

Students needing medical assistance during an alcohol or other drug-related emergency will not face formal conduct action by the Dean of Students Office for the mere possession or use of alcohol or drugs. The recipients of medical attention will avoid formal conduct action through the nonacademic conduct process if they participate in an honest and forthright meeting with a representative from the Dean of Students Office. (The Dean of Students or his/her designee may extend the five business days requirement as necessary.)

Additionally, any student(s) or a student organization seeking medical assistance for themselves or another person, during an alcohol or other drug-related emergency, will not face formal conduct action by the Dean of Students Office for the mere possession or use of alcohol or drugs. In order to acquire medical amnesty, these individuals or representatives from organizations may need to meet with a representative from the Dean of Students Office within five business days of the incident and comply with any recommendations prescribed by the office.

Medical amnesty applies only to alcohol or other drug-related medical emergencies and does not apply to other prohibited conduct such as assault, property damage or distribution of illicit substances.

Click here to view the entire policy.

Oklahoma City University’s official means of communication with all students will be through the [email protected] email account. All students are expected to consistently check their @my.okcu.edu email in order to stay informed about University announcements, emergencies, information about meetings and events, as well as course-related correspondences from faculty. Such correspondence is mailed only to the student’s University email address.

Students who choose to have emails forwarded from their @my.okcu.edu account to a preferred account are responsible for ensuring that those emails are entirely received by the preferred account.

See section on Blue Alert – Emergency Notifications here.

Updating Contact Information

Students must maintain current contact information with the Office of the Registrar. Students may update their contact information by visiting the Office of the Registrar or logging on to their student account through BlueLink. The University is not responsible for correspondence not received due to incorrect contact information.

Weather Closure

In the event the University closes or has a delayed opening due to inclement weather, students will be notified via Blue Alert* and the main page of the University's website. The University may also contact local news regarding any weather closures.

*Please note, Students, faculty, staff and parents/guardians must register first with the service to receive Blue Alert emergency notifications.

Ticket Policy

Students attending concerts, recitals, stage performances, and athletic events for which admissions are charged and tickets are required, must have a valid ticket to be inside the event facility. A valid ticket must be presented to ushers and University officials on request. Failure to present a valid ticket as requested will result in expulsion from the event facility, loss of privilege to purchase a ticket for the event, and possible disciplinary action.

Prohibition on Recording Performances

In the absence of official information specifically authorizing videotaping, recording, or photography at a dance, music, theater, or other stage production or concert, students should assume that such activities are strictly forbidden. Productions always prohibit cameras inside the auditorium and always prohibit recording of any kind.

In the event that a student violates restrictions on the presence of cameras, recording, taping, or photographing part or all of a production, the following may happen:

• The student’s camera or recording device may be temporarily confiscated.
• The student must surrender the film or recording media immediately upon request by a University official.
• The student may be expelled from the auditorium, theater, or concert hall without refund of any part of the admission the student paid for the ticket.
• The student may be barred from attending future dance, music, or theater events.
• The student may be subject to disciplinary action.

Prohibited Items at Performances

Due to heightened security, please avoid bringing: packages, luggage, backpacks, etc. to the theater. No weapons, bottles, coolers, or containers are allowed in the theater.

All packages are subject to inspection.

Oklahoma City University prohibits all persons, including faculty, staff, students, contractors, visitors, and volunteers, from having pets on campus. This policy applies to all buildings and facilities on campus unless a specific exception is approved per the Pet Policy. The University is responsible for providing a safe and healthy environment where employees can work and students can study and live. Pets can pose a threat to the health and safety of the campus community as well as to a healthy educational environment through issues such as allergies, excessive noise, animal bites, and disease transmission (e.g., fleas, ticks, viruses, and parasites). This policy applies not only to dogs but also to other common animals including, but not limited to, birds, cats, mice, gerbils, amphibians, reptiles, and ferrets.

All members of the campus community are required to comply with all provisions of this policy. Employees and students who fail to comply or who interfere with the implementation of this policy, including relocation of animals, will be subject to corrective or disciplinary action. The University may require any person with a pet to remove the animal from campus grounds. The campus community is required to abide by this policy and by the relevant local government laws and ordinances regarding dog and cat management.

Click here to view the entire Pets policy.

Click here to view the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) policy for Students.

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) give students the following rights regarding their educational records:

• The right to inspect and review the student’s educational records.
• The right to request an amendment to the student’s educational records to ensure they are not inaccurate, misleading or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy or other rights.
• The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorized disclosure without consent.
• The right to file with the U.S. Department of Education a complaint concerning alleged failures by Oklahoma City University to comply with the requirements of FERPA.

Inspection of Educational Records

• Students may inspect and review their educational records upon request to the appropriate records custodian.
• Students should submit to the records custodian, or appropriate University staff person, a written request that identifies as precisely as possible the record or records he/she wishes to inspect.
• The records custodian, or appropriate University staff person, will make the needed arrangements for access as promptly as possible, and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.
• Access will be given in 45 days, or less, from the date of receipt of the written request.
• When a record contains information about more than one student, the student may inspect and review only the records that relate to him/her.

Limitations on the Right of Access

Oklahoma City University reserves the right to refuse to permit a student to inspect the following records:

• The financial statement of a student’s parents.
• Letters and statements of recommendation for which the student has waived his/her right of access, or which were maintained before January 1, 1975.
• Records connected with an application to attend OCU or a component of the University, if the application was denied.
• Those records that are excluded from the Family Educational Right and Privacy Act definition of education records.

Refusal to Provide Copies

Oklahoma City University reserves the right to deny copies of records, including transcripts, not required to be made available by the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act in any of the following situations:

• The student has an unpaid financial obligation to the University.
• There is an unresolved disciplinary action against the student.
• There is an unresolved security investigation involving the student.
• The education record requested is an exam or set of standardized questions that is not directly related to the student.
• Documents submitted by or for the student in support of the application for admission (including letters of reference) will not be returned to the student.

Educational Records

Educational Records include any record (in handwriting, print, tapes, film, electronic, or other medium) maintained

by Oklahoma City University, or an agent of the University, which is directly related to a student, except the following:

• A personal record kept by a staff member if it is kept in the sole possession of the maker of the record and is not accessible or revealed to another person except a temporary substitute for the maker of the record.
• Records created and maintained by the Oklahoma City University Police staff for law enforcement purposes.
• An employment record of an individual, whose employment is not contingent on the fact that he/she is a student, provided the record is used only in relation to the individual’s employment.
• Records made or maintained by a physician, psychiatrist, psychologist, or other treatment of a student and made available only to those persons who provided the treatment.
• Alumni records which contain information about a student after she/he no longer attends the University and do not relate to the person as a student.

Disclosure of Education Records

Oklahoma City University will disclose information from a student’s education records only with the written consent

of the student, except that records may be disclosed without consent when the disclosure is given to the following entities or institutions:

• Approved University officials who have a legitimate education interest in the records.
• Another institution of higher learning’s officials who have requested records when a student seeks to enroll or is already enrolled at the requesting institution.
• Certain officials of the U.S. Department of Education, the Comptroller General, and state and local education authorities, in connection with audit or evaluation of certain state or federally supported education programs.
• In connection with a student’s request for, or receipt of, financial aid to determine the eligibility, amount or conditions of the financial aid, or to enforce the terms and conditions of the financial aid, or to enforce the terms and conditions of the aid;
• State and local officials or authorities if specifically required by a state law that was adopted before November 19, 1974.
• Organizations conducting certain studies for, or on behalf of, the University.
• Accrediting organizations to carry out their functions.
• Parents of an eligible student who is claimed as a dependent for income tax purposes.
• To entities in which disclosure is required by a judicial order or a lawfully issued subpoena.
• Appropriate parties in a health or safety emergency.
• Individuals requesting directory information, so designated by the University.
• Adjudicators of any disciplinary proceeding conducted by the University against an alleged perpetrator of a crime or violence to the alleged victim of that crime.

Disclosure of Directory Information

Oklahoma City University designates the following items as directory information and may disclose such information without prior written consent, unless notified in writing to the contrary:

• Student’s name, email address, and physical address
• Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
• Telephone number
• Date and place of birth
• Major field of study
• Classification
• Parent’s name and address
• Weight and height of student-athletes
• Dates of attendance
• Degrees received
• Honors received
• Most recent previous school attended
• Photograph

Record of Request for Disclosure

Oklahoma City University will maintain a record of requests for and/or disclosure of information from any student’s educational records. The record will indicate the name of the party making the request, any additional party to whom it may be re-disclosed, and the legitimate interest the party had in requesting or obtaining the information. The record is available to be reviewed by the student.

Correction of Education Records

Students have the right to ask to have records corrected that they believe are inaccurate, misleading or in violation of their privacy rights through the following procedures:

• A student must ask, in writing, of the appropriate University official, to amend a record. In so doing, the student should identify the part of the record to be amended and specify why the student believes it is inaccurate, misleading or in violation of his/her privacy rights.
• The University may comply with the request, or it may decide not to comply. If it decides not to comply, the University will notify the student of the decision and advise the student of his/her right to a hearing to challenge the information believed to be inaccurate, misleading or in violation of the student’s privacy.
• Upon written request, the University will arrange for a hearing and notify the student, reasonably in advance, of the date, place and time of the hearing.
• An impartial hearing officer from the University will conduct the hearing. The hearing officer will be appointed by the University President. The student shall be afforded a full and fair opportunity to present evidence relevant to the issues raised in the original request to amend the student’s education records.
• The University will prepare a written decision based solely on the evidence at the hearing. The decision will include a summary of the evidence presented and the reasons for the decision.

In its pursuit of truth, Oklahoma City University acknowledges the benefit of examining a variety of ideas and opinions. In order to enable and support the mission of the University, this policy is made in the spirit of providing an open atmosphere for the exchange of ideas, the nurture of critical inquiry, a commitment to value-conscious education, and a maximization of benefit for the University community.

Any student, group, or registered student organization inviting an external speaker (not affiliated with the University) to campus, must abide by all University regulations.

Allowing or sponsoring an event in which there is an external speaker does not imply approval or endorsement by the University of the views and opinions expressed at the event.

Registering an External Speaker

1. All students or student organizations inviting external speakers to appear on-campus with an invitation to the entire campus community or to the general public must obtain prior approval of the Dean of Students or designee at least one week before the speaker is expected to be at the University.
2. The Dean of Students or designee may require a meeting with the students/student organization inviting the external speaker in order to determine the parameters of the external speaker’s remarks.
3. The Dean of Students or designee may prescribe mandatory conditions for the conduct of the meeting in which the external speakers will make remarks.
4. The University reserves the right to exclude external speakers whose nature or presentation is inconsistent with the University’s mission.

Allowing or sponsoring an event in which there is an external speaker does not imply approval or endorsement by the University of the views and opinions expressed at the event.

In keeping with Oklahoma City University’s mission of encouraging the intellectual and spiritual development of its students, the University encourages free expression. At any public demonstration at Oklahoma City University all students, visitors, faculty, or other members of the University community are expected to abide by all University regulations.

Registering a Public Demonstration

1. All public demonstrations and rallies must be scheduled with the Dean of Students' Office at least three school days in advance of the event.
2. Any student or university group planning to schedule a public demonstration or rally must meet with the Dean of Students, or designee, to seek permission and determine the arrangements for the event.
3. Students are expected to abide by the agreed-upon arrangements during the course of the demonstration.
4. The Dean of Students or designee may deny the demonstration or rally if it is inconsistent with the mission of the University, endangers public safety or may cause an unreasonable disruption to the normal routine of the University.
5. The University reserves the right to establish time, place, and manner restrictions that apply to all public demonstrations or rallies.

All public demonstrations and rallies must be scheduled with the Dean of Students at least three school days in advance of the event.

Prohibited Conduct at Public Demonstrations

1. Failure to comply with directives of University or police officials enforcing any University regulations or any criminal and civil laws.
2. Failure to observe University regulations.
3. Failure to conduct a demonstration in the time, place, or manner previously approved by the Dean of Students or designee.
4. Physical or verbal abuse of any person.
5. Any conduct which threatens or endangers the health or safety of any person.
6. Theft or damage to property of the University or of a member of the University community or campus visitor.
7. Disorderly conduct or lewd, indecent, or obscene conduct or expression on University property or at University sponsored or supervised functions
8. Obstruction or disruption of the University’s normal functions teaching, research, administration, disciplinary procedures, or other University activities
9. Unauthorized entry to or use of University property or facilities.
10. Physically or psychologically hinder access to, use of, or egress from University facilities
11. Possession or use of firearms, ammunition, fireworks, explosives, dangerous chemicals or weapons of any kind.

Policies for Handling Disruptive Demonstrations/Failure to Comply

1. The Dean of Students, or other authorized University officials, will determine the point at which University regulations have been violated at a public demonstration or rally.
2. The Dean of Students, or other authorized University officials, will then require that the demonstration be modified on stated conditions or immediately terminated.
3. Failure to observe any University regulation or the instructions of University officials during a public demonstration or rally may subject students to University disciplinary procedures.
4. Groups or organizations that fail to observe any University regulation or the instructions of University officials during public demonstrations or rallies may be subject to withdrawal of permission to conduct future public demonstrations or the revocation of their status as a recognized student organization.
5. The University will take all measures, including civil and criminal litigation, it believes necessary in order to prevent disruption of University functions, to restore order, and to protect the rights of the members of its community.

The identification card issued to each student is a permanent card issued for as long as the student is enrolled in the University. It should be carried at all times while the student is on campus and should be presented to the OCUPD on request.

The card allows participation in student activities, student elections and provides access to some University facilities. The card will admit the student to regularly scheduled home athletic events and may be presented to receive discounts at University drama and music events. The identification card serves as a meal ticket and is necessary for cashing checks or receiving funds at the Student Accounts Office. The identification card is also the student’s library card and is required for checking out material from the Dulaney-Browne Library.

Oklahoma City University requires that the following guidelines be followed for any on-campus solicitation and the posting or distribution of any flyers, posters, handbills, or other printed materials anywhere on campus.

Printed Materials

1. The OCU Involved Center, room 114 of the Tom and Brenda McDaniel University Center must approve all printed materials before being posted on campus.
2. All flyers must have the approval stamp from the Involved Center.
3. Those printed materials without the approval stamp will be removed without notice.
4. Printed materials may only be posted in designated locations in each on-campus facility.
5. Anyone who posts printed materials is responsible for the timely removal and disposal of the posted printed materials after the events or functions advertised have occurred.
6. Materials of any kind may not be posted on painted, wood, metal, or glass surfaces. Violators will be responsible for damages.

Solicitations

1. On-campus solicitation is only allowed with the express permission of the Dean of Student’s Office, Room 257 of the McDaniel University Center.
2. Solicitations related to employment must be approved by the Office of Career Services, Room 200 of the Meinders School of Business.
3. Solicitations related to religion must be approved by the Director of Religious Life, Chapel L111.
4. Materials advertising non-University-approved housing are strictly prohibited.

Oklahoma City University provides opportunities for student travel for activities that facilitate and/or enhance the learning process. This policy only applies to domestic travel that occurs away from campus that is either outside the boundaries of Oklahoma County or overnight travel. The Office of Academic Affairs or the Risk Management Department shall be consulted all matters concerning international travel or travel associated with the study abroad program.

I. University-Sponsored Travel

A. University-Sponsored Travel is student travel to an event that is initiated, actively managed, planned or arranged by a member of the University’s faculty or staff. University Sponsored Travel also includes travel that is initiated, actively managed, planned or arranged by a Registered Student Organization that has received University permission to facilitate travel for a specific function. University-Sponsored travel is wholly funded with University funds. The University shall not be liable for any loss, damage, injury or other consequence resulting from a participant’s failure to comply with University rules and policies, the direction of University employees, or applicable law.

B. All participants are required to:

1. Comply with the standards set forth in the Oklahoma City University Student Code of Conduct and Student Handbook, and other applicable University policies.
2. Conduct their selves in a manner consistent with the environment, understanding the standard of decorum may differ from the on-campus environment.

C. Registered Student Organization travel must be consistent with the organization’s mission statement and constitution on file with the Office of Student Engagement.

D. Student travel must not create an undue interference with academic responsibilities.

E. The following documentation must be completed and submitted digitally to [email protected] no later than five (5) business days prior to the scheduled trip:

*Click here to access the policy and all travel forms.

F. All University-sponsored travel must be chaperoned by an OCU staff or faculty member.

G. Faculty/staff advisors are required to complete a copy of the OCU Group Travel Form in advance of any travel.

H. Faculty/staff advisors are responsible for holding a meeting in advance of any travel with all participants to communicate the planned itinerary, behavioral expectations, and transportation details.

I. Spouses, friends, and family of students are not eligible to participate in University sponsored travel opportunities.

J. All participants are required to engage in the planned activities of the trip. Unstructured time should be kept to a minimum to reduce the risks inherent in unsupervised activity.

K. Any requests for deviation from this policy must be approved by the Vice President for Student Affairs or their designee.

II. Non-University Sponsored Travel

Non-University-Sponsored travel is student travel that is not wholly funded using University funds. In some cases, the Student Government Association may support Registered Student Organization travel by providing funding for conference registration. This partial funding does not alter the non-University sponsored nature of the travel.

A. When participating in non-University sponsored travel, Registered Student Organizations are required to submit the OCU Group Travel Form to Oklahoma City University’s Office of Student Engagement via email ([email protected]) at least five (5) business days prior to the trip.

B. Faculty/staff advisors are encouraged to hold a meeting in advance of any travel with all participants to communicate the planned itinerary, behavioral expectations, and transportation details.

III. Transportation

A sponsoring University department may arrange for transportation by rental vehicle(s), chartered service, regularly scheduled transportation service, or, if necessary, personal vehicles.

Rental Vehicles: If rented with University funds, only approved university vehicle operators may drive; all terms of the rental contract must be enforced. The University prohibits departments or employees from renting 15-passenger vans for University travel.

Contract Bus Service: Adequate insurance coverage for personal injury and property damage must be provided by the bus company.

Personal Vehicles: Personal vehicles should only be used on a voluntary basis. The owners/drivers must provide their own insurance coverage. All student participants choosing to ride in a private automobile do so voluntarily and at their own risk. The University shall not insure or accept liability for any damage, loss or injury resulting from the use of a private vehicle. The University does not provide comprehensive or collision (physical damage) insurance for private vehicles driven on University business, and the owner is responsible for primary liability insurance. The University does carry non-owner excess liability coverage to protect the University and employee in the event of a suit resulting from an automobile accident in which an employee was driving on University business.

Click here to refer to University Vehicle usage policy.

IV. Accident and Medical Insurance

The faculty member, advisor, or administrator responsible for the trip shall communicate to the participants that the University does not provide medical insurance for any student’s participation in trips. All student participants shall be responsible for any medical costs they incur during and/or as a result of the trip.

V. Definitions

A Registered Student Organization is one that has been formed for educational, professional, social, recreational or other lawful purposes, derives the majority of its membership and all of its leadership from the student body of Oklahoma City University, has been approved for recognition by the Office of Student Engagement, and maintains a current registration status with the Office of Student Engagement.

A University sponsored event or activity is one that is initiated, actively managed, planned and/or arranged by a member of the University’s faculty, staff, or members of a Registered Student organization granted full sponsorship by the University.

Travel - Journeys beyond the boundaries of Oklahoma County, whether sponsored by the University or not, are considered Travel. Any trip that requires overnight lodging will be considered Travel. Journeys that occur only within the boundaries of Oklahoma County and will not require overnight lodging are considered Field Trips.

Transcript Notations

A disciplinary notation may be placed on an academic transcript if a student is found responsible for violations of University policies*. Notations will be placed under the following circumstances.

1. Suspensions – notation will be at the discretion of the investigating party

• The notation will be: Disciplinary Suspension
• Dates of suspension will be included (beginning and end)
• Students will be given the opportunity to petition for the suspension notation to be removed one year after the conclusion of the suspension. The petition will be submitted to the office that made the final ruling on the suspension. If granted, the Registrar will be notified to remove the suspension notation.

2. Expulsions – all disciplinary expulsions will be notated on the transcript

• The final notation will be: Disciplinary Expulsion
• Until all appeal timelines and processes are complete, the notation will be: Pending Disciplinary Expulsion
• The date of the expulsion will be included.
• Once all appeal timelines and processes are complete, Registrar will be notified to either remove the notation (if a successful appeal is granted) or to finalize the notation.
• Student grades will be reassigned to Ws.
• All notations of expulsion will be permanent.

3. Pending Conduct Resolution – should a student leave the university prior to having conduct resolution, a notation will be made on the transcript

• The notation will be: Conduct Resolution Pending
• This notation is to be used for students who choose to leave the institution before the investigative process is complete.

*Students found responsible for violations of the University’s Nondiscrimination Policy (which includes Title IX violations) who are suspended or expelled as result of that determination, will also receive a disciplinary notation on their transcripts.

For more information about Title IX please click here.

In keeping with Oklahoma City University’s commitment to provide a safe and healthy academic and work environment, the University maintains a tobacco-free campus. This Policy applies to all property (both the interior and exterior of such property) owned, operated, or managed by the University, including all buildings, facilities, and grounds.

Such premises include, but are not limited to, University housing (e.g., dormitories and apartments), athletic facilities, parking structures and lots, offices, classrooms, restrooms, hallways, stairwells, driveways, sidewalks, and lawns. This Policy also applies to vehicles owned or leased by the University, or under University control, as well as at any off-property worksite-sponsored meeting or event.

The University prohibits all tobacco possession and use of any kind in accordance with this Policy. This prohibition includes smoking, carrying, or possessing a lighted tobacco product; using or administering any nasal or oral use of any tobacco product by chewing, dipping, vaping, or inhaling; littering the campus with remains of tobacco products; and any form of manufacturing, distributing, or consuming any tobacco product or simulated tobacco product.

Prohibited tobacco products include, but are not limited to: cigars, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, cigarillos, pipes, hookahs, dip/chew, orbs, strips, sticks, snus, snuffs, electronic devices/vapors, vaping products, smokeless pouches, all smokeless or loose-leaf tobacco, and any other nicotine delivery systems or products not expressly permitted below. The University further prohibits selling, advertising, or participating in services that promote tobacco use.

Notwithstanding the preceding list of prohibited tobacco products, this Policy does not prohibit persons over the age of 21 from possessing or using the approved prescription or over-the-counter nicotine replacement products

Violations of this Policy will be dealt with in accordance with disciplinary procedures provided for in the respective Faculty, Staff, or Student Handbooks. In the absence of such procedures, University administrators and supervisors will be responsible for implementing appropriate measures to address specific issues that constitute violations of this Policy.

Click here to view the entire tobacco-free campus policy.