Residence Hall Policies & Procedures
DRAKE UNIVERSITY RESIDENCE HALL CODE OF CONDUCT
Drake University is committed to providing all students with an academic and social environment conducive to learning and personal development. These policies are, therefore, designed to help create a safe and healthy learning environment for academic and personal success.
INTRODUCTION TO RESIDENCE HALL CODE
PROCEDURES FOR ADDRESSING NON-ACADEMIC MISCONDUCT
Sanctions for Alcohol Violations
LIST OF RESIDENCE HALL POLICIES
STUDENT LIFE COMPLAINT PROCESS
I. INTRODUCTION
This Residence Hall Code applies to all students of Drake University living in University residence halls. However, the Director of Residence Life, in consultation with the Dean of Students, may elect to proceed under the Code of Student Conduct, in which case the provisions of the Code of Student Conduct shall apply. See Student Handbook, Part IV. (Typically, cases involving the most serious forms of non-academic misconduct where suspension or expulsion might result are handled under the Code of Student Conduct, as opposed to this Code.)
The Director of Residence Life, in conjunction with the Dean of Students, reserves the right to take whatever disciplinary action is appropriate (including immediate removal from the residence halls) to protect the safety and well-being of students, faculty, staff and University property.
This Code does not limit the authority and discretion vested in the various University departments, colleges and Greek organizations to investigate and sanction students and student organizations within their jurisdictions in accordance with their rules, regulations and policies.
The parents of a student may be notified regarding an infraction, at the discretion of the Director of Residence Life.
II. NON-ACADEMIC MISCONDUCT
The definition of "non-academic misconduct" and the descriptions of the punishable offenses as set forth in Section II of the Code of Student Conduct and its appendices are hereby adopted. The term "non-academic misconduct" is defined as any conduct that adversely affects or threatens to adversely affect the safety of students, faculty, staff members or University property or that is disruptive or substantially impedes the lawful activities of other students, faculty or staff members. Punishable "non-academic misconduct" includes, but is not limited to, unlawful alcohol and controlled substance use, assault, disorderly conduct, pulling fire alarms falsely, tampering with firefighting equipment, sexual abuse and harassment, stalking and theft.
III. PROCEDURES FOR PUNISHMENT OF NON-ACADEMIC MISCONDUCT
Incidents of non-academic misconduct should be resolved, whenever possible, informally between the student and the appropriate residence hall staff person. If the matter cannot be resolved informally, then the student shall be informed in writing of the charge and the date, time and place for a hearing with the appropriate Residence Hall staff person. At the hearing, the student shall be allowed to present witnesses, documents and other evidence and the University may do likewise. At the conclusion of the hearing, the University staff person shall decide (1) whether, by a preponderance of the evidence, the student is guilty of non-academic misconduct; and (2) the appropriate sanction(s). Students will be notified, in writing, of the decision and the sanction(s) imposed.
The Residence Hall staff person presiding at the hearing may not suspend or expel a student but may impose other appropriate sanctions such as fines, probation, removal from the residence hall or residence hall system, revocation of privileges, restitution to injured parties, written reprimand, etc.
First violations are handled by the Residence Hall Coordinator. Second violations are handled by the Assistant Director. Third and additional violations are handled by the Director of Residence Life.
IV. SANCTIONS FOR ALCOHOL AND DRUG VIOLATIONS
Students who violate the Alcohol Policy and/or the Drug Policy (see Appendix A to Code of Student Conduct) will face various sanctions based on the number of violations the student has previously committed and all other factors relevant to the violation. All funds collected as a result of fines will be used for campus-wide alcohol educational programming.
Students who fail to pay a fine within 30 days after receiving notice of the fine will have the fine added to their University bill. Note: The University may place a "hold" on the record of any student who is delinquent in payment of his/her University bill. As a consequence of the hold, the student will be unable to register for class, receive transcripts or receive diplomas until the bill is paid.
A. Examples of Non-Academic Misconduct Involving Alcohol
|
Underage consumption/possession of alcohol |
Vomiting due to excessive drinking |
Abuse or disrespect of any University official due to excessive drinking |
Inappropriate urination |
|
Failure to comply with the direction of a University official due to excessive drinking |
Vomiting in a public area due to excessive drinking |
Malicious acts of violence or vandalism due to excessive drinking |
Intentional, unintentional or negligent damage due to excessive drinking |
|
Excessive possession of alcohol such as cases of beer, kegs, party balls, & beer bongs |
Display of drunkenness and incivility due to excessive drinking |
Intoxication requiring medical attention due to excessive drinking |
Providing alcohol to minors |
(Modeled after St. Thomas University)
B. Alcohol Sanctions
1st violation
- Formal reprimand
- $50.00 fine
- Additional sanctions are left to the discretion of the Residence Hall Coordinator or Assistant Director
2nd violation
- Warning/Probation
- $75.00 fine
- Additional sanctions are left to the discretion of the Assistant Director which may include but are not limited to; Probation, community service and alcohol assessment/counseling
3rd and subsequent violation(s)
- Probation
- $100.00 fine
- Additional sanctions are left to the discretion of the Director of Residence Life which may include but are not limited to; removal from residence halls, alcohol assessment/counseling and referral to the Dean of Students for disciplinary action under the Code of Student Conduct which could result in suspension or expulsion from the University
B. Sanctions for Illegal Substances
Drake University has no tolerance for illegal drug use or possession. Sanctions for use or possession of illegal substances or paraphernalia are as follows:
1st violation
- $100.00 fine
- Conduct probation
- Additional sanctions are left to the discretion of the Residence Hall Coordinator or Assistant Director
2nd violation
- Extended probation
- Removal from the residence hall – housing contract cancellation
- Drug and alcohol assessment
- $100.00 fine
- Additional sanctions are left to the discretion of the Assistant Director or Director of Residence Life
3rd and subsequent violation(s)
- Referral to Dean of Students for disciplinary action under the Code of Student Conduct, which could result in suspension or expulsion from the University
Possession of illegal substance with intent to distribute
- $200.00 fine
- Removal from residence halls
- Referral to Dean of Students for disciplinary action under the Code of Student Conduct, which could result in suspension or expulsion from the University
V. APPEALS
Students may appeal by providing written notice to the Dean of Students within seven calendar days from the mailing date of the written decision on sanctions sent to the student. The provisions of the Code of Student Conduct, commencing at Section III.B, shall apply to the appeal.
VI. THIS DOCUMENT IS NOT A CONTRACT
The information in this document does not constitute a contract between Drake University and the student. The University reserves the right to make changes in this policy, and all other policies and procedures, without giving prior notice.
VII. LIST OF RESIDENCE HALL POLICIES
Appliances
Compact refrigerators are permitted but must meet the following guidelines:
- The capacity shall not exceed 4.0 cubic feet
- The unit must operate on 115/120 volts, AC
- The unit and power cord must be Underwriters Laboratory approved
- One unit per double room
Microwaves are permitted but must meet the following guidelines:
- Cannot exceed 700 watts
- The unit and power cord must be Underwriters Laboratory approved
- One unit per double room
Failure to adhere to the guidelines may result in blowing of fuses which will affect the occupants of the room and/or floor in which they live. Because of such incidents removal of the appliance may result.
- Halogen lamps
- Pets (except fish)
- Amplifiers
- Ceiling Fans
- Space Heaters
- Extension Cords
- Hot Plates
- Electric Blankets
- Street Signs
- Electric Guitars
- Drum Sets
- Holiday Lights
- Rope Lights
- String lights
- Neon Signs
- Toaster
- Toaster oven
- George Foreman Grill
- Coffee Maker
Balconies/Roofs/Bridges
Throwing, dropping, or suspending objects from windows, balconies, roofs or bridges is prohibited. Being on roofs or roof areas is a safety hazard and is prohibited. Additionally, residents may not climb from balcony to balcony, jump or hand-drop from non-ground level balconies, or jump or hand-drop from bridges. Unauthorized access to the roof tops or balconies may result in disciplinary action.
Bicycles
Students are expected to operate bicycles in a safe and courteous manner and comply with University regulations and state laws pertaining to bicycle operation, including safety equipment standards. Bicycles are subject to the same driving laws as motor vehicles, and citations for improper and unsafe riding may be issued. Bicycles may not be operated in the residence halls at any time, and may be stored in rooms but not in any public areas of the halls. Each hall is equipped with either a bike rack or bike storage room. Bicycles may not be chained to railings, left in lounges or public areas or stored anywhere that would hamper the exit of residents during an emergency.
Business Ventures
Residence hall rooms may not be used for business purposes or any nature. Unauthorized selling, collecting of money, and promotion on campus or within any University building is not permitted. Students may not act as agents for business firms that entail solicitations or the receiving of business offers or goods on University property.
Care of Individual Students' Rooms
Residents are responsible for the rooms to which they are assigned. Simple health habits and respect for roommates and neighbors will promote good living conditions for all. Equipment (mops, brooms, dustpans and vacuums) is available at the hall desk to help keep rooms clean. Trash, dirt and lint are not to be swept into the hallways. All large objects must be taken to the trash room or designated areas. Residents are not permitted to hang objects out the windows or store items on the window ledges or the air conditioners.
Common & Public Areas
Residents are responsible for the condition of the hallways and common areas and are held accountable for any damage done to them. Hallways, stairways, recreation areas, lobbies, study rooms and bathrooms are to be kept clean and orderly at all times. Although Facility Services staff is responsible for the upkeep of these areas, student cooperation is necessary.
Sporting activities and the throwing of balls or other projectiles in halls are not allowed.
Lounges and TV rooms are provided primarily as areas for study and socializing. On occasion student groups and organizations may use these areas as meeting space. Students must reserve the lounges by contacting their hall coordinator. Public area furniture is provided for the convenience of all residents. Removal of this furniture for personal use will result in a usage fee of $25 a day and/or disciplinary action. In cases of loss or damage to common areas of the building, defined as being those areas not assigned to an individual or group, the cost, repair and/or replacement may be assessed each resident on a pro-rated basis.
Neither residents nor guests may sleep in living rooms, lounges, or on lounge furnishings. Hosts who permit overnight guests to violate these policies will be subject to disciplinary action. Exceptions to this policy may only be granted by the Residence Life staff responsible for the building in which the resident resides.
Controlled Substances/Drugs
Students are prohibited from the use, possession, distribution or sale of marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines or any other controlled substance covered by the Federal and State Controlled Substance Act. In any case involving violation of this act, University disciplinary action is deemed appropriate. Disciplinary action may range from a warning to dismissal from the University. Action may be taken whether a particular drug violation occurs on or off campus and whether civil authorities take independent action. Illegal drugs and/or their paraphernalia will be confiscated. If a residence hall staff member has reasonable cause to suspect that a resident is using or distributing illegal drugs, the resident will be confronted with that suspicion. If the suspicious behavior continues, the resident may be subject to disciplinary action and Campus Security and/or Local Police may be notified. See the Student Handbook for the complete University policy.
Fire Alarms
Evacuation is mandatory when alarms sound. Please be sure to locate the fire alarms and exits on your floor. Your prompt and complete cooperation in case of fire is important for everyone's safety. Each room is equipped with a smoke detector, but it is not attached to the main hall system. In case of a fire in your room, you must pull a fire alarm in the hallway to activate the hall system, and then call 911 to report the fire's location and notify a hall staff member.
If an alarm has been sounded, raise your shade, turn on the room light, and check the door for heat. If the door is hot, block the floor crack with a towel and attempt to signal for help from your window. If the door is not hot, exit your room, close the door behind you, stay near the floor, and leave the building by the nearest exit. Under no circumstances should you re-enter a burning building.
Remaining in a residence hall during a fire alarm is a violation of the Student Code of Conduct and will be dealt with in a disciplinary matter.
Pulling the fire alarms falsely, damaging, or tampering with fire fighting equipment (i.e. fire alarms, extinguishers, exit signs, fire hoses, smoke detectors, emergency lights or the elevator emergency call button) is considered a serious offense which could result in suspension or dismissal from the University and action by the civil authorities - punishable by a fine and/or jail under the State Code of Iowa.(checking on this.)
Fire Hazards
Anything which may create a safety or fire hazard is not allowed in the residence halls. This includes but is not limited to candles, incense, halogen lamps, space heaters, large wall hangings or wall paneling. The use of extension cords and/or multi-plug adapters shall not be used in residence hall rooms unless the device is equipped with a maximum 15-amp circuit breaker and complies with the National Electric Code.
Lighter fluid may be used to refill lighters, but is considered a dangerous combustible. Cooking equipment with exposed heating elements (i.e., toaster, toaster oven, burger cookers, hot plates, coffee makers,) is not allowed in the rooms. Circuits can be easily overloaded by simultaneous operation of electrical equipment such as hair dryers, stereos, televisions and refrigerators.
This policy is in accordance to the Uniform Fire Code and City of Des Moines Housing Code. Drake University carries no insurance covering personal property that may be destroyed by fire. The University suggests that students obtain insurance coverage for all personal property if they do not have such coverage already.
Fireplaces
Many residence hall living rooms have nonfunctional fireplaces. These fireplaces may not be used at any time.
Fireworks
The possession or use of firecrackers, bottle rockets or other materials which may endanger a person's health or safety, is prohibited and could result in dismissal from the residence halls and/or the University.
Flammable Materials/Candles/Incense
Burning of candles, incense, and similar materials is a fire hazard and is prohibited in residence hall rooms and on exterior widow sills. Candles may be used only in connection with hall activities in the public areas of the building and with approval of the hall coordinator, and may never be left unattended. The aroma of incense and scented candles may affect another student's health. The storage and use of flammable fluid is prohibited.
Guests
Residents may have overnight guests in the residence halls for a maximum of four nights at a time. Both roommates must consent to any overnight guests. Overnight guests must register at the desk of the residence hall where they will stay. Guests who enter the residence halls after the hall doors are locked must leave their I.D. and their hosts' names at the hall front desk. Residents must meet their guests at the hall front desk after the hall doors are locked and must escort them throughout the building. Guests may not sleep in any lounge areas and must use the bathroom facilities designed for their sex. Guests must obey University and residence hall policies. Residents are responsible for the actions of their guests at all times. If violations of policy do occur, guests and visitors will be removed from the hall and future admittance to the hall may be restricted.
Illness and Accident
Please report immediately all illnesses and accidents to the hall coordinator or resident assistant.
The American Republic Health Center, 32nd Street and Carpenter Avenue, is staffed with fully certified and licensed medical personnel. The health center is open 8:30 am to 5:00 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday and until 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday. Friday hours are 8:30 am - 3 pm. The health center is open to all Drake students for consultation without charge. Students present their insurance cards at the time of consultation. The charges for the visit are submitted to the student's insurance company for payment.
During evening and weekend hours Drake students will have access to medical services available at locations specified by the Health Center.
Please contact the Health Center if you need a Sharps container for your medical needs.
Lofts
Lofts (other than those obtained through Drake University), paneling and wooden constructions are not permitted in residence hall rooms for fire safety reasons. Lofts violate City of Des Moines building code. Beds placed on concrete blocks may be no higher than 24 inches from the floor.
Musical Instruments and Equipment
No musical instruments may be played in residents' rooms during quiet hours. Non-amplified instruments are allowed in the lobbies during designated hours. Students are encouraged to use practice facilities at the Fine Arts Center.
Pets
All pets except fish are prohibited, as they can create safety and sanitation hazards in the residence halls. Animals "just visiting" are also not permitted in the residence halls. If reasonable attempts to determine ownership of the animal or to find off-campus shelter for the pet fail, the animal shelter will be called. Fish are the only acceptable pets permitted in any residence hall and may be kept in tanks no larger than 10 gallons. Fish should be removed from residence halls during winter and spring breaks.
Posting in the Residence Halls
- Lobby bulletin boards are for general notices. Residence halls may and should designate one of the bulletin boards in the lobby as a hall bulletin board to be reserved for official University notices and notices that are necessary for the general welfare of the residents. The hall bulletin board will be under the jurisdiction of the hall coordinator.
- One lobby bulletin board shall be used solely for the purpose of the posting of notices and announcements.
- Floor bulletin boards are to be reserved for Official University notices and notices that are necessary for the general welfare of the residents. They shall be under the jurisdiction of the resident assistant and floor president.
- Signs and posters shall be kept to a reasonable size.
- All signs and posters shall have the name of the sponsor clearly displayed on the front.
- All residence halls may designate a place in their lobby for driver/rider cards to be displayed. This will be the only place these cards shall be displayed in the residence halls.
- Any group outside the residence halls may post material in areas within the halls approved by each hall coordinator or hall president.
Quiet Hours
Quiet hours are as follows: Sunday through Thursday, 11 p.m. to 7 a.m., Friday and Saturday, 1 a.m. to 9 a.m. Courtesy Hours are defined as any other time other than quiet hours. Residents should be considerate of their neighbors above and below their room as well as on their floor. Consistent noise and complaints during Courtesy Hours can result in disciplinary action. While quiet hours are in effect, residents are not to disturb others in their use of musical sound equipment and televisions or by speaking loudly. No noise should be heard in the hallways during quiet hours. Residents may lose the right to use musical sound equipment and television if this policy is violated. Noise caused by guests is the responsibility of the host. Consideration for others should always be observed.
Removal from the Residence Halls
A student may be removed from the residence halls at any time if his or her action jeopardizes the rights or safety of themselves or others. A student has the right to a hearing following the removal.
Residence Hall Staff
The residence hall staff is responsible for helping to create a secure atmosphere conducive to studying, socializing and learning to live with other individuals. Each resident is expected to respond appropriately to requests from staff and fellow residents concerning behavior that disrupts this secure atmosphere. The refusal to obey the reasonable request of a University staff member acting within the scope of his or her authority under circumstances where such refusal interferes with the regular and proper performance of that staff person's duties is considered a serious violation and may result in disciplinary action.
Additionally, threats toward and/or physical contact with a residence hall staff member in the performance of their duties are considered serious violations which may result in immediate removal from the residence hall. A student has the right to a hearing following the removal.
Room Condition Report
When students check into their residence hall room, they receive their room key and a Room Condition Report describing the condition of their room. If the resident finds any other damages, they must be reported to the Resident Assistant within the first week of living in the room. Additional damages will be billed to the student's Drake account. Residents are responsible for their entire room. Any damage to the room will be split equally between the residents of that room unless an agreement is made with the hall staff at checkout.
Residents are encouraged to thoroughly check their rooms and report any damage they might find.
Room Damages
Residents are responsible for the furnishings in their room including the furniture, Ethernet, and cable television equipment. Residents should note carefully not only of the inventory of furniture, but also the condition of the room and furniture, because they will be charged for any damages. If the damage charges are not paid, action will be taken which may result in withholding the transcript of grades and in not allowing registration for the next semester. Students are liable for charges for any unusual housekeeping service, such as cleaning rooms left dirty when moving out.
Students are not permitted to paint or plaster their rooms. Storage cabinets and closet doors may not be removed or altered from their original design. Construction or room alteration involving heavy building materials, wooden or cloth material platforms, or lofts (see lofts) are prohibited due to fire and safety regulations. Screens must be left latched on windows to reduce the likelihood of damage from wind or falling screens. Window ledges are not to be used for storage.
Damage charges are assessed equally against all occupants of a room unless personal liability can be determined. Only University personnel may repair damages to the room. Students are responsible for any damages caused by adhesive substances, such as mounting tape, duct tape, scotch tape or self-adhesive fixtures. Students also are responsible for the condition of their room door; however, this is considered public space in the hall. All public spaces in the hall are under the jurisdiction and care of Facility Services and Residence Life staff. Although the University respects the right of expression, some signs or drawings in public areas, including room doors, can be found offensive. In such instances, the Residence Life staff will determine if the signs or drawings should be removed. If so, the residents will be asked to remove the material.
It is strongly recommended that students obtain Renters Insurance if the family policy does not already cover this.
Room Furniture
Beds may not be placed on desks, bookshelves or dressers. Beds placed on concrete blocks or plastic risers may be no higher than 24 inches from the floor. The window bench in the Quad halls is to remain in its place under the window; the bench protects the student from injury and the radiator from damage. Furniture and equipment may not be moved from one room to another or from the lounges or recreation rooms. A fee of $40 will be charged for all furniture moved without authorization. The only room furniture stored by the University is a mattress and bed frame if a furniture contract is completed. This circumstance would usually apply to a medical condition of the student, supported by a Doctor's documentation.
Room Inspections
The University reserves the right to make appropriate inspections as necessary to help guarantee that state laws and University policies are being followed and that the health, safety and welfare of its students are ensured. Illegal materials, drugs or items that pose an immediate danger to the health or safety of the residents, will be removed if they are noticed in the course of a room inspection. The resident will be notified of this action immediately.
A student's room will not be entered without knocking. A sufficient time lapse will be allowed to provide the resident ample opportunity to open the door. If no response is received, the room may be entered to make appropriate inspections as necessary.
Room Locks and Keys
Individual room keys are issued to students for their convenience and security. In order to maximize security, students must exercise care in the protection of their keys. A lost key can be replaced by obtaining a work order from the hall desk, paying a charge at the Office of Student Accounts and picking up a key at Facility Services, located at 1422 27th Street across from the Bell Center. A Drake I.D. must be presented before replacement keys will be issued.
The charge covers costs of replacement keys and provides an incentive for students to protect their keys. Any student wishing further protection may have the room lock changed. The student will be billed for this service.
Students who lose their keys should notify a hall staff member immediately. Reproduction of keys by anyone other than Facility Services is not allowed. In cases where students move out of their rooms without returning keys, the lock will be changed and the students will be charged.
Room Changes
The hall coordinator or area director must approve all room changes, and the room change forms must be completed before a student may move into a new room. Should an unauthorized room change occur, the resident will be assessed an improper room change fee. Students may be required to change rooms for the benefit of the University or the hall community. The University reserves the right to reassign residents to make the most effective use of available accommodations. Residents whose roommates move out during the academic year will consolidate with residents without roommates.
Room Decorating
Students are encouraged to personalize their rooms with posters, furniture, drapes, curtains or other decorations. We want you to make this your home away from home. Rooms, however, cannot be painted and all decorations must not create a fire hazard. Holiday decorations are also encouraged, but must follow the following guidelines:
- Exit signs and emergency lights may not be decorated.
- Live trees are not allowed. Artificial trees with no lights are allowed.
- No continuous hallway decorations may be used.
- No rope or string lights are allowed.
- No candles or other open flames are allowed in the halls.
- All decorations must be taken down before leaving for the semester break.
- Any signs in residence hall windows with any form of obscenity on them are not allowed.
Sales and Solicitation
Dean of Students Office shall regulate fund-raising and sales campaigns on campus that are directed to students in the following cases:
- Salespersons shall not solicit or conduct business with students on campus unless invited by the individual student with whom the salesperson is doing business.
- Commercial advertising material may be excluded at the option of the University.
- Sales and fund-raising activities shall be conducted in such manner as not to interfere with academic activities.
- Student rooms cannot be used for commercial purposes.
- Door-to-door solicitation in residence halls for commercial purposes is prohibited.
- Sales and fundraising campaigns are prohibited in Cowles Library.
If you see or are confronted by a solicitor in the residence halls, call the front desk and tell the desk receptionist. A staff member will confront the individual and escort them out of the building and all other hall desks will be notified of the presence of a solicitor on campus.
Smoke Detectors
Residents are responsible for the smoke detectors in their rooms. Smoke detectors are required in all residence hall rooms by Des Moines city ordinance. If a smoke detector malfunctions, remove it from the ceiling and disconnect the battery. Report the faulty detectors to your resident assistant immediately. Keep the smoke detector in the room in plain view for a maintenance person to repair it. Staff members are the only people who may remove a detector in the hallway. Facility Services will restore the detector no later than 4 p.m. of the first working day after it is reported. Residents are billed for damaged or missing detectors at checkout. If a student has been found to have damaged or removed a smoke detector from their room they will be subject to disciplinary action.
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted in the residence halls. Smoking is permitted in designated areas outside of the residence halls. Hooka pipes are not permitted in the residence halls.
Storage
Limited storage facilities are available in the residence halls for student use. Summer storage is limited to students planning to return to the residence halls. Items must be stored in the hall where the student will live. Everything stored must be ready for shipping. Items such as television sets, bicycles, furniture, stereos, refrigerators, microwaves, carpets or bricks may not be stored in residence hall storage rooms. Each hall coordinator, in consultation with Facility Services, will make all decisions regarding storage of items not covered by the storage agreement. All unclaimed property in storage will be disposed of by the University one semester after the original storage date.
Drake University and its employees shall not be liable for damage to or loss of items stored. Students are encouraged to secure insurance coverage for all their personal property.
Telephones
Any student can request an authorization code to make long distance telephone calls. This code should be kept confidential. Students are responsible for all long distance charges associated with their personal authorization code.
Students are encouraged to bring their own telephones. As there is only one line in each room, it is recommended that you discuss the acquisition of the telephone with your roommate. Each room will have shared voicemail. The Office of Telecommunications recommends you do not bring your own answering machines.
If you receive inappropriate, obscene or harassing telephone calls contact a residence hall staff member. Anyone found making such telephone calls would be subject to University disciplinary action. Any student found to fraudulently use an authorization code would be subject to restitution and University disciplinary action.
Any questions about room telephones should be referred to the Telecommunications Office.
Theft
Even if just going next door or leaving for a short period of time, each student should lock his or her room door when leaving. Each student is responsible for all University furnishings placed in the room. The University is not responsible for money, jewelry or any other article taken from student rooms. Please report any thefts to the hall coordinator or resident assistant and Campus Security at once. The University suggests that students obtain insurance coverage for all personal property if they do not have such coverage already.
Tornado
Students are encouraged to cooperate with the residence hall staff during a tornado watch or warning. A watch is the first alerting message from the U.S. Weather Service which specifies an area and a period of time during which tornado probabilities are expected to be dangerously high. A warning is issued when a tornado actually has been sighted in the area or detected by radar. City siren signal is a five-minute steady blast, which means to take shelter immediately. Residence hall signal is short blasts, which sound in each hall to indicate you should take cover.
Where to take shelter:
- Away from windows
- The lower two floors
- Basement
Weapons and Dangerous Substances
Use or possession of firearms, ammunition, bows and arrows, explosives, incendiary devices, bb guns, paint guns, imitation guns or any dangerous weapon, substance or material on campus, is prohibited except as expressly authorized by the University. Persons found to be in possession of such items or weapons may be charged with a violation of the Student Code of Conduct.
Windows and Screens
Windows and screens are to remain in place at all times. Broken windows and bent or damaged screens will be charged to the occupants of the room. A fee also will be assessed for reinstalling screens. Dropping, throwing, suspending or projecting any item from a window is strictly prohibited.
Vending Machines
Each hall has vending machines distributing soft drinks, candy, and other snacks. Refund request forms for money lost in machines can be obtained from your hall coordinator or full-time receptionist.
Drake University Student Life Complaint Procedures
Purpose
The purpose of the Student Complaint procedure is to provide Drake students a clear and rational process to follow if there are complaints about a particular individual or department in the division of Student Life. The departments in Student Life include the following:
• Dean of Students Office
• Greek Life
• Student Life Center (SLC)
• Counseling Center
• Health Center
• Residence Life
• Student Leadership and Service
• Student Life Campus Programs
• Summer Orientation
• Student Conduct
Students have the right at any time to file a complaint against another student, staff, faculty, or department when she or he believes they were mistreated or when they feel their rights were violated. These procedures are designed to support students as they encounter certain challenges and obstacles while pursuing their studies at Drake University.
Informal Complaint
Students are encouraged to address their concerns as soon as possible through an informal process by contacting the department or the individuals directly involved. In residence life, the complaint should first be made with the Residence Hall Coordinator or Assistant Residence Hall Coordinator of that hall. Once an answer or response is issued at that level, the student may appeal to the Assistant Director of Residence Life for that area. The final appeal will be with the Director of Residence Life. In student conduct cases and situations involving fines, appeals must occur in 30 days of student notification of decisions. In some cases what is perceived to be a wrong doing is often an issue of miscommunication and misunderstanding. Therefore, students are encouraged to informally speak with the individuals involved if possible. We recognize that there may be situations in which an official complaint should be filed.
Formal Complaint
If students are unable to resolve their concerns through an Informal Complaint Procedure, students are then encouraged to file a Formal Complaint by completing the university complaint tracking form at www.drake.edu/complaint in writing with the department supervisor and with the Dean Students Office at 202 Old Main.
The Dean of Students will hear all formal complaints that involve departments in Student Life.
Last Modified: 04/22/2008 18:23:41 by content editor
Drake's mission is to provide an exceptional learning environment that prepares students for meaningful personal lives, professional accomplishments, and responsible global citizenship. The Drake experience is distinguished by collaborative learning among students, faculty, and staff and by the integration of the liberal arts and sciences with professional preparation.
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