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Student Handbook Print

Student Handbook

Welcome to Richard Bland College of William & Mary!

PRESIDENT Sydow picture

Welcome to Richard Bland College of William & Mary. You have joined a community of learners who seek an exceptional educational experience with the ultimate goal of transferring to William & Mary or another highly ranked university in the Commonwealth or around the world. As a student, you will be supported by a dedicated team of professors and staff who are committed to your success.

The award-winning Exceptional Student Experience (ESE@RBC) program connects you to a Learner Mentor who acts as your guide, coach, and advisor, ensuring that every step of your educational journey leads directly to graduation and successful transfer.

Professors and staff work as a team, providing you just-in-time support and a highly personalized learning experience. To get the best results, remain in constant contact with your professors and Learner Mentor, and utilize the many resources available to you in the Student Success Center.

The College’s academically rigorous programs are grounded in the liberal arts tradition of William & Mary, one of America’s oldest and most prestigious public universities. Strong partnerships with 50 selective colleges and universities—both public and private—seamlessly connect you to high value baccalaureate programs and degrees, resulting in a solid academic foundation. Plot your pathway to the baccalaureate degree of your choice early, and be sure that every class you take gets you one step closer to your goal.

The expansive and picturesque Richard Bland campus is a perfect setting for the small, diverse, and vibrant learning community that you have now joined. From the Residential Student Village and adjacent athletic complex to exceptional academic facilities, you know that we’re serious about providing you everything you need to CREATE YOUR JOURNEY and succeed. Speaking of journey, the pecan grove, nature trail, and water garden are here for your enjoyment, so get outside and enjoy the abundant natural beauty all around you.

Finally, take the opportunity to learn and grow outside the classroom. As a member of Student Assembly, an athlete, an Honor student, or a Statesman club member, there will be ample opportunity for you to meet fascinating people, become an effective teammate, and build leadership skills. It’s all part of the educational experience that is here for you at Richard Bland College.

 

Sincerely,

 

Debbie L. Sydow, Ph.D., President
Richard Bland College of William & Mary




Numbers To Know

Numbers To Know

General Information(804) 862-6100
Office of the President(804) 862-6221
Provost(804) 862-6274
Finance Office(804) 862-6213
Cashier(804) 862-6213
Human Resources(804) 862-6215
Technical Support(804) 862-6401 / stac@rbc.edu
Library(804) 862-6226
Financial Aid(804) 862-6260
Office of Records and Registration(804) 862-6100, option 3
Learner Mentors(804) 862-6100 ext. 8563
Residence Life(804) 862-6161
Counseling & Support Services(804) 862-6263
Athletics(804) 863-1644
Assistant Provost for Enrollment Management(804) 862-6100 ext. 8583
Communications & Marketing(804) 862-6214
Student Activities & Leadership(804) 862-6775
Police/Fire/Rescue804-862-6111

RBC Alert

RBC Alert – is an emergency notification system that sends out alerts and updates to individuals’ cell phones, mobile devices, and email accounts. All registered students will receive the alerts. To add a device, update information, or “opt out” of the service, contact the Department of Campus Safety & Police.

Changes to the Student Handbook

The policies and procedures outlined in the Richard Bland College of William & Mary Student Handbook are subject to change without prior notification. Students should consult the online version of the Student Handbook for the most up-to-date information. The online text of this document serves as the College’s official Student Handbook.

The words “rule,” “regulation,” and “policy” are interchangeable, having the same meaning as each other throughout the Policy Manual and this Student Handbook.

Student Accountability

All Richard Bland College students are responsible for understanding the information outlined in this Handbook and other RBC policies. In order to assist students in learning this information the modules listed below will be made available to students via Canvas and must be completed by the date provided.

  • Title IX and Consent Awareness Training & Quiz
  • Student Handbook Quiz

Students who do not complete these modules prior to deadline will have a hold placed on their account.




Mission, Vision, and History

Mission

To prepare our students for a lifetime of endless potential.

We accomplish this by:

·         Preparing students for university transfer through academically rigorous programs grounded in the liberal arts tradition of William & Mary

·         Expanding access to college credentials through strategic partnerships, specialized programming, and scalable innovation.

 

Values

Below are the values of Richard Bland College as outlined in “Seize Your Potential,” the College’s strategic plan:

  • A friendly, family atmosphere
  • Enthusiastic, student-focused service
  • The power of difference
  • Building confidence
  • Quality outcomes

History

Richard Bland College (“the College” or “RBC”) was established in 1960 by the General Assembly of Virginia as a branch college of The College of William & Mary. The College was named for the Virginia statesman and champion of public rights, Richard Bland. Son and grandson of successful planters, Richard Bland was educated at The College of William & Mary. From 1742 until his death in 1776, he represented the area in which the College is now located, first in the House of Burgesses, and later, with the adoption of a state constitution, in the House of Delegates. He also served as a delegate from Virginia in both the First and Second Continental Congresses. Because of his careful study of the ancient records of the colony, he was respected not only as a political leader, but also as the leading authority on Virginia’s history.

It seems fitting, therefore, that an institution of higher learning located in an area served for so many years by this distinguished Virginia patriot and scholar, should derive its name from one whom Jefferson described as “the most learned and logical man of those who took prominent lead in public affairs.”

Before the Civil War, the property on which the College is now located was a plantation owned by the Gurley family. It became an important part of the Union-occupied territory during the 1864-1865 Siege of Petersburg. The present campus was the scene of two battles during that campaign.

Shortly before the turn of the century, the Hatcher-Seward family established a dairy and cattle farm on the former Gurley property and constructed two farmhouses. Today they serve as the President’s residence and the Hospitality House.

In the early 1900s, the majestic grove of pecan trees was planted. The farm was used as a work camp for about twenty conscientious objectors during World War I. The Commonwealth of Virginia authorized Central State Hospital to purchase the land in 1932 for use as the Petersburg Training School and Hospital for African-American Youth. That institution was moved in 1959, and the land, still owned by the Commonwealth, became the location for the establishment of Richard Bland College of The College of William & Mary.

Under the guidance of Colonel (Ret.) James M. Carson, the former hospital and training facility was transformed into Richard Bland College, and classes were held beginning in 1961. In the late 1960s, Ernst Hall (named for a local business leader influential in the establishment of the College) was added to the original campus. The Student Center/Library building and a gymnasium were constructed in the early 1970s, and with the core of the campus established, Colonel Carson retired as the founding President of the College in 1973.

From 1973 through 1975, Dr. Cornelius Laban, Professor of Biology, Emeritus, served as the Acting President of Richard Bland College.

In 1975, Dr. Clarence Maze succeeded Colonel Carson as Richard Bland College’s second President. During his tenure, Dr. Maze designed and built a water garden that was inspired by Monet’s garden at Giverny in addition to expanding the College’s academic programs and international travel-study offerings. In recognition of his service to the College, the renovated administration building was named Maze Hall upon his retirement in 1996.

In 1996, Dr. James B. McNeer succeeded Dr. Clarence Maze as Richard Bland College’s third President. Dr. McNeer introduced a residential life program. The Residential Village completed in 2008 is comprised of two dormitories, Freedom Hall and Patriot Hall, which together originally housed 250 students. A new Science and Technology Building was added in 2010, and in recognition of his service to the College, the building was named James B. McNeer Hall. Dr. McNeer retired in 2012.

In 2012, Dr. Debbie L. Sydow succeeded Dr. James McNeer as Richard Bland College’s fourth president. Dr. Sydow worked with College stakeholders to develop a far-reaching strategic plan that was approved by the Board of Visitors in 2013; expanded student housing; resurrected intercollegiate athletics; and centralized the Academic Quad on West Campus by re-purposing the former Ernst Hall, which houses state-of-the-art social sciences and humanities classrooms and a 220-seat auditorium.




Accreditation

Accreditation

Responsible for Maintenance: SACSCOC Institutional Accreditation Liaison

Richard Bland College of William & Mary is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award Associate of Arts and Associate of Science degrees.  Richard Bland College of William & Mary also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels.  Questions about the accreditation of Richard Bland College of William & Mary  may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on  SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).”

Accreditation is the method by which the higher education community regulates itself. It provides for public confidence, institutional effectiveness, and the maintenance of standards. SACSCOC sets forth requirements for initial and continued accreditation of colleges and universities in its publication The Principles of Accreditation: Foundations for Quality Enhancement. Every ten years, each SACSCOC-accredited institution undergoes an accreditation review process. Richard Bland College’s accreditation is extended until 2029.

Accreditation by SACSCOC means that Richard Bland College of William & Mary meets the following requirements:

  • Has a mission appropriate to higher education;
  • Has resources, programs, and services sufficient to accomplish and sustain the mission; and
  • Maintains clearly specified educational objectives that are consistent with its mission and appropriate to the degrees it offers;
  • Is successful in assessing its achievement of these objectives and demonstrating improvements
  • SACSCOC is the institutional accrediting body for degree-granting higher education institutions in eleven (11) southern states: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia, and some institutions in Latin America and other international sites approved by the SACSCOC Board of Trustees that award associate, baccalaureate, master’s, or doctoral degrees. SACS, founded in 1895, is a private, voluntary, nonprofit organization dedicated to the enhancement of educational quality and improvement of institutional effectiveness through peer review and institutional self-regulation.

 




The Campus

The Campus

Responsible for Maintenance: Chief Operations Officer

The Richard Bland College of William & Mary campus consists of approximately 800 acres of land with 16 buildings totaling nearly 345,000 gross square feet. The East Campus in Prince George County is notable for its signature pecan groves and the historic, white-washed buildings that supported a dairy farm until the early 1900s, and later a state hospital. Today, in addition to the Asian Water Garden and Barn Theatre, campus services and administration occupy the East Campus. The West Campus in Dinwiddie County is the center of student and academic life. In addition to the library and academic buildings, athletic and recreation facilities and residence halls are located on the West Campus.


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West Campus

Academic Village

Ernst Hall
First Floor: classrooms, faculty offices, auditorium, and Provost’s Office
Second Floor: art studio, classrooms, lounge, and Writing Center

James B. McNeer Hall
Science and Technology
First Floor: classrooms, labs, faculty offices, Statesman Technical Assistance Center, Department of Information and Communications Technology offices, Math & Science Tutoring Center
Second Floor: classrooms, labs, faculty offices
Third Floor: classrooms and labs

Outdoor: Nature Trail

The Student Commons
Office of Campus Engagement, Library Services, Student Success Center, Counseling Services, Parsons Café,

Student Village

Patriot Hall

Freedom Hall
Office of Residence Life (Suite 104 – Freedom Hall)

Athletic Village

Statesman Hall
First Floor: gymnasium, Department of Athletics offices
Second Floor: weight room, Department of Athletics offices

Field House

Sports and Recreation
Sand volleyball court
Tennis courses
Softball field
Soccer/multi-purpose field
Quarter-mile track


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East Campus

Maze Hall
Offices of the President, Chief Business Officer, Advancement, Legal Counsel, Communications, Marketing, and Government Relations

Commerce Hall

Pecan Hall
Office of Financial Aid, Office of Human Resource Management, Records & Registration Office, Cashier’s Office, Office of Admissions

Barn Theatre
A vestige of the dairy farm that previously operated on the site, the Barn Theatre is a multipurpose facility that provides a unique backdrop for lectures, live performances, and events. Because of its versatility, abundant natural light, and flexible, open space, the Barn Theatre is a popular venue for retreats, workshops, conferences, weddings, and other sponsored events.

President’s House
Before the establishment of Richard Bland College in 1960, the President’s House was one of two farmhouses built by the Hatcher-Seward Family, who operated a dairy and cattle farm in the early 1900s. The house is nestled amongst the College’s pecan groves and Asian Water Garden. The two-story house was remodeled in the 1960s, and a distinct room for entertaining was added to the house in 2009. The room’s large glass windows give presidential guests an expansive, breathtaking view of the Asian Water Garden. A fountain with a statue of Hebe, carrier of the Torch of Youth in Greek Mythology, a gazebo, and guesthouse are also present on the grounds.

Asian Water Garden
Initiated by former President Clarence Maze Jr. in 1988, the College’s Asian Water Garden was inspired by Claude Monet’s Gardens in France. The garden was fully developed five years later in 1993 and is open to the public throughout the year. A quarter of the one-acre garden is underwater. There are two waterfalls, two Japanese-style bridges, a pier, a garden path, benches, and a cupola. Lotus, Iris, Cattails, Clover, Papyrus, Plantain, and Thalia are just a few of the water plants. Shrubs, bog plants, and beds of Daylilies, Peonies, Irises, and numerous other plants surround the pond. Pecan, Japanese Maples, Cherry, Maple, and Dogwood Trees encase the garden.

Police Department
Chief of Police, Department of Campus Safety & Police, Dispatch

Property Management
Chief Operations Officer

 

 




I. Statement of Civility & Positive Campus Citizenship

Statement of Civility & Positive Campus Citizenship

Responsible for Maintenance: Student Conduct Coordinator

Civility and good citizenship on campus occur when members of the College community display mutual respect, cooperation, and other forms of positive and productive behaviors. Richard Bland College is a higher learning institution that values educational and social virtues, integrity, and growth. The College appreciates inclusivity and diversity of cultures, opinions, and learning styles. The Student Code of Conduct provides the community of learners at Richard Bland College with information that guides their behavior on campus. These standards are in place to foster community building and a culture of civility, and to ensure that students will be able to function in a safe, enjoyable, and mutually respectful academic setting that supports their intellectual and social development.

Preamble

Richard Bland College shares a commitment to achieving our educational mission, vision, and strategic goals. The Board of Visitors and the President bear ultimate responsibility and authority; however, faculty, staff, and students share a responsibility to help maintain on campus, in the classrooms, and in the residence halls, an environment in support of the pursuit of academic learning and activities, respect for others, and the opportunity for personal growth and development.

In addressing the importance of student rights and responsibilities, Richard Bland College has adopted language from the Student Handbook of the College of William & Mary in Virginia (http://www.wm.edu/offices/deanofstudents/services/studentconduct/studenthandbook):

Students, faculty, and administrators (hereinafter the “members of the College community”) shall enjoy all rights, privileges, and immunities guaranteed to every citizen of the United States and the Commonwealth of Virginia. In addition, the members of the College community shall enjoy all the fundamental rights recognized as essential to fulfillment of the special mission of an institution of higher education. The full enjoyment of these rights, however, cannot be achieved unless certain concurrent responsibilities are accepted. Members of the College community have an obligation, therefore, to fulfill the responsibilities incumbent on all citizens as well as the responsibilities inherent in their particular roles within the academic community.

Privileges and Immunities

The members of the College community, as individuals, shall enjoy all rights, privileges, and immunities guaranteed every citizen of the United States and of the Commonwealth of Virginia as stated in the 14th Amendment to the United States Constitution. The following mutual rights and responsibilities, institutional and student, are set forth with accompanying procedures for implementation.

Basic Rights

Among the basic rights are lawful freedom of expression and belief, freedom of association and peaceful assembly, and freedom from personal force and violence, threats of violence, and personal abuse.

Right to Freedom from Discrimination

Richard Bland College is an equal educational opportunity institution, and in keeping with this policy, the College makes no distinction in the admission of students or in any other of its official activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, age, religion, political affiliation, disability veteran’s status, other legally protected status or other non-merit factors. All standards and policies governing student employment, recruitment, admissions, financial aid, and support programs are applied accordingly.

Right to Organize

Students are encouraged to examine and discuss questions and issues of interest to them within College-recognized organizations. In their public expressions it must be made clear that students speak only for themselves as individuals or as part of a student organization, and not for the institution, or any segment thereof, nor for the larger community. The right of peaceable assembly being fundamental to an opportunity for free inquiry and expression is assured.

Right to Privacy

Each member of the College community has a right to privacy in their dealings with the institution when authorized by law and RBC policy.

Right to Fair and Equitable Adjudication Procedures

Students have the right to due process and formal procedures with the fundamental aspects of due process, including the right to be informed in writing of the violations or charges and given a reasonable time to prepare a defense, to have written findings, and to appeal to a higher authority. This process is defined and outlined under the Student Code of Conduct.

Responsibility of the College to Preserve Rights: Access to Education

Each student has the right to expect the College to fulfill its educational mission. It is the responsibility of the College to establish and maintain high academic standards as well as the authority to adopt and implement standards of orderly conduct that will promote an environment conducive to learning and meaningful individual development. The following mutual rights and responsibilities, institutional and student, are set forth with accompanying procedures for implementation.

The submission of an application for admission to Richard Bland College represents a voluntary decision on the part of the applicant to comply with and be governed by the rules, policies, and regulations as published in College documents or provided on the College website. The College fulfills its responsibility by administering discipline up to and including expulsion of a student whose conduct or academic performance is found unsatisfactory. This action is taken only after permitting the student an appropriate hearing or investigation, as applicable, and appeal. The admission standards are approved by the Board of Visitors of William & Mary and administered by the Director of Admissions.


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III. Student Complaint Process

Responsible for Maintenance: Director of Human Resources

Richard Bland College is committed to respecting all members of the campus community. Students represent a vital component of our community. The purpose of the complaint process is to ensure all written student complaints are addressed fairly and resolved promptly.

Internal Complaint Procedure
When possible, students are encouraged to seek an informal resolution of the matter directly with the faculty or staff involved. However, if an informal approach is neither successful nor advisable, the student should use the online complaint form. The written student complaint process can take up to fifteen (15) business days for resolution from the date the written complaint was submitted.

The complaint must be submitted within ten (10) business days of the alleged conflict or action. Any student filing a complaint shall have at every level the right to be represented by legal counsel and to present witnesses and evidence to support the grievance without fear of reprisal. This procedure does not confer the right upon anyone to make slanderous or libelous statements (i.e., false statements).

Written student complaints concerning students will be addressed by the Department of Student Success. Written student complaints concerning professional staff to include faculty will be addressed by the Office of Human Resources.

Upon receipt of the written student complaint a conference will take place with the student and the appropriate office handling the report. The staff member will notify appropriate persons and request any information or documentation needed to resolve the complaint. The staff member may attempt to resolve the complaint by encouraging discussion between the student(s) and the faculty member/administrator or by taking the appropriate action to resolve the complaint.

A review of the complaint with the supervisor(s) or others in the line of supervision may be used when deemed appropriate and beneficial to the process. All relevant documentation and possible outcomes must be submitted by the student or other appropriate persons to the applicable supervisor(s) within ten (10) business days of the date the complaint is filed.

When possible, the final resolution (or a finding of “unresolved”) will be filed with the appropriate office within fifteen (15) business days of the date the complaint is filed. If there are circumstances requiring an extension of this deadline, the staff member assigned to the complaint will notify the parties involved.

If the student is not satisfied with the outcome of the complaint, a Written Student Complaint Committee (“Committee”) will be appointed to review the information and render a final decision. The Committee will consist of three faculty and staff representatives appointed by the Provost with the consent of the RBC President and two student members appointed by the Student Assembly President. The Committee’s decision will be final.

Note: Nothing in this procedure or in this Student Handbook is intended to circumscribe or modify the existing right of any department to do the following, provided, however, that none of these rights may be exercised in an arbitrary or capricious manner:

  • Supervise the education of students or the work of employees;
  • Maintain the efficiency of departmental operations;
  • Remove students from educational programs or employees from duties for legitimate reasons;
  • Take actions as necessary to carry out the duties of the department; and/or
  • Determine the methods, means, and personnel by which departmental operations are to be conducted.

This process can be used to report incidents of discrimination, bias, non-Title IX sexual harassment, and non-Title IX sexual misconduct. This process is a separate and distinct process from the College’s Title IX related sexual and gender-based harassment and interpersonal violence grievance process. For Title IX specific complaints involving student or employee discrimination, harassment, sexual misconduct, or retaliation pursuant to Title IX, please refer to the RBC website at https://www.rbc.edu/my-rbc/title-ix/ for applicable policies and procedures.

RICHARD BLAND COLLEGE STUDENT COMPLAINT FORM

SARA State Complaint Process

If an issue cannot be resolved by the College’s internal process, a complaint involving allegations of dishonest or fraudulent activity, including the provision of false or misleading information, may be brought to the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV). Alternatively, students may submit a complaint about a SACSCOC-accredited institution using the SACSCOC complaint process.

 

Richard Bland College works with the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) to resolve complaints that fall under the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA). The agreement provides enhanced quality assurance and consumer protection to students taking distance-learning programs from other member state institutions.

 

Examples of types of student complaints that may be brought to a SARA portal entity include, but are not limited to, complaints regarding accuracy of job placement data, tuition or fee information, accreditation, whether a program meets professional licensing requirements, or course transfer information. Grade appeals and student conduct appeals are not allowed under SARA.

 

Non-SARA State Complaints

Students participating in a course that takes place in a non-SARA state may file a complaint in the state where the student is located.

California Department of Consumer Affairs

Consumer Information Center

1625 North Market Blvd., Suite N-112

Sacramento, California 95834

Telephone: (833) 942-1120

Filing a Complaint




II. Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation Policy

Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation Policy

Richard Bland College is committed to fostering an environment in which all members of our community are safe, secure, and free from discrimination and harassment. The complete Richard Bland College Policy Prohibiting Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation Policy can be found in the RBC Policy Manual Within the policy, the following definitions are outlined:

  1. Discrimination – Inequitable treatment of a person based on one or more of that person’s protected characteristics or statuses, excepting any treatment permitted or required by law. — that excludes an individual from participation in, denies the individual the benefits of, treats the individual differently or otherwise adversely affects a term or condition of an individual’s employment, education, living environment or participation in an educational program or activity. This includes failing to provide reasonable accommodation, consistent with state and federal law, to persons with disabilities.
  2. Harassment – Unwelcome conduct directed against a person based on one or more of that person’s protected characteristics or statuses, which conduct is so severe or pervasive that it interferes with an individual’s employment, academic performance or participation in University programs or activities, and creates a working, learning, program or activity environment that a reasonable person would find intimidating, hostile or offensive.
  3. Retaliation – Retaliation is intimidation, threats, harassment, and other adverse action taken or threatened against (1) any Reporting Party or person reporting or filing a complaint alleging Prohibited Conduct or (2) any person cooperating in the investigation of an allegation of Prohibited Conduct including testifying, assisting, or participating in any manner in an investigation pursuant to this policy. Action is generally deemed adverse if it would deter a reasonable person in the same circumstances from opposing practices prohibited by this policy. Retaliation may result in disciplinary or other action independent of the sanctions or interim measures imposed in response to the underlying allegations of Prohibited Conduct.

Discrimination and harassment violations as described in the Policy Prohibiting Discrimination, Harassment and Retaliation are subject to the Student Code of Conduct. Those acts of misconduct involving sexual or gender-based discrimination and other interpersonal violence, pursuant to Title IX, are subject to the College’s Sexual and Gender-based and Other Interpersonal Violence Grievance Procedure.




IV. FERPA: The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act

Responsible for Maintenance: Director of Records & Registration

Information about Student Records and FERPA can be found in the Richard Bland College Policy Manual.




V. Student Financial Services

Financial Aid

Responsible for Maintenance: Director of Financial Aid and Director of Human Resources

Federal, State and University Funds provide four types of financial aid:

  • Grants: are need based funds that do not have to be repaid
  • Scholarships: are awarded based on grades and other achievements and may or may not be need-based
  • Federal Work Study: money is need-based and earned through part-time employment
  • Institutional Work Study: earned through part-time employment
  • Loans: must be repaid with interest, usually after graduating or withdrawing from college

Inquiries concerning financial assistance and the Federal Work-Study Program should be directed to the Office of Student Financial Aid at (804) 862-6260 or (804) 862-6100.

Inquiries concerning the Institutional Work-Study Program should be directed to the Office of Human Resource Management at (804) 862-6208.

Refunds to Students

Responsible for Maintenance: Assistant Controller

A full- or part-time student who withdraws in good standing shall be entitled to a refund of a portion of tuition charges for the semester in which currently enrolled. When refunds are ready, notifications are sent to the students’ RBC email address. All student refunds are processed through our third-party provider Nelnet. Except as otherwise indicated in this Student Handbook or other College policy, a student will be entitled to a refund in the following increments for regular-start fall and spring semester classes:

  • 100% of tuition upon withdrawal before the end of the first week of the semester (seven consecutive calendar days from the beginning of classes)
  • 75% of tuition upon withdrawal after the 7th and through the 14th consecutive calendar day from the beginning of classes
  • 50% of tuition upon withdrawal after the 14th and through the 26th consecutive calendar day from the beginning of classes
  • No refund of tuition after the 26th consecutive calendar day from the beginning of classes

Tuition, mandatory fees, and all other related college fees paid by students are non-refundable after the 26th day from the beginning of classes except at the discretion of the College. If the College modifies or disrupts programs and services due to circumstances beyond the College’s control, such as acts of God, war, government regulations, pandemics, disaster, or civil disorder – to the extent that such circumstances make it illegal, impossible, or unsafe to allow students to continue with programs or services at or in their initial form-  issuance of any refunds, credits or waivers may be subject to regulatory  or statutory review and will be administered at the College’s discretion.

Federal Title IV Refund/Withdrawal Policy

All students receiving federal student financial aid are subject to the Federal Title IV Refund Policy. Richard Bland College of William & Mary is required by federal law to recalculate federal financial aid eligibility for students who withdraw, drop out, are dismissed or take a leave of absence prior to completing 60% of the term. This includes all unofficial withdrawals from the college. An unofficial withdrawal occurs when students receive a failing mark in all of the classes they attempt and did not attend after the 60% date in a given semester.  In all cases of withdrawals, the Federal Title IV Financial Aid must be recalculated.  For more detailed information about the Federal Title IV Refund/Withdrawal Policy, please visit www.rbc.edu/financial-aid/.

Navitas international students are not issued refunds as it could impact their visa status. Any questions from the Navitas students on this issue should be directed to their Navitas representative.

Refunds generated from the excess of financial aid awards will be processed within 14 calendar days from the date of overpayment. All refunds will be sent to the student, unless the overpayment is caused by a Parent Plus Loan. For overpayments in Parent Plus Loans, the refund check is processed in the parent’s name and mailed out to the address on file.

Dining Plans

Responsible for Maintenance: Business Manager

The 14- and 19-weekly meal plan amounts reset each week. The block meal plans carry over from week to week but reset at the end of each academic semester. Residential students are required to purchase a meal plan; however, only commuter students may opt for the Block 40 plan.  All meal plans include dining dollars which may be used for additional meals or à la cart items. Dining dollars rollover from fall to spring but do not rollover between academic years. Unused meal swipes or dining dollars are not refundable or transferable. See the Housing Terms & Conditions (Appendix VII) for more details.

Students who wish to opt-out of the dining plan should review Section XII: Compliance for directions.

Additional Financial Information

Responsible for Maintenance: Assistant Controller and Director of Financial Aid

  1. Students who register and withdraw from the College prior to the beginning of classes will receive a full refund minus a $50 withdrawal processing fee.
  2. No refund of any tuition and fees will be made to a student who has been required to withdraw by the College regardless of the date of withdrawal.
  3. Students changing from twelve (12) or more hours to fewer than twelve (12) hours change status from full-time to part-time. When this occurs within the prescribed period allowed for course changes, charges are established at the semester credit hour rate for the course or courses retained. The resulting overpayment of tuition will be refunded. No refund of tuition will be made for a change of status from full-time to part-time occurring after the deadline for course changes, which is published in the academic calendar found here: http://www.rbc.edu/calendar/academic-calendar/.
  4. Part-time students who withdraw or who drop one or more courses will be entitled to refunds according to the guidelines above.
  5. The actual date of proper notice will be certified by the Records & Registration Office, and refunds, when applicable, will be computed based on the certified date. Refunds are not based on the last day of class attendance.
  6. Pro-rata refunds to students attending Richard Bland College who receive Title IV financial aid will be based on Title IV requirements.
  7. Withdrawal for medical or legal reasons will follow the same refund schedule as published above.
  8. Housing and board (meal) charges will be refunded according to the “Withdrawal/Cancelation” section of the Housing Terms and Conditions (Appendix VII).
  9. Additional information on payment options, charge and fee types, current rates, and billing schedules can be found on the Office of Student Accounts website.

Late Fees & Collection Costs

Responsible for Maintenance: Assistant Controller

Students and families are hereby placed on notice that failure to pay in full at the time goods or services are rendered or when billed will result in the imposition of a $50 late fee. Returned checks will incur a handling fee of $50. If the account is referred for collection to an attorney or to a private collection agency, then the student will be liable for all attorney’s fees or additional collection costs, including monthly interest. Request for or acceptance of goods or services will be deemed to be acceptance of these terms.

To prevent the possible assessment of late payment fees, students must satisfy all calculated charges on, or before, the semester due date or the date a charge is incurred, whichever occurs later. If tuition has not been paid by the established due date, secured with adequate financial aid, or an automatic payment plan is not in place, students will be charged a late payment fee of $50 as prescribed in § 2.2-4805 of the Code of Virginia. Failure to receive a bill does not waive the requirement for payment when due and will not prevent the application of the late fee.

Students who believe they have been erroneously charged a late fee must fill out a Student Request to Waive Late Fee form and submit it to the Cashier’s Office for processing. Late fees will not be waived for the following reasons: lack of funds, a tuition bill was not received, the financial aid process was not complete by the due date, balance changes, or delay of mail services.

Class Drop for Non-payment

Responsible for Maintenance: Assistant Controller

Depending on the outstanding balance remaining after the due date, a student may be dropped from their courses for non-payment. Communications will be sent to students in advance of being dropped. It is the student’s responsibility to make certain that all permanent, local, and personal email addresses are current in our system. Richard Bland College’s main form of communication for currently enrolled students is through the RBC email address. Failure to review, open, or check the RBC email inbox, spam, or other folders will not prevent classes from being dropped for non-payment.

Student Financial Responsibilities

Responsible for Maintenance: Assistant Controller

In consideration of Richard Bland College of William & Mary allowing individuals to register for courses, all students are expected to meet their financial obligations. As a member of the campus community, all students are held responsible for and accept the conditions below.

  1. All students of Richard Bland College of William & Mary understand and accept the responsibility to:a. Submit full payment of tuition and fees generated from course registration, housing, and dining services.
    b. Submit full payment for any fines, damages, and any other miscellaneous charges incurred on the student account.
    c. Review any electronic billings and pay the College by the due dates stated. Students understand that paper bills may not be sent out and failure to receive a bill does not waive the requirement for payment when due and will not prevent application of the late fee.
    d. Review the self-service Banner account regularly for balances and charges incurred throughout the semester.
    e. Pay a $50 returned-check fee for payments returned by the bank. All returned payments must be repaid in cash to the Cashier’s Office.
    f. Maintain a current mailing address and other contact information on file with the Records & Registration Office. Failure to update information may cause a delay in receiving refund checks.
    g. Acknowledge the RBC email address as the official form of communication and students agree to read email regularly for updates. Failure to review, open, or check the RBC email inbox, spam, or other folders will not waive the application of late fees or class drops caused by missed information.
    h. Submit all financial aid paperwork in a timely manner, including any documents requested during the verification process.
    i. Pay the College any financial aid amounts the student is not eligible for under federal guidelines and the student realizes the financial aid may be adjusted throughout the semester due to ineligibility caused by class drops, official/unofficial withdrawals, etc.
    j. Return or repay any funds owed to the College in the event adjustments or additional charges are posted to the account after a refund has been processed.

2. If a student fails to pay or repay any unpaid balance owed to Richard Bland College of William & Mary, the student agrees that RBC may take such steps as necessary to recover funds owed. The process of collecting the debt may include:

a. Deduction of such debt from any funds due to the student from the College or Commonwealth of Virginia, including wages or financial aid, and any applicable tax refunds via the Virginia Debt Setoff program.
b. Contacting the student by telephone, text messages, emails, and letters at any telephone number, email address, or permanent address associated with the account by RBC employees or agents. Students understand the account may be sent to a collection agency or attorney.
c. Students agree to pay all costs of collections including late fees, additional fees imposed by third party collection agencies or attorney fees (up to 30% of the principal, plus accrued interest), court costs, and/or other charges as necessary to collect any debt.

This agreement shall be governed in all respects by the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia without regard to conflict of law principles, and any litigation with respect thereto shall be brought in the courts of the Commonwealth, as provided under Virginia law.

Student Employment Opportunities

Responsible for Maintenance: Director of Financial Aid and Director of Human Resources

Student employment opportunities are available through the Federal Work-Study Program and the Institutional Work-Study Program. These programs provide eligible students an opportunity to earn money to help offset their educational-related expenses as well as to gain work experience. Jobs are available in various offices on campus, and students can work between ten (10) and twenty (20) hours per week.  For more information regarding student employment, please visit https://www.rbc.edu/employment/student-employment/.

Unpaid Accounts

Responsible for Maintenance: Assistant Controller

Transcripts, degrees, or any other information concerning academic records may not be released until College accounts are paid in full. A student’s account is considered delinquent when the payment has not been received by the payment due date. Once an account is considered delinquent, the College is required by the Commonwealth of Virginia to send the account to either a private collection agency or the Attorney General’s Office according to the guidelines established below:

·       All accounts receivable for $3,000 or more that are more than 59 days past due must be forwarded to the Office of Attorney General, Division of Debt Collection for collection.

·       All accounts receivable under $3,000 that are more than 59 days past due must be sent to a private collection agency.

The following actions may be taken on unpaid accounts:

·       Financial Hold: A student will have a financial hold placed on their account and will not be able to register for future classes, obtain transcripts, access your Banner account, etc.

·       Collection Agency: A student’s account will be placed with a collection agency and the student will be responsible for any collection costs incurred.

·       Credit Reporting: A student’s account will be listed by the Credit Bureau as a bad debt.

·       Debt Setoff: If the student is a Virginia resident, the delinquent account can be collected in full from income tax refunds or other refunds due to the student from the state.

·       Attorney General: A student’s account may be turned over to the Virginia Attorney General’s Office Division of Debt Collection (“Division”) for litigation depending upon the outstanding balance due. You will be responsible for all attorney and Division fees, and interest will begin to accrue. The student’s presence in court may be required.

Veterans Affairs

Responsible for Maintenance: Director of Financial Aid

A representative in the Office of Student Financial Aid is available to assist veterans with their Veteran Education Benefits.

This institution is approved to offer GI Bill® educational benefits by the Virginia State Approving Agency.

The Virginia State Approving Agency (SAA), is the approving authority of education and training programs for Virginia. Our office investigates complaints of GI Bill beneficiaries. While most complaints should initially follow the school grievance policy, if the situation cannot be resolved at the school, the beneficiary should contact our office via email saa@dvs.virginia.gov.

 




VI. Campus Engagement

Campus Engagement

Responsible for Maintenance: Director of Student Life and Athletics

The  Student Life collaborates with campus and community partners to enhance student learning and satisfaction. We seek to provide students with a variety of learning and enrichment opportunities that they may gain the insight, sensitivity, and integrity necessary for achieving their future goals.

Students are encouraged to get involved in the many activities and leadership opportunities offered at Richard Bland College. Student Assembly elections are held annually for students interested in representing the student body on policy issues and improving the quality of life on campus. Student organizations are another valuable way that students can create new opportunities for community on campus. These can represent any number of interests and activities. Student leaders often are invited to attend regional undergraduate conferences at William & Mary and elsewhere to learn more about their leadership styles and strengths.

Events at Richard Bland College create a rich, vibrant, and inclusive community of students and staff. We host social events, annual traditions, field trips, cultural awareness activities, transfer events, career recruiting events, transfer information sessions, and more. Also, students have the opportunity to attend workshops and seminar series related to topics including leadership, wellness, financial fitness, and connecting with the surrounding community.

Students and staff who are interested in planning a student activity also may apply for funding from the Student Assembly. These funds may be used to pay a visiting speaker, to buy food for a cultural awareness activity, or to pay for similar activities that benefit the student community.

Please contact the Office of  Student Life (activitiesandleadership@rbc.edu) for more information and to learn how to get involved.




VII. Honor Code

Each Richard Bland College student is honor bound to refrain from stealing, lying, and cheating. Richard Bland College students commit themselves to producing academic work of integrity that adheres to accurate attribution of sources, appropriate use of data, and acknowledgment of the contributions of others. Cheating on exams, tests, or quizzes; plagiarizing the ideas or language of others; and any other form of dishonesty (including, but not limited to, lying, falsifying documents, or failing to disclose knowledge of an Honor Code violation) constitute violations of the Honor Code.

Preamble

The Richard Bland College Honor Code covers both academic and non-academic actions. The Honor Code at Richard Bland College is a democratic system of government that is upheld and supported by students, whose democratic efforts are actively supported by the administration and faculty. The letter and the spirit of the College’s Honor Code promote the virtues that sustain a democratic society, such as integrity, social responsibility, and moral courage. As a branch of William & Mary, which introduced the Honor System into American higher education, Richard Bland College commits itself to the perpetuation of high standards and expectations of its collegiate community. With an aim of educating individuals, the Student Conduct Board shall not discriminate in its membership or in its dealings with the accused on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, gender identification, sexual orientation, economic status, veteran status, disability, or any other status protected by law.

Student’s Pledge

I have read the Honor Code of Richard Bland College of William & Mary. I understand completely what is expected of me under this Code. I know that any act of lying, failing to disclose an Honor Code violation, stealing, or cheating is a violation of the Honor Code and will subject me to disciplinary action, which could result in expulsion from the College. I hereby pledge, without reservation, my full support of the Honor Code.

Honor Code Violations

A student violates the Honor Code if the student engages in dishonorable conduct as defined below. All Honor Code violations will be referred to the Student Conduct Board, and if necessary, a hearing will be conducted following the Student Conduct Board Process and Procedures. Students who commit academic Honor Code violations are subject to grade sanctioning by the course instructor and a hearing before the Student Conduct Board, following the Student Conduct Board Process. All academic penalties occur solely at the discretion of the instructor and according to the instructor’s syllabus and are not a matter of Conduct Board review, which does not issue academic penalties but institutional sanctions.

The Honor Code will be applied reasonably in accordance with the examples below. Examples of proscribed conduct are meant to be instructive and not all-inclusive.

General Violations

  1. Lying: the presentation of false information with the intent to deceive. Lying includes, but is not limited to:
    • Misrepresenting oneself or one’s accomplishments for the purpose of gaining an academic advantage or an advantage in opportunities for employment or other co-curricular opportunities;
    • Falsifying College documents, including alteration, forgery, providing false information, or omitting required information; and
    • Providing false or misleading information to Campus Police or to Student Conduct Board members or investigators during the course of an investigation or hearing of an alleged violation of the Honor Code or Student Code of Conduct or during an investigation involving discrimination, harassment,  sexual misconduct, or retaliation. Lying within this context may be charged as a separate offense; and
  2. Stealing: knowingly taking or appropriating the property of another, including property of the College, without the rightful owner’s permission and with the intent to permanently or substantially deprive the owner of the property. One does not receive rightful permission if it is induced by fraud or deception.

Academic Violations

  1. Cheating: includes, but is not limited to, the following acts:
    • Plagiarism: the presentation with intent to deceive or with disregard for proper scholarly procedures of a significant scope, of any information, ideas, or phrasing of another as if they were one’s own without giving appropriate credit to the original source.
      • One commits plagiarism when one includes the words of another without quotation or when one includes the substantive work of another without properly crediting the source with footnotes, quotation marks, or other appropriate citation.
      • A student’s intent may be inferred based on the extent and context of the improperly cited material and whether the student has provided false citation or has manipulated the original text such that a reasonable person may conclude the student did so in order to avoid detection.
      • Disregard for proper scholarly procedure that is minimal in scope may be addressed solely as an academic matter, and the instructor may determine whether an academic penalty should be applied without pursuing resolution under the Honor Code. But any intentional acts of plagiarism or disregard for the scholarly procedure of a significant scope shall be treated as a violation of the Honor Code.
    • Unauthorized Assistance/Collaboration: giving unauthorized aid to another student or receiving unauthorized aid from another person on tests, quizzes, assignments, or examinations. Unauthorized assistance includes, but is not limited to, providing information to another about an assignment or examination prior to the conclusion of the administration of such exams/assignments to all related sections of the course unless permitted by the instructor.
    • Use of Unauthorized Materials/Technology: using or consulting unauthorized materials (including but not limited to electronic materials, apps, AI technology or other academic aids) or using unauthorized equipment or devices on tests, quizzes, assignments, or examinations.
    • Unauthorized Dual Submission of Previous Academic Work: using any material portion of a paper or project to fulfill the requirements of more than one course unless the student has received prior permission to do so from the appropriate instructor(s).
    • Time Constraint Violation: intentionally commencing work or failing to end work on any examination, test, quiz, or assignment according to the time constraints imposed.
    • Directions Violation: failing to follow instructions for an assignment or examination despite knowing or having reason to know that such conduct would result in an unfair academic advantage. Failing to disclose that another student has committed an Honor Code violation

Minimum Sanctions Applicable for Honor Code Violations

Discretion may be used in applying sanctions in cases where violation is of such a nature to warrant additional or more severe actions. Students dismissed from College are entitled to no refunds of College fees or tuition/room and board.

Honor Code Violations

First Offense

Attend Conduct Conference |Minimum Sanction: Warning

Second Offense

Attend Administrative Hearing: | Minimum Sanction: Disciplinary Probation | Educational Assignment/Workshop

Third Offense

Attend Conduct Board Hearing: |Minimum Sanction: Suspension from Richard Bland College

 

 

Grade Appeals

Responsible for Maintenance: Director of Academics

In matters involving grade appeals, including academic violations to the Honor Code, the student should consult with the faculty member who issued the final grade for the course or assignment. If the student still believes a grade has been assigned unfairly, the student may appeal to the Department Chair and further to the Director of Academics. If the issue cannot be resolved at any of these levels, the student has the right to appeal formally to the Academic Standards & Appeals Committee. This written appeal must be submitted within ninety (90) calendar days of issuance of the student’s final grade. A form for facilitating the appeal process is available in the Office of the Chief Academic Officer.

It shall be the responsibility of the Academic Standards & Appeals Committee to hear the student’s grade appeal and to interview anyone the student chooses to speak on their behalf. The faculty member issuing the grade also has the right to appear before the Committee for the purpose of presenting pertinent information and also may have witnesses present if desired. The recommendation of the Committee will be reported to the CAO, who will make the final decision and notify the student. The Committee is not empowered to change a grade.

In these proceedings, the burden of proof is on the student to prove that a change of grade is the appropriate action.

For misconduct involving student or employee discrimination, harassment or retaliation pursuant to the College’s Policy Prohibiting Discrimination, Harassment and Retaliation (Non-Title IX), please refer to the RBC Policy Manual for applicable policies and procedures.

For misconduct involving student or employee sexual and/or gender-based harassment and other forms of interpersonal violence pursuant to Title IX, please refer to the RBC website at https://www.rbc.edu/my-rbc/title-ix/ for applicable policies and procedures.




VIII. Academic Support and Learning Resources

Student Success Center

Responsible for Maintenance: Director of Student Success

The mission of the Student Success Center at Richard Bland College of William & Mary is to ensure an exceptional student experience. Using a wide variety of wrap-around support services, the Student Success Center fosters a campus culture of collaborative and engaged learners working in a rigorous academic and social environment.

Located on the first floor of the library, a wide variety of support services and resources designed to enhance the RBC Student Experience is offered through the Student Success Center including academic advising, disability services, career and emotional counseling, and personal and professional development workshops.

Our Student Success Center team focuses on creating a one-size fits one, student-centered support system. Learner Mentors support students in developing their individual strengths with targeted interventions suited to their specific goals. The Student Success Center assists in identifying and implementing academic success programs that support progress through graduation, empowering students to take control of their academic journeys. More information about the Student Success Center is found at the following website: http://www.rbc.edu/academics/student-support-team/.

Learning Support

Responsible for Maintenance: Director of Academics

The Writing Center is located in ERNST 222, providing writers with the opportunity to test ideas with a tutorial staff comprised of academic coaches/tutors and RBC staff. Virtual opportunities are also available. We believe that the best writing support is achieved with academic coaches/tutors who listen and ask questions in order to foster a writer’s own curiosity. Writers are supported from the beginning, exploratory stages of the writing process to the final phases of polishing the final version.

Located in McNeer 101, the Math & Science Tutoring Center (MySTiC) has one-on-one peer tutoring available for all math and sciences courses offered at RBC. Virtual tutoring is also available. Please refer to the college website for times and locations of tutoring and other academic support services.

Learner Mentors

Responsible for Maintenance: Director of Student Success

Learner Mentors work with Richard Bland College students to foster their development as visionary, insightful, responsive, respectful, and resourceful citizens. Each Learner Mentor provides assistance in creating an academically sound plan of study that will lead to on-time graduation from RBC and allow for a successful transition and transfer of credits into a four-year college or university.

Counseling Services

Responsible for Maintenance: Director of Counseling Services

Richard Bland College is committed to offering a variety of counseling services to assist students with their overall development and adjustment to campus. Free and confidential counseling is available for individuals or groups of students needing help with personal and academic concerns. Students may schedule an appointment to see a counselor via email: Counseling@rbc.edu or by phone: 804-862-6263. Because college life poses special challenges both inside and outside of the classroom, students often seek help with balancing their coursework, jobs, and personal lives. To facilitate their development, a counselor will meet with students to identify strategies that will help them achieve realistic goals.

Mental Health Support

Responsible for Maintenance: Director of Counseling Services

Mental Health referrals are available to students whose cognitive and emotional needs are beyond the scope of the services offered on campus. Referrals are made for individuals requiring long-term specialized services or crisis intervention. The Community Agency Referral Guide is a manual that provides students with a list of hospitals, counseling services, crisis centers, and educational agencies throughout the Petersburg/Tri-Cities area. Students may access the manual online: Referral Guide

 

Types of Counseling Offered at RBC

Counseling services are offered in person as well as by phone, facetime, Zoom, WebX, or Google Meet.

Personal Counseling: Counseling is a collaborative process that involves an exploration of issues contributing to or hindering a student’s growth. Individual sessions are short-term and usually involve meetings on a weekly basis or as needed.

Group Counseling:  Sessions focused on student groups usually involve face-to-face or virtual interactive talking circles in which students focus on establishing an environment of trust and support while expressing their concern(s).

Couples/Partner Counseling: This service is offered to support students in relationships.

Consultation:  Counseling available to support students in need of guidance on a specific academic or social concern.  Students should see a Learner Mentor for comprehensive academic advice.

Expanded Mental Health Services

24-Hour Virtual Mental Health Support

WellTrack Features

  • Zen Room(Relaxation Exercises) – Individuals will engage in a guided self-relaxation experience in a customized relaxation room.
  • Moodcheck– Individuals will be able to track their mood and understand how the things they do throughout the day affect how they feel.
  • Activity Scheduler– Individuals will be able to schedule pleasurable social and achievement activities.
  • Achievement Tracker– Individuals to understand how their selected activities can boost or decrease their feelings of happiness, fun, and achievement.
  • Calendar– Individuals can view their scheduled activities and utilize a remote client video session if they use WellTrack with a mental health provider.
  • Cognitive Distortions Quiz– Individuals are introduced to seven types of unhelpful thinking styles. The quiz will help them understand each thinking style.
  • Thought Diary– Individuals can use this tool to help them identify with real-life situations where unhelpful thinking styles are applied.  They learn how to adapt their thinking in different situations.
  • Information– Included in the app are mental health resources for RBC students or staff.

 

RBC’s 24-Hour Counseling Services & Crisis Line

 ProtoCall Plus Interventionists will be available to listen to RBC students’ concerns, assess their current circumstances, and provide crisis support using solution-focused strategies and an expansive mental health care referral system inclusive of campus, local, and national mental health resources.

These services are available 24/7, which means that students seeking day or after-hours assistance will be able to contact a mental health professional.

 

The RBC Counseling Services Department works in partnership with the Department of Justice – Violence Against Women’s Grant Program to provide resources and assistance for students and campus members who   are survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking crimes.

Free Training opportunities are available to students in the following areas:

  • Domestic Violence
  • Dating Violence
  • Stalking
  • Bystander Intervention
  • Survivor & Victim Support

To request training for 2-10 students or campus members, please contact

 Dr. Evanda Martinez or Ms. Shanequa Reed at ovw@rbc.edu.

Counseling Services’ partnership with the James House expands options for victim support for students and campus members who have been affected by sexual violence, domestic violence, and stalking.

Assisting Student Dealing with Emotional Distress

Responsible for Maintenance: Director of Counseling Services

Suicidal Ideation and Behavior

The suicide prevention work at Richard Bland College is grounded in the philosophy that promoting positive mental health through caring engagement in support of our students’ success will contribute to their overall wellness.  As we identify behavioral risks and warning signs of potentially self-defeating and destructive thinking, options for interventions are presented through proactive and solution-focused approaches that consider students’ protective factors as mechanisms for fortifying their psychoeducational and psychosocial experiences.  Our student-centric approach to behavioral wellness brings students’ protective factors to the foreground of our work as much consideration is given to their ability to use effective coping, self-regulation, and relationship building skills when talking about their problems and asking for help. In our interactions with students in crisis, we found that those who are proficient in these areas tend to move towards personal discovery as they progress through their degree programs at RBC.  Moreover, such skills have enabled them to determine their values, identify their strengths, accept their flaws, and build their esteem in ways that encourage a positive and productive life philosophy and a well-defined sense of purpose.

Guided by the vision and mission of Counseling Services, our mental health and college student development practices align with the strategic vision and the overarching institutional goals of Richard Bland College. Our department has a robust individual, partner/couples, and group in-office and virtual services.  In terms of additional student support, we have established partnerships on campus and with local agencies (with specialized programs) and national organizations to expand RBC students’ mental health access.

 

Vision:

The Richard Bland College Counseling Services Office aims to offer high quality and multi-tiered developmental counseling that promotes a sense of personal empowerment, academic advocacy, emotional balance, social well-being, and self-understanding among students.

Mission:

To support and advance students’ well-being through counseling strategies that consider and address their overall development and movement toward mental clarity, emotional wellness, and a position of strength and wholeness in the intellectual and social communities at Richard Bland College.

The vision and mission of RBC Counseling Services have prompted counselors to use culturally informed and culturally responsive approaches to suicide prevention which consider the client’s background and belief systems to be informative tools that provide a comprehensive understanding of their concerns. Thus, the student-counselor partnership functions as a therapeutic alliance in which a bond of trust and self-evolution exists on the road to healing, mental clarity, emotional balance, and wholeness.

 Achieving Mental Clarity

Counseling Assistance

How Do We Assist Our Students?

 

Students:

  • Receive crisis counseling in a safe and confidential environment in which they can gain mental clarity, insight, and empowerment.
  • Participate in client-centered and solution-focused sessions that promote their ability to envision positive and life-changing circumstances.
  • Envision the ways in which circumstances can change for the better in their lives.
  • Engage in personal goal setting to promote future thinking and visualization of a better future.
  • Work in collaboration with RBC counselors, Learner Mentors, professors, and family/caregivers (as appropriate) to support their academic progression.

Emotional Wellness & Balance

How Do We Assist Our Students?

RBC Counselors focus on important protective factors that impact their mental health.

The Counselors:

  • Identify, assess, and assist students who are at risk for suicide.
  • Design safety plans for students –All plans are specific to the needs of the student and inclusive of the names and numbers of friends, family members, community agencies with professionals to assist with crisis.
  • Share follow-up strategies and plans with students.
  • Work collaboratively with the Office of Residence Life and the Campus Safety & Police Department to establish a wellness check schedule for residential students in crisis.

Students in crisis can access day and after-hours counseling services.

(During Regular Work Hours).

  • Telehealth Option 1 – 24/7 Access to a counselor – WellTrack Boost/Protocall Plus
  • Telehealth Option 2 – 24/7 Access to a counselor -988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Lifeline (988lifeline.org)
  • RBC Campus Safety & Police 24/7 – Emergency:804-862-6111 or 911

Non-Emergency 804-863-4058

Moving Students Towards a Position of Strength and Wholeness

How Do We Assist Our Students?

Richard Bland College Counseling Services Office supports students throughout their healing process. We understand that the protective factors that contribute to students’ mental health play a major role in their journey towards wholeness. As previously mentioned, we use engaged care strategies that are designed to enhance learners’ academic and social growth cycles on campus. RBC Counselors are committed to assisting individuals who are emotionally distressed.  We ensure that our student-clients are receiving the level of care that enables them to develop a healthy, flexible, and reframed thought process that supports their ability to move towards positive outcomes. For many students, working with RBC Counseling Services leads to a greater connection to the campus community and to opportunities to engage in advocacy work and leadership.

Questions regarding counseling services at Richard Bland College should be directed to:

Dr. Evanda Watts-Martinez, Director of Counseling Services & Assistant Professor of Education

ewatts@rbc.edu

804-862-6263

Ernst Hall – A-127

Transcript Requests

Responsible for Maintenance: Director of Records & Registration

You can request your official transcripts in one of the following ways:

  1. All transcript requests are fulfilled electronically by the National Student Clearinghouse. Please see link below for ordering information: https://www.rbc.edu/admissions/administrative-offices/records-registration-office/request-a-transcript/
  2. For additional information regarding transcript requests, contact recordshelp@rbc.edu.
  3. Currently enrolled and former students may obtain their unofficial transcripts by accessing their Banner Web Account.

Chromebook Loan Program

This program allows eligible students to borrow Chromebooks acquired by the College to bridge the Digital Divide regarding full-time RBC students on campus, who have graduated from high school or equivalent as determined solely by Richard Bland College, and are in a degree-granting program at the College. Students who borrow a Chromebook must comply fully with the Chromebook Loan Agreement, which they agree to upon checking out a Chromebook.

Richard Bland College is committed to providing students with an excellent learning environment regardless of their socioeconomic status. An essential element for fulfilling this commitment is bridging the Digital Divide by loaning eligible students the computer tools necessary to help maximize their opportunities to learn.

Please access additional information on the Chromebook Loan Program at the link below:

https://www.rbc.edu/my-rbc/stac/chromebook/

Definitions

“Digital Divide” means the gulf between those who have ready access to computers and the Internet and those who do not.

Hotspot Loan Program

This program allows eligible students to borrow Hotspots acquired by the College to bridge the Digital Divide regarding full-time RBC students on campus, who have graduated from high school or equivalent as determined solely by Richard Bland College, and are in a degree-granting program at the College. Students who borrow a Hotspot must comply fully with the Hotspot Loan Agreement, which they must sign prior to taking possession of the device.

Richard Bland College is committed to providing students with an excellent learning environment regardless of their socioeconomic status. An essential element for fulfilling this commitment is bridging the Digital Divide by loaning eligible students the tools necessary to help maximize their opportunities to learn.

For more information please visit https://www.rbc.edu/my-rbc/stac/hotspot-loan-program/




IX. Library

Library

Responsible for Maintenance: Head Librarian

The Richard Bland College Library, located in the Student Commons, supports the information and research needs of students. The Library is a comfortable, welcoming, two-story facility with seating for over 175 students. Collaborative work is encouraged on the first floor of the Library, and the second floor has been designated a quiet study area. A valid Student ID serves as your library card. There are two seminar/study rooms, available for checkout for up to two hours on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information about the many services of the RBC Library, students are encouraged to stop by and meet the staff, call the Library at 804-862-6226, or visit the website: www.libguides.rbc.edu/home.




X. Residential Living

Responsible for Maintenance: Business Manager

Bill of Rights

Each student living on campus has individual worth and will be treated with the utmost respect at all times. All students living on campus will be held accountable for the responsibilities that come with living in a residence hall. At a minimum, residents must adhere to the expectations and requirements outlined in the Student Handbook, the Housing Terms and Conditions, and all other College policies applicable to students. Each shall have the opportunity to engage in those physical, educational, and social pursuits that are necessary parts of their RBC life. Living in a residence hall is a privilege and not a right. As such, the privilege can be revoked at any time if a resident commits a criminal act or violates the Honor Code, the Student Code of Conduct, this Student Handbook, the Housing Terms and Conditions, or any other College policy relating to students.

  1. Noise Policy: Each resident must be respectful regarding their noise level as it affects other residents. More than one complaint against a resident regarding noise levels may result in disciplinary action.
  2. Personal Property Policy: Residents sharing suites must be respectful of one another, including each individual’s personal property. Each resident must be considerate of each other’s living space including the actual physical living conditions of each room.
  3. Safety and Wellness:Each resident can voice complaints about residence life, which may include but are not limited to noise violations, personal property damage or theft, and safety and wellness policies. If a resident desires to file a complaint or feels unsafe, they should follow the complaint process outlined in Section III of this Handbook.

Residential Guidelines

Richard Bland College promotes a safe environment for you and your belongings; however, your room is still your responsibility. Richard Bland College is not liable for loss, damage, or theft of your personal belongings. Please keep your door locked. The Office of Housing and Residence Life strongly recommends obtaining Renter’s or Homeowner’s Insurance to cover personal belongings. Living conditions that could adversely affect residents’ health and safety are prohibited. Please be sure to review the Housing Terms and Conditions. The most current, published Housing Terms and Conditions along with the Student Handbook will govern your on-campus stay at RBC.

The Board of Visitors of William & Mary and the RBC President maintain authority to establish additional policies, rules, and regulations, which shall be applicable upon their effective date and operate continually unless otherwise stated. Further, RBC reserves the right to make reasonable modifications to this Student Handbook and the Housing Terms and Conditions to promote personal safety or protection of property, or for other reasonable purposes, provided reasonable advance notice is given. Residential students should review the Housing Terms and Conditions in conjunction with the residential living portion of the Student Handbook.

Housing Criteria

In order to live on campus, a student must comply with the following:

  1. Be admitted to Richard Bland College.
  2. Be a full-time student in good academic standing in a degree-granting program who has graduated from high school or the equivalent as determined solely by RBC.
  3. Maintain a class load of at least 12 credit hours with at least 25% of coursework being traditional face-to-face delivery on campus.
  4. Pay all outstanding balances with the business office.
  5. Pay the required housing damage deposit.
  6. Complete the online application for housing.
  7. Abide by all requirements in the Housing Terms and Conditions.

On-campus housing priority is given first to currently housed, full-time students. Students whose GPAs fall below a 2.0 may be required to vacate the residence hall. Students on academic suspension are not authorized to live in the residence halls. Unauthorized persons are not allowed to reside in any suite or individual room. Violators will be fined and/or charged with trespassing

Part-time Students

All students must be enrolled in 12 or more credit hours to carry the full-time status and thus qualify to live in the residence halls. If a full-time student drops below full-time status, they will be required to add the requisite number of courses to achieve full-time status in order to remain living in campus housing. Residential students are permitted to request a one-time waiver of the full-time requirement if they need to drop below 12 credit hours. Full-time students who drop below 9 credit hours will not be permitted to remain in campus housing.  This one-time waiver is only good for dropping below 12 credit hours  while still maintaining at least 9 credit hours, and can only be used once during a student’s stay at Richard Bland College.

Mail Services

All residents living in the RBC residence halls will be assigned a mailbox. Students will be assigned new mailbox numbers at the start of each academic year. Room changes to another residence hall will result in a new mailbox. Incoming mail should be addressed as follows:

Student’s First and Last Name
11301 Johnson Road
Residence Hall Name, Box Number
South Prince George, VA 23805

Thomas Bland
11301 Johnson Road
Freedom Hall, Box 361
South Prince George, VA 23805

*Mail that lacks a complete address will be returned to sender.

Maintenance

All requests for work orders should be made directly through a student’s MyHousing account.  Repairs will be made as quickly possible. The student requesting the work order has an obligation to alert the Office of Housing and Residence Life (HRL) in the event repairs are not made in what the student considers a reasonable amount of time. Contact the HRL immediately for one of the following emergency maintenance issues:

  • sparking or smoking outlets or fixtures,
  • no lighting in room,
  • no water,
  • leaking sprinkler head,
  • inability to lock or gain access to your room,
  • loss of heat,
  • broken glass,
  • flooding, or
  • buzzing smoke detector.

Note: The submission of a work order authorizes RBC personnel to enter a student’s room. The cost of repairs as a result of damages will be passed along to the student(s) within the room and/or apartment or the student(s) found responsible for the damages outside of routine maintenance and normal wear and tear.

Cleanliness

Residents are responsible for maintaining established standards of cleanliness and safety throughout the building. Residents are responsible for taking their personal trash from their room to the dumpster outside daily. Residents are also responsible for arranging a cleaning schedule for the common areas within their assigned suite.

  • Residence Life Coordinators (RLC) and Resident Assistants (RA) reserve the right to inspect suites and rooms a minimum of once per week for cleanliness.
  • Thorough inspections are conducted before student arrival and during every hall closing. Each student will be required to sign a room condition report acknowledging the condition of their room upon their arrival and departure.
  • It is the student’s responsibility to notify residence life personnel of any damages that may be present in their room upon arrival.
  • Locks should not be placed on closets without permission from the RLC. Damage to a student’s assigned space will be billed to their student account.
  • All wall hangings need to be secured with putty or masking tape only. No glue, tacks, double-sided tape, or nails are allowed. If walls are damaged, the cost of repairs and painting of the entire room will be charged to the responsible student’s account.

Storage

Due to space limitations, there is no storage for personal belongings available on campus beyond the limited storage space in the assigned residential unit. Students are encouraged to plan in advance considering space limitations within the room. Students are prohibited from leaving personal belongings in their residential space over the summer as storage. Any items left in the residence halls will be disposed by staff members within the Office of Housing and Residence Life.

Room Changes

There will be no room changes for the first thirty days after arrival. This enables the College to verify who has moved in, who has not arrived, and what spaces are available for reassignment. Information will be posted to announce the start of the room change process. If a student moves without authorization, they are subject to removal from the residence halls and will be charged for an unauthorized move. In addition to room changes, the Office of Housing and Residence Life (HRL) reserves the right to move students living in a double room without a roommate in to a consolidated room or apartment in an effort to achieve maximum occupancy. See the Housing Terms and Conditions.

General Governing Policies for Residence Life

Violation of any of the rules below may result in disciplinary action, including possible interim suspension from housing or campus while awaiting a final decision from the Student Conduct Board and any subsequent appeals.

  1. All residence halls are smoke-free. Smoking includes, but is not limited to, cigarettes, cigars, hookahs, e-cigarettes, vapes, fog machines, and all other smoking devices. It also includes the smoking of any substance.
  2. Physical violence, threats of violence, and harassment will not be tolerated against any member of the Richard Bland community, including fellow students, campus visitors, vendors, faculty and professional staff.
  3. Door-to-door soliciting and peddling are prohibited except with prior written permission from the Assistant Director of Residence Life. Soliciting from or delivery to a student’s room is not permitted.
  4. Solicitation in the lobby areas requires prior written approval from the Assistant Director of Residence Life.
  5. Tampering with the fire alarm, fire extinguisher, fire exit doors, or smoke detector is against state, federal, and local laws. Violators will be prosecuted criminally, and administrative sanctions will be initiated.
  6. Residents are not permitted in unauthorized areas including, but not limited to attics, maintenance rooms, boiler rooms, roofs, ledges, and storage rooms/areas.
  7. Bicycles must be walked through the building and lobbies. They may not be parked in hallways, lounges, or stairwells. They may not be hung from ceilings or other RBC furnishings. Bicycles and/or equipment found in the hallways, stairwells, or lounges will be confiscated. Tire streaks, handle bar marks, mud, debris, or other signs left by a bicycle must be cleaned or they will result in cleaning or damage charges to the individual student, suite, hallway, or entire residence hall depending on the location of the damage. Owners who fail to take proper responsibility for their bicycles may be prohibited from bringing them into the building.
  8. Residents are encouraged to obtain renter’s insurance for personal property as Richard Bland College does not assume responsibility for any loss, theft, or damage to personal items.
  9. Residents must have received all immunizations required by the Virginia Board of Health, and provide proof thereof, before the first day of entry into their assigned residence hall. See Appendix V for required student immunizations.

Prohibited Items

Electrical ItemsCombustiblesWeaponsAlcohol and Drug ParaphernaliaAppliancesMiscellaneous
Extension cords or outlet splittersNon-flame retardant curtains, draperies, wall hangingsBB gunsAlcohol (empty containers or otherwise)Air conditionersWaterbeds
Ceiling fansFlammable liquids including propane, motor oil, gasoline, cooking fuel, keroseneNerf or water gunsScalesIndividually owned large appliancesPersonal door locks
Lava lampsOil lanternsGunsDrugs and narcotics illegal in VirginiaDeep fryersWall mounted shelving, furniture, of fixtures
Electric heatersPressurized canistersAmmunitionParaphernalia that may be used for illegal drug use, including pipes, grinders, one hitters, etc.Toaster or convection ovensConstruction barriers
Light dimmer switchesLive cut treesPellet gunsOutdoor grillsShortwave radios
Halogen lampsFlammable materials including charcoalSwords and martial arts bladesStreet signs
Wax potsIncense Candles or any open flameStun gun and TasersNewspaper machines
Exterior antennas or satellite dishesScented oil burnersKnives used for any purpose besides cooking that are over 4” in lengthBed risers or bricks
Electrical appliances without automatic shut offFirecrackers or explosivesAny other weapon not specifically listedNon college- supplied mattress or furniture
Scented plug-ins with socket attachmentsAerosolsLiquid or gel drain clog remover chemicals
Propane canisters or flammable gassesDrums and other percussion instruments
Amplified electrical instruments
Hoverboards
Scooters including Segway (excluding wheelchairs or other ADA approved devices)

Suggested Items

  • Alarm clock
  • Formal/semi-formal attire
  • Area rug
  • Flashlights and batteries
  • Iron and Ironing board
  • Umbrella
  • Broom, dustpan, cleaning supplies
  • Large trash bags
  • Linen (extra-long twin)
  • School supplies
  • Fan
  • Personal size portable safe
  • First aid kit
  • Sewing kit
  • Television no larger than 24″
  • Toiletries
  • Wastebasket
  • Winter coat
  • Headphones
  • Plants
  • Bicycle w/lock
  • Clothing dryer rack
  • Digital converter box (for TV older than 2014)
  • Envelopes and postage stamps

Permitted Items

  • Vacuum cleaner/electric sweeper
  • Hairdryers/curling irons
  • Blenders/crock pots/soup warmer/toaster
  • Multi-plug power strip w/circuit breaker/surge protector
  • Air purifiers
  • Dehumidifiers
  • Bread machine
  • Coffee pot
  • Gaming systems
  • *If in doubt, contact the ORL.

Residence Hall Safety

Residence hall staff members will be available to open the doors due to access card system failure. . Residence hall staff members are prohibited from allowing non-RBC students entry into the residence halls. Visitors must gain entry and be accompanied at all times with an RBC student. It is essential that you actively participate in making your residence hall a safe and secure place for you and your fellow residents to live. Carry your room key and access card with you at all times.

Students are urged to be cognizant of their safety and security needs while on and off campus. An escort service is available by contacting RBC Police. Dial (804) 862-6111. Please note the following:

  1. Though RBC takes all reasonable precautions, our campus is a public area and therefore not immune to the dangers of modern society. Therefore, as RBC cannot guarantee the safety and security of the premises at all times, the College expects students to take reasonable precautions to protect themselves and their property.
  2. Computerized I.D. card access is provided in the residence halls for the safety of residents. While RBC is in session, the exterior doors to the residence halls will be controlled to restrict access to residents and their escorted guests. Access to residences by non-residents may be restricted if RBC determines that this is necessary for safety and security reasons.
  3. Individual residents are the only persons authorized to use their specific ID card to access the residence halls. Allowing anyone else to use their ID card is expressly prohibited. Students who violate this policy are subject to disciplinary and/or criminal action.
  4. Residents may not engage in any activity which creates a safety risk or which jeopardizes the security of the premises. Students are prohibited from propping open exterior doors for any purpose.
  5. The roofs, attics, and mechanical equipment rooms of all College buildings are restricted areas and may not be accessed.
  6. Individuals observed in the hall who are not residents or guests must be reported immediately to an Office of Residence Life staff member or RBC Campus Police.

Room Entry/Inspection

Residence hall staff members will be available to open the doors due to access card system failure. It is essential that you actively participate in making your residence hall a safe and secure place for you and your fellow residents to live. Carry your room key and access card with you at all times.

Students are urged to be cognizant of their safety and security needs while on and off campus. An escort service is available by contacting RBC Police. Dial (804) 862-6111. Please note the following:

  1. Though RBC takes all reasonable precautions, our campus is a public area and therefore not immune to the dangers of modern society. Therefore, as RBC cannot absolutely guarantee the safety and security of the premises at all times, the College expects students to take reasonable precautions to protect themselves and their property.
  2. Computerized I.D. card access is provided in the residence halls for the safety of residents. While RBC is in session, the exterior doors to the residence halls will be controlled to restrict access to residents and their escorted guests. Access to residences by non-residents may be restricted if RBC determines that this is necessary for safety and security reasons.
  3. Individual residents are the only persons authorized to use their specific ID card to access the residence halls. Allowing anyone else to use their ID card is expressly prohibited. Students who violate this policy are subject to disciplinary and/or criminal action.
  4. Residents may not engage in any activity which creates a safety risk or which jeopardizes the security of the premises. Students are prohibited from propping open exterior doors for any purpose.
  5. The roofs, attics, and mechanical equipment rooms of all College buildings are restricted areas and may not be accessed.
  6. Individuals observed in the hall who are not residents or guests must be reported immediately to an Office of Residence Life staff member or RBC Campus Police.

Removal from the Residence Hall

The College may terminate a student’s housing agreement and take possession of the room at any time for violation of any federal or state law or regulation or College policy or rule, or for health or administrative reasons. The student removed in this situation will not be permitted to return to their housing assignment or visit other residential facilities until approved by the Director of Residence Life.

The Housing Terms and Conditions is entered into by Richard Bland College and the student in full acknowledgment that public and private higher education housing institutions in the Commonwealth of Virginia (such as Richard Bland College) with residential on-campus student housing assignments are not bound by the Virginia Landlord Tenant Act. Among other things, Richard Bland College is not obligated to follow civil court proceedings related to removal of the student and the student’s property from the on-campus student housing assignment, but may automatically remove the student and the student’s property from on-campus housing if Richard Bland College determines that the Housing Terms and Conditions or RBC housing rules have been violated, or the student otherwise does not qualify for student housing.

Abandoned Property: RBC will not be responsible for damage or loss of any personal property not removed within 24 hours after a student separates from housing or after the residence halls officially close in the spring. A room cleaning charge will be assessed against any student who fails to remove their items within the 48-hour timeframe. RBC does not store abandoned property. Any property abandoned by a student will be owned by RBC after 48 hours, and disposed of as deemed appropriate by RBC.

Canceling Housing Agreement

Cancellation notifications must be submitted in writing to residencelife@rbc.edu or by using the following address:

Richard Bland College of William & Mary
Office of Residence Life
11301 Johnson Road
South Prince George, VA 23805

A student who officially withdraws or is released from the College or housing during any session and completes their exit as is defined in Section 17 of the Housing Terms and Conditions will be charged room and board (meals) according to Refund Policy.

  • Navitas international students are not issued refunds as it could impact visa status. Any questions from the Navitas students on this issue should be directed to the Navitas representative.
  • Damage deposits will be held until after room damage assessment is completed.
  • Students must complete an entrance/exit form when checking into a residence hall and prior to departing the residence hall. The student is considered to maintain possession of the room until a completed exit form is properly received by the Office of Residence Life.
  • Students exiting the residence halls during a semester, but who plan to return the next semester, must submit a new Housing Terms and Conditions for the upcoming semester.
  • Students who fail to properly turn in their key at the end of the Housing Terms and Conditions period and/or prior to any departure will be charged the cost of changing the lock.
  • When a room is permanently vacated, the residents are responsible for returning the room and its contents to its original condition. Failure to do so will result in charges to the resident(s) of the room. Items left in the room after the Office of Residence Life has determined the room is vacant shall become the property of Richard Bland College. Room cleaning charges will be applied to those students’ accounts who vacate without properly returning their room/apartment to its original condition.

Noise

The residence halls exist to support and complement the academic mission of the College. Quiet hours and courtesy hours provide standards of acceptable noise levels for residents to socialize, study, and sleep. For all residents, as members of a residential community, the comfort and convenience of neighbors must be a primary consideration. Noise shall include but not be limited to music, TV, voices, video games, and activities.

Twenty-four-hour courtesy hours are in effect in the residence halls at all times. When asked to lower the noise levels by a staff member or fellow resident, residents are expected to modify their behavior regardless of the hour, day, or night.

Quiet hours are in effect  Sunday –Thursday 10 pm through 8:00 a.m. each day. Residents should keep their doors closed when playing music or creating noise that could disturb others. The standard for acceptable noise levels during quiet hours is that noise should not be heard outside of the room or through walls. The noise generated by vacuum cleaners necessitates that their use be prohibited during quiet hours.

During finals week, quiet hours are in effect twenty-four hours a day, beginning at 9:00 a.m. on the first day of exams through the last scheduled exam. Failure to observe quiet hours or courtesy hours is considered conduct infringing on others and is a violation of residence hall policy.

Placing stereo speakers or other sound amplification devices in windows, doorways, and common areas is prohibited unless for an approved event receiving prior written approval from the Office of Residence Life. Volume should be maintained at a reasonable level so as not to disturb other residents or people outside the building. This includes musical instruments and amplifiers.

Visitation

Visitors must abide by the posted visitation policies, which may change throughout the  2022-2023 academic year at the discretion of RBC.. Visitors include persons who live in other residence halls, commuter students, and persons who have no affiliation to RBC. No more than two (2) guests per resident are authorized at any given time unless prior written approval is received from the Office of Residence Life (ORL). All guests must surrender a photo ID and be properly signed in by the on-duty staff member (RA, RLC, and security). Residents are responsible for policing the behaviors of their guests. Visitors can be asked to leave campus housing at any time for violation of hall rules and regulations. Residents and guests must follow the visitation policy and abide by the Student Code of Conduct.

General Visitation Hours:

Sunday thru Thursday: 8:00am – 12:00am

Friday thru Saturday: 8:00am – 2:00am

Visitation Procedures

  1. Visitors must present a valid ID to the on-duty staff members.
  2. The resident must be with their visitor when they arrive to be signed in.
  3. The on-duty staff member will sign the visitor into the visitation log book.
  4. At the conclusion of visitation, all visitors are required to vacate or be held in violation of the visitation policy.
  5. Visitation hours are communicated by the Office of Residence Life.

Note: Residents living in another residence hall are considered visitors and must follow the visitation process and rules.

Note: Visitation hours are subject to change. See the visitation policy in the Office of Residence Life for the most recently approved visitation hours.

Overnight Guests

Visitation of Residential Students

  • Overnight guest forms must be submitted by 2:00PM on the day of the intended visit.
  • Residential guests are permitted daily upon approval from ORL.
  • Guest cannot stay longer than 3 consecutive days.
  • Incomplete overnight guest forms will be denied.

Visitation of commuter students & non-RBC students 

  • Overnight guest forms must be submitted by 2:00PM each Friday.
  • Overnight guests are only permitted on the weekends.
  • Non-residential overnight guest must depart Sunday.

Policies for ALL visitors:

  • Guest must be at least 18 years old.
  • Resident must have the permission of his or her roommate and suitemates.
  • Resident must have a completed overnight guest form on file.
  • Visitors CAN NOT stay if there is no approved overnight guest form in the guest log.
  • Resident assumes responsibility for the behavior of their guest.
  • Guest must relinquish a photo ID to the on duty staff member upon their arrival.
  • Guest can be asked to leave if they violate college or hall policies.
  • All guest forms must have an approval signature from ORL.
  • Students can have a total of 2 guests at one time

Approved overnight guest forms will be placed in the guest binder, when possible staff will also receive an email.

Once an approved guest arrives, guest will have to verify their identity and complete the overnight guest form with their initials and signature.

 

Roommate Success Tips

Communicate
There is probably no other person in the world you will get to know as well as your roommate. Even if you bond instantly, there may be moments when your roommate’s little quirks get on your nerves. Letting things fester can turn an annoyance into misery. Communication – both talking and listening – will be the key to a great relationship.

Personal Belongings
Less is more. By the time you’ve managed to fit in two beds, a computer, and TV, how much room is left for clothes and a few books? There is no way you are going to duplicate all the comforts of home.

Borrowing
Rule #1: Don’t. Rule #2: If you absolutely must borrow something, always ask permission first. Return it in the promised timeframe and the condition it was in when borrowed. If you damage or lose something you borrow, you are responsible for replacing it. Can’t afford to replace it? See rule #1. Nothing causes more strife between roommates and friends than borrowing – money, food, clothes, CDs, sports equipment, etc.

Neatness
If the law of averages works, one of you will be neat and the other messy. Here is where you learn the great art of communication and compromise. Mom doesn’t live here, but you do. The neat one will have to learn to tolerate life’s imperfections. The messy one, well, it’s time to start picking up after yourself.

Lights Out
It’s inevitable, one of you will have an 8:00 a.m. class and the other will want to study until 2:00 a.m. Work out routines for late night studying (is there a lounge?), late night returns (tiptoe and use a flashlight), and early morning classes (tiptoe out and dress in the bathroom). Everyone needs a good night’s sleep.

Quiet Time
All residence halls have quiet hours. Loud music or socializing in the hall will not be appreciated by your fellow corridor-mates and is a one-way ticket to unpopularity and possible suspension from campus housing. 

Irreconcilable Differences
When the course of rooming does not run smoothly, seek guidance from your Residence Assistant first, Residence Life Coordinator second, and finally the Director of Residence Life. But remember, not liking your roommate does not grant you a room change – this is college, and you will meet people from many different backgrounds.




XI. Solicitation

Responsible for Maintenance: Associate Director of Communications

 

Solicitation

Bulletin boards are provided in common areas to keep students informed of RBC activities. Content creation of flyers, posters and other visual materials, and posting of such collateral on non-residential bulletin boards must be approved by the Associate Director of Communications. Only active student organizations and College departments are authorized to post advertisements. Student organizations must seek approval from their faculty/staff advisor prior to advertising. Posting to residential bulletin boards requires approval from the Residence Life Coordinator. Posting on main lobby doors, community windows, floors, ceilings, and building exteriors is prohibited. Material that is inappropriately posted or contains obscenities will be removed.

For complete information about posting policies, please review the RBC Policy Manual found here: https://www.rbc.edu/policy-manual-2019/communications-policies/

Door-to-door solicitation in the residence halls is prohibited. This includes solicitations for charitable donations or door-to-door advertising and solicitations by RBC student organizations. Solicitation in the lobby or lounge areas requires prior approval from the Director of Residence Life or Director of Student Success for non-residential spaces. Student rooms must not be used as places of business, nor can students advertise business functions.




XII. Compliance

Responsible for Maintenance: Disability Services Coordinator and Business Manager

Disability Services under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

Policy of Non-Discrimination on the Basis of Disability Students Requiring Special Accommodations (ADA)
Richard Bland College (RBC) does not discriminate on the basis of disability in the administration of its educational programs and activities, including admissions and employment practices, and access to, or treatment in its programs and services. The Department of Student Success has been designated to coordinate compliance with the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). A Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) is available by calling 711-VaRelay/ (804) 863-1615.

Students in need of accommodations, including special housing accommodations, not including housing must follow the procedures found in the manual at the posted on the following website: https://www.rbc.edu/academics/student-support-team/disability-services/.

Student with a disability requiring an Emotional Support Animal can find information for how to apply for one at the following link: https://www.rbc.edu/policy-manual-2019/campus-safety-and-police-policies/

ADA Grievance Procedure
Richard Bland College has adopted an internal grievance procedure providing for prompt and equitable resolution of complaints alleging any action prohibited by the U.S. Department of Justice regulations implementing Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Title II states, in part, that “no otherwise qualified disabled individual shall, solely by reason of such disability, be excluded from the participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination” in programs or activities sponsored by a public entity. Complaints should be submitted using the Student Complaint Procedure described in Section III of this Handbook.




XIII. Student Code of Conduct

Responsible for Maintenance: Student Conduct Coordinator

Student Code of Conduct

The Richard Bland College (RBC) community shares a commitment to achieving our educational mission, vision, and strategic goals. The William & Mary Board of Visitors and the RBC President bear ultimate responsibility and authority; however, faculty, staff, and students share a responsibility to help maintain on campus, in the classrooms, and in the residence halls, an environment that supports the pursuit of academic learning and activities, respect for others, and the opportunity for personal growth and development. The College expects students and student organizations to abide by the Student Code of Conduct both on and off campus. The Student Code of Conduct for students applies to conduct that occurs on college property, at college sponsored events and activities, and to off-campus conduct when the conduct adversely affects the College community and the pursuit of its objectives. This Student Code of Conduct exists to provide an environment conducive to the mission, vision, and values of the institution. Through this Code, the College seeks to guide the development of personal responsibility, respect for others, and mature behavior. The students’ observance of college regulations and policies is important, as is the observance of public laws. The Code of Virginia contains public laws governing the conduct of all citizens and also contains specific provisions relating to colleges and universities. Violations of the Code of Virginia may result in the application of the College’s Student Code of Conduct procedures, which may result in a student’s expulsion from RBC.

For misconduct involving student or employee discrimination, harassment or retaliation pursuant to the College’s Policy Prohibiting Discrimination, Harassment and Retaliation (Non-Title IX), please refer to the RBC Policy Manual for applicable policies and procedures.

For complaints involving student or employee sexual and/or gender-based harassment and other forms of interpersonal violence, pursuant to Title IX, please refer to the RBC website at https://www.rbc.edu/my-rbc/title-ix/ for applicable policies and procedures.




XIV. Disciplinary Standards and Procedures

Responsible for Maintenance: Student Conduct Coordinator

Disciplinary Standards and Procedures

By authority of the William & Mary Board of Visitors, the RBC President has delegated the responsibility and authority for overseeing enforcement of policies governing student life to the Student Conduct Coordinator. The policies are designed to enable the College to protect itself and its members against the conduct of those who would impair or infringe upon the disciplinary rules of the College. The policies and procedures were formulated through the process of shared governance. This fact in no way abrogates the authority granted by the Board of Visitors to the RBC President and designee(s) to determine, manage, and maintain a system of discipline and safety in the College community. The Board of Visitors or the RBC President may alter or modify the rules concerning student conduct and discipline at any time.

The Student Conduct Board process is authorized to make a determination as to whether a student’s conduct violates the Student Code of Conduct and/or the Honor Code. The applicable criterion of review is the preponderance of the evidence standard. Evidence is presented by the parties and/or witnesses called by the parties. The evidence presented may be in the form of, but is not limited to: (a) oral or written testimony from parties or witnesses; (b) affidavits and depositions; (c) police reports and memoranda; (d) properly signed court documents; and/or (e) other taped or written statements.

Amnesty from Allegations and Protection from Retaliation when Reporting Hazing or Participating as a Witness in Investigation

To encourage reporting of hazing, the university will extend amnesty from student conduct allegations and sanctions to parties and witnesses for minor violations of the alcohol and drugs policies, such as underage consumption of alcohol, public intoxication, and possession or ingestion of illegal drugs for reporting parties, witnesses or respondents where such disclosures are made in connection with a good faith report or investigation of hazing or retaliation.

Interim Suspension

Richard Bland College (RBC) may take interim measures, as necessary, to assist or protect the complainant during the investigation, to address the safety of the complainant or any member of the campus community, or to avoid retaliation. If, in the judgment of the Chief of Police, Provost, Director of Student Success, Title IX Coordinator, Director of Housing & Residence Life, or the Student Conduct Coordinator, the safety or well-being of any member of the campus community may be jeopardized by the presence on campus of the accused individual, any of the aforementioned individuals, in consultation with the RBC President, may provide interim remedies to address the short-term effects of harassment, discrimination, and/or retaliation and to prevent further violations. In the most grievous incidents, the decision may be made immediately by the Chief of Police or the Director of Student Success to initiate interim measures to assist or protect the College community. Richard Bland College will seek the consent of the complainant before taking interim measures to the greatest degree possible, but consent is not required. Interim measures may include but are not limited to, changes in classroom schedules or housing arrangements, no-contact order, bar from campus, escorts on campus, referral and coordination of counseling and health services, and modification of work or academic requirements.

Transcript Notation Due to Sanctioning

Pursuant with the Code of Virginia § 23.1-900, sanctions of Withdrawal, Permanent Dismissal, Indefinite Suspension, and Suspension while under investigation at the college for a sexual offense are posted as notations on the student’s transcript. This transcript notation is removed once the school’s investigation is complete and the school determines the student did not commit the offense. The notation will be permanent, however, if the school’s investigation determines the student did commit the offense in question. This information is communicated from the Department of Student Success to the Records & Registration Office.




XV. Student Code of Conduct Violations

Responsible for Maintenance: Student Conduct Coordinator

Standards of Conduct Violations

Student conduct violations are divided into three distinct classifications: Conduct Against Community, Conduct Against Property, and Conduct Against Person. The following acts or omissions are prohibited. Examples of proscribed conduct below are not all inclusive. The College is within its rights to address any areas of misconduct that could constitute a threat to the safety of the campus community.

Alcohol and Drugs
Use, possession, manufacturing, or distribution of alcoholic beverages, or public intoxication is prohibited, including on any owned, leased, or licensed campus property or at any college-related event. Students are not permitted to possess any alcohol paraphernalia, and/or rapid consumption items. Examples include  alcohol containers for the purpose of decoration/display, beer bonds, posters promoting underage drinking. Use, possession, manufacturing, or distribution of any drug(s) and/or drug paraphernalia, or other controlled substances except as expressly permitted by law is prohibited on-campus, including any owned, leased or licensed campus property or at any college-related event. Students should review the alcohol and drug policy in Appendix I of the Student Handbook.

Endangering Health or Safety
Physical abuse, , threats, intimidation, harassment, coercion, and/or other conduct that threatens, provokes, or endangers the health or safety of any person, including violations of the College’s Policy Prohibiting Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation are prohibited. Taunting or physically harassing or harming wildlife or other animals or creating an unsafe or hazardous environment involving wildlife or other animals on property owned or controlled by the College are prohibited.

Hazing
Hazing is prohibited. Hazing is an act which endangers the emotional, mental, financial, or physical health or safety of a student, or which destroys or removes public or private property, for initiation, admission into, affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in, a group or organization. Apathy or acquiescence in the presence of hazing is not considered a neutral act; they are violations of this rule. The express or implied consent of the victim, tradition, and intent of such acts are not valid defenses. Hazing incidents are a violation of the Code of Virginia and are a Class 1 misdemeanor. Hazing which causes bodily injury shall be reported to the Commonwealth’s Attorney of Dinwiddie or Prince George County, who shall take such action as they deem appropriate.

Weapons
The possession, carrying, storage, or maintenance of any weapon including, but not limited to firearms, tasers, air guns, slingshots, knives (longer than three inches) by any member of the campus community, except law enforcement officials and other individuals authorized under the Weapons Policy, is prohibited on college property. Any individual who is reported or discovered to possess a weapon on college property or maintains or stores a weapon on college property in violation of this prohibition will be asked to remove it immediately. The presence of a prohibited item will result in disciplinary action, which may include termination from employment for employees or expulsion from the College for students.

Prohibited conduct includes, but is not limited to the following:

  1. Illegal or unauthorized possession of weapons, explosives, fireworks, or dangerous chemicals or combustibles on college premises. The resident must be with their visitor when they arrive to be signed in.
  2. Use of any such item, even if legally possessed, in a manner that harms, threatens, or causes fear in others.
  3. Possession of counterfeit, replica, or blank-firing firearms or realistic-looking toy firearms, knives, or swords. Students who live in residence halls may possess kitchen knives; however, such knives must be stored out of sight when not in use.
  4. Possession of pellet, paint, water, toy guns such as water/Nerf guns, stun guns, tasers, and BB guns.

Confiscation: The College reserves the right to confiscate weapons, fireworks, and any instruments, non-conforming toys, or other items that reasonably appear to be weapons or other prohibited items listed above, to hold those items for appropriate disposition, and to refer the possessor for disciplinary action.

Any such individual who is reported or discovered to possess a firearm or weapon on college property will be asked to remove it immediately from college property. Failure to comply may result in a Student Conduct Board referral, an employee disciplinary action, or arrest.

Self-Defense Items: Students may possess mace, pepper spray, and other such items that are intended for self-defense purposes only. Use in other ways would constitute a violation of the College’s rules, policies, or regulations. Stun guns and tasers are prohibited.

All students must comply with the College Weapons Policy and with the Richard Bland College Weapons regulation found at Virginia Administrative Code: 8 VAC 115-30-10 through 115-30-30.

Possession or carrying of any weapon by any person, except a police officer or an individual authorized pursuant to College policy, is prohibited on college property in academic buildings, administrative buildings, student residence and student life buildings, or dining or athletic facilities, or while attending an official college event, such as an athletic, academic, social, recreational, or educational event, or on vessels that are college property. Entry upon such college property in violation of this prohibition is expressly forbidden.

Open Flames on Campus

Open Flame: Any activity or device producing a flame, including, but not limited to candles, tiki torches, oil lanterns, butane burners, incense, campfires, bonfires, grills, and fire pits.

College Property: Property, vehicle or vessel owned, leased or controlled by Richard Bland College.

Open flames are prohibited on all college property, including within College buildings and facilities, except pursuant to a permit issued by the College.

Exceptions to the requirement for a permit are found below:

  1. Activities taking place within the scope of academic coursework when under the supervision of the relevant faculty member;
  2. Flames created for the transient purpose of lighting a cigarette, cigar, pipe, or similar smoking article or device, provided such activity is in an authorized location, is otherwise lawful, and the burning or smoking elements are safely and responsibly disposed; and
  3. Small celebration candles used briefly and in an appropriate quantity in connection with a celebration, provided such activity is not left unattended, is in an authorized location, is otherwise lawful, and the smoking or burning elements are safely and responsibly disposed.

Directions to apply for an Open Flame Permit are found at https://www.rbc.edu/policy-manual-2019/campus-safety-and-police-policies/.

Abuse of the Student Conduct System
Abusing the Student Conduct system is prohibited, including, but not limited to:

  1. Failing obey a notice from the Student Conduct Board or College official to appear for a meeting or hearing.
  2. Falsifying, distorting, or misrepresenting information before a Student Conduct Board or to any misconduct investigator.
  3. Disrupting or otherwise interfering with any conduct conference or hearing.
  4. Discouraging or attempting to discourage a person’s participation in, or use of, the Student Conduct system.
  5. Attempting to or influencing the impartiality of a member of the Student Conduct Board before, during, or after a proceeding.
  6. Failing to comply with the sanction(s) imposed by the Student Conduct Board or College Official.
  7. Failure to provide, destroying or hiding information during any investigation of an alleged policy violation, or otherwise impeding or obstructing an investigation of suspected Code violations.
  8. Attempting to or influencing another individual to violate the Student Code of Conduct.
  9. Distributing, announcing, or publicizing confidential disciplinary information without written permission.
  10. Failure to comply with instructions provided during any conduct meeting or hearing.

Acts of Dishonesty
Acts of dishonesty are prohibited, which include but are not limited to the following:

  1. Cheating, plagiarism, or other acts of academic dishonesty.
  2. Providing false information to any College official, faculty member, or staff, including Campus Police.
  3. Forging, altering, or any misuse of any college document, record, or instrument of identification.
  4. Violating the RBC Honor Code.
  5. Possession of any fake, altered, or other identification that belongs to another person.
  6. Impersonating any College official.

 

Disorderly Conduct, Disruptive Conduct, or Breach of Peace
Any conduct that is disorderly, disruptive; a breach of peace; compromises health and safety, or encouraging or attaining another person to breach the peace on college property or at activities and events sponsored by, or participated in by, the College or members of the College community is prohibited. Disorderly conduct includes, but is not limited to offensive behavior (e.g., urinating in public, not being fully clothed in public); public intoxication; and any unauthorized use of any device to make an audio or video record of any person without the person’s knowledge, or without the person’s active consent, when the recording occurs where individuals have a reasonable expectation of privacy.  This includes, but is not limited to recording ortaking pictures of another person in a gym, locker room, or restroom.

Note: Students are required to be fully clothed when in public areas on campus.

Disruption or Obstruction of College Activities

The following constitutes misconduct:

  1. Participating in an on- or off-campus demonstration, riot, or activity that disrupts the normal operations of the College and/or infringes on the rights of another member of the College community.
  2. Leading or inciting others to disrupt a scheduled and/or normal activity on college property.
  3. Any conduct which materially interferes with the normal operation of the College.
  4. Failing to comply with directions of College officials or law enforcement officers performing their duties and/or failing to identify oneself to these individuals when requested to do so.

Violation of Institutional Policies
Violation of any College policy, rule, or regulation published in hard copy or available electronically on the College website constitutes misconduct. 

Violation of Law
Conduct leading to arrest, indictment, or conviction, for violating a local, state, or federal law, regulation, or ordinance may result in disciplinary action if it is determined that such action is necessary for the protection of other members of the College community; for the safeguarding of the educational community; to prevent the disruption of any lawful activity carried on by the College or others on behalf of the College, or activities on college property; and/or if the conduct tarnishes the educational mission and vision of the College.

Theft and Property Damage
The attempted or actual possession of another’s property without authorization and/or damaging property of the College, or property of a member of the College community, or other personal or public property, on or off campus.

Theft or Abuse of Technology
The theft and/or abuse of computer facilities and resources, including, but not limited to:

  1. Unauthorized download, creation, sale, transfer access, reproduction or distribution of copyrighted material, including, but not limited to audio materials, video materials, or research materials; or of any course materials, whether copyrighted or not, distributed by the faculty member.
  2. Unauthorized entry into any network, computer, or file to use, read, or change the contents, or for any other purpose.
  3. Using another person’s identification and/or password.
  4. Unauthorized use of computing facilities and resources to interfere with the work of another college member, the normal operation of institution computing system, or abuse of other computers facilities and resources.
  5. Students shall not use unauthorized devices while completing an assignment.
  6. Sending obscene messages, photographs or videos using computing facilities and resources or similar personal resources.
  7. Violating copyright laws using computing facilities and resources.
  8. Any violation of the College’s Acceptable Use Policy (Appendix VI).

Unauthorized Entrance
The unauthorized possession, duplication, or use of keys or access cards to any college premises; or the unauthorized entering into, use, or presence in any college premises without authorization.

Conduct Code Section: 100 – Conduct Against Community

Students shall not endanger the health and safety of the campus community. This includes but is not limited to possession of weapons, acts of dishonesty, infractions of conduct policies, disruptions of the peace, distribution or possession of an illegal drug as defined by the Drug Control Act of the Commonwealth of Virginia, or the distribution or possession of alcohol regardless of age.

Subsection 1 – Weapons

100.0 – Violating the Weapons Policy and/or the Richard Bland College Weapons On-Campus Regulation as written in the Virginia Administrative Code, 8 VAC 115-30-10.

100.1 – Illegal or unauthorized possession dangerous chemicals or combustibles on college premises.

100.2 – Use of any such item, even if legally possessed, in a manner that harms, threatens or causes fear to others.

100.3 – Knives longer than three inches are prohibited on campus. Students who live in residence halls may possess kitchen knives for the purpose of cooking; however, such knives must be stored out of sight when not in use.

100.4 – Students may possess mace, pepper spray, and other such items that are intended for self-defense purposes only. Use in other ways would constitute a violation of College rules, policies, or regulations.

100.5 – Use or storage of stun guns and tasers on college property or college-sponsored events.

Subsection 2 – Drugs

101.0 – Possessing or using an illegal drug or other controlled substance without a valid prescription as defined by the Drug Control Act of the Commonwealth of Virginia, or prescription drugs for which one does not have a legitimate prescription, or misuse of non-prescription drugs.

101.1 – Manufacture of an illegal drug or other controlled substance, as defined by the Drug Control Act of the Commonwealth of Virginia.

101.2- The possession and/or use of any drug paraphernalia, i.e. bowls, hookah pipes, bongs, “homemade” smoking devices, any other smoking device or smoking paraphernalia

101.3- Sale or distribution of an illegal drug or other controlled substance or possession of an illegal drug or other controlled substance with the intent to distribute as defined by the Drug Control Act of the Commonwealth of Virginia

Subsection 3 – Alcoholic Beverages

102.0 – Possession of an alcoholic beverage on property belonging to or controlled by Richard Bland College including college sponsored events or trips.

102.1 – Possession, and/or use of alcohol paraphernalia, and/or rapid consumption items. This includes displaying alcohol beverages for decoration/display, beer bongs, posters promoting underage drinking.

102.2– Public intoxication, drunkenness, or activities related to the consumption or possession of alcoholic beverages that infringe on the rights of others.

100.3- The possession or use of devices such as beer bongs, beer funnels, beer pong tables and other items used in drinking games, and methods including drinking games, used to facilitate the rapid consumption or impact of alcohol are prohibited, regardless of age.

Subsection 4 – Acts of Dishonesty

103.0 – – Knowingly furnishing, or causing to be furnished, false information to Richard Bland College, or a college Official.  

103.1 – Violations of the RBC Honor Code.

103.2– Making, possessing, or using any forged, altered, or falsified document, record, or identification.

103.3 – Possession of any fake, altered, or any other identification that belongs to another person.

103.4 – Impersonating any University Official.

Subsection 5 – Visitation, Unauthorized Entry & other Residential Policies

104.0– Violating prescribed visitation policies.

104.1– Guests who remain in another student’s room while illegal visitation is occurring shall be considered a participant and in violation.

104.2– Students will be responsible for informing their guests and nonstudents of College policies and will be held accountable if their guests violate College policies.

104.3– Students shall not enter or remain in a private room, office, or restricted area under the control of another student, faculty member, or College official except by permission or invitation. This includes unauthorized individuals entering a College building, room, or roommate dresser or personal storage that has been locked or by other means restricted.

104.4- Trespassing – Presence: Unauthorized presence (including climbing or scaling) on, in, or within any building or property

104.5 – Residential students and all guests are expected to respect quiet and courtesy hours.

104.6 – Pets and wildlife are not allowed in any residence hall or campus building other than small aquatic fish and service animals. For more information please see Policy 5110 of the RBC Policy Manual.

Subsection 6 – Disruption & Disorderly Conduct

105.0 – Breach of peace, or aiding, abetting or procuring another person to breach the peace on University premises or at University sponsored or affiliated functions.

105.1 – Any conduct which materially interferes with the normal operation of the University, its activities, and/or events.

105.2– Any conduct that is disruptive, reckless, offensive behavior or other forms of disorderly conduct. (e.g., urinating in public, not being fully clothed in public).

105.3 – Failure to comply with directions of college officials or other law enforcement officers during the performance of their duties and/or failure to accurately identify oneself to these persons when requested to do

105.4- Failure to comply with directions or guidelines established by college officials to ensure the health, wellness, and safety of students, faculty, staff and our campus.

105.5 – Hall sports (ball playing, bicycles, roller blades, scooters, hoverboards, and skateboards) are prohibited in any campus operated buildings.

105.6 – Participating in riots or disturbances with the purpose to commit or incite actions that present a clear and present danger to others or college property is prohibited.

Subsection 7 – Tobacco

106.0- Possession, Sale or Distribution: Sale and/or distribution of, a tobacco product, nicotine vapor product, and/or alternative nicotine product, as prohibited by Commonwealth of Virginia Law.

106.1- Possession, and/or use of a tobacco product, nicotine vapor product, and/or alternative nicotine product, as prohibited by Commonwealth of Virginia Law.

Subsection 8 – Classroom Disruption

107.0- Classroom disruption, defined as any behavior that substantially interferes with the conduct of a class. Examples may include, but are not limited to, the following: persistent late arrivals or leaving early in a manner that disrupts the regular flow of the class; talking while the instructor is talking; speaking in class without first obtaining recognition and permission to speak; use of electronic equipment such as cell phones, computers, etc. in a manner that disrupts the class; or becoming belligerent or verbally abusive when confronted as a result of their inappropriate behavior.

Subsection 9 – Abuse of Student Conduct System

108.0- Falsifying, distorting, or misrepresenting information presented to the Conduct Coordinator or panel;

108.1- Failure to provide, destroying or hiding information during any investigation of an alleged policy violation, or otherwise impeding or obstructing an investigation of suspected Code violations;

108.2- Disrupting or otherwise interfering with any conduct conference or hearing;

108.3- Failure to comply with instructions provided during any conduct meeting or hearing

108.4- Failing to comply with the sanction(s) imposed by the Student Conduct Board or College Official

108.5- Distributing, announcing, or publicizing confidential disciplinary information, without written permission

108.6- Failing to obey a notice from the Student Conduct Board or College Official to appear for a meeting or hearing

108.7- Discouraging or attempting to discourage a person’s participation in, or use of, the Student Conduct system

108.8- Attempting to or influencing the impartiality of a member of the Student Conduct Board before, during, or after a proceeding

108.9- Attempting to or influencing another individual to violate the Student Code of Conduct.

Conduct Code Section: 200 – Conduct Against Property

Students shall not remove or damage the property belonging to another. This includes but is not limited to destruction of Richard Bland College (RBC) furniture, theft or damage to RBC computer equipment, illegal tampering with firefighting equipment, or violating fire code regulations.

Subsection 1 – Fire Code

200.0 – The Virginia Fire Code prohibits the use of extension cords, multi-plug adapters, and ungrounded three-prong adaptors in the residence halls.

200.1 – – Intentionally or negligently, tampering with or damaging fire, safety, or security equipment (including, but not limited to, activating fire alarms, tampering with smoke detectors, setting off fire extinguishers, and moving road signs or traffic equipment).

200.2 – Intentionally or negligently starting or causing a fire which results in bodily injury, and/or significant property damage or disruption to the college community.

200.3 – Inappropriate or dangerous activities involving fires, open flames, candles, matches, or other flammable materials are prohibited in all residence halls, or in any buildings owned or operated by Richard Bland College.

200.4 – Participation in creating or causing a false fire alarm.

200.5– Blocking or in any way preventing the use of fire exit doors, room doors, or building hallways.

200.6– Smoking of any substance (including vapor e-cigarettes is prohibited on Richard Bland College’s campus, including campus buildings, college-owned and leased facilities, properties, grounds and all vehicles owned rented or leased by RBC.

200.7– Hoverboards or items that are deemed a fire hazard or endanger the health & safety of the college community are prohibited on campus.

200.8– Open flames of any kind are not permitted inside campus buildings; this includes incense, candles, and oil burning lamps. Exceptions are made when flames are a part of academic or training related activities and supervised by a college staff or faculty member with appropriate approvals.

200.9– Any failure to evacuate or immediately respond to a fire alarm

Subsection 2 – Property Damage

201.0– Destroying or damaging, the property of the college or the personal property of another.

201.1– Students shall not remove, exchange, or alter arrangements of any college property without permission from the appropriate authority.

 

 

 

Subsection 3 – Computer Equipment

202.0 – 104.0-Unauthorized download, creation, sale, transfer, access, reproduction or distribution of: copyrighted material, including but not limited to audio materials, video materials, or research materials; or of any course materials, whether copyrighted or not, distributed by the faculty member (such as the faculty member’s notes or PowerPoint presentations, handouts, tests, outlines, and similar materials).

202.1 – Unauthorized use of another individual’s identification and password.

202.2– Unauthorized entry into any network, computer, or file to use, read, or change the contents, or for any other purpose.

202.3– Students shall not use unauthorized devices while completing an assignment.

202.4 Unauthorized use of computing facilities and resources to interfere with the work of another college member, the normal operation of university computing system or abuse of other computer facilities and resources.

Subsection 5 – Unauthorized Use

203.0- Unauthorized use of University equipment.

203.1- Unauthorized use of bathrooms, exits, or windows.

203.2- Unauthorized use or duplication of keys.

203.3- Unauthorized entering into or presence in any college premise without authorization.

Conduct Code Section: 300 – Conduct Against Person

Students shall not engage in violations of conduct directed at an individual or individuals. This includes but is not limited to hazing, fighting, harassment, robbery, and violations of roommate agreements.

Subsection 1 – Endangering Health & Safety

300.0 – Participation in, or soliciting others to participate in, dangerous behaviors, pranks, stunts, or other actions that might result in physical injury to self or others.

300.1 –Throwing or launching any object or substance which has potential for damaging or defacing property or causing physical harm or disruption.

300.2 – Conduct that threatens or endangers the health or safety of any person.

300.3 – Any act, intentional or unintentional, which endangers the emotional, mental, financial, physical health or safety of a student, with or without their expressed permission, or which destroys or removes public or private property, for the purpose of initiation, admission into, affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in a group or organization.

300.4 – Attending an event or activity where hazing is occurring is not permitted.

300.5 – Sending or posting obscene, threatening, harassing, or abusive messages is prohibited.

300.6 – Using electronic or other devices to make an audio or video recording of the private activities of any person without their prior knowledge or without their effective consent is prohibited.

300.7 – Online behavior that poses a direct threat to the campus community or otherwise impairs achievement of the educational objectives of the College is prohibited and may result in disciplinary sanctions.

Subsection 2 – Harassment

301.0- Mistreatment of Persons: Harassment or pattern of harassment,, threats, intimidation, and/or coercion directed toward any person or group of people. Harassment includes conduct sufficiently severe, persistent or pervasive as to threaten an individual or limit the ability of an individual to work, study, or participate in the activities of the University. Prohibited conduct also includes, but is not limited to stalking (repeated conduct directed toward another person, including following that person or engaging in acts that harass); making unwanted obscene, abusive or repetitive telephone calls; electronic mail; instant messages; or similar communications with intent to harass.

301.1- Mistreatment of Persons – Physical: Physical abuse directed toward any person or group of people.

301.2- Intimidation, defined as implied or articulated threats or acts that cause a reasonable person to fear harm. This includes actions that occur via social media, email, text messaging, or video chat.

301.3- Retaliation- Treating an individual adversely because that individual filed a complaint or concern, provided information relative to a complaint or concern, or otherwise was involved in such a complaint or concern in any way. For more information please see the Discrimination, Harassment and Retaliation policy.

Subsection 3 – Physical Violence

302.0- Engaging in any form of physical violence directed toward another person or group of people, except when such response constitutes legitimate self-defense.

302.1- Responding to violence with violence, except when such response constitutes legitimate self-defense.

302.2 Placing a University Official or Emergency Personnel (e.g., Police Officers, Firefighters, EMT, etc.) in fear or at risk of physical harm or danger or engaging in physical contact or violence against a University Official or Emergency Personnel.

Subsection 4 – Theft and Gambling

303.0 – Participating in a game for any sum of money or other property of any value is prohibited. Making any bet for a fee, directly or indirectly give or accept anything of value to be wagered or to be transmitted or delivered for a wager is prohibited. This excludes organizational approved fundraising raffles.

303.1 – Possessing, taking or attempting to take the personal property of another without permission (including the knowing possession of stolen property).

Subsection 5 – Discrimination and Sexual Misconduct

304.0—Any act of Non-Title IX sexual misconduct, including sexual assault, sexual exploitation, dating violence, domestic violence and stalking as defined by the College’s Policy Prohibiting Discrimination, Harassment and Retaliation.

304.1 – Any act of misconduct, including intimidation, threats, violence, and harassment directed at a person or group of persons in a protected status or with a protected characteristic.




XVI. College Department Of Campus Safety And Police

Responsible for Maintenance: Chief of Police

Mission

The mission of the Richard Bland College (RBC) Department of Campus Safety & Police (“Department”) is to provide a safe and secure living, learning, and working environment for the students, faculty, staff, and visitors of the College by actively pursuing a positive relationship with the campus community, preserving public order, , protecting the life and property of all, and providing education and training to law enforcement personnel and the College community. The Department is staffed by certified police officers 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The Department enforces all traffic, parking, and criminal laws on campus and provides initial emergency medical response to medical emergencies. The Department should be the first contact for any emergency and for assistance involving any criminal or policy violation. If counseling is needed after an incident, the police will connect the student with the appropriate counseling service. There are several emergency call boxes located at various sites across campus.

Contact the RBC Department of Campus Safety & Police at 804-862-6111 for all fire, medical, and police related emergencies. The department is located at 510 Carson Drive, next to the facilities building.

Emergency Call Boxes

Emergency call boxes are located strategically across campus. They are relatively simple to use and may be activated to request any type of assistance. Once a person presses the red button, the call box sends a message to the police officer’s radio from the particular call box that was activated. The police officer may communicate with the person via police radio until they arrive at the location.

Press and hold the red button to talk and then release the button to hear the police officer. If a student has any questions concerning the call boxes, please call Campus Safety and Police at (804) 862-6111.

Medical Needs

A student in need of medical attention should use the medical guide found in Appendix VIII for reference.

Campus Parking, Vehicle Registration, and Traffic Rules

This policy establishes parking and traffic rules and imposes the requirement of vehicle registration for faculty, students, and staff to park their vehicles on the College campus. All motor vehicles are subject to College traffic rules and Virginia traffic laws while on campus. The College assumes no responsibility for loss or damage to private property. All traffic signs must be obeyed. The operation of any motor vehicle in such a manner as to create excessive noise or smoke, or operation of any vehicle in a parking lot in an unsafe manner, will result in revocation of parking privileges. Pedestrians shall have the right-of-way at all times, on campus. The maximum speed for a vehicle on Johnson Road and Carson Drive is 25 miles per hour when classes are in-session.

The College parking and traffic rules are designed to allow safe pedestrian and vehicular movement, to ensure emergency vehicles and personnel access to buildings and spaces, to provide orderly parking of vehicles on campus, and to provide for an equitable distribution of parking spaces with appropriate priorities.

All information regarding these rules can be found in the Richard Bland College Policy Manual at https://www.rbc.edu/policy-manual-2019/campus-safety-and-police-policies/.

Campus Safety & Security

Students are urged to be cognizant of their safety and security needs while on and off campus. An escort service is available by contacting Richard Bland College (RBC) Police at 804-862-6111.

Students and other authorized personnel must utilize their RBC Identification Card (herein referred to as the “RBC Card”) issued by RBC. The RBC Card is issued to each student during their initial registration, and is valid their entire stay at RBC. The RBC Card provides access to services offered by the cafeteria, the Department of Athletics, the bookstore, and the library, as well as to the front door entrance to the residence halls. All cards will be deactivated at the close of each semester to ensure the residents’ safety and security. Carry your RBC Card with you at all times. There is a $20.00 fee for replacing a lost card. Please take note of the following:

  • Though RBC takes all reasonable precautions, our campus is a public area and therefore not immune to the dangers of modern society. Therefore, as RBC cannot absolutely guarantee the safety and security of the premises at all times, the College expects students to take reasonable precautions to protect themselves and their property.
  • Residents may not lend their RBC Card to anyone; your RBC Card is for your use only.

Failure to comply with this requirement will result in immediate disciplinary action as it endangers the safety of all residents.

  • Do not hold the front door open for other people. All authorized residents have an access card.
  • Do not prop doors open. For safety and security reasons, exterior, stairwell, and fire doors should never be propped or intentionally unsecured at any time.
  • Keep your residential room door locked at all times.
  • Immediately report a lost key or lost access card to the Office of Residence Life or the Department of Campus Safety & Police.
  • Do not allow other students to borrow your key or access card.
  • Report doors that do not close and/or lock, lights that do not work, or any other safety or security problem in your academic building or residential building to the Office of Residence Life or the Department of Campus Safety & Police.
  • Report suspicious circumstances (people or events) to the residence hall staff or RBC Department of Campus Safety & Police.
  • The roofs, attics, and mechanical equipment rooms of all college buildings are restricted areas and may not be entered.

Bomb Threats
All bomb threats will be considered real. The person receiving the bomb threat call should then immediately call the Department of Campus Safety & Police at 804-862-6111. Similarly, suspicious packages, boxes, or other containers containing possible explosive devices or contaminants should not be handled by students and police should be contacted immediately.

Fire Evacuation Procedures
Students are required to know and understand the following procedure for evacuating a campus building when the fire alarm is activated. Richard Bland College will not be held liable for students demonstrating noncompliant evacuation behaviors.

General rules for fire evacuation

  1. When the fire alarm sounds, all occupants must leave the building immediately.
  2. No one is to return to the building until the RBC Campus Police or designees give permission.
  3. All persons should proceed to the nearest parking area and must stand at least 50 feet away from the buildings.
  4. All persons must stand clear of roadways to allow firefighting equipment to reach buildings.

In case of an actual fire

  1. Pull alarm and evacuate the building.
  2. Call Campus Police at 804-862-61111.
  3. Fire alarm pull stations are to be used only for fire and fire drills.

Bicycle Policy
All bicycle users must adhere to the Virginia laws relating to bicycles. Bicycle racks are provided by the College for students to secure their bikes. Locking or leaning bicycles against poles, buildings, benches, trees, signs, porch railings, and other college property is prohibited.

Skateboard Policy
Richard Bland College does not authorize activities that have the potential to create excessive noise or inflict damage upon college property or cause physical injury. Students are expected to use good judgment and common sense when riding bicycles, skateboards, longboards, scooters, and rollerblades on campus. Hoverboards are banned from campus due to fire hazards. The College permits the use of skateboards on the campus sidewalks only. Skateboards may not be used on the streets, campus roads, buildings, the building porches, or on the walkway between the campus and the Student Village.

Fire Safety

Richard Bland College places high importance on promoting fire safety and encouraging all students to take personal responsibility in this area. Students will participate in regular fire drills and attend periodic fire safety programs in order to understand how to manage the risks and respond appropriately in case of emergency. Students living on campus must exercise care and caution to prevent fires. All students and visitors must abide by all fire safety regulations. Fire safety equipment is installed in each building on campus. Students or guests are not permitted to tamper with fire safety equipment, including fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, sprinklers, and fire exit doors. Setting off false alarms or discharging fire extinguishers are serious violations. Students and guests are not permitted to have in campus buildings items with open flames, including, but not limited to candles, hot plates, grills, and space heaters. Residential students should review the non-permitted items list for a complete listing. The Office of Residence Life reserves the right to reject any electrical appliance that it considers as potentially hazardous to the safety of students and others. All students are expected to observe the following regulations critical to the prevention of residence hall fires:

  1. The use or possession of any dangerous chemical or explosive material, such as fireworks, gun powder, gasoline, etc., is prohibited within the residence halls.
  2. The integrity of all ceilings, floors, and walls must remain intact and not be disturbed. Light fixtures must have a proper globe or deflector in place. Any open bulb fixtures are a fire hazard and must be reported to ORL.
  3. The possession or use of halogen lamps is prohibited.
  4. The possession, lighting, or burning of candles, incense, oil lamps, gas lanterns, outdoor grills, or any device capable of producing an open or enclosed flame or odor is prohibited in all student residences.
  5. Students found to be tampering with fire alarms, smoke detectors, or fire extinguishers are subject to RBC disciplinary action and legal prosecution. The same sanctions apply for calling an ambulance or firefighting apparatus without just cause.
  6. Window decorations other than college furnished shades, drapes, or blinds may be used but must carry a recognized fire rating and be constructed of fire retardant material.
  7. According to the International Fire Code 805.1.2, adopted as law by the Commonwealth of Virginia, no more than 10% of a residence hall room’s wall surface area may be covered by potentially flammable objects. This includes but is not limited to posters, framed pictures, photos, flags, tapestries, or any other decorative object that that is mounted on the wall. Residents in residence hall rooms that approach or surpass this 10% level may be required to remove items as necessary to comply with fire safety requirements. Additional wall coverings (e.g. paneling, wallpaper, tapestries, etc.) may not be installed by occupants. In addition, wall hangings should not come into contact with electrical outlets or come closer than 12 inches to the heating unit. Hanging any object or item from ceilings or fire sprinkler heads is prohibited.
  8. Room doors, corridors, stairways, and building exits must be kept clear of obstructions at all times. Fire doors on corridors and in stairways must be kept closed at all times.
  9. All residents and guests must evacuate any building in which a fire alarm sounds. Persons refusing to evacuate constitute a hazard to fire officials and will be subject to disciplinary action.



XVII. Sanctions

Responsible for Maintenance: Student Conduct Coordinator

Sanctions

Students are expected to display appropriate behavior at all times. Students who are found responsible for having violated RBC’s on- and off-campus conduct policies while enrolled at RBC will face consequences. Infractions of RBC policy can lead to a warning up to suspension or expulsion from the College.

Sanctions: Sanctioning is a method to provide accountability for one’s actions and educate students on how their actions affect themselves and the College community. Its goal is to increase a student’s awareness level and promote the growth of the student as an effective and productive citizen. Previous sanctions for violation of the Student Code of Conduct will be considered and may impact subsequent sanctioning decisions. Students who are found in violation of the Student Code of Conduct will face consequences through appropriate sanctioning. Sanctioning may include but is not be limited to:

  • Letter of Concern
  • Disciplinary written warning
  • Disciplinary Probation
  • Community Service hours
  • Expulsion from the College
  • Suspension from the College
  • Dismissal from the residence hall
  • Restitution
  • Educational Assignments
  • Other sanctions as deemed appropriate



XVIII. Conduct Hearings

Responsible for Maintenance: Student Conduct Coordinator

Administrative Hearing

The Department of Student Success reserves the right to administratively hear minor violations of RBC policies as deemed appropriate by the Student Conduct Coordinator in consultation with the Office of Campus Police & Safety, Office of Residence Life, and faculty member(s) involved, as needed. Students will be afforded the same basic rights of notice as with Student Conduct Board hearings. Decisions by the Student Conduct Coordinator may be appealed to the individual designated by the RBC President. Decisions at that level are final.

The Student Conduct Board

The Student Conduct Board (“Board”) upholds the College’s Student Code of Conduct and Honor Code to provide an environment conducive to the mission, vision, and values of the institution through the resolution of student conduct incidents and education.

  1. Student Conduct Board Composition: The Student Conduct Board shall be comprised of no more than six members, not including the Chair. At the beginning of each semester, staff will be requested to volunteer, faculty will be recommended by the Faculty Assembly, and students will be recommended by faculty to the Student Conduct Coordinator. All Board members must also be approved by the RBC President. There must be at least three members of the Board present at a hearing, and of those three, one member must be a faculty member, one must be a student, and one must be an administrator. The Chair of the Student Conduct Board, a non-voting member, will be designated by the RBC President. To help ensure neutrality, the Student Conduct Coordinator shall conduct regular training to maintain a current listing of eligible board members. Board members cannot be approved without having received the Student Conduct Board Training.
  2. Chair responsibilities: the Chair is responsible for the overall performance and flow of the Student Conduct Board, which includes the following:
    a. Serve as spokesperson for the Student Conduct Board.
    b. Ensure all procedures are followed by the Board.
    c. Complete a report detailing the recommendation of the Board and present to the Director of Student Success.
  3. Student Conduct Board Member Duties and Responsibilities:All Board members are responsible for following hearing procedures and ensuring that all parties involved are treated fairly and provided due process. The following are to occur:

a. Arrive on time and be present during the entire hearing.
b. Review all materials thoroughly.
c. Ask open-ended questions.
d. Be open-minded and willing to consider all the information being presented.
e. Listen carefully to each person and withhold all judgment until all facts and information have been presented and considered.
f. Allow for thorough discussion before an additional question is asked.
g. Before making a decision, review hearing information and compare to the Student Code of Conduct, or Honor Code for alleged Honor Code violations, to verify a violation occurred.
h. Be open, creative, and thorough when determining sanctions.
i. Keep the hearing comment sheet confidential.
j. Refrain from discussing the case outside of the general proceeding other than for legitimate educational and business purposes.
k. Maintain the confidentiality of the record following submission to the Chair of the Board.

Student Conduct Board Procedures

Student Conduct Board Process and Procedures for On-Campus Misconduct

When determining if a Student Code of Conduct or Honor Code violation has occurred, the “preponderance of the evidence” standard will be used. This standard requires a majority of the Board members to decide that the greater weight of the evidence indicates that the Responding Party is responsible regarding the allegations. This preponderance is based on the more convincing evidence and its probable truth or accuracy, and not on the amount of evidence.

  1. Rights and Duties of the Respondent
    1. Right to Freedom from Harassment and Retaliation.The right to be free from harassment, intimidation, and coercion, including attempts to change testimony. Any violations of this right may be considered a serious violation of the Student Code of Conduct.
    2. Right to Pre-hearing Notice.
      1. The right to notice of a pre-hearing meeting as soon as practical and not less than 24 hours prior to the meeting in the instance a student is to be seen by the Student Conduct Board. If a student does not appear for the pre-hearing meeting, a hold will be placed on their account.
      2. The right to receive written notice of the formal charges and of the date, time, and location of any administrative or Student Conduct Board hearing no fewer than 72 hours in advance of the hearing.
      3. If a student does not appear after being properly notified of the date, time, and location of the hearing, the Student Conduct Board may proceed with the hearing in the absence of the student.
    3. Right to Know the Evidence to be Presented.The Respondent will have the opportunity to inspect, review, and request copies of all evidence to be considered by the hearing panel at least 48 hours prior to the hearing. The Respondent may be required to sign an agreement that they will not make copies of or disseminate the work product of an instructor or other materials containing information about other students that are protected under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act and must return the materials immediately after the hearing. The Respondent will be instructed that failure to abide by the agreement may be considered a serious violation of the Student Code of Conduct.
    4. Right to Assistance. The right to the presence of a silent supporter (who may be legal counsel) and one immediate family member to attend the hearing. Neither the silent supporter nor the family member may participate in the hearing in any manner.
    5. Right to Confidentiality.The Respondent has the right to confidentiality regarding all matters related to the alleged violations except from those who have a legitimate educational interest in the information under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. Violations of that right may be considered an infraction of the Student Code of Conduct.
    6. Right to Receive Post-hearing Notification.The right to be notified of the outcome of the hearing following post-hearing review by the Director of Student Success in coordination with the Chair of the Student Conduct Board within five working days after the conclusion of the hearing.
    7. Rights within the Hearing.
      1. The right to the presumption of innocence until the panel has found the student in violation by a preponderance of the evidence.
      2. The right to a separate hearing on each charge if multiple unrelated charges have been filed.
      3. The right to request a separate hearing if two or more students are charged with the same offense.
      4. The right to present evidence relevant to the charges and, if necessary, possible sanctions and to request the presence of necessary witnesses. The number of witnesses may be limited by the Chair if the Chair finds the proposed testimony will duplicate that of the other witnesses or the proposed testimony is immaterial. The Respondent may submit written statements from witnesses in lieu of personal appearances.
      5. The right to ask relevant question of all witnesses.
      6. The right to a closed hearing, and the right to request an open hearing.
    8. Right to be Free from Conflict of Interest.
      1. The right to have the Reporting Party or witnesses barred from participating in the matter in any other capacity.
      2. The right to request that a Board member be removed from the Board on the grounds of possible bias or conflict of interest. The Respondent must provide reasons as to why the Board member in question is unable to hear the case fairly, and the decision whether to grant the request is left to the Chair, who, were such a request is rejected, will provide a written explanation.
    9. Right to Prepare for Appeal.The right to review the documentary evidence and recording in preparation for an appeal. The review must occur in the presence of a member of the Director of Student Success’s staff.
    10. Right to Waive any Rights.The Respondent has the right to sign a knowing and voluntary waiver of any of the rights accorded.
    11. Duty to Cooperate.The Respondent will reasonably cooperate with the investigation and, if necessary, hearing. This duty includes answering questions fully and honestly and presenting requested information; however, the Respondent has the right not to answer questions if they are facing charges in criminal court for the same or similar behavior. Lying in the course of an investigation or hearing may be considered a separate violation of the Student Code of Conduct. This duty also includes complying promptly with requests for meetings or information. 
  1. Rights and Duties of the Reporting Party
    1. Right to Freedom from Harassment and Retaliation.The right to be free from harassment, intimidation, and coercion, including attempts to change testimony. Any violations of this right may be considered a serious violation of the Student Code of Conduct.
    2. Duty to Preserve Confidentiality.The Reporting Party will keep all matters regarding the conduct or honor case confidential except from those who have a legitimate educational interest in the information under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act.
    3. Right to Know the Outcome of the Case.Faculty reporters will have the right to know the outcome of the case, both following the hearing, and if applicable, the appeals process. This right does not extend to all case materials. Due to the protections afforded student records, this provision does not extend to those who do not have a legitimate educational interest in receiving the information.
    4. Right to Know Grounds for Dismissal of Case.Faculty reporters will have the right to know the basis for dismissal of a particular case, regardless of the stage at which the case is dismissed, if such knowledge serves a legitimate educational purpose.
    5. Right to Request Student not Participate in End of Semester Evaluations.A faculty member who reports a student for a potential violation of the Honor Code or Student Code of Conduct will have the right to request that the student be excluded from conducting a formal end of semester evaluation.
    6. Duty to Cooperate.The Reporting Party will cooperate reasonably with the investigation and, if necessary, hearing. This duty includes answering questions fully and honestly and presenting requested information and complying promptly with requests for meetings or information.
  2. Rights and Duties of Witnesses
    1. Right to Freedom from Harassment and Retaliation.The right to be free from harassment, intimidation, and coercion, including attempts to change testimony. Any violation of this right may be considered a serious violation of the Student Code of Conduct.
    2. Duty to Preserve Confidentiality.Witnesses will keep all matters regarding the case confidential.
    3. Duty to Cooperate.Student witnesses will reasonably cooperate with the investigation and, if necessary, hearing. This duty includes answering questions fully and honestly and presenting requested information; however, the witness has the right not to answer questions if they are facing charges in criminal court for the same or similar behavior. Lying in the course of an investigation or hearing may be considered a separate violation of the Honor Code. This duty also includes complying promptly with requests for meetings or information.

All participants have the responsibility to be completely truthful with the information they share at all stages of the process. Any individual who knowingly or intentionally provides false information as part of a report, investigation, or hearing will be subject to discipline in accordance with the procedures set forth in the applicable Student Handbook, Policy Manual, or Faculty Handbook. This provision does not apply to information that is not substantiated or proven by a preponderance of the evidence.

Student Conduct Board Appeal Process: If the Respondent wishes to appeal the decision of the Student Conduct Board, they must submit an official letter of appeal to the appellate authority, as designated by the RBC President, within five working days of receiving the Board’s notice on the hearing decision and sanction(s). The basis for an appeal will be limited to particular criteria as follows:

  1. Whether the hearing process was conducted fairly in accordance with RBC policies and procedures.
  2. Whether the hearing decision was based on sufficient facts.
  3. Whether the sanctions imposed were appropriate.
  4. New information and/or facts that were not known to the Respondent at the time of the original hearing.

Student Conduct Board Appeal Outcomes: The appeal authority appointed by the RBC President (“appellate authority”) will provide to the respondent a written decision within 5 business days of receiving the appeal either denying the appeal or granting the appeal. The possible outcome of the appeal could be as follows:

  1. Uphold all decisions made by the Student Conduct Board/Hearing officer: in this case, all of the board/hearing officer’s original decisions regarding responsibility and sanctions remain in effect.
  2. Reverse all decisions made by the Student Conduct Board/hearing officer: in this case, all of the conduct board/hearing officer’s original decisions regarding responsibility and sanctions are overturned.
  3. Modify any of the decisions made by the student conduct board/hearing officer: examples of possible modifications include changing a decision of “responsible” to “not responsible” or changing sanction requirements. Examples of sanction modifications include: decreasing community service hours from 20 hours to 5 hours.
  4. Send the case back to the student conduct board/hearing officer for a new hearing: for example, in a case where significant new information has come to light that was not known by the respondent at the time of the hearing, the appeal outcome may be for a new student conduct board/administrative hearing to be conducted. If the respondent is found responsible for a violation through the second hearing, he/she again has the right to submit an appeal of the hearing outcome.

Off-Campus Student Misconduct Process: A student’s off-campus misconduct and/or actions will be reviewed by the Chair of the Student Conduct Board on a case-by-case basis. A student’s misconduct off-campus that results in a negative reflection on the mission, vision, and values of the institution or is a criminal violation that could constitute a threat to the safety of the campus community would be areas of misconduct that could result in a Student Conduct Board hearing. It is necessary that Richard Bland College review off-campus misconduct as the College has a genuine interest in the character of its students and believes that a student’s off-campus behavior reflects their ability to be part of an academic community. The Student Conduct Board Process and Procedures for On-Campus Misconduct, Hearing Process, and Appeal Process will be followed for a student whose off-campus misconduct warrants a Student Conduct Board hearing.

Postponement of Hearings: A Respondent may request one postponement of a hearing by contacting the Student Conduct Coordinator at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled hearing. Postponement will be allowed only under the following conditions:

  1. The Respondent has a class conflict;
  2. The Respondent is unable to produce necessary witnesses on their behalf on the scheduled date of the hearing;
  3. The Respondent has a family emergency;
  4. The Respondent is too ill to attend the hearing;
  5. The consultant/counsel to the Respondent is unable to attend because of illness, emergency, or legal court appearance; or
  6. The Respondent cannot attend because of a religious holiday.

The Student Conduct Board may require written verification of the reason claimed from the affected witness/witnesses, consultant/counsel, family member(s), or a healthcare provider as appropriate.

  1. Student Removal from Campus:
    Students whose on- or off-campus actions and/or presence on campus poses a continuing danger to persons or property or an ongoing threat of disrupting the academic process may be immediately removed from the College. A notice and hearing should follow as soon as practicable.
  2. Board Member Ethics and Confidentiality:
    1. Information regarding a hearing or sanctioning status must not to be discussed outside of the Board.
    2. The misconduct of any respondent will not be disclosed or discussed outside the hearing.
    3. No information given in confidence in a hearing will be discussed outside the hearing.
    4. When members of the board are speaking with a respondent, the members should refrain from making accusations or statements that cannot be supported.
    5. A Board member will not participate in a hearing where they feel unable to be fair or impartial.
    6. All decisions of the board should be supported by all members of the panel once a vote has been administered and a final decision has been determined.
    7. Any failure of the requirements above may result in disciplinary action.

A student identified as violating any of the following policies may be immediately suspended from the residence halls or College campus pending the appropriate hearing. The Student Conduct Coordinator, in conjunction with the Director of Student Success and the Chief of Police shall determine if the student may continue to reside on campus and attend classes throughout the appeals process (until all appeals have been exhausted). This decision is based on the severity of the incident. The student will not be allowed to return to campus if found in violation as charged. It is not necessary to wait for the disposition of legal action related to a criminal offense for the above action to occur.

Any violation of these policies requiring arrest or the issuance of a summons may be carried out simultaneously with the above action. It is not necessary to wait for the completion of the RBC process to arrest the student or to issue the student a summons. All violations falling under these policies are heard by the appropriate administrator(s) on campus.

Richard Bland College has a strict policy for the following violations. An immediate suspension may be imposed on students who are suspected of being directly or indirectly involved with any of the incidences below.

  1. Violence to Persons – Engaging in any form of physical violence directed toward another person or group of people, except when such a response constitutes legitimate self-defense.
  2. Sexual Misconduct – Coerced sexual intercourse (e.g. rape, date-rape, attempted rape, sodomy, or other sexual acts or misconduct), or when the victim is incapable of consent by reason of age, mental incapacity (including when the person is under the influence of drugs or alcohol and is incapable of giving consent), or physical helplessness.
    1. All students, faculty, and staff of Richard Bland College are required to complete Title IX training annually.
    2. For misconduct involving student or employee sexual or gender-based harassment and other interpersonal violence pursuant to Title IX, please refer to the RBC website athttps://www.rbc.edu/my-rbc/title-ix/ or applicable policies and procedures.
  3. Illegal Drugs – Possession or distribution of an illegal drug as defined by the Drug Control Act of the Commonwealth of Virginia, Chapter 34 of Title 54.1 of theCode of Virginia. The list of illegal drugs includes, but is not limited to, marijuana, hashish, amphetamines, LSD compounds, Flunitrazepam/Rohypnol (date rape drug), mescaline, psilocybin, DMT, narcotics, opiates, and other hallucinogens including Spice, K2, and synthetic marijuana. Students who are suspected of possessing/using these drugs without proper doctor’s prescription may be dismissed from the College and held responsible in accordance with the Drug and Alcohol Policy located in Appendix I of this document.
  4. Possession/use of a weapon(s) – using, possessing, or threatening to use a weapon or any object as a weapon.
  5. More than three violations of the College’s Student Code of Conduct or Honor Code.
  6. Other inappropriate or threatening actions that disturb the academic and/or living environment of another student or a group of students.

Process for Aforementioned Cases

  1. If the violation requires immediate attention, please call the Richard Bland College Department of Campus Safety and Police at (804) 862-6111 and they will call the Director of Student Success.
  2. If the violation is egregious enough to warrant arrest, the accused may be removed from housing and/or campus until the Student Conduct Hearing is convened and the Student Conduct Board submits their recommendations.
  3. A findings report is submitted to the Student Conduct Coordinator, the Director of Student Success, and the Chief of Police.
  4. The accused is notified through a pre-hearing process that the incident in which they have been allegedly involved has been reported. The notification includes the hearing date, time, and location of the hearing.
  5. If the individual admits they are responsible, sanctions will be administered.



Appendix I: Drug and Alcohol Policy

Drug and Alcohol Policy

In keeping with the Federal Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989, which require that all College students receive annual notice of the laws regarding alcohol and other drug use, the following information is offered:

Members of the College community enjoy a high degree of personal freedom, guaranteed by the United States, the Commonwealth of Virginia, and the Richard Bland College’s Statement of Rights and Responsibilities. That freedom exists within the context of local, state, and federal law and the obligations imposed by College regulations. The Student Handbook is the official document describing College policy for student behavior, the student discipline system of Richard Bland College of William & Mary, and sanctions for violation of College policy.

  • Richard Bland College clearly prohibits the use, distribution, sale, manufacturing of illicit drugs and the abuse of alcohol.
  • Richard Bland College clearly prohibits the use, possession, manufacturing, or distribution of alcoholic beverages, or public intoxication, including on any owned, leased, or licensed campus property or at any college-related event.
  • Violations of local, state, or federal law also constitute violation of College regulations.
  • When a student is charged with a violation of law, it is the practice of the College to initiate its own disciplinary proceedings without awaiting court action. Behavior off-campus is subject to disciplinary action.

Alcohol Policy and Sanctions
All students of the College and their guests and all organizations must observe Virginia law as it pertains to the purchase and consumption of alcoholic beverages. Virginia law specifically states that persons under the age of 21 may not purchase, possess, or consume any type of alcoholic beverages. The sanctions for violation of this regulation shall range from warning to dismissal and will usually include an alcohol education or treatment component.

Drug Policy and Sanctions
For the purpose of these regulations, drugs are defined to include marijuana, hashish, amphetamines, LSD compounds, mescaline, psilocybin, DMT, narcotics, opiates, and other lab made cannabinoids, such as Spice, K2, and synthetic marijuana, except when taken under a physician’s prescription in accordance with law.

College regulations, in conformity with federal and state statutes governing drug use, provide the following:

  • Manufacturing or providing drugs to others is prohibited. The penalty for violation of this regulation shall range from disciplinary probation to dismissal from the College.
  • Possession or consumption of drugs is also prohibited. Possession of drug paraphernalia is prohibited. The penalty for violation of this regulation ordinarily shall range from probation to dismissal.

II. Risks

Richard Bland College is dedicated to the education of students and employees about risks associated with the abuse of alcohol and other drugs. Descriptions of some of these health risks are offered below. In addition, behavioral difficulties at work or in school, in relationships, and with the law can be linked to the abuse of alcohol and other drugs.

Effects of Alcohol
Alcohol consumption causes a number of marked changes in behavior. Even low doses significantly impair the judgment and coordination required to drive a car or walk home safely. Low to moderate doses of alcohol also are associated with increased incidence of a variety of aggressive acts, including sexual assault, vandalism, and fighting. Moderate to high doses of alcohol cause marked impairments in higher mental functions, severely altering a person’s ability to learn, memorize, and perform academically, sometimes for weeks after the drinking occurrence. Very high doses cause respiratory depression and death. If combined with other depressants of the central nervous system, much lower doses of alcohol will produce the effects just described.

Repeated use of alcohol can lead to impairment, high tolerance, and dependence. Sudden cessation of alcohol intake is likely to produce withdrawal symptoms, including severe anxiety, tremors, hallucinations, and convulsions. Alcohol withdrawal can be life-threatening. Long-term consumption of large quantities of alcohol, particularly when combined with poor nutrition, can also lead to permanent damage to vital organs such as the brain and liver.

Mothers who drink alcohol during pregnancy may give birth to infants with fetal alcohol syndrome. These infants often have irreversible physical abnormalities and mental retardation. Research indicates that children of alcoholic parents have a greater risk of becoming alcoholics.

IV. Minimum Sanctions Applicable for Alcohol & Drug Violations

Discretion may be used in applying sanctions in cases where violation is of such a nature to warrant additional or more severe actions. Students dismissed from College are entitled to no refunds of College fees or tuition/room and board.

Alcohol Violations

First Offense

Attend Conduct Conference |Minimum Sanction: Warning

Second Offense

Attend Administrative Hearing: | Minimum Sanction: Disciplinary Probation | Alcohol/Drug Education Course/Alcohol Educational assignment

Third Offense

Attend Administrative Hearing: |Minimum Sanction: Disciplinary Probation | Alcohol/Drug Education Course/Alcohol Educational Assignment | Community Service Hours/Restitution

Drug Violations for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

First Offense

Attend Administrative Hearing |Minimum Sanction: Alcohol/Drug Education Course/ Educational Assignment| Disciplinary Warning

Second Offense

Attend Administrative Hearing: | Minimum Sanction: Disciplinary Probation | Educational Assignment| Community Service/Restitution

Third Offense

Attend Conduct Board Hearing: |Minimum Sanction: Banned from Residence Halls/Suspension from RBC

Drug Violations for Possession or Usage of Marijuana or Other Drugs

First Offense

Attend Administrative Hearing |Minimum Sanction: Alcohol/ Drug Education Course/ Educational Assignment| Disciplinary Probation

Second Offense

Attend Administrative Hearing: | Minimum Sanction: Disciplinary Probation | Educational Assignment| Community Service/Restitution

Third Offense

Attend Conduct Board Hearing: |Minimum Sanction: Banned from Residence Halls/Suspension from RBC

Drug Violations for Sale, Distribution or Manufacturing of Marijuana or Other Drug Products

First Offense

Attend Conduct Board Hearing |Minimum Sanction: Alcohol/ Drug Education Course/ Educational Assignment| Disciplinary Probation | Community Service/Restitution

Second Offense

Attend Conduct Board Hearing: |Minimum Sanction: Banned from Residence Halls/Suspension from RBC

 




Appendix II: Charges

Description of Charges

DESCRIPTION OF CHARGESAMOUNT
1.Replacement of lost or unreturned keys (room and mailbox)$75.00 per key
2. Trash Removal $ 15.00 per bag
3. Lock-out service (after 3rd request)$ 15.00
4. (A) Room not clean (B) Room not clean at closing (A) $ 25.00 (B) $ 110.00
5.Unauthorized use of Emergency Exit Door$ 50.00
6. Not attending mandatory hall meeting$ 25.00
7.Removal of College-owned furniture$ 40.00 per piece
8.False fire alarm$ 25.00
9. (A) Unauthorized move (B) Unauthorized Live-in (A) $100.00 (B) Up to $9,600 (depending current room rates)
10. Covering smoke detector$ 50.00

Description of Damage Charges

DESCRIPTION OF DAMAGE CHARGESAMOUNT
10.Major patch/wall repair $ 275.00
11. (A) Replace interior door (B) Replace door hardware (C) Damage to electronic door strike (D) Replace apartment door (E) Replace apartment door frame(A) $ 175.00 (B) $ 345.00 (C) $ 450.00 (D) $ 325.00 (E) $ 2,200.00
12. Repainting entire apartment (not including bathroom)$ 1,500.00
13. Repainting one wall$ 175.00
14. Damages to bathroom (due to excessive dirt/scum/mildew)$ 55.00
15. Damage to clean walls (due to marks, stickers, tape, etc.) $ 25.00 per wall (minimum cost)



Appendix III: Definitions

Definitions

The terms “Code of Conduct” and “Student Code of Conduct” are used interchangeably.

  1. “College” means Richard Bland College of William & Mary.
  2. “Student,” unless otherwise indicated, includes all persons taking courses at the College, either full-time or part-time, pursuing undergraduate degrees or non-degree seeking students, including dual enrollment. Persons who withdraw after allegedly violating the Student Code of Conduct, who are not officially enrolled for a particular term but who have a continuing relationship with the College, or who have applied for admission to the College are considered “students.” The Student Code of Conduct apply at all College locations.
  3. “Faculty member” means any person hired by the College to conduct classroom or teaching activities or who is otherwise considered by the College to be a member of its faculty.
  4. “College official” includes any person employed by the College performing assigned administrative or professional responsibilities.
  5. “Member of the College community” includes any person who is a student, faculty member, administrator, or any other person employed by the College. The President or designee will determine a person’s status in any particular situation.
  6. “College property” includes all land, buildings, facilities, and other property in the possession of or owned, used, leased, licensed, or controlled by the College (including adjacent streets and sidewalks).
  7. “Organization” means any number of persons who have complied with the formal requirements for College recognition.
  8. “Student Conduct Board” means any person or persons authorized by the President to determine whether a student has violated the Student Code of Conduct or Honor Code and to impose sanctions when a violation has been determined.
  9. “Will” and “Shall” are used in the imperative sense.
  10. “May” is used in the permissive sense.
  11. An “attempt” is any act beyond mere preparation carried out with the intent to engage in conduct that violates College policies. Attempted violations may be sanctioned in the same manner as completed violations.
  12. “A preponderance standard, preponderance of the evidence, or preponderance of the facts” exists when a reasonable person, after a careful balancing of available information, would conclude a violation has occurred and the student/organization charged is responsible for the violation.
  13. “Policy” means any written rules, procedures, or processes of the College as found in, but not limited to, the Student Handbook, Residence Life Housing Agreement, the College website, Computer Use Policy, and College Catalog.
  14. “Reporting Party” means any person who submits a charge alleging that a student violated the Student Code of Conduct or Honor Code.
  15. “Respondent” means any student or student organization alleged to have violated the Student Code of Conduct or Honor Code.
  16. “Working days” means any day that the College is open for business exclusive of weekends or official holidays.
  17. “Consultant/Counsel” is the person a respondent may bring to a hearing for consultation or from whom the respondent may seek advice about information provided or questions asked during a hearing. This person could be an attorney if the respondent is facing criminal/civil action outside of the institution’s hearing for the purpose of advice on questions that may be self-incriminating. This person is not to argue, advocate, or present information on behalf of the respondent but only serves to help the respondent feel comfortable and to provide advice on how to behave during a hearing.
  18. Campus Police means sworn personnel within the Department of Campus Safety & Police.
  19. Disciplinary Written Warning is an official warning that the student’s behavior is in violation of College rules or policies, and if the student is subsequently found in violation of a rule or policy while on disciplinary warning; subsequent action may be more severe.
  20. Disciplinary Probation shall be for a specific length of time in which any further violation of a College rule or policy places the student’s status at the College in jeopardy. If the student is found to have violated another College rule or policy, the more severe sanctions may be imposed, including suspension or expulsion. While on disciplinary probation, restrictive conditions may include but may not be limited to the following: loss of good standing, which may become a matter of record; denial of the privilege to occupy a position of leadership or responsibility in any College student organization, publication, or activity, or ability to represent the College in an official capacity or position; trespass of College facilities or other areas of campus or contact with another specified person(s). Under disciplinary probation, the student may continue to attend classes and is given a chance to show capability and willingness to live in accordance with College rules and policies. However, if the student is subsequently found in violation of a rule or policy while on disciplinary probation, the College may suspend or expel the student from the College. While on Disciplinary Probation, a hold will be placed on a student’s record for record keeping purposes.
  21. Disciplinary Suspension. A student involved in an offense warranting consideration of action more serious than disciplinary probation or one involving repeated misconduct may face suspension. During the period of suspension, a student may not be enrolled in classes or participate in College-related activities, whether they occur on or off campus. A student under disciplinary suspension may not otherwise be present on College premises unless authorized in writing by the Provost. A notation will be placed on a student’s record during the period of suspension. Further, while on disciplinary suspension, a hold will be placed on a student’s record for record keeping purposes. All assigned educational sanctions must be completed prior to the conclusion of disciplinary suspension; otherwise the disciplinary suspension shall remain in effect.
  22. Disciplinary Expulsion is a sanction which removes the student from their academic program and permanently separates a student from the College without opportunity to graduate or re-enroll at the College in the future. A notation will be placed permanently on the student’s record. Further, a hold will be placed permanently on a student’s record.
  23. Educational Sanctions are assigned in conjunction with a sanction listed above for a student found to have been in violation of any of the College’s rules or policies. These sanctions include, but are not limited to reflective/research papers, classes/seminars, community service, counseling, etc. If a student has any outstanding educational requirements at the conclusion of disciplinary probation or suspension, a student’s disciplinary probation or suspension status and hold will remain in effect pending the completion of the educational requirements.



Appendix IV: Student Complaint Form

Richard Bland College of William & Mary Student Complaint Form

 

Richard Bland College Student Complaint Form

Richard Bland College is committed to respecting all members of the campus community. Students represent a vital component of our community. The purpose of the complaint process to is to ensure all student complaints are addressed fairly and resolved promptly.

Procedure

When possible, students are encouraged to seek an informal resolution of the matter directly with the faculty or staff involved. However, if an informal approach is neither successful nor advisable, the student should use the following procedure:

A written student complaint form available from the link above which generates a ticket to the Director of Human Resources for written student complaints about Faculty / Staff or to the Assistant Provost of Student Life for written student complaints about students. This form enables the capture of the date and time of the alleged conflict or action, the reason(s) for the complaint, a summary of the complaint, a list of other persons who may provide information, and any appropriate documentation. The student must also include the resolution or outcome he or she is seeking. All of these data points are passed to the student complaints ticketing system. The complaint must be submitted within ten (10) business days of the alleged conflict or action. Any student filing a complaint shall have at every level the right to be represented by legal counsel and to present witnesses and evidence to support the grievance without fear of reprisal. This procedure does not confer the right upon anyone to make slanderous or libelous statements (i.e. false statements).

Upon receipt of a completed form, a conference will take place with the student and a staff member from the Director of Human Resource’s or the Assistant Provost of Student Life‘s office. The staff member will notify appropriate persons and request any information or documentation needed to resolve the complaint. The staff member may attempt to resolve the complaint by encouraging discussion between the student(s) and the faculty member/administrator or by taking the appropriate action to resolve the complaint.

A review of the complaint with the supervisor(s) or others in the line of supervision may be used when deemed appropriate and beneficial to the process. All relevant documentation and possible outcomes must be submitted by the student or other appropriate persons to the applicable supervisor(s) within ten (10) business days of the date the complaint is filed.

When possible, the final resolution (or a finding of “unresolved”) will be filed with the Director of Human Resources or the Assistant Provost of Student Life‘s office within fifteen (15) business days of the date the complaint is filed. If there are circumstances requiring an extension of this deadline, the staff member assigned to the complaint will notify the parties involved.

If the student is not satisfied with the outcome of the complaint, a Student Complaint Committee (“Committee”) will be appointed to review the information and render a final decision. The Committee will consist of three faculty and staff representatives appointed by the Assistant Provost for Student Life with the consent of the RBC President and two student members appointed by the Student Assembly President. The Committee’s decision will be final.

Note: Nothing in this procedure or in this Student Handbook is intended to circumscribe or modify the existing right of any department to do the following, provided, however, that none of these rights may be exercised in an arbitrary or capricious manner:
a. Supervise the education of students or the work of employees;
b. Maintain the efficiency of departmental operations;
c. Remove students from educational programs or employees from duties for legitimate reasons;
d. Take actions as necessary to carry out the duties of the department;
e. Determine the methods, means, and personnel by which departmental operations are to be conducted.

This process does not apply to complaints regarding discrimination, harassment, or sexual misconduct. For complaints involving student or employee discrimination, harassment, or sexual misconduct pursuant to Title IX, please refer to the RBC website at http://www.rbc.edu/why-rbc/faculty-staff/policy-manual/ and https://www.rbc.edu/my-rbc/title-ix/title-ix-college-policy/ for applicable policies and procedures.




Appendix V: Student Immunizations

Student Immunizations

Is it Required?ImmunizationInformation
RequiredMMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella combination vaccine)Two doses of live vaccine are required after 12 months of age (dates prior to 1968 are not considered live). The second dose is to be given at least one (1) month after the first dose. Copies of immune titers are required if vaccine is not given. If you were born before 1957, you are considered immune (an MMR is not required)
RequiredTetanus / DiphtheriaDocumentation of Primary (DPT) immunization series, including month/day/year of each dose, is requested. Tetanus/diphtheria booster (Td) (month/day/year) within the past 10 years is required.
RequiredTuberculosis ScreeningTuberculosis screening is required of all entering students, regardless of enrollment status. Not all students will require placement of the TB skin test, however if so, the test must be performed within six months of entering.
RequiredMeningococcal vaccineVaccine or signed waiver required.
RequiredHepatitis BGiven as a series of three vaccines. Vaccine or signed waiver required.
RequestedPolio(1) Primary immunization with a total of three [3] doses of OPV (oral Sabin) or
(2) Primary immunization with a total of four [4] doses of IPV (injected Salk).
Note: Documentation of prior vaccination against polio, including month/day/year of each dose, is requested. However, if documentation is impossible, it is not recommended that the student complete the primary polio series unless the student is younger than 18 years or is planning travel to an area endemic or epidemic for polio.
OptionalVaricella (Chicken Pox)Given as one vaccine or a series of two vaccines, depending on age. Recommended if no history of disease.



Appendix VI: Acceptable Use Policy

Responsible for Maintenance: Information Security Officer

 

 

Acceptable Use Policy

Purpose
The computing resources at Richard Bland College of William & Mary (RBC or College) support the educational, instructional, and administrative activities of the College, and the use of these resources is a privilege that is extended to members of the RBC community. Users of these services and facilities have access to valuable College resources, to sensitive data, and to internal and external networks. Consequently, it is important to behave in a responsible, ethical, and legal manner.

In general, acceptable use means respecting the rights of other computer users, the integrity of the physical facilities, and all pertinent license and contractual agreements. If an individual is found to be in violation of the RBC Acceptable Use Policy, the College will take disciplinary action, up to and including suspension from the College or termination of employment. Individuals also are subject to federal, state, and local laws governing interactions that occur on RBC information technology resources.

This document establishes specific requirements for the use of all computing and network resources at Richard Bland College of William & Mary.

Scope
The RBC Acceptable Use Policy applies equally to all individuals utilizing RBC information technology resources (e.g., employees, faculty, students, alumni, agents, consultants, contractors, volunteers, vendors, temps, etc.).

Information technology resources include all college owned, licensed, or managed hardware and software, and use of the College network via a physical or wireless connection, regardless of the ownership of the computer or device connected to the network.

An attempt to violate the AUP will be considered the same as an actual policy violation. An “attempt” is any act beyond mere preparation carried out with the intent to engage in conduct that is in violation of policies.

Rights and Responsibilities
As members of the College community, users are provided with the use of scholarly and/or work-related tools, including access to the Library, to certain computer systems, servers, software and databases, to the campus telephone and voice mail systems, and to the Internet. There is a reasonable expectation of unobstructed use of these tools, of certain degrees of privacy (which may vary depending on whether the user is a College employee or a matriculated student), and of protection from abuse and intrusion by others sharing these resources.

In turn, users are responsible for knowing the regulations and policies of the College that apply to appropriate use of the College’s technologies and resources. Users are responsible for exercising good judgment in the use of the College’s technological and information resources. Just because an action is technically possible does not mean that it is appropriate to perform that action. Users are representatives of the RBC community, and are expected to respect the College’s good name in electronic dealings with those outside the College.

Privacy
All users of state networks and systems should keep in mind that all usage of information technology resources can be recorded and is the property of Richard Bland College of William & Mary. Such information is subject to the Freedom of Information Act and the laws applicable to state records retention. Employees have no right to privacy with regard to use of state-owned resources. RBC management has the ability and right to view users’ usage patterns and take action to ensure that College resources are devoted to authorized activities.

Electronic files created, sent, received, or stored on RBC information technology resources that are owned, leased, administered, or otherwise under the custody and control of RBC are not private and may be accessed by appropriate personnel in accordance with the provisions and safeguards provided in the Code of Virginia (§42.1-76 – 42.1-91).

Acceptable Use
The RBC network exists to support education and administrative activities by providing access to computing resources and the opportunity for collaborative work. Primary use of the RBC network must be consistent with this purpose and the educational mission of the College.

Access to the RBC network from any device must adhere to all the same policies that apply to use from within RBC facilities.

  1. User may use only RBC information technology resources for which they are authorized.
  1. Users are individually responsible for appropriate use of all resources assigned to them, including the computer, the network address or port, software, and hardware, and are accountable to the College for all use of such resources. Authorized users of Richard Bland College resources may not enable unauthorized users to access the network. The College is bound by its contractual and license agreements respecting certain third-party resources; users must comply with all such agreements when using RBC information technology resources.
  2. Users should secure resources against unauthorized use or access to include RBC accounts, passwords, Personal Identification Numbers (PIN), Security Tokens (i.e. Smartcard), or similar information or devices used for identification and authorization purposes.
  3. Users must report shareware or freeware that is installed on RBC-owned equipment unless it is on the approved software list. When software is installed, it must be reported to the Statesman Technical Assistance Center (STAC) via email (stac@rbc.edu).
  4. Users must not attempt to access RBC information technology resources without appropriate authorization by the system owner or administrator.

Restrictions
All individuals are accountable for their actions relating to RBC information technology resources. Direct violations include the following:

  1. Interfering or altering the integrity of RBC information technology resources by
  1. Impersonating other individuals in communication;
  2. Attempting to capture or crack passwords or encryption;
  3. Unauthorized access, destruction or alteration of data or programs belonging to other users;
  4. Excessive use for personal purposes, meaning use that exceeds incidental use as determined by supervisor; or
  5. Use for illegal purposes, including, but not necessarily limited to violation of federal or state criminal laws.
  1. Allowing family members or other unauthorized persons to access College information technology resources.
  2. Transmitting to and/or from Richard Bland College email messages or communication containing obscenities, pornography, harassment, bullying, or threats.
  3. Utilizing College systems and resources in any manner inconsistent with the intended purpose, including, but not limited to commercial, business, illegal, or private gain.
  4. Making unauthorized copies of licensed software and/or copyrighted materials, including media and entertainment resources.
  5. Violating legal mandates such as the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA).
  6. Installing pirated or illegally obtained software, utilities, media, or applications.
  7. Knowingly engaging in any activity harmful to the computers, systems, and resources, such as creating or propagating malware, overloading networks with excessive data, instituting or promulgating chain letters, or instigating unauthorized mass postings of any type.
  8. Deliberately circumventing or subverting security measures.
  9. Using RBC resources that inhibit or interfere with the use of resources by other authorized users (for example, using applications which use a disproportionate amount of bandwidth for extended periods).

 

NOTHING IN THIS POLICY LIMITS THE VALIDITY OF OTHER RBC POLICIES RELATING TO RBC INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY RESOURCES. HOWEVER, IF THERE ARE ANY INCONSISTENCIES BETWEEN ANOTHER RBC POLICY AND THIS POLICY, THIS POLICY SHALL PREVAIL.




Appendix VII: Housing Terms & Condition

Responsible for Maintenance: Business Manager

Housing and Food Service Agreement

In order to live on campus, a student must:

  1. Be admitted to Richard Bland College (“RBC” or “College”).
  2. Be a full-time student in good academic standing
  3. Maintain a class load of at least 12 credit hours (limited space for part-time residential students).
  4. Pay all outstanding balances with the Cashier’s Office.
  5. Pay the required room damage deposit.
  6. Complete the online application for housing.
  7. Abide by all requirements in this Agreement.

Visit www.rbc.edu for housing deadline payment information


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Terms and Conditions: 2023-2024

1. Period of Agreement and Eligibility

This Agreement is for the fall and spring semesters of the 2023-2024 Academic Year. The student (“student” or “resident”) signing this Agreement will live in college housing with an on-campus meal plan for the entire period of the Agreement. The Agreement period begins the first scheduled date of the arrival of residential students for the fall 2023 semester and ends with the student’s timely move-out at the end of the Spring 2024 semester (12:00PM on the day following the last college-recognized exam day) or the date of Commencement for graduating students. (See Section 8 below.)  A student who enrolls late and applies for housing accommodations will be bound by this Agreement for the balance of the period.

Eligibility: As indicated above, it is RBC policy that only full-time students enrolled at RBC in a degree-granting program who have graduated from high school or the equivalent (as determined solely by RBC) are permitted to reside in campus housing. All residential students are required to be in good academic standing and to maintain a class load of at least 12 credit hours. This policy is designed to maintain the commitment to an educational residential environment. There are limited exceptions to this policy as students are allowed to drop below full-time status once during their RBC tenure. Requests for exceptions must be in writing and addressed to the Office of Residence Life (ORL). Exceptions are not authorized for failure to complete the online application for housing or for failure to pay outstanding balances.

By signing this Agreement, the student is bound by this Agreement, the standards contained within the Student Handbook, all RBC policies found on the RBC website, and any other policies provided in writing or email to the student. Nothing in this Agreement proscribes or limits the authority and power of Richard Bland College, its Board of Visitors, officers, and employees to establish policies, rules, and regulations, which shall be applicable upon their effective date and operate continuously unless otherwise stated. Further, RBC reserves the right to make reasonable modifications to this Agreement to ensure personal safety or protection of property, provided reasonable advance notice is given.

2. Required Fees

New housing resident:

Housing Priority Deadline (Fall Semester – June 30, 2023) / (Spring Semester – October 23, 2023)

$150.00            Room Damage Deposit


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3. Payments

Room and board rates are payable by the semester. All payments must be made in accordance with due dates and process set by the business office for the payment of tuition and fees. Failure to make the required payments constitutes a violation of this Agreement and can result in the loss of the student’s room assignment and meal plan.

Housing Damage Deposits can be paid online via the online housing application or via check or money order. They must include the student’s Full Name (first, middle, and last), R number (provided by Admissions), and Date of Birth. Each deposit sent should clearly indicate the type of payment being made; for example: “Room Damage Deposit”.  Cash payment can be made in person at the Cashier’s Office

DIRECT ALL PAYMENTS TO THE COLLEGE CASHIER:

In Person: Cashier’s Office Walk Up Window (Enrollment Services Building)

By Mail: Richard Bland College Business Office, 11301 Johnson Road Prince George, VA 23805

By Phone: (804) 862-6100 ext. 8100


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4. Housing Process

Students seeking housing must submit the required fees and any outstanding business office balances prior to the official due date for said fees. If an Agreement is submitted prior to the payment, the student will be responsible for notifying the housing office by email once all required fees are paid (residencelife@rbc.edu). Room assignments are made only after the receipt of a signed Housing & Food Service Agreement and all required fees have posted to the student’s banner account.

Rooms are to be occupied only by the person(s) properly assigned to them by the Office of Residence Life (ORL). Room assignments are not transferable, and subletting is not permitted.

Additional Provisions – If the premises become uninhabitable because of damage, fire, earthquake, accident, flood, riot, emergency, act of nature, or any reason beyond the control of RBC, this Agreement is cancelled and RBC is no longer obligated to provide housing and the student will be released from any obligation to pay fees for the time remaining on this Agreement. The ORL will make all reasonable efforts to identify and provide alternate housing for each student affected. A refund of the room fees will be made (in accordance with the schedule printed in RBC Catalog) if RBC is unable to offer alternate housing. Should any of the conditions described above result in damage or loss to personal property, loss of other items of value, or if students incur any other resulting


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5. Roommate Requests

First-time RBC students seeking to request a particular roommate must indicate their desired roommate when completing the Housing & Food Service Agreement. Students must list each other to increase the likelihood of the roommate match being honored. Current students must complete their roommate selection during the returning student housing process.


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6. Single Room Requests

Single rooms are extremely limited and are assigned on a first-come first-served basis. Priority for single rooms will be given to students who have earned a 3.0 or higher for returning students and for incoming students it will be based upon a first come first serve basis. Students interested in securing a single room must indicate the desired room preference when completing the online Housing & Food Service Agreement. Requests will be honored in order based on the date housing fees are posted to the student’s Banner account, the date the student is registered for at least 12 credit hours, and the date the student’s housing application was received. All three of these requirements must be completed, and the latest date of completion shall determine where a student is placed on the list for single rooms. When singles have been exhausted, the student will be automatically assigned a double room.


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7. Room Assignments

New students who submit their Housing & Food Service Agreement and pay fees by the priority deadline can expect to receive their housing assignment no later than July 1. Students who are placed on a waiting list will receive a room assignment according to the latest of the following:  (1) the date the signed Housing & Food Service Agreement was received by ORL; (2) the date all required fees and outstanding business office balances were posted to their College account; AND (3) when space becomes available. ORL will continue to make assignments until all spaces are assigned.


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8. Important Dates:: Dates are subject to change, See tuition and fee guide.

Important dates can be found at https://www.rbc.edu/calendar/academic-calendar/.

Early Arrivals – Richard Bland College does NOT accommodate early arrivals. Students arriving before the posted move-in date should make other, off-campus arrangements.

Move-in- Failure to claim a room assignment by the designated move-in deadline can result in the student forfeiting their room assignment and the right to a reassignment during that semester. Reassignments may be made subject to availability of rooms and at the discretion of the Assistant Director of Residence Life.

Vacation Periods – The Residence Halls are not open for occupancy during, Winter Break.. The student is encouraged to plan ahead and make alternate arrangements during this time. Residence Halls remain open during Fall Break, if offered. The Office of Residence Life will communicate when students are expected to vacate the dorms prior to breaks early in the semester.


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9. Room Changes

Rooms are to be occupied only by the person(s) assigned by ORL. Requests for a room change must be made during the designated Room Change Period, which occurs at the conclusion of the late-registration/validation period of each semester. ORL will announce the room change period via email. Students are responsible for knowing when the Room Change Period begins and ends. If the student wishes to change their assignment, they must obtain the Room Change Form and detailed instructions from their RBC email. If the request is feasible, ORL will grant the student’s request. The College does not provide moving assistance for students seeking a room change. Room changes may be made to accommodate disabilities, or as interim measures related to alleged misconduct. The Disability Services Coordinator in collaboration with ORL receives and addresses requests for disability accommodations. RBC officials responsible for matters relating to alleged student misconduct (e.g., Title IX Coordinator, Chair of the Conduct Board) determine interim measures.

If a student moves without authorization, they could lose their room assignment and be charged the value of the room they moved into, up to $5,750 for an unauthorized move.

The College reserves the right at any time to (a) assign temporary housing if demand exceeds capacity; (b) alter or cancel an assignment; (c) require a student to move from one room and/or Residence Hall to another; or (d) consolidate vacant spaces / rooms to achieve maximum occupancy. Residents who refuse to consolidate are in violation of this Agreement, and will be subject to loss of housing and forfeiture of housing funds paid. The meal portion of this contract may continue at the written request of the student. Those requests must be emailed to residencelife@rbc.edu.

If there is a conflict between residents that cannot be resolved amicably, the housing supervisor may move all parties involved.


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10. Food Service

All students living in College Housing must participate in the meal plan and will be automatically charged the approved meal plan rates. There will be no refunds for missed meals. It is the responsibility of students with special dietary needs prompted by a disability to contact the Disability Services Coordinator to apply for an accommodation.

The meal plan begins on the first day of arrival of residential students in the fall semester and extends through the last day of spring Semester final examinations. The dining hall will be closed between semesters and during scheduled holidays and breaks (Fall, Thanksgiving, Winter, and Spring). During inclement weather closings, students should check their RBC email for any adjustments to the dining hall hours of operation.

Richard Bland College meal plans have been designed to accommodate the various needs of students. The meal-per-week allowance comes as part of all meal plan options and allows the student to enjoy the number of meals specified in the plan. A student can use meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in RBC’s dining hall. Each time a student uses a meal, it is subtracted from the student’s daily/weekly balance. Students have the option to purchase blocks of meals for the semester.

100 Block Meals160 Block Meals14 Weekly Meals19 Weekly Meals
$200 Dining Dollars$250 Dining Dollars$200 Dining Dollars$175 Dining Dollars

The 14 and 19 weekly meal plan amounts reset each week. The block meal plans carry over from week to week but reset at the end of the semester. All meal plans include dining dollars which may be used for additional meals or à la cart items. Dining dollars do not rollover from fall to spring semesters or between academic years. Unused meal swipes are not refundable or transferable outside of the guidelines provided in Section 18.

Returning students who fail to select a meal plan option automatically will be assigned the standard 14 weekly meal plan. Meal plan changes will be honored only during the meal plan change period, which will be published on www.rbc.edu under residential living. There is a maximum of 5 meal swipes per day.

11. Facility

Under the terms of this Agreement, Richard Bland College agrees to provide furnished living spaces with cable and internet connections in the Residence Halls and to provide facility maintenance as required. ORL will provide postal boxes for each residential student. Each hall is equipped with computer labs. Residents and their guests are strictly prohibited from tampering with any and all RBC-provided computer equipment. Students using RBC-provided computer equipment must comply with the College’s Acceptable Use Policy for Students located in the Student Handbook at rbc.edu. All requests for room repairs must be reported to the Residence Life staff immediately. Residents are not permitted to supplement these furnishings with their privately-owned furnishings. Privately owned furnishings shall include but not be limited to such things as mattresses, beds, dressers, and desks.

12.Liability, loss, damage or theft

Although the College will use reasonable efforts to maintain the residence halls in a secure and stable fashion the College assumes no responsibility for injury to persons, or for loss of or damage to items of personal property that occurs in its buildings, on its grounds, prior to, during, or subsequent to the terms of this contract. The student agrees to accept full responsibility for loss or damage to personal property. The purchase or expansion of household content or renter’s insurance is recommended to cover personal belongings prior to the resident’s move-in at the College.

The student agrees to cooperate with their roommate in the common protection of their property. Room doors are to be locked at all times. Students are prohibited from lending room keys or RBC cards to any other person. Failure to comply with this directive constitutes a violation of this Agreement, and any such violation resulting in a loss of safety or property may be grounds for terminating this Agreement with forfeiture of monies paid.

The student agrees that any personal effects, valuables, or other property of the student left in the Residence Halls after expiration of the Housing & Food Service Agreement period, and not claimed within 10 days after the end of such period, may be considered abandoned and become the property of Richard Bland College.


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13. Residence Hall Maintainance

Residents are responsible for maintaining established standards of cleanliness and safety throughout the building. Specifically, residents are solely responsible for maintaining the cleanliness of their rooms and apartments, including living room areas and bathrooms. Residents are responsible for notifying Residence Life staff directly and promptly of any maintenance needs or extermination issues that need to be addressed. Maintenance staff and designated contractors are authorized to enter into occupied spaces for the purpose of addressing maintenance and or housekeeping concerns.


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14. Damages

The student is responsible for the condition of the assigned room and all furnishings, and shall reimburse the College for all damages to or loss of these furnishings beyond ordinary wear and tear. Common area repair costs resulting from willful abuse, vandalism, or other disorderly conduct will be prorated among residents and each account will be billed accordingly if the responsible party is not identified. In the event of major damages to furniture or fixtures within a specific Residence Hall or to the physical facility, damage(s) will be evaluated and each resident will be assessed an equal amount based on the cost incurred to restore damaged furniture, fixtures, or physical facility to its original condition in the event the responsible party is not identified. All residents responsible for damages shall be liable for all costs of full repairs and/or replacement as determined by RBC in its sole discretion. All insurance applicable to such residents shall apply, and the resident hereby agrees to notify any and all insurance companies immediately regarding any damage or loss caused in whole or in part by the resident. The resident also agrees to inform RBC immediately regarding any such insurance.

The College reserves the right to apply all or a portion of a student’s housing damage deposit toward payment of any room charges and/or costs for damages at the time of departure from the Residence Hall.


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15. Safety and compliance with Federal, State and College Policy

To protect the health, safety, and welfare of the College and its community, the College reserves the right for authorized representatives to enter Residence Hall rooms at any time for the purpose of inspection, repair, and/or maintenance, and the establishment of order. By signing this Agreement, the student acknowledges that the use, distribution, or possession of illegal drugs, and the use, distribution, or possession of illegal contraband or stolen property, or unlawful possession or distribution of prescription drugs is against Virginia and/or federal law. The student further acknowledges and agrees that the RBC or other law enforcement officials may arrest him/her for violation of federal or state drug laws, for theft or possession of stolen property, or the violation of any other laws. Possession or use of weapons is prohibited, even if the student has a weapons permit. Pets of any kind are prohibited in Residence Halls. Maintenance and health and safety inspections are undertaken for health, sanitation, and safety reasons. If, however, illegal substances or other evidence of policy violations are found in plain view during maintenance or housing inspections, or in response to an emergency involving student health or safety, students may be subject to police action (including arrest) and/or a referral to the Student Conduct Board for violations of the College Student Code of Conduct. If necessary, RBC may conduct searches of residences for illegal drugs, contraband, or other illegal activity by obtaining search warrants or gaining the resident’s consent to search.

The College reserves unto itself the absolute right to enter and inspect any room in order to maintain discipline, protect the property or the health and safety of its students, and to inspect for cleanliness. Inspections may occur as frequent as necessary or whenever there is reason to believe that the occupants of the room are in serious physical, psychological, or emotional distress.

The College strictly enforces safety and fire regulations. Persons who are identified removing, destroying, or otherwise tampering with safety equipment will be subject to disciplinary actions in addition to restitution for damages. The Residence Halls and rooms are subject to inspection visits by the Fire Marshall.

Personal electrical equipment allowed in the Residence Halls is limited to clocks, small refrigerators, small radios, kitchen appliances, fans, shavers, small hair dryers, TV’s, and computers. ELECTRICAL HEATERS ARE NOT PERMITTED. If these items are found in your room, they will be confiscated. SURGE PROTECTORS ARE THE ONLY ELECTRICAL EXTENSION CORDS THAT ARE AUTHORIZED.

RBC will address Emotional Service Animal requests in accordance with its policies and procedures for providing disability accommodations. Information about submitting a request for disability services may be found on the RBC website: https://www.rbc.edu/academics/student-support-team/disability-services/.


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16. Emergency Exits

Emergency exits must only be used in the event of an emergency (e.g., fire, fire drills, emergency evacuations, and other times specifically designated by the Residence Life Staff or Emergency Response Personnel). Failure to comply with fire and safety policies will result in fines and/or removal from the Residence Hall.


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17. Cancellation of Assignments

Cancellation notifications must be submitted in writing to residencelife@rbc.edu or:

Office of Residence Life

Richard Bland College

11301 Johnson Road

South Prince George, Virginia 23805

 

This Agreement is binding; therefore, students who have not cancelled the Housing & Food Service Agreement in writing and the written cancellation has not been received by the Housing Office one (1) business day prior to the start of the fall semester will be bound by this Agreement.

Having possession of a room means (1) having a current housing assignment, (2) having possession of the key to the assigned room, (3) having personal belongings in the assigned room, (4) having no completed exit form on file, and/or (5) no official cancelation of assignment received by Residence Life. Except as otherwise indicated in Section 18 below, assessed charges begin on the first scheduled date of move in and continue until the student no longer has possession of the room as defined above.

Students who submit an Exit Form and/or Withdrawal Form must vacate the Residence Hall the day the form is submitted. Room damage deposits will be held until room damages are assessed after cancellation (which includes withdrawing from school) of the Housing and Food Service Agreement.

ALL CANCELLATIONS WILL BE PROCESSED ACCORDING TO THE PROCEDURES OUTLINED IN SECTION 18 (WITHDRAWAL/CANCELLATION / VALIDATION).


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18. WITHDRAWAL / CANCELLATION / VALIDATION

Students who officially withdraw or are suspended from the College or Housing (during any session) and surrender possession of their room as is defined in Section 17 will be charged according to RBC’s official withdrawal schedule, which is found at https://www.rbc.edu/admissions/administrative-offices/office-of-student-accounts/tuition-refund-policy/.

Students must ‘check in’ upon moving in to the residence halls to receive the keys to their room and mailbox, and they must ‘check-out’ when moving out by turning those keys back in.. The student is considered to maintain possession of the room in accordance with Item 17 above. Damage deposits will be held until after room damage assessment is completed.


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19. Exiting the Residence Hall

Students vacating the Residence Halls during a semester, but who plan to return the next semester, must submit a new Housing and Food Service Agreement for the upcoming semester.

Students who fail to properly turn in their key at the end of the Housing & Food Service Agreement and/or prior to any departure will be charged the cost of changing the lock.

When a room is permanently vacated, the residents are responsible for returning the room and its contents to its original and clean condition, but should not undertake repairs. The cost of any necessary repairs will be charged against the student’s College account if necessary. Failure to leave the room appropriately clean may result in a cleaning charge. If the student(s) whose actions necessitated the repair(s) or cleaning cannot be readily identified, then the cost of such repairs or cleaning will be charged equally among the residents of the room, suite, floor, or building. Items left in the room after the Office of Residence Life has determined the room is vacant shall be deemed abandoned and stored for 10-days, after which the items will be discarded. Room cleaning charges will be applied to students’ accounts who vacate without properly returning their room/apartment to its original condition.


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20. Termination of Agreement

The College may terminate this agreement and take possession of the room at any time for violation of any provisions herein, for violation of any federal or state law, College regulation or policy, or for health reasons. The student removed in this situation will not be permitted to return to their housing assignment until approved by the Assistant Provost for Student Life.

This Housing and Food Service Agreement is entered into by Richard Bland College and the Student in full acknowledgment that public higher education housing institutions in the Commonwealth of Virginia (such as Richard Bland College) with residential on-campus student housing assignments are not bound by the Virginia landlord-tenant laws. The parties understand and agree that it is not their intention to create a landlord-tenant relationship; that their intention is strictly contractual in nature. Among other things, Richard Bland College is not obligated to follow civil court proceedings related to removal of the Student and the Student’s property from the on-campus student housing assignment, but may automatically remove the Student and the Student’s property from on-campus housing in accordance with this Agreement or the terms of other College policy or procedure if Richard Bland College determines that this Housing and Food Service Agreement has been violated or the Student otherwise does not qualify for student housing.


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Appendix VIII: Medical Guide

Responsible for Maintenance: Director of Campus Safety

Medical Guide for RBC Students

Type of Need Medical Issue Examples Recommendations Transportation
Emergency ·       Severe pain or swelling

·       Deep cuts

·       Burns

·       Seizures

·       Fevers > 101

·       Dizziness, fainting, trouble speaking, numbness in limbs

·       Concussions, head injuries

·       Poisoning

·       Medication overdose or interactions

Call Dept. of Campus Safety and Police   804-862-6111

 

They will coordinate emergency services as needed

Ambulance will be arranged when needed.

 

If an ambulance is required, student will be responsible for providing health insurance or payment for services.

Urgent Care ·       Bruises and sprains

·       Colds and/or flu

·       Skin rashes

·       Infections

·       Vomiting and/or diarrhea

·       Broken bones

·       Sprains

 

Patient First – Colonial Heights

8AM-10PM

or

BetterMed – Colonial Heights 8AM-8PM

 

After Hours:

Southside Emergency Care Center – Colonial Heights or TriCities ER – Prince George

Uber, taxi or self-transportation

 

OR

 

RBC shuttle (contact the Office of Campus Engagement for more information – oce@rbc.edu)

Routine Care ·       Vaccines

·       Colds

·       Allergy shots

·       Lab tests/ blood work

·       Physicals

·       Other planned or non-urgent care

Patient First – Colonial Heights

8AM-10PM

or

BetterMed – Colonial Heights 8AM-8PM

RBC shuttle every Monday at 4 pm

Departs from Residential Village

 

OR

 

RBC shuttle (contact the Office of Campus Engagement for more information – oce@rbc.edu)

*This guide is intended to provide you with advice and information about how you may treat yourself for common illnesses. It is not intended to be a substitution for expert medical advice or treatment.