Acts of Non-Academic Misconduct

All students, faculty members, staff members, and administrators should report any alleged violation of College policy. The report may be filed at either https://lorasadvocate.symplicity.com/public_report, in person at the Information Desk (4th Floor Alumni Campus Center), or to Campus Safety at 563.588.7100.

Acts of Non-Academic Misconduct include any act which violates federal and/or state law, local ordinances, College policies or Residence Life/Greek Life behavioral standards whether on or off College property. This includes any act which is reportable under the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, which includes acts of: homicide, sex offenses, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, motor vehicle theft, arson, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking; drug law violations; liquor law violations; weapons law violations; and/or hate crimes related to any of the above offenses and incidents of larceny-theft, simple assault, intimidation, or destruction/damage/vandalism of property.

The following College policies outline Acts of Non-Academic Misconduct:

Campus Abuse Policy

Physical abuse, verbal abuse, threats, intimidation, harassment, coercion and/or other conduct which threatens or endangers the health (mental or physical) or safety of any person. This includes but is not limited to dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking. This policy also includes actions, activities or situations, planned or negligent, producing unnecessary and/or undue mental and/or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, ridicule, excessive fatigue, physical injury, interference with scholarship, danger to life, exposure to situations where physical or mental well-being may be endangered, or defacement, damage or destruction of property, including acts of hazing. Students are encouraged to seek advisory interpretations of actions which might constitute “hazing” if they feel that a situation may be considered a hazing incident, and report any such actions to College Officials.

Animals on Campus Policy

In college housing, students may have non-dangerous aquarium fish as pets. All other pets are prohibited in all circumstances including temporary circumstances. Students who reside off campus with pets that wish to bring non-dangerous pets on/near campus should know that pets other than non-dangerous aquarium fish are not permitted in college facilities, and that all animals on campus sidewalks or roadways must be licensed, vaccinated and on a leash, and must have an owner present to clean up after the pet. Students not complying with these guidelines will be asked to leave campus.

Loras College is committed to compliance with state and federal laws regarding individuals with disabilities. Members of the Loras College community who seek reasonable accommodation for disabilities in college housing should contact the Residence Life Office for assistance to discuss the possibility of a service animal, therapy animal, or emotional support animal. With respect to a request for a service or assistance animal, Loras College will determine, on a case by case basis, and in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, whether such an animal is a reasonable accommodation on campus. In doing so, the college must balance the needs of the individual with the impact of animals on other campus patrons.

Where it is not readily apparent that an animal is a service animal as defined under the ADA, or an assistance animal under the Fair Housing Act, the college may require sufficient information and documentation to determine whether or not the animal qualifies as a service or assistance animal under the applicable law. The college may require that documentation be provided on the letterhead of a treating physician or mental health provider, and permit the college to determine:

• That the student has a disability for which the animal is needed
• How the animal assists the student, including whether the animal has undergone any training
• The nexus between the student’s disability and the assistance that the animal provides

For students seeking reasonable accommodation, an accommodation review process will be undertaken, and may involve conversations between the Residence Life Office, Lynch Center, Counseling or Health Center, and other appropriate campus resources and the requesting student.

If a student desires that a service or assistance animal live in campus housing, the student must notify the Residence Life Office at least thirty (30) days prior to the desired move-in date so that the college can best accommodate the student and the animal. If all other criteria are met as set forth, a meeting can be arranged to discuss how to best accommodate the student, service or support animal, and the campus community. Consistent with federal and state law, a service or assistance animal may be prohibited from a facility or program if the animal’s behavior or presence poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others. It may be excluded from areas where its presence fundamentally alters the nature of a program or activity, if the animal is disruptive, if its presence would result in substantial physical damage to the property of others, or if it substantially interferes with the reasonable enjoyment of the housing or public accommodation of others. In regards to service, therapy, and support animals on campus, owners agrees to:

• Maintain a valid public license for the pet and provide documentation of such license annually
• Provide annual documentation of all vaccinations and a clean bill of health by a veterinarian
• Maintain insurance for the pet in the event of aggressive behavior by the pet
• Keep the pet on a leash or tether when navigating public areas
• Clean up after the pet immediately, including bagging and removing all pet waste in accordance with standards
• Maintain appropriate grooming of the pet and complete appropriate pest control measures
• Understand that college personnel may be required to enter residential spaces without the threat of harm. Any animal that threatens college personnel may be removed from campus
• Understand that animals are not permitted in college dining areas, bathrooms or shower facilities unless the animal is an ADA service animal and specific permission has been obtained for this purpose
• If the animal is to be kept in campus housing, hang a sign on their door notifying their neighbors of the presence of and the type of animal in the room

In the event that the animal becomes a disruption or noise nuisance, if pet waste is not removed in an immediate manner, the pet is not maintained under the control of the owner, or the pet becomes a health or safety risk for the community, the college may require the animal to be removed from the property.

Charges and Fines Policy

The student is responsible for all damages, lost property or unnecessary service cost caused by the student to College facilities. These charges will be placed on the student’s account. This includes lock replacement costs as a result of loss of room, house or apartment key. Students whose disciplinary, library, traffic and/or damage accounts are delinquent are not permitted to register for subsequent semesters/sessions and no transcript of credit will be issued until the account is paid in full.

College Alcohol Policy

It is the policy of Loras College to prohibit the unlawful use, sale, distribution, transfer or possession of alcoholic beverages. Loras College prohibits the lawful consumption of alcohol when it might impair an individual’s academic or work performance, or pose a hazard to the individual, public, students or employees of the College on its property or at any of its activities. A conflict of interest may exist when alcohol is present among faculty, staff and students.

As a Community, Loras College strives to advocate healthy and safe choices, embrace responsibility, cultivate respect, and challenge all to be people integrity. Loras College is committed to providing a quality education and work environment where every student and employee has the right to work, learn and live in an environment free from the negative effects of alcohol and other drug use. The College recognizes that the decision to use alcohol is a personal choice; however, this choice must be made in accordance with federal, state and local laws regarding the use of alcohol.

The legal age for consumption of alcohol in the state of Iowa is 21. As a result, Loras College will partner with local law enforcement to uphold and enforce all laws, ordinances and College policies regarding alcohol use. In compliance with the Drug-Free Work Place Act of 1988 and the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989, Loras College prohibits the unlawful possession, distribution or dispensing of drugs and alcohol by students and employees on College property or as any part of College activities. All Loras College Community Members are responsible for abiding by the College Alcohol Policy found in the faculty, staff and student handbooks.

In order to provide a healthy living and learning environment, members of the Loras College community are expected to comply with the following policy regarding alcohol use:

• There is NO ALCOHOL permitted (regardless of student age) in the traditional residence halls: Beckman, Binz, and Rohlman. Students of legal age residing in Byrne Oaks, Lynch-McCarthy Apartment Complex, the Visitation, Smyth Hall and campus houses will follow College standards (including state laws) relating to alcohol use. Underage students residing in alternative housing are expected to comply with College and federal regulations regarding alcohol use.
• Students, (regardless of age), may not possess and/or display empty alcohol containers (cans, bottles, displays, highlighter displays, cases, bongs, keg caps, etc.). Containers will be considered evidence of use and/or consumption and may be confiscated and not returned. Bars or any bar-type structures are not permitted in any housing.
• Students may not purchase, provide or make alcohol available to underage students and/or their guests. Underage students and their guests may not be present in space where alcohol is present.
• Public intoxication is not considered a responsible contribution to the community and therefore is inconsistent with the mission of the College. Public intoxication is considered a violation of College policy and is defined as a person who, having consumed alcoholic beverages, experiences a loss of the normal use of his or her mental and/or physical faculties. This includes but is not limited to slurred speech, loss of motor coordination, aggression, loss of memory or abusive behavior.

Loras College prohibits the possession or use of intoxicants in public areas and at student-sponsored activities except as expressly recommended by the Dean of Students or his/her designee for his/her consideration and approval, with final approval coming from the College President. Public areas include but are not limited to such areas as the Fieldhouse, stadium, campus grounds, playing fields, parking lots and in all public meeting rooms; entrance, corridor, lounge or rest room of the residence hall public area; in academic areas or the Miller Academic Resource Center or in off-campus venues where the College is hosting an event. College funds/student organization funds may not be used to purchase alcohol at any on or off campus event.

Kegged (tapped) beer, other common containers of alcohol (e.g. punch), and other large quantities of alcohol are prohibited in all campus housing. The alcoholic beverages and their containers will be confiscated and will not be returned to the violators, and judicial action may be taken. At any time such items are present in alternative housing, the Rental Agreement may be cancelled immediately. If such items are found in traditional housing, the housing contract may be cancelled immediately. Any games, activities or equipment that promotes the excessive use of alcohol (e.g. beer pong or beer pong tables, drinking games and other items similar in nature), are not permitted on College property. Any such items may be confiscated and not returned if found on college property.

Per the Student Handbook, the College reserves the right to adjudicate off-campus behavior. Loras students represent the College at all times whether on campus or off, and therefore may be held accountable for offcampus behaviors that do not meet the behavioral expectations set forth in the Student Handbook.

A person is also considered to be in violation of the College’s standards on alcohol use if his or her personal alcohol consumption infringes upon the rights of other persons or property, or when alcohol use causes a student or employee to represent the College in a manner that is inconsistent with the mission of the institution. For information on sanctions related to alcohol policy violations at Loras College, please see Student Sanctions Related to Violation of the Alcohol Policy .

College Drug Policy

Illegal use, possession, sale or distribution of any state or federally controlled substance, including prescription drugs, is punishable by strict College standards. Suspected violations of this policy will be reported to Campus Safety, and/or the Dubuque Police Department. Students are held accountable for applicable laws and policies relating to the use of drugs or drug paraphernalia on or off campus.

Members of the College community and their guests are not permitted to possess anything deemed to be drug paraphernalia such as bongs, pipes, rolling papers, etc., or items being used as drug paraphernalia. The odor of drug use (for example, the odor of marijuana) is considered sufficient evidence to take administrative action. Students and/or their guests may not be present in rooms where such drugs are present. Drug possession, use or distribution in College facilities and on campus will result in judicial action for those involved. For information on sanctions related to alcohol policy violations at Loras College, please see Student Sanctions Related to Violation of the Drug Policy .

College/Personal Property Policy

Attempted or actual theft of, damage to and/or improper possession of property of the College or property of a member of the College community or other personal or public property or individual or group activities that result in defacement, damage, or destruction of College or personal property. College property (residence hall room furniture, classroom furniture, lobby furniture, all other facility furniture) must remain in its assigned location at all times. Storage is not provided.

Compliance Policy

Students are to follow reasonable and lawful directions by all College officials (including but not limited to Area Coordinators, Resident Advisors, Safety Personnel, etc.) or may be subject to judicial action, which may include a non-compliance charge or other sanction. Students who fail to complete sanctions imposed through the established College judicial process may also be in violation of the college’s compliance policy, and such cases may be forwarded to the College Hearing Board for review.

Disruptive Behavior Policy

Intentionally or recklessly interfering with normal College-sponsored activities, including, but not limited to studying, teaching, research, College administration or fire, security or emergency services. Disruption or obstruction of teaching, research, administration or other college activities (including public-service functions on or off campus) or of other authorized non-College activities when conduct occurs on College premises. Disruptive activity may include but is not limited to any behavior in class or out of class, which for any reason interferes with the classwork of others, involves disorder, or otherwise disrupts the regular and essential operation of the College. This may include leading or inciting others to disrupt scheduled and/or normal activities on College premises, as well as classroom behavior that interferes with either (a) the ability to conduct the class or (b) the ability of other students to profit from the instructional program. (See Loras College policy on Classroom Behavior, Undergraduate Bulletin)

Loras College supports the principle of freedom of expression for both instructors and students. The college respects the rights of instructors to teach and students to learn. Maintenance of these rights requires classroom conditions that do not impede their exercise. Classroom behavior that interferes with either 1) the ability to conduct the class or 2) the ability of other students to profit from the instructional program will not be tolerated. An individual engaging in disruptive activity may be subject to disciplinary action.

When a student’s behavior is so disruptive as to compel immediate action, the instructor has the authority to remove the student from the class. When a student has been removed from class, the instructor should file a report on the Loras College Advocate system within 24 hours of the student being removed from class. A student who has been removed from a class shall arrange for and attend a meeting with the instructor and his/her Division Chair within three (3) business days of the removal. The outcome of this meeting may be either:

• An agreement of expectations between the student and the instructor and the reinstatement of the student to the class, or
• The continued removal of the student from the class and transfer of documentation to the Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs and copied to the Dean of Students. The outcome of the above meeting should also be logged into the student report filed on the Loras College Advocate system.

When a student’s misbehavior does not require immediate removal from the class, these steps shall be followed:

• The instructor responsible for the class or activity where the disruptive behavior occurred shall inform the student that his/her behavior has been inappropriate. The instructor shall describe to the student specific needed changes in the student’s behavior. The student shall be provided an opportunity to modify his/her behavior in accordance with the changes identified. If a student believes the instructor’s expectations are unreasonable, he/she may confer with the instructor’s division chair to review this matter. If the instructor is also the division chair, then the student may confer with the Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs.
• Should a student’s behavior continue to be unacceptable, the instructor shall remove the student from the course and the classroom behavior policy described above shall be in effect.

Other disruptive behavior may include acts of self-harm that puts into question whether a student is mentally or emotionally able to succeed academically as well as take care of themselves while a student at Loras College. Support is available through the Loras College Health and Counseling Centers. If a higher level of care is indicated, the student may be encouraged to withdrawal for a period of time or be asked to leave to address health needs. Self-harming behaviors are serious to the student and others with whom the student resides and it is the responsibility of the college to prevent any disruption in the community.

Noise may also be considered a disruption to the college community. Students are expected to ensure that neither they nor any situation for which they are responsible is noisy enough to disturb fellow residents or persons. The College reserves the right to impound or exclude from the premises any equipment or person who violates the noise policy.

Out of consideration for other students, resident faculty, staff and neighbors of the College, stereos and other equipment are never (including playing outside of study hours) to be played so loud that they can be heard outside of the room they are played in. Speakers cannot be placed in windows. The City of Dubuque has an anti-noise ordinance covering unnecessary noise from a group, building or automobile. Games and other outdoor activities are not permitted on the grounds after sundown except in areas with lighting or at the request of the supervisor for a later time.

In traditional housing, quiet hours begin at 10:00 p.m. Sunday through Thursday; and 12:00 midnight Friday and Saturday. Quiet hours end at 9:00 a.m. During quiet hours the following regulations should be adhered to. Sound equipment (may include stereos, radios, TVs, etc.) can be played only while the door is fully closed, and volume may not be heard in any other room. Group activities of any type are permitted only in student rooms upon the condition they cannot be heard outside the room. Noisy gatherings, sports and shouting in corridors are prohibited. Academic hours during finals week start the Friday before finals week and last through finals week. Social hours will be from 4:00-6:00 p.m. daily. Courtesy hours are in effect in all college facilities, 24 hours per day.

Hallway sports and activities such as football, hockey, water fights, Frisbee, hacky sack, cricket, soccer, bags/corn hole, ladder ball, slip and slide or other water sports and other similar activities are not permitted indoors in college facilities unless approved by Residence Life Staff for events in college housing or the Event Coordinator for events in all other facilities. Sports conducted in the public areas present a potential for accidents or damages and can be disruptive to others.

College Dress Policy

At all times, students are to dress in accordance with good taste as defined by College officials, including an appropriate top, bottom, and shoes. Masks (when not required or encouraged due to health concerns) and/or costumes that conceal a person’s identity (including morph suits) are not permitted on campus at any time.

Facility Maintenance Policy

No student shall alter, paint, repair or contract the repair of any electrical, mechanical, plumbing, furnishing, structural fixture or equipment in a campus facility. If a student needs repair assistance, he or she should contact a Resident Advisor or Area Coordinator or email fixmyroom@loras.edu.

Students should be aware of the following policies regarding the windows/screens in college facilities: Posters, signs (including neon signs), decorations, etc., are not to be placed in the windows. Bottles, food and other objects are not to be displayed in the windows or placed between the windows and screen. Students removing screens from Loras College housing or dropping articles from the windows in any facility will be subject to judicial action. Anyone who removes or breaks a screen that has been permanently affixed to the window frame or allows people to enter or exit through these windows after removing the screen may face judicial action and/or be denied campus housing immediately.

Fire Safety Policy

All students are to follow fire and safety precautions. Whenever a fire alarm is sounded, all students, except those with emergency responsibilities, are required to leave the building. Failure to leave the building when an alarm sounds may result in judicial action, including fines for violation of local fire regulations and codes. Students will not be permitted re-admittance until the building is considered to be safe and the alarm is suppressed.

Please note the following additional information:

• Halogen lamps, candles, incense and other open flames are not permitted in any housing option.
• Misuse or unauthorized uses of firefighting, fire sprinkling systems and other safety equipment or warning devices, and engaging in acts of arson and/or introducing a fire safety risk into the community will result in a referral to the College Hearing Board.
• Fire pits and/or outdoor fireplaces are permitted for campus houses and other areas designated by the Campus Safety or Residence Life Office. Fire pits must be enclosed and may burn only materials permitted by city ordinances and codes. If a fire is deemed to be cause of concern, students must agree to extinguish the fire immediately. Bonfires are not permitted in any circumstance.
• All extension cords and power strips used must have circuit breaker protection. Extension cords or power strips without circuit breaker protection are not permitted.
• Students are not permitted to use or store flammable materials, including butane/butane torches, in campus housing.

Forgery/Unauthorized Use Policy

Forgery of or unauthorized use of College documents, records, computers, telephones, identification or property. This includes providing false representations to the College in any form, written or verbal.

Gambling Policy

Except in instances where the location or circumstance of a game is regulated under Iowa Code chapter 99B, individuals may participate in gambling if a bona fide social relationship exists among the participants. A participant in an unlicensed social gambling game shall not win or lose more than $50 in a 24-hour period. A wager is unlawful if the wager involves the outcome of an athletic contest or event and the wager is made by a coach, official, player or contestant of a school, educational institution or interscholastic athletic organization participating in the contest or event.

Social gambling is illegal on school property in Iowa. The social gambling games, which are listed as either legal or illegal games under Licensed Social Gambling, Division VII, are also legal or illegal for Unlicensed Social Gambling. With the exception of poker, games customarily in a gambling casino for which the house provides a banker, dealer or croupier or for which specially designed tables are required are illegal social games. The illegal games include punchboard, push card, pull-tab, slots, craps, chuck-a-luck, roulette, Klondike, blackjack, chemin de fer, baccarat, faro, equality and three-card monte. The games allowed under social gambling include poker, pinochle, pitch, gin rummy, bridge, euchre, hearts, cribbage, dominoes, checkers, chess, backgammon, pool and darts.

Groups and Organizations (Recognized) Representing the College Policy

As individual students are asked to uphold certain expectations, organizations and athletic teams and their officers and coaches are under obligation to the College and larger community to maintain high standards of ethical conduct. This includes proper maintenance of financial records and good sponsorship of College events and activities. Any activities, including promotion of events and activities that encourage inappropriate conduct of student members which would bring embarrassment to the College’s reputation as an institution of higher learning, or which violate the policies contained within the Student Handbook may cause the recognition of the organization to come under judicial review by the Student Life Office. For specific information and policies relating to campus groups and organizations, please see the STUDENT ORGANIZATION RESOURCE MANUAL.

Guest and Visitation Policy

Guests must abide by all rules and regulations of the College and are responsible for their actions. The guest and the resident host are responsible for the actions of their guests and any expenses incurred by them.

Please note: All overnight guests to the college MUST be registered. Students may register overnight guests at any time at the 24-Hour Information Desk, located in the Alumni Campus Center, Fourth Floor. Registered guests will be required to provide proof of identification, and will be issued a visitors pass to be carried while visiting campus.

Other important things to remember include that visitors of the opposite sex after 2:00 a.m. and overnight guests of the opposite sex are not allowed in traditional housing. Sibling guests of the opposite sex 13 years old or younger are permitted as overnight guests.

Guests may not stay for more than three (3) consecutive nights in a two-week period. A maximum of two (2) overnight guests will be allowed in any one room at any one time. A student who fails to register his/her guest with the hall staff according to the procedures specified by the Area Coordinator may be subject to judicial action. Visitors must contact the person they wish to visit in order to have the resident host escort the visitor into the residence hall. Visitors will not be permitted in the hall without a student escort. Cohabitation is not permitted at any time. At no time may a student take up residence in a room, house or apartment which he or she is not assigned to. The maximum number of non-overnight student guests that are able to be in a residence room is as follows: a single room, five (5) occupants; a double room, ten (10) occupants; triple or quad rooms, fifteen (15) occupants; a six-person room or campus house, eighteen (18) occupants.

Harassment Policy

Harassment or threatening behavior that intimidates another person. This also includes, but is not limited to harassment of a complainant, respondent, advisor, witness, or judiciary member prior to, during and after a judicial hearing.

Misrepresentation Policy

Falsifying, distorting or misrepresenting information for the purpose of gaining benefit for oneself or others to any office, agency or individual acting on behalf of the College. No person shall act as an agent of the College unless authorized to do so. Additionally, possession, creation and distribution of false identification is illegal. Students involved in such offenses either on or off campus may face judicial action. False IDs may be confiscated and destroyed.

Privacy Policy Pertaining to the Use of Cameras, Video Recording Devices and Audio Recording Devices

On campus residences are a place where students should feel comfortable, secure and confident that their privacy is respected. Video cameras, video phones, recording and listening devices (other than college authorized security cameras and devices) can breach the trust and security students expect. Therefore, the use of such devices, without the consent or full knowledge of the individuals involved for malicious, unkind, or defamatory intent is strictly prohibited. Students reported to be in violation of this policy will be referred for judicial action.

Protest/Demonstration Policy

Protests and/or demonstrations of any description must be registered with the Dean of Students. Time, place and manner restrictions are the prerogative of the College. Limitations include: disruption of regular classes, avoiding the scheduling of two events at the same time in the same facility and the protection of the public order and to ensure compliance with local, state and federal laws. Any limitations must be both reasonable and contentneutral, the latter term meaning that they shall be applied without regard to the content of the expression or the purpose of the assembly. Limitations may include requiring 1) scheduling and planning with the appropriate authorized designee, 2) restricting or prohibiting the use of certain areas, 3) limiting certain forms of expression in specific areas and 4) reimbursing the College any cost associated with the use of the facility, area or medium. Note: Given the wide diversity of expression that occurs at higher education institutions, the use of any College facility, area or medium for any expression shall not constitute or suggest endorsement of the content of the expression, or any proponent of the expression, or any proponent thereof by the Board of Regents, the College, its admissions staff, faculty, student body or any individual member of these constituencies. Presenters of expression shall assume full responsibility for any violation of law they commit while in/on College property.

Reporting Policy

Failure to report or discouraging another person from reporting a violation of College policy for which one has knowledge. This policy also includes false reporting, including false reporting of a bomb, fire, or other emergency situation. Such behaviors may result in judicial action.

Sexual Misconduct Policy

Rape, sexual assault, sexual abuse, dating violence, domestic violence, stalking, sexual exploitation, and/or other sexual misconduct (Refer to “Addressing Sexual Offenses-Policies and Procedures” in Safety and Security section of Student Handbook). Examples of sexual misconduct may include, but are not limited to the following examples of unwelcome acts:

Verbal: Insults, threats, jokes or derogatory comments based on gender; sexual innuendo or suggestive comments; sexual propositions or advances; pressure for sexual favors; corruption of a minor; importuning or public indecency

Nonverbal: Posting of sexually suggestive or derogatory pictures, cartoons or drawings; making suggestive or insulting noises, leering, or whistling; making obscene gestures; corruption of a minor; importuning; voyeurism or public indecency

Physical: Touching, pinching, squeezing, patting or brushing against the body; impeding or blocking normal work or movement; coercing sexual intercourse or assault, rape or sexual battery; sodomy or assault with an object; corruption of a minor; importuning; public indecency; felonious penetration including oral penetration, penetration with a body part, or penetration an object not matter how slight; or prostitution

Sexual Abuse/Sexual Assault/Rape: Any sexual act between any persons is sexual abuse by either party when the act is performed with the other participant in any of the following circumstances:

• The act is done by force or against the will of the other, including but not limited to rape or attempted rape
• If the consent or acquaintance of the other is procured by threats of violence toward any person
• If the act is done while the other is under the influence of a drug-induced sleep or is otherwise in a state of unconsciousness
• When the victim is incapable of giving consent because he or she suffers from a mental defect or incapacity
• When the victim lacks the mental capacity to know the right and wrong of conduct in sexual matters
• When the other person is a child

Please note that this includes non-consensual sexual intercourse (rape), non-consensual sexual contact (sexual assault) and sexual exploration). The college defines rape as the penetration, no matter how slight, of the vagina or anus with any body part or object, or oral penetration of a sex organ of another person without their consent. This includes the touching of an unwilling person’s intimate parts (defined as genital, groin, breast, buttocks, or the clothing covering these areas or forcing an unwilling person to touch another’s intimate parts.

Sexual Exploitation: Sexual exploitation is taking sexual advantage of another person without consent for one’s own advantage or benefit or for the advantage or benefit of anyone other than the person being exploited, or engaging in sexual intimidation. Examples of sexual exploitation may include but are not limited to the following:

• Causing or attempting to cause the incapacitation of another person in order to gain a sexual advantage over such other person
• Causing the prostitution of another person
• Electronically recording, photographing or transmitting identifiable utterances, sounds, or images of private sexual activity and/or the intimate body parts (including genitalia, groin, breast, or buttocks)
• Allowing third parties to observe private sexual acts of a participant without the participant’s consent
• Voyeurism (spying on others who are in intimate or sexual situations)
• Threatening to sexually assault another person
• Stalking, including cyber-stalking
• Engaging in indecent exposure

Sexual Harassment: Sexual Harassment includes, but is not limited to unwelcome sexual advances; requests for sexual favors; sexually motivated physical contact or other verbal, non-verbal or physical conduct or communication of a sexual nature when:

• Submission to that conduct or communication is made a term or condition, either explicitly or implicitly, of obtaining employment or education; or
• Submission to or rejection of that conduct or communication by an individual is used as a factor in decisions affecting that individual’s employment or education; or
• That conduct or communication has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with an individual’s employment or education, or of creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive employment or educational environment.

Dating Violence: Dating Violence is defined as the intentional use of physical, sexual, verbal, or emotional abuse by a person to threaten, harm, intimidate, or control another person in a dating relationship. Violent behavior is unacceptable in our community, and all cases involving violence will be referred to the College Hearing Board for review. The College Hearing Board hears cases where the outcome may include suspension or expulsion.

Domestic Violence: Domestic violence is defined as felony or misdemeanor behavior with a current or former spouse, domestic or intimate partner, someone who shares custody of a child, someone who cohabitates, or someone who is situated as a spouse. (Please note: roommates are not considered a domestic relationship unless they are involved in a relationship defined as domestic above). Violent behavior is unacceptable in our community, and all cases involving violence will be referred to the College Hearing Board for review. The College Hearing Board hears cases where the outcome may include suspension or expulsion.

Stalking: Loras College is determined to provide a campus atmosphere free of violence for all members of the campus community. For this reason, Loras College does not tolerate stalking, and will hold students who engage in stalking behaviors accountable through the college’s judicial system and will report students who engage in stalking behaviors to the local authorities. Loras College is also committed to supporting victims of stalking through available campus counseling and health services, and can assist with referrals to community support services. This policy applies to all members of our campus community. The College defines stalking as a course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to feel fear/significant emotional distress. Stalking behaviors may include but are not limited to:

• Non-consensual communication including in-person communication, telephone calls, voice messages, text messages, email, social networking site postings, instant messages, postings of pictures or information on websites, written letters, gifts or any other communications that are undesired and/or place another person in fear
• Following, pursuing, waiting or showing up uninvited at a workplace, place of residence, classroom or other locations frequented by a victim
• Surveillance and other types of observation, whether by physical proximity or electronic means
• Trespassing
• Vandalism
• Non-consensual touching
• Direct physical and/or verbal threats against a victim or a victim’s loved ones
• Gathering of information about a victim from family, friends, co-workers and/or classmates
• Manipulative and/or controlling behaviors such as threats to harm oneself or threats to harm someone close to the victim Defamation or slander against the victim. Victims of stalking have the right to learn the outcome of their case, including any recommended sanctions.

For additional information about policies and procedures related to allegations of sexual misconduct, please see the section titled TITLE IX/SEX DISCRIMINATION POLICY .

Solicitation/Sales Policy

Contact the Event Coordinator, 591 Alumni Campus Center, regarding requests from students, staff or organizations. Solicitation, advertising and distribution of materials by groups without permission is forbidden on the campus at all times. If unapproved solicitation occurs, the situation should be reported to Campus Safety. On campus groups may solicit in residence halls with the prior permission of the Area Coordinator. Off-campus groups and businesses may be permitted to solicit in residence hall and housing facility lobbies or common areas.

Tobacco Policy

Loras College has a responsibility to its students and employees to provide a safe and healthful environment. Research findings show that tobacco use in general, including smoking and breathing secondhand smoke, constitute a significant health hazard. In addition to causing direct health hazards, smoking contributes to institutional costs in other ways, including fire damage, cleaning and maintenance costs, costs associated with employee absenteeism, health care and medical insurance.

The health hazards associated with tobacco use are well established. The policy is established to:

• Reflect and emphasize the hazards of tobacco use;
• Provide a healthy environment for our students, faculty, staff and visitors; and
• Model respect for human dignity, personal wellness and stewardship for the environment.

Loras College is a tobacco-free campus. The use of tobacco products in college-owned buildings, on college property or within college-owned vehicles is prohibited. This policy applies to students, employees and campus visitors.

For the purpose of this policy, smoking is defined as lighting or burning any type of matter or substance that contains tobacco, including but not limited to cigarettes, cigars, cigarillos, pipes, beedies, kreteks, water pipes, bongs, and hookahs. This policy also includes the lighting or burning of non-tobacco plants or marijuana, and includes the use of electronic cigarettes, which are also prohibited from use within 500 feet of a school as indicated by Iowa law. Smokeless tobacco products are also prohibited.

Organizers and attendees at events such as conferences, meetings, lectures and social and sporting events using Loras College facilities will be required to abide by the College’s tobacco policy. Organizers of such events are responsible for communicating and enforcing this policy.

The sale of tobacco products on campus is prohibited. The free distribution of tobacco products on campus is also prohibited. Campus organizations are prohibited from accepting money or profits from tobacco companies. Tobacco advertisements are prohibited in college-run publications.

Effective implementation of this Tobacco policy depends on the courtesy, respect and cooperation of all members of the Loras community. Complaints or disputes should be brought to the attention of the college personnel who has immediate responsibility for workplace (supervisor), event or residence. If satisfactory resolution is not reached, the Dean of Students should be consulted. Compliance with the Tobacco policy is appreciated and expected. Students found in use of tobacco products while on campus will be referred to and deliberated through the college’s non-academic conduct process. Employees found in use of tobacco products on campus will be referred to their immediate supervisor. Guests found in use of tobacco products will be asked to refrain from use while on our campus.

Unauthorized Access Policy

Unauthorized entry into or use of any College building, facility, vehicle, equipment room or area. This includes unauthorized possession or use of College keys, computers, access cards, lock combinations or other special access codes, including telephone codes.

Weapons Policy

Possession of or firing of firearms, fireworks, explosives, ammunition, sling shots, balloon launchers, paintball equipment, knives (with blades longer than three inches), bows and arrows, air soft guns, swords, items construed as weapons or any other weapons capable of inflicting personal injury or damage either in a student’s room or on a student’s person may result in severe judicial action, including but not limited to appearance before the College Hearing Board. All weapons will be confiscated and may not be returned.

The College respects each individual’s right to bear arms but does not believe firearms are appropriate in the workplace or on College property. Any employee bringing a firearm to the workplace or property, or carrying a firearm in a college vehicle may be disciplined in accordance with College policy up to and including termination. Any student bringing a firearm to campus property may be referred to the College hearing board for possible suspension or expulsion. This prohibition extends to firearms kept in vehicles on College property and at College jobsites, including parking lots, regardless of whether the vehicle is owned or leased by the College or to the employee.

The Residence Life Office, Student Life Office, and Dean of Students Office reserve the right to amend and update policies and procedures as needed.

Additional Information Regarding Acts of Non-Academic Misconduct Searches/Privacy for Students

The right of privacy for students is a value to be protected. For that reason, except under extreme or emergency circumstances, premises occupied by students and the personal possessions of students should not be searched unless appropriate authorization has been obtained for reasonable and sufficient causes and the reasons for the search and the materials sought are specified.

Therefore, the College adopts the following policy on the privacy of a student’s room/apartment/house or person: In those instances where reasonable and sufficient causes indicate that a student is in possession of contraband material (including but not limited to firearms, stolen property, firecrackers, drugs or drug paraphernalia) the Area Coordinator and a representative from the Campus Safety Office will be authorized by the Dean of Students or his/her designee to search the student’s room and/or personal belongings. If the search occurs in college housing, a Resident Advisor may be present during the search. For the search of a student’s room or personal belongings, Room Search Authorization may be requested. Reasons for the search and the objects sought must be specified in the application for the search permit. After normal business hours, the Dean of Students may grant permission to search via telephone.

When a room or belongings are searched, the student will be notified with information regarding the search. Students will be advised of the search at the time of search and may remain in the room if present. The search will be conducted by a member of the Residence Life Staff together with a member of the Campus Safety Staff. The College reserves the right to enter student rooms/apartments/houses for purposes of maintenance and housekeeping, safety and security at any time. College personnel reserve the right to act on the “Plain View Theory” (e.g., discovery of contraband, weapons and consequent disciplinary action for illegal items in plain view). Contraband and stolen property found in the room may be confiscated for the duration of the investigation/case. Illegal items, including drug paraphernalia, will not be returned.