Student Policies

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act

Notice of student rights

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect to their education records. These rights include:

1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the University receives a request for access.
   • Students should submit to the registrar, dean, head of the academic department, or other appropriate official written requests that identify the record(s) they wish to inspect. The University official will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. If the records are not maintained by the University official to whom the request was submitted, that official shall advise the student of the correct official to whom the request should be addressed.
2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes are inaccurate or misleading.
   • Students may ask the University to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the University official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the University decides not to amend the record as requested by the student, the University will notify the student of the decision and advise the student of his or her right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.
3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.
   • One exception which permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the University in an administrative, supervisory, academic or research, or support staff position (including law enforcement unit personnel and health staff); a person or company with whom the University has contracted (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent); a person serving on the Board of Trustees; or a student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.
4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the University to comply with the requirements of FERPA.

Directory Information

The following information may be made available to the public unless a student restricts its release by written notice. Information restriction request forms are available in the Office of the Registrar.

University directory (either online or in print) - The following information may be published by the University: name, mailing address, telephone number, and email address – unless a USI Directory Restriction Request form is filed with the Office of the Registrar during the first three weeks of each fall semester.

General requests for student information - When appropriate, the following information also may be made public by the University through printed programs, news releases of awards, etc.: date and place of birth, home address, marital status, majors and minors, degrees, awards received, dates of attendance, most recent educational institution attended, names of parents, participation in officially-recognized activities or sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, classification, and enrollment status. An Information Release Restriction Request form can be submitted 1) to be effective for only the single term specified; or 2) to remain in place until revoked in writing.

The submission of a student’s Social Security number is voluntary. The University will not use the number, if supplied, for purposes other than routine record-keeping and institutional statistics, without a student’s written permission.

General Behavior of Students

The University of Southern Indiana is charged by the State of Indiana with the responsibility for the development and administration of institutional policies and rules governing the role of students and their behavior. Student Handbook contains statements of those University regulations and policies relevant to the academic and co-curricular experience.

The University community is not a sanctuary from the law, and all students of the University are subject to federal, state, and local law. Student Handbook, available at http://www.usi.edu/media/3402877/2014-2015-Student-Handbook.pdf, forms the basis for student behavioral expectations in the USI community and the greater community at large. The standards of conduct apply to students while on University-owned or -controlled property, when attending University-sponsored events off campus, or when such conduct involves the security or integrity of the University community.

In addition, the University is a forum for the free expression of ideas. The development and enforcement of these standards of behavior is designed to foster students’ personal, social, and ethical development. These standards serve to promote the protection of the rights, responsibilities, and health and safety of the USI community, so that its members may pursue educational goals. See Section 1.0 Purpose and Application of Student Handbook.

Deception/Falsification/Misrepresentation

Falsification or misuse of records and/or misrepresentation of facts on University forms and documents, including but not limited to, application forms, data sheets, ID cards, fee receipts, may result in disciplinary action and/or cancellation of registration. See Section 2.16 of Student Handbook. 

Academic Integrity

The University of Southern Indiana is an engaged learning community advancing education and knowledge, enhancing civic and cultural awareness, and fostering partnerships through comprehensive outreach programs.  The campus is dedicated to a culture of civility among students, faculty, and staff.  Academic integrity is vital to the campus mission and culture.  The academic integrity statement serves as an educational tool, defining academic integrity, violations of academic integrity, outlining sanctions for violations and administration of academic integrity policy.    

Academic Integrity:

• Demonstrates respect for all students right to a safe, quality learning environment
• Does not interfere with others educational goals
• Promotes professional and ethical behaviors of all majors
• Appropriately cites others ideas, writings, and/or work
• Prohibits unapproved assistance with tests, writing, research, analysis, interpretation 

Academic Integrity ensures:

• Fairness to students
• All students have the same opportunities
• Everyone receives appropriate credit for their work
• Academic honor
• A culture of civility 

Failure to uphold academic integrity:

• Diminishes degree value
• Threatens the credibility of the institution and students 

The benchmarks of any great university are high academic standards and academic integrity.  Academic integrity is the hallmark of truth and honesty in an engaged university community.  Students have the right and responsibility to pursue their educational goals with academic integrity.  All members of the university are accountable for their actions in maintaining high standards of academic integrity.  Students are responsible for completing academic requirements without action and/or material that violate academic integrity.  

See Section 3.0 of Student Handbook for academic integrity definitions, violations, and sanctions.  For a description of the complete process of reporting and adjudication of the University’s academic integrity policy visit: www.usi.edu/deanofstudents/code.

Policy on Alcoholic Beverages and Illegal Drugs

The University of Southern Indiana prohibits the illegal manufacture, purchase, possession, use, consumption, sale, transfer, exchange, and/or distribution of or being under the influence of drugs and alcohol by students, employees, and visitors on University-owned or -controlled property, including University owned or -leased vehicles, or as part of any University activity as that term is defined by the University.

The University expects the cooperation and commitment of all students and employees in maintaining an environment free of illicit drugs and illegal use of alcohol. Students and other campus constituents are deemed to be adults responsible for their own behavior and are expected to obey the law and University rules regarding drugs and alcohol. For more information on University drug and alcohol policies, see Section 2.1 of Student Handbook.

The dean of students is charged with the development and administration of the University of Southern Indiana student conduct process. Under the supervision of the dean of students, the following individuals will be charged with the execution of conduct proceedings:

• Assistant Dean of Students
• Assistant Director for Student Conduct – Housing and Residence Life
• Director of Residence Life
• Director of Student Development Programs
• Additional staff members in the University community as deemed appropriate and as trained by the dean of students

The aforementioned individuals may conduct meetings and hearings with students who may have violated any University policy, including those found in Student Handbook, USI University housing community standards (Appendix B of Student Handbook), and USI student organization policies (Appendix C of Student Handbook).

Campus policy on drug and alcohol abuse is monitored by the University CARE Team comprised of administrators, faculty, and staff who recommend policy changes as needed.

Weapons/Explosives/Hazardous Materials

The President of the United States in October of 1970 signed into law a crime control bill which makes campus bombings a federal crime. The law allows “the full force of the FBI” to move in to investigate bombing attacks instead of waiting for a request from University authorities. The law also makes it a federal offense to transmit false bomb threats and restricts the sale and possession of explosives. The transfer, possession, use of, or sale of weapons, including, but not limited to explosives, fireworks, and firearms (or other lethal weapons) are not allowed on any University -owned or -controlled property. A student who violates regulations regarding explosives, weapons, and fireworks is subject to disciplinary action by the University. This action may be taken in addition to any civil action. (See Section 2.11 of Student Handbook)

Policy on Sales and Solicitations

No canvassing, peddling, soliciting, distributing, or posting of any written or printed material by non-University individuals or organizations is permitted on the grounds or in the buildings or on equipment or networks owned/operated by the University without the written permission of the president. Such solicitations that are prohibited include the use of electronic mail and web page solicitations. Any activity in violation of this policy should be reported to the Office of the Dean of Students.

Students and employees are not permitted to solicit, canvas, or peddle any items, distribute or post any unauthorized material within the buildings or through equipment or networks owned/ operated by the University or on the grounds of the University without the written permission of the president or designate. Such solicitations that are prohibited include the use of electronic mail and Web page solicitations. Any activity that violates this policy should be reported to the Office of the President.

Approved solicitations include the annual United Way campaign and various Foundation and University solicitations. Other activities may be approved for projects and/or programs that are of direct interest and value to the University. Students and employees may donate as generously as they wish, as the University does not imply any obligation on the part of the individual to contribute. Contributions to charitable and welfare programs and activities are entirely matters of individual discretion.

Sales, solicitations, and distributions are permitted by officially registered campus organizations only if they are for the general benefit of the University and/or the community and have received authorization of the president or a designate. Application for approval for sales and solicitations events (including athletic events and events held in Residence Life areas) may be initiated with the student scheduler. Generally, sales and solicitations are limited to three days in a 30-day period and not more than twice a semester. Authorization to sell on campus does not constitute an endorsement by the University of either the product sold or the service rendered. The University of Southern Indiana and the USI Foundation do not recognize fund-raising efforts using games of chance, such as raffles, door prizes, half-pots, or bingos as methods for raising charitable funds. Neither the University nor the USI Foundation is a qualified organization licensed by the Indiana Department of Revenue, Charity Gaming Division, to conduct such activities. Student groups and University support groups are encouraged to solicit funds in other ways. For information, contact the director of Development.

Sales and soliciting groups or individuals are expected to adhere to the following regulations:

• The use of sound equipment (tv, stereo, amplifiers, public address system) is restricted; permission to use such must be obtained from Scheduling Services.
• Groups must display a printed sign no smaller than 18” x 24” signifying the name of the organization hosting the sale or solicitation.
• For-profit entities must have a retail sales permit available at the scheduled activity. (A currently-enrolled student representing the sponsoring group or organization must be present at all times.)
• Groups or individuals must have written confirmation for the scheduled event available at the scheduled event.

Space in the University Center may be reserved by a registered student organization. The University Center may be used by registered student organizations for conducting campus-wide elections, distributing literature relating to student organizations, recruiting membership for student organizations, and activities, sales, and solicitations.

Failure to comply with the above policy will result in referral to the appropriate disciplinary process and could result in the loss of solicitation privileges. (See Section 2.25 and Appendix C of Student Handbook for more information on student organization policies.)

Identification Card for Students

A student identification card (called the Eagle Access Card) is provided to each student. Cards can be obtained from the Eagle Access Card Office located in the University Center. A fee of $10 will be charged a student who makes application to replace an Eagle Access Card.

It is against University regulations for any person to alter in any way the information contained on the Eagle Access Card, or to allow the card to be used by another person (whether a student or not). This card must be carried with the student at all times and must be shown upon request. An Eagle Access Card is required for admission to athletic events, participation in intramurals, admission to the USI Recreation and Fitness Center, and to check out materials from Rice Library.

A student who misuses and/or alters an Eagle Access Card, or who fails to present the card at the request of a University official, is subject to disciplinary action. (See Section 2.15 of Student Handbook). More information on the Eagle Access Card can be found at www.usi.edu/book/studevel/eaccess.asp.

Immunization Notice

All students entering the University for the first time and/or living in University housing must meet the immunization requirements of the University and Indiana Code 20-12-71 enacted by the 2002 Indiana General Assembly. To comply with requirements, you must provide current documentation of the following immunizations:

• two measles, one mumps, and one rubella (2 MMR vaccines acceptable; first MMR must be given after 1967 and not before first birthday), or a physician’s written statement of immunity to measles and mumps due to having had the infection. You may submit a blood titer as documentation of MMR immunity. The titer must show immunity to rubeola, rubella, and mumps. It must be signed by a physician and must show the name of the medical laboratory performing the titer. Students born before January 1, 1957, are exempt from the MMR requirement;
• tetanus/diphtheria (Td booster) within past 10 years – tetanus toxoid NOT ACCEPTABLE;
• tuberculin skin test (Mantoux only) prior to the start of the first semester at USI, no earlier than six months for American citizens and six weeks prior for international students. Must be administered and read in the United States by a registered nurse or physician within 48-72 hours. Must have the signature of the registered nurse or physician reading the results to be valid.
• All students MUST read and sign the Meningococcal and Hepatitis B Risk Acknowledgement Form and return it with the Immunization Form in order to complete the file.
• A student who fails to meet immunization requirements without an approved exception is subject to an immunization hold which will prevent registration for the following semester until compliance is met. 

The University has the obligation to protect the campus community from any potential contagious disease.  Any student who tests positive for TB or latent TB and is directed by the Department of Health to take medication to prevent becoming actively infected and contagious must comply with this request.  This is particularly important for those students living in University housing where disease can spread rapidly.  Students who refuse to take the medication as directed by the Department of Health will be required to meet with the Dean of Students or Designee and their situation will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis to determine potential community impact.  The final determination will be made in consultation with the University CARE Team and other appropriate administrators. 

In an effort to assist students meet compliance, the University Health Center (UHC) will, when possible, work in collaboration with the Indiana State Department of Health to provide the medication to students through the UHC so they will not be required to travel outside campus to get it.  Per the Department of Health process, the UHC will give the students the medication in 30 day increments and will track when they come in to pick up their next 30 day supply.  Students who have not picked up their medication supply by the last day of the month will have a hold placed on their account by the UHC and will be notified via their USI email account.  Students who fail to go to the UHC to pick up their medication as agreed or who miss refill times may be referred to the Dean of Students Office for the appropriate follow-up.  Please note in instances where the University is not authorized by the Indiana State Department of Health to dispense the medication, students will be required to make their own arrangements to pick up the medication directly from the Department of Health.  Students who fail comply with the State and University’s immunization requirement may lose the privilege to live on-campus and face other University measures as appropriate.

For further information contact the Student Immunization Office at 812/461-5285. The documentation must be mailed, delivered, or faxed to the USI Student Immunization Office prior to the start of the student’s first semester at USI. The office is located in the lower level of the Health Professions Center, room 0102. The Student Immunization Office fax number is 812/461-5284. More information and a downloadable immunization form can be found online at www.usi.edu/studenthealth/immunization.asp.

Health Insurance Requirements for International Students

All international students (F-1 or J-1 visa holders and J-1 dependents) are required to have adequate health insurance while enrolled at the University of Southern Indiana. The University health insurance program offers comprehensive coverage designed for international students who will be billed for the cost of this program at the beginning of the academic year for coverage from August 15 to August 14.

The USI health insurance coverage may be waived if the student already has adequate health insurance. Students must provide an insurance certificate or other documentation in English, showing that health insurance meets the minimum requirements.

Minimum coverage must provide:

• medical benefits of at least $50,000 per accident or illness
• repatriation of remains in the amount of $25,000
• expenses associated with medical evacuation to student’s home country in the amount of $25,000
• a deductible (the amount you pay) not to exceed $500 per accident or illness
• coverage for August-July (for students beginning in fall) or January-July (for students beginning in spring)
• the insurance policy must be underwritten by an insurance corporation having an A.M. Best rating of A- or above, or the endorsement of the student’s government.

Contact the director of International Programs and Services if you have any questions regarding this requirement.