Section Three, Health/Safety Policies and Procedures

Anti-Hazing Policy

Hazing involving Argosy University students or student groups is strictly prohibited. Hazing is defined as any action or situation that recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of initiation or admission into or affiliation with any club or organization operating under the sanction of an institution of higher education.

For purposes of this definition, any activity as described in this definition that the initiation or admission into or affiliation with a club or organization is directly or indirectly conditioned shall be presumed to be “forced” activity, the willingness of an individual to participate in such activity notwithstanding. This policy is applicable to all students and members of a student club or organization at Argosy University. Every student and member of a student club or organization is responsible for complying with this policy.

Individuals and/or student clubs that force, require, and/or endorse violations will be referred to the Student Conduct Committee and, if appropriate, to the local authorities, which may pursue criminal action. Students who wish to make a complaint under this policy should contact the director of Student Services at their campus of residence. The negligence or consent of a student or any assumption of risk by the student is not a defense to an action brought pursuant to this policy. Student club activities or programs must not interfere with the rights and activities of others and should always reflect the best interests of the members of the organization it represents and the Argosy University community as a whole. In all cases of alleged violations of this policy, faculty and staff advisors and the national/international headquarters, if applicable, of any organization will be notified.

No Harassment Policy

Argosy University is committed to providing workplaces and learning environments that are free from harassment on the basis of any protected classification including, but not limited to race, sex, gender, color, religion, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, genetic marker, medical condition, marital status, veteran’s status or on any other basis protected by law. Such conduct is unprofessional, unproductive, illegal, and generally considered bad for business. Consequently, all conduct of this nature is expressly prohibited, regardless of whether it violates any law.

Definition of Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment consists of unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature where:

1. Submission to such conduct is an explicit or implicit term or condition of a person’s status in a course, program or activity or in admission, or in an academic decision;
2. Submission to or rejection of such conduct is used as a basis for an academic decision; or
3. Such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s work or academic performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work or educational environment.

Sexual violence is considered to be a form of sexual harassment and is defined as physical sexual acts perpetrated against a person’s will or where a person is incapable of giving consent to the victim’s use of drugs or alcohol.

Examples of sexual harassment include, but are not limited to: unwanted sexual advances; demands for sexual favors in exchange for favorable treatment; verbal abuse of a sexual nature; graphic commentary about an individual’s body, sexual prowess, or sexual deficiencies; leering; whistling; touching; pinching; assault; coerced sexual acts; suggestive, insulting or obscene comments or gestures; stalking; and displaying sexually suggestible objects or pictures. Argosy University prohibits all conduct of this nature whether or not such conduct violates any applicable laws.

Other Forms of Harassment

Verbal abuse, insulting comments and gestures, and other harassing conduct are also forbidden under this policy when directed at an individual because of his or her race, color, sex, sexual orientation, familial status, age, religion, ethnic origin, genetic marker, or disability. It is the responsibility of each employee and each student to conduct himself or herself in a professional manner at all times and to refrain from such harassment.

Complaint Procedure

Students who feel they have been harassed should follow the Student Grievance Procedure for Internal Complaints of Discrimination and Harassment  described in Section Two, Institutional Policies . Students who have been subjected to sexual violence should also review the “Policy Concerning Sexual Violence” and ”Programs and Procedures Regarding Sexual Assault“ described below and also available in the Student Services department. Regardless if a complaint is filed under the “Student Grievance Procedure for Internal Complaints of Discrimination and Harassment ,” promptly after learning of such alleged conduct, Argosy University will conduct an investigation for the purpose of determining whether prohibited harassment has occurred. Efforts will be made to ensure confidentiality to the extent consistent with the goal of conducting an appropriate investigation. Students who initiate or participate in such investigations in good faith will be protected against subsequent harassment and school-related retaliation. If an investigation confirms the allegations, Argosy University will take prompt corrective action, which may include discipline, up to and including immediate dismissal.

Policy Concerning Sexual Violence

Sexual violence refers to physical sexual acts perpetrated against a person’s will or where a person is incapable of giving consent due to the victim’s use of drugs or alcohol. Sexual violence includes rape, sexual assault, sexual battery and sexual coercion. Sexual violence is considered a form of sexual harassment, and is therefore a form of sex discrimination. Acts involving sexual violence, sexual harassment or sex discrimination are not tolerated by Argosy University. Complaints of sexual violence should be made to the Director of Student Services or designee.

Upon learning of possible sexual violence involving a student, Argosy University will take immediate action to investigate or otherwise determine what happened. Such action may include, but is not limited to, speaking with the alleged victim, the alleged perpetrator and other potential witness as appropriate and reviewing other evidence such as calendars, videos, phone records, etc.

If Argosy University determines that sexual violence may have occurred, Argosy University will take steps proactively designed to promptly and effectively end the sexual violence or the threat of sexual violence, prevent its recurrence, and address its effects regardless of whether the alleged actions are subject to criminal investigation.

Argosy University will use good faith efforts to protect the alleged victim from any hostile environment at the school and any subsequent harassment or retaliation. Such efforts may occur prior to the outcome of the investigation and may include:

1. Reporting any subsequent harassment or retaliation to the Director of Student Services or designee
2. Providing an escort to ensure the alleged victim can move safely between classes and activities
3. Ensuring that the alleged victim and the alleged perpetrator do not attend the same classes
4. Providing referral to counseling services or providers
5. Providing academic support services, such as tutoring
6. Arranging for the victim to re-take a course or withdraw from a class without penalty.

Disciplinary Actions and Sanctions

On-campus disciplinary procedures against students will be in accordance with the published “Argosy University Ethical Code of Conduct ” (see Section Four, Student Rights and Responsibilities ) and the “Student Grievance Procedure for Internal Complaints of Discrimination and Harassment ” (See Section Two, Institutional Policies ). Both the accuser and the accused are entitled to have others present during a disciplinary proceeding. Both will be informed of the outcome of any campus disciplinary proceeding. For this purpose, the outcome of a disciplinary proceeding means only Argosy University’s final determination with respect to the alleged sexual offense and any sanction that is imposed against the accused. Sanctions, which may be imposed following a final determination of a disciplinary proceeding regarding rape, acquaintance rape, or other forcible or non-forcible sex offenses, may include warning, probation, suspension or dismissal.

Students who have been subjected to sexual violence are encouraged to review the following policies:

• Section Two, Institutional Policies  
  • Non-Discrimination Policy  
  • Student Grievance Procedure for Internal Complaints of Discrimination and Harassment  
• Section Three, Health/Safety Policies and Procedures  
  • No Harassment Policy
  • Programs and Procedures Regarding Sexual Assault

Programs and Procedures Regarding Sexual Assault

Educational programs promoting the awareness of rape, acquaintance rape, and other sex offenses are presented by the Director of Student Services or designee. Guest speakers present discussions on rape awareness, reducing the risk of being a rape victim, and what to do if you are attacked. Brochures on sexual assault issues are available in the Student Services Department. Should a student be sexually assaulted, it is the student(s) option to notify the appropriate law enforcement authorities, including on-campus authorities and local police. At the student’s request, security, Director of Student Services, the Executive Committee or other Argosy University campus officials will assist in notifying the proper authorities. Victims of sexual assault or rape should follow these recommended steps:

• Go to a safe place following the attack.
• Do not shower, bathe or destroy any of the clothing you were wearing at the time of the attack.
• Go to a hospital emergency room for medical care.
• Make sure you are evaluated for the risk of pregnancy and venereal disease.
• (A medical examination is the only way to ensure you are not injured and it could provide valuable evidence should you decide to prosecute.) Call someone to be with you, you should not be alone.

It is also recommended that victims call a local 24 hour rape crisis hotline that can help answer medical and emotional questions at any hour and in complete confidence (refer to the Student Services Department and/or the Student Portal for area resources). Reporting the rape to the police is up to the victim, but it is important to remember that reporting a rape is not the same as prosecuting a rape. Victims are strongly encouraged to call the police and report the rape. If the victim requests, the Argosy University campus will assist in identifying off-campus counseling or mental health services. After any campus sexual assaults are reported, the victims of such crimes have the right to request that Argosy University campus personnel take steps or actions reasonably feasible to prevent any unnecessary or unwanted contact or proximity with alleged assailants, including relocation in area housing, if applicable or the transfer of classes.

Florida disclaimer:

In recognition of our commitment to Florida’s “Protecting Our Children from Sexual Predators Act,” please be advised that the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) maintains a sexual predator and sexual offender registry website, which can be located at: https://offender.fdle.state.fl.us/offender/homepage.do. The FDLE compiles and provides the information on that website for public access pursuant to Florida law. In addition, the FDLE Registration & Compliance Unit also maintains a toll-free number, 1-888-357-7332, which provides access to the same public information.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding this law, please contact the director of Student Services at the campus of residence.

Disciplinary Actions and Sanctions

On-campus disciplinary procedures against students will be in accordance with Argosy University’s published Student Conduct Policy (see “Student Conduct Committee ” under Section Four, Student Rights and Responsibilities ) and the Student Grievance Procedure for Internal Complaints of Discrimination and Harassment  (see Section Two, Institutional Policies ). Both the accuser and the accused are entitled to have others present during a disciplinary proceeding. Both will be informed of the outcome of any campus disciplinary proceeding. For this purpose, the outcome of a disciplinary proceeding means only Argosy University’s final determination with respect to the alleged sexual offense and any sanction that is imposed against the accused. Sanctions, which may be imposed following a final determination of a disciplinary proceeding regarding rape, acquaintance rape, or other forcible or non-forcible sex offenses, may include warning, probation, suspension or dismissal.

Reporting an Assault

In the event of an assault on campus, victims should first call 911 for immediate help. A complete report of an assault on campus should be made promptly to a campus official, preferably within 48 hours of the occurrence. Faculty, administration, and staff are required to provide immediate support and assistance to the victim. At the victim’s request, the campus president or any administrator will assist victims in filing criminal charges with the appropriate law enforcement officials. In the event of an assault against a student or employee occurring off-campus, victims should call 911 to request police assistance and to report the crime in the jurisdiction in which the crime occurred. Argosy University will assist law enforcement authorities for the purposes of obtaining, securing, and maintaining evidence in connection with any alleged crime of violence committed on campus.

Reporting Health or Safety Hazards

Students should immediately report health or safety hazards to the campus president or designee. Any accident or injury, no matter how slight, must also be reported immediately.

Campus Security

Argosy University publishes an annual security report that contains information concerning policies and programs relating to campus security, crimes and emergencies, the prevention of crimes and sexual offenses, drug and alcohol use, campus law enforcement and access to campus facilities. The annual security report also includes statistics concerning the occurrence of specified types of crimes on campus, at certain off-campus locations, and on the public property surrounding the campus. The annual security report is published each year by October 1 and contains statistics for the three most recent calendar years. The annual security report is provided to all current students and employees. A copy of the most recent annual security report may be obtained from the Student Services office department during regular business hours.

In addition to the annual security report, Argosy University maintains a crime log recording all reported crimes. The crime log is available for public inspection during regular business hours at the Student Services Department office. Argosy University will report to the campus community concerning the occurrence of any crime includable in the annual security report that is reported to the Student Services department or local police and that is considered to be a threat to students or employees.

Argosy University reminds all students that they are ultimately responsible for their own actions regarding their safety and welfare.

Drug-Free Workplace and Campus

The use of illegal drugs and the abuse of alcohol on the campuses of Argosy University or in facilities controlled by Argosy University are prohibited by college regulations and are incompatible with the Argosy University goal of providing a healthy educational environment for students, faculty, staff and guests. The following information is provided in compliance with the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989.

Effects of Drugs and Alcohol

Although individuals often use drugs and alcohol to achieve a variety of effects on mind and body that are found to be temporarily useful or pleasurable, drugs can be highly addictive and injurious. A person can pay a price in terms of his or her physical, emotional, and social health. This price can be paid in a number of ways. The risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases, including AIDS, is increased through unwanted or unprotected sex when one is under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Drugs can be the trigger for violent crime. Economic and legal problems usually follow directly when one tries to support a drug habit by resorting to crime. The dependence, illness, loss of job, and loss of family or friends that can result from drug or alcohol use and abuse can be tragic. In keeping with the mission of Argosy University and the requirements of state and federal law, Argosy University has adopted this policy to ensure a drug-free campus and workplace and to prevent the use of controlled substances and the abuse of alcohol.

Health Risks Associated with the Use of Alcohol

Short-Term Risks

• Increased risks of accidents and injuries
• Alcohol-related traffic accidents (the leading cause of death for teens)
• Alcohol slows reaction time, decreases muscle coordination, and impairs vision
• Fatal overdose
• Unconsciousness or blackout
• Death by aspiration of vomit
• Nausea
• Gastritis

Long-Term Risks

• Increased blood pressure
• Increased risk of heart attack
• Brain damage resulting in permanent psychosis
• Cancer of the mouth, esophagus or stomach
• Liver damage (cirrhosis, alcohol hepatitis, cancer)
• Ulcers and gastritis
• Pancreatitis
• Birth defects
• In males — testicular atrophy and breast enlargement
• In females — increased risk of breast cancer
• Prolonged, excessive drinking can shorten life span by ten to twelve years.

Health Risks Associated with the Use of Drugs

Amphetamines (Speed, Uppers)

• Malnutrition
• Hallucinations
• Dependence, psychological and sometimes physical

Deliriants (Aerosols, Lighter Fluid, Paint Thinner)

• Permanent damage to lungs, brain, liver, bone marrow
• Loss of coordination, confusion, hallucinations
• Overdose causing convulsions, death

Depressants (Barbiturates, Tranquilizers, Methaqualone)

• Confusion, depression, loss of coordination
• Dependence, physical and psychological
• Coma, death (caused by overdose)
• Can be lethal when combined with alcohol

Hallucinogens (LSD, PCP, DMT, STP, Mescaline)

• Hallucinations, panic, irrational behaviors (which can lead to increased risk of accidents, injuries)
• Tolerance overdose leading to convulsions, coma, death
• Possible birth defects in children of LSD users

Intravenous Drug Use

• Places one at risk for HIV infection (the virus causing AIDS) when needles are shared

Marijuana and Hashish

• Chronic bronchitis
• Decreased vital capacity
• Increased risk of lung cancer
• In men — lower levels of testosterone and increase in abnormal sperm count

Stimulants (Cocaine)

• Painful nosebleeds and nasal erosion
• Intense “downs” that result in physical and/or emotional discomfort
• Tolerance and physical dependence can develop

Narcotics (Heroin, Morphine, Codeine, Opium)

• Malnutrition
• Hepatitis
• Loss of judgment and self-control leading to increased risk of accidents, injuries
• Dependence
• Overdose leading to convulsions, coma, death

Sanctions

Argosy University Sanctions

Argosy University, in all of its actions, seeks to uphold local, state and federal laws. Insofar as permitted by these laws, Argosy University will apply sanctions that could lead to a student being fined, suspended or expelled or an employee being disciplined, suspended or dismissed for violation of the Argosy University standards of conduct. Students and employees may also be referred for prosecution. Disciplinary sanctions may include the completion of an appropriate rehabilitation program, at the student’s or employee’s expense, if necessary.

General State Laws

Individuals under 21 may not purchase, accept as a gift, or possess alcoholic beverages on any street or highway or other public place. Consumption by minors is expressly prohibited. Licensees to sell alcoholic beverages are prohibited from selling, giving, or delivering alcoholic beverages to anyone under 21 years of age. It is unlawful for anyone of legal age to purchase or obtain alcoholic beverages and then sell, give, or deliver them to a minor. Please refer to the drug policy located on your campus student consumer information (SCI) page for penalties specific to your location or contact your student services office to obtain a hard copy.

Federal Sanctions

Federal penalties and sanctions for illegal possession of a controlled substance include the following: First conviction: up to 1 year in prison, fine of $1,000 to $100,000, or both Second conviction: at least 15 days and up to 2 years imprisonment, $5,000 to $250,000 fine, or both After two drug convictions: at least 90 days and up to 3 years in prison, $5,000 to $250,000 fine, or both. Special federal sentencing provisions for possession of crack cocaine include a mandatory prison term of at least 5 years and up to 20 years, fine of up to $250,000, or both, for a first conviction if the amount of crack exceeds 5 grams, for a second conviction if amount exceeds 3 grams, and for a third or subsequent conviction if the amount exceeds 1 gram.

Additional federal sanctions may also apply including forfeiture of vehicles used to transport controlled substances, denial of federal benefits including student loans, grants, and contracts and denial or revocation of certain federal licenses and benefits (Exhibit A).
 

Convictions for Drug-Related Offenses

Any student convicted of any drug-related criminal statute must notify the director of Student Services, in writing, no later than five (5) days after such conviction regardless of where the offense occurred. This is because under federal and state laws, any student convicted of a drug-related felony offense must be denied all federal and state assistance, including Pell Grants and state-specific grants. However, a criminal conviction shall not be necessary to find that a student has violated these standards of conduct, and Argosy University need not, and ordinarily will not, defer its own actions and sanctions pending the outcome of any criminal proceeding.

Danger Signals Indicating a Drug or Alcohol Problem

Following is a listing of classic danger signals that may indicate the presence of a drug or alcohol problem:

• Abrupt changes in mood or attitude
• Decreased efficiency at work or at school
• Frequent absences, tardiness, and/or early departures
• Relationship problems with family, friends, and co-workers
• Unusual outbursts of anger and hostility
• Social withdrawal

Counseling, Treatment, or Rehabilitation Program

If you observe any of these changes in yourself or another student, you are encouraged to talk with an academic advisor in the Student Services department.

Abuse of alcohol or drugs can lead to dependency and addiction, with serious consequences for personal health and overall quality of life. There are drug and alcohol counseling, treatment, and rehabilitation facilities available in our area where students and employees may seek advice and treatment. The academic advisor can refer you to one that meets your needs.

Resources

There are also organizations that may be contacted for help. Talk One-2-One (888.619.3362) is a resource that students may use and is available 24 hours a day. The National Institute on Drug Abuse Hotline (1.800.662.4357) is available from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m., Monday through Friday and from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. on weekends.

A list of emergency and sliding-fee scale resources is available from the Student Services department.

Suicide Prevention Policy

Procedures Following Suicide Threats and Attempts

Argosy University is committed to the well-being and safety of its university community. Argosy University expects and encourages students to maintain a reasonable concern for their own self-welfare and in turn, the welfare of the university community. In the event that Argosy University has reasonable cause to believe that a student attempted, will attempt, or has engaged in efforts to prepare to commit suicide, the campus may require the student to suspend their studies at Argosy University until the student can demonstrate that they have sought help or assistance from others including family, mental health professionals, support groups or any other resource that offer support around suicidality.

Students with psychological impairments that affect the student’s ability to function in the university community (academically, socially or otherwise) may opt for a medical withdrawal or a medical leave of absence. Students who need to be hospitalized due to a suicide attempt and/or suicidal ideation may be asked to demonstrate that they are safe by providing appropriate documentation from a licensed mental healthcare provider stating that the student can safely return to the university and is not believed by the healthcare provider to present a threat to harm himself/herself or others. Notwithstanding, the university at its discretion may set restrictions and/or conditions for the student to return to the university including receiving outside counseling and signing a safety contract.

Argosy University cannot provide the long-term psychological treatment that is necessary for students experiencing suicidal distress. Because of the serious nature of attempted suicide and/or suicidal ideation, the student’s parents or other support person(s) may be contacted by the university and informed of the student’s condition. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) permits university officials to contact parents without the student’s consent, “if knowledge of the information is necessary to protect the health and safety of the student or other individuals.” If circumstances indicate further harm may come to a student by contacting family members, other options may apply.

Health and Immunization

Health Sciences Program Requirements

Safety considerations and procedures regarding disease are a primary consideration at Argosy University. Prior to enrollment, students are required to submit written documentation that their health will permit them to meet the requirements of their chosen field. All students must provide a completed current health form, which, along with a signed technical standards form required of all students enrolled in health sciences programs, will be maintained in their files. The health form must be in the student’s file within 30 days of the beginning of classes or the student’s registration for the semester will be canceled.

Minnesota Requirements

In an effort to control the spread of disease, Argosy University conforms to Minnesota state requirements that all students have the following current vaccinations: measles, mumps, rubella (after achieving the age of 12 months, or recent evidence of immunity) and diphtheria/tetanus booster (within ten years of starting date). Students who were born before 1957 are exempt from this requirement. Students who graduated from a Minnesota high school in 1997 or later are exempt from this requirement, as the student will have met the requirements as a high school student. Hepatitis B vaccination is also required for all human allied health programs prior to clinical training. Rabies vaccination is strongly recommended for all veterinary technician students. Those students who will be taking the wildlife course (VET260 - Wildlife Handling ) will be required to have the rabies vaccination series prior to the start of the class.

Hawai’i Requirements

The state of Hawai’i requires that all students enrolled in Hawai’i institutions of higher education show proof of measles, mumps, and rubella immunization (MMR), a measles #2 booster, and a tuberculosis test (TB). Medical Clearance Cards will be issued to students in compliance with these requirements and are valid for four years from the date of the student’s last TB test. Forms can be obtained from the Student Services Department. Students will not be permitted to register without a valid Medical Clearance Card.

Medical Responsibility and Risks

When enrolling at Argosy University, the student accepts full financial responsibility for all medical treatment and care and/or disability costs for any illness and/or injury incurred while on campus or at an Argosy University-affiliated clinical training site. While on clinical training/practicum/internship, students will adhere to standard health policies at their respective facilities. The student understands that neither Argosy University nor the affiliated clinical training/ practicum/ internship facilities carry medical insurance or Workers’ Compensation coverage for students of Argosy University. Argosy University will not accept responsibility for medical or other costs incurred by sick or injured students while on an Argosy University campus or on clinical training/practicum/internship.

Health Insurance

Optional health insurance is available to students through an outside agency. International students are strongly encouraged to obtain health insurance while studying in the United States. Contact the Student Services Department for information.

Liability Insurance

All students involved in clinical training/practicum/internship must have liability insurance. Enrollment in the Argosy University Student Liability Insurance Plan occurs with the registration process.

No Smoking Policy

Argosy University provides a non-smoking work and study environment. 

Firearms Policy

It is the responsibility of all employees, students, alumni and all others to adhere to the provisions set forth in this policy and to report any known violations of this policy to Human Resources or a member of management.

It is the responsibility of management and Human Resources to enforce compliance with this policy and to take corrective action when necessary.

Conditions/Guidelines:

a. This Policy applies to anyone on university premises, unless otherwise prohibited by law.

b. Firearms, including concealed weapons, are not permitted on university premises and/or at university events, except that sworn members of a law enforcement agency acting in performance of their duties and/or employees of a licensed armored car service providing contracted services to Argosy University or to university vendors and contractors (where approved by Argosy University) may carry weapons.

c. Firearms are not permitted in any vehicle while the vehicle is parked on university property, whether said property is owned or leased by the university or provided to Argosy University for its use, except where otherwise required by law.

d. Any employee or student who becomes aware of a violation of this policy should immediately notify Human Resources, the President or a member of management or a member of school staff.

Violation of this policy is considered a serious offense that endangers the safety of anyone on university premises. Any person violating this policy may be required to leave university premises. Employees violating this policy are subject to discipline, up to and including termination. Students violating this policy are subject to suspension or dismissal from school.