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, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, disability, medical condition, marital status, veteran’s status, genetic marker, 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. (Please note that sexual harassment is more thoroughly addressed in the Sexual Misconduct & Relationship Violence Policy.)
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.
Sexual Misconduct & Relationship Violence Policy; Procedures for Handling Sexual Misconduct and Relationship Violence Complaints
Argosy University values civility, dignity, diversity, education, honesty, and safety and is firmly committed to maintaining a campus environment free from all forms of sex discrimination, sexual harassment, and sexual assault. Sexual Misconduct and Relationship Violence, defined more specifically below, are inconsistent with these values, violate institutional policy, and will not be tolerated at Argosy University and are expressly prohibited. Similarly, retaliation for having brought forward a concern or allegation or for participating in an investigation of a report of Sexual Misconduct or Relationship Violence is also expressly prohibited and is grounds for disciplinary action.
This Policy provides information regarding how an individual – whether a student, faculty member, or staff member – can make a report of Sexual Misconduct or Relationship Violence impacting a student and how Argosy University will proceed once it is made aware of any such report.
For faculty and staff members who believe they are the victim of sexual misconduct, please follow our No Harassment policy in the Employee Handbook.
I. Preliminary Issues & Important Definitions
This Policy prohibits “Sexual Misconduct” and “Relationship Violence,” broad categories encompassing the conduct defined below. Sexual Misconduct and Relationship Violence can be committed by anyone, including third parties, and can occur between people of the same sex or different sexes and regardless of one’s biological sex or transgendered sex. This policy applies to Sexual Misconduct and Relationship Violence that is committed against a student when that Sexual Misconduct or Relationship Violence occurs: (i) on campus; (ii) off-campus if in connection with a School-sponsored program or activity or in student housing; or (iii) off-campus if allegedly perpetrated by a fellow student, faculty member, staff member, or third party when the victim/reporting student reasonably believes that the off-campus conduct has created a hostile educational environment.
A. What is “Sexual Misconduct”?
Sexual Misconduct includes:
- Sexual Assault: Having or attempting to have sexual intercourse, cunnilingus, or fellatio without Consent (as defined below). Sexual intercourse is defined as anal or vaginal penetration by a penis, tongue, finger, or inanimate object.
- Non-Consensual Sexual Contact: Any intentional sexual touching with any body part or object by any person upon any person without Consent.
- Sexual Exploitation: An act attempted or committed through the abuse or exploitation of another person’s sexuality. Examples include, but are not limited to, prostituting another student; inducing a student into sexual intercourse, sexual contact, or other sexual activity by implicit or explicit threat of exposure of personal information or academic consequences; non-consensual video or audio-taping of sexual activity; allowing others to observe a personal consensual sexual act without the knowledge or Consent of all involved parties; and knowingly transmitting or exposing another person to a sexually transmitted infection without the person’s knowledge.
- Indecent Exposure: the exposure of the private or intimate parts of the body in a lewd manner in public or in private premises when the accused may be readily observed.
- Sexual Harassment: unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other physical or verbal conduct of a sexual nature when it meets any of the following: (a) Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual’s academic status; or (b) Submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis for academic decisions affecting such individual; or (c) 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 environment for working, learning, or living on campus.
B. What is “Relationship Violence”?
Relationship Violence includes:
- Domestic Violence: Violence, including but not limited to sexual or physical abuse or the threat of such abuse, committed by a current or former spouse or intimate partner or any other person from whom the student is protected under federal or applicable state law.
- Dating Violence: Violence, including but not limited to sexual or physical abuse or the threat of such abuse, committed by a person who is or has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with the alleged victim. The existence of such a relationship is generally determined based on a consideration of the length and type of relationship and the frequency of interaction.
- Stalking: A course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to fear for their own safety or the safety of others or suffer substantial emotional distress. A course of conduct means two or more acts in which a person directly, indirectly or through third parties, by any action, method, device or means, follows, monitors, observes, surveils, threatens, or communicates to or about a person or interferes with a person’s property.
The following also constitute violations of this Policy:
- Complicity: Assisting, facilitating, or encouraging the commission of a violation of this Policy.
- Retaliation: Acts or attempted acts for the purpose of interfering with any report, investigation, or proceeding under this Policy, or as retribution or revenge against anyone who has reported Sexual Misconduct or Relationship Violence or who has participated (or is expected to participate) in any manner in an investigation, or proceeding under this Policy. Prohibited retaliatory acts include, but are not limited to, intimidation, threats, coercion, or discrimination. To be clear, retaliation against a Complainant for reporting an incident or against any witness who participates in an investigation is strictly prohibited.
C. Who are “Complainants” and “Respondents”?
Argosy University is not a court of law. We also do not engage in victim-blaming or rushes to judgment. Therefore, without judgment, we refer to anyone who reports that s/he has experienced Sexual Misconduct as a “Complainant” and to anyone who reportedly has engaged in Sexual Misconduct as a “Respondent.”
D. Defining Consent
In many cases of Sexual Misconduct, the central issue is consent or the ability to give consent. Consent is a voluntary agreement to engage in sexual activity. Consent to engage in sexual activity must exist from beginning to end of each instance of sexual activity. Past Consent does not imply future Consent, and Consent to engage in one form of sexual activity does not imply Consent to engage in a different form of sexual activity. Consent is demonstrated through mutually understandable words and/or actions that clearly indicate a willingness to engage in a specific sexual activity. Consent must be knowing and voluntary. To give Consent, a person must be awake, of legal age, and have the capacity to reasonably understand the nature of her/his actions. Individuals who are physically or mentally incapacitated cannot give Consent.
Silence, without actions evidencing permission, does not demonstrate Consent. Where force, threats, or coercion is alleged, the absence of resistance does not demonstrate Consent. Force, threats, or coercion invalidates Consent. The responsibility of obtaining Consent rests with the person initiating sexual activity. Use of alcohol or drugs does not diminish one’s responsibility to obtain Consent or negate one’s intent.
Consent to engage in sexual activity may be withdrawn by either person at any time. Once withdrawal of Consent has been clearly expressed, the sexual activity must cease.
Incapacitation is the inability, temporarily or permanently, to give Consent, because the individual is mentally and/or physically helpless due to drug or alcohol consumption, either voluntarily or involuntarily, due to an intellectual or other disability that prevents the student from having the capacity to give Consent, or the individual is unconscious, asleep or otherwise unaware that the sexual activity is occurring. In addition, an individual is incapacitated if he or she demonstrates that they are unaware of where they are, how they got there, or why or how they became engaged in a sexual interaction. Where alcohol is involved, incapacitation is a state beyond drunkenness or intoxication. Some indicators that an individual is incapacitated may include, but are not limited to, vomiting, unresponsiveness, inability to communicate coherently, inability to dress/undress without assistance, inability to walk without assistance, slurred speech, loss of coordination, lack of awareness of circumstances or surroundings, or inability to perform other physical or cognitive tasks without assistance.
E. Title IX Coordinator & Deputy Coordinators
The Title IX Coordinator for Argosy University is: Anne Marie Orelli, Vice President of Student Affairs. The Title IX Coordinator is responsible for, among other things, coordinating the campus’s efforts to comply with and carry out the campus’s responsibilities under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, including compliance with this policy. The Title IX Coordinator will help to coordinate any investigations under this Policy.
In addition, the School has other individuals who serve as Deputy Title IX Coordinators to help oversee investigations and determination proceedings under this Policy.
II. Reporting & Confidentiality
We encourage victims of Sexual Misconduct & Relationship Violence to talk to somebody about what happened – so they can get the support they need, and so the School can respond appropriately.
Different employees on campus have different abilities to maintain confidentiality:
- CONFIDENTIAL REPORTING: Some individuals are required to maintain near complete confidentiality. These include professional counselors such as those provided by Talk One2One counseling services. These individuals can provide resources and generally talk to a victim without revealing any personally identifying information about an incident to the School. A victim can seek assistance and support from these individuals without triggering a School investigation.
- NON-CONFIDENTIAL REPORTING. Other than professional counselors defined above, most other employees and contractors are required to report all the details of an incident to the Title IX coordinator. A report to these employees (called “responsible employees”) constitutes a report to the School and generally obligates the School to investigate the incident and take appropriate steps to address the situation. The following campus employees (or categories of employees) are examples of responsible employees: the Title IX Coordinator, all Deputy Title IX Coordinators, President, Director of Student Services, other Student Services staff, Academic Advisors, the Security Team (including contract security personnel), all full-time and adjunct Faculty, Human Resources, and Employee Relations.
The School will seek to protect the privacy and confidentiality of the individuals involved in any report of alleged Sexual Misconduct or Relationship Violence to the extent possible and allowed by law. The Title IX Coordinator will evaluate any request for confidentiality in the context of the School’s responsibility to provide a safe and nondiscriminatory environment to all members of its community.
The School will complete any publicly available record-keeping, including Clery Act reporting and disclosure, without the inclusion of identifying information about the alleged victim. It will also maintain as confidential any interim measures or remedies provided to the alleged victim to the extent that maintaining confidentiality will not impair its ability to provide the interim measures or remedies.
In addition to internal reporting, the School strongly encourages anyone who believes they have experienced a sexual assault (or any other crime) to make a report to local law enforcement. Collection and preservation of evidence relating to the reported sexual assault is essential for law enforcement investigations, so prompt reporting of the incident to law enforcement is especially critical. Designated staff will, upon request, assist an individual in making a report to law enforcement as necessary and appropriate.
Although we strongly encourage complainants to report to local law enforcement, such a report is not a prerequisite to the School’s review and investigation of any complaint covered by this Policy. The School will honor a Complainant’s request not to report the matter to local law enforcement UNLESS we have a reasonable basis to believe that the safety and security of the campus community is at risk. In this event, the School will endeavor to notify a Complainant or Reporter of the institution’s intent to report the matter to law enforcement in advance of any such report.
The School does not limit the time frame for reporting under this Policy, although a delay in reporting may impact the School’s ability to take certain actions.
Other Code of Conduct Violations: The School encourages students who have been the victim of Sexual Misconduct or Relationship Violence to come forward. Students should not be discouraged from reporting such incidents because they fear discipline for their own violations of the Student Code of Conduct, such as use of alcohol in School housing. Therefore, the School has discretion not to pursue other violations of the Student Code of Conduct that occurred in the context of the reported incident of Sexual Misconduct or Relationship Violence.
III. Response Procedure
Students are encouraged to report any incident of Sexual Misconduct or Relationship Violence to the Title IX Coordinator, Deputy Title IX Coordinator, the Director of Student Services, or the Campus President. If a report is made verbally, the School will request a written statement by the student.
Upon receipt of a report, the School will generally proceed as described below.
A. Investigation Commencement
The School will provide a timely and thorough investigation. Barring exigent circumstances, cases of Sexual Misconduct and Relationship Violence will generally be resolved within a 60 day period once the incident has been reported. An extension of time may be necessary if witnesses are unavailable or uncooperative or due to other extenuating circumstances beyond the control of the investigator.
B. Initial Response
Once the School is put on notice of possible Sexual Misconduct and Relationship Violence, the Complainant will be offered appropriate confidential support, accommodations, and other resources and will be notified of applicable policies and procedures. Accommodations include the ability to move to different housing, to change work schedules, to alter academic schedules, to withdraw from/retake a class without penalty, and to access academic support. The Respondent also will be offered appropriate resources and notified of applicable policies and procedures.
C. Interim Intervention
Pending a final determination, the Title IX Coordinator and/or Student Services staff will take appropriate interim measures. These measures may include, but are not limited to, the imposition of a no-contact order and/or employment, transportation, residence, and academic modifications. Student Services staff may limit a student or organization’s access to certain School facilities or activities pending resolution of the matter. The School may impose an Interim Suspension on the Respondent pending the resolution of an alleged violation when the School determines, in its sole discretion, that it is necessary in order to protect the safety and well-being of members of the campus community.
D. Decision to Proceed to Investigation
If the Complainant is willing to participate in the review and investigation process, the School will proceed as described below in Section III (E).
If the Complainant requests a confidential investigation, the School will seek to protect the privacy and confidentiality of the Complainant to the extent possible and allowed by law. The Title IX Coordinator will evaluate any request for confidentiality in the context of the School’s responsibility to provide a safe and nondiscriminatory environment to all members of its community.
If a confidential investigation is requested and agreed to, the School will investigate without revealing the name of the Complainant in any interview or email and will not ask questions that inadvertently or reasonably could reveal the identity of the Complainant.
If the Complainant asks that the report of sexual misconduct not be pursued, the School will consider the interests of the Complainant, the campus community, law enforcement, and/or other appropriate interests under the circumstances. The School, in consultation with the Title IX Coordinator, will make a final decision on whether and to what extent it will conduct an investigation, and notify the Complainant promptly.
E. Investigation Procedure
Investigators do not function as advocates for either Complainants or Respondents. Investigators can, however, identify advocacy and support resources for either Complainants or Respondents.
The Respondent will receive written notice of the report and the nature of the alleged misconduct. He/She will be advised in writing of the investigation process and opportunity to provide any relevant evidence.
The Investigation will generally be conducted by the Director of Student Services for the campus (or any other individual appointed by the Title IX Coordinator) if the Respondent is a student. If the Respondent is a faculty or staff member, Employee Relations will also participate in the investigation.
The investigator will separately interview both Complainant and Respondent. Both parties will be able to provide evidence and suggest other witnesses to be interviewed. The investigator will interview other relevant witnesses and review any other available relevant evidence. Both the Complainant and Respondent can have another individual present during their own respective interviews. If the Complainant or Respondent elects, they may have an attorney present during their own interview, but said attorney may not advocate during the interview.
F. Determinations
- For cases where the Respondent is a student.
The investigator will present all evidence to the Title IX Coordinator (or his/her designated Deputy Title IX Coordinator). In all cases, the Title IX Coordinator or the designated Deputy Title IX Coordinator will be appropriately trained regarding handling and considering sexual misconduct and relationship violence cases.
The Title IX Coordinator will weigh the evidence presented and decide whether additional evidence is necessary for consideration. Ultimately, the Title IX Coordinator will make a determination of whether a violation of the Sexual Misconduct & Relationship Violence Policy or any other policy has occurred. .
The School reserves the right to convene a Determination Panel to review the evidence and make the determination in appropriate circumstances.
- For cases where the Respondent is a Faculty or Staff Member.
The investigator will present all evidence to the Ethics Committee of EDMC. The Ethics Committee will be appropriately trained regarding handling and adjudicating sexual misconduct and relationship violence cases. The Ethics Committee will weigh the evidence presented and make a determination whether a violation of the Sexual Misconduct & Relationship Violence Policy or any other policy has occurred.
G. Standard of Proof
In all cases under the Sexual Misconduct policy, the Title IX Coordinator (or designee) or the Ethics Committee will determine if a violation of policy has occurred by the preponderance of evidence standard. Thus, they will determine whether it is more likely than not that a violation has occurred.
H. Potential Sanctions
If a violation of policy has been found, the Title IX Coordinator or the Ethics Committee will impose appropriate sanctions, including but not limited to coaching, training, probation, suspension, or expulsion in the case of students or coaching, training, written warning, demotion, or termination in the case of employees.
I. Outcome Notifications
Both the Complainant and Respondent will be notified in writing of the outcome of the investigation and of the sanctions imposed, if any.
J. Appeals
If the Complainant or Respondent is a student, he or she may appeal the outcome determination by written appeal to the Campus President within 15 days of notification of the outcome. An appeal may be made based only on one or more of the following reasons:
- New and significant evidence appeared that could not have been discovered by a properly diligent charged student or complainant before or during the original investigation and that could have changed the outcome.
- The Finding is Arbitrary and Capricious: Reading all evidence in the favor of the non-appealing party, the finding was not supported by reasonable grounds or adequate consideration of the circumstances. In deciding appeals, the Campus President is allowed to make all logical inferences in benefit of the non-appealing party.
- Disproportionate Sanctions: The sanctions were disproportionate to the findings.
The appeal shall consist of a written statement requesting review of the conduct decision or sanction and explaining in detail the basis for the appeal. The Campus President, or designated representative, will notify the non-appealing party of the request for an appeal. Within five working days of receipt of the notice, the non-appealing party may submit a written statement to be included in the case file. The appeal may proceed without the non-appealing party’s written statement if it is not submitted within the designated time limit.
The Campus President will endeavor to make a determination of the appeal within 15 business days of receipt. The President’s decision is final.
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 Report
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 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 and Alcohol Prevention Program and the Drug-Free Workplace and Campus Program
Standards of Conduct
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.
State Sanctions
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. Please see Federal Trafficking Penalties, 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. The university contracts with Talk One-2-One, a free service, which provides confidential professional counseling via the telephone 24 hours per day, 7 days a week, at 1- 888-617-3362. The Talk One-2-One counselor may refer you, for limited visits, with an area network mental health provider or assist you with locating resources within the community.
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. 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.
Nashville Requirements
The Tennessee Department of Health (TDH) has issued immunization requirements for students entering Tennessee higher education institutions. The regulations require submission of documentation of required immunizations by a healthcare provider to Argosy University, Nashville.
As a newly admitted student or internal transfer student, you may be required to provide this immunization documentation depending on your birth date. Specifically, students may be required to show proof of immunity to Measles, Mumps, Rubella, and Varicella (chickenpox). For students born before 1957 who are presumed immune to Measles, Mumps, and Rubella through past illness, they are not required to provide documentation of immunization to the measles, mumps, and rubella if their birth date falls before this cut off year. All other students born after 1957 must provide documentation of immunity to Measles, Mumps, and Rubella. For those students born before 1980 who are presumed immune to chickenpox through past illness, they are not required to provide documentation of immunization to Varicella for those particular illnesses if their birth date falls before this cut off year. All other students born after 1980 must provide documentation of immunity to Varicella.
All information should be submitted to the Student Services Department by fax (615/525-2900) or mail (Argosy University, Student Services Department, 100 Centerview Drive, STE 225, Nashville, TN 37214) by the end of your first term. After this date, if the documentation has not been received, a registration hold will be placed on your account prohibiting future registration.
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:
- This Policy applies to anyone on university premises, unless otherwise prohibited by law.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
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