Community Policies

Student Club and Organization Policy

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Bryn Mawr College is committed to supporting a variety of student clubs and organizations which are consistent with the educational philosophy and mission of the College. Social fraternities or sororities are not permitted at the College. The College has determined that students are better served by the numerous non-exclusive student clubs and organizations which exist on campus. Bryn Mawr College does not recognize the charter of any social fraternity or sorority. No College facilities (including all public and private spaces, bulletin boards, and campus mail) can be used for any social fraternity or sorority activities. Violation of this policy by any student constitutes a violation of the Social Honor Code and may result in disciplinary sanctions.

Accessibility Policy for College Events

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Bryn Mawr College strives to provide equal access to all College-sponsored activities and events. When requested, reasonable accommodations for College events will be made in order to ensure equal access. Requests for reasonable accommodations at events might include:

• Preferential seating
• Sign language interpreters
• Captioned media
• Alternative formats (e.g. large print, braille, electronic copies) of printed materials
• Program location moved to a more accessible space
• Assisted listening device

All Bryn Mawr College event advertisements (including, but not limited to, print publications such as brochures and flyers, website and email  announcements/publications, and social media event pages) must include the following statement:

Bryn Mawr College welcomes the full participation of all individuals in all aspects of campus life. Should you wish to request a disability-related accommodation for this event, please contact the event sponsor/coordinator. Requests should be made as early as possible.

In addition, when event advertisements are posted online, they must be accessible, in accordance with the College’s Web Accessibility Guidelines.

Event advertising should also include information regarding accommodations that have been secured for an event. For example, “Computer Assisted Real-Time Translation (CART) services will be provided at Convocation.”

Should an event sponsor/coordinator need assistance in evaluating a request or in procuring services to provide an accommodation, please contact Access Services for advice and/or consultation.

Party Policy

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Bryn Mawr College is committed to maintaining a social atmosphere that emphasizes the safety of all students, whether or not they choose to drink. Moderation, concern for others, and individual accountability should be characteristic of all social activities on campus.

The responsibilities and procedures outlined in the Party Policy are in addition to those required by the Social Honor Code, the College Substance Use policies, and state and federal law. 

Violations of the College Alcohol and Drug Policies and/or Bryn Mawr College Party Policy that come to the attention of Campus Safety, Residential Life, Student Engagement, or the Student Success Office will result in an investigation by these departments. They may result in a Dean’s Panel, by which sanctions will be issued on a case-by-case basis.

In the event that law enforcement officials confront students for unlawful behavior alleged to have occurred, the College will cooperate fully with their investigation.

Party Definition

A Party is an event, wet (with alcohol) or dry (without alcohol), where 30 or more people gather at one time in a residential dorm space.

Wet parties cannot be held in public spaces.

Public spaces include: Cambrian Row, the Campus Center, Goodhart, Guild Hall, Old Library, Schwartz Gymnasium, Student Life and Wellness building, all corridors, stairwells, landings, basements, attics and courtyards, laundries, all dining halls, Pembroke Dance Studio, classroom buildings, The Dorothy Vernon Room, Canaday Library, and outdoors on College grounds.

To hold a dry party in a public space, you should reserve the space at least two weeks in advance through the Office of Conferences & Events (x7329, email: roomres@brynmawr.edu).

Completion of the Party and Public Space Notification Forms

Any student (i.e., party host) in the College community who wishes to host a social event in a dorm living room or an individual’s room with more than 30 people in attendance should read and complete the Party Notification Form in order to help throw a safe and responsible party that abides by the conditions stated in the College Alcohol and Drug Policies and in the Bryn Mawr Party Policy.

The form is required for both wet and dry parties held in dorm spaces.

Any student in the College community who wishes to host a social event in a public space must reserve the space two weeks in advance through the Office of Conferences & Events and must complete the Public Space Notification Form.

Parties and Events which require a Party or Public Space Notification Form are not permitted to occur after the last day of classes.

Reading and completing these forms will help to inform party hosts of their legal liabilities under Pennsylvania state law and allow College officials to help minimize risk to hosts, their guests, and the entire College community.

Party Training

Any student wishing to act as a host, server, or bouncer at a party must complete the Party Training Course.

Completion of the course will permit a student to host, serve, or bounce parties during the academic year in which the session was attended. Students must be retrained each academic year.

The Course will cover the following information: 1) Pennsylvania state and other applicable laws and liability concerning the distribution and consumption of alcohol; 2) the potential for legal liability and potentially the award of damages for party hosts, servers, bouncers, guests, Bryn Mawr College and its agents; and 3) tips to ensure safety and respect of residents who live in the dorm where the party will be held.

Party Advertisement

Because the majority of students are not 21 years of age, the legal drinking age, mass advertisement for wet parties is not permitted.

Mass advertisement includes signs, fliers, posters, mass emails, all campus invitations, and all online and social media advertisements and postings.

Dry parties may be advertised using printed and electronic material. A copy of the advertising for dry parties should be attached to the notification form when submitted.

Advertising for the party may not begin until the event is approved.

Dry parties are not open to the public and cannot be advertised outside of the Tri-College community or on any online or social media platform.

Party Levels

To help promote the safety of all guests, those wishing to host a party must select a party level. Party levels were developed, along with defined roles, to make it easier for students to throw a successful party that ensures compliance with the Bryn Mawr College Party Policy, the College’s Alcohol Policy, and federal and state law.

Level 1

• 30-60 guests expected
• Two hosts and two servers must be present at all times.
• Batten, Brecon, Denbigh, Merion, Pembroke East, Pembroke West, and Radnor living rooms have a capacity of 60 people and can host Level 1 parties.

Level 2

• 61-100 guests expected
• Two hosts, two servers, and three bouncers must be present at all times.
• Erdman, Rhoads North, Rhoads South, and Rockefeller living rooms have a capacity 
of 100 people and can host Level 1 and Level 2 parties.

Level 3

• 101+ guests expected
• Hosts wishing to have a Level 3 party must meet with Student Engagement and Campus Safety two weeks prior to party to determine needs. Hosts should be aware that an increased level of support may be necessary.
• Guest sign-in required
• Wristbands required for identifying those over 21
• Parties held in multiple dorm lounges within the same dorm at the same time will be considered Level 3 parties.

Health and safety concerns in relation 
to specific parties or events may require 
additional restrictions.

Staffing

No more than two shifts are permitted for any party or event. Shift one is the first two hours of the party or event and shift two is the last two hours of the party or event.

Alcohol Limits

Party hosts, servers, bouncers, and guests should keep in mind the legal drinking age is 21 years old in the United States. Students under 21 must not be served alcohol.

Guests at wet parties must be served no more than four drinks at any party. Common source containers (other than kegs) are not permitted.

Party Host Responsibilities

The following are the responsibilities that party hosts must take on at a party. Please be aware that the only people permitted to act as party hosts 
at the party are those who are listed on the party form as party hosts.

Before the party:

• Discuss with the dorm president specific dorm policies concerning quiet hours, bathrooms, use of common areas, smoking, etc.
• Discuss the party with Housekeeping in order to determine pre-existing damage to the party space and obtain supplies for the post-party clean up.
• Obtain signatures of the appropriate dorm president on a party notification form and submit the form to Student Engagement by 9 a.m. the Tuesday prior to the event date.
• If party is a wet party, hosts must identify at least one host who is 21 years -old, and a 21-year- old host must be present at all times during the party if alcohol is to be served.
• Read the College Alcohol Policy and statements concerning applicable Pennsylvania state law in this Handbook.
• Notify dorm residents that a party will take place by posting signs that include the party’s date, time, location, and hosts. Residents should be notified 72 hours in advance and should be able to contact hosts with questions or concerns.
• Purchase food and beverages, including non-alcoholic beverages.

During the party:

• Hosts must make sure that servers and bouncers understand the role they are to play in the party and should check in with them throughout the party.
• Hosts must prominently display a sign stating “You must be 21 years of age to consume alcoholic beverages in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.”
• All hosts wear the party host button provided by the Student Engagement Office.
• Hosts must post the approved party notification form near the entrance.
• Hosts must be sober at all times and must not be drinking during the party.
• One host who is 21 years of age must be present at all times if alcohol is to be served.
• Hosts must provide food and non-alcoholic beverages.
• Must designate a bathroom for party 
guests and designate areas that are off-limits to guests.
• Hosts must end the party by 2 a.m. Parties must not exceed more than four hours in length.

After the party:

• Hosts must clean up immediately and thoroughly. They must not leave the mess overnight.

Server Responsibilities

The following are the responsibilities that servers must take on at a party:

• Servers are responsible for setting up, maintaining, and serving from a designated area from which all alcohol will be served. As a server, you are the only person permitted to distribute alcoholic beverages.
• Servers must be clearly identified and should wear the server button provided by the Student Engagement Office at all times during the party.
• Servers must be sober at all times and must not be drinking during the party.
• Servers must ensure that no one under the age of 21 is served alcohol.
• Servers must refuse to serve people who are visibly intoxicated and/or seem in danger of hurting themselves or someone else.
• Servers must mark the hand of those they distribute drinks to each time they serve a drink and serve no more than four drinks per party attendee.

Bouncer Responsibilities

The following are the responsibilities that bouncers must take on at a party. Bouncers may switch positions with other bouncers during the party if they wish and should be aware that they may be called upon to perform the following duties at any time during the party:

• Bouncers must be clearly identified and should wear the bouncer button provided by the Student Engagement Office at all times during the party.
• Bouncers must check ID’s at the door. Bouncers must check to make sure that everyone attending the party is either a Tri- Co member or a guest of a Tri-Co member.
• Guests must be signed in at the door (for level 3 parties). A guest is someone other than a Tri-Co student.
• Bouncers must keep track of the party space capacity with a counter (provided by the Student Engagement Office). Bouncers must know and enforce the capacity of the party space and should stop admitting guests to the party once capacity is reached.
• Bouncers must be stationed at every entrance point to the party and must make sure that party guests only enter through the designated entranceway.
• Bouncers must be stationed in any hallway leading to the party location and must prevent access to the dorm from the party. They must make sure the party remains in the reserved party space.
• Bouncers must make sure that no one brings in or leaves the party with alcohol and must turn away people who are visibly intoxicated.
• Bouncers must assist the host when she wants to eject someone from the party.
• Bouncers must be sober at all times and must not be drinking during the party.

Guest Responsibilities

• Guests must be members of the Tri-Co community or guests of a Tri-Co community member.
• Tri-Co community members are not permitted to bring more than three guests to a party.

It is the responsibility of the Tri-Co community member to ensure that guests abide by College policies, the Honor Code, and Pennsylvania state law; behave responsibly, keeping in mind their own personal safety and the safety of others; cooperate with the requests of party hosts, bouncers, and servers and College personnel to ensure that order and student well-being are maintained; attempt to intervene when individuals seem in danger of hurting themselves or anyone else; and notify hosts about potential problems and alert Campus Safety if assistance is needed.

Substitutions

Should someone scheduled as a host, server, or bouncer not be able to work the party, the main party host must inform the Student Engagement Office by noon on the day before the party. It is the responsibility of the main party host to make sure the substitution meets all qualifications and is aware of the responsibilities involved.

Substitutions can be emailed to studentengagement@brynmawr.edu.

Violations

Students are encouraged under the Honor Code to report violations occurring at parties. Students wishing to report violations should contact either the Honor Board or any member of the Student Success staff to report the violation.

Violations may be investigated by the Honor Board and/or any member of the Student Success staff. Depending on their severity, violations may be referred to the Honor Board and/or may be subject to a Dean’s Panel.

Sanctions for violation of the Party Policy may include but are not limited to escalating monetary fines, all- campus educational programs and/or campaigns, and/or revocation of party host, server and/or bouncer privileges for the duration of the violator’s time at the College.

Party Fund

After the party, hosts can submit one original receipt with a party fund reimbursement request to the Student Engagement Office to receive a refund for non-alcoholic beverages and food.

Reimbursement is only available for registered parties and is based on the party level selected.

Level 1: $30, Level 2: $60, Level 3: $90.

Hazing Policy

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Bryn Mawr College is committed to providing a welcoming, inclusive,  and respectful environment for all community members.

We value the community and relationships that traditions help to build among current students, and the connections to past and future generations they create. Because we value relationships that are founded in respect, it is incumbent upon each generation of students to evaluate not only traditions but also all student- run activities, including those designed to welcome new members to clubs, teams, and dorms, to eliminate any elements that may be construed as hazing.

Hazing, in all forms, on- or off-campus, is expressly prohibited by the College under state law, College policies, and the Honor Code. The infliction of mental or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, or ridicule on a community member for the purposes of initiation or entry into any organization, club, or group is inconsistent with Bryn Mawr’s values and will not be tolerated.

Allegations of hazing will be investigated and may lead to a Dean’s Panel and/or criminal charges. Procedures for the conduct of a Dean’s Panel are found elsewhere in this Student Handbook. In addition to the educative measures and warnings important to all responses to misconduct or insensitivity, sanctions for individuals who violate this policy may include restorative action such as community service or education assignments, separation from the College, and/or referral to law enforcement. Furthermore, individual student organizations such as clubs or athletic teams may be sanctioned and prohibited from hosting events or participating in activities as a group.

The College recognizes that there are activities that can help to build community and that there are other activities which may cause harm. What may seem like harmless fun to some may be deeply humiliating to others and affect them in other negative ways. Students should be aware of their rights, responsibilities, and resources available to them so that they can make informed decisions. We expect all students to educate themselves about this policy and its rationale and understand what constitutes hazing under the Bryn Mawr College Hazing Policy, other College policies, and Pennsylvania State Law.

Pennsylvania State Law

§ 5352. Definitions: The following words and phrases when used in this act shall have the meanings given to them in this section unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

“Hazing.” Any action or situation that recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student or which willfully destroys or removes public or private property for the purpose of initiation or admission into or affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in, any organization operating under the sanction of or recognized as an organization by an institution of higher education. The term shall include, but not be limited to, any brutality of a physical nature, such as whipping, beating, branding, forced calisthenics, exposure to the elements, forced consumption of any food, liquor, drug, or other substance, or any other forced physical activity which could adversely affect the physical health and safety of the individual, and shall include any activity which would subject the individual to extreme mental stress, such as sleep deprivation, forced exclusion from social contact, forced conduct which could result in extreme embarrassment, or any other forced activity which could adversely affect the mental health or dignity of the individual, or any willful destruction or removal of public or private property. For purposes of this definition, any activity as described in this definition upon which the initiation or admission into or affiliation with or continued membership in an organization is directly or indirectly conditioned shall be presumed to be “forced” activity, the willingness of an individual to participate in such activity notwithstanding.

“Institution of higher education” or “institution.” Any public or private institution within this Commonwealth authorized to grant an associate degree or higher academic degree.

§ 5353. Hazing prohibited: Any person who causes or participates in hazing commits a misdemeanor of the third degree.

Guidelines: Recognizing Hazing

Hazing includes not only actions or situations that cause pain, injury, physical stress, fatigue, or discomfort; it includes those that may produce embarrassment, ridicule, harassment, anxiety, mental or emotional discomfort, or be threatening or frightening. Activities that constitute hazing can be hard to recognize, especially by those who participate in those activities themselves. If you are planning an activity or event for your peers, ask yourself the following questions. If you answer “yes” to any of them, your event may involve hazing.

• Would you hesitate to describe this activity, or to show photos or videos of it, to your parents, class dean, professor, or employer?
• Would you be uncomfortable if the details of the activity were made public or appeared on the local news?
• Does the activity involve deception?
• Does the activity involve nudity or clothing that is conspicuous or in poor taste?
• Is the activity physically uncomfortable? Does it involve physical exertion, noise, heat, or cold?
• Will the activity cause embarrassment or anxiety?
• Are there any safety issues or risk of injury?
• Does the activity interfere with academic work, sleep, or self-care?
• Does the activity run counter to any law or College policy?

What if someone doesn’t want to participate?

In a community of respect like Bryn Mawr, it’s assumed that one would respect and listen to any student who opts out of or speaks out against activities that others consider the norm. Doing anything else, such as ostracizing someone for failing to participate, might in itself constitute hazing.

If no one opts out or objects to an activity, is that evidence that it’s not hazing?

Remember that hazing is by nature socially coercive. Just because someone consents to participate in an activity and has the choice of opting in or out of it does not mean that the activity is not hazing. Peer pressure and the desire to belong may undermine a person’s ability to provide true consent.

Where can I get guidance if I’m uncertain?

Any of the class deans, coaches, or student life staff would be glad to help, as would members of the Honor Board and the Traditions Council.

Substance Use Policies

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All students are responsible for knowing and acting in accordance with the College’s Substance Use Policies.

Each student is responsible for conducting themselves in accordance with federal, state and local laws, for following College party rules, and for assisting others impaired by alcohol and/or drugs in the interests of their health and well-being.

The College will not contribute to the cost of a legal defense for those who violate drug or alcohol laws and rules. Substance Use Policy infractions may result in a Dean’s Panel, Honor Board proceeding, or other College or SGA action.

The care and concern for other individuals which are embodied in the Social Honor Code should govern a student’s response to a violation of the College’s Substance Use Policy. When a student is concerned about another student’s substance use, they may express that concern to the student and, if appropriate, encourage that student to seek confidential help from one of the counselors, nurses, or physicians available on campus or off campus. A student with questions about how best to intervene on behalf of another student should seek guidance from a counselor or class dean. Advice may be sought without revealing the identity of the student needing help.

Substance Use Policy: Alcohol

The Alcohol Policy, in conjunction with planned educational activities and support services, is designed to achieve the following goals:

• Remind students of the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and of the Social Honor Codes, both of which govern their behavior with respect to alcohol;
• Stress moderation, safety, and individual accountability for those who choose to drink;
• Maintain a Bi-College social atmosphere that is free of coercion for those who choose not to drink and a climate in which alcohol is not the focus of parties or other social events;
• Maintain a Bi-College community in which alcohol use and its effects are minimal;
• Provide confidential and effective guidance for those with specific needs related to substance use and substance use disorders;
• Provide information and education to all students about the effects of alcohol consumption.

All members of the Bi-College community are expected to be familiar with and abide by the principles of the Alcohol Policy.

It is the duty of all students to conduct themselves in a manner consistent with the Honor Code, in addition to helping others do the same. With regard to the consumption of alcohol, students are responsible for their own well-being. Behavior that puts students at mental, physical and/or legal risk will be taken seriously and addressed accordingly to the needs of the
student and community.

Expectations of Students

Students who choose to consume, provide, or serve alcohol, with an understanding of the responsibilities imposed by Pennsylvania law, should do so with a sense of responsibility and concern for themselves and others. Students also have the responsibility to talk to others whose behavior under the influence of alcohol is inconsistent with the welfare of the community.

The legal drinking age in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is 21;  therefore, alcoholic beverages are not to be served or consumed at student parties open to and/or advertised in the College, Bi-College, or Tri-College community. Additionally, alcoholic beverages can neither be served nor consumed at open parties held in public spaces. These include:

1. At Bryn Mawr: Cambrian Row, the Campus Center, Old Library, Guild Hall, Goodhart, Schwartz Gymnasium, Student Life and Wellness Building, all corridors, stairwells, landings, basements, attics and courtyards, laundries, all dining halls, Arnecliffe Studio, Pembroke Dance Studio, classroom buildings, the Dorothy Vernon Room, Canaday Library, outdoors on College grounds.
2. At Haverford: Founders Great Hall and Common Room, the Dining Center, Lunt Party Room, the Old Gymnasium and Alumni Field House, Marshall Auditorium, MacCrate Recital Hall, all corridors, stairwells, roofs and attics, Stokes Auditorium, classroom buildings, Magill Library, outdoors on College grounds. With special permission, parties at which only those 21 years of age and older are served alcohol may be held in public spaces.

Students who consume alcohol where it is forbidden, and thereby place the hosts, the Colleges, and the students who administer party funds at risk and in jeopardy, should be asked to refrain from violating the Policy by the host or other party guests. In incidents where students feel that a violation of the Alcohol Policy has occurred and where the concerned party and the student about whom they are concerned fail to reach a resolution, they should follow the procedure of the campus on which the incident occurred. At Haverford, disregard for these Alcohol and other Party Policies will be brought to the attention of the class deans. At Bryn Mawr, disregard for these Alcohol and other Party Policies will be dealt with under the procedures outlined in the Social Honor Code.

Intoxication shall not be seen as an acceptable or justifiable excuse for disruptive behavior, and confrontation for such behavior shall be dealt with through each campus’s Social Honor Code.

When talking with an individual does not or cannot lead to a satisfactory resolution of the issue, the individual whose behavior allegedly violates the Codes and expected conduct of the Colleges, in accordance with the procedures of the Social Honor Codes, shall ultimately be brought to the attention of the Honor Board (BMC) or Honor Council (HC).

The Honor Board/Council will bring a case to the attention of the Office of Student Success of the appropriate College if there is a threat to the lives or safety of individuals or of damage to College or private property resulting from intoxication or a violation of the Alcohol Policy. Flagrant or repeated violations of party guidelines could constitute such a case. Such behavior may result in separation or exclusion of the violating person(s) from the Colleges.

In some cases, the Honor Board/Council or the Office of Student Success will consult counselors who have expertise in alcohol abuse and alcoholism if such expertise is deemed relevant. Such consultation will take place only with the violating person’s knowledge.

Coordinators of parties and other social events must abide by the Party Policy of the host campus.

It is expected that hosts will inform their guests of the provisions of the Honor Codes, including the Alcohol Policy. Should the provisions of this Policy be violated by non-Bi- College members, their further access to these campuses may be restricted.

Faculty and staff members who entertain students should be aware of the responsibilities and risks to the Colleges and to themselves as individual social hosts under the laws of the Commonwealth.

Groups sponsoring social events must abide by the host campus’ Party Policy. If party guidelines are not followed by guests or hosts, it is the responsibility of students aware of the violation to approach those in violation and seek a resolution.

Services and Referrals

Both Bryn Mawr and Haverford Colleges provide services and referral for individuals who need help with alcohol-related issues. For confidential assistance, contact:

• Luci MacNamara, Director of Counseling, Bryn Mawr College Counseling Services, The Health & Wellness Center, 610-526-7360, lmacnamara@brynmawr.edu
• Joye Shrager, Substance Abuse Educator, Haverford College, Morris Health Services 610-896-1089, jshrager@haverford.edu
• Students may also be interested in the Counseling Services Resource page
• Harm Reduction Coalition
• For those interested in abstinence-based programs:
  • IntheRooms.com
  • AASEPIA.org
  • NA.org

Substance Use Policy: Drug Use

The drug policy, in conjunction with planned educational activities and support services, is designed to achieve the following goals:

• Remind students that the Social Honor Code, the federal laws, and the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania apply to their behavior with respect to the use of drugs;
• Stress individual accountability for those who choose to use illegal drugs;
• Inform the members of the Bi- College community of the availability of confidential and effective guidance and resources for those with questions and concerns related to drug use, and substance use disorders;
• Encourage all members of the Bi-College community to become familiar with the physiological, psychological, and legal aspects of drug use, and substance use disorders.

All members of the Bi-College community are expected to be familiar with and abide by the principles of the drug Drug Policy. This policy stresses prevention and concern; it charges the community with the responsibility for drug education, intervention, and heightened awareness of campus resources for attending to substance use/substance use disorders.

It also asks us to consider the relationship between the individual and the community, and the question of responsibility to one’s peers. In many cases, choosing not to intervene in another person’s substance use is not a neutral position. Speaking with the individual in a respectful and non-judgmental manner at a time when the individual is not under the influence of drugs/alcohol allows the individual to reflect on the impact of their behavior on others. While not expecting or demanding immediate change, one may offer resources/referrals that may be helpful either at that time or in the future.

• The illegal possession, use, sale, or distribution of drugs is in violation of the law, and the Colleges will not protect students from prosecution under federal, state, or local law.
• Students have the responsibility to intervene on behalf of individuals whose use of drugs, or actions under the influence of drugs, present a danger to themselves and/or to the community at large.
• The Colleges as educational institutions, being concerned about the harmful effects of the illegal use, possession, sale, or distribution of drugs on the individual, and on the integrity, safety and security of this academic community, do not condone the illegal use, possession, sale, or distribution of drugs. The administrations of Bryn Mawr and Haverford Colleges reserve the right to act when they have reason to believe that involvement with drugs is having an adverse effect upon the life and/or academic performance of students, or adversely affects or legally implicates others in the academic community. College action may take such forms as education, counseling, referral to outside agencies, separation, or exclusion, depending on the situation.

Procedures

A student’s response to a violation of the College’s drug policy will be governed, first and foremost, by the care and concern for other individuals, which are embodied in the Social Honor Codes. The following guidelines are not meant to cover all situations. They are intended, instead, to remind students of the variety of resources available and to reassure them about the benefits of seeking help. When a student is concerned about another student’s drug use, they should express their concern and, if appropriate, encourage that student to seek confidential help from one of the counselors, nurses, or physicians on either campus or from a professional off campus.

If talking with the student does not seem appropriate or proves ineffective, the concerned individual should turn to a counselor, the counseling director, the medical director, or class dean for advice on how to intervene and help. Advice may be sought without revealing the identity of the student needing help.

If a student’s behavior as a result of drug use has disturbed or harmed other individuals or the community in a more general sense, the behavior itself should be dealt with through the usual Honor Code procedure at either College, beginning with a conversation.

If mediation is necessary, the members of the Bryn Mawr Honor Board or the Haverford Honor Council should be consulted. The substance use that may have caused the behavior should be seen as a second problem for which the individual may be encouraged to seek help from a professional counselor. In cases where the Honor Council or Board is asked to intervene, they will deal with the specific behavior that has been brought to them and may recommend that the individual go to a counselor for evaluation and help with any underlying substance use issue. Bryn Mawr graduate students or special students who are not bound by the Social Honor Code should be referred to the Deans of the Graduate Schools.

If an individual’s involvement with drugs or the behavior associated with it is violent or life-threatening, it should be brought to the attention of a class dean or College health provider without delay by any member of the community who becomes aware of the situation. Thus, a counselor, peer educator, class dean, health provider, or Honor Board/Council member who was working with a student on any aspect of his or her involvement with drugs would, as in any other life-threatening situation, be bound to report the problem to the Dean of the appropriate college when the potential for violence or loss of life requires immediate administrative action. Some cases, such as the sale or distribution of drugs, may not present immediate danger to life but may have legal implications which are administrative concerns, as well as social consequences which are student concerns. In these situations, joint action by the Dean and the Honor Board/Council may be necessary.

Policy on Drug-Free Schools

The unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol poses a threat to the health and safety of all members of the Bryn Mawr College community and is not permitted. The sanctions for the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol are defined in the Pennsylvania Controlled Substance, Drug, Device and Cosmetic Act (35 P.S. Sections 780-101 to 780-144); Controlled Substances Forfeiture (42 Pa.C.S. Sections 6801-6802); the Pennsylvania Crimes Code (18 Pa. C.S. 6307- 6314); the Pennsylvania Motor Vehicle Code (75 Pa. C.S. 1546-1547; 3715, 3731); and the Lower Merion Township Code (Article IV, Section 111-4). These statutes are on file at the reference desk in Canaday Library. A summary of federal law and relevant sanctions is also on file.

The College’s policies on disciplinary sanctions for students are stated in this Handbook. Policies on sanctions for faculty and staff are stated in the handbooks appropriate to them. This policy is instituted effective immediately, to comply with the Drug Free Schools and Communities Act of 1989 (P.L. #101-226). No institution will receive federal financial assistance of any kind after October 1, 1990, unless it has certified that it has “adopted and implemented a program to prevent the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students and employees.”

The College will conduct a biennial review of
its program to determine its effectiveness, implement needed changes, and ensure that
it is consistently enforced.

Policy on a Drug-Free Workplace

The College, as an employer, and students as employees of the College, have obligations under the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 (41 U.S.C. Section 701). The College’s statement of compliance is reproduced here.

The use of illegal drugs poses a threat to the health and safety of members of the Bryn Mawr
College community. Therefore, the illegal use,
possession, dispensation, distribution, or manufacture of controlled substances (as defined in federal statutes) by any faculty, staff, or student employees in the workplace is not permitted.

As a condition of College employment, every employee shall abide by the terms of this policy, and he or she shall notify his or her supervisor of any criminal conviction for a violation occurring in the College workplace no later than five days after such conviction. Any employee found in violation of these prohibitions and regulations may be required to participate in a drug-abuse assistance or rehabilitation program and shall be subject to disciplinary action, which might include dismissal. Information regarding such assistance or rehabilitation is available through the Health Center, the campus physician, and Crossroads. All of the insurance programs offered to staff, faculty, and students through the College provide some form of support to persons in various forms of treatment for substance-abuse problems. This policy is instituted, effective immediately, to comply with federal laws and regulations. Federal agencies cannot legally award any contract over $25,000 or any grant monies without certification that the College has implemented a drug-free workplace program.

The College also complies with the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act of 1989 (P.L. #101-226). Information on federal and state law imposing sanctions for unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol is available at the reference desk of Canaday Library and in the Student Success Office.

Information on counseling, treatment, and rehabilitation programs is contained in the College’s drug and alcohol policies.

This Handbook’s statements on policies and procedures relating to alcohol and controlled substances form part of the College’s compliance with the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act.

For more information, see:

• Blood Alcohol Concentration vs. Impairment Chart
• Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Charts
• Commonly Used Drug and Associated Health Risks

Substance Use Policy: Smoking

In accordance with the Pennsylvania Clean Indoor Air Act, and to enable students, faculty, staff, and visitors to avoid exposure to second-hand smoke, the College has enacted a smoking policy that prohibits smoking in all College- owned and leased buildings, College athletic facilities (including fields and spectator areas), and College-owned vehicles. The smoking of any material, included but not limited to tobacco and marijuana, is prohibited. Smoking is also prohibited on the plazas in front of Canaday Library, the Campus Center, Student Health & Wellness Building, and the Park Science Building.

This policy applies to all faculty, staff, students, contractors and visitors. In addition:

• Smoking is prohibited outdoors within 25 feet of the perimeter of any College building, including arches and covered entrances, to ensure that second-hand smoke does not enter the area through entrances, windows, or ventilation systems.
• Cigarette butts are to be extinguished and placed in appropriate outdoor receptacles. Throwing cigarette butts on the ground or pavement is considered littering.
• “Smoking” also includes the use of electronic cigarettes and other devices that create a vapor.

The College is committed to assisting students, faculty and staff in making healthy lifestyle choices. Students can go to the Health Center for information and assistance. Faculty and staff who are interested in smoking cessation programs may obtain information from Human Resources. In addition, residents of Pennsylvania can access services available through the PA Free Quitline at 1-800-Quit-NOW (784-8669) or
health.pa.gov.

Penalties for violation of the College’s Smoking Policy shall be disciplinary action in accordance with general College provisions for misconduct.

Billing and Payment Policy

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Fall Semester bills are sent during the first week of July, and payment is due on or before August 1. Spring Semester bills are sent during the first week of December, and payment is due on or before January 2. Online payment is available.

The College reserves the right to prevent a student from registering for classes, attending class, or entering residence until payment of the College charges has been made each semester. No student may preregister for the next semester, participate in room draw, order a transcript, participate in graduation, or receive a diploma until all accounts are paid, including the activities fee assessed by the student Self-Government Association officers. This fee covers class and hall dues and support for student organizations and clubs. All resident students are required to participate in the College meal plan.

Housing and Residence Policies

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Emergencies

In an emergency, call Campus Safety at x7911 from on campus. If calling from off-campus or from a cell phone, call 610-526-7911. For dorm or facilities problems that occur Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., call Facilities Services at 610-526-7930. After hours, call Campus Safety at 610-526-7911.

Damaged or Missing College Property

Students are expected to take responsibility for any damage they cause to individual rooms or common areas of the hall and to hold one another accountable for such damage through the Social Honor Code. Anyone causing damage, whether intentionally or by accident, should report the situation to the Department of Facilities Services and pay the costs of repair or replacement. The College accepts no responsibility for damages to student belongings. Damages to common areas that are not reported to the College will be considered the joint responsibility of all residents of the hall. The repair/replacement costs 
will be charged to all hall residents by dividing the total cost by the number of residents.

Repairs or replacement of room damages, beyond normal wear and tear, and missing furniture are fined according to cost.

The College reserves the right to charge the residents of the hall to replace missing items and prorate the cost to all residents. It is the responsibility of the hall residents to demonstrate to the College that no member of the hall is at fault if this sort of charge is to be avoided.

Immediately after commencement, Facilities Services and Housekeeping personnel will inspect each room to determine whether any charges should be assessed. All charges will be posted to the student’s BiONic account within three weeks of commencement. If you wish to appeal any room damage charge, you must contact Facilities Services prior to June 15 to dispute any charge you believe was made in error. Questions about fines should be directed to Facilities Services.

Entering Student Rooms

Residential Life staff (including Hall Advisers), Campus Safety officers, Facilities Services staff, and other College personnel may enter student rooms only:

• At the request of the resident (e.g., if locked out)
• In case of emergency
• At the start of winter vacation so that rooms may be checked for security or conservation risks
• In order to enforce Housing Policy violations
• In case of physical-plant difficulties with the building or room. Usually, such entries are at the request of the resident. However, College personnel may be required to enter a room to solve a physical-plant problem that affects all or part of the building.

In all cases, students’ right to privacy and the College’s rights and responsibilities must be respected. If a room must be entered without advance knowledge of the resident, a note will be left on that student’s door. The note will state that the room was entered, by whom and for what reason. If rooms must be entered as part of some planned project or for another purpose, written notice will be posted in the hall in advance.

Opening of Residence Halls/Early Return

There are three ways you may return to campus in the fall:

• On or after the official opening of dorms, 
for no charge.
• Early return for personal reasons, for a fee.
• As a member of a College-sponsored program, as described below.

The official first day for all upper-classes (non-first- year student move-in is the Friday before classes begin). There is no extra charge for students moving in on or after this day.

Dorms will open at 9 a.m. If a student must return before that date for personal reasons, they must make arrangements with the Office of Residential Life and Student Engagement to return as early as the Wednesday before classes begin. No personal early returns will be allowed before this day. There is a charge of $50 per day for a personal early return.

A student may return as a part of a College- sponsored program, such as Athletics, Customs, Hall Advising, or working in a campus office. The sponsoring office must make arrangements for the early return of these students no later than July 15 to avoid charges. After this date, an office may request new or additional early returns, but will be charged a fee per request. After August 1, an additional fee will be applied. Either the student or the office must be prepared to cover this charge.

Vacation Closing

All dorms will remain open during fall, Thanksgiving, and spring breaks, but not during winter break. Students who must remain on campus during winter break may apply for winter housing in advance through the Office of Residential Life and Student Engagement. During vacation breaks, campus services including transportation, dining services, and health services may not be provided.

Summer Housing

Summer residence is a privilege made available by College programs and the Office of Conferences and Events on a space-available basis. Summer housing arrangements must be made through the Office of Conferences and Events. Students residing at Bryn Mawr during the summer are expected to abide by all College policies, as well as local and state laws, without exception. As during the academic year, summer residents are encouraged to resolve disputes via individual confrontation and communication, as well as through community dialogue. Should these attempts fail, residents should contact Campus Safety to report concerns involving policy violations. These reports will be investigated and reported to the Office of Residential Life and Student Engagement. On the first report of violation, a notice will be issued to the resident. Ordinarily, on the second report of violation, the individual will be evicted from housing.

Residential Status

Cancellation of Housing Agreement

If you would like to cancel your room, written notification must be received in the Office of Residential Life and Student Engagement by June 15 before the beginning of the academic year.

Once written notice is received, you will be charged a $100 cancellation fee. If notification is not received until after June 15, you will be charged a $500 fee.

Leaving in Mid-Semester

Students who leave residence after classes have begun must remove all belongings from the residence halls and return keys to Facilities Services. For more information, contact the Office of Residential Life and Student Engagement Office or your class dean.

Moving On-Campus

Moving from off-campus to on-campus residence halls is subject to availability, and arrangements must be made with the Residential Life Office.

Off-Campus Housing

The opportunity for students to live and learn together is an integral part of the Bryn Mawr educational experience. As a residential college, students are expected to live in campus housing and participate fully in the College meal plan for all four years.

In an effort to both balance enrollment, as well as to provide a more independent living option for students, the College offers a limited number of releases from the College housing requirement each year as part of the student organized spring housing lottery process. Students who are interested in living off campus must apply to do so. Some students (typically seniors) are approved to live off campus through the off-campus housing lottery process, coordinated through the student Residence Council and the Office of Residential Life and Student Engagement.

It is very important that students keep in mind that signing a rental agreement with a landlord prior to being approved through the formal application process does not guarantee that a student will be approved to live off campus. Any agreement that a student signs poses financial and legal risks which are the responsibility of the student and/or parents/ guardians who signed the agreement.

Any student wishing to live off campus must request permission to do so by submitting an Off-Campus Housing Petition to the Office of Residential Life or by choosing the off-campus option in Room Draw. Students considering living off campus should be aware of local zoning regulations that apply to student houses. Lower Merion Township regulations define a “student home” as: “A living arrangement for students unrelated by blood, marriage, or legal adoption attending or about to attend a college or university, or who are on a semester or summer break from studies at a college or university, or any combination of such persons. Student homes shall not include fraternities, sororities, or community residential programs.”

Bi-College Safety

Due to the Bi-College nature of Bryn Mawr and Haverford Colleges, if either College determines that the presence of an individual poses a safety risk to the campus community, that individual will be deemed a safety risk on both campuses, and if either College determines that a student must be barred from residence on its campus, either pending investigation or after final resolution of that investigation, the student also will be barred 
from residence on the other campus.

Accommodations for Persons with Disabilities

Students with disabilities or chronic medical conditions who require modifications in housing arrangements should contact Access Services for procedures and documentation requirements.

Bryn Mawr College is committed to providing equal access for all qualified students with disabilities in compliance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Reasonable accommodations are provided for qualified students who disclose a disability that causes substantial limitations in a college environment. Accordingly, the College will consider modifying housing arrangements, when appropriate, to help a student compensate for a disability or chronic medical condition that has a significant impact in a residential setting.

Cleaning

Housekeeping will clean common areas and bathrooms. Students clean their own rooms.

Decorating

Only student rooms and bedroom doors may be decorated, not hallways or common areas. Students may decorate their doors using appropriate adhesives that do not damage paint or other surfaces. Residents are responsible for damage to walls, ceilings, and doors. Damages will be charged to student accounts. The College reserves the right to remove without warning any decorations that violate these rules.

Flashlights

To comply with a Lower Merion Township ordinance, all students who reside at the College must have flashlights in their rooms. Bring one flashlight with you.

Furniture

All furniture should remain in student rooms. Please do not leave furniture in hallways; it constitutes a fire hazard. Any furniture-related problems should be reported to Housekeeping at 610-526-7930. On final inspection, a replacement charge will be assessed for each item missing from student rooms.

Guests

Residence spaces are not available to accommodate spouses, partners, family members, children, or other dependents of College resident students. Overnight guests are permitted only with the consent of all roommates and for a maximum stay of three (3) nights. Hosts are responsible for assuring that their guests comply with all College policies and the Honor Code. In fairness to all residential students and their hallmates, repeated and/or frequent guests (including other Bryn Mawr students) are strongly discouraged. This includes guests who visit frequently who do not necessarily stay overnight. Guests - whether fellow Bryn Mawr students or off- campus visitors - are not permitted to sleep or stay overnight in dorm common spaces for any reason. The spirit of the guest policy applies to all residential students, including those who live in single rooms. Violations of the spirit of the guest policy will result in administrative action that may result in loss of guest, as well as campus housing, privileges.

Heating

The optimum room temperature during the winter months is between 68 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Should you feel that there is a problem with the heating unit in your room, contact Facilities Services, 610-526-7930.

Insurance

The College does not insure the contents of student rooms or storage areas. The College assumes no responsibility for loss due to fire, theft, or any other cause. Students are therefore urged to obtain a rider to their family homeowner’s insurance or a separate policy to protect against loss through theft and other risks.

Keys and ID Cards

Moving In

Keys must be picked up at the Facilities Services office in the Ward building between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. If you are moving in after 5 p.m. on weekdays or on the weekend, you must go to the Campus Safety Office to be let into your room.

During your stay

If you are locked out of your room, you may contact Campus Safety. They will respond in as timely a manner as possible, but they may be delayed by other circumstances on campus. Lockout calls do not have priority status.

Lost Keys

Students who lose their keys or whose keys do not work properly should promptly request replacements at Facilities Services. There is a charge of $50 for each replacement key.

OneCard

OneCards are used for campus building access, library services, photo ID, meal plan authorization, and access to declining balance accounts. Lost OneCards must be reported to the OneCard Office as soon as possible. A replacement fee will be charged.

Moving Out

Room keys must either be returned to the Facilities Services office in the Ward Building or left in the Facilities Services drop box in the Campus Center. Keys may not be returned to the offices of Campus Safety or Residential Life.

Laundry

Cashless laundry machines are located in each dorm. For repair, call Facilities Services.

Lofts

Students are not permitted to construct lofts in their rooms because they are fire and safety hazards and cause structural damage. Violators are subject to administrative action.

Meal Plan

All resident students except those in Batten House are required to participate in the meal plan. Please see the section on Dining Services for further information.

Painting

Note that student room painting is chargeable damage. Residents will be charged for repainting and for tape, paint, poster putty, decals, and/or nails in/on room (including doors) and/or corridor walls.

Pets

Because of the College’s concern for the health and well-being of all, pets are not allowed in the residence halls. Violations of the pet policy may result in administrative action that may include, but is not limited to, charges for cleaning and/or pet removal or boarding costs, as well as loss of on-campus housing privileges. An appropriately trained Service Animal, as defined by the American with Disabilities Act as amended in 2008, will be permitted if necessary to ensure access for a student with a disability. For additional information, please contact the coordinator of Access Services at 610-526-7351.

Room Assessment Procedure

Facilities Services conducts room-condition checks at the beginning and end of each academic year. Students complete a form and return it to the College on each occasion. College staff verify these reports and charge residents for any damage to the room or its furnishings. You should complete an assessment form to protect yourself from charges for damage that you did not cause.

Room Assignments

Residence on campus is required of all undergraduates except those who live with their families in the immediate vicinity, and those who live in houses or apartments off campus after having received permission from the College and their parents to do so. A Room Draw system based on class priority has been established by the Residence Council. Room Draw takes place in April. Single rooms are not guaranteed.

Room Draw merely provides an opportunity to select a room. Residence selections, once made, remain in effect for the entire academic year. Students may not unofficially trade one room or space for another. Rooms and places in specific halls are not automatically retained from year to year. Room Draw rules are posted online in mid-March. Make sure to read and understand them.

Room Changes

One of the practical results of Bryn Mawr’s principle of individual responsibility is the Residence Council’s policy on room changes. The main premise of this policy is that a change in room assignment is a special case based on unusually problematic circumstances. Roommates are expected to do their best to make a success of their placement. We encourage the resolution of problems and of difficult situations according to the principles of the Honor Code and through consultation with resource people in the halls. Students who have not demonstrated this effort will not be granted room changes.

Room change forms are available from the Residential Life Office. Please note that no room changes are acted upon until Oct. 1.

No change may be made without talking to one’s roommate and working with Residential Life and Student Engagement staff, including your Hall Adviser and the Residential Life Coordinators.

Students must try to work out conflicts or problems before requesting a room change. Trading of rooms is not allowed in any case.

There is a $30 charge to be shared by all roommates for all room changes. Unauthorized moves result in a $50 charge and the students involved must return to their original rooms.

Fire & Safety Policies

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In order to provide maximum safety and security for resident students, buildings, and property, students must abide by the following safety policies. Students who violate these policies will be subject to disciplinary action including but not limited to fines, relocation, denial of College housing, and exclusion from the College, as well as civil and criminal liability. In addition to the following policies, students are expected to keep all their belongings inside their dorm rooms. Hallways must be clear of clutter to provide clear pathways for egress in the event of an emergency.

Cooking Appliances

Coffee makers and electric water kettles with automatic shutoff are permitted in dorm rooms. Cooking appliances, including, but not limited to , toasters, toaster ovens, rice cookers, hot plates, panini makers, grills, and microwaves are not permitted. The cooking of raw foods is not permitted in residence halls, as this poses fire and food safety risks. If any appliances not adhering to this policy should be brought to the attention of the College administration, the student will be responsible for the immediate removal of the prohibited appliance and incur a $250 fine. The Residence Council advises all students to limit the number of energy- consuming appliances in their rooms.

Air Conditioning

Air conditioning is not available in all Bryn Mawr dorms or in all rooms within a dorm. Housing accommodations for room air conditioners will be provided for those students with documented disabilities through the Access Services Office. If an accommodation for air conditioning is approved, Facilities Services will install the air conditioner unit. Students may not install their own units. Due to the nature and design of our residence halls, all dorms and rooms do not accommodate air conditioning units. Students are encouraged to request modifications in housing and to provide the required documentation as early as possible to allow sufficient time for consideration and planning. Otherwise, housing options may be limited.

Space Heaters

For fire safety reasons, students are not permitted to bring space heaters for their dorm rooms. Any concerns about room temperature or heating should be directed to Facilities Services.

Dangerous Articles, Substances, and Activities

The items and activities specified below are prohibited on the College campus. Violators 
will be subject to disciplinary action, including but not limited to fines, relocation, denial of College housing, and exclusion from the College, as well as civil and criminal liability. If dangerous articles or substances are discovered in a room, they will be impounded.

• Possession or use of weapons, including but not limited to air rifles, pellet guns, pistols, firearms, ammunition, hunting equipment, knives, and swords, is expressly prohibited.
• Possession or use of dangerous substances, including but not limited to gunpowder, fireworks, explosives, gasoline, and kerosene, is expressly prohibited.
• Possession or use of illegal or controlled substances, including but not limited to illegal or controlled drugs, is expressly prohibited.

Fire Emergency

In the event of a fire alarm (real or drill), evacuate the building immediately until given clearance to return by Campus Safety officers or the Fire Department. Be familiar with fire evacuation routes, fire alarms, and fire extinguishers.

Information is available through Campus Safety. Report all fires or fire hazards to Campus Safety immediately: 610-526-7911.

Fire Safety

No open flames, including candles and incense, are permitted in the residence halls. No fires are permitted in the fireplaces. Extension cords under rugs are serious fire hazards. Take special care in using electrical outlets. Do not overload outlets; do not use more than two electrical appliances per outlet. No fire extinguisher may be discharged except to fight a fire. There is a charge of $50 for each improper use of a fire extinguisher.

Such improper use of a fire extinguisher poses an extreme danger to life and property. Halogen lamps are potential fire hazards. Do not place one near flammable items and never leave a burning lamp unattended.

IDs

Students are expected to carry their official identification card at all times on campus, and it can be used to identify themselves to Campus Safety or other officials when requested.

Roofs

Students are not permitted on the roofs of College buildings for any reason. Terraces, balconies, and other structures accessible by windows are defined as roofs under this policy. Violators are subject to action by the class dean and will be fined.

Smoking

Smoking is prohibited in all residence halls and at the main entrances to all campus buildings.

Smoke Detectors

Under no circumstances may students cover, disable, or otherwise tamper with room smoke detectors. A student who engages in such behavior will be subject to disciplinary action including but not limited to fines, relocation, denial of College housing, and exclusion from the College, as well as civil and criminal liability.

Sprinklers

Under no circumstances may students hang objects from or otherwise tamper with room sprinklers. A student who activates a sprinkler will be subject to disciplinary action including but not limited to fines, relocation, denial of College housing,  and exclusion from the College, as well as civil and criminal liability.

Hall Pantries

Hall pantries are equipped with refrigerators, microwave ovens, and toasters and are available for student use. The pantries are designed for heating already prepared foods such as frozen meals, canned or dried foods, soups, and hot beverages. Preparation and cooking of raw foods is strictly prohibited in the pantries, as well as all other dorm spaces, due to fire and food safety risks.

Additional cooking appliances may not be brought to the pantries, including personal microwaves and toasters.

Freedom of Speech & the Limits of Dissent

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Bryn Mawr College currently has in place various policies addressing issues related to freedom of speech and the expression of ideas. Chief among these are the Hazing Policy and the policy on solicitation on campus, available from College Communications. The Honor Code establishes procedures that can be used to address issues of free speech and dissent when they arise from interactions between undergraduate students. The College also has a statement governing the conduct of religious groups, advisers, and representatives on campus, which can be found at the Impact Center for Community, Equity, and Understanding. The policy outlined here assumes the framework created by these other policies and procedures and addresses particularly the conduct of both curricular and extracurricular gatherings that feature speakers, films, performances, exhibits, or any other forms of artistic expression, whether these gatherings are open or closed. For the purposes of this policy, the term “speakers” should be understood to mean performers, exhibitors, presenters of films, and others involved in any form of artistic expression as well as those delivering, introducing, or responding to speeches, talks, or lectures.

As an educational institution, Bryn Mawr is committed to the free expression of ideas. In practice, this commitment means that speakers who conduct themselves within the guidelines of the policies mentioned above are entitled to express their ideas without hindrance, no matter how unpopular or controversial their ideas might be. Students and other persons who choose to attend events on campus are entitled to hear and see speakers without interference or intimidation. Bryn Mawr’s commitment to the free expression of ideas extends to the expression of dissenting ideas; the College recognizes that the free representation of dissenting points of view is necessary to the climate of open and vigorous debate essential to its educational mission.

Those who wish to dissent from or protest the views of others are entitled to do so, within the limits set forth here, without interference or intimidation.

Essentially, while the College recognizes the rights of both speakers and dissenters to the civil expression of their ideas, it also recognizes that these rights cannot always be exercised at the same time and in the same space and therefore sets forth the guidelines below.

Finally, the College takes seriously its obligation to ensure the physical safety of its students, faculty, staff, and invited guests.

This policy is intended to reflect these three commitments and protect the rights and safety of speakers, dissenters, and audiences alike.

Guidelines for the Conduct of Meetings

Before the Event:

It will not always be possible for the organizers or sponsors of events to recognize potential controversies. However, anticipating and planning for the possibility of dissent or protest is among the responsibilities of an organizer or sponsor of a campus event. 
Organizers or sponsors who fail to conscientiously assume this responsibility may be subject to administrative sanctions, including the loss of the privilege of organizing future events and liability for losses or damages.

When any member of the community expects that a scheduled event may give rise to protest, she 
or he should notify the Dean of the Undergraduate College or, in the case of events intended primarily for graduate students or events held at the Graduate School of Social Work and Social Research, the Dean of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences or the Dean of the Graduate School of Social Work and Social Research. This notification would most likely come from a member of the sponsoring organization, from a person involved in planning to protest, or a staff member assisting in planning or organizing the event. This notification is requested so that the Dean can take responsibility for seeing that the rights of dissenters and speakers alike are respected and that appropriate safety and security measures are taken.

The Dean will determine whether the protection of free speech and safety for all involved requires any special measures.

Should she determine that this is the case, she may consult with other College officials, including the other deans of the College and the director of Campus Safety, Communications, or Conferences and Events, to decide what measures will be appropriate. Among the possible courses of action they may take are:

• Appointing a faculty or administrative moderator for the event who will be responsible for reminding participants of the guidelines contained in this policy, for making sure that the rights of all are respected during the event itself, and for directing response in case the guidelines are violated;
• Making sure that the event is scheduled for a physical space which will allow for freedom of movement and security measures adequate to the size and nature of the gathering;
• Arranging for special Campus Safety measures, which may include but are not limited to making sure that officers are available during the event, requiring those attending the event to check their bags and outerwear before entering, restricting admission to the event to members of the College community, or establishing limits to the number of persons who may attend an event. In cases where it might be appropriate, for example, if a highly controversial speaker were to speak in Goodhart and many members of the general public were expected, the Director of Campus Safety may consult with the Lower Merion Police on appropriate traffic, crowd control, and security measures.

During an Event:

If, during an event, the appointed moderator believes that the conduct of persons present poses a threat to the rights or safety of other members of the community or of guests, she or he will ask such persons to cooperate in restoring order and remind them of their responsibilities under this policy. Should she or he be unable to restore order by so doing, she or he may:

• Ask Campus Safety to remove any persons who are posing a threat to the public order.
• Decide to move the event to another 
physical space.
• Decide to end the event and disperse 
the gathering.

In the event that protests disrupt an event at which there is no appointed moderator, any faculty member, administrator or Campus Safety officer present may assume the role of moderator. If an event at which only students are present is disrupted, and the students feel that they need assistance to restore order, they should call on the Student Success Office or the Office of Campus Safety for support.

Guidelines for Dissent and Protest

These guidelines are meant to suggest the principles governing appropriate dissent or protest and the limits protesters or dissenters are expected to respect.

• Distributing literature in advance of or outside a meeting is acceptable and must not be hindered when those distributing the literature are members of the College community. Those distributing literature must not impede access to the meeting and must not harass people wishing to attend. Distributing literature inside a meeting before the meeting is called to order and after it is adjourned is also acceptable and must not be hindered. Persons who are not members of the community are allowed to distribute literature under the terms of the Policy for Visitors to Campus, available from College Communications.
• Silent protests such as the displaying of signs or symbols; the wearing of expressive clothing or insignia; standing, gesturing,  or otherwise protesting noiselessly are acceptable and will not be hindered unless the ability of others in the audience to see or hear is impeded. For this reason, such protests as the display of large signs or banners should be confined to the back of the meeting space. For safety reasons, signs and banners should not be affixed to sticks or other sharp or hard objects.
• Noise that expresses spontaneous and temporary response to particular statements will be acceptable: for example, cheering or booing a particular remark, applauding or hissing, and so on. Sustained or repeated noises that substantially interfere with the audience’s ability to hear the speaker will not be acceptable, whether the noises are produced inside or outside the meeting; examples of this would be chanting, sustained booing, foot-stamping, singing, and so on.
• Force or the threat of force is never an acceptable form of protest. “Force” is meant to include assault on any individual, whether speaker, audience member, dissenter, or staff member; physical interference with the freedom of movement of another person; defacing of signs; tampering with audio-visual equipment; throwing objects; and other gestures that threaten physical harm to persons or property.

Sanctions

A variety of sanctions could follow from protests that violate these guidelines. At the time, such protesters can be expelled from a meeting or event, and if their protest involves illegal or violent activity, they may be subject to arrest.

After the event, individual undergraduate students who feel that the conduct of other undergraduates has been inconsistent with the values of the Honor Code may confront their fellow students and initiate proceedings under the Social Honor Code. Undergraduate students may also be subject to administrative sanctions imposed by a Dean’s Panel; any student or member of the faculty or staff can consult the Dean of the Undergraduate College about the appropriateness of initiating this process. Haverford students will be subject to the same procedures and sanctions as Bryn Mawr students.

Cases involving members of the College community who are not undergraduate 
students will be referred to the appropriate faculty or staff committees or College officers. Disruptive persons who are not members of the Bryn Mawr community may be banned from future events or from the campus generally.

Resources in the Event of Suspected Discrimination or Bias:

If you think you or someone else have been treated unfairly or is a biased way by a professor, you have several options.

Under the Honor Code, direct confrontation and conversation is the preferred first step. If that does not result in resolution or is not possible, there are additional options.

• Talk with your class dean about the situation. Your class dean can advise about an approach to the confrontation as well as other institutional options.
• Contact the chair of the faculty 
member’s department.
• Contact the Provost. The Provost is the senior academic administrator at the College and is available to address concerns about faculty-student relationships. (610-526-5167).
• File a Bias Incident Report
• Contact the Dean of the Undergraduate College or the President. The Dean and President are available to talk with students about their concerns regarding discrimination, bias, or unfair treatment.

Equal Opportunity, Non-Discrimination, and Discriminatory Harassment Policies

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Bryn Mawr College is firmly committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all members of its faculty, staff, and student body. Bryn Mawr College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sexual orientation, age, or disability in the administration of its educational policies, scholarship and loan programs, athletic and other College-administered programs, or in its employment practices. In conformity with the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended, and Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, it is also the policy of Bryn Mawr College not to discriminate on the basis of sex in its employment practices, educational programs, or activities. The admission of only women to the Undergraduate College is in conformity with a provision of the Civil Rights Act. The provisions of Title IX protect students and employees from all forms of illegal sex discrimination, which includes sexual harassment and sexual violence, in College programs and activities. 

Inquiries regarding compliance with this legislation and other policies regarding nondiscrimination may be directed to the Equal Opportunity Officer (eoo@brynmawr.edu or 610-526-7630) and Title IX Coordinator (titleix_coordinator@brynmawr.edu or 610-526-7630), who administer the College’s procedures. 

Statement of Principles

The College is firmly committed to academic and professional excellence and to freedom of inquiry and expression for all members of the College community. In order to preserve an atmosphere in which these goals can be pursued, certain norms of civility, based on mutual respect and appreciation of differences, recognition of the rights of others and sensitivity to their feelings, must govern the interactions of all members of the community. The pursuit of these goals and the preservation of this civil atmosphere depend on the active commitment of all community members to making the College’s programs and resources as inclusive as possible.

Statement of Policies Concerning Sexual Harassment and Other Forms of Harassment and Discrimination

It is the policy of Bryn Mawr College to maintain a work and academic environment free from discrimination and offensive or degrading remarks or conduct. Unlawful discrimination, including sexual harassment and sexual violence, will not be tolerated. This policy covers all staff members and faculty members as well as students. The College will not tolerate, condone, or allow harassment or discrimination, whether engaged in by fellow staff members, students, faculty members, or non-employees who conduct business with the College.

Definition of Discrimination

Discrimination is unequal or disparate treatment of groups or individuals, including their exclusion from any of the College’s programs or activities, or any attempt to hinder access to the College’s resources on the basis of race, religion, color, age, national origin, physical ability, sex or sexual orientation. Prohibited sex discrimination includes both sexual harassment and sexual violence. It is important to recognize that not all conduct that might be offensive to an individual or a group necessarily constitutes discriminatory conduct. Whether a specific act constitutes discrimination must be determined on a case-by-case basis in light of all relevant circumstance.

The College is committed to maintaining an environment in which all members of the community, staff, students, and faculty, are treated with respect and dignity. It is the policy of the College not to discriminate on the basis of sex, including sexual harassment, in any of its programs, activities, or employment practices. Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct constitute sexual harassment when:

• Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual’s employment or academic treatment, or is accompanied by implied or overt threats concerning one’s job, grades, letters of recommendation, etc.;
• Submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as a basis of employment or academic decisions affecting such individual; or
• Such conduct has the purpose or effect of interfering with an individual’s work performance or academic performance or creating an intimidating, hostile or 
offensive environment.

The College also prohibits this type of behavior when it is based on race, color, age, national origin, and religion,  or on any other basis prohibited by law. Harassment on the basis of one’s sexual orientation can also constitute discrimination on the basis of sex.

Sexual harassment can include verbal behavior such as unwanted sexual comments, suggestions, jokes or pressure for sexual favors; nonverbal behavior such as suggestive looks or leering; and 
physical behavior such as pats, where such behaviors are severe, offensive, and occur repeatedly unless a single instance is so severe that it warrants immediate action. Some specific examples of behavior that are inappropriate include:

• Continuous and repeated sexual slurs or sexual innuendoes.
• Offensive and repeated risqué jokes or kidding about sex or gender-specific traits
• Repeated unsolicited propositions for dates and/or sexual relations.

Reporting a Complaint of Harassment or Discrimination

If any student believes they are being harassed or discriminated against by staff members, students or faculty members, or any other person at the College, or if a student is aware that another College community member has been harassed or discriminated against, it is the student’s responsibility to take action immediately by discussing concerns with a class dean, the Equal Opportunity Officer, or the Title IX Coordinator.

If a student is uncomfortable for any reason in discussing this issue with these individuals, they may contact the President of the College, who will help the student find appropriate College officials with whom to discuss the concern.

The College encourages prompt reporting of complaints so that a rapid response and appropriate action may be taken. No retaliation against students who make a good-faith report of a violation of this policy will be tolerated

Investigating the Complaint

The College will investigate promptly all complaints of violations of sexual harassment and discrimination policies. The investigation will include interviews with the parties who are directly involved and possibly with others. These interviews may be conducted by the Equal Opportunity Officer, the Title IX Coordinator, class deans, Staff Issues Liaison, Campus Safety officers, or others as the circumstances warrant. Both parties will have an opportunity to present any information that they have to those investigating a complaint, and both will be kept informed in a timely manner of information used in the investigation to the extent possible, consistent with FERPA and confidentiality constraints. Both parties will be updated periodically regarding the status of the investigation. In its investigation, the College will find that harassment and/or discrimination has occurred if the information collected indicates that it is more likely than not that sexual harassment or sexual violence occurred. The College will complete its investigation within 60 days after its receipt of a complaint, unless circumstances not within the reasonable control of the College require additional time, in which case both parties will be informed of the delay and the reason therefor. Each situation will be responded to promptly and handled as expeditiously and discreetly as possible.

Resolving the Complaint

If the College determines that this policy was violated, it will take corrective action as warranted by the circumstances. Resolution of complaints against Bryn Mawr College students and employees can include transfer, direction to stop the behavior, counseling or training, suspension without pay or termination of employment, or in the case of students, temporary separation or permanent exclusion from the College. Both parties involved will receive written notice of the resolution of the complaint within one week of the conclusion of the investigation. If it is determined that sexual harassment or sexual violence did occur, the College will include in its resolution steps to prevent a recurrence of harassment and, when applicable, steps to correct the discriminatory effects on the complainant and others.

If an investigation results in a finding that the complainant falsely accused another of harassment knowingly or in a malicious manner, the complainant will be subject to appropriate sanctions, up to and including termination of employment or, in the case of students, up to and including permanent exclusion from the College.

Policy Concerning Sexual Relationships Between Students and Faculty or Staff Members

Fulfilling the mission of Bryn Mawr College to provide a rigorous education and to encourage the pursuit of knowledge as preparation for life and work depends upon the existence of a relationship of trust, respect, and fairness between faculty or staff members and students. Romantic and/or sexual relationships between faculty or staff members (including teaching assistants) and students threaten this relationship. Further, the unequal nature of their respective roles calls into question a student’s ability to fully consent to a romantic and/or sexual relationship with a faculty or staff member. The College considers such a relationship, even if believed to be consensual, to violate the integrity of the student/faculty or student/staff relationship, and to be unethical and unacceptable.

In acting on complaints regarding sexual relationships that come to the College’s attention, it will be presumed that any complaint by a student against a faculty or staff member is valid if sexual relations have occurred between them. In addition, third parties, including other students, parents, and other faculty/staff members, may report suspected violations of this policy. All complaints will be investigated,  and should allegations of such a relationship be substantiated, the College will take appropriate disciplinary action against the involved faculty or staff member, up to and including 
termination of employment.