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The Office of Student Affairs, under the direction of the vice president for student affairs, is committed to the University’s Vision and Strategic Plan. As such, the Office works diligently to provide a warm and comfortable living and learning environment for the University’s students. The Office is dedicated to creating a “home away from home” while it provides oversight and supervision for students’ living in the University’s 10 residential halls and its 2 scholarship houses. In addition, the Office of Student Affairs supervises student organizations, activities, and social activities.
Excellence in the development of the Bethune Man and Bethune Woman is of paramount importance and is facilitated through the goals, objectives, programs, and activities of the sector’s primary departments; namely, Residential Life, Student Activities, Career Services, Health Services, Community Outreach, and Campus Security. The Office of Student Affairs also works closely with the University’s Food Services Department to ensure both nutritious food and quality service.
General Regulations
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Student Responsibility
In accepting admission to Bethune-Cookman University, the student subscribes to the standards of personal conduct which the University considers fundamental to group living. It is assumed that the student will take advantage of the opportunities offered to learn how to make wise decisions regarding conduct. Policies and practices governing students and student life are found in the student handbook, posted in the Student Centers, classrooms (Honor Code), and online.
Judicial Affairs
Bethune-Cookman University seeks to safeguard the integrity of all students. It is expected that individual students will refrain from participating in acts which are considered inappropriate. Students are subject to disciplinary action who persist in violating any of the privileges, standards, and policies of the University; who are consistently delinquent in academic responsibility; and/or who continuously neglect their financial obligations; or who embarrass the University in any manner. The University reserves the right to dismiss a student for unbecoming social behavior. The possession of firearms and the use and possession of alcoholic beverages and narcotics by Bethune-Cookman University students are strictly forbidden and are grounds for immediate dismissal. The University reserves the right to notify civil authorities whenever a student is guilty of, or charged with, violation(s) of civil law. The University also reserves the right to dismiss said student if arrested and while charges are pending. Student may apply for readmission upon being cleared of all charges.
Religious Experiences
In its relationship to the Board of Higher Education and Ministry of the United Methodist Church, Bethune-Cookman University has a great and cherished religious tradition. The religious outreach of the University is ecumenical, and the Religious Life Fellowship, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, chaired by the University Chaplain, is comprised of student, faculty, and staff members from a wide variety of religious denominations.
The Office of the University Chaplain is located on the second floor of the Mary McLeod Bethune Performing Arts Center and is open to all who have need for spiritual counseling and guidance. This office also serves as the center for religious activities, as it coordinates and promotes programs of spiritual enrichment on the campus.
Religious activities include Bible study, annual spiritual outreach celebrations, midweek prayer services, outdoor celebration services, and spiritual awareness sessions in the dormitories. The University employs a full-time ordained chaplain to administer these activities.
Health Services
A primary goal of the Health Services Department is to positively influence the thinking and actions of students toward more healthful living. The Health Services Department is committed to physical and mental health maintenance and disease prevention as well as managing preexisting conditions.
The University’s Health Services Department is under the direction of a registered nurse who serves as its director. In addition to the director, the activity of the Health Services Department is supported by a Mental Health Professional and an additional registered nurse (on-call) and a part-time licensed practical nurse. The University contracts with a physician who devotes a minimum of 20 hours per week for student appointments. Any student who elects to seek the services of physicians other than the University’s contracted physician is responsible for payment of all fees associated with that decision.
Students who need hospital services should contact Health Services during its regular 8-5 business hours. Students who elect to seek health care at local hospitals and clinics during 8-5 will not be reimbursed for those charges, unless referred by Health Services staff. For urgent care needed after hours, students should notify residential staff or campus security for appropriate action. In order for students to be reimbursed for treatment received at local hospitals and clinics after hours, they must complete the required forms provided by Health Services staff as soon as possible.
The Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974
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- Statement of Policy. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a federal law that affords students at Bethune-Cookman University certain rights with respect to their education records. These rights include:
- The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the University receives a request for access. Students wishing to inspect their education records should submit to the Registrar, Dean of the appropriate academic division, or other appropriate official, a written request identifying the records they wish to inspect. The University official will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. If the University official to whom the request was submitted does not maintain the records, that official shall advise the student of the correct official to whom the request should be addressed. Students wishing to have copies of education records will be responsible for payment of reasonable copying charges.
- The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes is inaccurate. Students may ask the University to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate. The student should provide written notice to the University official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record he or she wants changed, and specify why it is inaccurate. The University will review the request and determine whether an amendment is warranted. If the University determines that amending the record is not warranted or appropriated, the University will notify the student of its decision, and will advise the student of his or her right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment.
- The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.
- The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the University to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA are:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202-4605
- Release of “Directory Information”. FERPA permits the University to disclose “directory information” contained in its students’ education records. “Directory information” includes, but is not limited to, the student’s name, address, telephone listing, e-mail address, photograph, date and place of birth, major field of study, dates of attendance, enrollment status, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, degrees, honors and awards, and the most recent educational institution attended.
- Disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. FERPA also permits the University to disclose personally identifiable information from a student’s educational records to “school officials” with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the University in an administrative, supervisory, academic or research, or support staff position (including law enforcement unit personnel and health staff): a person or company with whom the University has contracted (such as an attorney), auditor, or collection agent); a member of the Board of Trustees; or a student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.
- OTHER DISCLOSURES WITHOUT CONSENT. FERPA permits the University to disclose personally identifiable information from a student’s educational records without the student’s consent in a number of instances other than those specified in this notice. The permissible disclosures described above should not be construed as an exhaustive list.
The Carl S. Swisher Library/Learning Resources Center has the physical and online facilities needed to support the online master’s program. The library was constructed in 1971 and now contains over 154,000 volumes. The collection is made up of a circulation collection, a non-circulating reference collection, a special reference computer lab, a periodical collection available in both print and online, a non-print media center, and a special collection. In addition to the above physical collection of books, documents, and periodicals housed in the building, the library also subscribes to an extensive network of online databases which provide access to books, periodicals, journals, reference sources, documents, legal resources, etc.
An in-house and online search for material related to key words associated with leadership rendered a significant number of resources available as “full text” articles or books for Bethune-Cookman University students. These resources are enhanced by a growing collection of leadership books and articles in the School of Graduate and Professional Studies.
The online resources are available from any computer housed on-campus as well as off-campus through the Bethune-Cookman University webpage at http://www.cookman.edu. Since the online databases are subscription based, the library access system is controlled through the registration process. Students can use their identification codes to access the databases only as long as they are students. The extensive collection of databases, and the off-site access makes the library resources extremely convenient and beneficial for the graduate students in the M.S. in Transformative Leadership, as they will be able to access these resources from any place. There will be an orientation on the use of the online databases during the initial residency period.
If students cannot find the material needed through one of the databases, the library also has an online request form for interlibrary loan. Students can order a book or article online and it will be delivered to them at their home addresses. There is no charge to the Interlibrary Loan patron for the borrowing of library materials. Photocopying materials through Interlibrary Loan are cost free to faculty, undergraduates and staff.
Center for Information Technology
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Academic Computing
The Academic Computing unit implements the effective use of technology college-wide. Its operating framework is designed to enhance teaching and learning for students and faculty with administrative support through online learning. The area of Academic Computing works to create a more student-centered environment in order to prepare students for the information age and a global society while increasing interdisciplinary collaboration.
Administrative Computing
The Administrative Computing unit is responsible for the installation and maintenance of administrative systems. These systems provide the University community the capability of using technology to automate their daily tasks and increase the productivity of their departments. The unit is also responsible for the design, implementation, operation, and maintenance of systems and services that support “business” computing at the University.
Network Support & Telecomm
This unit provides network and server-based services including: email; Internet a ccess; a high-speed data network; wireless networks; server-based personal and shared file space; print queues; and wiring and fiber optics for data and voice networks. Telecommunication services address issues with the campus telephone and voice mail, phone directory, connectivity and telecommunication equipment.
User Support Services
The User Support Services unit provides computer related support to all faculty, staff and registered students on campus. Working in partnership with the user community, its mission is to provide outstanding support through the timely resolution of their desktop computing issues.
Web Services
This unit provides professional web design, development, and maintenance to support Bethune-Cookman University community needs. We also strive to provide the B-CU community with information on evolving web technologies, best practices, and available resources for those building and maintaining their own web sites.
Blackboard Bb
At Bethune-Cookman University Blackboard is used to deploy fully online and hybrid (mixed-mode) courses. Blackboard allows faculty and students the flexibility to work anytime-anywhere maintaining quality learning outcomes. Blackboard includes a comprehensive set of tools that make teaching and learning online an easy and enjoyable experience. The interface is secure and easy to navigate for both faculty and students. A 24/7 help desk is available for students enrolled in online courses.
Appropriate Use Of Campus Computing And Network Resources
- An overall guiding mission of Bethune-Cookman University is education in an environment where the free exchange of ideas is encouraged and protected. Bethune-Cookman University makes available computing and network facilities (CNF) resources for use by students, faculty and staff. These services are provided for educational purposes and for carrying out the legitimate business of the University.
- These CNF resources include but are not limited to:
- Computers and associated peripheral devices
- Campus video cable
- Classroom presentation systems
- Voice messaging equipment
- Data networking equipment systems, including remote and wireless access
- Computer software
- Electronically stored institutional data and messages
- All other similar resources owned, controlled, and/or operated by the University
- Services to maintain these resources
- Members of the University community are expected to observe Federal, State and local laws, as well as the regulations and policies of the University, that govern computer and telecommunications use. Members cannot use campus computing or networking resources or personal computing resources accessed through campus network facilities to collect, store or distribute information or materials, or to participate in activities that are in violation of federal, state or local laws or other University policies or guidelines. These include, but are not limited to, policies and guidelines regarding intellectual property and sexual or other forms of harassment.
- Members are required to use computing facilities and their network resources within the responsible, considerate and ethical standards of conduct prescribed by the University. Individuals with expert knowledge of information systems or those who make extensive use of these facilities, or have positions of trust regarding these facilities will be held to a higher standard of accountability.
- The University retains absolute ownership rights of the CNF resources. Such resources are not owned by a department or by any individual. CNF resources, leased, licensed, or purchased under research contracts or grants, are administered under the terms of this Policy for as long as they remain within the lawful possession or control of the University. CNF resources provided to on-campus residences are also owned, operated and provided by the University. (Source: Office of the Executive Vice President for Administration and Finance, 2004-2005)
Civic Participation and Social Responsibility
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Bethune-Cookman University’s commitment to Civic Participation and Social Responsibility is reflected in the University’s official motto, “Enter to Learn … . Depart to Serve.” Indeed, the spirit of service and outreach has been one of the institution’s guiding principles since its founding in 1904. The University has a long history of service to the surrounding community as evidenced in such programs as its National Youth Sports Program which is almost 30 years old. Through this program, community youth between 10 and 16 years of age are given opportunities to participate in sports programs, health services, educational opportunities, and cultural experiences. The University’s Talent Search Program is more than 30 years old and offers community youth information, educational guidance, counseling, and campus tours designed to encourage low-income and first generation middle and high school students to go on to college.
The University’s International Institute for Civic Participation and Social Responsibility was first introduced to the University family and the community at large as a central component of President Trudie Kibbe Reed’s new administration and long-term vision for the University Family. The presence of the International Institute for Civic Participation and Social Responsibility demonstrates the University’s commitment to continuing Dr. Bethune’s legacy of service to the surrounding community, the city of Daytona Beach, the state of Florida, and the nation. The University is committed to making its resources, including its faculty, staff, students and, whenever possible, its facilities available to the children as well as the men and women of Daytona Beach through an ever-increasing variety of partnerships and collaborations. Several major components are associated with the work of the Institute, including the annual Civic Participation and Social Responsibility Legacy Forum, Campus Living/Learning Centers, Community Outreach Centers, Family Life Literacy Centers, MMB National Institute, Student Internship/Volunteerism, Student Exchange Programs in Foreign Countries, Service Learning Spiritual and Leadership Development Initiatives, an annual International Symposium, and a National Speakers Bureau/Lecture Series. Students as well as faculty and staff are intimately involved in all of the Institute’s components.
The University is also proud to be one of the original 10 Project Pericles institutions in the country. Today, there are 20 Periclean colleges and universities and Bethune-Cookman University is one of only three historically black colleges and universities (HBCU) among the country’s Periclean colleges and universities. The other two are Dillard University and Spelman College. As a Project Pericles institution of higher learning, the Board of Trustees for the University has made a commitment to Project Pericles, Inc., the parent organization that was founded by its President and CEO, philanthropist, Mr. Eugene Lang. Our commitment is that educating the University’s undergraduate student body for active citizenship will forever be an important part of the University’s mission. Through Project Pericles activities and programming, students are exposed to film series, debates, guest lecturers, petition drives, city commission meetings, political task force issues and initiatives, and a wealth of other citizen engagement opportunities. Through both the Institute and Project Pericles, students are reminded of their responsibility as citizens of a democracy and that as “Mary’s children” they are expected to become knowledgeable about issues as well as actively involved as leaders and even change agents for those among our citizenry least able to do so.
Bethune-Cookman students are also participants in the HBCU Mentoring Initiative. Through this civic participation and social responsibility program, 60 Bethune-Cookman students serve as mentors for K-12 students in Volusia County as well as offer mentoring support to fellow freshmen and sophomore students. These students earn a living allowance and, after completing 450 mentoring hours, an educational award. The educational award can be applied to outstanding balances, summer school, or graduate study. Students are especially proud of the volunteer time they spend with the TKR Community Reading Program because of its impact on the youngest members of the community. TKR children range from five to 10 years old. Scheduled for three hours on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month, each child has several Bethune-Cookman University students working with him/her on reading and comprehension skills, and presentation skills as well as critical thinking and vocabulary development. As the program’s founder, President Reed has made a commitment to provide support to the college education of these young children. In 2005 the University’s Board of Trustees voted to set aside interest from an almost 1 million dollar Vision Validators Program. As volunteers, Bethune-Cookman University students provide invaluable support as mentors, tutors, support staff.
The Charles Cherry Community Holiday Festival is possible only because of Bethune- Cookman’s student volunteers who arrive early to set up for the festival and remain after all others have departed to take down the game stations, clean the grounds, load tables, chairs, and other tasks associated with running a successful festival. The festival is a partnership between the Daytona Beach Department of Leisure Services and the Daytona Times Newspaper. The festival is named posthumously after Mr. Charles Cherry, owner and publisher of the Daytona Times Newspaper, five-term city commissioner, and civil rights activist. Members of the Fighting Wildcats are a highlight of the festival and spend hours signing autographs for children and adults alike. Both the University’s Concert Chorale and Marching Band perform regularly at this annual partnership event. The Charles Cherry Community Holiday Festival is a major civic participation and social responsibility event.
The University’s commitment to Civic Participation and Social Responsibility comes alive in its Monthly Community Meetings. These important meetings are held both on and off campus and are facilitated by the President. Each sector of the University plays a vital role in the overall success of the Monthly Community Meeting as issues are brought to the floor for discussion, debate, and consensus building through open dialogue and critical thinking. The Community Meetings offer an excellent opportunity for students to present themselves as team/audience participants as well as facilitators for break-out sessions. Additional community service hours are accumulated by students through participating in follow-up activities such as conducting surveys, preparing neighborhood business directories, and conducting interviews. The Daytona Beach community benefits daily from the presence of Bethune-Cookman University students who volunteer their time and skills at elementary, middle, and high schools throughout the city. In addition, city agencies and organizations welcome our students as they contribute volunteer hours throughout each academic year worth millions of dollars. Bethune-Cookman University administrators, faculty, and staff volunteer their time to serve on the boards of various community agencies and institutions.
Research
Bethune-Cookman University has built a reputation as a viable center for research, as a supplement to teaching, particularly in the areas of the natural and social sciences. External funds, derived from contracts and grants from private foundations, as well as local, state, and federal agencies, are used to support the research, to provide stipends and research opportunities for students and faculty members, and to improve research facilities. In addition, the University funds research grants through the Bethune-Cookman University Research Foundation. The Research Grant Program serves to stimulate initial research prior to submission to external sources. Some of the significant research efforts involve the community outreach programs, teaching and learning strategies, drug use prevention among youth, instructional materials development in the basic skills and other areas, political activities, and sociological phenomena.
A National Science Foundation supported Undergraduate Program supports faculty initiated pilot research projects in sciences, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) disciplines. Undergraduate students in the STEM disciplines at the University receive research training and financial support through these research activities. Modern Language Research is done in International Studies Abroad; in International Business Languages and Cultures; in Foreign Language proficiency; and Foreign Language for functional uses in various career programs, such as Medical Personnel, Social Services, Business and Finance, as well as for Law Enforcement and teachers in multicultural classrooms. Each academic school requires senior students to write senior theses/research papers. A faculty committee selects the best senior thesis paper from each school for publication in the annual Undergraduate Research Journal. The journal not only showcases the research papers of our graduating seniors but also provides models of excellence to our rising seniors. A number of faculty and staff members have distinguished themselves and are renowned in their fields. As a consequence, faculty members are (a) listed in some of the most prestigious publications (including but not limited to Who’s Who in American Education, and Who’s Who in America) and (b) recipients of numerous awards and citations, such as keys to cities, and memberships in learned and honorary societies such as Beta Kappa Psi, American Chemical Society, Pi Lambda Theta, Phi Kappa Phi, and Phi Beta Kappa. Faculty members present papers and research findings at state and national meetings.
The University Policy on Academic/Research Honesty
The University takes an uncompromising position against plagiarism, the willful distortion of data and research findings, the deliberate misrepresentation of data and research findings, and the deliberate omission and falsification of data and research findings. The integrity of the institution must be protected at all costs and failure to adhere to the policy unnecessarily jeopardizes the academic and fiscal health of the University. This policy pertains to proposals submitted for external funding; papers presented as public presentations, written publications, both oral and written speeches, and the like.
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