College Policies

Student Support Services

Student Services provides a wide array of programs and services to fulfill the needs of Erie Community College’s diverse student body. Under the direction of the campus Dean of Students, the various Student Services offices focus on realizing the full potential of each student.

It is part of ECC’s vision to be recognized as a college of excellence that fosters holistic growth for all of its students and as an educational setting where academic achievement and social development are equally valued. To reach this goal, the college will provide students the opportunity to realize self-worth, enhance ethical consciousness, exhibit interpersonal skills, respect cultural diversity, demonstrate critical thinking skills, make informed decisions about their future, demonstrate employment-related skills, function as responsible/productive citizens, enrich others through shared experience and value lifelong learning.

ECC has developed a comprehensive network of support services to facilitate the academic experience and enrich students’ lives. In the following pages, information is included on admissions, financial aid, counseling, career planning and placement, registration and records, facilities, athletics, governance and publications. Prior to the registration for classes, all new students will be invited to a Student Orientation where they can become familiar with ECC.

Auxiliary Services Corporation

The Auxiliary Service Corporation is a not-for-profit college service organization that serves as the fiduciary for the disbursement of student activity fees. Activity fees are used to fund student government, clubs, publications, athletics and a wide variety of student events. Auxiliary Services also operates the college food service and child care centers. The Auxiliary Service Board is comprised of faculty, student representatives and administrators. Regularly scheduled meetings are open to all members of the college community.

Bookstores

Auxiliary Services is the liaison for Follett Higher Education Group, the corporation that is contracted to operate a college bookstore on each campus. The bookstores offer books and supplies for sale at competitive prices and a Web site (efollett.com) for convenient on-line shopping.

ASC/ECC Child Care

ECC is aware of the difficulties of those men and women juggling the responsibilities of school, work and parenting, and offers child care at City, North and South campuses for the children of students, faculty and staff. The Auxiliary Services Corporation serves the child care needs of the college community by providing quality childcare programming at affordable rates. Most students are eligible for subsidies to assist them with childcare tuition. Registration is done on a first-come, first-served basis.

City Campus Child Care Center

The City Child Development Center accepts children from six weeks through twelve years of age for daytime, evening and summer care, thus enabling parents to study and work while offering the finest quality early childhood experience for children.

Hours of service are:

7:30 a.m. – 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday
7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Friday
(Evening child care available during the fall and spring semesters)

Summer Session:

7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday
7:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Friday (office hours only)

For more information regarding scheduling and fees, please contact the City Campus Child Development Center at (716) 851-1152.

North Campus Mary Lou Rath Child Development Center

The North Campus Child Development Center was named after New York State Senator Mary Lou Rath due to her efforts in the funding and development of the Center. She worked to obtain a $175,000 grant from the state to fund construction costs and provided an additional $15,000 to ensure that the project could be completed.

The Center provides quality child care programming Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. for infants through Pre-K children.

For more information regarding scheduling and fees, please contact the Mary Lou Rath Child Development Center at North Campus at (716) 851-1437.

South Campus Child Care Center

The South Campus Child Development Center provides quality child care programming for infants through Pre-K children and is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

For more information regarding scheduling and fees, contact the South Child Development Center at (716) 648-5219.

Food Service

Cafeterias, kiosks, restaurant facilities and catering services are available at all three campuses. Hours of operation vary at each campus. Contact the Auxiliary Services Office at (716) 851-1260 for specific hours of operation. The E.M. Statler Dining Room, available at City Campus, and the Statler Erie Room, available at North Campus, are operated by the students of the Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management programs at Erie Community College.

Career Resource Centers

The Career Resource Centers, located at each of the campuses of Erie Community College, assist students and prospective students in exploring majors and career options. Using ACT’s Discover career assessment system, students can get a clearer picture of career options and educational opportunities that are available to them.

The Career Resource Center also assists students with resumes and cover letters, interviewing skills and searching for employment opportunities. The Career Resource Centers are in contact with local and national employers on a regular basis. The centers host on-campus recruitment opportunities and maintain current employment opportunities for students and alumni.

On-campus Career Fairs are held to promote employment opportunities, give career advice to students, locate part-time, seasonal or temporary employment opportunities as well as facilitate employment with government agencies.

Outreach services are provided to local high schools, community services agencies and businesses/industries that are downsizing.

The Career Resource Centers also assist individuals who are transitioning to four-year colleges or universities. The centers provide listings and information on colleges and universities that match an individual’s goals or expectations.

College Safety

It is the responsibility of each campus College Safety Office to provide for the safety of students and for the security of the buildings, grounds and equipment of the college. The College Safety Office also maintains a Lost and Found Department. Campus safety and security is important to all members of the campus community. Information regarding campus crime statistics can be accessed by visiting the College Safety Offices on each campus or by visiting the US Department of Education Web site at http://ope.ed.gov/security/. The crime statistics include offenses reported to Campus Safety Offices for the past three years.

Counseling

Counseling is located in the Student Support Service Centers (SSSC) at each of the three campuses. The goal of counseling is to promote the academic, personal and social growth of both current and prospective students. Counseling services include academic, personal, career, transfer and disabled student services, which may assist with academic success. Students are encouraged to utilize the services available.

Transfer Counseling

Students planning to further their education beyond their associate degree can benefit from transfer counseling. Students who are interested in transferring should set up an appointment with a transfer counselor in the Student Support Service Center to learn about various articulations and dual admissions options. The transfer counselor will discuss various career options and the colleges or universities that offer these particular majors. Transfer counselors provide information in order to assist students in making an informed decision.

Disabled Student Services

Erie Community College has a Disabled Student Services (DSS) office at each campus. The purpose of the DSS Department is to foster a learning environment which is accessible to all students. ECC designates a counselor for students with disabilities at each campus. Each campus also has a technical assistant. Together, the counselor and technical assistant are available to assist students with arranging reasonable accommodations in compliance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Section 504 stipulates that a person with a disability must be otherwise qualified; i.e., able, with or without accommodations, to meet the requisite criteria for admissions to the college and its programs. Examples of frequently used accommodations are alternate test location or administration of tests; alternate format for textbooks or note takers.

Section 504 stipulates that a college is not responsible for providing items of a personal nature such as attendant services, wheelchairs, hearing aids, or other personal assistive devices. ECC has no special classes, programs, or fees exclusively for students with disabilities.

All identification of students with disabilities must be voluntary. Within a college setting, students with disabilities are personally responsible for meeting with the campus counselor to identify needs, provide appropriate disability documentation and arrange for reasonable accommodations. Accommodations for the college’s placement test may be made by meeting with the campus counselor and providing documentation of disability. Accommodations are made on an as-needed basis. Students must make arrangements for accommodations for courses by contacting the counselor each semester.

Documentation of disability is the basis for all accommodations. Documentation must demonstrate that the individual has a disability as defined by Section 504 and state the impact which that disability has for the individual in an educational environment. ECC has the right to make the final decision as to what accommodations are appropriate and reasonable. All information provided pertinent to the individual’s disability is confidential and is maintained by the Office of Disabled Student Services.

For more information about the services available for students with disabilities at ECC, contact the counselors:

ESL Student Support Center (English as a Second Language)

The Center offers a broad range of services to English language learners from linguistically and culturally diverse backgrounds. Students seeking information or assistance are encouraged to visit the ESL Student Support Center, located in room 203 at City Campus, or call (716) 851-1079.

Bilingual, Spanish-English services are available in the ESL Student Support Office, Admissions, the Child Development Center, the ESL Lab and the Multilingual Language Lab. In addition, Spanish-English speaking faculty offers academic help.

The ESL Student Support Center coordinates academic advisement for students with their departments. The Center staff works with students in planning programs and helping with placement into appropriate classes. Courses provided to ESL students target the improvement of English, math and academic skills. Degree credit introductory courses are also available to all ESL students. These courses are useful in vocabulary and concept building, which may be applied to many college programs and are credited, in most cases, to the program of the student’s choice.

Tutors and mentors located in the ESL and Language Labs provide additional help. The ESL Lab houses resource materials and computers for students’ use and the Language Lab offers state-of the-art audio visual equipment to improve language skills.

The goal of the ESL Student Support Center is to prepare students whose dominant language is not English to participate with confidence and success in college programs and curricula at Erie Community College. Through the ESL Student Support Center, students are prepared to have a rewarding experience at ECC.

Courses recommended for ESL students are:

• SO 100 - Introduction to Sociology
• CH 010 - Preparatory Chemistry*
• BI 107 - Human Biology
• PH 120 - Environmental Science
• MT 001 - Basic Mathematics*
• MT 013 - Elementary Algebra I & II*
• MT 006 - Elementary Algebra I*
• MT 007 - Elementary Algebra II*
• SP 100 - Spanish Literature in Translation
• OF 101 - Basic Keyboarding
• OF 102 - College Keyboarding
• SP 210 - Spanish Composition I
• SP 211 - Spanish Composition II
• DA 106 - Introduction to Microcomputer Applications
• BU 140 - Introduction to Business
• GS 111 - College Success Skills

Courses recommended for ESL students to improve English language skills are:

• EN 030 - Reading/Writing I*
• EN 031 - Reading/Writing II*
• EN 132 - Reading/Writing III**
• EN 137 - Intensive English Grammar for ESL**
• EN 040 - Oral/Aural I*
• EN 041 - Oral/Aural II*
• EN 142 - Oral/Aural III**
• EN 147 - Accent Reduction for ESL**

*College credit is given for these courses, which may be used to meet credit requirements of scholarship, financial aid, or immigration programs. These courses may not, however, be used as electives toward graduation.

**Degree credit is given for EN 132, EN 137, EN 142 and EN 147. These courses satisfy Liberal Arts or general elective requirements. In addition, EN 132 helps students prepare for the TWE (Test of Written English). EN 132, EN 137, EN 142 and EN 147 also help students prepare for the TOEFL exam.

English as a Second Language Certificate

The ESL Certificate of Completion verifies that an ESL student has the English, math and computer skills necessary to function successfully in most introductory college-level courses and entry level job training programs. After completing the required degree-credit courses with at least a 2.0 QPA, ESL students must also take and pass certain standardized tests before being awarded the certificate. For further information about course and testing requirements, contact the ESL Student Support Center at (716) 851-1079 or 851-1117, or stop by City Campus Room 203.

Students who participate in ESL services become graduates of programs and curricula throughout the college upon successful completion of courses.

ESL Scholarships

ESL students at ECC may apply for the Emmanuel & Fallia Phufas scholarship. Other scholarships are available through the ECC Foundation and the community. In addition, the Hispanic Women’s League offers scholarships to eligible Hispanic students. Information may be obtained by contacting the ESL Student Support Center.

Evening Services

The Department of Evening Services was established to maintain communication and provide support services for evening and weekend students. Evening and weekend students are those students whose classes begin at 5 p.m. or later on weekdays or occur on weekends.

Evening and weekend students may direct any question or problem normally handled by daytime staff to this department for resolution or referral. In addition, most offices maintain evening hours during the semester and can be reached during normal business hours throughout the year. Individual academic departments may be reached by calling the switchboard at City: (716) 851-1001, North: (716) 851-1002 and South: (716) 851-1003.

The Department of Evening Services is currently open from noon – 8 p.m. on Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Fridays during the Fall and Spring semesters. Hours may vary between semesters and during summer. The department may be reached at City Campus: (716) 851-1032, North Campus: (716) 851-1422 and South Campus: (716) 851-1616.

Students may visit any Evening Services Department to obtain a Student Help Sheet, which provides department descriptions, their functions, locations, general hours of operation and direct dial phone numbers.

Health Services

The Health Office at each campus has a Registered Nurse on staff. Students may seek first aid for on-campus sickness/injury, consultation and/or referrals. Information on accident and health insurance policies is also available. For evening hours, students should check with their campus Health Office.

Health Offices:

Immunization Requirements

Immunization Statement

All students must complete the Confidential Student Health Form, including immunization information as required. Students will not be able to register for classes until this is submitted it directly to their campus health office.

Those students who submit a partial record of immunization before registration, who have a confirmed appointment within one month to complete the New York State Public Health Law requirements, shall be granted a 30-day grace period in order to comply.

Mandatory Immunization Information

New York State Public Health Law 2167 requires that each student taking six or more credit hours (regardless of birth date) read information about meningococcal meningitis and provide the college with a signed and dated response on the appropriate section of the Confidential Student Health Form. The meningococcal meningitis immunization is highly recommended but optional. A student may respond by either providing proof of the date the vaccination was received within the past 10 years, or by signing a refusal/waiver of vaccination. 

New York State Public Health Law 2165 requires that each student born after 1956 and taking six or more credit hours provide proof of immunity to measles, mumps and rubella. Proof consists of two live doses of measles vaccine or MMR, one live dose of mumps vaccine or MMR and one live dose of rubella vaccine or MMR. A vaccination date is not acceptable if given before one year of age. Alternatively, students may provide proof of immunity by submitting laboratory results of blood testing showing that they have antibodies to measles, mumps and rubella.

Specific questions about college procedures regarding students who are deemed as non-compliant can be directed to the Dean of Students or please see the College Policies Section of this catalog for NYS Law on immunizations.

International Student Advisement

The International Student Advisor, located at the North Campus, assists international students so they comply with Department of Homeland Security regulations. For additional admission requirements and deadlines, consult with an ECC admissions officer. Please note: Admission to certain competitive academic programs of limited availability (such as nursing, dental hygiene, etc.) include additional requirements and deadlines. Please carefully consult the college catalog. (NOTE: For more information, review the Admissions & Registration  section of this catalog.)

Library Resource Centers

The Library Resource Center on each campus is an information center providing students with access to a broad range of material and services to improve learning. The goal of the Library Resource Centers and their professional staff is to assist students in attaining their educational goals and in developing research skills. Across the three campuses, the libraries offer a large number of resources in a variety of formats tailored to meet student needs. An online catalog contains the holdings of the three campus libraries, including books, periodicals, course reserves and non-print materials. The library home page provides access to a wide variety of databases and the Internet. The library is an active participant of the SUNYConnect initiative. The ECC library home page can be found at http://elinks.ecc.edu/library. Other offerings include services for individuals with disabilities, photocopying, personal computers, study guides, group study rooms and laptops.

The College Archives are housed in the North Campus Library Resource Center.

In addition to the campus facilities, local and state library resources are available to students through the interlibrary loan network and the Library Resource Center’s membership in the Western New York Library Resources Council.

ECC students with a current ID card may borrow materials from Buffalo State College, SUNY at Buffalo and other SUNY libraries.

Mentoring

Mentoring is a support service provided to give the student personal contact with the campus. The mentor provides a link to the institution’s services and assists the student in bridging problems which may be interfering with learning. Mentors are provided to the students through a referral process in the Student Support Service Centers.

Parking

Free parking for students is available at North and South Campuses and limited free parking is available for students at City Campus. Students must have a valid parking permit, which is available through the College Safety Office. Limited parking is available for students with disabilities who have special parking permits. Please note that all designated parking will be enforced and violators will be ticketed.

Perkins IV

The Perkins IV program provides support services to targeted student populations, including the economically and academically disadvantaged, bilingual learners and students with disabilities enrolled in a vocational curriculum. From pre-admissions procedures through graduation and career placement, students in this program are provided with the services of professional counselors, tutors and job developers who help to ensure the students’ academic success and personal fulfillment. Contact the campus Perkins IV Office for further information.

Coordinated Studies Program

Coordinated Studies Programs are courses that are linked during an academic term, around an interdisciplinary theme, and enroll a common cohort of students. Erie Community College offers Coordinated Studies Programs to students unsure of a specific academic degree and interested in learning about the various vocational career options ECC offers. The program provides students with opportunities to learn about, experience and assess career options within the three college workforce divisions: Health Sciences, Business and Public Service, or Engineering and Technologies. Students in similar programs enjoy enhanced academic and social opportunities, satisfactory GPAs, improved connections to faculty and increased understanding of their abilities and interests in their targeted careers. The program is sponsored by the Perkins IV grant.

Student Activities

Education is not limited to the classroom and employers know this. Student activities give students first-hand experience in planning and publicizing an event, managing a budget, recruiting volunteers and being a leader. Many students have found their first job after college through contacts made during their club’s activities.

Through the use of a percentage of student activity fees, the SGA also supports student clubs and organizations and funds a variety of campus events and services that enhance the quality of student life. Officers are elected in the spring semester. To find out whom the current advisor is for a particular club, call the campus Student Activity Office or the Student Government Association. If students participate in an activity, they take advantage of precious opportunities to meet new friends and to make college a more memorable experience. Most graduates agree that their fondest memories of college are in some way connected to their affiliation with a student club or organization.

Student Government Association

The Student Government Association of Erie Community College is comprised of elected student representatives who provide a forum for student input, assists in the coordination of student activities and works closely with the college administration in developing policies which affect students. All students are encouraged to participate in either the Student Government Association or in one or more of the co-curricular clubs on each of the campuses. A list of specific clubs is outlined in this publication. Any questions should be directed to the campus activities coordinators.

Student Support Service Centers

The Student Support Service Centers (SSSC) presently consist of Counseling, Advisement and Disabled Student Services. SSSCs respond to the individual needs of all students through a variety of student supportive services, including counseling, academic advisement, mentoring and tutoring sessions. A combination of ongoing multiple services are also provided through academic assistance and a variety of student supportive services. Our goal in the SSSC is:

• To provide a center where students can receive academic and student support services in a comfortable, welcoming environment
• To assist students in becoming self-confident, critical thinkers and responsible learners
• To provide a place where students can meet, collaborate on academic initiatives, work or volunteer their time to assist fellow students in meeting academic and personal goals
• To provide a place where faculty can refer students who need personal and academic support
• To refer students to resources they need as they work toward graduation
• To evaluate activities and improve services as needed for our students

Our mission is based upon respect, confidentiality, collaboration, support, accountability and utilizing best practices in learning assistance to meet the ever changing needs of our students.

Tutoring

Tutoring services are available to all students. Students in need of assistance in one or more courses should contact their instructor or the divisional assistant academic dean for information regarding the services available.

College Policies

Student’s Rights Under Equal Employment/Affirmative Action

Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended prohibits discrimination based on race, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), disability, color or sexual preference. Discrimination of this nature will NOT be tolerated.

Erie Community College deplores such conduct as an abuse of authority. Allegations leading to conviction can result in suspension or termination of employment.

Students at Erie Community College have the right to equal opportunity in campus employment and to no discrimination in hiring on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, physical or mental disability,marital status or sexual preference.

Students have the right to a non-racist, non-sexist, educational program in course offerings and all campus activities. In 1964, the passage of the Civil Rights Act rendered illegal discrimination on the basis of race in schools and other institutions. In 1972, Title IX of the Education Amendments was enacted to prohibit discrimination on the basis of sex in educational institutions and programs.

The Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Section 504, protects the rights of disabled students, which means that particular efforts must be made to ensure accessibility to campus facilities and programs to disabled persons be they matriculated/non-matriculated,
undergraduate/graduate students, faculty, or other employees. It means permitting access and full participation by persons with a wide range of disabilities through the elimination of architectural, public relations, program and attitudinal barriers.

Student rights include equal opportunity in admissions, financial aid and counseling. Different treatment on the basis of gender or race in the classroom which affects the performance of the student and which constitutes harassment is prohibited. (Textbooks and other instructional materials are not included under Title IX.)

If a student feels he or she has been discriminated against for the above reasons, the individual should contact the Director of Equity and Diversity or the Dean of Students.

Student Section 504 Discrimination Procedure

The following process outlines the formal steps to be taken within the college in situations where a student with a disability feels there has been discrimination due to that disability in violation of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 Section 504. The student also has the option of reporting a problem directly to the 504 Compliance Coordinator, Darley Willis, Director of Equity and Diversity, ECC City Campus, 121 Ellicott Street, Buffalo, NY 14203, (716) 851-1118/1119.

Disabled Student Services Staff: Will meet with self-identifying disabled student. Discussion of difficulties and available documentation will be used to determine recommended classroom accommodations. Staff will fill in accommodations form, retaining a copy for their files.

Disabled Student:Will present accommodations form to faculty member. Student and faculty may discuss accommodations; however, any changes in the accommodations must be approved by the Disabled Student Services staff member responsible for the campus office. The student is responsible for immediately reporting any problems to the campus Office for Disabled Students.

Disabled Student Services Staff: Will contact the faculty member and arrange a meeting with him/her with or without the student, as is appropriate for the situation, as soon as possible. If the situation cannot be resolved between the Disabled Student Services staff member and the faculty member, the staff member will immediately refer the matter, in written form, to the appropriate Assistant Academic Dean for action.

Assistant Academic Dean: Will meet with faculty member and staff member to resolve the problem. If no resolution is possible, the Assistant Academic Dean will refer the matter to the Associate Vice President in writing within five days of the meeting; the Disabled Student Services staff member and the Coordinator of Special Services will receive a copy of this memo.

Associate Vice President: Will arrange a meeting with the faculty member, Disabled Student Services staff member and others such as the Assistant Academic Dean, Coordinator of Special Services, student, as needed to resolve the problem. If the student or the Disabled Student Services staff member is still dissatisfied with the solution arranged by the Associate Vice President, the staff member will refer the student to the Dean of Students.

Affirmative Action/504 Coordinator: Will investigate the validity of the complaint; if the grounds are valid, will refer the matter to the college President or the Affirmative Action Office.

Policy Governing Conduct and Public Order on Campus

(Extracted in part from the New York State Education Law, Section 6450 and New York State Code of Rules and Regulations, Part 535.)

General Statement

The property of Erie Community College is under the jurisdiction of the County of Erie, its local sponsor and the Erie Community College Board of Trustees. The Board of Trustees of Erie Community College is charged with the care, custody, control and management of the lands, grounds, buildings and facilities used for college purposes.

Nothing herein is intended, nor shall it be construed, to limit or restrict the freedom of speech or peaceful assembly. Free inquiry and free expression are indispensable to the objectives of a higher educational institution. Similarly, experience has demonstrated that the traditional autonomy of the educational institution, and the accompanying institutional responsibility for the maintenance of order, is best suited to achieve these objectives. These rules shall not be construed to prevent or limit communication between and among faculty, students and administration, or to relieve the institution of its special responsibility for self-regulation in the preservation of public order. Their purpose is not to prevent or restrain controversy and dissent, but to prevent abuse of the rights of others and to maintain public order appropriate to the college, without which there can be no intellectual freedom. They shall be interpreted and applied to that end.

Prohibited Conduct

No person, either individually or in concert with others, shall:

1. Willfully cause physical injury to any other person, nor threaten to do so for the purpose of compelling or inducing such person to refrain from any act which he has a lawful right to do or to do any act which he has a lawful right not to do;
2. Physically restrain or detain any other person, nor remove such person from any place where he is authorized to remain;
3. Willfully damage or destroy property of the institution or property under its jurisdiction, or remove or use such property without authorization;
4. Without permission, expressed or implied, enter into any private office of an administrative officer, faculty, or staff member;
5. Enter upon and remain in the building or facility for any purpose other than its authorized uses or in such manner as to obstruct its authorized use by others;
6. Without authorization, remain in any building or facility after it is normally closed;
7. Refuse to leave any building or facility after being required to do so by an authorized administrative officer;
8. Obstruct the free movement of persons and vehicles in any place to which these rules apply;
9. Deliberately disrupt or prevent the peaceful and orderly conduct of classes, lectures, and meetings or deliberately interfere with the freedom of any person to express his views, including invited speakers;
10. Knowingly have in his possession upon any premises to which these rules apply, any rifle, shotgun, pistol, revolver, or other firearm or weapon without the written authorization of the Chief Administrative Officer, whether or not a license to possess the same has been issued to such person;
11. Willfully incite others to commit any of the acts do so;
12. Take any action, create or participate in the creation of any situation which recklessly or intentionally endangers mental or physical health, or which involves the forced consumption of liquor or drugs for the purpose of initiation into or affiliation with any organization; or
13. Activate cellular telephones, pagers, or other communication devices in classrooms, libraries, or inappropriately use communication devices in violation of rights of others (e.g. improper computer usage). It is library policy that cellular phones not be used in the libraries.

Procedures

1. All requests from outside groups to utilize the campus must be in writing to the Dean of Students at each campus.
2. The Dean of Students or his/her designee shall inform the invitee who violates any provision of these rules that his campus security will be contacted to escort them off campus.
3. In the case of any other violator, who is neither a student or faculty or other staff member, the Dean of Students or his/her designee shall inform him/her that he/she is not authorized to remain on campus. In the event of their refusal or failure to do so, campus security will be contacted to escort them off campus. Nothing in this statement shall be construed to authorize the presence of any such person at anytime prior to such violation nor to affect his liability of prosecution for trespass or loitering as prescribed in the Penal Law.
4. Under New York State Penal Law, Section 240.35(5), a person is guilty of loitering when he/she loiters or remains in or about school grounds, a college or university building or grounds, not having any reason or relationship involving custody of or responsibility for a pupil or student, or any other specific, legitimate reason for being there, and not having written permission from anyone authorized to grant the same.
5. A student charged with a violation of the rules set forth here in shall be dealt with as provided in the current Code of Student Conduct and the notice, hearing and determination of charges against said student shall comply with Section 535.9 of the New York State Code of Rules and  Regulations.
6. In the case of a faculty or staff member, charges of misconduct in violation of these rules shall be dealt with through the appropriate collective bargaining agreements.
7. Bonafide student organizations which operate on campus for educational purposes shall be barred from engaging in the prohibited conduct herein defined. In addition, organizations are prohibited from engaging in activities which recklessly or intentionally endanger health or involve forced consumption of liquor or drugs for the purpose of initiation into or affiliation with said organizations. All organizations must include in their by-laws a statement of this prohibition.
   1. An organization charged with a violation of the rules set forth herein shall be dealt with as provided in Section 535.10 of the New York State Code of Rules and Regulations.
   2. Any organization which authorizes prohibited conduct as described herein will be subject to the rescission of permission to operate on campus through the Student Government Association, Auxiliary Services Corporation, and the college.
8. Any penalties for violations imposed under the rules and procedures set forth herein shall be in addition to any penalty pursuant to the Penal Law or any other chapter to which a violator or organization may be subject.

Student Code of Conduct and Review Board Procedures

Statement of Philosophy

Erie Community College, sponsored by the County of Erie and under the supervision of the State University of New York, realizes that the rights and privileges exercised by any person are always a function of his/her relationship with others. Taken in the context of the college, this makes students responsible for their actions while members of the college community. The college has a responsibility in establishing a Student Code of Conduct to protect as a whole the unique properties of this college organization and to provide an atmosphere for sound academic and co-curricular learning.

Therefore, Erie Community College expects its students to assume a professional attitude in their conduct. This simply implies that the student has a seriousness of purpose and is here to grow both personally and academically. By enrolling at Erie Community College, the student agrees to abide by all college regulations and it is understood that he/she is aware of the Student Code of Conduct and its procedures.

Any type of dishonest, abusive, or destructive behavior is subject to inquiry and may result in a disciplinary hearing. Loss of privileges, specified discipline requirements, or separation from the college may be imposed on any student whose conduct on or off campus adversely affects his/her status as a member of the academic community. The Deans of Students reserve the right to deny students the privilege of participating in student activities for disciplinary reasons, based upon the college Code of Conduct.

Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as amended: prohibits discrimination based on race, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, disability, color, or sexual preference. Discrimination of this nature is unacceptable and impermissible conduct which will NOT be tolerated.

Erie Community College deplores such conduct as an abuse of authority. Allegations leading to conviction can result in suspension, termination of employment, or status as a student. The following is a list of infractions of the Code of Conduct which might lead to suspension or dismissal:

1. Physical or verbal abuse, including disorderly, loud, indecent, obscene conduct or expression toward fellow students or any and all members of the college staff.
2. Tampering with safety alarms or equipment, violation of specific safety regulations, possession or use on campus of firearms, knives, other weapons, explosives, or fireworks.
3. Forcible disruption or obstruction of regular college activities including administration, classes, campus services, organized events; interference with free speech and movement of academic community members; refusal to provide an identification card when requested or to obey any other legitimate instruction from a college official, faculty member, or security guard.
4. Dishonesty, such as cheating or plagiarism. *Plagiarism is passing off someone else’s ideas or words as your own without giving credit or without giving credit properly. Plagiarism may take the form of directly copying another’s work (in whole or in part), improperly citing sources, presenting another’s view or concept without acknowledging the originator, or receiving help with an assignment beyond what one might receive from a tutor in the ECC skills centers. Academic dishonesty also refers to cheating on quizzes or exams.
5. Falsifying information to the college, such as forgery, alteration, or intentional misuse of college documents, records or identification.
6. Misuse of the name, seal, or logo of Erie Community College or claiming to speak or act in the name of the college without due authorization of the President or an approved representative.
7. Unauthorized gambling in any form on the campus or in any of the college buildings.
8. Open or public possession, sale, use or exchange of illegal substances or intoxicants on campus.
9. Theft, abuse, or unauthorized use, of public or private property, including unauthorized entrance into college facilities and/or possession of stolen property.
10. Smoking is prohibited on all campuses.

For further information, contact the campus Dean of Students Office.

Procedure for Dealing with Code of Conduct Infractions

All charges of code infractions made by any member of the college community shall be submitted to the Dean of Students in writing in complete detail. Within 10 working days following the submission of the charges, the student will be notified in writing of the charges including the time and date of a consultation with the Dean of Students. The Dean will render a decision on the case within 10 working days following the consultation. In cases where further investigation is deemed necessary by the Dean, a hearing may be convened. This hearing will take place no later than two weeks (10 working days) after the meeting with the Dean. The hearing will be presided over by the campus Judicial Board in conjunction with the Dean of Students. The hearing will permit that witnesses be brought in by the college under the auspices of the Dean of Students and by the student charged with the code infraction. The members of the Judicial Board will be permitted to question the Dean of Students and any witnesses as well as being able to question the student charged with the code infraction and any witnesses brought in by that student. The Judicial Board may choose to have witnesses speak not in the presence of any other witnesses for either side or may allow  everyone to be present who will be offering testimony. The make up of the Judicial Board will be the same as that of the student grievance procedure. During the hearing the Judicial Board will appoint one of its members to chair the hearing. This will be done in order to maintain order and adhere to procedures for questioning.

The written decision of that body will be forwarded to the Dean of Students. The Dean of Students will review the Judicial Board’s recommendations and make the final decision regarding any penalties imposed upon the student charged. The student may request an appeal of the decision of the Dean of Students to the Executive Vice President for Student Affairs for alleged procedural error.

Quite often a student conduct hearing will be held along with a student grievance hearing relating to the same set of facts. If a member of the college community charges a student with violating the code of conduct, the student can counter charge the individual bringing the code of conduct action with a violation under the student grievance procedure. When this occurs, it is the responsibility of the campus Dean of Students to preside over a judicial hearing. The same questioning procedures will exist as those stated in the student grievance section. The recommendation of the Judicial Board will be made to the Dean of Students where upon the Dean will review and check whether it is appropriate and make a determination upon the issues. Appeals of the resolutions may only be made regarding procedural concerns to the appropriate Executive Vice President.

Campus Judicial Board procedures are available at the respective Dean of Students offices.

Status of Student Pending Final Action

Pending action of the charges, civil or college, the status of the student shall not be altered or his/her right to be present on the campus and attend classes denied, except for reasons relating to the safety and well-being of students, faculty, college personnel, or college property as determined by the campus Dean of Students. Appeals must be in writing and any appeals are requested by the Executive Vice President for Student Affairs in consultation with the Dean of Students.

Appendix

“Range of Educational Sanctions” (May be assigned alone or in combination if student is found to be in violation).

1. Official Warning - An official warning is an oral notification to the student that his/her behavior is unacceptable in the college community and that repetition of that behavior will result in further disciplinary action. This may be assigned by the Dean of Students without a formal hearing.
2. Disciplinary Reprimand - A disciplinary reprimand is a written notification to the student that his/her behavior is unacceptable in the college community and that repetition of that behavior will result in further disciplinary action.
3. Restitution - Restitution requires the student to pay for all direct and indirect costs of damages caused to property or person. No amount beyond that, for example as a fine, may be assigned. Restitution may be required by the Dean of Students with a formal hearing, if the student accepts responsibility.
4. Loss of Privileges - Privileges within the college community may be revoked for a specified period of time, as long as they are consistent with the nature of the offense and the education of the student.
5. Alternative Educational Sanctions - Alternative educational sanctions are intended to contribute to the education of the student, the education of the college community, and/or to be a form of social restitution. Alternative sanctions are specifically designed to fit the individual student and the nature of the specific offense. They may include a requirement to present an education program for fellow students, to write an informative research article for the student newspaper, to perform a specified number of hours in community service, etc. In assigned educational sanctions, care must be taken not to violate the individual student’s constitutional rights.
6. Disciplinary Probation - A disciplinary probation is a definite period of time during which the student is required to fulfill specified conditions or obligations, with the understanding that failure to meet the requirements of the probation or further infraction of college policy may result in more severe sanctions, including suspension or dismissal.
7. Suspension - A suspension is a separation from the college, for a specified period of time, ranging from a portion or all of a given semester to a full academic year. Conditions for return to the college, if any, must be outlined at the time of suspension. In addition, restrictions on the suspended students’ access to the campus during the period of suspension may be assigned, including the assignment of a formal persona non-grata status.
8. Dismissal/Expulsion - Dismissal/expulsion may be the permanent separation of the student from the college. It is reserved for the most serious of offenses against the college and/or the members of the college community.

Student’s Involuntary Removal from Campus(es) Due to Behavior:

When a student speaks or exhibits behavior that is perceived as deteriorating to the point of posing a direct threat to other members of the campus community, the Dean of Students has the right to prevent a student from being on campus. Before such action is taken, the Dean is to consult with appropriate campus personnel from such departments as Security, Health Services, Counseling, or Disabled Student Services. This is a preventative action. Prior to the start of the next semester, or thereafter, the student must present documentation to the chairperson of the Readmission Committee that the source of the problem has been addressed/resolved in order to re-register for classes. The committee will then make a recommendation to the Dean regarding readmission. The Dean of Students will make the final determination. Should the behavior reoccur, the Dean has the right to expel the student permanently.

Documentation Presented for Re-admission After a Voluntary or Involuntary Removal from Campus:

A student who is presenting documentation of extenuating circumstances for a return to campus should present that documentation to the chairperson of the Re-admission Committee. In the case of documentation related to a disability, that information should be submitted to the campus counselor for Students with Disabilities who will share pertinent information with the Readmission Committee on a need to know basis. All documentation submitted is confidential and should be maintained in confidential files at the Dean of Student’s office. The Committee reserves the right to request additional documentation if they determine that what was submitted was adequate. If a student refuses to provide additional documentation, the committee can recommend to the Dean of Students continued suspension or permanent expulsion.

Admission or Re-admission of a Student with a History of Violent Behavior.

As a component of its responsibility to protect all members of the college community, the college reserves the right to refuse admission or readmission to any individual who has a history of violent behavior such as murder, rape, assault, molestation, etc.

Student Complaint Procedure

It is the intent of Erie Community College to encourage a prompt and informal resolution of problems. The following resolution mechanism is an orderly procedure for processing complaints.

Definitions

1. A complaint involves the application, interpretation, or violation of:
   A. A college policy
   B. An administrative procedure
   C. An administrative regulation
   D. Academic matters, excluding individual grades
   E. Academic matters, including grades will be forwarded to the appropriate department chair or head.
2. “Working days” shall be defined to mean any day,Monday through Friday, that the college is open.
3. A student is defined as someone who is enrolled at Erie Community College at the time of the act or event in question.

Resolution of Complaints

The student must go to the college employee with whom the alleged problem originated. An attempt should be made to resolve the matter equitably and informally at this level. If an acceptable solution is not reached with the person or persons directly involved with the complaint, the student has the option of contacting the Department Head or immediate supervisor. If you do not know whom to contact, call the Dean of Students’ office for assistance. This process should be initiated within 30 working days of the original complaint.

Complaints will be forwarded to the campus Judicial Board as deemed necessary by the Dean.

Steps To Resolve A Complaint

Informal Process

1. Student has a complaint.
2. Student talks to the college employee against whom the complaint is rendered.
3. If unresolved, the student takes the complaint to the head of the department in which the college employee works.
4. If the complaint is still unresolved, the student may speak with the appropriate Dean or Department/Supervisor. The appropriate Dean or Department/Supervisor is the supervisor of the department of the person against whom the complaint has been filed.
5. If the complaint is still unresolved, the student may write a formal complaint.

The above includes an explanation of steps to resolve a student concern to the point when a student writes a formal complaint. If the appropriate Dean deems it necessary, the complaint may be turned over to a campus Judicial Board for a hearing. The campus Judicial Board is made up of the following individuals: two faculty members, one counselor, two administrative staff and two students. Training for Judicial Board members will be arranged through the Dean of Students.

This hearing will permit witnesses to be presented by the student grieving as well as witnesses to be presented by the party against whom the grievance has been filed. Each side will be permitted to present testimony with the appropriate Dean presiding.

Those who may remain present while the hearing is in session will include both the student grieving and the person against whom the grievance has been filed. Witnesses, however, may not be permitted to remain at the hearing through the testimony of other witnesses. This will be at the discretion of the hearing board. The rationale for this is that, at times, hearing testimony from other witnesses may have some impact upon the testimony of witnesses to come thereafter. This is a student grievance hearing and is not subject to the same rules and regulations regarding evidence procedure, etc. as would exist in a formal court of law. Due process, however, will be adhered to.

The procedure will involve questioning of witnesses by the judicial hearing board members, the Dean, and both the grievant and the griever (the person against whom the grievance has been filed) in the case. That is, if the grievant presents a witness, all may ask the witness questions. The person against whom the grievance is filed may ask questions and members of the hearing board may ask questions. Procedural order will be maintained by the Dean. In addition, the person or persons against whom the grievance has been filed will also be permitted to present witnesses, question those witnesses and allow the grievant to question those witnesses. Also, the grievance hearing board members, as well as the Dean, may question the witnesses. After witnesses have been questioned, the grievance hearing board members will be permitted to ask any final questions of the grievant or the person being grieved. After this, all parties present will be excused; the grievance hearing board will then meet privately with only its members present and discuss the case and determine a procedure and a timeline for finalizing its recommendations. The maximum period of time from the end of the hearing to finalization of the hearing board’s recommendations will be 10 working days. The hearing board will present its recommendations for solution to the Dean. The Dean will then review in order to determine whether the recommendations are appropriate and fall within the policies of Erie Community College.

After the complaint process is completed, the appropriate Dean or supervisor of the griever will render a resolution. This resolution will be final unless an appeal is filed within 10 working days of the resolution. The appeal will be to the appropriate Associate Vice President or administrator, if procedural errors have been charged. The Associate Vice President or administrator may review the case, if he/she deems it appropriate.

Standards of Eligibility for Student Leadership Positions and Athletics

Students who are members of executive boards of SGAs, student members of the ASC, editors of student publications, presidents of student clubs and the SGA President/Student Trustee are required to meet the standards of eligibility as outlined in the Student Government Association Policies and Procedures Manual.

Student athletes participating on the intercollegiate level in any of the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) certified sports must be eligible to compete based on the requirements set forth by Erie Community College and the NJCAA. Student athletes are required to follow the Erie  Community College Code of Conduct as well as Rules of Conduct established by the NJCAA.

Students in leadership positions and student athletes will sign a release allowing their grades to be used to determine eligibility and for advisement purposes by college Counselors and Mentors. The Dean of Students monitors publications officers while the Activity Coordinators monitor Student Government Association officers and club-elected officers. Club advisers must present a list of student officers to the Student Activity Coordinators no later than October 1 for the fall semester and February 15 for the spring semester to verify grades.

During the first month of each semester, club advisors should inform all members that a 2.0 cumulative average is necessary in order to participate in club activities. The Activity Coordinator ensures that student voting members at SGA meetings meet the minimum grade point average of 2.0.

The Dean of Students reserves the right to deny students the privilege of participating in student activities for disciplinary reasons, based upon the college Code of Conduct.

AIDS Policy

The following guidelines, which is derived from the best currently available medical facts about HIV/AIDS, apply to all students or employees.

Since current knowledge indicates that students or employees with HIV/AIDS do not pose a health risk to other employees/ students in an academic setting, the Erie Community College Board of Trustees has adopted this policy to protect those with HIV/AIDS.

Those with HIV or AIDS shall not be denied admission to the college on the basis of this disability. Those with HIV or AIDS shall be considered as having a disabling condition and will be given the special services provided to others with disabilities. Those with HIV or AIDS are allowed regular classroom attendance in an unrestricted manner as long as they are physically and mentally able to attend classes. There is no justification, medical or otherwise, for restricting access to those with HIV or AIDS to snack bars, cafeterias, gymnasiums, swimming pools, showers, recreational facilities, or other common areas.

These guidelines are designed to protect the legal and constitutional rights of those with HIV or AIDS. All students/employees are entitled to confidentiality of records and information as stated in previously set Board policy.

Alcohol Policy

It is recognized that consumption of alcohol at any activity may be a pleasurable aspect of the program. It should not, however, be considered the primary purpose for which the event is sponsored nor should it be the central activity around which the program evolves. Normally, events at which alcohol is served may not be held on campus. Further, student activity fee money may not be used to purchase alcohol for any off-campus events.

Drug-Free Workplace Policy

Erie Community College is committed to the development and maintenance of a drug-free environment, and, in accordance with the Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988, prohibits the unlawful possession, use, manufacture, distribution and dispensation of controlled substances (drugs and alcohol) in and on Erie Community College owned or controlled property. Students charged with the possession, sale, or use of alcohol or a controlled substance will be subject to the full penalty of the law which is stated in all applicable Federal, State and Local laws. Reference: Title M, Article 220 and 221 of the New York State Law.

Students found to be at risk of drug or alcohol abuse will be referred to local, public and private agencies that have a history of providing rehabilitation services.

Students who are charged with unlawful use of alcohol or substance possession and/or sale may be subject to the following sanctions:

1. Students whose presence on the campus poses a clear danger to other students, staff, or faculty may be prevented from continuing in their studies until such time as the charge has been heard.
2. Given the nature and severity of the offense, students maybe permitted to continue in class while undergoing voluntary rehabilitation services.
3. Students involved in rehabilitation programming will remain on probation until such time as the program has been successfully completed, as attested to by the agency providing the service.

Erie County is committed to a drug-free workplace and will work diligently to promote and enforce the following county policies:

1. The unlawful manufacture, distribution, disposition, possession, or use of a controlled substance during working hours at any county workplace is prohibited, and an employee engaging in such conduct shall be discharged in accordance with applicable employee bargaining unit contracts.
2. The Erie County Employee Assistance Program shall offer substance abuse counseling and referral to rehabilitation programs.
3. Each employee shall abide by the Federal Drug-Free Workplace Policy. It is the responsibility of each employee to notify his/her supervisor of any conviction or violation of any criminal drug statute arising out of actions at the employee’s workplace, no later than five days after such conviction. The employee’s supervisor shall, upon receipt of such notice:
   A. Notify any Federal contract officer within 10 days of such conviction; and,
   B. Impose the following sanctions and/or remedial measures within 30 days upon any employee who is convicted of drug violations in the workplace;
   C. Take appropriate disciplinary action against the employee, up to and including discharge; and/or,
   D. Require such employee to satisfactorily participate in a drug abuse assistance or rehabilitation program approved for such purposes by a Federal, State, or local health law enforcement or other appropriate agency.
4. In connection with this policy, employees are directed to note Rule #2 and Rule #15 of the Employee Handbook, which are Class A dischargeable violations.

The County of Erie will make continuing efforts to maintain a drug-free workplace by strict enforcement of this policy and its requirements.

Immunization Requirements for Registration

New York State Public Health Laws 2165 and 2167 pertain to post-secondary students attending colleges and universities.

PHL 2165 requires college students born on or after January 1, 1957 who are taking six or more credit hours to provide proof of immunity to Measles, Mumps and Rubella. Proof consists of documentation of two live Measles vaccines, one live Mumps vaccine and one live Rubella vaccine (or two doses of combined MMR vaccine). Alternatively, students may provide proof of immunity by submitting laboratory results of blood testing that shows they have antibodies to Measles, Mumps and Rubella.

PHL 2167 requires that all college students enrolled for six or more credit hours, regardless of birth date, be informed about Meningococcal Meningitis, and further, complete, sign and date the Meningitis response section of the Confidential Student Health Form. The meningococcal meningitis vaccine is recommended but is optional. A student may respond either by providing documentation of the date the vaccination was received within the past 10 years, or by signing a refusal/waiver of vaccination.

Please note that according to New York State Public Health Law, Erie Community College shall not permit any student with incomplete records to continue to attend the institution in excess of 30 calendar days, without completely satisfying the Public Health Law requirements. Tuition, fees and book costs incurred by the student during the semester will not be refunded should it be necessary for the college to impose NYS PHL 2165 and/or NYS PHL 2167 sanctions.

Erie Community College reserves the right to withdraw students that do not meet New York State Department of Health Regulations as outlined.Withdrawn students will not be able to return to the college that semester. Withdrawn students will be allowed to attend college the following semester, once completion of the New York State immunization requirements has been satisfied.

Harassment Policy Statement

Erie Community College, its Board of Trustees and the County of Erie prohibit harassment by supervisors, co-workers, students and non-employees on the basis of sex, race, national origin, disability, or any other protected status. These forms of harassment are also prohibited through compliance with Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act.

Sexual harassment, as defined by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), is as follows: “Harassment on the basis of sex is a violation of Section 703 of Title VII. Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature constitutes sexual harassment when (1) submission to such conduct is made explicitly or implicitly as a term or condition of an individual’s employment; (2) submissions to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis for employment decisions affecting such individuals; or (3) such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s work performance or creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive work environment.”**

Sex discrimination is defined and prohibited by Title IX as follows: “No person in the United States shall, on the grounds of race, color, or national origin, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving federal financial assistance, or be treated on the basis of sex under most education programs or activities receiving federal assistance.”**

Policy

Erie Community College, through its commitment, will affirmatively attempt to provide an environment free of harassment for all employees and students in accordance with the laws of the United States of America and the State of New York. Harassment of students and employees of Erie Community College based on sex, race, national origin, disability, or any other protected status includes ethnic or racial slurs and other verbal or physical conduct relating to a person’s sex, race, national origin, disabling condition, or any other protected status is unacceptable and impermissible conduct which will not be tolerated. Erie Community College deplores such conduct as an abuse of authority. Whenever knowledge is received that a harassing condition is being imposed, prompt and remedial action will be taken.

Any person who believes harassment has taken place in violation of the policy may file a written complaint with the Director of Equity and Diversity.

The Director of Equity & Diversity is:

Darley Willis, ECC/City Campus
121 Ellicott Street
Buffalo, New York 14203
716-851-1118/1119

** Source: Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as amended by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, Section 1604.11; Title IX of the Education Amendments, 1975.

Discrimination/Harassment

Alleged acts of discrimination or harassment which are in violation of Equal Employment, Educational Opportunity or Harassment policies under which Erie Community College and the County of Erie operate, shall be filed in writing directly with Erie Community College’s Director of Equity and Diversity. These procedures shall apply to all complaints relating to affirmative action policies of Erie Community College as stated in the Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity Policy Statement and the Harassment Policy Statement. Such reports of alleged acts (complaints or charges) will be handled under the following procedures:

Definition

A complaint is defined to mean a formal allegation involving the interpretation of Erie Community College’s Affirmative Action Policy and/or Harassment Policy Statement, the regulations of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title VI and Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972; Section 503, 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended; and the Americans with Disability Act of 1990, as amended.

Complaint Procedure

Procedures have been developed to insure fairness and consistency in Erie Community College’s employment program, admissions policies and program activities with its employees and students. Any college employee or applicant for employment or admissions, who believes he/she has been wrongly denied equal benefits or privileges because of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, age, sexual orientation, disability, marital or veteran status in any employment-related matter or admission to the college, caused by a college official or employee, may seek admissions or employment opportunity counseling or file a complaint.

No person seeking information, equal opportunity counseling or who files a formal complaint will be adversely affected in any manner because the complainant utilizes these procedures.

1. Any college employee or student who believes to have been aggrieved may seek counseling from the Director of Equity and Diversity the alleged discriminatory incident. The Director of Equity and Diversity will investigate the complaint and seek to informally resolve the matter:
2. The aggrieved may seek initial equal employment opportunity counseling at the Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity Office.
   1. The Office of Equity and Diversity will seek to resolve the complaint informally.
   2. The aggrieved individual will be informed of options to file a formal complaint with the Affirmative Action/ Equal Employment Opportunity Office, as well as the complainant’s right to file a complaint with the New York State Division for Human Rights and/or the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
3. If the aggrieved wishes to file a formal complaint, the Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity Office will:
   1. Write up the formal complaint, naming the alleged discriminating respondent, the alleged discriminating practices and the restitution desired. The complaint must be signed and dated by the complainant.
   2. Investigate the alleged discriminatory practices.
   3. Make a determination as to whether the investigation revealed discriminatory practices against the complainant.
   4. Issue a written notice to the complainant regarding the findings and determination of the Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity Office.
   5. Schedule a conciliation meeting with the name of the respondent and the department head when probable cause has been determined to rectify the discriminatory practices against the complainant.
4. If the complainant is dissatisfied with the issued determination, the complainant may request a hearing by an Ad Hoc Committee designed by the Director of Equity and Diversity.
5. The Ad Hoc Committee will conduct a hearing based upon the investigation file and testimony of any witness(es) they deem necessary to call. The Committee will then submit its findings to the Director of Equity and Diversity for a final decision.

If the complainant is still not satisfied with the findings, the complainant may pursue the matter through the New York State Division for Human Rights and/or the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Every person involved has a right to legal representation throughout the entire process.

Complaint Procedure

Once initial discrimination of the incident occurs:

Stage I: Informal Solution

Stage II: Complaint filed with Equity and Diversity/EEO Office

• Immediately official investigation begins - To complete the investigation in a timely manner, the investigator submits completed file to the Director of Equity and Diversity. The Director of Equity and Diversity attempts resolution of complaint.

• 30 days to complete investigation

• Investigator submits completed file to Director of Equity and Diversity

• 20 days to finalize solution— Director of Affirmative Action attempts resolution of complaint

Stage III: Hearing conducted by Ad Hoc Committee (to be designated by the Director of Affirmative Action)

Stage IV: Complainant may file with New York State Division of Human Rights and/or United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

Complaint may be resolved at any of the four stages outlined if agreeable with complainant. Days are based on college’s work week.

Students’ Rights Under Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity

Students of Erie Community College have the right to equal opportunity in campus employment and to no discrimination in hiring on the basis of race, color, religion, pregnancy, sex, age, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, marital or veteran status.

Students have the right to a non-racist, non-sexist educational program in course offerings and all campus activities. In 1964, the passage of the Civil Rights Act rendered illegal discrimination on the basis of race in schools and other institutions and prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in educational institutions and programs.

Individuals with Handicaps

Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, prohibits job discrimination because of handicap, and requires affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified individuals with handicaps who, with reasonable accommodations, can perform the essential functions of a job.

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, prohibits employment discrimination on the basis of handicap in any program or activity which receives Federal financial assistance. Discrimination is prohibited in all aspects of employment against handicapped persons who, with reasonable accommodations, can perform the essential functions of the job.

The Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Section 504, protects the rights of disabled students which means that particular efforts must be made to ensure accessibility to campus facilities and programs to disabled person be they matriculated/non-matriculated, undergraduate/graduate students, faculty and other employees. It means permitting access and full participation by persons with a wide range of disabilities through the elimination of architectural, public relations, program and attitudinal barriers.

Disability

The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, as amended, prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability and protects qualified applicants and disabled employees from discrimination in hiring, promotion, discharge, pay, job training, fringe benefits and other aspects of employment. The law also requires that covered entities provide qualified applicants and employees with disabilities with reasonable accommodations that do not impose undue hardship. The law covers applicants and employees of most private employers, state and local governments, educational institutions, employment agencies and labor organizations.

Student rights include equal opportunity in admission, financial aid and counseling. Different treatment on the basis of gender or race in the classroom which affects the performance of the student and which constitutes harassment is prohibited.

Programs or Activities Receiving Federal Financial Assistance Race, Color, National Origin, Sex

In addition to the protection of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title VI of the Civil Rights Act prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin in programs or activities receiving federal financial assistance. Employment discrimination is covered by Title VI if the primary objective of the financial assistance is provision of employment, or where employment discrimination causes or may cause discrimination in providing services under such programs. Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 prohibits employment discrimination on the basis of sex in educational programs or activities which receive Federal assistance.

If you feel that you have been discriminated against under any of the above laws, you immediately should contact the Office of Equity and Diversity/Equal Employment Opportunity Office at the City Campus, 121 Ellicott Street, Buffalo, New York 14203, in Room 174, or by calling (716) 851-1118 or 851-1119.

Student Right-To-Know Act

Graduation Rate Disclosure Information

On July 1, 1992, the Student Right-To-Know and Campus Security Act went into effect. Among its provisions is the requirement for institutions receiving federal student aid funds to make available to prospective students the college’s graduation, retention, and attrition rates.

This report, the Student Right-To-Know/Graduation Rate Disclosure, is available at all Admissions Offices college wide through the Call Center or directly from the college’s Institutional Research Office at North Campus.

Individuals with questions or seeking clarification related to any aspect of this report should contact Marlene Arno, Director of Institutional Research, North Campus, Gleasner Hall, Room 156, (716) 851-1431, arno@ecc.edu.