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1 Residential and Greek Life Staff Manual Table of Contents Section A, Introduction .................................................................................................................................................. 5 Benefits of being a part of Residential & Greek Life ............................................................................................................................................. 7 Mission Statement ...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 8 Departmental Goals / Objectives .............................................................................................................................................................................. 9 Ethical Standards for the Housing Professional ...................................................................................................................................................... 9 Operational Calendar ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 11 Section B, Personnel .................................................................................................................................................... 13 Hiring Standards ........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 14 Job Summaries ........................................................................................................................................................................................................... 15 Job Descriptions: Director of Residential and Greek Life ...................................................................................................................................................................... 17 Associate Director, Administrative Operations and Staffing ............................................................................................................................. 18 Assistant Director, Staffing and Program Development ..................................................................................................................................... 19 Greek Advisor and Residence Life Leadership Coordinator ................................................................................................................................ 20 Greek Life Graduate Assistant ................................................................................................................................................................................. 21 Technology Coordinator ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 22 Complex Director .................................................................................................................................................................................................... 23 Assistant Complex Director ................................................................................................................................................................ 25 Hall Director ............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 27 Apartment Director of University Heights Apartments ..................................................................................................................................... 29 Assistant Hall Director ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 31 Resident Advisor ....................................................................................................................................................................................................... 33 Contract Renewal Process ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 36 Employee Responsibilities ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 36 Performance and Disciplinary Procedures ............................................................................................................................................................ 37 Grievance Procedure ................................................................................................................................................................................................ 39 Resident Advisor Exception Request Policy ......................................................................................................................................................... 40 Confidentiality .......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 41 FERPA ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 42 Break Housing/Summer Employment .................................................................................................................................................................... 44 Evaluation Process ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 45-60 Grade Requirements .................................................................................................................................................................................................. 58 Verbal & Written Word Usage ................................................................................................................................................................................ 59 Section C, Departmental/Administrative Policies ...................................................................................................... 61 Advanced Driving Techniques Course .................................................................................................................................................................... 62 Alcohol Policy - Staff .............................................................................................................................................................................................. 62 Break Housing for RAs ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 62 Closed Weekends ...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 62 Conference Absence Policy ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 62 Conference Advisors ................................................................................................................................................................................................ 62 Copying, Printing, and Laminating ........................................................................................................................................................................ 63 Dating Policy ............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 63 Dress/Grooming Guidelines for Hall Director Staff .............................................................................................................................................. 63 Media Interviews, Public Announcements ............................................................................................................................................................. 64 Equipment Check-Out ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 64 Exit Interview Questionnaire .................................................................................................................................................................................. 65 Health & Safety Inspections ................................................................................................................................................................................... 67 Holiday Decorating .................................................................................................................................................................................................. 67 Loft Policy ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 68 Lost Key Policy ....................................................................................................................................................................................................... 71 Lock Outs .................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 72 Master Key Usage .................................................................................................................................................................................................... 72 Hall Director Apartment Policy ............................................................................................................................................................................. 72 Outside Employment ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 73 Posting Policy .......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 75 Snow Shoveling ......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 76 Staff Outings ............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 76 Staff Retreat Policy ................................................................................................................................................................................................. 76 Storage ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 76 RA Supply Policy ...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 76 Room Entry Procedures .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 78 Property Confiscation ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 79 Room Search by a Non-Resident Official .............................................................................................................................................................. 79 Unlisting a Phone Number ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 79
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R&GL Staff Manual

Mar 23, 2016

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Tim McMullen

Residential and Greek Life staff manual for 2008 - 2009
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Page 1: R&GL Staff Manual

1

Residential and Greek LifeStaff Manual

Table of ContentsSection A, Introduction .................................................................................................................................................. 5Benefits of being a part of Residential & Greek Life ............................................................................................................................................. 7Mission Statement ...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 8Departmental Goals / Objectives .............................................................................................................................................................................. 9Ethical Standards for the Housing Professional ...................................................................................................................................................... 9Operational Calendar ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 11

Section B, Personnel .................................................................................................................................................... 13Hiring Standards ........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 14Job Summaries ........................................................................................................................................................................................................... 15Job Descriptions:Director of Residential and Greek Life ...................................................................................................................................................................... 17Associate Director, Administrative Operations and Staffing ............................................................................................................................. 18Assistant Director, Staffing and Program Development ..................................................................................................................................... 19Greek Advisor and Residence Life Leadership Coordinator ................................................................................................................................ 20Greek Life Graduate Assistant ................................................................................................................................................................................. 21Technology Coordinator ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 22Complex Director .................................................................................................................................................................................................... 23Assistant Complex Director ................................................................................................................................................................ 25Hall Director ............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 27Apartment Director of University Heights Apartments ..................................................................................................................................... 29Assistant Hall Director ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 31Resident Advisor ....................................................................................................................................................................................................... 33Contract Renewal Process ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 36Employee Responsibilities ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 36Performance and Disciplinary Procedures ............................................................................................................................................................ 37Grievance Procedure ................................................................................................................................................................................................ 39Resident Advisor Exception Request Policy ......................................................................................................................................................... 40Confidentiality .......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 41FERPA ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 42Break Housing/Summer Employment .................................................................................................................................................................... 44Evaluation Process ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 45-60Grade Requirements .................................................................................................................................................................................................. 58Verbal & Written Word Usage ................................................................................................................................................................................ 59

Section C, Departmental/Administrative Policies ...................................................................................................... 61Advanced Driving Techniques Course .................................................................................................................................................................... 62Alcohol Policy - Staff .............................................................................................................................................................................................. 62Break Housing for RAs ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 62Closed Weekends ...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 62Conference Absence Policy ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 62Conference Advisors ................................................................................................................................................................................................ 62Copying, Printing, and Laminating ........................................................................................................................................................................ 63Dating Policy ............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 63Dress/Grooming Guidelines for Hall Director Staff .............................................................................................................................................. 63Media Interviews, Public Announcements ............................................................................................................................................................. 64Equipment Check-Out ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 64Exit Interview Questionnaire .................................................................................................................................................................................. 65Health & Safety Inspections ................................................................................................................................................................................... 67Holiday Decorating .................................................................................................................................................................................................. 67Loft Policy ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 68Lost Key Policy ....................................................................................................................................................................................................... 71Lock Outs .................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 72Master Key Usage .................................................................................................................................................................................................... 72Hall Director Apartment Policy ............................................................................................................................................................................. 72Outside Employment ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 73Posting Policy .......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 75Snow Shoveling ......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 76Staff Outings ............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 76Staff Retreat Policy ................................................................................................................................................................................................. 76Storage ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 76RA Supply Policy ...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 76Room Entry Procedures .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 78Property Confiscation ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 79Room Search by a Non-Resident Official .............................................................................................................................................................. 79Unlisting a Phone Number ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 79

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Table of Contents Cont’dVoice Mail Distribution Guidelines ......................................................................................................................................................................... 80Group Travel ............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 81

Section D, Discipline ................................................................................................................................................... 83See Student Handbook for Code of Conduct, Residential and Greek Life policies, and Judicial procedures

Section E, Hall Duty and Crisis Management ........................................................................................................... 85RA Duty ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 86Duty Log ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 86Hall Director Duty ................................................................................................................................................................................................... 86Cell Phone Information .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 86Duty Changes ............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 86RA Break Duty To-Do List...................................................................................................................................................................87Emergency /Crisis Procedures and Information ................................................................................................................................................... 89What do I do?Alcohol Violation ..................................................................................................................................................................................................... 91Confronting Another Staff Member ...................................................................................................................................................................... 92Drug Violation ........................................................................................................................................................................................................... 92Eating Disorder ......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 92Maintenance Emergency ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 93Medical Emergency .................................................................................................................................................................................................. 93Noise Violation ......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 94Physical Altercation ................................................................................................................................................................................................. 94Roommate Conflict ................................................................................................................................................................................................. 95Sexual Assault ............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 95Suicide Ideation/Attempt ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 96Vandalism ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 97Confronting Residents ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 98Incident Report Forms ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 99Active Shooter on Campus ................................................................................................................................................................................... 103Counseling Center .................................................................................................................................................................................................. 104Bomb Threat ........................................................................................................................................................................................................... 104Fire ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 105Tornado ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 105URN/URS Sprinkler System .................................................................................................................................................................................. 105Missing Student ....................................................................................................................................................................................................... 106Student Death .......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 106Student Health & Accident Report ....................................................................................................................................................................... 107Health Emergency Policy ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 108First Aid Procedures ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 108-111

Section F, Housing Policy, Opening/Closing Procedures ........................................................................................113Freshman Housing Policy ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 114Check-In Procedure ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 114Room Freeze ........................................................................................................................................................................................................... 115Room Changes ........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 115Private Student Rooms .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 115Contract Cancellations .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 115Room Condition Form /Change of Contract ...................................................................................................................................................... 115Consolidation .......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 115Students Withdrawing from School ...................................................................................................................................................................... 115Temporary Rooms ................................................................................................................................................................................................. 115Break Closing Procedures ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 116Hall Director Closing Task List ............................................................................................................................................................................ 116Hall Director Apartment Check-Out ................................................................................................................................................................... 117

Section G, METS ................................................................................................................................................ 119-121Section H, Desk Operations ...................................................................................................................................... 123Desk Staff Expectations ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 124Dress Code ............................................................................................................................................................................................................... 124Hall Opening Cash Amounts ................................................................................................................................................................................. 124Identification / Nametags ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 125Deposits/Change ..................................................................................................................................................................................................... 125Cash Report (Daily) ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 125Cash Drawer Reporting .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 125Refunds .................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 125Time Card Procedure ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 125Desk Equipment Check-Out .................................................................................................................................................................................. 125Lock Outs or Lost Keys ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 126Mail Distribution .................................................................................................................................................................................................... 126

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Mail Forwarding ...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 126Campus Mail ........................................................................................................................................................................................................... 127Phone Number Distribution .................................................................................................................................................................................. 128Emergency Procedures ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 128Duty ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 128Duty Log ................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 128Hall Director Duty ................................................................................................................................................................................................. 128Cell Phone Information ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 128Duty Changes .......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 128

Section I, Hall Government System .......................................................................................................................... 129RHA ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 130Hall Council ............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 130Hall Finances .......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 132House Council ........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 134Greek Governance ................................................................................................................................................................................................. 135National Residence Hall Honorary (NRHH) ...................................................................................................................................................... 135“Of the Month” Awards ................................................................................................................................................................................ 135-139

(Revised 12/909)

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Section A

Introduction

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Congratulations!You are now part of the Residential and Greek Life

team

Now that you’ve become part of the Residential and Greek Life team, it is important that you have anunderstanding of the philosophy and intent of the program of which we operate.

Residential and Greek Life is not a department that is focused on making sure that a student has a placeto sleep and eat. While we do provide that, the Residential and Greek Life staff is focused on creatingan environment that is a learning and growing community so that their own educational experience isone they will be proud to have. Take a look at the mission statement and goals the department has setfor itself! Do you see anything that sounds like a hotel environment? We didn’t think so!

In order for our UNK students to grow and mature, it is important that they have an opportunity to meetpeople of different cultures and backgrounds and experience different perspectives and ideas. Theseopportunities provide areas to grow emotionally and socially as well as intellectually. This develop-ment of the student can be fostered through the variety of social, educational, and recreational activitiesprovided in the halls by YOU and the entire Residential and Greek Life staff.

Community is a large part of this goal. We want the students of UNK to feel there is more than just abed and food within their residence hall life. By building a strong community among the students ofyour floor, hall, and campus, it will promote the students to take responsible attitudes and behaviorswithin their life and think of the residence halls as their home.

Your role as a member of the Residential and Greek Life team is vital! You can help to develop thissense of community and empower the students to take an active part in their home through encouraginginteraction among the residents, sharing ideas and beliefs, and participating in floor and hall activities.As a leader in the community, your behaviors and attitudes serve as a role model in all that you do forother students.

Your job is not an easy one; but the establishment of an atmosphere of concern, understanding, andacceptance demands the best from all of us. You will be challenged during your time as member of theResidential and Greek Life team. As a result, you too will grow and mature along with the students onyour floor and in your hall. Here is to a great year.

*DISCLAIMER: The Office of Residential and Greek Life reserves the right to change policies andprocedures at any time, with or without prior notice.

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Benefits of Becominga Part of

Residential and Greek Life

So now you have taken on this role and you will be helping to benefit the lives of many students atUNK, but I hear you saying…What about me? How am I going to benefit from this position? There aremany great benefits to the position you have accepted and the role you will play on your floors, in yourhall, and throughout the University.You will have the opportunity for personal and professional growth. Below are some of the benefitsthat past staff members have identified in their own words as being important to them in their personaland professional growth:

As a person, both intra- and inter- personally:• Opportunity for development and understanding of oneself;• Understanding more of oneself through close observations of the people of similar ages;• The position has the benefit of closeness with a kind of detachment that is difficult to obtain

and perhaps somewhat undesirable in other close relationships;• Personal strength and good feeling when people look up to you and have confidence in you;• More accurate self-understanding due to seeking oneself in response to situations that would

not otherwise arise. The demands placed on you, as a human being, are peculiar to yourparticular relationship with your floor members, staff and to all their individualpersonalities;

• Gaining new friends among students, staff, and faculty and administration;• Fond memories of good times, crazy situations, jokes, and antics.

As a staff member, in your current position and in your future jobs and positions:• Experience gained by being a leader;• Working in a professional capacity with other staff and residence hall personnel;• Experience gained by counseling/advising other students;• Experience gained by developing a sense of responsibility;• Learning how to act in the face of an emergency;• Opportunity to use the experience you gain as a job reference;• Experience gained by going through an interview process as an applicant;• The helping experience may be particularly valuable to those entering the teaching profes-

sion or any type of work with people;• AND MANY OTHERS!!

After all, there have been many successful people in the world that have been Resident Advisors…Katie Couric, NBC News Anchor and correspondent, University of VirginiaWesley Snipes, Actor, SUNY-Purchase (New York)Hillary Rodham Clinton, the former First Lady & Senator of New YorkDonna Shalala, US Secretary of Health and Human Services, Syracuse UniversityJohn Nabor, Olympic Swimmer and Commentator, USCSheryl Crow, Singer, University of Missouri-ColumbiaMike Ditka, University of PittsburghChyna from the WWF, University of Tampa

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MISSION STATEMENTThe Office of Residential and Greek Life supports theUNK mission by providing students with a safe, wellmaintained environment in a community that values

academic success, personal growth and civic

responsibility.

VISION STATEMENT

“Where learning comes to life!”

CORE VALUES

Integrity : unified adherence to ethical, truthful, and factual conduct.

Respect: recognize and honor the dignity, value, and individuality of each person.

Quality: provide excellence throughout a complete range of services, programs andpersonnel.

Service: dedicated to being proactive, effective, reliable and responsive.

Community: develop, promote and preserve positive collaboration, understanding andinteraction.

Vision: valuing opportunities for learning, innovation and positive change.

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Departmental Goals / Objectives

1. To strengthen relationships within the department, and other areas within the University community.

2. To complete the CAS standards internal review.

3. To increase the number of students that return to campus housing after one year.

4. To implement and improve our assessment plan to determine:• what we do well• what we need to improve• what students are wanting in or from campus housing at UNK

5. To provide the opportunity and resources for the development of strong communities amongour residential population. To work collaboratively with others to provide living/learning

communities, theme housing, etc.

6. To continue to develop, improve and challenge the educational/experiential and professional growth opportunities for staff.

7. To develop marketing and recruitment plans for• living on campus• benefits of being a staff member• opportunities and benefits of leadership positions available

Ethical Standards for the Housing Professional

The Housing Professional acts with integrity, dignity, and competence while striving toward improvedservices, educational programs, administrative procedures, and research.

The Housing Professional has a dual responsibility both to the student and to the institution.

The Housing Professional has an obligation to understand the educational goals of the institution and to aidin support and realization of these goals through residence hall programming, leadership training, studentgovernance, faculty involvement, and sound fiscal management.

The Housing Professional accepts students as individuals, each with rights and responsibilities, each withgoals and needs, and with this in mind seeks to create and maintain a group living environment in whichmaximum learning and personal development can take place.

The Housing Professional provides a continuing program of development for student staff as well as profes-sional staff.

The Housing Professional develops and maintains relationships in a climate of mutual respect, support, trust,and interdependence recognizing the strengths and limitations of each professional associate.

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The Housing Professional develops lines of communication within the campus community so that programs,policies, and procedures are mutually reinforcing, consistent, and operating in support of quality education forstudents.

The Housing Professional seeks to develop new knowledge as the basis for improved programs, policies,and procedures and communicates the results through appropriate channels such as journals, newsletters, and/or consultation.

The Housing Professional recognizes both formal training and practical experience as important ingredientsin the preparation of any person for effective full-time work in the student housing field.

The Housing Professional believes in the educational value of professional associations and encourages staffmembers to attend appropriate regional and national meetings.

The Housing Professional is aware of the political implication of housing as an integral part of highereducation and is obligated to maintain effective relationships with the outside community so that programs,policies, and procedures are fully understood.

**From ACUHO-I Statement of Professional Ethics

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Residential and Greek LifeResidential and Greek LifeResidential and Greek LifeResidential and Greek LifeResidential and Greek LifeOperational Calendar, Spring 2009

MARCH2 Student Handbook revisions due to Marla2 RA Handbook & Hall Director Handbook Revisions due to Marla2 Consolidation Ends4-5 Housing Sign-up NSU4 Second half of Tuition due7 RA Interviews8 RA Background Checks on New RA’s - Betsy9 Student Handbook revisions due to Lonna in Student Life9-13 Health and Safety’s completed11 RA Appreciation12 Grati-Day12 HD’s review RA Candidates (seminar)13 RA grade checks due to HD’s13 Halls close at 5:00 pm; ½ staff leaves/returns early (optional)13 Last day to drop a class13 Collection of Shovels, Ice Melt, & Ice Chippers from the Halls14- 22 Spring Break22 Halls open at 10:00 am23 Classes reconvene24 Career Fair Van Driving

APRIL5-9 Greek Week6-10 NRHH Selection6 Early Registration for RA’s16 Grati-Day17 Summer Positions filled15 NRHH Induction Ceremony18 SAE – Order Trinkets – Remind Student Life18 SAE Parents Presentation Completed Closing Banquet – RHO Alpha Induction27 RA Evaluations due27 Closing Letter goes out to students29 NRHH Recognition Ceremony

MAY1 Campus Lofts on-site to pickup lofts, 11-44-7 Finals Week8 Commencement8 Halls close at 5:00 pm8 Remove Names from KFCU Checking Accts15 HD Contracts end15 End of Year Report due18 SAE Setup – Laptop / Futon / Micro Fridge / Carpet , Cable from IT

JANUARY5 Offices Re-open at 8 a.m.5 Walk through of Off-Campus Facilities6 Hall Director Training Begins8 RA Training Begins9 Halls open at 10:00 am.9 Open Registration 1-3 pm12 Spring Semester Classes Begin13 Occupancy/No Show list due to Janet15 RA Informational Session 9:00 pm, CTE16 Loft List due to Larry19 Martin Luther King Jr. Day –No Classes19 RA Informational Session 9:00 pm, Randall22 Tuition bills mailed to students23 Room Freeze Lifted23 RA Applications due by 4:00 pm28 Social dues deposited in hall social

accounts- METS checks due to Nita28 RHA checks due to Gail30 AHD Applications due to Gail30 HD/AHD Intent forms due

FEBRUARY2 Start review of Student Handbook2 RA Council begins revision of RAManual for fall2 Hall Directors begin revising HD/RA Manual for fall2 Deadline to register for Spring Graduation2 Consolidation Begins2-3 RA Class Begins5 First half of Tuition Due9-13 AHD Interviews held12 Grati-Day15 METS $ spent20 RA Intention Forms Due26 Spring Housing Letter to students26-1 OPE22-28 National Eating Disorder Awareness Week

MARCH2 Request GPA for Staff2 RA’s register online through May 1st for parking2 Begin Advertising for summer positions, CA’s, HD’s, RA’s2 HD’s hand out RA grade check forms

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Section BPersonnel

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Hiring of Residential and Greek Life

Para-Professional Employees

Affirmative Action Plan/Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Nebraska is an Equal Opportunity employer in accordance with the provisions ofthe Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. All executive ordersrelative to equal opportunity in employment and those Nebraska State Statutes pertaining to discrimi-nation are followed.

The Board of Regents policy statement reads as follows:The University of Nebraska declares and reaffirms a policy of equal employment opportunity, affirma-tive action in employment, equal educational opportunity, and non-discrimination in the provision ofall of its services to the public.

Employees on each campus of the University of Nebraska shall be employed and equitably treated inregard to the terms and conditions of their employment without regard to individual characteristicsother than qualifications for employment, quality of performance of duties, and conduct in regard totheir employment in accord with University policies and rules and applicable law.

Anti-Harassment and Discrimination Statement

Bigotry has no place within our community, nor the right to denigrate another human being. All ofthose within our community should be aware that any form of harassment and any form of illegaldiscrimination against any individual is inconsistent with the values and ideals of this Universitycommunity. The Office of Residential and Greek Life will not tolerate verbal or written abuse,threats, intimidation, violence or any other forms of harassment against any member of the Univer-sity community. We will strive to protect the rights and privileges and to enhance the self-esteem ofall community members. At the same time, we will determine conduct that goes beyond the legallydefined boundaries. Likewise, the Office of Residential and Greek Life will not accept ignorance,humor, anger, alcohol or substance abuse as excuse, reason or rationale for harassment.

All of us that work and live in the University of Nebraska at Kearney community have chosen to livehere and are committed to these principles that are an integral part of our purpose, values and dailyactivity.

Commitment to Diversity and Community Standards

The University of Nebraska at Kearney’s residence halls are a community of persons from diversecultural, sexual orientation, racial and ethnic backgrounds. Amidst our diversity we must strive tounderstand the individuality and uniqueness of those around us. We need to learn from one anotherin an atmosphere of challenge, positive encouragement and mutual respect. The Office of Residen-tial and Greek Life believes that we are individually and collectively responsible for our behaviorand are fully accountable for our actions.

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Residential and Greek Life Job Summaries

Director of Residential and Greek LifeResponsible for the overall functioning of the Office of Residential and Greek Life. Specific responsibilitiesinclude ensuring the residence hall environment is conducive and complimentary to students’ personal, aca-demic, social development and coordinating all housing facilities, housing related fiscal resources, and thesupervision of all department personnel.

Associate Director of Residential and Greek Life - Administrative Operations and StaffingThis individual is responsible for the supervision of all live-in residence hall staff. Daily, direct supervision ofthe Assistant Directors and indirect supervision of Hall Directors and Resident Advisors are the major respon-sibilities of this position. The Associate Director oversees the recruitment, training and retention of the resi-dence hall staff, management of the METS (Managing the Environment Through Students) Program, staffmanual and staff contact revision, the operation of the Buddy System and appeals coordinator.

Greek Advisor and Residence Life Leadership CoordinatorResponsibilities include high level of interaction with Greek students, alumni advisors, and universitypersonnel; direct advising of two governing councils: the Panhellenic Association and the InterfraternityCouncil; providing educational and leadership development programs; increasing social awareness andservice learning responsibility; preparing reports on Greek life; preparing budget requests and exercisingbudgetary approval authority. Additional responsibilities include coordination of Residence Life leadershipprogramming.

Assistant Director - Staffing and Program DevelopmentThis individual directly trains, supervises, and evaluates 11 graduate Hall Directors, and coordinates with theAssociate Director of Administrative Operations in the recruitment of graduate Hall Director staff. Alsoserves as a liaison between in-hall staff and departmental administration. This person also supervises andfacilitates program development among graduate and undergraduate staff and also serves as advisor for RHA,NRHH, Rho Alpha Sigma, and RA Council.

Technology CoordinatorResponsibilities include the installation of operating systems, software and hardware in residence hall computerlabs and for department staff; create and maintain documentation related to lab and office software; performhardware and software problems and develop solutions. Troubleshoot various software configuration/featuresincluding all Microsoft Windows desktop operating systems and Microsoft Office applications.

Complex DirectorSupervises hall personnel and total educational and developmental program within a residence hall; servesas advisor to hall government officers, committees, boards, groups and individual students; selects, trainsand evaluates staff; conducts disciplinary meetings and/or makes referrals; establishes relationship withcustodial and maintenance staff; serves on departmental and University committees; initiates and implementshall financial procedures; maintains all records; and represents the Office of Residential and Greek Life toparents guests and members of the University community.

Hall DirectorsGraduate Hall Directors are the staff members who carry direct responsibility for ensuring a quality living envi-ronment in their specific residential facilities. Hall Directors live in each facility, directly supervise the delivery ofstaffing and programmatic efforts in their hall, and act as a liaison to Residential and Greek Life administration.They also act as the initial disciplinary officer of the University for behavioral problems in their hall

.

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Greek Graduate AssistantThe Greek Graduate Assistant works with student leaders in coordinating major events and conductingleadership programming for Greek leaders in a variety of areas. Assists in planning and facilitating officertransition and training, Fall Orientation programs and planning. Greek Life Assistant works in collaborationwith the Greek Advisor and Residence Life Leadership Coordinator and also with the two Greek Graduate HallDirectors.

Apartment Director of University HeightsThe Apartment Director of University Heights is a graduate student employee of the Office of Residential andGreek Life who shares with other staff members the responsibility for developing a residential community whichfacilitates learning and enhances the total college experience for the resident. The primary responsibility of theApartment Director of University Heights is to assist the University Heights Manager, a full-time staff person,with the development, management, and coordination of the apartments.

Resident Advisors

Resident Advisors or “RAs” are the personal link between the students and the day-to-day activities within theresidence halls. These undergraduate student leaders are carefully selected and trained. They coordinate theenvironment in the facility, and act as the first-contact authority in disciplinary situations. Last but not least,they serve as a source of information, initiator of activities, advisor and friend.

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Director of Residential and Greek LifeJob Description

General Statement:The Director provides leadership for the University’s residential community of 2,200 students, comprised ofon-campus populations in 12 residence halls (including Greek chapter housing) and an off-campus apartmentcomplex. The Director coordinates those residential environments with other University units and ensures thatthey complement programs supporting students’ academic, personal, and social development. The Directorsupervises a full-time staff of 53, including two Associate Directors, two Assistant Directors, LeadershipCoordinator and Greek Advisor, a Facilities Manager, Hall Directors, office support, and a custodial/mainte-nance crew, as well as a student Resident Advisor staff totaling 70. The Director reports to the Dean ofStudent Life and collaborates with students, faculty, and staff to provide services and programs to enhance thequality of life for UNK students within the Residential and Greek communities and on campus in general.

Qualifications:Master’s degree in a student affairs-related field and significant post-master’s experience managingresidential environments, with a record of progressively increasing responsibilities.Preferred: Terminal degree in a relevant discipline; experience coordinating residential and Greek lifeprograms; familiarity with living/learning community programs; experience with physical plant, budget/fiscal,and capital planning; knowledgeable of higher education law; proficiency with information technology;exceptional communication and interpersonal skills; and flexibility in decision-making.

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Associate Director, Administrative Operations and StaffingJob Description

Duties and Responsibilities:• Oversees the implementation of programs and procedures for training of the Assistant Director, 11 Hall Direc-

tors, 3 Assistant Hall Directors and 65 Resident Advisors. This includes workshops, classes, in-service training/meetings and professional development activities.

• Trains, advises, and assists Assistant Directors and Hall Directors in discipline situations and billing for damages;interpreting and ensuring compliance with residence hall policies, University regulations and Federal, State andlocal laws.

• Evaluates Assistant Directors and prepares annual written evaluation on each AD. Provides ADs with training toempower them to evaluate and conduct semester evaluations of HDs, AHDs and RA staffs.

• Meets with residence hall staff, (excluding RA’s) to discuss mutual concerns and attempts to ensure consistencebetween areas and halls in staff supervision and in coordination of programs and activities.

• Works with other members of the Residential and Greek Life Central Staff to promote consistent cooperation andcollaboration.

• Works directly with the Assistant Directors in the training (workshops, classes, in-service, etc.) and selection ofthe Hall Directors and Resident Advisors.

• Coordinates the recruitment, selection and training of Assistant Directors, Hall Directors and Assistant HallDirectors, Resident Advisors and office staff.

• Participates in policy review activities relating to residence halls.• Directly supervises and coordinates the daily activities of the central office.• Supervises and evaluates the central office staff.• Assist in the coordination of housing assignments.• Works in conjunction with the Assistant Director of Student Development and Retention, regarding implemen-

tation and development of Residential and Greek Life activities and programs.• Works in conjunction and cooperatively with the maintenance and custodial staff regarding the upkeep and

operation of residential facilities.• Work directly with the Associate Director of Fiscal Operations and Facilities Management to coordinate the

orientation training for the custodial, maintenance and paint staff.• Coordinates and implements, in conjunction with the Assistant Directors, functions for summer & interim

housing and conference services.• Ensures purposeful and intentional advising of student organizations within the department.• Represents the department on various Student Life and or University committees as well as other University

functions.• Assists in the assessment and evaluation of Quality of Life Survey and other measures of satisfaction relating

to student retention and recruitment within the residential communities.• Promotes the development of continued positive relationships within the Office of Residential and Greek Life

and between other areas within the University.• Fulfills other duties which may be assigned by the Director of the Office of Residential & Greek Life.

Qualifications Required:Earned Masters degree in College Student Personnel, Higher Education, Counseling or related field with 3 to 6years successful work experience in Residence Life/Housing and Greek Life. A minimum of three years experi-ence at the Assistant Director level or above; excellent supervision, leadership and communication skills. Pre-ferred: Full-time Residence Life/Housing and Greek Life experience.

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Assistant Director, Staffing and Program DevelopmentJob Description

• Staff Supervision and Training: Directly train, supervise, and evaluate 11 graduate Hall Directors.Coordinate with the Associate Director of Administrative Operations and Staffing in the recruitment ofgraduate Hall Director staff. Train and supervise the Assistant Hall Directors and Resident Advisors.

• Central Staff Liaison: Attend weekly Central Staff management meetings, serve as a liaison betweenin-hall staff and departmental administration. Identify and present new ideas for the improvement of theResidential and Greek Life program.

• Discipline Appeals Officer: Serve as the primary residence halls appeal officer for judicial hearings.Assist in training of hall staff regarding the discipline process. Work with student handbook revisions.Meet with residence halls students who appeal the decision of the hall director and ascertain their levelof involvement. Develop a workshop each semester to educate the resident advisors about studentrights, expectations and obligations at UNK. Develop a workshop each semester to educate the assis-tant hall directors and hall directors on the discipline process, hearings and sanctions. Serve as a liaisonbetween the students, the hall directors and Public Safety.

• Advise Collateral Assignments: Supervise and advise Hall Directors working on various collateralassignments within the Office of Residential and Greek Life.

• Program Development: Coordinate and assess the programming model within the residence hall com-munities. Promote and support student leadership development activities within the residence halls.Coordinate leadership opportunities and advise the Residence Hall Association, NRHH, Assistant Di-rector of Hall Staffing and RA Council.

• Professional Development: Become involved in professional activities, within and outside the depart-ment, which enhance personal skills and departmental operations. Encourage and provide opportunitiesfor graduate and undergraduate staff to develop professionally and personally.

• Summer Responsibilities: Assist in all responsibilities related in the coordination of summer schoolhousing, training and development and coordination of summer camps and conferences.

• Duties as Assigned: Completion of projects assigned by Director and Associate Director of the Officeof Residential and Greek Life.

• Student Affairs Responsibilities: Program and Committee Work: Actively participate in monthlyStudent Life division meetings, division-wide staff development programs, and division task groups andcommittees. Liaison with other departments by developing and maintain positive relationships withother Student Life offices, University departments and programs.

••••• Reporting Relationships: Reports to the Associate Director, Administrative Operations and Staffingfor Residential and Greek Life.

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Greek Advisor and Residence Life Leadership CoordinatorJob Description

Function: The Greek Advisor will work closely with the University administration, colleges, and the Divisionof Student Affairs to develop, implement, and maintain effective strategies for recruitment, marketing, program-ming, and growth of Greek Life programs. Supervises the Greek Life Graduate Assistant and works in collabo-ration with the two Greek Graduate Hall Directors.

Duties & Responsibilities:• Advises the Panhellenic and Interfraternity Councils, their committees, and individual chapters• Advise auxiliary groups such as Order of Omega, Rho Lambda, GAMMA, Recruitment Counselors

and Greek Steering Committee• Identifies and develops opportunities for refinements in the Greek Life program• Directs fraternity and sorority recruitment and marketing efforts• Coordinates judicial training and processes for the Greek community• Works in conjunction with housing corporations, facilities, maintenance, and paint staff in chapter

house improvement projects• Administers the annual chapter house license agreement process, documents, billings, debt collec-

tion, and occupancy credit program• Develops educational and social programming• Creates leadership programs and opportunities• Coordinates departmental promotional material including printed materials and the website• Serves as a departmental liaison with chapter advisors, alumni, and house corporation boards• Participates on central staff management team responsible for departmental operation• Actively participates in Student Affairs division meetings and divisional committees• Participates in AFA at the state, regional and national level• Initiates positive resource development relationships with University departments and the commu-

nity

Qualifications Required: An earned Master’s degree in Student Affairs, or a related field with significantexperience in Greek Life; demonstrated computer skills in word processing, database management, and spread-sheet applications; exceptional oral, written and interpersonal skills; flexibility; fairness; and objectivity indecision-making; experience with implementing change in a positive manner; and a commitment to the role andmission of higher education.

Preferred: Qualifications beyond the minimums specified as well as a strong record of Residence Lifeexperience.

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Greek Life Graduate AssistantJob Description

General StatementThe Greek Life Graduate Assistant (GA) provides advising, counseling, community and leadership develop-ment to the officers and members of the 7 fraternities and 5 sororities at UNK. The Greek Life Assistant willprovide overall leadership within the Greek Life in the areas of programming, implementation of student devel-opment theory, working with faculty and staff advisors, working knowledge of NIC & NPC chapters, housingoperations, and personal career development.

A. ResponsibilitiesAdvises GAMMA, Greek Steering Committee and Panhellenic or IFC. Works with student leaders incoordinating recruitment, Greek Week, and Homecoming and other major events. Provides administration for Greek rosters and grade reports. Opportunity to conduct programming for Greek leaders in avariety of areas. Assists in planning and facilitating officer transition and training. Additional responsibilities as assigned with UNK Fall Orientation programs and planning. Greek Life Assistant works incollaboration with the Residence Life Leadership Coordinator and Greek Advisor and also with the twoGreek Graduate Hall Directors.

B. Reporting RelationshipReports directly to the Greek Advisor and Residence Life Leadership Coordinator. Indirectly reports tothe Associate Director of Operations and Staffing, the Associate Director of Fiscal and FacilitiesOperations, and the Director of Residential and Greek Life.

C. Qualifications:Bachelor’s degree, enrollment in a UNK graduate program, solid academic foundation, strong oral andwritten communication skills, demonstrated leadership skills, positive attitude, willingness to work in ateam environment, demonstrated commitment to self-development and growth.

D. Compensation:The Greek Life GA receives a furnished apartment including utilities (except long distance phoneservice and cable service), full meal plan (when dining services are in operation), a 9-hour graduatecredit tuition waiver per semester, and stipend of $750.00 per month for a 10-month period.

Summer employment opportunities may be available. Greek Assistants remaining on campus during the sum-mer, and who work for the department, will have their salary carried over through the summer months, receivethe maximum summer meal plan (while food service is in operation), and will be able to live in their residenceduring the summer months. Greek Assistants not employed by the Office of Residential and Greek Life for thesummer will be expected to pay a monthly rate or vacate their apartments from the end of the Spring semestercontract until the beginning of Hall Director training in the Fall.

E. Limitation:Outside Employment is not permitted.

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Technology CoordinatorJob Description

General StatementInstall operating systems, software and hardware in residence hall computer labs and for department staff;Create and maintain documentation related to lab and office software; Perform hardware and softwaretroubleshooting; Install, configure and troubleshoot peripheral devices; Diagnose personal computer hardwareand software problems and develop solutions. Troubleshoot various software configuration/features includingall Microsoft Windows desktop operating systems and Microsoft Office applications.

A. Duties to include, but not limited to the following:1. Implement & support new housing software including on-line housing application & payment2. Implement a web-based work order system3. Manage data on shared drives4. Use SPSS to analyze data and conduct web-based surveys with Opinio5. Support CBORD access control and video surveillance6. Support residence hall labs including approximately 55 computers and 19 network printer and print stations in 13 halls7. Support approximately 61 staff computers, 30 printers, 15 networked copiers, assist with resident/

student personal computer support as needed

8. Assist with department maintenance or operations as needed.

B. Qualifications Required

1. Bachelors Degree2. One year experience in a broad range of computer technologies (Windows) including direct

client support, telephone consulting, and documenting problems.3. Position requires background in the configuration, installation, and troubleshooting of the

following: Microsoft Windows XP and Vista, Microsoft Office Suite, Antivirus software, Adware/Spyware utilities, and TCP/IP networking as well as experience troubleshooting peripherals such as printers.

4. Ability to plan, organize, and set priorities in a constantly changing environment. Attention to detail and demonstrated follow-up and follow-through is a critical skill.

5. Strong interpersonal skills; ability to establish and maintain harmonious relationships with coworkers and with a broad range of diverse clients which include administrators, faculty, staff, and students.

6. Ability to work effectively in a highly organized manner, paying close attention to detail. Proven accountability and reliability in meeting project deadlines and requirements.

C. Preferred Qualifications1. Experience with SIS2. Experience with housing software3. Experience with CBORD CS Gold access control and NICE video surveillance4. Experience with TMA or other web-based work order system5. Record of excellent technology support and effective interpersonal skills/customer service

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Complex Director

Job Description

General StatementSupervises hall personnel and total educational and developmental programs within a residence hall; serves asadvisor to hall government officers, committees, boards, groups and individual students; selects, trains andevaluates staff; conducts disciplinary meetings and/or makes referrals; establishes relationship with custodialand maintenance staff; serves on departmental and University committees; initiates and implements hall finan-cial procedures; maintains all records; and represents the Office of Residential and Greek Life to parents, guestsand members of the university community.

A. Residential and Greek Life Responsibilities1. Staff Supervision: Supervise paraprofessional staff. Conduct staff meetings. Responsibilities include

team building, goal and expectation setting, ongoing training and development, day-to-day advisement,training, and on-going formal and informal appraisal.

2. Community Building: Assist in the development of a residential community. Work to maintain closecontact with residents. Be aware of student problems and concerns. Mediate student conflicts. Encour-age and develop student activities and programs.

3. Education/Discipline: Assist students to develop behavioral standards appropriate to group living in anacademic institution. When necessary, confront individuals whose behavior is unacceptable and processcases through the discipline system.

4. Advising and Referral Source: Provide basic counseling and function as a resource and referral agentfor both staff and residents. This requires a flexible schedule including evenings and weekends.

5. Management: Direct the management operations of the facility by working in cooperation with themaintenance staff, custodial staff, central staff, and any other appropriate departments in areas of occu-pancy, fire safety, security, and damage control.

6. Programming: Encourage planning and implementation of educational activities involving such re-sources as faculty, guest speakers, and members of the Kearney community. Advise the hall council inplanning activities and developing policy.

7. Administrative Tasks: Oversee the administration of all personnel and programming functions within theresidential community. Supply written information and/or documentation as required. Attend weekly staffmeetings and training programs. Be on duty as assigned for the campus community.

8. Additional Responsibilities: Perform any other job-related responsibilities requested by the AssistantDirector(s), Associate Director(s), and/or the Director of Residential and Greek Life.

B. Student Affairs Responsibilities1. Program and Committee Work: Participate in the development and maintenance of the total Residen-

tial and Greek Life program. Actively participate in programs and committees originating in the Residen-tial and Greek Life office, meet as scheduled, and take part in future long- and short-range planning andprogramming.

2. Liaison with Other Departments: Develop and maintain positive relationships with other Student Affairsand University departments and programs to be utilized in program development.

C. Reporting Relationships

Directly reports to the Assistant Director for their Area. Indirectly reports to the Associate Directors and the

Director of Residential and Greek Life.

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D. Qualifications1. Bachelor of Arts or Science Degree.2. 1-2 years residence hall director experience.3. Undergraduate experience in residence life and/or student activities.3. Demonstrated leadership ability.4. Demonstrated commitment to self-development and growth is encouraged at all levels of training and job

performance.

E. CompensationThe Complex Director receives a furnished apartment including utilities (except long distance phone service andcable service), full meal plan (when dining services are in operation), University benefits and a $24,750 annualsalary.

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Assistant Complex Director

Job Description

General StatementThe Assistant Complex Director is a student employee of the Office of Residential and Greek Life who helpsdevelop and enhance the total college experience for the residents through performing duties assigned by theComplex Director. The responsibility of the Assistant Complex Director is to assist the Complex Director, withspecific responsibilities determined in cooperation with the Complex Director and to serve as the Resident Advi-sor for a floor. ACDs are responsible for the development of a supportive, positive, functioning community in aresidence hall. ACDs work with students to resolve behavioral problems, confront residence hall policy viola-tions, assist in the management of their facility, plan and present educational and social programs, and provideinformal peer counseling. Some of the responsibilities of the ACD may include but are not limited to (underlinedrequirements are standard for all ACDs):

A. Residential and Greek Life Responsibilities for Hall1. Administration: Direct the overall administration of the residence hall including:

a) Maintain a minimum of 8 scheduled office hours a week to fulfill ACD responsibilitiesb) Coordinate the operation of the hall deskc) Maintain equipment, hall, and room inventoriesd) Assist in hall opening and closinge) Coordinate reservations for guest rooms and meeting roomsf) Track work orders in the established system and report work order status to the Complex Director regularlyg) Assist in the initial distribution of hall keysh) Develop RA On-Duty schedulei) Communicate IT concerns with Complex Director and/or IT Help Desk

2. Residence Hall Council:a) Co-advise the residence hall council and its committees with the Complex Directorb) Attend all hall council meetings and events

3. Programming:a) Encourage and assist hall council and staff with their efforts to plan and execute programs and activitiesb) Track RAs’ programming efforts (programs will be approved by Complex Director)c) Report programming issues (RAs not meeting expectations) to Complex Directord) Develop a systematic approach to the dissemination of information to the entire halle) Coordinate all hall programs presented by the entire hall staff

4. Professional Development:a) Participate in hall and selected departmental staff trainingb) Participate in RA selection as needed

B. Student Affairs Responsibilities1. Liaison with Other Departments: Develop and maintain positive relationships with Student Affairs and

University departments to be utilized in resource and program development.2. Role Model Behavior: Be a positive role model for the Office of Residential and Greek Life and the

University of Nebraska at Kearney.

C. Reporting RelationshipsReport directly to the Complex Director and being responsible to their Assistant Director, the Associate Director,and the Director of Residential and Greek Life.

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D. Residential and Greek Life Responsibilities for Floor1. Information/Referral Resource: ACDs are the first contact for residents seeking access to University

resources. ACDs must understand the function of various Student Affairs and other University officesand be able to make referrals to each office.

2. Community Building: Assist in the development of a floor community. Know all residents on their floor byname. Recognize students experiencing problems and concerns. Intervene when conflicts arise, docu-ment, and report conflicts to the Complex Director. Plan and develop community development activities toenhance the living community.

3. Education/Discipline: Assist students to develop behavioral standards appropriate to group living in anacademic institution and communicate the behavior standards in accordance with the Students Rights andResponsibilities listed in the Student Handbook. When necessary, confront individuals whose behavioris unacceptable, document such behavior and refer it to the Complex Director for processing.

4. Peer Counseling: Be informed regarding the emotional well being of residents on their floor. Provideinformal counseling to residents on issues of short-term or relatively minor concern. Inform ComplexDirector of all counseling-type contacts. Refer all serious or long-term counseling issues to the ComplexDirector.

5. Facility Ownership: Participate in fall opening preparation projects. Design and put up bulletin boards anddoor decs to enhance appearance of the floor. Perform safety-appearance related functions in the absenceof full-time facility staff. Fill out work requests on repair items as you become aware of them. ACDs areresponsible for cleanup of all unclean rooms that are not assessed to the student at the time of checkout.

6. Programming: Provide programming activities for the residents of their floor, building, and complex follow-ing the expectations and guidelines developed by Residential and Greek Life Staff.- 3 Social- 2 Educational - one can be passive-1 University- 3 DD and BB

7 Duty: The ACD will not be responsible to be on duty during the regular academic year. The ACD will beon duty during the breaks along with the other complex staff.

E. CompensationMonthly stipend, no less than $200, a furnished apartment with utilities and cable, (except long distance phone), a20-meal plan and additional remuneration for providing duty coverage over break periods.

F. Qualifications1. Demonstrated leadership with Residential and Greek Life2. One year experience as Resident Advisor preferred and satisfactory work history3. A 2.5 cumulative and semester grade point average

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Hall Director

Job Description

General StatementHall Directors are responsible for the development of a supportive, functioning community within a residence hall,ranging in size from 85 to 380 residents. Hall Directors supervise a paraprofessional staff, advise individualstudents and student groups, work to resolve the behavioral problems of students and assist in the management oftheir residence halls. As staff members with the Office of Residential and Greek Life, Hall Directors workcooperatively with other Residential and Greek Life staff and other Student Affairs programs at the University ofNebraska at Kearney. Hall Directors are hired by the department as positions become available. Traditionally,hiring takes place at the end of the fall and/or spring semester. Applications for the Hall Director positions areavailable through the Office of Residential and Greek Life. Specifics concerning qualifications and job duties forthe Hall Director position may be reviewed in the Hall Director job description. The Office of Residential andGreek Life interviews local UNK undergraduates, graduates, and graduate assistant applicants for UNK gradu-ate programs candidates and also attends the Oshkosh Placement Exchange before making official job offers tocandidates.

A. Residential and Greek Life Responsibilities1. Staff Supervision: Supervise paraprofessional staff. Conduct staff meetings. Responsibilities include

team building, goal and expectation setting, ongoing training and development, day-to-day advisement,training, and on-going formal and informal appraisal.

2. Community Building: Assist in the development of a residential community. Work to maintain closecontact with residents. Be aware of student problems and concerns. Mediate student conflicts. Encour-age and develop student activities and programs.

3. Education/Discipline: Assist students to develop behavioral standards appropriate to group living in anacademic institution. When necessary, confront individuals whose behavior is unacceptable and processcases through the discipline system.

4. Advising and Referral Source: Provide basic counseling and function as a resource and referral agentfor both staff and residents. This requires a flexible schedule including evenings and weekends.

5. Management: Direct the management operations of the facility by working in cooperation with themaintenance staff, custodial staff, central staff, and any other appropriate departments in areas of occu-pancy, fire safety, security, and damage control.

6. Programming: Encourage planning and implementation of educational activities involving such re-sources as faculty, guest speakers, and members of the Kearney community. Advise the hall council inplanning activities and developing policy.

7. Administrative Tasks: Oversee the administration of all personnel and programming functions withinthe residential community. Supply written information and/or documentation as required. Attend weeklystaff meetings and training programs. Be on duty as assigned for the campus community.

8. Additional Responsibilities: Perform any other job-related responsibilities requested by the AssistantDirector(s), Associate Director(s), and/or the Director of Residential and Greek Life.

B. Student Affairs Responsibilities1. Program and Committee Work: Participate in the development and maintenance of the total Residen-

tial and Greek Life program. Actively participate in programs and committees originating in the Residen-tial and Greek Life office, meet as scheduled, and take part in future long- and short-range planning andprogramming.

2. Liaison with Other Departments: Develop and maintain positive relationships with other Student Af-fairs and University departments and programs to be utilized in program development.

C. Reporting Relationships

Directly reports to the Assistant Director for their Area. Indirectly reports to the Associate Directors and the Director of Residential and Greek Life.

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D. Qualifications1. Graduate student with a solid academic foundation and significant residence life experience will be con-

sidered. Enrollment in six graduate credit hours per semester required.2. Demonstrated leadership ability.3. Demonstrated commitment to self-development and growth is encouraged at all levels of training and job

performance.4. A 3.0 cumulative and semester GPA is required.

E. CompensationThe Hall Director receives a furnished apartment including utilities (except long distance phone service), full mealplan (when dining services are in operation), a 9-hour graduate credit tuition waiver per semester, and stipend of$750.00 per month for a 10-month period, parking permit, paid student health fee, laundry access, reserved park-ing, pet privileges, summer employment options, professional development.

F. Break Hall CompensationAll Hall Directors are expected to work approximately 6 (six) days of coverage for the break halls (Antelope Hall,Men’s and CTE) during the three academic breaks of Thanksgiving, Winter, and Spring Break. Hall Directors willbe compensated an hourly rate for 4 hours per day, with Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, NewYear’s Eve and New Year’s Day being paid at an hourly rate x 2 for 8 hours per day. Hall Directors will also receivea food allowance based on the pro-rated amount of a 20-meal plan for the days coverage is provided. Hall Directorcoverage will be decided upon by seniority. Seniority will be based on the date the original employment contractwas signed.

G. Break Hall ResponsibilitiesHall Directors are expected to cover the buildings during the three break periods, Thanksgiving, Winter Break, andSpring Break.

H. Summer EmploymentSummer employment opportunities may be available. Hall Directors remaining on campus during thesummer, and who work for the department, will have their salary carried over through the summermonths, receive the maximum summer meal plan (while food service is in operation), and will be able tolive in their residence during the summer monthsand receive tuition benefit. Hall Directors not employedby the Office of Residential and Greek Life for the summer will be expected to pay a monthly rate, payfor food, and pay tuition or vacate their apartments from the end of the Spring semester contract until thebeginning of Hall Director training in the Fall.

I. Limitation –Outside employment is not permitted.

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Apartment Director of University Heights ApartmentsJob Description

General StatementThe Apartment Director of University Heights is an employee of the Office of Residential and Greek Life whohelps develop and enhance the total college experience for the residents. The primary responsibility of theApartment Director of University Heights is to assist the University Heights Manager, a full-time staff person,with the development, management, and coordination of the apartments. Student contract periods at UniversityHeights are Fall, Spring and Summer; the Apartment Director will assist the Manager as needed during check-inand check-out periods at the beginning and end of each contract period. Specific responsibilities, determined incooperation with the University Heights Manager, may include:

A. Residential and Greek Life Responsibilities

1. Administration: Assist with the overall administration of the apartment complex, including:

a) coordination of apartment cleaning and preparationb) managing distribution, collection, and record-keeping of all room keysc) working 30 hours a weekd) developing and managing check-in and check-out procedurese) publishing an apartment newsletterf) distributing mail on delivery daysg) coordinating maintenance requestsh) assisting in once-a-semester Health and Safety Inspectioni) monitoring activity room usagej) following up on tenant payment concerns

2. Residence Hall Government:a) advise the Apartment Councilb) attend apartment events

3. Programming:

a) develop a systematic approach to the dissemination of information for

the entire apartment complexb) provide programming for apartment complex

4. Student Development:a) assist in maintaining and carrying out the discipline systemb) serve as a role model for apartment residents

5. Professional Development:a) attend Hall Director meetingsb) participate in apartment and departmental training programs

6. Other Related Duties:All other duties as assigned by the Manager, Associate Director(s), Assistant Director(s), or theDirector of Residential and Greek Life.

B. Student Affairs Responsibilities

1. Liaison with Other Departments:Develop and maintain positive relationships with Student Affairs and University departments to beutilized in resources and program development.2. Role Model Behavior:Serve as a positive role model for Residential and Greek Life and the University.

C. Reporting Relationship

1. Directly report to the Assistant Director of Staffing and Program Development of Residential and Greek Life.

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D. Compensation and Benefits

1. A furnished apartment including all utilities (except long distance phone),2. Meal Plan (when dining services are in operation on campus),3. A 9-hour graduate tuition waiver per semester,4. A stipend of $750 per month, with an additional bonus to be compensated on a pro-rated monthly

basis according to the Apartment Director’s regular salary for work time required over and abovethe 10-month contract. The contract is paid over 10 months with an option for summer employ-ment.

E. Qualifications

1. Graduate student with a solid academic foundation and significant Residential and Greek Life experience will be considered. Enrollment in six hours per semester is required.2. Demonstrated leadership ability.3. Demonstrated commitment to self-development and growth is encouraged at all levels of training and job performance.4. A 3.0 cumulative and semester GPA is required.

F. Limitations

Outside employment during the period of employment is not permitted.

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Assistant Hall Director

Job Description

The Assistant Hall Director is a student employee of the Office of Residential and Greek Life who helps developand enhance the total college experience for the residents through performing duties assigned by the Hall Direc-tor. The primary responsibility of the Assistant Hall Director is to assist the Hall Director, with specific respon-sibilities determined in cooperation with the Hall Director. These may include but are not limited to (underlinedrequirements are standard for all AHDs):

A. Residential and Greek Life Responsibilities

1. Administration: Direct the overall administration of the residence hall including:a) Maintain a minimum of 10 scheduled office hours a week to fulfill AHD responsibilitiesb) Coordinate the operation of the hall deskc) Maintain equipment, hall, and room inventoriesd) Assist in hall opening and closinge) Coordinate reservations for guest rooms and meeting roomsf) Track work orders in the established system and report work order status to the Hall Director regularlyg) Assist in the initial distribution of hall keysh) Develop RA On-Duty schedulei) Communicate IT concerns with Hall Director and/or IT Help Desk

2. Residence Hall Council:a) Co-advise the residence hall council and its committees with the Hall Directorb) Attend all hall council meetings and events

3. Programming:a) Encourage and assist hall council and staff with their efforts to plan and execute programs and activitiesb) Track RAs’ programming efforts (programs will be approved by Hall Director)c) Report programming efforts (programs will be approved by Hall Director)d) Develop a systematic approach to the dissemination of information of the entire halle) Coordinate all hall programs presented by the entire hall staff

4. Professional Development:a) Participate in hall and selected departmental staff trainingb) Participate in RA selection as needed

B. Student Affairs Responsibilities

1. Liaison with Other Departments: Develop and maintain positive relationships with StudentAffairs and University departments to be utilized in resource and program development

2. Role Model Behavior: Be a positive role model for the Office of Residential and Greek Life andthe University of Nebraska at Kearney

C. Reporting Relationship

Report directly to the Hall Director and being responsible to their Assistant Director, the AssociateDirector, and the Director of Residential and Greek Life.

D. Compensation & Benefits

Monthly stipend, no less than $200, a furnished living space with utilities and cable, (except longdistance phone), and a 20-meal plan

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E. Qualifications

1. Demonstrated leadership with Residential and Greek Life.2. One year experience as Resident Advisor preferred and satisfactory work history3. A 2.5 cumulative and semester grade point average.

Assistant Hall Director positions are hired on an as needed basis. The AHD interviews are held during theend of each semester if positions are open for the following semester. Applications for the AHD positions(s)are available from your Hall Director and/or from the Office of Residential and Greek Life.

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Resident AdvisorJob Description

Resident Advisors (RAs) are responsible for the development of a supportive, positive, functioningcommunity on a residence hall floor ranging in size from 14 to 60 residents. RAs work with students to resolvebehavioral problems, confront residence hall policy violations, assist in the management of their facility, planand present educational and social programs, and provide informal peer counseling. As staff members of theOffice of Residential and Greek Life, RAs work cooperatively with other staff members and with Student Lifestaff for the development of the overall Student Life program. RAs must be a full time student and at least a

second semester freshman, with a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher.

A. Residential and Greek Life Responsibilities1. Information/Referral Resource: RAs are the first contact for residents seeking ac

cess to University resources. RA’s must understand the function of variousStudent Affairs and other University offices and be able to make referrals to each office.

2. Community Building: Assist in the development of a floor community. Know allresidents on their floor by name. Recognize students experiencing problems andconcerns. Intervene when conflicts arise, document, and report conflicts to the HallDirector. Plan and develop community development activities to enhance the livingcommunity.

3. Education/Discipline: Assist students to develop behavioral standardsappropriate to group living in an academic institution and communicate the behaviorstandards in accordance with the Students Rights and Responsibilities listed in theStudent Handbook. When necessary, confront individuals whose behavior is unacceptable,

document such behavior and refer it to the Hall Director for processing.4. Peer Counseling: Be informed regarding the emotional well being of residents on

their floor. Provide informal counseling to residents on issues of short-term, orrelatively minor concern. Inform Hall Director of all counseling-type contacts. Referall serious, or long-term counseling issues to the Hall Director.

5. Facility Ownership: Participate in fall opening preparation projects. Design and putup bulletin boards and door decs to enhance appearance of the floor. Performsafety-appearance related functions in the absence of full-time facility staff. Fill outwork requests on repair items as you become aware of them. RAs are responsible forclean up of all unclean rooms that are not assessed to the student at the time ofcheckout.

6. Programming: Provide programming activities for the residents of their floor,building, and complex following the expectations and guidelines developed byResidential and Greek Life Staff.

7. Administrative Tasks: Attend weekly staff meetings, one on one’s and trainingprograms. Work desk and duty nights as established by schedule. Duty coveragebegins at 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 a.m. Monday through Friday and weekend coveragebegins Friday at 5:00 p.m. through Monday at 8:00 a.m. Provide Hall Director withinformation for standing reports like Occupancy and METS. RAs desiring to be awayfrom the building after 2:00 a.m. must fill out an overnight request form with their Hall Director.RAs are responsible for the front desk cashbox, equipment, keys, campus and US mail and/orpackages. Other duties as assigned.

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8. Reporting RelationshipsDirectly reports to the Hall Director assigned to their building. Indirectly reportsto the Assistant Director for their Area.

9. RAs are required to perform all other duties as assigned by Associate Director(s) andDirector. Lack of team effort and support may result in termination.

B. CompensationRAs receive a double room as a single waiver and a meal plan. (Renumeration isconsidered income and may affect Financial Aid award amounts). All RA Contracts are

binding for one academic year.

C. Greek Resident AdvisorsRAs serving in the Greek chapter houses of URN/URS will perform other tasks specificto the community situations in his/her chapter house.

D. Break Housing Resident AdvisorsRAs will be hired to assist the Hall Directors of Antelope/Nester Complex, CTE, Randall,

and Men’s Hall during the break periods. These RAs are expected to equally share duty responsibilities with the Hall Director during the break periods of Thanksgiving, Winter Break and Spring Break. Duties will be assigned by the supervising Hall Director.

Break Duty•Duty begins at 9:00 am the first day of duty, unless other arrangements have beenmade•The RA will hold the building pager - be sure this number is posted at front desk•Any concerns should be directed to the HD on duty for that hall•RA must work one desk hour a day

-Post this time near the front desk-Have the same hour everyday (if possible), this will help keep things consis

tent for the residents•RA will do mail for the hall, retrieve, put mail in boxes, and forward mail•Rounds must be done 3 times daily, preferably late afternoon and evenings•When the University offices are open, RA has the freedom to leave, but must stillcarry the duty pager•When Residential and Greek Life is closed, the RA should remain in the duty hall,with the exception of running short errands during the day, please limit this as muchas possible

E. Break CompensationThe RA who works during break periods will receive additional compensation for thecoverage of break housing. Compensation will be paid for the days worked and will beequal to the current minimum wage doubled and a food stipend equivalent to the dailyprorated charge of a 20 meal plan.

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Appendium

The following is included in the RA Job Description for Antelope/Nester Complex.

Minimum Qualifications:- Have worked as a RA for a minimum of 2 semesters for Residential & Greek Life, and have earnedfavorable performance evaluations.- Sophomore class standing or above as of the first day of employment for the fall 2008 semester, however,preference can be given to employees with a junior or senior status.- RA’s will not be permitted to hold outside employment during the first semester of their appoint-ment. Outside employment may be allowed during subsequent semesters if evaluations indicate asatisfactory work performance in the position.- Full-time enrollment (12 or more credit hours for Undergraduate Students and 6 or more credithours for Graduate Students) in the University and continued academic progress throughout thecourse of employment. No more than 16 credit hours per semester will be allowed without priorapproval from the Complex Director.- Compensation for Break coverage is already provided in a monthly stipend for the academic year.

RA Duty Policy Addition (November 2007)

In response to a proposal submitted to the RGL central staff on behalf of the RA Council, the followingpolicy will go into effect as of November 7, 2007.

RA’s who are on duty, but wish to utilize the UNK dining facilities during their duty shift must adhere to thefollowing:- Monday thru Friday: the 5:00 pm initial set of duty rounds must be completed in their entirety. At thattime, the duty RA may take up to 30 minutes to go to either the Commons in the NSU for a ‘sit down’ mealor the NSU food court to transfer the dinner meal. Time away from the hall CANNOT exceed 30 minutes.- Prior to leaving the hall, the duty RA must sign out in their hall/complex duty log - a departure time must benoted. When returning to the hall after eating, a return time must also be logged. If your hall/complex doesnot maintain a traditional duty log, RA’s must call their HD’s office phone upon departure/return from theNSU.- The duty pager must be carried at ALL times, and if you are summoned to the hall while away you mustreturn IMMEDIATELY.

This policy becomes null and void in the event of the following:- There are 2 RA’s on duty for your hall/complex. In this event, the RA’s will take turns going to the NSUto dine/transfer.- You are a duty RA in either URS or URN, where an evening meal is being served. Meals are to be eatenin your building.

When providing weekend duty coverage, please adhere to the following:- You may sign out for a maximum of 30 minutes for any meal being served at Chartwells. All departures/returns must be listed in the duty log or voicemails must be left on the HD’s office phone.- URS/URN duty RA’s may sign out to travel to the URS/URN dining center serving over the weekend.These RA’s must also log out/in or leave the appropriate voicemails in their HD’s office.

This policy will be discontinued should abuses be discovered.

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Contract Renewal ProcessPurpose: To intentionally evaluate the performance of Resident Advisors who wish to return to the Office ofResidential and Greek Life.

Process: Staff member indicates on the RA Intention form that they are leaving, want to return or transfer.This process may be in the form of a presentation, interview, a meeting with the Hall Director or simply fillingout the appropriate paperwork. Contract renewal is not guaranteed for any staff person.

All HD, AHD, and RA contracts are an academic year appointment and are contingent upon satisfac-tory performance in both academic areas and job responsibilities. Any returning staff member will beexpected to perform at a higher level than an entry level staff member. The continuation and/or renewalis not guaranteed, but will be determined by your immediate supervisor, Assistant Director or Associate Direc-tor of Residential and Greek Life. Any staff member who does not have their contract renewed will beexpected to continue their satisfactory performance until the end of the contract period. Anyone failing to doso will be released immediately.

After the Contract Renewal process is completed. The supervisor should use this opportunity to discuss withthe staff member reasons for returning, what his/her goals will be for the next year and if their return is a benefitto the hall communities we serve. The Hall Director and the Assistant Director will make the decision to renewthe contract, not renew the contract or to permit a transfer or recommend a transfer to another building.Contract renewal will be based on the past performance and the needs of the department.

If the staff member requests a transfer, AD will determine what fit will best serve the hall community. The ADswill then be responsible for reviewing the staff member’s employment file and to make the decision in grantingany transfers. If the choice of transfer is not granted, the immediate supervisor will need to meet with the staffmember to discuss options such as staying in their current building, choosing another building to transfer to, orchoosing to not renew their contract.

Third and Fourth year RA’s are strongly encouraged to transfer to another building. The RAs will be requiredto not only meet with a Hall Director, but with their Assistant Director as well to discuss where their talents willbest serve the students, the communities and the students.

Transfer of StaffTransfers can be initiated through the Spring Intention Forms. Staff members are asked to please list theirhall preferences at the time the transfer is requested. The Assistant Director of Residential & Greek Life willwork to determine the most suitable placement for staff requesting hall transfers. For RA transfer the HallDirectors will be consulted as needed, and not all requests will be granted. Transfers are based on resident/staff compatibility and community need. Only staff members who are in good standing with Residential &Greek Life will be considered for transfer to another residence hall.

Employee ResponsibilitiesMost students start positions in an entry-level position with minimal requirements. Being employed in StudentLife is a unique opportunity. The Residential and Greek Life staff member is in the vanguard in the field ofstudent development. The daily contact staff members have with students result in a significant impact on thedevelopment of these students. By accepting a position with Residential and Greek Life staff members assumeall the demands, requirements and expectations set forth by the department and the University.

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EmploymentResidential and Greek Life staff members will experience the opportunity for personal and professional growthand as a staff, student staff members will be expected to:

• never let personal actions or behaviors put others at risk.• abide by all University policies as outlined in the Student Handbook, during staff training, in the Student

Handbook, in the job description and in the staff manual.• abide by all State and Federal laws.• use alcohol responsibly, if of age, if not, the staff member is never to be under the influence of alcohol.

The staff member is never to be under the influence of drugs.• positively represent the Division of Student Life, the Office of Residential and Greek Life and the

University of Nebraska at Kearney.• meet all expectations set forth by the respective Hall Director or the Office of Residential and

Greek Life.• foster a good working relationship with the Office of Residential and Greek Life your HD,

AHD and fellow RAs. • maintain an acceptable GPA.

• attend all training sessions.• always display acceptable behavior and be part of the team.• contracts are for one academic year appointment and are contingent upon satisfactory performance

in academics and with job responsibilities, expectations and positive support of Greek hall staff,Residential & Greek Life, Student Life, and UNK.

These are some of the examples of expectations the Office of Residential and Greek Life has of its staffmembers. Further expectations will be provided by immediate supervisors during training and throughoutthe academic year. The Office of Residential and Greek Life cannot support any staff member acting outsidethe scope of their job description.

Performance and Disciplinary ProceduresALL returning staff will be held to a higher performance standard level. When an employee’s performancedoes not meet expectations and informal attempts to correct the situation are not successful disciplinary proce-dures may be put into place. If a staff member is in violation of a policy, procedure, regulation or expectation,he/she may face staff disciplinary action. This action can range from a verbal or written warning, suspension,reduction or removal of the room and board waiver, extra duties, moved to another building, banned frombuildings, probation or termination. Any disciplinary action taken will depend on the severity of the offense.

The first step taken informally in solving a dispute will be to schedule a problem solving conferencewith the immediate supervisor to discuss the problem. If the problem remains unsolved after establish-ing an action plan the second step could be a written warning stating any sanction that may apply. Thethird step could be termination. In severe cases, the supervisor, with approval of their supervisor, hasthe option to dismiss the staff member immediately, with no process required.

If the staff member is not satisfied with the outcome of the discussion with their immediate supervisorhe/she will then speak with the Assistant Director for their area, next the Associate Director of Opera-tions and Staffing and finally the Director of Residential and Greek Life.

For RAs, staff discipline decisions are made jointly by the Hall Director and the Assistant Director. For Hall

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Directors, staff discipline decisions are made jointly by the Assistant Directors and the Associate Director ofOperations and Staffing. Any staff termination decision will include the Director of Residential and Greek Life.

In working with staff in regard to job performance issues, supervisors should adhere to the following guide-lines.• Document everything in writing. In all cases a staff member will be required to provide a written explana-

tion of the sequence of events that lead up to the violation.• Conduct a complete investigation into the incident.• Collect and review all supporting information (i.e., personnel files, staff evaluations, incident reports, etc.).• Prepare an agenda or outline of the major points you need to cover with the staff member(s).• Review the plan of action with your immediate supervisor before meeting with the staff member(s).• Follow up with letters that are placed in the staff member’s hall file and in the staff member’s

student file in the central office. It is preferred that the supervisor meet with the staff member toallow the staff member to read the follow up letter and then discuss any questions.

A decision to put a Residential and Greek Life staff member on probation or to terminate will comefrom recommendations submitted by Assistant Hall Directors or Hall Directors. However, the finaldecision to put a Residential and Greek Life staff member on probation or to terminate that individualwill come from an Assistant Director, Associate Director, or Director of Residential and Greek Life.

Staff Member SuspensionIf a staff member is suspended from his/her position, the following policies will be in effect and hand deliveredin writing:• All staff related keys will be returned immediately to the immediate supervisor or designated person. At

the end of the suspension the staff member keys will be returned and they will resume their position.• During the time of suspension staff will be required to not complete any staff related work.• Any staff member suspended as a result of disciplinary action may be billed for room and board.• Any staff member suspended during investigation and who is found responsible will be billed for room and

board during the suspension period.• Any staff member may have other disciplinary actions in conjunction with the suspension.

Resident Advisor TerminationIf a RA is terminated from his/her position, the following policies will be in effect:• All staff related keys will be returned immediately to the Hall Director or Assistant Director.• If he/she wishes to remain living on campus, he/she must go to the Office of Residential and Greek

Life, find a suitable room and complete a Change of Contract. When a staff member is terminated,he/she will be relocated to another building. Depending on the circumstances of termination ordisruption that is caused, a staff member may also be banned from certain residence halls.

• Any staff member who is terminated and moves off campus will be responsible for paying the $500Housing Contract cancellation fee and will pay room and board charges from the time of termina-tion until the time he/she move from the residence hall.

• He/she may be asked to move out within 24 hours unless other arrangements are made.

Hall Director TerminationIf a HD is terminated from his/her position, the following policies will be in effect:• All staff related keys will be turned in immediately to the immediate supervisor or designated person.• The HD will be required to check out with the Assistant Director.

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• A thorough check of the apartment, office and building will be conducted by two members of the Residen-tial and Greek Life staff.

• He/she may be asked to move out within 24 hours unless other arrangements are made.

Grievance ProcedureAny staff member may file a formal grievance with Office of Residential and Greek Life if they are not satisfiedwith disciplinary decision of the supervisor or department. All disciplinary decisions will stand until the griev-ance process has been completed. The decision of the Dean of Students is final.

Matters involving sexual harassment and discrimination issues are to be directed to the UNK Office of Affir-mative Action/Equal Opportunity located in Founders Hall.

Step 1 – Departmental Level:The staff member must submit within fifteen (15) business days of the receipt of the disputed decision. In Step1, the staff member submits the grievance in written form to the Assistant Director and the Associate Directorof Operations and Staffing stating the exact nature of the grievance and the remedy sought. The AssociateDirector of Operations and Staffing will respond in writing to the grievant within five (5) working days of thereceipt of the grievance.

Step 2 – Appeal to the Director of Residential and Greek Life:If the issue is not resolved in Step 1, the staff member may, within five (5) working days of the receipt of theresponse of the Associate Director of Operations and Staffing, appeal to the Director of Residential and GreekLife. The Director of Residential and Greek life will respond in writing to the grievant within five (5) workingdays of the receipt of the grievance.

Step 3 – Appeal to the Dean of Students:If the issue is not resolved in Step 2, the staff member may, within five (5) working days of receipt of the writtenresponse from the Director of Residential and Greek Life, file a written grievance appeal to the Dean ofStudents. The Dean of Students will form a Grievance Panel comprised of one (1) faculty, one (1) staff andone (1) student to review the appeal. Within fifteen (15) business days of receipt of the grievance appeal theGrievance Panel will review the grievance and make a recommendation to the Dean of Students. The Griev-ance Panel may meet with the grievant and other persons having information about the grievance. Uponreceipt of the recommendations from the Grievance Panel, the Dean of Students will notify the staff member ofthe decision in writing within ten (10) business days, unless the Dean of Students wishes to extend the time limitfor further investigation of the grievance.

Grievance PanelThe responsibilities of the Grievance Panel will include conducting a grievance meeting, obtainingrelevant facts, and making advisory recommendations to the Dean of Students pertaining to the dispo-sition of the grievance. The panel may decide to interview the staff member and the supervisor (at thesame time or separately) and any others who may have relevant information. No party participating in thegrievance proceedings may be represented by legal counsel during the grievance.

Effect of grievance on staff member’s status:1. Filing a grievance does not delay the effective date of any employment action by the Office of Residen-

tial and Greek Life.2. Filing a grievance in and of itself will not jeopardize the grievant’s position as a staff member.

The grievance record will not become part of the staff member’s permanent file.

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Resident Advisor Exception Request PolicyTo accommodate for family emergencies, employment outside the RA position, or other extracurricular activi-ties that conflict with RA duties as outlined by the RA contract, requests for exceptions to departmental policieswill be considered. However, if a RA is placed on probation anytime during the academic year, requests forwork outside the RA job will be denied. The most important thing to understand in requesting an exception isthat it is a “request” and that it may be ultimately denied. The following are guidelines for submitting anexception request:

1) The request should be made to your Hall Director, typed in memo form. It should include allspecific information necessary for the Hall Director or Assistant Director to make a decision. Ifa request for employment is made, it should include hours that will be worked and the name ofthe employer. No outside employment should start prior to the approval process. If a request tomiss selection or training is made, it should include the reason the absence is necessary, depar-ture and return times and who will handle your job duties while you are away. The Hall Direc-tor will then forward the request to the appropriate Assistant Director.

2) The request should be turned in well in advance of the time the exception is needed (two weeksis a minimum standard).

3) The Outside Employment form must be filled out for any requests for outside employment. Only 10hours or less a week will be allowed and it is preferred employment has direct ties to the academicmajor of the person requesting the exception. Requests to student teach while working as a RA will notbe honored.

4) Requests to return late for training periods typically will not be honored, unless some extremeneed can be demonstrated. Requests for exceptions from fall training must be submitted by the lastday of finals week during the spring semester. Requests for exception from Winter Workshop must besubmitted by the last day of finals week of the fall semester.

5) Current performance levels of the staff member making the request will be a consideration in approvalor denial of a request.

6) Approvals do not carry over from one year to the next. New requests must be made if anextension is desired.

7) Requests regarding travel arrangements for vacation periods must precede the purchase of bus orplane tickets.

8) Rationale for approval or denial of a request will be provided only to the staff member makingthe request.

ConfidentialityStaff members frequently come in contact with situations or information that is sensitive in nature andare required to sign a “Confidentiality Statement” upon beginning employment. It is an expectation thatany information regarding a student or staff member is held in confidence and should not be sharedwith others unless it is with the appropriate persons, or your supervisor. This includes (but is not limited to)information found on SIS, room condition forms, student information cards, incident reports, medical excuses,and office and phone conversations. Staff members should not engage in conversations about residents, staffmembers, discipline situations, or other sensitive issues in public areas such as front desk, Chartwells, etc.Violations of confidentiality can result in immediate termination as well as other actions deemed necessary bythe Office of Residential and Greek Life. There are four basic federal and state laws that all university employ-ees should be familiar with in regard to the confidentiality of information collected, and the proper methods ofdisclosing information (both confidential information and public information). Violations of these laws cancarry severe criminal and civil penalties.

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Confidentiality Statement

As an employee of UNK Residential and Greek Life, I am hereby advised that all information pertain-ing to students is to be kept in the strictest confidence.

All student files are the property of the UNK Residential and Greek Life.

Access to student files shall be limited to those who are required to have such access in order to per-form their assigned duties within the department of Residential and Greek Life.

No employee shall read the contents of a student’s file except as may be necessary for the performanceof his/her assigned duties as an employee of Residential and Greek Life.

There shall be no disclosure, either in writing or verbally, of personal student information to anyoneexcept as specifically and explicitly authorized by Residential and Greek Life policy or the Director of Residen-tial and Greek Life.

Student records shall not be copied except as specifically and explicitly authorized by Residential and GreekLife policy or the Director of Residential and Greek Life.

Requests for release of information by the student to a third party are the responsibility of the Directorof Residential and Greek Life or the Associate Director(s).

Violation of the above guidelines pertaining to confidentiality may be grounds for immediate dismissal of theemployee.

I have read and understand the above confidentiality statement and agree to comply.

_________________________ _____________________________Printed Name of Employee Signature of Employee

_________________________ __________________Signature (Witness) Date

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Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act Of 1974 (FERPA)

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 U.S.C. 1232g; 34 CFR. part 99), also fre-quently referred to as the Buckley Amendment, is a Federal law designed to protect the privacy of studenteducation records. FERPA applies to all schools and students that receive funds under an applicable programof the U.S. Department of Education. FERPA affords students certain rights to their educational records.These rights include:

1. The right to inspect and review their records. Students should contact the Student Records(Registrar’s) Office to determine the location of appropriate records and the procedure for re-viewing such records.

2. The right to request that records believed to be inaccurate or misleading be amended. Therequest should be submitted in writing to the University office responsible for maintaining therecord. If the request for change is denied, the student has a right to a hearing on the issue.

3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’seducation records. Generally, UNK must have written permission from the student before re-leasing any information from the student’s record. FERPA does however authorize disclosurewithout consent in certain situations. For example, disclosure without consent can be made to “schoolofficials” with a legitimate interest in the record.

A “school official” is defined as a person employed by UNK in an administrative, supervisory, aca-demic, research or support staff position; a person or company with whom UNK hascontracted (such as an auditor, attorney or collection agent); a person serving on the Board of Regents;a student serving on an official committee (such has grievance or disciplinary committee) or assisting an-other school official in performing his/her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if he/shemust review the educational record in order to fulfill his/her official responsibilities.

Upon request, UNK will disclose education records without consent to officials of anotherschool in which the student seeks or intends to enroll.

UNK may also disclose “directory” information without the student’s prior consent.(Please Note: The Office of Residential and Greek Life chooses NOT to disclosedirectory information, other than phone number. This is a departmental decisionand does not reflect UNK as a whole.)Directory information has been defined as:—Student name—Address – (No e-mail addresses can be given)—Telephone number—Date and place of birth—Major field of study—Participation in officially recognized activities and sports—Height and weight of student athletes—Dates of attendance—Degrees and awards received—Most recent previous education institution or agency attended—Current enrollment status

Students have the right to prevent directory information from being released. In order to maintain directoryinformation as confidential, a student must sign a Directory Restriction Form at the Office of Student Records

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(Registrar’s) by the end of the first week of each semester/summer term for which the restriction is to be inplace.

4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning allegedfailures by UNK to comply with the requirements of FERPA.

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Break Housing Hall DirectorDuring break periods, all residence halls are closed with the exception of Antelope Hall, CTE, Randall andMen’s Hall. Hall Directors and staff are responsible for coverage during break periods.

Duty Responsibilities•All hall doors stay locked 24 hours a day•Post sign with duty pager number at front desk•Desk must be open one hour a day. Post sign of when the desk will be open•Mail must be done daily for the break halls•Mail must be taken from the US mail boxes and placed in the respective halls mail room daily•Three rounds daily. Should be late afternoon and evening•Be prepared to address issues occurring in other, non-duty halls, for example pinning doors, heat issues, etc. Be aware of your surroundings when you put the mail in other halls, report any issues

1st Person on Duty•Duty begins when the halls close at 5 pm•One hall director will use the HD duty phone•If an RA is working with the HD, be sure that they have the contact info for the HD in the hall•RA will hold the pager and HD will hold the phone•If there is not an RA the HD will hold the pager and phone in the duty hall

Duty Switches•Duty will be switched at 9:00 AM, unless other arrangements have been made•The switch will take place in the duty hall•If the HD has both pager and duty phone, both will be exchanged. The new duty HD is responsible for both•The HD is responsible for making contact with the RA in the building to inform them of changes in duty of the HD’s and the RA’s

Duty Ends•When all the halls open the halls staff will take over for the building, usually at 10 am•The duty phone will be continued to be held by the HD on duty for that day•Pass the duty phone off to the next HD•If any days are not covered between break and regular HD duty accomodations will be made, be sure to bring this to the attention of the Associate Director of Administrative Operations and Staffing.•Put duty log back into HD Duty log

Summer Employment PolicySummer employment with the Office of Residential and Greek Life is possible, but is not guaranteed. Positionsare filled on a competitive basis. In the spring, a Summer Intent to Work Form is distributed to the HallDirectors and applications will be available for the remainder of the staff seeking employment. The completionof this indicates desire to work. Work assignments will be finalized by the end of April. Hall Directors notemployed by the Office of Residential and Greek Life for the summer will be expected to pay a monthly rate orvacate their apartments from the end of the Spring semester contract until the beginning of Hall Director trainingin the Fall.

Summer positions may include:1) Summer School Hall Director/Assistant2) Conference Assistant3) Maintenance Staff4) Painting Staff

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5) Custodial Staff6) Summer Conference Assistant Coordinator7) Laundry Staff8) Summer Resident Advisor9) University Heights Director

Evaluation ProcessEvaluations take place twice a year. One evaluation is done during the fall and the other evaluation isdone during the spring. Remember the evaluation process is on going and is very important in commu-nicating the overall quality of job performance. It is important to keep in mind that one of the mainreasons for doing an evaluation is to improve employee performance and recognize good performance.Therefore, you should spend enough time on your evaluations to properly evaluate the performance ofthe person you are reviewing, including an evaluation of yourself. The following pages offer examplesof evaluations currently used.

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University of Nebraska at KearneyOffice of Residential and Greek Life

Resident Advisor Self-Evaluation

Resident Advisor:___________________________________Hall:________________________

Please respond to the following topics. Feel free to make any comments that would be helpful in accuratelycommunicating your self-perception.

1. Describe a situation (in relation to your RA position) that you performed well.

2. Describe a situation in which your performance was insufficient and why.

3. What did you learn from the situation referenced in the second question?

4. Describe areas you want to improve in your performance as an RA.

5. What plans/improvements will you make in regard to programming?

6. What have you brought to the staff team?

7. Characterize your relationship with your Hall Director.

8. How have you been effective in your collateral assignment?

9. In what ways do you see yourself as a role model in the university community?

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10. Discuss your relationship with your residents. What are some things you can do to improve yourrelationship with your residents?

11. Describe how you have handled conflict. Describe a situation you have handled well, and a situationthat you wish you would have handled differently.

12. Additional comments/issues/situations that you would like to share that are not addressed above

13. Describe your attitude toward:

a) RA position

b) Staff

c) Student Life

d) University

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University of Nebraska at KearneyOffice of Residential and Greek Life

Resident Advisor Evaluation

EVALUATION CODE: U = Unobserved S = Satisfactory I = Inadequate E = Exceeds ExpectationsNI= Needs Improvement C = Commendable Performance

Evaluation of: ________________________________

Hall: ________________________________________

AS A FLOOR ADVISOR

______Establishes good rapport with residents on/in his/her floor/House.______Has met programming requirements to date.______Provides and supports challenging programming efforts.______Handles roommate problems and other floor conflicts effectively.______Serves effectively as a resource person.______Disseminates necessary information to residents on a continual basis.______Is available and accessible to the residents of the floor/House.

COMMENTS:

AS A STAFF TEAM MEMBER

______ Completes administrative tasks and necessary paperwork accurately.______ Completes administrative tasks and necessary paperwork promptly.______ Cooperates and supports hall government efforts.______ Responds to crisis situations effectively.______ Manages confidential information properly.______ Shows enthusiasm and actively participates in staff functions.______ Interacts with co-workers diplomatically.______ Handles discipline incidents effectively throughout the hall.______ Cooperates well in the area of duty coverage and scheduling.______ Contributes to staff meetings in a positive way.______ Has met RA In-service requirements to date.______ Effectively completes collateral assignment responsibilities.______ Supports other staff members’ programs.______ Meets all computer lab responsibilities.______ Approaches supervisor in a professional manner.______ Interacts with supervisor appropriately.______ Displays a positive attitude at all times.

COMMENTS:

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AS A REPRESENTATIVE OF THE DEPARTMENT

______Supports Greek Life, RHA and RA Council, and Hall Council programs.______Treats all residents and guests in a courteous manner.______Suggestions and complaints are registered through proper channels.______Supportive of decisions and policies set by the department.______Maintains good relationships with facility staff.______Encourages residents to become involved on the floor/in the House.

COMMENTS:

AS A ROLE MODEL IN THE UNIVERSITY COMMUNITY

______ Demonstrates maturity in regard to his/her behavior.______ Is a good academic role model for fellow staff and students.______ Accepts constructive criticism and shows a willingness to improve.______ Projects an overall positive image as a Resident Advisor.

COMMENTS:

Staff Printed Name _______________________________

Staff Signature Date _______________________

Evaluated By ________________________________Date _______________________

Printed Name ______________________________

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University of Nebraska at KearneyOffice of Residential and Greek Life

Assistant Hall Director and Resident Advisor Evaluation of Hall Director

EVALUATION CODE: U = Unobserved S = Satisfactory I = Inadequate E = Exceeds Expectations NI = Needs Improvement C = Commendable Performance

Please evaluate your Hall Director’s effort by using the letter that most closely corresponds with your opinion ofhis/her performance. Also, please add your commentary in the space provided to support the ratings you havemade. In addition, please respond to the questions on the reverse side of this form.

AS AN ADMINISTRATOR

______Makes sound decisions and exercises good judgement.______Offers creative input in planning programs.______Provides me with accurate information which equips me to do my job.______Work affecting the staff and residents is thorough and complete.______Understands departmental/administrative procedures.______Organizes and prioritizes tasks well.______Follows residence hall policies with own behavior.______Conducts effective staff meetings.______Conducts effective one-on-ones.______Maintains good rapport with custodial staff.

COMMENTS:

AS A SUPERVISOR

______Gives me accurate, constructive feedback on my performance.______Offers suggestions and advice to RAs concerning day-to-day duties.______Open to ideas from the staff.______Communicates well with staff.______Is available during posted office hours.______Challenges me to grow personally and professionally.______Accepts constructive feedback.______Is approachable.______Discusses issues and concerns with me in a professional manner.______Displays a positive attitude______Is supportive of me and my goals.

COMMENTS:

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RELATIONSHIP WITH THE RESIDENTS

_____Has good rapport with residents._____Is visible in the building._____Effectively advises hall government (N/A in Chapter House)_____Makes an effort to get to know residents._____Encourages students to become involved with other Residential and Greek Life or campus activities._____Treats residents and guests in a courteous manner.

COMMENTS:

AS A PROFESSIONAL

______Displays enthusiasm toward the job.______Manages confidential information properly.______Responds to crisis situations well.______Is supportive of the department.______Demonstrates maturity in regard to his/her behavior.______Is a good academic role model for staff and students.

COMMENTS:

What do you view as your Hall Director’s strong points?

What are potential growth areas?

Staff Printed Name _____________________________

Staff Signature Date ________________________________

Hall Director Signature Date ________________________________

Hall Director Printed Name ____________________

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University of Nebraska at KearneyOffice of Residential and Greek Life

Hall Director Self-Evaluation

Hall Director: _____________________________________

Hall: ____________________________________________

Please respond to the following topics. Feel free to make any comments that would be helpful in accuratelycommunicating your self-perception.

1) My RAs can approach me with personal and professional concerns.

2) I am helpful when RAs have questions and concerns.

3) I am pleased with the level of accessibility my RAs have with me.

4) I am able to manage the RA staff effectively.

5) I am acquainted with the students living in my hall.

6) I see that activities in our hall are effectively planned, implemented, and evaluated.

7) I am satisfied with the performance of my hall government.

8) I understand my role in the discipline system and have delivered fair and educational decisions.

9) I have a good working relationship with my building’s custodial and facility staff.

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10) What are your most well-developed skills as a Hall Director?

11) What areas are needing more developmental focus?

12) Displays a positive attitude towards:

a) my staff

b) students

c) Residential & Greek Life

d) Student Life

e) University

Hall Director Printed Name _________________________

Hall Director Signature Date __________________________

Supervisor Signature Date __________________________

Supervisor Printed Name ______________________

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University of Nebraska at KearneyOffice of Residential and Greek Life

Hall Director, Assistant Hall Director Evaluation

EVALUATION CODE: U = Unobserved S = Satisfactory I = Inadequate E = Exceeds ExpectationsNI = Needs Improvement C = Commendable Performance

Evaluation of: __________________________________________

Hall: _______________________________

ADMINISTRATION

______ Executes University and residence hall policies.______ Disseminates information to staff and residents.______ Is able to make timely and appropriate referrals.______ Paperwork is complete, accurate, and on time.______ Attends to the condition of the facilities.______ Effectively manages collateral assignment

COMMENTS:

COUNSELING AND DISCIPLINE

______Assists students with personal, social, and academic adjustments.______Executes proper crisis intervention procedures.______Understands discipline system and follows procedures.______Works effectively with students.

COMMENTS:

PROGRAMMING/STUDENT GROUP ADVISING

______Assists staff and council in developing appropriate programs for the hall.______Monitors staff to ensure programming requirements are being met.______Encourages creative and diversified programs.______Enjoys positive rapport with hall council members.______Facilitates growth and development of Hall Council members.

COMMENTS:

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SUPERVISION AND TRAINING

______Delivers on-going supervision and constructive feedback to the RA staff.______Facilitates productive, weekly staff meetings with RAs.______Provides professional developmental activities for RAs.______Follows through on performance concerns of RAs.______Encourages RA’s to attend staff-wide activities.______Holds staff to standards set by department.______Manages front desk effectively.

COMMENTS:

PERSONAL DYNAMICS

______Commitment to the position.______Follows through and completes all tasks.______Promotes a positive image of the department.______Deals with frustration in a mature manner.______Takes initiative.______Demonstrates a sound understanding of the Hall Director/AHD position.______Staff and students find Hall Director/AHD approachable.______Budgets time effectively.______Maintains confidentiality.______Confronts issues effectively.______Accepts constructive feedback.______Gives constructive feedback.______Contributes positively to the team.______Displays a positive attitude toward:

a) students

b) staff

c) Residential & Greek Life

d) Student Life

e) University

COMMENTS:

Hall Director Date ___________________________________

Evaluated By ________________________________Date __________________________________

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Office of Residential and Greek LifeUniversity of Nebraska at Kearney

Hall Director Evaluation of Assistant Director

Please evaluate the Assistant Director for your Area’s efforts by using the letter that closely corresponds withyour opinion of their performance. Also add your commentary in the space provided to support the ratings youhave made. In addition, complete the open-ended questions on the reverse side of this form.

EVALUATION CODE: U = Unobserved S = Satisfactory I = Inadequate E = Exceeds ExpectationsNI = Needs Improvement C = Commendable Performance

AS AN ADMINISTRATOR

______ Provides me with accurate and timely information which equips me to do my job.______ Makes sound decisions and exercises good judgment.______ Offers input and suggestions on staff issues.______ Offers input and suggestions on facility issues.______ Handles discipline appeals in a timely manner.______ Is on time for meetings (staff, one-on-ones, seminar, etc.).______ Delegates responsibility for optimal utilization of staff.______ Views problems objectively.______ Is a productive participant/facilitator in discussions and meetings.

COMMENTS:

AS A SUPERVISOR

______ Gives me accurate, constructive feedback on my performance.______ Offers suggestions and advice concerning hall director duties.______ Open to ideas.______ Is accessible/available when needed.______ Challenges me to continually improve.______ Offers and provides support when challenged in my position.______ Offers and provides support when challenged with personal issues.______ Allows me the autonomy to make decisions which allows me to learn from successes andmistakes.______ Is a good educator/trainer.______ Supports professional/personal developmental activities for HD staff.______ Displays positive attitude towards:

a) Studentb) Staffc) Residential & Greek Lifed) Student Lifec) University

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COMMENTS:

AS A PROFESSIONAL

______ Displays enthusiasm toward job.______ Responds appropriately to crisis situations.______ Is a positive role model.______ Accepts responsibility for his/her own performance.

COMMENTS:

What do you view as your Assistant Director’s strong points?

What areas can he/she improve?

Are there any areas where your Assistant Director can offer further assistance?

Assistant Director: ___________________________________ Date________________

Evaluated By: _______________________________________ Date________________

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Evaluations

The staff evaluation process is when staff members acquire and use information from a variety of sources todescribe, appraise, and modify their own development. The object is to help the staff members understandtheir current patterns of behavior and positively emphasize the specific skills they have instead of the onesthey lack. In this way, staff members can move toward increased self-direction.

Staff evaluations are an ongoing process; any behavior deemed inappropriate should be addressed atthe immediate time and should not be held over until the evaluation process. Similarly, outstandingperformance should be acknowledged when it occurs. Items noted on a staff evaluation should notcome as a surprise to the recipient.

The evaluation process is a continuing process, not an activity undertaken once a semester or year. Itshould be used in conjunction with goal setting and changing strategies to establish an integrated sys-tem for encouraging growth. The following elements should be incorporated within the process.• The staff members’ needs are examined.• Goals are determined.• The staff members’ current level of achievement on a goal-oriented continuum is specified so appropriate

objectives can be established.• Strategies needed to achieve the desired goal(s) are outlined.• The staff members’ performance is continually assessed throughout the year.• Movement toward the attainment of goal(s) is evaluated.

The core of the evaluation process is to help staff members examine and decide how they will evaluate and usethe information received from the evaluation forms. Things to keep in mind throughout the one-on-one inter-view evaluation are:• Recognize the staff members’ present capabilities. Positive reinforcement is a powerful force in

urging the staff members to grow.• Focus on the staff members’ worth and development. Help staff members use the assessment infor-

mation to develop working goals and an appreciation for their strengths and weaknesses.• Encourage staff members to work for their own positive goals. This means going over all the evalu-

ations with your staff members and discussing the feedback. A positive outlook has top priority, andthe staff members must be given responsibility for making developmental decisions.

• Describe behavior and provide examples instead of interpreting it. Many individuals often try toexplain behavior without completely understanding what it is, and their interpretations draw heavilyon their own value system. Descriptive feedback permits staff members to use their own values injudging their behavior, especially if they have had some practice in clarifying what they believe.

• Supervisors must help RAs learn how to use the information gained through the evaluation to set goals andobjectives, to design methods to improve their behavior or develop new skills, and to test out alternativesfor enhancing growth and development. A performance agreement with follow-up meetings should beconducted to gauge improvement and progress.

Grade RequirementsBeing a good staff member also means being a good student, in good standing with the Department of Resi-dential and Greek Life and our University, to be a staff member. HDs, AHDs, and RAs are required to maintainthe following minimum grade point requirements throughout their term of employment.

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CumulativeGraduate HDs3.00

AHDs and RAs2.50

If the minimum cumulative GPA is not attained, the staff member may be granted a one-semesterprobation period (Fall or Spring), in an attempt to re-attain minimum academic standards. If the cumu-lative GPA falls below the minimum standards, the staff member will not be eligible for the probationoption, and have their employment terminated.

Any staff member who is unable to achieve minimum standards after one Fall or Spring probation semestermay have their employment terminated. A residence hall staff member will not be eligible for the probationoption for academic standards more than once during his/her tenure as a staff member. Staff members whoare on probation may not be eligible for employment during the summer sessions. In addition, staffmembers on probation may not hold outside employment. Decisions regarding grades are made by the Assis-tant Director. Appeals for staff with extenuating circumstances should be made in writing to the AssistantDirector. Grade checks will be done on the RA Staff after each semester.

Newly hired RAs are required to have a cumulative GPA of 2.50 at the time of hire and beginning of employ-ment. A new RA cannot begin employment on probation. RA candidates need a 2.50 cumulative to apply.Those not having a 2.50 will be ineligible for hire. If the candidate not having the 2.50 GPA is able to raise theircumulative GPA to a 2.50 or better they may submit a copy of their transcript and request in writing to beconsidered for any open positions.

NOTE: All staff members should keep their AD advised of any potential academic concerns as thesemester progresses. This will allow for better communication between both parties should a conflictarise.

Verbal and Written Word UsageAs a member of the Department of Residential and Greek Life, we would like to encourage the use ofappropriate terminology to help support our overall philosophy. With this in mind please:

USE. . . NOT. . .Residence Hall DormCustodial Worker Maid or JanitorPublic Safety Campus CopMen BoysWomen GirlsOfficer Security Guard

You should be aware of and use all-inclusive language when speaking and writing. Some examples of all-inclusive words are:

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USE. . . NOT. . .Chair or Chairperson ChairmanPolice Officer PolicemanUpperclass Students Upperclassmen

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Section CDepartmental/Administrative

Policies

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Advanced Driving Techniques Course for Professional Staff and Hall DirectorsThis 8-hour course includes classroom and driving experience in emergency situations that occur on the road-ways. Evasive action, controlled braking, skid control, and off-road recovery techniques are included. Youmust take this course to drive state vehicles. The registration fee for Hall Directors and professional staff willbe paid for by the Office of Residential and Greek Life if prior approval is granted.

Alcohol Policy – StaffThe following policies in regard to alcohol consumption are to be followed by the Residential and Greek LifeStaff.1) Staff members who are under the age of 21 are not permitted to consume or possess alcohol with

residents due to state law. Staff members who are of age are discouraged from consuming alcoholwith residents who are of age and must follow all UNK policies and state laws.

2) RAs are not to purchase alcohol for students or staff who are underage.3) RAs of age are not to drink with students or staff who are underage.4) Hall Directors are not to drink with staff members under 21 years of age.5) Hall Directors are not to buy alcohol for underage staff members or residents.6) Hall Directors are not to consume alcohol with staff or students they may currently or potentially

supervise or advise.7) Staff who have consumed alcohol are not to return to their hall if they are still impaired by alcohol

effects. They should file a Request for Overnight Absence upon their return.8) Hall Directors are strongly encouraged to not drink with Assistant Hall Directors and Assistant Complex

Directors.

Break Housing for RAsDuring scheduled breaks (Thanksgiving, Winter, and Spring) RAs that are not in break halls cannot stay in theirhall/room. RAs who are not employed may stay in Break Housing RA rooms over Winter and Spring Breaksat no charge should the occupant RA agree.

Closed WeekendsThere are several weekends where in hall staff will not be able to leave for part, or an entire weekenddue to a university event (homecoming, opening/closing weekends) or departmental assignment (RAselection) and other events as designated by Residential and Greek Life. Staff seeking an exceptionmust follow the guidelines outlined in the Exception Request Policy.

Conference Absence PolicyIn the event a staff member is unable to attend a conference for which registration has been prepaid bythe department, the staff member shall reimburse the department in full for all expenses unless thefollowing three conditions below are satisfied:

1) A suitable substitute can be found to attend in the place of the conference delegate.2) A sudden illness prevents attendance.3) A sudden illness, accident, or death in the immediate family of the staff member prevents attendance.

Conference AdvisorsHall Directors may be asked to serve as conference advisors for student and staff conferences. Advisors needto conduct themselves in a professional manner, and be responsible role-models for conference attendees.

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Copying, Printing, and Laminating1) All copying, printing, and laminating must be processed through Hall Directors.2) Hall Directors may take laminating to the Office of Residential and Greek Life and pick it up

when it is completed.3) Hall Directors should do all copying on their hall’s copier, instead of using the copier in the

central office. If the number of copies needed exceeds 200, the job should be sent out to theCopy Center (forms available at the central office). The finished copies will be placed in yourmailbox in the central office.

4) Always try to conserve paper when making copies by using both sides of a page.

Dating Policy for Professional and Hall Director Staff1) Professional staff members are not to date Hall Directors (including Greek GA), Resident Ad-

visors, or residents/students.2) Hall Directors (including Greek GA) are not to date residents in their building or any RA staff

members on campus.3) A degree of professionalism is to be used when dating relationships occur among Hall Director

staff.

Dress Guidelines for Graduate Hall Director StaffThe dress guidelines for the Office of Residential and Greek Life have been developed to portray apublic image of excellence. The image you present not only affects individual success but also thesuccess and perception of the Residential and Greek Life, the Division of Student Life and theUniversity of Nebraska at Kearney.

To be consistent, the following dress guidelines have been established. The immediate supervisor willhave the final decision as to the acceptability of dress and appropriateness for the employee’s position.The dress guidelines should be followed during regular business hours Monday - Friday unless a spe-cial situation exists. If after hour representation is necessary all employees should dress appropriatelyfor the task they are performing or function they are attending. Your cooperation and compliance withthese guidelines is expected and appreciated.

GroomingThe most important thing to remember is grooming is a big part of your image. Staff should always bewell groomed during business hours and at any departmental or University event. Hair should be clean,dried and neatly styled. Don’t go overboard with the perfume or cologne. Any issues concerning poorgrooming or personal hygiene will be addressed by your supervisor.

Desired DressBusiness professional: suits/blazers, shirt and tie, sweaters with shirt and tie, dresses, slacks/khakis,skirts, blouses, dress shoes. All clothing must be neat, clean, pressed and wrinkle free. Shoes must bepolished. Now is the time to be developing your professional wardrobe.

Acceptable/Minimal DressSweaters, knit shirts, collarless shirts (not t-shirts), slacks/khakis, dress shorts, boots.

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Not Acceptable(Regular Dress)Jeans, t-shirts, sweats (including wind suits), revealing clothing, torn or stained clothing, tank tops, sport shoes,flip-flops, ball-caps, stocking hats and bandanas are not acceptable.

Casual Day(To be determined by supervisor)Desired and acceptable dress with the addition of full-length, clean, neat, jeans and collared shirts.

Editorial Interviews by TV, Radio, or Public AnnouncementsApply the following Departmental policies:1) Personal editorials cannot carry your departmental title.2) Approve personal editorials or written comments with your Assistant Director before sending out for

publication.3) All requests to give information to the media in any form must be referred to the Director of Residential

and Greek Life.

Equipment Check-OutDepartmental equipment such as the popcorn machine, cotton candy machine, casino equipment, laptop / LCDprojector, etc. is available for check-out to Hall Directors, RA’s, and student organizations for programmingevents or for hall functions. All equipment must be checked out through the departmental secretaries, giving asmuch advance notice as possible.

No deposit is required, however, we reserve the right to charge the hall/organization accordingly should anyitem return missing, dirty, or damaged. The person that initially checks out the equipment will be responsiblefor making pick-up and return arrangements.

All equipment checked out MUST be returned to our office no later than 10:00 AM the following day. If theequipment is checked out on a Friday for use over the weekend, it must be returned the following Monday by10:00 AM. There will be no “swapping” of equipment between two parties over the weekend. If two groupsneed the same equipment over the weekend, the first party to reserve it has priority and the second party willhave to use a different piece, or make other plans. Special situations will be handled on a case-by-case basisthrough Residential and Greek Life. Anyone wishing to check out equipment must speak with an officeassociate before any items may be taken out of the office.

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Each semester all non-returning staff will be asked to fill out the Exit Interview Questionnaire:

EXIT INTERVIEW QUESTIONNAIRE

Name__________________________________Date_______________________________

Position___________________________Length of employment______________________

The information obtained from this questionnaire will be used to make improvements in the current andfuture working conditions in the Office of Residential and Greek Life. You are not required to complete allquestions on this questionnaire, but your input is welcomed and appreciated. You are encouraged to becandid in your assessment and evaluation of the Department and your experiences as a staff member.The following questions relate to the Department as a whole.

1. What did you like about working for the Office of Residential and Greek Life?

2. How has working for the Office of Residential and Greek Life contributed to your professional development? Please explain or give examples.

3. Please respond to the following: a. Within the Department, my opportunity for input was…

b. Within the Department, we could better serve students…

c. The Office of Residential and Greek Life spends too much time…

d. The Department of Residence Life spends too little time…

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4. Please respond to the following questions.

a. How has the Department shown sensitivity to the needs and concerns of under-represented groups and special populations such as women, minorities, the disabled, gay, lesbian, bisexuals, and others?

b. How do you feel the Department promotes and supports diversity whenever possible?

5. How can the Department improve its approach to diversity?

6. The Office of Residential and Greek Life strongly discourages discrimination of any kind. Did you ever experience sexism or discrimination during your employment? Please use this questionnaire to explain. Did these experiences affect your decision to leave?

The following questions are specific to your position(s) within your hall staff.1. In what ways was your position challenging and rewarding?

2. In what ways did your position lack challenges and reward?

3. Describe your working relationship with your staff. Did you have notable positive experiences or difficulties with any of these work relationships?

4. Did you feel you received thorough training to equip you for your position?

Additional Comments:

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Health & Safety InspectionsPeriodic Health and Safety Inspections are conducted by the Residential and Greek Life Staff. The purposeof these inspections is for preventive and corrective action. Students will be given a 24-hour notice prior tothe inspection. If a room does not meet cleanliness standards, according to the hall staff, the student will begiven 24 hours to correct the problem. If the problem is not corrected satisfactorily, a custodian may beasked to clean the room and the student will be charged. Health and Safety Inspections are done once asemester and specific times are established by the Office of Residential and Greek Life. Hall Directors areexpected to keep their offices and apartments neat and organized at all times. Assistant Directors will doperiodic checks each semester. Resident Advisors are expected to keep their rooms neat and organized atall times. Hall Directors will do periodic checks throughout the semester.

Holiday DecoratingGeneral- Decorations should not be placed so as to obstruct access to halls, stairwells, or exits.- All hanging decorations in student rooms or corridors must be fire resistant/proof material.- Student room doors may be decorated as long as materials are not draped or hung so as to create

as imminent fire possibility…a continuous stream of paper is considered a fire hazard.- Decorations should allow for a light source.- Decorations should not cover any fire pull stations.- No candles shall be used at any time.Trees- No natural trees, tree parts, or wreaths made from natural trees shall be used in decorating

student rooms or corridors.- Artificial trees are permitted if placement, lighting, decorations and monitoring rules are ad-

hered to as required. All artificial trees, lighting, and decorations must be UL approved andmust be maintained in good condition.

- Lights are not permitted on metallic trees or decorations due to the conductivity hazard.

- Locate trees away from exits and passageways to exits—being careful not to block doors, aisles,corridors, equipment, or access to facilities. Keep trees away from heat sources (such as radia-tors, air vents, large appliances, and light receptacles).

Lights- Light strings must be low-wattage, insert-type bulbs. Those lights that are UL approved and do

not generate noticeable heat are permissible in student rooms, corridors, and lounges.- Inspect each set of lights-old or new-for broken/cracked sockets, frayed/bare wires, and loose

connections. Repair any damages before usage, or discard the damaged set. Replace damagedbulbs. Unplug the set prior to changing bulbs or performing any repairs.

- Extension cords, if used, must be surge protected. All extension cords must be in good condi-tion. Students are prohibited from overloading extension cords or connecting more than twostrings of lights together.

- Protect electrical wires from damage. Do not run wires under carpet, through doorways, orwhere they will be walked on. Do not use nails or tacks to hang wires. Properly secure andprotect any wires that cross aisles or corridors.

Removal- All decorations should be removed from the hall’s public areas and floor corridors in a timely

manner, or prior to winter and spring break closing.- The cost of having decorations removed by custodial staff will be prorated to all floor members.

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LOFT/BUNK POLICY AND INTENT TO BUILD FORMResidential and Greek Life

University of Nebraska at Kearney

Lofts/bunks for beds are allowed in student rooms if inspected and safe but are the full responsibility of theresident. To construct and/or have a loft/bunk, the student must follow these procedures:1. The resident submits a Loft/Bunk Construction Form (available at check-in and at the front desk) to the

Resident Advisor or Hall Director. The student MUST have the loft built within one (1) weekof occupancy.

2. After receiving the Intent to Build Form, Residential and Greek Life personnel will inspect the constructionper the following guidelines no later than the end of the second week of occupancy. Post LoftInspection Form A on door of room that needs inspecting. After loft has been inspected, leave LoftInspection Form B in the room. This will state whether the loft passed inspection or what correctionsneed to be made.

3. If repairs or changes need to be made, the resident will be notified and given one (1) week to comply.After the given date, Residential and Greek Life personnel will re-inspect the structure to determinewhether it can remain or must be removed. If the loft does not pass the second inspection, theresident must remove it.

4. No modifications may be made to the loft/bunk unit after passing the inspection process. Inspections areonly to assure that no University property is damaged by the loft/bunk, Fire & Life Safety guidelinesare not violated and that it meets minimal “common sense” construction guidelines. Approval in noway means that UNK certifies the design or construction as safe. The resident(s) assumes fullresponsibility for his/her loft/bunk, including any damages or injuries incurred by it.

5. All lofts must be taken down before a student checks out at the semester/end of the school year BEFOREfinals week begins.

Loft/Bunk Guidelines:1. There must be a minimum of 3 feet clearance between the top of the mattress and the ceiling. The

ceiling height of rooms of Martin Hall and on the 3rd floors of URS and URN is 9 feet. In all otherhalls the ceiling height of resident rooms is 8 feet.

2. Limited to building a structure which supports (and utilizes no more area than) the bedframe/mattress.The loft may not support any other furnishings nor create any walls, ceilings, floors, orenclosures.

3. Must be free-standing and self supporting (including but not limited to the following): may not be attachedto or resting on or against the walls, ceiling, or furniture or cinderblocks.

4. No part of the structure can cover or block access to windows, electrical, or heating system devices,safety equipment (i.e. 18 inch clearance to sprinkler heads), or exits.

5. University supplied furnishings or equipment MUST REMAIN IN the resident’s room.6. Some stabilizing or cross-bracing must be built on at least three sides of the loft.7. Thin plywood or particle/press board must not be used for any part of the loft.8. Nails, deck screws, wood screws or bolts smaller than 5/16" diameter may not be used to support or

fasten the loft. Use a minimum of 5/16" carriage bolts through weight-bearing boards and the legs.9. You may not use 2" X 4" pieces of lumber or smaller for legs or to support the mattress/bedframe.10. Bricks, concrete blocks or chains may not be used in the construction of or to support the loft in any way

Failure to follow and meet the procedures or guidelines outlined above mayresult in:1) Prohibiting construction or removal/dismantling of the construction at the resident’s expense, and/or2) A disciplinary sanction, which may include probation.

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LOFT/BUNK CONSTRUCTIONWRITTEN NOTICE OF INTENT TO BUILD

NAME(S)(Print):___________________________________________________________________________

BUILDING: ____________________________ ROOM: ____________ PHONE _______________I have read and understand the LOFT/BUNK POLICY Statement. By signing this intention, I am givingnotice that I will be constructing a loft/bunk within the first week of occupancy. I agree to follow the Guide-lines and Recommendations. I understand that I have until the end of the first week of occupancy to com-plete the construction. The loft/bunk will be inspected by the Residential and Greek Life personnel by theend of the second week of occupancy. If the loft/bunk does not meet safety guidelines, I will make thenecessary repairs or changes within one week, or remove the structure. I assume full responsibility for myloft/bunk, including any damages or injuries incurred by it.

SIGNATURE(S): _______________________________________________DATE: ____________

OFFICE USE ONLYReceived by:________________________________________________________________________________Date: _____________Inspection 1 by: _________________________________________________Date: ______________

Meets Guidelines. No changes needed at this time. Does not meet guidelines or recommendations. Will be reinspected on __________________ Changes/Problems to be corrected: ____________________________________________

Inspection 2 by: __________________________________________________ Date: ____________ Meets Guidelines. Changes OK. Does not meet guidelines. Loft/bunk must be removed by: ___________________________

L:Lofts/WRD LoftBunkPolicy02 8/8/02

NOTE:* A loft may be no longer than 8 feet or wider than 4 feet.

* The top of the mattress MUST be at least 3’ from the ceiling. All ceilings in the residence halls are at least

8’ high.

* The mattress is 8" thick and the bed spring is 4", so if you are using the bed spring in the loft (this is not

mandatory but the spring cannot be removed from the room) you would need to allow a total of 12 inches

on top of the loft for the mattress and spring, as well as an additional 3’ to the ceiling, in order to comply

with the loft guidelines.

* A regular twin-size mattress is 75" long, a twin extra-long is 80", and the spring is an additional 8" longer

respectively for either mattress size.

* The mattress will be either 36" or 39" wide.

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Loft Inspection

The loft located in this room will beassessed for safety sometime in the

next 24 hours.Please make sure that the

inspectors will be able to easily get to the loft.

Thank you.

If you have any questions, please stop by the Hall Director Office or call__________________

Form A

Loft Inspection

Initial Inspection: Approved _____ Not Approved _____

Loft rejected for the following reason (s).

_____ Not free standing/stable_____ Loft uses 2 x 4 or smaller for legs_____ Inadequate fasteners_____ Loft is blocking a window or safety equipment_____ Loft utilizes bricks, concrete blocks, or chains_____ Not three feet of clearance from mattress top to ceiling

_____ You have 48 hours to correct the aforementioned violations. If all violations are not corrected, youwill be required to dissemble the loftand remove it from University property.

Comments:

If you have any questions, please stop by the Hall Director’s Officeor call ______________________.

Form B

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Lost Key PolicyIn case a resident loses his/her key(s), they will be charged to replace the lost key(s). The cost ofreplacing lost key(s) may be obtained through your Hall Director. Replacement costs are different for eachhall, depending on the types of keys used for each resident, but the total cost for replacement and re-core ofall keys can be as high as $75.00. Residents are required to pay or will be billed for their lost key(s) priorto a replacement being made. Students are issued a temporary key until the lock has been changed. Anykey issued needs to be documented on the Lock Out Key card.

The following is a list of charges for lost keys according to individual buildings.

CTE/CTWRoom/Mailbox Key Costs:

$25.00 for room re-core (lock)$10.00 for mailbox re-core (lock)$10.00 for key replacement cost

Outside Door Key Cost:$30.00 for key replacement$20 per FOB replacement

CONRAD, MANTOR, MENS, RANDALL AND STOUT HALLSRoom/Outside Door Key Costs:

$25.00 for room re-core (lock)$30.00 for key replacement$20 per FOB replacement (not including Randall)

Mailbox Key Cost:$10.00 for mailbox re-core (lock)$10.00 for key replacement

MARTIN HALLRoom/Outside Door Key:

$25.00 for room re-core (lock)$20 per FOB replacement$30.00 for room/outside door replacement

URS/URNKey Cost Replacement

$25.00 for room re-core (lock)$10.00 for mailbox re-core (lock)$35.00 for key replacement$20 per FOB replacement

UNIVERSITY HEIGHTSKey Cost Replacement

$50 per key for replacement$25 for re-core (lock)

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ANTELOPE / NESTER HALL$20 per FOB replacement$10 for mailbox re-core (lock)

$10 for mailbox replacement key

Lock OutsStudents who lock themselves out of their rooms need to contact a staff member to issue them a key. Theresident will be required to provide proof of identity with a picture ID. Once identity has been verified, theresident will be assessed a $1.00 fee and granted access to the room. This money is collected and depositedinto the Rho Alpha Sigma honorary. If an RA is working the front desk and a student is locked out of theirroom, that staff member may put a sign at the desk saying they will return in a couple of minutes and escort thestudent to their room to unlock the door for the student. If a non-RA staff member is working the desk, theymust contact a Resident Assistant to unlock the students room.

Hall Key BoxesOnly the Hall Director has access to the halls key box. Anytime a student looses their key or is changingrooms, the student must contact the Hall Director. A Key Audit must be completed by the Hall Director andturned into their Assistant Director by the first of every month. Anytime there is a lock out the staff membershould use their building master key to let the student into their room.

Master Key Usage1) The Hall Director is issued a building master key which must be stored in a key box. The only time

that this key is accessed is in emergency situations or end of semester room inspections.2) Additional master keys can be checked out from the Residential and Greek Life office for end

of the semester inspections.3) Hall Directors are responsible (financially) for their building master and any additional

master keys checked out.4) Inappropriate use of a master key by any staff member could result in immediate termination.

Hall Director and Assistant Hall Director Apartment PolicyThe following policies exist in reference to Hall Director (and Assistant HD’s) staff apartments:1) Residence Hall behavioral policies that apply to residents, are also to be followed by Hall Directors,

including health and safety inspections.2) Should you wish to switch furniture, approval from the Assistant Director for your area must be

obtained prior to putting in a work request to the custodial supervisor. Do not move furniture on yourown and keep your apartment inventory updated.

3) Do not give extra apartment keys to others to use, unless family members are living with you.4) Only legally married couples (only marriage documents recognized by the State of Nebraska are

accepted), and/or custodial children may maintain residence in University Housing.5) Hall Directors are to allow applied judgement when hosting guests.6) Should maintenance be needed, put in a routine work request. Should renovation be needed (painting,

papering, etc.) approval must be given by the Director of Residential and Greek Life.7) If you wish to have a pet, please see your Assistant Director for the Pet Policy.

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Outside Employment

The Office of Residential and Greek Life hopes to accommodate the needs of our Resident Advisor staff byallowing outside employment. For staff to be allowed to work outside the Office of Residential and Greek Lifethe following criteria must be met and the Outside Employment Agreement must be completed. All ResidentAdvisors must:

1) Currently be performing above average in the RA position.2) Currently be performing above average with academics (marginal GPA is out of the question).

After accepting outside employment, the following will need to occur to remain in the RA position:

1) Continue to meet all job expectations stated in the position description and the expectations set byyour Hall Director.

2) Post a schedule on your door indicating when you are available on the floor.3) Have a monthly evaluation with your Hall Director during one of your one on ones.

The work request will be evaluated with regard to the following guidelines:

1) Outside employment must be limited to 10 hours a week. This does not include weekends when RA’s are not on duty.2) Preference is given to on-campus employment or positions that relate to career goals.3) Approval for any employment is weighted against staff member’s overall schedule.4) Employment that takes you out of the residence hall during the evening (10:00 pm-7:00 am),

Sunday through Thursday, is strongly discouraged.

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Outside Employment Request

I am requesting to work at_________________________________________

I have attached a copy of:

_____ My work scheduleIf you are unable to provide your hours of outside employment, due to scheduling, you must submit adetailed schedule of your outside work hours to your Hall Director weekly.

_____ My class schedule

_____ My programming plan for this semester

If at any time you fail to meet the criteria listed above you will be asked to make a choice between the RAposition or your outside employment.

I have read and understand the criteria listed above. I agree to continue to meet all job and classroom expec-tations as stated in the position description and by my Hall Director. I realize that if I fail to meet theseexpectations, I will be asked to choose between the RA position or my outside position.

Signature ______________________________ Date _________________

Printed Name ___________________________

Hall Director Signature ___________________ Date _________________

HD Printed Name ________________________

Approved by:___________________________ _________________ Assistant Director Date

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Posting PolicyAll requests to advertise or post signs in or around the residence halls are to be directed to the Office ofResidential and Greek Life for authorization. All posting material must be approved and stamped by theDirector of Residential and Greek Life BEFORE copies are made for distribution. Number of copies to bemade can be obtained at the office. NO posting is to be done by individuals, but will be distributed from theoffice to each Hall Director for posting. The following is a copy of the current posting policy for the Office ofResidential and Greek Life. The following sign policy has been adopted to maintain a neat appearance in theresidence halls on the UNK campus.

Authorization

All requests to advertise or post signs in or around the residence halls are to be directed to the Office ofResidential and Greek Life for authorization. All posting material must be approved and stamped by theDirector of Residential and Greek Life. The person desiring to post information, in the residence halls, mustbring the exact number of flyers they want to be posted to the Office of Residential and Greek Life fordistribution. NO posting is to be done by individuals. Only one flyer may appear on each designated postingarea.

Numbers needed for posting are:

Antelope Hall - 4 Centennial Towers East – 7

Centennial Towers West – 8 Conrad Hall – 3

Mantor Hall – 11 Martin Hall - 5

Mens - 6 Nester Hall - 4

Randall Hall – 6 Stout Hall – 3

University Heights – 1 University Residence North – 4

University Residence South – 4

All poster, signs, notices, etc. deemed offensive or suggesting, promoting or illustrating the use of alcohol,tobacco, profanity, or implying sexual, racial or any form of discrimination will not be approved. Also, nooff campus housing will be advertised in the residence halls or University Heights.

Sponsorship by alcohol distributors or companies will be approved if they are designated as a formalsponsor. The logo of the sponsor should not be a primary emphasis on the advertisement and shouldbe limited in size to less than 10%.

Location

Posters, flyers, notices, ads, etc. are to only be placed in authorized areas as designated by the HallDirector. Posting on walls, mirrors, or doors is prohibited. Posters/flyers on surfaces other thanauthorized designated areas or those that do not have the appropriate signatures are to be removedand disposed of properly. Any damage caused by improper posting may be charged to the person,organization or company on the advertisement.

No advertisements are to be placed on/under doors or hung on doorknobs without prior approval of theOffice of Residential and Greek Life.

Time LimitThe maximum allowable time for any poster or flyer advertising an activity or event to be displayedis two weeks or fourteen days.

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Snow ShovelingIt is the responsibility of all Residential and Greek Life staff to make sure that their entrances and exits to thebuilding are clear of snow and ice. The RA on duty for each building should initiate this process or seekassistance with shoveling if necessary. Shoveling should be done up to an area where the facility grounds crewtakes over (10 feet from the building or beyond stairs). Each hall is equipped with a snow shovel and ice melt.For specific instructions concerning snow removal around your particular hall, please consult your Hall Direc-tor, Assistant Hall Director, or Assistant Director for your Area.

Staff OutingsStaff outings differ from staff retreats in that they provide an opportunity for staff to get away, but there is nospecific training schedule. The same guidelines must be followed as the staff retreat policy

Staff Retreat PolicyHall staff retreats have a specific goal in mind which is to encourage and promote unity and learningaway from campus. The following items are guidelines for a retreat:

1) The Request for Staff Retreat form must be completed and submitted to your Assistant Director twoweeks prior to the retreat.

2) Transportation, food, and lodging must be provided and paid for by the staff planning the retreat.3) Visiting other schools and residence halls is encouraged.4) No drug or alcohol use will be permitted by any staff members.5) Conduct yourself professionally on the retreat, even though away from Kearney.6) All activities must be safe and pre-approved with your Assistant Director.7) Find other hall staff members to be on duty in your building for coverage.8) Do not announce to students that you are leaving the hall.9) Follow all UNK and Office of Residential and Greek Life policies.

StorageThe Office of Residential and Greek Life does not provide storage to students during the academic yearand provides limited storage during the summer.Staff Storage: There is limited storage in the halls where staff may store some belongings during thesummer. Please speak to your hall director for more information.International Students: The department does provide limited storage for International students. Alocation will be decided prior to the end of spring semester by the Director of Residential and GreekLife.Greek Houses: Students in some Greek chapter houses may store items in their chapter rooms. Itemsstored are limited to lofts, boxed items and items approved by the Greek Advisor and Residence LifeLeadership Coordinator.

RA Supply PolicyDurable supplies like scissors, staplers, flashlights, file boxes, tape dispensers, staff manuals, etc. areprovided by the Office of Residential and Greek Life. It is your responsibility to maintain and returnthese items at the end of the year.

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Supplies not returned, or not returned in working order, will be charged to you at check-out. Prices forsupplies are listed below. The rationale for this policy is to conserve resources for development activities,rather than replacing an inordinate amount of supplies.

ITEMS COSTSScissors $3Stapler $4Flashlight $3File Box $20Tape Dispenser $4Refillable Markers $5

Room EntryThe University recognizes the student’s natural right to privacy; therefore, the following regulationshave been established to address conditions under which authorized personnel may enter and/or searcha student’s room.

Definitions:For the purposes of the room entry the following definitions will apply.• Emergency/Urgent: A situation in which life, physical or personal safety or if University property is threat-

ened; a situation in which immediate action is required to maintain order and/or discipline.• Facility Care: Maintenance workers to repair items, or custodial staff to do cleaning. To complete the neces-

sary Health and Safety Inspections required by the Office of Residential and Greek Life.• Reasonable Cause: Those circumstances that would cause a reasonable and prudent person to believe that a

particular situation existed, such as an emergency.• Residence Hall Staff: Resident Advisors (RAs), Hall Directors (HDs), and Assistant Hall Directors (AHDs),

Assistant Directors (ADs) and Associate Directors, Director of Residential and Greek Life, the Dean of Stu-dents, Custodial, Maintenance, Paint and Facilities Personnel. Private contractors may also be admitted intoa student’s room with prior notice.

• Room Entry: Entrance to a student’s room to fulfill the duties of authorized personnel. When entry takes placefor policy violations, staff will act in response only to situations in plain view or may inspect an area (underbed, open doors) where a person may be hiding. Staff may not open drawers, refrigerators, etc. or engage inactivity that would appear to constitute a search.

• Room Search: Conducted by an officer of the law as a formal means of seeking evidence.

Room Entry ConditionsRAs need prior approval from their HD, HD on duty or AHD to enter student rooms, unless time would bedetrimental for approval. A student’s room may be entered by a residence hall staff member if one or more ofthe following circumstances exist.1. An invitation is extended by one or more of the room’s occupants.2. An emergency exists or is believed to exist.3. The staff member has reasonable cause to believe that a violation of a University/residence hall regulation is

occurring (including noise-related problems existing in a room where the occupants are not in the area orcannot be contacted).

4. To conduct an inventory or inspection of, or to search for, University property.5. To provide room cleaning and/or maintenance, and to initiate improvements or repairs.6. To determine compliance with all relevant health and safety regulations (including evacuation during fire

drills).

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Room Entry Procedures

(The following scenarios exclude procedures relating to regular custodial and maintenance services,and regular duties conducted during opening and closing, for the purpose of safety/security and inven-tory checks.)

Student Available & Allows Room Entry:1. Assess situation and obtain assistance from another staff member.2. Establish Room Entry Condition (why do you need to enter?)3. Knock and verbally identify yourself as a residence hall staff member. Wait a moment and repeat

this step if necessary.4. Explain the purpose of the request to enter the room. Explain the room entry regulation and attempt

to convince the student that it may be in his/her best interest to allow the entry.5. Ask for permission to enter the room.6. Use the student(s) to help identify ownership of property. Also request the assistance of the room-

mate to identify ownership of property.7. An incident report should be written after the room entry.

Student Available & Refuses Room Entry:1. Assess situation and obtain assistance from another staff member if possible.2. Establish Room Entry Condition (why do you need to enter?)3. Knock and verbally identify yourself as a residence hall staff member. Wait a moment and repeat

this step if necessary.4. Explain the purpose of the request to enter the room. Explain the room entry regulation and attempt

to convince the student that it may be in his/her best interest to allow the entry.5. Ask for permission to enter the room.6. If the student refuses to give his/her permission to enter the room, and reasonable cause has been

established, the HD, the HD on duty or the AD may authorize the room entry to proceed without thestudent’s permission.

7. If the student attempts to physically restrain staff from entering the room, he/she should not beopposed. The room should not be entered at that time and Public Safety should be contacted imme-diately to respond to the situation.

8. An incident report should be written after the room entry.

Student Unavailable:1. Assess situation and obtain assistance from another staff member.2. Establish Room Entry Condition (why do you need to enter?)3. Knock and verbally identify yourself as a residence hall staff member. Wait a moment and repeat

this step if necessary.4. If the need to enter a student’s room is not urgent, wait until the student returns, and follow the

steps above.5. If the need to enter a room is urgent, it may be entered without the student present. If one of the

above Room Entry Conditions has been established, the HD, the HD on duty or the AD may autho-rize the room entry to proceed.

6. Room entries must be done with another person present, such as a RA but, preferably the HD, theHD on duty or the AD will assist.

7. An incident report should be written after the room entry.8. A Room Entry Form should be left in the room indicating the date, time and reason room entry was made.

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Property Confiscation

Residence Hall Staff:

A Room Entry Condition (see above) must be established before a residence hall staff member enters aroom. One such entry may be for Health and Safety Inspections. Staff engaged in a room entry mustalways have another staff member present and should always use caution. If a staff member shouldencounter illegal items (such as alcohol, drugs, or weapons) Public Safety is to be called immediately.The staff member is not to touch any illegal item. If an illegal item is found an incident report shouldbe written after the room entry.

Anytime a confiscated item is removed from the room a Confiscation Form is to be filled out and theConfiscation Form is to be placed in an envelope addressed to the student and placed in the student’shall mailbox. Any confiscated item will be kept in a secured area until it can be returned to the studentor turned over. All confiscated items not claimed will be disposed of at the close of each academic year.

Non-Residence Hall Staff Member and/or Law Enforcement Official:

A room search by law enforcement officials must be accomplished through the use of a legal, courtordered search warrant. On the other hand, a student may sign a release to be searched, or have his/herroom searched, at his or her own discretion. Any search or entry into a residence hall room by non-residence hall staff should be coordinated through the Public Safety.

The Residential and Greek Life staff will usually accompany such outside personnel as observers. Theobserving staff member should report all room entries and searches by non-residence hall personnel tothe HD, HD on duty or the AD. The following guidelines shall apply.

1. A legal search warrant entitles the name holder to search the area designated. Residence hall staff membersare expected to assist providing access to the area designated under the warrant and by acting as observers.

2. A room may be entered and/or searched at any time by consent of the occupant(s). However, one occupantmay not consent to the search of a second occupant’s belongings.

NOTE: It is hoped that these policies and procedures represent a realistic basis for operation in an areathat requires a delicate balance between individual rights and group welfare. All staff action should bethe result of prudent and reasonable consideration of the facts of each specific situation. This statementcan serve as a guide, but, in the final analysis, effective implementation must depend upon the goodjudgment of all parties involved. These procedures are adopted as guidelines for reasonable room entrynecessary to further the University’s interest in providing an educational institution. Searches for theprimary purpose of criminal prosecution must comply with all regulations necessary under the laws ofthe State of Nebraska and the Constitution of the United States.

Unlisting a Phone Number

For a student to unlist their residence hall telephone number, they must do the following:1) Students must go to the Registrar’s Office to fill out a form to unlist their phone number.2) Students must notify their Hall Director of the telephone number change; the Hall Director will

then tell their Assistant Director.3) Assistant Director notifies:

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a) Office of Residential and Greek Lifeb) Public Safetyc) Student Union Information

4) Hall Director blacks-out the student’s phone number on the roster used at the front desk.

Voice Mail Distribution System Guidelines

1) The use of the voice mail distributing system is to be approved by the Hall Director of thatparticular building. The Hall Director of each building is responsible for the voice mail distri-bution system. Other staff and students may use the system, but only with authorization and inthe presence of the Hall Director. This would allow the Hall Director to be held accountablefor any misinformation or abuse of the system.

2) The voice mail distribution system may only be used to promote University related activities.Use of the system by any Hall Director or staff member implies that the University supports theevent being advertised. As such, we incur some responsibility with our endorsement of anysuch event.

3) Only information that is pertinent to every student of that particular building should be distrib-uted via the voice mail distribution system. For example, student body elections, first hallcouncil meeting of the semester, extensive hall wide programs and closing information. Thepreceding were examples of what we thought were appropriate parameters for voice mail dis-tribution system usage. It is important that students not be bombarded with advertisements thatare irrelevant to them.

4) Any other information may be distributed based on the discretion/judgement of the Hall Direc-tor. Each Hall Director is to keep in mind that overuse of the voice mail distribution systemcould result in the loss of effectiveness of that particular advertising medium. Each Hall Direc-tor will maintain the right to individually identify announcements that are relevant to theirstudents. The voice mail distribution system is a very effective means of quickly and efficientlyadvertising to a large, captive audience. It is important that the system be used sparingly tomaintain the effectiveness of communicating in this manner.

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Group TravelAnytime a hall/s sponsor an event that requires an overnight stay of the students must complete a GroupTravel Request Form.

Group Travel Request

The following needs to be submitted by the trip coordinator/s to their immediate supervisor for ap-proval at least two weeks in advance. All information and documents must be submitted together.

Name of trip coordinator/s:___________________________________________________

Halls/Group:_____________________________________________________________

Destination:______________________________________________________________

Reason for trip:___________________________________________________________

Date and time of departure:_______________ _______________________Date Time

Date and time of return: _______________ _______________________Date Time

Telephone number at which you can be reached: _______________________________(Please note that the coordinator must check in with their supervisor upon arrival at their destinationand every third day there after.)

Name of lodging provider:__________________________________________________

Phone number of lodging provider:___________________________________________

Cost per participant:_______________________________________________________

Please provide the following documentation:

An attached detailed agenda for each day.

An attached list of the participants; include full name, NU ID#, hall, room number, and the name andphone number of an emergency contact person for each participant.

Copies of the signed Release and Assumption of Risk Forms for each participant.

An attached list of the advisors and a list of alternate advisors.(There should be one advisor for every 50 participants.)

An attached list of advisors cell phone numbers.

An attached copy of the completed trip insurance form, requested from Human Resources.

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Any student group involved in an activity that assume any risk must have each student fill out an Assumption of Risk form. If astudent is not 19 years of age the day of the event they must have the parent’s signature.

Sample Release and Assumption of Risk

I, (print name)____________________________________, agree to hold harmless the University of Nebraska Board of Regents, TheUniversity of Nebraska at Kearney, all of its officers, directors and employees from and against any and all claims, actions, judgments,damages, liabilities and expenses (including but not limited to reasonable attorney fees) as a result of my participation in name of event here on date of event here.

I acknowledge that there are certain risks associated with this event. I understand that I may be exposed to real risks of injury,including, but not limited to, bruises, strains, sprains, dislocations, fractures, or even death from such hazards that may happenbecause of my participation. I understand that it is my responsibility to check with my medical doctor prior to participating to insurethat I am medically able to participate in this type of activity.

With my signature, I affirm that I have read this agreement, that I fully understand the risks, hazards and nature of this event, and that Iam participating in the event of my own free will. This waiver shall be binding upon my heirs, executors, administrators, and assign-ors.

____________________________________ ___________________________Signature Date

____________________________________Printed Name

____________________________________ ___________________________Parent’s signature (if under age 19) Date

___________________________Printed Name

___________________________ _____________________Witness Signature Date

___________________________Printed Name

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Section DDiscipline

See Student Handbook for Student Code of Conduct,Residential and Greek Life Policies, and

Judicial Procedures

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Section EHall Duty and Crisis

Management

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RA Duty

There will be a RA on duty from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. when school is in session or when there are residentsoccupying the building. Some flexibility in the start and finish of duty times may exist from building to buildingand during weekends. The RA will be responsible for taking care of any emergencies and security concernsthat may arise in their building when they are on duty. This will include doing rounds inside and/or outside thebuilding, confronting residents who may be breaking university or residence hall policies, locking the doorseach night at 11:00 p.m. and unlocking doors at 7:00 a.m. on weekend mornings. During weekend coverage,duty staff are expected to be in the buildings and accessible to students and to respond to emergency situa-tions. Duty staff may leave the building if they have made arrangements with another staff member to cover thebuilding(s). Duty staff must find coverage if they go off campus for the Sunday evening meal.

Duty LogEach hall will maintain a night duty log in an established location to be decided upon by the HallDirector/Assistant Hall Director and that hall’s staff. At the start of duty (5:00 p.m.), the staff member(s)will log in and record any appropriate information about happenings, observations, and/or discussionswhich transpire during the duty period (until 8:00 a.m.). Notations in the duty log do not take the placeof an Incident Report or Work Request.

Hall Director DutyThe Hall Director on duty will be a designated contact person for the entire campus between the hoursof 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 am or any time the Residential and Greek Life is not open. During these hours,the Hall Director on duty should remain on campus and always carry the duty phone. On the week-ends, during the day hours, the Hall Director may leave campus for short periods, but must carry thecell phone. The Hall Director on duty is to be used by a staff member when his/her Hall Director isunavailable. When an incident takes place which a staff member feels a Hall Director should be awareof or which demands a Hall Director’s assistance, the Hall Director on duty should be contacted.

Cell Phone InformationThe Hall Director on duty will have a cell phone with them at all times. If for some reason you cannotcontact the Hall Director on duty at home or in their office by phone, you should be able to contact themby calling the cell phone. The cell phone number is (308)440-3547. If you are unable to contact theHall Director, contact the Assistant Director for your Area.

Duty ChangesMonthly duty schedules for Hall Directors, Assistant Hall Directors and RAs will be distributed tothe Office of Residential and Greek Life, Assistant Directors, and Public Safety. Switches in RAschedules need to be reported and authorized by the Hall Director/Assistant Hall Director that super-vises the RA who wants to switch duty. All Hall Director/Assistant Hall Director duty switches needto be reported to the Assistant Directors and clerical staff in the Office of Residential and Greek Life.

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RA BREAK DUTY TO-DO LIST

AT LEAST TWO WEEKS PRIOR TO BEGINNING OF BREAK PERIOD:

_____Work with Residential & Greek Life office personnel to insure that all payroll paperwork has beencompleted.

_____Meet with Hall Director of the hall you will be covering so that you can complete a building tour inorder to become familiar with that particular community.

_____Confirm living arrangements with Hall Director and determine a date/time when you can pick up yourbreak duty keys from the HD. Pay particular attention to the key ‘catch’ system and the fire box locations.

_____Let the Hall Director know when you will be doing your hour of desk for each day you are coveringduty, so that postings can be made for the desk area.

_____Make sure you know where the mailbox is where mail will be delivered so that you may put it outpromptly each day.

24 HOURS PRIOR TO ASSUMING DUTY RESPONSIBILITIES:

_____Secure keys from Hall Director (if you are the first staff member to assume duty). Keys may need tobe passed from one RA to the next, and this information will be provided to you by the HD.

_____Ask Hall Director for any final instructions/updates on potential resident concerns.

_____Secure a copy of the list of residents staying during the break period. This list should be passed fromRA to RA over the break period, but should not be shared with residents.

_____Complete any last minute errands, as you will not be allowed to leave campus or the hall you arecovering once your duty commences. (The exception to this would be during times when the Residential &Greek Life offices are open. At those times, you would be able to leave briefly to run errands.)

AT LEAST 1 HOUR BEFORE BEGINNING YOUR BREAK DUTY COVERAGE:

_____Move into your assigned room and get settled in.

_____Post your contact information throughout the hall.

_____Ask any last minute questions of the HD or HD on Duty.

WHILE ON DUTY:

_____Complete a minimum of 3 sets of rounds each day (morning, noon and night). Be sure to documentthese rounds in the duty log. Pay particular attention to the residents and try to engage them as much aspossible. Make sure the all exterior doors are secure on each of your rounds!

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_____Put the mail out each day (Monday-Saturday) excluding holidays. The mail needs to be out by 3PMeach day. Be sure to check the mail drops each day and take any mail to any out-going box.

_____Do a set of exterior rounds after dark each day. This will allow you to determine if unregisteredresidents are present in the building. If so, please follow up with them and find out how long they will bestaying.

_____Complete your 1 hour of desk duty each day at its pre-determined time.

WHEN PREPARING TO LEAVE:_____Thoroughly clean/tidy up your duty accommodations. Be sure to remove all personal belongings.

_____Return keys to the Hall Director or pass them off to the next RA on duty.

_____If you are not the last RA on duty for the break, be sure to inform the incoming staff members of anyissues/concerns faced while being on duty. Duty should be passed from one person to the next at 9AM, unlessotherwise coordinated with all staff involved.

IMPORTANT NUMBERS:University Police: 308.627.4811Kearney Police Dept. (emergency): 911Kearney Police Dept. (non-emergency): 308.237.2104Hall Director on Duty: 308.440.3547Good Samaritan Hospital: 308.865.7100

THANK YOU FOR KEEPING OUR RESIDENCE HALLS SAFE ANDSECURE OVER THE BREAK PERIOD!

YOUR SERVICE AND DEDICATION ARE GREATLY APPRECIATED!!!

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Emergency/Crisis Procedures and InformationWhen dealing with an emergency or crisis situation, the most important thing to remember is to stay calmand know that there is help if you need it. The Emergency/Crisis Procedure (on the following page) graphi-cally shows whom you are to contact if there is an emergency or crisis that you feel you will need assistancewith. If you are concerned for the safety of a student and are unsure of what to do, it is better to follow theEmergency/Crisis Procedure than to make a haphazard decision on your own.

Crisis situations

Crisis situations do not pose an immediate threat to life or property. These situations are handled a bitdifferently than an emergency situation. More specifically, it is your responsibility in a crisis situation toprovide a temporary solution to the problem until more qualified personnel can provide a more permanentresolution. Take for example an alcohol situation. It is your responsibility to document the incident, havethe resident dispose the alcohol and make sure there is no chance of alcohol poisoning. By doing thosethree things you are temporarily resolving the situation until the Hall Director can appropriately deal with thestudent or students involved in that incident. Crisis situations are illustrated in the Emergency/Crisis ContactProcedures (following page) under the “If a threat” box. Again, it is your responsibility as a ResidentAdvisor to notify the Hall Director of that situation, who will in turn determine an appropriate action plan.

Emergency situations

An emergency by definition is any situation, which poses an immediate threat to life, limb or property.In other words, it is an incident in which it is likely that someone could be hurt or likely that there will beproperty damage. Some examples of emergencies are bomb threats, physical altercation, fire, sexualassault, suicide, flood, medical emergency, possession or use of drugs and tornado warning. These situa-tions are ones in which you will need help. Emergencies are those situations, which will require you tocontact Public Safety and your Hall Director or the Hall Director on duty. By identifying the situation as anemergency you also dictate the chain of events which will unfold before you. More specifically, by identify-ing the situation as an emergency you will follow the following protocol:

1. Gather specific information about the situation and secure the area. Who is involved? What happened? Where is it happening? When did it begin? Why, what, and where the events leading up to the present situation?2. Call Public Safety or 911.3. Call your Hall Director. If you can’t reach your Hall Director, call the Hall Director on duty.4. Do your best to manage the situation until further help arrives.5. Fill out an incident report.6. Take time for yourself to deal with your own feelings in relation to the incident.

Emergency situations are summarized in the Emergency/Crisis Contact Procedures under “Physicalharm has occurred or is likely/about to occur.” The most important in an emergency situation is thatyou do your best to remain calm throughout. If you are upset and shaken it will be more difficult foryou to effectively manage the emergency you are facing. Keep in mind that you have the tools tohandle the situation, you just have to relax and remember how to use those tools.

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EMERGENCY/CRISIS CONTACT PROCEDURES

WHO RA’s SHOULD CALL:

If Non-Emergency..... If Emergency or Crisis Situation.....| (or is about to occur)| || || || |

Notify Hall Director -AND- Call 911 immediately--Hall Director handles situation |--Hall Director notifies Public Safety |--Hall Director contacts Counseling Center Staff Call Hall Director or Hall Director on Duty

| |Notify Assistant Director for Area Notify Counseling Care

| || |

Notify Associate Director(s) Notify Counseling Care Director||

Notify Director of Residence Life

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What do I do???The following are a variety of specific situations and things to consider when confronted with these situations.Although each situation may be very different, the skills you will use to handle them will use will be about thesame. By knowing and mastering these skills you will better enable yourself to handle even the most difficultof situations.

ALCOHOL VIOLATION:

The following is a list of suggestions when confronting a routine or typical alcohol violation:

1. Identify yourself as an RA and let the resident know why you are confronting him or her.2. If there is a group of people in the room, have the resident of that room come out into the hallway so

you can confront that resident alone.3. State the policy as cited in the Student Handbook.4. Using “I statements” explain why you believe they are violating the alcohol policy and inform them

of your responsibilities in confronting and handling the situation.5. Remain calm, yet assertive, and state only the facts of this particular situation.6. Document everyone in the room on an Incident Report regardless of whether or not they have been

drinking. Include everyone’s name, NU student identification number, address and phone number.Ask for photo IDs for people you do not know. Inform the occupant of the room that they are respon-sible for any misinformation that is given in regards to those involved.

7. Explain what you need that resident to do in order to eliminate the reason for the confrontation andask everyone to dump out the alcohol.

8. Should people refuse to listen, contact the Hall Director or the Hall Director on duty. If those in-volved are particularly belligerent or uncooperative, contact Public Safety.

9. Complete an Incident Report and submit it to your Hall Director by no later that 9:00 am thefollowing morning.

DO Confront the situation with another staff member if necessary. Scan the room Be observant - document as many specific details as you can on the Incident Report Inform the resident of University policy and Nebraska law. Look for warning signs of a keg (i.e. lots of people, full pitchers, plastic cups, etc.) Contact the Hall Director or Hall Director on duty about any situation involving a keg. Use “broken record” approach for repeated questions. Watch out for your own safety, make sure you can exit the room if necessary.

DON’T Allow yourself to be physically blocked from exiting the room. Argue with an intoxicated person. Rather, document the situation and follow up with that particular

student the next day. Give verbal warning for situations involving alcohol. Inform residents that “It’s OK to drink alcohol, just don’t let me see it.” Ignore the situation. Accuse residents of anything without proof. Use force or threats when confronting.

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CONFRONTING ANOTHER STAFF MEMBER:

The following is a list of suggestions when confronting another staff member:

1. Make sure you confront a staff member who is acting inappropriately.2. If it is a matter of gossip, encourage them to discuss those concerns directly with the person they are

talking about.3. Using “I statements” explain why you are confronting them.4. Remain calm, yet assertive, and state only the facts of this particular situation.5. Discuss the situation with the Hall Director if you feel it is necessary.6. If the situation involves a policy violation handle it as if the staff member was just another resident.

Notify the Hall Director as soon as possible.

DO

State the problem.

Follow up with that staff member.

DON’T

Ignore the situation just because they are a staff member.Fail to inform the Hall Director of a policy violation involving a staff member.Confront a staff member in front of other residents.

DRUG VIOLATION:

The following is a list of suggestions when confronting a drug violation:

1. Call your Hall Director or the Hall Director on duty prior to dealing with any situation you believeinvolves illegal drugs.

2. If you are unable to reach a Hall Director, call Public Safety.3. Complete and submit an Incident Report to your Hall Director.

DO

Find another staff member to assist you if you have to confront a drug situation.Be very observant of the actions of all people in the room and document on the Incident Report.Call the Hall Director prior to calling anyone else.

DON’T

Walk into a room uninvited.Take anything from the room.Touch any possible “evidence.”Accuse the residents or those present of anything without proof.Confront a situation involving drugs unless you have to.

EATING DISORDER:

The following is a list of suggestions when confronting someone who may have an eating disorder:

1. Identify yourself as an RA and let the resident know why you are confronting him/her.2. Use “I statements” to explain to that resident why you are confronting him/her.3. Provide resources to the resident (Counseling Care). Inform him/her that there are support groups

available.4. Document the situation with a Health and Safety Report and submit it to your Hall Director.

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DO

Realize that you can only make them aware of campus resourcesRealize your limitations, you are not a professional counselor.

DON’T

Accuse or get upset/hostile about the apparent problem.Fail to follow up with the resident

MAINTENANCE EMERGENCY:

The following is a list of suggestions when dealing with a routine or typical maintenance emergency:

1. Investigate the problem before contacting the Hall Director or the Hall Director on duty.2. Determine what the emergency is and report it immediately.3. During office hours, contact your Hall Director or the Office of Residential and Greek Life (865-

8519). After 5 pm contact your Hall Director first and then the Hall Director on duty if your HallDirector is not available.

4. Fill out a maintenance request form to get any repairs done.

DO

Remain calm.

DON’TCall facilities yourself.Call the Hall Director or Hall Director on duty before checking out the situation.Delay reporting the emergency

MEDICAL EMERGENCY:

The following is a list of suggestions when dealing with a medical emergency situation:

1. Identify yourself as an RA.2. Remain calm.3. Make an initial assessment of the situation. Determine your who, what, when, where and why. Also

determine the current medical condition of the person, such as consciousness? breathing? pulse?4. Call the appropriate emergency number.

911865-8517 Public Safety627-4811 Public Safety cell phoneIf you cannot reach Public Safety, call 911 in a more serious incident or KPD 237-2104 in a lessserious incident.

5. Call your Hall Director or the Hall Director on duty.6. Clear the area. Encourage bystanders to go to their rooms.7. Locate the resident’s Change of Contract/Room Condition Form to obtain additional information.

You may need someone else to do this for you.8. Document the incident on an Incident Report Form and a Health and Accident Form and submit both

to your Hall Director

DORemain calm.Solicit the help of others if needed.Call Public Safety if you are unsure about the seriousness of the condition.

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DON’T

Panic.Perform any first aid if you are not certified to do so.Transport a resident to a medical facility.

NOISE VIOLATION:

The following is a list of suggestions when confronting a routine or typical noise violation.1. Identify yourself as a RA and let the resident know why you are confronting him/her.2. If there is a group of people in the room, have the resident of the room come out into the hallway so

you can confront that resident alone.3. State the policy as cited in the Student Handbook.4. Using “I statements” explain why you believe they are violating the noise policy.5. Remain calm, yet assertive and state only the facts of this particular situation.6. Document everyone in the room on an Incident Report. Include everyone’s name, student NU

identification number, address and phone number.7. Explain what you need to do in order to eliminate the reason for the confrontation.8. Should people refuse to listen, contact the Hall Director or Hall Director on duty.9. Complete the Incident Report and turn it in to your Hall Director.

DO

Encourage residents to confront noise violations themselves.Intervene if a resident is unable or refuses to confront a situation.Be consistent in the enforcement of the noise policy with regard to time and volume.Be sure your expectations of them are clear.

DON’T

Open a closed door.Turn down the resident’s stereo yourself.Swear at or threaten a resident.Refuse to respond.Yell or use force.Call Public Safety without consulting a Hall Director in a non-emergency situation.

PHYSICAL ALTERCATION:

The following is a list of suggestions when dealing with a physical altercation:

1. Identify yourself as an RA.2. Call for backup/help. Have them assist you by calling the appropriate emergency numbers such as

Public Safety or 911 and the Hall Director or the Hall Director on duty.3. Try to disperse any crowd that is forming. Encourage residents to return to their rooms.4. Document everyone in the room on an Incident Report Form. Include everyone’s name, NU ID#,

address and phone number.5. Complete the Incident Report and submit it to your Hall Director.

DO

Remain calm.Be assertive.Be respectful.Leave an escape route open.Leave if you feel threatened.

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DON’T

Open a closed door.Try to disarm a person carrying a weapon.Panic.Walk into a room uninvited.Threaten or argue with a resident.Try to break up a physical altercation.Put yourself in any danger.

ROOMMATE CONFLICT:

The following is a list of suggestions when confronting a routine or typical roommate conflict:

1. Identify yourself as an RA and let the resident know why you are confronting him/her.2. Try to act as a calming agent.3. Encourage students to work through the situation and to communicate either one on one or with you

as a mediator.4. Let each of them tell their side of the story. Listen actively to each one.5. If the conflict is in the hallway, ask the residents to go into a room. If necessary, have one resident

go to your room and the other to his/her room.6. Have roommates offer solutions to the problem.7. If further help is needed, refer them to the Hall Director.8. Complete an Incident Report and turn it in to your Hall Director.

DO

Be aware that one of the functions of the residence halls is to provide people with opportunities to experience people of differing backgrounds, lifestyles, races, etc.Be objective and fair.Stress the importance of compromise.Be proactive in your intervention.Place yourself in the middle of the room (neutral position).Stay as calm as possible.

DON’TTake side even if one person seems clearly right.Use physical force or get in the middle of a physical confrontation.Make promises to the students.Side with one roommate over the other.Tell them they are guaranteed a room switch.Offer switching rooms as an option.

SEXUAL ASSAULT:The following is a list of suggestions when dealing with a situation involving sexual assault:

1. Be calm. Speak in a soothing, reassuring voice.2. Try to calm the resident by using techniques you would use in any other crisis situation.3. Allow the resident to take control of the conversation. Let the resident decide where the conversation

goes.4. Do not tell the person what they should do. The survivor needs to regain control over what is happening

in his/her life.5. Provide them with options as to what they can do from here. This includes:

Going to the hospital to have a rape kit collected.

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Contacting Counseling Care.Calling Public Safety.Calling a friend or family member.Talking to the Hall Director.Contacting a local Rape Crisis Center.

Make sure that you let the resident know he/she can have a rape kit collected and not press charges. Bygoing to the hospital you are collecting evidence if the resident decides to press charges later.

6. If the resident wants to change clothes let he/she know they can put those clothes in a paper bag and stillpreserve any evidence that is on those clothes.

7. If the resident wants to clean up, take a shower, wash his/her hair, douche, or cut his/her fingernails letthem know they could be destroying evidence.

8. Let the resident know that you are required to tell the Hall Director of this situation.9. Call your Hall Director at the nearest, appropriate opportunity.10. Document the incident on an Incident Report Form and submit it to the Hall Director.11. Follow up on the situation throughout the future.

DOInform your Hall Director.Support the survivor.Give up your control of the situation.Let the survivor know he/she can have evidence collected without pressing charges.Let the survivor know he/she can go to the police without pressing charges.Let the survivor decide when to stop talking.

DON’TPanic.Blame the survivor.Inform others about the incident.Tell the survivor to follow a particular course of action.Make the survivor make a decision right away.Think that everything will be OK in a few days or weeks.Block the survivor’s exit out of the room

SUICIDE IDEATION/ATTEMPT:

The following is a list of suggestions when dealing with a situation involving a suicide attempt:

1. Notify a Hall Director immediately of any situation involving the possibility of someone thinking aboutor attempting suicide. Notify the Hall Director even if you think the person is just joking around.

2. Clear the area of people.3. When entering a room, identify yourself as an RA and keep the resident informed of what you are doing.4. When entering a room, keep calm, do not rush, keep talking to the resident and do not startle him/her.5. If the resident has attempted to commit suicide, call 911 immediately. Cover the victim to prevent

shock. Make certain the person’s head is turned to the side in case he/she begins to vomit. Also checkfor breath and pulse. If trained and if necessary, begin CPR.

6. If the resident has not actually made an attempt, use active listening skills to keep the person talking andsharing.

7. Show the person you care by using caring statements and letting them know you want to help.8. If assistance is available, ask them to calm down any other residents which may be involved and get

them away from the person in need of assistance.9. Make the residents aware of resources on campus, i.e. the Counseling Care, Hall Director and Resident

Advisors.10. If you feel as though you are in danger, leave and call for help.11. Document the incident on an Incident Report Form and submit it to your Hall Director.

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DORemain calm and confident.Give any available staff member responsibilities as they are needed.Remember that your helping skills are very important in this situation.Assure the resident that they are not alone.Remove any physical dangers, i.e. pills, weapons.

DON’TBe afraid to ask the resident questions or use the word suicide.Lose your train of thought.Induce vomiting.Ride in the ambulance with that person as you increase your responsibility and liability.Put yourself in any danger.

VANDALISM:

The following is a list of suggestions when confronting a routine or typical vandalism violation:

1. Identify yourself as an RA and let the resident know why you are confronting him/her.2. State the policy as cited in the Student Handbook.3. Using “I statements” explain why you believe they are violating the vandalism policy.4. Remain calm, yet assertive and state only the facts of this particular situation.5. Document everyone participating in the vandalism on an Incident Report. Include everyone’s name,

NU ID#, address, and phone number.6. Explain to the residents involved that their behavior has inconvenienced/endangered other floor/wing

members. If the people involved are intoxicated, try to keep them calm and conduct the explanation thenext day when they are sober.

7. Ask them to clean up any messes they have made. If they refuse, they will be billed individually for thecost of the cleanup.

8. Fill out a maintenance request for any additional work that needs to be done.9. Should people refuse to listen, contact the Hall Director or Hall Director on duty.10. Complete the Incident Report and turn it in to your Hall Director.

DOTry to find out who caused the vandalism.State that the behavior was wrong, but not the individual doing it.

DON’TThreaten the offending person.Make physical contact with the resident.Argue with the resident.Act anxious or upset.Discuss punishment/sanctioning.

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CONFRONTATION:

The following is a list of suggestions of how to confront as well as a list of dos and don’ts when confrontingresidents.

1. Always speak one on one. Do not rush the encounter. Be simple and direct.2. Develop a relationship with the student. If he/she respects you, your words will carry more weight.3. Confront behaviors, not values of the person. Know the facts about the behavior you are confronting.4. Specify what behaviors are causing others a problem, such as damage, rowdiness, sloppiness, etc. Specify

what behaviors you observe that may be causing the person a problem such as personal isolation, disci-plinary action, etc.

5. Ask the student how they view the behavior.6. Show concern for the individual. Communicate your support and caring for the person.7. Confront behavior in a positive manner. Show the individual you are concerned with the elements of

living together in a community.8. Focus on the person’s strengths rather than their weaknesses.9. Show your feelings about the confrontation. If you are angry, check to see if your anger is directed at the

behavior of the student.10. Stick to the issues. Do not allow the student to make excuses, bring in outside circumstances, or ratio-

nalizations.11. Explain the possible negative results of behaviors if no change occurs (disciplinary action, personal

harm, etc.).12. Be open to further involvement with the student. End the confrontation with an open invitation to talk.13. Don’t be judgmental.14. Protect yourself. Always make sure you have an exit route in case you become uncomfortable. Try to

prevent someone from standing behind you. Always be aware of what is going on around you. If a roomis dark or noisy, make sure to turn on the lights and have the resident turn down the volume of the stereoor TV.

DOEstablish and maintain rapportRealize students are responsible for their own behavior (RAs don’t “get students in trouble”).Understand the role of Incident Reports.Be aware of your own attitudes and views (be non-judgmental).Clarify expectations in advance.Have consistent standards.Be confident, assertive without being “cocky.”Knock and identify yourself.Remain calm and rational.Use appropriate body language and eye contact.Be aware of cultural differences.Respect others’ space and belongings.Be cautious about touch.Diffuse/de-escalate situations (primary concern is always health and safety).Specify problems and necessary/desired response.Separate leaders/residents.Be observant without being “nosey.”Stick to the issues.Get necessary back-up.Inform those who “need to know.”Respect privacy/confidentiality issues.Consult with colleagues.Do appropriate follow-up.Keep things in perspective.

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DON’T

Have your only interaction with residents be related to discipline.Confront randomly and at will.Yell and talk down to a student, swear.Threaten verbally or intimidate physicallyImmediately/always call Public Safety.Assume once someone has done wrong that they are forever bad.Take it personally.Trust your instincts.Jump to conclusions.Stay to argue with the residents.Bring up “dirty laundry.”Tell everybody so they can be in on the scoop and help ostracize the individual.Harangue with guilt.Have different standards for friends.Win friends by saying, “I’ll let it go this time . . .”Accept drunkenness as an excuse.Not enforce policies you disagree with.Share your personal values in dealing with a personal choice issue.Trust your memory and not keep notes of warnings.Apologize for confronting a situation.Wait until a few days have passed before confronting.Consider yourself judge and jury.

INCIDENT REPORTS:All UNK and/or Residential and Greek Life policy violations will be submitted as incident reports anddocumented using the PAVE software program:

Note: Before entering any information, type your incident narrative (the details of the incident)into a Word file. That way, you will be able to check for misspellings and grammatical errors.You will only have 30 minutes to type the narrative into the PAVE system before you are blockedout. If it is a long narrative, typing the incident into Word then cutting and pasting the narrativefrom Word into PAVE will ensure that your data isn’t lost (for tips on writing the narrative andconstructing an incident report, see Incident Reports - Non-Policy Violations in the next section).Do not save on Desktop at front desk.

When you are finished typing the narrative in Word.....

1. Go to www.pave.unk.edu2. Enter your user ID and password; hit enter.3. Click on Add Incident.4. Enter the student’s last name.5. Choose the appropriate student from the students listed.6. If the individual is not a student, enter the individual’s name. A number will be created for

the this individual, and you will be able to continue with the entry of the incident.7. Under Verify Student, click “continue.”8. Enter date and time of incident. 9. Choose a type of victim. Add additional victims as necessary.

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10. Add witnesses as necessary. Include full names as well as type of witness.11. If someone other than you brought the incident to your attention, add referred by type

and full name of individual who brought the situation to your attention.12. Enter a referred date (the date of the incident - be sure to remember that it is a new date

as of midnight).13. A hearing officer will be chosen for you (should be your hall director). Do not add

further hearing officers. That will be done for you by your HD.14. Under Location, choose the appropriate location.15. Highlight “Not a Hate Crime” for the Hate Crime section.16. Click on “Add a Violation.”17. Choose the appropriate violation from the drop-down list. Click all applicable

violations. The HD can add more if necessary.18. Under Comments, add the narrative of the incident report (cut and paste from your

Word document).19. Click “Save Incident Information.”20. If more than one student/individual was involved, you can copy the data of the incident to

another student, so you will continue to add students as necessary until all allegedviolators are entered.

21. You’re done. Check with the HD to be sure they know an incident has been filed.This can be done the following morning.

Incident Reports - Non-Policy Violations:Occasionally incidents or situations will occur with residents that are determined to be non-policyviolations, such as an alleged eating disorder, depression, academic troubles, domestic violence, sui-cidal thoughts, etc. These incidents still need to be documented and submitted to the appropriateAssistant Director by no later than 9:00 am the next day. The form used is a paper hard-copy, anexample of which is on the next page.

Tips:The following are tips on writing an accurate incident report (whether it’s a narrative for PAVE, or anon-policy violation):

1. Write in third person.2. Remember to concentrate on the who, what, when, where, and why of the situation.3. Be observant-look carefully at the environment around you. What are specifics/details

to help you describe the incident?4. Clearly state the facts – chronologically, not randomly.5. Note the people involved – their behavior, attitude, action, words and mannerisms.6. Note the objects involved – what role do they place in the incident?7. Include all details which are relevant to the situation.8. Do not assume anything.9. Ask students for identification. Get all names and NU ID#’s.10. Remember this is a professional document – write legibly, use proper grammar and

spelling. Leave out all slang unless you are making a direct quote.11. Don’t imply guilt or innocence in the Incident Report. This is what the meeting with

the Hall Director is for. Cite only facts.12. Ask the documented student to sign the Incident Report.13. Be sure to fill in all the blanks on the form.

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14. Be sure to review the report after you have written it.15. Make sure to accurately report the date and time. If an incident occurs at 12:30 am

make sure the date reflects the new day and date.16. Be specific when using adjectives - i.e. what exactly does acting (under the influence of

alcohol) mean? It means he or she was tripping over his/her own feet, walking suchthat the wall was holding him or her upright, all the while swaying back and forth as heor she completed his/her journey home.

17. Remember that the documented student will at some point read/hear your rendition ofthe incident and will have the opportunity to explain his/her side of the story.

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INCIDENT REPORT FORM

DATE OF INCIDENT:__________________________ TIME OF INCIDENT:________________________Location of Incident:____________________________________________________________

NAMES ADDRESS PHONE NUID # Birth Date______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INCIDENT:

TYPE OF INCIDENT:___Alcohol Violation ___Theft ___Drug Violation ___Weapons Violation ___Assault___Fire/Tampering ___Vandalism Other:__________________________________________

PUBLIC SAFETY INVOLVEMENT: ___Yes ___NoTime Called __________Time Responded__________HEALTH AND ACCIDENT REPORT COMPLETED: ___Yes ___No

STAFF INVOLVED PUBLIC SAFETY INVOLVED STUDENT SIGNATURES (signature does not necessarily indicate agreement with above)

______________________ __________________________ _________________________________________________ __________________________ _________________________________________________ __________________________ ___________________________

This completed form must be delivered to the Office of Residential and Greek Life by 9:00 a.m. following the incident.

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Active Shooter on Campus:

The following are safety tips. Please realize every situation can be different and call for differentactions.

When an active shooter is randomly firing into an area, it is reasonable to expect persons could bestruck by the suspect(s) fire. These situations leave little or no time for planning and will requireLaw Enforcement to take immediate actions to end the threat. During an active shooting, students,staff, and faculty are expected to take cover and stay away from the area.

If shooting takes place in the residence halls:

-stay calm-turn off lights-silence cell phone-stay in your room and lock your door-if you are in an area where the door will not lock, barricade with heavy furniture-if door has a window, cover it if you can-always stay low and quiet-when officers arrive on the scene, residents should do exactly as the officer(s) instruct(s)-assure students that police are working to protect-when moving residents go toward the officers and keep your hands on your heads-once in a safe place, stay put

If you are in the hallways:

-get into a room and secure it-unless you are very close to an outside exit, do not leave the building

If you are in an open space:

-stay alert-look for appropriate cover location such as brick walls, trees, retaining walls, parked vehicles, and other objects which may stop firearm ammunition penetration

If you are trapped in an area with the shooter:

-do not provoke them-do not move suddenly-if they start shooting, you need to make a choice. Stay still and hope they do not shoot or run by zigzagging. A moving target is harder to hit.

These safety tips are not all inclusive but may increase your choices of surviving an active shooterincident.

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Counseling Care Referrals

Behavior and disciplinary contracts allow for greater flexibility and creativity in dealing with inappropriate studentbehavior. By taking a proactive and developmental rather than punitive approach to many behavioral situations,Residential and Greek Life staff have the opportunity to better serve both the student and the hall community.One possibility in dealing with such behavior is a referral to the Counseling Care. The Counseling Care mayprovide an opportunity for the student to examine his/her behavior in a more neutral setting. This type of referralshould not, however, be used as a punishment; to do so wastes the time of both Counseling Care and the student,and serves no productive end.

Two avenues exist when making a referral to Counseling Care. The first avenue is to use the referral as anoption. This type of referral only suggests that the student talk with a counselor; it is up to the student as towhether they actually do so, and up to the student and the counselor if further sessions are called for. This typeof referral serves an obvious end, but may also provide a measure of the student’s interest in dealing with theirbehavior. The second avenue to refer someone to Counseling Care is a recommendation, either independently orin conjunction with other responses to inappropriate behavior.

While you may recommend, even strongly, that the student participate in a counseling session, such a referral isnever a forced expectation. If the student agrees to the recommendation, it then becomes a mandatory expecta-tion. You should also make it clear that if Counseling Care staff deem further sessions needed, that they aremandatory as well. The following procedure should be used in suggesting or recommending any referral toCounseling Care:

1) Document relevant incidents and your conversation(s) with the student.2) Detail your reasons for suggesting the referral and any other relevant expectations being made in a

“contract” type format. Complete Consent to Release Information form and send to Counseling Carewith document.

3) Send a copy of the documentation and any relevant notes to the Director of Counseling and Health Care,with deadlines for completion of the expectation indicated (if/when appropriate). In the case of anoptional referral, Counseling Care staff will confirm, in writing, that the student did participate in acounseling session if/when the student chooses to do so. In the case of the more structured recommended referral, Counseling Care staff will confirm, by the deadline date, that the student articipatedin at least one counseling session. Avoid committing the student to multiple sessions at the CounselingCenter—that determination is for the Counseling Center staff. Do not ask or expect the Director ofCounseling Care or counselors to share details of counseling sessions with you—the student has areasonable expectation that counseling sessions are confidential.

Counseling Care On-Call Schedule

Each semester Counseling Care puts out a counselor “on-call” schedule. The counselor on-call schedule is to beused when Counseling Care is closed. If for some reason you cannot get in contact with the counselor on callyou are to try and reach one of the other counselors from Counseling Care. The counselor on-call schedule willbe distributed to all Residential and Greek Life personnel at the beginning of each semester.

Dealing With A…

There are several types of crisis situations that you may face while working for the Office of Residential andGreek Life. It is very rare if two situations are ever the same, however, situations like bomb threats, fires, andtornadoes do have guidelines that will need to be followed.

Bomb Threat:

1) If an RA, call 9112) Pull the fire alarm and evacuate all residents from the building.3) Call Hall Director and Public Safety to notify them of a bomb threat.4) Public Safety will check the building to make sure that the hall is fine.5) Once Public Safety gives the all-clear sign, residents may return to their building.

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Fire :

Minimum Expectations for Office of Residential and Greek Life:

1) Solicit floor residents for volunteer fire marshals each semester.2) Coordinate and advise floor marshals3) Facilitate floor meetings in regard to fire procedure with the help of your fire marshals4) Identify a designated area for your floor to meet.

When the fire alarm is activated, evacuate the building. A call must be made to Public Safety, as they are theonly ones to deactivate the alarm.

1) Check with your floor fire marshals.2) Start by having the students knock on all doors they pass as they vacate the building3) RA report to the HD who should be located at one set of the exit doors4) Have students exit and report to designated area that is at a safe distance from the building5) Do not return to the building until Public Safety gives an all-clear signal.

A call to inform the fire department, Public Safety, and the Assistant Director(s) of a real fire needs to be madeas soon as there is evidence that there is a fire in the building.

Tornado:

1) Tornado warning will be issued (sirens sound).2) As you leave, knock on doors you pass to inform residents we are in a warning.3) Inform residents to bring a blanket, pillow, and personal emergency kit with them to the designated

tornado safety area.4) Have residents sit against the walls and away from any glass windows.5) Public Safety, Assistant Director(s), or the building’s Hall Director will give the all-clear sign to let

residents know they may go back to their rooms.

Tornado Safety Areas

Antelope/Nester BasementCentennial Towers Basement.Conrad Hall Interior basement hallway, stay away from windows.Mantor Hall Basement room at the west stairwell.Martin Hall Basement, except for heating plant room and basement lounge, stay

away from windows.Men’s Hall Basement, stay away from windows, especially south and west

windows.Randall Hall Interior basement hallway, west side.Stout Hall Interior basement hallway.University Heights Ground floor interior closet(s) away from the windows and laundry

rooms.University Residence N/S Ground floor interior hallway.

URN & URS Sprinkler System

If for some reason a resident would cause the sprinkler system to accidentally turn on, it is important that theURN or URS staff quickly shut it off. Several gallons of water per minute are pumped out of the sprinklers thatcan cause major damage to a residents’ room and/or the chapter house. To shut off the sprinkler system, a staffmember must turn off one or both of the fire sprinkler valves. The fire sprinkler valves are located in themaintenance office in both URN and URS. Due to fire safety codes, the sprinkler system may only be out of usefor a limited time. Therefore, maintenance must be notified immediately to check and turn the sprinkler systemback on. Public Safety should also be contacted. The custodial supervisor may also need to be contacted if thereis a mess caused by the sprinkler system.

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Missing Student Procedure

If a student has not been seen or heard of for longer than 48 hours, it is to be reported to the Office of Residentialand Greek Life. The procedure to be followed is:1) The RA fills out an incident report indicating that the student was last seen on a certain date.2) The RA is to give the Hall Director a copy of the incident report.3) The Hall Director then gives the incident report to the Assistant Director for their area who investigates

the student’s whereabouts and also informs the Office of Residential and Greek Life about the missingstudent.

4) After investigating the student’s whereabouts, the Assistant Director will inform the Hall Director if thestudent is safe.

5) To investigate, the Associate Director will initiate a class attendance check and meal plan check withChartwells.

6) The Hall Director will then inform the RA about their resident’s status.7) If the student is not found a call will be place by the Assistant Director to the students parents or

guardians.8) If the family is unsure of the students whereabouts, the family will be asked to fill a missing persons

report with the Kearney Police Department and UNK Public Safety.

Student DeathDeath is an event that touches most lives many times over. It affects philosophical beliefs and values of thoseinvolved. In addition, the news of the death of a community member, especially if it is unexpected, is likelyto have a psychological impact. The death of someone among us affects all of us to varying degrees.

It is important, therefore, that the Office of Residential and Greek Life show understanding of the needs of thefamily, students and members of the University community, providing not only timely intervention andsupport but ongoing and follow-up services as needed. Also, it is important to remember that all communica-tion may need to travel up and down the chain of command.

In the event that a student is found unresponsive and he/she is believed to be deceased:1) CALL 911 IMMEDIATELY .2) Contact the Hall Director, or Hall Director on Duty.

--who then contacts the Assistant Director for their Area--who then contacts the Associate Director of Residential and Greek Life--who then contacts the Director of Residential and Greek Life--who then will activate the Crisis Management Team

3) Contact Public Safety for assistance in maintaining order at the scene until an ambulance and KPDarrive.

The Crisis Management Team is comprised of administrative representatives from the Office of Residential andGreek Life, Counseling and Health Care, Public Safety, University Communications, Student Health, and Cam-pus Ministries. The Team will then notify University officials and work on the crisis management plan; afterwhich the Director of Residential and Greek Life will notify the family of the student. Support and assistancewill be offered to the family on behalf of the University. A meeting will be arranged, when appropriate, to meetthe family of the deceased to assist with the withdrawal process from the halls and campus.

Follow-up:The Crisis Management Team will set up meetings with students and staff in order to assist them in dealing withthe possible trauma and to plan outreach toward identifying, assisting, managing, and referring to counseling thestudents who may be at risk. Counseling Care and the Office of Residential and Greek Life will offer support,reassurance, and dissemination of accurate information regarding the services available to students when con-cerns are raised by parents of other students.

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Student Health & Accident Report

A Student Health and Accident Report is to be filled out on all students who suffer(ed) from a severe illness,accident/injury, suicide attempt, and/or emotional disturbance. All Student Health and Accident Reports are tobe given to the Hall Director of that building in which the student resides. The Hall Director is to have the reportin the Residential and Greek Life Office by 9:00 a.m. of the day following the incident. This must be done toallow the Hall Director time to inform Assistant Director(s) and Central Staff of the incident. Accuracy andtimeliness of this report are of the utmost importance. The following is an example of a Student Health andAccident Report:

STUDENT HEALTH & ACCIDENT REPORT

Student Name_____________________Birth Date___________ Male _____ Female______

NU I.D. Number ____________________ I.R. Filed ____Yes ____No

Date of Incident _______Time of Incident ______ a.m. p.m. Hall_______ Room Number____

Type of Incident: _____ Accident/Injury _____ Suicidal Attempt _____ Illness _____

Emotional Disturbance______

First Staff Member Contacted About This Incident___________________________

Public Safety Involved: ___Yes ___No

Officer(s) Involved:__________________________________________

Student Referred To: _____Health Care _____Kearney Clinic _____Hospital

Other_____________ Transported by ambulance? ____Yes ____No

Describe Incident: (Causes, extent and specific location of injury on body.

Was person returned to residence hall? ___________________Time________________Admitted to Hospital______Hospital Room #______________ Time________________

Person Filing Report __________________Title_________________________________Other Residential and Greek Life or UNK Staff Involved_________________________

Copies: _____ Director of Residential and Greek Life_____ Health Care_____ Hall Director_____ Other_______________________ __________________________

THIS COMPLETED FORM MUST BE DELIVERED TO YOURASSISTANT DIRECTOR BY 9:00 AM FOLLOWING THE INCIDENT.

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Health Emergency PolicyHealth Care has provided the following policy when confronted with health emergencies:

Illness/InjuriesHealth Care may be called at (8218) if requested by the student, or if the situation requires first aid or wheelchairtransportation for treatment in Health Care. When calling, make every effort to obtain the student’s name (fromthe student or anyone in the area that can identify the student) and be prepared to stay on line to talk to a nurse.

Non-urgent Illness/InjuryIf the injury is of a less urgent nature, simply assisting the student to get help may be all that is needed. You maycall Public Safety at 865-8517 or 627-4811 and if an officer is available, she/he can assist you. If medicalattention is needed, the student should be advised to come to Health Care during clinical hours, or arrange to betaken to the hospital emergency department if the campus clinic is closed. NOTE: Due to Risk Managementand liability policies, UNK and Residential and Greek Life staff are NOT permitted to transport studentsto a health care facility; however, staff may assist the student in making transportation arrangements.Clinic walk-in hours are:Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

1:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.Clinical staff are available for medical advice from 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Medical EmergenciesShould a medical emergency occur (i.e. profuse bleeding, stopped breathing, heart attack, broken bone, serioushead or spine injury, serious burns, etc.) CALL 911 IMMEDIATELY. It is not necessary to dial 9 for an outsideline. Make every effort to obtain the student’s name (from the student or anyone in the area who can identify thestudent. Stay on the line until the 911 dispatcher instructs you to hang up. Do not move the individual for safetyreasons. Do not take the time to notify Public Health or Public Safety first; they can be called after summoningthe emergency unit. NOTE: As noted above, UNK and Residential and Greek Life staff are NOT permit-ted to transport students to a health care facility, including the hospital emergency room. Any transport-ing of students needing emergency medical attention must be done by the emergency unit/ambulance.

First AidShock:Shock is a common response to many injuries in addition to the primary injury itself. Symptoms of shock are:

1. Pale skin2. Moist and clammy skin3. Feelings of weakness4. Rapid pulse (very faint in the wrist)5. Rapid and irregular breathing6. Nausea is a common complaint

Shock can be treated by:1. Keeping the victim calm and lying down2. Elevate feet 8” to 12”3. Keep covered just enough to maintain body temperature

Alcohol Overdose:1. Maintain an open airway. Give CPR if you are certified.2. Maintain body heat. Cover with blankets.3. If victim is vomiting, place them on their side.4. Notify a Hall Director immediately.

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Asphyxiation: Stopped breathingA person can die in six minutes if their oxygen supply is cut off. Since it is usually impossible to tell when aperson stops breathing, time is important! Dial 911 immediately. If you are trained, begin artificial respirationimmediately. Have someone around you make the call. DO NOT shake the person. To determine level ofconsciousness, tap the person on the shoulders.

If you know CPR:1. Lie victim on back (be careful of broken bones which may have occurred during the incident and tilt

the head back.2. Plug nostrils.3. Take a deep breath.4. SEAL your mouth over the victim’s mouth and blow. This will fill his or her lungs up with oxygen.

Do this four quick times.5. Stop, turn your head, and listen for exhalation.6. Repeat one breath every five seconds for one minute. After this minute, if the victim is still not breath-

ing, call for help. Have someone else call Public Safety. It is important that you continue artificialrespiration.

7. Continue until professional help arrives or until the victim starts to breath on his/her own.8. Even if the victim begins to breath on his or her own, still dial 911.

Bleeding:You should NEVER touch blood without rubber gloves on!

1. Apply direct pressure to wound (be careful of broken bones). Use a clean dressing or bandage. Ifdressing become saturated with blood, do not remove it. This will only negate your efforts so far. Placeanother dressing on top and continue to apply pressure.

2. If bleeding continues, apply pressure to the Brachial Artery (the soft, inside of the arm) if the wound ison the arm, or the Femoral Artery on the leg – place hand next to groin area on the inside of the thigh andapply pressure.

3. NEVER use a tourniquet. They are limb threatening.4. Check for signs of shock and treat appropriately.5. Dial 911.

Broken Bones:1. DO NOT move the victim (unless urgent or in immediate danger, i.e. fire)2. Stop any bleeding.3. Keep victim warm and comfortable. Check for signs of shock and treat appropriately.4. Dial 911.

Burns:Burns should be treated differently according to the degree and nature of the burn. In all cases, do not apply anyfirst aid creams or salve. Treat burns in the following manner:1st Degree: (Redness) For pain relief, apply cold water.2nd Degree: (Blisters) Immerse in cold water. Apply dry bandage. DO NOT BREAK THE BLISTERS! Get

medical help.3rd Degree: (Blackened, broken skin) Do not remove adhered particles of clothing. Elevate burned area, if

possible. Dial 911. With 3rd Degree burns, there is no other first aid that you can perform. Professional EMTs will treat the victim when they arrive.

Chemical: Wash away chemical with large quantities of water, preferably with the use of a shower or hose. Dial 911.

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Choking:The chocking victim will not be able to speak or utter sounds. If breathing is interrupted, the victim will turnblue and may become unconscious. DO NOT SLAP the victim on the back or insert your fingers into theirmouth. The Heimlich Maneuver is used to dislodge food or other items from a chocking victim’s air passage.

1. Stand behind the victim and wrap your arms around his or her waist.2. Place the thumb side of your fist against the victim’s abdomen, slightly above the navel and below the

rib cage.3. Grasp your fist with your other hand and press it into the victim’s abdomen with a quick, upward thrust.4. Repeat if necessary.

Convulsion:1. Do not restrain the victim.2. Move furniture and other objects away to prevent injury to the victim.3. When the convulsion is over, place victim on side or face down with head turned to the side. This will

allow a rest period. Check for signs of shock and treat appropriately.4. Dial 911.

Drug Overdose:1. Maintain an open airway.2. Maintain body temperature. Check for signs of shock and treat appropriately.3. Dial 911 for transport to hospital.

Electric Shock:1. Turn off power. You should become familiar with the breaker boxes in your hall.2. DO NOT TOUCH VICTIM UNTIL ELECTRICAL CONTACT IS BROKEN!3. Check for signs of shock and treat appropriately.4. Breathing may stop suddenly. Also, if victim comes around, watch closely – electricity can affect the

heart, brain and central nervous system.Eyes:Do not remove any foreign objects from the eye. Cover BOTH eyes and notify Public Safety. If a chemical getsinto the eye, flush with cool water. Do not rub the eye. Dial 911 for medical attention.

FaintingOne of the more frightening medical conditions to observers is to have a person lose consciousness whether dueto a fainting episode or a seizure. Although frightening, this may not require calling 911. Take a moment toassess the situation and decide how to respond. If the person was not injured in the fall, they may be easilyaroused within 2-3 minutes. In ALL instances, someone should remain with the individual while a Health Carenurse and/or Public Safety officer is called. Make every effort to obtain the student’s name before calling.Seizure activity may involve involuntary movement of all or some parts of the body. Do not attempt to restrainthe movements, but do remove any nearby objects that may injure the student. After the seizure activity stops,the student will be drowsy and may need a few minutes to lie down in a quiet place until completely awake.Seizures do not require calling 911 unless the jerking movements do not stop after 3-5 minutes, or if the personhas stopped breathing after the seizure activity stops (these events are extremely rare). A Health Care nurse maybe called if requested by the student upon waking up.

1. Keep the victim lying down.2. Loosen any tight clothing. Keep crowds away.3. If victim vomits, turn head to the side.4. Maintain open airway.5. DO NOT pour water over the victim. You may use a cool compress on the victim’s face. DO NOT use

smelling salts.

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Frostbite:Symptoms: Pale, grayish skin. Pain early, but subsiding later. Cold and numbness.

1. Give victim a warm drink.2. Rewarm frozen part (once only – do not rewarm if part becomes cold again!) using WARM but NOT

HOT water.3. Do not rub – this may cause tissue damage.4. Do not allow victim to sit too close to heat sources or flame.5. Check for signs of shock and treat appropriately.6. Get medical help.

Poisoning:Do not give victim anything to eat or drink!! DO NOT induce vomiting. Both of these may cause more severedamage from the substance.

1. Save label, container or any vomit.2. Keep victim calm and do not let them move around.3. Call Poison Control.4. Dial 911.5. If mouth-to-mouth is needed, clean victim’s mouth area (in case of poison residue).

Suicide Attempts:

1. DIAL 911.2. Administer any first aid if applicable.3. Any type of attempt must be immediately reported to a Hall Director or Hall Director on Duty.4. NEVER LEAVE THE PERSON ALONE!

Any person who has attempted to take their own life is NOT capable of make their own decisions. Theymay try and talk you out of notifying anyone about the incident. Do not hesitate to notify the Hall Director orHall Director on Duty.

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Section FHousing Policy and

Opening/ClosingProcedures

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Freshman Housing PolicyThe University of Nebraska at Kearney requires all full-time freshmen under the age of nineteen on the first dayof fall semester to live on campus their freshman year. The freshman residency requirement serves importanteducational and development purposes. Scholars and education professionals widely recognize that wherestudents live their freshman year has a significant impact on the quality of their academic and personal prepara-tion for post-collegiate life. Especially in the formative first year at the university, students prosper in the stableliving environment that are close to academic resources and organized student activities that promote socialinteraction and exposure to new and diverse life experiences, and that afford supervision, counseling, and otherassistance as may be needed. In short, on-campus residency provides unparalleled opportunities for multi-dimensional student development, and is part-and-parcel of the university’s broad educational program.UNK, as an undergraduate university, has always recognized that learning takes place both inside and outsidethe classroom and the laboratory. Its learning environment is deliberately nurtured in that light. Accordingly,UNK seeks within the limits of its resources to maximize the on-campus living experiences for freshmen. TheFreshmen Housing Policy is a means to that end.

The Freshmen Housing Policy is strictly enforced. However, the University recognizes that some off-campusliving circumstances may closely approximate the advantages of on-campus residency. Also, some enteringfreshmen may have living requirements that the University cannot accommodate on campus. Four categories ofexemptions have been established to accommodate for such exceptional circumstances.

Exemption CategoriesAfter proper documentation and University inquiry, students may qualify for an exemption to the freshmenhousing policy. These situations are:(a) The freshman student will be living with his/her parents or legal guardians and commuting from withinthe local Kearney community. This represents a reasonable commuting distance for the educational goals ofthe University and should also ensure the quality of the freshman’s residential environment.(b) The freshman student is 19 years old or older on the first class day of the fall semester. This should ensurethat the freshman has had at least one year of “life experiences” which have exposed him/her to situationsoutside of the home and/or academic settings.(c ) The freshman student is married, a single parent, or has a documented medical/health condition which makeit impracticable to meet the freshmen housing requirement, assuming that the students needs cannot be accom-modated on campus.(d) The freshman student will be living in certain off-campus facilities which approximate the educationaladvantages of residence hall living and meet requirements listed under the “Documentation Required” sectionon the exemption form.Students can obtain an exemption form in the Office of Residential and Greek Life.

Check-In Procedure1. Have the resident fill out the Personal Identification Information on the top of the RCF/COC form, then

sign on the lower left hand corner. The resident must check his/her room’s condition with this form andmake any corrections necessary. He/She should then return the form to the front desk to receive his/hermailbox key.

2. The resident must pay $30 to the hall he/she will reside in. This money is for METS ($10/),social fees ($10/) and an RHA fee ($10). Be sure to give the resident a receipt for their METSand social fee payment.

3. Give the resident any appropriate University publications and hall welcome gifts. This may include aGood Stuff Box, UNK Student Handbook, hall opening newsletter, Blue & Gold Days material, etc.

4. Give the resident the appropriate keys/FOB and escort the resident to his/her room.5. Let the resident know that if he/she needs ANYTHING to make his/her stay in the residence halls more

enjoyable, to let the staff know and they will try to accommodate his/her.NOTE: Please consult your Hall/Assistant Hall Director for more specific information on how your hallwill check in residents. However, the items mentioned above will be done for each resident that checksinto UNK’s residence halls.

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Room FreezeThere is a two-week room freeze at the beginning of each academic semester. This room freeze is intended toallow each hall staff the opportunity to get their hall occupancy organized. The room freeze affects all studentsliving in the residence halls with the exception of Greek letter organizations.

Room Changes/Administrative SurchargeRoom changes may not be made until after the room freeze ends. Students desiring a room or roommate changemust file a request with the Hall Director of their building. If a resident changes rooms or halls without properauthorization, they may be required to move back to their original room and/or may also be charged for animproper check-out. If a resident moves to another building, that resident’s files must be forwarded to theresident’s new Hall Director. It is the responsibility of the Hall Director from where the resident moved to makesure that the new hall receives all proper files. No student will be allowed a hall move without the pink copyfrom the half sheet Change of Contract form.

Private Student RoomsIf space permits in the residence halls, a student may have the option of classifying a room as a private room. Aprivate room is an additional. See current housing contract for exact amount. It is important to remember thatjust because a resident has a private room one year, does not guarantee that the resident will have a private roomfor the following year. Private student rooms are unlikely at the beginning of the semester, except on specificdesignated floors for privates, as indicated in the housing contract.

Contract CancellationsExceptions for cancellation charges include graduation, student internships, student teaching, marriage or with-drawing. If a student wants to cancel their contract, they are to submit their cancellation request in writing andprovide the appropriate documentation to the Office of Residential and Greek Life.

Room Condition Form/Change of ContractRoom Condition Forms/Change of Contracts (RCF/COCs) are to be filled out whenever a resident moves out oftheir room/building, billed for expenses or damages, and/or when they permanently check out of the residencehall. It is important that the RCF/COC is filled out properly by the RA. Hall Directors are to turn in RCF/COCsas they are completed by the RA to notify all interested parties of the resident’s change in status.

ConsolidationStudents who are in single rooms and do not wish to pay the single room rate will be required to consolidate withanother student. The consolidation process begins two weeks after the start of fall and spring classes andcontinues for a four week period. Students who cannot be consolidated with another (the odd person out) willnot be charged for the single room unless they refuse a roommate.

Students Withdrawing from SchoolA student who has withdrawn from school during the semester must check out of their room within three days.Exceptions must be approved by the Associate Director or Director of Residential and Greek Life. Freshmanand those who are not 19 by the first day of classes may not move off campus.

Temporary RoomsIn some cases it becomes necessary to assign students to “temporary rooms.” For example, a converted loungeor large end room. As soon as space becomes available students are assigned to a regular double room. Thetemporary spaces may not be equipped with all the furnishings of a regular room. If you are going to be assignedto a temporary arrangement, we will notify you before you arrive on campus. Residential and Greek Life furtherreserves the right:

a) To convert single rooms to regular room assignments in the reverse order of receipt of contracts.b) To “triple” students in large rooms not designated or furnished for permanent triple occupancy andassign to converted lounges.

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Residential and Greek Life will require the student designated as the temporary assignee to move as perma-nent space becomes available. Any expense incurred by the student moving from a temporary space to apermanent space will be borne by the student.

Break Closing ProceduresThe following steps should be taken by residents when vacating their rooms during break periods.1. Clean the room.2. Empty the trash.3. Disconnect all electrical appliances.4. Lock all windows.5. Close drapes.6. Defrost refrigerator and leave door open (for semester break only). We will not be responsible for

any food left in the refrigerator.7. Turn the lights off.8. Lock the room door.

Check-Out Procedures1. Make sure the resident has everything out of the room before you start to check them out.2. Obtain the resident’s room key, mailbox key, and FOB.3. Check the resident’s room to see if it is in the same condition as it was when the resident checked in

according to the RCF/COC. If damages have occurred charge the resident according to the UNKStudent Handbook. The resident must pay for any damages to their room at the time of theircheck-out.

4. Record all damage charges on the resident’s Room Condition Form and Change of Contract Form.Also include on the Change of Contract Form the METS charge of that resident. If the METS chargefor that resident is over $10, the resident is to pay that charge at the time of their check-out.

5. Have the resident sign the Room Condition Form and also the Change of Contract. Make sure to givethe resident the pink copy of the RCF/COC for their records.

7. Double check to ensure that the resident has filled out a Forwarding Address Card.8. Instruct the resident(s) to reset their phone password to the room’s phone number.9. Escort the resident out of their room and lock the door behind them.10. Take all the appropriate paperwork and money to the area designated by the Hall Director. NOTE: Please consult your Hall/Assistant Hall Director for more specific information on how to checkyour residents out of their room. However, the items mentioned above will be done for each resident thatchecks out of UNK’s residence halls.

Hall Director Closing Task List1. Begin preparing End of Year Report (spring semester only).2. Inventory office equipment/supplies, apartment, and public areas. Turn in to Assistant Director.3. Reserve funds in hall council checkbook for fall opening refreshments (spring semester only).4. Make room assignments for new staff members. New hires without a previously existing contract

will have to pay the application fee.5. Forwarding Address Cards and Forwarding Address List to Summer School Staff (spring semester

only).6. The following lists should be in room number order and turned in to your Assistant Director.

a) Maintenance List (repair or equipment problems)Be thorough especially in buildings that will be used for the summer. Do not submit workorders during the last week. Put all items on a list, unless resident requests immediate repair.

b) Paint List (break into three sub-lists)Priority #1: Absolutely must be painted, unfit to occupy unless re-painted.Priority #2: Should probably be re-painted, but could be occupied if no painting occurred.Priority #3: Re-paint if time, supplies, and funds allow.

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c) Keys Needed ListBe sure to list quantity, including keys needed for key box. Note if paid, or unpaid.Explain why if keys are unpaid.

7. Collect flashlights, tape dispensers, staplers, markers, scissors, file boxes, etc. Note and bill anymissing supplies according to form provided (spring semester or if staff member is leaving at the endof the fall semester).

8. Store properly labeled and inventoried boxes of personal belongings for returning staff. Forwardinventory lists to Assistant Directors (spring semester only).

9. Forward personnel files of any non-returning staff members to Associate Director of Residential andGreek Life. Any transferring RA personnel files go to their new hall.

10. Review with Assistant Directors and turn in at check-out all RCF/COCs and accompanying money inthe following fashion:

a) No Money: In alpha order.b) Cash/Check Summary Sheet: In alpha order, with SID#s. This list will only include METS money taken in on floors over $10.c) Billing Summary: In alpha order, with SS# and a list of the amount to be billed. Check for each vendor you propose a METS purchase form.

11. Tag all items left behind in student rooms; bring to central office when you are ready to check out.12. Make sure all outside doors are securely locked and “Hall Closed Signs” are posted.13. Return anything borrowed from the Program Resource Room.14. Turn in evaluations to Assistant Directors.15. Empty campus mail and U.S. mail bins. Tape over slots.16. Turn in final METS report to Assistant Directors.17. Turn in any miscellaneous late paperwork.18. VCRs, TVs, desk equipment secured.19. Discipline files of students leaving system forwarded to Associate Director of Residential and Greek

Life.20. Discipline files of students transferring halls forwarded to new hall.21. Turn in any final timecards to Darlene.22. Turn in checkbooks and checks to Associate Director of Residential and Greek Life (spring semester

only).23. Turn in list of any newly elected hall council members to Associate Director of Residential and Greek

Life.24. Turn in METS purchase request to Associate Director of Fiscal and Facilities..25. Take First Aid kit to Student Health Services for replenishing.

Please talk with your Assistant Director for a more inclusive list.

HD Apartment Check-OutBefore being checked out of your apartment by your AD, you will need to do the following:

WindowsClean the inside of the windows and the window sillsShake the drapes to remove dustWipe blinds to remove dustMake sure the drapery hooks are hooked properly

CarpetsVacuum thoroughly, and if necessary, put in a request for the carpet to be cleaned.Wipe down the mop boards in all roomsFor those that have pets the carpet must be professionally cleaned

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Walls and light fixturesWash any areas that are dirty

FurnitureDust thoroughly and vacuum all chairs and couches (remember to remove the cushions)For those that have pets the furniture must be professionally cleaned

BedsVacuum under the bedVacuum the mattress and flip

FloorsWash and remove all black marks

BathroomRemove all stains and lime from the toilet, tub and sinkWipe out the cabinets and medicine cabinetWash shower curtain

(wash on gentle with Clorox and soap, dry for 10 minutes, remove from dryer and either fold or hang immediately)

Remove drain stoppers and clean “gunk” offWash and wipe down tiles and walls and floor

KitchenClean the oven, inside and outClean the fridge, inside/out and leave unplugged and open (vacuum under and the back coils)Wipe out the cabinets and clean the outsideDon’t forget the floorsScour the sinkWipe the counters

KeysTurn into the Assistant Director for your area.

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Section GMETS

“Managing the EnvironmentsThrough Students”

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Philosophical PositionMuch has been written in the professional and legal journals about the practice of charging common area dam-ages to residents. There are persuasive positions both for and against charging students for common area dam-ages. However, all agree that if an institution is going to charge for common area damage, it must do so undersome fairly strict circumstances.1) The ultimate purpose of the program must be educational.2) Charges must be reasonable and verifiable.3) Charges must be published.4) Some statement of the original building condition must be made.5) An accurate and detailed system of record-keeping must be in place.

Fundamental StructureMETS (Managing the Environment Through Students) is best understood as a Room ConditionForm of the entire building. Residents are charged as damages beyond normal wear and tear occur.Here are the details:1) A condition and furnishings inventory of the public areas of the building is turned in prior to fall

opening.2) As residents check in, they are assessed a $10 METS fee. This money is deposited in holding accounts

and can only be drawn upon to replace damaged equipment or to purchase equipment approved by thehall council.

3) All students must pay METS fees with the exception of in-hall staff. If they refuse to pay upon check-in, the fee will be assessed to them on the Change of Contract as they leave the building.

4) METS fees are not refundable, unless a student withdraws from the residence halls by the first day ofclass. Transfer of METS is done for one week after the Room Freeze is lifted.

5) Any damages to the condition of the facilities and furnishings beyond normal wear and tear, and notoriginally listed on the opening report are charged to the residents.

6) Missing items and excessive messes are also charged to the residents.7) If the cost of an item to be charged it not listed in the staff manual or student handbook, then a work

order is submitted to maintenance, custodial, or paint staff, requesting the actual cost of the repairs orclean-up.

8) Hall Directors authorize charges, custodians do not. Hall Directors/Assistant Hall Directors and RAsshould work hard to make sure residents do not develop hostile attitudes toward facility staff becausethey are under the mistaken impression that custodians are authorizing charges. Charges are authorizedONLY by facility staff supervisors in conjunction with the Hall Director. Questionable charges arereviewed by Central Staff.

9) All METS charges are to be sent to the Associate Director via email once the charge has been deter-mined. The Assistant Director will keep METS accounts current for each hall.

Benefits of the METS Program1) METS fees educate students by paralleling the type of assessments and taxes they will experience as home owners.2) METS fees educate students about the cost of facility upkeep through publishing how much

“anonymous” damage costs the student population.3) METS fees encourage ownership in the physical environment, which in turn encourages peer confronta-

tions when the environment is threatened or damaged.4) METS fees aid in holding down maintenance costs that are passed on to students by anticipating the

usage of particular items, allowing the maintenance staff to buy items in bulk and keep costs down.5) METS records help document behavior problems on a particular floor or the behavior issues of a par-

ticular individual.6) METS charges impose a level of accountability on Residential and Greek Life staff members to see that

repairs are completed in a timely fashion.7) METS figures provide data for personnel planning.

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METS PurchasesPurchases for hall improvements through the METS program may be made twice a year. A building maypurchase items through METS in the fall if the average cost of damage per resident is under $3.00. Springpurchases are traditionally done during the summer. Guidelines for purchases are as follows:1) The hall (or designated official) must vote to decide if purchases will be made.2) At the end of the fall semester, the hall will decide whether they will make a mid-year purchase or save

their money for end of the year purchases.3) Each eligible hall is required to make an end of the year METS purchase.4) After a decision has been made to make either floor or hall purchases, the members of that hall council

must come up with ideas on how to spend their money.5) Once ideas are gathered, the council votes on whether to accept or reject the proposed items.6) If rejected, the council develops new ideas and holds another vote to accept or reject the new item

proposal.7) If accepted, the Hall Director will submit the accepted hall METS proposal to the supervising Assistant

Director on a METS Request form. The AD will review the purchase request and submit it to theAssociate Director. Final approval will be an agreement between the Assistant Director and theAssociate Director.

8) Make sure to include in the METS proposal a detailed description of each item your hall/floor wants topurchase (brand name, color, model number, price, etc.). Also included should be any associated instal-lation costs.

9) Special Note: METS purchases are used to improve the residence halls. METS money is not used tofund pizza parties, video nights, or other similar events.

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Section H

DeskOperations

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Desk Staff ExpectationsWe only get one chance to make a first impression to guests of our hall. A majority of the time, the firstperson that guests meet will be the person working the desk. The attitude, professionalism, and demeanor ofthe desk worker will play an important role in establishing a visitor’s perception of the residence halls. Whenworking the residence hall desk, there are some general expectations the desk worker will need to keep inmind when performing his/her duties:1) When answering the desk telephone, please say: (hall name) hall desk, this is (your name), may I help

you?2) Always pay attention to the counter; no customer should be unattended while the desk worker is talking

with a friend.3) If there is more than one customer at the desk at the same time, the desk worker should let the unat-

tended customer know that he/she will be helping them in a moment.4) Desk workers should be available to customers who need information; be knowledgeable about the

University and campus happenings.5) Desk workers should be pleasant to all customers, especially those who are not pleasant to them.6) Desk workers should do all assigned work given to them by their supervisor; and keep the desk area

neat, organized, and clean at all times.7) Notify the next desk worker in writing, if any assignments were not fully completed.8) Once all assigned work is done, desk workers are permitted to do homework at the desk.9) Never leave the desk unattended.10) Always be on time for work.11) It is the desk worker’s responsibility to find someone to fill their shift should there be a rescheduling

conflict. Any changes in scheduling should be reported to the desk supervisor and hall director.12) Only desk staff and Residential and Greek Life personnel are allowed behind the desk at any time.13) Do not play games, visit on the telephone, or sit on the desk when the desk is in operation. This

represents a lack of professionalism and discourtesy to our customers.14) Shortages or excesses in desk funds of more than $1.00 will be documented by a memo from the Hall

Director to the Assistant Director. Lost amounts should be reimbursed by the staff member on desk dutywhen the shortage occurred.

Dress Code

Desk workers are para-professionals. The physical appearance they present goes a long way in making the all-important first impression. Therefore, all desk workers should be neatly dressed. The following list is theminimal standards that are expected from desk workers:1) Dress neatly—no sweat pants, jogging shorts, cut-offs, or tank tops.2) Jeans can be worn if they are in good condition. No holes, tears, or fringes are permitted.3) Shoes should be worn at all times. Thong sandals or bare feet are not permitted.4) Be neatly groomed.

Hall Opening Cash AmountsFunds for the cash drawer should be obtained by writing a check on the account made payable to “Cash forResidence Hall Cash Drawer.” Any money for change machines is figured in the total. The amount of thecash drawer at each hall is as follows:

HALL DRAWER & RESERVE

Antelope $100 Martin $ 75CTE $ 75 Mens $ 75CTW $160 Nester $100Conrad $ 30 Randall $ 50Mantor $125 Stout $ 25

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Identification / NametagsAll Residential and Greek Life staff (including desk workers) must wear identification at all times. The UNKID card may serve as your identification nametag and can be worn either clipped to a shirt collar or around theneck on a lanyard. It is important that the ID card or nametag can be easily visible at all times, thereforeclipping the card to a belt or the waist of your pants is not permitted.

Deposits/Change

Change and deposits should be made at Kearney Federal Credit Union in Kearney. Deposits should be made asmoney is received from social funds, T-shirt sales, or fund raisers. It is the responsibility of the desk supervisor/HD to see that the desk has the proper change it needs to operate (please do not accept $10 bills or pennies).Therefore, communication between desk workers and the desk supervisor is important for the desk to be prop-erly funded and to operate effectively and efficiently.

Cash Report (Daily)

When the desk is opened each day, the desk worker should count the coins and bills in the cash drawer and enterthe amount under the beginning balance on the Daily Cash Report. During the day, the cash drawer should becounted and the amount recorded by each subsequent desk worker on duty (these shift balances should berecorded in a manner devised by the desk supervisor). At the end of each business day, the cash drawer shouldbe counted by the last desk worker on duty and the amount recorded on the closing balance section of the DailyCash Report. The desk supervisor should double check the closing balance, record any variance, and sign thereport.

Cash Drawer Reporting

The Hall Director is to report any discrepancies in the cash drawer to the Assistant Director for their area within24 hours. Lost amounts will be reimbursed by the staff member on desk duty when the shortage occurs. Whenthe loss can not be determined the amount will be divided among all staff and workers for that day.

Refunds

Refunds may be given for malfunctions of vending machines, washers, and dryers. When a student loses moneyin a machine, they should go to the hall desk to complete a refund slip and to receive their refund. ValleyVending Company (1-800-662-2924) will then collect the completed forms and reimburse the residence halldesk that accepted the refund. Persons abusing the refund system will be subject to disciplinary and/or civilactions.

Time Card Procedure

All desk workers that are not RAs must record their hours on a time card when they work the desk. Time-cardhours for each desk worker are to be totaled every week and signed by the desk worker. It is then the responsi-bility of the desk supervisor to re-calculate each desk worker’s time card to assure mathematical accuracy andthen sign it. Time cards are turned in to the Office of Residential and Greek Life every Friday. A schedule ofwhen time cards are due to be turned in will be distributed by the Office of Residential and Greek Life at thebeginning of each semester.

Desk Equipment Check-Out

Any desk equipment that is owned by the hall can only be checked-out by hall residents. Residents must leavea Student ID Card at the desk to use equipment. When working with the desk equipment, please keep in mindthe following items:1) When a resident wishes to use a hall owned item, they must leave a picture ID card (preferably a student

ID) with the desk worker.2) A file card box or logbook should be available so that ID cards can be filed until equipment is returned.

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3) When checking equipment out, make sure to record ALL items.4) Examine all equipment to make sure that it is being returned in the same condition as when it was

checked out.5) When equipment is returned, check the resident’s name off the log to indicate that the item(s) borrowed

have been returned.6) Desk equipment needs to be returned before the desk closes, therefore, the desk staff need to contact

students to return equipment checked-out.7) All checked-out items should be returned in a reasonable amount of time. All items should be returned

before the desk’s closing time.8) When the vacuum equipment needs to be repaired or it needs to be cleaned, please notify the desk

supervisor.

Lock-outs or Lost KeysIf a resident is locked-out, they must contact an RA who is not working the desk or the RA on duty. The residentwill be required to provide proof of identity with a picture I.D. Once identity has been verified, the resident willbe assessed a $1.00 fee. This fee will be given to Rho Alpha Sigma. If a resident loses his/her keys, he/she mustcontact the HD. A recore of the student’s room will be done within 24 hours of the notification of the lost keys.A check for the exact cost of the keys must accompany the request before another set of keys is issued. If astudent should find their lost keys a refund, minus the cost of the recore, will be given.

Mail DistributionUnited States Mail1) Mail is delivered to UNK by 11:00AM., Monday through Saturday.2) Residential and Greek Life staff must pick up their U.S. mail from the green postal boxes located near

their hall by 12:00PM. These boxes can be opened with a key provided through the Office of Residen-tial and Greek Life. Only Residential and Greek Life Staff and desk workers are to use the U.S. mailkey.

3) Mail is to be put into the resident’s mailbox by either the desk worker or a Residential and Greek Lifestaff member by 3:00PM each day. Mailboxes for students are located by the front desk, or if residentslive in URS or URN, the mailboxes are located by each chapter house. Only stamped, endorsed, orcampus mail may be placed into our mailboxes. Only UNK related flyers or any other miscellaneousitems with have been approved by the central office may be placed into a designated mailbox. Flyersand/or coupons for solicitation by off-campus vendors will not be allowed in the mailboxes unless itarrived through postage-paid US Mail.

4) Upon emptying the bag which the mail was delivered in, remove the tag in the metal handle and placethe bag back into the green postal box.

5) If your hall receives mail for a student that does not live in your hall, it must be forwarded, returned tosender, or thrown away within 24 hours of receiving that piece of mail. We are required by law toforward all first class mail for one year after a resident has moved out of the buildings.

6) Under no circumstances should anyone open a piece of mail that is not addressed directly to them. It isagainst the law and anyone found to be doing so will be prosecuted by the United States Postal Inspec-tor.

Mail ForwardingUnited States Mail1) Determine the type/class of mail you are dealing with. To do this, examine the top right hand corner of

the mail. In the “stamped” area it will indicate whether the mail is first class, Newspapers /MagazinesCatalogs, or Presorted Standard/Bulk rate/Non-Profit. Separate each class of mail so that you havethree piles: First Class, Newspapers/Magazines/Catalogs, and Presorted Standard/Bulk Rate.

2) Presorted Standard/Bulk Rate mail does not have to be forwarded, and can be thrown away unless it isendorsed “Forwarding Service Requested.” Any Presorted Standard/ Bulk Rate mail that has this en-dorsement should be put into the First Class pile of mail.

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3) Magazines/Newspapers/Catalogs are considered second-class mail and must be forwarded for 60 days.If the addressee has not lived at that address within the past 60 days that mail can be thrown away aswell unless it is endorsed “Forwarding Service Requested.” If the Magazines/Newspapers/ Catalogs isaddressed to someone who has lived at that address within the past 60 days or if the parcel is endorsed“Forwarding Service Requested” then put it in the First Class pile of mail.

4) The pile of mail you have left is all mail which needs to be forwarded. Go through that pile piece bypiece referencing the forwarding address list given to you by the Hall Director. If the person is on thelist with a forwarding address then that piece of mail must be forwarded there. To properly forward thatpiece of mail you must write “FORWARD TO:” followed by the forwarding address. If the person isnot on the list write “RETURN TO SENDER.” Keep the forwardable mail and the return to sender mailseparate from each other. Any campus mail which cannot be forwarded to an on-campus address shouldbe returned to sender through the on-campus mail system.

5) After you have written the correct forwarding address or return to sender you must black out the firstinch of the barcode on the bottom right hand of the parcel. Use up and down strokes with a black, ballpoint pen to obliterate the first inch of the barcode. This ensures that piece of mail will not return toyour building or “Loop.”

6) You should then separate the mail to be forwarded into four piles. These piles are based on the locationof the forwarding or return to sender address. The piles should be out of town mail, Kearney mail,return to sender, and on-campus mail. These piles should be bundled individually using rubber bandsand taken to the campus mail office and placed in the appropriate slot.

7) Any mail that returns to your building after the forwarding process occurs should be sorted out andplaced into a separate bundle. This bundle should be labeled with a green slip with the word “LOOP”placed on top of the bundle.

Hall Postal AddressesPlease refer to the Student Handbook for each hall’s postal address.

Campus Mail1) Campus mail must be picked up from the campus post office located in the Student Affairs Building

daily. To receive campus mail, you must use a combination to open your hall’s mailbox. This combina-tion will be available to the Hall Director and Assistant Hall Director. It is important that this numberremain confidential among only Residential and Greek Life staff members.

2) Upon gathering your hall’s campus mail (U.S. mail is also mixed in with campus mail occasionally) youare to take it back to the hall where it is put into the student’s mailbox.

3) Since campus mail does not have postage on it, it can only be forwarded on campus by writing the newforwarding address on the piece of mail and taking it back to campus mail or by putting it in the appro-priate hall mail box located in the Residential and Greek Life Office. If campus mail cannot be for-warded, it should be returned to sender through the Campus Post Office.

Packages:1) Packages are sent to your hall by U.S. mail, campus mail or private carriers.2) When packages are received at your hall, they are to be recorded in a package log. The log should have

the student’s name, type of delivery (box, package, large envelope), date delivered, date picked up andstudent signature. After entering the package in the log, a package slip must be put into the resident’smailbox to notify the resident that they received a package.

3) When the resident receives the package slip and requests their package, they must show their ID toidentify themselves, and then sign the package log as proof that they received their package.

Phone Number DistributionEach hall desk is issued a listing of all residence hall students to use for responding to requests for phonenumbers. Phone numbers are the only thing that may be given to other students. Addresses and StudentIdentification Number are to remain private and confidential.

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Emergency Procedures

See Emergency Procedures page 85.

DutyThere will be a RA on duty from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. when school is in session or when there are residentsoccupying the building. Some flexibility in the start and finish of duty times may exist from building tobuilding and during weekends. The RA will be responsible for taking care of any emergencies and securityconcerns that may arise in their building when they are on duty. This will include doing rounds inside and/oroutside the building, confronting residents who may be breaking university or residence hall policies, lockingthe doors each night at 11:00 p.m. and unlocking doors at 7:00 a.m. on weekend mornings. During weekendcoverage, duty staff are expected to be in the buildings and accessible to students and to respond to emer-gency situations. Duty staff may leave the building if they have made arrangements with another staffmember to cover the building(s). Duty staff must find coverage if they go off campus for the Sunday eveningmeal.

Duty LogEach hall will maintain a night duty log in an established location to be decided upon by the Hall Director/Assistant Hall Director and that hall staff. At the start of duty (5:00 p.m.), the staff member(s) will log in andrecord any appropriate information about happenings, observations, and/or discussions which transpire duringthe duty period (until 8:00 a.m.). Notations in the duty log do not take the place of an Incident Report orWork Request.

Hall Director DutyThe Hall Director on duty will be a designated contact person for the entire campus between the hoursof 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 am or any time the Residential and Greek Life is not open. During these hours,the Hall Director on duty should remain on campus and always carry the duty phone. On the week-ends, during the day hours, the Hall Director may leave campus for short periods, but must carry thecell phone. The Hall Director on duty is to be used by a staff member when his/her Hall Director isunavailable. When an incident takes place which a staff member feels a Hall Director should be awareof or which demands a Hall Director’s assistance, the Hall Director on duty should be contacted.

Cell Phone InformationThe Hall Director on duty will have a cell phone with them at all times. If for some reason you cannotcontact the Hall Director on duty at home or in their office by phone, you should be able to contact them bycalling the cell phone. The cell phone number is (308)440-3547. If you are unable to contact the HallDirector, contact an Assistant Director, Central Staff Member or Public Safety.

Duty ChangesMonthly duty schedules for Hall Directors, Assistant Hall Directors and RAs will be distributed to the Officeof Residential and Greek Life, Assistant Directors, and Public Safety. Switches in RA schedules need to bereported and authorized by the Hall Director/Assistant Hall Director that supervises the RA who wants toswitch duty. All Hall Director/Assistant Hall Director duty switches need to be reported to the AssistantDirectors and clerical staff in the Office of Residential and Greek Life.

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Section I

HallGovernment

System

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Residence Hall Association (RHA)

Purpose:The Residence Hall Association (RHA) at the University of Nebraska at Kearney is the student voice of theresidence halls. The purpose of RHA is to represent residents’ issues and concerns on campus, to providecampus-wide programming opportunities, to unite the residence halls and to promote a positive on-campusliving environment.

Election of Officers & Voting Rights:RHA is comprised of an executive board, two elected hall representatives from each hall, and an unlimitednumber of non-voting members from each hall. The RHA Executive Board includes the president, vice-president, secretary/treasurer, programming chair and the National Communications Coordinator (for

MACURH). The voting members of RHA elect executive board members in the spring of every year.

Hall representatives who have voting rights include the RHA representative and the vice-president from eachresidence hall. The executive board and hall representatives are charged with the responsibility to communicateactivities, policies, needs, and announcements to both their hall and house councils. Hall representatives alsoserve on various RHA committees to help in the planning and delivery of activities and study of issues.Voting members of RHA are required to serve on one of the following standing committees of RHA:

Issues and ConcernsSpecial Events/ProgrammingPublic Relations

Any residence hall student may participate in these committees, which meet weekly.

Residential and Greek Life’s Staff Role in RHA:

Hall Directors are encouraged to work with hall vice-presidents and general representatives to ensure con-cerns and issues of their hall governments are addressed at RHA meetings.

RAs are encouraged to promote RHA as a source of involvement as well as participate in weekly meetings andhelp with projects. RAs cannot be executives or voting members of RHA but may serve on a committee.

Hall Council

Purpose:

The Hall Council serves as a catalyst for ideas and hall spirit, and is a cornerstone of the hall’s identity. A HallCouncil is an effective educational experience if it is understood and utilized. To be successful, a Hall Councilmust be intentionally active. Hall council members work on projects that grow out of genuine interests, needs,and concerns of the hall residents.The Hall Council has the responsibility to 1) plan and deliver programs desired by hall residents, 2) oversee theallocation and expenditure of social fees; a specific portion of each budget will be set aside for programmaticneeds of the RAs, (this amount of money will be overseen by the Hall Director and RAs) 3) elect and sendrepresentatives to RHA, and 4) provide a channel for communicating and dealing with hall concerns and present-ing policy review/revisions to RHA when appropriate.

Officers & Voting Rights:

The Hall Council consists of the executive officers including the president, vice-president, secretary, treasurer,and RHA Representative. These officers are elected by a majority of the hall residents. All members of theexecutive board have voting privileges (the president votes only in the case of a tie). Many halls will also elector appoint representatives for such groups as intramurals. In the spring, the residence halls sponsor a generalelection to elect the executive officers for the upcoming fall. Executive officers are elected according to thehall’s constitution. Other members of the Hall Council may be elected or appointed early in the fall.

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Hall Government Position Descriptions:

Executive Board Qualifications1. Must be in good academic standing with the University of Nebraska at Kearney and

Residential and Greek Life.2. Must reside in the residence halls.

Executive Board General Responsibilities1. Works with Hall Director, Assistant Hall Director (if applicable) and RAs to build community

spirit/pride.2. Attends meetings of the executive board and Hall Council.3. Works with committees as assigned.4. Represents the hall responsibly and respectfully.

Specific Position Responsibilities:

President

1. Presides over executive board and Hall Council meetings.2. Serves as an official representative of the hall.3. Votes in the case of a tie.

Vice-President

1. Presides in the absence of the president.2. Assumes any and all duties in the absence of the secretary or treasurer.3. Meets with committee chairs on a regular basis.4. Attends all RHA business and committee meetings.5. Represents the hall’s opinion regarding issues and concerns as a voting member of RHA.

Secretary

1. Keeps official records and correspondence of the executive board and Hall Council.2. Keeps records of attendance at meetings.

Treasurer

1. Responsible for the disbursement of funds.2. Responsible for monthly financial reports.3. Responsible for end of the month bank reconciliation.4. Keeps executive board and Hall Council informed of status of hall funds.

RHA Representative

1. Attends all RHA business and committee meetings.2. Represents the hall’s opinion regarding issues and concerns as a voting member of RHA.3. Brings information to hall council meetings concerning RHA activities, plans, and concerns.

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Intramural Representative

1. Keeps hall informed of available activities and recreational opportunities.2. Posts intramural information.3. Informs hall of intramural rules, regulations, and deadlines.4. Promotes hall unity and spirit.

Residential and Greek Life’s Staff Role in Hall Government

During the first weeks of the academic year, the Hall Director, Assistant Hall Director, and RAs shouldactively promote involvement in RHA and hall government opportunities. A great deal of the future successof the hall depends on the attitudes and energies of the staff during the formative stages, as well as throughoutthe year. The goals of the executive officers and house vice-presidents should be seen as parallel to those ofstaff. As facilitators and advisors, hall staff must 1) understand and support the concept of hall government,and 2) put continuous thought and effort into the development of these groups. The Hall Director and/orAssistant Hall Director serve as the advisor(s) to Hall Council.

Hall Constitutions

Hall Constitutions need to be redone annually. Contact your area Assistant Director for morespecific information.

Hall Finances

Hall Checking Account

Each residence hall maintains a checking account at Kearney Federal Credit Union (234-9311). All accountsare to be reconciled each month and copies of the reconciled bank statement and check register are to beturned into the area Assistant Director by the 20th of the month.

Reconciling the Checkbook

The checking account should be reconciled at the conclusion of each fiscal month as soon as the bank statementis received. The Hall Director and hall treasurer are responsible for completing the reconciliation. The accountshould be reconciled by completing the worksheet on the reverse side of the bank statement. Copies of thecompleted worksheets, the front of the statement, and the most recent portion of the check register must besubmitted to the Associate Director of Residential and Greek Life within a week of receiving the bank statement.The original should be filed with the hall financial records. All records will be submitted to the AssociateDirector at the end of each academic year.

Voided Checks

If it is necessary to void a check, “VOID” should be written across the face of the check and the check should befiled with other financial hall records. Voided checks should not be destroyed.

Social Fees

To fund residence hall programs and activities, each Hall Council collects a social fee from residents living inthe hall. Each resident contributes $10.00 per academic year ($5.00 for those who will leave the hall in Decem-ber or $5.00 is collected from students who are new to campus in the spring). Hall Directors and/or AssistantHall Directors are responsible for supervising expenditures made from the hall account and for ensuring that

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funds are spent according to approved guidelines. Any requests for expenditures from the hall social fundaccount must be made in writing according to the procedure established by the Hall Director and/or AssistantHall Director and hall council executives. Types of activities for which social funds may be spent include, but arenot limited to, the following (address questions about expenditures to your Assistant Director):

1. Refreshments for programs2. Disc jockeys for dances3. Magazine & newspaper subscriptions4. Resources for the hall5. Trophies6. Hall or holiday decorations7. Intramural fees8. Hall or house photos9. Computer software10. Posters11. Desk equipment or supplies12. Conference fees

The following expenditures are not allowable:

1. Alcoholic beverages2. Contributions to individuals without prior approval from the Associate Director of

Residential and Greek Life3. Gifts to professional staff of the University of Nebraska at Kearney4. Checks written to hall staff or students except for social fund refunds

The Assistant Director for that hall must approve expenditures for any of the following:

1. Any expenditure over $200.002. Honorarium or consultant fee3. Band performances4. Purchase of tickets5. Scheduling vehicles from Motor Pool6. Purchase of equipment or supplies7. Any expenses incurred for off campus programs

There are two acceptable procedures for disbursing social funds. The Assistant Director for thathall must approve any deviation from these procedures:

1. The vendor is contacted prior to receiving the merchandise in order to obtain an exact cost.The treasurer prepares a check for that amount, the Hall Director and/or Assistant HallDirector signs it, and the resident picks up the item(s). The resident receives an itemizedinvoice from the vendor and the invoice is given to the hall treasurer to be filed. Record thepurchase and a brief description of the expenditures in the check register.

2. When the exact cost of an item is not available, the hall council may vote on a maximumexpenditure amount. The Hall Director and/or Assistant Hall Director, treasurer, or presidentis responsible for returning an itemized invoice to the hall for the treasurer’s records.

3. Only the University may sign contracts for vendors.

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RHA Dues

The Residence Hall Association (RHA) is funded through a $10.00 social fee collected from each resident uponcheck-in. Therefore, the amount of the fee for each hall will be based on your first occupancy report. This$10.00 fee is non-refundable.

Hall Fund-Raising

Fund-raising cannot be done by professional or Residential and Greek Life student staff for personal or profes-sional benefit (food, conference fees, or transportation). Also, fund-raising cannot be done by student groups forthe personal or professional benefit of staff at the University of Nebraska at Kearney. Collection of funds torecognize custodial and maintenance staff is allowed but must be conducted under the supervision and guidanceof the Assistant Director. Fund-raising in order to purchase gifts for professional staff is inappropriate. Gifts forprofessional staff must be purchased by individual contributions. If fund-raising is done to raise revenues for ahall social activity (i.e. a meal or snacks), all persons in the hall must be eligible to attend.

Hall Council Budget

The hall social fee is collected from hall residents to provide programs, activities, and services to students whilethey are living in the hall. The objective should be to spend each year’s social fund within that academic year onactivities and programs for residents. When possible, no more than the amount (cash drawer plus reservesspecified for your hall) required to open the desk the following fall should be held over into the following yearfor opening. This amount should be the final deposit made at the end of the year. Each hall budget is the“treasury” of the Hall Director, hall council, and hall staff for the benefit of the residents. The fund does notbelong to any one hall group or individual. A mutually acceptable method of allocating funds must be deter-mined by all three of the above entities in the initial weeks of the first semester. This method should include abudget projection for the academic year allocating monies to traditional programs, supplies, and staff program-ming. A budget committee should be formed with the mission of reviewing all budget requests and submittingrecommendations for allocation to the hall council. A projected budget for the fall semester and an updatedbudget in the spring semester must be submitted to the Assistant Director by the end of the fourth week of thesemester. It is strongly suggested that the newly elected officers propose the budget for the following year at theend of the spring semester.

House Council

Purpose:

The house council, also referred to as floor council, allows residents to become more involved in their residencehall living experience. With a set of officers for each house, every resident should know who represents him/her.Thus, the residents will be better informed and subsequently feel more comfortable in sharing ideas and sugges-tions for creating a better living environment. The house council serves as a liaison between the house and theHall Council.

Officers & Voting Rights:

The house council consists of a president and vice-president. The secretary and treasurer positions are usuallycombined. Other elected or appointed positions include programming representative and intramural representa-tive. The house council president presides over house meetings. At these meetings, members discuss concernsabout the house and the hall. The house council will also plan activities and programs to benefit the house.Adherence to parliamentary procedure tends to be more casual at this level of hall governance, and votingprivileges vary depending on the structure of the house council.

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Residential and Greek Life’s Role in House Government:

RAs are liaisons between the house and the Office of Residential and Greek Life. Each house in the hall has itsown unique personality, but often the RA can influence this personality. This influence can be either positive ornegative depending on the amount of effort and skill the RA utilizes when working with the house council tocreate a positive atmosphere. RAs advise the house council. This is often a challenging position because youmust be willing to support Residential and Greek Life policy, keep the house council positive and active and notbecome the main leader within the house council. Learning how to be an effective advisor takes time andenergy, especially at the beginning of the year.

Greek Governance

Inter-Fraternity Council (IFC):

Membership of the Inter-Fraternity Council is composed of elected representatives from each active fraternitychapter at the University of Nebraska at Kearney. IFC acts as the governing body for UNK fraternities byfostering quality communication and coordinating efforts among them. IFC facilitates semester recruitment, aswell as many other campus and community activities.

Panhellenic Council:

Panhellenic acts as the governing body for the national sororities active at the University of Nebraska at Kear-ney. Membership of the Panhellenic Council is composed of three selected delegates from each sorority. Pan-hellenic stands for scholastic excellence, guarding good health, maintaining high standards, and serving thecollege community. It implements recruitment and encourages scholastic achievement and philanthropic in-volvement.

National Residence Hall Honorary (NRHH)

The National Residence Hall Honorary is not an official governing body but is composed of residence hallstudents who have shown outstanding service and leadership to the hall system. NRHH, as a group, sponsors andencourages leadership development and recognition. Their “Of The Month” awards is a project which recog-nizes the individual and group efforts of hall councils, hall staffs, and residence hall students in the followingcategories: Student, RA, Advisor, Spotlight, Executive Member, NRHH Chapter, NCC, Community ServiceProgram, Educational Program, OTM Diversity Program and Social Program

“Of The Month” Awards

What are OTMs?OTMs are ways for UNK, its students, and programs to be recognized on a local as well as national level.OTMs may be submitted for advisors, programs, NRHH chapter, NCC, student, spotlight, executive boardmember, and resident assistant. OTMs are used to highlight the exceptional impact that the OTM nomineehas on the residence hall community.

• Advisor: Advisor may be from any residence hall student organization.• Program: RHA, hall council, student, or RA sponsored program or activity. Must be placed in one

of these categories: community service, educational, social, or diversity.• Student: RAs NCCs, advisors, and campus-wide residence hall executives are not eligible for this

award, but every other student is!• Spotlight: OTM for which all other nomination forms do not cover. Be creative!• Executive Board Member: Campus-wide executive board member, i.e. NRHH, RHA.

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• Resident Advisor: Nominee must be a RA.• Community: Nomination of a hall, floor, wing, or group of students is permitted for this OTM.

Student leader and residence hall staff contributions may be included.

How do I nominate an OTM?Nomination forms are available from your RHA representative or hall council vice-President (see exampleforms on the next page). If they do not have the forms, contact the Residence and Greek Life Office. ForOTMs to be considered for national submission, they must be typed. Files are available on a disk in theOffice of Residential and Greek Life resource room. Currently, NRHH members will type forms if they aresubmitted hand written. To nominate an OTM, simply complete the nomination form and submit the form toNRHH!

When must OTM nominations be turned in and where are they turned in?OTM nominations are due the 5th of the month following nomination. Nominations are submitted in theNRHH box located in the Office of Residential and Greek Life in Conrad Hall.

Tips for filling out nomination forms:Detail is necessary. Use descriptive action verbs and explain why the person, program, or community shouldreceive recognition with an OTM. Also, when entering the month at the top of the form, include the year.(i.e. February 1999) Be sure to PROOFREAD! Clearly state what you intend to say. For example: Poor—Bob is a great RA. Good—Bob encourages the involvement of all his residents in the activities he creates andattempts to target different interests on his floor. (Then continue to explain how Bob does this.)

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NACURH, INC. MONTH/YEAR: ___________________

OF THE MONTH

OTM CATEGORY (PLEASE CHECK ONLY ONE REFER TO THE NACURH OTM MANUAL FOR MORE INFORMATIONON WHICH CATEGORY SHOULD BE SELECTED.)

ADVISOR COMMUNITY EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBER

NCC NRHH CHAPTER RESIDENTIAL ASSISTANT

SPOTLIGHT STUDENT

NOMINEE’S SCHOOL:______________________REGION: __________________________NOMINEE: ______________________ NOMINATOR: __________________________ADDRESS: ______________________ ADDRESS: __________________________

______________________ __________________________PHONE: ______________________ PHONE: __________________________EMAIL: ______________________ EMAIL: __________________________ON-CAMPUS POPULATION:_______________ Chapter size (if applicable): ____________

NOMINATIONS MUST BE TYPED IN A READABLE FONT ON THIS FORM IN THE SPACE PROVIDED ABOVE AND MUST NOT

EXCEED 600 WORDS. NOMINATIONS NOT FOLLOWING THIS FORMAT MAY NOT BE CONSIDERED FOR A NATIONAL

AWARD. NO ADDITIONAL MATERIAL WILL BE CONSIDERED. NOMINATIONS MUST BE POSTMARKED TO THE NRHHREGIONAL ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR BY THE 15TH OF THE MONTH FOLLOWING THE MONTH OF NOMINATION.

REVISED MAY 1999

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NACURH, INC. Month/Year: ____________

PROGRAM OF THE MONTHPROGRAM CATEGORY: (PLEASE CHECK ONLY ONE):

COMMUNITY SERVICE ____ EDUCATIONAL ____ REGION: ____

NOMINEE’S SCHOOL: ___________________________ REGION: _____________

PROGRAM’S TITLE: ___________________________

PERSON(S) IN CHARGE OF PROGRAM: NOMINATOR: ______________

Target Population (in numbers): _________ ADDRESS: _________________

Number of people in attendance: _________ _________________

Number of people needed to organize:_________ _________________

On-campus population: _________ PHONE: _________________

EMAIL: _________________

Time needed to organize: ________

ADDRESS: ___________________________________ Date(s) of program: ___________

___________________________________ Cost of program: ___________

PHONE: ___________________________________

PLEASE GIVE A SHORT DESCRIPTION OF THE PROGRAM (NOT TO EXCEED 400 WORDS):

EMAIL:________________________________

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Origin of Program:

WORD COUNT (400 maximum):_______

Goals of the program:

WORD COUNT (200 maximum):_______

Positive and lasting effects of the program:

WORD COUNT (200 maximum)________

Short evaluation of the program:

WORD COUNT (200 maximum)________

How could this be adapted to other campuses?

WORD COUNT (200 maximum)________

Nominations must be typed in a readable font on this form in the space provided above and eacharea must not exceed 200 words unless otherwise specified. Nominations not following this formatmay not be considered for a national award. No additional material will be considered. Nominationsmust be postmarked to the NRHH Regional Associate Director by the 15th of the month following themonth of nomination.

REVISED MAY 1999