Northern Arizona University

What is Northern Arizona University’s live-in policy?

Students are not required to live on campus.  Students have found, however, that campus living is convenient and affordable.  Research from around the country continues to identify residence hall living as a primary factor in improving student retention and satisfaction with the college and university experience.

What is a Learning Community?

Learning Communities (LC) bring together a cluster of students living in a residence hall who share a common academic major or area of interest. The value of a Learning Community is its ability to provide a strong bridge between faculty, staff, and students. Activities and events related to majors and/or special interests are planned for Learning Community members, including interaction and involvement with faculty and staff in the residence hall setting.  The Learning Communities offered include:

• Business LC (Aspen Crossing Learning Community or McConnell Hall)
• Education House (Cowden Hall or Reilly Hall)
• Forestry LC  - “Tree House” (Reilly Hall)
• Eco House (Sustainability) (Aspen Crossing Learning Community)
• HRM (Hotel Restaurant Management) LC (Sechrist Hall)
• Outdoor Recreation House (McConnell Hall or Reilly Hall)
• The Honors Program (Cowden Hall)

What academic resources do the residence halls provide?

The residence halls provide a variety of academic initiatives to help students succeed.  Because a large amount of learning occurs outside of the classroom, our goal is for students to become better learners through their interactions with the following programs:

ü  Resource Centers - in our freshman halls where free tutoring and quiet study areas are offered.

ü  Study Rooms - throughout the residence halls where students can find solitude.

ü  Student and Staff Connections - in the area of academics to help students succeed.

ü  Programming - for all residents in the time management, test taking, study tips and other subjects.

ü  Residential Environments - combining a fun community and academic support under one roof. 

When can my student get access to his/her residence hall room?

The residence halls open at 9:00am on August 20^th for Fall 2009.  Students should check in by going directly to their residence hall. If students are unsure of their hall assign­ment, they should contact Residence Life at (928) 523-3978.

My student wants to connect to the campus computer network from her residence hall room. What should she do?

Your student will want to access ResNet, a service offered to students living in the residence halls.  ResNet brings high-speed Ethernet connections to the residence halls. There is no charge for a ResNet connection, but your student may need to buy a network adapter for his/her computer. (This is not the same as a modem.) They're available at the bookstore, starting around $40. The bookstore also carries a complete ResNet package with an adapter, network cable, software, and instructions.

The ResNet staff has set up a website which will answer your student’s questions about getting set up for ResNet, required hardware, technical support, and much more. Just visit their site at www.nau.edu/resnet.

Where can my student rent a refrigerator and microwave?

Freshman halls have refrigerators in every room.  The Residence Hall Association (RHA) rents microwaves to students living in the residence halls. The office is located in the University Union room 204 or call (928) 523-2341.

What type of telephone service is available in a residence hall room?

Local service only and students must provide their own telephone and cord (as well as an answering machine).  Call waiting is available on all residence hall telephones.  To have call waiting added or removed, students should call Telecomm Support at (928) 523-7474.  Some answering machines will not work properly when off-campus calls are received.  Campus voice mail is NOT available for student phone service. Students must use their personal cell phone, calling card or call collect for all long distance service.  

Students may use almost any calling card, personal 800 number, or can call collect from their rooms. Students can not accept collect calls from campus phones. 900 numbers cannot be dialed from any telephone on campus.

What is the visitation/guest policy in the residence halls?

Overnight guests of the same sex are permitted for a maximum stay of three nights with permission of the roommate.  Guests must register at the residence hall front desk.  Students are responsible for seeing that their guests follow all university and residence hall regulations and procedures. Each resident is personally responsible for the conduct of his/her guest while in the residence halls.  No more than two (2) overnight guests are allowed per room at any time. 

My student is having trouble getting along with her roommate. What should she do?

We recommend that she talk first with the resident assistant (RA). These trained staff members work to help students find ways to resolve issues. If problems persist, your student should talk with the Residence Hall Director (RHD).  For the telephone number of the hall's front desk, contact the Office of Residence Life at (928) 523-3978.

What exactly do resident assistants do?

Student resident assistants (RAs) live on each floor of the residence halls. RAs help to build community relation­ships between the residents on their floor and are specifi­cally trained to assist residents with personal or academic issues, participate in conflict resolution, provide social and educational programming, and support residence life policy and regulation enforcement. Applications for RA staff positions are available each spring, and resident assistants are hired after an intensive interview process.

What involvement opportunities are there in the residence halls?

Residents can become involved in many programs and activities. Hun­dreds of activities and programs of an educational, social, or recreational nature are offered each year in the halls. These programs are supported by the student-led Residence Hall Association (RHA), hall senates, student clubs and organizations, or through Residence Life, and Dining Services. RHA represents the interests of all students living in the residence halls and offers students opportunities in leadership development. Students are encouraged to take part in the activities avail­able to them.

Each of our residence halls sponsors a variety of annual social and educational programs.  Some of the eagerly anticipated programs each year include:  Gabapolooza, the Tunnel of Oppression, the Taylor Haunted House, the Lumberjack Lip Sync, Greek Week, and the Lumberjack Luau.

What is NAU’s policy regarding alcohol in the residence halls?

Students under the legal age of 21 are not permitted to possess or consume alcohol in university residence halls.  The use or possession of alcoholic beverages or alcohol beverage containers in a substance free/alcohol free building is prohibited.  The use/possession of kegs or "party bowls" in private living quarters within the residence halls or other campus living units is prohibited (a keg is defined as a barrel or large receptacle to contain alcoholic beverages). 

On-campus possession of alcoholic beverages of those of legal age (21) will be allowed only in residence hall rooms of those who are of legal age.  Personal consumption of alcoholic beverages by residents of legal drinking age or their invited guests (also of legal drinking age), in private living quarters in the residence halls or other campus living units, shall not unduly interfere with the rights of others, nor cause the normal operation of the residence halls or campus living unit to be disrupted. 

It is illegal for those of legal drinking age to provide alcohol to any person under 21 years of age. 

DINING

What types of meal plans are available for students?

All freshmen living on campus are required to purchase a meal plan.  Students may choose one of three options: 10 meals per week, 14 meals per week or 19 meals per week.  A 10 meal-per-week meal plan will be assigned to any freshman living on campus who does not select a plan.  Transfer students, returning students and those living off campus may choose from any of the above options as well as semester plans, block plans or Dining Dollars only plans.  More information on these plans are available at nau.edu/dining.

Does Northern Arizona University’s “pledge” apply to meal plans?

Yes, meal plans come with a two year price guarantee.  In other words, students who purchase a meal plan this year will be guaranteed the current rates for the following year as well, no surprises, no guessing.

How does my student use his/her meal plan and dining dollars?

There are two primary ways to use “meals” from a meal plan.  The first is to dine in one of the all-you-care-to-eat locations (Hot Spot in the University Union or The DüB in the du Bois Center).  One meal swipe will allow your student to go into either location and get whatever they’d like to eat and stay as long as they want.  The other option is to use a meal at one of the on-campus retail locations.  These locations provide “Transfer Specials” that allow students to use a meal to pay for a combination of retail offerings, similar to a “combo meal”.  Dining Dollars are intended to supplement a meal plan by allowing students to use them just like cash in all dining locations, saving at least 10% on sales tax. 

My student has special dietary needs. Can Dining Services help accommodate those needs?

Yes!  Campus Dining provides a variety of dining choices at every meal including specialty items such as vegan, vegetarian, some gluten-free options and low-fat meals.   Menus are posted online, complete with information regarding ingredients, allergens and nutritional content.  Campus Dining also works with a nutritionist on campus to develop balanced menus and healthy dining options.  The nutritionist is also available for one-on-one consultations. 

Can meal arrangements be made if my student becomes sick?

If your student is ill and unable to leave his/her residence hall to eat, give the Resident Assistant a call.  There are forms located in all the residence halls that the RA can fill out with your student which will allow the RA to use the student’s card to pick up a “to-go” meal from one of the all-you-care-to-eat dining locations. 

CAMPUS INVOLVEMENT AND ACTIVITIES

Should students get involved in campus activities during their first year on campus?

The most difficult part of the transition to college life is leaving a familiar social support group and entering an unfamiliar setting. The best way for freshmen to work through these issues is through campus involvement. It is extremely important for freshmen to connect with a positive and productive peer group when they arrive on campus. Residence hall floors and organizations, student organizations, professional groups, and athletic teams are a few of the positive student groups that will help freshmen get through those first months on campus and form lasting friendships.

How do new students get involved in student organizations and activities?

The Office of Student Life located in the University Union room 105 has information from all clubs and organizations on campus.  Student involvement is encouraged in all activities, programs, and organizations on campus. There are approximately 200 recognized student organizations from which students can choose to participate including service and special interest organizations, political groups, professional and depart­mental organizations, sports and recreational clubs, pro­gramming and activities, religious organizations, Greek organizations, and honoraries. No matter what interests the student may have, there are opportunities for involve­ment. Other ways students find involvement opportuni­ties are through their residence hall, Greek chapter house, college or department, or through other students. Fur­ther information is available online at www.nau.edu/stulife.

Can you tell me more about the fraternities and sororities on campus?

Greek letter organizations (also know as fraternities and sororities) have existed on college and university cam­puses since before the American Revolutionary War. Fraternities and sororities have been a part of the Northern Arizona University community for more than 75 years.

There are eight national sororities and fourteen national fraternities at NAU. While many think of fraternities and sororities as only “social” groups, Greek organizations offer students a world of opportunities to develop their leadership abili­ties, enhance their academic skills, and participate in service and fund-raising efforts. Fraternities and sorori­ties were the first college student organizations to focus on serving the needs of others. Greeks donate a significant amount of time and money each year to organizations such as the Children’s Miracle Network, the American Cancer Society, Ronald McDonald House, the American Red Cross, United Way, the Salvation Army, and the Head Start program.

Is hazing a problem in fraternities and sororities?

The university has a strict anti-hazing policy. Any student or group of students found guilty of hazing another student will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law and face University sanctions as well.  Additionally, each national fraternity and sorority represented on campus has a strict anti-hazing policy. If a particular fraternity or sorority chapter is found guilty of hazing, its national recognition would be in danger of revocation.

Is drinking a problem in fraternities and sororities at NAU?

Nationally, fraternity and sorority leaders have recognized the need to aggressively address the issue of alcohol in Greek organizations. Some national fraternities have committed to being totally alcohol-free, and Mountain View, the Greek residence hall on the campus, is a substance-free hall. Personnel involved with the advisement of the fraternities and sororities represented on campus require that all functions involving alcohol be registered with Greeks Advocating for the Mature Management of Alcohol (GAMMA).   Each national fraternity and sorority office has strict guidelines and policies govern­ing the use of alcohol.

How is living in a fraternity or sorority different from living in the residence halls?

Mountain View Hall is an all-Greek residence hall located near the student recreation center in the central portion of the campus. Mountain View serves as the campus focal point for Greek life and activities. This $14.1 million facility opened in 1990 and is the home of eight national sororities and ten fraternities. Each floor has a chapter room available for use by the organization which occupies that wing in the building. A study room, TV lounge, kitchen, conference rooms, computer resource center, bicycle storage, and laundry facilities are all located within Mountain View. Student rooms are suite-style, with four students sharing a suite containing two bedrooms and a bathroom. The hall is staffed with 12 resident assistants, one full-time Residence Hall Director, one graduate Residence Hall Director, and a Greek Life Graduate Assistant to assist students with adjusting to college life.

After students participate in recruitment, time is dedicated to transferring students into Mountain View from other residence halls if space is available and the move is the preference of the individual.  There is a strong “family” feeling of connectedness and comfort, as well as Greek Unity.  Activities such as dances, dinners, and activities surrounding events such as Homecoming are scheduled throughout the year. These events give new members the opportunity to meet others, and many activities are time-honored traditions. Fraternity and sorority members have an immediate support system available to them, particularly with regard to academics. Fraterni­ties and sororities provide scholastic support programs that create a learning atmosphere. Specifically, they offer structured/required study hours each week, peer tutoring, and workshops on time management.

Is it expensive to be a member of a fraternity or sorority?

Dues average approximately $300.00 per semester, which covers organization activities, group insurance, and national costs.  First time members will pay an additional “new member” fee to purchase new member manuals, badges, and start up educational materials.  All of our Greek letter organizations have payment plans for students who would like to spread out the cost of dues over the course of a semester/year.  Members of Greek organizations receive lifetime membership; however, they are only required to pay dues as undergraduates.

When can students join fraternities and sororities?

Typically, students join fraternities and sororities at the beginning of the fall term. Students interested in participating in fall recruitment activities should con­tact the Greek Life office at (928) 523-5840 or nau.edu/greeklife for more information. Joining is not limited to the fall, however. A student can join at any point throughout the school year, provided there are membership openings in the organizations.

What types of leadership opportunities are available for students?

Students have a great deal to do with what happens on any college campus, and Northern Arizona University is no exception. Student organizations, the Associated Students of Northern Arizona University (ASNAU), Greek Life, and residence hall government are just a few of the places where students can get leader­ship experiences. These student groups provide officer or coordinating opportunities. Student programs and activities are also a good way to get leader­ship experience. Many of the entertainment and special events on campus are coordinated by students through the registered clubs and organizations.  For information on leadership opportunities, students should stop by the Student Life or ASNAU offices in the University Union.

Are students involved in the shared governance structure at the university?

Absolutely. Student voices and concerns are important at Northern Arizona University. Students serve as represen­tatives at the highest levels of institutional governance, including the Arizona Board of Regents. The Associ­ated Students of Northern Arizona University (ASNAU) serves as the student government on campus. ASNAU has a strong history of electing talented student leaders who represent student concerns and issues to the administration.

Are there opportunities for my student to work on student publications?

Students produce, design, and edit the university’s student newspaper, the Lumberjack and the web version, The Lumberjack Online. All material included in the publications is produced by student staff members. There is an opportunity for students to be writers, graphic designers, sales and marketing representatives, photographers, and editors. Professional staff members offer guidance, educational opportunities, and support for those students involved in student publications. Some of these positions are paid positions, but students can be as involved as their academic schedules allow. Students interested in becoming involved should stop by the Lumberjack Office in the Communication Building.

What other types of recreational activities are available?

The multipurpose Recreation Center and the Wall Aquatic Center offer a variety of recreational opportunities for students, alumni, faculty, and staff members.

The Recreation Center features a fully equipped weight room, two court basketball/volleyball gymnasium, five glass-back racquetball courts, an aerobic/dance studio, indoor climbing wall, locker rooms, and conference rooms for meetings, classes, seminars or activities. Additionally, this facility serves as the main office for Campus Recreation Services and houses the Fitness/Wellness, Intramural, Sports Clubs, Outdoor Adventures, and Child Enrichment program offices.

The Wall Aquatic Center offers an Olympic-size pool, complete with eight 50-meter lanes, two 1-meter and two 3-meter diving boards, underwater viewing and filming windows, and state-of-the-art aquatics technology. There is also an instruction/therapy shallow area, a weight room and classroom. Swimming and scuba diving classes are available at the Aquatic Center.

Intramural Sports provide students the opportunity to participate in as many organized athletic and non-athletic activities as their time and interest permit. Activities are organized on both a team and individual basis and range from the more conventional sports of flag football and softball to inner-tube water polo and backgammon. There are three divisions: men's, women's, and co-recreational. Leagues within the men's division are divided into residence hall, fraternity, and independent units. Events are categorized into three groups: major team, minor team, and special events.

Give the Rec Center a call at (928)523-1732 and they can help direct students to the programs that best fit their needs!

What types of cultural and entertainment activities are available for students?

Ardrey and Ashurst Auditoria are multipurpose performing arts facilities dedicated to serving Northern Arizona University and the Flagstaff community.  A variety of patrons are served including: on-campus user-groups, community groups, touring groups, and the Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra.  Events include concerts, recitals, lectures, banquets, dance performances, operas, conferences, touring shows, and other public functions.

Sun Entertainment is Northern Arizona University’s entertainment promotion and production company.  Sun Entertainment provides social, recreational and cultural activities to the campus community.  Sun provides major concerts and comedians as well as various Student Union programs including Noon Tunes, the SUN Scenes Gallery and the popular Friday night AfterHours program.

How do I get tickets to events?

The Central Ticket Office is the source for tickets to sports, arts, the Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra, and all entertainment events held at Northern Arizona University.  Tickets may be purchased in person or, for an additional fee, by calling (928) 523-5661 or toll free 1-888-520-7214.  Tickets may also be purchased over the internet at ticketmaster.com or at any Ticketmaster outlet.

The Central Ticket Office is located in the University Union.

STUDENT BEHAVIOR

Are there policies that address students’ conduct on campus?

When a student accepts admission to Northern Arizona University, the student agrees to behave in accordance with university standards. The university reserves the right, on the recommendation of the Dean of Students (designee) to terminate at any time the enrollment of a student who proves to be an undesirable member of the student body.

In compliance with state law, the Arizona Board of Regents has adopted a student Code of Conduct which establishes rules and regulations governing the behavior of students in attendance at the university. Copies of this code may be accessed via the Student Life website (nau.edu/stulife) or obtained in the Office of Student Life. In addition, the university has developed certain regulations to ensure an orderly academic environment where all members of the community have the freedom to develop to the fullest extent.

What should my student do if he or she is involved in the violation of the Student Code of Conduct?

Because the route of due process varies for different violations, students should contact the Office of Student Life for assistance. Professional staff members in the Dean of Students’ office are available to interpret university regulations, help students understand the seriousness of offenses, and provide counsel on courses of action that may be taken or sanctions that may be imposed.

Will I be advised if my student is in violation of a university regulation or policy?

In most cases, no. With the exception of severe or repeated drug and alcohol violations by students under age 21, student conduct records, like all education records, are protected under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). This federal law prohibits the disclosure of information about a student’s academic or conduct status unless the disclosure is in compliance with a lawfully issued subpoena or on an internal educational need-to-know basis. Such records are treated as confidential information and cannot be released to anyone outside of the university without the student’s written consent or unless directed to do so by a court of law.

Are records kept of conduct violations and disciplinary actions?

A record of all official university disciplinary actions is maintained in the Office of Student Life. Known as a “conduct file,” this information is available to university employees who have a demonstrated need to know and, with some limited exceptions, to other individuals authorized by the student to have access. A student has the right to review the information con­tained in his or her disciplinary file. Individual items contained in the record are deleted when a student graduates or seven years from the date of entry, which­ever occurs later.

What if my student has concerns or questions about an administrative or academic policy or procedure and how it has been applied to him or the way he has been treated?

The best and quickest way to resolve a problem is to contact the person or office involved. It is recommended that if a student has a problem that he or she take it directly to the faculty member, department head, dean, or director/manager of the unit involved. If your student does not know with whom to discuss the problem or needs additional assistance, he or she should contact the Office of Student Life. This office can advise students regarding appropriate routes of appeal, including college/academic appeals processes. Students need to be aware that, in most cases, there are time limits for when an appeal can be filed.

Where does a student go to register a complaint of misconduct?

Students have a number of options.  If illegal activity is occurring or suspected, students should contact the NAUPD at (928) 523-3000 (emergency line) or (928) 523-3611 (non-emergency line). Students also may talk to their Resident Assistants or Hall Directors about misconduct issues.  Finally, the Office of Student Life has a Student Disciplinary Referral Form that can be obtained either on-line at studentlife/rights.asp  or may be picked up in the Office of Student Life (room 105 University Union).

 

Revised 7/30/09