Annual Security Report

Transcription

1 Annual Security Report SEPTEMBER 2017 FPM & Campus Security Office VIRGINIA INTERNAITONAL UNIVERSITY 4401 VILLAGE DRIVE FAIRFAX, VA

2 Table of Contents Message from the Office of Emergency Management & Campus Security... 3 About Virginia International University... 4 VIU Mission & Vision... 4 Mission Statement... 4 VIU Learning Objectives... 4 Philosophy... 4 Governance... 5 Board of Trustees... 5 Executive Committee... 5 Ancillary Committees... 6 Campus Security Act/Clery Act... 6 Reporting Criminal Activity & Other Emergencies... 6 Additional Reporting Options for Victims of Interpersonal Violence... 7 Emergency Notifications and Timely Warnings... 8 SMS Alert System... 8 Campus Security Authorities... 8 Missing Persons Protocol... 9 Security & Access to Campus Facilities... 9 Adequate Lighting University Sponsored Transportation Crime Prevention Staying Informed Safety Education Program Campus Law Enforcement & Security Reporting Criminal Activity: Reporting Crimes and Professional Counselors Criminal Activity outside of the VIU Campus Alcohol & Drug Use Prevention Programs Associated Health Risks Legal Sanctions Suspension of Federal Student Aid

3 Sexual Violence, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence & Stalking Definitions Reporting Confidentiality and Anonymity Timely Warnings Bystander Intervention and Risk Reduction Resolution Disclosures Registered Sex Offender Information Emergency Preparedness & Evacuation Procedures Emergency Planning Policy Policy Justification Entities Impacted Emergency Levels University Response to an Emergency VIU Emergency Management Committee Designated Essential Service Units Incident Command Structure Emergency Preparedness Emergency Communications Essential Personnel Types of Emergencies Evacuation Route & Campus Map Crime Statistics

4 Message from the Office of Emergency Management & Campus Security September 30, 2016 Dear Members of the VIU Community, One of the most important missions of our university is to ensure that we provide a high quality education product, in a safe and welcoming environment. In fulfillment of this mission, we work with a team of safety and security professionals who have responsibilities to include deterrence, prevention, and response to emergencies or crimes of any nature. The report that follows this letter is our annual security report, and it outlines some of the different policies and measures that Virginia International University takes in order to ensure the safety and security of our campus and community. To this end, we believe that the security and safety of our campus is a truly collaborative process, and that as members of the VIU Community, we all have responsibilities in ensuring campus safety. This includes simple actions, such as reporting suspicious activity. Anonymity and confidentiality will be protected n all circumstances to the fullest extent possible. If, after reading our annual security report, you have questions or concerns about the safety of our campus, please do not hesitate to reach out to our office at (703) extension 318, or via at QA@viu.edu. Sincerely, Office of Emergency Management & Campus Security Virginia International University 4401 Village Drive Fairfax, VA

5 About Virginia International University Virginia International University (VIU) was founded in 1998 as a private, non-profit university committed to setting a new standard in higher education. Through our student-centered approach, we strive to provide the most positive environment for learning available anywhere. Our programs are structured to allow students great flexibility in the design and direction of their own studies. At the same time, every student is assigned a personal mentor who acts as a guide in course selection and career orientation. VIU offers tuition scholarships to qualified students, because we believe that good education should be available to everyone, including those who do not have the necessary funds to pursue higher education. VIU provides programs in the fields of business, computer information systems, project management, public and international affairs, education, and linguistics and language studies. To keep pace with the latest developments in technology and teaching, our curriculum and materials are regularly reviewed and revised, and our instructors receive further training, as necessary. As students near completion of their programs, VIU career counselors help place them in internships and other work-study positions with local companies and organizations. VIU Mission & Vision Mission Statement Virginia International University s mission is to educate students from all over the world through a highly qualified, equally diverse faculty and staff, while striving to provide academic programs at the graduate, undergraduate, and certificate levels that engender the intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity urgently needed in the global community and with a commitment to providing students with the knowledge to achieve excellence in research, scholarship, and creative endeavors. VIU Learning Objectives Upon graduation from Virginia International University, students will be able to: 1. Think critically and creatively 2. Communicate effectively in speech & in writing 3. Demonstrate leadership and expertise in a scholarly discipline, and understand that discipline in relation to the larger world 4. Work productively as individuals and in groups 5. Use reason to make decisions based on an understanding of ethics and a respect for Philosophy diversity to make a positive contribution to society. As a community of students, staff, and faculty drawn from diverse national, cultural, and social backgrounds, VIU aims to improve the environment in which freedom of thought and diverse interpretations of human experiences are cherished. It is our hope and expectation that each member of the university will develop a greater awareness of, and responsiveness to, fellow 4

6 members as well as to those beyond our campus who are less privileged. In the fulfillment of this mission, the university shall seek an efficient use of all available resources to ensure the highest quality of service to its students, faculty, and staff. The ultimate goal of VIU is no less than to graduate scholars of moral, intellectual, and professional excellence who will not only make a better life for themselves and their families, but who will lead the way to a better world for everyone. In order to further the mission and philosophy of the university, VIU is committed to the following objectives: To recruit and retain outstanding and diverse faculty and staff to support teaching, research, and the service mission of the university To elevate the university s learning environment in order to attract and retain excellent students from all over the world as well as from the US To offer learning experiences beyond the classroom that enhance traditional instruction and prepare students for the global workforce To offer an up-to-date curriculum that is relevant, ensuring each student has the following competencies: to think critically, to reason analytically, to solve problems realistically, and to communicate clearly To endeavor to provide successful employment placement options for students Governance Board of Trustees Virginia International University is a 501 c 3 nonprofit organization as designated by the US Internal Revenue Service (IRS). As such, VIU is governed by a Board of Trustees, made up of no less than 5 members. The members of the Board of Trustees represent areas such as education, finance, business, and real estate development. The board advises the university on all matters, including annual budget approval, financial reporting, development of new curricula, and policy change and approval. Executive Committee The VIU Executive Committee is made up of the President s immediate executive staff. The Committee reviews matters such as policy and procedures, and makes recommendation based on information provided. The following positions are standing members of the University Executive Committee: VIU President, Chair Executive Vice President, Finance & Technology Executive Vice President, University Affairs Associate Vice President, Institutional Effectiveness & QA PR Specialist Curriculum Director Director of Strategic Planning & Business Development 5

7 Ancillary Committees VIU has several committees that are made up of faculty, administrative and academic staff, as well as students, in certain situations. The committee most relevant with oversight of safety and security is the VIU Emergency Management Committee. This committee s purpose is to serve as a point of contact and planning function for all members of the university to raise issues regarding safety and security. Officials on the committee come from various stakeholder departments including academic affairs, human resources, facility and property management, and more. Campus Security Act/Clery Act VIU strives to maintain a safe and secure campus environment at all times. The Emergency Management Committee encourages members of the VIU community to be aware of their surroundings and to report any suspicious activity on or around campus. The institution strives to be in full compliance with state and federal laws including the Crime Awareness and Campus Act, also known as the Clery Act. This act requires that VIU s Emergency Management & Campus Security office collect crime statistics and prepare an annual report publication no later than October first of each year. VIU collects data from campus security officials as well as the local police jurisdiction in order to provide our community with the most accurate and up-to-date information. Any offense that falls into one of the following categories are reported as part of the Clery Act: Criminal homicide Sexual Offenses Aggravated Assault Robbery Burglary Arson Motor Vehicle Theft Hate Crimes (including related assault, larceny, intimidation, vandalism, etc.) Drug and Liquor law violations Illegal Weapons Possession Domestic Violence Stalking Dating Violence VIU makes our annual security report available in both print and electronic version, as required by law. The report is provided free of charge. All current students and employees are notified of the report s publication through an announcement, at new student orientation, staff onboarding, and other applicable means. In addition to crime statistics, the report includes policy statements on campus security, alcohol and drug use, crime reporting, sexual assault and harassment, and crime prevention. VIU also strives to include additional information that might be helpful to the community, including campus maps and evacuation routes and community resources. To read the Clery Act in its entirety and view other useful information, please visit the following website at: Reporting Criminal Activity & Other Emergencies All crimes that take place on campus should be reported to the Office of Emergency Management and Campus Security. The university fully encourages prompt reporting that allows for immediate investigation by the campus security authorities. All reports may be made 6

8 by telephone by calling (703) , by at or in person at 4401 Village Drive Fairfax, VA In any emergency situation, the best course of action is to immediately dial 911. Police are required to respond to all 911 calls, even if a caller doesn t speak. If 911 is dialed in error, please remain on the line and report that the call was made in error, so that the police may not be dispatched. VIU ensures that all elevators on campus are equipped with an emergency phone line. In the event that a situation arises that is not an emergency, please call or report to the Office of Emergency Management and Campus Security at (703) VIU has a web form that allows for anonymous reporting, and the site is easily accessible on the university website at: The purpose of anonymous reporting is to allow individuals to take steps to promote safety without self-identifying. The university is able to keep more up-to-date numbers of incidents, and determine if there is a pattern of criminal activity in a certain time period or location on campus, and react appropriately. All reports of criminal activity in any manner received are collected and reported in the annual security report. Additional Reporting Options for Victims of Interpersonal Violence In a situation where an individual is a victim of any type of interpersonal violence, including sexual assault, sexual battery, sexual exploitation, sexual violence, sexual harassment, domestic violence, dating violence or stalking, there are additional options for reporting of such criminal activity, and various university resources are available to victims to assist in the process. Students may seek support in reporting such activity at the Office of Student Affairs, Emergency Management and Campus Security Office, by meeting with a Campus Security Office, or by meeting with a Title IX or Deputy Title IX (Student) Coordinator. Faculty and Staff may also seek assistance in reporting crimes of interpersonal violence by working with Human Resources, Emergency Management & Campus Security, Title IX Coordinators or Deputy (Staff) Coordinators, or meeting with a Campus Security Officer. In addition, all victims may file an anonymous report using the web form located at: In such cases where a victim requests assistance in reporting these crimes to local law enforcement, there are various entities at the university that are available to help, including the Office of Student Affairs, Emergency Management & Campus Security Office, Campus Security Officers, and the Title IX Coordinator or Deputy Coordinators. Each of these offices will take the necessary steps to help file a report with local law enforcement agencies. Faculty and Staff may also seek assistance in seeking law enforcement assistance for crimes of interpersonal violence by working with Human Resources, Emergency Management & Campus Security, Title IX Coordinators or Deputy Coordinators, or meeting with a Campus Security Officer. VIU provides copies of all incident and arrest reports to related departments if any further action is to be taken related to that office. If an investigation is conducted and it is deemed that assistance from local first responders, including local police and fire departments, is necessary, the Office of Emergency Management & Campus Security will contact the appropriate unit. 7

9 Emergency Notifications and Timely Warnings In the event that any emergency or potential threat on campus should occur, the office of Emergency Management and Campus Security shall issue a timely warning or emergency alert notification. This is done through a variety of means including the university SMS Alert System, notification, and sometime through a notice on the university website and relevant social media outlets. In calendar year 2015 one emergency notification or warning was issued to the VIU community. The related warning was in regards to a power outage on campus that required a cancellation of evening classes. This total does not include weather-related notifications; such as snow closings. Those notifications totaled 11 in all of SMS Alert System Virginia International University makes use of an SMS Alert System that is to be used only in emergency situations. This system enables students to enroll and be notified when there is an emergency taking place on campus. Phone numbers are never shared, and the system is used only for emergency alerts. To enroll in the SMS Alert System, simply text Join VIU to from your mobile device. Campus Security Authorities Though the university asks that all members of the VIU Community repot all crimes and incidents directly to the Office of Emergency Planning & Campus Security, it is understood that sometimes individuals will feel more comfortable reporting to individuals with whom they have an established relationship. The Clery Act recognizes various university officials and offices as Campus Security Authorities (CSAs). The Clery Act defines these individuals as officials of an institution who have significant responsibility for student and campus activities, outside of normal classroom instruction. In addition, a CSA can be defined as any person that has the authority and duty to take action or respond to particular issues on behalf of the institution. VIU has designated the following individuals as CSAs for our institution: Academic Deans and Associate Deans, Program Directors and Associate Program Directors, all members of the Department of Student Affairs, Faculty Advisors to student groups and organizations (e.g. clubs), Title IX Officials, Members of the Office of Emergency Management & Campus Security, and all members of the Department of Human Resources. All CSAs receive training and directives from the Office of Emergency Management & Campus Security. All crimes reported to a CSA are included in campus crime statistics. The following offices are designated as places to report crimes: Office of Emergency Management & Campus Security 4401 Village Drive; First Floor 911 (emergency) (703) (non-emergency) Department of Student Affairs (Title IX Student Coordinator) 4401 Village Drive; Student Center, First Floor (703) ext. 367 studentaffairs@viu.edu Department of Human Resources (Title IX Staff Coordinator) 4401 Village Drive; First Floor (703) hr@viu.edu 8

10 Missing Persons Protocol In accordance with federal, state and local law, VIU has developed the following protocol for university response in terms of reporting missing persons. VIU does not offer on campus residence or housing opportunities, though we do feel it is important to respond appropriately in the event a member of the VIU Community goes missing. At the time of enrollment, all students are required to submit contact information including a residence address and emergency contact. Additionally, students are asked to update this information at the time of registration for classes every semester. In the event that an individual goes missing for more than 24 hours the university will attempt to make contact with the individual via telephone and electronic means. If there is no response, the university will reach out to the given point of contact in trying to determine the whereabouts of the individual. If this is unsuccessful, all applicable university offices will be notified in less than 24 hours of the missing person, including Student Affairs, Academic Affairs, and Emergency Management. At any point in this process, the university may elect to initiate a wellness check on the missing person by visiting the given residence and scheduled classes to determine if the individual is verifiably missing. The university may also reach out to known friends, roommates or family members. The university will conduct a search of all campus facilities including libraries, stairwells and other locations, and may request certain technology-based information, such as access logs, use of student accounts, or other relevant information to pinpoint a final contact time. If all of these protocols are ineffective in locating the missing person, the university will immediately contact local law enforcement to report the individual missing, as well as distribute any necessary information to the VIU Community or outside entities. Security & Access to Campus Facilities Training and conducting exercises are essential to ensuring that VIU is able to activate its emergency notification system. This also helps to ensure that equipment and procedures are maintained in a constant state of readiness. VIU tests all fire alarm sirens at least one time during each semester. The sirens were activated on August 20, 2014 and January 20, 2015 for its annual siren test. In addition, the sirens were activated for various testing and construction improvements to the facilities throughout the year. In addition, the university ensures that all fire and life safety equipment is up to code and working by conducting annual inspections on equipment and machinery. In addition, VIU installed 3 Auto Electronic Defibrillators (AEDs) on campus in 2015 to be used in the event of a cardiac emergency. VIU is committed to expanding our simulations and emergency drills to include other types of emergencies and plans to do so in In 2015 VIU contracted with New Horizon Security Services in order to provide armed guard security services on campus. Guards are on site during all hours of operation. The university also installed a badge access control and CCTV system throughout The main doors of the facility are open from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM Monday through Friday, and also during class times on Saturdays when applicable. During these hours, students, faculty, and the general public have access to areas of the building such as classrooms, student center, and student service offices. All other departments are housed in an area of the building that uses an access control system, requiring a badge to enter. In addition, the reception desk and security station are staffed at all times. If access is required in a protected area, individuals must check in with 9

11 the reception desk to be provided with access. The badge access system is monitored continuously by the facility & property management office to ensure only appropriate individuals and badge numbers have access. Housekeeping works during times that the building is closed, so these individuals are provided with keys to the facility. They do not allow any individual access to the building or offices during this time. Security officers are on site during this time, and conduct a sweep of all facilities routinely throughout the day and evening, including prior to exiting the facility at night. Any facility related concern or emergency is given high priority by emergency management personnel. Typical calls for these issues include badge access not functioning properly or loss of a badge or key. All of these issues are taken care of within the same business day, but not later than 24 hours after the request was made. VIU does not have on-campus housing or residences. Adequate Lighting In furtherance of our campus security plan, VIU recognizes the importance of having adequate lighting on all campus property and the surrounding area. The parking lot and building exterior are equipped with lighting, whether free standing or attached to the building. In the coming months, the university has plans to upgrade the lighting to brighter LED bulbs and add additional free standing lighting in areas that tend to be less sufficiently lit than others. It should be noted that anytime an individual is walking on campus at night, whether there is adequate lighting or not, caution is encouraged. If at any point a pedestrian is wary, they may request an escort to their vehicle from a security guard, and if they ever feel threatened are encouraged to dial 911 immediately. In addition to exterior lighting, the facility and property management department ensures that all lighting inside the building is functioning correctly at all times. There are weekly checks to ensure that no bulbs or light fixtures are malfunctioning, with special attention paid to emergency lighting in corridors and stairwells. Any individual who has concerns about the adequate lighting on campus is encouraged to contact the Facility and Property Management office at fpm@viu.edu. University Sponsored Transportation Virginia International University provides a free-of-charge shuttle service to all members of the VIU Community. The free VIU Shuttle picks up students at various points in the community and delivers them to and from campus. The current shuttle stops are at our campus on Village Drive, Fair Oaks Mall, Oakton Park Apartments, Circle Tower Apartments, Jermantown Road and Route 50, and the Vienna Metro Station. This fixed route is in operation Monday through Saturday between the hours of 7:00 AM and 10:00 PM. All individuals boarding the shuttle are required to show their VIU ID card. Crime Prevention A main priority for Virginia International University is to ensure the safety and security of all campus facilities at all times. However, we believe that this responsibility is shared between the administration and the VIU Community. VIU expressly prohibits all Clery and Violence Against Women s Act (VAWA) related crimes throughout the entire campus. It is encouraged that all 10

12 members of the VIU Community become familiar with common sense precautions set forth by this plan including: Be aware of your surroundings, especially when using devices that require headphones, as it becomes more difficult to hear individuals approaching or issuing alerts. After dark, travel in pairs or request a security escort to your vehicle or destination. The security guard station is located at the main entrance to the building at 4401 Village Drive. Avoid darkened areas of the grounds and parking lot and try to remain in lit areas at all times wherever possible. Park vehicles in well-lit areas of the parking lot Familiarize yourself with the Campus Emergency Plan and evacuation routes to be prepared in the event of an emergency on campus. Try not to bring valuable personal property on campus, as it has the potential to be a target for theft. Try not to leave laptops, cellular devices, or tablets alone at any point, as the potential for theft is increased. Avoid carrying large sums of cash and too many credit cards. Try to bring only the funds that you will need or a single credit card with you on campus. Consider purchasing a whistle, pepper spray, and flashlight to be carried with you at nighttime. Immediately report any suspicious individual who does not appear to have legitimate business on campus. In an emergency, always dial 911 first. Sign up for the VIU SMS Alert System to stay up to date with the most current emergency notifications and response information. Staying Informed It is important for all members of the VIU Community to stay informed about all emergency and safety procedures. The following tools are helpful in remaining informed and can be located within the following documents: Campus Emergency Preparedness Plan Evacuation Routes for all Faculties & Campus Maps Annual Security Report Campus Security Authorities (CSAs) Training Additional Resources Safety Education Program In 2015, VIU started implementing a safety education program that arms all members of the VIU Community with information about how to remain safe on campus and react in the event of an emergency. At this time, the most prominent training takes place for students at New Student Orientation in the fall, spring, and summer semesters. The orientation is mandatory for all incoming students, and during the event there are presentations on the Campus Emergency Plan as well as a presentation by local law enforcement advising students on how to stay safe, and how to react in the event of an emergency. In Complying with VAWA, we are required to provide definitions of the different types of safety programs including: 11

13 Awareness (A) Community wide or audience specific programming, initiatives, and strategies that increase audience knowledge and share information and resources to prevent violence, promote safety, and reduce perpetration Bystander Intervention (B) Safe and positive options that may be carried out by an individual or individuals to prevent harm or intervene when there is a risk of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking Ongoing Awareness Campaigns (OA) Programming, initiatives, and strategies that are sustained over time and focus on increasing understanding of topics relevant to and skills for addressing dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking, using a range of strategies with audiences throughout the institution Primary Prevention Programs (PP) Programming, initiatives and strategies informed by research or assessed for value, effectiveness, or outcome that are intended to stop dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking before they occur through the promotion of positive and healthy behaviors that foster healthy, mutually respectful relationships and sexuality, encourage safe bystander intervention, and seek to change behavior and social norms in healthy and safe directions Risk Reduction programs (R) Options designed to decrease perpetration and bystander inaction, and to increase empowerment for victims in order to promote safety and to help individuals and communities address conditions that facilitate violence VIU makes the following training available to the VIU Community. Items for staff are marked with an S, and students marked with a ST, followed by the code for the VAWA categories relevant to the event or training: New Student Orientation ST/A/B/R Faculty Summit S/A/R/PP New Employee Orientation S/ST/A/OA CSA Training S/A/B/OA/PP/R Evacuation Training S/ST/A/OA/PP ADA Flash Training S/A/OA Creating a Bully-Free Workplace S/A/B/R Ethics and Conduct Training S/OA/R Managing Conflict Training S/OA/R Handling Conflict Training S/OA/R Preventing Discrimination Training S/A/PP Preventing Sexual Harassment Training S/A/B/R Understanding Sexual Harassment Training S/A/B/PP/R Preventing Workplace Harassment Training S/OA/PP/R Understanding Workplace Harassment Training S/OA/PP/R Fire Extinguisher Safety S/A/RR Maintaining A Drug Free Workplace S/OA/R Managing Workplace Safety and Health S/A/R Chemical Safety (HAZCOM) Training S/OA/PP Hazardous Waste Management Training S/OA/PP Campus Law Enforcement & Security Virginia International University does not employ a dedicated campus law enforcement agency, as we are a very small campus with only one building facility. In the interest of maintaining a safe and secure environment, however, the university has contracted with a fully licensed security organization to provide armed security guard services to the institution. The guards are 12

14 considered security personnel for the institution and they are available on campus during all hours of operation from Monday through Saturday between the hours of 8:00 AM through 10:00 PM. The security personnel at VIU works closely with state and local law enforcement agencies, though the university does not currently have any signed MOUs with these entities. In the event of a crime, VIU trusts the campus security personnel to respond, and the university also alerts the local law enforcement officials, who may also respond in the event of a crime or emergency on campus. Reporting Criminal Activity: All crimes that take place on campus should be reported to the Office of Emergency Management and Campus Security. The university fully encourages prompt reporting that allows for immediate investigation by the campus security authorities. All reports may be made by telephone by calling (703) , by at QA@viu.edu, or in person at 4401 Village Drive Fairfax, VA In any emergency situation, the best course of action is to immediately dial 911. Police are required to respond to all 911 calls, even if a caller doesn t speak. If 911 is dialed in error, please remain on the line and report that the call was made in error, so that the police may not be dispatched. VIU ensures that all elevators on campus are equipped with an emergency phone line. In the event that a situation arises that is not an emergency, please call or report to the Office of Emergency Management and Campus Security at (703) VIU has a web form that allows for anonymous reporting, and the site is easily accessible on the university website at: The purpose of anonymous reporting is to allow individuals to take steps to promote safety without self-identifying. The university is able to keep more up-todate numbers of incidents, and determine if there is a pattern of criminal activity in a certain time period or location on campus, and react appropriately. All reports of criminal activity in any manner received are collected and reported in the annual security report. Reporting Crimes and Professional Counselors In the event that a student is seeking counseling services from a professional counselor employed by VIU, it is encouraged that the counselor to use appropriate discretion and encourage their subject to report crimes when they feel that safety is at risk. Counselors shall inform their subjects of the procedures to report crimes voluntarily and confidentially so that they may be included in the annual crime statistics. While no individual shall be forced to report criminal activity, it is appropriate for all members of the VIU Community to understand what resources are available to them. Criminal Activity outside of the VIU Campus VIU does not have any officially recognized student organizations with non-campus locations, therefore there is no protocol for law enforcement tracking crime statistics at such locations. 13

15 Alcohol & Drug Use In compliance with the US Department of Education and the Drug Free Schools and Communities Act Amendment of 1989, PL USC s 1145g, Higher Education Act of 1965, Section 1213, VIU has adopted the following safe and drug-free school policy for the protection and welfare of all students and staff: 1. VIU will not tolerate the unlawful possession and use of alcohol or controlled substances (drugs) on its premises. 2. The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession or use of alcohol and controlled substances is prohibited in and on property owned by or under the control of VIU. 3. Students and employees who violate this policy may be subject to arrest and prosecution and will be subject to the disciplinary procedures provided by the various negotiated agreements or such other corrective action as the President or the President s designee may deem appropriate. Other corrective action may include satisfactory participation in an approved alcohol or drug rehabilitation program. 4. Students and employees should be aware that the legal sanctions that may be imposed under current laws regarding the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, use, or sale of alcohol or controlled substances include fines and prison terms ranging from one year to life in prison upon conviction. 5. Students and employees should also be aware that the health risks associated with the abuse of alcohol and the unlawful use of controlled substances include, but are not limited to, memory loss, depression, seizures, falls, accidents, heart and lung diseases, frequent infection, and sudden death. 6. VIU will make a good-faith effort to maintain an alcohol-free and drug-free workplace. Virginia International University is a dry campus and expressly prohibits the sale, use, or consumption of alcoholic beverages or controlled substances of any kind on any campus property or facility. This rule has a zero tolerance policy, and if any individual is found to be in violation, proper disciplinary action will be taken. In relation to state and federal laws on alcohol consumption and drinking age, it should be noted that in the Commonwealth of Virginia it is illegal for any individual who is under the age of 21 years old to purchase or possess any alcoholic beverage. Furthermore, it is illegal for any establishment or individual to sell or give alcoholic beverages to persons under the age of 21 years. Prevention Programs A variety of resources are available to VIU Students and the Community for drug and alcohol prevention and abuse. VIU plans to operate seminars on the adverse effects of alcohol and drug use and have them available, free of charge, to the VIU community at least once per year, beginning in In addition, there is a resource for Northern Virginia Residents that will allow referral for individuals with substance abuse issues, known as 2-1-1Virginia. More information can be found at Associated Health Risks The risks and punishments associated with use of Alcohol and Controlled Substances are lengthy and serious. Potential health risks associated with the use of Alcohol include a slowing down of the heart, brain, and nervous system. Prolonged use of alcohol can cause more serious and lasting conditions such as heart disease, liver damage, and artery disease. Women 14

16 are also susceptible to developing health-related problems earlier than men, and from consuming smaller amounts than men. Potential health risks from using controlled substances vary by the substance used, and some of the more common controlled substances are listed below: Marijuana: Use of marijuana can impact brain development. It can cause problems with shortterm memory, distort perception, and cause poor coordination. Marijuana users may be at increased risk of experiencing conditions such as bronchitis, asthma, emphysema, and throat or lung cancer. Prolonged use may result in depression and anxiety. For more information, please visit: Anabolic steroids: Steroids have various potential side effects ranging from insomnia to death. There is an increased risk of cancer, cardiovascular, kidney, and liver disease and they may also cause impotence, sterility, or fetal damage. For more information, please visit Amphetamines: Amphetamines may cause psychoses and malnutrition, and also lead to nervousness, hyperactivity, heightened pulse rates and blood pressure. More information is available at Methamphetamines: Methamphetamines are highly addictive drugs. Meth affects the central nervous system and can present by sleeplessness or insomnia, increased physical activity, low appetite, rapid or irregular heartbeats, high blood pressure, hypothermia, irritability, paranoia, confusion, and even aggressiveness. Prolonged use can include permanent damage to the brain, stroke, severe reduction in motor skills, impaired verbal learning, memory impairment, and decreased ability to regulate emotions. More information is available at Barbiturates: Barbiturate drugs can cause death in high doses. Infants born to barbiturate users may suffer congenital deformities. Other effects include nausea, dizziness, lethargy, allergic reactions, and possible breathing difficulties. More information is available at Cocaine: Cocaine is known to cause seizures, heart fibrillation, and strokes that can result in death. Prolonged use risks include irritability, paranoia, and hallucinations. Tumors, chronic fatigue, dangerous weight loss, sexual impotence, and insomnia and affects respiration, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels also occur. More information is available at Heroin and Opiates: An overdose of these drugs can cause death through suppression of central nervous systems including breathing. Users feel sluggish and fall asleep at inappropriate and dangerous times. Intravenous users risk contracting Hepatitis, HIV/AIDS, and other infections due to needles and sharing. More information is available at LSD: LSD causes hallucinations, perception distortions, and anxiety. Users cannot function normally and become uncoordinated. LSD causes heightened body temperature and respiration 15

17 as well as a rapid heartbeat. More information is available at MDMA (Ecstasy/Molly): MDMA creates both stimulant and psychedelic effects including increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, nervousness, and hyperactivity. Use of Ecstasy makes users more vulnerable to crime, especially robbery, sexual assault, and other unwanted sexual encounters. More information is available at Oxycodone and other narcotics: These drugs are chemically similar to heroin and opium. Although they can be safe and effective treatments for pain when prescribed by a doctor and used as directed, they are highly addictive and overdose through misuse is a risk. They can cause death by stopping breathing. Users may take a larger dose than intended, overdose, and suffer serious complications or death. Combining opioids with alcohol or other drugs significantly increases the risk to life and well-being. More information is available at Psilocybin: This substance, found in certain mushrooms, causes hallucinations and perception distortions. Users cannot function normally and are clumsy or uncoordinated. This drug also can produce anxiety, elevated body temperature, rapid heartbeat, and elevated respiration. More information is available at Ritalin (methylphenidate), Concerta, and Adderall: These drugs are chemically similar to amphetamines. They are safe and effective treatments for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder when prescribed by a doctor and used as directed, but they are powerful stimulants and can be addictive. Users may take a larger dose than intended, overdose, and suffer complications or death. More information is available at Legal Sanctions In the Commonwealth of Virginia, the Code of Virginia VOC Title 4.1 covers the Alcohol Beverage Control Act covers many laws related to the use, sale or possession of alcoholic beverages. As related to members of the VIU Community, the following provisions should be understood: 1. The minimum drinking age in the state of Virginia is 21 years of age. Purchase or possession of alcohol by individuals younger than 21 years of age exposes the violator to a misdemeanor conviction for which the punishment may be a jail sentence of up to 12 months and a fine of up to $2,500.00, or both. Additionally, any individual convicted may lose their driver s license for up to one year. 2. It is illegal to sell alcoholic beverages to individuals under the age of 21. Possible punishment includes a misdemeanor conviction and possible jail sentencing of up to 12 months and a fine of up to $2,500, or both. 3. It is illegal for any person to consume or be under the influence of alcoholic beverages while driving a motor vehicle. A violation can result in a fine of $250, imprisonment, loss of driver s license, or both. 4. It is illegal to purchase alcoholic beverages for another individual when there is reason to believe that the person for whom it is purchased is less than 21 years of age. Violation 16

18 can include a misdemeanor conviction for which the punishment may be a jail sentence of up to one year, a fine up to $2,500, or both. 5. It is illegal for any person to consume alcoholic beverage in unlicensed public places. Punishment may include a misdemeanor conviction and a fine of up to $250. In the Commonwealth of Virginia, the Virginia Drug Control Act prohibits the unlawful possession, use, and distribution of controlled substances and illicit drugs. Virginia classifies controlled substances into six schedules, and these are defined in section of the Virginia Administrative Code. Penalties for conviction are in sections , and fines can be upwards of one million dollars, and punishable by lifetime imprisonment. Summaries of the sanctions are displayed below: 1. Possession of a Schedule I or Schedule II substance opens a violator up to a felony conviction, with a term of imprisonment of 1-10 years, a fine of up to $2,500, or both. 2. Possession of a Schedule III controlled substance opens a violator up to a misdemeanor conviction with a jail sentence of up to 12 months, a fine of up to $2,500, or both. 3. Possession of a Schedule IV controlled substance opens a violator up to a misdemeanor conviction with a jail sentence of up to 6 months, a fine of up to $1000, or both. 4. Possession of a Schedule V controlled substance opens a violator up to a misdemeanor conviction with a fine of up to $ Possession of a Schedule VI controlled substance opens a violator up to a misdemeanor conviction with a fine of up to $ Possession of a Schedule I or II controlled substance with the intent to distribute or sell opens a violator up to a felony conviction with a prison term of 5-40 years, and a fine of up to $100,000. If a violator is convicted a second time, the must be imprisoned for not less than five years, but may be imprisoned for life, and fined up to $100, Possession of a Schedule III, IV, or V controlled substance with the intent to distribute or sell opens a violator up to a misdemeanor conviction with a jail term of up to one year and a fine of up to $2,500, or both. 8. Possession of marijuana opens a violator up to a misdemeanor conviction which carries a 30-day jail sentence, $500 fine, or both. If an individual is convicted a second time, a jail sentence of up to one year, fine of $2,500 or both may be incurred. 9. Possession of less than 0.5 ounces of marijuana with the intent to distribute or sell opens a violator up to a misdemeanor conviction including up to one year in jail and a fine of $,2500 or both. If the amount of marijuana is more than 0.5 ounces but less than 5 pounds, the violator is opened up to a felony conviction with a jail sentence up 1-10 years, a fine of up to $2,500 or both. If the amount of marijuana is more than five pounds the violator is open to a felony conviction with a prison sentence of 5-30 years. Fairfax County Virginia has adopted all state and federal codes related to distribution and possession of controlled substances. Suspension of Federal Student Aid If a student is convicted of any offence involving sale or possession of a controlled substance during a time when a student was receiving federal grant, loan or work assistant funds, the individual will become ineligible to receive federal aid for a certain period of time. The limits are as follows: Possession of a Controlled Substance: 17

19 First Offense: Ineligible for one year Second Offense: Ineligible for two years Third Offense: Indefinite Ineligibility Sale of a Controlled Substance: First Offense: Ineligible for two years Second Offense: Indefinite Ineligibility It is possible to regain eligibility by completing a drug rehabilitation program that complies with the regulations set forth by the Secretary of Education, and passage of two random, unannounced drug screenings; or if the conviction is reversed or set aside. Sexual Violence, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence & Stalking Virginia International University complies with Title IX of the Higher Education Amendments of 1972, 20 USC 1681 et. seq. which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in education programs and activities, employment and admission. Questions about Title IX may be sent to the university title IX coordinator or Deputy coordinators for staff and students by ing qa@viu.edu or calling VIU prohibits all crimes of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking as defined by the Clery Act. VIU does not and will not tolerate sexual harassment of students, faculty, and/or staff. This policy is part of the university s effort to maintain a learning and working environment free from sexual harassment, exploitation, or intimidation. Violation of this policy will subject individuals to disciplinary actions, up to and including dismissal for employees and students. Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination that is illegal under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 for employees and under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 for students. In keeping with the guidelines provided by the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission on sexual harassment in employment, VIU defines sexual harassment as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature directed at an individual, or action taken in retaliation for reporting such behavior, regardless of where such conduct may occur. Sexual harassment is deemed to have occurred when: 1. Submission to the conduct is either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual's employment or academic performance; 2. Submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis for employment decisions, including, but not limited to, promotion, transfer, selection for training or performance evaluation, or used as the basis for academic evaluation; 3. The conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an affected employee s work performance or an affected student s academic performance or participation in educational pursuits; or 4. The conduct has the purpose or effect of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work or study environment. Sexual harassment is a serious offense. As a consequence, any faculty or staff member who engages in such conduct or encourages such behavior by others shall be subject to disciplinary action that may include dismissal. A student who engages or assists in such conduct shall be subject to disciplinary measures including reprimands, suspensions, or termination to remedy violations of this policy. Students accused of sexual harassment will have the right to a fair due 18