Faculty Handbook
Section II:
University Organization
& Governance
Section III:
Faculty Governance
Section IV:
Teaching, Research & Service
Section V:
Appointment, Promotion
& Tenure
Section VI:
Salary, Leaves & Benefits
Section VII:
Other University Policies
Section IX:
Organizations, Special Events
& Recreation
Office of the Provost
Section VII: Other University Policies
- Adverse Weather and Campus Closure
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Discriminatory Conduct
- Disruptive Behavior in the Classroom
- Disruptive Conduct
- Emergency Procedures
- Firearms and Other Weapons
- Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
- Identification Cards
- Illegal Drugs
- Merchandising and Solicitation
- Naming of Programs and Facilities
- Parking Services
- Press Policy
- Sexual Harassment
- Student Involuntary Medical Withdrawal
- Substance Abuse
- Undue Favoritism
- Use of University Building or Property
Adverse Weather and Campus Closure
Offices and classes normally remain open during periods of inclement weather. On rare occasions of severe weather, scheduled classes may be delayed or canceled; however, certain campus operations must be available for service to our students, staff, and general public. The departments of Public Safety and Police, Housing and Residence Life, Dining Services, Student Health Center, and Physical Plant are required to be available and have contingency plans in place for continuing operation during periods of severe weather or campus closure.
The Chancellor, or Chancellor's designee, is the only person with the authority to close the campus or any part thereof due to catastrophic weather or other adverse conditions. A decision made by the Chancellor to delay or cancel classes will be reported to the media, the Provost, and to each vice chancellor. The Provost will report that decision promptly to each dean. The local media will be requested to broadcast a public service message that "Classes at UNCG are delayed [until...] or canceled. The UNCG adverse weather policy is in effect for employees." In addition, the University's adverse weather number (334-4400) may be accessed for up-to-date campus closure information.
When adverse weather prevents a faculty member from reaching campus, the department office should be informed as early as possible, whereupon a cancellation notice will be placed on the classroom door. The department should promptly inform the dean's office of all canceled classes.
Students should be advised by instructors early in the semester to listen for radio or television announcements when weather is particularly severe. If no announcement of closing is broadcast, the University may be presumed to be open and holding classes. If in doubt, a student may contact the relevant departmental office or dean's office.
The complete policy, including detailed information regarding Univeristy staff obligations for reporting to work during adverse weather conditions, "Adverse Weather and Campus Closure," is contained in the Policy Manual for Staff Employees.
Back to TopAlcoholic Beverages
The serving and consumption of beer and wine on campus are permitted only in the following locations: Alumni House, Elliott University Center, the Faculty Center, the Anne and Benjamin Cone Building, Bryan Building (room 416), and the Music Building (recital hall atrium, outdoor concert area, and the Elizabeth Herring garden). In accordance with the "Policies and Procedures for the Use of Alcoholic Beverages on Campus," sponsors are required to submit a "Request for Approval to Serve Alcoholic Beverages and Agreement" to the Chancellor's Office five days prior to the event. This request for approval is in addition to any other permits that may be required. A reception for community people or a meeting of colleagues also requires a request for approval. Unaffiliated groups leasing space on campus must also submit a request for approval and any other permits that may be required.
Back to TopDiscriminatory Conduct
The University is committed to the concept and practice of equal educational and employment opportunity for all persons regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, or disabling condition. The complete policy on "Discriminatory Conduct" is contained in the University Policy Manual.
Back to TopDisruptive Behavior in the Classroom
Instructors may withdraw students from a course for behavior that is deemed by the instructors to be disruptive to the class. The grade assigned will be "W" if the behavior occurs before the deadline for dropping a course without academic penalty, and instructors have the option of giving a "W" or "WF" if the behavior occurs after the deadline. The complete policy on "Disruptive Behavior in the Classroom" is included on the Policies for Students Web Page.
Back to TopDisruptive Conduct
The University of North Carolina honors the rights of free discussion and expression, peaceful picketing and demonstration, the right to petition, and peaceable assembly. In a community of learning, willful disruption of the educational process, destruction of property, and interference with the rights of other members of the community cannot be tolerated. Accordingly, it is the policy of the University to deal with any such disruption, destruction, or interference promptly and effectively, but also fairly and impartially without regard to race, religion, gender, or political beliefs. "Disruptive Conduct" is defined in full on the Policies for Students Web Page.
Back to TopEmergency Procedures
Bomb Threat
If you should receive a bomb threat, follow the procedures listed below.
- Obtain as much information as possible. Ask the caller what type of bomb and detonation time and try to determine the gender, race, age, or any other information the caller is willing to divulge.
- Contact the UNCG Police (334-4444) and give your name and telephone number and any information obtained from the person calling in the bomb threat.
- The UNCG Police will conduct a building search and determine whether to contact the Greensboro Fire Department or the Greensboro Police Bomb Squad.
- The UNCG Police will consult with the key departments in the affected building and make a decision about evacuation.
Fire
All fire alarms are monitored by the UNCG Police Department. If you should see an actual fire or smell smoke, follow the procedures listed below.
- Call the UNCG Police (334-4444) and give (a) your name and telephone number, (b) the location of the fire or smoke, and (c) whether or not the fire alarm is activated in the building.
- Leave the building.
- The UNCG Police will then dispatch officers and contact the Greensboro Fire Department.
Severe Injury or Acute Illness
- Call the UNCG Police (334-4444) and give (a) your name and telephone number, (b) patient's name and exact location, and (c) a description of circumstances, symptoms, etc.
- The UNCG Police will then send officers trained in first aid and dispatch the Guilford County EMS.
- Delegate someone to be outside the building to direct emergency medical personnel to the patient.
Firearms and Other Weapons
(North Carolina General Statutes 14-269.2, April 27, 1971)
It shall be unlawful for any person, with the exception of those acting in the discharge of their official duties, to possess or carry, whether openly or concealed, any gun, rifle, pistol, bomb, grenade, or any other weapon on property owned, used, or operated by a public or private educational institution.
The North Carolina General Assembly enacted House Bill 90 (G.S. 14-415.10) to allow qualified North Carolina residents to obtain permits allowing them to carry concealed handguns. The legislation is effective December 1, 1995. This new law in no way effects, or negates, the existing law (N.C. G. S. 14-269.2), which expressly prohibits carrying, whether openly or concealed, any type of firearm on any university campus. Only certified law enforcement officers may carry weapons on campus.
For additional information, refer to the complete policy on "Weapons on Campus" in the University Policy Manual.
Back to TopHuman Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
Students and employees of the University who may become infected with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) will not be excluded from enrollment or employment or restricted in their access to University services or facilities, unless medically based judgments in individual cases establish that exclusion or restriction is necessary to the welfare of the individual or of other members of the University community.
Students may seek information about HIV or medical services for diagnosis or treatment of HIV infection from Student Health Services. Faculty and staff should arrange for care from their personal physicians. Confidential HIV testing is available through the Guilford County Health Department. Questions about HIV within the University community may be referred to the Medical Director of Student Health Services.
Persons who know they are infected are urged to share that information with the Medical Director of Student Health Services so the University can respond to their health and educational needs. Such information will be disclosed to responsible University officials only on a strictly limited, need-to-know basis, unless the individual consents in writing to other releases of the information. Student Health Services is obligated by law to disclose newly diagnosed cases of HIV to public health officials.
For additional information, refer to the policy on "Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) in the Workplace."
Back to TopIdentification Cards
Picture identification cards (UNCG First Cards) are issued to all faculty members, administrators, staff, and students. These cards are required for utilizing the Library, Campus Recreation Center, University Teaching and Learning Center, cashing checks, and establishing identity for special services.
The UNCG First Card is issued from the UNCG First Card Center located in the lobby of the Dining Hall. The hours of operation are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursday, from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The first card issued is at no cost. A replacement charge of $15 is assessed for lost or stolen cards. If a card is lost or stolen, notify the UNCG First Card Center immediately at 334-5651.
Back to TopIllegal Drugs
On January 15, 1988, The University of North Carolina Board of Governors adopted "The University of North Carolina Policy on Illegal Drugs." This statement included a directive to the Boards of Trustees of campuses of The University of North Carolina to adopt a policy statement about the use of illegal drugs by students, faculty, administrators, and other staff persons. Though an institution's policy may be phrased to address unique characteristics of the particular campus, it must contain certain common features outlined in the Board's policy, including a schedule of minimum penalties for certain types of violations.
On April 14, 1988, the UNCG Board of Trustees adopted the "Policy on Illegal Drugs" to be effective as of August 21, 1988. The University Counsel serves as the coordinator responsible for overseeing all actions and programs relating to this policy.
Back to TopMerchandising and Solicitation
Merchandising activities include the sale, lease, or rental of any item of merchandise and are permitted only if the activity is under the control and supervision of the University administration and if all net profits from the merchandising activity go into the University scholarship fund. Resulting scholarships are awarded by the University Scholarship Committee.
The Board of Trustees has authorized the administration to control or limit solicitations on campus. The administration has adopted the policy that there shall be no solicitations on campus unless specifically approved by the administration.
Further information regarding merchandising and solicitation may be obtained from the Office for Business Affairs.
Back to TopNaming of Programs and Facilities
Authority for naming academic units and programs (schools, departments, or other specialized centers or activities) and facilities (buildings, auditoria, etc.) rests with the Board of Trustees. Recommendations may be forwarded to the Chancellor through the department head, dean, and Provost or appropriate vice chancellor. For additional information, refer to the complete policy on "Naming of Programs and Facilities."
Parking Services
The Parking Services Office is responsible for administering the University Parking Program, which is funded entirely by user fees; state appropriated funds are not available. The parking regulations have been developed to expedite the safe and orderly conduct of University business and to provide parking facilities in support of this function within the limits of available space. Parking regulations are in effect 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Any vehicle parked on University property must display a valid University parking permit. Permits for faculty, staff, and visitors may be purchased at the Parking Services Office located in the Walker Avenue Parking Deck.
Back to TopPress Policy
University News Service is the University's official public information agency. The news media are welcome to attend and cover any University-sponsored public event. University faculty and staff who receive inquiries from the media should feel free to respond directly if the request pertains to a matter for which he or she has direct responsibility. After answering a press inquiry, it is important to inform University News Service. In the event of a crisis, controversy, or other major development on campus, the Director of University News coordinates the release of all information to the press. Any questions regarding the appropriateness of a request from the media should contact the Director of University News. For additional information, refer to the complete "Press Policy" in the University Policy Manual.
Back to TopSexual Harassment
Sexual harassment and discrimination are illegal and endanger the environment of tolerance, civility, and mutual respect that must prevail if the University is to fulfill its mission. Toward this end, all members of the University community must understand that sexual harassment, sexual discrimination, and sexual exploitation of professional relationships violate the University's policy and will not be tolerated. It is the University's policy that sexual harassment constitutes misconduct justifying disciplinary action up to and including dismissal. The complete policy on "Sexual Harassment" is included in the Policy Manual for Staff Employees.
Back to TopStudent Involuntary Medical Withdrawal
On April 14, 1993, the Chancellor distributed a new policy for managing students suffering from behavioral or mental disorders whose conduct either poses a significant danger of causing physical harm or substantially impedes the lawful activities of other members of the campus community. Involuntary medical withdrawal is not a substitute for appropriate disciplinary action. A student suffering from a mental disorder who is accused of a disciplinary violation should not be diverted from the disciplinary process unless, as a result of the mental disorder, the student either lacks the capacity to respond to the charges or did not know the nature and quality of the act in question. Further, this policy should not be used to dismiss socially or politically "eccentric" students who have not otherwise engaged in behavior which poses a danger to themselves or to others or which substantially disrupts normal university activities. For additional information, refer to the complete policy on "Student Involuntary Medical Withdrawal."
Back to TopSubstance Abuse
Substance abuse services and programs are available to students on campus. The Division of Student Affairs is responsible for providing current information on substance abuse programs and assistance. Descriptions of specific programs available to students, a brief summary of UNCG's alcohol and drug policies, and some tips on how a person can help a friend suspected to have a substance abuse problem may be found in the section on "Substance Abuse: Programs and Assistance" on the Policies for Students Web Page. Back to Top
Undue Favoritism
Undue favoritism in the conferral of any University benefit, reward, or privilege is a conflict of interest with an employee's obligation to exercise fairness and professional judgment in the conduct of University business. Undue favoritism based on race, religion, gender, or other legally prohibited factors may also violate state and federal anti-discrimination laws. Additionally, undue favoritism fosters lack of respect, distrust, and other morale problems that undermine professionalism and hinder fulfillment of the University's mission. This same rationale applies to students who occupy positions of authority in student government or other University recognized organizations. It is the University's policy that undue favoritism constitutes misconduct justifying disciplinary action up to and including dismissal or expulsion. The complete policy on "Undue Favoritism" is included in the Policy Manual for Staff Employees.
Back to TopUse of University Buildings or Property
Priority in the use of campus facilities is given to University functions and activities conducted by University-affiliated groups. Unaffiliated organizations and groups may use University facilities when such use does not conflict with University activities and when the purpose of the organization is compatible with or supplementary to the educational purposes of the University. Unaffiliated groups are charged for such use.
The University permits assemblies of groups without prior approval only in the east lawn area of the Elliott University Center (facing College Avenue) and the east portion of the lawn area in front of the Julius Foust Building. All such assemblies must be conducted without sound amplification equipment. Although prior approval is not required, notification of the intent to hold an assembly in these areas must be given to the Director of Student Life at least 48 hours in advance of the assembly. Any group wanting to obtain assembly space in exterior areas other than the above must submit a written request at least 48 hours in advance to the Director of Student Life.
Requests by on-campus units (faculty, students, staff, departments) for the use of University facilities for campus events should be addressed to the appropriate offices as listed in the policy, "Requests for Use of University Buildings or University Property."
University buildings or campus spaces may not be used to raise money or to solicit goods or services that can be measured in monetary terms for any individual or organization other than an officially-recognized campus organization (faculty, staff, or student) or an off-campus nonprofit organization, which can prove its tax exempt status under IRS regulations.
Use of space and facilities by organizations unaffiliated with the University is coordinated by the Division of Continual Learning. University equipment (such as projectors, microphones, etc.) may not be utilized by unaffiliated organizations except in cases where written sponsorship has been obtained from an officially-recognized campus organization or office. University space may not be used by unaffiliated groups for profit purposes.
Information about scheduling for non-class activities by University groups and departments may be obtained from the Division of Continual Learning. The complete policy on "Requests for Use of University Buildings or University Property" is contained in the University Policy Manual.