All policies and regulations regarding the consumption and/or sale of alcoholic beverages on the Worcester State University premises or off-campus where Worcester State University jurisdiction applies shall be in strict conformity to the appropriate Massachusetts General Laws, the regulations of the License Commission of the city of Worcester and in compliance with the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act (DFSCA), and the Drug-Free Schools and Campuses Regulations
References: Mass General Law, Chap 138, Sec 34: Alcoholic Beverages (Procuring for persons under 21); Mass General Law, Chap 138, Sec 34A: Alcoholic Beverages (Procuring by false pretenses); Mass General Law, Chap 138, Sec 3413: Alcoholic Beverages (Liquor Purchase Identification Cards); Mass General Law, Chap 138, Sec 34C: Alcoholic Beverages (Transportation by those under 21 years of age); Worcester City Ordinances Chap 9 re: Open Alcoholic Beverage Containers
In addition to the preceding laws and others which may be established by legislative bodies, the following rules and regulations apply to Worcester State University premises or off-campus where Worcester State University jurisdiction applies:
There are 21+ housing options that Residence Life and Housing offers in Chandler Village and Wasylean Hall only. Please see the specific policy located in the Residence Hall Handbook. Any violation of that policy will be considered an alcohol policy violation.
Worcester State University considers the safety and personal well-being of the student body a priority. Worcester State University recognizes that there may be alcohol or other drug-related medical or safety emergencies in which the potential for disciplinary action could act as a deterrent to students who want to seek assistance for themselves or others. Students who are evaluated for a substance abuse wellness check that may or may not result in being transported to a local hospital will be required to contact a member of the Office of Alcohol & Drug Prevention Education within twenty-four (24) hours of receipt of letter from the Office of Alcohol & Drug Prevention Education. Failure to schedule and attend the sessions may result in conduct action. When a student aids an intoxicated or impaired individual by contacting Worcester State University Police or Residence Life staff, neither the intoxicated individual nor the individual or student reporting the emergency will be subject to disciplinary action. In the case of a second (2nd) transport; the student will attend two (2) educational meetings with the Office of Health Promotion followed by a minimum of three (3) sessions with a member of the Counseling Services staff. In the unlikely case of subsequent transports, the student will meet with an administrative team to discuss the students’ well-being, evaluate their residency status and/or visitation privileges within the residence halls, and potential conduct action.
Massachusetts state law permits the use of medical and recreational marijuana. However, federal laws prohibit marijuana use, possession, and/or cultivation at educational institutions, therefore Worcester State University will provide no change to its current drug policies. Please understand that the use, possession or cultivation of marijuana for medical or recreational purposes is not allowed in any Worcester State University property; nor is allowed at any University-sponsored event or activity off campus.
In addition, no accommodations will be made for any student in possession of a medical marijuana registration card. Worcester State University will release students from the occupancy license (with documentation) who needs to use or possess marijuana for medical purposes. Anyone who possesses or uses marijuana at Worcester State University may be subject to civil citation, state or federal prosecution, and university discipline.
All policies and regulations regarding illegal consumption/ use, possession, sale/ traffic and/or manufacture of narcotics, controlled substances, prescription drugs, counterfeit substances, drug paraphernalia and substances releasing toxic vapor on the Worcester State University campus and its properties shall be in strict conformity to the appropriate Massachusetts General Laws and in compliance with the Drug-Free Schools and Community Act (DFSCA) and the Drug-Free Schools and Campuses Regulations. Detailed descriptions of infractions and penalties can be found in the Massachusetts General Laws, sections 94C and 270. Federal Drug Statute Title 21, USC 841 may also apply. Listed is a summation of these laws. These laws are subject to change.
Any student who makes a bomb threat or who aids in the making of a bomb threat, if found responsible through the Worcester State University judicial process, shall be suspended or expelled from WSU and may be criminally charged (terrorism).
Resident students who are hospitalized for inpatient for psychiatric reasons, substance abuse treatment, or eating disorder treatment, will need to engage with the University’s re-entry process prior to returning to campus. The student will be contacted by the Student Affairs Office with a date for a re-entry meeting. The student is required to attend this meeting prior to re-entering the residence halls.
Along with the Associate Dean of Students or designee, the re-entry meeting may include representatives from Counseling Services, Student Accessibility Services (SAS), Academic Success Center, key faculty members, Residence Life, or parents. Additionally, this meeting may include an overview of the student’s academic standing, connecting the student to campus support services and if necessary, a review of the academic appeal. This process is designed to build a strong support network for the student and assist in their return to WSU and future success.
Operation by any person of an unmanned air craft system (UAS), a drone, from above the campus, is governed by Federal Aviation Administration policies. Users must read and understand both the FAA and Worcester State University’s UAS operating procedures and guidelines. In many cases, drones must be registered and fliers need to be a licensed drone pilot. When meeting the necessary registration and licensure, use of a drone on campus requires further approval at least 48 hours prior to the use of the UAS from University Police. University Police maintain the authority to “ground” or suspend operations of any UAS that is not compliant with FAA regulations, WSU policy, and/or represents a danger to the WSU community.
Several Federal Laws including The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), The Jeanne Clery Act, Title IX, Title VII and MA S. 2979 An Act relative to sexual violence on higher education campuses and The Drug Free Schools and Communities Act (DFSCA) require Institutions of Higher Education to provide primary prevention and awareness programs (within 45 days of matriculation or employment) as well as ongoing prevention and awareness campaigns for students.
As per Title IX regulation, institutions must be able to document that they have met the regulation requirement, therefore institutions are encouraged to mandate such trainings.
What are Education and Prevention Programs?
At the foundation of every positive student experience is a safe and healthy learning environment.
Educational programs assigned from the Division of Student Affairs are designed to increase an intercultural community that engages in civility, promotes personal growth and engagement, and embraces responsibility for the health and safety of our community.
The required Vector online prevention courses are comprehensive, research-based, online training programs assigned from a designated office in Student Affairs that provide essential information that empower students to make thoughtful and healthy choices. It is important that students take this training to help contribute to a respectful and healthy campus community.
Failure to complete/comply with these educational and prevention programs may result in a disciplinary/student affairs hold being placed on a student’s account until the original required prevention education has been completed.
Recognizing that Amendment Article 97 to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts establishes that the people have a right to be free from excessive and unnecessary noise, courtesy hours are in effect at all times at Worcester State University. Courtesy hours are defined as times during which students are to consider the impact of their music, noise, etc. upon other members of the University community. Within a community setting, individual desires must not be allowed to take precedence over the rights of others and of the community as a whole. Therefore, students are expected to behave in a manner that does not disrupt or interfere with individual and/or group rights.
Gambling (betting or wagering of any form) is strictly forbidden at Worcester State University. WSU supports all federal and state laws regarding illegal gambling. References: MGL, Ch.271, Sec. 5, 7, 17. Prohibited activity included but not limited to:
Students involved in illegal gambling are subject to disciplinary action and/or criminal prosecution. More detailed information on the Student Conduct and other policies can be found online at worcester.edu/community-standards.
The Guest Policy is intended to protect the rights, safety, and property of the members of the Worcester State University community and to endeavor to keep the campus secure.
A guest includes, but is not limited to, any person(s) a student invites to the WSU premises or to a WSU sponsored event or activity. It is the sole responsibility of the host to inform their guests of the details of the Guest Policy.
All guests are expected to observe the rules and regulations of campus conduct during their visit. Students are held strictly responsible for the conduct and actions of their guests. This also means financial responsibility for any expenses incurred. Hosts are expected to escort their guests at all times.
All guests must present valid photo identification when requested to do so by any WSU Official. For the residence hall guest policy please see the Residence Hall Handbook.
Worcester State prohibits hazing by individuals or groups and defines it as follows: degrading, psychologically damaging, and may be life-threatening. It is unacceptable in all forms and has no place in the campus community. Student groups, organizations, and athletic teams are important contributors to a vibrant and positive campus life and are expected to act in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct and to treat others with respect. Hazing by individuals and student organizations is prohibited in any form both on and off campus.
Read more about Worcester State’s Anti-Hazing Policy.
A decision to close or delay opening Worcester State University will generally be made by 5:30 a.m. by the president or the president’s designee in consultation with other members of the University staff. Notice will be given to the following outlets:
Important: Please do not call the University Police to find out if the university is open, closed, or delayed as this ties up the phone line for emergency calls.
Violation of Information Technology Services policies www.worcester.edu/information-technology including but not limited to:
Worcester State University is not responsible for loss or damage to personal property on campus. Individuals desiring such protection must make arrangements for coverage at their own expense.
The sale of goods or services or any form of solicitations including, but not limited to leafleting, tabling, posting of flyers is not allowed on the WSU campus unless authorized, sponsored and supervised by a WSU recognized student organization or office/department. For additional information on solicitations, free speech and demonstrations, please refer to the WSU Free Speech, Event and Demonstration Policy.
Residence Halls
Commercial activities, solicitations, petitions, advertisements, as well as the distribution of flyers, leaflets, etc. in either paper or digital/electronic formats are not permitted in the buildings or on the grounds of the Worcester State residence halls except when the director of Residence Life and Housing or designee has specifically granted permission.
Student organizations may post informational flyers, posters, etc. in the residence halls, but only in specially designated areas and only with advanced permission from the Office of Residence Life and Housing. Approved materials must be date-stamped in the Office of Residence Life and Housing (SRH 101). Student(s) and individuals who are not affiliated with WSU or a student organization are not permitted to post anything in or around the residence halls.
Members of the Worcester State University community who use social sites such as Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter) YouTube, etc., are cautioned to do so using the guidelines of WSU’s Codes of Conduct. Violators may be subject to WSU disciplinary action.
It should be noted that users of these sites are subject to legal ramifications if State or Federal Laws are violated and may be subject to prosecution. Also be advised that these sites are frequented by predators, law enforcement agencies, employment agencies, and sports recruiters as a means to uncover background information and/or evidence. Use discretion when posting information on these or similar websites.
According to the Office of Jury Commissioner of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, “Every U.S. Citizen 18 years of age or older who is a Massachusetts resident or an inhabitant for more than 50% of the time is eligible to serve as a juror. If you are a resident of another state but a student at a Massachusetts college, you are an inhabitant for more than 50% of the year and, therefore, eligible to serve as a juror in Massachusetts.”
It is not unusual for students residing in Worcester County to be summoned to serve as trial jurors. Jury service, on a short-term basis, can provide students with a good opportunity to fulfill one of their important responsibilities as members of the community. Worcester State University supports students in their fulfillment of this civic duty.
Worcester State University does not have a university-wide attendance requirement. Class attendance rules and handling of absences are matters to be resolved between individual faculty members and students. When a student is unable to contact faculty directly (in cases of hospitalization, accidents, family emergencies, and lengthy illnesses), the University CARE Team will work with Academic Affairs and Student Affairs to ensure students are being supported appropriately.
Students are expected to communicate directly with their course instructors when a crisis or illness prevents them from attending class. If a student is unable to do this due to circumstances or the absence will be for three (3) or more consecutive school days, the University supports students through the CARE Team, Academic Affairs and Student Affairs. Students in this situation and anyone else who becomes aware of a student needing this support are asked to contact the CARE Team as soon as possible by emailing them at CareTeam@worcester.edu.
The CARE Team will assist the student and collect any appropriate documentation pertaining to long absences. As part of this process and when appropriate, the student may also be referred to other departments or offices across campus for assistance.
Students who find it necessary to be absent for shorter periods of time (i.e., fewer than three (3) days) should contact their faculty members regarding their absence in advance, if possible, or as soon as they are able.
Students must work directly with their faculty members to address all noted absences. Please note that each faculty member has full discretion regarding covered absences and will make the decision regarding the appropriate way to address any covered absence.
Students must still meet all course requirements as defined by their faculty members.
When student must miss three (3) or more days or is in a situation the prevents communication with faculty members, they (or another person authorized by the student) should provide the CARE Team with the following information:
Name
Student Identification Number
Dates/anticipated duration of absence
Reason for absences (formal documentation of illness, hospitalization, family emergency, etc.)
For questions, concerns, and/or information to be shared should be directed to the CARE Team at careteam@worcester.edu.
Worcester State University does impose certain requirements and controls in connection with travel that it formally authorizes or sponsors. While Worcester State reserves the right to impose special requirements in any individual case, the general rules that are of application to such travel are set forth in these Student Travel Guidelines.
As part of an ongoing effort to promote a healthier and safer campus environment, Worcester State has implemented the following policy regarding tailgating activities at football games. Beginning in the fall the following guidelines regarding tailgating will be in force.
Our aim in these policy is to allow for families of players and students at Worcester State to enjoy the football atmosphere without the use of alcohol.
This policy is subject to change for Homecoming events. Please refer to the annual campus-wide email notification for details regarding the Homecoming Tailgate Policy.
Background: In 1997, the Massachusetts Legislature passed a law prohibiting smoking in State buildings. Mass. Gen. Laws Chapter 270, section 22. Specifically, this law prohibits smoking in (1) the State House; (2) any building owned by the Commonwealth; and (3) any space occupied by a state agency or department of the Commonwealth but located in a building not owned by the Commonwealth. This law also prohibits smoking on public transportation and in all state vehicles.
Smoking in the Workplace: Pursuant to Mass. Gen. Laws Chapter 71 section 37H, smoking is prohibited in all public-school buildings and grounds. All public-school employees, students, and visitors are restricted from using any tobacco product, including smoking or chewing, within school buildings, the school facilities, or on school buses. Worcester State University accepts this law as binding upon its students and employees, as well as visitors to our school and buildings.
In compliance with the Higher Education Act and Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 51, Sect. 42E, the university provides voter registration information to students.
Massachusetts residents can register to vote online at the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts website. Residents can also check if they are registered and update their name, address and/or their political party at this website.
Additionally, voter registration forms may be obtained by writing or calling the Massachusetts Elections Division, Room 1705, McCormack Building, One Ashburton Place, Boston, MA 02108, 617.727.2828 or 1.800.462.8683; or through the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts website.
Out-of-state students who want to vote in their home state must use either a mail-in form supplied by an election official in the home state or the federal mail-in affidavit of voter registration. Voter registration forms can be downloaded at the U.S. Election Assistance Commission website. If allowable by their home states, students may register online at www.rockthevote.org/how-to-vote/.
The possession or concealment of any type of firearm or other dangerous weapon, including but not limited to replica weapons, stiletto, dagger, dirk knife, any knife having a double-edged blade or a switch blade, or any knife having an automatic spring release device by which the blade is released from the handle, having a blade of other two and one-half inches, or a sling shot, knuckles, blackjack, metallic buckles or any item which could be used as a weapon, is strictly prohibited on Worcester State premises or off campus where Worcester State jurisdiction applies.
The use or possession of pepper spray and/or other dangerous propellants or apparatus capable of launching projectiles is prohibited.
The use or storage of fireworks or other explosives and hazardous chemicals except under controlled circumstances in a supervised classroom or laboratory setting is strictly prohibited.
In addition, no paintball guns are allowed on Worcester State property, including the Residence Halls.
Violators of the above will be subject to immediate legal and/or Worcester State disciplinary action.
