The goal of the Office of Student Engagement is to enhance the experience of the University student through social, educational, and cultural events and programs. These out-of-class learning experiences reinforce classroom lessons and help to develop well-rounded students with rewarding social lives, strengthened leadership skills, and the desire to make a difference on campus and in the community. Student Engagement reflects the diverse interests of our student community by promoting events and programs that are chosen by students. During your University career, you are encouraged to get involved and make the most of your experience. The Office of Student Engagement (OSE) staff members are available to help student leaders operate successfully and responsibly within the framework of the University’s mission and policies. They serve as a resource to all students in finding the right student organization to join, creating an organization, and/or realizing a vision for programs. 

Hartness Student Center 

The Hartness Student Center is the focal point for Student Engagement on campus. It houses the Student Government Association office (SGA), Student Entertainment & Activities Team office (SEAT), the Director of Student Engagement (DSE), the Cheer & Dance Coach, ROTC, Game Room, The Fortress Esports Arena, and the Burger + Fries. The Hartness Center is opened Monday-Thursday from Noon to 11:00 p.m., Fridays till 10:00 PM, Saturdays 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., and Sundays 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. 

Recharge Center 

The Recharge Center is a large, multi-purpose, open room with several different spaces for students to congregate. The Recharge Center houses pool tables and ping-pong tables, a recharge station complete with four T.V.s charging ports, and seating for large groups. Along the east wall, there is a nook called “The Cove” with tables for playing card or board games, seating area, and eighty-inch T.V. The Second-floor houses the officers for Student Leadership groups as well as additional lounge spaces. Students, faculty/staff, or student groups can reserve the Recharge Center or individual lounge spaces for public or private events by contacting the D.S.A. 

Recharge Room Hours: 

5:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. Sundays 

Noon – 11:00 p.m. Mondays thru Thursdays 

Noon – 10:00 p.m. Friday 

3:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Saturdays 

Recharge Center Rules: 

1. Smoking, use of tobacco, alcohol, or any illegal substance are prohibited in the building. 
2. Do not sit on, lean, stand on, or move any game tables. 
3. Do not move any furniture unless prior authorization has been granted by the D.S.A. 
4. Do not prop pool sticks on walls, tables, etc. Lie them down when not in use. 
5. Please clean up after yourself.
6. You must present and leave your school I.D. in order to check out equipment. You are responsible for the equipment while you have it checked out, and are liable for any damages that occur to the equipment while it is checked out under your I.D. card. 
7. Abuse and/or damage to the facility or equipment may result in charges and/or loss of future Hartness Center privileges. 
8. If you damage equipment, your I.D. will not be returned until an incident report has been filed. 

Hartness Lounge And Study Area 

The Hartness Center has private and semi-private lounges that are open for general use and can also be reserved by students, faculty/staff, and student groups. Lounge One is a classroom-style area with tables, a projector and whiteboard. Also on the first floor is a computer lab for student use. The second and third floors contain semi-private lounges with a gaming unit. Lounge two is a semi private room with a 75” TV, couches, table and chairs, and a built in XBOX One. The Hartness has its own login account that is accessible for all students with new release periodically downloaded. Lounge 3 is on the second floor and overlooks the Multi-Purpose Game room. It is also equipped with a TV, couches, and a gaming station as well. 

Any questions about the Hartness Student Center may be directed to the D.S.A. at 252-454-1682. 

Student Organizations & Greek Life 

Student and Greek Organizations exist not only to allow students with common interests to gather but also to help student leaders develop as well-rounded individuals with skills that translate into various workplace environments. The O.S.A. works with student leaders in planning and executing social, educational, cultural programs through the medium of our Student Organizations. This model allows students to be driving force behind the development and implementation of the majority of our campus programming. The O.S.A. seeks to empower and guide student leaders for success by providing guidance and feedback while being held accountable to campus processes and procedures. Through this circular and continual process, we refer to as “Learn, Develop, and Engage,” students leaders identify and grow their strengths through honest self-reflection and diligent practice. 

ORGANIZATIONAL PRIVILEGES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

Freedom of Student and Greek Organizations 

Freedom of action is granted to a registered student and Greek organization and implies the responsibility for developing the directions, scope, and character of the organization in promoting the total education program of the University. This freedom of action is limited only by the stated purpose of the organization, by the University and the society. The aim of the University is not to establish a complete set of rules or regulations to control student organizational activities, but to keep such regulations to the minimum, found necessary, by past experiences. Within the spirit of this philosophy, it is expected that student and Greek organizations should not assume that it rightfully may engage in any activity that is not explicitly restricted by the regulations. In planning new activities, student and Greek organizations should consult first with their faculty/staff advisor(s), and if there is doubt as to the appropriateness of the activity, the organization should consult with the DSA well in advance so that equitable decisions may be reached through cooperative discussions. 

Privileges 

By registering not only is the student and Greek organization recognized by the University but it receives the following benefits: 

1. The opportunity to apply for funding with SGA (allocations each semester) 
2. Ability to fundraise and advertise on campus 
3. Ability to reserve facilities (programs, meetings, etc.) 
4. Participate in recruitment efforts such as Rock the Mount where the organization can recruit new members 
5. Opportunity to establish a presence on the NCWU website 
6. Invitations to participate in numerous campus events including Homecoming and community celebrations 
7. Resources to assist with constitutional development, parliamentary procedure, programming and more. 
8. Opportunities to attend leadership-training workshops 
9. Opportunities to attend conferences 

Responsibilities 

Membership in a registered student and Greek organization must be open to any North Carolina Wesleyan student who shall comply with: 

1. Compliance with Campus Policies: Student organizations may be subject to disciplinary actions if the group is found guilty of the following:

• • Hazing
  • Disorderly conduct or social misconduct
  • Interference with the orderly academic and/or administrative, disciplinary process of the University, its activities, or the rights and freedoms of other member of the University community
  • Violation of North Carolina Wesleyan rules, regulations, and policies Violation of Federal, State, or Local Laws

2. Campus Leaders
   Students holding organization offices are expected to uphold the requirements of the North Carolina Wesleyan University Conduct Code. Should a violation occur, the DSA or designee and the organization’s faculty advisor shall review the circumstances of the incident and advise the organization of the recommended action. Recommended action may range from verbal admonition to removal of the students from office, and may include referral to the North Carolina Wesleyan University judicial system.

3. Liability
   1. Organization officers, members, and, advisers, may be civilly liable for harm resulting from either dangerous organization activities or those that create an unreasonable risk of injury on and off campus. All people involved in organizations are advised to plan activities carefully, comply with all laws (including those related to the consumption of alcohol and the use of vehicles and other equipment), and to neither endorse nor participate in activities that could result in injury to participants, bystanders, or property.
   2. Organizations sponsoring recreational activities or off-campus trips of any kind are required to complete and submit the Travel Packet prior to the off-campus trip. Organizations can receive the travel packet from the D.S.A.
4. Annual Registration Process
   1. All Student and Greek Organizations are required to be registered each year with the DSA.
   2. Registration includes submitting the registration form and a copy of the organization’s current constitution (if there have been any changes to last year’s constitution).
5. All student and Greek organizations are required to complete three community service project per semester

STUDENT ORGANIZATION and GREEK LIFE POLICIES 

All rules and regulations set forth in this Student Handbook pertain to student organizations, Greek organizations, as well as individual students. 

EVENT POLICIES AND PLANNING 

All events must be approved by the University. The DSA is available to assist organizations and individuals with planning events. The organization is responsible for arranging and paying for security, set-ups, breakdowns, supplies, etc. The organization is also responsible for the behavior of the students’ guests. If you need any help event planning or have any question, please come to the DSA’s office in the Hartness Student Center. Many organizations receive funds from the Student Government Association. In order to conduct special projects, however, it is sometimes necessary to hold fundraisers. Organizations must obtain approval from the DSA to have fundraisers, on or off-campus. If there are duplications of requests, priority will be given to the organization with the earliest submission date. 

In planning new activities, organizations should consult first with their faculty/staff advisor(s), and if there is doubt as to the appropriateness of the activity, the organization should consult with the DSA well in advance so that equitable decisions may be reached through cooperative discussions. 

Event Policies 

• Responsibility for monitoring NCWU policies and procedures rests with the host NCWU student organization. Host organization is responsible for enforcing the alcohol policy and federal, state, and local laws (regardless of whether or not security is present) at hosted functions and has the right and responsibility to ask persons in violation of policies to leave the premises. Representatives of host organization will be held accountable by NCWU for actions of members and/or guests at open functions. 
• It is the responsibility of the host to meet with the DSA and Director of Campus Safety when planning functions involving large numbers of NCWU students and/or non-students. The Director of Campus Safety will determine the number of security/police officers to monitor disorderly conduct of persons present at the function and to monitor the adherence of local, county, state, and federal laws. 
• The security/police officers will have the authority to close down an open event if the host does not abide by his/her directive to adhere to local, county, state, and federal laws.

• All outdoor events must comply with time specified in approved noise permit. The DSA, Security, or designee must be contacted to request a noise permit and the completed form is to be submitted three weeks prior to the event. 
• Requests for the approval to use on campus facilities or notification of social functions must be submitted in writing to the DSA at least two weeks in advance. Receipt of notification is not acceptance by NCWU of responsibilities for conduct of the organization or its members. In the event of the cancellation, the sponsoring organization must notify the DSA. 
• By agreement with other area Universitys/universities, students from other institutions who cause problems at these events will be reported to the appropriate officer at their home University/university. Each University/university is expected to follow up on these reports. 
• An organization sponsoring late night/afterhours event may be required to attend periodic meetings held to review this policy and the organization’s responsibilities pursuant to this policy. 
• Events requiring ticket sales will require coordination with the Dunn Center Box Office. All other campus ticket outlets should be approved by the DSA. 

Event Marketing/Advertising 

1. See Organization Posting Policies below for policies regarding posting flyers on campus. 
2. The DSA will place events on the online campus calendar when the event is approved. 
3. Student organizations can send an announcement to the DSA the week prior to the event, and the DSA will include the announcement on Monday’s weekly email of events which goes out to all students, staff, and faculty. 
4. Organizations are encouraged to post approved event information on the “campus wall/feed” of the NC Wes app. 
5. Side-walk Chalking is permitted ONLY if it is removable and there are no obscene drawings or language. Any violation of this policy will result in a fine and possible loss of University recognition of the organization. 
6. Fliers on cars are NOT permitted. 

Posting Policy 

The DSA must approve posting of student organization information. Off campus organizations and event postings must be approved by the DSA and may only be placed in the designated positing areas. The respective Area Directors must approve any posting inside the residence halls. 

Posting can occur only in the specified areas listed below. This posting policy applies only to public areas. Individual doors and department boards are under individual supervision. Posting on exit and hallway doors, walls, and glass is not permitted (unless designated above). Anything found on these surfaces will be removed, and the organization will be charged for damages and/or replacement. Postings must be removed within 24 hours following the event. Those who post materials are responsible for its removal. 

Fliers and signs are NOT allowed on painted surfaces, including bathroom stalls. Anything found on painted surfaces will be removed and the organization will be charged a fine for repainting the surface. Do not use tape on paper-covered surfaces/bulletin boards. The tape will tear the paper when items are removed.

Do not cover up other flyers. Do not use thumbtacks, push pins, or staples on wood surfaces/frames. 

General Posting Areas: 

1. Administration Building – Bulletin boards near the Student Success Center, the Registrar/Cashier’s Office, Science Wing 
2. Hardee’s Building – Poster bar facing the Blue & Gold Café, bulletin board beside ladies’ restroom 
3. Hartness Student Center- Bulletin Board in Hallway 
4. Residence Halls – Place copies in Area Coordinator boxes in Student Affairs Office 
5. Outside on Campus- Kiosks (three-sided bulletin board) in front of Braswell Administration and Pearsall Classrooms 
6. Taylor Recreation Center (Must have approval of Director of Intramural Sports & Recreation) 
7. Pearson Hall Library – On the glass wall entrance to the left 
8. Rocks between Hardee’s and Gravely and outside the Library – These rocks can be painted to promote campus organizations. Organizations must sign up with the D.S.A. for permission to paint the rocks. 

Notice of Non-Discrimination 

NCWU is committed to creating a campus environment that is not only understanding but also appreciative of its multicultural and diverse populations. The Student Affairs Office and NCWU affirm their commitment to a policy of non-discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, gender*, national or ethnic origin, religion, age, physical ability, sexual orientation, or veteran status. The Student Affairs Office strongly encourages full and fair participation of all student activities. Individuals, student organizations, the Student Affairs Office, and NCWU must continue to strive actively to build an institution of higher learning in which opportunities are realized and accessible to all. 

*Exclusion based on gender is applicable only to Greek-lettered organizations within the national structures of the National Interfraternity Conference, National Pan-Hellenic Council, and the National Pan-Hellenic Council, and/or organizations that have an equal but opposite opportunity, based on the Title IX Education Amendment of 1972 (Title 20 Education, U.S. Code 1988, Chapter 38, Section 1681). 

Alcohol and Drug Policy 

1. The possession, sale, use, and/or consumption of alcoholic beverages are not allowed during an official NCWU student organization event, or in any situation sponsored or endorsed by the NCWU student organization, or at any event an observer would associate with the NCWU student organization. The NCWU student organization must be in compliance with any and all applicable laws of the state, country, city, and policies of NCWU. 
2. The possession, sale, and/or use of any illegal drugs, items that violate the University’s Drug Possession and Use Policy or any controlled substances at any sponsored event or any event that an observer would associate with the NCWU student organization, are strictly prohibited. 
3. No NCWU student organization may co-sponsor an event with a distributor of alcohol, charitable organization working with a vendor serving alcohol, or tavern (tavern defined as an establishment generating more than half of annual gross sales to member of a NCWU student organization will permit, tolerate, encourage, or participate in “drinking games.”

Hazing Policy 

Hazing is any action taken or situation created, intentionally or unintentionally, on or off campus, which could reasonably be expected to produce mental or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, ridicule, the violation of NCWU rules and regulations, the violation of the laws or policies of the parent organization and/or the violation of any local, state, or national laws. All rules and regulations of NCWU, as well as local, state, or national laws will supersede those policies of national or local organizations. All assessments as to the appropriateness of an action will be considered within the context of the standards of the total University community. 

Activities considered to be hazing will include one or both of the following elements: 

1. Coercion, either overt or covert 
2. Production of mental discomfort in either the participants or spectators. Such activities suggested by a group member of a group to new trial members will be considered covert coercion even if the activity is said to be “voluntary.” 

Several specific actions or practices that are considered to be hazing are: Paddling in any form, physical or psychological shocks, performances producing excessive fatigue, physical exhaustion, or physical injury, performances that are hazardous or dangerous in any way, tasks of personal servitude, physical disfigurement (temporary or permanent), wearing or displaying of improper apparel or other articles in public, any morally degrading or humiliating games or other activities, loud noises or other activities which disturb the community, activities or actions that require or include theft, forcing or requiring the drinking of alcohol or any other substances, forcing or requiring the eating of food or any other substance, treeing, line-ups, road trips, scavenger hunts, permitting less than six (6) continuous hours of sleep per night, conducting activities which do not allow adequate time for study, nudity at any time, forcing or requiring the violation of NCWU, Federal, State, or local law 

Implementation 

Each and every organization has the responsibility of informing its members, both old and new, of any important NCWU policies, including hazing. All NCWU organizations are responsible for the actions of all visiting members, friends, and/or alumni who will be subject to the same behavioral standards and policies as members of the organization. 

The Office of Student Affairs will assist in the proper implementation of these policies. Complaints and charges of violations will be investigated and, if substantiated, appropriate actions will be taken. It is possible for either individuals or organizations to be held responsible in the event that these policies are violated. Violations may result in University disciplinary action and/or legal actions through the courts. NCWU disciplinary action may include the withdrawal of NCWU recognition from offending organizations through a due process hearing. 

NOTE: These policies apply to interest groups, pledges, associate members classes, and generally any activities associated with any student organization recognized by the University.

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA HAZING STATUTE 

14-35 Hazing 

It shall be unlawful for any student in any University or school in this State to engage in what is known as hazing, or to aid or abet any other student in the commission of this offense. For the purposes of this section hazing is defined as follows: “to annoy a person by playing abusive or ridiculous tricks upon him/her, to frighten, scold, beat or harass him/her, to subject him/her to personal indignity.” Any violation of this section shall constitute a Class 2 misdemeanor. (1913, c. 169, ss. 5, 6,: C.S., s. 4217; 1969, c. 1224, s. 1; 1993, c. 539, s. 19; 1994, Ex. Sess., c. 24, s. 14 (c). ) 14-36 Expulsion from school; duty of faculty to expel. 

Upon conviction of any student of the offense of hazing, or of aiding or abetting in the commission of this offense, he shall, in addition to any punishment imposed by the court, be expelled from the University or school he is attending. The faculty or governing board of any University or school charged with the duty of expulsion of students for proper cause shall, upon such conviction at once expel the offender and a failure to do so shall be a Class 21 misdemeanor. (1913, c. 169, ss. 5,6; C.S., s. 4218; 1993, c. 539, s. 20; 1994, Ex. Sess., c. 24, s. 14(c).) 

Disciplinary Measures for Student Organizations 

Upon finding a student or student organization guilty of committing an offense, the appropriate University official or judicial body may apply one or more disciplinary measures within the restrictions provided in state rules and procedures. The severity of the punishment shall be consistent with the nature of the offense. 

1. Revocation of Recognition: permanent severance of the student organization’s relationship with the University. 
2. Probated Revocation of Recognition: notice that further major violation(s) of University policy shall result in revocation of recognition. 
3. Suspension of Recognition: severance of the student organization’s recognition by the University for a specific period of time. 
4. Probated Suspension: notice that further violation(s) of University policy shall result in suspension 
5. Disciplinary Probation: notice to the student organization that further disciplinary violation(s) may result in suspension; this disciplinary may also include one or more of the following: placing the student organization under social behavioral restrictions; making restitution to the student(s), student organization(s), or University body whose property right have been violated; and performing community service in support of a University program or project.

• • Restriction: exclusion from participating in or sponsoring social or recreational activities or privileges available to recognize student organization or to NCWU students, or from holding office in recognized student organization. 
  • Restitution: reimbursement for damage or destruction of property, as determined and stipulated by the University 
  • Community Service: assignment to work a specific number of hours on a University related program or project.

STARTING A NEW CLUB 

Each year, as new students arrive on campus, new interests appear as well. Students with a common interest are encouraged to contact the Office of Student Engagement for information on starting a club. 

The procedures for starting new student organizations are outlined below. 

1. First, a group of five or more full-time students must commit to the process. Four of these students must be willing to take on the role of an executive officer in the organization: President, Vice President, Treasurer, and Secretary. 
2. The student organization must find a faculty or staff advisor to fulfill the advisor duties for the organization. 
3. Group must obtain a Student Organization Recognition packet from the DSA. This packet includes a Student Organization Registration form, a skeleton constitution, and statements regarding hazing, alcohol policies, affirmative action statement, and other policies that the group and advisor must agree to follow and sign. 
4. Once all forms are filled out and the constitution for the new group has been written, the students must return the packet to the DSA. 
5. The DSA will grant recognition status once the packet is complete and the organization’s President has met with the DSA. 

Active Student Organizations 

Recognized student organizations are a vital part of student life at North Carolina Wesleyan University. Clubs and organizations offer learning and social outlets that complement academic pursuits. These organizations encourage students to engage their various interests and at the same time, offer social activities for the community. To sign up for existing organization or the get more information, attend Rock the Mount in August. Rock the Mount is a showcase of organizations with members on hand to answer questions and provide opportunities for involvement. 

For a full list and brief descriptions of active student organizations that currently serve the Wesleyan community, visit ncwu.edu/campus-life/student-activities/. 

Active Greeks on Campus 

Active Greeks on campus are a vital part of student life at North Carolina Wesleyan University. Greek Life offers learning and social outlets that complement academic pursuits. These organizations encourage students to engage their various interests and at the same time, offer social activities for the community. To sign up for existing organization or the get more information, attend Rock the Mount and Greek Week in August. Rock the Mount is a showcase of organizations with members on hand to answer questions and provide opportunities for involvement. During Greek week the different Greeks on campus sponsor events on campus promoting their various fraternal organizations. 

For a full list and brief descriptions of active Greeks that currently serve the Wesleyan community, visit ncwu.edu/campus-life/student-activities/.

Other Opportunities for Involvement 

STUDENT ENTERTAINMENT & ACTIVITIES TEAM (SEAT) 

SEAT is a team comprised of students who select, plan, and implement activities and entertainment with both social and educational dimensions. These events vary and may include comedians, novelty acts, concerts, trips, dances, homecoming week, spring fling week, and much more. All students are encouraged to play an active role in S.E.A.T. It is a great way to meet other students and learn skills outside of the classroom. Whether it is program planning, publications and promotions, or helping with the events, S.E.A.T. provides fellowship and helps foster a spirit of community. If you are interested in becoming a member of S.E.A.T. or applying for an executive council position, please contact Elliott Smith, Director of Student Engagement, at esmith@ncwu.edu. 

STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION (SGA) 

The Student Government Association (SGA) is responsible for addressing student concerns, allocating funds, and supervising the Association’s committees. Officers of the SGA are elected by the students each year to conduct student government business. Students who are not elected to executive positions may also participate in a variety of ways. Every student is encouraged to become active in student government through participating in elections, attending meetings, becoming involved in committees, and by contributing ideas and concerns through their elected representatives. 

SGA EXECUTIVE BOARD 

The Executive Board includes four student officers elected by their peers. Executive positions include President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, and Parliamentarian.