Living On Campus Guide
Table of Contents
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I. Mission Statement
We within the Department of University Housing & Conference Services are dedicated to creating a safe and engaging living-learning community in the residence halls. We focus on creating a residential environment that fosters student learning and a strong sense of community. We encourage our student residents to reach for their goals in a setting that allows them to become their very best.
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II. Values Statement
We Value Student’s Rights and Freedom
Just as the University has the freedom to teach, resident students have the freedom to learn. The freedom to learn, whether it be in a living area or in the classroom, is dependent upon the conditions that prevail. A resident student can protect his or her freedom to learn through the choice of responsible actions. Each resident student has the right to be heard when it comes to safeguarding his/her freedom to learn. For example, as a residence hall community member, a resident student is encouraged to assume responsibility in helping to foster community and maintain their hall or area environment.
Although resident students bring to campus a wide variety of interests, they can develop many new and different interests while on campus. Resident students have the ability and the opportunity to organize and join associations which will promote their interests. Association with other students who have interests in common can provide valuable educational opportunities.
Furthermore we value:
- Safe and secure living environments
- Well-maintained facilities
- Opportunities for learning, personal growth and development
- Respect for and dignity of the individual
- Responsible behavior
- Diversity & Inclusion
- Community
- Assessment and continuous improvement
- Staff committed to providing an exceptional ethic of care
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III. Residence Hall Staff
What is a Residential Area Director (RAD)?
An Residential Area Director (RAD) is a full-time professional staff member of the Department of University Housing & Conference Services who supervises student staff, including Graduate Assistants (GAs) and Resident Assistants (RAs). The RAD lives in an apartment within the residential area for which they are responsible. The RAD, with their prospective hall staff, addresses maintenance concerns, resident discipline, roommate conflicts, emergency response, and creates educational and social programming opportunities. Resident students will come into contact with the RAD under many different circumstances during their stay in the residence hall. We encourage all resident students to take a moment to meet their RAD.
What is a Graduate Assistant (GA)?
A Graduate Assistant (GA) is a graduate student who serves as a resource to those living in the residential halls. The GA directly supervise the Desk Attendants (DAs) and advise students regarding concerns and issues related to their university experience. The GAs are supervised by the RADs on campus. Residents are encouraged to visit their GA during their posted office hours if they have concerns, questions, or just to get to know them.
What is a Resident Assistant (RA)?
A Resident Assistant (RA) is a full-time undergraduate resident student who is responsible for providing the overall leadership to resident students on a floor or wing, assisting residents with personal and academic concerns, and helping to resolve any group conflicts that might arise. Most importantly, the RA also serves as a facilitator to encourage a cooperative and considerate community living environment. The RA is expected to help build a positive and inclusive community by initiating and organizing wing, floor or hall activities and programs. The RA serves as an information resource about the campus, the residence hall, and the surrounding community.
What is a Desk Attendant (DA)?
A Desk Attendant (DA) is an integral member and representative of the Department of University Housing & Conference Services and is often the first contact for residents and visitors to the residence halls. The Desk Attendant is responsible for various tasks including but not limited to checking students IDs, signing in guest(s), and signing out packages.
Employment with the Department of UNIVERSITY Housing & CONFERENCE SERVICES
Any resident interested in learning more about the opportunities to work in University Housing & Conference Services may contact any of the hall staff members or respond to the many job announcements that are posted throughout the year.
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IV. Community Bill of Rights and Responsibilities
Each student, as a member of a Millersville University residence hall community, has certain rights and responsibilities which must be honored. The Community Bill of Rights and Responsibilities is intended to define expectations on rights and responsibilities of residents in realizing their freedoms while balancing and considering rights of other residents. Each resident student has the right to engage in those physical, educational and social pursuits that are a necessary part of his or her university life. However, these rights carry with them a reciprocal responsibility on the part of the student to ensure those same rights for other residents.
The Department of University Housing & Conference Services reserves the right to remove a student from the residence hall if his or her conduct causes another student or employee to reasonably fear for their safety. Specific examples of such conduct include but are not limited to harassment, stalking, physical contact, and threatening actions.
Primary Rights of the resident:
- The right to read and study free from undue interference in one’s room. One of the basic purposes of the University is the dissemination and application of knowledge. Unreasonable noise and other distractions inhibit the exercise of this right.
- The right to sleep.
- The right to one’s personal belongings.
- The right to free access to one’s room during the period that the residence halls are open.
- The right to a clean living environment. Optimal physical conditions are essential.
- The right to submit grievances. If the academic and residential communities are to function in the most educationally profitable manner, the right to initiate actions and referrals for impartial and fair adjudication of grievances is held paramount. This is the purpose of the University’s Student Code of Conduct.
Secondary Privileges
Secondary privileges of the resident are those that should be protected, but not infringed upon the reasonable exercise of the primary rights defined above. The secondary privileges include:
- The expectation of personal privacy. All resident students should have the freedom from interference with their personal activities and should be able to maintain privacy for other than academic reasons.
- The privilege to host guests. All resident students should have the opportunity to maintain personal contacts and friendships to fulfill their needs for socialization. Guests are to respect the above stated rights of the host’s roommate and of other residents and adhere to the Guest Policy in listed in Section V.
Community Responsibilities
Residents, together with faculty, administration and staff share the responsibility of developing and enforcing reasonable expectations related to resident conduct. All members of the University community have the right to use the established disciplinary channels to protect the educational purposes of the institution. When a student is accused of violating the Student Code of Conduct they are guaranteed due process. This means that students will be informed of all charges brought against them, that they will be given a fair opportunity to refute the charges, and that the University will not be arbitrary in its actions (see Student Code of Conduct).
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V. Guest Policy
University Housing & Conference Services (UHCS) guest policies and procedures allow resident students to have guests in a manner that does not infringe upon the comfort or rights of other residents, and maintains an appropriate level of safety and security in the residence halls.
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A guest is defined as anyone who is not assigned to live in your room/suite or residence hall. Please remember the right to study and sleep precedes any other privileges. Being and having guests in the residence halls is a privilege and not a right of occupancy. It is highly recommended that roommates/suitemates discuss in advance what their guest expectations in their room/suite will be for the year.
Short-Term Guests
- A short-term guest may visit residents from 12:00 pm - 12:00 am, 7 days a week.
- Each resident student may have no more than two (2) guests at a time in any of the on-campus residence halls. Family members, such as parents, guardians, or siblings, visiting as short-term guests (not an overnight guest) are permitted without this limit being imposed.
- There is no limit on number of family members for days of a resident student move-in or move-out or dropping/picking items to resident student.
- A resident should obtain permission from all roommates and suitemates prior to the short-term guest checkin in.
- At anytime a short-term guest may be asked to leave the residence hall by UHCS staff, MUPD, or other University Officials.
- An Overnight Guest is any person remaining in a room/suite where they do not reside between 12:00 am and 12:00 pm
- An overnight guest is only permitted during weekend nights (Friday and Saturday)
- Each resident student may have no more than (2) guests at a time in any of the on-campus residence halls.
- A resident student may not have overnight guests more than two (2) consecutive nights in the residence halls and no more than six (6) nights a month. Additionally, a person cannot be an overnight guest more than two (2) consecutive nights or six (6) nights a month in any residence hall.
- No guests are allowed to enter or remain in a resident students’ rooms without at least one room resident serving as a host. Therefore, a resident host of the room must be present at all times.
- Resident students are responsible for their guests behavior at all times while in the residence hall and on any Millersville University owned or leased property.
- All guests must abide by the University and UHCS policies, procedures, regulations, and standards. Failure to do so may result in temporary or permanent restriction from University Residence Halls and potential sanctions under the Student Code of Conduct for host(s). Guests are subject to University and UHCS policies, rules, and regulations, and are the responsibility of the resident host at all times.
- There are no exceptions to any part of this guest policy.
- There may be special times during the year (e.g. semester breaks, exam periods, summer sessions, and emergencies) when this guest policy may be modified. Modifications will be posted in residence hall floors, lobbies, and elevators and at the Community Desk. Any exceptions to these guidelines are at the sole discretion and subject to approval by the Department of University Housing & Conference Services.
- All resident students within a room or suite must have prior knowledge and offer consent to the hosting resident to allow short-term or overnight guests. Overnight guests must have the signed approval from all residents of the room and they must sign their approval at the front desk.
- Guests must be escorted by their resident host at all times and have a form of photo ID on them. Guests found without an escort or ID, may be asked to leave the residence hall.
- All guests must register and must be at least 18 years of age. If guests are under the age of 18, their resident host(s) must secure a guest exception through the Residential Area Director. This process will require the parent or guardian of the underage guest to provide written permission for the guest to visit.
- Guests must present valid photo identification at the front desk prior to entering the building. Acceptable forms of official photo identification include (but are not limited to) credit cards, state ID, passports, MU or other university-issued ID cards, etc.
- Short-term guests must be signed out at the front desk with staff. If staff are away from the desk, the host student is responsible to wait until staff returns to sign-out their guest.
- If the overnight guest leaves prior to the hall office opening at 12 p.m., the resident host is responsible for signing out the guest.
Millersville University, including but not limited to University Housing and Services (UHCS), Millersville University Police Department (MUPD), and Student Conduct and Community Standards reserves the right to deny guest access to anyone for any reason and may suspend guest policies at any time
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VI. Fire and Safety Policies/Procedures
A. Bomb Threats
Relay the following information to the campus police officer and the police dispatcher, and use the checklist to record this information.
If you observe a potential bomb or suspicious object on campus, do the following:- DO NOT HANDLE THE OBJECT!
- Call University Police at 911.
- Do not pull the fire alarm to evacuate the building. Instead, inform your Housing and Residential Programs Staff and spread the word to people in your building. The police, when they arrive, will assist in evacuating the building.
- Leave the building, move a safe distance away (300 feet or more) and remain there until instructed to return to the building.
- When is the bomb going to explode?
- Where is the bomb located?
- What kind of bomb is it?
- What does it look like?
- Why did you place the bomb?
- Time of call.
- Age and sex of caller.
- Speech pattern, accent / dialect, etc.
- Emotional state of the caller.
- Background noise.
It is prohibited to possess or use of any candles, oil lamps, incense, hookahs or any device producing an open flame, as they are extremely hazardous and, therefore, prohibited.
C. Fire Alarms and Emergency EquipmentA fire alarm system is a number of devices located throughout the building working together to detect and alert resident students through visual and audio appliances when smoke/fire is present. These alarms may be activated from smoke detectors, and heat detectors. They may also be activated via manual fire alarm activation devices such as manual call points or pull stations. Fire alarm system testing is conducted to verify performance and operation integrity of fire alarm systems and their components, including initiating devices, notification appliances, and associated equipment. Because of the dangers and risks to resident students and firefighters associated with fire alarms, there are penalties for intentionally setting any fire; for intentionally causing false fire alarm; and for vandalizing or tampering with any fire alarm or fire protection equipment. Sanctions may include, but are not limited to: fines, loss of housing privileges, suspension and/or criminal prosecution.
If You Discover a Fire, Pull the Alarm! Then call 911 from a Safe location.- Speak slowly enough to be clearly understood.
- Give your name.
- Give the exact location of the fire.
- Give any other relevant information (i.e., if anyone is hurt or in immediate danger).
- Identify what is on fire
- DO NOT hang up until told to do so by the 911 dispatcher.
When a fire occurs in a hall, it is especially life threatening because of the number of people endangered. It is essential that advance preparation be made so that if a fire should occur in a residence hall, the occupants and emergency personnel will have specific guidelines to follow. These guidelines should provide direction to those people involved in the emergency situation and lessen the number of decisions that must be made under stress. Each semester each hall will conduct two unannounced fire/evacuation drill for the purposes of preparing our community to respond to life threatening occurrences.
D. Evacuation ProceduresWhen a fire alarm at a residence hall is sounded (by smoke, another person, fire drill or otherwise), always take the fire alarm seriously and assume there is a fire. Students are encouraged to prepare a “go-bag” of personal items (i.e., jacket, shoes, other clothing, towel) that may be needed if the evacuation continues for an extended time. All persons are required to vacate the building or area. Upon evacuating please grab your “go-bag” as well as your wallet and keys to your room and vehicle. Close your windows, leave the lights on, and shut and lock the door. Proceed to nearest exit (quickly and orderly) and report to designated evacuation zone as direct by the Housing & Residential Programs Staff. Please be sure to move away from the building and out of the path of the emergency vehicles and personnel. If you notice what is on fire or see anyone that may be in danger after evacuating, notify a person in authority. This may be either a residence hall staffer, MUPD officer, or fire personnel.
E. Residents with Special Needs During an EmergencyPhysically-impaired students will work with their RA to identify a number of individuals in their immediate living area who can provide them with assistance during an emergency. Five or six individuals are recommended in order that one or two may be present during an emergency or other special circumstance. These people would assist the individual in moving to a safer location.
If you cannot exit the building, please go to the stairwell and use your cell phone to call 911.
Resident students with temporary immobility issues during an emergency who are not registered through Learning Services should call 911. Students with temporary mobility issues should always notify friends and/or roommates of the need for potential assistance.
F. Emotional Support Animal Protocol:
Fire department personnel will evacuate all emotional support animals that are properly secured (in a cage/crate) and that have not been removed from the building by the owner. The fire department will deliver the animals to staff members at the primary evacuation area designated for the residence hall. From there, staff members may be instructed to transport animals to the following designated locations depending upon weather and safety conditions for the animals.
G. Fire Safety Instructions- If there is smoke in the room, keep low to the floor. If possible, open the windows to allow fresh air in the room.
- If the room is clear of smoke, and the door is hot, do not open it! If direct access to a phone is available, residents should call 911 to inform authorities that they are unable to leave the room. Stay in the room and wait for emergency personnel and hang a towel or blanket from the window if possible. If smoke is entering the room, stuff all openings with towels, clothes, etc.
- If deemed safe to leave the room, do so quickly but without panic and exit the building. DO NOT USE ELEVATORS UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES.
- Exit down the stairway single file, making room for the individuals on the other floors as they enter the stairway. Always keep to the right as you descend the stairwells allowing emergency personnel the left side for entry into the building and floors.
- Please be sure to move away from the building and out of the path of the emergency vehicles and personnel. Report to designated evacuation zone as directed by the Department of University Housing & Conference Services staff.
- Residents must immediately inform firefighters, University Police, or Department of University Housing & Conference Services staff if they believe someone is trapped in the building.
- Do not re-enter the building for any reason until the “all-clear” signal has been given by Department of University Housing & Conference Services staff or University Police.
If a student has information regarding a fire, they are encouraged to tell the nearest University Police Officer or call University Police at 717-871-4636. They may also contact the Department of University Housing & Conference Services at 717-871-4200 during office hours.
Fire drills are conducted twice per semester and will occur during the course of the academic school year. Please refer to above instructions.
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VII. Health, Safety, and Security
A. Illness and Absence
The Department of University Housing & Conference Services should be made aware of students’ illnesses that may cause a student to miss classes for an extended period of time or that may be a concern for their roommate or other members of the residential community. Students who are unable to dine in the dining hall
sdue to illness may receive a “Box-Meal-to-Go.” The service must be authorized by a staff member at Witmer Health Center who will contact the Gordinier Hall kitchen at x7579. Dining will request an “M” number at the time of the call and the duration of the service. Approved “Box-Meal-to-Go” Service will be picked up by a roommate or designated friend. All non-disposable supplies, such as plates, silverware, glassware, etc. that are not returned to Dining Services within 48 hours are subject to a charge, to be applied to the respective student account.Students who suffer from chronic conditions, or who must take regular medication, should notify Witmer Health Services so that the information may be kept on file. Students with physical disabilities or limitations that require special consideration with regard to housing assignments should consult the Office of Learning Services in Lyle Hall. As with other student records, medical files are confidential and used by authorized personnel only.
Students who think they have been bitten by spiders, bed bugs, or other insects should go to Witmer Health Services and have it verified, sign a consent for release form then report it to the in-hall staff for further instructions.
If a prolonged absence is necessary for any authorized reason that the Registrar’s Office has approved (these are listed on the Registrar’s webpage: see Class Attendance Policy), students should notify the Registrar’s Office of their impending absence so that their professors can be notified officially. Upon return, in order to make up work missed, the student must have a written excuse from the Registrar’s Office or their doctor to present to their professors. It is also suggested that the student inform the residence hall staff of their intended prolonged absence.
B. Smoking/e-Hookah/e-CigaretteNo smoking is allowed within the residence halls. Though e-cigarettes and e-hookahs do not burn tobacco, they do vaporize a liquid that is heavy with a nicotine concentration. This vapor byproduct can cause adverse effects in students with asthma or other respiratory issues and can also set off building fire alarm. Therefore, e-hookahs and e-cigarettes/vaping are not permitted to be stored or used in the residence halls. Due to ventilation systems, HVAC units and exits/entrances of buildings, it is expected that students stand, at a minimum, 20 feet from the outside perimeter of any building when smoking.
C. Evacuation ProceduresWhen a fire alarm at a residence hall sounds, always take the fire alarm seriously and assume there is a fire. Resident students are encouraged to prepare a “go-bag” of personal items (e.g., jacket, shoes, other clothing, towel) that may be needed if the evacuation continues for an extended time. All persons are required to vacate the building or area. Upon evacuating please grab your “go-bag”. Close your windows, leave the lights on, and shut and lock the door. Proceed to nearest exit and report to designated evacuation zone as direct by the Housing & Residential Programs Staff. Please be sure to move away from the building and out of the path of the emergency vehicles and personnel.
D. Life-threatening emergencies- Call 911.
- Notify a residence hall staff member as soon as possible.
- Report all pertinent information regarding the incident and associated circumstances relevant to the situation.
This type of situation usually draws a crowd. Housing and Residential Staff may solicit students’ help in contacting appropriate offices/individuals or they may ask for assistance with crowd control. You will assist staff to give the most expedient care possible to the student needing assistance.
E. Drug and Alcohol Abuse
The laws of Pennsylvania closely regulate all activities related to alcoholic beverages, from manufacture to consumption. In keeping with efforts to maintain an environment that supports and encourages the pursuit and dissemination of knowledge, it is the policy of Millersville University to consider the use, possession, or trafficking of illegal drugs or any illegal use, possession or alcohol abuse by resident students or their guests on premises under University control to be unacceptable conduct that adversely affects the educational environment. If a student enters the building under the influence of alcohol or other drugs, a Housing and Residential Programs Staff may evaluate the situation and determine the next course of action. The student:
- May be sent to the hospital for appropriate medical treatment.
- May be denied entry into the residence hall and referred to the appropriate medical or police agency.
- May be documented for Student Code of Conduct violations.
- If the student is engaging in disorderly conduct, University Police may be contacted.
University Housing & Conference Services has a great concern for the psychological well-being of our resident students. Students expressing comments, symptoms or behavior of depression or suicide ideation may be referred to University Housing & Conference Services staff on-call and may be referred to the Counseling Center for a professional evaluation. The University Housing & Residential Conference Services staff may also contact Crisis Intervention to have screening done if the situation arises outside of the Counseling Center’s normal operating hours.
Students may have emotional health needs that require an immediate medical leave of absence. University Housing & Conference Services staff will work closely with the Counseling Center in the event that medical leave of absence is necessitated.
G. Sexual Harassment/Title IXTitle IX - Sexual assault and sexual misconduct that occurs in the educational setting (on or off campus) implicates a federal civil rights law called Title IX of the Higher Education Amendments of 1972, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in education programs or activities, and which triggers certain responsibilities on the part of the University. Educational institutions that receive federal financial assistance are covered by Title IX. As Millersville University is one of those institutions, all University students are covered by Title IX.
The University‘s Sexual Misconduct Policy can be found online at (Sex Discrimination and Sex-Based Harassment Policy)
A student may obtain assistance in understanding processes available to pursue either informal or formal resolution of a sexual harassment complaint on a confidential basis by contacting the Title IX Coordinator located in SMC 107. Additional resources for victims are available at the following link:(see Sexual Violence Resource Page).
A student who believes that they have been the victim of sexual harassment by another person should proceed in accordance with the Millersville University Student Code of Conduct(see Student Code of Conduct).
H. Room Inspection, Entry, and SearchThe University reserves a reasonable right of entry into your room/suite for the following reasons;
- Proper Maintenance, Repair and Completion of work orders.
- To Investigate when there is a reason to believe that violation of a state, federal, municipal law, residence hall policy or University regulation is occurring within your room/suite
- In these cases, staff will announce themselves prior to entering. In cases where resident students are not present at the time of entry, staff will not search through personal belongings but will refer any policy violation that is in plain sight to the disciplinary process.
- Closure of the Building Inspections (Fall Break, Thanksgiving, Semester Break, etc). The reason for checking the room is to ensure that room windows are secured in case of inclement weather, electrical appliances are unplugged in the event of a power outage, and trash is emptied to avoid pest problems.
- Information will be e-mailed to all resident students to assist you with closing preparations. See a member of the Housing and Residential Programs Staff should you have any questions.
- Should a resident student fail to comply with break closing procedures, you may be referred to the disciplinary process.
- Should the Housing and Residential Programs Staff notice additional policy violations, you will be referred to the disciplinary process.
- Routine Health and Safety Inspections: Your room/suite will be inspected periodically throughout the academic year by the University Housing and Conference Services staff to ensure compliance with all safety policies and procedures. The Department of University Housing & Conference Services reserves the right to request that corrections be made to your room/suite when violations to policy and/or safety procedures are found. University Housing & Conference Services staff may enter your room/suite without you being present. If you wish to be present for inspections, it is your responsibility to make reasonable arrangements with Housing and Residential Programs Staff.
- If your room/suite is found unacceptable, you will be notified to correct the problem. A member of the University Housing & Conference Services staff will return to perform a second inspection of your room/suite on the date and time listed on the notification. Failure to pass the second inspection will result in a $25 damage charge per person. If Housekeeping staff is required to correct this situation, additional charges will be assessed. If you continue to fail the inspection a third time, you will be referred to the disciplinary process for failure to comply.
- Should the University Housing & Conference Services staff notice additional Code of Conduct violations, you will be referred to the disciplinary process.
The personal safety of a resident student is a primary concern to the Department of University Housing & Conference Services and Millersville University Police Department. The Department of University Housing & Conference Services is interested in residents' students security concerns and problems and encourages students to work with us to make the year an enjoyable but safe one. Security starts with the resident student.
Simple reminders such as locking resident student room doors, going out in groups, and keeping track of room keys and ID are important security precautions that take little time, but maximize personal security.
- ONLY enter through the main card access entrance
- DO NOT let people in through the back and side doors
- DO NOT let strangers into the building
- DO NOT prop open doors
- Always report suspicious people, packages, and / or occurrences.
To add to the services that we provide our resident students, cameras have been installed in the entryways, hallways and common areas of all residence halls. The cameras will be used to deter and record activity that violates state or federal law and university policy. Retrieval of information for safety and investigative purposes shall be the primary goal of the digital recording systems.
K. IDs, Card Access, and Door AlarmsResident students are required to carry their Millersville University ID with them at all times. All students and guests are required to show their MU ID to staff every time they enter a residence hall or are asked to by a staff member. Each Millersville University student is issued a permanent ID card, which carries the student’s picture on it. A valid ID card carries with it certain privileges, such as use of the library, admittance to dining halls, admittance to various activities and so forth. For resident students, the Millersville University ID allows them access to the residence hall in which they live. Resident students will be issued a sticker that is placed on their Millersville ID to help identify the hall they are assigned to live in. Resident students are not permitted to share their sticker with anyone else and must keep the sticker on their ID while residing in that residence hall.
In the event a resident student moves from one building to another, the Department of University Housing & Conference Services will update the student’s ID to allow access to his or her new location and eliminate access to his/her former location. Resident students have 24 hours to move after they have completed the paperwork for a room change.
During that period of time, the resident student will have access to both buildings. After 24 hours, access to the former building will not be possible except as an escorted guest of a current resident student.
For security reasons, each student ID card is for that student’s use only and must not be lent to other people. Violators jeopardize the security of other residents and are subject to University and/or civil disciplinary action.
All residence halls are equipped with electronic card access devices, which will permit access only to resident students and University personnel with valid identification cards. If a card is lost or stolen, the student can get a replacement at the ID Office in the Boyer Building between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. After the ID Office is closed, the student should report the lost or stolen ID card to a Department of University Housing & Conference Services staff member in the student’s residence hall. The staff member will issue a time-limited, temporary card, which must be returned within 72 hours to the residence hall office.
Care:- Protect your card from physical abuse.
- Carry it in your wallet.
- DO NOT punch holes in the card.
- Avoid exposure to any type of magnetic source.
- Avoid running the ID card through washing machines or clothes dryers.
The halls are also equipped with peripheral door alarms, which will sound after a short period of time if the door is not properly closed. Residents are expected to ensure that peripheral doors are closed properly as they exit, not to prop doors open, nor allow non-residents who are not their guests to enter the buildings.
A resident host must escort visitors, guests and other non- residents while in the residence hall. Residents who give entry to unescorted non-residents are in violation of the escort policy and are subject to disciplinary action.
L. Firearms, Weapons, Fireworks, and other Combustible MaterialsFirearms, including toy/facsimiles that could be mistaken for their real counterpart, squirt guns or other water guns, BB guns, toys capable of shooting projectiles, including NERF guns, paintball guns, air-soft guns, disc shooters, ammunition, fireworks, gasoline, motorcycles, mopeds and other combustible or explosive materials are not permitted in the residential areas. Blades such as knives, etc. other than those used as kitchen tools, or their replicas, constitute a violation of policy as well. It is a violation of University policy to store weapons of any kind on campus, including, but not limited to brass knuckles, billy clubs, blackjacks, tasers, stun guns, bows, slingshots, and large quantities of mace, etc.
Any student throwing or using fireworks will be referred for disciplinary action, and their housing agreement may be canceled (see Housing Agreement).
M. TheftsTheft is a violation of the Student Code of Conduct. Should a resident student be the victim of theft or other crimes, contact the University Police and the Department of University Housing & Conference Services.
N. Behavioral Intervention Team (BIT)Millersville University has established a Behavioral Intervention Team (BIT) to assist in addressing situations where students, faculty or staff are displaying disruptive or threatening behaviors that potentially impede their own or others’ ability to function successfully or safely. The process is designed to help identify persons whose behaviors potentially endanger their own or others’ health and safety.
It is the responsibility of faculty, staff, and students to immediately report any situation that could possibly result in harm to anyone at the University. Any member of the campus community may become aware of a troubling person or situation that is causing serious anxiety, stress or fear and, if so, this information should be provided to the Behavioral Intervention Team at 717-871-7070.
In a case where a person may pose an immediate risk of violence to self or others, the University Police should be contacted at 911.
O. University PoliceThe University Police office is located in Lebanon House. In an emergency situation affecting the safety of the residents or property of the University, this office should be notified at 717-871-4357 for non-emergencies or call 911 for emergencies. If at any time a student is threatened with physical harm, call University Police immediately. University Police patrol the campus and are available to respond to calls 24 hours a day.
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VIII. Housing Policy/Procedures
A. Housing Agreement
The Housing Agreement is a document that constitutes an agreement between the residents and Millersville University, acting by and through Department of University Housing & Conference Services, and sets forth the terms and conditions on which the resident student will occupy the premises in the University-managed residence halls. The Agreement can be found under “Quick Links” on the Department of University Housing & Conference Services website (see Housing Agreement).
B. Break Housing and InspectionsResidents who wish to reside on campus during official break period may request to do so by contacting the Residential Area Director of their respective hall. Final approval must be given by your RAD. Students must do so at least 10 days prior to the start of break to remain on campus. Late requests may be subject to a $40.00 fee (see fee list).
For all breaks (i.e., Fall Break, Thanksgiving, Winter Break, etc.) Department of University Housing & Conference Services staff will make a routine check of all rooms in the interest of health and safety and to ensure that the instructions for closings were followed. Failure to comply with the instructions for closings will be considered a violation to the Student Code of Conduct and may be subject to disciplinary action. Repair work may be done by Maintenance Operations employees during these periods.
C. ConsolidationEach semester Department of University Housing & Conference Services conducts a room consolidation process. The consolidation process begins either the second or third week of each semester. This process pairs or residents who do not have a roommate/suitemate.
The consolidation process serves a few purposes:- Frees up rooms/spaces for students who want to room together.
- Accommodates students who may be interested in paying the additional cost to retain their room/suite as a single.
- Ensures equity in cost of room occupancy.
- Reduces the energy consumption by that room and supports our commitment to sustainability.
The consolidation process includes
- Giving students who are in a room/suite by themselves the opportunity to select a roommate from among other students who are in a room by themselves instead of being assigned one.
- Consolidating/paring up remaining students.
The Department of University Housing & Conference Services staffwill do everything possible to make the process comfortable, but whether you move, or the other person does, someone must relocate. Refusal to relocate is not an option and students failing to comply could be subject to disciplinary action. A student's assignment is for (1) one spot in a room and students do not have the right to use items reserved for another person in that assignment. Should you have any questions regarding this process, please do not hesitate to ask by contacting the Department of University Housing & Conference Services at (717) 871-4200 or housing@millersville.edu.
D. DamagesWhen resident students checks into an assigned room, they accept responsibility for its condition. The resident student will complete a Room Condition Report (RCR), which will then be retained until the end of the year.
Upon signature, the RCR becomes a record for the condition of the room when the resident student assumed occupancy. This report is compared to the condition of the room at the time of checkout. It is expected that resident students thoroughly assess their room carefully when they move in.
Roommates/Suitemates may share equal responsibility for damages or corrections to furnishings, including doors and windows, when specific responsibility is in question.
The Department of University Housing & Conference Services may charge the occupants of a room for any restorative services (e.g., tape removal, wall washing and/or painting, surface refinishing on room doors, desk, dressers, bookshelves, closets, etc.).
Fee List:
The Villages
Shenks/
Improper Checkout $35.00 - Break Housing Late Fee $40.00 - BATH:
Cleaning Fee $100.00 - Ceramic toilet top (special order)
$100.00
$35.00
Fan over toilet/sink
Replacement Cost
$20.00
Soap Dish
$12.00
$5.00
Sink
Replacement Cost
$125.00
Shelves
$27.00
$30.00
Shelves wall attach bar
$27.00
$5.00
Shelves (re-hang)
$16.00
$5.00
Shower Curtain
$14.00
$20.00
Shower Curtain Rod
$16.00
$10.00
Shower Head
$41.00
$5.00
Bath Tub
Replacement Cost
$300.00
Toilet
$320.00
$300.00
Toilet Paper Holder
$12.00
$5.00
Toilet Seat
$30.00
$20.00
Towel Bar
$25.00
$15.00
Partitions
Replacement Cost
Mirror
$70.00
$50.00
BEDROOM:
Bed Frame
$180.00
$215.00
Bed Drawer
$27.00
$97.00
Desk
$310.00
$350.00
Desk Topper
$200.00
$200.00
Desk Chair
$150.00
$180.00
Desk Drawer
$30.00
$115.00
Desk Top
$38.00
Dresser
Replacement Cost
$350.00
Mattress
$117.00
$390.00
Mattress Cover
$17.00
DOORS:
Door Stop kick down
$16.00
$10.00
Door Stop
$8.50
$5.00
Door Number Plate
$21.50
$10.00
Closet Door
$75.00
$100.00
Closet Door (re-hang)
Replacement Cost
$25.00
Eye Viewer
$14.00
$5.00
Hole Through Door
Replacement Cost
$150.00
Hollow Core Door
$85.00
$100.00
Interior Door
$140.00
$100.00
Missing Door Latch Plate
$10.00
$5.00
Solid Core Door
$350.00
$300.00
Hinges
$35.00
$5.00
Fire Doors
$1,500.00
$300.00
FIRE EQUIPMENT:
Broken Fire Alarm apts.
$32.00
$200.00
Fire Extinguisher
$60.00
$75.00
Fire Extinguisher Refill
$40.00
$100.00
Fire Extinguisher Glass
$38.50
$25.00
Fire Extinguisher Pin
$5.00
$10.00
Fire Alarm Pull Station Glass
$10.00
$10.00
Smoke Detector
$120.00
$25.00
Strobes
Replacement Cost
$100.00
FURNITURE:
Couch (three seat sofa)
$1,300.00
$1,140,40
Couch Cushion
$200.00
Couch Rail
$48.00
End Table
Replacement Cost
$180.00
Furniture Burn or Stain
$21.50
Furniture Finish Scrape
$21.50
Kitchen Chair
$99.00
Loveseat (two seat sofa)
$1,100.00
$950.00
Upholstered Chair
$800.00
$134.00
Mirror
$70.00
$50.00
Mirror remove/re-hang
$30.00
$50.00/hr.
Public Area Furniture Replacement
Replacement Cost
Study Chair
$114.00
$180.00
Study Table
$375.00
$350.00
Wardrobe Knob
$11.00
$10.00
Recycling Bin
$21.50
$10.00
Trash Can
$16.00
$20.00
Closet Rod
$25.00
$15.00
LIGHTING:
Ceiling Light Cover
Replacement Cost
$75.00
Ceiling Light Globe
Replacement Cost
$10.00
Complete Light Fixture
Replacement Cost
$100.00
Desk Light
Replacement Cost
$50.00
Halogen Lamp
Replacement Cost
Missing Light Bulb
Replacement Cost
$5.00
Reconnect Lighting Fixture
Replacement Cost
$15.00
Re-hang Light Globe
$30.00
$15.00
Exit Light Cover
Replacement Cost
$100.00
Emergency Lighting
Replacement Cost
$100.00
PAINTING:
Apartment $500.00 Suite
$500.00
$50.00/hr.
Bathroom
$80.00
$50.00/hr.
Bedroom
$200.00
$50.00/hr.
Living Room Apt. $115.00 - Ceiling
$80.00
$50.00/hr.
Paint Swatch Pulled Off Wall
Replacement Cost
$50.00/hr.
PLASTER WORK:
Pin Hole
N/A
$5.00
1/8 inch Nail Hole
N/A
$5.00
Repair holes in wall up to 1 inch
$50.00
$5.00
Ceiling Hook
$5.00
$5.00
Wall Mark(s)
Replacement Cost
$5.00
Tape Tear in Paint Finish
Replacement Cost
$5.00
Dent in Wall (1 square)
Replacement Cost
$5.00
Large Area Plaster Work
Replacement Cost
$100.00
REFINISHING:
Bed Drawer
$21.50
Closet Drawer
$60.00
Exterior Door
Replacement Cost
Interior Door
Replacement Cost
Wood Furniture
Replacement Cost
WINDOW EQUIPMENT:
Blinds – bedroom window
Replacement Cost
$25.00
Blinds – vertical patio
Replacement Cost
$75.00
Blind Slat
Replacement Cost
$5.00
Blind String
Replacement Cost
$5.00
Blind Wand
$5.75
$5.00
Glass
Replacement Cost
$200.00
Window Rails Replacement Cost - Screen, Window bent frame
$32.50
$40.00
Screen, Replace frame okay
$16.00
$40.00
Screen, Sliding Glass Door
$70.00
$50.00
Window bar
$16.00
$10.00
MISCELLANEOUS:
Bicycle Removal
$30.00
$10.00
Bedframe – improper storage in hall, etc.
$25.00
$50.00
Box/Store Personal Belongings
$35.00
Burner Drip Pan from Stove
$35.00
$5.00
Cable Connector Plate
$10.00
$5.00
Carpet Burn – Cigarette
$30.00
$50.00
Carpet Burn - Iron
$45.00
$75.00
Ceiling Tile
$12.00
$10.00
Cigarette Ash Sand Can
$57.00
Drip Pans
$10.00
$5.00
Fan Cover over Sink
$20.00
$10.00
Fire Exit Sign
$75.00
$100.00
Floor Tile Replacement
$20.00
$10.00
Key/Core Replacement
Replacement Cost
$25.00/key; $100.00/core
Lockout
$25.00
Molding – per section
$20.00
$20.00
Pets – Per pet / per person / per day $74.00 $74.00 Porch Picket
$7.50
Outlet Cover Plate
$5.35
$5.00
Refrigerator Outside Door
$70.00
$200.00
Refrig. Inside Molded Panel
$64.50
$100.00
Refrig. Door Handle
$30.00
$50.00
Refrig. Panel Bar
$10.75
$50.00
Wire glass – large door panel
Replacement Cost
Wire glass – small door panel
Replacement Cost
Retrieval of items from drain
$31.00
$15.00
CLEANING:
Housekeeping Labor per hour
$32.00
$60.00
Adhesive on window per mark
$5.00
$60.00
Animal Waste Clean-up $100.00 - Bathroom
$50.00
$60.00
Bedroom
$30.00
$60.00
Cabinets
$13.00
$60.00
Chair or Sofa Cushion
$22.00
$60.00
Commode Area
$15.00
$60.00
Desk
$10.00
$60.00
Floor – non carpeted
$17.00
$60.00
Front Door
$5.00
$60.00
Gum and Wax on Carpet
$15.00
$60.00
Hallway
$10.00
$60.00
Kitchen – per appliance
$20.00
$60.00
Microwave Oven
$6.00
$60.00
Mirror
$10.00
$60.00
Porch or Patio Area
$10.00
$60.00
Recycling Bin
$5.00
$60.00
Shower
$20.00
$60.00
Sink
$8.00
$60.00
Steam Carpet - Apartment $115.00 - Steam Carpet – Bedroom
$25.00
$60.00
Steam Carpet – Hallway
$25.00
$60.00
Tile
$10.00
$60.00
Trash Can
$5.00
$60.00
Trash – excess in room
$20.00
$60.00
Vacuum - Apartment $40.00 - Vacuum – Bedroom
$10.00
$60.00
Vacuum – Suite
$30.00
$60.00
Windows – Inside per window
$5.00
$60.00
Flooring – Stained Carpet (large area)
Replacement Cost
$175.00 steam clean
HVAC:
MN-S3 I/A Micronet Thermostat
$83.00
Grilles (small)
$23.00
$25.00
Grilles (medium)
$55.00
$50.00
Grilles (large)
$86.00
$75.00
Appeals:
Every resident has the right to appeal any bill received, unless you chose to use Express Checkout. Appeals to bills must be made in writing within 14 days of the posted date on the bill by sending an email to the Department of University Housing & Conference Services at housing@millersville.edu.
The appeal should address the following:- Resident student Name and MU ID #
- Residence Hall Assignment/Room #
- Describe the damage and its origin.
- Describe your reasons for believing this bill should be waived or reduced in amount, and the specific adjustment you think is appropriate.
Residents are urged to carry their key at all times and to lock the door to their room. The room key should never be used by anyone other than the resident students themselves. Disciplinary action may result from the improper use of keys.
If a resident’s key is lost or stolen, they should immediately contact a Department of University Housing & Conference Services staff member in their residence hall, and the staff member will order a lock change. The resident student will be billed for the new key and the lock change; the lock change is mandatory and is made to protect the students.
If a resident is locked out of their room, they should proceed to the hall office during the hours of 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 a.m. Between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m., contact the Department of University Housing & Conference Services at 717-871-4200; between the hours of 3:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m., contact on-duty staff as posted at hall office.
Residents are responsible for their own room key. Unfortunately, however, it is not uncommon for resident students to accidentally lock themselves out of their room. Therefore, the assistance of a University Housing & Conference Services staff member may be needed in the event of a lockout.
The policy for lockouts is as follows:- Resident students will be asked to verify identification.
- No charges will be assessed for students who lock themselves out the first three times.
- Resident students will be charged a fee of $5.00 for every lockout thereafter.
- Students locked out five times may face disciplinary actions.
- Resident students locked out five times may face disciplinary action.
A large part of the Department of University Housing & Conference Services staff’s duties includes teaching responsibility of living in a communal environment. An easy way to avoid lockouts and consequent fines is to always carry your key.
F. Meal PlansAll resident students in Millersville University owned or managed residence hall are required to have an approved meal plan. Resident students may change to another approved meal plan from the date bills post until the Friday the semester begins. Student teachers and cooperative education students residing in University owned or managed residence halls, may request a reduced meal plan by emailing the Department of University Housing & Conference Services at Housing@millersville.edu. For any additional information regarding meal plans, please see University Dining and Catering Services.
G. Residency Requirement
All Millersville University full-time undergraduate students may reside in on-campus housing through to the completion of their degree. However, students who have not completed 60-credit hours are required to live on campus for the full term of their housing agreement. On-campus housing is defined as residing in one of the following residence halls: East Village, Shenks Hall, South Village, and the West Village.
Students are obligated to the full term of their housing agreement regardless of the credit hours completed.
Terms & Conditions
1. Determination of Full-Time Student StatusA full-time student is an individual enrolled for 12 or more credit hours, including credit hours added after registration day.
2. Policy WaiverAny student who wishes to request a waiver of the Millersville University Residency Requirement may obtain a waiver request form online through the students’ MAX account. All waiver requests will be considered in accordance with the Millersville University policy’s intent to maximize the educational process.
Certain waiver conditions listed in Section 3, if met, will be reviewed and will be considered according to uniformity and intent of the residency requirement. Submission of false or intentionally misleading statements will result in one or all of the following:1. Waiver revocation,
2. Campus disciplinary sanctions,
3. Other penalties as appropriate.
All waivers that are granted are for the duration of an academic year. Each student must re- submit a waiver application each year they are in attendance below 60-credit hours, including those students who are commuting or residing in Student Lodging, Inc. affiliate student housing
3. Waiver Conditionsa. Married Students;
b. Withdrawing from Millersville University (supplemental documentation required);
c. Approved leave of absence (supplemental documentation required);
d. Study Abroad (supplemental documentation required);
e. Students providing direct care for a legal dependent (notarized statement and supplemental documentation required);
f. Students already in possession of a baccalaureate degree (reviewed for verification) or a non-traditional aged student;
4. Waiver Procedurea. Waiver processing will begin on March 1st or as soon as predictable thereafter for fall semester consideration. Waiver processing will begin on November 1st or as soon as predictable thereafter for spring semester consideration.
b. The Housing agreement term for on-campus housing accommodations is a full academic year agreement and takes precedence over any waiver application.
c. At the time a housing waiver application is approved, any pre-existing housing assignment is released.
d. Initial Request: Any individual who wishes to live off-campus must submit their waiver request form through their MAX account. The request should note the basis for requesting a waiver. If the reason is not one of the general exceptions, a detailed explanation of the reason(s) must be included.
e. Decisions based upon health or psychological grounds will include consultation with and recommendation of the Office of Learning Services. Permission for disclosure authority is implied by the submission of this application.
f. Review: The Coordinator of Occupancy Management will review all requests in consultation with the Director of Housing and Residential Programs and / or their designee(s) with the intent of the Millersville University residency requirement and will render a decision. This decision will be given within five (5) business days when possible. Missing documentation will delay processing.Appeal: A denied waiver may be appealed to the Director of Department of University Housing & Conference Services. The appeal must be in writing and address the reason(s) given for the denial of the initial request. The appeal must be sent within five (5) business days of receipt of the initial decision. All waiver review decisions are final.
Appeal Decision: All appeals will be reviewed in accordance with the intent of the Residency Requirement. A written decision will be given within five (5) business days, when possible. All appeal decisions are final.
5. On-Campus Residency Requirement ChargesStudents not fulfilling their obligation to the on-campus residency requirement without an approved waiver, will be billed accordingly for the cost of housing and a meal plan at the current rate for a double suite in the Villages and a 19-meal per week meal plan.
Commuter Form
If you are choosing to commute and do not meet the requirement above, you will need to complete this form.
Please note that students are obligated to the full term of their housing agreement.
H. Room ChangesRoom changes are not permitted during the Room Freeze Period which is the first week of the semester. The “freeze” period allows time to locate existing vacancies (through occupancy checks) and provides for a period whereby the residential population may stabilize.
Week 2 of each semester, is Open Room change week. During this period, resident students may make room change requests with their hall staff to accommodate any room change request. Resident students who make unapproved room changes, may be charged with improper checkout and be subject to disciplinary sanctions.
Week 3 is the start of Room Consolidation process. This process pairs or “consolidates” resident students who do not have a roommate/suitemate. For more information on this process see “Consolidation”. Room assignments are for the full academic year (fall and spring semesters). Resident students looking to change rooms for the spring semester can participate in Spring Room Change Process which occurs in November. Any fall to spring room change requests are subject to availability.
-
IX. Residence Hall
All residence halls are air conditioned and smoke free. The following residence halls are considered on-campus housing: East Village, Lehigh (formerly Gilbert), South Village and West Village.
A. Moving Out/CheckoutWhen a resident student moves out, they must schedule an appointment with the Residential Area Director to make their desire to move known and then see the Resident Assistant to inspect the student’s room. Every resident student who moves out is expected to meet with a Resident Assistant after all belongings have been removed from the room/suite and the room/suite has been put in order (swept, trash removed and original furniture in place).
At the time of the checkout appointment, a Resident Assistant will evaluate the condition of the room, noting any damage, trash or cleaning concerns. The student will be informed of the assessment. The student will have the opportunity to ask questions of the Residential Area Director to clarify their assessment. Students are responsible for cleaning their own suites and are responsible for providing their own cleaning supplies, such as vacuums and other cleaning supplies.
Please note: The Residential Area Director will also inspect each resident’s room.
Anything needing repair or replacement will be charged as “damaged,” with the following exceptions: The item was listed in the same condition on the Room Condition Report (filled out when the room/suite was first occupied by the resident student) or normal wear and tear seems to be the cause. When it is not clear which resident is responsible for the damage, charges will be divided equally among the occupants of the room/suite.
Moving carts may be available in your residence hall. You are required to return the cart in person to the originating residence hall.
B. Express Checkout
Express check-out is an easy and efficient way to check out of a residence hall room. This process can be utilized at semester closings, when a resident is completely checking out of a room. When a resident student utilizes express check-out, they do not need to check out with a Housing and Residential Programs staff member. Instead, the resident student will pick up an express check-out envelope at the front desk, read all the information provided, and place their key in the envelope, sign and seal and place the envelope in the locked check-out box.
By completing this type of check-out, resident students waive the right to appeal any check-out charges and or fines. A University Housing & Conference Services staff member will then complete the room check and room condition report at a later time.C. Improper Checkout
Failure to complete a check-out as stated in the closing newsletter, will result in a $35 fine. Additionally, resident students who check out after the conclusion of the semester, as specified in the Housing Agreement, agree “to pay $50 for each day or part of day in residence beyond that date.” Also, see Abandoned Property.
D. OccupancyOccupancy begins when a resident student is issued a room key, or places personal items in a room/suite and terminates when personal items are removed and the key is returned.
E. PetsBecause of public health regulations, the only pets permitted in the residence halls are goldfish and tropical fish in self-sustaining fish bowls or aquariums not to exceed one gallon of water for habitation. Piranhas are not permitted. Resident students may not leave their fish unattended for more than four days. A per day fine (see fee list) will be assessed until the pet is removed, and disciplinary action may accompany violations of this policy.
F. Bicycles and VehiclesBicycles should be appropriately secured and stored on campus in compliance with all campus, civil, and state fire and safety regulations. Bicycles should not be locked to any railings, trees, posts, tables, or pipes in residential areas, nor should they block fire exits. Bicycles must be secured to bike racks that are available outside of most residence halls. Bicycles are not permitted to be brought or stored in the residence halls. This also includes e-scooters, all motorized vehicles, and any other type of vehicles not approved by University Housing staff.
All bicycles must be removed from bicycle storage areas the week following graduation, or they will be treated as abandoned property. The Department of University Housing & Conference Services encourages resident students to register their bicycles with University Police as a security measure.
G. Bulletin Board GuidelinesAll items to be posted in the residence halls must be approved and stamped by the Department of University Housing & Conference Services located in the Lombardo Welcome Center and will then be distributed to the residence halls. Only University Housing & Conferences Services staff are permitted to hang items inside the residence halls.
H. Common AreasCommon areas (lobby, study lounges, recreation rooms, etc.) of the residence halls are for the use of the resident students who live in the respective residence halls. No individual or group should engage in an activity that inhibits the use of these common areas by other residents unless approved in advance by the Residential Area Director. Lobby and other general public area uses can be reserved through the Residential Area Director.
Sports in the Halls - The use of balls, frisbees, roller blades, skateboards, and other sport equipment in common areas is prohibited. This would also include running around inside the residence halls. Students are not permitted to ride items inside the hall and can lose the privilege to keep these items in the hall if found violating this policy
Hallways - Students are not permitted to sit/hang out in the hallways. Hallways must be kept clear for students to be able to enter/exit their residence hall rooms.
I. Common Area Damage
Resident students are expected to support and maintain the hall environment. When damages, thefts, messes or other acts occur in the common hall areas (bathrooms, hallways, lounges, etc.), the hall learning community is jeopardized. Whenever possible, Department of University Housing & Conference Services staff will hold the resident students responsible for all damages. Resident students in the community can often help identify those responsible. If an individual does not take responsibility, the community as a group may take responsibility to pay for these damages. If the person(s) responsible are not identified, the community will be charged for common area damages.
J. ElevatorThe elevators are the primary source of transportation in some of the residence halls. Treat this equipment with respect and care.
K. Laundry FacilitiesWashers and dryers are provided in each residence hall. Please check with a Department of University Housing & Conference Services staffer for the exact location of the laundry facilities in your building. Resident students are encouraged to stay with their laundry. The University is not responsible for any loss or damages to resident’s laundry. Resident students are expected to be courteous and remove their laundry as soon as the machine cycle is completed. Nonresidents of a building may not use the laundry facilities. If machines are broken or not operating correctly, resident students are encouraged to inform a Department of University Housing & Conference Services staffer in the residence hall.
L. MailMail is delivered Monday through Friday except on holidays or when the University is closed. Resident students will receive their mail in their respective residence halls. Resident students should check your mailbox daily; newspapers will be discarded if not picked up within three days. The resident student’s address should read:
- Use this format if you live in Shenks:
Your Name
Millersville University
Your room #/Residence Hall (ex: 110 Shenks Hall)
Millersville, PA 17551 - Use this format if you live in the East, South or West Villages (A, B, C, or D):
Your Name
Millersville University
Your room # & Wing/Residence Hall (ex: 101 C South Village)
Millersville, PA 17551
*C refers to which wing you reside in the East, South or East Village - Use this format if you live on the Terrace floor in the East, South or West Village:
Your Name
Millersville University
T, Your room # & Wing/Residence Hall (ex: T123 A East Village)
Millersville, PA 17551
*A refers to which wing you reside in the South or East Village - Flower Deliveries can be made Monday – Sunday between the hours of 12 noon and 11 p.m. to the individual residence hall offices located on campus. Please include the following information when ordering flowers:
Student Name
Student’s Room # and Hall
Student’s Cell #
*This information is crucial for us to ensure the student is notified in a timely manner.
Since one of the basic purposes of the University is the dissemination and application of knowledge, one of the primary rights of resident students is the right to sleep and study, free from undue interference, in their rooms/suites.
In order to ensure that resident students have the opportunity to exercise their primary rights to sleep and study in their rooms/suites, the following guidelines have been established:
Courtesy/Hours and Quiet Hours:- Courtesy hours are in effect 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Resident students should confront neighbors when they think it is too noisy and, in turn, respect their neighbor’s requests to hold the noise level down. University Housing and Conference Services staff can request student's at any time to lower the noise level coming from their room regardless of the time.
- Quiet Hours are from 9:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m.
- During quiet hours, the noise level is to be one that is conducive to study and sleep.
- During exam periods, quiet hours will be in effect 24 hours per day. Quiet hours begin at 8 p.m. the weekend before exams begin, to allow for appropriate study conditions and continue until all exams are complete.
- These hours are applicable to both inside and outside noise, which could be considered disruptive to one’s right to study and/or sleep in one’s room/suite.
- Audio Equipment Policy – As a resident student, if the volume of a person’s audio equipment is such that it is being disruptive to their neighbors, the person will be asked to reduce the volume to an appropriate level.
- Continued use of excessive or disruptive audio equipment volumes may result in disciplinary action, which may include, but not be limited to, mandatory removal of the audio equipment and cancellation of the Housing Agreement for the academic year.
Should a resident student feel that their primary rights to sleep and study in their room/suite are being violated, the resident student should adhere to the following guidelines:
- Speak to the person(s) causing the interference. If this action doesn't produce satisfactory results, contact a Resident Assistant and inform them of the disturbance.
- Should a resident student still have difficulty, contact the Residential Area Director.
- In summary, any type of disruption that interferes with one’s right to sleep or study is not permitted. This includes noise, whether it occurs outside or inside the residential areas, or whether it derives from an informal or organized event/activity. This will be enforced as a means of protecting the rights of resident students so that the University can promote its basic purpose of educating its many students. Violators of this policy will be subject to disciplinary action.
No individual, group or group affiliate is permitted to do door-to-door solicitation in the residence halls. This includes activities such as selling, fund-raising, donation drives, and placing flyers under residents’ doors or on residents’ doorknobs, and campaigning. In addition, only University Housing and Conference Services staff may hang flyers/postings in the building and organize any donation events.
Note: The Department of University Housing & Conference Services reserves the right to place flyers under residents’ doors or on residents’ doorknobs when it pertains to information that affects housing policies, operations or procedures.
O. StorageThe Department of University Housing & Conference Services cannot provide storage for University-supplied furniture that a student chooses not to use nor provide storage space for unused personal belongings.
- Use this format if you live in Shenks:
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X. My Room/Suite
A. Abandoned PropertyIf the resident student does not vacate the space assigned by the University at the conclusion of the period specified in the Housing Agreement, or if the resident student does not remove all non-University property before the conclusion of the period, then the University may remove all property brought into the space by the resident or any person admitted to the space by the resident. A minimum labor charge may be assessed for removal and/or packing of abandoned property. Any property removed by the University may be stored or delivered to the resident student or treated as abandoned property and disposed of accordingly. The University shall not be liable for any damage to or loss of such property which occurs during the course of such removal, storage, delivery or disposal. The resident student shall pay to the University all costs incurred by the University in effecting such removal, storage, delivery and restoring the space. In addition, unless the resident student’s failure to vacate and restore the space is due to a national emergency, riot, or governmental directive to the University, the resident student shall be liable to the University for any loss suffered by the University, if another resident who has the right to use the space is materially delayed or impaired in their access or use by the resident student’s failure to vacate and remove personal property from the space.
B. AppliancesBecause of an increase in the number of fires in residence hall facilities nationally, the following policy has been set forth:Permitted Appliances Prohibited Appliances Hot air popcorn popper All Types of Fryers Blender Slow cooker/crock pot Can Opener Hot oil popcorn popper Coffee maker/coffee pot Electric wok Enclosed or low heat hot pot Electric griddle/waffle iron Small microwave oven (1140 watts max) Toaster Refrigerator (4.6 cubic ft max) Toaster oven Electric razor Grills (including George Foreman grills) Hair dryer Any appliance capable of heating grease to a point of combustion Iron/curling iron/flat iron Strobe lights and Lava Lamps Radio Fog machine Audio Equipment Decorative string lights unless they are LED approved Television Hookahs and e-cigarettes/vaping are not permitted to be stored or
used in the residence halls.DVD player Hover boards not permitted in the residence halls PC/Computer Space Heaters If a resident student has any questions or needs additional clarification regarding the appliance policy, resident students may contact Department of University Housing & Conference Services staff.
C. Beds and FurnitureObstruction of the doorway and/or window by furnishing or barriers is prohibited. Resident students must use University furnished beds/mattresses. Resident students may not construct lofts, bring waterbeds, suspends beds from the ceiling, place mattresses on the floor or dismantle or remove University provided beds from the rooms/suites. University beds must remain in each provided bedroom.Furniture that was issued when resident students accepted occupancy of the room/suite is to remain in the room/suite. Resident students will be held responsible for the full replacement cost of any furniture that was issued when student accepted occupancy of the room/suite is not in the room/suite upon check-out.
Residents may not place or store items outside their room, this includes lounges, study areas, hallways, and the area outside their suite entrance.
D. Computers, Internet, and Network CapacityAll resident students are permitted to use personal computers in their residence hall room/suite. All halls have direct WiFi access to Apogee's network and the Internet. To help keep Internet connectivity functioning at its highest potential:F. Liability for Losses or Thefts- Do not install personal wireless routers and repeaters (these will simply conflict with the installed wireless access points)
- Turn off wireless printers when not in use
- Run anti-virus and malware software on a regular basis
- Turn off game consoles when not in use
- Keep devices up to date with software updates / patches
If you need any help registering or connecting your devices, please follow the Apogee support structure noted below a representative is available 24/7 to assist:
- Call support at 833-548-7747
- Email support@myresnet.com
- Chat live at https://myresnet.com/
- Text ResNet to 84700
Resident students found virtually trespassing into other student computers or University computer systems will be referred to the Office of Student Conduct & Community Standards for disciplinary action. Students should also be aware that unlawfully downloading copyrighted material is a violation of the federal Copyright Act, with severe civil and criminal penalties. Such actions may also constitute a violation of the Student Code of Conduct. For a full description of inappropriate computer conduct, the University’s Student Code of Conduct and its Policy for Responsible Use of Electronic Resources (see Policy for Responsible Use).
The Department of University Housing & Conference Services encourages resident students to register their computers with University Police. It is also strongly suggested that resident students provide surge protectors for use with their computers.
Regarding social media websites, students are advised to post pictures and comments in an appropriate manner.
E. DecorationsWhile there is opportunity for resident student to express individuality in decorating rooms, decorations must adhere to the following guidelines:
- Possession of alcohol paraphernalia (items used for the storage or consumption of alcoholic substances), including decorated or decorative alcohol containers of any kind, is prohibited in the residence halls. Examples include, but are not limited to, wine bottles, empty alcohol bottles, beer-pong tables, shot glasses and beer bongs. Resident students who violate this policy will be referred to the disciplinary process.
- The only decorative string lights permitted are LED lights with the following restrictions:
- Limit of no more than 50 LED lights on a string.
- The LED light string must be UL approved and in good condition.
- No more than two LED light string should be plugged into one another.
- Do not place LED light strings on walls, around door frames or from the ceiling. Strings ca be placed around windows.
- All electrical cords should be checked for frayed parts, loose connections, etc. and must be UL approved.
- Candles, incense, gas or oil-fired lanterns, and any device producing an open or enclosed flame are prohibited.
- Lava Lamps are prohibited.
- All decorative materials, in corridors and rooms/suites should be intrinsically flameproof or fire-retardant, or so rendered by treatment with solutions and must adhere to the following guidelines:
- Decorations may not be hung from or in the way of the fire alarm, detection or suppression equipment (this includes smoke detectors, sprinklers, etc.)
- Exit lights and fire extinguishers must always remain visible.
- Fire doors must remain free of paper and any obstruction at all times.
- Decorations may not be placed so as to obstruct access to a hall, stairwell or exit.
- Resident students may not paint their rooms/suites.
- Holiday decorations must be removed before Winter Break.
The University is not responsible in any way for the damage, loss or theft of a resident student’s personal property or that of his or her guest(s), including losses attributable to vandalism. This responsibility must be borne entirely by the resident student. Many times, homeowner’s insurance covers such circumstances. If not, we recommend that the resident student purchase rental insurance to cover their belongings.
Losses or suspected thefts should be reported to a Department of University Housing & Conference Services staffer and to the University Police Department. Resident students are strongly discouraged from keeping large sums of money in their rooms and from discussing the value of their possessions with others.
G. LinensThe University does not provide linen service. Resident students must provide their own linens including sheets, blankets, pillow, bedspreads/comforters and towels. All mattresses are 80-inches long – Twin XL with the following exceptions:
Shenks Hall – Suite B Double Rooms Standard Size Double/Full Size Mattress
H. Roommate AgreementsThe Department of University Housing & Conference Services believes that it is important for residents to learn to live with each other and, as a result, emphasizes open dialogue and discussion. The Roommate/Suitemate Agreement is a document, available from the Resident Assistant, intended to serve as a guide for roommates/suitemates in establishing greater understanding of expectations, values and priorities. This document will be completed by each set of roommates/suitemates and submitted to their Resident Assistant by the end of the first week of the academic year.
I. Cable TelevisionCable TV service is available in all residence hall rooms and is included in the room fee. Resident students are expected to supply their own coaxial cable cords.
If you experience problems associated with cable TV reception, use the following checklist to try to ascertain precisely where and/or what the problem is:- Make sure your television is cable-ready.
- Make sure you have the proper cable connecting your TV to the cable outlet.
- Make sure you have connected the cable to the appropriate access point on the cable outlet.
- Go in “settings” to program your TV for cable TV (CATV).
- Try connecting your TV to a friend’s cable/outlet whose TV is working properly.
If problems persist, contact Apogee support at:
- Call support at 833-548-7747
- Email support@myresnet.com
- Chat live at https://myresnet.com/
- Text ResNet to 84700