Living On Campus Guide

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.

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

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.

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).

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 halls due 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-Cigarette

No 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 Procedures

When 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.

F. Suicide/Depression

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 IX

Title 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 Search

The 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.

I. Safety

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.

J. Security Cameras

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 Alarms

Resident 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 Materials

Firearms, 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 

M. Thefts

Theft 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 Police

The 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.

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 Inspections

Residents 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. Consolidation

Each 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. Damages

When 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:

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.

E. Keys/Lockout/Lock Change Policy

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 Plans

All 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

H. Room Changes

Room 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.

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/Checkout

When 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. Occupancy

Occupancy 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. Pets

Because 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 Vehicles

Bicycles 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 Guidelines

All 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 Areas

Common 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. Elevator

The elevators are the primary source of transportation in some of the residence halls. Treat this equipment with respect and care.

K. Laundry Facilities

Washers 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 and no longer than 30 minutes. 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.

Clothing items that are not picked up within 30 minutes of completion or abandoned can be removed by University staff and may disposed of. 

L. Mail

Mail 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.

M. Noise and Quiet Hours Policy

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.

N. Solicitation

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. Storage

The 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.

F. Liability for Losses or Thefts

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. Linens

The 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:

H. Roommate Agreements

The 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 Television

Cable 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