Gather Here. Go Far

NSU is where success begins. Here professors know their subjects and how to get you ready for a career after you graduate. We empower individuals to become socially responsible global citizens by creating and sustaining a culture of learning and discovery.

Gather Here. Go Far

NSU is where success begins. Here professors know their subjects and how to get you ready for a career after you graduate. We empower individuals to become socially responsible global citizens by creating and sustaining a culture of learning and discovery.

Gather Here. Go Far

NSU is where success begins. Here professors know their subjects and how to get you ready for a career after you graduate. We empower individuals to become socially responsible global citizens by creating and sustaining a culture of learning and discovery.

Gather Here. Go Far

NSU is where success begins. Here professors know their subjects and how to get you ready for a career after you graduate. We empower individuals to become socially responsible global citizens by creating and sustaining a culture of learning and discovery.

Gather Here. Go Far

NSU is where success begins. Here professors know their subjects and how to get you ready for a career after you graduate. We empower individuals to become socially responsible global citizens by creating and sustaining a culture of learning and discovery.

Student Handbook: Students Right to Know

Student Handbook: Table of Contents

Under University policy, the federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and state laws, students with qualified disabilities are entitled to reasonable accommodation unless the accommodation would pose an undue hardship upon the University. Students enrolled in postsecondary education are required to self-identify if they would like to request services on the basis of disability. The responsibilities of postsecondary schools are significantly different from those of school districts. Postsecondary schools are charged with the responsibility of providing appropriate academic adjustments and to ensure that the student is not discriminated on the basis of disability.

Tahlequah students should contact the Coordinator of Student Disability Services, at 918-444-2042 or visit Student Disability Services in HawkReach, located on the north side of Leoser Center, for an appointment to discuss your special needs and educational objectives. Broken Arrow and Muskogee students may contact the Education Access Coordinator at 918-449-6139 or visit suite 130 in the Broken Arrow Administration Building. You may also visit the Student Disability Services webpage.

The Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act (DFSCA) of 1989 - also known as the Drug-Free Schools and Campuses Act - requires institutions of higher education to establish policies that address unlawful possession, use, or distribution of alcohol and illicit drugs. The DFSCA also requires the establishment of a drug and alcohol prevention program.

All members of the NSU Community are encouraged to review the information on the following pages. This information is distributed on an annual basis

Standards of Conduct

Use of illegal drugs, and the illegal use of alcoholic beverages, is identified as "conduct which adversely affects the University community." University regulations prohibit any unlawful possession, use, distribution, or sale of alcohol and other drugs by University students, faculty, staff, or guests to the University, on University-owned property and at all University sponsored activities.

Northeastern State University students are also prohibited from the illegal use of drugs or alcohol whether on or off-campus.

The legal age for the consumption of alcohol is 21 years of age. Any underage student consuming alcohol is violating standards for student conduct. Additionally, excessive alcohol use can lead to additional violations, such as driving while intoxicated or public intoxication.

Northeastern State University is designated as a tobacco-free environment. Smoking and the use of all tobacco products are prohibited.

The penalties for misconduct range from warning to expulsion. Typically, students who have violated the Student Code of Conduct in relation to drugs and/or alcohol will be referred for a substance use assessment and/or related education. A Health and Substance Abuse Educator will meet with the student and complete an assessment covering alcohol and other drug use history, reason for referral, family and personal history, health concerns, safety issues, and the consequences associated with use. The educator will also assess the student's readiness for change and establish behavior change goals.

NSU employee sanctions are listed in the employee handbook.

Local, state, and federal laws provide for a variety of legal sanctions and penalties for the unlawful possession or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol. These sanctions include, but are not limited to, incarceration and monetary fines.

Specific serious health risks are associated with the use of alcohol and drugs. Some of the major risks are listed below. For more information, contact Student Health Services located in the RiverHawks Wellness Center on Tahlequah campus, or by calling 918-444-2126.

Alcohol and Other Depressants (barbiturates, sedatives, and tranquilizers) Abuse of alcohol and use of other depressant drugs can cause addiction, accidents as a result of impaired ability and judgment, alcohol poisoning, overdose when used with other depressants, damage to a developing fetus, and heart and liver damage.

Amphetamines/Stimulants Amphetamines and stimulants (speed, uppers, crank, caffeine, etc.) can speed up the nervous system which can cause increased heart and breathing rates, higher blood pressure, decreased appetite, headaches, blurred vision, dizziness, sleepiness, anxiety, hallucinations, paranoia, depression, convulsions and death due to a stroke or heart failure.

Anabolic Steroids Anabolic steroids can seriously affect the liver, cardiovascular, and reproductive systems. They can cause sterility in males and females, as well as impotency in males.

Marijuana Marijuana may impair short-term memory, thinking, and physical coordination. Marijuana can cause panic reaction and increase the risk of lung cancer and emphysema. It can interfere with judgment, attention span, concentration, and overall intellectual performance. The use of marijuana impairs driving ability. The use of marijuana may cause psychological dependence and compromise the immune system.

Cocaine The use of cocaine can cause addiction, cardiovascular system damage including heart attack, brain damage, seizures, lung damage, severe depression, paranoia, and psychosis. Similar risks are associated with other stimulants, such as speed and uppers.

Nicotine Tobacco smoke contains thousands of chemical compounds, many of which are known to cause cancer. Nicotine, which is a central nervous system stimulant, produces an increase in heart and respiration rates, blood pressure, adrenaline production and metabolism. People can rapidly become physically and psychologically dependent on tobacco. Nicotine also compromises the immune system.

Inhalants Inhalants are a diverse group of chemicals that easily evaporate and can cause intoxication when their vapors are inhaled. Most inhalants are central nervous system depressants. Use of these drugs slows down many body functions. High does can cause severe breathing failure and sudden death. Chronic abuse of some of these chemicals can lead to irreversible liver damage and other health problems.

Prescription Drug Abuse Prescription drug abuse can cause adverse reactions, dependency, withdrawal, and overdose.

A variety of resources exist for alcohol and other drug prevention education, counseling and referral. For detailed information concerning these resources available from the University and community agencies, students may contact Student Affairs at 918-444-2120 or HawkReach Counseling Services at 918-444-2042 located at Leoser Complex. Faculty and staff members may contact the Employee Assistance Program at 1-888-628-4824 or Human Resources at 918-444-2230.

HawkReach Counseling Services Provides counseling to help students cope with problems related to alcohol or drug abuse by self, a family member(s), and/or friend(s). Student Counseling Services is available through Student Affairs.

Residence Halls Staff Provide advice and referral for counseling.

Student Health Center Provides medical services, examinations following a sexual assault or rape, and referral to appropriate on-campus and off-campus agencies which includes medical treatment.

Alcohol and Other Drug Education Programs (AODEP) Student Affairs coordinates AODEP. Campus-wide programs and customized group programs focused on effects of alcohol and other drug use/misuse are offered throughout the academic year to bring awareness, education, and outreach to the campus community.

It is the intent of Northeastern State University to expand current educational programs and services to decrease the risks to students resulting from alcohol and drug abuse. The following toll free, hotline numbers may be of use to someone needing help or advice.

  • National Institution on Drug Abuse Information and Referral, 1-800-662-HELP (4357), Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
  • Safe & Drug-Free Schools, 1-800-624-0100, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
  • National Council on Alcoholism, 1-800-622-2255, 7 days a week, 24 hours a day
  • American Council for Drug Education, 1-800-488-DRUG (3784)
  • National Clearinghouse for Alcohol & Drug Information, 1-800-SAYNOTO (729-6686)
  • Cocaine Helpline, 1-800-COCAINE (262-2463)
  • Reach-Out Hotline, 1-800-522-9054 (alcohol, drug crisis intervention, mental health and referral)

The following excerpt is from The Handbook for Campus Crime Reporting, published by the U.S. Department of Education.

Choosing a postsecondary institution is a major decision for students and their families. Along with academic, financial and geographic considerations, the issue of campus safety is a vital concern. In 1990, Congress enacted the Crime Awareness and Campus Security Act (Title II of Public Law 101 542), which amended the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA). This act required all postsecondary institutions participating in Title IV student financial aid programs to disclose campus crime statistics and security information. The act was amended in 1992, 1998 and 2000. The 1998 amendments renamed the law the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act in memory of a student who was slain in her dorm room in 1986.

The Clery Act requires higher education institutions to give timely warnings of crimes that represent a threat to the safety of students or employees, and to make public their campus security policies. It also requires that crime data are collected, reported and disseminated to the campus community and are also submitted to ED. The act is intended to provide students and their families, as higher education consumers, with accurate, complete and timely information about safety on-campus so that they can make informed decisions.

The following Campus Safety information supports guidelines established by the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act. Further information on-campus security policies and crime statistics may be obtained at the University Police Department located at the corner of Grand Avenue and Crafton, 918-444-2468.

NSU Clery Reporting

Northeastern State University Emergency Notification System

In the case of an emergency that warrants a campus-wide notification, the following methods may be utilized. To ensure proper notification, please log in the EAS system at eas.nsuok.edu and update your contact information.

Cable Channel Notification

Tahlequah and Broken Arrow Campuses Televisions that are turned on and connected to the campus cable network system will have a break in scheduled programming with a notification of emergency including appropriate instructions.

Outdoor Public Announcement System

Tahlequah, Broken Arrow and Muskogee Campuses The Outdoor Public Announcement System will alert campus community members via an audio speaker system. Announcements may be in the form of sirens and/or voice instructions.

Indoor Public Announcement System

Broken Arrow Campus (only) An Indoor Public Announcement System may be used as a method of alerting campus community members via audio speaker system. Announcements may be in the form of sirens and/or voice instruction.

Campus-wide Email Messaging System

Tahlequah, Broken Arrow and Muskogee Campuses Campus-wide email may be used to notify campus communities of an emergency and/or instructions.

University Police and Northeastern State University Facebook and Website

The above social media and websites will be utilized to share emergency information.

Bb Connect Emergency Alerting System

All students, faculty and staff will be automatically opted in through their email. User MUST log in through our website to enter other contact information such as alternate email addresses, phone numbers and a text message number. This will allow the user to receive any emergency messages through the above methods. This will be for EMERGENCIES only!

Severe Weather

Severe Weather General:

  • Follow instructions as provided by the Emergency Procedures Protocol and NSUPD
  • Listen to radio, television and NSU information systems for weather updates (link to local weather conditions)
  • Check with emergency personnel for return to work status
Tornado:
  • Go to basement or lowest floor of building
  • Stay away from exterior walls, doors and windows
  • Move to interior hallways and small interior rooms (e.g., bathroom, closet, etc.)
  • Get under a piece of furniture if possible (e.g., sturdy table, desk)
  • Call the NSUPD or 911 if emergency help is needed
Lightning:

When lightning is approaching:

  • Cease outdoor activities
  • Seek shelter inside a building or automobile
Avoid:
  • Open areas; places near water, trees, metal fences, overhead wires or power lines
  • Elevated ground or open vehicles
  • Use of radios or cellular phones

Evacuation or Shelter-In Plans

In some emergency situations, such as flooding or release of hazardous materials, emergency personnel may order protective actions for persons who live or work on-campus. Typically, these protective actions are either to evacuate to a safer area or to a shelter in place. It is possible that some emergency scenarios could result in one of these protective actions being ordered for one part of campus and the other protective action for a different area of campus. When such actions are warranted, you will be appropriately advised by NSUPD or via the NSU notification systems, loudspeakers, door-to-door notifications or other appropriate means. During an actual disaster, if Building Coordinators have not been notified in a timely enough manner, they are to use their best judgment as to whether to evacuate or shelter in place. As many crises are fluid in nature, decisions may need to change to meet the situations.

Area Evacuation

An evacuation is an organized withdrawal from a building or area to reach safe haven. Upon notification to evacuate, consult the Emergency Procedures Protocol and the building(s) evacuation diagram in order to:

  • Evacuate the building using the nearest exit (or alternate if the nearest exit is blocked)
  • Assist all individuals with disabilities or special needs
  • Do not use elevators
  • Take personal belongings (keys, purses, wallets, etc.)
  • Secure any hazardous materials or equipment before leaving
  • Follow directions given by emergency personnel

Shelter in Place

When emergency conditions do not warrant or allow evacuation, the safest method to protect individuals may be to take shelter inside a campus building and await further instructions.

  • Move indoors or remain there avoid windows and areas with glass
  • If available, take a radio or television to the room to track emergency status
  • Keep telephone lines free for emergency responders; do not call 911 for information
  • If hazardous materials are involved, turn off all ventilation systems and close all inlets from the outside
  • Select a room(s) which is easy to seal and, if possible, has a water supply and access to restrooms
  • If you smell gas or vapor, hold a wet cloth loosely over your nose and mouth and breathe through it in as normal a fashion as possible

Local Weather Conditions

Local media outlets and the NSU notification systems will provide updates and information on severe weather. NSU officials will notify local outlets regarding closings or return-to-work situations. The following radio stations will be notified:

  • KRMG 740 AM Tulsa
  • KAYI 107.9 FM Tulsa
  • KTLQ 1350 AM Tahlequah
  • KEOK 102.1 FM Tahlequah
  • KBIX 1490 AM Muskogee

In the event of school closing, the following television stations will be notified:

  • KJRH Channel 2 Tulsa
  • KOTV Channel 6 Tulsa
  • KTUL Channel 8 Tulsa
  • KFSM Channel 5 Fort Smith
  • Cable Channel 99 Tahlequah

Violent or Criminal Behavior

Immediately Contact the Appropriate Emergency Telephone Number

University Police is located at the corner of Grand and Crafton Streets and provides 24-hour help and protection. This service is provided seven days a week on a year-round basis.

  1. Everyone is asked to assist in making the campus a safe place by being alert to suspicious situations and promptly reporting them.
  2. If you are a victim or a witness to any on-campus offense, promptly notify University Police as soon as possible and report the incident, including the following:
  3. Nature of the incident
  4. Location of the incident
  5. Description of person(s) involved
  6. Description of property involved
  7. If you observe a criminal act or whenever you observe a suspicious person on-campus, immediately notify University Police and report the incident.
  8. Assist the officers when they arrive by supplying them with all additional information and ask others to cooperate.
  9. Should gunfire or a shooting threat occur on-campus, your judgment regarding appropriate actions is paramount in order to achieve the most positive outcome. The location of the shooting or threat will likely guide your decisions. In general, if the shooting is in your immediate vicinity, have all persons take cover immediately using all available concealment. After the disturbance, seek emergency first aid if necessary. If the threat comes from adjacent or distant areas, it is likely that you will attempt to direct persons away from the source using the safest route.

In all cases, attempt to remain calm, composed and in control of the situation and persons in your charge.

Handling of Bomb Threats

Using a Land-Line Telephone, Immediately Contact the Appropriate Emergency Telephone Number

These precautions will be followed upon receipt of a threat to detonate an explosive device in a building or otherwise create a situation hazardous to persons or structures on the campus of Northeastern State University.

Responsibilities of recipients of a bomb threat:

  1. If a message of an impending explosion is transmitted to a faculty or staff member, they should find out the name of the caller and determine the basis of the claim.
  2. DO NOT REPORT WITH OR USE A CELL PHONE. Turn off cell phones and instruct others to do the same.
  3. The NSUPD should be contacted immediately upon receipt of any direct threat, or unconfirmed report of a threat to bomb property on-campus.
  4. The University Police Chief will determine the need to evacuate any building.

Employees of the University Police will take the following actions upon receiving a bomb threat notification:

  1. Find out information on how the threat was received, attitude of the caller and other information that might be helpful in identifying the person making the threat.
  2. The University Police Shift Supervisor will be notified immediately.
  3. A search will be made of the building or area threatened as quickly as possible.
  4. The occupants of the building will not be notified of the threat under normal circumstances.
  5. If an object is located that is suspected of being an explosive device, it will not be touched, and it will remain where it was found until arrival of demolition experts. Removal of persons from a building containing such a device will be made at the discretion of the University Police Chief or shift supervisor.

Further action by the University Police:

  1. Arrangements will be made with the telephone company to hold phone lines open after a caller has hung up in an attempt to identify callers making bomb threats.
  2. Patrol Officers will be familiar with these procedures and will be given periodic training in the identification and handling of explosive devices.
  3. All Faculty and Staff members will be informed of action requested of them in the event of a bomb threat on-campus.

Bomb threats/searching for an explosive device:

  1. A decision has to be made to conduct a search of the premises and how extensive the search should be. This decision will usually be made by management of the facility and the University Police. An explosive device can be virtually any size or shape. Any foreign object, therefore, is suspect. If a suspicious object is found, it must NOT be touched. Its location and description should be reported immediately to the University Police personnel at the scene. Upon receiving the confirmation of a possible explosive device, the University Police Officer will:
    1. Establish a clear zone with a radius of at least 500 feet. This includes the floor above and below the suspected device.
  2. Total evacuation should be a decision made by management of the facility and the University Police. (Note: Evacuating a facility for any reason, particularly in response to a bomb threat is a drastic reaction. Total evacuation could result in exposing a great number of people to the blast.)

Chemical or Radiation Spill

  1. Any spillage of a hazardous chemical or radioactive material is to be reported immediately to University Police.
  2. When reporting, be specific about the nature of the involved material and exact location. University Police will contact the necessary specialized authorities and medical personnel.
  3. The key person on site should vacate the affected area at once and seal it off to prevent further contamination of other areas until the arrival of University Police personnel.
  4. Anyone who may be contaminated by the spill is to avoid contact with others as much as possible, remain in the vicinity and give their names to University Police. Required first aid and cleanup by specialized authorities should be started at once.
  5. If an emergency exists, activate the building fire alarm and report the emergency by phone.
  6. When the building fire alarm is sounded, an emergency exists. Walk quickly to the nearest marked exit and alert others to do the same.
  7. Be aware of individuals that may need assistance in exiting the building!! Do not use elevators in case of evacuation. Do not panic!!
  8. Once outside, move to a clear area at least 500 feet away and upwind from the affected building(s). Keep streets, fire lanes, hydrants and walkways clear for emergency vehicles and crews.
  9. If requested, assist emergency crews as necessary.
  10. A Campus Incident Command Post may be set up near the emergency site. Keep clear of the Command Post unless you have official business.
  11. Do not return to an evacuated building unless told to do so by emergency personnel.

Explosion, Aircraft Down (crash) On-Campus

In the event of an explosion or a downed aircraft (crash) on-campus, take the following action:

  1. Immediately take cover under tables, desks or other objects that will give protection against falling glass or debris.
  2. After the effects of the explosion and/or fire have subsided, notify NSUPD or call 911.
  3. Give your name and describe the location and nature of the emergency.
  4. If necessary, or when directed to do so, activate the building fire alarm and report the emergency by telephone.
  5. When the building fire alarm is sounded or when told to leave by University officials, walk quickly to the nearest marked exit and ask others to do the same.
  6. Be aware of individuals that may need assistance in exiting the building!Do not use elevators in case of fire. Do not panic!
  7. Once outside, move to a clear area that is beyond the affected building. Keep streets and walkways clear for emergency vehicles and crews.
  8. If requested, assist emergency crews as necessary.
  9. A Campus Incident Command Post may be set up near the disaster site. Keep clear of the Command Post unless you have official business.
  10. Do not return to an evacuated building unless told to do so by a University Official.

Earthquake

During an earthquake, remain calm and quickly follow these steps.

  1. If indoors, seek refuge in a doorway or under a desk or table. Stay away from glass windows, shelves and heavy equipment.
  2. If outdoors, move quickly away from buildings, utility poles and other structures.
  3. Caution:Always avoid power or utility lines as they may be energized.
  4. If in an automobile, stop in the safest place available, preferably away from power lines and trees.
  5. Stop as quickly as safety permits but stay in vehicle for the shelter it offers.
  6. After the initial shock, contact the NSUPD or call 911. Protect yourself at all times and be prepared for aftershocks.
  7. Damaged facilities should be reported to University Police. Note:Gas leaks and power failures create special hazards.
  8. Be aware of individuals that may need assistance in exiting the building!!Remember that elevators are reserved for disabled persons to use. Do not use elevators in case of fire. Do not panic!!
  9. Once outside, move to a clear area at least 500 feet away from the affected building(s).
  10. Keep streets, fire lanes, hydrants and walkways clear for emergency vehicles and crews.
  11. If requested, assist emergency crews as necessary.
  12. A Campus Incident Command Post may be set up near the emergency site.
  13. Keep clear of the Command Post unless you have official business.
  14. Do not return to an evacuated building unless told to do so by a University Official.

Additional Procedures

In the event that the following occur, notify maintenance at 918-444-2400.After 5 p.m., notify University Police at 918-444-2468.

  • ELECTRICAL/LIGHT FAILURE: Campus building emergency lighting should provide sufficient illumination in corridors and stairs for safe exiting. It is also advisable to have a flashlight and a portable radio available for emergencies.
  • ELEVATOR FAILURE: If you are trapped in the elevator, use the emergency phone to notify University Police. If the elevator does not have an emergency phone, turn on the emergency alarm (located on the front panel), which will signal for help.
  • PLUMBING FAILURE/FLOODING: Cease using all electrical equipment.
  • GAS LEAK: Cease all operations. Do not switch on lights or any electrical equipment. Remember electrical arcing can trigger an explosion!!
  • STEAM LINE FAILURE: Immediately Call Maintenance at 918-444-2400and if necessary, vacate the area.
  • VENTILATION PROBLEMS: If smoke odor comes from the ventilation systems, immediately notify University Police or call 911, and if necessary, cease all operations and vacate the area.

Members of the NSU community, guests and visitors have the right to be free from gender-based discrimination, sexual misconduct, and violence. All members of the campus community are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that does not infringe upon the rights of others. NSU believes in a zero tolerance policy for gender-based misconduct. When an allegation of misconduct is brought to an appropriate employee(s) attention, and a respondent is found to have violated this policy, serious sanctions will be used to reasonably ensure that such actions are never repeated. This policy has been developed to reaffirm these principles and to provide recourse for those individuals whose rights have been violated. This policy is intended to define community expectations and to establish a mechanism for determining when those expectations have been violated.

Policy: NSU students, employees, guests and visitors are to conduct themselves in a manner that does not impose on the rights of others and does not discriminate as outlined in NSU Statement on Non Discrimination.

View detailed Gender-Based and Sexual Misconduct Discrimination policies and procedures.

Purpose and Scope

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 U.S.C. 1232g; 34 CFR Part 99) is a Federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. The law applies to all schools that receive funds under an applicable program of the U.S. Department of Education.

Individuals enrolled at Northeastern State University have certain rights with respect to their education records as defined by FERPA. The following policies and procedures outline Northeastern State University's commitment to managing and maintaining student records.

Policies

It is the policy of Northeastern State University that current and former students and parents of students, where appropriate, have the right to review educational records maintained about them by the institution, except for material to which the student has waived right of access or for material specifically determined to be confidential by law. Students shall be informed of their rights each year.

Information contained in educational records is confidential but may be reviewed by school officials who have a legitimate educational interest in the student without prior consent of the student. School official is defined by the Department of Education as the following:

  1. Person employed by the University in an administrative, supervisory, academic or research, or support staff position (including law enforcement unit personnel and health staff);
  2. Person or company with whom the University has contracted as its agent to provide a service instead of using University employees or officials (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent);
  3. Person serving on the Board of Trustees; and/or
  4. Student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks.

A school official has a legitimate educational interest if a review of a student's record is necessary to fulfill the official's professional responsibilities to the University. School officials may have legitimate educational interests both in students who are currently enrolled and in those no longer enrolled.

Directory Information may be released without prior consent of the student unless the student formally requests that such information be kept confidential. Such requests for confidentiality of directory information remain in effect until revoked by the student and apply to all categories of directory information, i.e., students may not specify that only some of the items be kept confidential. Only identifiers that are acceptable under FERPA will be used to identify students whose records are released.

A student may be provided access to his or her own educational record.

A student may challenge the content of the educational record if such records are believed to be inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of the privacy or other rights of the student.

Requests from off-campus parties for information from educational records shall be handled through the University General Counsel.

NSU will use methods that are in compliance with FERPA to identify and authenticate the identity of students, parents, school officials, and other parties to whom personally identifiable information from education records is released.

If a significant threat to the health or safety of a student or other individual is determined, University personnel may disclose information from education records to any person, including parents, whose knowledge of the information is necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or other individuals. University personnel must maintain a record of the significant threat that formed the rational basis for the disclosure.

Procedure

Each year, the University, through Student Affairs, shall publicly notify students of their right to review their own educational records, and students seeking access to their own educational records should submit their request in writing to the appropriate record's custodian/official office. Positive identification will be expected.

Types, Locations, and Custodians of Educational Records

Types Location Custodian
Admissions and Academic Records Office of Registrar
CASE Building
Registrar
Treatment Records (Medical/Counseling) HawkReach Student Services AVP Student Affairs
Student Life Student Affairs Vice President, Student Affairs
Housing Records Housing Office, Leoser Center Director of Housing
Financial Records Business Affairs Office, A 124 Director of Business Affairs

The appropriate records custodian will satisfy himself or herself that the student is the student to whom the records pertain;

The appropriate records custodian will review the educational record file and remove any material to which the student does not have the right of access or may request that the student make an appointment to review the record, with such appointment being within the legal maximum period of 45 days. No reason for the delay needs to be given; and

The student shall review the record in the office under the supervision of the office staff, and under no circumstances shall the student remove or alter any part of the record.

Directory information consists of the following information and is subject to change provided the change is effective only at the subsequent year (i.e., fall term) and provided the change(s) is/are appropriately publicized.

  1. Student's name, local and permanent address, and telephone number
  2. Date and place of birth
  3. Classification and enrollment status
  4. Major field of study
  5. Gender
  6. Dates of attendance at Northeastern State University
  7. Most recent previous school attended
  8. Degrees, honors and awards received
  9. Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
  10. Weight and height of athletic team members
  11. Photograph
  12. Email address assigned/provided by the institution or provided to the University by the student

Northeastern State University assumes consent for disclosure of directory information unless the student specifically requests the withholding of directory information. Students who want directory information kept confidential shall elect to withhold directory information through the goNSU student portal.

A student who wants information contained in their educational record shared with a 3rd party, shall make such request in writing utilizing the FERPA release form to the official responsible for maintaining the record. The request shall clearly identify what information is to be disclosed or shared and time frame for permission to share records.

When a student challenges the content of the educational record, the following steps will be used:

  1. The student will submit a written request to the official responsible for maintaining the record, with such request specifying the content being challenged, the grounds for the challenge, and the exact action being sought;
  2. Appeals will be conducted according to the NSU grievance procedure.

Northeastern State University, in accordance with applicable federal and state law, prohibits discrimination, including harassment, on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, sex, disability, age, or veteran status. This includes, but is not limited to, admissions, employment, financial aid and educational services. Individuals, who believe they have experienced harassment or discrimination prohibited by this statement, are encouraged to contact the appropriate offices within their respective units. Students should contact Student Affairs at 918-444-2120, faculty members should contact the Provost at 918-444-2060 and staff members should contact the Human Resources Department at 918-444-2230.

The NSU Statement on Harassment and Discrimination supports Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendment Act of 1972, section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, section 402 of the Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974, Americans with Disabilities Act, and other federal laws and regulations.

Grievance procedures and report forms are available online.

The following excerpt is from The Handbook for Campus Crime Reporting, published by the U.S. Department of Education.

Choosing a postsecondary institution is a major decision for students and their families. Along with academic, financial and geographic considerations, the issue of campus safety is a vital concern. In 1990, Congress enacted the Crime Awareness and Campus Security Act (Title II of Public Law 101 542), which amended the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA). This act required all postsecondary institutions participating in Title IV student financial aid programs to disclose campus crime statistics and security information. The act was amended in 1992, 1998 and 2000. The 1998 amendments renamed the law the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act in memory of a student who was slain in her dorm room in 1986.

The Clery Act requires higher education institutions to give timely warnings of crimes that represent a threat to the safety of students or employees, and to make public their campus security policies. It also requires that crime data are collected, reported and disseminated to the campus community and are also submitted to ED. The act is intended to provide students and their families, as higher education consumers, with accurate, complete and timely information about safety on-campus so that they can make informed decisions.

The following Campus Safety information supports guidelines established by the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act. Further information on-campus security policies and crime statistics may be obtained at the University Police Department located at the corner of Grand Avenue and Crafton, 918-444-2468.

NSU Clery Reporting