Catawba College Policies

Academic policies, procedures and forms for faculty and staff:

Policies for Graduate Students are located on the Graduate Catalog website under the "Academic Policies & Information" tab:

Classifications
Students are academically ranked based on their earned semester credit hours per the following classification:

               Freshman 0- 29 credit hours earned

               Sophomore 30- 59 credit hours earned

               Junior 60- 89 credit hours earned

               Senior 90 or more credit hours earned

Dropping and Adding Courses
After a student has completed registration, he or she may add courses until the end of the designated "add/drop" period (see appropriate academic calendar), in consultation with their advisor. After the add/drop" period has ended, a student may withdraw from a course with a grade of "W" up to the date posted in the academic calendar. Students are strongly encouraged to consult with their advisor before withdrawing from any course(s). Any student who has a pending charge of academic dishonesty may not drop the course in which the academic dishonesty is alleged to have occurred. A student may not be withdrawn from any course after the designated date. Dropping a course is not a guarantee that a student will not be charged for the course. Please see withdrawal policy and the finance office for further details.

Transferring Credit
In general, Catawba College accepts transfer course credit from other institutions of higher education under the following conditions:

1. The course work was taken at a regionally accredited college or university where the Catawba College Registrar determines to be acceptable for transfer credit.
2. The subject matter and the level of the course must be appropriate to Catawba’s curriculum.
3. The grade that is earned for the course must be at least a C-.

Academic Advisors
In order to assist students with following academic policies and procedures, the College assigns an academic advisor to every student. The advisor is the primary contact for all academic advice, including questions regarding a class schedule, course selection, declaring or changing major, adding or dropping classes and academic standing. Advisors are experienced in assisting students in following Catawba’s academic policies, as well as meeting graduation requirements, both in general education and majors.

Students are expected to know the College’s policies, procedures and terminology as outlined in the College Catalog (catawba.edu/catalog). Advisors are obligated to give the best professional advice possible based on a student’s academic information and knowledge of the College’s policies, but each student must assume full personal responsibility for adhering to all policies and procedures, including but not limited to, scheduling classes, and meeting all graduation requirements within a student’s own timeframe.

Class Attendance
Effective learning is facilitated by an interaction between the professor and students regarding course material. The classroom is the principal arena for such interaction. Thus, students have an obligation to themselves, to fellow students, and to the faculty member to attend and participate actively in classroom sessions, regardless if the class is held on-campus or online.

The class attendance policy followed by the College assigns to each faculty member the responsibility for establishing and communicating to students the specific attendance requirements for his or her courses consistent with the objectives of the course. Thus, specific course attendance policies will vary from course to course. The attendance policy for each course will be presented to the student in written form, usually as part of the course syllabus, at the beginning of the course and before the end of the drop-add period.

The course attendance policy and practices, however, will subscribe to the following general guidelines:

1. Each student is personally responsible for regular and punctual class attendance.
   1.1. Online classes will use the parameters of weekly LMS logins, communication with faculty, and completion of assignments as attendance.
2. A student who misses a class bears personal responsibility for completing any assignment presented during that class to the extent permitted by the nature of the assignment and/or the course syllabus.
3. The faculty member has the option of assigning a failing grade to any student who misses more than one- quarter of the class meetings, but this option must be stated in the course syllabus.
4. Whenever possible, the student should inform the faculty member about an absence and make arrangements concerning missed assignments due to that absence.
5. The student is responsible for initiating discussions with the faculty member about a make-up opportunity for missed assignments or examinations.
6. The faculty member has no obligation to allow or facilitate make-up work except for absences due to “extenuating circumstances.” Three sets of extenuating circumstances are recognized by the College: severe personal illness, death in the immediate family, or (when announced in advance through the Dean of Students’ Office) authorized representation of the College.
7. If an extenuating circumstance is the cause of a student’s missing a class period (or an examination), the student should not view the absence as an exception to the course attendance arrangements, as outlined in the course syllabus, but as a “just cause” for arranging a make-up opportunity. The faculty member, however, will determine the means of compensating for the missed course work or examination.
8. Students should remain in a class for at least ten minutes after the class is scheduled to begin, after which, if the faculty member has not arrived or given word about arriving late, the students may leave without penalty.

Withdrawals and Suspensions
Withdrawal from the College can occur on a voluntary or involuntary basis. A student seeking to withdraw from the College should follow the proper withdrawal process, starting in the Office of Student Affairs. The process includes completing a withdrawal form that is circulated and signed by various offices at the College. Please note that when a student withdraws from the college for any reason (voluntary or involuntary) or if he or she is suspended, the student is responsible for his or her student account.

A student who wishes to withdraw completely from the College after the last day to add a class must complete the withdrawal process before the end of the tenth week of the semester. A student must initiate the process by requesting a withdrawal form from the office of the Dean of Students and complete the process with the Office of the Registrar by the deadline.

Voluntary Withdrawal
A student who wishes to withdraw completely from the College after the last day to add a class must complete the withdrawal process before the end of the tenth week of the semester. (See the “Academic Calendar” for the precise date each term.)

A student must initiate the process by requesting a withdrawal form from the Office of the Dean of Students and completing the process with the Office of the Registrar by the deadline. Students who comply with the deadline will receive transcripts showing “W” grades for all courses. Failure to withdraw officially will result in receipt of the letter grades earned in each course.

A student who has withdrawn from the College under this provision more than once will not be readmitted. The Faculty Academic Policies and Standards Committee must approve any exceptions to this policy.

Voluntary Medical or Compassion Withdrawal
Upon presentation of documentation deemed adequate and compelling by the Dean of Students or his or her designee(s), a student may be permitted to withdraw from the College during the semester and receive the grade of “W” for coursework being attempted at the time of withdrawal. Students seeking Voluntary Medical or Compassion Withdrawal after the last day for voluntary withdrawal from the College will be subject to scrutiny as such withdrawals entail relief from the academic consequences of late withdrawal. Students should submit documentation no less than two weeks prior to the last day of class unless there are unforeseen circumstances at the end of the semester.

Involuntary Withdrawal
Administrative Withdrawal from the College
This type of academic intervention is imposed in response to poor performance within a semester by the student; specifically, the student has not withdrawn from the College but is making no appreciable attempt to attend and pass classes. Students who fail to meet these basic academic standards or policies in each semester will be withdrawn by the Provost or his or her designee(s) and a letter put in their file indicating the academic issues that necessitated the withdrawal. Any Administrative Withdrawal that is carried out on or before the last day to voluntarily withdraw from classes will result in grades of “W”. After the last day to voluntarily withdraw, Administrative Withdrawal will result in grades of “F”.

Administrative Withdrawal from a Class
This type of academic intervention is imposed in response to poor performance, disruptive or other inappropriate behaviors that hinder the normal conduct of the class. Upon referral from a faculty member, the Dean of Students will work in concert with the Offices of the Provost and Registrar to assess the documented facts and determine an appropriate intervention.

Medical Withdrawal
The College, upon advice from its professional staff, may require a student to withdraw for medical or psychological reasons. In these cases, the student will be encouraged to seek professional care. Such action is not taken for punitive reasons, but because the welfare of the individual and the community mandates the procedure. A Medical Withdrawal will result in grades of “W” regardless of when the withdrawal occurs.

Short-term Leave of Absence
The Provost may, at his or her discretion and upon the advice of College health care providers and Student Affairs staff, authorize the absence of a student from the College for up to two weeks for the student to receive treatment for a medical condition or respond to a crisis that necessitates absence. There must be reason to believe the circumstances can be resolved in the short-term, and this provision is limited by the faculty’s ability to make accommodations, which may vary considerably. The Provost will verify the student’s circumstances to faculty and request consideration for accommodations. The student will be responsible for managing specific plans for make-up work during the absence and/or upon return.

Suspension
Suspension from the College of any type is, by definition, involuntary.
Social Suspension
A student suspended under the provisions of this category has committed transgressions of the Student Code of Conduct or the Honor Code serious enough to make the student “ineligible to continue enrollment and/or to re-enroll at the College for a specific period of time.” The Dean of Students or his/her designee(s) is responsible for activating this process at any time during the semester. A Social Suspension that is carried out on or before the last day to voluntarily withdraw from classes will result in grades of “W.” After the last day to voluntarily withdraw, Social Suspension will result in grades of “W” or “F” at the discretion of the Dean of Students.

Academic Suspension
This type of academic sanction is imposed in response to a prolonged period (typically at least two complete semesters) of poor academic performance by the student. A student in this category has failed to meet minimum GPA standards after attempting 19 or more hours of study. Refer to the Catawba College Catalog for a list of semester hour and GPA thresholds. The Provost is responsible for activating this process at the end of the fall and spring semesters upon recommendation from the Academic Policies and Standards Committee. Please refer to the College catalog regarding appeals to Academic suspension.

Interim Suspension
In certain circumstances, the Dean of Students, or a designee, may impose a College or residence hall suspension prior to the Student Conduct Board hearing.

• Interim suspension may be imposed only:
  1. to ensure the safety and well-being of members of the College community or preservation of College property;
  2. to ensure the student’s own physical or emotional safety and well-being; or

• if the student poses an ongoing threat of disruption of, or interference with, the normal operations of the college

• During the interim suspension, a student shall be denied access to the residence halls and/or to the campus (including classes) and/or all other College activities or privileges for which the student might otherwise be eligible, as the Dean of Students or the Student Conduct Administrator may determine to be appropriate.
• The interim suspension does not replace the regular process, which shall proceed on the normal schedule, up to and through a Student Conduct Board hearing, if required.

Appeals Process
Students wishing to appeal the initial decision regarding a suspension must submit a letter of appeal with all supporting documentation to the Dean of Students within 48 hours. The Dean of Students will convene faculty and/or staff members to review the appeal within 7 business days.

Policies for undergraduate students are located on the Undergraduate Catalog website under the  "Academic Policies & Information" tab:

Business enterprises or agencies or student(s) acting as their representative(s) may not advertise, solicit or sell merchandise on campus without written permission from the Dean of Students. Permission to advertise and/ or sell any product will be allowed only to promotions that are in the best interest of Catawba students. Read more below:

Read more about the policy regarding the use of alcohol and information on North Carolina laws regarding alcohol.

Catawba College recognizes the benefit of human and animal interaction and seeks to promote such interactions within the bounds of public health and College policy. As such, animals are welcomed to campus under the following circumstances: as participants in College sponsored events, as participants in educational programming, and as assistance animals to students and employees with disabilities.

Based on the College's Honor Code, students are expected abide by the policies and procedures regarding student activities and life at Catawba College, with an emphasis on character, culture, and service.

The Honor Code at Catawba College is the College's policy that defines the expected standards of conduct in academic affairs. All students, upon admission to the college, pledge to abide by this Code, which applies to all assignments, examinations, and other academic exercises.

Information on the professional boundaries policy at Catawba College:

The SGA Bylaws are the official rules and operating procedures of the Catawba College Student Government Association. Read more below:

In the event of inclement weather, the President of the College will determine if the College will be closed or delayed. This information will be communicated to members of the campus community through the CatawbAlerts notification system. 

Catawba College is committed to a hazing-free campus, where student organizations are about connection, growth, and belonging and every student deserves to feel respected, supported, and safe while being part of our campus community.

Reporting a Missing Student and Contact Procedures 
The Higher Education Act of 2008 requires institutions that provide on-campus student housing to establish a missing student notification policy and procedures. Catawba College takes student safety very seriously. The following policy and procedures have been developed in order to assist in locating Catawba students living in college-owned, on-campus housing, who have been determined to be missing, based on the reports and circumstances known to the college at the time the report is made.

Missing person reports are usually the result of a parent, concerned family member, or friend not being able to reach a student. This is often due to a student changing his or her routine or behavior without informing friends, family members, or roommates of the change. Anyone who believes a student to be missing for 24 hours should contact the Office of Public safety, Residence Life, or a Resident Assistant. Every report made to the College will be followed up with an immediate investigation to determine whether the student is missing. Students are under no obligation to notify the College of plans to spend time away from their residences.

At the beginning of each academic year, each student living in an on-campus student housing facility has the option to register through the Office of Student Affairs a confidential contact person to be notified in the case that a student is determined to be missing. The information that is obtained will only be provided to authorized campus officials and law enforcement officers in furtherance of a missing person investigation. This emergency information will be kept on file in the Office of Student Affairs. The contact information will be updated each academic year. The student is responsible for ensuring that the contact information is up to date and accurate. Catawba College will notify local law enforcement for all students, even if they have not registered a contact person, if a student has been determined as missing.

If a student is determined to be missing and has designated a contact person, the contact person will be notified no later than 24 hours after the determination. If a missing student is under the age of 18, and not an emancipated individual, the college is required to notify the parent or guardian of the missing student no later than 24 hours after the determination is made that the student is missing. Public Safety will notify the appropriate local law enforcement agency when the student is determined to be missing. The Dean of Students and his/her designee will notify the appropriate emergency contact person listed for a missing student.

Procedures Catawba College will follow when a student who resides in an on-campus student housing facility is determined to be missing for 24 hours.

• The College official who receives a report that a student is missing, or has reason to believe that a student is missing, will report the information or evidence immediately to the Office of Public Safety. The Office of Public Safety will then notify the Dean of Students.
• Upon notification that a student may be missing, Catawba College may use any or all of the following resources to assist in locating the student:
• Contact the missing student via his/her cell phone, email, and any other social media, which may be used as a medium for communication (e.g. Facebook, Myspace, Twitter, etc.)
• Go to the room of the missing student to verify his or her whereabouts and/or wellness, and, in some cases, deliver a message to contact a parent or family member who is searching for them.
• Key into the room to perform a health and safety check. While in the room, the staff members will look for visible items (e.g. wallet, keys, phone, etc.) that may provide clues to the missing student's whereabouts.
• Talk to the student's Resident Advisor, roommate(s), and floor mates to see if they can confirm the missing student's whereabouts and/or confirm the date, time, and location the student was last seen.
• Check all possible locations mentioned by friends such as the library, residence hall lounges, other friends' rooms, etc.
• Check all college parking lots in an attempt to locate the student's vehicle, if applicable.
• If no information is gained by visiting the missing student's room, and speaking with the other occupants of the house, the Office of Student Affairs and/or Dining Services will be contacted to determine the last time the student used his/her Student ID card to access the cafeteria or fitness center.
• Information Technology Services may be contacted to ascertain the last log in or access of the PC network.
• If there is sufficient evidence to suggest that the student may be in danger or if foul play is suspected at anytime during this process, the Office of Public Safety will immediately contact the appropriate local law enforcement agencies. If it is necessary to contact local or state authorities, police procedure and protocol will be followed by the College.

UPDATED 6/11/13

Catawba College values the health, safety, and well-being of minors and is committed to providing a safe environment for minors on campus and who participate in College programs. 

Policy Statement Addressing Sex Offenders

In accordance to the "Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act" of 2000, which amends the Jacob Wetterling Crimes Against Children and Sexually Violent Offender Registration Act, the Jeanne Clery Act and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, the Catawba College Public Safety Office is providing a link to the North Carolina Department of Justice Sex Offender Registry.

This aforementioned act requires institutions of higher education to issue a statement advising the campus community where it may obtain law enforcement information provided by a State concerning registered sex offenders. It also requires sex offenders already required to register in a State to provide notice of each institution of higher education in that State at which the person is employed, carries a vocation, or is a student. In the State of North Carolina, convicted sex offenders must register with the North Carolina Sex Offender Registry maintained by the North Carolina Department of Justice.   The Sex Offender Registry (SOR) is available via Internet pursuant to NC General Statute 14-208.5.

The General Assembly recognizes that sex offenders often pose a high risk of engaging in sex offenses even after being released from incarceration or commitment and that protection of the public from sex offenders is of paramount governmental interest.

The General Assembly also recognizes that persons who commit certain other types of offenses against minors, such as kidnapping, pose significant and unacceptable threats to the public safety and welfare of the children in this State and that the protection of those children is of great governmental interest. Further, the General Assembly recognizes that law enforcement officers' efforts to protect communities, conduct investigations, and quickly apprehend offenders who commit sex offenses or certain offenses against minors are impaired by the lack of information available to law enforcement agencies about convicted offenders who live within the agency's jurisdiction. Release of information about these offenders will further the governmental interests of public safety so long as the information released is rationally related to the furtherance of those goals.

Therefore, it is the purpose of this Article to assist law enforcement agencies' efforts to protect communities by requiring persons who are convicted of sex offenses or of certain other offenses committed against minors to register with law enforcement agencies, to require the exchange of relevant information about those offenders among law enforcement agencies, and to authorize the access to necessary and relevant information about those offenders to others as provided in this Article. (1995, c. 545, s. 1; 1997, 516, s. 1.)

The North Carolina Department of Justice is responsible for maintaining this registry. Follow the link below to access the North Carolina Sex Offender Registry website.

Sexual Violence Policy

The following policy is based on federal and state laws of North Carolina, and on the College’s intent to ensure the safety of the community.

Sexual assault, including but not limited to threats of, or deliberate physical contact of a sexual nature that is against another person’s will or without consent.

• Committing a sexual invasion, sexual assault, or sexual misconduct, as those terms are defined herein.
• Committing sexual harassment as defined herein.
• Inflicting severe mental or emotional distress upon a person through a course of conduct involving repeated harassment, intimidation, abuse or disparagement.

The term sexual act means sexual intercourse, cunnilingus, fellatio, anilingus or knowingly inserting an object or part of one’s body into another’s genital or anal opening.

The term sexual assault means intentionally touching the sexual parts (breasts, genitals or buttocks) of another or intentionally touching another with one’s sexual parts, without that person’s consent.

The term sexual harassment means engaging in unwelcome advances, requests for sexual favors or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when the employment or academic advancement of another is made contingent upon submission to such conduct or when submission to or a rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis for employment or academic decisions affecting such individual, or when such conduct has the purpose or effect of interfering with the other’s work or academic performance, or of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive working or academic environment.

The term sexual invasion means knowingly engaging in a sexual act with another person without the other’s consent. The term sexual misconduct means engaging in a sexual act or exposing the private parts of one’s person in any public place in the presence of other persons.

NOTE: Use of alcohol and/or drugs by a Complainant is not an excuse for violation of the sexual assault conduct standard. An intoxicated person cannot provide informed consent to sexual activity if their judgment is impaired. Nor can a perpetrator who is intoxicated or under the influence of drugs be capable of confirming consent to the sexual activity. Thus, if your partner has been drinking or taking drugs, getting a "yes" may not be sufficient. Finally, silence, previous sexual relationships or current relationship between the parties may not be taken as an indication of consent. 

No Retaliation
It is a violation of this policy to retaliate against a person for complaining of alleged harassment, or for assisting, participating or cooperating in an investigation of sexual harassment. When a member of the College community believes retaliation has occurred, the complainant may bring a complaint under this policy. The College also has the right to make such a determination on its own. Retaliation is a basis for corrective or disciplinary action.

Confidentiality
The College will make reasonable efforts to keep all information relating to sexual harassment allegations and investigations confidential on a "need-to-know" basis, to the extent consistent with the College’s legal obligations, the need to investigate allegations of sexual harassment and the need to take corrective and/or disciplinary action. Any person who violates provisions of this policy including confidentiality provisions will be subject to disciplinary and/or corrective action.

If you have been sexually assaulted:
Sexual assault is an act of violence. Students who are victims of an assault may be in a state of shock and disbelief and may be feeling a variety of emotions such as fear, anger and helplessness as well as shame and guilt. A victimized student may not know who to trust or turn to for help. This guide is designed to give students resources to help in recovery as well as to reduce the risk of an assault from happening again. Students are encouraged to seek help from the resource people in this guide. There are trained professionals available at Catawba College who can provide information and support. Students are encouraged to use these resources. The College will respect the wishes of the student and will not force them toward any action.

If a student is sexually assaulted, she or he is encouraged to:

1. Get to a safe place as soon as possible.
2. Understand that the assault was not your fault, nor did you do anything to cause it or deserve it. One hundred (100%) percent of the responsibility lies with the person who assaulted you.
3. Try to preserve all physical evidence. Do not wash, douche, use the toilet or change clothing if it can be avoided. If changing clothes is a must, put all clothing worn at the time of the attack in a paper bag, not plastic (this is important for evidence collection).
4. Contact any one of the following Catawba College offices to report the crime and receive assistance: Public Safety at 704-637-4000, College Chaplain at 704-637-4446 or 704-231-3128, Student Affairs at 704-637-4410, Health Services at 704-637-4404, Counseling Services at704-637-4307 or a Residence Life staff member. A call to one of these offices does not mean that one has chosen to bring criminal charges. These officials are trained to assist in securing medical attention and professional counseling while assuring that evidence of the incident is collected and preserved in the event of a later decision to prosecute.
5. Report the crime to the Salisbury Police Department at 911 (non-emergency calls 704-638-5333). This is a personal decision that only the student who has been assaulted can make. Understand that making a report does not require the victim to press charges. Consider that the perpetrator may have had previous victims, and if attention is not brought on their behavior, it is possible that there will be more victims in the future.
6. Get medical attention as soon as possible to address physical health needs and to collect important evidence in the event of a later decision to take legal action. For the purpose of effective evidence collection, physical examination at a local emergency room must take place as soon as possible and no later than seventy-two (72) hours after the assault. For on campus services, call Health Services at 704-637-4404. For off-campus services, call the Rowan Regional Medical Center Emergency Department at 704-210-5035.
7. Talk with a counselor who can provide emotional support and give information about resources while clarifying confidentiality. For on-campus services, call Counseling Services at 704-637-4307. For off-campus counseling and support services, call the Family Crisis Council at 704-636-4718 or the Rape/Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-4673.
8. Confide in someone who can be trusted, a close friend or Resident Assistant, to turn to for support through recovery. If preferred, a member of the College staff who is knowledgeable about recovery resources can be chosen as a support person. To receive information on the Catawba College Student Conduct Code and procedures, please contact the Dean of Students or the Student Conduct Administrator at 704-637-4410.

Stalking Policy

Stalking and cyber stalking are behaviors prohibited by Catawba College. Stalking includes a willful and malicious knowing pattern of conduct or acts over a period of time, directed at a specific person which alarms or annoys the person which causes a reasonable person to suffer substantial emotional distress, and makes a threat with the intent to place the person in imminent fear of death or bodily injury. Conduct which does not include a threat of death or bodily injury is also illegal and considered harassment by Catawba College.

Stalking is defined as repeated harassing behavior, such as:

• Following a person
• Appearing at a person’s home, class or work
• Making harassing phone calls and e-mails 
• Leaving written messages or objects
• Vandalizing a person’s property

Stalking can be accomplished in person or by mail, telephone, electronic mail, social media, and internet communications etc.

Students, staff, and faculty may turn to a Title IX Liaison (available to receive reports of sexual assault, sexual harassment and discrimination, including stalking) listed in the policy on sexual harassment and sexual assault for help in dealing with incidents of stalking or harassment.

Anyone can be stalked, including college students from any economic, ethnic, or religious group. A few victims are picked at random by their stalker, but most stalking victims know their stalker, having had some type of present or past relationship. The perpetrator can be an intimate partner, former partner, classmate, roommate, or other acquaintance. A victim can be stalked for several days or for many years. The stalker’s actions can also affect family, friends, and coworkers. Stalking and criminal harassment can be difficult to distinguish. Talk to one of the individuals listed on our Resource page for help.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a similar situation, please get help by contacting any of the resources listed. If you feel frightened or uncomfortable about someone’s specific behavior, pay attention to your instincts. Seek help.

What Can a Stalking Victim Do?

• Report the stalking to Public Safety, Student Affairs and/or local police and follow their advice
• Inform others close to you (family, friends, residential life staff, coworkers) about the stalking
• Do your best to safely avoid all contact with the stalker
• Keep a journal or log of all incidents connected to the stalking
• Keep any letters, packages, taped telephone messages, or e-mails received from the stalker
• Provide police with photographs of the suspect, a description, and other information
• Inform the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs and learn about other options

Follow basic safety tips:

• Try not to walk alone
• Know your surroundings and locations of emergency phones and panic buttons o Lock your car and house doors when alone
• Consider using different routes to drive or walk to class or other routine places, keeping close friends informed o Park your vehicle in well-lit areas
• Check your vehicle including front and rear passenger seat areas before getting in o Change locks to your home and car
• Contact Public Safety for escorts
• Utilize the blue lights on campus if you feel someone is following you

Dating Violence

Dating violence is defined as violence committed by a person who is or has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with the victim. The relationship between the alleged perpetrator and the victim is determined based on the following factors:

1. The length of the relationship
2. The type of relationship; and/or
3. The frequency of interaction between the persons involved in the relationship

Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is defined as abuse or violence committed by:

1. a current or former spouse of the victim;
2. a person with whom the victim shares a child in common; and/or
3. a person who is cohabitating with or has cohabitated with the victim as a spouse.

Dating and domestic violence includes, but is not limited to, sexual or physical abuse or the threat of such abuse.

The state definition of domestic violence can be found in North Carolina General Statute §50B-1 (http://www.ncleg.net/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/HTML/ByChapter/Chapter_50B.html), which is applicable to criminal prosecutions for domestic violence in North Carolina, but may differ from the definition used by the university to address policy violations.

Bullying Policy

"Bullying or harassing behavior" is any pattern of gestures, communication (written, verbal, or electronic), or physical act that takes place by a Catawba College community member that:

Places another Catawba College community member in actual and reasonable fear of harm to his/her person or damage to his/her property; or creates or is certain to create a hostile environment by substantially interfering with or impairing a student’s educational performance, opportunities, or benefits. A hostile environment is defined as the victim subjectively views the conduct as bullying or harassing behavior and the conduct is objectively severe or pervasive enough that a reasonable person would agree that it is bullying or harassing behavior.

Bullying or harassing behavior includes, but is not limited to acts reasonably perceived as being motivated by any actual or perceived differentiating characteristic such as race: color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, socioeconomic status, academic status, gender identity, physical appearance, sexual orientation, or mental, physical, developmental, or sensory disability, or by association with a person who has or is perceived to have one or more of these characteristics.

• No student or College employee shall be subjected to bullying or harassing behavior by College employees or students.
• No person shall engage in any act of reprisal or retaliation against a victim, witness, or a person with reliable information about an act of bullying or harassing behavior.
• A College employee who has witnessed or has reliable information that a student or College employee has been subject to any act of bullying or harassing behavior shall report the incident to the appropriate College official.
• A student or volunteer who has witnessed or has reliable information that a student or College employee has been subject to any act of bullying or harassing behavior should report the incident to the appropriate College official.

Cyberbullying Policy

Cyberbullying is the use of internet, mobile phones, social media, or other digital technologies to harm others. Communicating threats of any violence via any medium (including electronic communication) which the College interprets as posing a danger to Catawba College property, people, or the community. This Policy applies to all computer and computer communication facilities owned, leased, operated, or contracted by Catawba College. The policy compliments the Catawba College Information Technology’s Acceptable Usage Policy.

Bias Incident Policy

DEFINITION
Catawba College defines a bias incident as an act of bigotry, harassment or intimidation involving a member of the Catawba community that is directed at a member or group based on any of, but not limited to, the following: race, color, ethnicity, nationality, economic background, age, physical/mental health or ability, sexual orientation, sex, gender identity or expression, height, size, weight, marital status, veteran status or religious practice.

A bias incident can occur whether the act is intentional or unintentional. Speech or expression that is consistent with the principles of academic freedom does not constitute a bias incident.

Bias-related incidents, while abhorrent and intolerable, are not necessarily crimes. Hate crimes are also motivated by bias, but they include a definable crime, such as: threats of violence, property damage, personal injury and other illegal conduct. A hate crime is an infraction of the law and will be addressed accordingly.

Note: All hate crimes are bias incidents, but not all bias incidents are hate crimes.

Reporting a Bias Incident
Any member of the Catawba Community may report an incident through the Catawba Connect App or via the Bias Incident Report. Once reported, an investigation of the incident will be conducted in a timely manner and appropriate actions will be taken.

Catawba College is 100% tobacco-free college and offers a healthier place to learn, work, and visit. View the full policy and more information below:

It is against College policy to possess weapons (concealed or otherwise) on the College campus. This can be defined as any illegal or unauthorized possession of firearms, explosives, other weapons or dangerous chemicals on College premises or use of any such item, even if legally possessed, in a manner that harms, threatens or causes fear to others. 

Catawba College is an equal opportunity employer. As such, Catawba is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees, regardless of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, related medical condition, and lactation), age, national origin, disability, citizenship status, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression, marital status,  veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws and ordinances. Catawba complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing non-discrimination. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, our recruiting, selection, hiring, rates of pay, benefits, promotion, training, transfer, and separation practices. Any employee who engages in unlawful discriminatory conduct in violation of this policy will be subject to discipline, up to and including termination.

If you believe that you are the victim of retaliation, you must bring this to the immediate attention of your supervisor, your department manager, or a Human Resources representative. Should you believe this policy has been violated you should follow the steps as outlined in the Fraud and Irregularities Policy found in this handbook.

General policies for Catawba College faculty:

The Holiday Compensation Policy ensures fair and equitable compensation for all Catawba College employees during holiday closures, especially those required to work due to essential responsibilities. 

The College is dedicated to fostering an inclusive community where all individuals can thrive, learn, and contribute their unique perspectives. We believe that diversity of thought, background, and experience strengthens our educational mission and enriches our campus culture.

Catawba College does not assume responsibility for loss, theft, or damage to personal property belonging to faculty and staff, even when such property is brought to campus or used in connection with an employee’s work. Learn more below:

The Catawba College community values a positive community environment of tolerance, civility, and mutual respect. The College is committed to providing and promoting an atmosphere in which faculty and staff can realize their maximum potential in the workplace and students can engage fully in the learning process. 

Catawba recognizes that the summer months are a time that staff can leverage to support a healthy work/life balance. Closing some College offices on Fridays in the summer months allows our staff to accomplish their work activities and project goals while also providing an opportunity for more time for the people and activities they enjoy.

Catawba College is committed to providing equal opportunities for all students, employees, applicants for student admission and applicants for employment regardless of sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity, unless allowed by law and deemed necessary to the operation of the College.

This IT Acceptable Use Policy ("Policy") applies to all students, faculty, staff, and third-party users who access the information technology resources of Catawba College. The purpose of this Policy is to ensure the appropriate use of these resources, to protect the privacy and confidentiality of institutional data, and to maintain the integrity and security of the institution's information technology systems and infrastructure.

General Principles:

1. Access to information technology resources must be in accordance with the policies and procedures of the institution.

2. All users must comply with local, state, and federal laws and regulations, as well as with institutional policies and procedures, when using information technology resources.

3. Information technology resources may be used only for authorized purposes, including instruction, research, and administrative activities in support of the institution's mission.

4. Users must comply with all intellectual property laws and regulations.

5. Users must respect the privacy and confidentiality of institutional data and not disclose, use, or disseminate such data without authorization.

6. Users must protect the integrity and security of institutional information technology systems and infrastructure by following the institution's security policies and procedures.

7. Users must report any suspected security breaches or violations of this Policy to the appropriate institutional authority.

Acceptable Use:

1. Users may use institutional information technology resources for instructional, research, and administrative activities that support the mission of the institution.

2. Users may access and use the internet and email for institutional purposes, provided that such use is consistent with the principles of this Policy.

3. Users may not use institutional information technology resources for personal commercial activities or for personal gain.

4. Users may not engage in activities that disrupt or interfere with the normal operation of institutional information technology systems and infrastructure.

5. Users may not install or use unauthorized software or hardware on institutional information technology resources.

6. Users may not engage in activities that are illegal or in violation of institutional policies and procedures.

7. Users may not engage in activities that are abusive, offensive, or harassing to other users.

Security:

1. Users must protect institutional information technology resources from unauthorized access or use by following the institution's security policies and procedures.

2. Users must protect their accounts and passwords from unauthorized access or use.

3. Users must not share their accounts or passwords with others.

4. Users must not attempt to access or use information technology resources for which they are not authorized.

5. Users must report any suspected security breaches or violations of this Policy to the appropriate institutional authority.

Enforcement:

1. Violations of this Policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or expulsion from the institution.

2. The institution may monitor information technology resources to ensure compliance with this Policy.

3. The institution may restrict or terminate access to information technology resources for violations of this Policy.

Conclusion:

The institution expects all users to comply with this Policy and to use Catawba College Information Technology resources in a responsible and ethical manner. By doing so, we can ensure the security, integrity, and availability of these resources for the benefit of the institution and its mission.

Device:

Full time faculty and permanent and temporary professional staff working in an office environment will be supplied with one set of technology (monitor(s), docking station (if needed), keyboard, mouse, and computer) to perform their job functions, whether it be remote or on campus.

The college is committed to ensuring employees have the technology necessary to conduct the duties that correlate with their position and will have devices across campus on a three-year rotation. In doing so, standardization includes:

• All employees will receive one (1) 24” monitor.
  • Personnel who work at their desk thirty-five hours or more a week are eligible to request receive a 36” curved monitor
• A standard Dell keyboard and mouse.
• All Staff are issued a Dell PC16250 laptop
  • Mac Pro 14” are only available for staff who have a role of Marketing and Communication for the College
• Faculty may select from the Dell PC16250 laptop or a Mac Pro 14”

Care:

• No stickers on the device. Those wishing to customize the exterior of their device should utilize a case.
• During office moves, monitors should only be moved by Information Technology personnel.
• The laptop device and charger must be returned to HR at the time of departure. Failure to do so will result in punitive action.
• Employees are expected to sign in to Zoom daily during working hours.
• Employees are expected to utilize One Drive and SharePoint to save documents.

All electronic communication at the college must adhere to the behavior standards set forth by the institution including FERPA guidelines and Honor Code. Any correspondence deemed as harassing or bullying in nature may result in immediate expulsion for students or termination for employees.

Personal Identifying Information should not be shared via email. Personal Information is defined by the North Carolina Identity Theft Protection Act as a person’s first name or first initial and last name in combination with any of the following items:

• Social Security or employer taxpayer identification number
• Driver’s license, state identification card, or passport numbers
• Checking account numbers
• Savings account numbers
• Credit or debit card numbers
• Personal Identification Number (PIN code)
• Digital signatures
• Any other numbers or information that can be used to access a person’s financial resources
• Biometric data
• Fingerprints

Even if listed above, however, “personal information” does not include publicly available directories containing information an individual has voluntarily consented to have publicly disseminated or listed, including name, address, and telephone number, and does not include information made lawfully available to the general public from federal, state, or local government records.

Access to email accounts is restricted to authorized individuals only. To gain access, users must provide a valid username and password or other authorized credentials.

User Responsibilities

Users are responsible for maintaining the security of their account credentials and for preventing unauthorized access to their accounts. They should not share their passwords with others or allow anyone else to use their accounts.

Users are expected to use email accounts only for legitimate purposes related to their academic or job-related activities. Sending or receiving emails for personal or non-work-related purposes is prohibited.

Users should be aware that email is not a secure means of communication and that sensitive information should not be transmitted via email unless it is encrypted. If sensitive information must be transmitted via email, it should be marked as confidential.

Users are prohibited from using email accounts to engage in any form of harassment, discrimination, or other behavior that is prohibited by our institutional policies or laws.

The institution reserves the right to monitor email accounts for compliance with this policy and for any other legitimate purpose.

Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or expulsion from the institution.

Information Technology Responsibilities

IT personnel may not access accounts such as email, Blackboard, or Financial Aid unless specifically given instruction by the account owner, the supervisor of the personnel's account, the Executive Cabinet member from that area or the President of the college.

Account credentials pertaining to personnel employed by the college should not be shared with anyone other than the employee. Managers for departing personnel or personnel taking a leave of absence may request that those email addresses be forwarded to another person on their team. For personnel taking a leave of absence, the employee must be notified.

Account credentials pertaining to a current or past student of the college should not be shared with anyone other than the student. FERPA regulations dictate that knowledge of any other factors pertaining to a student's account such as a locked or inactive state, access, or logs may only be shared with college personnel. This requires that IT personnel be confident they are speaking or engaging directly with the student in question. To prove identity, IT personnel must request ID number, date of birth, social security number (never via email or ticketing system), or a photo ID. If identity cannot be proven without reasonable doubt, college personnel cannot share account details or reset a password.

Creation of Accounts

Student accounts are created at the time of Enrollment Deposit and are available within the hour.

Employee accounts are created at the time the employee record is entered into Banner by Human Resources. If the employee is a graduate of the college, a new email address will be created to use for professional purposes. They may not use their former Catawba email address for professional purposes. Employees who are being re-hired by the institution will receive a new email address for their new role and will not be allowed access to their former email address.

Vendors who are under contract with the college, such as Follett or Chartwells, and contractors who are on retainer by the college may have a Catawba email address requested by the appropriate Executive Cabinet member or the President.

Termination of Accounts

Student access to digital services other than OneDrive and email are terminated after ending their time at the college (such as through graduation or withdrawal).

Employee access to email and software using SSO is immediately terminated on the last day of employment entered by Human Resources in Banner. In the event an employee is terminated effective immediately but given a later end date of employment, IT will be asked to end account access effective immediately. The email address will remain active but locked from the employee with emails being forwarded to someone within the department. This request for forwarding must come from the manager, Director, VP, or President.

Changing of Account Username

Email address will only be changed when a request is submitted by Human Resources, Executive Cabinet Member or the President if the automatic username generated is deemed problematic.

When an employee legally changes their name, they may request their account username be changed to match their new name. They will continue to log in with their previous username, but the email address will automatically be connected to their previous account.

Names will appear as noted in preferred name in the Student Information System and can be updated with the Registrar’s Office (for Students) and Human Resources (for Employees).

Distribution Lists

Distribution Lists can be created as needed for official college purposes. These distribution lists will be automatically updated based on criteria set forth in the request and will pull based on corresponding Banner data for each person.  Appropriately corresponding offices who own the data are able to update these distlists. This includes:

• Registrar for Student DistLists by Academic Credentials
• Student Affairs for Housing-related DistLists
• Human Resources for personnel DistLists

Shared Accounts

There are two opportunities for shared account options at the college. The first is a DistList and the ability to send emails as though from this email address. This is the most secure and recommended method. The second is an email address that is a stand alone email address for an office with access shared. There should be no accounts created or used with shared login credentials. This is only to be used by offices who have a designated person primarily responsible for the account and need to take action on each email received.

The purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines for external user access to Information Technology applications, systems, and services, ensuring the security and confidentiality of sensitive information. This policy applies to all external users who require access to Information Technology resources including hired contractors.

Authorization: External user access to the Information Technology resources must be authorized by the IT department and approved by the respective business unit manager or executive sponsor.

Access Control: Access to the enterprise IT environment will be granted on a "need-to-know" basis and shall be limited to the minimum access necessary to perform the authorized duties. Access to our primary student information system, Banner, will be granted to the Test environment only by default.

Security Awareness: External users shall receive security awareness training on the enterprise IT environment, including policies, procedures, and security controls.

Password Policy: External users must follow the enterprise password policy.

Two-Factor Authentication: External users must use two-factor authentication to access resources as required.

Remote Access: External users must use secure remote access technologies, approved by the IT department.

User Responsibilities: External users are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality and security of their login credentials and must report any suspected security breaches to the IT department immediately.

IT Responsibilities: IT is responsible for initial account setup and access to necessary systems. IT is not responsible to train, troubleshoot, or assist with usage of these systems. IT cannot support contractor supplied equipment or software.

Monitoring: The IT department will monitor external user access to Information Technology resources to ensure compliance with policies and procedures.

Termination: Access to the Information Technology Resources will be terminated upon the expiration of the user's authorized access period, or upon termination of the user's employment or contract with the enterprise.

Policy Review: This policy shall be reviewed periodically to ensure its effectiveness and relevance to Catawba College’s security objectives.

Enforcement: Failure to comply with this policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of the user's contract with the College.

Acknowledgment:

All external users who require access to Information Technology Resources must acknowledge their understanding and agreement to comply with this policy before being granted access.

The North Carolina Identity Theft Protection Act requires organizations to notify persons whose personal information held by the organization has been compromised by an information security breach. The purpose of this policy is to define the circumstances and procedures under which required notifications will be made and applies to all Catawba College students, faculty, and staff. Any employee found to have violated this policy may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment.

Definitions: 

Personal Information is defined by the North Carolina Identity Theft Protection Act as a person’s first name or first initial and last name in combination with any of the following items:

• Social Security or employer taxpayer identification number
• Driver’s license, state identification card, or passport numbers
• Checking account numbers
• Savings account numbers
• Credit or debit card numbers
• Personal Identification Number (PIN code)
• Digital signatures
• Any other numbers or information that can be used to access a person’s financial resources
• Biometric data
• Fingerprints

Even if listed above, however, “personal information” does not include publicly available directories containing information an individual has voluntarily consented to have publicly disseminated or listed, including name, address, and telephone number, and does not include information made lawfully available to the general public from federal, state, or local government records.

Information Security Breach is defined as an incident of unauthorized access to and acquisition of unencrypted and unredacted records or data containing personal information where illegal use of the personal information has occurred or is reasonably likely to occur or that creates a material risk of harm to a consumer. Any incident of unauthorized access to and acquisition of encrypted records or data containing personal information, along with the confidential process or key, also constitutes an information security breach.

Good faith acquisition of personal information by an employee or agent of the College for a legitimate purpose is not an information security breach, provided that the personal information is not used for a purpose other than a lawful purpose of the College and is not subject to further unauthorized disclosure.

Policy: 

Any information security breach should be reported to the Chief Information Officer (CIO) and the IT Operations Director immediately upon discovery.

In the case of an information security breach that results in disclosure of personal information, Catawba will notify the affected individuals without unreasonable delay.

Notification will be delayed if a law enforcement agency determines that notification will impede a criminal investigation. In this case, notification will be provided without unreasonable delay after the law enforcement agency determines that it will not compromise the investigation.

The purpose of this policy is to provide a consistent method of handling any information security incidents that may occur on the Catawba network and applies to all Catawba College students, faculty, and staff. Any network user found to have violated this policy may be subject to disciplinary action, including suspension or termination of network privileges.

Any employee found to have violated this policy may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment.

If infractions also violate local, state, or federal laws, other civil or criminal penalties may apply.

The College reserves the right to monitor previous offenders for further abuse.

An information security incident is defined as any event that affects the confidentiality, integrity, or availability of network resources. Any of the following would constitute an information security incident:

1. Any potential violation of federal law, North Carolina law, or Catawba College policy involving a Catawba Information Technology (IT) asset.
2. A breach, attempted breach, or other unauthorized access to a Catawba IT asset
3. Any Internet worm, virus, Denial of Service (DoS) attack, or related incident
4. Any change in a computer system that disables or defeats security precautions that have been installed on the machine
5. Any conduct using in whole or in part a Catawba IT asset that could be construed as harassing or in violation of Catawba College policies. Incidents that potentially involve harassment should be reported to the Student Affairs or Human Resources as appropriate.
6. The appropriate authorities should be notified immediately of any suspected or real information security incident. If it is unclear as to whether a situation should be considered an information security incident, IT should be contacted to evaluate the situation.
   • Incidents that potentially involve violation of federal or state law should be immediately reported to Campus Safety (704-637-4000).
   • Incidents that potentially involve malicious or accidental damage to the Banner enterprise database should be reported to the Director of Enterprise Applications.
   • Any other potential information security incident should be reported to the Help Desk and Media Services Director.

Standard IT Office hours are 8:00am-5:00pm Monday through Friday when the College is open. Only emergency needs are addressed outside of these hours. In the case of emergency needs outside of these hours, the request must be submitted via the IT ticketing system by the managing Director and/or VP. Personnel to assist with testing and troubleshooting in addition to the Director and/or VP of the area must be available during the time IT personnel are working on the issue. Emergency needs are defined as system outages or issues that have widespread impact and hinder operations of the institution. All other issues will be resolved during regularly operating business hours.

Purpose
To safeguard the confidentiality and integrity of Personally Identifiable Information (PII), this policy establishes the exclusive use of Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP) or cloud-based file sharing services for transmitting PII outside of Catawba College’s network.

Scope
This policy applies to all faculty, staff, contractors, and affiliates who handle or transmit PII in the course of their duties. PII includes, but is not limited to, names, addresses, Social Security numbers, student ID numbers, financial data, and health-related information.

Policy Statement
Catawba College mandates that all external transmission of PII must be conducted exclusively through Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP) or cloud-based file sharing. The use of email or unencrypted transfer methods for sending PII is strictly prohibited.

Requirements

• Encryption: All SFTP and cloud-based file sharing service transmissions must use strong encryption protocols (e.g., AES-256).
• Authentication: Access to SFTP services or cloud-based file sharing services must require multi-factor authentication (MFA) and be restricted to authorized users.
• Approved Platforms: Only institution-approved SFTP platforms may be used. Personal or third-party SFTP services are not permitted.
• Data Minimization: Only the minimum necessary PII should be transmitted, and only to verified recipients with a legitimate business or academic need.

Exceptions
Any exceptions to this policy must be approved in writing by the Office of Information Technology. Exception requests must include justification, risk assessment, and mitigation strategies.

Enforcement
Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary action, including revocation of access privileges, formal reprimand, or further administrative review. All incidents will be investigated in accordance with Catawba College’s Information Security Incident Response Policy.

Review and Revision
This policy will be reviewed annually by the Office of Information Technology and updated as needed to reflect changes in regulatory requirements, institutional practices, or technological capabilities.

Purpose
To protect institutional data integrity, security, and compliance, this policy prohibits the creation, use, or maintenance of unauthorized databases—commonly referred to as “shadow databases”—outside of approved Catawba College systems.

Scope
This policy applies to all faculty, staff, contractors, and affiliates who access, manage, or store institutional data, including student records, financial information, academic data, and operational systems.

Policy Statement
Catawba College strictly prohibits the use of shadow databases. A shadow database is defined as any data repository created or maintained outside of institutionally approved platforms, systems, or oversight. These databases pose significant risks to data accuracy, security, and regulatory compliance.

Examples of shadow databases include:

• Spreadsheets or Access files containing student or employee data stored on local drives or cloud services
• Unofficial data tracking systems not integrated with institutional databases
• Third-party applications used without IT approval that store institutional data

Risks of Shadow Databases

• Security Vulnerabilities: Unsecured data may be exposed to unauthorized access or breaches.
• Data Inconsistency: Shadow databases often contain outdated or conflicting information.
• Compliance Violations: Use of unauthorized systems may violate FERPA, HIPAA, and other regulatory standards.
• Operational Inefficiency: Fragmented data sources hinder reporting, decision-making, and collaboration.

Requirements

• All institutional data must be stored and managed within approved systems maintained by the Office of Information Technology.
• Requests for new data systems or tools must be submitted to IT for review and approval.
• Existing shadow databases must be reported to IT and either migrated to approved platforms or decommissioned.

Enforcement
Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary action, including revocation of access privileges, formal reprimand, or further administrative review. The Office of Information Technology reserves the right to audit systems and devices for unauthorized data repositories.

Purpose
This policy establishes guidelines for the use of text messaging as a method of communication between faculty, staff, and students at Catawba College. The intent is to ensure that all communications are professional, respectful of student privacy, and compliant with institutional standards and applicable regulations.

Scope
This policy applies to all faculty, staff, student workers, and contractors who engage in direct communication with students via text messaging, whether through personal devices or institution-managed platforms.

Acceptable Use:

Text messaging may be used as a supplemental communication method for time-sensitive, urgent, or logistical matters (e.g., class cancellations, meeting reminders, emergency notifications). It is not to be used for delivering academic content, discussing grades, or engaging in extended dialogue.

All text communications must adhere to the following standards:

• Consent: Students must opt-in to receive text messages. Consent must be documented and may be withdrawn at any time.
• Platform Use: Whenever possible, institution-approved messaging platforms (e.g., Microsoft Teams, Outlook SMS integrations, Slate, EAB Navigate) must be used. Personal phone numbers should not be used unless explicitly authorized.
• Content: Messages must be professional, concise, and relevant to institutional activities.
• Privacy: Text messages must not contain sensitive or personally identifiable information (PII), including but not limited to grades, health information, or financial data.

Enforcement
Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary action, including revocation of communication privileges or further administrative review. All communications are subject to audit by the Office of Information Technology, Office of the Provost, and/or the Office of Student Affairs.

Information Technology Services is responsible to maintain and support only technology that has been pre-approved through an authorized Information Technology representative. Peripheral devices (such as mice and screen protectors) do not have to go through this process. This technology consists of networking/telecom equipment and services; web applications design and/or services; computer or server application and hardware; audio/video facilities and equipment; broadcast/production facilities and equipment; software for installation on college-owned devices or cloud-based access; etc. All vendors must go through a security review to ensure they are adhering to best practices before being onboarded to the college. An Information Technology representative will work with the purchasing area through this process.

Catawba’s Information Technology Services Office will not maintain or support any technology or service that is not owned or leased by Catawba College.  Technology purchased outside of this policy will result in the permanent transfer of departmental funds in amount used to purchase the technology from the purchasing department to the Office of Information Technology Services.

Information Technology Services staff are available to consult with you about your academic and administrative technology needs. While some needs may be met with existing solutions on campus, others may require the purchase of a solution. IT will help to evaluate your needs, make appropriate recommendations while also working with our existing/future infrastructure and data security requirements, review contracts, offer basic training, and other tasks. This process ensures the technology you need meets compatibility and support guidelines across campus. Information Technology has to right to decline approval for technology that does not meet this criteria and will provide options for alternate solutions. To inquire about or request technology, submit an IT ticket by emailing ithelp@catawba.edu.

• Academic Purchasing - Academic departments should create an IT Service Request to begin this process.
• Administrative Purchasing - Administrative departments should create an IT Service Request to begin this process. 
• Replacement Policy for College Computer Equipment - As a matter of policy, Catawba College will replace basic technology equipment on a three-to-five year cycle, based on the recommendations of the Information Technology staff with regard to advancements in technology during such a cycle and on the availability of funding.

A brand refers to more than simply taglines and logos. It’s much more. In fact, our brand is a reflection of everything we do and say, everywhere. Our brand promise is the assurance that we will continue delivering on our mission, the foundation of our four pillars, our goals, and personality over time – consistently and recognizably. 

This means that while each of our schools, departments, and programs have their own strengths and differentiating features, they ultimately all ladder back up to the larger College brand. It is only together that we are Catawba College.

Below, access Catawba College's brand assets including our style guide, logos and resources, fonts, colors, and more.

The College logos may not be altered. This includes overlaying them with other designs or lettering, displaying only part of a logo, or changing the colors.

While each of the College’s units has unique attributes that enrich the Catawba College brand, individual marks, logos, and branding elements may cause confusion, detract from, or result in a negative impact on the College’s brand and reputation.

Other logos, slogans, or taglines must not be developed or used to represent sections, units, internal departments, programs, initiatives, research centers, institutes, groups, or communities housed within the College.

• No College logo may be altered or combined with any other mark or element.
• A unit may use its name only with the College’s wordmark as outlined in the brand guidelines.
• The wordmark is required on all official internal and external communications, excluding individual email messages.
• University colors and branded elements must appear prominently on all official communication and marketing materials.
• The use of taglines, icons, or graphics as logos or in logos for College units is prohibited.
• Logos must not be used in a manner that suggests endorsement of external products or services.

The Catawba College Brand Identity Standards offer academic schools, departments, and administrative offices a means to establish their identity and affiliation with the College utilizing a lock-up or text treatment used in conjunction with the College wordmark.

Custom Logos

The creation of custom logos is restricted to strengthen the College’s Brand Identity. Custom logo development will be considered exclusively under the following circumstances:

• New College initiatives such as a center, institute, or specialized program
• When an external grant or partnership necessitates a distinct logo
• In the case of a unique college-wide initiative
• For special college-sponsored events with a defined end date
  • Campaign
  • Strategic Endeavor
  • Special Occasion
  • Milestone Celebration

These marks must adhere to the overall Catawba College Brand Identity. Graphics should include pairings of colors from the brand palette and brand fonts with icons, geometric designs, patterns, or shapes. It may use unique elements that represent the specific focus necessitating the custom logo.

The development of a custom logo should only be undertaken by the Office of Marketing and Communications.

Custom logos may not be used for non-program-specific business without explicit permission from the Office of Marketing and Communications.

Custom logos are trademarks of Catawba College and must be used in accordance with the Brand Identity Standards, relevant institutional policies, and copyright laws.

If you or your department creates, owns or posts to any social media account on behalf of Catawba College or as an official representative for your department or the College, follow the established guidelines below.

Following these guidelines will help ensure and maintain consistent branding and messaging so that we all “speak the voice of Catawba” and maintain and present a common, positive tone and impression on prospective students and our social media audiences in general.

The Marketing and Communications (MarComm) Office is responsible for maintaining a consistent editorial and graphic identity in all official Catawba College publications, communications, and branded materials. 

All requests for the MarComm Office should be submitted using the online MarComm Project Request Form online. 

We request you submit an online Project Request Form providing our office with as much advanced notice as possible for us to better manage your project through the planning, design, and production process. 

View the complete guidelines for submitting requests on the MarComm webpage below:

Mission Statement
Catawba's website (catawba.edu) and any information that is presented directly from that site or its affiliated sites is for the purpose of promoting Catawba College and providing up-to-date information about the College.

The role of the webmaster (webmaster@catawba.edu), who resides in the Marketing & Communications Office (MarComm), is to maintain a positive image of the college via the website while providing current and accurate information in a timely manner to visitors outside the college community. Content from various campus departments is provided to the webmaster to post to the site and this method of keeping content updated within a centralized and consistent presentation works well in providing a unified product.

The primary function of websites maintained and hosted by the MarComm Office, therefore, is marketing for the global internet audience, the public sector. The functions of our websites are to provide information about Catawba, its programs, facilities, events, faculty and staff to a multi-faceted audience: prospective students and parents, alumni and the general public at large. Aside from that purpose, the Catawba website serves as a portal site to detailed academic and educational material for the campus community itself within the boundaries of our available resources.

Updates to the Website
Updates to the website must be submitted via the online Project Request Form.

External Websites & Domains
It is our policy and preference that all web content be hosted within the catawba.edu domain. In the rare cases where an external website and domain name is needed, the respective department should contact the MarComm Office so that the domains may be registered with the other official domains owned by the College. Departments should not acquire domains and web hosting for external websites on their own. To ensure that College standards, branding and procedures are followed, these need to be coordinated through the MarComm Office.

Faculty        
The MarComm Office agrees that faculty should have access to a webserver or website to freely post course supplements, syllabi, and other educational materials. This is a service of Information Technology, who maintains a Blackboard Course Info server expressly for this purpose. It is the mission of the Information Technology department to provide the Catawba Community academic services using various means of technology.

T Drive
In addition to this, all faculty members have space on the T:/ drive on the Catawba network to post course-related information that students on campus can access. The directories are divided up according to academic departments, then by faculty name. If you are a faculty member and no directory is listed under your departmental folder, please contact Information Technology at 4666 to have one established.

Student Organizations         
Student organizations and clubs would fall under the category and structure of intranet services. However, if student organizations desire to have a website, they can request the webmaster to make a link to their off-site page from an area — designated by the College — on the official college website.

At this time, Catawba cannot provide student organizations with the server space to host their websites.

Disclaimer:
Catawba College and the MarComm Office reserve the right to deny URL posting based on what may be viewed as offensive or inappropriate material therein. Links to these homepages are provided as a service to the students of Catawba College. These homepages are not part of the Catawba College website, but are the work of the individual people represented. Inclusion of such pages does not represent the college's endorsement nor the endorsement of the College. Catawba College claims no responsibility for their content, nor are the opinions expressed therein necessarily the opinions of Catawba College. Views and opinions expressed are those of the authors. Comments on the content of these pages should be addressed to the individual authors.

Updated 8/6/21

All drivers are expected to follow campus parking guidelines, along with local and North Carolina state laws. Read more below: 

To better protect your privacy, we have outlined our website's information practices and explained how the information we collect is used.