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Columbus State University
Part-time Faculty Handbook
1. Institutional Policy
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1.1 Academic Freedom
In its broadest sense,
academic freedom refers to the rights and responsibilities essential to the task of scholarship.
It extends to the entire academic community, including faculty, students, administrators, and the institution itself.
Although every member may share many rights and responsibilities simultaneously, the expression of academic freedom
requires complementarities and civility. Access to appeal procedures and to conflict mediation is a basic component
of academic freedom available to all members of the academic community.
1.1.1 Academic Freedom for Faculty
All members of the faculty are entitled to freedom in the classroom in
teaching their subjects in accordance with the highest ethical standards
of their profession. In presenting material pertaining to the subject
being taught and in presenting their views regarding this material and
its subject, faculty should make a reasonable effort to acknowledge the
existence of diverse views.
As teachers, faculty members should encourage the free pursuit of
learning by their students. Faculty should hold before them the best
scholarly standards of their disciplines, demonstrate respect for the
student as an individual, and adhere to their proper role as
intellectual guides and counselors. They should foster honest academic
conduct and assure that evaluation of students reflects the students’
true merit. Faculty should respect the confidential nature of the
relationship between instructor and student, avoid any exploitation of
students, and acknowledge significant assistance from them. Faculty
should protect students’ academic freedom while exercising their own.
Any member of the faculty is entitled to freedom in conducting research
and in publication of the results, within the context of Board of
Regents of the University System of Georgia guidelines.
As colleagues, faculty have obligations that derive from common
membership in the community of scholars. They should respect and defend
the free inquiry of associates. In the exchange of critiques and ideas,
they should show due respect to their associates and their ideas. They
should acknowledge academic debts and strive to be objective in the
professional judgment of colleagues.
As members of the institution, faculty should seek above all to be
effective teachers and scholars. Although they should observe the stated
regulations of the institution, faculty retain the right to criticize
and seek revision according to the policy of academic freedom. Finally,
faculty should accept a share of responsibilities for the governance of
the institution.
As members of the community, faculty have the same rights and obligations of any
citizen. They should measure the urgency of these obligations in light
of their responsibilities to their students, their discipline, their
profession, and their institution. As citizens engaged in a profession
that depends upon freedom for its health and integrity, faculty have a
particular obligation to promote conditions of free inquiry and to
advance public understanding of academic freedom.
1.1.2 Academic Freedom for Students
Students have the right to learn and to inquire. They have a right to examine and discuss
questions of interest, to take stands on issues, and to support causes by orderly means that do not impede the
collegial process of learning. Students have corresponding obligations to be honest in
performing their academic work, to be punctual in their assignments, and to cooperate in
the process of teaching and learning. For more information on students’ rights and
responsibilities, please see the
Columbus State University Student Handbook.
1.2 Advertising Materials & Propaganda
Columbus State University does not endorse or sponsor campaigns,
movements, drives, or demonstrations that are partisan or divisive in nature and
intent. Further, the exchange, sale, giving for a consideration, bartering, or
solicitation of gifts or donations on-campus is strictly prohibited except when
expressly licensed by the VPSA, the VPBF, the VPAA, and the president. (as of December
1992).
No individual, representing him or herself or others will be licensed to sell goods or services on-campus for the solicitor’s benefit or consumption. The administration will endeavor to protect students and faculty from such solicitation.
Using university facilities to distribute materials that have not been cleared for distribution by the proper authority is prohibited. In no instance will the lobbies of the classroom buildings, the library, or the Davidson Student Center be used for unauthorized solicitation or distribution of such materials.
Individuals or organizations that wish to distribute printed matter, e-mail, influence opinion, or bring about desired actions not sponsored by the university must obtain a license from the appropriate university officials. The license will specify the area to be used and the hours and dates of operation. In no case will a license exceed five days, excluding weekends and holidays.
This regulation is not intended to prohibit free exchange of ideas, whether written or oral. Students and faculty are encouraged to participate in the various campus activities and to become informed about current issues on campus.
1.3 AIDS Policy
The Public Health Service has identified Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS)
as the #1 health priority in the United States. The growing number of cases, the frightening
fatality rate, and the extraordinary amount of media attention paid to it has subsequently
combined to create not only great public awareness but also anxiety and fear of the disease.
It is, therefore, important for Columbus State University to
develop guidelines in order to be appropriately responsive to the presence of the AIDS virus
within the university community. On the basis of extensive research information published by
the National Centers for Disease Control, the following statement represents the position of
the university with regard to AIDS and the university community (i.e., all students and
employees):
An impressive body of
epidemiological and virological information clearly demonstrates that AIDS is not transmitted
by any form of casual interpersonal contact. Accordingly, as a general guideline, no specific
or detailed information concerning complaints or diagnoses will be provided to faculty,
administrators, or even family members without the expressed written consent of the known
immuno-compromised individual in each case. This position, with respect to health records,
is supported by the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of l974.
Employees who have been diagnosed as having AIDS or the AIDS virus may continue their employment at the
university to the extent that they are able to fulfill the obligations of their respective
positions. As an employee's medical status changes, the determination as to whether normal
work activities should be continued will be made on an individual basis by the appropriate
university personnel in consultation with the employee and his or her physician.
Students diagnosed as having the AIDS virus may participate in campus activities as their conditions allow. If the
medical status of a known, diagnosed AIDS student deteriorates, Student Health Services,
with the student's consent, and in consultation with the student's physician, will assess
the student's circumstances and recommend appropriate measures.
If a known immuno-compromised employee or student engages in activities that, at the judgment of the
university, appear to place others at risk, the university reserves the right to take corrective action.
The university supports a residential environment free from unreasonable risks. Our housing policies rest
on the best currently available medical and legal information about HIV infection and AIDS.
The implementation
of ongoing effective educational programs about AIDS and the HIV infection is the highest
priority and is an essential role of the university's commitment to this health crisis.
Student Health Services makes available to all
students and employees educational information and medical consultations regarding AIDS.
Recommendations published by the American College Health Association which
address the management of AIDS on the university campus are utilized as additional guidelines in any
response to AIDS on the university campus.
1.4 Consensual Relationship Policy
Within the university setting, faculty and supervisors exercise significant power and authority over others. Therefore,
primary responsibility for maintaining high standards of conduct resides especially with
those in faculty and supervisor positions. It is the university’s position that it is unwise
and inappropriate for members of the faculty to have romantic relationships with students
whom they teach and for supervisors to have romantic relationships with employees whom they
supervise, even in cases where there is, or appears to be, mutual consent. The faculty-student
and supervisor-employee relationship should not be jeopardized by question of favoritism or
fairness in professional judgment. Furthermore, whether the consent by a student or employee
in such a relationship is indeed voluntary is suspect due to the imbalance of power and
authority between the parties.
All members of the university community should be aware that initial consent to a romantic relationship does not preclude
the potential for charges of conflict of interest or for charges of sexual harassment arising
from the conflict of interest, particularly when students and employees not involved in the
relationship claim they have been disadvantaged by the relationship. A faculty member who
enters into a romantic and/or sexual relationship with a student under his or her
supervision or a supervisor who enters into a romantic and/or sexual relationship with an
employee under his or her supervision must realize that if a charge of sexual harassment
is subsequently lodged, it will be exceedingly difficult to prove blamelessness on grounds
of mutual consent.
In order to prevent the conflict of interest created by a consensual sexual or romantic
relationship, Columbus State University requires that the participants in such a relationship
act immediately to remove the conflict of interest. Those who require clarification of this
policy or the definition of a relational conflict of interest or who require guidance in
removing the conflict of interest are encouraged to contact the AA/EEO Officer or the human
resources director. Failure of the supervisor/faculty member to remove the conflict of
interest may lead to disciplinary procedures, including termination of employment. The laws
governing ability to consent based on age supersede this policy.
1.5 Damage Claims Resulting from Campus Incidents
As a matter of administrative policy, a "Notice of Possibility of Claim" should be filed for
each incident where it appears likely that a claim will be filed. These forms are available in
the budget director's office (Richards Hall) and should be completed promptly (within 10 days). If
the amount claimed is less than $500, the party sustaining the loss should be told to file a claim
directly to the Claims Advisory Board utilizing an "Official Notice of Claim Against the State" form
available in the budget director's office. Each property damage, personal injury, or bodily injury
claim will be reviewed by the Claims Advisory Board, and its decision will govern.
If the amount is $500 or greater, the party should report the matter to his or her legislator, and the
representative must introduce legislation in the form of a relief bill for the individual.
If the process dictates that the claim is justified, we will be notified, and the claim
will be paid from the Professional Liability Insurance Fund. In either case, a disinterested body,
who will allow damages or deny them based upon the facts of the case, will review the matter.
1.6 Disabilities Policy (Americans with
Disabilities Act)
The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) is a comprehensive mandate for elimination of
discrimination against individuals with disabilities. It guarantees equal opportunity
for individuals with disabilities in employment, public accommodations, transportation,
state and local government services, and telecommunications.
The act is divided into five titles: Title I affects private sector employment; Title II covers state and local
governments, both as employers and service providers; Title III, which governs private
sector public accommodations and transportation services, affects colleges who lease space
to private entities such as on-campus restaurants or bookstores or which own off-campus
property used for public purposes; Title IV requires common carriers of communication
services to provide certain telecommunication services to hearing and speech impaired
individuals; Title V contains miscellaneous provisions, including a prohibition against
retaliation and authority for the courts to award attorney's fees.
The ADA is patterned after Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. For all sections of the ADA, the term
"disability" is comparable to that of "handicapped individual" in the Rehabilitation Act.
A person with a disability is an individual (l) with a physical impairment that
substantially limits one or more life activities; (2) with a record of having such an
impairment; or (3) regarded as having such an impairment. The act also prohibits
discrimination against an individual based on his or her association with an individual
with a disability. Specifically excluded from the ADA's protection are persons with certain
sexual behavior disorders and persons with substance-use disorders resulting from current
illegal use of drugs.
In the area of employment, the ADA prohibits discrimination against a "qualified individual with a disability" in regard
to job application procedures; the hiring; advancement or discharge of employees;
compensation; or other terms, conditions, or privileges of employment. "Qualified individual
with a disability" means an individual who, with or without reasonable accommodation,
can perform the essential functions of the position that the individual holds or desires.
Employers must make "reasonable accommodations" for persons with disabilities unless to do
so would constitute "undue hardship" on the covered entity.
State and local government facilities, services, and communications must be made accessible to persons with
disabilities in a manner consistent with the requirements of Section 504 of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973. With respect to public accommodations, physical barriers in
existing facilities must be removed if removal is "readily achievable." Individuals who feel
they have been discriminated against may file complaints with the attorney general or bring
private lawsuits against the offending entity.
1.7 Drug and Alcohol Abuse Policy
Employee misconduct related to drug or alcohol abuse will not be tolerated. To prevent the use of illicit
drugs and the abuse of alcohol, the policy of Columbus State University prohibits the
unlawful manufacture, distribution, sale, possession, or use of illicit drugs and
alcohol by students and employees on its property or as part of any of its activities.
Violation of this policy will result in appropriate disciplinary actions.
Employees must notify Columbus State University of any criminal drug statute conviction for a
violation occurring in the
workplace no later than 5 days after such conviction. Within 30 Days, any employee who is
convicted of the unlawful manufacture, distribution, sale, use, or possession of marijuana,
a controlled substance, or other illegal or dangerous drug, or who admits guilt of any such
offense in a court proceeding, shall be suspended for not less than two months or dismissed
after compliance with procedural requirements. Such employee shall be required, as a
condition of re-employment following suspension, to complete an approved drug treatment and
education program.
If prior to arrest for an offense involving a controlled substance, marijuana, or a dangerous drug, an employee
notifies his or her immediate supervisor that he or she illegally uses a controlled
substance, marijuana, or a dangerous drug and is receiving or agrees to receive treatment
under an approved drug abuse and education program, such employee shall be retained by the
institution for up to one year, as long as the employee follows the treatment plan.
Retention of such employee shall be conditioned upon satisfactory completion of the program
and satisfactory work performance. The employee's work activities may be restructured if,
in the opinion of the immediate supervisor, it is deemed advisable. The rights herein
granted shall be available to a university employee only once during a five-year period
and shall not apply to any such employee who has refused to be tested or who has tested
positive for a controlled substance, marijuana, or a dangerous drug.
1.7.1 Substance Abuse Counseling Services
The Columbus State University Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provides individual counseling for substance abuse and
other personal concerns to faculty and staff of the university. Services of the program are
provided as an employee benefit. Employees are informed of the nature and purpose of any
assessment, treatment, educational, or training procedure. When the EAP is not able to
provide the necessary services, employees are informed of alternative resources and
appropriate referrals are made.
1.7.2 Drug Testing
High-risk employees, such as public safety employees and all health related employees providing direct patient care
(nurses and counselors) and drivers required by law to hold a commercial driver’s license,
are subject to pre-employment and random drug testing.
1.7.3 Legal Sanctions
The Official Code of Georgia provides for the following penalties for violations of alcohol and
drug abuse laws:
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Possession of
alcohol by persons under 21 years of age--$300 fine and/or 30 days
imprisonment.
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Furnishing
alcohol to persons under 21 years of age--$l,000 fine and/or 12 months
imprisonment, loss of license for 1 year.
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Driving under
the influence of alcohol or drugs--(lst offense) $l,000 fine and/or 12 months
imprisonment, loss of license for 1 year.
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Misdemeanor
drug possession--$l,000 fine and/or 12 months imprisonment.
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Felony drug
possession--up to 15 years imprisonment.
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Trafficking in
drugs--up to 30 years imprisonment.
1.7.4 University Sanctions
In addition to possible fines and imprisonment for violation of local, state, and federal drug laws, recent
legislation mandates the following specific sanctions for university employees, students,
and student organizations who unlawfully manufacture, distribute, sell, possess, or use
illicit drugs and/or alcohol.
Students may suffer forfeiture of academic credit and suspension or expulsion from the institution. Student
organizations shall be expelled from campus and prohibited from using any property or
facilities of the institution for a minimum of one year. Employees convicted of a (first)
drug-related offense will be suspended for at least two months and required to undergo a
drug abuse treatment and education program before reinstatement. Upon a second conviction,
he or she will be terminated and made ineligible for public employment for five years.
Employees who voluntarily receive or agree to receive treatment for substance abuse may not
be separated from employment for one year solely on the basis of their dependence.
Employees who receive substance abuse treatment may have their work activities restructured,
if practical, to protect persons or property.
1.7.5 Grantee Certification of a
Drug-Free Workplace
Employees of Columbus
State University who work on contracts and grants subsidized in whole or in part by state
or federal monies will be given a complete copy of this policy statement. These employees
are hereby notified of the following conditions of employment. The employee will:
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Abide by the
terms of the foregoing policy; and
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Notify the
employer of any criminal drug statute conviction for a violation occurring in
the workplace no later than five days after such conviction.
Columbus State University will notify the granting agency within ten days after receiving notice under item 2 or
otherwise receiving actual notice of such conviction.
The university will also take the following actions within 30 days of receiving notice
of any employee who is so convicted:
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Take
appropriate personnel action against such an employee, up to and including
termination; or
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Require such
employee to participate satisfactorily in a drug abuse assistance or
rehabilitation program approved for such purposes by a federal, state, or
local health, law enforcement, or other appropriate agency.
1.8 Equal Opportunity Policy (January 1, 1991)
To further its goal of equal employment opportunity for all
employees and prospective employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age,
national origin, disability, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law, the
institution states as its policy the following:
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It is the policy of Columbus
State University, in accordance with all applicable laws, to recruit, hire, train, and
promote persons in all job titles without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age,
disability, national origin, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law.
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All employment decisions
shall be consistent with the principle of equal employment opportunity, and only valid
qualifications will be required.
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All personnel
actions, such as compensation, benefits, and transfers, will be administered
without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, or national
origin, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law.
1.8.1 President’s Statement
on Diversity (05/01)
Columbus State University values and is committed to diversity in the workplace. We take pride in our diverse student
and employee population and recognize that our success depends on the talents and strength
of individuals with different backgrounds.
A principle foundation of diversity is promoting equal opportunity within the institution. Columbus State University
is committed to equal opportunity in employment, and it is our policy, in accordance with
all applicable laws, to recruit, hire, train, and promote persons without regard to race,
color, religion, sex, age, disability, national origin, or any other basis prohibited by
applicable law. All employment decisions and personnel actions shall be consistent with the
principle of equal employment opportunity.
In order to promote our diversity and equal opportunity objectives, we have a plan which includes an established
recruiting process designed to insure equal opportunity standards, review of employment
actions for fairness, a resource for equal opportunity conflict resolution, and
communication with leadership regarding related issues.
We need and encourage the support of all employees in promoting an environment of diversity and equal opportunity.
Columbus State University expects employees and students to work and learn in an atmosphere
of mutual respect and inclusion. Although a higher level of commitment is required of
employees in a supervisory capacity, the commitment of the university as a team is crucial.
We welcome your input and suggestions and appreciate your support.
1.9 Faculty Senate
The Faculty Senate is an elected body that represents faculty issues to the
administration. Part-time faculty are welcome to attend the Faculty Senate,
which meets at 3:00 on the first Monday of every month in the Columbus Room of
the Davidson Center. While part-time faculty are not eligible to serve on the
Faculty Senate, they may bring issue to the attention of the Senate through
their college representatives. For more on the membership of the Faculty Senate,
please consult the Faculty Handbook, Appendix ID, item VII.
1.10 Legal Issues
Many disputes that cannot be resolved at the individual level may be brought
to the attention of the Judicial Affairs Officer for resolution.
Disputes or issues involving equal opportunity should be brought to the
attention of the Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Officer and
disputes or issues involving classified employees should be brought to
the attention of the human resources director. Legal issues involving
faculty, including contact by an attorney, must be referred to the VPAA.
1.11 Media Relations Policy
and Procedures (Adopted April 1994)
Columbus State University seeks and attracts attention from the news media as an
academic community of students, faculty, and staff and as a public
institution. Public understanding of university people, policies, and
programs can be realized most effectively by maintaining productive
relationships with the people who report the news via newspapers,
magazines, radio, and television. Positive media relations are developed
and enhanced by providing honest and helpful information to reporters,
in a timely manner, in an atmosphere of mutual respect and candor.
1.11.1 Policy
The Office of Public Relations is the official source of information for media representatives. All news releases are
issued by that office. The release of information about university athletic programs and
athletes is the responsibility of the sports information director, as directed by the
Office of Public Relations. Cultural events (arts, music, theater) are publicized and
promoted by the Office of Public Relations, working in coordination with a designated
person within each area.
The function of information release may be delegated to members of the administration
when media request information on (1) questions of policy or issues for which a
spokesperson has been designated, (2) questions for which a university response has
already been prepared, (3) responses which require two or more university sources, and
(4) campus policy reports.
The university will carry out the provisions of the state regulations on public records
that define legal access to information by the media and others.
1.11.2 Procedures
Plans for publicizing events should include contact with the office of public relations at least four weeks
in advance. The Office of Public Relations will initiate contact with the media to assure
coordination of information.
Refer media representatives to the Office of Public Relations when inquiries pertain to university policy, questions
to which an official response has been prepared, or responses that require coordination
among two or more administrative units.
When university personnel receive an inquiry from a representative of the media, responses should be coordinated
with the Office of Public Relations. Obtain the reporter's name, publication or station
represented, phone number, and nature of inquiry. Respond to media inquiries in a timely
fashion by contacting the Office of Public Relations immediately or by returning a call
to a reporter if it is appropriate to respond as noted within the media relations policy.
In a crisis situation, proceed as directed by the university's emergency procedures manual,
copies of which are available in the public relations, public safety, president’s,
vice presidents’, and deans’ offices. University faculty and staff should always make
clear to the media when not speaking in an official capacity.
1.12 Patent Policy
Refer to CSU .
1.13 Georgia Open Records Act (as of July 1, 1999)
Under amendments to the Georgia Open Records law, the university has three business days (from
the time the request is received on campus) to produce records requested
by any citizen.
Any request for an open record is to be forwarded immediately to the Office of Judicial Affairs.
Current law provides all public records of an agency are open unless exempted by
a specific exclusion allowed by law, and any exception must be narrowly read so
as to exclude from disclosure only those parts directly applicable. The
Assistant Director of Judicial Affairs will determine, in consultation with
the office involved and the university system legal office, what, if anything,
is exempt. In no case should a university unit deny an open records request.
The new amendment places serious responsibilities upon a public agency and its
employees to obey the statute. "Any person knowingly or willfully violating the
provisions of the Open Records Act by failing or refusing to provide access to
records not subject to exemption with the three-day time limit should be guilty
of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, be punished by a fine not to exceed
$100." Full text of the Georgia Open Records Act is available online
at http://www.sos.state.ga.us/.
1.14 Georgia Records Act of 1972
The Georgia Records Act of 1972 requires that each state-supported
institution have a program for the systematic disposition of records.
Archives and other internal records created or received in carrying out
responsibilities to Columbus State University must be retained or
destroyed in accordance with state-approved standards. For information
regarding standards already approved and for help in establishing a new
standard, contact the director of the library who serves as the records
management officer (x 2080).
There is an annual report to be
submitted in July on all file series in existence as of June 30th. Departmental
or college records managers will assist individual faculty and staff members in
collection of data. Also see 1.13 for the most recent updates to the Georgia
Open Records Act.
1.15 Release of Official Information
When information of this type is released, it should be coordinated as indicated below.
1.15.1 Concerning Faculty and Staff
Office of the Vice President of Academic Affairs-- Authorized by the VPAA. This pertains
to any information contained in the personnel files in the Office of the VPAA.
Office of the Vice President for Business and Finance -- Authorized by the VPBF. Information
will be mostly of a financial nature and be released only as requested by the person whose record is involved.
It is the policy of Columbus State University to comply with all authorized investigative
officers in their request for information on faculty members. This is to be done with due regard
to privacy of the individual as accorded to him or her by the constitutions of the United States
and the State of Georgia. To execute this policy, all properly drawn court orders, subpoenas, and
other lawful documents to produce information will be honored and complied with without reservation
or delay.
Routine information may be released as follows: name, address, telephone number, academic rank,
Social Security number, dates of employment, and courses taught.
All other information may be released at the request and under the authorized signature of the
faculty member concerned.
1.15.2 Concerning Students
7/94
University policies regarding compliance with regulations under the Family
Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 as amended (the "Buckley Amendment")
are published in the Columbus State University Student Handbook and are on file
in the Office of the Registrar.
Admissions and Office of the Registrar--Authorized by the registrar and director of
admissions. Information on file is primarily academic.
9/85
Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs-- Authorized by the VPSA. Information
in this office concerns financial aid, student activities, and discipline.
It is the responsibility of the above-listed administrative officials to instruct all personnel
under their supervision regarding release of information. Such instruction will be prerequisite
to the handling of official information about the faculty, staff, and students.
1.16 Copyright Policy
Columbus State University is dedicated to teaching, research, and the extension
of knowledge to the public. Its personnel recognize as two of their major objectives
the production of new knowledge and the dissemination of both old and new knowledge.
Inherent in these objectives is the need to encourage the development of new and
useful scholarly material and the publication of such work. Such activities (1)
contribute to the professional development of the individual staff members
involved, (2) enhance the reputation of the university, (3) provide additional
educational opportunities for participating students, and (4) promote the general
welfare of the public at large.
Columbus State University acknowledges that faculty, staff, and students of the university
regularly prepare for publication articles, pamphlets, books, and other scholarly works that
may be subject to copyright and which may generate royalty income for the author. With the
advent of innovative techniques and procedures, the variety and number of materials which
may be created in a university community have increased significantly causing the ownership
of such copyrightable materials to become increasingly complex.
Accordingly, Columbus State University does hereby establish the following policy with
respect to copyrights and copyrightable materials resulting from the work of its faculties,
staff, and students. Copyrightable material includes the following:
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Books, journal articles, texts, glossaries,
bibliographies, study guides, laboratory manuals, tests, and
proposals,
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Lectures, musical or
dramatic composition, and unpublished scripts,
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Films, film strips,
charts, transparencies, and other visual aids,
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Video and audio tapes and cassettes,
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Live video or audio
broadcasts,
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Programmed instruction
material,
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Computer program
documentation, and
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Other materials or works which qualify for protection under the copyright
laws of the United States or other protective statutes whether or not copyrightable
thereunder.
1.16.1 Determination of Rights and
Equities in Copyrightable Materials
Copyright considerations apply in the following four instances: individual efforts, university-assisted
individual efforts, university-assigned efforts, and sponsor-supported efforts.
Individual Efforts
Copyright in materials produced by members of the university shall vest
exclusively in the member(s) if there is no significant use of university
personnel or facilities (libraries excluded) and the materials are not prepared
in accordance with the terms of a contract or grant or as a specific assignment.
A faculty member's general obligation to produce scholarly and creative works
does not constitute a specific assignment. When it is clear that work is
"individual effort" as defined above, no written agreement is required.
Questionable items should be referred to the Copyright Committee for a written
determination.
University-Assisted Individual Efforts
Copyright in materials produced by members of the university shall vest jointly in Columbus
State University and the member of Columbus State University if there is
significant support of an individual's effort by use of university personnel or
facilities (libraries excluded) and the materials are not prepared in accordance
with the terms of a contract or grant or as a specific assignment. Division of
income from royalties and other use shall be agreed upon in writing by members
of Columbus State University and appropriate administrative personnel in
accordance with policies of the Copyright Committee in advance of the use of the
university's personnel or facilities.
University-Assisted Efforts
Copyright in materials produced by members of Columbus State University shall
vest in the university if the university has assigned the employees the writing
or production of the specific materials. Sharing of royalty income with the
author is authorized as an incentive to encourage further development of
copyrightable materials.
Sponsor-Supported Efforts
Rights to copyrightable materials developed as a result of work supported
partially or fully by an outside agency through a contract or grant shall be
disposed of in accordance with the terms of the contract or grant. In those
cases where all rights are vested in Columbus State University or in cases where
royalty income is shared between the sponsor and the university, the author may
appropriately share in the income. The nature and extent of author participation
in royalty income, however, shall be subject to sponsor and Columbus State
University regulations.
1.16.2 Administrative Procedures
The VPAA or his or her designated representative shall administer the principles
and policies set forth herein, utilizing the University's Copyright Committee as
provided herein.
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The standing Copyright Committee shall consist of six persons appointed by the president
from the general faculty for three-year staggered terms and three members representing the
library, the VPAA, and the VPBF. Ad hoc advisors may be added by the chair at any time to
consider a particular case if their advice is needed. Five members shall constitute a quorum. The chair shall be designated by the president from the six general faculty members of the Copyright Committee.
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Routine cases where the author(s) and the VPAA or designee agree as to classification
and handling shall be processed automatically according to the principles and policies
set forth herein.
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The Copyright Committee shall recommend to the VPAA or other designee in the
administration the rights and equities in copyrightable materials in all cases in
which questions arise.
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Changes to these principles and policies shall be with the recommendation of the
Copyright Committee and with approval of the president and the Board of Regents.9/83
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Columbus State University shall disclose annually to the Copyright Committee, upon
its request, a record of income and expenses from copyrights.
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The VPAA shall be responsible for, and that office shall be active in, providing
advice and assistance in copyright and related matters to the faculty and staff. Those
responsible for carrying out programs which may generate copyrightable materials with
full or significant support by Columbus State University or a sponsor shall clarify with
the Office of the VPAA in advance any questions with respect to rights, disposition, and
income distribution.
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It shall be the responsibility of each producer of university-assigned and
sponsor-supported copy-rightable materials to consider the desirability of copyrighting
and to recommend appropriate action to assure further consideration of copyright when
it is desirable. In addition, it shall be the responsibility of each dean, director,
and department chair person to consider the possible desirability of copyrighting as
programs are initiated, reviewed, and/or renewed and to take appropriate action.
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The implementation of the policy is intended to protect the rights of the
faculty and Columbus State University and to preserve the historical
precedent for individual efforts.
1.16.3 Appeals Process
Columbus State University personnel shall have a right to appeal the decisions of the VPAA.
Appeals shall be made to the president of Columbus State University.
University personnel may, in accordance with Article IX of the By-Laws
(Appendix ID) of the Board of Regents, apply to the Board of Regents for
a review of a decision of the president
1.16.4 Policy Conflict
In the event of a conflict between this policy and the official copyright policy of
the Board of Regents, the latter shall prevail.
1.17 Research Involving Animals
1.17.1 Animals
In accordance with the guidelines set forth by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the National
Research Council (NRC), animals that come under the jurisdiction of this section are
living, vertebrate animals that are used for teaching or research. Studies/experiments/
demonstrations using preserved (i.e., dead when received) vertebrates or invertebrates
(animals without a backbone) are considered exempt from these guidelines.
1.17.2 Committee
The Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee, or a subcommittee thereof, is
required to screen, review, and approve all research proposals and projects dealing
with animals, as defined above. This includes the use of animals for teaching,
laboratory studies, and field studies.
1.17.3 Policy
The university policy regarding animal care and use is intended to ensure the
humane treatment of all animals utilized in research, teaching, and testing in
order to comply with applicable federal laws, as well as the policies of granting
agencies and accrediting bodies. In addition, the use of vertebrate animals at
Columbus State University must not result in warranted complaints from the public
sector or place the university in jeopardy of litigation from specific public
groups. Violations of federal standards could result in the suspension of all
federal funding.
The Institutional Animal and Use Committee is charged (by federal law and the
aforementioned policies) with the responsibility for reviewing any and all uses
of vertebrate animals by faculty or staff of, or in association with, Columbus
State University. While the review process is mandated by law and policy, it is
not the intent of the committee to assist nor obstruct individuals with the proper
and judicious use of animals.
Any individual who has the principal responsibility for the use of the animals
in a research, teaching, or testing application must complete the Animal Protocol
forms available in the dean's office of the College of Science. Once approved,
any significant changes in the testing protocols or procedures (including, but not
limited to, a change in species, anesthetic, surgical procedure, location in
housing, etc.) will require the submission of a revised protocol.
1.18 Research Involving Human Subjects
1.18.1 Committee
The Human Subjects Review Committee or sub-committee thereof, shall serve as the screening, reviewing and
recommending body for all research proposals and projects which involve human subjects
(Appendix IIIM).
1.18.2 Policy
Safeguarding the personal integrity, rights and welfare of all human subjects
involved in research undertakings at Columbus State University shall be of primary
importance. In order to provide for this responsibility, it shall be the policy of
Columbus State University that all research endeavors involving human subjects shall
be described in writing to the Human Subjects Review Committee, in advance of
beginning such research. The Human Subjects Review Committee shall review the
proposal and shall recommend approval, modification, or rejection of the project.
The Human Subjects Review Committee may impose the requirement of the subject's
informed consent before recommending approval of the project.
1.18.3 Applicability
The policy applies to any and all research endeavors which may place the human subject
at risk. This policy applies (but is not limited) to those experiments known as "double blind," and to
those endeavors using experimental stimuli as: electrical stimulus, sensory
deprivation, and hypnosis, when such conditions are deliberately generated and
deliberately applied for experimental purposes. Moreover, data obtained from such
experimentation shall not be divulged or otherwise made visible unless proper
informed consent has been obtained.
1.18.4 Subject
This term describes any student, faculty, staff, employee, or volunteer who is
used in any research of a psychological, biological, sociological,
medical, or educational nature. This term applies equally to persons who
have either unrestricted civil freedom or restricted civil freedom
(prisoners, patients, etc.).
1.18.5 "At Risk"
An individual is considered to be "at risk" if he or she may be exposed to
the possibility of harm--physical, psychological, sociological, or
other--as a consequence of any activity which a reasonable person would
judge as going beyond the application of those established and accepted
methods necessary to meet his needs. The determination of when an
individual is at risk is a matter of the application of common sense and
sound professional judgment to the circumstances of the activity in
question.
1.18.6 "Informed Consent"
Informed consent assumes that the subject individual has been fully informed and indicates
understanding of the nature of experimental techniques to be applied, studied,
or manipulated. It additionally assumes that the subject is capable of understanding
at the short- and long-range levels the normally expected risks and hazards (if any)
and gives consent freely, especially where Columbus State University students are
involved, without pressure of threat to academic grades.
1.18.7 Stored and Retrieved Data
This policy requires that data and information about individuals obtained during
scientific/scholarly research and experimentation will be protected
against compromise and/or unauthorized visibility and that such data
will be removed to the "objective" category at the earliest possible
time--that is, the names and other identities of the human subjects will
be removed from the data and destroyed and all "keys" for such
re-identification will be likewise rendered useless.
1.18.8 Publication of Research Findings
All authors and researchers will be obliged to adhere to the rules as outlined in this
document of confidentiality, ethics, and consideration of the
individual's personal welfare in any subsequent publication of research
findings.
1.18.9 Interpretation
Questions and disputes arising from the implementation of this policy which the Human Subjects Review
Committee cannot resolve shall be settled by the VPAA or such other authority as
the president of Columbus State University may designate.
1.19 Sexual Harassment Policy
Columbus State University is committed to creating and maintaining a University
community in which all persons can work and learn together in an atmosphere free
of all forms of harassment. Therefore, sexual harassment within the Columbus State
University community is expressly prohibited.
Each member of the academic community at Columbus State University is expected
to respect the dignity and worth of all other members of the community and to
refrain from any conduct that could give rise to a charge of sexual harassment.
Persons who engage in sexual harassment shall be subject to disciplinary action,
to include dismissal when warranted.
1.19.1 Definition
Sexual harassment is created by unwelcome sexual advances, requests for
sexual favors or other conduct of a sexual nature when:
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Submission to such conduct is made explicitly or implicitly a term or
condition of an individual’s employment or status in a course, program or
activity.
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Submission to or rejection of such conduct is used as a basis for a
decision affecting an individual’s employment or participation in a
course, program or activity.
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Such conduct reasonably interferes with an individual’s work or academic
performance or creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive working or
academic environment.
Regardless of intent, it is the effect and characteristics of behavior,
which determine whether the behavior constitutes sexual harassment.
1.19.2 Complaint Procedures
Any member of the Columbus State University community who believes that he or she
has been sexually harassed is encouraged to bring the matter to the attention of the
Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Officer or the director of human resources.
Likewise, if anyone in a supervisory capacity is made aware of such a complaint,
he or she must bring the matter to the attention of the Affirmative Action/Equal
Opportunity Officer or the director of human resources. No person shall be
reprimanded or discriminated against in any way for initiating an inquiry or
complaint in good faith. Columbus State University’s objective is to take whatever
action may be needed to prevent, correct, and if necessary, discipline persons
whose behavior violates this policy.
1.20 Smoking Policy
Smoking is prohibited in all University facilities, buildings, athletic
stadiums and vehicles.
Smoking is prohibited within twenty feet of any building, facility, or
stadium entrance or exit. This includes the covered entrance at University Hall
and both levels of the covered walkways of Arnold Hall, Howard Hall, Tucker
Hall, and Faculty Office Building.
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