 Respect (pages

RESPECT

Respect for one another and those of differing backgrounds and views is vital in any close-knit community such as Bryan College. Therefore, failure to show respect by adhering to the Bryan community standards listed below is unacceptable and will be addressed with each student.

Speech and Postings at Bryan College

Students are expected to treat others with respect and dignity, living in such a way that promotes the physical and emotional well-being of others and demonstrates respect for students, faculty, staff, administration and others in their respective roles and responsibilities. Members of the Bryan student body should understand the following:  Profane, slanderous, sacrilegious, obscene or suggestive language is inappropriate and is not acceptable. This includes communication by voice, graphic means, electronically or by telephone (whether or not a conversation has taken place).  The displaying/posting of signs, written messages, images, symbols, etc., that the College deems offensive, inappropriate or that has the effect of harassing and/or alarming another person (intentionally or unintentionally) is not acceptable.  Students should refrain from behavior (whether intentional or reckless) that may, or in fact does, cause physical or emotional harm to another person or cause reasonable apprehension of such harm.  In accordance with the College’s Discrimination Policy Statement, inappropriate/offensive speech or actions that are directed at an individual or group on the basis of age, sex, race, color, national origin, ethnic group, or disability are considered serious offenses by the College and are not acceptable.  Students who have concerns or questions about specific issues related to acceptable speech and conversation should see the Director of Residence Life & Student Accountability.

Pranks

Pranks can lead to severe personal inconvenience, costly physical damage, and illegal activity. Often starting as a harmless joke, situations tend to escalate so that successive pranks become more destructive than preceding ones. Activities that harm individuals physically or emotionally are prohibited regardless of motive or intent. On the same grounds, pranks that damage personal or College property or violate College policy are prohibited. Perpetrators will be assessed damage, clean up, repair costs, and a fine. Pranks that involve violations of the law (breaking and entering, vandalism, stealing, etc.) may be turned over to law enforcement.

Sexual Conduct

It is our desire to assist all students through all types of sexual temptations and struggles. Made in the image of God, all students will be treated with love, dignity, and grace. We expect students to live out a biblically faithful lifestyle that is consistent with bearing Christ’s name, which includes the difficult, but God-honoring, pursuit of celibacy for those not in a monogamous marriage between one man and one woman.

Sexual intercourse and many of the intimate acts preceding it are reserved exclusively for the context of a biblically defined marriage (Gen. 2:21–23; Matt. 19:4–6). Behavior that is inconsistent with these standards is prohibited even when consensual. Bryan College prohibits same-sex dating relationships and behaviors, as it is our desire to teach and model a biblical approach to sexuality.

We believe that the marriage union between one man and one woman is the sole place for acting on God-given sexual desire (Gen. 1:26–28; Gen. 2:22–25; Rom. 1:26–27). We believe that other sexual acts (premarital sex, extramarital sex, bisexual acts, and homosexual acts) are violations of clear biblical teaching regarding sexual purity (Rom. 1:26–27; 1 Cor. 6:18–20; Gal. 5:19–21; Eph. 5:3; Col. 3:5–6).

Social Interaction and Dating

It is important to remember that all interactions, whether between friends or dating couples, should show respect and courtesy between the individuals and towards others. With a desire for morality and appropriateness to guide our behavior, the following policies are in place: - Private displays of affection should follow the biblical principles of purity that do not allow for actions such as petting, fondling, sexual intercourse, etc. - Couples are to avoid being alone in any private living quarters.

Dancing

Sexually provocative dancing is not permitted.

Dress Code

While the College recognizes that opinions vary considerably regarding what constitutes appropriate dress, the College has established reasonable guidelines that students are required to follow while on campus. Cleanliness, neatness, appropriateness, and modesty are the general guiding factors with regard to dress. Resident Assistants (RAs), Resident Directors (RDs), as well as other university employees will enforce dress guidelines. Questions concerning the standard of dress should be directed to Student Life, which may make the final determination as to appropriateness. When a student chooses to dress inappropriately and is asked to change, immediate cooperation will be expected.

General Attire Guidelines

 All clothing should be modest and appropriate.  Advertisements for tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, etc., are not permitted.  Tank-style tops and t-shirts with oversized armholes are only permitted during athletic practices and activities.  While in public areas, shirts must be worn, including during athletic activities or working out.  Athletic spandex shorts are only permitted during athletic practices and activities.  Shirts should not be tight-fitting or sheer.  Shorts, pants, leggings, or yoga pants should not be sheer.

Shorts

All shorts, including those worn in practices and informal athletic events, must have an inseam of three or more inches.

Classrooms/Chapel/Administrative Offices

Pants are required in all classroom, chapel, and administrative offices. Pajama pants and hats are not permitted.

Off-Campus Location Dress Code

Students are expected to adhere to campus dress guidelines when representing the College or attending a College-sponsored event.