Vincennes University 2015-2016 Guide for Parents

Vincennes University is committed to parents and families, embracing each of you as valued partners in your student’s educational process. We are excited that you have chosen to be a part of the VU Family!

Vincennes University is a place where students have an opportunity to learn, grow, and realize their dreams. Both inand outside the classroom our resources abound — from academic tutoring labs and individual tutoring (in almost every

subject), to our Counseling Center and our Center for Career and Employer Relations. In addition, we offer many clubs and organizations to help your student find their place.

Staying on track and staying connected has never been easier! Sign up for the E-newsletter at vinu.edu/parents, or join the conversation with other Trailblazer families on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/vuparents.

We share in your excitement and look forward to serving you in the next few years as this new chapter unfolds.

Best Wishes!

Parent and Family Services parents@vinu.edu

One of the greatest challenges parents and guardians face is how to support their children once they enter college. This guide is designed to provide information for VU Parents and Families about campus services. An academic calendar, campus phone numbers, and tips for parents and families are also included. Other ways you can help? Attend New Family Orientation during Move-In Day, join the conversation at facebook.com/groups/vuparents and subscribe to the Family E-news at vinu.edu/parents for great advice.

Founded in 1801, Vincennes University is Indiana’s first college. VU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. VU maintains its accreditation with the Commission through participation in the Academic Quality Improvement Program (AQIP).

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Educating students from across the country and all over the world, VU is known for its academic strengths. VU helps students prepare for well-paying jobs through associate degree and certificate programs. Students may even choose to stay at VU to pursue specific baccalaureate degrees in nursing, homeland security, education, and technology. Another option is to invest in two years of study at VU and then transfer to a four-year college program. Starting at VU first can save thousands of dollars in tuition and housing costs.

organizations, sports and intramurals, and more, all at the most affordable residential college in the state.

VU’s motto is “Learn in Order to Serve” and VU provides students with an ideal environment to achieve their academic goals. Small classes allow students to have the personal attention that is often only found at more expensive private colleges.

This focused teaching environment seeks to nurture and mentor students to achieve their potential

The Vincennes campus is located in the agricultural heartland of Southwest Indiana. This quiet, peaceful, and safe campus provides students with all of the elements needed for a complete college experience: seven residence halls, student recreation and aquatic centers, multiple dining facilities, a library, clubs and

Vincennes University | www.vinu.edu/parents

“Learn in Order to Serve”

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Make sure your student knows that while change is exciting it can also be quite stressful. Whether your student is a first-time freshman, a transfer student, or a commuter, acknowledge the impact of this change.

Engaged students tend to stay and finish their degrees. Encourage your student to attend that special event or get involved in a club or organization. Trying things outside the classroom can help students feel more a part of campus life — a sense of belonging.

Chances are your student has a full plate with school, work, and other involvements. Talk about visits home, commuter schedules, and family visits to campus. It is important that all students make

connections.

Learning to deal with their new freedom and independence is one of the biggest adjustments for students during their first year. You may also need to compromise on rules related to curfew, chores, meals, and visitors when your student is home. For commuters it is important to afford students more freedom to stay longer on campus to study, catch dinner with a friend, or feel free to bring a study group home.

Promote an on-campus job — if your student is looking for a job, encourage her to consider an on-campus job. It will ensure regular engagement with staff and students, involve her in the campus communication loop, and create a natural and safe “home” for her on campus. The first place to start is by attending the Job Fair held each semester.

Classes can be delayed or canceled due to inclement weather.

While this rarely happens, delay information can be found at vinu.edu or (812) 888-7979.

Encourage your student to get to know his academic advisor.

Many times this connection can lead to summer internships, co-ops, or just a person your student can talk with. Scheduling classes early will also provide the best class selection options.

Guidance and direction from you is never outdated. Just remember that your student is coming into her own and will ultimately need to make her own decisions. How you react can dictate how much they tell you in the future.

Show your support! Attend Family Weekends, which is a great time to visit campus with your student. www.universityparent.com/vinu

Sept. 18–20, 2015 (812) 888-4103 vinu.edu/parentweekend

Vincennes University invites you to be a part of Family Weekend 2015! There will be events of interest to all, including the annual tube race down the Wabash River — Indiana’s most unusual spectacle in racing. Experience the VU community and enjoy the events with the entire family.

Mark your calendar.

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The Student Center Beckes Student Union Second Floor (812) 888-4301 Hours: M–F 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The Student Center offers students opportunities to meet new people and develop leadership skills. For many students the center serves as a “home away from home” by providing them with a familiar atmosphere and an open-door policy to assist students through the transitions of college life. Although we may not always have the answers to their questions, we are always willing to find the person(s) who can. From guest speakers to Open Mic Nights, there is something for everyone. Events rich in tradition include Family Weekend, Blazerfest, and the Student Leadership series.

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Leadership opportunities abound for your student at Vincennes University.

Each semester the Student Center hosts a Club and Organization Fair where students have the opportunity to talk with student leaders from our 60+ clubs and organizations. Getting involved is a great way to meet new people and to build resumes. If your student is interested in something we don’t currently offer, encourage them to let us know. We’d love to help them start a new club!

Participating in service work gives VU students the opportunity to take the things they are learning in the classroom and apply them to real-world experiences in the community. Aside from the personal benefits of getting involved in a volunteer service club or organization, employers and educational institutions look favorably at those who have participated in extracurricular activities at college and those who are actively giving back to the community in which they reside.

Housed in the Student Center, students will find the offices of Multicultural Student Affairs and International Student Affairs as well as our Student Government Association (SGA), Campus Activities Board, Student Ambassadors, and the Student Volunteer Program.

Vincennes University | www.vinu.edu/parents

Student Success Center

Labs and Tutoring

Davis Hall, Room 329 studentsuccess@vinu.edu (812) 888-4451

vinu.edu/parents (click on the labs and tutoring link)

• Promoting university-wide programming to help students be more self-aware, including the Student Success Seminar series

Our professors are always willing to help our students. However, sometimes students need help with their academic studies outside the classroom. VU wants your student to succeed and that is why we offer a broad range of academic labs and study areas for our students. In addition to our many subject-specific academic labs, the Kirkwood Academic Skills Center provides academic support to all students.

If your student is struggling, encourage him or her to seek help early — it’s free!

• Increasing student participation in campus life

Campus Recreation

The Student Success Center (SSC) actively promotes student success and selection of career pathways by: • Providing additional advising to at-risk students and supporting academic advisors

• Contributing proactively to endeavors that support a positive learning community at VU • Supporting efforts for greater communication among all University stakeholders The Student Success Center is dedicated to improving Vincennes University students’ persistence and degree/certificate completion. All VU students are welcome to take advantage of opportunities offered

by SSC. The SSC’s primary focus is to serve those students who enter VU with the greatest risk of not completing: students who may be undecided about a career path or major or those who need significant remediation.

VU offers quality facilities, programs, and educational opportunities in order to promote the dimensions of wellness to a diverse University community. The PE Complex, the Student Recreation Center, and the Aquatic Center are available to all full-time VU students, providing a wide variety of activities, intramurals, adventure trips, and classes. It’s also a great way for students to connect!

Parking (812) 888-5555 vinu.edu/parking Thepermitstore.com While all students can bring a vehicle to campus, it is their responsibility to follow all University parking regulations including

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obtaining a valid parking permit. Permits are $30 and are good for the entire academic year. VU puts safety first and has placed the majority of parking lots on the perimeter of campus. Visitors may obtain a temporary parking permit from the Campus Police department. There is no fee for temporary permits.

Transportation VanGo is our community’s only transportation service. VanGo provides students with free runs to the Walmart shopping center on Tuesdays and Fridays.

Students should look for signs across campus and in the Student Center for more information. Students can also schedule alternate times to ride VanGo by calling (812) 886.3381. There is a fee for alternate times.

Area Airports Indianapolis International Airport (IND) Drive time to Vincennes: 2 hrs. 15 min. indianapolisairport.com Evansville Regional Airport (EVV) Drive time to Vincennes: 55 min. evvairport.com/home Bus Services Miller Trailways stops on the Vincennes Campus each day and provides services to many cities and states. Tickets are available online at hoosierride.com.

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Vigo Hall, South Lobby vinu.edu/career career&employer@vinu.edu (812) 888-4280

Professor Chris Gwaltney (812) 888-4491 vinu.edu/honors cgwaltney@vinu.edu Students who work hard and do well may be recognized in many ways, from honor societies and the Dean’s list to special awards and participation in the Honors Program. The goal of the Honors Program at Vincennes University is to create a learning community for qualified students with diverse majors who accept the challenge of Honors courses to fulfill their University Core Curriculum requirements.

Prospective Students accepted into this program will be enrolled in an Honors course for each of four semesters. A capstone project — an independent study course in the fourth semester — allows students to pursue a research topic with a faculty mentor beyond the scope of the courses generally required for graduation.

Honors Program students have special advantages including additional Honors advising, travel opportunities, scholarship opportunities, and international study options.

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The Center for Career and Employer Relations offers career counseling, guidance tools, and support services to facilitate the career planning process. Workshops focusing on career planning, employment skills, personal financial management, and job search strategies are also available, including assistance with resume development and interviewing.

An additional service of the Center is the facilitation of job shadowing opportunities. The Center helps facilitate internships, part-time jobs, and career counseling as well as other tools and resources such as: • Career Cruising – provides occupational links, related program majors, and college profiles • Do What You Are – personality profile for career development and academic advising • PEPS Learning Style Inventory assists students in creating productive and successful learning environments • Transfer Information

Students are always welcome We look forward to serving your student’s career planning needs. Encourage them to visit the Center for Career and Employer Relations in the south entrance to Vigo Hall. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Be a partner We are always looking for ways to better serve our students. If you or someone you know is interested in offering summer employment or an internship, or if you are potentially hiring recent graduates, please contact the Center for Career and Employer Relations.

Vincennes University | www.vinu.edu/parents

Second and Depot Streets vinu.edu/police (812) 888-5555 We understand your concern for the safety and security of your student while he or she is away at school. We take our responsibility seriously to promote a campus environment that is safe for all. VU emphasizes crime prevention programs, victim advocacy, improved security measures, and enforcement as tools in creating an ideal academic environment conducive to education and personal growth.

We believe that safety is everyone’s responsibility. If anyone sees something suspicious, it should be reported immediately. Many safety tools are already in place and VU continually assesses crime prevention programs and new technologies to keep your student safe. Resources include camera security systems outside buildings and inside residence halls, emergency call boxes with direct links to campus police, a 24/7-escort service, an anonymous reporting tool (Student Right to Know) from the homepage (vinu.edu), and the E-Text Alert System. E-Text is available to all students.

Students can add multiple contact avenues, including your information. Occasional test messages, emergency notifications including weather-related information, and class cancellations are reported.

Registrar Administration Building (812) 888-4220 vinu.edu/FERPA

Vincennes observes Eastern Daylight Savings Time, so adjust your plans accordingly.

Residence halls begin receiving students on Thursday prior to the start of classes on Monday, August 24. Move-in information will be included in your student’s Back-toSchool letter sent through their MyVU account.

• Watch for directional signs. There will be carts available for unloading. After you unpack, leave the final decorating to the roommates…after all; it’s their room. Be patient. Lots of people will be trying to do the same thing all at once.

• Take time to eat lunch. It seems like a little thing, but no one enjoys a cranky person — especially when you are hungry!

• Stay hydrated. Visit the water stations, grab a bottle of cold water, and BREATHE. Everything will be okay!

• Keep track of the time so you and your student do not miss the Orientation activities. The Welcome Ceremony begins at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, August 21, and all freshmen are requested to attend. Family members are invited to attend a special First Semester Review in the Red Skelton Performing Arts Center.

• Visit vinu.edu/housing for a list of suggested items students should bring to campus.

The most efficient method for parents and families to get their students’ information is to talk to them. Keeping those lines of communication open are essential.

However, there are times when parents/families must speak to the University about their students’ educational record. The Federal Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (PERPA) is a federal law that protects the privacy of educational records and it addresses the maintenance, inspection, and release of student records. FERPA dictates that information in a student’s record may not be released by a university without the student’s written permission regardless of the age of the student. Students are given the opportunity to complete a Release of Information during START VU or at any time in the Registrar’s office.

• The first payment is due prior to residence hall check-in.

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Student Health Center

Office of Disability Services

Young Building Hours: M–F 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. vinu.edu/health Phone: (812) 888-4277 Fax: (812) 888-5524

Vigo Hall, South Lobby vinu.edu/disability-services (812) 888-4501 Fax: (812) 888-2087

VU’s Student Health Center serves residential students. The office is staffed with two registered nurses and services are administered under the supervision of the University Primary Care Center staff.

University nurses are available for assessment of illnesses and injuries on a ten-minute appointment schedule.

They may provide over-the-counter medications, initial care and follow-up care of injuries, tetanus/diphtheria injections following an injury when indicated, and tuberculin screenings. Diagnostic tests, pre-existing conditions, procedures, and physicals are not covered under this plan. Any prescriptions, x-rays, and other medical services are not administered by the University and are the responsibility of the student.

It is recommended that all students have some type of health insurance to cover medical treatment. If you do not have coverage, it is recommended the student purchase health insurance from the company of our choice. VU does not offer a student group health plan.

Immunizations Immunization data is required under the Indiana College Immunization law and must be submitted prior to the beginning of the first semester of attendance. VU physical/immunization requirements and forms can be viewed or downloaded from the Health Office web page. Failure to complete the immunization requirements will make the student ineligible for registration for subsequent semesters, until the complete immunization records are submitted.

Resources are offered through the Office of Disability Services to help students overcome or compensate for obstacles related to a physical, emotional, learning, or other disability. Staff evaluates disability documentation and endorses those accommodations that help ameliorate the effects of a student’s specific symptoms or functional limitations. Some of the resources available include: assistance in obtaining alternative format textbooks and adaptive technology, arrangements for sign language interpreter and captioning services, advocacy with instructors, and referral to community agencies.

Interested students are asked to complete registration in the office at least sixty (60) days before accommodations are needed, which includes providing professional documentation/evidence of a disability and the need for specific academic accommodations.

COPE Student Support Services Vigo Hall, Rm 396 vinu.edu/cope (812) 888-4515 COPE Student Support Services program provides opportunities for academic development, assists students with basic college requirements, and serves to motivate students toward the successful completion of their postsecondary

education. The goal of the COPE program is to increase the college retention and graduation rates of participants and help students make the transition from Vincennes University to a four-year institution.

STEP Program Shircliff Humanities Building vinu.edu/step (812) 888-4214 Vincennes University offers a support program providing comprehensive services for students with learning disabilities and ADHD. STEP is designed to help students be more successful in their college courses.

STEP is designed to give students with learning disabilities the opportunity to develop their own unique abilities and to achieve their highest academic potential.

Students will develop a sense of self-worth and the skills needed to function and learn independently in college.

Summer Bridge vinu.edu/summerbridge (812) 888-4206 The Summer Bridge Program offers students a “preview” of what college life is really like through a highly structured and supportive atmosphere. Students live in a residence hall, enroll in 6 to 9 credit hours, and participate in social and recreational activities. The overarching goal of the Summer Bridge Program is to provide students with a successful transition and positive college orientation experience.

Counseling Center WAB Room 134 vinu.edu/counselingcenter (812) 888-4374 Vincennes University provides comprehensive counseling for students.

Licensed mental health counselors and a clinical psychologist staff the center.

Therapeutic services are confidential, and most services are free of charge.

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Vincennes University | www.vinu.edu/parents

All that is Financial Aid

Aid Office maintains a strong commitment to assist our students as they progress through the financial aid process. Need help? One of our staff will be happy to work with you and your student.

Administration Building fa@vinu.edu bursar@vinu.edu vinu.edu/financialaid (812) 888-4244 (812) 888-4361

Saving Money

Students may view their financial aid and charges on their student account.

E-bills are sent through electronic billing notification via the student’s VU e-mail address. Upon e-mail notification, students are responsible for accessing their e-bill account each month to view their account balance and confirm payment due dates.

The University holds students accountable for the information sent via e-mail.

Therefore, students should check their University e-mail account regularly.

Steps for Adding Authorized Payer(s) Login to MyVU and follow the tabs/links • Student • Click here to Access SSB • Student & Financial Aid • Billing and Statement

Textbook Rental Program – could result in savings of up to 60%. Remember: Books are an out-of-pocket expense.

Used Books – these go fast so purchasing early is a good idea.

Financial Aid – Don’t Let It Intimidate You!

E-books – another opportunity to save.

See the VU bookstore for details.

If you have a college-bound student, you are probably feeling a little overwhelmed about paying for a college education.

You’re not alone. The good news is that you can get help — all you have to do is ask (and fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, the FAFSA, found at fafsa.gov).

Book Buy-Back Program – turn books into cash at the end of each semester.

Filing the FAFSA is the key to helping families manage the cost of college. Never assume you won’t qualify. There are options for everyone. It’s free to apply, so you have nothing to lose. The Financial

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As we navigate new financial waters we hear the frequent comment that everything is more expensive. It is taking increasing talent to stretch incomes. VU offers a few suggestions to help students save money in these challenging economic times.

Students can set up account(s) for authorized payers (parents or others) to make payments via Cash Net through their university account. Authorized payers can view account balances and will receive bill alerts via email.

Personal Financial Management (ECON 208) – teaches students to be good financial decision-makers.

More help!

• Old Post Bookstore vubookstore.vinu.edu (812) 888-4334

• My Account • “Add New” in Authorized Payers

Blazer OneCard – The Official ID BlazerOneCard.com (812) 888-4244 The Blazer OneCard is your student’s official ID, their meal card (for those with a meal plan), and/or Flex Dollars; and it can also be a debit card. The Blazer OneCard can be an avenue to students receiving refunds they are due. For more information students should visit vinu.edu.

• Scholarships vinu.edu/scholarships

Vincennes University | www.vinu.edu/parents

Q A

What is a FAST PASS?

Q A

Is the student’s financial aid award on their BlazerOne Card?

Q

How can I access my student’s grades, academic standing, tuition, and fees status?

A

The best way is to talk to your student. Keeping the lines of communication open are important. Students can access many parts of their education records and conduct secure transactions with the University through their MyVU account at myvu.vinu.edu. Students can also grant access to their tuition and fees status including financial aid award at vinu.edu/content/refunds-and-loan-info. The disclosure of student records is governed by FERPA, which allows records to be released once permission is given from the student. For more information please visit us at vinu.edu/FERPA.

Q

How does my student set up an e-mail account?

A

Students should have received a letter with their student ID number, username, password and instructions for logging into his MyVU account. If your student has misplaced this information please have him contact Management Information at myvuhelp@vinu.edu. Note: MIC will only give this information to the student.

Students may print a FAST PASS from their MyVU account during Opening Weekend if they have excess financial aid after their tuition, fees, room and board are paid.

No. All financial aid is initially credited to their VU account. After meeting federal guidelines, refunds will be dispersed to the student’s BlazerOne Card, if applicable.

Q A

Does my student need a parking permit?

Q

How do I receive my student’s VU bill and when is the payment for tuition, housing, and other charges due?

A

VU sends bills directly to the student’s MyVU account. No paper bills are mailed. The payment due dates are August 1, September 1, and October 1 for the fall semester. Payments are due January 1, February 1, and March 1 for the spring semester.

All students and staff wishing to park on VU property must have a parking tag. Tags can be purchased at thepermitstore.com or in the Campus Police office. Parking is mainly on the perimeter of campus.

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Q A

When will my student get her housing assignment?

Q

My student has a hold that prevents them from registering for classes. Why?

A

VU utilizes holds to stop registration and other transactions when the student fails to fulfill some obligation. While there are multiple reasons for holds, most holds reflect past due accounts, disciplinary actions, and lack of immunization records on file. The University can only discuss a student’s education record with parents or family members if the student has provided consent or the parents have established the right to access. Students should contact the appropriate office to resolve any holds to their account.

Q

Where can we find information on scholarships and/or financial aid?

A

The VU Scholarship Application becomes available at vinu.edu/scholarships each fall for the following academic year. Priority deadline for submission is January 15 prior to the fall semester. The FAFSA is the federal government’s application to determine financial aid eligibility for most types of financial aid. Learn more about the FAFSA at vinu.edu/financialaid or fafsa.ed.gov.

Q

Where can my student eat?

A

Tecumseh Dining Center is VU’s primary eating facility. Students who are on a meal plan can use their BlazerOne card as their meal ticket to access TDC. Students and staff are also able to enter using Flex Dollars, cash or credit card. Grinders Coffee Shop and the Food Court, both offer alternative eating options. However, students must use Flex Dollars, cash or credit card.

Housing assignments are emailed to the student’s MyVU account mid-July. Assignments/hall choices are made in order of application and deposit received.

Vincennes University | www.vinu.edu/parents

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Summer II Sessions 2015 Begin July 9 • End August 12

Fall 2015 Late Registration

August 20

Spring 2016

New Student Orientation

August 21

New Student Registration

January 8

Classes Begin

August 24

Classes Begin

January 11

Drop and Add

August 24–28

Drop and Add

January 11–15

Student Job Fair

August 27

Student Job Fair

January 14

Labor Day (no classes)

September 7

Martin Luther King Day (no classes)

January 18

Club and Organization Fair

September 10

Club and Organization Fair

TBA

Family Weekend

September 18–20

Family Weekend

TBA

Midterm Examinations

October 12–16

Midterm Examinations

Midterm Break

October 19–20

February 29– March 4

Begin Advising and Registration for Spring

October 26

Midterm Break (no classes)

March 7–11 March 14

Graduation Application Deadline – Fall

November 13

Begin Advising and Registration for Spring

Registration for new spring semester students

November 14

Gradfest

TBA

Good Friday

March 25

Thanksgiving Break

November 24–29

April 1

Midyear Commencement (Vincennes Campus)

December 12

Graduation Application Deadline – Spring Commencement (Vincennes Campus)

April 30

Final Examinations

December 14–18

Final Examinations

May 3–6

All dates and times are subject to change.

Vincennes University does not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin or ancestry, age, sex, sexual orientation, handicap, or against disabled veterans and veterans of the Vietnam Era, or other non-merit factors in its employment or educational programs or activities. Any person who believes that such discrimination has occurred in this institution should contact the Affirmative Action Officer of Vincennes University, 1002 North First Street, Vincennes, Indiana 47591, (812) 888-5848. The AAO also hears concerns when a person believes he or she is a victim of discrimination under Title IX, Section 504 and the ADA. VU is a smoke/tobacco/e-cigarette free campus. Please visit vinu.edu/content/designated-tobacco-areas for designated smoking areas.

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About this Guide UniversityParent has published this guide in partnership with Vincennes University with the mission of helping you easily navigate your student’s university with the most timely and relevant information available.

For more information, please contact Vincennes University parents@vinu.edu vinu.edu

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Parent and Family Services (812) 888-5004 888-852-3940 vinu.edu/parents

Admissions (812) 888-4313 vuadmit@vinu.edu

Alumni Relations (812) 888-4354 vinu.edu/alumni

Athletic Ticket Office (812) 888-4511

Campus Operator (812) 888-8888 Toll-free (800) 742-9198

Campus Police and Safety (812) 888-5555

College of Business and Public Service (812) 888-6965

Dining Services (812) 888-4365

Housing

(812) 888-4243

(812) 888-4225 vinu.edu/housing housing@vinu.edu

College of Humanities

Library (LRC)

College of Health Occupations and Human Performance

(812) 888-4480

(812) 888-4165

College of Science, Engineering and Mathematics

Registrar’s Office

(812) 888-5131

College of Social Science, Performing Arts, and Communications (812) 888-5127

College of Technology (812) 888-4447

Dean of Students/Student Center (812) 888-4301

(812) 888-4220

Red Skelton Performing Arts Center Ticket Office (812) 888-4039 vinu.edu/red-skelton-theater

Student Success Center (812) 888-4451