RWU Family Guide 2024

Dear New Family Member,

Welcome! This is an exciting time of year for our community as we prepare for your student’s arrival. We are delighted that you have chosen to accept our invitation to join Roger Williams University. Your student has chosen to attend a university that continues to grow and strengthen its programs. Our Core Purpose is to Strengthen Society through engaged teaching and learning and we do that as a community. Thank you for the trust that you are placing in us. We are looking forward to all of the talents that your student will bring!

In the following guide, many of the questions you may have about making the transition to RWU will be answered. We welcome you to learn more about the community your student is joining. Your RWU Student is about to begin an ambitious journey. We want you to assure you that we share a common goal with you, which is for your student to become an independent, responsible, successful adult, who makes good decisions. Please encourage your student to get involved and be engaged. At RWU, students have the opportunity to take chances and explore in and outside the classroom. Whether it is seeking a double major, different combinations of minors, joining one or more of our over seventy-five student club(s) or organizations, or competing in a sport, there are many ways to explore and engage.

Besides getting involved, at RWU we want to encourage balance and overall wellness. While our campus offers a majestic beauty that encourages one to see the wonder of nature, we have many resources available to ensure that a student takes care of themselves. In our community it is important for us to take care of each other. We hope that you will see that dedication in all of the people that want to ensure student success. Please do not hesitate to reach out to a campus resource if we can assist with any concerns.

Again, welcome to the RWU community.

Soar like a Hawk!

Derek Zuckerman, Ph.D.

Associate Vice President for Student Life/Dean of Students

CAMPUS MAP

Permit Identification:

Blue Permit: Adm inist rat ion, P rofessiona l St a f f a nd Fu ll-Time Fac u t y

Red Permit: Staff and Part-Time Faculty

Green Permit: Commuter, Graduate

Silver Permit: Law

Orange Permit: Resident (including Baypoint and Almeida)

Yellow Permit: Visitor (Lot 1 and 11)

For more deta iled information on ssues such as w inter pa rk ing ba ns, please refer to the Student Ha ndbook on the web at http://rwu.edu/go/parking

Please note the following instructions:

1. Your parking permit must be permanent y affixed to the outside of the w ndshield, driver’s side ower corner

2. Pa rking perm t reg ulations will be str ctly enforced 7:00 a m to 5 00 pm, Monday through Friday

3. V o ators w il be t icketed w it h a minimum fine of $30 00 a nd/or towed at ow ner/operator ex pense

4. Vis tor, ha ndicap, fire la ne a nd Universit y-des gnated reser ved parking space vio at ons will be strictly enforced at a l times

5. Ha nd cap-des gnated pa rk ng is clea rly identified a nd ca n be found throughout ca mpus

6. Students park in lettered lots only. (Lots 2A and 6A are not for student parking.)

Map Key:

1 Parking & Informat on 2 A lumn & Adm ssion Center

3 S cho ol o A r chite ctu e, A r t and H storic P e ser vat on

4 Admin st ation Bu lding

5 S cho ol o Eng ne er ng, Comput ng and Construction Managemen

6 Fe nste n Co ege o A r ts and S cience s and S cho ol of Jus ice S tudie s 7 S tonewal Ter ace 8 W illow Ha l

Cedar Hal

Center for S tudent Development

F ne A r ts Center

Maple Ha l

Mar o Gabell S cho ol of Bus ne ss

Global H er tage Hal

Univer sit y Lib ar y

T he Commons

G oba & Commun t y Engagement

Marine and Natural S cience s Bu ld ng

Richard L Br eady M ount H ope Bay Sailing & Education Center 20 Bayside Cour s ( W hite cap T idewater S ea Bre eze & Driftwood) 21 Ma l Ro om

Campus Re cr eation Cen er

EL S L anguage Cente 24 S cho o of L aw S cho ol of Education and L aw L brar y 25 Per form ng A r ts Center 26 N or th Campus Re sidence Ha l

Per forming A ts A nnex

SEECM Labs (Coming Soon)

TIPS FOR YOUR STUDENTS FIRST YEAR AT ROGER

“Trust that your child will figure it out, and do not allow them to go home every weekend. Encourage them to attend an event instead so that they can meet people/make friends.”- Taylor Quinn ‘25

“I wish my family and I knew all that there is to do around RWU in the local area, it took my family a while to realize that there are things to do around here and once they figured that out they started visiting more often.” - Bella Maglio ‘26

“Sometimes your student may be busy or tired- college is a big transition! But know that they will contact you when they can.”

- Elena Sewall ‘26

“I wish that my family understood completely that we are put in caring, capable hands and that we are not dumped into the world on our own. We have a system of connections looking out for us the second we reach campus– from RAs, to advisors and professors, and everyone else in between. They genuinely care about us and our well-being, and love to see us stride and grow.”

- Rian Jackson ‘25

CONTENTS TABLE OF

ACADEMIC RESOURCES

Center for Student Academic Success (CSAS)

Tutoring Center

International Students & Scholar Services

Community Engagement

Study Abroad

Center for Career & Professional Development (CCPD)

CAMPUS RESOURCES

Office of Student Financial Aid

Bursar

Information Technology

Barnes & Noble Bookstore

Mail Center

STUDENT LIFE RESOURCES

Student Life

Student Programs, Leadership & Orientation

Clubs & Organizations

Center for Student Development

Department of Residence Life & Housing

Commuter Students

Intercultural Center

Queer & Trans Advocacy Center

Dining Services

Intramural, Athletics, & Recreation

Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution

Counseling Center

Health Services

Public Safety

Emergency Communication

ACADEMIC RESOURCES

CENTER OF STUDENT ACADEMIC SUCCESS (CSAS)

Location: Library Learning Commons, 2nd Floor | 401-254-3579 | achasepadula@rwu.edu

Assistant Provost for Student Success, Allison Chase Padula

The Center for Student Academic Success (CSAS) provides academic resources and comprehensive support for students. Located in the Library Learning Commons. CSAS comprises the Advising and Peer Mentorship Office, the Tutoring Center, Student Accessibility Services and International Student & Scholar Initiatives. CSAS is charged with providing a single source of support for students. CSAS works closely with students, faculty and the campus community to promote student success.

ADVISING AND PEER MENTORSHIP OFFICE

Location: Library, 2nd Floor (right) | (401) 254-3456 | website | csas@rwu.edu|

Director, Advising and Peer Mentorship: Elizabeth Niemeyer (eniemeyer@rwu.edu)

Senior Academic Advisor: Valerie Wolstenholme (vwolstenholme@rwu.edu)

Senior Transfer/Pathways Advisor: Sarah Mayer (smayer@rwu.edu)

Academic Advisor and Coordinator of Placement: Angela Raymond (araymond@rwu.edu)

Professional advisors and peer mentors work collaboratively to assist students in transitioning successfully to RWU, supplying information on academic policies, guidance in choosing a major, making referrals to campus resources, and providing consultation on study strategies, time management and other academic tips.

STUDENT ACCESSIBILITY SERVICES (SAS)

Location: Library Learning Commons, 1st Floor | 401-254-3841 | sas@rwu.edu

Office Hours (academic year): Monday-Friday: 7:45am-5:00pm https://www.rwu.edu/undergraduate/academics/student-academic-success/student-accessibility-services-sas

Staff Members:

Director: Jody Goldstein (jbgoldstein@rwu.edu )

Assistant Director: Kathryn E. Zimmerman (kezimmerman@rwu.edu)

Coordinator: Patsie Almonte (palmonte@rwu.edu)

Student Accessibility Services (SAS) is a service-based offering available to students with documented disabilities that substantially limit a major life activity such as learning and/or living on campus. We work with students, faculty, and administrators to ensure inclusiveness and access in all aspects of a student’s life at RWU.

Students who have disclosed disability to SAS make up roughly 20% of the student population. We support students with a wide range of disabilities such as learning, mobility, medical, visual, hearing, mental health, autism spectrum, head trauma, and more.

The most commonly requested accommodations are extended time for test-talking (time and a half), note-taking assistance, requests for alternate/electronic texts, and accessible residential life accommodations. All accommodations are determined on a case-by-case basis

We invite students who wish to register with SAS to fill out the Initial Registration, which will allow them to tell us a bit about themselves and submit their documentation. The registration form is available from the SAS homepage (see link above). Scroll down to the orange “CLOCKWORK PORTAL” button and you will be directed to the Initial Registration link. Students are welcome to set up an appointment, in person or virtually, to discuss their needs as well. We look forward to hearing from you!

TUTORING CENTER

Location: Library Learning Commons, 2nd Floor (left) | 401-254-3219

Director of the Tutoring Center and Coordinator of the Writing Center, Karen Bilotti | kbilotti@rwu.edu

Coordinator of the Math Center, Richard Fullerton | rfullerton@rwu.edu

Coordinator of the Science Center, Tracey McDonnell Wysor | twysor@rwu.edu

Tutoring Center is comprised of The Math Center, The Writing Center, The Science Center, and The Foreign Language Tutoring Center. All of the centers provide free peer and faculty tutoring. Students can walk in and see a peer tutor, but we recommend you make an appointment at our reception desk if you would like to see a faculty tutor.

We offer a variety of support, including writing help for papers across the curriculum; a Math Tutor in the Classroom Program which assigns tutors to specific sections of math in order to provide an informed resource for tutoring and review sessions before tests; a variety of science tutoring including CHEMEX sessions in conjunction with faculty teaching the course and Physics Nights in the Physics labs. We also provide support through the Writing Center for assignments in most courses and have tutors in the Science Center. If students are unsure if we have tutoring for a course that they are in, please ask us! You can email the Coordinators of the tutoring centers, stop in or set up a virtual appointment. We also have the capability to provide online tutoring support when requested.

HOURS OF OPERATION

Monday - Thursday 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Friday 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Sunday 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

Location: Library Learning Commons, 2nd Floor | 401-254-3400 | international@rwu.edu https://www.rwu.edu/undergraduate/admission-aid/international-students

MISSION

The mission of International Student & Scholar Services is to assist in the integration of international students and scholars into the RWU community and provide guidance regarding F & J visas, along with supporting the university’s internationalization efforts. We support individuals on F & J visas as well as dual citizens, individuals on other visa categories, and anyone that self-identifies as international including individuals from territory countries.

TOP RESOURCES

• International Ambassadors – All first-year international students are assigned an International Ambassador (IA), who is an upper class student trained to help new students adjust to Roger Williams University. All IAs are in some way international themselves – F-1 status; dual citizens; citizens of US territories; etc. They are excellent resources to ask about anything related to RWU or the greater Bristol/RI area.

• Global Hawks – We hope you will join the club for international students, Global Hawks. This club is operated entirely by international students and welcomes any member of the RWU community, especially international students. Enjoy fun events and get to know other students around campus.

• On and Off Campus Employment Support – generally, F-1 and J-1 international students are not allowed to work in the United States, but there several exceptions including on-campus work, offcampus internships, and post-completion Optional Practical Training (1-3 years of full-time work in your field after receiving your degree). The paperwork necessary for you to work can be complicated, but we are here to help simplify the process.

“ We are very excited to have you join our community! It can be intimidating to move to a new country and adjust to a new culture, but you will not go through these challenges alone. The ISSS office is here to help you learn how to function in the United States and adjust to the education system. It may be difficult at times to succeed in a new environment, but you will learn from every experience you have and you will be given enormous amounts of support to help you achieve success. Everyone at Roger Williams University is very happy to welcome you to Bristol! ”

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AT ROGER

Roger Williams University’s core purpose is to “strengthen society through engaged teaching and learning.” Across the four-year experience at RWU and in both curricular and co-curricular contexts, we provide our students with community engagement, civic scholarship, and experiential learning opportunities that will serve them throughout life -- personally, professionally, and as citizens. In 2020, RWU was recognized by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching as a “community engaged campus” and is one of only two universities in Rhode Island to hold this important designation.

We facilitate the development of off-campus learning experiences that are academically meaningful, ethically responsible, professionally relevant, and responsive to the needs of our community partners. Beginning with the First-Year Seminar and continuing through the General Education program, students discover multiple pathways for engaged learning. These opportunities continue in coursework in the majors and minors, and culminate with the Feinstein Service Learning graduation requirement.

Why Community Engagement?

Community engagement and service learning are high-impact educational practices that research has shown to have significant positive impacts on student learning and personal growth. Through community-engaged teaching and learning, students have opportunities to:

• Put concepts and theories learned in the classroom to work in practical contexts

• Collaborate with faculty, students, and community partners in real-world problem solving

• Develop concrete skills and experiences relevant to career goals

• Participate actively in public life and community service

• Assume leadership roles on- and off-campus

• Learn concretely about diversity, equity, and inclusion

• Develop empathy and a deepened sense of social responsibility

Graduation Requirement

The centerpiece of our commitment to engaged learning is the Feinstein Service Learning (FSL) graduation requirement, which all students must complete prior to graduation. With opportunities for engaged and experiential learning running across the curriculum, students have many options for satisfying the requirement through internships, community engaged courses, research projects, or sustained volunteer work.

“We promote community engagement at every level and move well beyond the traditional conception of community service. For us, community engagement is an intellectual and practical exchange with communities, where our students are able to apply their classroom learning in a community context, while also collaborating with community partners to help them achieve their goals. The work we do helps organizations build capacity, run more effectively, and develop needed resources such as business plans, communications materials, architectural renderings, policy briefs, and so much more.” -- Allen Hance, Ph.D., Associate Provost for Global and Community Engaged Learning.

STUDY ABROAD PROGRAMMING

Location: Spiegel Center for Global and International Programs, Global & Community Engagement Center, “The Farmhouse” | 401-254-3899

Director of Study Abroad Programs, Kevin Hayden | khayden@rwu.edu

Study Abroad Manager, Becky Denson | rdenson@rwu.edu

Central to Roger Williams University’s mission is the belief that a complete college education today involves global engagement. Our message to students is simple: Go Global! Experience other cultures. Develop a global perspective. Carry the knowledge gained from study abroad into your life-long learning and careers, whatever path you may choose.

The Spiegel Center for Global and International Programs is here to help students navigate the broad scope of Roger Williams University’s study abroad opportunities. Currently there are dozens of programs that students can take advantage of. These programs offer a wide variety of experiences that range from a campus setting at one of our overseas partner universities to field based programs giving students a hands- on- experience. Students also have the opportunity to engage with the local cultures by participating in global service-learning opportunities, internships and other immersive experiences. We have students gaining valuable global experiences in Italy, Ireland, France, Australia, South Africa, China, Spain, Argentina, and Germany to name just a few locations.

THE CENTER FOR CAREER & PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Location: Global Heritage Hall (1st floor) | (401) 254-3224

Director of Career Services, Mary Santoro | msantoro@rwu.edu

Director of External Relations, Sierra Zschirnt | szschirnt@rwu.edu

Michelle Spreda, Career Advisor | mspreda@rwu.edu

Maisie Jelley, Career Advisor | mjelley@rwu.edu

Kevin Deeb, Career Advisor | kdeeb@rwu.edu

Callie Flanagan, Career Advisor | cmflanagan@rwu.edu

Rena Piller-Thurston, Assistant Director of Experiential Learning | rpiller-thurston@rwu.edu

The Center for Career and Professional Development helps students and alumni thrive in work and in life by providing lifelong career education assistance, resources, and connections, powered by a strong network of alumni, employers, faculty, parents, and staff.

Every Roger Williams graduate receives quality career education and opportunities that serve as the foundation for a meaningful career trajectory and as an integral component in their transformative experience at the University.

100% of the RWU undergraduate students and alumni have access to a personalized career advising offering individualized support, including 1:1 career advising appointments on the topics of professional branding, resume and creation, career exploration, internship and job search, interview preparation, graduate/law school advising, and negotiation strategies.

Each semester the CCPD partners with academic programs to host a variety of recruitment and hiring events tailored by the demands of the labor market. Our organization hosts a wide array of career exploration and industry networking events aimed at connecting students and professionals with opportunities in various fields. These events include the Business Career Exploration Conference, Justice Studies Industry Night, Construction Industry Hiring Event, Engineering Career Launch Exposition, Health Science Industry Panels & Networking, and Education Networking Night. Additionally, we offer comprehensive career development programs and services such as the Cummings School Job Forums, Graduate & Professional School Fair, Mock Interview Programs, Professional Headshot Day, and Professional Development Clinics. Through these initiatives, we strive to provide invaluable resources and connections to help individuals navigate their career paths effectively and achieve their professional goals.

The Center for Career and Professional Development offers the Career Planning Seminar, a 0-Credit asynchronous course offered by the CCPD, and is a pre-requisite for students needing academic-credit internships. The Career Planning Seminar consists of 5 modules and covers a variety of professional development topics, provides resources, and instructions on how to fully take advantage of all of the services CCPD provides!

CAMPUS RESOURCES

OFFICE OF STUDENT FINANCIAL AID

Location: Administration Building (1st floor) | (401) 254-3100

Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday 8a-4:30p

Director of Financial Aid, Diane Usher | dusher@rwu.edu

Associate Director of Financial Aid, Joana Santos-Reis | jsantosreis@rwu.edu

Assistant Director of Financial Aid, Michelle Cordeiro | mcordeiro@rwu.edu

Assistant Director of Financial Aid, Gina Rigby | grigby@rwu.edu

Senior Financial Aid Counselor, Alysaa Saada | asaada@rwu.edu

Financial Aid Counselor, Karen Anterni | kanterni@rwu.edu

Roger Williams University strives to maintain an active and equitable program of financial assistance to students who would otherwise not be able to attend the institution. The Financial Aid Office is open to assist students with the financial aid process and provide information to families about all available sources of aid.

If you have any questions regarding your student’s financial aid package, or how to learn more about the financial aid process, please do not hesitate to contact us. The office staff is also available to answer questions about alternative loans and financing options. For more information, please visit us at

https://www.rwu.edu/undergraduate/ admission-aid/financial-aid

BURSAR/REGISTRAR

Location: Administration Building (1st floor) | (401) 254-3100

Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday 8a-4:30p

Elizabeth A. Hannon, Bursar | ehannon@rwu.edu

Teresa P. Braga, Assistant Bursar | tbraga@rwu.edu

The University Registrar’s Office is responsible for the maintenance and integrity of all current and former student academic records. In doing so, our office coordinates the course registration process, collects and records final grades, reports and verifies enrollment, produces official transcripts, maintains course schedules, tracks degree requirements, enforces academic policies, certifies VA benefits, distributes data, processes transfer credit and maintains the academic calendar. The University Registrar’s Office strives to utilize the latest technologies to provide timely and accurate information and to support students, faculty and staff in all academic endeavors while protecting students’ privacy and ensuring adherence to the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

RES LIFE & HOUSING

Location: Center for Student Development (Suite 120) | (401) 254-3161

Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday 8:30a-4:30p

Director of Residence Life and Housing, Amanda Downey | adowney@rwu.edu

Associate Director of Residence Life and Housing, Tim Valton | tvalton@rwu.edu

Assistant Director for Residential Education, Erin Durigan | edurigan@rwu.edu

Assistant Director of Housing Operations, Jeremy Hynson | jhynson@rwu.edu

Administrative Assistant & Housing and Billing Coordinator, Debra Forrest | dforrest@rwedu

Administrative Assistant, Tracey Mallory| tmallory@rwu.edu

Living at Roger

The Department of Residence Life and Housing is here for you as your “home away from home”. We provide resources and support to help students as they navigate independent living. We have on call staff for urgent issues that may arise after hours, RAs to help you, and a robust offering of programs in the residence halls. We’re glad you’re here! We are located in the Center for Student Development on the first floor. Students may visit us in person, call the office at 401.254.3161, email us at rwuhousing@rwu.edu, or visit our website for additional information.

Each hall has its unique characteristics that help you feel at home within your new community. I am so grateful for each memory and everyone I have connected with throughout my various resident halls here at Roger Williams. I am positive you will feel the same once you start building your first community here at RWU!

- Destiny Ceesay ‘24

Our residential community professional staff live in their respective residential community and oversee the day-to-day operations of the community, including supervision of the Graduate Community Director (GCD), Resident Assistants (RAs), advisement of the community’s hall council, and serving as student conduct officers. These professionals and their community staffs are essential to the development of our residential students.

Roger Williams University began offering Living Learning Communities (LLCs) more than fifteen years ago, when the University Honors Program chose to include a living component to accompany the overall honors experience. Since then, the University has hosted many types of living major-based to special interest, self-proposed and everything in between communities. We believe that Living Learning Communities are an integral piece of the RWU education, especially for our incoming students.

RWU MAIL CENTER

Location: Adjacent to RWU Fitness Center | (401) 254-3147

Hours of Operation: Monday-Thursday 8:30a-7:00p Friday: 8:30a-5p CLOSED ON WEEKENDS

The RWU Mail Center is conveniently located adjacent to the Rec Center and in close proximity to the Lower Commons. The Mail Center is happy to serve the entire University community including Residential Students, Faculty, and Staff. We accept deliveries from the United States Postal Service (USPS), UPS, FedEx Ground, FedEx Express, Amazon, DHL, Lasership, and other courier services. We are also the processing center for all outgoing University mail.

The Mail Center has a small staff of RWU employees and is supplemented by a large staff of work study students during the school year. The work study students allow us to meet the high-volume demand during the time that students are on campus. With the continual increase of online ordering, incoming package volume has increased steadily over the last several years. Currently, incoming letter mail and package volume is over 100,000 items/year.

Addressing Mail & Packages

As the Mail Center receives mail and packages for over 3,000 Residential Students, Faculty, and Staff, it is important that items for students explicitly indicate that the recipient is a student. It is not unusual to have students with the same name as a Faculty or Staff member. To ensure that items get to the correct recipient, the word “Student” should be in the address next to the student’s name. Middle initials are also helpful, especially with names that are more common.

Example Below:

Student’s Name – Student

Roger Williams University

One Old Ferry Rd. Bristol, RI 02809

Items Not Accepted

The RWU Mail Center is not equipped to accept refrigerators or furniture. (Inquire at Orientation about MicroFridge ordering.) In addition to the following items:

• Edible Arrangements

• Local Bakery Deliveries

• Flowers

• Stop & Shop Food Deliveries

• Amazon Prime Food Deliveries

• DoorDash & UberEats

Receipt Notification & Package Pick-up

All letter mail and packages received by the Mail Center (for students living in RWU housing) are scanned into a tracking system the day they are received. Students receive an automated email letting them know that they have received something. The email will also indicate the type of item it is (box, bag, XL bag, XS item, perishable item, tube, or letter mail).

It is important for students to wait for a notification from the RWU Mail Center before picking up their item. If the student has only received an email from a vendor or carrier that their item was delivered, it means that the Mail Center is still scanning the packages that arrived. The Mail Center receives deliveries of hundreds of items at a time, therefore they are not instantaneously available for pick-up.

Students are responsible for picking their items up from the Mail Center and must bring their student ID. All items must be picked up by the person to whom they are addressed. Exceptions can be made in extenuating circumstances; however, students may not pick up packages for friends, roommates, etc.

Perishable Items & Medication

Items that are marked as perishable or identifiable as perishable are refrigerated until they are picked up. Students who do not pick up a perishable item on the day it was received will receive a second notification on the following day and will continue to receive notifications until it is claimed.

Items that are marked as medication are handled using the same notification and pick-up process. The Mail Center staff are happy to give special attention to any items that are time sensitive and especially medication or medical supplies that need to be delivered promptly. Students or parents may contact the Mail Center when a special item is expected and we will personally notify you when the item arrives.

Items Not Claimed

If an item is not picked up within two weeks, a second notice will be sent to the student. If the item is still not picked up, it will be returned to either the sender or carrier. Items sent via USPS can be returned to sender, however, items sent via common carrier (USPS, FedEx) can only be returned to the carrier.

The Mail Center receives numerous items each day that we are unable to identify due to incomplete information (first name only, no name). As a result, we have no way to notify the intended recipient. These items will be included in the weekly all-student “Mystery Packages” email. The email includes the name, date, tracking number, and shipper. Items that are not claimed are returned after one month.

Student life RESOURCES

STUDENT CONDUCT & CONFLICT RESOLUTION

https://www.rwu.edu/student-handbook

The Office of Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution assists students to grow and learn from their actions through meaningful dialogue and creative educational opportunities that promote problem solving and effective communication.

Center for Student Development, 1st floor, Student Life Suite | 401-254-3042.

Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution offers support and resources to students experiencing conflict. OSCCR guides and supports students when dealing with difficult conversations or conflict.

What to Know

We are here for you! Student Conduct offers more than meets the eye. We support students through conflict and assist in navigating difficult situations.

Advice

Talk to each other! We realize that electronic communication is fast and easy, but it’s not always effective. Don’t be afraid to have face to face conversations with each other.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Farmhouse | engage@rwu.edu | givepulse.com/rwu | 401-254-3787

Community Engagement connects students to community engaged experiences and partners through courses, short/long term service opportunities, Community Service Work Study, days of service and our other programs.

• Our professional staff and student leaders connect students with opportunities for engaged and community based-learning based on students’ interests, field of study and career goals.

• GivePulse is RWU’s online community engagement clearinghouse All students have access to this platform which uses students’ single-sign-on credentials. GivePulse lists long and short-term service opportunities, public-service internships and other information of interest to students who wish to engage with the community. Sign into GivePulse and set up your profile!

• Our staff supports faculty who teach community engaged courses across the curriculum by connecting them with partners and projects that allow students to build their skills and their understanding of community-based problem solving.

• The Community Service Work Study program allows students who receive a federal work study award to earn their award in the community at a non-profit or community based organization. This is a great way to earn funds you rely on while getting hands on experience or doing some career exploration. We can help you find a position!

“Read your email! Read posters! Talk to people! Find out what’s happening on campus and try something new. There is always something interesting that will help you meet new people who may just become your best friends. And always remember to check out GivePulse for exciting community based opportunities to engage and meet folks from your new home!”

COMMUTER LIFE

Our commuter students are an important and vital part of the Roger Williams University community. Each commuter student is different and the University wants to support your life as you balance your courses, traveling to campus, employment, family obligations and your college life.

https://www.rwu.edu/undergraduate/student-life/commuters/Resources

GETTING CONNECTED

Whether living on or off campus, we want all students to get the most out of their college experience. All clubs, organizations, athletic teams, intra murals, and events are open to all students and we encourage you to get involve. Check out the Student Programs, Leadership & Orientation Office website to learn more about clubs and organizations or stop by the office in the Recreation Center to talk to someone.

COMMUTERS IN ACTION

Commuters in Action is a student club for commuter students. The club’s mission is to provide a place that commuters can call home on campus; not a room, but a group of diverse individuals who come together for the purpose of social interaction. The club hosts events and promotes campus engagement. You can sign up for the club at the Involvement Fair held at the beginning of each semester or by emailing cia@g.rwu.edu!

COMMUTER ASSISTANTS

Commuter Assistants (CAs) are returning commuter students who provide support, advice, and mentorship to first year students. The CAs look forward to sharing their experiences as commuters and getting to know the new members of RWU’s commuter community! CAs will connect with all first year commuter students at the start of the school year!

STUDY AND GATHERING SPACES

• Commuter Lounge, lower level of the Stonewall IV residence hall

• North Campus Residence Hall (1st floor snack area, 2nd floor Great Room)

• Global Heritage Hall (Ground floor Starbucks, and spaces throughout building)

• Lower Commons (Dining Hall)

• Hawks’ Nest, in the Recreation Center

• Library

• South Campus Lounge in Cedar Hall (pool table and study space)

“As a commuter, it can be easy to forget that you too are a part of the campus community. These past few years here at RWU I have had the ability to join clubs, participate in campus events such as Bingo Nights, and meet many great people who I now call my friends. Not living on campus may have its limits, but it doesn’t mean that you won’t be able to have the same college experience as others!”

- Zulange Gonzalez ‘24

INTERCULTURAL CENTER (IC)

Location: Maple Hall (North End | Facing GHH) | (401) 254-5422 | diversity@rwu.edu

Michael Walsh, Director, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging

The mission of the Intercultural Center is to support the access, retention, and success of ALANA (African, Latin, Asian & Native American) students by centering, uplifting and empowering their identities. We achieve our mission through access and support programs, networking and education. The Intercultural Center proactively and intentionally empowers and supports underrepresented students.

• We support students who are part of the Black and Latinx LLC

• We support recipients of Intercultural Ambassador Program Scholarship & members of the SOAR Program.

• The Center facilitates a variety of culturally competent programming throughout the academic year

• The Intercultural Center is an inviting space for students, staff, and faculty – which also has a fully accessible kitchen, multi-purpose room, and prayer space.

• The Intercultural Center also hosts the end of the year BIPOC Excellence Graduation Ceremony.

QUEER AND TRANS RESOURCE AND ADVOCACY CENTER (QTRAC)

Location: Maple Hall (South End | closest to Cedar Hall) | diversity@rwu.edu | 401-254-3591 | Instagram: @rwu_qtrac

The QTRAC serves as the central hub for advancing Queer and Trans liberation for the entire Roger Williams University community. We advance the liberation of RWU Queer & Trans people by fostering equity-minded leaders through intersectional training, advocating for more inclusive policies and services, and directly addressing the specific needs of Queer and Trans community members.

• We directly support the Queer and Trans Living Learning Community

• We host a variety of signature events to help students connect with each other, educate the community on topics related to gender and sexuality, and celebrate the accomplishments of Queer and Trans community members

• We directly support the Sexuality and Gender Alliance (SAGA) student organization and the Feminists United student club

• We offer an affinity-based mentorship program titled the Kinship Collective for new RWU students

• We facilitate Safe Zone trainings for students, staff, and faculty

• We assist with the Chosen Name Policy which allows students to alter their listed name in most University systems even if it has not been changed legally

The QTRAC is dedicated to supporting you and your needs as you begin your journey as an RWU hawk. Whether you are looking to connect with new potential friends, learn about gender & sexuality, or need help amplifying your voice on campus - we are here for you.

“Get connected! Whether it is making friends, finding mentors, or getting involved with campus life, having a support system is crucial to thriving at any university. College is challenging enough as it is, don’t try to do it all on your own.”

STUDENT PROGRAMS, LEADERSHIP AND ORIENTATION

Location: Campus Recreation Center

studentprograms@rwu.edu

(401) 254-3088

Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

The Student Programs, Leadership and Orientation (SPLO)’s mission is to engage the student body in meaningful and complex co- curricular activities that foster individual and peer development through leadership and experiential opportunities. Our department is the place for your student to find outside the classroom opportunities. Whether your student is looking to get involved on campus from clubs to attending events, to our Hawk’s Leadership Academy, our department will be able to assist them.

The SPLO staff works to help students become actively engaged in their university experience through attending events, joining clubs and organizations, participating in leadership development programs, or creating their own activities. Our department is home to 8 major organizations, 80 student clubs and over 200 student events that students can attend. We want your student to take advantage of all the opportunities that we offer.

Students are able to search Hawk Link to learn about all these opportunities. Hawk Link is a centralized web host platform that connects students to organizations, programs, and departments on campus. Hawklink can be found at hawklink.rwu.edu; and through this webpage students will be able to view our events calendar. Student events, club meetings and department offerings can be found through our RogerLink app; this puts a campus calendar in your student’s hand. Information regarding RogerLink can be found by visiting our webpage.

The Hawks Leadership Academy was conceptualized around the theory of the Social Change Model of Leadership Development. Hawks Leadership Academy is an experiential program that enriches the Roger Williams University student by providing opportunities in leadership development, civic engagement, and co-curricular experiences. The goal is to provide members with the platform to explore and embrace their leadership potential while becoming an active member of the Roger Williams University campus and the surrounding community. Family members can nominate their students to take part in this program by emailing our team.

We will look forward to having your student join us in late August at our New Student Check In. Your student will join us for the Fall Orientation program. Fall Orientation will have sessions that will support your student’s success; and provide your student the foundation and information to transition to our community. Students will also take part in welcome community events to make connections prior to the first day of class.

We are home to our Weeks of Welcome program (WOW), a program that offers 30 days of events to welcome your student to our campus community. This program offers events by clubs, organizations and other departments on campus to assist our new students and welcome back returning students. The highlight of Weeks of Welcome is our Involvement Fair, this event allows new students to learn about our clubs and organizations. By visiting the Involvement Fair or meeting 1:1 with a member of our student staff, your student will encounter many different opportunities.

The New Student Orientation Program and Homecoming and Family Weekend are major programs that bring our family members to campus. We look forward to seeing your students engage with our opportunities.

CEN is a student run organization responsible for creating, planning, and programming entertainment events on campus. CEN members are dedicated students who are interested in hosting quality entertainment for the entire campus community. Campus Entertainment Network consists of four committees and an Executive Board. Our four committees are Traditions, Where’s The Fun, Outreach, and Arts and Culture.

The Roger Williams University Inter-Class Council is an Organization represented by class officers that act as a support system to unify the voices within and amongst the classes by gathering feedback to address class concerns to the Student Senate, Administration and other campus Organizations, resulting in effective programming that fosters school spirit while upholding and creating new traditions that will provide memorable college experiences.

The Multicultural Student Union is a progressive group of students who are dedicated to promoting social justice, equity and cultural awareness. We do so by engaging in critical dialogues on issues of power, privilege, oppression, intersectionality, and how they affect the communities and society in which we live.. We seek to offer educational opportunities and foster critical thinking within Roger Williams University’s sphere of influence.

Sexuality and Gender Alliance is an organization dedicated to promoting an inclusive community for LGBTQ+ identifying students and allies, working to cultivate a queerpositive and welcoming space for anyone who wants to feel safe and accepted for their identities. SAGA seeks to afford opportunities for our community to learn more about the LGBTQ+ community through education and programming.

The Student Senate is the advocate of student rights, responsibilities, and opinions. Acting as a liaison between the student body and the University Administrators and faculty; the elected Senate is responsible for representing the myriad of student thoughts and resolving their concerns. The Student Senate recognizes and funds chartered clubs, organizations and club sports.

WQRI is the student-run radio station, operating with the power of 800 watts. WQRI is set up to function like a commercial station in order to give students a valuable educational experience. Students can train to be an on-air DJ and have a weekly show that can be heard through the station live stream, which can reach listeners worldwide. The station can be heard by traditional radio throughout campus and across Southern Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

The Herald is the student-run newspaper of Roger Williams University, which strives for excellence and accuracy in reporting issues relevant to the RWU and Bristol communities. The staff seek the truth — endeavoring to impartially report and explain current events, promote the integrity and professional nature of journalism and defend our First Amendment rights. The Herald is made up of writers, photographers, graphic designers and the editorial board.

STUDENT CLUBS

• All Paws In

• Alternative Entertainment

• American Advertising Federation (AAF)

• American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS)

• American Society of Engineers (ASCE)

• American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)

• Analytics Club

• Art Club

• Asian American Alliance

• Association of General Contractors (AGC)

• Ballroom Dance Club

• The Barbershop

• Brainwaves Club

• Cheerleading

• Chess Club

• Christian Student Fellowship

• Colleges Against Cancer

• Commuters in Action

• Computer Science & Scripting Club

• Construction Management Club

• Cybersecurity & Intel

• Dance Club

• Design Club

• Drastic Measures (A Cappella)

• Electrical Engineering Club (IEEE)

• Engineers Without Borders

• Feminists United

• Film Production Collaborative

• Fishing Club

• Foundation for the International Medical Relief of Children (FIMRC)

• Future Teachers of America

• Global Hawks

• Green Building & Sustainable Construction

• Habitat for Humanity

• Hawkettes Dance Team

• Hawkward (A Capella)

• Helping Hawks

• Hillel

• Hispanic and Latinx Student Association (HALSA)

• International Relations Organization

• Investors Club

• John Jay Society

• Knit & Crochet Club

• Marine Science Club

• Mock Trial

• Multicultural STEM Alliance

• Music Club

• Neurodivergent Network

• Outing Club

• Photography Club

• Pre-Health Club

• Providing Awareness & Victim Empowerment (PAVE)

• Psychology Club

• Public Health

• Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA)

• Residential Construction

• Rhythm and Roots (RnR)

• Robotics Innovation Club

• Science Alliance

• Scuba Club

• Ski & Snowboard Club

• Spikeball Club

• Society of Professional Journalists

• Society of Women Engineers (SWE)

• Stage Company

• Sustainability Club

• Table Top Gaming Club

• Virtual Design and Construction

• Women in Business

• Women of Color Club (WOCC)

• Women in Construction

ATHLETICS

Location: Rec Center | https://rwuhawks.com | 401-254-3050

MISSION

The Department of Athletics, Intramurals and Recreation is to provide the Roger Williams University community a collaborative and competitive athletic and recreational environment. Through a variety of athletic avenues (varsity athletics, intramurals, recreation, club sports and wellness), the department teaches life-lessons and personal growth through teamwork, perseverance and commitment, which instills a sense of pride in themselves and in THE RWU experience.

BEST ADVICE FROM THE ATHLETICS DEPARTMENT

• Your teammates and coaches are your best resources

• Use the facilities as much as you want!

• Attend sporting events and meet the staff

• The department is home to one of the largest employers, if you have work-study, apply to work for the department!

• Get involved and get connected. It might be uncomfortable at first, but that feeling quickly passes. There are a lot of opportunities at RWU - take advantage!

Men’s Varsity Sports

Co-ed Varsity Sports

Club Sports

CAMPUS DINING

Every college campus has food, but not every college campus has Bon Appétit. According to a student satisfaction survey, our food is in the top 5% in the country–AGAIN! Make sure to visit our Café Bon Appétit page for events, catering event orders, our full menu, wellness information, and more!

Bon Appétit is committed to using local and sustainable ingredients whenever possible and sponsors the Eat Local Challenge and Earth Day celebrations each year. We are proud to say 30% of our ingredients are sourced from farmers, fishermen, and artisans within 150 miles of Roger Williams! We are committed to offering healthy menu items that emphasize fresh produce, legumes, and whole grains. Our chefs practice “stealth” nutrition by using healthy cooking techniques and ingredients in everyday food preparation.

Bon Appétit makes sure there is something for everyone—including special dinners for Ramadan, Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Chinese New Year. Our team looks forward to working with student groups, clubs, and organizations to feature menu items and host events designed by our students.

IN REGARDS TO ALLERGIES AND DIETARY NEEDS

It’s a priority that all students have the ability to dine safely on campus with peers. We recognize that dining is a significant part of the college experience and we strive to provide a safe environment for all students.

Our goal is to provide students with tools for them to actively manage their food allergy or celiac disease in our café’s. We want students to be prepared to advocate for their needs and we are here to help facilitate a safe transition to living at college with allergies. Each student with dietary needs can develop a plan with the University. Accessibility Services, Dining Services, and Health Services will collaborate with students who have food allergies, celiac disease, or other dietary conditions to provide appropriate accommodations.

Food and where to find it:

The Upper Commons is the University’s main dining hall serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Choices seem endless at this all-you-care-to-eat café — from made-to-order stir-fry, fresh salads, comforting entrée’s, to tempting pizza, pasta, and grill favorites. The Upper Commons also has a dedicated made-without-gluten station and made-without-gluten options at all stations.

The Lower Commons is located right below the Upper Commons and has everything from GO meals to sushi, pizza, grill, a salad bar, and made-to-order sandwiches – fire grilled or cold!

The Hawk’s Nest is located in the Recreation Center and serves coffee, fresh pastries, and bagels in addition to fruit smoothies and GO meals.

Global Café sserves Starbucks coffee and specializes in espresso drinks, but also GO meals, grilled sandwiches, and breakfast sandwiches.

Café Express is located in the College of Arts & Sciences and has GO meals, house-made soups, and coffee. Perfect for on- the- go students!

Meal Plans

Student residents living in traditional style living areas are required to be on one of the following three Block Meal Plans.

Your Blocks may be used in our residential café’s – the Upper Commons – or in the Lower Commons during available hours. Hawk Dollars accompanying each plan may be used in any of our café’s and offer more dining flexibility across campus. Each plan also comes with three Bonus Meals to use for guests not on a Roger Williams dining plan.

Your options for required meal plans are:

230 Block Plan | 200 Hawk Dollars

225 Block Plan | 400 Hawk Dollars

200 Block Plan | 450 Hawk Dollars

COMMUTER, LAW STUDENTS, AND STUDENTS LIVING IN NON-TRADITIONAL CAMPUS HOUSING

Roger Williams University has created several dining plans especially for the to provide greater access to all of our on-campus café’s. When you purchase one of these plans, you can be sure that you have access to healthy, nutritional food choices when you’re on campus.

125 Block Plan

Ideal plan for apartment dwellers who want to eat an average of 7-8 meals per week on campus and use 400 in Hawk Dollars throughout the semester; 3 Bonus Meals per semester to be used for yourself, another oncampus student, or commuter.

Commuter Plan

This plan offers the best value for commuting students. You will receive 20 meals per semester that can be eaten at any meal period, as well as 300 Hawk Dollars.

WHAT ARE…

Hawk Dollars

Hawk Dollars are accepted like cash in all our dining locations. Hawk Dollars are a “declining balance account” that works on the same principle as a debit card. You can use your Hawk Dollars to purchase beverages, snacks, or even a full meal in all of the RWU retail and residential locations. Each time you make a purchase, the purchase amount is subtracted from your Hawk Dollar balance. Your Hawk Dollars do carry over from the fall semester to the spring semester but not from year to year.

Points

Much like Hawk Dollars, Points are accepted like cash in all our dining locations and are a “declining balance account” that works on the same principle as a debit card. Points can also be used at location on and off campus (a full list of locations that accept RWU Points on our RWU Dining web page), at the bookstore, for laundry, printing services, and more. Points are assigned when a customer adds money to their ID online at GET Funds, at the Bursars Office, or at the Lower Commons ID Office.

COUNSELING CENTER

www.rwu.edu/undergraduate/student-life/health-and-counseling/counseling-center

Individual counseling and group counseling appointments are available at zero cost to full-time RWU undergraduate, graduate, and law students. Counseling is offered to students for a wide variety of personal concerns.

We offer both in-person and telemental health treatment (i.e., synchronous video) appointments. Appointments are scheduled by calling the Center at 401-254-3124 or by visiting our spaces on the 2nd floor of the Center for Student Development building. Email is not an effective way of contacting the Center.

During the academic year, we are available Monday through Friday 8:30am to 5:00pm on non-holidays. During spring, summer, and winter breaks, we are available Monday through Friday 8:00am to 4:00pm on non-holidays.

Center Administration: Christopher Bailey, Ph.D., Director/Psychologist and Maureen Minarik, Ph.D., Assistant Director/Psychologist

Description:

The Counseling Center staff are a team of professionals comprised of psychologists, a social worker, postdoctorate fellows, a part-time consulting psychiatrist, doctoral psychology interns, and support staff. The clinical staff assist students with a wide variety of personal concerns and support students in enhancing their resiliency. Our staff has a strong commitment to working with students from diverse backgrounds. Our services are confidential in conjunction with ethical guidelines and legal standards of Rhode Island. Staff cannot share information about whether or not a student has visited the Center, or any information about meetings without a student’s written permission.

Services Offered:

• Counseling: Individual and group counseling is provided in a confidential manner. Counseling tends to be short-term with the goal of helping students effectively manage personal difficulties. Appointments are initiated by a student and not by others, and are typically scheduled in advance of the appointment time.

• Outreach: Staff offer presentations and trainings on a variety of topics such as anxiety, depression, eating concerns, happiness, and time management.

• Consultation: Administrators, faculty, family members, friends, and university staff can consult with Center staff regarding students who they have concerns about. Concerns are often more effectively communication and addressed through information available on the Student Life website: https://www.rwu.edu/undergraduate/student-life/about-student-life/supporting-students-concern-oremergencies.

Center staff also collaborate with other university personnel through committees.

• Emergencies: For life-threatening emergencies, Public Safety (401-254-3333) is available on-campus and East Bay Center (401-246-0700) is available off-campus. Both are accessible 24/7/365.

HEALTH SERVICES

Location: Center for Student Development, 2nd Floor | (401) 254-3156 | health@rwu.edu

Clinic Hours: Monday- Friday: 8:30a-5p by appointment only CLOSED FOR WEEKENDS AND HOLIDAYS

General

Information

Health Services is an appointment-based clinic designed to manage acute episodic health problems and the flare up of chronic problems. Students who become acutely ill or injured outside regular clinic hours should contact call Public Safety directly. Emergency Medical Technicians will assess the situation and will coordinate transportation to a local urgent care or emergency room for treatment if indicated. For non-emergency medical care after hours, Bristol Medical Center Walk-In Clinic is located 3.5 miles from campus. Transportation options available to get to the walk-in clinic include RWU zipcars or Uber Health.

The clinic is staffed with three full-time Nurse Practitioners, a part-time Physician, a Registered Nurse, two Medical Assistants, and a Medical Secretary. We are committed to providing quality health care and educating students on their health and well-being to enhance their personal and academic success.

Health Services is available to all full-time undergraduate students (residents or commuters). Student fees cover the cost of clinic visits. Additional fees may apply for medications, lab work, immunizations, as well as referrals to specialty providers. Students do not have to have the Roger Williams University Health Insurance Plan to receive care at Health Services. Health insurance is necessary for laboratory tests, diagnostic studies, local walk-in clinic visits, ambulance transport, emergency room visits and specialty provider referrals. These costs may be covered by the student’s own insurance carrier. All students need to understand how health insurance works. For additional information on insurance, visit the Insurance section of our website: https://www.rwu.edu/undergraduate/student-life/health-and-counseling/healthservices/insurance.

Health Insurance

Roger Williams University requires all full-time undergraduate, Masters of Architecture, and international students (residential and commuter) to have comprehensive health insurance. Students may be covered by a private health insurance plan or may choose to use the University-sponsored student health insurance plan.

Student Health Insurance Plan

To be eligible for the University-sponsored Student Health Insurance Plan, you must be enrolled in nine (9) or more credit hours. All full-time Undergraduate students (residential and commuter), all Master and Architecture students, all first and second-year School of Law students, all Master of Law students, and all International students are automatically enrolled in this insurance plan unless proof of adequate health insurance under an existing plan is provided by completing the online waiver form located on the following link: http://www.universityhealthplans.com/rwu.

HEALTH SERVICES CONTINUED

Failure to complete the online waiver form by the deadline, August 15, 2022, will result in your mandatory purchase of the University’s Student Health Insurance Plan without the possibility of later waiver, refund, or cancellation. All full-time Graduate students with six (6) or more credits (non-Master in Architecture) and third-year School of Law students are eligible to enroll in this insurance on a voluntary basis. Please refer to the following link for detailed information: http://www.rwu.edu/campus-life/health-counseling/ healthservices/insurance.

Before Waiving the University’s Health Insurance Plan, Consider Your Current Plan

One of the many decisions to be made in preparation for the upcoming academic year is whether your current insurance plan will provide adequate coverage while attending Roger William’s University. Not all plans provide comprehensive coverage in Rhode Island such as certain HMO and PPO plans and out-ofstate Medicaid plans. We find that many students arrive on campus with insurance that is inadequate due to restrictive provider networks, high deductibles, or limited coverage for services received outside of a health plan’s service area. It is your decision to enroll or waive the Roger Williams University Student Health Insurance Plan, but here are some questions to think about and see if your current health plan covers before you waive the University-sponsored health insurance plan:

• Does my plan cover full-time students attending school out-of-state?

• Does my plan provide adequate coverage for emergency services, local urgent care facilities, diagnostic x-rays, laboratory services, mental health coverage, prescription drugs, and hospitalization?

• Does my plan have participating in-network health care providers in the Bristol, RI area?

• Does my plan have a high deductible that needs to be met before full coverage begins?

Health Form Requirements

All incoming students must complete required health forms by June 15th for students starting in the fall and by January 1st for students starting in the spring. The required health forms are located on the Health Services Patient Portal which can be accessed here: https://www.rwu.edu/undergraduate/student-life/healthand-counseling/health-services

Health forms must be submitted through the patient portal. Forms cannot be faxed, emailed, mailed or dropped off. Students must be in compliance with Rhode Island immunization requirements. If proof of immunizations is not available, a serology test showing proof of immunity is acceptable.

IMPORTANT: If required health forms are not received by the deadline, a hold is placed on the student’s account until the requirement is met. A hold will result in the student not being able to add or drop courses, see their grades, or register for next semester classes. Students receive a weekly email reminder letting them know what they are missing.

Immunization Requirements

Rhode Island state law requires that all students (graduate and undergraduate) provide documentation of:

• 1 Tdap (Tetanus/Diphtheria/Pertussis) vaccine; last dose of Td or Tdap must be within the last 10 years

• 2 MMR (Measles/Mumps/Rubella) vaccines OR proof of immunity by positive titre OR confirmed history of measles, mumps, rubella.

• 3 Hepatitis B vaccines OR proof of immunity by positive titre.

• 2 Varicella vaccines OR proof of immunity by positive titre OR confirmed history of chicken pox

• Meningitis vaccine – one dose of meningococcal conjugate (MCV3) vaccine is required for students previously unvaccinated (under 22 years of age). A second booster dose is required if the first dose was given before 16 years of age

• Hepatitis A and HPV (Human Papillomavirus) vaccines are strongly recommended but not required.

Requests for medical exemptions may be granted if there is documentation from a health care provider stating the reason(s) that these vaccines are contraindicated. Requests for religious exemptions may be granted in accordance with Rhode Island state law governing immunizations. In the event there is an outbreak of any of these vaccine-preventable diseases, students who have been granted exemptions will be required to leave campus and will be allowed to return when the period of communicability has passed as determined by the RI Department of Health.

At Health Services, we respect and preserve the privacy and confidentiality of all students. All information a student shares in a medical visit and any information contained in a student’s medical record is considered confidential. This information will be released only with the written consent of the student or as required by law. On occasion, Health Services receives telephone calls from parents about student’s medical care. If the student is over 18 years of age, Health Services is unable to release any medical information to parents without the student’s explicit permission.

There may be times when transfer of medical care to another health care institution or specialty provider is necessary. In order for medical information to be released, a written release of medical information must be signed by the student.

Health Services Frequently Asked Questions

1. Health Services is available to help students obtain proper care, information, or accommodation information for a number of medical conditions. Health Services can provide you with recommendations for on-campus or local community resources that provide services for issues such as tuberculosis treatment, sexually transmitted infections, eating disorders, psychiatric care, or certain disabilities. We encourage students to contact us directly with their specific needs.

2. When a student has a chronic illness such as diabetes, epilepsy, eating disorders, etc., we will need a summary from your health care provider. In consultation with your health care provider, we can monitor you, as needed, while you are at school.

3. We can arrange for the transfer of your medical records/immunization records to another school.

4. Referrals can be made to the Roger Williams University Counseling Services.

5. Health education counseling and wellness information is offered to discuss diet, exercise, stressmanagement, and disease prevention.

What Do I Do If I Am Sick?

If you are not feeling well, you should call Health Services at 401-254-3156 to schedule an appointment with a health care provider or use online self-scheduling on the Health Services Patient Portal. The provider can diagnose and treat many of the common health problems of a student on a college campus. Our providers are licensed to prescribe prescription medications as well as dispense over the counter medications. A physician is also available on a part-time basis to see students with more complex problems.

Students will receive an email the evening before their scheduled appointment reminding them of their appointment date and time. If a student needs to cancel or change their appointment, they are advised to call Health Services as soon as possible. There will be a $25.00 charge for all no-shows.

Can a nurse come to my room if I am too sick to come to Health Services?

No, unfortunately we cannot send staff to the residence halls as that would leave the clinic understaffed. We can assist you with getting transportation via Public Safety or if you are too ill via ambulance to an emergency room.

What do I do about meals when I am too ill to go to the dining hall?

The ill student can have his friend or roommate pick up a takeout meal. The friend or roommate should bring the ill students ID card with them.

What do I do if I am too ill to attend classes?

It is the student’s responsibility to contact professors if unable to attend classes. It is preferred that you contact your professors as soon as practical to make arrangements to make-up work. If you wish to be seen by Health Services, you must call and schedule an appointment. Health care providers will not provide medical excuse notes or speak to professors regarding a student’s visit.

Can I get my immunization at Health Services?

Some immunizations are available at Health Services for a fee. Health insurance does not cover the fee for immunizations. CVS or Walgreens is another option for obtaining immunizations.

Can I get a physical at Health Services?

We do offer routine well physicals and pre-participation sports physicals at Health Services for an additional fee. We highly encourage pre-participation sports physicals to be done prior to the start of the school year by the student’s primary care provider.

What if I have to have lab work or x-rays, or see another provider?

Most laboratory tests can be collected at Health Services. These specimens are then sent to an outside laboratory for processing. If you need x-rays or other diagnostic testing, they can be scheduled for you at local facilities. Laboratory tests sent for processing and diagnostic testing done outside of Health Services are billed to your medical insurance.

For student convenience, we will draw blood for tests ordered by outside providers. The student would need to bring in the order for the lab test or have it faxed to Health Services. Lab results will be faxed to the ordering provider who will be responsible for managing the health concern.

What if I am referred to an outside specialist?

If you are referred to an outside specialist for consultation or further treatment, a list of specialists in the local area are available and you will be assisted with making the appointment. Referral appointments are billed to your insurance. If you are unable to keep the appointments, please notify Health Services and call the specialty clinic to cancel your appointment. Failure to cancel the appointment may result in a noshow fee.

IMPORTANT: Health insurances vary in their coverage for each of the above items. It is important to always present your insurance card and be aware that your insurance may or may not cover the cost of the test or appointment.

Is there a pharmacy at Health Services?

Pharmedix offers convenient in-office dispensing of several commonly used prescription medications for a nominal fee that cannot be billed to the student’s health insurance. If a student does not wish to use this service, the health care provider can put in an electronic prescription that can be filled at one of the local pharmacies. Many over the counter medicines (i.e., Tylenol, ibuprofen, Benadryl, Cough Medicine, Mucinex, Zyrtec, Pepcid, emergency contraception) are available at Health Services for a nominal fee. Students do not need to have a clinic appointment to purchase these items.

What if I have a disability?

Students having any medical or physical disability are encouraged to contact Health Services as early as possible before enrollment to ensure coordination of comprehensive medical care and adequate insurance protection. Accommodations are made in coordination with the Office of Accessibility.

Does Health Services store medications?

Students who arrive to Roger Williams University with prescription medications are responsible for keeping those medications with them in their residence hall rooms. There is no available space to maintain student medications. We encourage students to bring a lock box with them to store their medication.

What first aid supplies should I bring with me?

Each student should come with some knowledge of how to treat minor medical problems. These are a few basic health care supplies we recommend students bring to campus:

• First aid kit containing band-aids, antibiotic ointment, acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Motrin), Robitussin DM, murine, allergy medications (Benadryl, Claritin, Zyrtec), decongestants (Sudafed), cough drops.

• Digital thermometer.

• Chemical cold pack to keep in freezer to reduce swelling.

• Chemical warm pack to heat in microwave for muscle ache.

• Any other home remedy that does not violate Residence Life Policies.

CAMPUS SAFETY

EMERGENCY COMMUNICATION

Roger Williams University has taken a number of steps to ensure that its ability to respond to an emergency situation, whether natural or man-made, is as advanced as possible. You’ll learn more about these and other programs by visiting campus, but here are highlights on two of the tools the University calls upon in such situations.

RWU ALERTS

The RWU Alert emergency notification system serves as the University’s primary communication tool for alerting campus community members to urgent situations. When activated, the system sends phone, e-mail and text messages so that students, faculty and staff members won’t be in the dark when it comes to incidents that could affect their safety. Students are automatically registered when they enroll at RWU; the only action required on their part is to keep their contact information up to date through the University’s student services web portal.

EMERGENCY SIREN WARNING SYSTEM

Even with today’s technology, sometimes the most effective means of notifying an entire campus community simultaneously is through a much more traditional method. In early 2009, RWU completed installation of an emergency siren warning system that can broadcast an alarm tone and voice instructions to all parts of campus when activated in the event of a potentially life-threatening emergency. While the system will be activated rarely – for such situations as a sudden, dangerous lightning storm, a chemical spill or a hostile intruder – the siren will serve as a critical tool in alerting the community to an emergency situation.

CAMPUS TRANSPORTATION

RIPTA

All freshman students are eligible for the RWU RIPTA plan, which includes a number of free rides per semester during their first year at RWU. The RIPTA bus stop is located about 10 feet from campus grounds, and can take you to virtually any corner of Rhode Island, including both Newport and Providence. The RWU bus stop is designated as “Mount Hope Bridge” stop on the Rt. 60 Schedule at http://www.ripta.com/60.

. ZIPCAR

Not having a car is no longer an issue! Whether you need a car for a few hours to run errands or the whole day, you can use Zipcars. They’re parked right on campus, outside of the Fine Arts building. With a Zipcar, everything is included with the hourly rate, starting at $11.50 and $84.00/day. It only costs $25 to join. You only have to be 18 years old to join ZipCar.

CAMPUS SHUTTLE

The Main Shuttle Shelter is located across from the Admissions House Parking Lot 1 for all off-campus transportation including public transportation terminals. The Bristol Shuttle leaves from the Main Shuttle Shelter.

https://www.rwu.edu/who-we-are/administrative-offices/public-safety/transportation/shuttle-service

RWU BOOKSTORE

The Commons, Lower Level | Rory Alexander- Store Manager | 401-254-3036 | www.rwu.bncollege.com

The bookstore accepts payment with cash, credit cards, the RWU Uni-card (Points only. Not Hawk dollars), and the Barnes & Noble gift card, which can also be purchased here at our bookstore. However, we do not accept the “Reader’s Advantage Membership” card.

Website: www.rwu.bncollege.com (Undergraduate/Graduate School) www.law.rwu.bncollege.com (Law School)

TEXTBOOKS [Purchase or Rent]

Barnes & Noble operates our bookstore for the Undergraduate/Graduate School and Law School. Textbooks can be purchased NEW or USED, rented NEW or USED, or purchased DIGITAL. The availability of each option is dependent on the book and what the professor has requested.

Professors select materials that supplement your class. If the textbook is required or recommended by your professor, chances are the bookstore will have your textbook on the shelf. When coming to the bookstore, remember to bring your class schedule or syllabus to make sure that you are buying the correct books for the correct class. (The bookstore does not have access to your schedule.)

The bookstore also offers online ordering. Online orders can be shipped directly to you, or ordered for instore pickup. Ordering your textbooks online is quick, easy, and hassle free.

You can also SELL back textbooks you have purchased. . . no matter where they were bought! The best time to sell your books back is right after you finish your final exam.

A VALID STUDENT ID card is required for all buyback transactions.

NOTE: When renting textbooks, the deadline to return rented textbooks back to the bookstore is by the last day of exams. If rental textbooks are not returned to the bookstore by this deadline, additional replacement fees and late processing fees  may be incurred to the customer.

GENERAL MERCHANDISE [Convenience Items, Clothing, Gift ware, and Supplies]

The bookstore also sells architecture supplies, computer and school supplies, Roger Williams clothing and gift ware (both undergraduate and law school), and snacks.

MEET THE CREATOR

Sherisa Smith ‘25, is a senior student with a major in Graphic Design. She is working towards her minors in Photography, Chinese, and ASL. In addition to her academics, Sherisa is also heavily involved in her campus community! This will be her third and final year as a Design Coordinator for Student Life. Sherisa is the Head RA of Cedar Hall, the President of Rhythm n’ Roots (RnR), she is a mentor to first year ILA students, and is also on Event Staff!

“The coolest part of this job is that I am quite literally crafting my graphic design portfolio every time I step foot into this office. I get to design stickers, t-shirts, banners, and sometimes even cookies! Having my work displayed around campus is uplifting and makes me want to create more. I love when I walk by my work and someone goes ‘that’s a sick poster!’ Its a feeling I hope that every designer has the opportunity to experience.”

A series of characters designed by Sherisa for the “Little Mx OA project.

“Once you find your people at Roger, everything else will fall into place.”