STATE UNIVERSITY STUDENT HANDBOOK 2024-25 NORTHERN.EDU
TABLE OF CONTENTS Welcome............................................................................................................................................................................. 3 Letter from the President............................................................................................................................................. 4 Letter from the Dean of Students..............................................................................................................................5 NSU Campus of Distinction ......................................................................................................................................... 6 The Institution and Campus ........................................................................................................................................ 7 NSU Departments and Ofces Academic Afairs ............................................................................................................................................................. 9 Finance and Administration ....................................................................................................................................... 11 Student Afairs ............................................................................................................................................................... 12 Technology Services..................................................................................................................................................... 13 Enrollment, Communications and Marketing...................................................................................................... 14 Department of Athletics ............................................................................................................................................. 14 Campus Services Fax Service ...................................................................................................................................................................... 15 Lost and Found.............................................................................................................................................................. 15 Parking and Fines.......................................................................................................................................................... 15 Postal Services ............................................................................................................................................................... 16 Change of Address ....................................................................................................................................................... 16 Publications..................................................................................................................................................................... 16 Scheduling of University Events .............................................................................................................................. 16 University Afliated Use ............................................................................................................................................. 16 Cancellation of Classes Due to Severe Weather................................................................................................ 17 Animal Policy .................................................................................................................................................................. 17 Pets..................................................................................................................................................................................... 19 Campus Alert System .................................................................................................................................................. 19 Academics Transcripts........................................................................................................................................................................ 19 Grades .............................................................................................................................................................................. 20 Academic Advising...................................................................................................................................................... 20 Advisor Assignments .................................................................................................................................................. 20 Academic Load ............................................................................................................................................................. 20 Academic Probation and Suspension.................................................................................................................... 21 Class Attendance, Drop, Withdrawal, and Refund Information................................................................... 22 SD Board of Regents Policy Manual - Student Academic Misconduct 2:33............................................ 24 Student Freedom in Learning.................................................................................................................................. 25 Class Attendance.......................................................................................................................................................... 26 Course Adds................................................................................................................................................................... 26 Course Drops ................................................................................................................................................................. 26 Declaring a Major or Minor........................................................................................................................................ 26 Attendance Confrmation........................................................................................................................................... 26 Fee Payment .................................................................................................................................................................. 26 Final Exams..................................................................................................................................................................... 27 Privacy Rights................................................................................................................................................................ 27 Student Academic Appeal Policy........................................................................................................................... 28 Textbook Policies........................................................................................................................................................... 31 Withdrawal from NSU.................................................................................................................................................. 31 Student Afairs Policies Concerning Student Organizations....................................................................................................... 32 Posting Policy ................................................................................................................................................................ 35 Solicitation/Fundraising on Campus..................................................................................................................... 37 Immunization Policy.................................................................................................................................................... 39 Campus Fire Prevention and Safety Policy......................................................................................................... 39 Smoking Policy.............................................................................................................................................................. 40 NSU’s Philosophy and Policy Concerning Alcohol and Other Drugs ........................................................ 40 Campus Harassment and Incitement .................................................................................................................... 43 SD Board of Regents Policies SD Board of Regents Policy Manual 6:13 - Facilities Use by Private Parties .......................................... 43 SD Board of Regents Policy Manual 1:19 - Equal Opportunity, Non-discrimination, Afrmative Action....... 49 SD Board of Regents Policy 1:17 - Harassment including Sexual Harassment Policy.......................... 49 SD Board of Regents Policy 1:17:1 - Prevention of Dating Violence, Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and Stalking.................................................................................................................................................... 60 SD Board of Regents Policy Manual 3:4 - Student Conduct Code ............................................................ 64 SD Board of Regents Policy Manual 3:17 - Entry, Search and Seizure...................................................... 88 SD Board of Regents Policy Manual 3:21 - Missing Person Policy............................................................... 89 2 NSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2024-25
WELCOME The Northern State University Student Handbook includes helpful information about services, administrative policies and procedures. This handbook has been developed for your use by the Student Affairs Office. It is the responsibility of every student to be aware of current policies. Questions about these policies, or other information should be directed to the Dean of Students, NSU Avera Student Center Room 222, 605-626-3007. Since the policies, programs, and services contained herein are subject to continuous review and evaluation, the University reserves the right to make changes at any time without notice. 3 NSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2024-25
LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT On behalf of our campus community, welcome to Northern State University! I’m thrilled that you’ve chosen Northern as your college home. Northern is recognized for excellence in the liberal arts which will prepare you with 21st Century critical thinking, problem-solving and communication skills that are valued by employers and in the workforce. You will work with faculty scholars who are committed to teaching, personalized and individualized attention and mentoring you in experiential learning opportunities including undergraduate research and internships in your field of study. And you will be supported by faculty and staff to guide you to the ultimate goal of graduation and pursuing a successful career and life as an engaged citizen and leader. We also want you to take advantage of a full college experience in an environment committed to your success in athletics, fine and performing arts, student organizations and intramurals and by participating in a vibrant schedule of events on campus, study abroad opportunities and engaging in the wonderful community of Aberdeen. The more deeply you engage, the more you will fuel a passion for lifelong learning and community engagement and expand your worldview and develop friendships that will last a lifetime. Again, welcome to Northern – this is the perfect place to unleash your potential, and I’m proud to have you as part of our pack. Have a great year in Wolves Country! Sincerely, Neal Schnoor President 4 NSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2024-25
LETTER FROM DEAN OF STUDENTS Welcome to Northern State University! You will quickly discover that Northern is a special place where dedicated faculty and staff are committed to helping you on your higher education journey. You are part of the Wolf Pack Membership in this academic community imparts both privileges and responsibilities. This handbook will help you understand these rights and responsibilities and serve as a resource to help you navigate the important things you need to know, including location of offices, services, and the tasks you need to complete (paying your bill, getting a parking pass, etc.). You are joining a caring community where we look out for one another and make responsible choices. If you see a fellow wolf in distress, offer a helping hand, a kind word, or share your concern with a faculty or staff member. Be a part of Campus Life Students who fully engage in campus life are more successful in the classroom, graduate sooner, and enjoy their college experience more. This handbook, along with the NSU website, contains resources to help you find activities that will connect you to other students with whom you share common interests. These activities and experiences will introduce you to life-long friends, new hobbies, academic interests, and leadership skills. The lessons you learn outside of the classroom may even help you land a job upon graduation! Ask for Help The pursuit of a college degree requires hard work, determination, creativity, and tenacity. Your admission to Northern means that we believe you are up to the task and that we are prepared to help. Successful students seek out resources and support whenever the need arises. We are here to help you along this journey. If you do not know where else to go, please come see Student Affairs in the Avera Student Center for assistance. Be Curious We encourage you to actively engage with professors and fellow students in this endeavor of learning. Do not be afraid to ask big questions, explore different classes and majors, and step out of your comfort zone occasionally. Get involved and participate in the many cultural, recreational and educational opportunities that make this campus community vibrant and exciting. Finally, be proud of the legacy and tradition of excellence that a NSU education provides. Go Wolves! Sean S. Blackburn Dean of Students 5 NSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2024-25
NORTHERN STATE UNIVERSITY ESTABLISHMENT AND AUTHORIZATION MISSION VISION VALUES COMMUNITY DISCOVERY INTEGRITY THEMESOF STRATEGIC PLANNING: • DISTINCTIVE LEARNING • DISTINCTIVE CULTURE • DISTINCTIVE PARTNERSHIPS • DISTINCTIVELEADERSHIP 6 NSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2024-25
THE INSTITUTION AND CAMPUS Since 1901, Northern State University has been dedicated to the pursuit of excellence in education. Northern’s roots are in teacher education, but the university has since grown into a comprehensive, multi-purpose institution made up of the College of Arts and Sciences, School of Fine Arts and s School of Professional Studies. Northern serves approximately 3,500 students at the undergraduate and graduate level online, on its main Aberdeen campus and at the Huron Community Campus. Northern’s picturesque main campus includes a blend of historic and modern buildings surrounding the park-like campus green. The university continues to grow and expand, with numerous building projects finished in recent years, and some ongoing – all within easy walking distance of downtown Aberdeen. THE BEULAH WILLIAMS LIBRARY is home to a variety of individual and group study spaces, a computer lab, a smart classroom, and a DDN room. Williams Library also houses the Reading Clinic; the campus music collection and listening room; NSU Archives and Special Collections; and the Round Room, an intimate event space. Print holdings include over 175,000 books and 35,000 federal and state documents. Access to the online catalog and electronic collections is provided to students and faculty 24 hours a day, seven days a week online. THE STUDENT CENTER is the core of social life on campus, housing the Wolves Den dining facility; Einstein Bros. Bagels; and student organization offices for Student Government Association, the Campus Activities Board (CAB) and the Honors Program. It’s also home to the offices of Residence Life, Student Involvement and Leadership, Admissions, Student Rights and Responsibilities, Student Accessibility Services, Veterans and Military Services, and Campus Security; as well as the Counseling Center, Multicultural Center, the NSU Wolf Shoppe (campus bookstore) and the Post Office. THE JOHNSON FINE ARTS CENTER, Northern’s primary performing arts space, includes a Black Box Theatre; Berggren Recital Hall; state-of-the-art practice rooms for music students; an art gallery; and the main Jewett Theater, which hosts an array of university and community performances. The building also serves the campus as a major classroom facility. THE JOSEPH H. BARNETT PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND CONVOCATION CENTER is home to NSU Athletics. This multipurpose facility includes a swimming pool, wrestling room, weight room, training room, auxiliary gym, locker rooms, classrooms and offices. The main arena, Wachs Arena, contains a 160-meter indoor track and a basketball court. The facility seats 8,000 people and is utilized for state tournaments and community events. Wachs Arena is home to the NSU volleyball; wrestling; indoor track and field; and basketball teams, which consistently lead the nation in attendance for NCAA Division II. The women’s swim team practices in the Barnett Center, but competes at the Aberdeen Family YMCA. Northern’s beautiful turf ATHLETIC AND RECREATION FIELDS include a new women’s soccer field and football practice field, with a pavilion between the two. The Athletic and Rec Fields are also used by NSU Intramurals, which offers numerous sports and recreational activities for Northern students. THE HARVEY C. JEWETT IV REGIONAL SCIENCE EDUCATION CENTER is home to the NSU biology and chemistry departments. With state-of-the-art labs and equipment, this two-story facility is enhancing science education and undergraduate research on the Northern campus while offering community outreach opportunities to K-12 students around the area. With its prominent placement at the corner of Twelfth Avenue Southeast and South State Street, it also serves as a gateway to campus, with a wolf statue standing in front of the building. 7 NSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2024-25
THE NSU REGIONAL SPORTS COMPLEX connects to the Barnett Center. The complex includes the brand new Dacotah Bank Stadium, which is home to NSU Wolves Football, and Koehler Hall of Fame Softball Field, which will is home to NSU Wolves Softball. THE NSU TECHNOLOGY CENTER stands out at the center of campus with its glass façade. An addition to the Mewaldt-Jensen Building, the Tech Center houses Tech Support Services. It is also becoming the new home of the Student Success Center, which brings together academic advising, the Tutoring Center, the Writing Center, supplemental instruction, the American Indian Circle Program, and the TRIO Student Support Services and Upward Bound programs. In addition, the SSC will include the offices of Career Services, and Testing Services. MEWALDT-JENSEN houses programs of the College of Arts and Sciences, along with the NSU-SDSU Accelerated Nursing Program and the NSU CENTER FOR STATEWIDE E-LEARNING. Established by the South Dakota legislature in March 2001, the E-learning Center serves K-12 schools, undergraduate students and graduate students across South Dakota through distance education and interactive instructional technologies. THE GERBER BUILDING houses the Millicent Atkins School of Education, now part of the College of Professional Studies and the heart of teacher education at Northern. GRAHAM HALL, one of the most historic buildings on campus, includes the NSU Communications and Marketing Department; offices for Aramark, which operates NSU Dining Services; the Missouri River Room, which holds a variety of meetings and other events; and the office of the Exponent student newspaper. SPAFFORD HALL is home to the School of Fine Arts, including art department studios and labs. Spafford also houses the offices of the NSU President and Provost. DACOTAH HALL includes the Financial Aid office; Registrar; and Dacotah Hall Gymnasium, a wellness center available to students that features a basketball court plus two levels of space designed for individual exercise activities. KRIKAC ADMINISTRATION BUILDING houses the finance, purchasing and human resources offices. It is also home to Krikac Auditorium, which is a gorgeous performance space with its beautifully renovated stained-glass windows and ornately decorated seats. Northern has six residence halls – including three new facilities offering the latest of amenities, such as various suite-style rooms. They are MCWELSH HALL; STEELE HALL; KRAMER HALL; WOLVES MEMORIAL SUITES, which opened in fall 2017; and GREAT PLAINS EAST and GREAT PLAINS WEST, both of which opened in fall 2018. GPW offers a game-cleaning room for students who hunt, and GPE features Grid Market convenience store. THE CLARK SWISHER ATHLETIC COMPLEX, located two miles east of the main campus, is used by the NSU track and field team. The complex includes a 6,000-seat football arena, Swisher Field, and an artificial-surface outdoor track. The NSU baseball team plays at Fossum Field, located in northeast Aberdeen. THE BECKMAN BUILDING southeast of campus houses the NSU Foundation. THE SOUTH DAKOTA SCHOOL FOR THE BLIND AND VISUALLY IMPAIRED,a community partner of NSU, moved into a brand new school building across from the NSU Barnett Center. This state-of-the-art facility includes bigger classrooms and modern technology. SCHOLARSHIP Scholarly and creative activities are conducted in all authorized disciplines consistent with the academic purposes of the institution. 8 NSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2024-25
ONLINE AND CONTINUING EDUCATION Online and Continuing Education coordinates the delivery of all NSU distance education degree programs and courses. Distance education courses are available to degree and non-degree seeking students delivered online, and off-campus at Huron Community Campus and other approved locations in South Dakota. OCE staff coordinates numerous faculty-led travel courses, High School Dual Credit, as well as professional development programs for SD Board of Regent Students, SD Teachers, and professional groups. All online programs and courses are available to citizens in the US, Canada, Puerto Rico, Republic of Palau, Republic of the Marshall Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, American Samoa, The Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and US Virgin Islands. NSU DEPARTMENTS AND OFFICES ACADEMIC AFFAIRS Under the direction of the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, this University division includes the Honors Program, Williams Library, College of Arts and Sciences, College of Professional Studies (including the Millicent Atkins School of Education and the School of Business), School of Fine Arts, Graduate Studies, Online and Continuing Education, Institutional Research and Assessment, Grants and Sponsored Research, First Year Seminar, Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL), the Registrar’s Office, and the Student Success Center, which provides academic support services free of charge for all NSU students. These services include academic advising, supplemental instruction and tutoring in all subjects, especially mathematics, writing, and reading. The Student Success Center also houses federal TRIO programs: TRIO Student Support Services and TRIO Upward Bound. Among the many important duties of Academic Affairs are the preparation of the Graduate and Undergraduate Catalog, fall, spring, and summer class schedules, the coordination of commencements, and the supervision of all academic matters. Provost/Vice President for Academic Affairs – Dr. Mike Wanous Spafford Hall 203A, 605-626-2524 Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs – Dr. Erin Fouberg Spafford Hall 203B, 605-626-3456 College of Arts and Sciences Dean – Dr. Alyssa Kiesow Tech Center 359, 605-626-2601 College of School of Business Dean – Dr. Kristi Bockorny Mewaldt-Jensen 130, 605-626-2400 School of Education Dean – Dr. Anna Schwan TC 256, 605-626-7783 School of Fine Arts Dean – Dr. Kenneth Boulton Spafford Hall 316, 605-626-2500 Office of Graduate Studies Director – Dr. Erin Fouberg Spafford Hall 203B, 605-626-3456 Office of Online and Continuing Education Director – Brandy Netty Krikac Administration Building 101, 605-626-2568 Honors Program Director – Vacant 605-626-3001 9 NSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2024-25
Beulah Williams Library Director – Robert Russell Beulah Williams Library 146, 605-626-3018 Registrar’s Office Director – Amy Beaner Dacotah Hall 103, 605-626-2012 Center for Statewide E-learning Principal – Mary Cundy MeWaldt-Jensen 318, 605-626-3387 Sponsored Projects Director – Dr. Alyssa Kiesow Tech Center 359, 605-626-2601 Institutional Research/Assessment Director – Dr. Brenda Mammenga Spafford Hall 205C, 605-626-2433 International Programs Director – Michael Mohammed Graham Hall 203, 605-626-3163 Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning – Dr. Liz Sills Tech Center 264, 605-626-7700 First Year Seminar Coordinator – Dr. Ginny Lewis Tech Center 248, 605-626-7696 Undergraduate Research Coordinator – Vacant 605-626-2419 Student Success Center Executive Director – Britt Lorenz Technology Center 156, 605-626-7781 Advising Coordinator/EAB Navigate Coordinator – Madia Droppers Mewaldt-Jensen 120, 605-626-2633 American Indian Circle Program Director – Lara Nelson Mewaldt-Jensen 109, 605-626-3573 Career Center Coordinator – Carly Bierman Mewaldt-Jensen 102, 605-626-2416 Tutoring Center Director – Vicki Evans Technology Center 151, 605-626-2665 Director of Advising – Kerry Casper Technology Center 150, 605-626-2343 TRIO Student Support Services Director – Justin Bartel Technology Center 160, 605-626-7782 TRIO Upward Bound Director – Jennie Thompson Mewaldt-Jensen 104, 605-626-3299 Testing Center – Alex Woytassek Beulah Williams Library 154A, 605-626-2029 FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION Under the direction of the Vice President for Finance and Administration, the Finance and 10 NSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2024-25
Administration includes the departments of Controller, Human Resources, Facilities Management, Purchasing, and the University Bookstore.. Vice President for Finance and Administration – Veronica Paulson Krikac Administration Building 205, 605-626-2537 Program Assistant – Carol Schumacher Krikac Administration Building 205, 605-626-2537 Associate Vice President for Finance & Administration/Human Resources Director – Susan Bostian Krikac Administration Building 213, 605-626-2520 Payroll Accountant – Tina Kary Krikac Administration Building 213, 605-626-2523 Controller – Kay Fredrick Krikac Administration Building 201A, 605-626-2518 Assistant Controller – Brock Hoyle Krikac Administration Building, 605-626-2323 Senior Accountant – Jessica Beilke Krikac Administration Building 202, 605-626-2516 Purchasing Director – Sean Meyers Krikac Administration Building 212, 605-626-2529 Purchasing Assistant – Samantha Johnson Krikac Administration Building 212, 605-626-2533 Accounting Assistant – Jessica Hartung Krikac Administration Building 202, 605-626-2567 Accounting Assistant – Diamond Sturdevant Krikac Administration Building 202, 605-626-2538 Senior Accountant – Susan Jacobson Krikac Administration Building 202, 605-626-2590 Wolf Shoppe Manager – Alan Kinder Student Center 102, 605-626-2655 Director of Facilities Management – Monte Mehlhoff Physical Plant 209, 605-626-7779 Assistant Director of Facilities – Doug Leidholt Physical Plant, 605-626-2560 Program Assistant/Parking Office Supervisor – Becky Gilbert Physical Plant 208, 605-626-2560 Director of Financial Aid- Becky Pribyl Dacotah Hall 103, 605-626-2640 11 NSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2024-25
Assistant Director of Financial Aid-Morgan Stadler Dacotah Hall 103, 605-626-2640 STUDENT AFFAIRS Student Affairs is comprised of the Avera Student Center, Avera Student Health, Campus Safety, Counseling Center, Dean of Students Office, Student Accessibility Services, Homecoming, Multicultural Student Affairs, New Student Programs (HOWL & Wolf Pack Welcome), Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities, Prevention Services, Residence Life and Dining Services, Student Government Association, Student Involvement and Leadership, Student Organizations, Summer Camps and Conferences, and Title IX. Student Affairs advances the student success agenda of Northern State University and the Student Affairs Strategic Action Plan (2021-2025). Dean of Students – Sean S. Blackburn Student Center 222, 605-626-3007 Campus Safety Officer – Officer Eric Paul Student Center 222, 605-380-8925 (cell) Counseling Center Director – Vacant Student Center 222, 605-626-3007 Dining Services Director – Jerrod Ham Graham Hall 2, 605-626-2928 Student Accessibility Services Assistant Director – Kelly Weismantel Student Center 222, 605-626-3007 Student Rights and Responsibilities Director – Krista Bau Student Center 222, 605-626-3007 Residence Life Director – Marty Sabolo Student Center 222, 605-626-3007 Summer Camps and Conferences - Marty Sabolo Student Center 222, 605-626-3007 Student Government Association President – Samuel Brumfield Student Center 208, samuel.brumfield@wolves.northern.edu Student Involvement and Leadership Director – Alison Kuch Student Center 222, 605-626-3007 Title IX Coordinator – Krista Bau Student Center 222, 605-626-3007 TECHNOLOGY SERVICES In support of Northern State University’s mission, Technology Services provides exceptional technology leadership, expertise, and resources to advance teaching, learning, research, service, and operations. The Technical Support Center is staffed with full time technicians who are happy to assist you with your technology needs. Housed in Mewaldt-Jensen 303, Technology Services also provides a Media 12 NSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2024-25
Services Center and an Instructional Technology Center to assist you with your technology needs. Acceptable Use Policy Users of the Northern State University and the South Dakota Board of Regents systems must abide by the South Dakota Board of Regents Acceptable Use of Information Technology Systems policy. Peer-to-Peer File Sharing Policy Unauthorized distribution of copyrighted material is illegal and carries substantial civil and criminal penalties under the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) and other laws. Northern State University respects the intellectual property rights of others and expects students, faculty, and staff to do so as well. It is the responsibility of all members of the NSU community to make a good faith determination that their use of copyrighted materials complies with both United States Copyright Law and this policy or to seek assistance from NSU copyright advisors (Robert Russell, Beulah Williams Library Director). Northern State University prohibits the use of its network to illegally distribute, download or share copyrighted materials. Proper use of copyright materials also extends to electronic resources available on the internet. Anyone using NSU computing and network resources consents to the SDBOR Acceptable Use Policy. NSU Account Access A NSU account is required to access the NSU network for connecting devices, NSU computers and your NSU Gmail account. Your NSU account will also provide access to the myNSU portal, Desire2Learn, Self-Service Banner, Navigate, and many other online resources. Visit https:// support.northern.edu for help retrieving your account information Computers on Campus All full-time undergraduate students are required to bring a laptop to campus. It is recommended that students bring either a Windows or Mac laptop. Financial aid can be used for the purchase of a required device. For more information regarding recommended hardware and software, please visit northern.edu/it. Vice President for Technology/Chief Information Officer – Dr. Debbi Bumpous Mewaldt-Jensen 301, 605-626-3394 Enterprise Systems Director – Shelley Coats Mewaldt-Jensen 330, 605-626-7820 Coordinator of Instructional Technology Services – Jason Henslee Mewaldt-Jensen 301, 605-626-2283 Director of Media Services – Keith Griebel Technology Center 160, 605-626-7776 Director, Networking & Security and Tech Support Services, Security Officer – Jodi Casanova Technology Center 271, 605-626-2564 Web Development – Debbi Bumpous Mewaldt-Jensen 128, 605-626-339 13 NSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2024-25
ENROLLMENT, COMMUNICATIONS AND MARKETING Communications and Marketing attracts and retains students, helping them unleash their potential at NSU, by sharing Northern’s story and developing relationships within the community and region. The department includes NSU Admissions, whose staff members recruit prospective students and guide them through the enrollment process; Financial Aid, whose staff members assist with scholarships, loans and other types of aid; and Communications and Marketing, whose staff members are skilled in communications planning, graphic design, writing/editing, media relations, photography, printing and print management, social media, and web development and design. Chief Enrollment Officer – Eric Kline Spafford Hall 104, 605-626-7747 Director of Communications and Marketing – Chad Hatzenbuhler Graham Hall 102, 605-626-2046 Admissions Director – Layton Cooper Graham Hall 105, 605-626-3354 Graphic Designer – Kelli Nimmer Graham Hall 121, 605-626-2618 Communications Specialist – Desiree Kolb Graham Hall 121, 605-626-2552 Editor – Vacant Graham Hall 116, 605-626-2552 Campus Visits and Events Coordinator – Kennedy Lorenz Student Center 215, 605-626-7600 DEPARTMENT OF ATHLETICS NSU’s student athletes, staff and administration strive to achieve excellence in academics, respect in the community and championships on the field of play. The highest university standards are expected for over 425 NCAA Division II student athletes competing on fifteen varsity teams in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference. Through exceptional playing and training facilities, academic support systems, expectations of winning and one of the strongest booster organizations in the Midwest (NSU Wolves Club), Wolves athletics regularly leads the nation in fan attendance and averages more academic all-conference student athletes than any other school in the NSIC. The NSU student-athletes have had a CUM GPA of 3.2 for the last seven years. NSU’s tradition of winning, character of our students, and diverse academic opportunities make Northern State University a special place. Athletic Director – Nate Davis Barnett Center 44, 605-626-2578 For more information go to nsuwolves.com Senior Women’s Administrator – Terri Holmes Barnett Center 37, 605-626-2578 For more information go to nsuwolves.com 14 NSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2024-25
CAMPUS SERVICES FAX SERVICE The Student Affairs Office maintains a fax machine for use by students, faculty, and staff for the transmission of personal materials. Charges for outgoing faxes are $0.75 for the cover page and $0.25 for each page after that. Incoming faxes are charged at $0.25 per page. The fax phone number is (605) 626-2531. For more information about this service, visit Student Center Room 222 or call 626-3007. LOST AND FOUND Lost and found items can be reclaimed at the Student Affairs Office, (SC-222) or the NSU Student Center Information Desk (lower level NSU Student Center) in the evenings. Lost and found items may be reported by filling out a lost article form. Call 626-3007 for more information. PARKING AND FINES Campus community members who operate one or more vehicles on the NSU campus must purchase a parking permit if they wish to park in any campus parking lot. There will be two permit colors. Dark Brown – allows you to park in any lot on campus EXCEPT the Visitor lot at the northwest corner of JFAC. Faculty, staff and students must purchase brown permits on line and pick them up at the Physical Plant. Permits will be available for pickup the day after purchase. The cost of the brown parking permit is $135.00 per year. At the start of the second semester, the cost will be $67.50. Light Pink – allows you to park in any parking lot EXECPT the Washington Street lot, Steele Hall lot and the Visitor parking lot. Faculty, staff and students must purchase pink permits on line and pick them up at the Physical Plant. Permits will be available for pickup the day after purchase. The cost of the pink parking permit is $81.00 per year. At the start of the second semester, the cost of a permit will be $40.50. • First ticket is a warning; one warning per school year. • Second ticket will be billed as $30.00 for no NSU parking permit displayed or parked in the visitor lot or $15.00 for any other violation. Permits are required for fall and spring semesters. A parking permit is not required for motorcycles as long as they are parked in the designated motorcycle parking area. Detailed parking regulations are available from the Facilities Management office, 626-2560. POSTAL SERVICES The NSU Post Office handles all mail for the university and is located in the lower level of the Student Center. It offers many services for sending letters and mail off campus also. Students should check their NSU e-mail for e-notices for their packages arriving at NSU. For more information, please contact 605-626-2656. CHANGE OF ADDRESS When a student has a change of address, they should notify the the Registrar’s Office. 15 NSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2024-25
SCHEDULING OF UNIVERSITY EVENTS The following steps should be followed when an individual or group wishes to schedule an event or meeting using university facilities. 1.Reservations and rentals for all Northern State University facilities (excluding residence hall or dining services facilities) must be made through the online event scheduler. 2.Space is not considered reserved until it has been approved by the facility coordinator. 3. Once a space is approved through 25 Live, please contact the Building Manager to ensure that they are aware of the event and will be able to make any special arrangements. 4. The faculty advisor shall be present when a student group is using a university facility. 5. The Facilities Management Office is responsible for temporary parking permits and special parking arrangements. UNIVERSITY AFFILIATED USE Regularly contracted staff members, faculty or administrative groups, full-time students, student groups, or university affiliated groups may use university facilities on campus without charge for events that are a part of the university program or are sponsored by the university when these are scheduled according to university procedures. Outside organizations that co-sponsor an on-campus event may do so without charge for facility use providing: 1. The event is scheduled according to established procedures. 2. The event is of benefit to the campus organization or students in general. 3. Students may attend the event free of charge or at a reduced rate. 4. The event is not in conflict with current programs on campus. Where extra service (hauling, custodial, etc.) is required, the organization or person sponsoring the event will be required to pay for such service at a rate to be determined by the Director for Facilities Management. CANCELLATION OF CLASSES DUE TO SEVERE WEATHER The President determines when the campus will close in a severe weather situation. Local media, including KGIM, KSDN, KKAA, KDSD-TV, KDLO-TV, KELO-TV and KSFY-TV will be asked to inform students, faculty, and staff of class cancellations in the event of severe weather. The Campus Alert system will also be used to convey class cancellations. Announcements will also be added to Northern social media accounts and on the website. NORTHERN STATE UNIVERSITY ANIMAL POLICIES Service Animals Service animals are animals trained to assist people with disabilities in the activities of normal living. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) definition of service animals is “…any dog individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including, but not limited to, guiding individuals with impaired vision, alerting individuals who are hearing impaired to intruders or sounds, providing minimal protection or rescue work, pulling a wheelchair or fetching dropped items.” If an animal meets this criteria, it is considered a service animal regardless of whether it has been licensed or certified by a state or local government or training program. Their service for the individual with a disability entitles them to access of public places and common areas. 16 NSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2024-25
Under the new ADA standards, miniature horses are recognized as service animals. They must meet the same criteria as service dogs. Individuals with disabilities who use a service animal on campus are not required to register with Student Accessibility Services, but students who wish to have an assistance animal in student housing must make a formal request for this accommodation through Student Accessibility Services. NSU HOUSING Assistance Animals Northern State University residence halls are covered under the Fair Housing Act (FHA) and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504) in addition to the ADA. The FHA addresses assistance animals as follows: An assistance animal is not a pet. It is an animal that works, provides assistance, or performs tasks for the benefit of a person with a disability, or provides emotional support that alleviates one or more identified symptoms or effects of a person’s disability. Assistance animals perform many disabilityrelated functions, including but not limited to, guiding individuals who are blind or have low vision, alerting individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing to sounds, providing protection or rescue assistance, pulling a wheelchair, fetching items, alerting persons to impending seizures, or providing emotional support to persons with disabilities who have a disability-related need for such support. For purposes of reasonable accommodation requests, neither the FHA nor Section 504 requires an assistance animal to be individually trained or certified. While dogs are the most common type of assistance animal, other animals can also be assistance animals. The office of Student Accessibility Services, together with the ESA Approval Committee, will evaluate a request for a reasonable accommodation to possess an assistance animal in a residence hall using the general principles applicable to all reasonable accommodation requests. Requests must be made in writing at least 45 days prior to the start of classes in order to accommodate the student making the request and also the residents of the building. Any student having an animal in a residence hall prior to approval will have 24 hours to remove the animal. After that, the animal will be removed from NSU housing and boarded with a local facility at the discretion of NSU housing. The student will be responsible for any cost related to the transportation and boarding of the assistance/emotional support animal. The University also reserves the right to pose financial sanctions for violation of this policy. The following forms and documents are necessary to complete your request: NSU Service and Assistance Animal Acknowledgement, Information and Registration Form Accessibility Assessment Form (generally completed by a provider in either South Dakota or the student’s home state) NSU Service and Assistance Animal Emergency Contact Information NSU Service and Assistance Animal Roommate Agreement Form Evaluation is based on the following two questions: 1. Does the person seeking to use and live with the animal have a disability as defined by the ADA: a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activity? 2. Does the person making the request have a disability-related need for an assistance animal? • Does the animal work, provide assistance, perform tasks or services for the benefit of a person with a disability, or does the animal provide emotional support that alleviates one or more of the identified symptoms or effects of a person’s existing disability? Where the answers to questions (1) and (2) are “yes,” the FHA and Section 504 require the university to modify or provide an exception to a “no pets” rule or policy to permit a student with a disability to live 17 NSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2024-25
with and use an assistance animal(s) in all areas of the premises where students are normally allowed to go, unless doing so would impose an undue financial and administrative burden. If documentation of the disability and/or the need for the animal is requested, such documentation must be current and be prepared by a licensed medical professional. The Disability Assessment Form must be completed by the said medical professional. If the person involved also requests a single room, the person will be charged the single room rate. The request may also be denied if: 1. The specific assistance animal in question poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others that cannot be reduced or eliminated by another reasonable accommodation, or 2. The specific assistance animal in question would cause substantial physical damage to the property of others that cannot be reduced or eliminated by another reasonable accommodation. Breed, size, and weight limitations may not be applied to an assistance animal. A determination that an assistance animal poses a direct threat of harm to others or would cause substantial physical damage to the property of others must be based on an individualized assessment that relies on objective evidence about the specific animal’s actual conduct — not on mere speculation or fear about the types of harm or damage an animal may cause and not on evidence about harm or damage that other animals have caused. Conditions and restrictions that housing providers apply to pets may not be applied to assistance animals. For example, Residence Life may not require applicants and residents to pay a deposit for an assistance animal. Expectations for Service and Assistance Animals Because service and assistance animals are in close proximity to students and others, they must be quiet, obedient and well-groomed. Specifically: • The animal must be up-to-date with check-ups and vaccinations. • Vaccination and license tags must be displayed on the animal (when applicable). • All animals must be in compliance with the provisions of the City of Aberdeen’s Animal Ordinance. • All animals must be well-behaved as defined by the university. • If the student leaves his/her residence hall overnight, it is not the roommates’ responsibility to act as caregiver for the animal. • Animals must be under the control of the user at all times. • Animals must be clean, groomed, and free of ticks or other pests. Cleaning of animals, bedding, cages, etc., in university facilities is prohibited. • Animals are to relieve themselves in designated locations only. • The animal user is responsible for promptly cleaning up after the animal. All waste must be double bagged and disposed of in dumpsters and/or trash cans located on the exterior of campus buildings. • The animal user is responsible for any property damage caused by the animal. • Service animals may be prohibited from areas that may be hazardous to the animal or its owner (mechanical equipment rooms, etc.) • To assist the campus population in recognizing a service animal, it is highly encouraged that the service animal be identified by a marked harness or cape but not required. • The animal must not be disruptive to others in the residence hall. 18 NSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2024-25
• Assistance animals are allowed to accompany persons with disabilities in residence halls only and in designated areas where they relieve themselves. Failure to comply with the stated expectations may result in the loss of housing privileges and forfeiture of housing charges. Please refer to Residence Life policies for more specific information. Information for University Visitors and Guests Guests of residents of university housing who wish to bring an assistance animal into university housing overnight must contact the Office of Student Accessibility Services at least four (4) weeks in advance to provide the dates of the visit, the type and breed of assistance animal, to attest that the assistance animal is up to date with vaccinations and to comply with the requirements set forth in these guidelines. PETS Students are not permitted to have pets in residence halls except for fish in aquariums. Aquarium size is limited to one 10 gallon tank per room/suite. CAMPUS ALERT SYSTEM NSU has emergency guidelines and operating procedures in place for a wide variety of possible emergency situations. Individuals should become familiar with emergency response procedures on the emergency information website in order to have a plan and know what to do before, during and after an emergency. Northern State University has implemented a Campus Alert Notification System, known as Everbridge, for students, faculty, and staff. This service allows NSU to deliver emergency alerts through a text, call or email. Students, faculty, and staff receive Campus Alert registration instructions via an email to their NSU email account. Once registered, notification settings can be modified by logging in to the Campus Alert System. Register at northern.edu/campus-alert-system. TRANSCRIPTS A official transcript of record (grades) will be sent on written request to a college registrar, public school superintendent, or other employing officer. Transcripts cost $9.00 for each copy. Requests for transcripts should be made to the Registrar’s Office, 103 Dacotah Hall or online via instructions on our website: https://www.northern.edu/academics/records-registration/transcripts-anddiplomas GRADES Students can access their grades via Self Service Banner (SSB) on the web page. Access continues for 6 months after last attendance at NSU. Students may wish to print/save an unofficial copy of their transcript for their own records while they still have access. After that, former students may request a transcript. ACADEMIC ADVISING The overall objective of academic advising is to help students realize the maximum educational benefits available to them at Northern State University. Academic advising may include all aspects of academic success, including academic planning and progress, academic policies and procedures, class registration, and exploration of NSU programs. 19 NSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2024-25
Academic advisors should: • Understand and effectively communicate the curriculum, graduation requirements, and university policies and procedures • Encourage and guide students as they define and develop realistic goals • Encourage and support students as they gain the skills to develop clear and attainable educational plans • Provide students with information about and strategies for utilizing the available resources and services on campus While advisors are available for help and guidance, students must assume the ultimate responsibility for the course of their educational careers. Students should: • Schedule regular appointments with the advisor during each semester • Come prepared to each appointment with questions or material for discussion • Be an active learner by participating fully in the advising experience • Ask questions • Clarify personal values and goals and provide advisor with accurate information regarding interests and abilities • Become knowledgeable about college programs, policies, and procedures ADVISOR ASSIGNMENTS Each student will work with an assigned professional advisor. Contact the Advising Center for more information about advisor assignments and requests. General Information on Advising/Registration Procedures • Professional advisors will assist students with their initial registration. • Contact the appropriate offices for more information about policies and procedures. • Students are encouraged to meet with an advisor at least once per semester. • Students who pre-register and later decide to cancel their registration should notify the Registrar’s Office and their professional advisor. ACADEMIC LOAD The unit of credit is a semester hour representing one lecture period a week for the semester. Three hours of laboratory work is considered the equivalent of one hour of lecture. For each hour of credit, a student should expect to spend up to three hours a week in class or study. Undergraduate The recommended student load is 15 semester hours with a maximum of 18 semester hours. Students with a grade point average above 2.70 may enroll for a maximum of 19 semester hours. For summer sessions, the recommended student load is 5 semester hours for each 5-week summer session with a maximum of 7 credit hours. Any combined summer enrollment above 18 total credits is considered to be an overload and requires permission of the advisor and appropriate academic administrator. For financial aid eligibility, athletic eligibility, deferments and enrollment verification, full-time undergraduate enrollment is 12 semester hours; three-quarter enrollment is 9 to 11.5 semester hours; and half-time enrollment is 6 to 8.5 semester hours. All enrollments for interim and summer sessions are combined when determining enrollment status for summer school. Graduate The recommended graduate student load is 9 semester hours. Students may exceed 9 hours with permission of the Director of Graduate Studies. For financial aid eligibility, deferments and 20 NSU STUDENT HANDBOOK 2024-25
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