2010 annual notice on rights and responsibilities of the Virginia Tech community
As members of the Virginia Tech community, we are individuals and community members with both rights and responsibilities. We are committed to standards that support the educational mission of the university: standards by which we live, work, and learn together. These standards are derived from our guiding philosophical piece, the Virginia Tech Principles of Community.
The following are websites and other important information related to our community standards, health, safety, and security:
Hokie Handbook: This document is reviewed annually and contains the Code of Conduct, the University Policies for Student Life, and other key policies and procedures that apply to all Virginia Tech students (undergraduate, graduate and professional) and student organizations. This document also serves as a reference for faculty and staff, and is located at http://www.hokiehandbook.vt.edu/. Updates for this year to the Hokie Handbook are featured on the Hokie Handbook and Student Conduct websites.
Smoking Policy: The university recently revised the Smoking Policy 1010 to prohibit smoking within 25 feet from air intakes, entrances or exits of university facilities. This policy is an effort to protect students and employees from the potential health hazards and discomfort of exposure to smoke, while also recognizing and respecting the rights of those who choose to smoke. It is the responsibility of all students, faculty, and staff to comply with this policy.
Internet Copyright Infringement: Peer-to-peer (P2P) software enables unauthorized uploading of copyrighted music or movies-typically without any action on the part of the user. Unauthorized distribution of copyrighted material, including unauthorized peer-to-peer file sharing, violates university policy and you may be subject to civil and criminal liabilities. See http://copyright.vt.edu/ for more information.
The Alcohol and Drug Policy Summary: In accordance with the federal Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988, the federal Drug Free Schools and Communities Act of 1989, and the Commonwealth of Virginia’s Policy on Alcohol and Other Drugs, it is the policy of Virginia Tech that the unlawful or unauthorized manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession or use of alcohol and illicit drugs by employees and students on university property or as part of any university activity is prohibited. The university’s failure to comply with this requirement could result in the loss of federal funds. The university’s biennial review is available at: http://www.hr.vt.edu/employeescorner/files/file_hr_Corner_Summary_Report.pdf
Employees who wish information and confidential services on counseling, treatment, and rehabilitation programs will find it at the following site: http://www.hr.vt.edu/downloads/docs/file_hr_ad_summary.doc
Students with alcohol-related questions should consult the Campus Alcohol Abuse Prevention Center located in 135 War Memorial Hall. Call 231-2233 or visit their website: http://www.alcohol.vt.edu/. Students who need information and confidential support related to drug use may contact Health Education at http://www.healthcenter.vt.edu/he/about/index.htm
Employee Assistance Program: Confidential services to employees and to supervisors who must confront employees with personal problems that affect the work environment are available by contacting the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) administrator, ValueOptions, at 1-866-725-0602 or Virginia Tech Human Resources at 231-9331.
Updating Directory Information and VT Alerts: Students and employees are reminded to update directory information in Hokie SPA and to sign up for the VT Alerts system. It is particularly important to include your emergency contact information. Faculty and staff should update directory information by going to Hokie SPA, click on “Hokie PLUS,” and then click on “update emergency contact.” Students, updating your emergency contact information is now a required step in your course registration process.
Supervisors are asked to share this information with employees who do not have electronic access.
This information was provided by Edward F.D. Spencer, vice president for student affairs and Hal Irvin, associate vice president for human resources.
