Campus Life

Campus Life

The University provides a wide range of services and programs to help UTPB students develop leadership skills, designs and implements activities for UTPB students to enjoy between, before, or after classes, and creates a welcoming atmosphere for students to relax, study, watch television, or participate in on-campus programs.

New Student Orientation – Student Orientation, Advising and Registration (SOAR):  The Office of Student Life coordinates summer and January orientations for new students. Orientation leaders are students who can help new students become familiar with programs, services, and other resources available to them on campus. If you are interested in helping new students transition to college and learn about UTPB please consider becoming an Orientation Leader.

University Performance Groups: Students are encouraged to engage in campus life through the various sponsored groups.  These groups are Ballet Folklorico, Cheer Team, Choir, Falcon Heat Dance Team, Marching Band, Mariachi, Orchestra, Pep Band, and Step Team.  Each group has an advisor or coach who recruits, instructs, directs and manages the group.  Scholarships are available to qualified participants.  These groups perform throughout the year on and off campus.

Student Media:

The University supports the dissemination of news and information of student interest and the publication of literary and artistic student work.

The Mesa Journal, the award-winning student newspaper for U. T. Permian Basin, publishes news and information regarding the University, its students, and national or international news that affect the University community.  The Mesa Journal provides an opportunity for students to gain newspaper journalism experience while attending the University.

The Sandstorm, an annual magazine-yearbook publication, is a collection of poems, short stories and essays submitted by students and selected by a panel for publication. The magazine also prints photographs of student art that includes painting, sculpture, pottery and photography. The editor and staff of this student publication are selected from the student body. Applications for editor are received from returning students and incoming students with publication experience.

Student Senate:  The Student Senate is the elected student organization representing the interests and needs of the student body and is recognized by the administration of U. T. Permian Basin and by the Board of Regents of the U. T. System. Officers are elected at the end of each spring semester and Senators are elected at the end of spring and early in the fall semester. Candidate registration forms are available through the Student Senate Office.  Students are encouraged to seek elected offices. The Student Senate makes recommendations to the administration on policies that affect the student body and appoints students to sit on important University committees with faculty and staff members.

Campus Activities Board: The Campus Activities Board (CAB) is responsible for identifying, budgeting, and developing cultural, social and recreational programs for the student body.  Students are encouraged to contact the CAB to get involved as volunteer activity programmers or as paid part-time staff members. CAB brings in a variety of aspiring artists and entertainers, sponsors various events, and takes students to leadership development conferences.

Student Clubs and Organizations:  Students are encouraged to join or develop clubs and organizations that unite members with a common cause or interest.  Such organizations allow students to pursue specialized interests and to have an opportunity to interact with classmates and professors in an atmosphere different from that of the classroom.  Involvement in student organizations also provides a means of practicing leadership skills.

The Office of Student Life is responsible for the registration of student clubs and organizations and publishes a guide for the development of clubs and organizations. The Office of Student Life also provides various resources for student organization development, work stations and materials, and training on U. T. System policies and campus policies.

In compliance with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, student organizations may be single sex organization only if they are a “social fraternity.”

The Gymnasium/Pool Complex:  The three-story building is designed for recreational use by students, faculty and staff and their families. The Gymnasium/Pool Complex consists of racquetball courts, two volleyball and badminton courts, and three basketball courts. The complex has an exercise room equipped with free weights and a full set of station weight machines In addition, there is an athletic field, four lighted tennis courts, and 3.5 miles of walking, jogging and skating trails.  The Olympic-size swimming pool is the largest outdoor pool in Odessa.  It is heated for comfort and has certified lifeguards on duty during operating hours.  The pool is open late March through late October, depending on weather.

Housing:  The University of Texas of the Permian Basin offers a variety of options for students who desire to live on campus.  The UTPB Residence and Dining Hall is the designated housing for incoming freshmen students.  Freshmen options in the Residence and Dining Hall include a four bedroom unit, or a two person double occupancy unit.  Each floor of the three story Hall has study/Teaming rooms, laundry, and lounges for student convenience. Upperclassmen have the following options in the apartment-style units: four bedroom unit, two bedroom unit, and efficiencies.  Most buildings have a central laundry room downstairs for student convenience.  The University also offers options for married students who may select from  a one bedroom or two bedroom unit.

The housing area is within easy walking distance of the University Mesa Building, the Visual Arts Building, the Library/Lecture Center, and the Science and Technology building.  Each student unit is fully furnished.  All Student Housing prices include the cost of electricity, water, sewer, cable, internet, laundry, garbage collection, maintenance, and police security.  Student Housing is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and students must be enrolled.  For additional information contact the Student Housing Office.

Bookstore: The Bookstore, which is located in the courtyard area of the Mesa Building, carries course-related textbooks, general books, additional course materials, school supplies, discounted software for UTPB students, and collegiate apparel and gifts. Textbooks, clothing, and gifts can be ordered through the Bookstore website (www.utpb.bkstr.com) for either store pick-up or shipment to the student’s home.  Graduation Regalia and graduation announcements are also ordered through the Bookstore.

Refunds on textbooks are allowed for the first 7 days of class in long semesters, and first 5 days of the Summer sessions.  Although the Bookstore does buy textbooks daily, scheduled buybacks are held during finals week in long semesters and held twice during the summer.  Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express cards are accepted, and gift cards are available.  “A student of this institution is not under any obligation to purchase a textbook from a university-affiliated bookstore.  The same textbook may also be available from an independent retailer, including an online retailer.” Texas Education Code, Section 51.9705.

The course syllabi include textbook information, including to the extent practicable the International Standard Book Number and will be available on the bookstore website for every required and recommended textbook and supplemental materials.

Testing Services And Academic Accommodations Department

The Testing Services and Academic Accommodations Department is a multiple resources center for students. This office provides both direct and indirect services to all students and the community.

Students with Disabilities Assistance

The Testing Services and Academic Accommodations office provides information about accommodations and provides services to students with disabilities. Students admitted to the University should contact the office one month in advance to set up services.

PROMETRIC Testing Center

Administers Professional Exams for the community at large such as, CPA, API, ABP, GRE, MCAT, HRCI, FSBPT, ANCC, TExES, TOEFL, and much more.

Developmental Education

Coordination of student placement who test into developmental courses, and Coordinate the teaching of this courses with Adjuncts.

Career Services

The U.T. Permian Basin Career Services Office provides career counseling, serves as a liaison between students seeking employment (work study, on campus and off-campus) and prospective employers and develops career related programming for students and alumni.  Services available include the MYPLAN career exploration system, the College Central Network recruitment website, resume assistance, video-taped mock interviews, on-campus interviews, and resources pertaining to job-hunting skills. The Career Services department also administers the study abroad program, the On-Campus STAR internship program and the UTPB Work Coop program. Go to the University website www.utpb.edu, then locate Career Services (under Student Services).

Career Guides

Resource books and handouts are available in the Career Library. Resources include books, handouts and videos developed and available through the departmental website. Call 432-552-3634 for assistance or email careerservices@utpb.edu.

Regulations Governing Student Conduct

The University reserves the right to restrict the enrollment of any student for disciplinary or academic reasons.

Disciplinary Procedures

All students at The University of Texas of the Permian Basin are subject to all the Rules and Regulations of the Board of Regents of The University of Texas System and all institutional rules and regulations. Rules regarding students conduct and discipline are included in Series 50101 of the Regents’ Rules and Regulations, The University of Texas of the Permian Basin Handbook of Operating Procedures.

According to the Regents’ Rules and Regulations, the Dean of Students has the authority to take interim disciplinary action when the continuing presence of the student poses a potential danger to persons or property or a potential threat of disrupting any authorized university activity.

Disciplinary action could include:

• Disciplinary probation.
• Withholding of grades, official transcript and/or degree.
• Bar against readmission.
• Restitution or reimbursement for damage to or misappropriation of institutional or System property.
• Suspension of rights and privileges, including participation in athletic or extracurricular activities.
• Failing grade for an examination or assignment or for a course and/ or cancellation of all or any portion of prior course credit.
• Denial of degree.
• Suspension from the institution for a specified period of time.
• Expulsion (permanent separation from the institution)
• Revocation of degree and withdrawal of diploma.
• Other penalty as deemed appropriate under the circumstances.

Drugs/Narcotics

Any student who is guilty of the illegal use, possession, and/or sale of a drug or narcotic on the campus of U.T. Permian Basin or any other U.T. System component institution is subject to discipline. If a student is found guilty of the illegal use, possession, and/or sale of a drug or narcotic on campus, the minimum penalty shall be suspension from the institution for a specified period of time and/or suspension of rights and privileges.

Intoxicating Beverages

The use of intoxicating beverages is prohibited in classroom buildings, laboratories, auditoriums, library buildings, museums, faculty and administrative offices, intercollegiate and intramural athletic facilities, and all other public campus areas. State law will be strictly enforced at all times on all property controlled by the System and its component institutions.

Solicitation

No individual, organization, group, association, or corporation may use the grounds, buildings, or facilities owned or controlled by any component institution or by the System except as permitted by the provisions of the Regents’ Rules and Regulations and approved institutional rules and regulations. Campus facilities are not otherwise open to the public. Exceptions include collection of memberships dues by faculty, staff and student organizations and approved fund-raising performed by registered student organizations.
The term “solicitation” means the sale, lease, rental or offer for sale, lease, rental of any property, product, merchandise, publication, or service, whether for immediate or future delivery; an oral statement or the distribution or display of printed material, merchandise, or products that is designed to encourage the purchase, use, or rental of any property, product, merchandise, publication, or service; the receipt of or request for any gift or contribution; or the request to support or oppose a vote for or against a candidate, issue, or proposition appearing on the ballot at any election held pursuant to State or federal law or local ordinance.

Hazing

The 70th Texas Legislature enacted a law concerning hazing which became effective on September 1, 1987. Under the law, individuals or organizations engaging in hazing could be subject to fines and charged with a criminal offense.

According to the law, a person can commit a hazing offense not only by engaging in a hazing activity, but also by soliciting, directing, encouraging, aiding or attempting to aid another in hazing; by intentionally, knowingly or recklessly allowing hazing to occur; or by failing to report in writing to the Vice President for Student Services firsthand knowledge that a hazing incident is planned or has occurred. The fact that a person consented to or acquiesced in a hazing activity is not a defense to prosecution for hazing under this law. In an effort to encourage reporting of hazing incidents, the law grants immunity from civil or criminal liability to any persons who report a specific hazing event to the Vice President for Student Services; and immunizes that person from participation in any judicial proceeding resulting from that report. The penalty for failure to report is a fine of up to $1,000.00, up to 180 days in jail, or both. Penalties for other hazing offenses vary according to the severity of the injury which results and range from $500.00 to $10,000.00 in fines and up to two years confinement.

The law does not affect or in any way restrict the right of the University to enforce its own rules against hazing. Hazing with or without the consent of the student is prohibited by The University of Texas System, and a violation of that prohibition renders both the person inflicting the hazing and the person submitting to the hazing subject to discipline.

The law defines hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, occurring on or off the campus of an educational institution, by one person alone or acting with others, directed against a student, that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of pledging, being initiated into, affiliating with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members are or include students at an educational institution.

Hazing includes but is not limited to:

1. Any type of physical brutality, such as whipping, beating, striking, branding, electronic shocking, placing of a harmful substance on the body, or similar activity;
2. Any type of physical activity, such as sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements, confinement in a small space, calisthenics, or other activity that subjects the student to an unreasonable risk of harm or that adversely affects the mental or physical health or safety of the student;
3. Any activity involving consumption of food, liquid, alcoholic beverage, liquor, drug, or other substance which subjects the student to an unreasonable risk of harm or which adversely affects the mental or physical health of the student;
4. Any activity that intimidates or threatens the student with ostracism, that subjects the student to extreme mental stress, shame, or humiliation, or that adversely affects the mental health or dignity of the student or discourages the student from entering or remaining registered in an educational institution, or that may reasonably be expected to cause a student to leave the organization or the institution rather than submit to acts described in this subsection; and
5. Any activity that induces, causes, or requires the student to perform a duty or task which involves a violation of the Penal Code.

Student due process procedure covers discrimination, sexual and racial harassment and gives procedures for filing grievance and grounds for non-academic appeals. Please see the Falcon Guide for procedures about filing of a grievance for non-academic issues.

Use of Copyrighted Materials

It is the policy of The University of Texas of the Permian Basin to follow the United States Copyright Law of 1976, as amended, (Title 17, United States Code, hereinafter, the “Copyright Act”). Accordingly, all faculty, staff and students of The University of Texas System and its component institutions should follow these policy guidelines: Only copyrighted materials are subject to the restrictions in this Policy Statement. Materials not copyrighted may be copied freely and without restriction. Because a copyright notice is not required for copyright protection of works published on or after March 1, 1989, most works (except those authored by the United States Government) should be presumed to be copyright protected, unless further information from the copyright holder or express notice reveals that the copyright holder intends the work to be in the public domain. Works published prior to March 1, 1989, generally require a copyright notice to be protected. The Copyright Office Circular 22 explains how to determine the copyright status of a work.

Copyrighted software may be copied without the copyright owner’s permission only in accordance with the Copyright Act. Section 117 of the Act permits making an archival back-up copy. Most software, however, is licensed to the user and the terms of the license agreement may give the user permission to make copies of the software in excess of the archival copy permitted by the Copyright Act. Each software license agreement is unique. As a result, the user’s rights to copy licensed software beyond that permitted under the Copyright Act may only be determined by reading the user’s license agreement. Any copying or reproduction of copyrighted software on System or component institution computing equipment must be in accordance with the Copyright Act and the pertinent software license agreement. Further, faculty, staff and students may not use unauthorized copies of software on System or component institution owned computers or networks or computers housed in System or component institution facilities. Copyrighted materials may be copied or otherwise used without the copyright owner’s permission where such copying constitutes “fair use” under the Copyright Act. In order to copy or otherwise use materials, including software, where (a) the materials are copyrighted, (b) use exceeds what is permitted by license or the Rules of Thumb, and (c) the four factor fair use test indicates that the use is likely not fair; permission should be obtained from the copyright owner. (The University of Texas System Policies)

Copyright Issues

File-sharing applications make it easy for you to share music, videos, movies, software, text and other files. However, unless you have the explicit permission of the copyright owner to possess or distribute the material, you may be in violation of federal copyright law. It is best to assume that all material is copyrighted. The University cannot protect you from a copyright complaint. You are not insulated from legal action because of your status as a student or because you use University network resources. In fact, we may be legally required to assist a complainant in pursuing action against you. The penalties can range from University sanctions to civil and criminal prosecution. Individual copyright owners and the entertainment industry are quite active in pursuing legal actions. You are not protected just because you received material at no cost or are distributing material with no charge. Your only protection is to not possess or distribute any unlicensed copyrighted material.

Gang-Free Zones

Premises owned, rented or leaded by the University of Texas of the Permian Basin, and areas within 1,000 feet of the premises are “gang-free” zones. Certain criminal offenses, including those involving gang-related crimes, will be enhanced to the next highest category of offense if committed in a gang-free zone by an individual 17 years or older. See Texas Penal Code, Section 71.028.

Campus Carry

As of August 1, 2016, persons who have a license to carry a concealed weapon may carry their concealed weapon subject to exclusion zones.  The exclusion zones will be identified with decals.  Failure to comply with the laws pertaining to concealed carry may result in disciplinary action.

Student Appeal/Grievances

A student grievance may involve faculty, staff, an office, or other students of the University.  A grievance must be initiated within 30 calendar days from the date of the alleged infraction/dispute. Appeals regarding assigned grades must be addressed with the instructor within 30 days of the issuance of the grade.  The time for filing a grievance can be waived for good cause as determined by the Dean of Students.  A grievance which has been brought forth and ruled on under other procedures may not be brought forth under these procedures and vice versa.  A person who retaliates in any way against an individual who has filed a grievance is subject to disciplinary action up to and including expulsion.  Any person who knowingly and intentionally files a false grievance under this policy is subject to disciplinary action up to and including expulsion.

Types of Grievances/Appeal

• Grade Appeal – student wishes to appeal a grade.
• Academic Grievance - student wishes to contest the course requirements, examinations, course content, admission to a program, instructor behavior, or similar issue.
• Non-Academic Grievance – student wishes to address a situation that occurred outside of the classroom. A grievance based appeal on such an issue is relevant if the grievance is between a student and one or more other students; a faculty or staff member; a student organization; or any other office or agency of the University.

Introduction to Filing a Grievance/Appeal

At each stage of the appeal/grievance process, it is understood that the accused will be afforded the opportunity to present separately their perspective of the nature and relative facts pertaining to the issue in question. Students who are bringing a grievance should first try to seek a resolution of their grievance/complaint by scheduling a conference either in person, by telephone, or virtually with the person/office with whom/which the student has a dispute.  If the student remains unsatisfied with the outcome of this initial conference the student should initiate and register a formal written complaint through the University Complaint Resolution Portal (http://utpb.edu/services/business-affairs/complaint-resolution).

All formal written complaints should be submitted through the University Complaint Portal which will register and route the student complaint to the appropriate authority. Students need only use this portal once to register their complaint. Any subsequent written appeals required during the grievance process should be sent directly to the addressee as indicated in this policy.

The following steps should be followed with respect to seeking redress of grievances:

Grade Appeal

A student who wishes to dispute an assigned grade should first submit a written appeal to the instructor and seek resolution via a conference either in person, by telephone, or virtually with the instructor. The student should consult with the Student Rights Advocate and may consult with the advocate throughout the duration of the appeal process. The Student Rights Advocate is appointed by the Dean of Students.  If, with in five (5) working days of the conference with the instructor, the student believes that the issue has not been addressed or disagrees with the outcome of conference, the student should initiate and register a formal written complaint through the University Complaint Resolution Portal (http://utpb.edu/services/business-affairs/complaint-resolution). The written complaint will be routed to the relevant Department Chair or supervisor (if the instructor does not have a Chair or if the instructor is the Chair) who will schedule a conference either in person, by phone, or virtually with the student.

If, within ten (10) working days after the meeting with the Department Chair or supervisor, the student believes the grade appeal has not been addressed or disagrees with the outcome of the conference with the Department Chair or supervisor, the student should file a written appeal directly (not via the University Complaint Form Portal) with the appropriate academic Dean and seek an appointment either in person, by telephone, or virtually with him or her. Upon receipt of the written appeal, the Dean will schedule a meeting in person, by telephone, or virtually with the student. Following the appointment with the student, the Dean will investigate the matter.  The Dean shall respond to the appeal within (10) working days of the meeting with the student unless an investigation requires additional time in which case the circumstances should be documented. The decision of the Dean shall be FINAL.

Academic Grievance

A student who has an academic grievance should first submit a written appeal to the instructor and seek resolution of the grievance via a conference in person, by telephone, or virtually with the instructor. The student has the option of consulting with the Student Rights Advocate and may consult with the advocate throughout the duration of the appeal process. The Student Rights Advocate is appointed by the Dean of Students.  

If, within (10) working days of the conference with the instructor, the student believes that the academic grievance has not been addressed or disagrees with the outcome of the conference with the instructor, the student should initiate and register a formal written complaint through the University Complaint Resolution Portal (http://utpb.edu/services/business-ffairs/complaint-resolution). The written complaint will be routed to the relevant Department Chair or supervisor (if the instructor does not have a Chair or if the instructor is the Chair) who will schedule a conference either in person, by telephone, or virtually with the student. If within ten (10) working days of meeting with the Department Chair or supervisor the student believes that the academic grievance has not been addressed or disagrees with the outcome of the conference with the Department Chair or supervisor, the student should file a written complaint directly (not via the University Complaint Resolution Portal) with the appropriate academic Dean and seek an appointment in person, by telephone, or virtually with the him or her.  Upon receipt of the written complaint, the Dean will schedule a conference in person, by telephone, or virtually with the student. Following the appointment with the student, the Dean will investigate the matter. If within ten (10) working days after the conference with the Dean, a student believes the academic grievance has not been addressed or disagrees with the outcome of the conference with the Dean, or if the accused is the Dean, the student should file a written complaint directly (not via the University Complaint Resolution Portal) with the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs and seek an appointment in person, by telephone, or virtually with him or her.  If within (10) working days after the conference with the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, the student believes the academic grievance has not been addressed or disagrees with the outcome of the conference, the Student Rights Advocate will then inform and advise the President, who shall render a FINAL decision within (10) working days.  The President should be provided with a timeline of the grievance and proposed resolutions at each step of the process.

Non-Academic Grievance

In order to reconcile grievances that are not academically related, students should:

First attempt to resolve the grievance with the person/office with whom/which they have a grievance. In instances where the student has good reason not to attempt a resolution with a particular person, the student should seek an appointment in person, by telephone, or virtually with the supervisor of the person with whom they have a grievance.  If the complaint is directed against a certain office, the student should seek a conference in person, by telephone, or virtually with the director of that office. If the grievance involves students only and the student has good reason not to attempt a resolution with this person, the grievance may be made directly to the Dean of Students.

If the grievance involves a University employee or office and within five (5) working days of discussing the matter with the employee or office director, the student believes the grievance has not been addressed or disagrees with the outcome of the conference with the employee or the office director the student should initiate and register a formal written complaint through the University Complaint Resolution Portal (http://utpb.edu/services/business-affairs/complaint-resolution).  The written complaint will be routed to the appropriate supervisor or the director of the relevant office who will arrange an appointment in person, by telephone, or virtually with the complainant.

If the grievance involves a student and within five (5) working days of conference with the accused student, the student believes the grievance has not been addressed or disagrees with the outcome of the conference with the accused student, the student should initiate and register a formal written complaint through the University Complaint Resolution Portal (http://utpb.edu/services/business-affairs/complaint-resolution).  The written complaint will be routed to the Dean of Students who will arrange an appointment in person, by telephone, or virtually with him or her. A grievance filed against a student will be handled through the student conduct procedures as prescribed in Student Conduct and Discipline. If within ten (10) working days after discussing the matter with the employee’s supervisor, office director, or Dean of Students, as appropriate, the student believes the grievance has not been addressed or disagrees with the outcome of the conference, the student should file a written complaint directly (not via the University Complaint Resolution Portal) with the Vice President for Student Services and seek an appointment in person, by telephone, or virtually with him or her.  If within ten (10) working days after the conference with the Senior Associate Vice President for Student Services the student believes the grievance has not been addressed or disagrees with the outcome of the conference, the student should file a written complaint directly (not via the University Complaint Resolution Portal) with the President, who shall render a FINAL decision within ten (10) working days. The president should be provided with a timeline of the grievance and proposed resolutions at each step of the process.

Other Grievances

Sexual Harassment/Sexual Misconduct Policy

The University of Texas of the Permian Basin is committed to maintaining a learning and working environment that is free from discrimination based on sex in accordance with Title IX of the Higher Education Amendments of 1972 (Title IX), which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in educational programs or activities; Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII), which prohibits sex discrimination in employment; and the Campus Sexual Violence Elimination Act (SaVE Act). Sexual misconduct is a form of sex discrimination and will not be tolerated. As stated in the definition, sexual misconduct includes sexual harassment, sexual violence, sexual assault, stalking, domestic violence and/or dating violence.  Individuals who engage in sexual misconduct and other inappropriate sexual conduct will be subject to disciplinary action.

The University will take prompt disciplinary action against any individuals or organizations within its control who violate this Policy. The University encourages any student, faculty, staff or visitor to promptly report violations of this Policy to a responsible individual.

This Policy applies to all University administrators, faculty, staff, students, and third parties within the University’s control, including visitors and applicants for employment. It applies to conduct regardless of where it occurs, including off University property, if it potentially affects the complainant’s education or employment with the University. It also applies regardless of the gender, gender identity or sexual orientation of the complainant or the respondent. In addition, it applies whether the complaint was made by or against a third party, and whether the complaint was made verbally or in writing.

Filing a Complaint and Reporting Violations.

All Members of the University Community, Third Party and Anonymous Complaints. All administrators, faculty, staff, students, and third parties are strongly encouraged to immediately report any incidents of sexual misconduct (including sexual harassment and sexual violence) and other inappropriate sexual conduct to the Title IX Coordinator or Deputy Coordinators.

Individuals wishing to remain anonymous can file a complaint in any manner, including by telephone or written communication with the Title IX Coordinator or a Deputy Coordinator; however, electing to remain anonymous may greatly limit the University’s ability to stop the harassment, collect evidence, or take effective action against individuals or organizations accused of violating the Policy.

The University has an obligation to maintain an environment free of sex discrimination, thus many University employees have mandatory reporting and response obligations and may not be able to honor a complainant’s request for confidentiality

Timeliness of Complaint. Complaints should be reported as soon as possible after the complainant becomes aware of the inappropriate conduct. Delays in reporting can greatly limit the University’s ability to stop the harassment, collect evidence, and/or take effective action against individuals or organizations accused of violating the Policy.

The policy in its entirety may be found at:

http://www.utpb.edu/docs/default-source/utpb-docs/hop/part_iii.pdf?sfvrsn=4

Nondiscrimination Policy

The University of Texas of the Permian Basin is committed to providing an educational, living and working environment that is welcoming, respectful and inclusive of all members of the university community. An environment that is free of discrimination and harassment allows members of the university community to excel in their academic and professional careers. To the extent provided by applicable federal and state law, the University prohibits unlawful discrimination against a person because of their race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or veteran status. The University’s commitment to equal opportunity extends its nondiscrimination protections to include sexual orientation, gender expression and gender identity.

Retaliation against a person who files a claim of discrimination, participates in a discrimination investigation or proceeding, or otherwise opposes an unlawful employment practice is prohibited.

The policy in its entirety can be found at:

http://www.utpb.edu/docs/default-source/utpb-docs/hop/part_iii.pdf?sfvrsn=4

ADA Grievance

The purpose of this policy is to provide for the prompt and equitable resolution of complaints alleging violations of Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.  This policy applies to students, staff, faculty, job applications, applications for admission and other beneficiaries of the programs, services, and activities of The University of Texas Permian Basin.

Complaint Procedure

• Step I 
  Complaints alleging discrimination on the basis of disability shall be made in writing to the ADA Coordinator; or shall be referred to the Coordinator if received by other persons within the institution. The complaint shall be made as soon as possible after the action complained of occurs but in no case later than 10 working days after such occurrence. The time for bringing a complaint can be waived for good cause as determined by the ADA coordinator.
  
  The ADA Coordinator shall investigate the complaint to determine its validity and, in appropriate cases, suggest a resolution. A written statement of the determination and the suggested resolution, if any, shall be sent to the complainant within 15 working days of receipt of the complaint.
  The ADA Coordinator shall maintain all records related to the complaint.
   
• Step II

If the complainant is not satisfied with the decision of the ADA Coordinator, a written appeal stating why the decision is incorrect may be made to the Vice-President of Student Services within 10 working days of the receipt of the determination statement from the ADA coordinator. The Vice-President for Student Services shall review the determination of the ADA Coordinator and send a written decision to the complainant within a reasonable time, not to exceed 30 working days from the date of receipt.
The decision of the Vice-President for Student Services shall be final.

Health And Wellness

AIDS, HIV, and Hepatitis B Infection

The University of Texas Permian Basin recognizes its responsibility to protect the rights and privileges of students, employees, patients, and the general public against the contact with the spread of infectious diseases. In recognition of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Hepatitis B (HBV) as serious health threats, U.T. Permian Basin has adopted a policy and procedural steps to protect both the rights and well‑being of those students who may be infected with HIV or HBV as well as to prevent the spread of infection. No individual with HIV or HBV infection will be discriminated against in employment, admission to academic programs, health benefits, or access to facilities. Students with HIV or HBV infection may attend all classes without restriction, as long as they are physically and mentally able to participate and perform assigned work and pose no health risks to others.  All information regarding the medical status of U.T. Permian Basin faculty, staff, and students is confidential.

A complete copy of the “AIDS, HIV and Hepatitis B Infection” policy can be found in the institutional Handbook of Operating Procedures available at: http://www.utpb.edu. This policy is applicable to all students of U.T. Permian Basin as they pursue their academic (and clinical) endeavors. Brochures with information about AIDS/HIV will be made available to all students on request to the U.T. Permian Basin Student Life Office.

Bacterial Meningitis Information

Bacterial Meningitis is a serious, potentially deadly disease that can progress extremely fast, so utmost caution is required. It is an inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. The bacteria that causes meningitis can also infect the blood. This disease strikes about 3,000 Americans each year, including 100-125 on college campuses, leading to 5-15 deaths among colleges students every year. Bacterial Meningitis is transmitted when people exchange saliva (such as by kissing, or by sharing drinking containers, utensils, cigarettes, toothbrushes, etc.) or come in contact with respiratory or throat secretions. Symptoms include high fever, rash or purple patches on the skin, light sensitivity, confusion and sleepiness, lethargy, severe headache, vomiting, stiff neck, nausea, and seizures. The more symptoms present, the higher the risk. When these symptoms appear seek immediate medical attention. There is treatment, but those who survive may develop severe health problems or disabilities. Early diagnosis and treatment can greatly improve the likelihood of recovery. For more information, contact your own health care provider or local Texas Department of Health. Information web sites: www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dbmd/diseaseinfo and www.acha.org.

Immunizations

Institutions of higher education may require persons applying for admission to be immunized against diphtheria, rubella, mumps, tetanus, and poliomyelitis. The Texas Board of Health may require immunizations against these and additional diseases for registrants at any institution of higher education who are pursuing a course of study in any of the human or animal health professions, and the board may require such immunizations for any registrants in times of an emergency or epidemic in a county where such an emergency or epidemic has been declared by the Commissioner of Health. A vaccination for Hepatitis B applies only to students enrolled in a course of study that involves potential exposure to human or animal blood or bodily fluids. (Texas Education Code 51.933)

Effective January 1, 2012, Texas Senate Bill 1107 requires that every new student (under age 22) entering a public or private institution of education must provide evidence that the student has received the vaccination or booster for bacterial meningitis during the preceding five years and at least 10 days prior to the start of classes. Students enrolled in on-line classes only are exempt from this requirement. An affidavit signed by the student stating that the student declines the vaccination for reasons of conscience, including religious belief may be presented using a conscientious exemption form from the Texas Department of State Health Services must be used. The form may be found at https://webds.dshs.state.tx.us/immco/affodavit.shtm. Students claiming conscientious exemption should allow 30 days to receive the form from the State.

Medical Services and Student Health Insurance

Students taking face-to-face classes pay a medical services fee which provides for discounted visits and services at designated medical clinics.  Students needing health insurance may obtain information from the Office of the Senior Associate Vice President for Student Services located in Mesa Building 4274.  Information about both programs can be found at:  http://www.utpb.edu/campus-life/studentlife/medical-services

All international students on a non-immigrant visa status attending UT Permian Basin are required by the UT System Board of Regents to have continuous medical insurance policy compliant with the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA). Enrollment in UT SHIP is automatic each semester and the insurance premium is automatically charged to the student’s tuition and fee account when you register for classes. No action is required to be enrolled in UT SHIP except to ensure that your contact email and mailing address are always current in MyUTPB.

The UT System has established criteria by which an international student can request a waiver to the student health insurance plan by providing alternate health insurance coverage. In order to be approved for a waiver, the student’s alternate health coverage must meet or exceed the requirements as set in the System regulation and be PPACA compliant.

Counseling Center 

The Counseling Center offers individual, couple and/or group counseling to UTPB members.  There is no charge for students, faculty, staff, and immediate family.  

• Individual:  Discuss self, relationships, feelings, thoughts and behaviors that may be of concern. All communication with a counselor is confidential. (Except as required by Texas law, i.e. extreme situations where there is danger of death, abuse of a minor or elder, or judicial court order.)
• Groups:  Students with common concerns may meet with a counselor in a safe place to discuss significant personal issues such as sexual abuse, integrating school and family and work, depression, anxiety, sexuality, eating disorders, anger management, self-esteem/identity, etc.

Couples and Family

Improve interactions with significant others, spouses and other relationship and communication issues.

Student Right to Know

In compliance with the Student Right-to-Know and Campus Security Act (the Act) 20 U.S.C. Sections 1092 (a), (e) and (f), as amended, The University of Texas of the Permian Basin collects specified information on campus crime statistics, campus security policies, and institutional completion or graduation rates.

Pursuant to the federal law, alleged victims of violent crime are entitled to know the results of campus disciplinary proceedings concerning alleged perpetrators.

U.T. Permian Basin reports to the campus community on crimes considered to be a threat to students and employees and reported to campus police or local police agencies.

U.T. Permian Basin publishes and distributes an annual report of campus security policies and crime statistics to all current students and employees; provides copies of the report to applicants for enrollment or employment upon request; and submits a copy of the report to the Secretary of Education upon request. The annual campus crime statistics report references crimes which occur on property owned or controlled by the University and may be supplemented by listing crimes which occur off the campus in buildings or on property owned or controlled by student organizations that are registered by the institution when such statistics are available from local police departments.

The U.T. Permian Basin annually calculates and discloses institutional completion or graduation rates for undergraduate students to all prospective and current students. (The federal requirement for calculation of a completion of graduation rate applies only to institutions of higher education that admit undergraduate students who are enrolling for the first time at an institution of higher education and have not enrolled previously at any other institution of higher education.)

The U.T. Permian Basin publishes in the annual security report, its policy regarding sex-related offenses, including sexual assault prevention programs, education programs to promote awareness of sex offenses, administrative disciplinary procedures and sanctions for offenders, and counseling and student services for victims.

Missing Student Notification Policy

If a member of the University community has reason to believe that a student who resides in on-campus housing is missing, he or she should immediately notify the UT Permian Basin Police Department at (432)552-2786.

Students residing in on-campus housing have the option to identify confidentially an individual to be contacted by UT Permian Basin in the event the student is determined to be missing for more than 24 hours. Contact information will be accessible only to authorized campus officials and law enforcement and will not be disclosed outside of a missing person investigation. To designate a confidential contact, contact Student Housing at (432) 552-2734.

UTPB Parent & Affiliates E-Mail Status Reports - UTPB-STATUS

What Is UTPB-STATUS?

UTPB-STATUS is a campus-based emergency e-mail notification system that gives the university the ability to communicate emergency health, safety and status information quickly to parents and affiliates. Subscribe to UTPB-STATUS today so you can quick receive safety-related information about university operations.

What Type Of Information Will Be Sent Using UTPB-STATUS?

The UTPB-STATUS system will be used to send health, safety and situation updates related to abnormal situations at the university. This system is intended to provide a communications channel for status updates and situation briefings related to emergency or other abnormal situations on campus. The UTPB-STATUS system will NOT be used for routine communications about university events or any form of advertising.

Mass Notification System

Along the exterior of the building is a siren system that when activated will emit an alternating wail sound. If someone is outside and hears this siren, they need to move indoors and seek information via radio, TV, or the UTPB website. Testing of this system is done on the first Wednesday of the month at noon unless poor weather is or will occur very soon and the test typically lasts for less than a minute. Inside all academic buildings of the campus, there is a mass notification system that is linked with the fire alarm speakers. When the alarm goes off a verbal message will give you instructions on what to do for the trouble at hand. You could be asked to evacuate the building, move to a safe location inside the building or to lock down the room that you occupy.

Fire Safety Policies and Procedures

The Environmental Health & Safety at UTPB is responsible for overseeing the university fire-safety program. UTPB fire safety policies and procedures can be found at the Environmental Health & Safety webpage. Any questions regarding fire safety policies, the UTPB Annual Fire Safety Report or UTPB Fire Logs should be directed to the Environmental Health & Safety at 432-552-2778 or at http://ba.utpb.edu/environmental-health-safety/fire-reporting/.

Criminal Background Checks

Certain programs require students to submit to and satisfactorily complete a criminal background check review as a condition of admission and/or participation in education experiences. Students who refuse to submit to a background check or who do not pass the background check may be dismissed from the program. The student is responsible for the costs of the criminal background check.

University-Related Student Travel

A. Use of Non-employee Students as Drivers is Prohibited

Student motor vehicle use and travel while engaged in University-related activities present special risk issues. Because students are not employees, motor vehicles cannot be rented for their use pursuant to the State rental car contracts; and, no coverage for personal injuries is available to them if they drive University-owned or their personal vehicles. Therefore, it is required that students who are also not employees of the University not be used as drivers; nor should they be asked or required to use their personal vehicles to engage in University-related activities.

Guidelines for Using Students as Driver

1. Students who drive on behalf of the university must be on the Payroll.
   1. Students who are regularly or frequently being called upon to drive on behalf of the university should be appointed as employees by the requesting department or unit.
   2. Student-employees who frequently drive university vehicles while on university-related activities should be “authorized” in the same manner as any other employee who regularly drives for the university, i.e. they should have a current Motor Vehicle Record on file with the Physical Plant Department.
   3. The hiring department should also verify that the student/employees who drive have health insurance coverage of some kind.

B. Guidelines for Occasions When Students are Passengers in Motor Vehicles Involved in University-related Activities

1. Verify health insurance coverage for all students who are to be passengers in vehicles driven on University-related activities.
2. If verification of coverage is not provided Special Events medical insurance should be purchased by each passenger prior to the trip (see the Office of Student Life).
3. Purchase of Personal Injury and Personal Effects Insurance.
4. When rental vehicles are used to transport students, the personal injury and personal effects insurance should be purchased as a part of the vehicle rental agreement. This is particularly important where vans are rented to transport large numbers of students in a single vehicle.

C. Guideline Concerning Student releases and Medical Authorizations

Each student who travels by motor vehicle (or any other form of transportation) to participate in a university-related activity, including but not limited to academically related field trips or courses, competitions or contests; or non-academic activities such as those sponsored by Recreational Sports, must execute a copy of the Release and Indemnification Agreement and The Authorization for Emergency Medical Treatment.

D. Guidelines Concerning Use of Personal Vehicles by Students

1. Use of personal vehicles by students to drive to university-related activities is discouraged.
2. If students use their own vehicles, and/or transport other students as passengers, they should be informed, in advance, that their personal insurance would be primarily responsible for any liability that may arise from such use.
3. The enforcement of Texas vehicle inspection laws may occur for vehicles parking or driving on the campus.

E. Guidelines Concerning Safe Travel Practices

Each administrative unit approving university-related travel, especially that involves students, is encouraged to promulgate Guidelines that encourage safe driving and minimize risks of injury during that travel (Texas Education Code, Section 51.950)