Student Services & Campus Life

Admissions

Located: Administration Building, B204
Phone: 973-300-2223
Email: admissions@sussex.edu

Office Hours:
Monday-Friday: 9:00 am–5:00 pm

Consideration for admission is given to all high school graduates, home-schooled students or those holding a HSE (or GED) certificate, or other persons 18 years or older. Consideration will also be given to home-schooled students between 16 and 18 years of age for part-time enrollment.

Students must send their high school transcripts, if available.

Consideration for conditional admittance may be given to applicants not meeting the guidelines for regular or special admittance programs. All decisions will be on an individual basis and must have the approval of an academic dean and/or vice president.

Sussex County Community College reserves the right (as governed by law) to deny/revoke admission to any applicant who the College reasonably believes represents a threat to themselves or to the welfare of the academic community or who otherwise does not display the ability to benefit from the educational services or through participation in the educational programs provided by the College.

Admission to the College does not guarantee admission to limited enrollment programs governed by specific standards and separate admissions boards.


Alumni

The College Foundation provides opportunities for alumni to continue their relationship with the College after graduation. The Foundation enlists alumni volunteers to help advocate for and promote College initiatives, as well as offering networking, volunteer, and advocacy opportunities. Alumni are encouraged to follow the College Foundation on social media or visit our website for information on upcoming, special events, volunteer opportunities and meetings.

Those interested in becoming involved in alumni-related activities at the College, please contact Todd Poltersdorf, Associate Dean of Athletics, Alumni and Student Discipline at 973-300-2252 or tpoltersdorf@sussex.edu


Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights Act

Sussex County Community College prohibits harassment, intimidation, or bullying. Students violating this policy will be subject to disciplinary action (see Student Code of Conduct and Due Process). A definition of harassment, intimidation, or bullying that at a minimum includes any gesture, any written, verbal or physical act, or any electronic communication that is reasonably perceived as being motivated either by any actual or perceived characteristic, such as race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, or a mental, physical or sensory disability, or by any other distinguishing characteristic, that takes place on the property of the institution of higher education or at any function sponsored by the College.


Athletics

Sussex is a member of the Garden State Athletic Conference (GSAC) and National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA-Region XIX). Sussex fields teams in men’s basketball, baseball, lacrosse, football, wrestling and soccer and women’s basketball, softball, soccer, and volleyball. Partial tuition scholarships are offered in baseball and women’s soccer. Athletic eligibility is determined by the NJCAA and adopted by the GSAC. Sussex adheres to all rules set forth by the NJCAA and GSAC. The Athletic Office is located in the Academic and Athletic Building (E).

Athletes Attendance Regulation

Sussex coaching staff and counselors make every attempt to provide student athletes a schedule that will not conflict with their athletic program schedules. However, occasionally a student athlete will need to miss a class in order to participate in intercollegiate contest(s) and/or to allow travel time to such contest(s). Student athletes, managers, and statistician personnel are excused from class to participate in scheduled games and scrimmages. However, it is the responsibility of the student athletes, managers, and statistician personnel to inform the instructor(s) prior to the date they will be absent and to receive and complete any missed assignments during their absence. Student athletes, managers, and statistician personnel are not excused from class for any practice sessions. Any student athlete accruing excessive unexcused absences will be subject to disciplinary action.

Athletic Schedules


Bias Incidents

Unlawful acts upon persons or property, committed on the basis of race, creed, color, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or religion, seriously undermine the harmony and quality of life of the entire College community. Bias incidents, as they are termed, are extensively investigated by the College in conjunction with the local police bias department and the County Prosecutor’s Office. All members of the College community are required to report such incidents promptly to the Associate Dean of Athletics, Alumni, and Student Discipline at 973-300-2252, in person, or by completing an Incident Report with Security at 973-300-2222.

Confidential Resources keep your identity and information private and anonymous. Counselors are confidential resources. SCCC Counseling Services is located in B206 973-300-2207; advising@sussex.edu.


Campus Life & Student Engagement

Located: Student Center, D105a
Phone:
973-300-2200

The Office of Campus Life and Student Engagement is devoted to enhancing the educational experiences of college students by implementing a holistic approach to co-curricular and extra-curricular programming. The Office of Campus Life and Student Engagement works to develop programming that enriches student’s educational experience by providing opportunities to engage in social, cultural, intellectual, recreational, and civic pursuits that will serve to augment their academic pursuits.


Campus Store

The Campus Store is operated by the Business Entrepreneurial Club and administration division of Sussex County Community College and is located in the Student Center.

Students can purchase books online at the Campus Store.

Books will not be able to be picked up on campus amid new health protocols. Before finalizing your purchase, please review your delivery options and insert your personal mailing address as the purchase destination. Campus Store hours and policies are posted online.


Cell Phones

The use of cell phones in class is prohibited except with the specific approval of the faculty member or in the event of an emergency. The use of cell phones or similar devices capable of sending and receiving messages and/or storing data is prohibited during testing. Electronic devices must not be visible in or around the test area. Students should communicate with their instructor in the event of an emergency requiring the use of their cell phone in class.

Calculators may only be used with the express consent of the faculty member.


Clubs and Organizations

The College encourages the active formation of, and participation in student clubs and organizations. The Student Government Association (SGA) oversees the chartering and management of student clubs and organizations. Student Clubs and Organizations are organized by, and for students.

Forms to start a new club are available in the Campus Life Office in the Student Center, D105a.

Take the opportunity to leave your mark as a Skylander and get involved in Student Clubs and Organizations!


College is a Free Speech Zone

Sussex County Community College believes safety and freedom of speech are connected. External behaviors that shut down or diminish the speech of others are not themselves free speech. Opinions that are offensive to others will be accepted as the opinion of free-thinking persons. However, bullying is a definable behavior characterized, in part, by insistent and persistent talking over other people and using words as an attack tool that shuts down other people’s ability to speak. This classroom, college campus will vigorously maintain safety for everyone to preserve the first amendment with its duties and privileges.

Mocking, debasing, and deriding people based on race/ethnicity, sex, gender, sexual orientation, country of origin, physical ability, or other aspects of identity are all examples of potential “deep offense” to an audience. These are often the tools of attack speech that shut down the speech of others. Such examples can also be violations of civil rights protection laws.

HATE-FILLED SPEECH DESTROYS FREE SPEECH

It is the responsibility of all staff and faculty members to defend the First Amendment and productive, helpful, and educational academic dialogue.

Should a student feel unsafe in this room, s/he is encouraged to discuss it with the staff or faculty member present and, if necessary, to report their concerns of the:

  • Vice President of Student Success and Institutional Effectiveness, Room B204

  • Associate Dean of Athletics, Alumni, and Student Discipline, Room E204

  • Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs, Academic Affairs Office, Room B300

  • Chief Operating and Human Resources Officer, Student Center, Room D313

  • Senior Vice President of Academic & Student Affairs, Academic Affairs Office, Room B301


Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF)

The Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) program advances college access, affordability and student success for underrepresented scholars in New Jersey. The EOF program was established by the New Jersey Legislature to provide support services to students who face economical and educational obstacles. The program offers services that promote academic and personal excellence to assist students in reaching their full potential. To find out more about the EOF Program and eligibility requirements contact eof@sussex.edu, 973-300-2347, or visit D114.


Email

All registered students will be issued an official Sussex student email. The account details are emailed to the student’s personal email at the time of admission.

All College communication, including messages to and from professors and College staff, will only be sent to the student email. Staff and faculty are instructed not to respond to emails from commercial accounts (i.e. Yahoo, Hotmail, Gmail, etc.).

IT Services

If you are difficulty logging in to any of our online resources, contact the Information Technology (IT) Help desk for help:

Email: itservice@sussex.edu
Phone: 973-300-2333
Room: B106


Employee and Student Program to Prevent Illicit Use of Drugs and Abuse of Alcohol

Sussex County Community College is an educational institution committed to maintaining an environment which allows students to enjoy the full benefits of their learning experience and to understand the negative consequences of the illicit use of alcohol and drugs on their lives. The College is committed to the premise that its students and employees shall learn and work in a drug and alcohol free environment. Sussex County Community College in no way will condone the illicit use of alcohol and drugs by either its employees or its students and will not foster or promote any such activity. In accordance with the policy approved by the Board of Trustees of Sussex County Community College on (initially adopted: February 20, 1990; revised: August 28, 1990, May 24, 2016, and September 22, 2020) and in accordance with public Law 101-226, the College declares that it will make every effort to provide its students and employees with an environment that is free of the problems associated with the unauthorized use and abuse of alcohol and illegal drugs. The College is committed to promoting the wellness and positive self-development of its students and employees. The unauthorized use and abuse of alcohol and the illegal use and abuse of drugs inhibit students and employees from attaining the benefit of their learning and/or work experience, expose them to serious illness and health risks and therefore, are prohibited.

The College will impose disciplinary sanctions on students and employees that may include expulsion or termination of employment and referral for prosecution for violations of the standard of conduct. Such disciplinary sanctions may include the completion of a rehabilitation program.

I. Standards of Employee Conduct

Authorization for the possession, consumption, or distribution of alcoholic beverages on College premises or at any College function, meeting or event requires written permission (10 business days before the event/purchase) by the College President.

College employees, including student employees, are prohibited from reporting to work and/or from operating or using any College equipment, machinery, or vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances.

II. Sanctions for Violation of Employee Standards of Conduct

Any employee found to be in possession of an unauthorized controlled substance may be initially suspended without pay for a period not to exceed fifteen (15) days during which an investigation will be conducted. A recommendation for suspension shall made by the employee’s supervisor, the Chief Operating and Human Resources Officer and the President. Local, state, and federal laws which apply to unlawful possession, use or distribution of illicit drugs or alcohol will be enforced and nothing herein shall be construed so as to prevent College officials from referring any matter to local law enforcement agencies.

If there is reasonable cause to suspect that an employee is under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance during work hours, that employee shall be immediately suspended from their duties with pay. The College may require that the employee undergo testing for the usage of controlled dangerous substances, including alcohol, to ascertain whether the employee is, in fact, under the influence of such substances. Physical examinations and testing shall be completed at a facility designated by the College. The College shall bear the cost of such tests. In the event that the test(s) result in a positive finding, the employee may be suspended for up to fifteen (15) days without pay.

If an officer or employee is convicted of or pleads guilty to a violation of any criminal drug statute, occurring in or related to the workplace, they must notify the Chief Operating and Human Resources Officer and their immediate supervisor, in writing, of said conviction no later than five (5) days after such conviction. The College is required by and mandated under the Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988, 34 CFR, Part 85, Subpart F, to report any conviction for violation of a criminal drug law in or related to its workplace, of which it has been notified, to the federal government within ten (10) days of receiving notice of said conviction. The College shall take one of the following actions with respect to any employee convicted of a violation of a criminal drug statute occurring in or related to the workplace within thirty (30) days thereof: (1) take appropriate personnel action against such employee, up to and including termination; or 2) require such employee to participate satisfactorily in a drug abuse assistance or rehabilitation program approved for such purpose by a federal, state or local health, law enforcement or other appropriate agency.

Employees are encouraged to report to the Chief Operating and Human Resources Officer or the Director/Supervisor to whom they report any knowledge or evidence that is directly or indirectly related to the possession or sale of drugs anywhere on the College campus or at any time during a College-related activity.

III. Standards of Student Conduct

In order to provide for the maximum comfort, convenience and well-being of the total College community, certain standards of behavior have been established at Sussex County Community College. Upon admission to the College, all students accept an unqualified commitment to adhere to such standards and to conduct themselves in a manner that reflects pride in themselves and the College. Such actions as academic dishonesty, abuse of property and possession of alcoholic beverages or illegal drugs are in violation of the College’s standards and are cause for disciplinary action. In the Student Code of Conduct, II. A. 9, “the manufacture, possession, sale or use of controlled or illegal substances, including alcohol...,” is a specific violation of student conduct at Sussex County Community College.

The College alcohol policy specifies the following standards of conduct:

  1. All persons desiring admittance to any social event where alcoholic beverages are dispensed shall be required to show documentation of their identity, age, and College affiliation in the presence of the licensee or designee of the College prior to admission. All persons meeting said admission requirement will be identified for the service of alcoholic beverages. Such identification will be made obvious to the licensee or designee of the College.

  2. Each Sussex County Community College student member is permitted the admission of one guest, not affiliated with the College, provided said guest complies with the procedure described in number 1 above. The host is responsible for the respective guest’s conduct at all times according to the Student Code of Conduct.

  3. Persons exhibiting any signs of intoxication will not be granted admission to the function.

  4. Minors not affiliated with Sussex County Community College will not be granted admission to the function.

  5. In accordance with the Municipal Code of the town of Newton, members of the campus community who are minors are allowed on the premises where alcoholic beverages are served, but are not allowed to be served or consume alcoholic beverages. Any member of the campus community who is a minor will be admitted to the social event, but will not receive identification and will not be recognized for the services of alcoholic beverages.

  6. Students bearing alcoholic beverages, purchased privately, will not be granted admission to the social event.

  7. Sanctions for Violation of Standards of Student Conduct

The College’s Student Code of Conduct specifies that, “The College reserves the right to suspend or dismiss students for failure to conform to its rules and regulations or for conduct detrimental to the best interest of others. In exercising this right, the College may subject students to disciplinary action...”

Specified sanctions are noted below:

  1. Warning: Oral or written expression that a student is in violation of the Code of Conduct;

  2. Social Probation: Exclusion of individual students or student groups from participating in college activities for a specific period of time;

  3. Interim Suspension: Exclusion from classes and/or other college activities for a specific period of time (not to exceed 15 days) pending final determination of an alleged violation, to be evoked when the student’s or group’s presence on campus represents a clear and present danger to the student, the group, or others;

  4. Suspension: Exclusion from classes and other college activities for a specific period of time;

  5. Expulsion: Permanent exclusion from classes and college activities.

For chartered student organizations serving alcohol at campus social events, the Senior Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs (or their designee) has jurisdiction over sanctions for organizational misconduct as follows:

  1. Review cases of organizational misconduct at events serving alcoholic beverages.

  2. Designation of appropriate disciplinary action.

  3. Applicable Legal Sanctions – Local, State and Federal Law

Local, state, and federal laws which apply to underage consumption and use of drugs and alcohol (including motor vehicle violations) will be fully enforced at Sussex County Community College. 


Foundation

The Foundation supports the College through fund-raising and relationship-building efforts. Funds are generated through annual giving campaigns, special events, and grants. The funds raised support student success, academic support, faculty and staff support, and innovation, which opens doors for countless members of our community.

To contact the Foundation Office: 973-300-2121 or foundation@sussex.edu


Horton Nutrition Center

The Horton Nutrition Center is located in the Student Center, Room 114. The College understands food insecurity is a challenge our students and community members face daily. Our mission is to help feed student success and drive the community forward with the promise of a better tomorrow. The Horton Nutrition Center is a self-serve pantry that provides nutritious “to go” foods that students can eat while on campus along with non-perishable food items for home preparation.

The Horton Nutrition Center is open and accessible to all Sussex students, during normal college campus hours.


Identification Card (ID) Procedures

Each Sussex student will be issued a Student Identification Card (ID). Students must have their Student ID card in their possession at all times. It must be presented as proof of enrollment when requested by college officials. For any transaction at the College, students will be asked to present this ID.

ID Card Procedures

Student ID cards are issued at the Security Office, located in the Student Center, D116. A receipt of enrollment and photo ID must be presented. An ID card is necessary to use the Library and may also be required for athletic events, intramural games, and other campus activities. A $5 fee will be charged for replacement cards.


Notices, Announcements and Posters

Any notices, announcements, or posters to be distributed on campus or posted on College bulletin boards must be submitted to Campus Life, one week before posting and must be approved before actual posting. Posters and notices are limited to specific bulletin boards and may not be placed on doors, walls, windows, stairs, or building exteriors, trees, light posts, etc. The originator of the notice is responsible for removal, immediately following the conclusion of the event.

For events happening off-campus or outside vendors/employers wishing to post flyers, the flyers must also be approved at the Campus Life Office in the Student Center. These flyers will be posted in the Student Center only.

The Campus Posting Policy provides Sussex students, faculty, staff, and the public with space to place approved postings at designated locations throughout the campus. All postings must be neat and support the interests of both the sponsoring organization and the College. All postings must adhere to the College's Mission, Vision and Values. Obscene, inflammatory, libelous, racist, sexist, or otherwise offensive postings inconsistent with the College’s Mission, Vision and Values, will not be permitted.


Organ Donation Notification

The Uniform Anatomical Gift Act allows a consenting individual to donate their organs and tissues upon death for the purpose of transplantation or medical research. 

If you are 18 years of age or older, you may designate “Organ Donor” on your NJ State driver’s license or non-driver ID card.


Orientation Leaders 

Orientation Leaders aid in the New Student Orientation at Sussex. Students interested in applying should submit the Orientation Leader application that is available on Canvas or by stopping into the Campus Life Office in the Student Center, D105a.


SCCC EDTV Channel 20

SCCC EDTV Channel 20 provides the Sussex and Warren County cable television audience served by Service Electric Television of NJ, Inc. and the College community with educational programming. The Station offers the community a unique variety of quality educational programming ranging from health


Skylanders Café

The Skylanders Café is located in The Student Center, on the first floor. The Café offers a variety of food for students to purchase include daily specials.


SNAP Benefits

Students who are actively placed in a Federal Work-Study position, or students who are enrolled in Perkins-approved programs may qualify for expanded SNAP benefits. If you feel you meet criteria for either FWS placement, or Perkins-eligible program of study, please contact the Director of Financial Aid at 973-300-2226.

Visit nj.gov for general information, including instructions on enrolling for various support programs. You may also wish to reach out to the local Sussex County office who handles SNAP Benefits.


Social Networking

Sussex maintains an official presence on social networking sites including Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

If a Sussex student group wishes to create a page for their group to be linked to the official College Facebook page, they must contact the Marketing Department for approval and to ensure they comply with the terms of agreement. The College does not take any responsibility for pages developed by others.

Existing policies governing student, employee and faculty behavior apply to all social networking pages. The College takes no responsibility for content developed by non-employees.

In the spirit of maintaining a positive environment for our site visitors, the College reserves the right to remove any comments or posts from official college-sponsored pages that are inappropriate, inflammatory, or damaging to Sussex County Community College or any individual.

The following types of content are prohibited from Sussex social networking sites:

  • Derogatory language or demeaning statements about or threats to any third party.
  • Inappropriate or incriminating images depicting hazing, sexual harassment, vandalism, stalking, underage drinking, illegal drug use, violence or any other inappropriate behavior or language.
  • Content that violates state or federal law.
  • Partisan political activity.
  • Online gambling.
  • Plagiarized material.
  • Information/images that is obscene or untrue. 
  • Content that harasses third parties.
  • Selling goods or services for personal financial profit.
  • Personal social relationships unrelated to Sussex business.

Student Accessibilities Services (SAS)

See Academic Support Services and Learning Resources.


Skylanders Student Ambassadors

Skylanders Student Ambassadors are part of the Campus Life Crew at Sussex and represent the college both on campus and in the community; assist in planning campus events and activities; and mentor new students.

Applications for the Skylanders Student Ambassador Program are available in the Campus Life Office, located in the Student Center D105A. Skylanders Student Ambassadors are selected based on their commitment and desire to make a difference at Sussex! Students that serve as Ambassadors earn a Work-Grant applied directly to their college account.

Applications for spring 2023 positions are available in Campus Life Office beginning October 24, 2022 and are due on November 21, 2022. Interviews are conducted during the week of December 5, 2022. Fall 2023 semester applications are available March 20, 2023 and are due April 17, 2023. Interviews are conducted during the week of April 24, 2023.


Student Success Center  

Located: Administration Building, B206
Phone:
973-300-2207
Email: advising@sussex.edu

Office Hours:
Monday-Friday: 8:00 am–5:00 pm

From the moment a new student enrolls in their first course, to the day a graduate moves on to a career or transfer college, the Student Success Center staff fosters personal growth, educational development and career and life planning.

Students can schedule appointments for advising or counseling sessions online.

Academic Advising

An important part of each student’s academic career is meeting with an academic advisor discuss academic planning. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with their assigned advisor throughout their college years to ensure sufficient progress towards a degree or certificate.

Advising

Advisors are available to assist students in selecting their academic programs and setting academic goals. A student’s interests, abilities, academic progress, career objective and transfer intentions are taken into consideration when planning and setting goals. Students are encouraged to seek advisement throughout their time at Sussex.

Career Services

Students may be referred to career services in the community for resume writing, researching occupations and career development. Students may review available job listings online.

Sussex welcomes students from all over the globe and provides assistance with the admissions and registration process for International students.

Transfer Counseling

Transfer information, including transfer agreements, transfer scholarships, transfer fairs and internet access to U.S. college sites, is available in the Student Success Center. Local colleges provide Instant Decision Transfer Days on the Sussex campus. Counselors use NJ Transfer, a web-based articulation system for transfer within NJ. Students should work closely with their counselor to ensure they are following the guidelines of the NJ Statewide Transfer Agreement.

Personal Counseling

Free short-term personal counseling is available to assist students in addressing non-academic problems that can adversely impact their ability to achieve personal and academic growth. Relationship issues, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, concern over alcohol or drug abuse and abusive situations are examples of the kinds of issues addressed. Referrals to community services or private practitioners may be made. All personal Sussex counseling sessions are confidential and free. Counselors abide by the Code of Ethics for the American Counseling Association and the National Association of Social Workers.

Student Accessibilities Services (SAS) 

Student Accessibilities Services (SAS) provides services for students who require academic or facilities accommodations to fulfill their higher education goals.


Student Code of Conduct & Due Process

Sussex County Community College seeks to provide a safe and secure environment through the promulgation of a student code that respects and protects the rights and welfare of its members and one which is conducive to the pursuit of education. The College reserves the right to suspend or dismiss students for failure to conform to its rules and regulations or for conduct detrimental to the best interest of the College community.

In exercising this right, the College may subject students to disciplinary action for failure to comply with college policy when attending college functions either on-campus or off-campus or functions of college-chartered organizations or college-sponsored events conducted either on-campus or off-campus. 

Students may be subject to discipline for on or off-campus violations of law. When such actions represent a threat to the welfare of the College community, they shall also be subject to campus discipline. The dismissal of criminal charges will not necessarily result in the College’s dismissal of campus charges and sanctions. 

If the Dean of Student Affairs, in consultation with the Senior Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs, determines that the matter is primarily related to academic integrity, including, but not limited to, cheating and plagiarism, the matter will be referred to the appropriate Academic Dean for further investigation and determination of outcomes. In unique cases, the Senior vice President of Academic and Student Affairs and the Dean of Student Affairs can decide together if the matter, while primarily academic in nature, should nonetheless follow the formal Student Conduct process, overseen by the Dean of Student Affairs for Judicial Affairs.

I. Misconduct:

Violation of the following code may result in disciplinary action (up to and including dismissal.) This list is not intended to be exhaustive and the College reserves the right to take disciplinary action in any circumstance where it reasonably believes it necessary for the best interest of the College community. 

  1. Academic cheating or plagiarism
  2. Possession of firearms, fireworks, explosives, or any other material or weapon or weapon replica considered deadly or dangerous
  3. Furnishing false information to the College including forgery, alteration, or misuse of college documents, timesheets, records, or identification
  4. Disruptive or disorderly behavior in the classroom, on campus, or at a college-related function
  5. Physical violence or the threat of physical violence
  6. Sexual harassment or other forms of harassment
  7. Cyberbullying
  8. Stalking
  9. Assault and/or battery
  10. Manufacture, possession, sale, or use of controlled or illegal substances, including alcohol, unless expressly permitted by the college officials or law permitted by the college officials or law
  11. Destruction, damage, or misuse of public or private property 
  12. Illegal entry and/or occupation of college property
  13. Theft, larceny, embezzlement of public or private property, including issuance of bad checks
  14. Unauthorized use of computers or software
  15. Obscene conduct
  16. Failure to comply with reasonable direction of college officials in performing their duties
  17. Violation of other college policies or regulations, or violation of federal, state, or local laws
  18. Using the college name for soliciting funds or other activities without prior permission
  19. Acting or speaking, including in assembly, on campus which disrupts the normal functions of the College or its authorized activities its authorized activities
  20. Violation of campus parking rules
  21. Theft, modifications and/or vandalizing of electronic data or unauthorized entry of databases
  22. Violation of disciplinary sanctions
  23. Consumption of food or drink in prohibited areas prohibited locations
  24. Aiding or abetting another in an action that would incur college discipline that would incur college discipline
  25. Smoking or use of tobacco products
  26. Failure to wear footwear in college buildings
  27. Disruption or interference with the orderly conduct of a disciplinary proceeding
  28. Flagrant disregard or unwillingness to follow Campus mandates related to pandemic or other health-crises protocols.
  29. Reporting Misconduct
  30. Charges for violations of the student code may be initiated by a campus community member (faculty, student, staff, and administrator) or by an on-campus visitor via the College Incident Report form available at the Office of Student Services. Retaliation against the person reporting the violation is strictly forbidden and will result in disciplinary action.
  31. Code violations are to be filed within the semester of occurrence in writing with the Dean of Student Affairs for Judicial Affairs, or designee who will review the complaint and make a determination to dismiss or proceed with disciplinary action. If the determination is to proceed, the Dean of Student Affairs will notify the student in writing of the charges no more than 21 days from the original complaint. 
  32. If the Dean of Student Affairs, in consultation with the Vice President of Student Services, determines that the matter is primarily related to academic integrity, including, but not limited to, cheating and plagiarism, the matter will be referred by the Senior Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs to the appropriate Academic Division Dean for further investigation and determination of outcomes. In unique cases, the Senior Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs and the Dean of Student Affairs can decide together if the matter, while primarily academic in nature, should nonetheless follow the formal Student Conduct process, overseen by the Dean of Student Affairs for Judicial Affairs.
  33. In light of extenuating circumstances such as a pandemic, some disciplinary steps may need to take on a remote/virtual process.
  34. Dean of Student Affairs Preliminary Hearing

The Dean of Student Affairs will convene a hearing with the student in those cases where an alleged violation would carry a penalty no greater than a written or verbal warning.

  1. The student shall have the right to plead their innocence and to present evidence or witnesses to that end.
  2. The student shall have the right to seek the assistance of another student, faculty, or staff member in the representation of their defense.
  3. The Dean of Student Affairs will render either a verbal decision at the hearing or a written decision no later than five days thereafter.
  4. Warnings, if issued, will stipulate specific beginning and ending dates. 
  5. Selecting a Judicial Process

In those cases where an alleged violation would carry a penalty greater than a warning, that is probation, restitution, community service, suspension, or dismissal,the Dean of Student Affairs or designee will offer the accused the option of selecting the Dean of Student Affairs Judicial Committee or to select a Campus Standards Judicial Board. The Dean of Student Affairs may, in some cases, deny the request for a Dean’s Judicial Board when such a process would, in the opinion of the Dean, not be in the best interest of the student or the College community.  

  1. Campus Standards Judicial
  2. The Campus Standards Judicial process will be available to students during the fall and spring semesters. Violations of the code during winter and summer semesters will be adjudicated through the Dean’s Judicial process.
  3. Should a student select a Campus Standards Judicial Board, the Dean will appoint a Standards Board consisting of one student, one faculty and up to two Student Services staff members. The Dean will also serve on this Board and preside over the Judicial Board. In cases involving alleged dating violence, domestic violence, sexual harassment/assault or stalking, the Campus Standards Judicial Board will be made up of one faculty member, up to two Student Services staff members, The Director of HR or designee and the Dean.
  4. The student shall have the same rights and be subject to the same timetable as stipulated for the Dean ’s Judicial Board.
  5. With the conclusion of the process, the Standards Board shall render a decision and recommendations to the Dean.
  6. Should the Standards Board reasonably substantiate the guilt of the accused, the Dean will apply sanction(s) as appropriate to the offense and within the confines of the sanctions contained herein. All such actions will stipulate beginning and ending dates of the sanction. The Dean may at their discretion stipulate that the disciplinary records associated with some violations be expunged in accordance with a timetable determined by the Dean. 
  7. Failure to Appear

Judicials will meet at the scheduled time. The failure of a student to appear after proper notification shall not be cause for the postponement of the Judicial Board; the Judicial Board shall proceed and render judgment. Judgment shall be based on the facts ascertained.

II. Sanctions

Sanctions will include, but are not limited to, oral and written warnings, probation, probation with a limitation of college activities, restitution, community service, suspension, and dismissal.

III. Appeals

In those cases, where the Dean renders a formal disciplinary decision, the student shall have the right to appeal the decision to the Senior Vice President of Academic and Student Services. All such appeals must be in writing and filed within five calendar days of the notification of action, that is a warning, probation, suspension, dismissal, or other sanction. In those cases, where a designee of the Dean has rendered a decision, appeals will be filed in writing to the Dean within five calendar days of the action. All appeals will be responded to in writing within ten calendar days. The decision of the Senior Vice President of Academic and Student Services, Dean, or designee shall be final. The student shall not have the right of an in-person appeal.

  1. Expedient Authority
  2. Interim suspension: In the event a behavior represents, in the judgment of the Dean, a danger to the campus community, the Dean may suspend a student and declare the student persona non grata from the campus pending the convening of the judicial process and/or convening of the Campus Standards Board. The student will in all cases be entitled to a hearing. 
  3. Removal from class: Should a faculty member determine that a student’s behavior in a particular class is disruptive such that the normal purpose of the class cannot be fulfilled, then the faculty member may direct that the student leave the class. Should the student refuse the directive to leave, the faculty member may call security to have the student removed from class. At the conclusion of the class, the faculty member will file a written report with the Dean who will schedule a meeting with the student. The student may not return to class until they have met with the Dean. Should mediation not be successful the Dean will initiate a judicial process as appropriate to the circumstances.
  4. Off-Campus Jurisdiction

Violations of municipal, state, or federal laws, if committed off campus, shall be the subject of college disciplinary action when, in the judgment of the Dean, it represents a danger to life, welfare, or property of members of the College community. The Dean may choose to impose an interim suspension and a declaration of persona non grata pending the outcome of criminal process; however, the student shall be provided the opportunity to participate in the campus standards process subsequent to the finalization of the criminal process.

IV. Refunds

Students suspended, dismissed or who otherwise withdraw as the result of a disciplinary process, shall not be eligible for a refund based upon such events unless the event occurs within the published refund period.

Student/Faculty Expectations

Building a Sense of Community - Understanding the Expectations

Sussex believes that excellence in the teaching/learning experience is the cornerstone of student growth and development. As the classroom is the usual venue for these experiences, the following “guiding principles” have been developed in an effort to provide support for the ongoing endeavors of classroom management. The goal is to help faculty achieve the utmost satisfaction in the teaching process and to establish an atmosphere that promotes the highest level of learning possible for every student.

Student Expectations

Collegiality and Respect:

Professors…

  • Treat all students fairly and with respect.
  • Provide constructive criticism of student work; not criticism of the student.
  • Model the highest professional & personal ethics.

THE CLASSROOM ENVIRONMENT:

Professors…

  • Provide students with a detailed course syllabus during the first class meeting.
  • Explain & enforce policies in the course syllabus, regarding attendance, assignment criteria, & classroom conduct.
  • Are prepared & punctual for each class.

THE TEACHING/LEARNING PROCESS:

Professors…

  • Are knowledgeable of course subject matter & provide opportunities for learning to take place.
  • Keep regularly scheduled office hours to
    meet with students.
  • Grade assignments & exams in a timely fashion, as determined by the instructor.
  • Provide students the opportunity to review and discuss their grades and classroom performance.

 

Professor Expectations

Collegiality and Respect:

Students…

  • Treat professor & classmates with respect.
  • Engage in inquisitive, intellectual dialogue with the professor and other students.
  • Exercise the highest academic and personal ethics.

The Classroom Environment:

Students…

  • Are responsible for knowing all course policies, as outlined in the course syllabus.
  • Abide by the policies explained in the course syllabus regarding attendance, assignment criteria & classroom conduct.
  • Are prepared & punctual for each class.

THE TEACHING/LEARNING PROCESS:

Students…

  • Are active learners & full partners in the teaching-learning process.
  • Make appointments with professors to review & discuss their grades and classroom performance.
  • Submit assignments & take exams on scheduled due dates.
  • Ask for feedback on their work or clarification of grades and assignments as needed.

Student Computer Use Integrity Policy

The computer facilities at Sussex County Community College are to be used for learning and this demands that every student adhere to basic ethical principles and behavior as well as the additional restrictions and conditions below:

  1. Students may not attempt to manipulate the computer system (hacking) or otherwise disrupt services or affect the normal operations of computer systems in any way.
  2. Students may not use the college network, email, or other means of electronic communications to give any program(s), assignment(s) or test answer(s) to another person or student.
  3. Students are prohibited from duplicating software or documentation. Privately owned or non-standardized software may not be installed on any College computer.
  4. Students shall not attempt to gain unauthorized access to any computer, network file server, email account, or Internet site.
  5. Students shall have no expectation of privacy regarding computer files, email, or Internet usage. The College reserves the right to monitor all computer files, email, and Internet use without prior notice to the student.
  6. The College may restrict or discontinue access to some or all internet and or network resources at any time without prior notice.
  7. The College prohibits the use of computers, email, Internet access, or any other electronic communication system in ways that are disruptive, offensive, or harmful to others, i.e., sexually explicit messages, cartoons, and jokes. This misuse shall also include, but is not limited to, ethnic slurs, racial comments, off-color jokes, or anything which may be construed as harassment, disrespect of others or may lead to the creation of a hostile educational environment.
  8. The College maintains a zero tolerance policy for cyber-bullying, including email, text messaging, or any other form of electronic communications.
  9. Students are responsible for any defacement or willful damage to college equipment, i.e., computer monitor, keyboard, mouse, furniture, chair, printer, projector, Smartboard, screen, VCR/DVD, etc.

Student Government Association (SGA)

Location: Student Center, D112

The Student Government Association (SGA) is committed to enriching the campus life at Sussex. Membership in the SGA affords opportunities to develop interests, explore new ideas and meet new people. Students are encouraged to attend open meetings, held on the first Thursday of every month at 3:00 pm. Information will be posted on Campus Life on Canvas. All students are encouraged to attend and share their ideas with the SGA, your voice at Sussex.

SGA Elections

SGA elections are held in late April/early May and applications for office will be available in the Campus Life Office D105a. Elected Officers receive a work grant equivalent to 6-12 credits.

Student Government Association Election Guidelines

Students wishing to be considered as candidates for SGA office must submit a petition with signatures of fifteen (15) Sussex students and two (2) faculty members and/or administrators indicating support for the said candidate. Petitions are available in the Campus Life Office. Petitions may be submitted two weeks prior to the election, but no later than one week prior to election. Petitions must be submitted to the SGA advisor.

Campaigning may begin once petitions are submitted, but no earlier than two weeks prior to election date. A maximum of 25 signs or posters may be posted in appropriate areas designated by the Campus Life Office. All campaign signs must be stamped and approved by the Campus Life Office. Candidates are responsible for posting and removing all campaign signs. Signs must be removed on the last day of the election.

The election will be held over a five (5) day period, in April or May to allow all students ample opportunity to vote.

For further election guidelines and voting practices, please visit the Campus Life Office, D105a. This information is found in the Election Application packet.


Student Rights and Responsibilities

The central functions of an academic community are learning, teaching, research, and scholarship. By accepting membership in the College, an individual joins a community ideally characterized by free inquiry, intellectual honesty, respect for the dignity of others and openness to constructive change. The rights and responsibilities exercised within the community must be compatible with these qualities.

The College places emphasis upon certain values which are essential to its nature as an academic community. Among these are freedom from personal force and violence and freedom of movement. Interference with any of these freedoms must be regarded as a serious violation of the personal rights upon which the community is based. Furthermore, the administrative processes and activities of the College cannot be ends in themselves, as such functions are vital to the orderly pursuit of the work of all members of the College.

Therefore, interference with members of the College in performance of their normal duties and activities must be regarded as unacceptable obstruction of the essential processes of the College. Theft or willful destruction of the property of the College or its members must also be considered an unacceptable violation of the rights of individuals or the community as a whole. Physical violence or the threat of same is also considered to be an unacceptable violation of rights.

Moreover, it is the responsibility of all members of the academic community to maintain an atmosphere in which violations of rights are unlikely to occur.

All students accepted at Sussex County Community College acknowledge with their enrollment an obligation to abide by the College regulations and policies as established by the Board of Trustees, by the faculty and administration of the College.

Students are responsible for their own actions and are expected to maintain the highest standard of conduct at all times and in all places. Each must, of course, respect the rights and privileges of all instructors and other students.

The essential and unavoidable condition of the mutual commitment to personal and academic integrity must be respected at all times and in all situations. Implicit in this mandate is the expectation that all work submitted by the student as their own is the result of independent effort. Any attempt to plagiarize or copy another’s work, during examinations or in class work, will render the record of the student suspect and may warrant academic penalty or other disciplinary action.

The College reserves the right to dismiss any student whose continued attendance, in the judgment of the administration, is detrimental to the College or its students. Rules and regulations pertaining to student behavior are provided in the Student Code of Conduct which is appended to this statement.

Furthermore, Sussex County Community College respects the rights of students in its firm commitment to a policy of Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action and will implement this policy to assure that the benefits, services, activities, programs and employment opportunities offered by this institution are available to all persons regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, handicap, marital or veteran status and in accordance with state and federal laws: Title VI, Title VII, Civil Rights Act of 1964; Executive order 11246, as amended; Title IX, Educational Amendments of 1972; section 503 and 504, Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended; Veterans Assistance Act of 1972 as amended.

Sussex County Community College also respects the rights of students in its firm commitment to the provisions of the Federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) which gives students the right to inspect educational records maintained about them by the College, the right to a hearing to challenge the contents of these records and the right to make explanation for challenged information. The College will maintain the confidentiality of student records except with respect to those special cases noted in the legislation.

Finally, all students at Sussex County Community College have attendant financial rights and responsibilities.

Students have the following financial rights:

  1. To know what financial aid programs are available at the school;
  2. To know the deadlines for submitting applications for each of the financial aid programs;
  3. To know how financial aid is distributed; how distribution decisions are made and the basis for these decisions;
  4. To know how the financial need was determined, including how costs for tuition and fees, room and board, travel, books and supplies, personal and miscellaneous expenses, etc., are considered in student budgets;
  5. To know what resources (such as parental contribution, other financial aid, student’s assets, etc.) were considered in the calculation of their needs;
  6. To know how much of the financial need as determined by the institution has been met;
  7. To request an explanation of the various programs in the student aid package;
  8. To know the school’s refund policy;
  9. To know what portion of the financial aid received must be repaid and what portion is grant aid. If the aid is a loan, students have the right to know what the interest rate is, the total amount that must be repaid, the payback procedures, the length of time available to repay the loan and when repayment begins;
  10. To know how the school determines whether students are making satisfactory progress and what happens if they are not.

Students have the following responsibilities:

  1. To complete all application forms accurately and submit them on time to the appropriate office.
  2. To provide correct information. In most instances misreporting information on financial aid application forms is a violation of law and may be considered a criminal offense which could result in indictment under the U.S. Criminal Code.
  3. To return all additional documentation, verification, corrections and/or new information requested by either the Financial Aid Office or the agency to which the application was submitted;
  4. To read and understand all forms they are asked to sign;
  5. To accept responsibility for all agreements they sign;
  6. To perform the work agreed upon when accepting a college work-study award;
  7. To be aware of and comply with deadlines for application or reapplication for aid;
  8. To be aware of the school’s refund procedures;
  9. To consider this information carefully before deciding to attend a school. All schools must provide information to prospective students about the schools’ programs and performance.

Veterans Services

Located: Student Center, D110B
Phone:
973-300-2109

The Student-Veterans Coordinator is available to assist active duty service members, veterans, their dependents, and International Students in the application and processing of VA and DOD Education Benefits as well as SEVIS related documentation and updates. Students who intend to utilize these education benefits are encouraged to contact the Unique Populations Coordinator.

Students intending to use the New Jersey National Guard Tuition Waiver Program must also contact the Financial Aid Office at 973-300-2225/2227.

The Student Veteran Fund is available to assist eligible students who experience undue financial hardship while attending Sussex. Applications for the SVF can be obtained from the Student-Veteran’s Office. These applications must be submitted to the Student-Veterans Coordinator for consideration.

The Student-Veterans Coordinator will also assist/guide the adult learner population, student athletes, and other appropriate student cohorts. Room D110 is designated as the student-veteran’s point of contact/resource center.


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