Residence Life

Dear Resident:

The mission of Baker College is to provide an inclusive, innovative and transformative educational experience which allows students to positively impact their lives and the world around them.

The residence hall living environment can have a profound impact on your personal and educational development at Baker College. It will become a “community” held together by shared values, shared beliefs and shared attitudes…IT IS YOUR HOME AWAY FROM HOME!

We want to extend a warm and sincere welcome to you with the personal invitation that you become an active part of your residence hall community. Please drop in or call us at any time if we can be of assistance to you while you are attending Baker College.

Best wishes for a great Baker College experience.

Sincerely,

Baker College
Residence Life Staff

Students at Baker College have access to official records and data pertaining to themselves and the right to deny access to those records to others, as set forth in Section 438 of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974.

Students, parents and the entire campus community at Baker College have the right to view policy information and campus crime statistics compiled and published by the Campus Safety Office on an annual basis, as set forth by the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act. www.baker.edu/safety

Section 1: Residence Life Personnel

Many people are involved in the development of the Resident Hall community. All Residence Life personnel have been trained to provide support services for residents. They are responsible for the operation of their building, enforcement of Baker College (herein referred to as College) policies and regulations and the development of the residence life community.

1.01 Director of Student Affairs

The responsibility of this position is to provide leadership, oversight and coordination of student academic support services. This includes advocating, promoting and facilitating the delivery of academic support services to ensure student satisfaction. The Student Affairs Office strives to complement and enhance academic programs and student learning and contribute to the personal growth of the individual student.

1.02 Coordinator of Student Life (CSL)

A professional staff member who is responsible for the supervision of the Residence Hall Coordinators (RHC) and the overall operation of the Department of Residence Life and student activities including student clubs/organizations.

1.03 Residence Hall Coordinator (RHC)

Coordinators are professional staff members who reside in Residence Life student housing. They are responsible for the day-to-day operation of the residence halls and for the overall supervision of the Residence Life student staff.

1.04 Resident Assistant (RA)

Resident Assistants (RAs) are student staff members who reside in Residence Life student housing. RAs are available in the facilities for resident concerns. RAs are responsible for providing support and assistance to all residents in creating an atmosphere conducive to growth and learning. Some RA responsibilities include the following: 

1. Getting to know each resident in their community. 
2. Communicating with each resident regularly and frequently.
3. Assisting residents with peer guidance and conflict resolution.
4. Guiding residents to campus or community resources. 
5. Being visible in the facilities and available to all residents. 
6. Aiding in the development of the “community responsibility” concept.
7. Facilitating social and educational programming.

If you have any questions about ANYTHING at Baker College, your RA should be the person to contact. If the RA does not know the answer, he/she will direct you to someone who can assist.

1.05 Work-Study

Residence Life Work-studies are student employees who serve in a variety of capacities for Residence Life. Applications for work-study positions can be found by contacting the OneStop Office at (833) 691-7867 or via email at onestop@baker.edu.

Section 2: Requirements

2.01 Eligibility to Live in Student Housing

1. Resident students must be enrolled in classes and be on program rotation.
2. Students reducing their credit load to less than 15 credit hours must contact Residence Life for a final decision regarding that student’s eligibility to remain in student housing.
3. If a student’s credits are reduced beyond what was approved for that semester, the housing contract may be subject to cancellation for the remainder of the academic year.
4. Students who do not register for, or who withdraw from, all classes will be ineligible to reside in student housing. A non-student already in student housing will be required to vacate the unit immediately and is responsible for all damage charges incurred to that point.
5. Any applicant/resident having a conviction resulting from a felony charge and/or Criminal Sexual Conduct (CSC), or has a pending charge, will not be accepted or allowed to remain in student housing.
6. Students who have been academically suspended must formally re-apply to Residence Life at least one full semester following their suspension. Students reinstated to the College are not automatically readmitted to student housing.
7. Any student dismissed from student housing for disciplinary reasons must vacate the premises within the time period stated in the terms of the dismissal. As a result, visitation privileges will be forfeited unless otherwise stated.
8. Applicants younger than 17 or older than 24 will not be allowed to live within student housing, unless permission from the College administration is granted.
9. Baker College has the sole right to determine who lives in student housing and their unit assignment.

2.02 Licensing Agreement

The Licensing Agreement, which must be signed each year, obligates a student to live in student housing for the entire academic year (Fall and Spring semesters). Summer semester housing may be available as a supplement to the Licensing Agreement. This is in accordance with regulations of the College as specified in the Residence Hall Policies and the Licensing Agreement.

2.03 Pre-Payment

A non-refundable pre-payment of $50 is required of all new students and due when the Residence Hall Application is submitted. A non-refundable $100 pre-payment is required for each semester a student returns to housing and is due when the Housing Application, found at Campus Housing, is submitted. The $100.00 returning student pre-payment is applied toward housing costs each semester it is paid.

2.04 Vaccinations

Baker College recommends all students living in student housing are up to date on all CDC listed vaccines for their age (19-24): Meningococcal, TDAP, HPV, Season Flu and COVID-19. Baker College does not mandate students have vaccines or require documentation.

2.05 Student Housing Orientation

This program has been designed for all new student housing students as they transition from high school to college. Residence Life will serve as hosts during the program which occurs prior to the start of classes each Fall Semester. Students will have the opportunity to connect with one another and to acclimate to the campus. This is a requirement for all new housing students.

2.06 Consolidation

Baker College reserves the right to consolidate students into under-assigned units as a matter of fairness and for energy savings. Once classes begin each semester, students who do not live in a designated single unit, but find themselves without a roommate during the first four weeks of the semester (at no fault of their own), may be subject to room consolidation. Any student’s attempt to block, discourage or add undue pressure to a roommate specifically assigned a given space, may result in disciplinary action, including cancellation of his/her Licensing Agreement.

2.07 Unit Changes

A Unit Change Request form must be filled out and approved by the Residence Life professional staff. Unit Change Request forms will be accepted after the start of each semester; however, authorized unit changes will not occur before Week 3 or after Week 13. Unit Change Request forms submitted after Week 13 will be processed during the following break period. Final determination for all unit changes will be at the discretion of Residence Life personnel.

2.08 Break Accommodations

The residence halls are closed and access is prohibited during the holiday period between Christmas and New Year’s. No break accommodations will be approved for those dates.

2.09 Closing and Check-Out Procedures

1. At the beginning of each break period, all residents are required to officially check-out with a Residence Life staff member. At that time, Residence Life staff will inspect each unit to ensure all garbage has been disposed of and the room is clean. The College retains the right to adjust this policy for individual circumstances solely at the College’s discretion. Failure to follow proper check-out procedures is in violation of College regulations and will result in additional charges and/or disciplinary action.
2. Student housing officially closes on the last day of each semester. Students are expected to leave campus within 24 hours after their last exam, at the end of the semester, or at the designated facility closing time, whichever comes first. It is the responsibility of each student to find temporary housing during regularly scheduled break periods. Students not registered for future semester classes and those who fail to follow check-out procedures, will be considered in violation of the Residence Life Policy Book. Property left behind after forty-eight (48) hours will be removed and discarded by the College, at the owner’s expense. Baker College does not assume responsibility for property that is abandoned, damaged, lost or stolen.
3. A proper check-out includes, but is not limited to, signing up 24-hours in advance with a Residence Life staff member, completing all cleaning responsibilities and being ready to leave the facility. A final check-out also includes the removal of all personal belongings from the facility.

Section 3: Residence Hall Living

3.01 Furniture and Appliances

Students are responsible for the College-supplied furnishings in their rooms. The furniture/appliances should be in the same condition at move out as they were at check-in. College-owned furnishings may not be removed from the unit. If furniture is moved around within your unit, it must be returned to the same room when you move out. If for any reason your furniture gets broken or damaged during the course of the year, you may be assessed damage/repair charges, and you must report it to Residence Life personnel. A television may be supplied by the College. Televisions brought by residents must meet certain requirements. Please check with housing personnel.

The furniture in the studies is for the use and enjoyment of all residents. DO NOT REMOVE FURNITURE FROM THE STUDIES. Any student found with public area furniture may be charged a fine to return the furniture. Students possessing College property such as chairs, cushions, tables, etc. will be referred for disciplinary action. There is no storage space available on campus for students’ personal use. Furniture is provided by the College for each apartment. The furniture may not be disassembled or taken off premises.

3.02 Bed

Personal beds, lofts and waterbeds are considered a potential safety hazard for student rooms and are prohibited. Beds may not block a room entrance or windows. Beds may not be moved to another room. Beds may not be reconfigured without Residence Life consent. Headboards must remain on the beds attached in the proper position.

3.03 Gender Inclusive Housing

Baker College Residence Life is committed to fostering safety, security and acceptance for all students who live in housing. In order to create a diverse and inclusive environment, Residence Life offers several gender inclusive housing options where students will be assigned roommates based on perceived gender, not on legal sex. Our goal is to provide a safe space for residents of all gender identities and gender expressions. When sharing a residence, students who identify as transgender and gender non-conforming can specify the preferred gender of their roommate(s).

First semester students are ineligible for Gender Inclusive Housing and will be assigned by their legal sex. Any appeals or questions should be directed toward Residence Life personnel. Any campus living options may be designated as Gender Inclusive Housing.

Gender Inclusive Housing criteria:

• Students must have completed one full academic term of residence hall living at Baker College.
• Students must submit a Gender Inclusive Housing Interest Form. Units will be assigned on a first come, first served basis, limited by the number of applicants and available space.
• If selected, a student may request roommates based on the available occupancy of the unit to which he/she has been assigned.

The intended purpose of Gender Inclusive Housing is to provide a healthy, educational living option for gender non-conforming students. As a result, Baker College discourages students of any sexual orientation or gender identity who are in a romantic relationship from living together in a residence hall unit. Students will not be assigned to live with pre-existing romantic partners and violation of this policy may result in disciplinary action.

3.04 ADA Housing

Residence Life staff partners with the Disability Services Specialists to ensure consistency in evaluating requests for reasonable accommodations in housing. Students seeking reasonable accommodations due to a documented impairment and who would like to be considered for reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and/or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, should contact the Residence Life Office for more details on availability and eligibility. All students who request reasonable accommodations in housing due to a medical, psychological or physical impairment must submit full and current documentation. Students with approved requests will be offered reasonable accommodations that meet the documented and approved need.

3.05 Bicycles

Bicycles are permitted on campus property. Students must adhere to the rules for bicycle use and storage on campus property. Bicycles may also be locked to the provided bicycle racks located around campus. Bicycles which are secured to any structure other than a bicycle rack may be impounded. Students whose bicycles are impounded may be assessed a charge. Abandoned or impounded bicycles not claimed by their owner by the end of the current academic term will be donated to a charity at the College’s discretion. Students should document the serial number of the bicycle for identification purposes. During the winter months, bicycle owners are responsible for removing bikes from the provided outdoor racks and storing them elsewhere.

3.06 Candles and Combustibles

The use or possession of fireworks, other explosives, combustible materials and/or potentially harmful chemicals in the residence halls or the immediate vicinity thereof is prohibited. Candles, candle/tart warmers, oil lamps, incense, grills and any other open flame devices are strictly prohibited. Candles are prohibited whether they are lit, unlit or have a wick or no wick.

3.07 Pets

All pets, including but not limited to, dogs, cats, birds, snakes, rodents and other similar animals, are prohibited within residence halls. Residents may not allow guests to bring pets inside the residence halls or keep pets in the yard. The only pets a student may have in housing are fish in a maximum 10-gallon tank.

Emotional Support Animal Policy 

Baker College defines an emotional support animal (ESA) as one that provides emotional support alleviating one or more identified symptoms or effects of an individual’s disability.

The health and safety of Baker College students, faculty, staff and ESAs are an important concern; therefore, each request for such an accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis. Only in cases where animals and the relevant facts satisfy the applicable criteria described below will the animal be exempt from rules that otherwise restrict or prohibit animals being on campus. Requests for an accommodation regarding assistance animals must be supported by official documentation for proper consideration of the request. In all cases, the owner of the animal is responsible for the animal’s behavior. The removal of any animal, including, but not limited to, emotional support animals and any necessary cleaning, repairs and/or pest control will be done at the expense of the animal owner who may also be subject to disciplinary action up to and including dismissal from the residence halls. An ESA may be subject to an individualized behavior assessment that relies on objective evidence about the specific animal’s actual conduct.

ESAs are to be confined to a student’s assigned residence hall room and common areas within the assigned room only. ESAs are strictly prohibited from all other areas of campus that are occupied by the general student population. 

Baker College may require applicants to submit reliable documentation of a disability and their disability - related need for an ESA. The documentation may be requested from a physician, psychiatrist, social worker or other mental health professional that the animal provides emotional support that alleviates one or more of the identified symptoms or effects of an existing disability. Verification from a psychologist, psychiatrist, social worker or other licensed mental health professional with whom the student has established an on-going therapeutic relationship, substantiating the need for a disability-related animal per applicable laws and regulations. Information that will be collected includes: (1) Does the person seeking to use and live with the animal have a disability - i.e., a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities? And (2) Does the person making the request have a disability-related need for an assistance animal? In other words, does the animal work, provide assistance, perform tasks or services for the benefit of a person with a disability, or provide emotional support that alleviates one or more of the identified symptoms or effects of a person’s existing disability? The provider must be licensed in the state of Michigan or the student’s home state. 

Baker College will make available the name and contact information of the Disability Services Specialist for each Campus if requested by the student and/or provider.

Service Animals

Service Animals are working animals, not pets. The work or task a Service Animal has been trained to provide must be directly related to the person’s disability. Examples of such work or tasks include, but are not limited to, assisting a person with a visual impairment with navigation or other tasks, alerting a person with a hearing impairment to the presence of people or sound, providing physical support and stability assistance to a person with a mobility impairment, providing minimal protection or rescue work, pulling a wheelchair, assisting a person during a seizure, or retrieving items.

3.08 Access Credentials

Students are strictly prohibited from using another person’s access card or loaning their card to another person. Loaning of access cards/keys will result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal. All residence hall students are required to have a picture identification card issued by the College which will be required when a request is made to enter the halls. All students should carry their picture IDs at all times and be prepared to present it at the request of College personnel. Students who fail to carry their access cards are not assured immediate access to their living space. There is a fee to replace a lost or damaged picture ID and/or keys. Lost, damaged or stolen IDs/keys must be replaced immediately. Residents are issued access cards to enter the building and individual living space. If students misplace or lose their keys, Residence Life personnel may unlock their doors for a fee. If the staff member is not at housing, residents can expect to wait.

3.09 Units

Your residence hall unit will be the center of your activities in the residence hall. Your residence hall unit is not just a place to keep your belongings and sleep. It can also be a study room and a place where you will live with other people and practice cooperative living. You and your roommates will negotiate times for studying, sleeping, visitation and relaxing in order to live together successfully. In order to maintain the safety and security of all hall residents, as well as personal property, it is recommended that doors remain closed and secured.

In decorating your room, common sense is essential for a safe and attractive living environment. Decorations should not block entrances or cause a fire hazard. Any decorations that are offensive to students or staff will be addressed accordingly, which may include removal. The Residence Hall Coordinator must approve all changes to your unit condition sheet in writing. Be sure to complete and sign a “Room Inventory/Condition Form” within the first week after moving into your residence hall unit. You will complete the checkout portion of this form upon your departure from the residence halls. Students are prohibited from using paint and/or other coloring/marker substances on the walls of their residence hall unit. Paneling walls is not permitted because it is a fire hazard.

3.10 Posters, Pictures, Wall Hangings, Etc.

The College does not approve or endorse any adhesive items or brands and students should note that any residue or damage created by hanging items on any surface, including but not limited to walls, doors or ceilings will be charged to the student’s account. Under no circumstance should anything be hung from the brick walls. Other hanging devices such as nails and/or screws are prohibited and will result in a damage charge. No decorations made from dried plant matter or from evergreens may be used including, but not limited to, live trees (Christmas trees,) wreaths or other live holiday/seasonal decor.

3.11 You and Your Community

The following Residence Hall Considerations List articulates some basic components of good relationships between hall mates. It is a good idea for roommates to discuss how each would like to deal with issues such as personal property, cleaning responsibilities, food purchase and preparation, study times, visitation, etc. at the beginning of each semester and when new roommates are assigned to your residence hall unit.

Considerations List

Resident students should be able to experience the following:

1. Read and study free from undue interference in one’s room. Unreasonable noises and other distractions inhibit the exercise of this right.
2. Sleep without undue disturbance from noise, roommates, guests of roommates, other residents, etc.
3. Expect a roommate and/or other residents will respect one’s personal belongings.
4. Have a clean environment in which to live.
5. Have free access to one’s room and facilities.
6. Have some personal privacy.
7. Host an approved guest with the expectation that guests are to respect the rights of the host’s roommate(s) and other residents.
8. Communicate openly in the resolution of conflicts.
9. Be free from fear of intimidation, physical and/or emotional harm.
10. Expect reasonable cooperation in the use of any shared amenities.

Violation of any of the above by residence hall students may result in disciplinary action.

3.12 Mail and Package Delivery

Students are encouraged to customize delivery options from delivery services (UPS, FedEx, USPS, etc.). Baker College is not responsible for any lost/misplaced mail or packages. Students have the option to complete a mail forwarding request upon moving out. Once a student has moved off campus, mail will be returned to sender. Please note that at some locations a post office box is required for mail delivery.

3.13 Food Delivery

It is the student’s responsibility to meet the delivery person at the main entrance.

3.14 Electrical Outlets and Small Appliances

Electrical wall sockets are designed to handle only two residential type plug-in devices. Do not overload electrical circuits as it can cause a fire. All electrical appliances should be UL tested and safe. Approved surge protector power strips are permitted. Open coil heat-producing devices such as hot plates, toaster ovens, deep fryers and electric heaters are prohibited.

3.15 Energy Savings

During break periods and between semesters, all electrical appliances, with the exception of those College-provided, must be unplugged in all unoccupied rooms. This includes clocks, televisions, PCs, etc.

3.16 Campus Cooking

It is expected that all students use caution when cooking with ovens and stove tops. Improper cooking will result in smoke alarms being activated. Consistent misuse of kitchen appliances may result in disciplinary action.

3.17 Window Screens

Residence hall room window screens must remain properly installed on the windows at all times. Residents who remove their window screens will be charged accordingly and referred for disciplinary action. In case of fire, ground-level window screens may be removed as a fire exit for residents.

3.18 Maintenance, Repairs and Cleaning

Consult Residence Life staff when/if a maintenance-related issue arises. There may exist a separate process for facilities-related emergencies (toilet not flushing, kitchen sink clogged, smell of gas, furnace/HVAC/appliance not functioning, etc.). Each resident is responsible for the general orderliness and cleanliness of his/her room.

Residents shall not throw feminine products, sweepings, rags, rubbish, garbage, food waste, etc. into toilets, bathtubs, sinks, window wells or any other place not provided for that use. Residents shall be held strictly liable for any damage to the premises resulting from overflow to plumbing. Clogged pipes or service calls may result in charges to the residents.

Please follow these guidelines on at least a weekly basis:

1. Remove all papers (including newspapers), magazines and garbage from all areas including bedrooms and living room areas.
2. Remove all empty beverage and food items that are not sealed.
3. Vacuum or sweep all floors and carpets. Damp mop linoleum floors.
4. Wash thoroughly all dirty dishes and cooking appliances in the room.
5. Clean thoroughly the bathroom area in and around all toilets, sinks, showers and mirrors.
6. Clean the outside as well as the inside area of the stove/oven and refrigerator.
7. Dust all surfaces including tables, chairs, desks, dressers, etc.

Store all open food and drink products properly in the kitchen.

3.19 Entering Residence Hall Units

Residence Life staff may enter and/or permit other College personnel to enter students’ rooms at any time.

1. Facilities personnel may enter for inspection of physical equipment, repair, refurbishment or replacement.
2. College personnel may enter when there is probable cause that a College guideline has been violated.
3. College personnel may enter when there is an indication of danger or hazard.
4. During non-contracted periods, such as between semesters and/or holiday breaks, College staff will conduct inspections and maintenance activities.

The College reserves the right to remove from the room, without the resident’s permission, any object or material which constitutes a health or safety hazard, is the property of the College or is a violation of College guidelines. Upon inspection of a student’s room, if the College finds any violations of federal, state, local or College guidelines and regulations, the occupants of the room will be referred for legal or disciplinary action and damage charges will be assessed. Rooms will be inspected randomly and at the end of each semester by the Residence Life or Facilities staff. All maintenance and housekeeping deficiencies will be noted and charges will be assessed.

The College will not assume responsibility for abandoned, damaged, lost or stolen personal items.

3.20 Unit Inspections

Each time a student moves out of a unit, a unit inspection will be conducted. Regular and random unit inspections will take place during the semester to check for compliance with routine housekeeping duties, safety, security and College Residence Life Policy. Damages assessed at this time will be charged to student accounts. All charges are subject to change. Any charges for damages will be assessed to all residents who occupy the room(s) and/or building if the person responsible cannot be determined.

3.21 Mandatory Community Meetings

Community meetings are occasionally scheduled in housing to distribute important information to residents. Residence Life considers these meetings to be of the utmost importance and requires residents to attend. Residents who do not attend mandatory hall meetings, without prior approval, risk disciplinary action.

3.22 Communication Expectations

Residence Life regularly communicates important information via flyers, campus postings, texts and/or email. Students are expected to read such information and respond accordingly. Vandalizing or removing bulletin boards is prohibited. Bulletin boards are created and maintained by Residence Life staff for educational purposes and are for your benefit.

Section 4: Public Areas

4.01 Public Areas and Campus Recreational Facilities

Each residence hall has designated public areas. They may include reception areas, lounges, study rooms, hallways, stairwells, restrooms, laundry areas and recreational areas. These areas are for the use of the residents and their designated visitors only. The furnishings and public area equipment are all property of the College and should not be removed or abused. Violators of this policy will be charged for damages and referred for disciplinary action. Access to public areas varies by campus.

All residents will be held accountable for the condition and upkeep of all public areas and furnishings. Any undetermined damage or vandalism will be divided and billed equally among all residents. After final check-out, all damages will be billed. All residents are expected to promote building safety and security and prevent visitors from damaging public areas.

Residents and visitors are expected to be in appropriate dress while in public areas. Public areas within the residence halls are available on a first-come, first-serve basis, with campus events taking precedence.

4.02 Hallways

All public area hallways should be used in an appropriate manner that does not interfere with the rights of residents. The noise level in the hallways should be kept at a normal conversational level at all times. Hallways are not areas for public gatherings or recreation.

4.03 Laundry Facilities

Each residence hall offers laundry facilities for the convenience of the residents.

When using the washers and dryers, stay nearby to take care of your clothes promptly. It is your responsibility to clean the washer and dryer, as well as the lint filter, after you have used them. The College is not responsible for items abandoned, damaged, lost or stolen from the laundry facilities.

On-site laundry facilities will be available for residents use only.

4.04 Study Lounge Use

Residence halls have study lounge areas which students are encouraged to use. All residents are responsible for the care and upkeep of lounge and public areas. No furnishings or equipment may be moved or removed without staff approval. Violators will be charged and referred for disciplinary action. If you find a piece of equipment is broken, please report it to the Residence Hall Coordinator. Please respect the rights of others and use the study rooms for quiet study time.

Students are encouraged to use discretion when bringing food and beverages into the lounge areas. Only water is allowed in the computer study lounges. It is the responsibility of the student to clean the lounge after use. If furniture has been rearranged, it is the responsibility of the student to move all furnishings back to their original location. Students found in violation will be charged accordingly.

4.05 Computer Usage

All residents are expected to abide by Baker College’s Acceptable Usage Policies for all computer usage. This includes computers in labs and personal computers registered on the Baker network. Routers are not to be used in conjunction with the College’s network at any time. Violations of these policies will result in disciplinary action.

The computer labs are provided first and foremost for academic use. Students using these computers for academic purposes have priority over those utilizing these resources for personal/recreational use. Residence hall and campus computer labs/resources must be used in a responsible and efficient manner. Inappropriate use may result in the student/guest being asked to leave or access may be limited or denied.

Section 5: Residence Life Policies

5.01 Residence Life Infractions

Students are responsible for reading and following the guidelines in the Student Handbook. Additionally, students are accountable for the following policies.

ON BAKER COLLEGE PREMISES, ANY OF THE FOLLOWING MAY RESULT IN DISCIPLINARY ACTION UP TO AND INCLUDING DISMISSAL FROM THE HALLS AS WELL AS EXPULSION FROM ALL CAMPUSES:

1. Continued disregard for guidelines.
2. Gaining unauthorized entrance into or exit from residence halls, or assisting in such actions. Unauthorized entrance includes but is not limited to the following:
   1. Climbing through windows.
   2. Propping entrance/security doors open.
   3. Misusing emergency exits.
   4. Using someone else’s ID, keys or proxy card.
   5. Loaning your ID, keys or proxy card to another person.
3. Unacceptable conduct.
4. Failure to respond to lawful requests by Residence Life staff and other College personnel.
5. Deliberate destruction of College and/or personal property.
6. Interfering with a Campus Safety Officer in the performance of his/her duties.
7. Violation of Baker College’s Sexual Misconduct Policy.

These matters are taken directly to the College official in charge of discipline for immediate action. During an investigation, students may be suspended for disciplinary purposes from the College and/or residence halls.

Any student arrested for a criminal offense (on or off campus) may, at the discretion of the College, be immediately suspended. The suspension will be in effect pending disposition of the charges. The student may re-apply to the College once these pending charges have reached resolution.

Expelled or suspended students found on any Baker College premises will be considered trespassing and treated as such. Expelled or suspended individuals may make appointments by phone during regular business hours with appropriate College administrators, if necessary. All tuition fees will be forfeited.

Residence Life Policies are designed to ensure the safety and security of our residents. Residents must be familiar with the policies as stated in this Handbook and refrain from deliberate infractions. The College reserves the right to take disciplinary action for student behavior NOT specified in this or any other College publication.

Please refer to the Student Handbook for an outline of the disciplinary appeal process.

Sexual Misconduct Policy

Baker College does not discriminate on the basis of sex. Sexual harassment and sexual violence are considered types of sex discrimination. Other acts can also be forms of sex-based discrimination and are also prohibited whether sexually based or not. These other acts include dating violence, domestic violence and stalking. Baker College issues this statement of policy to inform the community of our comprehensive plan addressing sexual misconduct, educational programs and procedures that address the reporting, investigation and adjudication of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence and stalking. This policy applies whether those acts occur on or off campus and when it is reported to a Campus Security Authority. In this context, Baker College prohibits the offenses of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking and reaffirms its commitment to maintain a campus environment emphasizing the dignity and worth of all members of the College community.

For a complete copy of the Baker College policy governing Sexual Misconduct visit the Baker College Sexual Misconduct Policy.

5.02 Alcohol

Residents 21 years of age or older may drink alcoholic beverages in residence hall units with the door closed and with no minors present with the exception of the roommate(s) assigned to the occupied unit. Such beverages may only be transported to and from unit in covered, sealed containers. The number of open containers in the room should not exceed the number of people ages 21 and over in the unit. Serving of alcohol from a common source or in bulk quantities is prohibited. Common source containers, whether full or empty, are not permitted. Common source is defined as, but not limited to, the following examples: kegs, pony kegs, punch bowls, wine boxes, commercial dispensers or the amount of alcohol equivalent to a common source alcohol beverage container, whether empty or full.

In situations in which some students are 21 years of age or older and others are under 21 years of age, possession of alcohol may be determined by the number of open alcohol containers in the unit. Students are permitted one open alcohol container per person if he/she is 21 years of age or older. Any additional open containers may indicate possession by students in the room who are under the age of 21. If a 21-year-old or older guest visits a room where the residents are not 21, no alcohol is allowed, even by the 21-year-old or older guest.

5.03 Abusive Language and Gestures

All persons in College facilities are expected to use language that is respectful and appropriate in order to provide an environment which is comfortable for everyone. Use of abusive, profane/obscene or harassing language and/or gestures will result in disciplinary action.

5.04 Drugs

All illegal drugs are prohibited on Baker College property, even drugs that are legal in the state of Michigan, but which remain classified as illegal drugs under federal law and regulations. Any paraphernalia related to drugs will be seized and, pending an investigation, may result in disciplinary action, up to and, including dismissal from the halls and/or expulsion from the College. If the responsible student is not able to be determined, all individuals in the room at the time of the violation will be held responsible. Use of any substance for the purpose of altering an individual’s state of mind will be considered inappropriate and may result in disciplinary action, up to and, including dismissal from the halls and/or expulsion from the College.

5.05 Illegal Activities

Students who are involved in illegal activities on campus may face both College disciplinary action and civil/criminal action. It is the student’s responsibility to be aware of all federal, state and local laws.

5.06 Guests, Visitors and Overnight Visitors Responsibility

A GUEST is considered a resident hall student from another unit of Baker College residence halls.

A VISITOR is someone who is not a resident of Baker College residence halls.

An OVERNIGHT VISITOR refers to a visitor who stays past visitation hours.

A HOST is considered the residence hall student with whom the guest, visitor or overnight visitor (INVITEE) is meeting.

GUESTS: Resident students may visit each other 24 hours a day as long as all roommates are in agreement. Each residence hall student may host only two guests at any given time. Only residents of a unit and their approved guests may sleep in that unit at any time.

VISITORS: Visitors must be properly signed in upon arrival. Visitation hours vary by campus. Please contact your campus Residence Life professional for details.

OVERNIGHT VISITORS: Each resident is limited to two overnight visitors per weekend. No overnight visitors are allowed Sunday through Wednesday.

Approval of an overnight stay is at the discretion of the Residence Hall Coordinator (RHC). Overnight visitors must be at least 18 years of age.

Visitors and overnight visitors must check in and present a current valid picture ID with the appropriate staff. A valid ID consists of a current State Driver’s License, State ID, Military ID or passport. The host of the invitee will be contacted to approve and accompany the invitee. Upon leaving the residence hall, each invitee must check out at the designated location.

All visitors under the age of 18 lacking a current valid picture ID may be asked to provide documentation confirming parent or guardian acknowledgment of an approved visit and host.

A resident who hosts an invitee is responsible for his/her behavior during the stay. Invitees are not permitted to be in a host’s unit if the host is not present. In addition, all invitees are expected to comply with established residence hall policies and may be asked to leave campus for any violation. If the invitee is another Baker College student, both may be referred for disciplinary action. Non-compliance on the part of the invitee may be grounds for termination of the resident host’s visitation privileges and/or residence hall agreement.

Approval of visitation rights is at the discretion of the Residence Hall Coordinator (RHC). All individuals who have been banned or behaviorally dismissed from the halls and/or expelled from the College lose their visitation rights.

Babysitting is not permitted in the residence halls, except for children of the RHCs and only in the RHCs’ living quarters.

The College has final authority over who visits College-owned facilities.

5.07 Cohabitation

Cohabitation at Baker College is defined as occupying space within the residence halls without assignment. Fellow residents (couples) spending the night on weekdays is considered cohabitation, as is couples spending more than two consecutive nights together. Only residents assigned to a room/apartment are allowed to live there and keep belongings in that room. The presence of someone else’s clothing, toiletries, etc. can be interpreted as cohabitation and is subject to disciplinary action and additional housing fees.

5.08 Quiet Hours

The residence hall facilities are subject to quiet hours which are in effect from 10:00 p.m.-10:00 a.m. Sunday through Thursday and midnight to 10:00 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. During finals and mid-term weeks, 24-hour quiet hours are in effect. During quiet hours, residents are required to refrain from noisy behavior or activities. All other times will be “courtesy hours” during which time residents are required to keep noise at a level sensitive to all residents’ and staff requests and needs. The College reserves the right to remove any equipment not in compliance with quiet hours (i.e., stereos, radios, TVs, games, etc.).

5.09 Recreational Equipment

All recreational equipment intended for outdoor use is not to be used within the residence halls. Recreational equipment refers to, but is not limited to, such things as rollerblades, footballs, basketballs, hoverboards and other sporting equipment. Any damage to College recreational equipment will result in fees and/or disciplinary action.

5.10 Smoking

No smoking/tobacco use is allowed in College residence halls. In compliance with Baker College’s Smoking Policy, Baker College is a smoke-free/ tobacco-free campus, including electronic tobacco devices and products that simulate the use of tobacco. This includes the entire campus grounds, all buildings and parking lots. Smoking will be allowed ONLY in enclosed personal vehicles and off campus property. Students who violate the policies will be held accountable with disciplinary sanctions.

5.11 Solicitation/Operating a Business

No commercial solicitation or commercial enterprise is permitted in the College system by residents or non-residents, unless approved by the College. Operating a business on Baker College property or with the use of College equipment is prohibited. The use of the Baker College name on any advertising by a student for business purposes is not allowed.

5.12 Discipline

Please refer to the Student Handbook regarding disciplinary action

5.13 Baker College Disciplinary Appeal

While expulsion from the College can be appealed, any associated dismissal from the residence halls CANNOT be appealed when indisputable evidence exists. Please see the Student Handbook for details.

Section 6: Campus Safety

6.01 Fire Procedures

Fire Drills and Exits:

Periodic fire drills, which are required by the state of Michigan, are conducted in order to familiarize residents with the evacuation procedures and emergency routes. Should you discover a fire, no matter how small, sound the fire alarm and exit the building. Notify your Residence Life personnel, if possible. The building should be empty before any attempt is made to contain a fire. Residence Life personnel will review fire safety and evacuation procedures for each building. Lack of cooperation during fire drills will be considered a serious breach of discipline and students may be subject to disciplinary actions.

Fire Evacuation Procedures:

1. Close windows.
2. Prior to opening any doors, feel your door for heat. If it is hot, do not open your door. If your door is cool, exit the building using the evacuation route posted in your unit or the closest exit door to your location.
3. Once outside, proceed to a safe area (at least 100 ft. from the closest exterior exit) to avoid injury from explosions and heat.
4. Do not return to the building until instructed by a staff person or by the fire department.

All Other Evacuation Procedures:

For all other evacuations, Campus Safety and Facilities will coordinate actions for evacuations and re-entry into buildings.

6.02 Active Shooter

In the event of an active shooter, Baker College follows the Run, Hide, Fight philosophy. The following video is used for informational purposes.

6.03 Severe Weather/Tornado Procedures

Each residence hall has a designated severe weather shelter location. Take the time to find out where your shelter is located. When notified by the Residence Life personnel or another College official that shelter is needed, go to that location and remain there until an all-clear signal is given.

In the event of severe weather conditions, you should monitor local weather. You can monitor weather on local television and radio stations. Other options include Internet weather sites and NOAA weather radios. If you are advised that shelter is needed, go to your designated shelter area and remain there until an all-clear signal is given.

If you are unable to reach your assigned shelter, take the following precautions:

1. Go to a place of safety, preferably the basement or first floor of a building.
2. Go to a hallway away from windows and doors.
3. Seek shelter under a heavy table, etc. to avoid injury from flying objects.
4. Stay calm and wait for help to find you.

6.04 General Campus Safety

The College attempts to provide a comfortable, safe living environment for residence hall students. Some entrances are monitored via Closed Circuit Television Cameras, intercoms and electronic switches. Students must observe all security and safety rules and policies. They have been developed with your safety and well-being in mind.

Use of another student’s I.D./Access Information/Parking Permit will result in disciplinary action up to and including dismissal from the halls.

Missing Person Policy and Procedures

Every year residents will be given the opportunity to confidentially register “emergency” contact information for an individual who should be immediately notified after an investigation by Campus Safety confirms the student to be missing for 24 hours. All residence hall students under the age of 18, who are not emancipated, will be informed that the College MUST notify a custodial parent or guardian no later than 24 hours after the student is determined to be missing and has not returned to campus/housing. If no confidential “emergency” contact information is filed by the missing student, the student is older than 18 years of age or the student is emancipated, the College will inform appropriate law enforcement agencies of the missing person.

6.05 Emergency Alert Notifications:

The Baker College Emergency Alert system provides, urgent, mass notification to faculty, staff and students regarding emergencies or threats on campus. A major emergency includes but is not limited to, an active violent incident, weather-related closures or a hazardous material spill.

Notifications are automatically delivered via text message, voice message, email and social media. Faculty, staff and students can update emergency contact information by going to my.baker.edu.

6.06 Insurance and Liability

All personal property brought into residence halls is at the risk of the owner. Residents are encouraged to insure their own property against personal liability, theft, loss or damage and to label their valuables.

6.07 Residence Hall Safety

Be security conscious! Keep your door locked at all times. Poor door locking habits may cost you loss of personal property. Do not keep large sums of money or other valuables in your room or in easy sight and access to anyone. The College will not assume responsibility for abandoned, damaged, lost or stolen personal items. The Residence Life personnel should be notified immediately if you have cause to believe your residence hall unit has been improperly entered at any time. Any theft should be reported immediately by the student to Campus Safety.

Residents may not store any gasoline, fuel oil, toxic agents or other potentially hazardous substances on the premises. Tampering with any safety equipment (e.g., fire extinguishers, smoke alarms, etc.) may result in fines in addition to replacement or repair costs.

Residents may not use any method of heating the premises (e.g., space heaters) other than that supplied by the College.

6.08 Parking and Automobiles

Residents are encouraged to lock their vehicle doors. Baker College is not responsible for any damage, theft, loss, etc. Residents who have vehicles must register annually for a parking permit at the time of check-in. It is the student’s responsibility to pay fees related to parking violations. Residents’ cars cannot be left in the parking lots over breaks. All cars in the parking lot must be in working order. Vehicle maintenance other than minor routine maintenance may not occur in any campus parking lot. Residence hall parking lots are for current residents only. Residents are limited to one (1) vehicle in Baker College provided parking unless prior approval is given by Residence Life personnel. No one is allowed to sleep in a vehicle on campus property. Sharing of parking permits will result in disciplinary action. All vehicles on Baker College property must be properly licensed. Any disregard for the parking requirement at housing may result in towing of vehicles at the owner’s expense, discipline, fines, housing reassignment and/or termination of housing licensing agreement. Please follow the 15-mph speed limit on campus. Violation of the speed limit may lead to loss of parking privileges and/or a ticket. During winter months, students are asked to park away from curbs and sidewalks to allow for proper snow removal.

Auto Insurance

Michigan is a no-fault insurance state and residents are required to obtain no-fault insurance coverage on their vehicles. If you are a non-Michigan resident and you have no-fault insurance coverage from the state in which you reside, you are covered in Michigan. If you DO NOT have no-fault insurance from the state in which you reside and have been in Michigan for 30 or more consecutive days, you MAY NOT be protected under your current automotive insurance policy. Please check with your insurance company to make sure you are protected in Michigan.