This website publishes administrative rules on their effective dates, as designated by the adopting state agencies, colleges, and
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| Rule |
Rule 3337-1-01 | Preparation of policies.
Effective:
December 20, 2024
The version of this rule that includes live links
to associated resources is online at https://www.ohio.edu/policy/01-001.html (A) Purpose Ohio university is committed to the
implementation and creation of comprehensive policies. This policy governs how
the university creates, drafts, reviews, maintains, rescinds, and approves all
university policies. (B) Scope Ohio university policies must be thoroughly
reviewed, maintained, and accessible to the university community. The
university community includes all university employees, students, alumni,
visitors, volunteers, and other individuals who perform work for the
university. (C) Definitions (1) "Policy owner" is the individual, department
or office that is responsible for creating, reviewing, and maintaining any
policy; and obtaining all necessary policy approvals. (2) "Purpose" is a statement describing why the
policy exists. (3) "Scope" is to whom a policy
applies. (4) "University community" all university
employees, students, alumni, visitors, volunteers, and other individuals who
perform work for the university. (5) "Executive staff policy committee" serves as
an advisory group to the president on all policies containing external
compliance and/or legal requirements. (6) "President's cabinet" serves as an
advisory group to the president on policies that do not contain external
compliance and/or legal requirements. (7) "Effective date" is the date a policy is
approved by the president. (D) Policy content A university policy should: (1) Enhance the university's mission, reduce
institutional risk, and/or promote operational efficiency. (2) Comply with all applicable laws and
regulations. (E) Policy review process (1) ESPC and president's cabinet (a) The executive staff
policy committee shall be responsible for the review of new, amended, or
rescinded policies containing external compliance and/or legal requirements,
and for recommending policies for approval by the president. The members of the
executive staff policy committee shall be the vice president for finance and
administration, the executive vice president and provost, the vice president
for student affairs, the vice president for human resources, and the general
counsel. The executive vice president and provost shall serve as chair of the
committee. In the event of their temporary unavailability, members may be
represented by their designees. (b) President's
cabinet shall be responsible for the review of new, amended, or rescinded
policies not containing external compliance and/or legal requirements, and for
recommending policies for approval by the president. (c) Under the direction
of the executive staff policy committee, the office of legal affairs will
provide legal and administrative oversight for the policy review
process. (2) Policy drafting guidelines The executive staff policy committee, with the
assistance of the office of legal affairs, shall prepare policy drafting
guidelines setting forth requirements for content, organization and format of
policies. These guidelines shall be made available as part of the online and
hardcopy editions of the policy manual. (3) Initiation, review, and approval of
policies (a) A proposal for a new,
amended, or rescinded policy may be initiated by the policy owner. Any member
of the university community may submit a suggestion for a change in university
policy to the appropriate policy owner. (b) The policy owner
shall submit a policy proposal memorandum and draft policy, as described in the
policy drafting guidelines. The proposal memorandum shall explain the need for
the new, amended, or rescinded policy. A list of university offices and
constituencies expected to be affected shall also be provided. (c) The executive staff
policy committee and/or president's cabinet shall decide whether the
proposal should go forward and may provide guidance, limitations or any other
advice it deems appropriate. In particular, the executive staff policy
committee and/or president's cabinet shall confirm that the policy owner
consulted with the appropriate university officials and
constituencies. (d) If the executive
staff policy committee and/or president's cabinet authorizes the new,
amended or rescinded policy, the policy owner may proceed to publish the draft
policy on the university policy website for the thirty-day comment period, in
accordance with the policy drafting guidelines. (e) The new, amended, or
to-be-rescinded policy must be posted on the university policy website for the
thirty-day comment period prior to final approval. Some policies may be signed
in advance of the comment period to comply with any time-restricted federal
and/or state laws and regulations or accrediting agencies. Any exceptions to
the thirty-day comment period may only be granted by the executive staff policy
committee and/or the president. The draft policy and all comments from the
university community will be posted on the university policy
website. (f) At the completion of
the thirty-day comment period, the new, amended, or rescinded policy, shall be
submitted to the executive staff policy committee and/or president's
cabinet for final review along with an explanatory memorandum and any other
policy versions as specified in the policy drafting guidelines. The materials
submitted to the executive staff policy committee and/or president's
cabinet shall also be made available on the university policy
website. (g) The executive staff
policy committee and/or president's cabinet shall review the new, amended,
or rescinded policy and the comments and recommendations from the university
community who reviewed them online. The executive staff policy committee and/or
president's cabinet may recommend the policy be sent to the president for
final approval or rescission or send it back to the policy owner for further
modification or consultation. (4) Updating policies All policies shall be reviewed by the policy
owner to determine whether an update is necessary at least every three
years. (5) Interim policies (a) The executive staff
policy committee may determine whether, because of legal requirements or
administrative necessity, a policy must be adopted or amended immediately. In
this event, the executive staff policy committee may recommend to the president
that an interim policy be adopted. The executive staff policy committee's
recommendation will follow full consideration of the legal or administrative
issues supporting the request for an interim policy. (b) An interim policy
shall be effective for an initial period of no more than twelve-months. After
the initial twelve-month period, the executive staff policy committee may
recommend to the president that the policy be extended for an additional
six-month period. A permanent policy adopted in accordance with the procedures
set forth in paragraph (E)(3) of this policy should be approved by the
president no later than eighteen months after the effective date of the interim
policy. (F) University policy manual The university policy manual shall include all
university policies adopted in accordance with this policy and shall be made
available online. Printed copies of the manual shall also be made available in
the Alden library and in each of the regional campus libraries.
Last updated December 20, 2024 at 7:59 AM
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Rule 3337-1-02 | Policy numbering system.
The version of this rule that includes live links
to associated resources is online at https://www.ohio.edu/policy/01-002.html (A) Overview This policy describes the numbering system used
in the "Ohio University Policy Manual," so that new policy statements
may be assigned numbers that are consistent with those already in use, and so
that people wishing to find the policy statement that addresses a particular
concern can more readily find it. (1) Number format The policy numbering system will be a
five-digit number consisting of a two-digit general classification number and a
three-digit index number, separated by a period, in the form,
"XX.YYY," with leading zeros for each part, as needed. (2) Administrative Code Senate Bill 3, effective September 17, 2014,
requires that Ohio university rules be published both on the institution's
web site (e.g., this manual), and as part of the Administrative Code. There is
a direct mapping between the policy number and the Administrative Code number;
the primary differences are that the Administrative Code number includes a
prefix that is unique to Ohio university, and that leading zeros are less
available in the Administrative Code system. For example, our "Policy
03.004" will be identified as "rule 3337-3-04 of the Administrative
Code"; our "Policy 41.125" will be identified as "rule
3337-41-125 of the Administrative Code"; etc. (In some contexts, the
Administrative Code's rule number may have additional segments between the
"3337-" and the last two segments that are derived from our policy
number). Although the number of digits displayed within the Administrative Code
is not always five, the numerical values do match. (3) Reserved numbers The "Administrative Policy Manual,"
the "Faculty Handbook," and the "Student Code of Conduct"
are distinct documents: each has its own formal review and approval process,
and none is part of either of the others. Some issues are more appropriately addressed
within the "Faculty Handbook", or the "Student Code of
Conduct," rather than as part of this policy manual; other issues are best
addressed here; and some issues will be addressed in more than one of those
locations. In order to facilitate publication of all three
types of rules as part of the Administrative Code, while preventing the
ambiguity that would result from numbering collisions among them, several
general classification numbers are "reserved": they will not be
assigned to any administrative policy, to ensure that their corresponding
numbers within the Administrative Code are available for publication of faculty
and student rules; see parts (D) and (H) of this policy. (4) Assignment of numbers Numbers will be assigned to new policy
statements by the office of legal affairs. The basic general classifications and subject
matter areas within these classifications will be as shown in the rest of this
policy. (B) General classifications 00 to 09: General subjects (1) Organization charts (2) General policy (3) Issues that overlap multiple other general
classifications Examples include the following: (a) Space and facilities
usage (b) Harassment and
professional conduct (c) ID cards (C) General classifications 10 to 19: Academic matters (1) Colleges (a) Arts and
sciences (b) Business (c) Communication (d) Education (e) Engineering (f) Fine
arts (g) Graduate (h) Health sciences and
professions (i) Honors (j) Osteopathic medicine
(k) University
(2) Student academic records (a) Access to public and
private information (b) Registration, drops,
and withdrawals (c) Grading (3) Library (4) Learning resources (5) Off-campus academic programs (6) Institutional research (7) International affairs (8) Research and intellectual property (9) Emeritus status (10) Appointment and evaluation of faculty and academic
leaders (See also parts (F)(6) and (H) of this
policy.) (11) Centers and institutes (D) General classifications 20 to 29: Student matters General classification number 27 is reserved for
the "Student Code of Conduct" and related documents, as described in
part (A)(3) of this policy. (1) Student personnel (2) Health and psychological services (3) Placement and internship (4) Fraternity and sorority affairs (5) Student activities and public occasions (6) Residence services and residence life (7) University discipline (8) Athletics (9) Campus recreation (10) Student financial aid and scholarships (E) General classifications 30 to 39: University development and planning matters
(1) Alumni (2) Regional development (3) Public affairs (4) Public information (5) University publications (6) Ohio university foundation (7) Construction (8) Space utilization (9) Renovations (10) Engineering (11) Title grants (F) General classifications 40-49: Administrative matters (1) Registration, admissions, scheduling, and regents
reporting. (2) Office and environmental services (3) Facilities management and maintenance (4) Vehicles (5) Ohio university police department (6) Human resources and employment matters (a) Employment
(i) Appointments (ii) Hiring (iii) Transfer (iv) Promotion (v) Demotion (vi) Separation (b) Benefits
(i) Educational (ii) Group insurance and workers' compensation
(iii) Assistance and development programs for employees
(iv) Holidays and vacations (v) Other leaves of absence and accommodations
(vi) Retirement (c) Compensation,
rewards, and recognition (d) Dispute
resolution (e) Records and
information services (f) Performance
management (g) Workplace and
occupational health and safety (h) Payroll (G) General classifications 50 to 59: Business matters (1) Financial matters (2) Controller's functions (a) Accounts payable
(b) Grants and contracts
(c) Plant funds
(d) General accounting
(e) Property accounting
(f) Procurement
(g) Surplus (3) Treasurer functions (a) Bursar (b) Accounts receivable
(c) Foundation accounting
(d) Cash management
(H) General classifications 60 to 69: Faculty matters General classification numbers 60 through 69 are
reserved for the "Faculty Handbook" and related documents, as
described in part (A)(3) of this policy. (I) General classifications 90 to 99: Information technology matters (1) Administrative support (2) Academic support (3) Voice and data networks (4) Information retention, integrity, and
security The version of this rule that includes live links
to associated resources is online at https://www.ohio.edu/policy/01-002.html
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Rule 3337-1-03 | Exceptions to or Restrictions of University Policies.
The version of this rule that includes live links
to associated resources is online at https://www.ohio.edu/policy/01-003.html (A) Purpose The purpose of this policy is to provide uniform
guidelines for allowing exceptions to, or further restrictions of, university
policy. (B) Exceptions Exceptions to a university policy are allowable
when unusual circumstances dictate that adherence to the policy is either
impossible or prohibitively impractical. No exceptions will be granted that
would violate federal, state, or local laws or regulations. Exceptions must be granted by the policy
initiator or successor, by someone to whom the initiator has formally delegated
the authority, or by someone in the initiator's direct upward line of
supervision. The phrase "initiator or successor" is used here to mean
the person who would be the initiator if the policy in question were to be
revised at the time an exception is sought or a restriction is set. Staff
turnover or re-organization, for example, may create situations in which the
person who was the initiator of the policy the last time that it was revised is
no longer responsible for such issues. University employees who violate university
policy, without the receipt of an exception, may be subject to disciplinary
action, up to and including termination. (C) Restrictions Individual department heads may set an internal,
departmental policy that is more (but not less) restrictive than a university
policy, when specific circumstances dictate. For example, policy 41.121 does
not place a dollar ceiling on legitimate business travel expenses for the
individual business traveler. However, departmental budget or other concerns
may suggest that such a ceiling is needed. No restrictions will be issued that would violate
the letter or spirit of any university policy, or that are in violation of
federal, state, or local laws or regulations. (D) Receiving an exception to
policy (1) Identify
who is authorized to grant an exception. Start with the policy initiator, who
is identified by name and job title in the initiated-by box, within the
signature block at the top of the policy. In the event that the initiator is no
longer employed at the university, or is otherwise no longer responsible for
the issues addressed in the policy, contact the appropriate department to
determine who is currently authorized to grant exceptions. (2) Contact
the authorized person that you have identified. Cite the specific policy
involved, and explain all the circumstances that you believe justify the
exception you are requesting. (3) If you
receive the exception, make a note of the date, the time, the name of the
person authorizing the exception, and the specifics of the exception.
Confirmation of the authorization should be in writing, and an electronic or
paper copy should be kept in a safe place. (4) If you do
not receive an exception to policy, then you must proceed according to policy,
despite the circumstances. In the event that you do not believe the denial was
appropriate, contact the authorizer's direct supervisor for further
discussion. (E) Authorizing an exception
to policy (1) In order
to be authorized to grant exceptions to a policy, you must fall into one of
three categories: (a) The initiator, or the successor to the
initiator with respect to that policy; (b) Someone that the initiator or successor has
formally designated as authorized to grant exceptions to that policy;
or (c) Someone in the direct upward line of
supervision of the initiator or successor. (2) You must
be aware of state, federal, and local laws and regulations that govern the
issues involved. Never provide an exception in violation of such laws or
regulations. Contact the university legal affairs office as needed.
(3) Whenever
possible, you should ask that an exception request be in writing (memo or
e-mail). (4) When
either granting or denying exceptions, make a note of the date, the time, the
name of the requestor, the specifics of the request, and the decision made.
Whenever an exception is granted, the grantor should provide written
confirmation to the requestor as soon as possible, and should keep a paper or
electronic record for use in case of questions, e.g., by auditors, and for
consideration during revision of the policy. (F) Adopting a further
restriction (1) A
department head interested in further restricting a university policy for his
or her area must first read and thoroughly understand the policy in question.
Any questions should be referred to the policy initiator or
successor. (2) All
restrictions must be justified by current circumstances. (3) The
restriction cannot violate any university policy, or federal, state, or local
laws or regulations. If in doubt on this factor, contact the policy initiator
or the university legal affairs office, as appropriate. (4) Notify
all department members, and the policy initiator or successor, of the adoption
and specifics of the restriction. (5) Be
prepared to monitor compliance and enforce the restriction at the departmental
level. The version of this rule that includes live links
to associated resources is online at https://www.ohio.edu/policy/01-003
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Rule 3337-1-24 | Classroom and laboratory scheduling.
Effective:
September 5, 2022
(A) Overview This policy provides principles and procedures designed to support the goals of scheduling for credit-generating use of instructional facilities. Provisions for general use of university facilities and scheduling extracurricular uses of instructional facilities are included in policy 01.025. Ohio university will operate its instructional facilities in accordance with specifications of sections 3313.76 and 3345.021 of the Revised Code. The university will manage scheduling of credit-generating activities in accordance with the 1992 board of trustees resolution on "Space Utilization and Management Principles" as well as Ohio department of higher education standards for instructional space utilization. The university will provide adequate and equitable access to classrooms for all credit activity. (B) Classifications of instructional space The university classifies instructional facilities according to Ohio department of higher education definitions for classrooms, class laboratories, and open laboratories. (1) A classroom is a room used for instruction that is not restricted to a specific subject or discipline by equipment in the room or the configuration of the room. Such rooms include seminar, lecture, and general-purpose classrooms used primarily for non-laboratory instruction. Classrooms may be furnished with equipment appropriate to a specific area of study, but the presence of such equipment does not tender the room unsuitable for use by other areas of study. For scheduling purposes a classroom is designated as centrally scheduled or priority scheduled. (2) A class laboratory is a room used primarily for formally or regularly scheduled classes that require specific equipment or configurations designed to serve the needs of a specific discipline. These special arrangements normally limit or preclude use of the room by other disciplines. Scheduling of such laboratories generally is reported to the registrar and appears in the student information system and the schedule of classes. (3) An open laboratory is a laboratory used primarily for individual or group instruction that is informally scheduled, unscheduled, or open. The room is designed to serve the needs of a particular discipline or discipline group, and access may be limited to specific groups of students. The primary distinction between class laboratories and open laboratories is formality or regularity of class scheduling. Some formal scheduling may occur in an open lab, but most of the available time in such a facility is open for informally scheduled or unscheduled activity. (C) Scheduling procedures- Athens campus All classrooms and class laboratories should be scheduled in the university scheduling system using protocol specified by the office of the university registrar. This should include non-credit activities as well as credit-bearing classes. This is necessary to ensure accurate reporting of space utilization. (1) Scheduling of priority classrooms (a) Deans exercise priority scheduling authority over classrooms allocated to their colleges and are responsible for efficient utilization of classroom space according to Ohio department of higher education guidelines. The provost or provost's designee will provide annual space utilization reports to assist deans with classroom management. (b) After the deans have approved the initial class schedules, open time in the classrooms will revert to the university registrar for central scheduling. See paragraph (C)(2) of this policy for protocol. (c) Classrooms may be reserved for non-credit bearing activities that are important to the academic mission after priority registration for the semester concludes (e.g., mid-November for spring semester). If a particular classroom is critical to the success of the activity, colleges should work with the provost's designee during the time that college exercises priority scheduling authority over classrooms to arrange a preliminary reservation of a classroom for the specific times of the activity. Every effort will be made to honor the preliminary reservation, but if the room is the only alternative for a credit-bearing class, then an alternative arrangement must be made for the non-credit bearing activity. (2) Scheduling of central classrooms (a) Unless otherwise approved by the provost, the office of the university registrar schedules classrooms with a capacity of ninety-nine seats or more. A few classrooms with capacities under ninety-nine also are allocated to the office of the university registrar. Allocations of new classrooms, reallocations of existing classrooms, or repurposing classrooms (i.e., reducing classroom size, taking classroom offline, or changing instructional space classification) are made at the discretion of the provost, i.e., by the provost or the provost's designee. (b) Unless otherwise approved by the provost or the provost's designee, credit-generating classes have classroom scheduling priority over non-credit activities. Non-credit activities operating in direct support of scheduled classes or in support of enrollment activities have classroom scheduling priority over other non-credit activities and events. Non-credit activities may be scheduled after priority registration. Classrooms may be reserved for student organization activities just prior to the first day of the term. (c) The registrar will schedule classes in close proximity to the home of the department or school when feasible. To request a central classroom with capacity of ninety-nine or more, please follow the protocol provided by the office of the university registrar. (3) Resolution of conflicting requests The registrar will resolve conflicting scheduling requests (e.g., multiple requests for the same space in the same time period) according to the following guidelines, which are listed in order from highest priority to lowest: (a) A class that will use a minimum of eighty per cent of the classroom capacity and also requires equipment or structural arrangements that are unique to the room in question; (b) A class that will use a minimum of eighty per cent of the classroom capacity and also requires specific time-space scheduling considerations to accommodate laboratory sections, discussion sections, or other courses likely to be taken by the same students; (c) A class that will use a minimum of eighty per cent of the classroom capacity, but that does not meet either of the additional criteria in paragraph (C)(3)(a) to (C)(3)(b) of this policy; (d) A class that does not meet any criteria in paragraph (C)(3)(a) to (C)(3)(c) of this policy, but cannot be accommodated readily in another location; (e) For conflicts between classes of equal priority under paragraph (C)(3)(a) to (C)(3)(d) of this policy, attention will be paid to a historical enrollment data and to alternating access between academic units. (4) Class laboratory scheduling (a) Class laboratories are presumptively subject to exclusive college, department, or school scheduling control and generally do not require approval from the provost for such control. (b) The university expects efficient utilization of class laboratory space according to Ohio department of higher education guidelines. An ongoing pattern of underutilization may warrant reallocations at the provost's discretion. (5) Open laboratory scheduling (a) Open laboratories are operated under policies of their controlling colleges or other units. Access policies in open labs do not require prior approval from the provost, but the provost may mediate or intercede in such policies if warranted by institutional interests. (b) There are no formal efficiency guidelines for utilization of open laboratories. (6) Preparation and submission of schedules (a) Departments and schools will submit class schedules in the scheduling system using the protocol specified by the office of the university registrar. Deans will review the schedules and make adjustments as necessary to achieve consistency in scheduling practices, best matches of enrollment demands to room capacities throughout the college, and utilization in accordance with Ohio department of higher education guidelines. (b) Each college's semester class schedule (laboratories excluded) may include (i) No more than sixty per cent of its total classroom hours between nine-thirty a.m. and three p.m., Monday through Friday; (ii) No more than sixty per cent of its total classroom hours offered on Monday, Wednesday, Friday; and (iii) No more than sixty per cent of its total classroom hours offered on Tuesday, Thursday. (c) These provisions do not include special problems, independent study, tutoring sessions, arranged classes, or classes meeting in rooms designated other than classroom (i.e., it includes classes meeting in rooms designated as classrooms only.) The sixty percent check will done after the deans have approved the initial class schedules and before the registrar schedules open time in the priority classrooms. College class schedules that exceed the sixty percent limit will be returned to the appropriate dean(s) for reconsideration. If, after reconsideration, a dean wishes to petition for exceptions to the standards, the dean may submit a written request for exceptions to the provost or the provost's designee. (7) Class meeting times (a) The standard schedule for Monday, Wednesday, Friday goes from seven-thirty a.m. to five minutes after five p.m. (b) The standard schedule for Tuesday, Thursday goes from eight a.m. to four-fifty p.m. (c) There are ten minutes between classes. (d) Fifty-five-minute classes are scheduled Monday, Wednesday, Friday. (e) Eighty-minute classes are scheduled Tuesday, Thursday. (f) There are standard starting times for labs or other special types of instruction (excluded space) that meet one hundred ten minutes or longer, which are different than the standard starting times for classrooms. (g) Labs or other special types of instruction in class laboratories that meet less than one hundred ten minutes should follow the standard start times for fifty-five-minute classes if meeting Monday, Wednesday, Friday and the standard start times of eighty-minute classes on Tuesday or Thursday. (h) Beginning at five minutes after three p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday classes may be fifty-five minutes, eighty minutes, one hundred ten minutes, or longer, but must begin at a standard start time (e.g.. five minutes after three p.m., ten minutes after four p.m.). (i) Beginning at three-thirty p.m. Tuesday, Thursday classes may be fifty-five minutes, eighty minutes, one hundred ten minutes, or longer, but must begin at a standard start time (e.g., three-thirty p.m., five p.m.). (j) Beginning at five-fifteen p.m. classes meeting in classrooms with fewer than ninety-nine seats may follow any meeting pattern. (k) For classes meeting in classrooms with ninety-nine seats or more, scheduling priority will be given to classes that begin at six p.m. or seven-thirty p.m. on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and five p.m., six-thirty p.m., or eight p.m. on Tuesday, Thursday. Classes meeting two or more nights per week will have scheduling priority over classes which only meet one night per week. (8) Options for scheduling classrooms Scheduling options are based on the number of contact hours (not credit hours) per week of the class. One semester credit hour will be awarded for a minimum of seven hundred fifty minutes of formalized instruction that typically requires students to work at out-of-class assignments an average of twice the amount of time as the amount of formalized instruction (one thousand five hundred minutes). It is acknowledged that formalized instruction may take place in a variety of modes. One hour of credit shall be awarded for a total of one thousand five hundred minutes laboratory instructional time. (a) Three contact hours (e.g., three credit hour class, four credit hour class including a lab) meeting in a classroom (as described in paragraph (B)(1) of this policy). (i) Three times fifty-five minutes (MWF) (ii) Two times eighty minutes (TTh) (iii) Two times eighty minutes (MW, MF, WF starting five minutes after three p.m. or after) (iv) One times one hundred sixty minutes (Monday, Wednesday, Friday starting five minutes after three p.m. or after; Tuesday, Thursday starting at three-thirty p.m. or after) (b) Two contact hours meeting in a classroom (e.g., three credit hour class including a lab) (i) Two times fifty-five minutes (MW, MF, WF) (ii) One times one hundred ten minutes (Monday, Wednesday, Friday starting five minutes after three p.m. or after; Tuesday, Thursday starting three-thirty p.m. or after) (c) One contact hour meeting in a classroom: one times fifty-five minutes (M,W, F) (d) Four contact hours meeting in a classroom (i) Two times one hundred ten minutes (MW, MF, WF starting five minutes after three p.m. or after; TTh starting three-thirty p.m. or after) (ii) Two times eighty minutes (TTh) plus one times fifty-five minutes (M,W,F) (iii) Two times eighty minutes (MW, MF, WF starting five minutes after three p.m. or after) plus one times fifty-five minutes (M,W,F) (iv) Three times fifty-five minutes (MWF) plus one times fifty-five minutes (TTh) (starting three-thirty p.m. or after) (v) One times two hundred twenty minutes (M,W, starting five minutes after three p.m. or after; TTh starting three-thirty p.m. or after) (9) Options for scheduling non-classroom space (a) Two hours (i) May be scheduled any day of the week (ii) Monday, Wednesday, Friday must start at seven-thirty a.m., nine-forty a.m., eleven-fifty a.m., two p.m., five minutes after three p.m., five-fifteen p.m. (iii) Tuesday, Thursday must start at eight a.m., ten minutes after ten a.m., twelve-thirty p.m., two-thirty p.m., three-thirty p.m., five p.m. (b) Three hours (i) May be scheduled any day of the week (ii) Monday, Wednesday, Friday must start at seven-thirty a.m., eleven-fifty a.m., five minutes after three p.m., six-fifteen p.m. (iii) Tuesday, Thursday must start at eight a.m., twelve-thirty p.m., three-thirty p.m., six-thirty p.m. (10) Standard start and end times Monday, Wednesday, Friday | Start | End | | 7:30 a.m. | 8:25 a.m. | | 8:35 a.m. | 9:30 a.m. | | 9:40 a.m. | 10:35 a.m. | | 10:45 a.m. | 11:40 a.m. | | 11:50 a.m. | 12:45 p.m. | | 12:55 p.m. | 1:50 p.m. | | 2:00 p.m. | 2:55 p.m. | | 3:05 p.m. | 4:00 p.m. | | 4:10 p.m. | 5:05 p.m. | | 5:15 p.m. | 6:10 p.m. | | *6:00 p.m. | 7:20 p.m. | | *7:30 p.m. | 8:50 p.m. |
*Standard start-times for classes meeting in classrooms with ninety-nine or more seats (11) Tuesday, Thursday | Start | End | | 8:00a.m. | 9:20 a.m. | | 9:30 a.m. | 10:50 a.m. | | 11:00 a.m. | 12:20 p.m. | | 12:30 p.m. | 1:50 p.m. | | 2:00 p.m. | 3:20 p.m. | | 3:30 p.m. | 4:50 p.m. | | *5:00 p.m. | 6:20 p.m. | | *6:30 p.m. | 7:50 p.m. | | *8:00 p.m. | 9:20 p.m. |
*Standard start-times for classes meeting in classrooms with ninety-nine or more seats. (12) Completion of schedules (a) After the deans have approved the initial class schedules, the office of the university registrar will process the semester schedule in accordance with paragraph (C)(1) of this policy, then place all remaining classroom space-time in the university-wide pool for additional classroom assignments as needed. (b) Individual classes assigned by colleges to classrooms with less than sixty-seven percent seat utilization (i.e. enrollment limit is less than sixty-seven percent of classroom capacity) will be returned to the appropriate dean(s) for reconsideration if there is a demand for the classroom with a greater seat utilization and there is another classroom to accommodate the smaller class. The seat utilization test will take cross listings, dual listings, and multi-section scheduling into account. (D) Scheduling procedures- regional campuses All classrooms and class laboratories should be scheduled in the university scheduling system using protocol specified by the office of the university registrar. This should include non-credit activities as well as credit-bearing classes. This is necessary to ensure accurate reporting of space utilization. (1) Class meeting times Standard class meeting times must be followed according to the chart in paragraph (D)(2) of this policy. A non-three hour class may be scheduled by utilizing a standard start time. Evening classes must begin at five-thirty p.m. or seven p.m. (2) Standard start and end times Monday, Wednesday and Tuesday, Thursday | Start | End | | 8:00 a.m. | 9:20 a..m. | | 9:30 a.m. | 10:50 a.m. | | 11:00 a.m. | 12:20 p.m. | | 12:30 p.m. | 1:50 p.m. | | 2:00 p.m. | 3:20 p.m. | | 3:30 p.m. | 4:50 p.m. | | 5:30 p.m. | |
(3) Friday | Start | End | | 8:00 a.m. | 10:50 a.m. | | 11:00 a.m. | 1:50 p.m. | | 2:00 p.m. | 4:50 p.m. | | 5:30 p.m. | |
(4) Class meetings on Friday A minimum of twelve percent of course offerings must be scheduled on Fridays. (E) Implementation and monitoring (1) The university registrar is responsible as the university's scheduling agent for general implementation of this policy. (2) The deans, under oversight from the provost, are responsible for monitoring and enforcement of all provisions in this policy. (3) Departments, schools, and regional campuses should follow the protocol provided by the office of the university registrar for updating the scheduling system to reflect all scheduling changes and ensure the appropriate dean's office has approved of any changes. (4) Changes to the class schedule after students have registered for the class will be permitted only under extraordinary circumstances. Departments, schools, and regional campuses should consult their dean's office and the university registrar to modify a class schedule after students have enrolled.
Last updated September 6, 2022 at 8:38 AM
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Rule 3337-1-25 | Use of university facilities.
Effective:
August 26, 2016
The version of this rule that includes live links
to associated resources is online at https://www.ohio.edu/policy/01-025.html (A) Overview All facilities operated by Ohio university
(general fund and auxiliary) are the property of the state of Ohio. They are
administered under policies established by the board of trustees or its
designees, and they are managed within these policies by colleges, departments,
and programs to which they are assigned. It is the goal of this policy to
establish a framework for the convenient and economical use of university
facilities by internal and external groups. Ohio university will make maximum use of its
facilities and services for the benefit of the citizens of the state of Ohio in
keeping with the specifications of section 3313.76 of the Revised Code and the
1992 board of trustees "Resolution on Space Utilization and Management
Principles." In certain cases stipulated within this policy, fees may be
charged to generate revenue or recover reasonable and necessary costs of
facilities operation. This policy applies to the Athens campus, not to
the regional campuses. (B) Guidelines for
usage (1) Internal
groups Internal groups have priority in the
reservation and use of university facilities. (2) External
groups External groups may be approved for the use of
university space if and when facilities are available. External programs,
events, and activities include any activity presented by organizations that do
not have a direct relationship with Ohio university. This includes, but is not
limited to, political groups, religious groups, civic groups, charitable
groups, and programs scheduled through the division of lifelong
learning. (3) Exclusions All groups are encouraged to utilize facilities
on campus whenever possible, but use of facilities generally will be
constrained or prohibited for groups whose presence would pose a threat to the
safety of the university community, or for activities that are wholly
commercial or for private gain. (4) Responsible offices Procedures for scheduling and use authorization
vary among the different facilities. In general, access to instructional
facilities is secured through the registrar's office. Workshops,
conferences, conventions, and programs of a similar nature are coordinated by
the division of lifelong learning. Access to facilities for such programs is
arranged through that division. Use of some facilities requires approval of the
planning unit head (dean, vice president, or designee) in charge of the
facility. These include some instructional facilities and all auxiliary
facilities; see part (B)(6) of this policy. Questions regarding scheduling
authority may be referred to the director of space management. Authorization
for use of facilities by an employee organization wishing to solicit employees
also must be obtained from the chief human resource officer. Groups wishing to
hold events in university outdoor areas initially must contact the Baker
university center administration before the event and comply with policy
24.016. See also policy 24.005 and policy 42.550.
Additional university policies and other regulations may apply. (5) Fees Users may be charged a fee for the use of
university facilities under the following conditions or circumstances: (a) Rent will not be charged for facilities used
by a registered student organization for programs and events that serve the
members of the university community and are not presented on an individual or
commercial gain basis. Student organizations may be charged for the cost of
setup, cleanup, damages incurred during the course of an event, and any special
fees required to present an activity and restore the facility to its original
condition. (b) Other groups, both internal and external, may
be charged fees for the use of certain facilities in accordance with parts
(B)(5), (B)(6), and (B)(7) of this policy. (c) When any fees are charged for the use of any
facility, the planning unit head or designee will file a memorandum of
understanding between the planning unit and the user. This memorandum should
outline the reason for any charges, the time and nature of the activity, the
services to be provided, and any other agreements arranged on services, fees,
and facility usage. (d) Planning units must publish their facilities
usage fees for any given fiscal year no later than July first of that year.
Charges to users must be made at the published rates. Facilities usage fees
also will be posted by the university on an appropriate web site. Where
approval is required for new or increased fees, the approval must be obtained
prior to submittal of the annual budget to the board of trustees. (6) Fees for
auxiliary facilities In the case of auxiliary facilities (for
purposes of this policy, presently the aquatic center, Baker university center,
Bird arena, the convocation center and all other facilities controlled by
intercollegiate athletics, the golf and tennis complex, Ping center, the
residence and dining hall system, and Templeton-Blackburn alumni memorial
auditorium): (a) The planning unit head may establish any
facilities usage fee (rental or service) for external groups. Fees normally may
be established without prior review and approval, but the internal fee
committee must be notified, and may selectively review these charges and
recommend changes to the provost. (b) Facilities usage fees charged to internal
groups or external groups with internal sponsors must be reviewed by the
internal fee committee and approved by the provost. (c) Auxiliary facilities are to be used as a
first priority for the purpose for which they were developed. In residence
halls, residence hall students have priority on scheduling meeting and food
service space for their programs and activities. If a facility is reserved for
the exclusive and private use of members of a registered student group, the
group will be responsible for setup, cleanup, and service charges for using the
facility. A deposit may be required to cover damages or losses incurred during
a performance, event, or activity. Nonresident student groups will be charged
setup and clean-up costs for auxiliary space usage. (d) Units which require the purchase of a ticket
or a usage fee, such as Templeton-Blackburn memorial auditorium, Bird arena,
the aquatic center, and the golf course, may hold blocks of time or seats for
student groups to use the facility, providing other members of the campus
community also may continue to use the facility for its intended
purpose. (e) For additional information regarding use of
specific auxiliary facilities, consult the following policies: (i) Policy
24.012. (ii) Policy
24.020. (iii) Policy
24.030. (7) Fees for
general fund facilities (a) Planning unit heads may establish fees only
to cover reasonable and necessary expenses for services associated with the use
of the facility (e.g., equipment use, set-up, staffing, clean-up, damages,
etc.). This will permit the planning unit to recover all direct costs resulting
from the activity; no rental fees shall be charged for any general fund
building. A deposit may be required to cover damages or losses incurred during
a performance, event, or activity. (b) The planning unit head shall deposit all
revenue from equipment use charges in an account designated for maintenance and
replacement of equipment subject to such charges. (c) Facilities usage fees must be reviewed by the
internal fees committee and approved by the provost. (8) Questions All questions or concerns pertaining to
reservations, use of facilities, or expenses charged for events and activities
should be directed to the person responsible for the provision of service. If
the issue cannot be resolved at that level, the question or concern should be
referred to the planning unit head or designee of the unit for review and
resolution. Any appeals on the assessment of fees shall be addressed to the
internal fees committee. Conflicts over scheduling and use that cannot be
resolved by appropriate planning unit heads should be referred to the director
of space management. (9) Provisions related to food service Food and beverages served or catered on the
Ohio university campus or at university-sponsored events must be provided by
Ohio university dining services. Individuals or organizations desiring to have
food and beverages catered to approved campus locations by other food providers
must receive written approval from the director of housing and food services
and the director of environmental health and safety; see policy 47.015.
Additional policies related to food service include: (a) Policy 47.010 and (b) Policy 24.004. These policies apply to planning for on-campus
events with food service. (C) Definitions (1) Rental
fee A fee charged for facilities use without direct
connection to specific charges for recovery of reasonable and necessary
expenses. (2) Reasonable and necessary expenses Direct costs incurred to operate a facility for
use of a group, e.g., expenses resulting from equipment use, staffing, set-up,
clean-up, and damages. (3) Damage
charges Charges to recover the cost of physical damage
or loss (e.g., breakage, defacement, theft, normal usage, etc.) resulting from
use of facility. (4) General
fund building A building that is constructed, maintained, and
equipped with state funds. (5) Auxiliary
building A building that is constructed, maintained, and
equipped with locally collected and administered funds, or a building
identified as an auxiliary facility for purposes of this policy. (6) Internal
group Groups recognized under the university system
of organizational structure and accountability (e.g. planning units and their
departments, faculty, staff, student organizations). (7) External
groups Any group or organization that does not fall
under the university organizational structure and accountability. (8) Food
service The university organization responsible for
providing regular dining and catering for faculty, staff, and student groups.
The version of this rule that includes live links
to associated resources is online at https://www.ohio.edu/policy/01-025.html
|
Rule 3337-1-30 | Production and Hosting of Major Events.
Effective:
December 6, 2024
(A) Overview This policy ensures that major events sponsored
by university departments, student organizations, and external partners and
non-university affiliated users of university property are produced in a manner
that reasonably assures the health and safety of all involved, limits civil and
financial liability, is legal, and is consistent with applicable university
policy. (B) Scope For the purposes of this policy, a "major
event" is defined as a public event that is expected to draw at least two
hundred attendees, and/or an event which involves the services and usage of
three or more Ohio university entities (e.g., parking and transportation,
facilities, Ohio university police department OUPD, conference and event
services, etc.). Examples include parades, street fairs, Athens community-based
events, etc., or if an event is deemed by any member of the committee to pose a
potential health and safety concern or civil and/or financial liability.
Excluded from the purview of this policy are events in the following
categories: (1) Events planned or
monitored by university units that are held in facilities controlled by the
unit (e.g., ICA events held in intercollegiate athletics (ICA) facilities,
campus recreation events held in campus recreation facilities, performing arts
series events held in Templeton-Blackburn alumni memorial auditorium, any event
taking place in baker university center, etc.), and (2) Academically oriented
activities that occur in academic facilities (e.g., a meeting of all students
majoring in a department, held in a large classroom), If in doubt about whether a proposed event is
subject to this policy, contact the chair of the major events committee,
contact information for the chair can be found on the major events committee
website. (C) Events (1) Staffing Staffing of all events must be of the quality
and quantity to ensure adequate management of the anticipated audience both in
the facility where the event is being held and in surrounding spaces, including
parking areas. (2) Facility
reservation Event planners must secure a facility
reservation directly from the office or individual responsible for the
facility, as well as parking areas, which is managed by parking and
transportation services. Any approval by the major events committee is
contigent upon the planner's securing of a facility reservation. At the
time of granting a tentative reservation, the facility coordinator will remind
the event planner of the need for approval under this policy. (3) Responsibility Event planners must assume full responsibility
for costs incured in the production of an event. Student and external
organizations must not in any way place Ohio university in a position of
financial liability. (D) Major event committee
composition The major events committee composition is
assigned by the vice president of student affairs and the vice president for
finance and administration. Members of the committee can be found on the major
events committee website. (E) Event proposals The major events committee may ask event planers
to submit a formal event proposal. If a new major event is being planned, event
planners should contact the chair of the major events committee as soon as
possible to informally discuss plans for the event, to ensure that the planners
understand the scope of the planning effort required for such an event and have
realistic expectations as to the timetables likely to be followed by the
committee. Contact information for the chair can be found on the major events
committee website. Formal event proposals can be requested by the
major events committee. Upon completion the proposal form shall be provided to
the chair of the major events committee on the major events proposal form, and
shall include: (1) Name of sponsoring
organization (2) Name, phone, address,
and email of contact person (3) Name of
event (4) Proposed date and
time (beginning and ending) of event (5) Proposed location of
event (6) A description of the
event (7) Expected number of
persons attending (8) A description of the
targeted audience (9) Plans for producing
the event -- site and facility logistics, staffing, equipment,
etc. (F) Polling the committee The chair of the committee shall distribute
information about the proposed event to committee members and specify a
deadline for objection. Without objection, the chair may recommend approval. If
the chair or any member of the committee objects, the chair shall convene the
committee to meet with event planners, review additional information, and make
a decision. (G) General criteria The committee shall review proposal(s) and may
request additional information of those proposing the event. The committee
shall consider the proposal in light of the degree to which the event can be
held in a manner that: (1) Reasonably assures
the health and safety of all participants, (2) Limits civil and
financial obligations of the university, (3) Is legal,
and (4) Is consistent with
other university policy. (H) Planning criteria In making their assessment, the committee shall
consider the degree to which the event can be implemented in a manner that
reasonably assures the safety and health of all involved and ensures there are
adequate university resources to support, considering specifically the
following criteria: (1) Facility and
audience (a) To what degree is the facility suitable for the nature
and size of the event and its anticipated audience? (b) Do the arrangements properly accommodate accessibility
needs so all individuals are able to attend the event, and to do so in
safety? (2) Parking (a) Is there adequate local parking, or a plan for
alternatives to such a local parking (e.g., a shuttle to a distant parking lot)
for event attendees? (b) Is there adequate local parking, or a plan for
alternatives to such local parking (e.g., a shuttle to a distance parking lot)
for buses, trucks, and other vehicles associated with the production of the
event. (3) Production (a) Can the structural integrity and operational safety of
staging, rigging, sound, lighting, and other equipment be assured? (b) Are the proposed sound, lighting, and other production
elements suitable for the size, scope, and nature of the event and its proposed
venue? (c) Are the technical crews employed or contracted
sufficiently skilled and adequately supervised in order to safety manage their
assigned tasks? (d) Have the potential dangers associated with special
effects been identified and addressed? (e) Can the equipment be safely and securely stored before
and after the event? (f) Are there any other technical requirements that the
university cannot reasonably accommodate? (4) Power Can the electrical power requirements be met
with existing electrical capacity? If not, have the event planners made
acceptable provisions to supplement existing systems? (5) Security and other
staffing (a) Do the plans provide adequate security personnel and
other staff as needed to reasonably assure the safety of event
participants? (b) Does the event proposal include an adequate plan for
security and staffing? (6) Cleanup Do the plans adequately assure the return of
all spaces to their original condition in terms of maintenance, repair,
cleaning, and other custodial services; trash and recycling removal; and
grounds repair (excepting normal wear and tear)? (7) Food and
beverage Are the plans for preparation, delivery, and
service of food and beverages consistent with law and university policy? (8) Campus and community
impact Can the event occur without causing
unreasonable disturbance to the local community, to normal university
operations (e.g., classes, labs, or offices), or to students living in
university residence halls or apartments? (9) Planning (a) Are the responsible persons clearly identified and
available to the review committee? (b) Is the initial proposal presented in time to allow
adequate planning of the event? A lack of sufficient time to adequately
complete the planning for the event may by itself be sufficient cause for
denial of approval of a proposed event. (c) Have the applicants responded promptly to the review
committees' concerns? (10) Other Can any other precautions not explicity
addressed in other criteria be identified to ensure fire and life safety in the
planned activities? (I) Denials If the committee denies approval of a proposed
event, the chair will provide the applicant with an explanation of the
committee's decision. Denials may be appealed to the vice president for
student affairs.
Last updated December 6, 2024 at 6:55 AM
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Rule 3337-1-40 | Statement of commitment to free expression.
Effective:
September 2, 2018
The version of this rule that includes live links
to associated resources is online at
https://www.ohio.edu/policy/01-040.html (A) Preamble Freedom of expression is the foundation of an Ohio university
education. Open debate and deliberation, the critique of beliefs and theories,
and uncensored academic inquiry are all essential to our shared mission of
discovery and dissemination of knowledge. (See "Forms, References and
History" a.) We enjoy the freedoms of speech and assembly on
our campuses not by virtue of this statement or any university policy. Those
rights are secured by the First Amendment and other federal and state
constitutional provisions and laws, which establish our freedoms far beyond
what a university policy may supplement or diminish. Beyond their constitutional significance, freedom
of inquiry and expression also are hallmarks of a worthy education. We are
entrusted with the intellectual and civic preparation of those who will create,
build, discover, teach, and lead in our community, nation, and world. To meet
this charge, we must teach the essential nature of free speech to a democratic
society. The robust exercise of free expression illuminates our search for
truth and progress. It nourishes an informed democracy. It gives voice to the
oppressed. Its presence guarantees all other freedoms; its loss foretells
tyranny. Many generations of Ohio university students,
faculty, and staff have walked beneath our alumni gateway and its inscription:
"So enter that daily thou mayest grow in knowledge, wisdom, and
love." For those who have walked through those gatesand for the
generations that will follow themthis statement affirms that our daily
pursuit of knowledge, wisdom, and love is possible only through our dedication
to the preservation and celebration of the freedom of expression. Just as the
alumni gateway inscription dedicates our own community to a more universal
mission, this statement is a lasting affirmation of these established freedoms
and their meaning to our institution. In his "1962 Speaker's Policy,"
Ohio university president Vernon R. Alden described freedom of expression as
"a profound part of our heritage," asserting that "freedom of
inquiry and discussion is essential to a student's educational
development." The students, faculty, and staff of our institution today
are stewards of Ohio university's legacy of activism and free speech. We
must preserve and protect this legacy, both by word and deed, for our students
and for the generations that will follow us. (See "Forms, References and
History" b.). Ohio university welcomes free expression in all
its forms, including the expression of dissent. Universities at their best are
lively, sometimes tumultuous places. This is especially true here, where today
we walk the same greens where our predecessors assembled to call for civil
rights and an end to the Vietnam war, to mourn the assassinations of heroes,
and to express concern for campus issues of their day. Recent years have shown
this legacy of activism to be alive and well on our campuses. We welcome this,
and we recognize that robust debate and civil disagreement are healthy signs of
an engaged university community and a diversity of perspectives. Moreover, an important corollary to free
expression is our dedication to academic freedom: the faculty of our university
must always be free to pursue their research, scholarship, creative activity,
teaching, and other academic endeavors consistent with the professional
standards of their disciplines. (B) Free expression: principles of
application We affirm the value of free expression, but applying these broad
values to our campuses is complex. For example, all enjoy free speech rights,
but their exercise by competing groups sometimes brings those rights into
conflict. Most agree that mere inconvenience should be tolerated while genuine
disruption should not, but defining the difference between the two in some
scenarios can be difficult. And while almost everyone in the United States is
aware of the First Amendment, we do not always share a common understanding of
what the law actually requires, prohibits, or permits. This section includes
brief discussions of principles and challenges that arise in the application of
free expression rights to our campuses, informed by the First Amendment and
court decisions applying the law. (1) Constitutional
limitations: time, place, manner rules and disruption The robust exercise of
free speech is essential to our mission, and this includes expressions of
dissent and protest. Ohio university welcomes demonstrations, marches, and
similar assemblies in almost all outdoor areas and many indoor spaces of our
campuses, and generally we should accept any inconveniences that may result as
a unique and necessary feature of university life. Of course, this does not
mean there are no limitations governing the use of university spaces for
expression. Under constitutional law, there are two types of permissible
limitations: (a) Rules that regulate the permissible time, place, and
manner of speech in advance (e.g., prohibiting use of bullhorns in a library)
(See "Forms, References and History" c.); and (b) Rules prohibiting activities that substantially and
materially disrupt important university operations, which often can be
determined only at the time of an event. (See "Forms, References and
History" d.). To ensure that everyday university functions
can be accomplished, the institution has adopted both types of rules for use of
outdoor and indoor spaces. The precise legal tests for these rules vary
depending on the nature of the space. Generally, they must be content-neutral,
reasonable, and leave ample alternative methods of expression. These are
"narrow exceptions to the general principle of freedom of expression, and
it is vitally important that these exceptions never be used in a manner
inconsistent with the university's commitment to a completely free and
open discussion of ideas." (See "Forms, References and
History" e.) Even with university rules, our community members have
innumerable opportunities to express themselves on campus: for example, through
publications, debate, tee-shirts, and signs, along with spontaneous marches,
protests, demonstrations, and assemblies in almost all outdoor spaces and many
indoor spaces. Our community also should consider the
difficulty in distinguishing mere inconvenience from disruption.
"Disruption" unavoidably depends on the context. It may take very
little noise to disrupt an intense studying session in Alden library. That same
level of noise is less likely to be disruptive in Baker center at lunchtime on
a Tuesday, and may not even be noticedmuch less be
disruptiveoutdoors on the college green. As a general matter, a wider
range of activities may be disruptive indoorswhere most university work
takes place, and where people are in closer proximitythan outdoors. (See
"Forms, References and History" f.) It is not possible to define disruption with
perfect clarity for all scenarios in all places, and courts do not expect such
precision. (See "Forms, References and History" g.) Those who
enforce these policies and those who seek to comply with them must use
reasonable judgment and common sense, informed by the values of our
institution, to apply a general definition to the specifics of the moment. By
structuring our policies to clarify the many spaces in which demonstrations,
marches, and similar assemblies are permissible, along with basic rules for use
of spaces, we decrease the number of situations in which subjective judgments
about disruption are required. (2) Content
neutrality University rules that govern expression
typically must be written and enforced without regard to the content of the
expression. This principleknown as "content
neutrality"is a basic requirement of First Amendment law and
ensures that governments (and public universities) do not abuse their authority
to silence or favor speech based on content. (See "Forms, References and
History" h.) As a result, the university may not write or
enforce rules more generously for popular speech and more restrictively for
disfavored, unpopular speech. The rules generally must be applied consistently,
regardless of the content. At times, this may mean that sympathetic speakers
and speech will be subject to rules governing the time, place, and manner of
speech. (3) Protected protest
versus civil disobedience Under First Amendment law and the university's policies,
protesters on campus may express their views in many ways, including by
assembling, demonstrating, and marching. Those activities are constitutionally
protected and must be permitted, so long as they are not disruptive or violate
basic use rules. Civil disobedience is different. Civil
disobedience typically involves peaceful, conscientious, and intentional
violations of laws or rules. Those who engage in civil disobedience often do so
to highlight injustice and to call for societal change, but civil
disobedienceeven for worthy causesis not protected by the First
Amendment; there is no constitutional "right" to civil disobedience
or to substantially disruptive protest, and civil disobedience may result in
disciplinary and legal consequences. (4) Protest and
counter-protests Many protests on campus attract
counter-protests. When this occurs, the university is legally permitted to
manage these scenarios to ensure that the groups are able to safely communicate
with each other and the surrounding audience and to prevent one from physically
silencing the other. For example, the university may establish a buffer area
between two competing protests so that, where feasible, the groups remain in
the same general area. The size and placement of the buffer area, and the
resulting orientation of the groups, will depend on the spaces at issue.
Generally speaking, it is much more difficult to accommodate competing protests
in the same space in indoor areas than outdoors. (5) Event speakers and
dissent The university and its community frequently
host events featuring speakers who communicate to an intended audience. Many
such events are open to the public, while some are nonpublic or by invitation
only. Speakers generally have a right to communicate their message, even though
that message may be controversial or disfavored, and the audience has a right
to see and hear the speaker. At public events, individuals typically are
free to express dissent in the event venue in ways that do not substantially
interfere with the rights of the speaker and the audience. For example, staging
a walk-out, wearing expressive clothing, and displaying signs that do not
significantly obstruct views generally are permissible. However, the university
"has a solemn responsibility not only to promote a lively and fearless
freedom of debate and deliberation, but also to protect that freedom when
others attempt to restrict it." (See "Forms, References and
History" i.) Thus sustained heckling and "shouting down" a
speaker generally are not permissible. (See "Forms, References and
History" j.) For nonpublic events, the event organizer
usually is allowed to turn away uninvited individuals from entering the venue
itself. However, individuals are free to engage in expressive activities
outside the venue consistent with university rules. For example, individuals
protesting an event inside a building generally may assemble and distribute
literature just outside the building, so long as entrances are not
blocked. (6) Hate speech and other
offensive speech At times, our community members will encounter
arguments and perspectives with which they disagree, or worse, that are
repugnant and offensive. Some such expressions may be condemned as "hate
speech." Although those views are deeply at odds with the values of Ohio
university, courts have held that such speech generally is protected by the
First Amendment and cannot be punished or regulated based on its content. (see
"Forms, References and History" k.) More importantly, our community
is stronger when such views are openly probed, contested, and rebutted. Ohio university does not shield its community
from speech on the basis that it is uncomfortable, wrong, or offensive. Rather,
Ohio university seeks to prepare each student to engage thoughtfully and
passionately with all ideas, even with disagreeable views. (7) Unprotected
speech Notwithstanding the First Amendment's
broad reach, certain categories of speech are not constitutionally protected
and may be prohibited and subject to disciplinary or legal action. These
categories include genuine harassment and threats, falsely defamatory
statements about a specific person, and incitement. (See "Forms,
References and History" l.) "Sexual harassment," for example,
is defined and prohibited by policy 03.004 (sexual misconduct, relationship
violence, and stalking) and other authorities. When such unprotected speech
occurs on our campus, the university will take appropriate disciplinary and
remedial action. (C) Conclusion "Without a vibrant commitment to free and
open inquiry, a university ceases to be a university." (See "Forms,
References and History" m.) Ohio university embraces its history of free
expression and activism, and recognizes the contribution of this legacy to the
current vitality of our academic endeavors and our community. Through this
statement, the university secures this legacy of free expression and open
inquiry for future generations. The version of this rule that includes live links
to associated resources is online at
https:www.ohio.edu/policy/01-040.html
|
Rule 3337-1-41 | Campus freedom of expression.
Effective:
September 5, 2022
(A) Basis for policy Section 3345.0215 of the Revised Code requires
that each state institution of higher education adopt a policy that affirms the
principles stated in paragraph (B) of this policy and establish a process under
which a student, student group, or faculty member may submit a complaint about
an alleged violation of this policy by any employee of the institution.
Further, section 3345.0212 of the Revised Code requires each state institution
of higher education to adopt a policy on harassment that is consistent with and
adheres strictly to the definition of harassment in section 3345.0211 of the
Revised Code. University policy 01.040 also communicates Ohio university's
commitment to freedom of expression. (B) Rationale for policy Ohio university is committed to maintaining the
campus as a marketplace of ideas for all students and all faculty in which the
free exchange of ideas is not suppressed because the ideas put forth are
thought by some or even by most members of the institution's community to
be offensive, unwise, immoral, indecent, disagreeable, conservative, liberal,
traditional, radical, or wrong-headed. To support this commitment and ensure compliance
with federal and state laws and regulations, Ohio university has developed this
policy and related processes that inform members of the university community
about prohibited behavior and provide a prompt, fair, and impartial process to
address alleged violations of this policy. Further, Ohio university affirms the following
principles set forth in the Revised Code: (1) "Students have a
fundamental constitutional right to free speech." (2) Ohio university is
"committed to giving students broad latitude to speak, write, listen,
challenge, learn, and discuss any issue," subject to paragraph (E) of this
policy. (3) It is for
"individual students and faculty to make judgments about ideas for
themselves and to act on those judgments not by seeking to suppress free speech
but by openly and vigorously contesting the ideas they
oppose." (4) It is not the proper
role of Ohio university "to attempt to shield individuals from free
speech, including ideas and opinions they find offensive, unwise, immoral,
indecent, disagreeable, conservative, liberal, traditional, radical, or
wrong-headed." (5) Although Ohio
university greatly values civility and mutual respect, "concerns about
civility and respect will not be used" by Ohio university "as a
justification for closing off the discussion of ideas, however offensive,
unwise, immoral, indecent, disagreeable, conservative, liberal, traditional,
radical, or wrong-headed those ideas may be to some students or
faculty." (6) "Although all
students and all faculty are free to state their views about and contest the
views expressed on campus, and to state their views about and contest speakers
who are invited to express their views on campus, they may not substantially
obstruct or otherwise substantially interfere with the freedom of others to
express views they reject or even loathe." To that end, Ohio university
"has a responsibility to promote lively and fearless freedom of debate and
deliberation and protect that freedom." (7) Ohio university is
"committed to providing an atmosphere that is most conducive to
speculation, experimentation, and creation by all students and all faculty, who
shall always remain free to inquire, to study, and to evaluate, and to gain new
understanding." (8) "The primary
responsibility of faculty is to engage an honest, courageous, and persistent
effort to search out and communicate the truth that lies in areas of their
competence." (C) Definitions As used in the policy: (1) "Benefits"
include, without limitation: recognition, registration, the use of Ohio
university facilities for meetings or speaking purposes, the use of Ohio
university's channels of communication, and funding sources that are
otherwise available to any student group at Ohio university. (2) "Constitutional
time, place, and manner restrictions" means restrictions on the time,
place, and manner of free speech that do not violate the First Amendment to the
United States Constitution or Article I, Sections 3 and 11 of the Ohio
Constitution that are reasonable, content- and viewpoint- neutral, narrowly
tailored to satisfy a significant institutional interest, and leave open ample
alternative channels for the communication of the information or message to its
intended audience. (3) "Education
program or activity" means locations, events, or circumstances, including
employment, where the university exercises substantial control over both the
respondent and the context in which the alleged policy violation occurs and
includes any building owned or controlled by a student organization that is
officially recognized by the university. (4) "Expressive
activities" means any lawful verbal, written, audiovisual, or electronic
means by which individuals may communicate ideas, including all forms of
peaceful assembly, protests, speeches, distribution of literature, carrying and
displaying signs, and circulating petitions. (5) "Faculty"
or "faculty member" means any person, whether or not the person is
compensated by a state institution of higher education, and regardless of
political affiliation, who is tasked with providing scholarship, academic
research, or teaching. For purposes of this policy, the term
"faculty" includes tenured and nontenured professors, adjunct
professors, visiting professors, lecturers, graduate student instructors, and
those in comparable positions, however titled. For purposes of this policy, the
term "faculty" does not include persons whose primary
responsibilities are administrative or managerial. (6) "Free
speech" means speech, expression, or assemblies protected by the First
Amendment to the United States Constitution or Article I, Sections 3 and 11 of
the Ohio Constitution, verbal or written, including, but not limited to, all
forms of peaceful assembly, protests, demonstrations, rallies, vigils, marches,
public speaking, distribution of printed materials, carrying signs, displays,
or circulating petitions. "Free speech" does not include the
promotion, sale, or distribution of any product or service. (7) "Harassment" is conduct and/or expression
that is not protected by the First Amendment to the United States Constitution
or Article I of the Ohio Constitution because it is: (a) Unwelcome; and (b) So severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive that it
effectively denies an individual equal access to the individual's
education program or activity. Expression (either in person, in writing, or
by telecommunication) must meet both elements to be actionable under Ohio
university policies addressing harassment. If there is a conflict with the
definition of harassment found in university policy 03.004 or 40.001, those
definitions take precedence. (8) "Student"
means any person who is enrolled on a full-time or part-time basis at Ohio
university and includes student groups. (9) "Student
group" means an officially recognized group at Ohio university, or a group
seeking official recognition, comprised of admitted students that receive, or
are seeking to receive, benefits through Ohio university. (D) Statement of policy (1) No employee of Ohio
university may suppress, restrict, limit, or otherwise hinder the
constitutional right to free speech of a student, student group, or faculty
member. (2) Likewise, except as
stated in paragraph (E) of this policy, neither Ohio university nor any of its
administrators acting in their official capacity shall prohibit any individual
from engaging in noncommercial expressive activity on campus, so long as the
individual's conduct is lawful and does not materially and substantially
disrupt the functioning of the institution. "Materially and substantially
disrupt" means when a person, with the intent to, or with knowledge of
doing so, significantly hinders another person's or group's
expressive activity, prevents communication of their message, or prevents the
transaction of the business of a lawful meeting, gathering, or procession by
either: (a) Engaging in violent or otherwise unlawful behaviors;
or (b) physically blocking or using threats of violence to
prevent any person from attending, listening to, viewing, or otherwise
participating in an expressive activity. This does not include conduct that is
protected under the First Amendment to the United States Constitution or
Section 3 Article I of the Ohio Constitution. (3) No person may
retaliate against any individual because the individual made a report,
testified, assisted, participated, or refused to participate in any manner in
an investigation, proceeding, or hearing under this policy. The exercise of
rights protected under the First Amendment to the United States Constitution or
Section 3 Article I of the Ohio Constitution does not constitute retaliation
prohibited under this paragraph. (4) Ohio
university's commitment to freedom of expression does not extend to
harassment. Policies addressing harassment may be found in the student code of
conduct, university policy 03.004, and university policy 40.001. (E) Applicable scope of policy
Nothing contained in this policy shall be
construed as prohibiting Ohio university from imposing measures that do not
violate the First Amendment to the United States Constitution or Article I,
Sections 3 and 11 of the Ohio Constitution such as (see also university
policies 01.040, 01.042 and 01.044, linked in this paragraph): (1) Constitutional time,
place, and manner restrictions; (2) Reasonable and
viewpoint-neutral restrictions in nonpublic forums; (3) Restricting the use
of Ohio university's property to protect the free speech rights of
students and faculty members and preserve the use of the property for the
advancement of the institution's mission; (4) Prohibiting or
limiting speech, expression, or assemblies that are not protected by the First
Amendment to the United States Constitution or Article I, Sections 3 and 11 of
the Ohio Constitution; (5) Content restrictions
on speech that are reasonably related to a legitimate pedagogical purpose, such
as classroom rules enacted by faculty members. Nothing in this policy shall be construed to
grant students the right to disrupt previously scheduled or reserved activities
occurring in a traditional public forum. Nothing in this policy enables individuals to
engage in conduct that intentionally, materially, and substantially disrupts
another individual's expressive activity if it occurs in a campus space
reserved for exclusive use or control of a particular individual or
group. Further, nothing in this policy shall be
interpreted as restricting or impairing the university's obligations under
federal law, as addressed through its non-discrimination and Title IX policies.
Such federal law includes, but is not limited to, Title IV of the Higher
Education Act of 1965, Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1962, Title VII of
the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972,
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title II of the Americans with
Disabilities Act, Age Discrimination in Employment Act, and the Age
Discrimination Act of 1975. (F) Reporting violations Students, student groups, and faculty members may
use any of the options below to submit a complaint about an alleged violation
of this policy by an Ohio university employee. Reports may be submitted
regarding any alleged violation. (1) Report online using
the freedom of expression form by clicking on submit report at
https://www.ohio.edu/equity-civil-rights. Reports submitted online are routed
immediately to the director of university equity and civil rights compliance
(ECRC). (2) File a report with
ECRC by mail, phone, or email. A report may be submitted at any time (including
during non-business hours) using the contact information below. Reports may
also be made in person at the ECRC office on business days when a staff member
is available. University equity and civil rights
compliance 006 Lindley hall Ohio university Athens, Ohio 45701 740-593-9140 (phone) equity@ohio.edu (3) Harassment that also
rises to the level of a crime (e.g., an actual threat, child pornography)
should also be reported to the Ohio university police department. (G) Investigation and
adjudication Investigation and adjudication of complaints
under this policy will be conducted pursuant to the freedom of expression
policy grievance process (linked from the references part of this
policy).
Last updated September 6, 2022 at 8:38 AM
|
Rule 3337-1-42 | Use of indoor spaces.
Effective:
December 3, 2024
The version of this rule that includes live links
to associated resources is online at
https://www.ohio.edu/policy/01-042.html (A) Scope and overview This policy establishes rules for the use of
indoor spaces on the university's campuses, including the Athens campus,
regional campuses, centers, and extension campuses. University indoor spaces are dedicated primarily
for use by the university community for purposes consistent with the
institution's mission and related teaching, learning, studying, research,
academic, extracurricular and student life, administrative, and other
supporting activities. These are spaces where our community primarily learns,
teaches, works, and lives, and this policy is meant to ensure that those core
activities can take place productively and safely. University indoor spaces may be used by the
university community and the public in accordance with this policy, including
for free expression as described below. Uses may be subject to additional rules for
particular locations and/or during certain times, which are too numerous to
cross-reference in this policy. For example, such rules may include those
governing noise levels in Alden library and other study spaces and
safety-related use restrictions in laboratories and rooms housing sensitive
equipment. (B) Management of indoor
spaces University indoor spaces are managed by different
units depending on the facility. Those responsible for management of a facility
may coordinate room and space reservations, determine reservation fees and
charges, and establish specific rules, such as building operating hours. For a
given facility, these responsibilities may be shared among the academic and
business units residing in the facility, the corresponding office of the
academic dean or regional campus dean, the registrar's office, facilities
management, culinary services, housing and residence life, and central
administration. (1) Relevant
policies Several university policies address these
responsibilities for certain facilities, including but not limited to: (a) 01.024 (Classroom and laboratory scheduling); (b) 14.101 (Departmental libraries: guidelines and requirements);
(c) 19.057 (Animal facilities visitors); (d) 24.012 (Use of athletics department-controlled
facilities); (e) 24.020 (Use of Templeton-Blackburn alumni memorial
auditorium); and (f) 24.030 (Membership and use eligibility for campus
recreation facilities). Questions regarding the appropriate contacts for
reservations and management-related issues may be directed to the office of
university planning and space management. (C) General rules of use of indoor spaces
In addition to facility-specific rules, the
following rules govern use of indoor spaces on university campuses: (1) Priority of
university-related uses The university's indoor spaces are to be
used primarily for purposes related to the institution's mission and
related teaching, learning, studying, research, academic, extracurricular and
student life, administrative, and other supporting activities. Many indoor spaces are available for use by
only appropriate university employees and students, invited guests, and others
having business in those spaces and are not available for general community or
public reservation. These include but are not limited to ordinary office suites
and internal conference rooms, laboratories and related research and
administrative space, medical office waiting rooms, and residence halls.
(2) Reservations
Users wishing to secure reserved use of an
indoor space should contact the unit responsible for managing the facility.
Determinations regarding reservations must be made without reference to the
content or viewpoint of expression associated with the activity. A user who has reserved an indoor space has
priority use of that space during the reservation time. Unscheduled or
conflicting uses of space during a reservation time may not be permitted, and
individuals whose use conflicts with a scheduled use may be required to leave
that area. Additional reservation-related requirements may
apply, such as reservation fees. (3) Amplified sound
Amplified sound devices may not be used in
indoor spaces unless advance permission is granted by the unit responsible for
managing the space. All amplified sound, when permitted, is subject to
regulation in accordance with paragraph (C)(6) of this rule. (4) Distribution and
posting of literature For rules regarding distribution and posting of
literature, flyers and other written material within buildings, see the
following policies: (a) 23.050 (Posting of material for advertisement or
notification); and (b) 42.550 (Solicitation). (5) Demonstrations,
protests, and similar assemblies (a) Scope and definition The purpose of this section is to affirm the
university's commitment to freedom of assembly and expression and to
describe some contexts in which this section of the policy applies. There are many forms of public expression.
This section addresses activities collectively referred to as
"demonstrations." For the purposes of this policy, a
"demonstration" is a form of public expression that is defined as
one or more persons engaging in public expression who are standing, sitting, or
otherwise occupying and remaining in a space. Demonstrations may include but are not
limited to creative activity, public speech-making, picketing, protests,
rallies, and similar assemblies in indoor spaces. For example, demonstrations
include both large gatherings and smaller groups or even a single
individual making a speech, holding a sign, or otherwise engaging in
public expression while occupying and remaining within an indoor space. Here,
the act of occupying and remaining in a space is itself an expressive activity.
Other acts of public expression are not
considered demonstrations for purposes of this section. For example, transient
movement or pauses (including for private conversation), or wearing clothing or
symbols representing political or ideological views within spaces generally are
not demonstrations as defined in this section. Such activities are permitted so
long as they are not disruptive, as defined in paragraph (C)(6) of this
rule. (b) Reserved and unreserved spaces (i) Demonstrations are
permitted in some indoor spaces as described in this section and when not
disruptive (as defined in paragraph (C)(6) of this rule). (ii) Demonstrations are
permitted in all reservable indoor spaces by users who have reserved them in
advance according to the applicable building or other established reservation
procedure. (iii) Demonstrations that do not conflict with an existing
reservation or are otherwise not in use may occur without reservation in the
following areas only: (a) Baker university
center: in the rectangular atrium spaces located on the south end of the third,
fourth, and fifth floors, and in the lounge area overlooking the rotunda on the
north end of the fifth floor. (b) Baker university
center: in publicly reservable conference rooms and meeting rooms in Baker
center. (c) Classrooms that are
otherwise empty (d) As noted above, many
of these spaces may also be reserved in advance for the purpose of
demonstration according to the applicable building or other established
reservation procedure. (iv) Indoor demonstrations, whether in reserved or
unreserved spaces, are permitted only when the participants are otherwise
permitted to be present (e.g., during normal building operating hours), and
must adhere to occupancy limits for the relevant space. (v) Demonstrations in the indoor spaces designated above
are permissible because those spaces are generally designed and safe for
assembly. Other types of spaces are not so designed or practical for such use,
including individual offices, office suites, lobbies, hallways, stairwells,
elevators, and escalators, and demonstrations are not permitted in these
spaces. (vi) Expression by audience members at public events,
including dissenting expression, is entirely permissible, provided it does not
prevent the event from continuing (e.g., holding signs [subject to event rules]
or wearing shirts expressing an alternate view at a public lecture is
permissible, but exercising a "heckler's veto" is not).
(6) Disruption
As contemplated in policy 01.040, disruption is
largely dependent on context. Many factors may influence what rises to the
level of disruptive including but not limited to size and configuration of the
space, proximity to academic or administrative functions, and number of
participants. Mere inconvenience is not a basis to abridge free expression.
Determinations regarding disruption must be
made without reference to the content or viewpoint of any expression associated
with the activity. Activities in indoor spaces that substantially and
materially disrupt or interfere with university activities and operations are
not permitted. Interference with academic instruction and research is viewed as
particularly disruptive. Blocking pathways, doors, service counters, elevators,
escalators, patios, door activators, or otherwise impeding university efforts
intended to assist with accessibility for persons with disabilities in
compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (as amended) is not
permitted. For example, prohibited activities may include
blocking doors and hallways, sustained loud noise directly outside a classroom
or office during business and class hours, and expression during a class that
impedes course-related teaching, learning, and discussion. Users must always
allow safe access through building and interior rooms, doors, and passageways
within buildings. In general, disruption is defined as conduct
that results in, or imminently threatens, the following: (a) Substantial and material interference with the ability of
students, faculty, and staff to engage in university activities and operations,
including teaching, learning, studying, research, academic, extracurricular and
student life, administrative, and other supporting activities; (b) Substantial hindering or impeding of pedestrian traffic,
including by blocking building doors, hallways, stairs, escalators, patios, and
lobbies. (c) Substantial and material interference with a scheduled event
or activity conducted in university spaces, including expressive activities
permitted under this policy. Decisions regarding whether an activity has
become disruptive as defined above generally will be made by the Ohio
university police department ("OUPD") in consultation with the
academic or administrative manager responsible for the space and other
appropriate university officials depending on the facility and circumstances at
issue. In addition, disruption includes behavior that
is not protected speech, including actual or imminent threat of violence,
physical harm to individuals, or violation of an occupancy limit, building code
requirement, or other statute, regulation, ordinance, or legal requirement, and
damage to university or other personal property. OUPD is legally obligated to
make the final determination in resolving issues of public safety. (7) Protocol for
engagement Engagement with people involved in free
expression, when appropriate, reflects the university's educational
mission to foster an environment of open discourse, debate, and learning. For
example, leaders and representatives of academic units, the division of student
affairs, diversity and inclusion, and event services may engage with
participants to encourage constructive dialogue depending on the facility and
circumstances of the demonstration. University officials should maintain protocols
for responding to demonstrations and engaging constructively with participants
especially students when safe and appropriate. (8) Clean-up and damage
fees Users of indoor spaces shall not cause damage
to property or leave behind trash and other items. If this occurs, clean-up and
damage fees and costs may be assessed on the responsible individuals and
groups. The university is not responsible for any personal property brought
onto the premises and assumes no liability for lost, stolen, or damaged
personal property. (9) External
installations Absent prior written approval from the
university, no person may attach fixtures in indoor university spaces or place
any installation or structurefreestanding or otherwiseincluding
but not limited to, weight bearing structures; stands; tables; chairs; tents,
canopies, or pop-up shelters; displays, sound systems; generators; etc.
Requests will be evaluated according to security, safety, and logistical
considerations by event services (Athens campus) or regional campus deans if on
a regional campus, in consultation with other appropriate university officials.
(10) Commercial use
Any proposed commercial activity (a) Will be limited to Baker university center; or (b) Will follow the rules set forth in policy 42.550.
(11) Major events
Users who intend to sponsor events on the
Athens campus that are expected to utilize several university resources (e.g.,
parking and transportation services, facilities, event services, etc.) and/or
draw two hundred or more people should review policy 01.030 and contact the
university's major events committee to facilitate the event. "Major
Events" typically include, without limitation, concerts, charity races,
and other produced events, but not spontaneous protests. Users who intend to
sponsor such events on the regional campuses should contact the appropriate
regional campus dean's office. (D) Exceptions In extraordinary circumstances, the University
may grant one-time exceptions to any provision of this policy in accordance
with policy 01.003 (exceptions to or restrictions of university policies). Such
exceptions must not be based on the expressive content or viewpoints of a
proposed activity. (E) University's official use of
spaces This policy does not apply to the
university's official use of its indoor spaces for university programs
and events. The university's official use of it's indoor spaces
always has priority over other uses. (F) Enforcement Any person who violates this policy may be
subject to an order to leave the property or area, institutional discipline
(for employees and students), and/or arrest and prosecution in circumstances
when the violation constitutes a crime. The version of this rule that includes live links
to associated resources is online at
https://www.ohio.edu/policy/01-042.html
Last updated December 3, 2024 at 8:36 AM
|
Rule 3337-1-44 | Use of outdoor spaces.
Effective:
December 3, 2024
The version of this rule that includes live links
to associated resources is online at
https://www.ohio.edu/policy/01-044.html (A) Scope and overview This policy establishes rules for the use of
outdoor spaces on the university's campuses, including the Athens campus,
regional campuses, centers, and extension campuses. University outdoor spaces
are dedicated primarily for use by the university community for purposes
consistent with the institution's mission and related teaching, learning,
studying, research, academic, extracurricular and student life, administrative,
and other supporting activities. Outdoor spaces intended for vehicular
transportation and parking, such as university-owned roads, garages, and
parking lots, must be used solely for those purposes absent prior permission.
University outdoor spaces may be used by the
university community and the public in accordance with this policy. Uses may be subject to additional rules for
particular locations and/or during certain times, which may be communicated by
signage at the location (e.g., construction zones). (B) General rules for use of outdoor
spaces The following rules govern use of outdoor spaces
on university campuses: (1) Reservations
Outdoor spaces are generally available for use
by the university community and the public, with or without advance reservation
or notification, in accordance with this policy. For those spaces requiring a
reservation, determinations regarding reservations must be made without
reference to the content or viewpoint. The university has designated certain outdoor
spaces that are available for reservation by the university community and the
public. See paragraph (C) of this rule for additional information about
reservable spaces. A user who has reserved an outdoor space has
priority use of that space during the reservation time as to any other
non-official use. Unscheduled or conflicting uses of space during a reservation
time may not be permitted, and individuals whose use conflicts with a scheduled
use may be required to leave that area. Additional reservation-related requirements may
apply, such as reservation fees. (2) Amplified sound
Amplified sound devices such as microphones,
speakers, and bullhorns may be used in outdoor spaces, provided they are
handheld and carried by the person using them. Amplified sound devices may not
use the university's electricity, may not be freestanding, and may not be
placed on any kind of support (e.g., stand table, stage, etc.) unless approved
as part of a space request. All amplified sound is subject to regulation in
accordance with paragraph (B)(5) of this rule. (3) Literature,
petitions, and signs Users may distribute literature, circulate
petitions, and carry signs in outdoor spaces, so long as these activities are
consistent with other provisions of this policy. (4) Materials attached to
poles and other structures No signs, equipment, or other items may be
taped or otherwise attached to and left on trees, bushes, light poles,
permanent signs, retaining walls, or other structures, except in areas clearly
dedicated to public posting of materials (e.g., public bulletin boards). This
rule does not prohibit the use of hammocks and similar items, provided users do
not damage vegetation and do not leave such attachments unattended. (5) Disruption
As contemplated in policy 01.040, disruption is
largely dependent on context. Many factors may influence what constitutes
disruption including but not limited to size and configuration of the space,
proximity to academic, administrative, or business functions; and number of
participants. Mere inconvenience is not a basis to abridge free expression.
Outdoor spaces are generally available to the
university community and the public for a variety of activities, including
marches, demonstrations, rallies, public speech-making, picketing, protests,
and similar assemblies. These events may be in spaces reserved in advance or
spontaneous, and they may be loud and involve crowds of various sizes. Determinations regarding disruption must be
made without reference to the content or viewpoint of any expression associated
with the activity. Activities in outdoor spaces that substantially and
materially disrupt or interfere with university activities and operations are
not permitted. For example, prohibited activities may include blocking
sidewalks, patios, pathways, stairwells, elevators, escalators, and exterior
building doors, sustained loud noise outside a classroom or office during
business and class hours, and blocking university-owned roads without
permission. Blocking sidewalks, pathways, elevators, doors, patios, service
counters, door activators, or otherwise impeding university efforts intended to
assist with accessibility for persons with disabilities in compliance with the
Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (as amended) is not permitted. In general, disruption is defined as conduct
that results in, or imminently threatens, the following: (a) Substantial and material interference with activities,
operations, and businesses, including without limitation teaching, learning,
studying, research, academic, extracurricular and student life, administrative,
and other activities; (b) Substantial hindering or impeding of pedestrian or vehicular
traffic, including by blocking building doors, patios, pathways, stairwells,
elevators, escalators, and exterior building doors; and (c) Substantial and material interference with an authorized
event or activity conducted in university spaces, including expressive
activities permitted under this policy. In addition, disruption includes behavior that
is not protected speech, including actual or imminent threat of violence,
physical harm to individuals, or violation of an occupancy limit, building code
requirement, or other statute, regulation, ordinance, or legal requirement, and
damage to university or other personal property. OUPD is legally obligated to
make the final determination in resolving issues of public safety. The determination whether an activity has
become disruptive as defined above generally will be made by the Ohio
university police department, in consultation with the academic or
administrative managers responsible for the space and other appropriate
university officials depending on the facility and circumstances at
issue. (6) Protocol for
engagement Engagement with people involved in free
expression, when appropriate, reflects the university's educational
mission to foster an environment of open discourse, debate, and learning. For
example, leaders and representatives of academic units, the division of student
affairs, diversity and inclusion, and event services may engage with
participants to encourage constructive dialogue depending on the facility and
circumstances of the demonstration. University officials should maintain protocols
for responding to demonstrations and engaging constructively with participants
especially students when safe and appropriate. (7) Clean-up and damage
fees, personal property Users of outdoor spaces shall not cause damage
to property or leave behind trash and other items. If this occurs, clean-up and
damage fees and costs may be assessed on the responsible individuals and
groups. The university is not responsible for any personal property brought
onto the premises and assumes no liability for lost, stolen, or damage personal
property. (8) Open flames
For the safety of persons and property, open
flames of any kind require advance premission. (9) External structure
insallations (a) Absent prior written approval from the university and
except as permitted herein, no person may attach fixures in outdoor university
spaces or place any installation or structurefreestanding or
otherwiseincluding but not limited to, weight bearing structures;
stands; tables; chairs (except a lawn chair per individual); tents, canopies or
pop up shelters, whether or not those tents, canopies, or pop-up shelters
require stakes, poles, or simular attachments; displays, sound systems;
generators; ect. Requests will be evaluated according to security, safety, and
logistical considerations by event services in consultation with OUPD; the
major events committee; and other appropriate university officials, including
regional campus deans, if on a regional campus. (b) In addition, no device or
inslallationfreestanding or otherwisethat utilizes university
utilities such as gas, water, or electric, may be used without prior
approval. (10) Camping and overnight
events Camping is prohibited. Events occurring between eleven p.m. and seven
a.m. are prohibited unless approved in advance. \Requests will be evaluated
according to security, safety, and logistical considerations by event services
in consultation with OUPD; the major events committee; and other appropriate
university officials, including regional campus dean's, if on a regional
campus. Requests must be submitted in advance of the potential event. (11) Commercial use Any proposed commercial activity will be
(a) Limited to baker university center; or (b) Will follow the rules set forth in policy 42.550.
(12) Major events Users who intend to sponsor events on the
Athens campus that are expected to utilize several university resources (e.g.,
parking and transportation services, facilities, event services, etc.) and/or
draw two hundred or more people should review policy 01.030 and contact the
university's major events committee to facilitate the event. "Major
Events" typically include, without limitation, concerts, charity races,
and other produced events, but not spontaneous protests. Users who intend to
sponsor such events on the regional campuses should contact the appropriate
regional campus deans office. (C) Reserveable outdoor spaces
Several outdoor spaces are available for advance
reservation through event services, or if on a regional campus, through the
regional campus dean's office. To reserve a space and make a reservation,
contact event services or the appropriate regional campus dean's office.
Other event services reservation requirements and fees may apply. The reserveable outdoor spaces on the Athens
campus are described on the event services website. Reservable outdoor spaces
on a regional campus are available from the appropriate regional campus
dean's office. (D) Exceptions In extraordinary circumstances, the university
may grant one-time exceptions to any provisions of this policy in accordance
with policy 01.003 (exceptions to or restrictions of university policies).
Decisions to grant or deny exceptions may not be based on the expressive
content or viewpoint of the proposed activity. (E) University's official use of
spaces This policy does not apply to the
university's official use of its outdoor spaces for university programs
and events. The university's official use of its outdoor spaces always has
priority over other uses. (F) Enforcement Any person who violates this policy may be
subject to an order to leave the property or area, institutional discipline
(for employees and students), and/or arrest in circumstances when the violation
constitutes a crime. The version of this rule that includes live links
to associated resources is online at
https://www.ohio.edu/policy/01-044.html
Last updated December 5, 2024 at 10:08 AM
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