POLICY STATEMENT

As an effort to accomplish its mission, the Office of Institutional Research and Planning offers the service of assisting University departments and offices in designing and implementing research projects that will provide pertinent information. University offices should use the following procedures when requesting to conduct studies.

DEFINITIONS

Assessment: The evaluation of some aspect of the University.

PROCEDURES and RESPONSIBILITIES

Faculty and staff wishing to conduct assessment studies or surveys should consult the Office of Institutional Research and Planning at the initiation of the project. Before an assignment is begun, the Office staff will clarify with the user(s) the purposes, expectations, strategies, and limitations of the research. Special care will be taken to recommend research techniques and designs that are appropriate for the purposes of the project. 

Web surveys should follow the same procedures noted above. The user(s) should contact the Office of Institutional Research and Planning at the initiation of the project. Before an assignment is begun, the Office staff will clarify with the user(s) the purposes, expectations, strategies, and limitations of the research. Special care will be taken to recommend research techniques and designs that are appropriate for the purposes of the project.  

The Office of Institutional Research and Planning will assist users in determining the focus group or sample population; planning the survey, which includes determining the samples and costs; developing the survey instrument, which includes designing the survey; conducting the survey, which includes designing the cover letter, whom the survey will be returned to, and the deadline; and processing the results, which includes determining acceptable response rates, summarizing the open-ended questions and data entry results. The institutional researcher shall ensure that all reports of projects are complete, are clearly written for decision-makers to understand, fully distinguish among assumptions, speculations, findings, and judgments, employ appropriate statistics and graphics, and adequately describe the limitations of the project, of the analytical method, and of the findings. Due to the accuracy and confidentiality associated with surveys, the Office of Institutional Research and Planning will receive the results and send them to the user(s). 

RELATED DOCUMENTS

• None

• Employee Handbook
• Student Handbook

• None

POLICY STATEMENT

Data is an important asset of Delta State University. Data is not only used for operational purposes, but also utilized for analysis, control, and strategic decision-making. To maximize effectiveness mechanisms must be developed to collect, safeguard, and distribute accurate, consistent, useful information to appropriate members of the Delta State University community.

DEFINITIONS

University data:  the collection of data elements that are relevant to the operations, plans, or management of a Delta State University unit or are reported on or used in “official” administrative university reports.

Data Administrator: an appointee within the Information and Technology Services department that is responsible for ensuring a cohesive data architecture, and data standards, and for facilitating appropriate access to information across Delta State University.

Data Custodian: anyone having access to information regarding a former or present entity affiliated with Delta State University (including, but not necessarily limited to: students, employees, alumni, departments, etc.).

Data Element: a singular item of information. Some examples include first name, last name, social security number, date of birth, etc.

Data Integrity: the qualities of validity and reliability conjoined with the accuracy of values.

Data Trustees: Senior management personnel who have planning and policy-making responsibilities for data in their operational area.

Data Stewards: managers of functional areas of Banner (typically at the level of Registrar, Director of Admissions, Director of Human Resources, etc.) who oversee the capture, maintenance, and dissemination of data for a particular operation. Data stewards are responsible for making security decisions regarding access to the data under their charge. 

Data Users: individuals who access University data in order to perform their assigned duties or to fulfill their role in the University community. 

Data Value: an instance of a data element.

PROCEDURES and RESPONSIBILITIES

Information maintained by the University is a vital asset that will be available to all employees who have a legitimate need for it, consistent with the University’s responsibility to preserve and protect such information by all appropriate means. The University is the owner of all administrative data; individual departments may have stewardship responsibilities for portions of that data. The University intends that the volume of freely accessible data be as great as possible. While recognizing the University’s responsibility toward the security of data, the procedures established to protect the data must not unduly interfere with the efficient conduct of University business. 

The value of data as an institutional resource is increased through its widespread and appropriate use. Its value is diminished through misuse, misinterpretation, or unnecessary restrictions to its access. Employees accessing data must observe requirements for confidentiality and privacy, must comply with protection and control procedures, and must accurately present the data in any use.

Operations, planning, and decision-making at all levels of the University require reliable data. Data will not be reliable in this sense unless roles and responsibilities for data management and usage are clear. Users will comply with all reasonable protection and control procedures for administrative data to which they have been granted access. 

Data stewards are responsible for making known the rules and conditions that could affect the accurate presentation of data. Data stewards will support users in the use and interpretation of administrative data, primarily through documentation. The Data stewards will determine the most reliable sources of data and regularly evaluate the quality of the data entity. They will determine responsibilities for data capture and maintenance to ensure data integrity.    The Data stewards will identify gaps and redundancies in the data and, to the extent possible, will ensure that only needed versions of each data element exist. They will specify data control and protection requirements to be observed by data processors and users. The Data stewards will monitor the data for accuracy, integrity, and dependability, and where appropriate, will initiate action concerning these issues.

RELATED DOCUMENTS

• None

1. Best protection is underground shelter.

2. In open country move at right angles to tornado’s path. If there is not time to escape, lie flat in the nearest depression or ravine.

3. On campus, in city or town, seek inside shelter standing against the inside wall on the lowest floor.

4. In homes, the southwest corner of the lowest floor offers the greatest protection.

5. If in a home or building, windows should be closed. Upon receipt of a watch (conditions are such that tornadoes are likely) notification, the DSU Police Department will maintain contact with Emergency Management until the danger has passed or a warning notification is received.

1. If in a high-rise building, move against an interior wall, and protect your head with your arms. Do not use the elevators. Do not be surprised if the fire alarm or sprinkler systems come on.

2. If outdoors, move to a clear area, away from trees, signs, buildings, or downed electrical wires and poles.

3. If on a sidewalk near buildings, duck into a doorway to protect yourself from falling bricks, glass, plaster and other debris.

4. If driving, pull over to the side of the road and stop. Avoid overpasses, power lines, and other hazards. Stay inside the vehicle until the shaking is over.

5. If in a crowded store or other public place, do not rush for exits. Move away from display shelves containing objects that could fall.

6. If in a wheelchair, stay in it. Move to cover, if possible, lock your wheels, and protect your head with your arms.

7. If in a kitchen, move away from the refrigerator, stove, and overhead cupboards.

8. If in a stadium or theater, stay in your seat and protect your head with your arms. Do not try to leave until the shaking is over. Then leave in a calm, orderly manner.

9. After an earthquake, be prepared for aftershocks, and plan where you will take cover when they occur.

• None

2. Annual Scholarships

• Endowment Guidelines
• Annual Scholarship Guidelines

POLICY STATEMENT

The Policy establishes the procedures to be followed for all faculty whose academic credentials do not demonstrate the minimum level of academic achievement as established by DSU, IHL, or accreditation entities for an academic appointment.

DEFINITIONS

None

PROCEDURES and RESPONSIBILITIES

The credentialing process for all faculty will follow all procedures established by Delta State University, the DSU Office of Human Resources, IHL policy, state and federal laws, and guidelines of accreditation bodies.

In those cases where a potential faculty member does not have the degree(s) in the discipline to which the department wishes to appoint him/her, the department, in concert with the dean’s office, shall submit a qualifications letter that will outline the credentials of that faculty member. Such rationale will provide full explanation of how the faculty’s education, experience, and other credentials are such that the university is comfortable presenting the faculty file to any outside reviewer for accreditation and reaffirmation purposes. (See Guidelines for Qualifications Letter, Office of Academic Affairs).

The qualifications letter will be generated in the academic unit by the department/division chair or director, and reviewed by the appropriate academic dean. The letter will then be attached to the employment form (EAF) submitted to the Academic Affairs Office and will become an entry in the faculty member’s permanent file. 

For every faculty member assigned a graduate course, the credentials file (including all letters) will be available to the Graduate Council. Credentials for permanent Graduate Faculty are to be reviewed at a minimum of once every five years.  

The Responsible Office and/or the Policy Owner: Office of Academic Affairs 
  

RELATED DOCUMENTS 

• Academic Council minutes, December 13, 2011
• SACS Principles of Accreditation
• IHL Bylaws and Policy
• Guidelines for Qualifications Letter, Office of Academic Affairs 

STATUS

Active

DATE(S)

Policy Effective Date:
12-13-2011 (Academic Council)

POLICY STATEMENT

DEFINITIONS

None

PROCEDURES and RESPONSIBILITIES

It shall be the responsibility of the Foundation Office, in consultation with the University President, to serve as the coordinating agency for all types of fund raising programs for Delta State.

Any on-campus request to undertake a fund raising program or to solicit funds must first be reviewed by the appropriate Department Head, Dean, and then the University President for approval before being submitted to the Executive Director of the Foundation. All other requests to undertake a fund raising program or to solicit funds must first be reviewed by the Executive Director of the Foundation.  

Any fund raising literature (including brochures, booklets, and letters) used to attract private funds to the university shall be coordinated through the Foundation Office to ensure dissemination of the most accurate information appropriate to a particular fund raising effort. Accordingly, the Foundation Office shall be responsible for maintaining a master calendar that incorporates the schedule of all fund raising mailings and solicitations.

The Internal Revenue Service has provided language to be included in all fund raising literature soliciting private donations. It has also defined guidelines regarding proper acknowledgement procedures and tax deductibility of monies donated to charitable institutions. It is imperative that these guidelines be honored to maintain tax-exempt status. You are encouraged to contact the Foundation Office for confirmation of these guidelines. 

RELATED DOCUMENTS

• Internal Revenue Service fundraising literature

• It is the responsibility of the student, employee, or camp sponsor to be familiar with the Health Center Use Policy.

• It is the responsibility of the on duty nurse to check for proper student ID, to document evaluation of injury or illness and treatment of student, and to instruct the student on follow-up care.

• It is the responsibility of the on duty nurse to evaluate a worker’s injury, to complete the proper forms, and to report injury to the Department of Human Resources.

• It is the responsibility of the camp sponsor to complete the consent/release form correctly and to inform the campers of the proper procedure for services offered by the Delta State University Health Center.

• Campus Code of Conduct
• University Standards and Regulations
• Consent/release form

• Policies relating to the various functions of the Okra Kard are available in the Student Business Services Office.

POLICY STATEMENT

Delta State University maintains a federally certified Institutional Review Board which has been established to protect the rights and welfare of human research subjects recruited to participate in research activities conducted under the auspices of the University and other affiliated entities in the region. DSU IRB policies are extensions of the Belmont Report (1979) and the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 45, Part 46, also known as 45CFR46. Both of these documents can be found and downloaded from the Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Human Research Protections (OHRP). The federal regulations apply to “all research involving humans subjects conducted, supported, or otherwise subject to regulation by any federal department or agency.” However, DSU has adopted the federal regulations as its institutional policy and all human subject research, regardless of funding support, is subject to these regulations. IRB clearance must be obtained prior to the beginning of any research involving human subjects.

DEFINITIONS

DSU has adopted definitions of “research” and “human subjects” in accordance with the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 45, Part 46 (45CFR46): Protection of Human Subjects. These definitions are as followed: 

Research – a systemic investigation, including research development, testing, and evaluation, designed to develop or contribute to generalizable knowledge

Human Subjects – living individual(s) about whom an investigator (whether professional or student) conducting research obtains (1) data through intervention or interaction with the individual, or (2) identifiable private information.

PROCEDURES and RESPONSIBILITIES

Jurisdiction and Authority. The Institutional Review Board has the authority to approve, require modifications, or disapprove any research activities conducted under the auspices of Delta State University that fall within its jurisdiction. Research that has been approved by the IRB may be subject to review and disapproval by University officials. However, University officials may not approve research if it has been disapproved by the IRB. 

It is the responsibility of the IRB to determine whether it has jurisdiction, not individual researchers, principal investigators, or University officials. All research protocols involving human subjects must be submitted to the IRB for review. The IRB determines if the research activity is exempt from review or is subject to an expedited or full IRB review. Researchers are responsible for complying with all IRB decisions, conditions, and requirements and reporting the progress of the research at least annually to the IRB. This IRB exists for the purpose of the protection of human subjects and has no jurisdiction or authority to review research involving animals.

The IRB has the authority to suspend or terminate approval of research that is not being conducted in accordance with the IRB’s requirements or that has been associated with unexpected serious harm to subjects. Any suspension or termination of approval shall include a statement of the reasons for the IRB’s action and will be reported immediately to the investigator, department chair, and dean.

Functions. It is the responsibility of the IRB to:

1. review and approve, require modifications, or disapprove any research activities involving human subjects.
2. require that information given to subjects as part of informed consent meets the general requirements of informed consent as outlined in §46.116.
3. require documentation of informed consent or waive documentation in accordance with federal regulations.
4. notify investigators and the appropriate Chair and Dean or Administrator in writing of its decision to approve, require modifications or disapprove the proposed research activity, providing a written statement for disapprovals.
5. conduct continuing review of research at least once per year, at intervals appropriate to the degree of risk.
6. maintain adequate documentation of IRB activities, including copies of all research proposals reviewed, minutes of IRB meetings, records of continuing review activities, and copies of correspondence between the IRB and investigators.
7. report to university officials and the OHRP any unanticipated problems involving risk to subjects of others, any serious and continuing noncompliance with 45 CFR Part 46, and any suspension or termination of IRB approval of research.

IRB membership.  The Chair of IRB is the Dean of Graduate Studies and Continuing Education or as appointed by the Provost/VPAA. The IRB will consist of at least six members representing both scientific and non scientific disciplinary backgrounds, and will be diverse with respect to gender, race, academic discipline, and cultural background. The IRB members will be appointed by the IRB Chair in consultation with the Academic Deans. The IRB will include at least one individual who is not affiliated with DSU, nor is an immediate family member of someone who is affiliated. Each member must complete the online tutorial “Protecting Human Research Participants” through the National Institutes of Health Office of Extramural Research or equivalent course and submit certification of completion to the IRB Chair as a condition for membership.   

Individuals with competence in specific areas may be invited to assist in a review in the event that there are issues which require expertise beyond that available on the current IRB, however, these individuals may not vote. In the event that an IRB member has a conflicting interest with a project to be reviewed, it is his/her responsibility to disclose such conflict and recuse him/herself from the review.

Procedures:

1. Tutorial. The principal investigator/researcher and any co-investigators must complete the online tutorial “Protecting Human Research Participants” through the National Institutes of Health Office of Extramural Research or equivalent course and submit certification documenting completion to the IRB Chair. Students conducting research are also required to complete the training. Required training must be completed prior to application submission and there must be a current certification on file in the IRB office.
    
2. The principal investigator/researcher submits the Request for IRB Clearance form with original signatures to the IRB Chair. The researcher must include the following on the Request for IRB Clearance Form:
   1. Brief statement of project goals
   2. Research Protocol including
      • Research procedures 
      • Description of the subject population
      • Criteria for selection
      • Recruitment procedures
      • Number and age of subjects
      • Length of research procedure and time commitment required of subjects
      • Location of the study
      • Methodology (attach a copy of the data collection tool)
      • Description of who will gather the data and how will they be trained
      • Special situations 
   3. Benefits to the subject or to others
   4. Risks – Describe the possible risks, discomforts, and inconvenience to the subjects and the precautions that will be taken to minimize them (include physical, psychological and social risks). Describe appropriate controls, screenings methods, follow-up procedures. Describe what constitutes termination from the study before its completion. Describe how confidentiality will be maintained including confidentiality of data collection and who will have access to the data.
   5. Informed Consent. Describe the procedures that will be used in obtaining informed consent, keeping in mind that informed consent is a process, not just a form. Submit informed consent documents/forms. Ensure that informed consent addresses at the minimum the following:
      1. Purpose and description of the research
         b. Amount of time required of the subject
         c. Voluntary participation
         d. Confidentiality of data
         e. Contact information of the researcher
         f.  Information concerning the IRB
         
         Where necessary other documents that must be submitted are:

         Survey/research instruments Copy of Consent and Assent forms Communication that will be provided to parents and/or external organizations such as schools, clinics, etc List of external organizations that will be contacted.

3. Once the IRB Chair or his/her designee determines that an activity meets the requirements of definitions of research and human subjects, it is then determined if the research is exempt from the regulations requiring IRB review. The PI can request exemption, indicating the exemption category 1-6 below, on the Request for IRB Clearance form. However, the determination that a research activity is exempt rests with the IRB. Exemption can be granted by the IRB Chair or one or more experienced reviewers that he/she designates. 

4. Exemptions.  Research activities in which the only involvement of human subjects fall in one or more of the following categories may be exempt from further IRB review:

If the research meets one of the above criteria for exemption, the researcher is notified by the IRB and may begin his/her research.

5) Expedited Review.  The PI can request Expedited Review on the Request for IRB Clearance Form.  The IRB may use expedited review procedures for certain kinds of research involving no more than minimal risk, and for minor changes in previously-approved research. The research categories that are eligible for expedited review are:

6. Full Review. If the application is neither exempt nor eligible for Expedited Review, it will be scheduled for review by the full IRB. Allow up to 3 months for full review. No research  on human subjects may begin until cleared by the IRB. Following the full review, the IRB will issue one of the following determinations: Approved, Modifications Required, or Disapproved. 

If the IRB decides to disapprove a research activity, it will include in its written notification a statement of the reasons for its decision, and give the investigator an opportunity to respond in person and/or in writing. An appeal of a disapproved research project must be reviewed at a full board meeting. In the case of a decision by the IRB to disapprove, suspend, or terminate a project, the decision may not be reversed by any other officer or agency of the University, state government or federal government.

The IRB retains the final authority for approval of proposed research with human subjects.

7. Criteria for approval. The IRB reviews research based on the basic ethical principles as set forth in the Belmont Report: the principles of respect of persons, beneficence, and justice.  In order to approve research, the IRB must determine all of the following requirements are satisfied:
   1. Risks to subjects are minimized.
   2. Risks to subjects are reasonable in relation to anticipated benefits to subjects, and the importance of the knowledge that may reasonably be expected to result.
   3. Selection of subjects is equitable.
   4. Informed consent will be sought and received from each prospective subject or their legally authorized representative.
   5. Informed consent will be appropriately documented.
   6. When appropriate, the research plan makes adequate provision for monitoring the data collected to ensure the safety of subjects.
   7. When appropriate, there are adequate provisions to protect the privacy of subjects and to maintain the confidentiality of data.
   8. Research is in compliance with local, state, and HIPAA regulations.
8. Investigators/researchers, including co-investigators/researchers, are to immediately report any incident or event that jeopardizes human subjects, and any major irregularities or changes in the research design or protocol, to the IRB Chair within 24 hours of the incident/event. After assessing the risks and/or the severity of noncompliance, the DSU IRB will report to the Provost/Vice President for Academic Affairs, to the funding source, and to OHRP.
   
   
9. Projects that are longer than 12 months must have a Continuing Review from the IRB each year. Continuing Review can be requested by the IRB through the use of Form B. The IRB may request more frequent reviews of the research if deemed necessary by the IRB.
   
   
10.  While the majority of DSU’s research activities will be covered under 45 CFR 46 subpart A, in the event that human subjects represent a special class that are particularly vulnerable, the appropriate regulations relating to the Subpart that addresses the vulnerable population must be adhered to. In particular, these vulnerable populations consist of fetuses, pregnant women, children and minors, cognitively impaired persons, and prisoners. 
    
    
11.  In complex and highly technical medical research, the DSU IRB may have to refer research proposals to larger IRB’s with more staff and resources. Judgments of resource limitations will be made jointly by the IRB Chair, the IRB, and the Provost/Vice President for Academic Affairs.

IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT YOU PROVIDE ADEQUATE TIME FOR YOUR PROPOSAL TO BE REVIEWED. IN ORDER TO ASSURE ADEQUATE TIME FOR POTENTIAL REVISIONS, RESEARCHERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SUBMIT THEIR PROPOSALS THREE (3) WEEKS PRIOR TO THEIR ANTICIPATED DATE FOR RESEARCH TO BEGIN. THE ACTUAL TIMELINE MAY VARY DEPENDING ON THE IRB MEETING SCHEDULE, AND MAY TAKE UP TO 3 MONTHS FOR A FULL REVIEW. CALL THE IRB OFFICE IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS (662-846-4700).

Responsible Office and/or the Policy Owner: Academic Affairs  

RELATED DOCUMENTS 

• Academic Council minutes, 12-13-2011, 07-24-2012 
• Belmont Report (1979)
• Code of Federal Regulations, Title 45, Part 46

• Office of Human Research Protections (OHRP)

STATUS

Active

DATE(S)

Policy Effective Date: 12-13-2011, 07-24-2012

• IHL approval February 19, 2004

2.      Naming for Service to or Recognition Brought to the University

• None

• None

• Staff Council By-Laws http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/staff/bylaws.htm
• Staff Council Committees http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/staff/committees.htm
• Faculty Senate By-Laws http://ntweb.deltastate.edu/senweb/bylaws.htm
• Faculty Senate Committees http://ntweb.deltastate.edu//senweb/committees.htm
• Academic Council Meeting Minutes: 10/1/02

• Published Data
• Factbook
• Information published annually by the Office of Institutional Research and Planning

Accreditation Liaison: the individual appointed by the President of the University to help ensure that the University remains in compliance with SACS accreditation policies.

SACSCOC: The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, a regional accrediting body. Delta State University is accredited by SACSCOC.

Substantive Change: a significant modification or expansion in the nature and scope of an accredited institution, as defined in the SACSCOC Substantive Change Policy.

• 07-24-2012 (Academic Council Minutes)
• 02-14-2012 (Academic Council Minutes)
• SACSCOC Substantive Change Policy
• IHL Academic Guidelines
• IHL Policies and Bylaws
• Curriculum Action Request (VPAA Office)

Active

Policy Effective Date: 
02-14-2012 (Approved, Academic Council)
07-24-2012 (Approved, Academic Council)
 

POLICY STATEMENT

Delta State University (DSU) is committed to efficient energy management and sustainability in operations. As an educational institution, DSU strives to serve as a positive example through sustainable operations and education. Efficient energy use and energy conservatione efforts are important goals for the DSU campus community and should continue to be emphasized not only as a way to save money, but also as a way to raise environmental awareness and provide educational leadership for the future.

DEFINITIONS

ASHRAE 90.1: The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers energy standards which provides the minimum requirements for energy efficient designs for buildings.

PROCEDURES and RESPONSIBILITIES

This policy shall apply to all faculty, staff, and students. The DSU Energy Management Committee is responsible for guiding the implementation of energy management and conservation efforts on the campus. The Energy Management Committee shall provide an annual report to the President of the university regarding the campus implementation of the Year of Green Goals and sustainability practices outlined below. 

Year of Green Goals for FY 2012 – 2014

• Increase the university’s recycling rate by 25% and reduce the amount of solid waste sent to landfills by 25%.
• Adopt and achieve and appropriate model for green laboratories and reduce lab-related waste and energy use.
• Reduce campus energy consumption by 15% below the FY10 level.
• Reduce paper consumption by 25%. 
• Use green cleaning products in all buildings and reduce the use of chemicals in cleaning and maintenance.
• Reduce printing and copying costs by 10%.
• Eliminate the use of Styrofoam and similar products on the campus. 
  
  
   Sustainable Practices

• The DSU procurement office shall consider the effect of products on the environment. Consideration shall be given to the purchase of Energy Star d appliances, green seal chemicals, and other environmentally sound items found not only on state contract, but also through other reliable sources. Contracts for new construction and major repair/renovation shall consider sustainability in the purchase requirements and specifications for the materials to be installed.  

• All new construction and/or major repair/renovation of existing facilities shall be designed to meet energy-efficient goals, which exceed ASHRAE 90.1 by 30% when determined cost effective.

• All new construction and/or major repair and renovations of existing facilities shall include the requirement for the development and approval of an energy model during the early design stages. The design professional shall certify the model meets the Institutions of Higher Learning’s’ energy program and at the conclusion of the construction and/or renovation (prior to final acceptance) the design professional shall certify the facility has been constructed as designed and modeled.

• Renovation of historically significant buildings should meet or exceed ASHRAE 90.1 standards where appropriate for the scope of work and determined cost effective.

• No less than 25% of the expected annual recurring savings from completed energy efficient projects shall be set aside each year in the appropriate fund and used to finance future energy efficient projects. If the annual recurring savings are dedicated to the repayment of debt, then these funds shall be set-aside in the first year after such debt is retired. 

• Water efficient measures shall be implemented in new building construction and major building renovation projects.

• All new construction and/or major repair/renovations of existing facilities shall address and consider sound design techniques that maximize wind, solar, aspect, shading, and other design expressions embracing our climatic realities. The design criteria shall encourage overhangs, natural day lighting, and other passive design techniques and should not be confused with renewable energy. 

• All new landscape construction, major repair and renovations of landscapes, and any site work in general shall consider and encourage the use of resource-efficient plants including native plant palettes, with a goal of decreasing the uses of herbicides and pesticides when possible, while increasing tree canopy through reforestation and reducing potable water used in irrigation.

• All new landscape construction, major repair and renovations of landscapes, and any site work in general shall include the requirement to protect and enhance water quality through innovative storm water best management practices.

• DSU shall develop a comprehensive waste-minimization program. The program shall address a comprehensive campus wide recycling program that considers recycling of construction spoils/wastes from demolition and construction projects, garbage collection and disposal contracts, disposals of used equipment, furniture disposal, chemical waste, electronic waste, composting, etc. 

• All new streets or campus street renovations shall be developed to encourage walking, bikes, and other non-carbon producing emissions options in transportation. 

• A ride share program should be developed, if feasible, to encourage car-pooling. This program should consider partnerships with the City of Cleveland and local businesses where appropriate and feasible. 

RELATED DOCUMENTS

• IHL Board Policy 920 Sustainability Policy approved January 20, 2011
• DSU Year of Green Goals for FY 2012 - 2014 approved by DSU Cabinet

• Students and employees who park their motor vehicles on the campus must register their vehicles with the Delta State Police Department. Registration decals must be purchased at the Student Business Services’ Office. The University will not be responsible for providing parking spaces for registered vehicles, nor can the University be held responsible for any damages to vehicles or occupants while vehicles are on campus.
• Students who register late will report to the Delta State Student Business Services’ Office to register their vehicles. A registration decal for a vehicle shall be effective from the date of purchase through second term summer school.
• Decals must be permanently affixed to the outside of the lower left corner of the rear window or left rear bumper or the fender of motorcycles.
• The cost of vehicle registration/decal purchase will be as follows:

• Recipients will at all times be responsible for the decal issued to them. If a vehicle is sold or traded within the school year, a current decal may be removed (place pieces on a scrap of paper) and presented to the Delta State Student Business Services’ Office where a new decal may be obtained for $1.00; otherwise, there will be a charge of the full registration fee.
• You may obtain up to three temporary parking permits per term for each vehicle you have registered. The temporary permits may be issued for a minimum of one day or a maximum of one week. Persons using borrowed vehicles must obtain a temporary campus permit which will be issued at no charge. Such permits should be obtained immediately after arrival of vehicle on the campus. The temporary permit should be affixed to the lower left side of the rear window.
• Students changing from a commuter to a campus housing status or from a campus housing status to commuter, etc., may remove a current decal and exchange it for the needed type for $1.00. The decal on your vehicle should always reflect your current status as a student: failure to make the proper changes may result in parking tickets and/or charges through student court.
• DEALER TAGS: Persons wanting to register vehicles displaying dealer tags will not be sold a Delta State decal. A free temporary parking permit may be obtained for a vehicle with a dealer tag when your currently registered vehicle is in the shop and the dealer has supplied you with a dealer vehicle. YOU MUST PRESENT A STATEMENT ON DEALERSHIP LETTERHEAD ADVISING THAT YOU HAVE BEEN LOANED SUCH VEHICLE WHILE YOUR VEHICLE IS BEING WORKED ON IN ORDER TO OBTAIN A TEMPORARY PERMIT. Without this letter, we will not issue a temporary permit. Temporaries will not be issued beyond ten days from the date of the letter.
• RENTAL TAG: Persons wanting to register vehicles displaying rental tags will not be sold a Delta State Decal. A free temporary parking permit may be obtained for a vehicle with a rental tag while your currently registered vehicle is in the shop for repair.
• HANDICAP DECALS: Students/Employees who need access to handicap parking areas on campus must obtain a green Delta State Handicap Decal in addition to their regular decal. To obtain one, simply present a recent statement on letterhead from your physician advising your handicap or a copy of your state issued handicap permit, etc., to the Delta State Police Department. Anyone with a handicap permit may park in any legal parking space on the Delta State campus.

• Delta State reserves the right to regulate further the use of motor vehicles on the campus or to forbid the use of motor vehicles by a student or employee who refuses to abide by the parking and traffic regulations. Vehicles which accumulate fines of $30 or more are subject to being immobilized. Immobilized vehicles may be towed after (5) days if fines remain unpaid. An additional fine of $10 is levied at the time of immobilization. To operate a motor vehicle on the campus is a privilege, not a right, subject to the regulations set forth by the Board of Trustees and administered by the University.
• Vehicles with student or employee decals which are repeatedly ticketed for the same violation are subject to being immobilized or towed at the owner’s expense after a third ticket for the same violation has been issued- regardless of whether the prior tickets are outstanding or have been paid in full.
• Any violations cited against a permit number will be charged to the person to whom the permit was issued.

• Motor vehicles are to be parked on the campus and streets of Delta State University only in the areas designated as parking areas, in such a manner, at such a place, and for such time as may be indicated on appropriate signs or markers. Zoned areas are provided by number and color of decals as follows:

• These zones are already marked and should be used only as indicated above. Zone violators will be ticketed.

• Only one decal may be visible on vehicles.

• Parking restrictions are in effect in:

• It is a violation of parking regulations to:

• Drivers of all DSU-owned vehicles should comply with all traffic and parking regulations.
• No faculty, staff, or student can advise a person to park illegally.
• No unauthorized motor vehicle or bicycle may park in a posted handicapped parking place or block or obstruct access to such a parking place.
• Litter.

• The owner of a vehicle is responsible for the vehicle at all times.
• Driving regulations are in effect at all times.
• The campus speed limit is fifteen (15) miles per hour for all motor vehicles unless otherwise marked. However, safe driving is the principal regulation.
• All operators of any motor vehicle must have in their possession a valid operator’s license.
• All operators of any motor vehicle must have a valid, up to date license plate (tag) on vehicle in plain view.
• Operators of motor vehicles must have children restrained in a proper child safety restraint as per Mississippi Code #63-7-301.
• It is a violation of driving regulations to :

• Students and any member of the University community may register their bicycles for the sole purpose of having their number and description on record in case of theft.
• Registration of bicycles will be done free of charge.
• Any person, who rides, operates, or parks a bicycle or any other non-motor vehicle, including boats and trailer, on the campus shall be subject to all the terms and provisions of these regulations, except for those provisions which by their nature can have no application.
• No person shall ride a bicycle on any sidewalk, walkway, or any other area of the campus customarily used by pedestrians.
• No person shall park a bicycle in a walkway, on a sidewalk, in a hallway, or in or near a doorway except where use is made of a parking rack furnished by the University.
• No person shall ride, operate, or park at night on the campus or streets of Delta State University a bicycle not equipped with headlight and tail-light or reflector.
• Every regulation herein applicable to anyone riding, operating, or parking a bicycle on the campus shall also apply to anyone riding, operating or parking a motorcycle or motor scooter.
• No person who operates or drives a motorcycle, or other motor driven cycle having two or more wheels, shall carry any other person in or upon such vehicle on the campus unless such vehicle is equipped with:

• No person shall roller blade (skate) on any sidewalk, walkway or any other area of the campus customarily used by pedestrians or inside any building on the campus. Any person wishing to roller blade (skate) on campus is to do so only on streets or parking lots and at their own risk. It is recommended that protective gear and reflective clothing be worn.
• Operators of motor vehicles or bicycles may not park or stop so as to block or obstruct a handicap entrance on a sidewalk, street or into any building.

• When violation of any rule or regulation set forth herein has been clearly established by waiver, voluntary admission, and /or by an official hearing, the offender shall be subject to a special administrative fee and/or shall be subject to disciplinary action.
• After notice of a violation, an appeal may be made within five (5) days at the Delta State Police Department to the Appeals Committee on a form provided by that office. If the offender so desires, he/she may request, and be entitled to, legal counsel. When appearing before the Appeals Committee, the offender may be present and question witnesses. A $20 appearance bond must be posted when filing an appeal.
• The following reasons are NOT acceptable grounds for appealing a traffic ticket:
  • Ignorance of regulations
  • Inability to find a legal parking space
  • No space available
  • Inclement weather
  • Late for class
  • Improperly displayed decal
  • Failure to purchase a decal
• In lieu of the above procedure, the violation ticket may be taken to the Bolivar County District II Justice Court.
• TICKETS NOT PAID WITHIN SEVEN DAYS WILL DOUBLE IN THE AMOUNT CHARGED.
• After proper notification, any person who fails to surrender his/her registration permit (decal) or who operates or parks a motor vehicle on the Delta State Campus after the date which such privileges have been suspended shall have his/her vehicle towed off campus. This person shall be responsible for all costs incurred in towing and storing the vehicle. The University and its officials shall not be liable for any damage to the vehicle resulting from towing or storage thereof.
• Any vehicle that is illegally parked, abandoned, found on the campus with no license plate, no inspection sticker, or parked so as to constitute a hazard to vehicular or pedestrian traffic, shall be removed under the same stipulation as stated in Section VI., E. Mississippi Code, 1972. NOTE: Any vehicle that is broken down and has been parked on campus for over one month will be removed from campus at the owner’s expense unless otherwise approved by the department director. 

• Delta State University is located within the corporate limits of the City of Cleveland. Delta State Police officers are full-time police officers certified by the State of Mississippi through the Mississippi Law Enforcement Officers Training Academy. Each officer meets the professional criteria as established by the state’s Minimum Standards Board.
• Any student or employee who so desires may take a violation ticket to the Bolivar County District II Justice Court. Appeals handled through the Justice Court will be charged through Mississippi Code No. 37-105-1.
• Provisions effective July 1, 1972, require that all vehicles operated on the University streets will be properly insured with a minimum of 10-20-5 by a reputable insurance company and that proof of insurance be kept in vehicle as per MS Code # 63-15-4-2a.
• In addition to the aforesaid rules and regulations, all ordinances of the City of Cleveland and/or the laws of the State of Mississippi are in effect on all Delta State University property.
• The Rules and Regulations herein promulgated have been (and future --changes and additions will be) published in three consecutive issues of the University newspaper.

• None

• Concerning residence halls/university housing – The Director of Housing & Residence Life
• Concerning faculty members – The Vice President for Academic affairs
• Concerning staff members and other employees – The employee’s direct supervisor.
• Concerning the Student Union – The Director of the Union.

• Student Handbook