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Principles and Policies

Simmons has committed itself to the following principles and policies:

 

Student Principles

Simmons University is a community founded on the values of respect, integrity, inclusion, honesty, and trust. The University is committed to maintaining a safe and healthy campus environment for all students, staff, faculty, and visitors.  Simmons students should conduct themselves with personal integrity and respect the rights, differences, and dignity of others (in person and online).  When you join the Simmons community, you agree to act responsibly, to protect your own well-being, and to support the well-being of others.  Free speech and open discussion of ideas are an integral part of any university community and are fully encouraged.  All members of Simmons University have committed themselves to making choices that reflect personal integrity and responsible behavior. Each student is responsible for presenting work of their own creation and refraining from representing others’ work as their own. Cheating, plagiarism, unauthorized collaboration, and other forms of academic dishonesty are considered as an academic integrity violation and a breach of the Simmons Code of Conduct. 

Honor System

A vital part of the collegiate experience at Simmons University, the Honor System embodies values of personal integrity, honesty, and trust. Fundamental to the Honor System is the Code of Responsibility, and it is upon its principles that the University community has based the Simmons Academic Integrity Policy and Student Code of Conduct. The Simmons University Honor System has existed since 1907, making it one of the oldest continuing honor systems at any college in the country. Throughout the decades, the Honor System has been revised and amended on an annual basis. Changes are made after consultations with faculty, staff, and students.

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Code of Responsibility

 The students, faculty, and administrators of Simmons University agree to accept the following responsibilities:

  • Each member of the Simmons University community is responsible for maintaining a high level of civility, integrity, honesty, and trust within the community.
  • Each student is responsible for presenting work of her/his own creation, and refraining from representing as her/his own work that which is not hers/his.
  • Conduct in keeping with the policies outlined in this handbook and all other official University publications is expected of each member of the Simmons community.

The Code of Responsibility is shared by the entire Simmons community. It implies that each segment has obligations based upon its specific function within the University.

Simmons University reserves the right to require the withdrawal of any student who does not maintain acceptable academic standing or modes of behavior as outlined in the Undergraduate Catalog, Graduate Catalog, Code of Conduct, Student Handbooks, Academic Integrity Policy, and other official publications.
Enrollment in a course implies an agreement between instructor and student. The instructor is obliged to teach, to evaluate student work, and to be available for conferences during designated office hours; the student is obliged to complete all work by the assigned deadlines, to attend all classes, and to devote sufficient out-of-class time to course material. Three hours spent out of class in preparation for every hour in class is a reasonable expectation. Attendance and punctuality are expected at all classes. While there are no established University-wide penalties for absences, the instructor may take attendance into account when evaluating the student’s performance in the course. In accordance with Massachusetts state law, no student will be penalized for absence due to religious observances.

 

 

Educational Record Privacy Policy

The University's practice in regard to student record-keeping is based on the provisions of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974 and is intended to be a safeguard against the unauthorized release of information. This act applies to all enrolled students, former students, and alumni. It does not apply to applicants seeking admission into an institution.

Under the provisions of the act, it is the right of the student to view their official educational records. Educational records are defined as records regarding a student that are maintained by an educational institution. Such records are kept in the Office of the Dean for Student Life, the Office of the Registrar, faculty advisors' offices, and the Center for Student Support. Not included in this category of records are the following:

  • Records containing confidential information written before January 1, 1975
  • Financial Records submitted to the University by the parents of a student
  • Medical and counseling records
  • Records containing information on more than one student
  • Private records intended for use of an individual 
  • Law enforcement records
  • Student employment records
  • Records to which a student has waived her right of access as required by a judicial order or a lawful subpoena 

 

In order to view their record, a student must make a request in writing to the appropriate office. The office has 45 days in which to fulfill the request. If requested, copies of a student's record are available to the student for a slight charge to cover the cost of duplicating. Any information in a student's record found to be "inaccurate, misleading, or [that] violates the privacy or other rights of the student" may be challenged by the student. Only the accuracy of the information may be challenged. For example, a grade received may not be questioned, only the accuracy of its recording. In order to contest the information in their record, the student must submit a written statement to the person responsible for the content of the record and request that they receive a written response. If no written response is forthcoming or if an unsatisfactory response is received by a student, they may appeal to the chairperson or appropriate supervisory person. In the event that no resolution is made, it is the student's right to request a hearing, to be presided over by the Dean for Student Life or a designee.

 

The University has the right to publish a directory listing all enrolled students and containing the following information:

  • Student's name
  • Address
  • Telephone number
  • Place and date or birth
  • Concentration
  • Digital photo
  • Year of graduation and dates of attendance
  • Awards and degrees received
  • Membership in organizations
  • Educational institution most recently attended

A student who wishes to be omitted from the directory must so indicate by writing to the Office of the Registrar.

 

A student's record is not accessible to anyone outside the University without written authorization from the student. Exceptions to this regulation are as follows:

  • Officials at an institution where the student is applying for admission
  • Officials disbursing financial aid
  • Parents of a dependent student (for tax purposes)
  • Accrediting and educational testing organizations
  • Federal officials
  • Officials complying with a judicial order
  • Appropriate officials in the event of an emergency (only if necessary to safeguard the health or well-being of the student or other individuals)
  • The alleged victim of a crime of violence may receive results of any disciplinary proceedings conducted by the University against the alleged perpetrator of that crime in reference to that crime. Student records are available to the above with the stipulation that this information is only for the use of the above unless written consent is secured from the student.

 

Student records may not be distributed to other parties. It is the responsibility of each office maintaining records to keep a log that verifies the name and date of each person who has viewed the record and for what reason. Students have the right to see this log.

Further questions about FERPA should be directed to the Offices of the Dean for Student Life or Registrar.

 

Equal Access Policy

All students are given equal access to the University’s programs and resources. As permitted by state and federal law, admission to the University’s undergraduate baccalaureate program is reserved for individuals who identify as women. Simmons is committed to admitting qualified students of any race, color, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, and national and ethnic origin, regardless of disability, to all the programs and activities generally made available to students, including scholarship and loan programs, athletic programs, and other University- administered social, educational, and recreational programs, and student services. Simmons University’s graduate schools and programs are open to all individuals. 

 

The Simmons Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The Simmons Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion was developed with input from the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Action Council, supported by the University leadership, and unanimously affirmed by our Board of Trustees.

Simmons is committed to inclusive excellence in all aspects of an individual’s community experience. Our values, vision and mission mandate that we strive to create an environment that is free from bias, prejudice, discrimination and hurtful/hateful acts that can prevent each member from thriving in the Simmons community.

Our Diversity & Inclusion Mission

We seek to extend to the entire Simmons University community opportunities for learning, growth, success, and meaningful participation and to build a welcoming, diverse, and inclusive culture for our community. To that end, we will engage in ongoing work to combat racism, bias, and all forms of individual and institutional oppression.

We believe diversity is necessary in all aspects of an educational and residential environment to ensure inclusive excellence. As an academic community, rich with varied life experiences, perspectives, and values, we are uniquely positioned to facilitate the ongoing engagement and intellectual dialogue that honors the inherent and unique characteristics of each member of our community. This includes, but is not limited to, interrogating socially constructed concepts and addressing issues of power, phobia, isms, or any other detractors to building and sustaining an equitable community.

Simmons will affirm diversity and inclusion by moving beyond tolerance and civility to a respect and appreciation that recognizes the social positioning of underrepresented and marginalized segments of the population.

Simmons values academic excellence, intellectual freedom, critical thinking, leadership, innovation, respect for the dignity of all individuals, and continuous improvement. We adhere to policies and practices that promote and support diversity and inclusion.

  • We prepare students to be well informed, open- minded, and sensitive to the values and diversity of others. We strive to foster an atmosphere where students can become actively engaged leader in a changing, diverse society. We promote this goal through proactive and continual exchange of ideas among students, faculty and the general university community.
    To ensure that these goals are attained, Simmons University commits to the following principles.
  • We recognize, respect and honor the inherent individuality of all. We strive to ensure that all decisions concerning the educational progress of students are based on considerations appropriate to an academic institution and not on factors such as race, color, gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, disability, or veteran status.
  • All students are given equal access to the University’s programs and resources. Admission to the University’s undergraduate baccalaureate program considers people who self identify as women. The University is committed to admitting qualified students of any race, color, gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, disability, or veteran status to all programs and activities made generally available to students at the University, including scholarship and loan programs, athletic programs, and other University-administered student services, and social, educational and recreational programs.
  • We subscribe to the policies set forth in Section 504 of the Federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which mandates equal opportunity for qualified persons with disabilities in educational programs and activities.
  • We are committed to creating an atmosphere where diversity is supported with understanding, respect, and encouragement. The University does not tolerate unlawful or other harassment of employees or students. Any discrimination or harassment by any member of the faculty, staff, or student body against any other member of the community will be handled according to the process articulated in the Bias Response Protocol, Title IX Policy, Faculty Policy Manual, Employee Handbook, and other relevant Simmons policies.


Student Legal Name and Name Changes

A student's name of record is defined as the legal name under which the student was admitted to Simmons University. Legal name is that name, verified by a birth certificate, marriage certificate, social security card, passport, or court order.

Students’ legal names appear on all Simmons records, including transcripts, verifications, and diplomas. Current Simmons students who have legally changed their names since the time of admission may request that this change be made on their official records.

Students who wish to change their name from the name of record at the time of admission must provide the Office of the Registrar with legal documentation reflecting their new legal name, such as a marriage license or government-issued ID, as well as a Name Change Form. Forms may be faxed along with a scanned copy of legal documentation to the Registrar's Office at 617-521-2111 or brought to the Office with legal documentation in person, Room C-115 in the Main College Building.

Consult the Registrar’s page on the University web site for additional information about updating your first name for class rosters or your diploma and for indicating preferred pronouns.

Simmons University Notice of Non-Discrimination and Grievance Procedure

Chartered in 1899 and opened in 1902, Simmons is first and foremost an academic community whose primary goals are to prepare individuals to be well informed, open-minded, and sensitive to values. To attain these goals, Simmons seeks to create an atmosphere within which students may learn to become actively engaged members of society and to develop the resources to lead rich personal lives. The active and continuing exchange of ideas among students, faculty, and the general university community is central to achieving these goals.

To ensure that these goals are attained, Simmons has committed itself to the following principles:

Simmons supports the principle and spirit of equal employment opportunity for all persons based on each individual’s qualifications and fitness. In accordance with applicable law, Simmons administers its employment and personnel policies with-out regard to race, color, religion, disability, national origin, ancestry, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or
veteran’s status.

Simmons administers its educational programs and activities in accordance with the requirements and implementing regulations of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Amendment Act of 2008.

Simmons strives to ensure that all decisions concerning hiring and promotion of faculty and staff, or the educational process of students, are based on considerations appropriate to an academic institution and not on factors such as race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender or gender identity, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, disability, or veteran’s status.
Complaints or inquiries concerning the University’s policies and compliance with applicable laws, statutes, and regulations may be directed to the Office of the General Counsel, Room C-208, 617-521-2074. A complaint should contain your name and address and a brief description of the action you believe is in violation of state or federal law. Simmons is able to respond most effectively when a complaint is filed with the appropriate office as soon as a grievant is aware of an alleged violation. The University will take the appropriate steps to address alleged violations of that are brought to its attention.

 

Reporting Sexual Misconduct

If you believe you have been subjected to gender-based misconduct (sexual harassment, sexual violence, gender discrimination, stalking, exploitation), please contact our Title IX Coordinator, at 617-521-2768. She is located in the Room E-200 in the Main Campus Building.

 

Reporting Discrimination or Retaliation

If you are a student and you believe you have been subjected to unlawful discrimination or retaliation, please contact the Dean of your College, the Director of your Program, or the Dean for Student Life. The Dean for Student Life can be found in C-115 of the Main Campus Building and at 617-521-2117.

 

Reporting a Web/online Accessibility Barrier 

We are committed to making our programs and activities accessible to all individuals. Use this form.

 

For Advice on Whom to Contact about a Concern or Incident

If you are unsure of where to bring complaints or concerns about unlawful discrimination, harassment, or retaliation, please contact the Office of the General Counsel in E-200 in the Main Campus Building or call 617-521-2276.

 

Grievance Procedure 

A written complaint alleging violation of the federal sex and disability discrimination laws and/or regulations (34 C.F.R. Part 106 and 45 C.F.R. Part 86, implementing Title IX; 34 C.F.R. Part 104 and 45 C.F.R. Part 84, implementing Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act; and 45 C.F.R. Part 83, implementing Section 855 of the Public Health Service Act) may be filed with the University by any student, employee, or other aggrieved person and will be handled accordingly, under the corresponding policy. Complaints under this procedure will not be processed from applicants for employment or admission. A University employee’s allegation that they have been subjected to discrimination prohibited by the regulations will be processed under the relevant employee grievance procedure.

Inquiries concerning the application of non- discrimination policies may also be directed to the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights at the U. S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, 330 C Street, Washington, DC 20202.

 

Accessibility Services

At Simmons University, we are committed to the full participation of all students in our programs and activities. Simmons University is mandated by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 to provide equal access to facilities, educational and co-curricular programs, campus activities and employment opportunities to qualified individuals with disabilities.

The Office of Accessibility Services at Simmons University is a strategy-based service that supports students in their academic endeavors both on the ground and online. Students registered with OAS must adhere to the same academic and community standards as all Simmons University students. A student’s initial connection and ongoing interaction with OAS is self-propelled.

  • All students with a documented diagnosis that substantially limits a major life activity, such as learning, hearing, seeing, reading, walking, and speaking are eligible to register with the OAS and request academic accommodations.
  • Students who are exploring a diagnosis or who are considering use of services are also welcome to visit the OAS to review the offerings and services available as well as registration requirements.
  • Documentation of a diagnosis/disability is not required when applying to the University and is submitted to OAS after the student accepts their place at the University.
  • Accommodations are not intended to guarantee success; they are intended to provide equal access to the educational experience (classroom, field, clinical, field trips) to ensure that students may display their level of learning.
  • Students are eligible to receive services/accommodations only after documentation is received, reviewed, and approved by OAS professional staff.
  • Commonly requested academic accommodations include Extended Time for Testing, Use of the OAS Testing Center, Note Provision Assistance, Alternate/Electronic Texts and Materials, and Student/OAS Staff 1:1 meetings.
  • Following a student’s first meeting with an OAS staff member, the student may make their own appointments, which are recommended, but never required.
  • Outreach by OAS staff to faculty and parents is generated ONLY by a student’s written request.
  • Diagnosis/disability-related information is confidential and is not shared without a student’s permission.

OAS is not a comprehensive special education program. Students’ coursework is not shared with or linked to the OAS. OAS does not offer special education tutors or life coaches for social skills and acclimation.

Office of Accessibility Services, Center for Student Success: Email: access@simmons.edu. Tel: (617)-521-2492.

Campus Security

Simmons University subscribes, without exception, to the Campus Security Act of 1990. It is University policy to provide members of the Simmons community with information, reports, and statistics as required by P.L. 101- 502, to maintain working relationships with other law enforcement agencies to ensure co-operation between different law enforcement jurisdictions, and to provide educational programs designed to increase crime and safety aware-ness among students, faculty, and staff. For information regarding the Campus Security Act, contact the Director of Public Safety at 617-521-2289.

Academic Policies

Simmons University subscribes, without exception, to the Campus Security Act of 1990. It is University policy to provide members of the Simmons community with information, reports, and statistics as required by P.L. 101- 502, to maintain working relationships with other law enforcement agencies to ensure co- operation between different law enforcement jurisdictions, and to provide educational programs designed to increase crime and safety aware-ness among students, faculty, and staff. For information regarding the Campus Security Act, contact the Director of Public Safety at 617-521-2289.

In addition, data regarding retention at Simmons is available from the Registrar, in compliance with P.L. 94-482. For information regarding graduation statistics, contact the Office of the Registrar at 617-521-2111.

Religious Observance

Students who are unable, because of their religious beliefs, to attend classes or to participate in an examination, class, or work requirement on a particular day shall be excused from the class, study, or work requirement and shall be provided with an opportunity to make up the examination, study, or work they may have missed consistent with Massachusetts General Law Chapter 151C, Section 2B. That law states:

Any student in an educational or vocation- al training institution, other than a religious or a denominational educational or vocation- al training institution, who is unable, because of his/her religious beliefs, to attend classes or to participate in any examination, study, or work requirement on a particular day shall be excused from any such examination or study or work requirement, and shall be provided with an opportunity to make up such examination, study, or work missed because of such absence on any particular day, provided, however, that such makeup examination or work shall not create an unreasonable burden upon such school. No fees of any kind shall be charged by the institution for making available to the said student such opportunity. No adverse or prejudicial effect shall result to any student because of his/her availing himself of the provisions of the sections.

Questions about absences for religious observance should be directed to the Office of Student Affairs or the Office of the Registrar.

Jury Duty

During the course of the academic year, students may receive notification that they have been summoned for jury duty. Students who attend college in Massachusetts are required by law to fulfill their civic duty if summoned, even though their permanent or "official" residence may be in another state. If the date for which students have been summoned is inconvenient, they may request a postponement for up to one year.

Students who are required to miss classes because of jury duty may notify the Office of Student Affairs by calling 617-521-2124. Staff members in the Office of Student Affairs will notify the appropriate faculty members, who will work with the students to make up any missed assignments or exams. Upon completion of jury duty, students are expected to bring a copy of the documentation of their service to the Office of Student Affairs.

Human Subjects

The University has established policies on the use of human subjects in all Simmons-initiated research and training projects. The Institutional Review Board (IRB) is charged with overseeing all research involving human subjects at Simmons University. Students undertaking research projects that propose to use humans must do the following prior to beginning their projects: 1) prepare and submit an application to the IRB for review and approval and 2) complete the Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITI) Program, a web-based human subjects research investigator education program. A copy of the Simmons University human subjects research policy, IRB forms, and link to the CITI training program may be found on the Office of Sponsored Programs site. The contact for the IRB is the Office of Sponsored Programs, 617-521-2415. It is expected that all members of the Simmons community will fulfill their legal and ethical responsibilities to ensure that the rights and safety of human subjects are protected.