Lasell College is committed to creating an environment that fosters student growth and development. The quality of life at Lasell is directly tied to the actions of the members of the community, and their mutual respect and consideration. Members of the Lasell College community are expected to:

• Contribute to the creation of an environment that supports learning, personal development, and civil discourse;
• Honor the rights of others to work and live in the Lasell College community without concern for verbal or physical abuse, or the threat thereof;
• Respect the differences inherent in the diversity of our community members; and
• Commit to behaving in ways that acknowledge the dignity of each individual.

Lasell College students, and Lasell College student organizations and teams, are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that demonstrates an understanding of the above-noted expectations.  Behavior inconsistent with these expectations is a violation of the Lasell College policy on general conduct.

Members of the Lasell College community are held accountable for respecting the personal and property rights of others.  The responsibility of all citizens to comply with local, state, and federal laws applies both on- and off-campus.  Violations of local, state, and federal laws will likewise constitute a violation of Lasell College's policy on general conduct.

Students (organizations and teams) are personally and financially responsible for their own conduct, and (if applicable) for the conduct of any and all guests.  Students are expected to comply with the requests of Campus Police officers, Residential Life staff, and members of the faculty, staff, and administration; failure to do so will be regarded as a violation of Lasell College's policy on general conduct.  Disrespectful behavior (including but not limited to: verbal abuse; misrepresentation of facts; and use of foul and/or obscene language or gestures) towards any employee of the College (including student staff members) will not be tolerated and will be regarded as a violation of Lasell College's policy on general conduct. Similarly, disrespectful behavior (including but not limited to: verbal abuse; misrepresentation of facts; and use of foul and/or obscene language or gestures) towards any guest of the College (including visiting athletic teams) or towards an approved vendor of the College will not be tolerated, and will be regarded as a violation of Lasell College's policy on general conduct.

Alcohol Policy

Lasell College's alcohol policies and procedures were developed to establish and maintain an atmosphere conducive to academic success and personal development. Lasell College supports the observance of all Massachusetts state laws and regulations governing the sale, purchase, service and consumption of alcoholic beverages. Any violation of the Massachusetts state laws and regulations governing the sale, purchase, service and consumption of alcoholic beverages will likewise be considered a violation of the Lasell College alcohol policy.

Massachusetts State Law
Massachusetts state law (applicable to all students attending Lasell, regardless of home state or country) makes it illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to purchase, arrange to have purchased, transport or possess, consume or carry alcoholic beverages. Cities and towns of Massachusetts, specifically Newton, prohibit public consumption of alcohol and impose fines for violation. The Department of Conservation and Recreation also prohibits public consumption of alcohol in its parks. Unlawful use of alcohol, drunk/disorderly conduct, (including assault/battery and property damage) and violation of these regulations is considered a serious offense and will result in judicial action by the appropriate body and possible suspension from housing and/or the college.

The state law allows for the issuance of a liquor ID card to persons who reach 21 years of age. Any student of legal age who wishes to purchase/consume alcohol is encouraged to obtain a card from a Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles Office if he/she does not have a Massachusetts driver's license with a photograph.

For your information, the Massachusetts state law reads in summary:
a.) illegal sale to or purchase for underage person carries a penalty of up to $5,000.00 fine and/or up to two and a half years imprisonment.
b.) purchase of alcohol or alteration of ID by underage person carries $300.00 fine, and if motor vehicle is involved, suspension of the driver's license.
c.) transportation or carrying of alcohol by underage person/$50.00 fine for the first violation, $150 fine for subsequent violations, and if motor vehicle is involved, suspension of driver's license for up to 3 months.

Lasell College Policy
The Lasell College alcohol policy, which was originally developed by a group of students and administrators, is predicated on the idea that students are capable of making decisions about their actions, and are members of a greater community. Those individuals who choose to violate the laws and policies must be prepared to accept responsibility for their individual or collective actions, and should understand that they will be sanctioned accordingly.

Guidelines

1. The use and/or possession of alcoholic beverages by any person under the age of 21 is prohibited by the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the regulations of Lasell College.
2. Sale or deliveries of alcoholic beverages to persons under the age of 21 is prohibited.
3. Provision of alcoholic beverages to persons under the age of 21 is prohibited.
4. Lasell College prohibits delivery of alcoholic beverages by retail distributors to the campus.
5. Persons 21 years of age and over may use alcohol in the privacy of their rooms providing all guidelines governing guests, alcohol policy, noise and appropriate behavior are followed.
6. Persons under the age of 21 years may not be in a room where alcoholic beverages are contained and/or are being consumed. This does not apply to college-sponsored events where the distribution of alcoholic beverages is overseen by staff specifically designated to do so.
7. The distribution, consumption or possession of alcohol is prohibited in all common areas of the residence hall unless permitted by the Office of the Vice President of Student Affairs.
8. The presence, possession or use of "common carriers" by individuals or groups is prohibited; the definition of "common carriers" includes but is not limited to: kegs, beer balls, trash can punches.
9. All persons in a private room must be 21 years of age or older in order for anyone in the room to be in possession of alcohol, or to be consuming alcohol. Students under the age of 21 who may have visitor(s) 21 years of age or older are not allowed to have alcohol in their room based on their age; students 21 years of age or older may not have alcohol in their room with underage guests.
10. Persons who provide alcohol bear a responsibility to see that no one is coerced to drink or drink excessively. Drinking games or contests in any form are prohibited. Funnels and alcohol bladders are prohibited.
11. Alcoholic beverages are not permitted in any public areas including, but not limited to: residential hallways, lounges, stairwells, and lobbies; patios, parking lots, and roadways; sidewalks or recreational fields. Alcohol is not permitted in non-residential campus buildings or on campus grounds, except at college sponsored events in designated areas as sanctioned by the Office of the Vice President of Student Affairs. Faculty sponsored receptions held in academic buildings require the approval of the Vice President for Academic Affairs.
12. Students will be held accountable if they are found to be under the influence of alcohol at the time that they are operating any type of motorized vehicle.
13. Students/Guests at a college sponsored event are not permitted to bring their own alcohol.

Additional Information for "Dry" Buildings
Students residing in Briggs, Carpenter, East, Gardner, Holt, McClelland, Mott, North, Ordway, Rockwell, Van Winkle, West, and Woodland Halls will not be permitted to have alcoholic beverages or empty alcohol containers in these buildings. This guideline is applied equally to all students living in these buildings regardless of age; and to all students entering these buildings regardless of age and place of residence.

Additional Information for Suites-Style Buildings
Lasell College policy, in accordance with the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, stipulates that individuals under the age of 21 may not possess or consume alcohol. In addition, Lasell College policy stipulates that individuals who are 21 or older may not possess or consume alcohol in the presence of minors. For the residents of Bragdon, Butterworth, and Forest Halls, the following additions are made to the alcohol policy:

1. Within an individual suite, if all occupants are 21 or older, alcohol may be kept anywhere in the suite, including the common area refrigerator of the suite.
2. Within an individual suite, if all occupants are not 21 or older, alcohol may not be kept in the common areas of the suite, including the common refrigerator. However, within an individual suite, if an occupant of a single bedroom is 21 or older, or both occupants of a double bedroom are 21 or older, alcohol may be kept in that bedroom.
3. Within an individual suite, alcohol may be consumed in the common area if EVERYONE PRESENT IS 21 OR OLDER. For these purposes, the definition of "present" will include all persons who are in the suite area, whether in the common area, the individual bedrooms or bathrooms, at the time that the alcohol is being consumed.
4. Within an individual suite, alcohol may be consumed within the privacy of a single bedroom or a double bedroom if everyone present in that room is 21 or older.

Enforcement
At college-sponsored events: the college reserves the right to deny service of alcohol, or entrance to areas of alcohol service, to anybody at any time. Obviously intoxicated individuals will not be served alcoholic beverages under any circumstances.

In college-owned housing: while Lasell respects the privacy of student rooms, that privacy is conditional. Staff may respond and take appropriate action if and when students or their guests create a disturbance, become a nuisance, or appear to be in danger. If a staff member has reasonable cause to suspect a violation of the alcohol policy, he/she may inspect all bags, etc. that enter Lasell property; confiscate all alcoholic beverages, cans and bottles; make searches of rooms including refrigerators; and take the steps necessary to enforce the alcohol policy. Students will be held responsible for any infractions that occur in their rooms, and may be held collectively accountable for infractions in common areas of the residence hall or campus. Students will be held responsible for the actions of their guests.

Sanctions for Violations of Alcohol Policy
Sanctions for violations of the Lasell College alcohol policy include, but are not limited to: warnings, fines (from $50 to $500, levied on a per person basis); community and conduct probation; and suspension/dismissal from the college; for students in residence, temporary and permanent revocation of housing privileges is also possible.

At a minimum, the college will observe the following sanctioning guidelines regarding violations of alcohol policy:

• A first violation of alcohol policies will result, at a minimum, in a $50 fine and a conduct warning; mandated participation in an alcohol education program will also likely be required.
• A second violation of alcohol policies within two years of a first violation will result, at a minimum, in a fine of $100 and community probation for a semester; additionally, if a student is a financial dependent of a parent/guardian, a letter will be sent to the student's parent/guardian informing him or her of the violation
• A third violation of alcohol policies within two years of two previous violations will result, at a minimum, in a $250 fine and conduct probation; if the student lives in college housing, s/he will likely have their housing privileges revoked for a semester
• Subsequent violations may result in the permanent loss of housing privileges, and/or suspension or dismissal of the student from the College

Other Drugs Policy
Massachusetts has criminal penalties for the use of controlled substances, or drugs, with penalties varying with the type of drug. In general, narcotic, addictive, and drugs with a high potential for abuse have heavier penalties. Any violation of the Massachusetts state laws and regulations governing the use of controlled substances will likewise be considered a violation of the Lasell College drug policy.

Massachusetts and Federal Laws
Possession of drugs is illegal without valid authorization. Penalties for possession are generally not as great as for manufacture and distribution. Under both state and federal laws penalties for possession, manufacture and distribution are much greater for second and subsequent convictions. Many laws dictate mandatory prison terms and the full minimum term must be served. Massachusetts makes it illegal to be in a place where heroin is kept and to be "in the company" of a person known to possess heroin. Anyone in the presence of heroin at a private party or residence hall risks a serious drug conviction. Sale and possession of "drug paraphernalia" is illegal in Massachusetts.

Persons convicted of drug possession under state or federal law are ineligible for federal student grants and loans for up to one year after the first conviction; five years after the second; the penalty for distributing drugs is loss of benefits for five years after the first; 10 years after the second; permanently after the third conviction.

Under the federal law, distribution of drugs to persons under age 21 is punishable by twice the normal penalty with a mandatory one year in prison; a third conviction is punishable by mandatory life imprisonment. These penalties apply to distribution of drugs in or within 300 feet of the real property comprising a public or private accredited preschool, accredited Head Start facility, elementary, vocational, or secondary school, if the violation occurs between 5:00 a.m. and midnight, whether or not in session, or within one hundred feet of a public park or playground. Federal law sets greatly heightened prison sentences for manufacture and distribution of drugs, if death or serious injury results from use of the substance.

Lasell College Policy
At Lasell College, any illegal use, sale or distribution of drugs, and/or possession or supply of drugs, drug paraphernalia, narcotics and marijuana (including marijuana plants) will result in disciplinary action by the college and/or criminal prosecution. Possession of paraphernalia consistent with the intent to distribute drugs (e.g., possession of a large quantity of a drug; possession of a scale) will similarly result in disciplinary action by the college and/or criminal prosecution.

As noted in the “Policies” of the Residential Living section of this Handbook, the College reserves the right of members of the Student Affairs/Residential Life staff, the Campus Police staff, and the Plant Operations staff to enter rooms at any time deemed necessary for reasons of health, safety, maintenance and/or if there is reason to believe that a violation of College policy or local, state, or federal law is being committed. In College-owned housing, while Lasell respects the privacy of student rooms, that privacy is conditional. Staff may respond and take appropriate action if and when a staff member has reasonable cause to suspect a violation of the drug policy; and students will be held responsible for any infractions that occur in their rooms, and will be held responsible for the actions of their guests.

Students who are found to be in the presence of drugs (including marijuana), whether they themselves are using that drug or not, may be held equally liable for disciplinary action by the college. Sanctions may include, but are not limited to: suspension or permanent revocation of housing privileges; conduct probation; suspension or dismissal from Lasell College; and/or fines (ranging from $100 to $1000, levied on a per person basis.

At a minimum, the college will observe the following sanctioning guidelines regarding violations of the drug policy:

• A first violation of policies related to controlled substances will result, at a minimum, in a $100 fine and conduct probation for a period of one year; additionally, if a student is a financial dependent of a parent/guardian, a letter will be sent to the student’s parent/guardian informing him or her of the violation
• A second violation of policies related to controlled substances will result, at a minimum, in a $250 fine, conduct probation for a period of two years and (if applicable) loss of housing for one year
• A third violation of policies related to controlled substances will result, at a minimum, in the student’s suspension from the College for a period of at least one year, and may result in the student’s permanent dismissal from the College

College Property

Care of college property and facilities is a responsibility of all college community members. Students will be held accountable for the damage, defacement, destruction or theft of any college property, or property belonging to approved vendors or guests of the college. Students will likewise be held accountable for any littering of the campus for which they are responsible. Students may not relocate college belongings (e.g. furniture, equipment) without specific written permission. Students are expected to respect the integrity of all college owned or operated buildings and spaces within buildings; and only enter those areas where, and when, they are clearly permitted to do so. Students are also expected to respect the property rights of all members of the college community. Students will be held accountable for the damage, defacement, destruction or theft of any property belonging to a member of the Lasell community or a guest thereof. In addition to paying appropriate restitution for damaged or stolen property, students who are found to be responsible for violations of this policy will also be subject to disciplinary action, and may have sanctions imposed including, but not limited to: monetary fines; community or conduct probation; and revocation of housing privileges.

Communication Policy

Since members of the faculty, staff and administration of Lasell College often need to be in contact with members of the student body, all students are expected to regularly check their Lasell College email account and to check My.Lasell, as these are two of the primary means by which the representatives of the college will communicate with students. Additionally, residential students are expected to register their preferred phone number with the Office of the Registrar at the beginning of the academic year (and whenever a change in phone number is made). Students will be held accountable for information that is conveyed via the means outlined above.

Conduct System

With the college's commitment to the creation of an environment that fosters student growth and development, and the maintenance thereof, comes the concomitant responsibility to enforce policies and procedures designed to achieve those goals. The Lasell College Conduct System is charged with the task of addressing alleged student violations of the non-academic policies and procedures detailed in this Student Handbook, as well as any behaviors which are deemed to be in violation of the spirit of mutual respect and consideration that serves as the foundation for the actions of all members of the Lasell community.

Learn more about the Conduct System.

Gambling

The college prohibits any form of gambling on campus. Provisions against gambling are contained in Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 137, 139 and 271.

An increasing preoccupation with gambling activities can develop into a problem behavior known as "compulsive gambling". Individuals may seek assistance at the College's Counseling Center, if they find that they are unable to resist the impulse to gamble, despite significant loss of money and/or disruption to the personal, academic, vocational, and family areas of their lives.

Guests

Members of the Lasell College student body are permitted to have guests visit them on the college campus, and it is expected that members of the college community will treat those guests in the manner described in the section of this Handbook entitled, "Policies and Issues of General Conduct".

Students are responsible for the conduct of their non-Lasell guests, and for insuring that their guests know, understand, and adhere to the college's rules and policies. Guests who fail to comply with college policies may be required to leave the campus immediately, and may not be permitted to return to the campus. Students whose guests fail to comply with college policies will be liable for sanctions appropriate to the situation including, but not limited to: monetary fines; restitution for damages; suspension of their guest privileges; community or conduct probation; and/or revocation of their housing privileges (if they are resident students). Guests who visit students in residential buildings must comply with the college's visitation policy, as outlined in the "Residential Life" section of this Handbook.

To learn more about our Visitation Policy, visit our Residential Operations section of the Student Handbook.

Hazing

Massachusetts state law (applicable to all students attending Lasell, regardless of home state or country) makes it illegal to organize or participate in any form of hazing activity. The term hazing refers to any conduct or method of initiation that recklessly endangers the physical or mental health of any student or other person. Any member of the Lasell community that knows that another person is the victim of hazing or any such crime should report it to the Vice President of Student Affairs. Any such actions may result in disciplinary action.

Health Risks Associated with Alcohol and Drugs

Lasell College is committed to reducing and preventing drug and alcohol-related problems within the college community. Harm reduction is the primary focus of Lasell's drug and alcohol abuse prevention program. Education, with an emphasis on providing information to increase awareness of the psychological, physical and legal ramifications of drug and alcohol use and abuse, is the cornerstone of the program.

Alcohol consumption causes a number of marked changes in behavior. Even low doses significantly impair the judgment and coordination required to drive a car safely, increasing the likelihood that the driver will be involved in an accident. Low to moderate doses of alcohol also increase the incidence and variety of aggressive acts, including partner abuse. Moderate to high doses of alcohol cause marked impairments in higher mental functions, severely altering a person's ability to learn and remember information. Very high doses cause respiratory depression and death. If combined with other drugs, much lower doses of alcohol will produce the effects just described.

Repeated use of alcohol can lead to dependence. Sudden cessation of alcohol intake after long-term use is likely to produce withdrawal symptoms, including severe anxiety, tremors, hallucinations, and convulsions. Alcohol withdrawal can be life threatening. Long-term consumption of large quantities of alcohol can lead to permanent damage to vital organs such as the brain and the liver.

Women who drink alcohol during pregnancy may give birth to infants with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. These infants have irreversible physical abnormalities and mental retardation. In addition, research indicates that children of alcoholic parents are at greater risk of becoming alcoholics.

Illicit drug use (including, but not exclusive to, marijuana, designer/synthetic drugs, hallucinogens, heroin, cocaine, volatile solvents, inhalants, anesthetics), and alcohol abuse problems have become a national health concern. When prescribed by a health care provider, in therapeutic doses, medicine is for the treatment of a specific illness. Medication should be used exactly as prescribed to prevent medical complications. Medications should not be shared.

Lasell College provides substance use and prevention education and training for all Residential Life staff during the academic year. Alcohol and drug education programs are offered to the members of the student body throughout the academic year.

The following resources for drug and alcohol counseling treatment, and rehabilitation programs are available to Lasell College students. On-campus offices providing information and assistance with drug and alcohol counseling education include:

Office of the Vice President of Student Affairs
x2124

Health Services
x2451

Counseling Center
x2451

Off-campus resources include:
Newton-Wellesley Hospital
2014 Washington Street
Newton, MA 02162
(617) 243-6000

McLean Hospital
115 Mill Street
Belmont, MA 02178
(617) 789-3000

Lasell Acceptable Use of Information Technology Systems

Introduction
Lasell College and Lasell Village (Lasell) maintains information technology and services which are essential to the mission of these organizations. All employees (including student employees), students and residents of Lasell College and Lasell Village, guests and affiliates of Lasell (Lasell Community) are obliged to use the information technology appropriately and lawfully and maintain the college's values of integrity, honesty, and ethical decision making.

Read more about Lasell Acceptable Use of Information Technology Systems.

Lasell College Non-Discrimination Policy

I .Introduction

It is the policy of Lasell College that all students, faculty and staff should be able to enjoy a work and/or educational environment that is free from discrimination and harassment. This policy applies to discrimination and harassment on the basis of: (1) age, (2) race, (3) color, (4) national origin/ancestry, (5) ethnicity, (6)religion, (7) sex, (8) sexual orientation, (9) gender identity or expression, (10)mental or physical disability, (11) genetic information, (12) veteran status, (13) membership in or application to the uniformed services, and (14) any other characteristic protected by applicable law. In accordance with applicable law, Lasell College will not discriminate on the basis of these characteristics in connection with employment, admission or enrollment or participation in any of its programs or activities.

Harassment of employees/students occurring on campus or in other settings in which employees/students may find themselves in connection with their employment/enrollment is unlawful and will not be tolerated. Further, retaliation against an individual who has complained about sexual or other unlawful harassment or discrimination, or who has cooperated with the investigation of such a complaint, is similarly unlawful and will not be tolerated. To achieve the college's goal of providing a work and educational environment that is free from sexual and other unlawful harassment and discrimination, the conduct that is described in this policy, and in the policy related to sexual misconduct, will not be tolerated, and procedures have been provided by which inappropriate conduct will be dealt with.

Because Lasell College takes allegations of harassment and discrimination seriously, the college will respond promptly to complaints of such conduct, and will investigate all allegations of harassment and/or discrimination. Where it is determined that inappropriate conduct has occurred, the college will act reasonably to eliminate the conduct and impose such corrective action as is deemed necessary, including disciplinary action where appropriate.

Please note that while the college's policies set forth the college's goal of promoting a work/educational environment that is free from sexual and other forms of unlawful harassment and discrimination, the policies are not designed or intended to limit the college's authority to discipline or take remedial action for conduct which is deemed inappropriate or unacceptable, regardless of whether that conduct satisfies the legal definitions of harassment or discrimination.

II. Definitions  

It is a violation of this policy to deny an individual equal and full participation in the College's programs and activities, or equal employment opportunity, based on the that person's (1) age, (2) race, (3) color, (4) national origin/ancestry, (5) ethnicity, (6)religion, (7) sex, (8) sexual orientation, (9) gender identity or expression, (10)mental or physical disability, (11) genetic information, (12) veteran status, (13) membership in or application to the uniformed services, or (14) any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Harassment includes the display or circulation of written materials or pictures which are degrading or hostile on the basis of the above factors, and verbal abuse, slurs or insults based on those factors and directed at or made in the presence of persons having those characteristics. Harassment also refers to behavior that is personally offensive, impairs morale, and interferes with the work/educational effectiveness of employees/students. Harassment of students, visitors, faculty or other employees by any member of the campus community will not be tolerated.

III. Sexual Misconduct Policy

The College's sexual misconduct policy is described and outlined in a separate section of this handbook, 'Lasell College Sexual Misconduct Policy'.          

IV. Complaints of Harassment and Discrimination
Any student or employee who believes he/she has been subjected to harassment by a faculty/staff member, a supervisor, a student, a vendor/supplier, a visitor or other individual, whether or not employed or enrolled by the college, is advised to make it clear to the offender that such behavior is offensive and/or unwelcome. When the alleged harasser is an employee of the college, the aggrieved student should speak with the Vice President of Academic Affairs if the situation is related to a member of the faculty, or with the Vice President of Student Affairs in all other instances.

When the alleged harasser is another student, the aggrieved student may speak with the:  the Vice President of Student Affairs; the Dean of Student Affairs; the Coordinator of the Conduct System; and/or a report may be filed with the Campus Police. In addition, any student or employee who becomes aware of harassment or other violation of this policy, whether he or she is personally affected or not, should immediately advise one of these designated individuals.

If any of our students, employees, or third parties (including parents and visitors to the campus), believes that he or she has been subjected to harassment or discrimination based on a protected status, the student/employee has the right to file a grievance/complaint with our organization. This may be done in writing or orally.  If a student would like to file a grievance/complaint, he/she may do so by contacting the College's Title IX Coordinator, Ms. Diane Parker, Associate Vice President of Finance, at Eager House, Lasell College, 1844 Commonwealth Avenue, Auburndale, MA 02466, (617) 243-2137, or by contacting the college's 504 Coordinator, Mr. Scott Lamphere, Director of Disability Services, Office of Student Affairs, Edwards Student Center, Lasell College, 1844 Commonwealth Avenue, Auburndale, MA 02466, (167) 243-2124. If for any reason a student might be uncomfortable bringing the matter to the Title IX Coordinator or the 504 Coordinator, that student may also contact Dr. James Ostrow, Vice President of Academic Affairs, (617) 243-2111 or Ms. Katie Bryne, Director of Human Resources, (617) 243-2176. These individuals are also available to discuss any concerns a student may have and to provide information to the student about the college's policies on harassment and non-discrimination, as well as the college's complaint process.  Complaints brought by students, that involve another student(s), and implicate the college's non-discrimination policy, will be handled through the College's Conduct System.

All students and employees should take special note that, as stated above, retaliation against an individual who has complained about harassment, and retaliation against individuals for cooperating with the investigation of such a complaint, is unlawful and will not be tolerated.

V. Investigation of Complaints
When a complaint of harassment or discrimination is received, the college will investigate the allegation in as fair and expeditious a manner as reasonably possible. The investigation will be conducted in such a way as to maintain confidentiality to the extent consistent with a full investigation and practicable under the circumstances. The investigation generally will include interviews with: (1) the person filing the complaint; (2) the person alleged to have committed the wrongful conduct; and (3) witnesses (if any and if deemed necessary and appropriate by the college). All employees and students will be expected to cooperate fully in our efforts to investigate and enforce this policy. When the college has completed its investigation, the college will, to the extent appropriate, inform the person filing the complaint and the person alleged to have committed the conduct of the results of that investigation. College investigations will normally be completed within 60 days of the reported complaint.

VI. Disciplinary Action
If the college determines that inappropriate conduct has been committed by a member of the campus community, the college will take such action as is deemed appropriate under the circumstances. Such action may range from counseling to termination/expulsion, and may include such other forms of disciplinary action as is deemed appropriate under the circumstances.

VII. State and Federal Remedies
In addition to the above, if a student believes that he/she has been subjected to unlawful harassment or discrimination, that student may make inquiry or file a formal complaint with the Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights or one of the other government agencies set forth below. Using the college's grievance/complaint process does not prohibit a student from filing a complaint with these agencies.

The United States Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights (OCR)
Boston Office:
U.S. Department of Education
8th Floor, 5 Post Office Square
Boston, MA 02109-3921
(617) 289-0111

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
John F. Kennedy Federal Building
Government Center
Fourth Floor, Room 475
Boston, MA 02203
(617) 565-3200

The Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD)
Boston Office:
One Ashburton Place, Rm. 601
Boston, MA 02108
(617) 994-6000

Springfield Office:
436 Dwight Street, Rm. 220
Springfield, MA 01103
(413) 739-2145

These agencies have a short time period for filing a claim: EEOC and MCAD - 300 days.

Lasell College Sexual Misconduct Policy

Lasell College is committed to maintaining an educational and/or work environment wherein all members of the College respect the differences inherent in the diversity of our community, and commit to behaving in ways that acknowledge the dignity of each individual. The quality of life at Lasell is directly tied to the actions of the members of the campus community, and their mutual respect and consideration. Read more about Lasell's Sexual Misconduct Policy here.

Life-threatening Situations

Mental Health Emergencies
This policy is designed to address students who appear to be potentially harmful to themselves or those around them. A staff member of the college Counseling Center should be contacted directly (617-243-2451) and an appointment arranged immediately. If a counselor cannot be reached, the student should be taken directly to Newton-Wellesley Hospital for evaluation.

Students who have had an emergency medical evaluation for mental health reasons, or who have been hospitalized for mental health-related reasons, and who wish to return to a college residence hall, will need to meet with the Vice President of Student Affairs (or her designee), and the Director of the Counseling Center (or her designee) as part of the discharge planning process. In most instances, these meetings will need to take place prior to the student's return to campus. The results of a psychiatric evaluation will be the basis for the college's decision whether or not to allow the student to remain in the residential and/or college system. The focus of any such decision will be on the best interest of the student's health and development, and that of the college community at large.

Recommendations for ongoing outpatient treatment may include the Counseling Center or off-campus providers. Students should be in contact with their academic advisors and the Dean of Advising regarding their academic status. The college retains the right to assess each situation individually.

Alcohol and Drug Related Emergencies
When a Campus Police officer determines that a student is at risk for alcohol poisoning, (which may be life-threatening), the student will be transported via ambulance to a hospital where a Blood Alcohol Level (BAL) will be drawn. BAL is a medical measurement used to determine the amount of alcohol content circulating in the blood. If the BAL is over 0.08 the student may be given intravenous fluids and other medical treatment. The next business day, upon returning to the campus, the student will receive follow-up care from the professionals in the Health Services office.

Should an occasion arise where a student observes an individual who is incoherent, belligerent, severely vomiting, and/or "passed out", these may be signs of alcohol poisoning and the individual may require emergency treatment. Students observing these symptoms/behaviors should not attempt to care for these individuals themselves, but should contact Campus Police at x2279 immediately.

Parental Notification
Lasell College reserves the right to notify and involve parents/guardians in certain emergency, life threatening situations when it is perceived to be in the best interest of the student. Notification would likely be made by the Office of the Vice President of Student Affairs, and would not violate any issues of legal confidentiality. If a student's medical condition can be interpreted as life threatening (i.e. a serious injury on campus; an eating disorder that results in excessive weight loss of greater than 15% of total body weight), the Health Services office reserves the right to contact the family.

Separation from the College
If a decision is reached that involves a student taking a Leave of Absence from the college, or withdrawing from the college, most often a member of the Counseling Center staff and the Vice President of Student Affairs (or her designee) will meet with the student (and her/his family) to discuss resources available to the student and the procedures necessary to separate from the college. The student will be encouraged to be in contact with the Dean of Advising, and with other necessary individuals in Academic Affairs, the Registrar's Office, and other key offices on the campus. If appropriate, members of the College Counseling staff will be available to meet with other members of the campus community who may be working through the effects of a crisis (eg. the student's roommate(s), Resident Assistant, teammates, faculty).

Sexual Assault

Definition
The term "sexual assault" in Massachusetts State law refers to the crimes of rape, and indecent assault and battery. Rape is defined as having sexual intercourse or unnatural sexual intercourse with a person without clear consent of the person, and through the use of force or the threat of force. Indecent assault and battery is defined as physical contact of a sexual nature with a person without the clear consent of the person.

Both women and men may be the victims of sexual assault. The assailant may be a stranger, but in many instances victims know their assailants and may currently be, or at one time have been, involved in a relationship with the assailant.

When someone has been sexually assaulted ...
Of first concern are the immediate needs of the victim. The physical well-being of the victim is very important. A victim may have been bruised or suffered internal injuries; and/or may have been exposed to one or more sexually transmitted diseases; and/or may have been at risk of being impregnated. Victims should be encouraged to seek medical attention as soon after the assault as possible. On campus, the medical professionals on the Health Services staff are available to provide assistance during normal business hours (617-243-2216); off campus, students may seek 24-hour professional medical care at the Newton-Wellesley Hospital Emergency Room (617-243-6193). Campus Police are available 24 hours a day to transport any student who has been sexually assaulted to the Newton-Wellesley Hospital Emergency Room.

If the assault has occurred very recently, there may be physical evidence present that can be collected. The collection of physical evidence does not require a victim to pursue criminal or civil charges through the courts; however, should that decision be made at some point in the future, having the physical evidence collected can be important in future legal proceedings. The staff at the Newton-Wellesley Hospital Emergency Room is trained to collect whatever physical evidence may be present following a sexual assault. If the assault has occurred within the last several hours, victims should refrain from bathing, douching or removing their clothing as these actions could destroy evidence. It is advised that the victim bring a change of clothing with her/him to the Hospital or Health Services.

Regardless of how recently the assault took place, victims most often find themselves experiencing a vast array of emotional responses. It is common for victims of sexual assault to feel frightened, angry, nervous, sad, and distanced from those around them. Victims may find themselves experiencing changes in their sleeping and eating patterns, and having difficulty focusing on their normal, daily routine. On campus, the professionals in the Counseling Center are available to provide confidential assistance during normal business hours (617-243-2145); and the professional staff members in the Office of Student Affairs and the Office of Residential Life are also available. Off campus, students may seek 24-hour assistance from the Boston Area Rape Crisis Center Hot Line (617-492-7273).

If a victim wishes to pursue charges ...
There are various options available. A victim may wish to report the sexual assault to the Newton Police Department, to the Middlesex District Attorney's Office, or to the Lasell College Campus Police.

On campus, a victim may begin the reporting process by speaking with a member of the Campus Police staff (617-243-2279). If a victim would prefer to speak with a female Campus Police officer, s/he may so request. The Campus Police officers have received specialized training in how to respond to a reported sexual assault, and the contents of the report will be kept confidential. Identifying information about the victim is protected under Massachusetts law. Off campus, a victim may contact the Office for Victims' Assistance through the Middlesex County District Attorney's Office (617-494-4050) or may choose to file a complaint with the Newton Police Department. In the last instance, if desired, a victim can request to be escorted to Newton Police by a member of the Lasell College Campus Police staff (617-243-2279).

Victims may choose to press charges through the criminal justice system and/or the College's conduct system (if the assailant is a member of the Lasell College student body). If a victim wants to pursue a complaint through the conduct system, s/he should begin that process by contacting the College’s Title IX Coordinator, at 617-243-2137.

For support and guidance at this confusing time ...
It is strongly suggested that a victim speak with someone who they trust. After being assaulted, sometimes it is hard to make decisions and to remember all the information that has been given to you ... and try to sort through it. Staff members in the Counseling Center and Health Services, and in the Office of the Vice President of Student Affairs, are all available to help a victim to deal with the many issues and reactions they may be encountering, as well as provide information that can assist in making whatever decisions s/he may face.

Smoking Policy

Lasell complies with the Massachusetts Clean Indoor Air Act (Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 270, Sect. 22), which requires that smoking be prohibited at private colleges within the Commonwealth except in areas designated by the college as smoking areas. Smoking is not permitted in any building on campus, and this prohibition includes e-cigarettes and hookahs. Students who choose to smoke outside of any campus building are asked to use appropriate receptacles to dispose of cigarettes, and are asked to smoke at least 25 feet away from a building's entrance and/or windows. Students living in college owned or operated buildings will find further information on the college's smoking policy in the "Residential Life" section of this Handbook.

Weapons

Firearms and Fireworks
Students are strictly prohibited from having weapons of any type on their person, or in their possession, while on Lasell College property or participating in any Lasell College sponsored activity (on or off-campus). For the purposes of this policy, “weapons” includes (but is not limited to): firearms of any type (including Air Soft, Pellet, or BB guns), assembled or disassembled; ammunition; knives; machetes; javelins; martial arts devices; clubs; any device that is capable of shooting a projectile; or any device that can be considered hazardous to the welfare of members of the College community. Any violation of state laws or city by-laws, prohibiting the manufacture, sale, purchase, transportation, possession, concealment, or use of firearms, cutting instruments, fireworks, firecrackers, any other explosives, incendiary devices, or other deadly weapons will result in criminal prosecution, and will be subject to removal from residence (if applicable) and/or suspension or dismissal from the college. Under the Bartley-Fox Gun Control Law, there is a one-year mandatory sentence for anyone possession a firearm without the proper license.

Mace
Any student having possession of any type of tear gas, chemical mace, or any other device or instrument which contains or emits a liquid, gas, powder or any other substance designed to incapacitate, must have a valid Massachusetts Firearms Identification Card on their person (Chapter 140 section 121c & 129c). Violations of this policy will result in confiscation of the object.

Addendum

Effective January 15, 2016 - The possession and use of hoverboards, self-balancing/battery-operated scooters, and hands-free segways are prohibited on Lasell College and Lasell Village property and/or in any College or Village owned or operated buildings. Students (and their guests/visitors) who are found in possession of, or using, any such type of vehicle will have the item confiscated, and the issue may be referred to the College’s Conduct system.