Student Handbook
2025–2026
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Information Directory .............................................. 2 Statement Of Faith.................................................6 Standard Of Conduct............................................8 Notice Of Nondiscrimination................................10
Section Three: Student Ministry and Service Assignments I.
Student Ministry .............................................40 Student Ministry Purpose................................40 Requirements and Information........................40 Selection of a Ministry.....................................41 Student Ministry Credit Requirements.............41
II.
III. IV.
Title IX ..................................................................... 11
V.
Reporting Procedures ........................................... 12
Student Agreement..................................................42
Services Available for Victims on Campus I.
Health............................................................. 15 Visa and Immigration Assistance.....................15 Student Financial Aid .....................................16
II.
III.
Services Available For All Davis Students I.
Counseling...................................................... 16 Health............................................................. 16 Victim Advocacy.............................................17 Legal Assistance.............................................17
II.
III. IV.
V. Visa and Immigration Assistance.....................17 VI. Student Financial Aid......................................17
Section One: Student Life I.
Student Life Purpose and Structure................19 Student Life Guiding Principles.......................19 Student Life Philosophy..................................21 Spiritual Life....................................................22
II.
III. IV.
V. Discipleship.................................................... 23 VI. Relationships..................................................24 VII. Official School Breaks.....................................25 VIII. Student Council Overview...............................25 IX. Campus Life................................................... 25 X. Dress and Appearance...................................29 XI. Discipline........................................................30 XII. Computer Usage Policies................................33 XIII. Campus Security and Emergency Procedures...................................33 XIV. Health Center................................................. 33 XV. General Guidelines.......................................... 33
Section Two: Academics I.
College Catalogue..........................................38 Confidentiality of Student Records (FERPA).....38
II.
INFORMATION DIRECTORY
• Bible Institute Switchboard: 518.494.1427. An automated attendant operates during off hours. • Regular office hours are 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. • All numbers, unless otherwise indicated, begin with 518.494.XXXX
DAVIS COLLEGE ADMINISTRATION President PDSO
Douglas Blanc, Ph.D.
England LL, 518.620.1701
dblanc@davisny.edu
Academic Dean
Monica Schreiber, Ph.D. 607.237.1095
mschreiber@davisny.edu rkirchberger@davisny.edu
Director of Admissions DSO
Rachel Kirchberger
England LL, 518.494.1800
Director of Finance
Larry Ellis
lellis@davisny.edu sbyron@davisny.edu
Director of Institutional Effectiveness Shelley Byron
814.503.0038
Director of Operations Title IX Coordinator
Naomi Saravanapavan 607.442.4878
nsaravanapavan@davisny.edu
Drew Burtis
Page Ctr., Ext 1540
dburtis@davisny.edu
ACADEMIC DEPARTMENT Director of Distance Education
Monica Schreiber, Ph.D. 607.237.1095 Naomi Saravanapavan 607.442.4878
mschreiber@davisny.edu
Registrar
nsaravanapavan@davisny.edu
Director of Library Services Director of Student Services ADMISSIONS Director of Admissions DSO
Shelley Byron
814.503.0038
sbyron@davisny.edu
Naomi Saravanapavan 607.442.4878
nsaravanapavan@davisny.edu
Rachel Kirchberger
England LL, 518.494.1800
rkirchberger@davisny.edu
Admissions Counselor
England LL, Ext. 1325 or 1305 admissions@davisny.edu
BUSINESS OFFICE Director of Finance Director of Financial Aid
Larry Ellis
lellis@davisny.edu
Naomi Saravanapavan 607.442.4878
nsaravanapavan@davisny.edu
WORD OF LIFE BIBLE INSTITUTE ADMINISTRATION Executive Dean of Bible Institutes
Mr. Brian Baker
Page Ctr., Ext. 1532 Page Ctr., Ext. 1578
Administrative Assistant
Ms. Samuelle Champion
Executive Dean & Professor, Global Campuses
Mr. Mark Strout
Ext. 1433
Alumni Director
Mrs. Karen Rathbun
Institutional Effectiveness Coordinator
Mr. Dan Skau
Page Ctr., Ext. 6280
ACADEMIC DEPARTMENT Academic Dean Assistant to the Academic Dean
Mr. Todd Steltz
Page Ctr., Ext. 1454 Page Ctr,. Ext. 1578 Library, Ext. 1401 Page Ctr., Ext. 6207 Page Ctr., Ext. 1322 Page Ctr., Ext. 6280 Page Ctr., Ext. 1479
Ms. Samuelle Champion Ms. Susanna Swanson
Librarian
Assistant Professor Associate Professor
Mr. Jonathan Lough Dr. Jared August
Registrar & Veteran’s Affairs SCO
Mr. Dan Skau
Academic Office Assistant
Ms. Grace Bergeron
INFORMATION DIRECTORY
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STUDENT LIFE DEPARTMENT Dean of Students
Mr. Drew Burtis
Page Ctr., Ext. 1540 Page Ctr., Ext. 1515 Page Ctr., Ext. 6341 Page Ctr., Ext. 1476
Administrative Assistant
Mrs. Jess Prescott Mr. Justin Cousins Mrs. Karen W. Smith
Dean of Men
Dean of Women
MINISTRIES DEPARTMENT Dean of Ministries
Mr. Justin Lough
Ministries Ctr., Ext. 1478 Ministries Ctr., Ext. 1521 Ministries Ctr., Ext. 6289 Ministries Ctr., Ext. 6289 Ministries Ctr., Ext. 1321 Ministries Ctr., Ext. 1576 Fitness Ctr., Ext. 1474 Ministries Ctr., Ext. 1452 Music Bldg., Ext. 1418
Administrative Assistant Ministries Coordinator Ministries Coordinator
Mrs. Caroline Tompkins
Mr. Micah Melville Mr. Mark Bodlien Mr. Ethan Morin Mr. Jordan Ross Mr. Matt Layton Ms. Sadie Diaz Mr. Ryan Arnold
Assistant Ministries Coordinator Assistant Ministries Coordinator
Athletic Director
Assignments Coordinator
Music Director
ENROLLMENT AND FINANCIAL AID Dean of Enrollment
Mr. Alex Hackett Mrs. Julia Olivera
Enrollment Ctr., Ext. 1599 Enrollment Ctr., Ext. 6375
Director of Financial Aid
BUSINESS OFFICE Director of Financial Services
Mr. Chris Tompkins Mr. Simon Hurley Mrs. Grace Milliken
Welcome Ctr., Ext. 1438 Enrollment Ctr., Ext. 1489 Enrollment Ctr., Ext. 1612
Business Manager
Student Accounts Administrator
HEALTH AND SECURITY Health Center Front Desk
Mrs. Katelyn Maxwell
Health/Security Office, Ext. 1600 Health/Security Office, Ext. 6202
Security
Mrs. Mary Steltz
Student Accident Plan
518.494.6000
OTHER Café / Bookstore
Ms. Paige Willard
Bookstore, Ext. 1412 IT Department, Ext. 6265
Computer/Logos Help Desk
Mr. CT Newell
Kitchen
Ext. 1407
Chef Manager
Mr. Daryl Jackson Mrs. Evelyn Magoon
Kitchen, Ext. 1507
Housekeeping/Lost and Found
Housekeeping, Ext. 1488 Maintenance, Ext. 1496
Maintenance
Mr. Dan Arthur
Title IX Coordinator Visitors (for students)
Ms. Samuelle Champion
Page Ctr., Ext. 1578 Page Ctr., Ext. 1515
Mrs. Jess Prescott Mr. Joe Schenke Mr. Brent Finchum
Director of Biblical Counseling
Ext. 1437
Director of Word of Life Youth Ministries
ACCREDITATION AND RECOGNITION Davis College is authorized by the Board of Regents of the University of the State of New York (BRNYS) to grant the one-year certificate, the two-year Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree, the three-year diploma and the Bachelor of Religious Education (BRE) degree in Bible and Theology. All of its programs and concentrations are registered with the
INFORMATION DIRECTORY
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New York State Education Department (NYSED). BRNYS is classified as a state institutional accrediting agency, but also is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as an accrediting agency with national scope and recognition.
Davis College is accredited by the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE), an institutional accrediting body recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). ABHE is classified as a national institutional accrediting agency and is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (USDOE), the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) as the accrediting agency for undergraduate Bible college education. ABHE is also a member of the American Council of Education (ACE), the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities (NAICU) and the International Council of Accrediting Agencies for Evangelical Theological Education (ICAA). In 2016, Davis College was reaffirmed for its accreditation with the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE) for the next ten years. ABHE provides accreditation and services for institutions and programs of biblical higher education within Canada, the United States, and related territories. Davis College has been accredited by ABHE since 1985. Davis College is an accredited institution and a member of the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) www.msche.org. Davis College accreditation status is Accreditation Reaffirmed. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education, 1007 North Orange Street, 4th Floor, MB #166, Wilmington, DE 19801, is an institutional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). Davis is listed as an accredited four-year college in the Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs and The Higher Education Directory. Davis is approved by the NYS Division of Veterans Affairs, Bureau of Veteran’s Education for the training of veterans. The college has been granted eligibility by the USDOE, Office of Postsecondary Education (OPE), Institutional Participation Division (IPD) for students enrolled in all programs to participate in the Federal Family Educational Loan Program (FFELP), the Federal Pell Grant Program, the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant Program (FSEOG), and the Federal Work-Study Program (FWS). The college has been granted eligibility by the NYSED to participate in the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) for New York State residents enrolled in the 1-year Certificate, the Associate of Applied Science degree, and the 3-year diploma program. Davis College is an institutional member of the National Council for the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC- SARA) found at www.NC-SARA.org/states/NY and is approved to offer online education in 49 states, Washington DC, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands.
AGENCY ADDRESSES Middle States Commission on Higher Education 1007 North Orange Street, 4th Floor, MB #166
Wilmington, DE 19801 Phone: 267.284.5000
The Association for Biblical Higher Education 5850 T G Lee Blvd, Suite 130 Orlando FL 32822 Phone: 407.207.0808
The State Education Department New York State Education Department 89 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY 12234 Phone: 518.474.5108
INFORMATION DIRECTORY
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Maryland Higher Education Commission 6 N. Liberty Street, 10th FL
Baltimore, MD 21201 Phone: 410.767.3305
National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements 3005 Center Green Drive Suite 130 Boulder, Colorado 80301 Phone: 303.848.3764 ACCOMMODATIONS
Any student with a learning disability wishing to receive learning accommodations should report and document their disability and needed accommodations with the Director of Student Support Services, who will arrange the support services needed. See Academic Catalog for policy. HANDICAP ACCOMMODATIONS Davis College and Word of Life Bible Institute will work in conjunction with the appropriate local governmental agencies to ensure that public and residential buildings are in alignment with codes to meet the needs of the disabled. The Executive Dean of Student and Guest Experiences, in conjunction with the Dean of Students, will work to ensure that special accommodation needs are met for each individual. NEW YORK STATE GOVERNMENT TOLL FREE NUMBERS DIRECTORY OF “800” NUMBERS FOR SERVICES PROVIDED BY NYS GOVERNMENT These “800” numbers are inward dialed WATS (Wide Area Telephone Service) lines which permit calls to be made with no charge to the calling party from within a service area selected by the State agency. The following pages list the State agencies and the “800” numbers which provide toll free or free local usage for incoming intrastate calls. Numbers listed serve a statewide location unless otherwise noted.
AGENCY/SERVICE
TELEPHONE NUMBER
Advocate for Persons with Disabilities All Disabilities
1.800.522.4369 1.800.943.2323 1.800.222.5627
Electronic Bulletin Board
Vocational & Educational Services for Individuals with Disabilities Domestic Violence, Office for The Prevention Of Domestic Violence – English
1.800.942.6906 1.800.942.6908
Domestic Violence – Spanish
Health, Department of AIDS Counseling & Testing (Albany) AIDS Counseling & Testing (Syracuse)
1.800.962.5065 1.800.562.9423 1.800.872.2777 1.800.541.2437 1.800.233.7432 1.800.542.2437 1.800.522.5006
AIDS Counseling & Testing Hotline (Non-Business Hours)
AIDS Hotline – General Information (English) AIDS Hotline – General Information (Spanish) AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP)
Growing Up Healthy Hotline
National Suicide Hotline
1.800.273.TALK
INFORMATION DIRECTORY
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STATEMENT OF FAITH The following statement of faith, which must be signed annually by the Board of Trustees, faculty, and staff (non-faculty) of Davis College, shall be the basis of faith and doctrine at the College.
Doctrinal Statement
Section I. The Scriptures – We believe that the original writings 1 of the Holy Scriptures, both the Old and New Testaments in their entirety, are verbally inspired of God and thus inerrant in what they affirm. These Scriptures constitute our only absolute authority in all matters of faith and practice. 2 We believe in the historical, grammatical, and contextual interpretation of the Bible.
Section II. The Godhead – We believe in the Trinity: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit, being one God eternally existent in three persons, equal in every divine perfection. 3
Section III. The Person and Work of Christ – We believe in the deity and humanity of the Lord Jesus Christ, one person possessing two natures, making Him fully God and fully man. 4 In His deity, He is Creator and Sustainer of the universe. In His humanity, He was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, lived a sinless life, died a substitutionary death for sinners, arose bodily from the grave, ascended into heaven, and is now seated at the right hand of the Father. 5 Section IV. The Holy Spirit – We believe that the Holy Spirit is the Third Person of the Godhead, who convicts, regenerates, and indwells every believer in Christ. 6 We believe that the Holy Spirit baptizes and seals all believers in Christ and fills those who are yielded to Him. 7 We affirm that the Holy Spirit gives gifts of service to all believers. 8 Section V. Humanity’s Creation and Fall – We believe that humankind is a special creation of God, made in His image, male and female; that Adam disobeyed his Creator and incurred spiritual death, total corruption, and divine condemnation; and that because of this every person is a sinner by nature and practice, in need of divine salvation. 9 We believe that Adam and Eve were historical figures, not merely literary characters. 10 We affirm a historical Fall. Section VI. Salvation – We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ died and shed His blood to make atonement for the sins of all humanity. On the basis of His substitutionary death and resurrection, all who repent and believe receive God’s gift of eternal life. 11 We believe that salvation is given wholly by grace, so that the believer is eternally secure. 12 We further believe that God’s design for believers is to manifest their salvation by a life that is pleasing to God and set apart unto Him, and that for this purpose every believer is provided positional and progressive sanctification in this life, and ultimate or perfective sanctification in the next. 13
Section VII. The Church – We believe that the universal Church is composed of all who are saved and serves as the
1
That is, in their final canonical form.
2 2 Tim 3:16-17; Ps 119:105. Scriptural affirmations are inerrant when rightly interpreted. Scripturereferences throughout are representative. They are not “proof” texts; instead, they are evidential texts. 3 Rom 1:7; 9:5; 1 Cor 3:16; Matt 28:19; John 10:30. 4 John 1:1, 14; 1 Tim 2:5. 5 Col 1:16; Heb 1:3; Luke 1:34-35; 1 Pet 2:22; 1 John 3:5; Rom 5:8; 1 Pet 3:18; 1 Cor 15:1-4; Eph 1:20-21; 1 Pet 3:22. 6 John 16:8; Titus 3:5; John 14:16-17. 7 1 Cor 12:13; Eph 1:13; Eph 5:18. 8 1 Cor 12:11. 9 Gen 1:26-27; 3:1-6; Rom 5:12-19; 3:9-18 10 Gen 2:7, 21-23. 11 1 John 2:2; Acts 20:21; John 6:47. 12 Eph 2:8-10; John 10:28. 13 Rom 12:1-2; 1 Cor 1:2; 2 Tim 2:21; Eph 5:25-27.
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body and espoused bride of Christ of which He is the Head. We believe that the local church is God’s designated instrument for service in the world. 1 We believe that the universal Church is composed of all who are baptized by the Holy Spirit into one body through saving faith in Jesus Christ. 2 We believe that the local church is an autonomous company of baptized believers that meets regularly to worship God, to observe the ordinances of believer’s baptism and the Lord’s Supper, to edify itself, and to evangelize the world through the preaching and teaching of the Word. 3 We affirm that the proper mode of water baptism is immersion. 4 Section VIII. Christian Life and Service – We believe that the fulfillment of the Great Commission is the responsibility of every believer, that the believer is to seek the salvation of the lost, and that the believer is to disciple new converts and enlist them in the life of the local church. 5 In the accomplishment of the Great Commission, we affirm that believers must be careful to separate themselves from sin, and to seek fellowship and cooperation only with those who believe and practice the biblical Gospel. 6
Section IX. Eschatology – We believe in the personal, physical, and visible return of Christ to the earth at the end of the age. 7 This ultimately results in conscious, everlasting blessedness for the saved, and everlasting punishment for the lost. 8
Section X. Marriage, Gender, and Sexuality – We believe that God created marriage to be exclusively the union of one man and one woman (as determined by anatomy at birth and not subject to change), and that intimate sexual activity is to occur exclusively within that union. 9 We believe that God creates each person as male or female. These two distinct, unchangeable genders together reflect the image and nature of God, and the rejection of one's biological gender is a rejection of the image of God within that person. Section XI. Sanctity of Life – We believe that all human life, being made in God’s image, is sacred. Human life is of inestimable worth in all its dimensions, including preborn babies, the aged, the physically or mentally challenged, and every other stage or condition from conception through natural death. We are therefore called to defend, protect, and value human life. We also believe that an intentional act or omission that facilitates premature death, is assuming a decision that is to be reserved for God. We do not believe that discontinuing medical procedures that are extraordinary or disproportionate to the expected outcome is euthanasia. Section XII. Limits of Doctrine – This Doctrinal Statement does not exhaust the extent of our beliefs. The Bible itself, as the inspired and infallible Word of God that speaks with final authority concerning truth, morality, and proper conduct, is the sole and final source of all we believe. For purposes of Davis College's faith, doctrine, practice, policy, and discipline, our Board of Trustees is the College's final interpretive authority on the Bible's meaning and application.
1 2 3 4 5
1 Cor 12:13, 27; Eph 1:22-23; 2 Cor 11:2; Eph 4:15.
Acts 1:5; Acts 11:15.
Acts 2:41-47; 1 Cor 14:26; Eph 4:1-12; Matt 28:18-20.
John 3:23; Acts 8:38-39; cf. Rom 6:3-4.
Matt 28:20; Acts 1:8.
6 2 Tim 2:21; 2 Cor 6:14-18; 2 Tim 3:1-5; Rom 16:17; 1 Tim 6:3-5. 7 “Personal” insists that the one returning is “this same Jesus” (Acts 1:11). “Physical” means bodily or (yet) incarnate. By “visible” we mean not invisible, as if his coming were merely a spiritual presence or powerful influence. 8 Titus 2:13; 1 Thess 4:13-18; Rev 4:1-18:24; 19:11-15; 20:6; 20:11-15; 21:1; Matt 25:46. 9 Gen 2:24.
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STANDARD OF CONDUCT 1. Davis College is dedicated to the Lordship of Christ in all areas of life. The distinctives of Davis College lay in its philosophy and goals. The Davis College family is a community of a board of directors, administration, faculty, staff, and students (hereafter referred to as “associates”). Each associate consequently bears certain responsibilities and obligations within the organizaion for the implementation of its philosophy and goals. In order that the organization functions efficiently and its goals be realized, it is necessary that there be a mutual commitment to a corpus of standards which involve the willing surrender of certain individual purposes and goals. 2. Davis College follows specific biblical principles, which relate to Christian behavior. Therefore, Davis College prohibits practices, which are clearly forbidden by the Word of God, such as drunkenness, sexual immorality, dishonesty, and the like (I Corinthians 6:9–20). Further, to expect associates to exemplify Christian love, consideration for the rights of others, honesty, and a high sense of Christian ethics is to expect only that which the Word of God teaches to be primary in the character of the Christian (Ephesians 4:24–5:8). 3. Davis College is firmly committed to a literal interpretation of the Bible and rejects any attempt to “reinterpret” Scripture in light of “modern” moral or psychological theories. In the biblical account of creation, the family was the first societal institution ordained by God (Genesis 1:27, 2:18–22). Furthermore, Scripture plainly declares that the first two humans created by God were a man and a woman (Genesis 1:27, 2:18–22). God joined the man and woman in the holy rite of matrimony and commanded them to be fruitful, multiply, and replenish the earth (Genesis 1:28). Therefore, the only legitimate marriage is the joining of one man and one woman (Genesis 2:24, Romans 7:2, I Corinthians 7:10, Ephesians 5:22–23). 4. In both the Old and New Testaments, God has commanded that no intimate sexual activity should take place outside of a marriage between a man and a woman. Accordingly, all forms of homosexuality, lesbianism, bisexuality, bestiality, incest, fornication, adultery, and pornography are sinful perversions of God’s gift of sex (Genesis 2:24, 19:5, 13, 26:8– 9, Leviticus 13:22, 18:1–30, Romans 1:26–29, I Corinthians 5:1, 6:9, I Thessalonians 4:1–8, Hebrews 13:4). Since Davis College believes that all sexual activity outside of a marriage, including homosexual practices, are in direct opposition to God’s Word and constitute a direct contradiction to God’s institution of the home, Davis College will not employ or continue to employ men or women who promote or participate in homosexual behavior or any other sexual activity outside of marriage. 5. Davis College recognizes the principles of Christian liberty within the sphere of those things which are intrinsically innocent. However, Davis College also recognizes that liberty needs to be restricted in certain instances. Scriptural precedent is found in Acts 15 and Romans 14, where certain practices inherently innocent were forbidden because they could do spiritual harm to other members of the Christian community. Verses for reference include: • I Corinthians 6:12 – Lawful, but not expedient (not profitable for our good) • I Corinthians 10:23 – Lawful, but not edifying • I Corinthians 8:9 – Could be a stumbling block • Romans 1:32 – Christians are different, and by living like the world, we approve of it. There should be no pleasure in watching sin. • Ephesians 5:6–7, 11 – Don’t be deceived with vanity and participate in it. Colossians 3:17 – Make sure it pleases the Lord, not the emotions – flesh or self. Hebrews 12:1–2 – Lay aside weights as well as the sin. 6. Certain principles of conduct are a necessary part of the effort to establish an atmosphere within which the goals of Davis College can be realized. For this reason and in an effort to maintain a consistent and abovereproach testimony to youth, Davis College requires associates to refrain from the possession or use of alcoholic beverages, all smoking products, recreational and illicit drugs, from gambling, and from social dancing. Ceremonial dancing at special family events such as weddings and anniversaries is permitted. Biblical discretion and restraint will be exercisedin all choices of entertainment, including radio, television, all forms of audio and visual recordings, movies, stage productions,
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computer and video gaming, various forms of literature and social media (Psalm 101:3, Romans 14:13–17, I Corinthians 9:22–23, I Corinthians 10:31, 2 Corinthians 6:3, Philippians 4:8, Ephesians 5:3–4, I Timothy 4:12, Titus 2:12). Furthermore, it is expected that associates will actively support a local Bible–believing church through service, giving, and allegiance (Hebrews 10:24–25). 7. Davis College rejects the principle that exposure to and/or experimentation with doubtful and objectionable practices is essential to the development of moral or intellectual discernment and/or discrimination. Davis College reserves the right to make the final decision in any questionable area. 8. Davis College recognizes that observance of Davis College standards does not comprise the whole of an individual’s responsibility to God and hence does not necessarily indicate that one is living a life of full commitment. The philosophy of Davis College, however, maintains that willingness to obey these standards shows a maturity and spiritual concern for the whole Christian community (Galatians 5:13–24). 9. Conduct that is an offense to good taste, sound morality, or Christian propriety will not be acceptable. While some may not have personal convictions wholly in accordance with Davis College standards, the purpose underlying them necessitates the honorable obedience to them. If an individual can no longer in integrity conform to them, that person should withdraw from Davis College. Willful disobedience of these standards will bring about dismissal from Davis College immediately. 10. To ensure that the position of Davis College will be maintained in an uncompromising manner and believing that a consistent and exemplary life should be expected of those who undertake the instruction and guidance of Christian youth, it is required that associates shall individually affirm by signing the following at the time of initial association and shall so reaffirm at such time as determined by Davis College.
I agree to uphold and to respect the Standard of Conduct of Davis College.
Name Print: _ ____________________________________________________________________________________________
Signature: _____________________________________________________________________Date _____________________
Adopted 6/3/2024
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NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATION Davis College does not discriminate on the basis of biological sex and prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and its regulations, including in admission and employment. Davis College maintains a religious exemption from certain regulatory provisions of Title IX in any instance where compliance would not be consistent with the religious tenets of Davis College, particularly its position on marriage, sexuality, and the sanctity of human life. This policy is not intended to waive any ministerial exception or any other ministerial or religious exemption from or exception to Title IX, Title VII, or any other any federal, state, or local employment or antidiscrimination laws or regulations. Inquiries about Title IX may be referred to Davis College’s Title IX Coordinator, the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights, or both. Davis College’s Title IX Coordinator is Mr. Drew Burtis. His office address is 4230 Glendale Road, Pottersville, NY 12860. He can also be reached via email at dburtis@davisny.edu.edu or telephone at 518.494.1478. The OCR office for New York is located at: New York Office Office for Civil Rights U.S. Department of Education 26 Federal Plaza, Suite 31-100 New York, NY 10278-9991 Telephone: 646.428.3800 / FAX: 646.428.3843; TDD: 800.877.8339 / Email: OCR.NewYork@ed.gov Davis College’s nondiscrimination policy and grievance procedures can be located at https://davisny.edu/consumer- information/titleix/. To report information about conduct that may constitute sex discrimination or make a complaint of sex discrimination under Title IX, please refer to our Title IX Policy and Procedures document.
NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATION
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TITLE IX
To see our Title IX policies please visit wol.is/davistitleix.
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REPORTING PROCEDURES
I. AUTHORITY AND JURISDICTION Word of Life staff and student security officers patrol the campus throughout the day and night to detect inappropriate activity and respond to incidents and emergencies. Security officers are not law enforcement officers, but are trained and registered as a security guard with the state. Additionally, our plainclothes emergency response team is armed and trained to respond to violent critical incidents. Our security officers work with the state and local law enforcement to respond to criminal events on campus. II. REPORTING Accurate and prompt reporting of all crimes to Campus Security is encouraged through the use of a logbook, which records accidents, theft and incident reports. Appropriate police agencies are involved through the Director of Security. Cases involving more minor offenses such as petty theft, criminal mischief, trespass, disorderly conduct, vandalism, etc... are reported to the local police depending on the nature and seriousness of the offense, and joint investigative efforts are deployed to handle these matters. Regardless of the nature of the offense, individual perpetrators may be arrested and charged in accordance with state and local laws. Infractions involving College rules and regulations are promptly reported to the Office of Student Development for disciplinary actions. III. HOW TO REPORT It is the policy of Davis College to provide immediate assistance to victims of sexual assault. The College encourages you to file a police report, however as a victim, you do have several options, noted below. You can pursue any or all options: • Report Incident to local law enforcement: Law enforcement officers are trained in investigating sexual offenses and supporting victims reporting a sexual offense. With your permission, law enforcement officers have the authority to commence a criminal investigation and prosecution in sexual assault matters. It is standard operating procedure for Davis College and Campus Security to contact law enforcement in all cases of sexual assault, however, you have the option of personally filing a formal report, or not. • Report incident to the College Title IX Officer: Individuals may consider reporting a sexual violence incident to the Davis College Title IX Officer. A Title IX Officer can provide assistance in addressing the incident through consultation, administrative review and/or formal investigation. The Davis College Title IX Officer can be reached by calling 814.503.0038. • Seek counseling and emotional support: Off campus counseling is available free of charge for Davis College students and can care for student’s emotional well-being. Counselors can provide confidential support during a difficult period and afterward. Due to confidentiality, they will not report an incident without your consent, and they will not conduct an investigation. Talking to a counselor in a safe and supportive environment may help you to sort through your feelings and decide what to do. A counselor is available at Sexual Assault Support Services of Warren County, they can be reached at 1.886.307.4086. • Seek assistance from the New York State Police Campus Sexual Assault Victims Unit (CSAVU): The New York State Police have established a dedicated hotline for reporting sexual assaults on college campuses. (1-844-845-7269) This hotline is staffed by New York State Police Sergeants and Communication Specialists working from Troop C-SP Headquarters in Homer, New York. They handle inquiries to the hotline and provide assistance to callers. These same reporting options are available for bystanders. The College strongly encourages bystanders to step up on behalf of another person’s well-being when it is safe to do so. • Seek support from A New Hope Center: The New Hope Center’s mission is to help survivors see their choices, provide a safe non-judgmental environment, and to educate and inspire the community. They can be reached at 1-800-696-7600 or 607-687-6866 or text 607-972-1996.
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IV. WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE A VICTIM OF SEXUAL MISCONDUCT A person who experiences sexual violence will have a number of options for recourse against the accused individual: to make a report on campus, to make a report to law enforcement, to do both or to do neither. First and foremost, the College wants you to get the immediate help you need by following these procedures immediately: • Go to a safe place. Call a friend, a campus advocate, a family member or someone else you trust and ask her or him to be with you. • Go immediately to see medical personnel either at Health Services or a local hospital Emergency Department. An individual considering campus and/or law enforcement options against a Respondent should visit a Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner (SAFE) Nurse (also referred to as a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner) within 96 hours of the incident. • Do not shower, bathe, douche, or brush teeth, and save all clothing worn at the time of the assault. • Place each item of clothing in a separate paper bag. Do not use plastic bags. • Do not disturb anything in the area where the assault occurred. • Talk confidentially with a counselor who is trained to assist victims with the emotional and physical impacts of an assault and/or sexual harassment. See contact information for confidential on- and off-campus resources listed below. • The College encourages victims to contact appropriate authorities as soon as that individual is prepared to make a report of the incident, including: • The Title IX Coordinator at 518.494.1604 or emailing sdever@davisny.edu; • Campus Security by calling 518.494.6200 • Local law enforcement by dialing 911; • New York State Police’s 24/7 hotline staffed by specially-trained responders at 1.844.845.7269 V. PRESERVING EVIDENCE Although it may be difficult following a sexual assault, individuals who are considering or may consider legal action should take certain initial steps in order to preserve the option to pursue any type of criminal charges or campus disciplinary process: • It is important that a victim of sexual assault not bathe, douche, smoke, change clothing or clean the bed/ linen/area where they were assaulted if the offense occurred within the past 96 hours so that evidence may be preserved that may assist in proving that the alleged criminal offense occurred/or is occurring or may be helpful in obtaining a protection order. • In circumstances of sexual assault, if victims do not opt for forensic evidence collection, health care providers can still treat injuries and take steps to address concerns of pregnancy and/or sexually transmitted infections. • Victims of sexual assault, domestic violence, stalking, and dating violence are encouraged to also preserve evidence by saving text messages, instant messages, social networking pages, other communications, and keeping pictures, logs or other copies of documents, if they have any, that would be useful to College adjudicators or law enforcement. • Write down as much as you can remember about the circumstances of the assault, including a description of the assailant. As time passes, evidence may dissipate or become lost or unavailable, thereby making investigation, possible prosecution, disciplinary proceedings, or obtaining protection from abuse orders related to the incident more difficult. If a victim chooses not to make a complaint regarding an incident, he or she nevertheless should consider speaking with Campus Safety or law enforcement to preserve evidence in the event that the victim decides to report the incident to law enforcement or college officials at a later date to assist in proving that the alleged criminal offense occurred or that may be helpful in obtaining a protection order.
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VI. NOTIFICATION TO VICTIMS OF CRIMES OF VIOLENCE The College will, upon written request, disclose to the alleged victim of a crime of violence, or a non-forcible sex offense, the report on the results of any disciplinary proceeding conducted by such institution against a student who is the alleged perpetrator of such crime or offense. If the alleged victim is deceased as the result of such crime or offense, the next of kin of such victim shall be treated as the alleged victim for purposes of this paragraph.
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SERVICES AVAILABLE FOR VICTIMS ON CAMPUS Upon receipt of a report of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault or stalking, Davis College will provide written notification to students and employees about existing assistance and/or information about obtaining resources and services including counseling, health, mental health, victim advocacy, legal assistance, visa and immigration assistance, student financial aid and assistance in notifying appropriate local law enforcement. The recourses include the following: I. HEALTH You can reach the Health Services by calling 518.494.1600. Emergency Medicine: The campus security team responds to medical emergencies, which include severe bleeding, difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness, broken bones, or other severe illness or injury.
For urgent medical care (non-life threatening), please call the emergency line at 518.494.1444.
Non-emergency Medicine: 1. Upstate Concierge Medicine provides Telemedicine access for routine illnesses and injuries. This service provides fast and easy health care access 24/7/365. All students are automatically enrolled as members in this program while they are enrolled at the Bible Institute. With this program, students have access to a physician by phone, with secure messaging and/or video chat. An application may be downloaded from the following locations: a. ‘App Store’ or ‘Google Play’ (UCMnow) for phones b. Website: upstatevipmedicine.com c. Call 844.484.7362
2. Plan Design: a. Students can request a consult with a physician by phone from any location. b. Students can share pictures and/or video with a doctor if necessary. c. The doctor will send prescriptions directly to the pharmacy. d. Students can create a patient portal. e. The doctors will follow up to track the student’s recovery.
Glens Falls Hospital 100 Park Street Glens Falls, NY 12801 Phone: 518.926.1000
Ticonderoga (Moses Ludington) Hospital 1019 Wicker St
Warrensburg Health Center 3767 Main Street Warrensburg, NY 12885 Phone: 518.623.2844
Ticonderoga, NY 12883 Phone: 518.585.2831
1. In addition to the Telemedicine service, students can receive health care at the following locations: 2. Transportation a. In emergency situations, an ambulance will be called to transport students. b. In non-emergency situations, transportation is the responsibility of the student. 5. The pharmacies that are the closest to the Bible Institute are:
Schroon Lake Pharmacy 1081 Main Street Schroon Lake, NY 12870 518.532.7575 M-F 9 AM to 5:30 PM, Sat 9 AM to 1 PM
Walgreens 6272 State Route 9 Chestertown, NY 12817 518.494.3211 M-F 9 AM to 6 PM, Sat 9 AM to 5 PM
II. VISA AND IMMIGRATION ASSISTANCE For international students, the first point of contact will be Principal Designated Official for International Admission (PDSO) available at admissions@davisny.edu or 607.442-4878.
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III. STUDENT FINANCIAL AID The Office of Enrollment Management can offer assistance and information regarding student financial aid. The office can be reached by calling 607.442-4878. SERVICES AVAILABLE FOR ALL DAVIS STUDENTS I. COUNSELING Counselors and Advocates - Members of the College community may contact local resources for confidential support. The Official Website of Warren County (https://www.warrencountyny.gov/da/serv) maintains updated listings of services. Agencies include: • Adirondack Samaritan Counseling Center at 518.747.2994 • Sexual Assault Support Services of Warren County at 1.866.307.4086 II. HEALTH Medical Care - Individuals who have experienced sexual violence should visit the Health Services, a local Emergency Department or the local medical provider of their choice for confidential emergency care, whether or not they have any intention of pursuing an on-campus complaint or complaint with local law enforcement. An individual considering campus and/or law enforcement options against a Respondent (accused individual) should visit a Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner (SAFE) Nurse (also referred to as a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner). SAFE Nurses provide free medical care for victims of sexual assault, and are specially trained in conducting sexual assault exams and collecting and preserving forensic evidence of the assault for possible prosecution of the assailant. Options for seeking medical care include: • Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Project (SANE) at Glens Falls Hospital, 100 Park St, Glens Falls, NY 12801, 518.926.3000 A medical exam conducted by a SAFE Nurse (commonly referred to as a “rape kit”) has two goals: (1) to diagnose and treat the full extent of any injury or physical effect and (2) to properly collect and preserve evidence. The exam may include testing and prophylactic treatment for HIV/AIDS, sexually transmitted infections (“STIs”); a vaginal examination; examining for injuries; and drawing blood. There is a limited window of time (typically 72 to 96 hours) following an incident of sexual assault to preserve physical and other forms of evidence. Gathering such evidence does not commit an individual to pursue legal action against the assailant, but is important for preserving that option. If you suspect that you may have been given a rape drug, inform the hospital or clinic where you receive medical care and/or ask to provide a urine sample. Rape drugs, such as Rohypnol and GHB, are more likely to be detected in urine than in blood. Hospitals are not required to report non-identifying information to the College or anyone else. However, hospitals providing care to individuals reporting sexual assault are required to: • Collect and maintain the chain of custody of sexual assault evidence for not less than 30 days unless the patient signs a statement directing the hospital not to collect it; • Advise the individual seeking medical treatment related to sexual assault of the availability of local rape crisis services or victim assistance organizations to accompany the individual through the sexual offense exam; • Medical services to individuals reporting sexual assault who request such coordination and services; and • Provide emergency contraception upon the patient’s request. Even if an individual who has experienced sexual violence does not have injuries requiring emergency attention, the College encourages that individual to seek medical care as soon as possible.
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Most health care providers will encourage an individual seeking medical treatment related to a sexual assault to authorize collection of evidence. (Note: If the individual has not been seen by medical personnel at the time a report is received, the individual will be immediately advised to do so. The College will provide transportation, if needed.) Be aware that medical office and insurance billing practices may reveal information to the insurance policyholder, including medication and/or examinations paid for or administered. The New York State Office of Victim Services may be able to assist in compensating victims for health care and counseling services, including emergency compensation. More information may be found at: http://www.ovs.ny.gov/files/ovs_ rights_of_cv_booklet.pdf, or by calling 1-800-247-8035. Options are explained here: http://www.ovs.ny.gov/ helpforcrimevictims.html.
Please note that even individuals who can typically maintain confidentiality are subject to exceptions under the law, including when an individual is a threat to him or herself or others and the mandatory reporting of child abuse.
III. VICTIM ADVOCACY The following agencies also provide assistance to individuals who pursue criminal complaints: • The following agencies also provide assistance to individuals who pursue criminal complaints • United States Attorney’s Office Northern District of NY Victim Witness Unit 518.431.0247
To learn more about these programs, visit the website for the New York State Office of Victim Services (http:// www.ovs.ny.gov/), which funds local victim assistance programs.
IV. LEGAL ASSISTANCE The Legal Aid Society of Northeastern New York: 833.628.0087 (https://www.lasnny.org/location/albany-office/)
V. VISA AND IMMIGRATION ASSISTANCE Contact the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration Customs Enforcement, Student and Exchange Visitor Program, 500 12th Street, SW Stop 5600, Washington, D.C. 20536-5600 or call the SEVP Response Center at 703.603.3400. VI. STUDENT FINANCIAL AID For information regarding financial aid, contact the Office of Postsecondary Access, Support and Success, New York State Education Department, Room 505W, Education Building, Albany, NY 12234 or by calling 518.474.3719.
Other resources available to persons who report being the victim of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking, include:
http://www.rainn.org – Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network http://www.ovw.usdoj.gov/sexassault.htm - Department of Justice http://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/index.html – Department of Education, Office of Civil Rights
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SECTION ONE STUDENT LIFE
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STUDENT LIFE
I. STUDENT LIFE PURPOSE AND STRUCTURE The mission of Student Life is to help students cultivate healthy relationships with Christ and others through providing leadership, a discipleship atmosphere, and development in spiritual disciplines. A. Objectives The specific objectives of the Student Life Department are to help every student to: 1. Develop and incorporate spiritual disciplines into daily life with the goal of long-term spiritual success.
2. Learn and apply biblical principles of leadership within various contexts. 3. Learn and apply principles of discipleship within various contexts.
B. Structure The Dean of Students, under the authority of the Executive Dean, leads the Student Life Department including the Dean of Men and Dean of Women. They minister together, overseeing all aspects of campus life including housing, spiritual, and social activities or events, counseling, discipleship, and discipline.
The International Student Coordinator – Mrs. Gaby Hackett, DSO
Off Campus Student Coordinator – Mr. Drew Burtis
Resident Directors are selected to assist the Deans in the management of Student Life programs and the training, oversight, and discipleship of the Resident Assistants. Each Resident Director reports directly to a Student Life Dean. Student Care Coordinators are selected to assist the Resident Directors in the supervision of students and fellow Resident Assistants, in their specific dorm section in keeping with Student Life Philosophy and Guiding Principles. Each Student Care Coordinator reports directly to a Resident Director. Student Leadership is comprised of students selected by the faculty and staff who have demonstrated leadership potential and personal responsibility. They serve to facilitate and maintain the standards of the Bible Institute as set forth in this Handbook. Dorm Resident Assistants assist with the oversight of dorm life, and the Service Resident Assistants assist with oversight in various service areas. DRA/SRAs exercise vital leadership roles in the dorms, in service areas, in the classroom, and on ministry teams. They also serve to encourage students in their walk with the Lord. II. STUDENT LIFE GUIDING PRINCIPLES The Christian life is a walk of faith. Without faith, it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6). Unbelief turns us away from the Lord, hardens the heart, and neutralizes the benefits of hearing the Word of God (Hebrews 3:12-4:2), whereas faith energizes the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Therefore, we want to help students learn to walk by faith and not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7). As we seek to encourage this, it is our desire that the following biblical principles guide our approach. A. The Sufficiency of Christ Through His Word (Colossians 2; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:1-4) Sanctification is the process by which believers change to become more like Jesus Christ. Salvation and sanctification are both of the Lord, unmerited favors that we access by faith. As we trust and obey God’s Word, the Holy Spirit transforms us through the renewing of our minds (Romans 12:2). Scripture alone can accurately evaluate every situation and provide effective guidance for authentic life change. When external checklists,
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