Dear Buffalo State Students:
As we welcome the start of the 2010-2011 academic year, we want to take a few minutes to make sure all of our students are aware of resources available and aware of our expectations for student conduct, both on- and off-campus, whenever you live, visit, or do business in the local community.
At Buffalo State we have set aside the time between 12:00–1:30 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday as the time for students to become involved in the college’s more than 80 registered student clubs and organizations. We call this time Bengal Pause and it aims to respond to the special needs of commuter students. By getting involved with campus life—by attending student theater performances, athletic events, concerts, and lectures—you will become more engaged on campus. And we know from experience that students who are actively engaged with their faculty and their peers are among the most successful at college.
You can learn more about the resources provided for you at the office of Student Life Office Web site, or by contacting Richard Harris at (716) 878-4631.
We also want to make sure all of our students represent the college and its reputation with behavior appropriate to the neighborhood communities in which they live or visit. Whether students live on- or off-campus, when you venture into the community to visit friends, attend a party, go shopping, see a movie, or patronize local businesses, we want you to remember that your actions are viewed by the community as representative of Buffalo State students in general.
You should know that Buffalo State’s Code of Student Rights, Freedoms and Responsibilities—the code of student conduct—applies to behavior both on- and off-campus.Students will be held responsible for their conduct and risk penalties, including dismissal from the college, depending on the violations that occur. If you host a party, you are liable under New York State’s social host liability law and can be civilly or criminally prosecuted, as well as, charged under the college’s code of conduct, if someone is harmed as a result. Similarly, if a student club, group or organization engages in hazing, the officers and members of that group are liable under NYS anti-hazing laws and the college’s code of conduct. These laws are vigorously enforced.
As a member of the Buffalo State family, you have a responsibility to be a positive influence. If you live in a local neighborhood, here are some ways you can help keep your neighborhood enjoyable and safe for all:
Get to know your neighbors—they can be a great help to you.
Be considerate: keep noise down, especially late at night.
Socialize responsibly. Drive only when completely sober. Know your limits and stay within them.
Keep your yard clean. Take out garbage weekly and use recycling bins.
Pick up litter—even if it's not yours.
Report any crime by calling 911 (Buffalo Police) or the D District Station at 851-4413.
Do not travel alone, especially at night.
Lock doors and windows. Leave an outside light on.
We encourage you to become engaged on campus and to behave as a positive member of the surrounding community. Be mindful of your residential neighbors and be sure that your actions are appropriate to the “good neighbor” goals we have for all of our students.
Thank you for helping all of our students to have a safe and successful 2010-2011 academic year.
Hal D. Payne
Vice President, Student Affairs
Buffalo State College
September 2010
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