Resident Resources

• New Incoming and Transfer students can complete their housing application throughout the summer.
• Continuing students can complete their housing application during the Spring Semester. Students wanting priority room selection must complete each phase of the housing application by the deadlines communicated to them. Continuing students can select their roommate(s) and select their room.
• Students who have matched with roommates will be assigned a room and notified via Western email.
• Room selection is based on credits earned and spaces available in each residence hall.
• All students will then be able to select a meal plan (meal plan requirements are based on where students will be living).

A campus-wide housing freeze is in effect for the first two weeks and during the spring housing selection period in November and December. If you want to switch to another room for a non-interpersonal reason, please get in touch with your Resident Assistant or Resident Director. If you would like to switch to another room because of an issue with your roommate, you must go through Residence Life’s mediation process before this becomes an option. Speak with your Resident Assistant for more details. Switching rooms for a non-emergency will result in a processing fee.

Student-athletes may self-identify in the roommate matching portion of the housing application. Residence Life does not provide any other particular roommate matching services for student-athletes. Your coach may keep a list of teammates and other student-athletes who are looking for roommates.

Residence Life strives to provide accessible housing for students with disabilities. If a student needs specific housing accommodations because of a disability, they should contact the Center for Disability & Accommodations for assistance. Alternatively, they may initiate an online housing accommodation request by visiting www.western.edu/ds. Housing accommodations because of a disability will not be approved without supporting documentation, and final approval is at the discretion of the Director of the Center for Disability & Accommodations.

Disorderly conduct is defined as individual or group behavior that substantially disturbs others. Such conduct includes, but is not limited to, unwelcome physical conduct and boisterous or threatening behavior that is unwanted and unreasonable for the time, place, or manner in which it occurs.

Developing a positive relationship with roommates is crucial for maintaining a conducive campus living environment. Students are strongly encouraged to adhere to the roommate agreement, and policies are in place to ensure compliance. Western encourages students to use the housing portal's roommate matching software to find like-minded roommates. Upon arrival, it is recommended to use the online roommate agreement to discuss and set expectations regarding alarm settings, bedtime, sleeping habits, study patterns, and preferences on food and visitors. Other things to consider include the following:

• Divide all cleaning responsibilities.
• Set a regular cleaning schedule and post it in a shared area.
• Find out how your roommate feels about lending things to others.
• Discuss how to handle visitors. For example, if one roommate prefers to stay up late and socialize, a compromise may be necessary.

Respect your roommate as an individual, and do not expect them to satisfy emotional or social needs. Be open to making other friends.

Address concerns directly with your roommate, emphasizing courtesy, thoughtfulness, and consideration for their basic rights, such as:

• The right to live in a clean room and building.
• The right to have respect for personal belongings.
• The right to read and study without undue interference.
• The right to sleep without undue disturbance from noise, guests, etc.
• The right to free access to one’s assigned room and facilities.
• The right to personal privacy.
• The right to be free from fear, intimidation, or physical or emotional harm.
• The right to reasonable cooperation in the use of room amenities.

If issues with a roommate persist after discussion, residents should contact their Resident Assistant for support. The Resident Assistant can offer guidance and professional assistance in resolving challenges. If necessary, involving the Resident Director to facilitate discussions between roommates is the next step. Violations of the roommate agreement, in accordance with student handbook policies, may lead to disciplinary action through the conduct process.

Residents are placed together as part of an educational experience and are expected to make a good faith effort to resolve conflicts with roommates and hall residents. Students experiencing roommate conflict should contact their Resident Advisor (RA), who will facilitate a conflict resolution meeting between the involved parties. If unresolved, the Resident Director (RD) will become involved and determine whether further action is needed.

Completion of the conflict resolution process is required prior to any room change being approved. Unauthorized room changes may result in sanctions as determined by the Department of Residence Life.

Residents must notify roommates and suitemates in advance before hosting any guest. Guests may stay for no more than 72 hours within any two-week period. Host residents are responsible for their guests at all times and may not share room keys with guests.

An emergency evacuation map is provided in every residence hall room and apartment and can be found on the wall near the entry door. This map is the property of the University and must remain in the assigned location in the room or apartment. Removal or damage to the emergency evacuation map may result in disciplinary action and additional charges assessed to the student’s account. If there isn’t an evacuation map in the room or apartment, it is the student’s responsibility to report this finding to either an RA or an RD to get a replacement.

Fire restrictions on campus property or Western-controlled state property include, but are not limited to:

• Anything that produces open flames or coils or has the potential to create an uncontrolled fire;
• Any fire to burn trash, debris, fence rows, or vegetation;
• Any campfire or warming fire;
• Any temporary or permanent fire pit or fire grate;
• Any open fire;
• Fires in outdoor wood-burning stoves; and
• The use of any fireworks.

If any local, state, or federal agency declares a burn ban or fire restriction, then all fires, stoves, grills, outdoor cigarette smoking, and similar activities will be banned to conform to those regulations. Please consult the Gunnison County government website to ensure that a fire ban will not be violated.

Persons activating false fire alarms, tampering with or removing firefighting equipment, or interfering with firefighters are subject to prosecution under Colorado statutes, as well as disciplinary action by the University.

Should the fire alarm in your residence hall be activated, every resident is required to evacuate the building immediately using the nearest stairwell or exit. Do not use elevators. Please review all emergency evacuation plans posted throughout the buildings.

In case of an emergency, residence halls will evacuate to the following locations:

• Mears Complex evacuates to the skate park.
• Ute Hall evacuates to Taylor lawn.
• Chipeta Hall evacuates to the grassy area north of Chipeta Hall.
• Pinnacles Hall:
  • East-West wing evacuates to the skate park.
  • North-South wing evacuates to the RTA bus stop lawn.
• Escalante Complex:
  • Colorado and Dolores evacuate to the University Center parking lot.
  • Crystal and Tomichi evacuate to the Kelley parking lot.

Failure to evacuate a residence hall during a fire alarm or to comply with a reasonable request of a fire official or campus staff member will result in an automatic fine of $300 for the first offense and $600 for subsequent offenses.

During regular business hours, if a student has a maintenance request or other concerns regarding the physical upkeep of their room (plumbing problems, broken heater, etc.), they will need to contact Residence Life or their respective  RD to  submit a work request. If a serious maintenance concern arises after 5:00 p.m. or on weekends, the student should contact their on-call RA (Resident Assistant).

A Department of Residence Life staff member is always on duty. If you have a security, maintenance, or other concern from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, please call the Office of Residence Life. After 5:00 p.m. and on weekends, there is a Resident Assistant on-call in each residence hall. Contact information is posted in all residence halls and at all building entryways.

The Department of Campus Safety maintains order and enforces University rules and regulations. The office's responsibilities include patrolling the campus, enforcing parking and traffic regulations, investigating accidents and reported incidents, and providing security for the University’s campus, people, and events. The Campus Safety office is in University Center 102E and may be reached via phone at 970.943.3084 (office) or 970.209.1020 (mobile). In the event of an emergency, call 911

Western is not liable for the loss, damage, or theft of properties belonging to the student. Furthermore, Western shall not be liable for any claims related to injuries to any person or persons, or damage to property that arises from the use and occupancy of on-campus housing. The student agrees to hold Western harmless from all liabilities arising from any such injuries, claims, suits, or losses. The student is responsible for obtaining insurance coverage for their personal property. Western encourages students to keep their doors locked and exterior doors closed. Staff will remove items that prop doors to maintain a safe and secure campus. Additionally, Western encourages students to purchase personal property insurance to cover any loss of personal property.

Many homeowners’ insurance policies cover students’ belongings while they are away at college. It is strongly recommended that students check with their insurance agent to verify that coverage exists for personal belongings while living on campus. Western Colorado University is NOT responsible for personal property that is lost, stolen, or damaged in any Residence Life facility.

Designated quiet hours are Sunday through Thursday 10:00 p.m.–8:00 a.m.; Friday & Saturday 12:00 a.m. (midnight) to 8:00 a.m. During quiet hours, students may not make excessive noise that disturbs others. Noise violations during quiet hours can lead to student conduct and sanctions. Courtesy hours are 24/7 and all students should be mindful of noise levels both within and outside of designated quite hours.

Residence Life staff conduct monthly health and safety inspections in all residence life facilities to help maintain a safe, healthy, and supportive living environment for all residents. These inspections are intended to promote student wellbeing, identify potential safety concerns, ensure facilities are functioning appropriately, and verify compliance with University policies. Advance notice will be provided prior to conducting health and safety inspections.

Washers and dryers are provided in every residence hall. If the machines fail to function properly, please contact your Resident Assistant or Resident Director. Do not overload the machines. High efficiency detergent is recommended.

Residents requiring aid by a service or assistance animal must be registered at the Center for Disability & Accommodations. Residents receiving this accommodation must comply with the terms and conditions of the University Service Animal and Emotional Support Animal Policy.

The Mountaineer Marketplace, Western’s on campus food pantry, is available for all Western community members to access. The Mountaineer Marketplace is located in the Pinnacles Apartments on the first floor, adjacent to the Pinnacles firepit. Entering through the South door near the fire pit, the Marketplace is open multiple hours a week and partners closely with the Gunnison Country Food Pantry to provide college-friendly food and snacks. Please report all questions to holly.hunter@western.eduif you have any or need support.

Safe Ride of Gunnison encourages the responsible use of alcohol and safer roads by providing non-judgmental “No Questions Asked” rides and promoting alcohol education and awareness programs to the Gunnison community. Safe Ride is dedicated to improving the safety of Western students and the Gunnison community.

Hours: Wednesday, Friday and Saturday nights: 8 p.m. to 2:30 a.m.

For the safety and security of all residence halls, building doors are locked 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It is recommended that all residents lock their room doors and windows when leaving their room at any time and always carry their keys and ID cards to ensure access. Additionally, residents are strongly encouraged to lock windows and doors at night while sleeping to prevent unauthorized entry during overnight hours.

Do not remove window screens from any windows. Residents should never open doors for strangers or leave any exterior door propped open. Students found propping open doors or breaching hall security, including sharing keys, access cards, or tampering with door-closing or locking mechanisms, will be subject to the conduct process. Entering or exiting through windows is prohibited. Residents and guests are to enter and exit only through designated entrances and exits.

Building Access

• Do not prop or otherwise obstruct the normal operation of any security door in the residence halls. This includes exterior doors and doors on your residence hall floor or throughout your hall.
• Students are also prohibited from accessing the residence halls prior to the official published date for Hall Opening, after the date for Hall Closing, or during break periods (Fall, Winter, and Spring) without specific authorization.

Building Safety

• Under no circumstances are students to sit on windowsills, climb out of windows, or be on exterior window ledges. Students are also prohibited from climbing on residence hall buildings, ledges, or roofs.
• Students are prohibited from throwing any objects out of room windows or from windows in any public area or lounge in the building.
• Students are prohibited from removing window screens, whether in a residence hall room or a public area. Removal of the window screen is a safety violation, and a charge will be assessed for its replacement. Disciplinary action may also be taken. Report any lost, damaged, or stolen screens immediately to your hall’s community desk, Resident Assistant, Residence Director, or Assistant Residence Director.
• When removing your personal room trash and recycling, please use the receptacles located outside your residence hall. Please do not place personal trash or recycling in stairwells, bathrooms, or public trash cans within your hall.
• Residents must comply with all federal, state, and local laws; University rules and regulations; and all safety and security procedures in University buildings. Residents must not tamper with locked doors or admit unauthorized or unknown persons into buildings.

Keys issued to residents by University Housing may not be duplicated or given to unassigned persons (friends, family members, others). All keys must be returned at the time of official check-out. If a resident does not return keys or turns in keys that do not match the keys that were issued upon check-in, it will result in a lock change that will be billed back to the resident’s account.

Lockouts will be an immediate $100 fine that will be added to the students’ account. If you lose your key, you should report this to University Housing immediately, to have the lock changed for your own safety and security, fees may be assessed.

• Unauthorized use, entry, or occupation of another person’s property or of University facilities, property, or vehicles is prohibited.
• Any unauthorized possession, duplication, or use of University keys or access devices including swipe access cards is prohibited.
• Unauthorized removal or misuse of any University document, record, data, nonpublic information, identification, educational materials, or property (including forgery or alteration is prohibited.

Personal belongings are not to be left in shared bathrooms, kitchens, studies, lounges, hallways, stairwells, or any other public areas due to health and safety concerns. Any personal items found in these areas will be removed. The university is not responsible for items left in public or shared areas.

Rowdy activity, wrestling, running, excessive noise, outdoor games and use of mobile recreational devices are not permitted in hallways or public areas due to disturbance and safety of other residents. Any items used during horseplay may be confiscated.

The use of computer labs, activity rooms, and on-campus laundry facilities is restricted to those residents of the specific community. Non-residents are prohibited from using these facilities. Any student found responsible for abusing/tampering with University property will face conduct sanctions and fines.

Wireless internet is provided in each residence hall room and apartment. Cable splitters, hubs, routers, or other devices that are not provided by the university and alter wireless service or the campus network are prohibited. In addition, residents are required to use surge protectors when operating personal computers in their room. Residents must abide by the University Technology Usage Policies as governed by IT Services.

Audio or video recording in any space where a student enjoys a reasonable expectations of privacy is strictly prohibited unless all persons present provide written consent to be recorded via audio and/or video devices. Areas where a student has a reasonable expectation of privacy include dorm rooms, bathrooms, and any area of transport between a private living space and community bathroom facilities.

Room Condition Contract

All residents must complete and sign the electronic Room Condition Contract (RCC) before receiving a room key, confirming the room's condition and any existing damage prior to move-in. Failure to complete the RCC will result in the resident accepting the room's condition as documented by Residence Life staff. The RCC serves as the baseline record against which the room will be assessed at checkout.

Damage Costs

Residents are financially responsible for any damage to their assigned room or public areas of Residence Life facilities beyond normal wear and tear, whether caused by accident, neglect, or intent. When two residents share a room and responsibility for damage cannot be determined, costs will be divided equally between the residents. Charges will be posted to the student's account within 30 days of checkout.

When damage occurs in a public area, all residents of the affected floor, wing, or building may be held equally liable for repair costs, depending on where the damage occurred and whether it can be attributed to a specific area. If responsibility cannot be determined, the cost will be divided equally among all residents of the building and billed as a community charge.

Residents who intentionally cause damage or commit vandalism will be subject to the student conduct process, which may include fines and removal from University housing at the discretion of the Dean of Students.

Damage Appeals

Residents may appeal damage charges in writing to Residence Life within 30 days of notification. Appeals must include the student's full name, Western student ID number, date and amount of the charge, and a description of what is being appealed along with any supporting rationale or evidence. Nonpayment of damage charges, lost key fees, or service fees may result in a hold on academic records and/or academic awards.

Should you choose to host an event in your room where an alcohol, drug, or controlled substance violation occurs, you will be held to a higher level of accountability.

Food fights pose a genuine risk of injury — thrown objects, broken dishware, and slippery surfaces can cause serious harm to students and staff. Students who participate in food fights will face conduct proceedings.

Because of the damage to Western property and the potential for serious physical injury, building snow ramps or using handrails, stairs, etc. will not be tolerated.

All students residing in University housing should be considerate of their personal hygiene and how it affects campus facilities and others who share assigned living spaces, including residence hall rooms, suites, apartments, and floors, by following the recommended guidelines listed below:

• Shower, brush teeth, and attend to personal hygiene and grooming practices daily, and clean up after personal grooming activities.
• Launder dirty clothes weekly; wash and change bed sheets and linens monthly.
• Wear clean clothes and avoid reusing dirty and/or sweaty clothes.
• Wash hands thoroughly multiple times a day, especially after using the restroom and before meals; use hand sanitizer when soap and water are not readily available.
• Use deodorant and antiperspirant daily to manage body odor.
• Be mindful of fragrances and cologne to avoid overwhelming scents in shared spaces.
• Practice proper feminine hygiene practices by regularly changing products and disposing of feminine hygiene products in the trash, not the toilet.
• Keep personal hygiene products organized within your personal designated space and not in shared areas, including communal bathrooms.
• Dispose of used personal hygiene products, including tampons or pads, in the trash.
• Avoid clutter and maintain a tidy and organized personal space.
• Remove trash weekly by disposing of it in a dumpster.
• Sweep and/or vacuum your room weekly.
• Wash and put away dishes daily and avoid leaving them overnight to prevent clutter and odors.
• Wipe countertops, desks, and other surfaces with a disinfectant wipe daily.
• Promptly clean spills to prevent stains; keep an emergency cleanup kit for quick and easy handling of unexpected spills.
• Clean your refrigerator monthly and dispose of any expired food.
• Maintain a functional and tidy space by adopting a "clean as you go" approach. Immediately address shared areas after use and promptly store items to prevent clutter accumulation.
• Schedule regular deep cleans monthly to clean hard-to-reach areas.

Bring the following cleaning items with you and plan to restock them regularly:

• All-purpose cleaner, dish towels, and disinfectant wipes
• Trash bags and trash cans
• Laundry detergent and dryer sheets
• Broom, vacuum, and mop with a mop bucket

Adhering to these personal hygiene and cleanliness requirements ensures a clean and comfortable living environment for all students in university housing. All rooms are inspected by Residence Life each month to ensure compliance with this policy. Failure to keep a clean and organized room may result in conduct sanctions. Severe and repeated offenses may result in additional fines and charges applied to the student’s account. Vacant spaces must be kept move-in ready.

No room changes will be considered until two weeks after the start of the semester. Residents will be charged a $100 processing fee for approved room changes. Unauthorized room changes or bed swaps are not permitted. Students who have an unauthorized room change or bed swap will have a $100 fine and will be required to return to their original housing assignment.

Students may not bring any prohibited items into any residence hall. Prohibited items will be confiscated, and any student found in possession of such items will be subject to student conduct action and fines. The confiscated items may be destroyed or may be returned to the student when the student graduates or otherwise fully departs from Western Colorado University, at the discretion of the Assistant Dean of Students for Campus Safety.

The list of prohibited items includes, but is not limited to:

• Firearms, including but not limited to pellet guns, airsoft guns, BB guns, gel guns, and any toy guns that resemble a real gun, including prop guns.
• Please also refer to Section 3.4 of the Trustee Policy Manual, Policy Prohibiting Violence and Weapons.
• Other weapons, including brass knuckles, machetes, swords, and other martial arts equipment, knives exceeding 3.5 inches, except for kitchen knives used for the purpose of food preparation in residential areas with access to cooking facilities.
• Illegal drugs and drug paraphernalia, including medical marijuana.
• Alcohol for any student under the age of 21.
• Candles, incense, grills, hot plates, space heaters, air conditioners, halogen lamps, and other devices with open heating coils and/or that produce an open flame.
• Hoverboards, electric bikes, electric scooters, and other electrified personal transportation devices.
• Extension cords and outlet multipliers without surge protectors.
• Fireworks, incendiary devices, combustible materials, and other explosives.
• Any items suspended or hung from the ceiling.

Students are expected to adhere to these guidelines to ensure a safe and conducive living environment in university residence halls. For a complete list of prohibited items, please refer to the glossary in the Student Handbook.

Extension and outlet multiplier cords are prohibited due to power outages. Residence hall occupants must utilize power strips. Electrical outlets may not be overloaded, and residents may not plug power strips into other power strips.

Personally constructed loft/bunk equipment or structures are not allowed in the residence halls. Beds may not be stacked on other furniture items. Beds may be raised up to an additional 8” using commonly available plastic or resin bed risers. University-provided beds are height-adjustable without the use of additional hardware.

Due to the potential for pest infestations from upholstered furniture (new or used) brought into Residence Halls from outside, upholstered furniture (including but not limited to couches and armchairs) is not permitted in residence hall rooms. If you are found with such an item, a warning will be issued to remove it within twenty-four (24) hours. If not removed, a fine of up to $150 will be assessed. If an infestation occurs as a result of bringing in upholstered furniture, you may be assessed additional charges for pest mitigation.

The following are approved furniture items:

• Desk chairs that do not have any fabric or upholstery
• Inflatable air mattresses
• Inflatable couches without fuzzy fabric on the outside
• Bean bag chairs without fabric covers
• Memory foam
• Lamps (only non-halogen bulbs)
• Media stands, bookcases, and nightstands in which the total dimensions of each piece do not exceed 80 inches. Total inches can be calculated by adding the longest width, the longest height, and the longest depth together when fully extended (such as legs or sides)

Students may not clean or process any wild game or livestock carcasses anywhere on campus for human consumption or mounting. Doing so poses health and sanitation risks for the campus community. Residents caught processing wild game or livestock anywhere on campus, including their assigned room, will be subject to a $150 fine, an hourly cleaning fee, and additional sanctions under the student conduct process. Animal carcasses will be confiscated and destroyed. Fines will double on subsequent violations.

Western’s Professional staff will not enter any student’s room unless accompanied by the student. However, authorized personnel may enter a student’s room without the student’s consent or prior notification to:

• Address a concern for life, safety, or health
• Address a violation of state law and/or University policy, in the event of which University staff may perform a search of the resident’s room and/or possessions
• Perform requested or preventative or necessary maintenance
• Respond to a cry for help, the smell of smoke, or when visible water is coming from an apartment or residence hall room
• Silence a disruptive noise
• Perform routine health and safety inspections, with 24-hour notice (or more) from Residence Life staff
• Perform building evacuations during a fire alarm or planned evacuation

Solicitation is prohibited including any multi-level marketing, direct sales, work from home schemes, and door-to-door religious solicitation.

• Knowingly furnishing false information to any University official, instructor, office, or organization, or on any applications.
• Intentionally initiating or causing to be initiated any false report
• Use or possession of false identification

Students are not permitted to have pets in university buildings. The only exception is nonpoisonous underwater fish confined to a 10-gallon tank or smaller in the student’s assigned room. Students found with an unauthorized animal will be subject to student conduct action and a $300 fine. Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) and Service Animals are permitted only with approval from the Center for Disability & Accommodation. Failure to comply with the ESA and Service Animal policy will result in the animal’s removal and additional fines and charges. Please refer to the Emotional Support Animal and Service Animal Policy for further information.

Residence Life, without liability, reserves the right to dispose of any personal property left on the premises five (5) days after the student either 1) checks out of University housing, 2) is removed from University housing, or 3) is otherwise confirmed to have abandoned residence in University housing, and all reasonable efforts have been made to contact the student for pickup. Students will be charged a fee of $200 for the removal and disposal of abandoned property plus an hourly rate ($100 per hour) for the work needed to remove the belongings.

Personal property left in communal spaces in Residence Halls will be removed and placed in the building’s lost and found in the RA/RD Office. Items not claimed by the end of any given term will be donated or disposed.

A resident who aids or abets in violating any policy may be deemed as responsible as the person accountable and may be subject to the same sanctions. Residents who anticipate or observe a violation of the Student Handbook are expected to remove themselves from association or participation and are encouraged to report the violation.

In order for the Medical Amnesty & Good Samaritan Policy to apply, students must do the following:

• Contact 911 and report another person is in need of medical assistance due to alcohol/drug consumption;
• The person who called 911 provided their name to the 911 operator;
• And the person remains on the scene with the person in need of medical assistance until assistance has arrived and cooperates with medical and law enforcement personnel.

While no formal conduct process with sanctions will be followed, the students may be required to meet with Student Affairs Staff to discuss safety and well-being.

Colorado law, C.R.S. § 23-5-149, requires Western to acquire and stock a supply of epinephrine auto-injectors for emergency treatment of anaphylaxis. Under the law, any person is allowed to retrieve and use an epinephrine auto-injector located on Western’s campus. Further, a person who acts reasonably and in good faith to furnish or administer an epinephrine auto-injector, including an expired epinephrine auto-injector, to an individual the person reasonably believes to be experiencing anaphylaxis may assert immunity as set forth in C.R.S. § 24-47-107.

When an epinephrine auto-injector is used to treat anaphylaxis, individuals are also encouraged to make a 911 emergency call. If a campus epinephrine auto-injector is used, please notify Campus Security so that a replacement can be stocked.

The epinephrine auto-injectors will be generally stored near the Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs) and will be publicly accessible in the following locations on campus.

• Mears Hall: main lobby.
• Escalante Terrace: next to the Resident Director’s office.
• Ute Hall: inside the main entry near the Resident Assistant’s office.
• Chipeta Hall: inside the east entrance.
• Pinnacles Hall: inside the north entrance near the Resident Director's office.
• University Center: to the right of the reception desk.
• Mountaineer Field House: indoor track, on the west wall in the center of the field house.

Purpose and Scope:

This policy outlines guidelines for the proper use and handling of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), Narcan, and Epinephrine Auto-injectors on campus at Western Colorado University aiming to ensure the safety and effective utilization of these medical devices. This policy applies to all faculty, staff, students, and visitors who may come into contact with AEDs, Narcan, and Epinephrine Auto-injectors on campus.

Prohibited Actions:

The following actions are strictly prohibited:

• Malicious Use: Any deliberate misuse, tampering, or damage to AEDs, Narcan, or Epinephrine Auto-injectors is strictly prohibited and may result in disciplinary action.
• Unauthorized Removal: AEDs, Narcan, and Epinephrine Auto-injectors are installed at designated locations for emergency use only. Unauthorized removal or relocation of these devices is prohibited.
• Non-Emergency Use: AEDs, Narcan, and Epinephrine Auto-injectors should only be used in genuine emergency situations as intended. Using these devices for non- emergency purposes is prohibited.
• Improper Disposal: Proper disposal procedures must be followed for used or expired Narcan and Epinephrine Auto-injectors. Discarding these items inappropriately poses safety and environmental risks.

Responsibilities:

• Device Maintenance: AEDs, Narcan, and Epinephrine Auto-injectors will be regularly inspected, tested, and maintained by authorized personnel to ensure operational readiness.
• Emergency Reporting: Any misuse, damage, or malfunction of AEDs, Narcan, or Epinephrine Auto-injectors must be reported immediately to the Office of Student Affairs.
• Awareness Campaigns: Western Colorado University will conduct awareness campaigns to educate the campus community about the proper use and importance of AEDs, Narcan, and Epinephrine Auto-injectors.
• Consequences for Violations:

Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary action, including but not limited to:

• Formal warnings
• Loss of privileges
• Fines or restitution for damages
• Referral to appropriate authorities for further action if deemed necessary

Compliance:

All members of Western Colorado University are expected to comply with this policy and assist in maintaining a safe and secure environment for emergency medical interventions. This policy will be periodically reviewed and updated by the Student Affairs Office to ensure relevance and effectiveness.

The following policies concern alcohol and other drugs (AOD). Based on the severity of the infraction, Western reserves the right to impose appropriate conduct outcomes. Violations of this policy will be considered cumulatively when conduct administrators determine outcomes. This policy applies to students in both on-campus and off-campus housing, and Western reserves the right to investigate and apply the student conduct process to on- and off-campus situations that may affect the Western community.

Alcohol Use

At Western, our policies on alcohol use aim to support positive decision-making while prioritizing the safety of our community:

• Intoxication and Unacceptable Behavior: Intoxication is not an excuse for unacceptable behavior or conduct. All alcohol, paraphernalia, and substances will be confiscated or given to local law enforcement officials.
• Alcohol Possession and Consumption in Residence Halls: Only individuals aged 21 or older may possess and consume alcohol, and only in private student rooms with doors closed and no minors present. Empty alcohol containers are not allowed in rooms or on Western property for individuals under 21. It is prohibited for any person of legal drinking age to purchase or provide alcohol to anyone under the age of 21.
• Prohibited Alcohol Paraphernalia: Items promoting irresponsible drinking (e.g., beer bongs, keg taps) are prohibited unless explicitly approved by the Office of Student Affairs.
• Knowing Presence: Students are responsible if they know or should know of illicit substance use in any Western area, including social media evidence.
• Intoxication and Bulk Alcohol: Visible intoxication is not allowed on Western property. Bulk alcohol, exceeding individual consumption limits, is prohibited. All students involved will be held responsible.
• Transport and Costs: Medical transport due to excessive alcohol consumption may result in parental notification. Students are responsible for associated costs.
• Alcohol in Non-Residential Areas: Possession, consumption, or distribution of alcohol is prohibited on University grounds and in non-residential buildings, except in designated and approved locations.
• Fake Identification: Fraudulent identification cards will be confiscated by the University and turned over to law enforcement.
• University-Sponsored Events: Students under the age of 21 may attend university-sponsored events where alcohol is present; however, underage students are still expected to refrain from consuming alcohol at these events.

Misuse of Alcohol

The following are prohibited:

• Use or possession of alcohol by anyone under the age of 21 on university premises, including empty alcohol containers
• Manufacturing or distribution of alcohol as prohibited by law or University policy
• Operating any vehicle while under the influence of or impaired by alcohol
• Excessive consumption of alcohol resulting in a state of intoxication that endangers oneself or others
• Consumption of alcohol in the presence of any underage individual, regardless of room or apartment assignment

Any student under the age of 21 is prohibited from consuming and/or possessing alcohol, including empty alcohol containers. Alcohol discovered in the possession of an underage student will be immediately disposed of. Students requiring staff assistance due to alcohol consumption without medical amnesty may be subject to the student conduct process. Refer to the Medical Amnesty policy for more details. Violations of this policy are subject to the student conduct process and possible sanctions as outlined in this handbook.

Misuse of Drugs

The following are prohibited:

• Use or possession of illegal drugs under federal or state law, including but not limited to marijuana, methamphetamine, cocaine, opiates, LSD, psilocybin mushrooms, heroin, ecstasy, GHB, or other controlled substances, or any substance used for an intoxicating effect
• Use or possession of prescription drugs other than by the person prescribed, or for use other than the prescribed purpose and/or dosage
• Manufacturing, growing, or distribution of illegal and/or prescription drugs
• Possession or use of drug paraphernalia, including but not limited to equipment, products, and materials used to cultivate, manufacture, distribute, or use marijuana or other illegal drugs
• Operating any vehicle under the influence of drugs or while impaired by any intoxicating substance
• Use of drugs resulting in a state that endangers oneself or others

Violations of this policy are subject to the student conduct process and possible sanctions as outlined in this handbook.

The health and safety of Western Colorado University Students is the top priority. In accordance with the 911 Good Samaritan Law, C.R.S. §18-1-711, immunity may be provided from criminal prosecution for persons who suffer or report an emergency drug or alcohol overdose event, including underage minors. Likewise, students who report alcohol or drug overdoses on campus may be provided with amnesty from student conduct sanctions.

Whenever a student assists an individual who is intoxicated and/or under the influence of drugs in obtaining medical assistance with Gunnison Police Department, Residence Life staff, or other medical professionals, neither the affected individual, nor any other individual assisting the affected individual will be subject to formal University conduct sanctions with respect to the alcohol/drug incident. (This provision does not preclude disciplinary action regarding other violations of University policies, such as theft, vandalism, harassment, etc.).

This policy supports a wellness-focused response to the incident rather than a disciplinary, however, this does not excuse or protect those individuals or organizations that deliberately or repeatedly violates the Alcohol and Other Drugs policies as outlined in the Student Handbook.

• Failure to comply with the verbal or written directions of any University officials acting in the performance of their duties and within the scope of their employment, including failure to identify oneself to these persons when requested to do so.
• Failure to comply with the verbal or written directions of any law enforcement officers acting in the performance of their duties and within the scope of their employment, including resisting and/or obstructing law enforcement officers or failing to identify oneself when requested to do so.
• Violating the terms of any interim measure, no-contact order, or exclusionary order imposed by the University.
• Failure to complete student conduct sanctions.

Pranks including but not limited to: water fights, squirt guns, prank phone calls, jamming doors to resident rooms, or any other activity that disrupts the community, presents a fire or safety hazard, or damages property are prohibited in the residence halls.

The University defines harassment as unwelcome conduct that is so severe, pervasive, or objectively offensive that it undermines and detracts from a student’s educational experience or creates a hostile environment. Conduct over social media that rises to this level is also prohibited. Harassment, as defined above, is conduct that is not protected by the First Amendment.

Harassment may include one or more of the following:

• True Threat: Statements where the speaker communicates a serious expression of intent to commit an act of unlawful violence to a particular individual or group of individuals.
• Intimidation: A type of true threat in which the speaker directs a threat to a person or group with the intent of placing the victim in fear of bodily harm or death.
• Incitement: Speech that will lead those who agree with it to commit immediate violence.
• Obscenity: Expression that depicts or describes sexual conduct and must be limited to works that, taken as a whole, appeal to the prurient interest in sex, portray sexual conduct in a patently offensive way, and lack serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value.
• Verbal Harassment: Includes threatening and intimidating language toward another person, and direct or implied threats that cause reasonable fear of injury to the health and safety of another person or property.

Such harassment will be assessed by the Office of Student Affairs to determine whether it falls into the above categories based on the nature of the incident. Harassment that falls outside the above categories but still creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment is also prohibited. Please also refer to Section 2.2 of the Trustee Policy Manual for harassment that may fall under the Discrimination, Harassment and Retaliation Policy, and Section 3.5 of the Trustee Policy Manual for harassment that may fall under the Sexual Misconduct Policy.

Impersonating a Western official, parent/legal guardian, or anyone other than oneself is prohibited and will result in conduct action. Interference and Infringement

As an academic community, Western is committed to the open exchange of ideas where all views can be freely advocated. The University requires that the conduct of individuals and groups not infringe on the rights of others or interfere with University activities, including, but not limited to, normal university operations, teaching, research, Residence Life activities, recreation, meetings, public events, and disciplinary proceedings. University activities include both on- and off-campus University programs or activities. Conduct that interferes with the normal functioning of the University or infringes on the rights of others is prohibited by this section.

Gambling of any kind is not allowed anywhere on campus or Western University Colorado’s subsidiaries.

All sports, running, and water games are prohibited within the dining and residence halls (including residents’ rooms and apartments). Riding bikes, rollerblading, and skateboarding are prohibited in all buildings and breezeways. Failure to comply result in conduct actions in addition to possible fines/charges for any damages.

Residence halls strictly prohibit the use of any wheeled items unless they are prescribed medical devices. Non-medical wheeled equipment, regardless of its purpose, is not permitted within the residential facilities.

In the Escalante Complex, the Mears Complex and Ute Hall, all beds are extra-long twin. In Pinnacles and Chipeta, all beds are full size.

Unfortunately not. Residence Life has a limited amount of storage space, so all furniture must remain in your room.

The furniture in your room is connected to your Room Condition Contract, so the furniture your room comes with must remain in your room.

Western maintains a strict outside furniture policy to ensure fire safety and protect the cleanliness of the rooms. Additionally, outside furniture can contribute to pest problems. All rooms are furnished appropriately for their occupants with a desk, dresser, and bed.

Outside furniture is prohibited in the residence halls except for the following items:

• Desk chairs that do not have any fabric or upholstery
• Blow up air mattresses
• Blow up couch without velvet on the outside
• Bean bag chairs
• Memory foam
• Lamps (only non‐halogen bulbs)
• ​Media stands, bookcases, or night stands in which the total dimensions of each piece do not exceed 80 inches. Total inches can be calculated by adding the longest width, the longest height, and the longest depth together when fully extended (such as legs or sides).

Yes. Personal devices can be connected to our network. If you are experiencing issues connecting these devices, please get in touch with IT at 970.943.3123.

Anything that is or can be considered an extension cord is prohibited from the residence halls. This includes outlet multipliers. Only certified surge protectors may be used in residence halls and apartments.

Students in residence halls are permitted to have a standard-size micro-fridge, a microwave, and any other kitchen appliance that does not have a hot plate. Other kitchen appliances may not be stored or used in the residence halls. Prohibited appliances include but are not limited to toasters, toaster ovens, George Foreman grills, traditional coffee makers, etc. These items are allowed in the Pinnacles and Chipeta Apartments but only in the kitchen areas. If you enjoy coffee, we suggest purchasing a coffee maker that does not have a hot plate.

All rooms are regularly inspected for safety and fire hazards. You may store your bike in your room as long as it does not pose a threat to the safety of the residents in the space. If you do not store your bike in your room, you must store it on the bike racks located outside. Bikes cannot be stored in communal areas such as stairwells or lounges. You are encouraged to keep your bike locked when not in use and to register your bike with the Gunnison Police Department, which is indeed a free service.

Residence Life does not provide cable television in residence hall rooms.

All mail and packages must be delivered to the Mail Center.

Yes! We have many great restaurants here in Gunnison that will deliver to Western’s campus. Students must meet the delivery person at the entrance to the hall. Propping doors open is strictly prohibited as it poses a security threat to other residents in the residence halls and apartment buildings.

Laundry machines in all residence halls operate on an app-based system where students can load payments.

Yes. Recycling is encouraged in the residence halls. Each residential area has its own trash and recycling area. Additionally, Western is making strong efforts to eliminate the purchase and use of single-use plastic bags and plastic bottles on campus. Please help us to reach our goal!

No. Parking on campus is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Parking is not guaranteed, and there are restrictions placed on particular lots. Security does ticket and tow, so please park in appropriate spaces. When you check-in, you MUST register your vehicle and receive a parking sticker in order to park on campus without being ticketed or towed. Only one vehicle per student is permitted.

All students who live in the residence halls are required to have a meal plan. Students in the apartments may have a meal plan if they like.

You may change your meal plan in the Residence Life Office up to the first Wednesday of the academic year. Students on optional meal plans may continue to purchase these plans throughout the year.

We take security seriously here at Western. If you lose your key, report it to your RD, and they will immediately submit a work order so that it can be replaced. Keys are typically replaced in one to two business days. New keys can be picked up from the Residence Life Office, University Center 117. Losing your key will result in a standard fee of $100 that is billed to your student account.

Right here: Student Handbook

All students are expected to read the Student Handbook each year, as there are often updates from the previous edition. All students are subject to the policies and procedures in this handbook and agree to follow them when matriculating to Western Colorado University.

Yes. Students are expected to check their Western email at least once per day. Faculty and staff will send you important emails on a regular basis, and you will be held responsible for the content of those messages.

You are responsible for checking out properly. If you leave without following proper procedures, you will have improper checkout fines. To properly check out, you first need to stop by the Student Affairs office (Taylor 301) and explain your withdrawal plans. You will get a form and will need to get signatures from someone in the Student Affairs office, Financial Aid office, Residence Life office, and Registrar’s office. It’s a courtesy to notify your academic advisor as well in person or via email. After the withdrawal form is completed and you are withdrawn from classes, you need to contact your RA to check out of your room and return your key(s). You have 24-48 hours to check out of your room properly.

Failure to follow the withdrawal process will result in tuition and student fees for each semester you are registered for until you withdraw or until the semester ends. Failure to check out of your residence hall room or apartment with an RA or RD will result in charges for not returning your key(s), charges for improperly checking out, and charges for cleaning your room.