Chatham University

Campus Life

Residence Life Snapshot

 

     

 

Terms and Conditions

Chatham University's residential philosophy is predicated upon the belief that residence hall living enhances a student's education by contributing to an individual's academic, social, and personal development. In order for such an environment to exist, residential students must accept responsibility for their own actions, as well as the actions of their guests, while acting in a manner which demonstrates respect for the rights and concerns of others and for the property of the University. Therefore, students are required: a) to respect the rights of all residents to cleanliness, security, privacy, space, quiet hours for study and sleep, and generally to an environment conducive to learning and University life; and b) to comply with the rules and regulations relating to appropriate conduct established by the University and/or the Residence Life staff. Violation of these terms and conditions or any other applicable rules, policies, or procedures incorporated by reference herein, or any other official University publication, such as the Student Handbook 2011-2012 (available in the Student Planner ), may subject the student to disciplinary action and/or fines, including but not limited to, termination of the students occupancy in a residence hall room/apartment and/or suspension or expulsion from the University. The Student Handbook is available upon request from the Office of Residence Life.

The on campus living experience is vital to the growth and development of the whole student. All students who have completed less than four semesters of college/university are required to reside in on-campus housing for their first two years on campus. An exception to this is students may live with parent(s) and/or legal guardians in the greater Pittsburgh area (within 30 miles of campus.) Students choosing to live at home may register as a commuter by completing the Commuter Application found on the Forms section of my.chatham. Students found in violation will face disciplinary review and fines up to the cost of housing.

Gateway students may request an exception to the residency requirement by contacting the Office of Residence Life.

TERMS & CONDITIONS are an agreement between Chatham University and the student whose signature appears on the Housing Acknowledgement and Agreement that the occupancy of space. All students will be asked to read and sign the Terms and Conditions upon checking into their housing assignment.

Eligibility and Assignments

Eligibility for residence is limited to full-time Chatham students who have made all required deposits, payments, and are in good academic, conduct and financial standing. 

  • All Chatham students living in the residence halls and apartments must use one of the residence hall meal board plans offered by the University. 
  • Upon withdrawal from the academic year housing contract, the student must vacate the room within 48 hours or by individual arrangements made with the Director of Residence Life.
  • The University reserves the right to relocate students should the need arise. The University reserves the right to assign students to any vacant space and without prior notice as necessary.
  • Room changes are allowed with approval only. Only students assigned to a given room may reside in that room.

Roommate preference based upon race, color, religion, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, physical characteristics, or national origin will not be accommodated; in addition, room changes will not be granted for any of the above reasons.

 

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Policies and Prohibited Items

Rationale

As with any community, certain standards of behavior and living exist to assure the safety and welfare of all community members. As an educational institution, Chatham is committed to providing a learning environment that respects individuality as well as community purpose. Clearly, the primary purpose shared by all community members is the pursuit of knowledge through education in and out of the classroom.

Chatham University recognizes the value of the residential experience in a college education. Therefore, Chatham prides itself on providing students with an opportunity for personal, academic and professional development in an interesting living and learning environment. Membership in this community has many benefits, which you will come to know through your time at Chatham. One such benefit is the unique balance a residence environment allows for one to express individuality on the one hand while enjoying the camaraderie of a diverse community on the other. Such benefits can only be gained with the cooperation of all members of the community. As with any other community, certain customs, practices and norms have been adopted for the Chatham residence population to ensure a friendly, safe and secure environment, which is conducive to learning. All members of the Chatham community have a responsibility to themselves and to others for upholding the University's policies and procedures.

Below, you will find the outlined practices that are observed by all community members. Students must abide by any and all established Residence Life and University policies. Students will be held accountable for knowing and following the policies, regulations and guidelines of the Office of Residence Life. Violation of these policies will result in either a disciplinary meeting with a professional Residence Life Staff member. An appropriate sanction, may be assigned if the student is found responsible for violating Residence Life Policy.

 

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Contract Termination and Refunds

The University establishes room charges for the academic year and the housing contract cannot be broken at any point of the academic year, except if the student officially withdraws from the University, is granted a leave of absence, or is granted specific permission to do so from the Director of Residence Life or Vice President of Student Affairs.  A non-refundable housing reservation fee of $150.00 must be made to Student Accounts prior to room assignment.

If for any reason the student ceases to be eligible for residence, the student must promptly vacate the assigned space within 48 hours and cancel the housing contract with the Director of Residence Life.

If a student gives the University written notice of withdrawal prior to the first day of the fall semester, the student will be refunded all advance payments of room and board except for the $150.00 housing reservation fee.  In the event of a cancelled housing contract after the start of classes, a prorated refund for room and board will be made according to the terms listed in the University refund policy (available in the Course Catalogue). 

 

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Visitation/Guest Policy

     

A residence hall guest is considered to be any person who is not a resident of that hall. Chatham students not residing in the residence area in question are still considered guests of that residence area.

Visitation hours are as follows:

  • Sunday through Thursday: 8 AM to 12 midnight
  • Friday and Saturday: 8 AM to 1 AM

Guests in the building past 12 midnight Sunday through Thursday and 1 AM Friday and Saturday are considered overnight guests.

The following guidelines have been established to ensure a comfortable and safe community environment in the residence halls:

  • Visitation must always be with the mutual consent of all roommates. RA staff is available to assist roommates with establishing a room/apartment visitation agreement upon request or need.
  • All guests must be signed in and signed out of the residence halls, including Chatham students not residing in the hall they are visiting. Guest must show picture ID when signing in and should be able to produce picture ID on request of a university staff member.
  • Residents are responsible for signing in and signing out their non-Chatham guest. All guests must be signed in with a first and last name. Residents failing to sign in guests are subject to disciplinary action, including a residential fine. Residents shall not sign in guest(s) for other Chatham residents. Guests visiting apartments located on Fifth Avenue are not required to sign in and out. Nonetheless, guests on these premises must be escorted at all times while inside the apartment building and should carry picture ID.
  • A Chatham residential student guest may sign into any residence hall as long as she is a guest of a member of that community or restricts her activities to the first floor common area. This privilege will be revoked if the student displays disruptive behavior in the residence areas.
  • Guests must be escorted at all times by their host. This includes Chatham students who do not reside in campus housing. No exceptions.
  • Guests must abide by all residence hall regulations and community standards. Failure to do so will result in disciplinary action against their hostess and also the guests(s).
  • Residents are responsible for the action of their guest(s), including policy violations.
  • Resident students may have no more than 5 guests at any given time.
  • Resident students may have overnight guests, but only with roommate consent. (Except for fall term first-year students who cannot host overnight guest(s) until the evening of Chatham Eggnog). Please see First-Year Guest Policy.
  • Resident students may have no more than two overnight guests at one time.
  • Overnight guests may stay no more than three consecutive nights in the residence halls and for no more than two weekends each month. Residence Life staff will use disciplinary action if a guest has been in the residence hall beyond the stipulated three consecutive nights and visits overnight for more than two weekends each month.
  • Cohabitation is not permitted. Visitation is a privilege that can be taken away if abused.
  • Guests are not permitted individual access to the University's facilities, including laundry machine and kitchens. They may only use these facilities in conjunction with their student host but never for their personal usage.
  • Guests cannot be left alone in their host's room or apartment while their host is away for an extended time (this includes while the hostesses are in class). Such action leaves guests unescorted.
  • Resident students must have permission from a GRD, AC, or AD to have a guest under the age of ten.
  • Residence halls or apartments shall not be used for baby-sitting.
  • Paid entertainment is not permitted in residence hall rooms unless approved by the Director of Residence Life.
  • Exceptions to the Guest Policy can be made through a building's GRD, AC, or AD with advance notice.

First-Year Student Guest Policy

Fall-term first-year students are not permitted to have overnight guests until the evening of the traditional Chatham Eggnog (the first Friday of December). This includes family members. This policy is firm unless there are unusual circumstances, which are approved by the building's AC or GRD. This includes Chatham students sleeping over in other students' rooms and family members.

Guests of fall term, first-year students must leave the residence hall by midnight on Sunday night through Thursday night and by 2:00 a.m. on Friday and Saturday nights. Guests may not return to campus until at least 8:00 a.m. the following day.  All other visitation regulations apply to first-year students.

 

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    Pet Policy

    Students are not permitted to have pets in the residence halls or apartments with the exception of aquarium fish in an aquarium no larger than 25 gallons. Any pets besides fish are not permitted (this includes turtles, frogs, etc.).

      • A student with a pet in the hall will be subject to disciplinary action and/or fines assessed. In addition, students found in violation of this policy shall be required to remove the pet from the residence hall immediately and will be assessed a residential fine.
      • An additional charge per day will be charged for each day after the University has requested that the pet be removed while the pet is still in residence.

     

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    Fire Safety  & Fire Escape Policy

    Unannounced fire evacuation drills will be held regularly throughout the school year in each residence hall.  Students who fail to exit the halls, attempt to re-enter the building without the permission of proper authorities or fail to comply with University officials will be subject to disciplinary action and the assessment of fines.

    Tampering with fire safety equipment or fire alarms is a violation of state law as well as residence hall policy.  Persons found in violation will be subject to disciplinary action.

    Fire detection units should not be covered or blocked at any time.

    For reasons of fire safety, the following items are not permitted in student rooms:  irons (may be used in laundry rooms), space heaters, halogen lamps, non UL rated lamps, any non UL rated decorations requiring electricity, sun lamps/tanning beds, toaster ovens, hot plates, candles with wicks, decorative candles, incense, candle warmers, tart burners, live/cut holiday trees and wreaths.

    Unauthorized possession, storage or use of hazardous or dangerous weapons, explosive components or substances including, but not limited to, firearms, fireworks, and chemical materials such as gasoline/fuels, kerosene or compressed gasses/air in residence halls is forbidden and subject to disciplinary action.

    The roofs and fire escapes of each building are for emergency purposes only.  Under no other conditions should these be used.  Failure to comply will lead to disciplinary action.

    Do not hang anything from the sprinkler heads (Woodland Hall).  This will cause damage to the system that will be charged to the occupant(s) of the room. 

    For reasons of safety, the maximum occupancy may not exceed five (5) guests per resident at  any one time for a residence hall room or apartment. 

    Fire Safety Tips:

    • Know where alarm pull stations are in your building.
    • Know all exits and evacuation plans to your building.
    • If you discover smoke or fire:
      • Sound the alarm
      • Call Public Safety at x1111 from any phone on campus (412-365-1111) or 911
    • If you are in a burning building:
      • Close the window
      • Close the door
      • Go to the nearest exit or stairs (If you are in a smoke-filled area, keep low to the floor)
      • Leave the building immediately

     

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    Room Furniture Policies

    Rooms are furnished with a single bed, dresser, desk, and desk chair for each occupant. Students may provide their own study lamp (note: halogen lamps are not allowed), wastebasket, and a bookcase if desired. Failure to adhere to the following Furnishings Policies will result in appropriate charges for missing furniture, repair, or replacement.

    • Students are not permitted to bring their own bed unless needed for medical reasons. In the case of a medical exception, a student will be required to submit documentation from a doctor explaining the medical need to the Director of Residence Life in advance of moving in.
    • Lofts are not permitted and may not be constructed in residence hall rooms or apartments.
    • All furniture must remain in its assigned room/apartment throughout the year. Furniture missing from rooms when the resident vacates will result in fines, up to the full replacement cost.
    • No University property may be removed from lounges, conference rooms, or other community areas for use in student rooms. Common furniture is inventoried at the beginning of each term. Missing and damaged furniture will be billed to the community if the responsible person is not found.
    • Students may not disassemble furniture under any circumstances or remove their room furniture from their room without permission from the Office of Residence Life. Students will be charged a minimum $100 assembling fine for any room furniture found disassembled after a student moves out.
    • The University will not remove furniture from student rooms and apartments.

     

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    Air Conditioner Policy

    • Students are not permitted to have window air conditioners. If a student requires air conditioning for a medical reason, the student must submit a letter to the Director of Residence Life and documentation from a doctor explaining the medical need.  Upon approval for the air conditioning unit, a student requiring an air conditioner for medical reasons must:

      Provide the air condition unit, a small unit of about 8000 BTUs.

      Once the unit is approved, it will be installed by a Facilities Management staff member. Residence Life will facilitate this process.

       

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    Bicycles

    No bicycles may be left in public areas (i.e. lounges, stairwells, etc.) in any residence hall at any time.  Bicycles should be stored on bike racks that are available outside of the residence halls on a seasonal basis.  If a bicycle is found in a public area it may be immediately confiscated. 

     

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    Alcohol Policy

    All residents and guests are expected to comply with the alcohol policy as stated in the University Honor Code.

     

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    Doors

    For reasons of safety, exterior doors of the residence halls are locked 24 hours.  They cannot be propped open at any time.  Anyone propping a door is subject to disciplinary action.  Students are expected to carry residence hall keys and their ID card at all times.  All resident students are reminded that their ID cards will gain them access to the exterior hall doors and should be handled cautiously and responsibly to insure that easy access to the residence halls remains the privilege of resident students only.  For reason of safety, lost keys and I.D. cards must be reported to the Office of Residence Life immediately.  Students must not lend their ID cards and their room keys to anyone.

     

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    Email Communication

    Chatham University email is the official communication for the Office of Residence Life.  Students are responsible for regularly accessing their account for messages.  The Office of Residence Life relies on this communication as the official way to communicate with resident students.

     

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    Health and Safety Inspections

    Upon prior notice, the Office of Residence Life and Public Safety will conduct periodic health and safety inspections of rooms and apartments to help insure that all residents are in compliance with health, fire, and safety guidelines.  General room/apartment inspections will indicate violations and will advise students on how to correct violations.  Any violations which are found and/or not corrected may result in an applicable fine, confiscation of property, and/or disciplinary action.

     

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    ID Cards

    A student’s ID card is their access into the residence halls.  Students should keep their ID cards with them at all times.  All undergraduate resident students have access to all undergraduate residence halls from 10:00am-10:00pm.  Any lost or missing ID cards should be reported to the Office of Residence Life immediately.

     

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    Lockouts

    Students are expected to have their room key and ID card with them at all times.  Should a student become accidentally locked out, they should contact the RA on duty (schedules are posted on bulletin boards).  If the lockout occurs between 9:00am and 5:00pm, students should contact the Office of Residence Life at 412-365-1518.  If the lockout occurs between 8:00pm and 8:00am), the student should contact the Upper Campus RA (412-670-6379) or Lower Campus RA (412-670-8818).  If the lockout occurs any other time, students should contact Campus Police (412-365-1230)  All lockouts result in a $10.00 charge.

     

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    Lounge Furniture

    Furniture placed in all common areas in the residence halls must remain in the common area.  Students found in possession of common area furniture will be subject to disciplinary action.

     

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    Personal Bathrooms & Kitchens

    Rooms and apartments that have a private bathroom or kitchen are a privilege. Students are expected to maintain their own kitchen/ bathroom in an appropriate way throughout the year. Students will be notified during Health and Safety Inspections if the condition of these spaces is unacceptable, and be given the opportunity to rectify the situation. Students are subject to an excess cleaning charge if the kitchen and/or bath area is not maintained appropriately. Students with private kitchens or bathrooms need to provide their own soap/paper products and need to establish expectations for usage with all students with access to the kitchen/bathroom.

     

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    Quiet Hours 

    As members of a living/learning community, resident students are asked to comply with requests by other residents and/or staff members to maintain reasonable levels of noise within the residence halls and apartments. Specific quiet hours have been established to create an atmosphere conducive to studying and/or sleeping in the residence halls. Each residence hall community with the leadership of the residential staff may elect to designate more restrictive quiet hours than those that have been established. During quiet hours, any noise (e.g., stereos, TVs, radios and verbal interactions) must be kept at a level such that it cannot be heard by neighboring residents. Continual violation of Quiet Hours or Courtesy Hours will result in disciplinary action, including residential fines.

    • Minimum Quiet Hours in all residences:
      Sunday-Thursday, 11:00 p.m.-8:00 a.m.
      Friday-Saturday, 1:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m.
    • Residents are permitted to agree to longer quiet hours through their community agreements, but may not agree to shorter quiet hours.
    • There will be 24-hour quiet hours during exam periods beginning at the end of the last class through the end of the last final exam.
    • Respectful interactions are expected within the residence hall communities regarding Quiet Hours. Any student who is not respectful to fellow residents and/or residence life staff will need to have a disciplinary meeting regarding the confrontation.

     

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    Courtsey Hours

    Courtesy Hours exist at all times. At all times, students are expected to be courteous and to conduct themselves in a way that does not intrude on the rights and privileges of others.

    Respectful interactions are expected within the residence hall communities regarding Quiet Hours and Courtesy Hours. Any student who is not respectful to fellow residents and/or residence life staff will need to have a disciplinary meeting regarding the confrontation.

     

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    Recycling

    Residence Life is committed to the Chatham University mission initiative of Sustainability.  There are recycling bins located in each residence hall for bottles, cans, and paper.  Please dispose of all approved recycling contents in the appropriate containers. 

     

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    Residence Hall Meetings

    Residence hall meetings provide opportunities for students to gather and learn about the latest happenings on campus or in the hall, to discuss residence hall concerns, etc.  Specifically, students will receive information about openings, closings, room selection, etc.  Each student is required to attend and may offer support, ideas, and suggestions to other residents and to the hall staff.  Each student is responsible for the information introduced and/or decided at the meeting regarding community standards and other areas of student living.  Failure to attend or notify the GRD that you cannot attend may result in a fine or disciplinary action.

     

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    Room Changes

    Residents who want to change their housing assignment may complete the Room Change Request Form which can be found on my.chatham.  Room changes are offered two weeks after the beginning of each semester.  Students requesting a room change must have already met with their RA in order for the request to be considered.  In the case of a roommate conflict, the RA and/or GRD will require mediation before a room change will be considered.  The room change period ends on October 10 for the Fall 2011 semester and February 10th for the Spring 2012 semester.  The Office of Residence Life reserves the right to move students as necessary.  If a student loses a roommate during the year, Residence Life reserves the right to assign another student to that space without prior notification.  The University also has the right to relocate students at any time for any reason.

     

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    Room Keys

    Upon arrival, each resident student will be given a room key.  If a student should lose a key or fail to return it at the end of the year or other time of checkout, the student will be billed $50.00 for a core change and 2 replacement keys.  Students may incur additional charges for each additional key needed for the room (i.e. cost for a triple room would be $100.00). 

     

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    Roommates

    Fostering a positive relationship between roommates is an important piece of residential living.  Not all roommates are best friends, but it is imperative that they establish a respectful relationship.  The Residence Life staff is available to assist students every step of the way.  A roommate relationship can bring out social, cultural, and values conflicts.  Residents can complete a roommate agreement with their RA in order to help establish communication and to create common guidelines for their room.  It is important for roommates to know their expectations for each other.

     

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    Trash Removal

    Students are expected to assume responsibility for the disposal of all personal trash.  Residents who reside in the traditional residence halls (Woodland, Fickes, Laughlin, and Rea) must put trash in the main bins located in the designated areas of each residence hall.  Residents who reside in the apartments must place trash in the dumpsters located in the apartment parking lots.

     

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    Electrical Equipment and Appliances

    All electrical appliances must be UL approved and in good working condition.  Electrical appliances are that are permitted in resident rooms include a radio, stereo, small portable television, personal computer, clock, portable hair dryer, curling iron or hot curlers, small microwave, a small refrigerator (no larger 4 cubic feet), and a small fan. Also permissible are appliances that have both automatic shut-off buttons and time to brew cycles and do not have warming plates. Such appliances include some brands of hot water dispensers and hot beverage machines new on the market.

  • Electrical appliances that are NOT permitted in the residence halls include:
    • Appliances that have exposed heating units or open flames.
    • Halogen lamps
    • Hot plates
    • Toaster ovens
    • Electric blankets
    • Space heaters,
    • Sun or heat lamps
    • Toasters (only permitted in apartments)
    • Irons (only permitted in apartments – Residence Hall iron use is restricted to laundry rooms only)

    Residence hall rooms shall not be used to prepare hot foods. The equipment and appliances used to prepare food are extreme fire safety hazards because of the heat they generate. Heating coils, electric frying pans, broilers, griddles, standard coffee pots, and any other electrical cooking appliances are not allowed. This policy does not apply to apartments, as they are equipped with kitchen facilities.

    Students should use surge protectors on appliances such as computers, microwaves, etc.

    • Refrigerators must be plugged directly into wall electrical sockets. The University has the right to limit or expand use of appliances.

     

    The Office of Residence Life staff has authority to prohibit and/or remove without prior notice all illegal or potentially dangerous appliances/devices for reasons of health and safety.

     

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    Common Kitchen Facilities

    Each residence hall contains at least one small kitchen area (some residence halls have a kitchen area on each floor) that contains a sink, microwave, and refrigerator. Laughlin House, Rea House, and Fickes Hall also have stove-tops and ovens in the house kitchens and Woodland Hall has a stove-top available. The use of approved electrical appliances must be restricted to the kitchen area(s). As members of a community, students should remember the following when using a kitchen area:

    • Residents are responsible for cleaning appliances, dishes, etc. that they use. Dishes left dirty in the kitchen or bathrooms for more than 24 hours will be thrown out.
    • Refrigerators are for all residents to use. Residents should mark their food in some way and should remove old food appropriately. Refrigerators will be cleaned at the end of each term and unmarked and spoiled food will be thrown out.
    • The University does not accept responsibility for food left in refrigerators; therefore, students should respect the personal property of others and refrain from using or taking food left by other resident students without their expressed consent to do so. Students will be subject to disciplinary action if they remove another student's personal belongings from the kitchen area(s).
    • When cooking, students must be present in the kitchen area. Students are not permitted to cook food in the microwave unless present. Disciplinary action, including fines, will be taken if these procedures are not followed.
    • A student failing to maintain the safety of the kitchen will be fined $25.00 and may face additional disciplinary action. This includes leaving an oven or cooktop on after food preparation is completed or failing to clean up spills.

     

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    Vandalism & Damage to University Property

    All campus residents should be concerned with the safety and handling of University property-both in individual rooms and public areas. Residents should do their best to see that University property is not damaged or stolen. Respect for the residential environment is crucial to developing a residence hall community in which members can take pride in their environment.

    You and your roommate(s) are responsible for any damage, misuse, or theft of University property that occurs in your residence hall room. You must pay replacement, reassembly, or repair cost for any missing or damaged property.

    Individual Room Damage Policy

    By taking occupancy of the space, you accept its condition at such time and assume responsibility to maintain the space and any common areas in which assigned space is located in a clean, safe, and undamaged condition at all times.  At the beginning of each academic year, a Room Condition Report (RCR) is completed by the RA and given to the residents to review, edit, sign, and turn in.

    Residents failing to return their signed RCR within a week of their move-in will be held responsible for any additional damages incurred during their residency. Upon vacating a room, the Residence Life staff will conduct an inspection using the original RCR as a basis for assessing any missing or damaged furnishings or property of the University. Once the inspection has been conducted, the GRD, AC, or AD will forward the completed form to the Director of Residence Life. If it is determined that fines for damages or missing property are to be issued, the resident(s) of the room will be billed accordingly. Damage costs will be split evenly among residents unless specified otherwise by the residents.

    Billing for individual room damage is completed after residents move out of their room. Students are responsible for the damage costs that are listed in the Terms and Conditions of Residence Living for each year. The Office of Residence Life must receive any appeals to damage charges in writing within two weeks of the issuance of the bill. After that time, appeals will not be granted.

    Common/Public Area Damage Policy

    When individual responsibility for damage and loss in public areas (e.g., bathrooms, lounges, etc.) cannot be determined, a charge will be made to all students within a reasonably defined area (e.g., room, floor, building, etc.) If the individual(s) responsible for damaged or stolen property cannot be identified, the cost of damages to any common/public area of a hall will be assessed and divided among the residents as appropriate. The GRD will work with the students and staff in the residence area to determine, if possible, who is responsible for the damage. If the bill is to be divided among residents, the residence life staff will notify those residents of the cost per person that will be charged to their student account. Common area damage may not be appealed.

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    Insurance

    The University is not responsible for theft or destruction of personal property. It is highly recommended that valuables are covered by homeowner's insurance policy or renter's insurance.

     

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    Indoor Sports

    Due to the potential harm to individual and property, hall sports are not allowed in the residence facilities.  Indoor sports infringe on the rights of others, can lead to damage of University property, or may cause harm to oneself or others. Water fights and snowball fights are prohibited inside all residences. Students who violate this policy will be subject to disciplinary action.  These behaviors include but are not limited to:  riding bikes, rollerblading, Frisbee, any ball related sport, water balloons, wrestling.

     

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    Room & Holiday Decorations

    While every person likes to personalize her space in order to feel at home, the residence hall areas are governed by certain local fire safety ordinances. Since your living space is intended to serve not only you and your roommates, but also the residents who live there in the coming years, certain guidelines for personalizing rooms or apartments are necessary. Additionally, certain adhesives and/or other hanging elements often damage walls and other University furnishings. It is necessary for resident students to be aware of the following guidelines in keeping with local safety codes and with University policy:

    • Students are not authorized to paint (including washable paint), renovate, or modify their rooms in any way. Glow in the dark paint or markers are not permitted.
    • Furniture must not obstruct smoke detectors or sprinklers, block heating vents, damage pipe coverings, or impair quick exit from the room or window in case of emergency.
    • Decorative hangings are largely restricted to the inside of the residence hall room.
    • Students may hang minimal decorations on their room doors. If door hangings are determined to be a fire hazard by a residence life staff member, students will be required to remove such decorations. The Office of Residence Life reserves the right to deny any decoration/item that is deemed inappropriate or offensive to others.
    • Students are prohibited from hanging decorations of any kind on hallway walls, ceilings, etc.
    • Students are prohibited from leaving furniture in the hallway. If any room furniture is lost during the course of a student's stay in the room, the student will be charged a replacement fee.
    • Students are prohibited from hanging any items from sprinklers or near sprinklers that may interfere with sprinkler function.
    • When hanging pictures, posters, etc., do not use the following items on the wall: transparent tape, double-stick tape, adhesive stick-on corkboard, nails and screws. Adhesives or nails that damage the wall will be assessed during room inspection. Blue painters tape should be used to tape smaller items to walls in the residence areas. Adhesive poster putty that leaves no residue is also recommended to hang posters.  Framed photos should not be hung on walls. Students are responsible for any damage done to walls after they move in.
    • Holiday candles are not permitted in University owned student residences. Students seeking to honor religious observations should contact the Director of Residence Life for approved locations and guidelines.
    • Live trees and wreaths are prohibited in student rooms/apartments. Non-UL approved lights are prohibited from being used. Only UL approved lights and small non-heat producing lights can be used. All decorations must be removed prior to the semester break.
    • Underage students are not permitted to display alcohol bottles in their residence hall room. Displays of drug paraphernalia are prohibited for all students.
    • While students may use their discretion in postings on the outside of their room/apartment door, any postings must be respectful of community members and cannot violate the Honor Code. (This includes items that may lead to mental and bodily harm to others or self and any items that may create a civil disturbance.)
    • Students in the Fifth Avenue Apartments are not allowed to renovate, or paint their apartment. Only small nails should be used when hanging pictures on walls.

     

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    Solicitation and Advertising Policy

    The University prohibits solicitation, sales or door-to-door canvassing by students or non-students on University property. Solicitation and sales of non-University items are prohibited in the residence halls without approval from the appropriate University official. Residents are not permitted to run private businesses from their campus residence.

    Posters and signs which are not offensive to community members and approved through the Office of Student Affairs may be hung in public areas of the campus with the exception of front doors of buildings. The student government requires organizations advertising by chalking to notify the coordinator of student activities in advance of chalking sidewalks. The coordinator of student activities will provide for any group the guidelines for chalking. In addition, in order to keep a clean environment and to promote current events, each community member is asked to remove any signage for her/his event within 48 hours of the event. Failure to do so may result in loss of sign hanging privileges in the residence halls.

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    Storage Policy and Procedure

    Chatham University does not offer storage to students.  The Office of Residence Life has a brochure with contact information for local storage companies available for students. Any items left in University owned housing will be discarded after hall closing.

     

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    Smoking Policy

    It has been stipulated by Chapter 617 of the Smoking Pollution Control Ordinance that: The right of smokers to smoke ends where their actions affect the health, well-being, and comfort of others.  Smoking is prohibited in all residence areas on campus, including rooms, hallways, lounges, and computer labs. Students and guests who smoke outside the residence areas must be at least twenty five (25) feet away from entry doors while smoking and properly dispose of cigarettes. Students found throwing their cigarette butts on the ground will be fined $25 and possibly face more serious disciplinary action. Cigarette butts contain fibers that are not biodegradable, toxins that are harmful to the environment, and can cause fires. If cigarette smoke drifts into students' rooms/apartment windows and cause a disturbance to residents, the smoker will need to smoke elsewhere to limit the disturbance.

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    Work Order Requests

    Guidelines for maintenance, housekeeping, and facilities requests for any residence hall area:

    • Students must contact their RA or GRD with a work order request as soon as the problem comes to their attention. Any staff member in Facilities, Student Affairs, etc. may request work to be completed in a residence area by submitting a work order request via e-mail or phone. Requests should be as specific as possible to ensure timely follow up.
    • All pertinent data must be given to the RA or GRD before submitting the request. Please be as specific in your request as possible to ensure prompt response. GRDs will submit student requests on a daily basis Monday through Friday.

    In case of a maintenance emergency (e.g. smell of gas, water leaks, or other immediate safety hazard) contact Facilities Management (412.365.1273) during normal working hours (9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.). For emergencies that occur during the evening or weekend hours, Public Safety (412.365.1230).

     

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    Articles and Activities Prohibited in the Residence Halls

    The following activities and articles are prohibited in or around the residence halls. Failure to comply with these regulations is a violation of residence hall policies. An incident report will be filed against individuals found in violation of such regulations and a residence life disciplinary meeting will be held with a GRD, AC, AD, or DRL to discuss any necessary disciplinary action, including possible residential fines. Residence Life staff members will confiscate any item found to be in violation of these policies. Confiscated items will be returned at the end of the academic term when a student leaves campus upon the student's request. Failure of the student to claim a confiscated item by the end of the term will lead to disposal of the item.

    Articles and activities prohibited in the residence halls include:

    • Bicycles, except when stored in students' rooms or in designated areas outside of the residence hall where they do not block exit routes. Bicycles cannot be stored in public entryways, hallways or lounges.
    • Waterbeds, lofts, or stacking of furniture. Bed lifts no higher than 12 inches can be used to elevate bed height but only when lifts are purchased at a store and mode for this specific purpose. Under no circumstances can bricks, blocks of wood, etc., be used to elevate furniture.
    • Possession of or use of explosives, ammunition, flares, or other dangerous weapons (i.e. pocket knives larger than 2 ½ inches in length) or substances.
    • Storage of any flammable liquids or gases.
    • Possession of halogen lamps, hot plates, toasters, toaster ovens, large refrigerators (larger than 4 cubic feet), and other expressly prohibited electrical appliances in residence hall rooms as outlined in the electrical appliance policy (see electrical equipment and appliance policy). Toasters, toaster ovens, and hot plates are permitted in Chatham Apartments and public residence hall kitchens only.
    • Possession and/or use of candles (decorative or otherwise), incense, potpourri burners, space heaters (unless provided by the University), or anything with an open flame.
    • Tampering with, or misuse of fire and safety equipment or elevators (e.g. fire alarms, fire extinguishers, exit signs, fire doors, smoke or heat sensors).
    • Failure to evacuate the residence hall area during fire alarms.
    • Propping open residence hall entrance and exit doors as well as fire doors. Building alarms will sound if residence hall entrance doors are propped.
    • Engaging in any other activity determined to be in violation of health, fire, safety and/or maintenance codes.
    • Damaging or misusing residence hall property and/or furniture including the removal, relocation, or disassembling of furniture from individual rooms and/or public areas. Under no circumstances are students permitted to remove University furniture from student rooms/apartments without approval from their GRD.
    • Throwing or suspension of articles, objects or persons from residence hall windows. This includes sitting on window ledges.
    • Presence on building roof areas, window ledges, fire escapes, or in other unauthorized areas.
    • Theft or unauthorized possession of University property or property that belongs to another individual or group. This includes moving public lounge furniture items to student rooms/apartments.
    • Sleeping in common areas of residence hall spaces is not allowed unless approved by the Office of Residence Life.
    • Watching pornography or other commonly offensive materials on University provided televisions or in common areas. This is not limited to multimedia played through a VCR or DVD player.
    • Failure to comply with the directions of any residence life staff member or University official performing her/his duties, including but not limited to the failure to provide proper identification to a staff member upon request or giving misleading or false information to a staff member performing her/his duties.

     

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    Room Charges and Refunds

    The University establishes room charges for the academic year and the housing contract cannot be broken at any point of the academic year, except if the student officially withdraws from the University or is granted a leave of absence. A housing fee of $150.00 must be made to Student Accounts prior to a room assignment, unless otherwise arranged by the student with the Director of Residence Life or Vice President of Student Affairs.

    If a student gives the University written notice of withdrawal prior to the first day of classes or any time during the term, she will be refunded all advance payments of room and board except for the $150.00 housing fee. In the event of a leave of absence from the residence halls/apartments after the start of classes, a prorated refund for room and board will be made according to the terms listed in the Student Handbook.

     

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    Contract Period Dates

    The housing contract begins at the time the student takes occupancy of the assigned space and extends for the academic semesters only.

    • 2011 Fall Semester Housing opens to first year and transfer students at 7am on AUGUST 25, 2011 and to returning students at 9am on AUGUST 27, 2011. All residence halls and undergraduate apartments close for the fall semester on DECEMBER 17, 2011.  Students are not allowed to enter or occupy the residence halls after this time.   
    • 2012 Spring Semester Housing opens to all students at 9am on JANUARY 3, 2012. All residence halls and undergraduate apartments close for the academic year at 12noon on MAY 16, 2012. Students are not allowed to enter or occupy the residence halls after this time. 
    • Housing for the winter break, DECEMBER 17, 2011 to 9:00am on JANUARY 03, 2012.   Resident access cards will not be activated until that time. Winter break housing will be offered on an individual basis.  Students must apply for Winter Break Housing by completing the form and returning it to Residence Life no later than November 22, 2011.
    • The student will be billed $50 per day (or part thereof) for occupancy before or after these published contract dates unless prior arrangements have been made and approval received from the Director of Residence Life or Vice President of Student Affairs.
    • Students must vacate their on-campus residential rooms following spring semester within 24 hours of their last scheduled final. Residence halls will officially closed on Wednesday, April 25, 2012 for all students not enrolled in Maymester Courses. Student registered for Maymester courses must move out by 9:00 PM on May 16, 2012. All graduating seniors who must move out by 7:00 PM on Sunday, May 20, 2012 (Commencement Day). Only students assigned to a given room may reside in that room.

    *These dates are subject to change based on the academic calendar.

     

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    Condition of Premises/Damage

    CONDITION OF PREMISES/DAMAGE

    By taking occupancy of the space, the student accepts its condition “as is” at such time and assume responsibility to maintain the space and any common areas in a clean and undamaged condition at all times.  Each student will be required to complete a Room Condition Report (RCR) with a Residence Life Staff member at the beginning of the academic year.  Any student who fails to complete the RCR within a week of taking occupancy will forfeit the right to document the condition of their room at the time of occupancy. The student further forfeits the right to appeal end of year damage or cleaning charges.  At the end of occupancy, each room will be inspected and damage beyond normal wear and tear will be charged accordingly.

    • The student shall reimburse the University upon demand for all damages for expenses which the University may suffer or incur for repair or a room or facility in the residence, for the repair or replacement of University provided furniture, caused by misconduct or neglect of the student or of the student’s guest(s). 
    • Common areas, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and lounges, are the responsibility of all residents in that area.  If damages occur to common areas, all residents of that community will equally share damage costs if responsible party is not found.
    • When a student vacates the assigned space, the student must remove all personal property and leave the room, any common areas, and any furnishings clean and in the same condition they were in when she commenced occupancy.  Any personal property left in the room or the common areas will be promptly removed at the student’s expense.
    • The student shall not alter the room or other facilities of the residence (including but not limited to painting walls and removal of University furnishings) therein in any way without the prior written consent of the Director of Residence Life. 
    • Failure to pay any damage fees may be cause for refusal to permit registration or other such action as may be determined appropriate by the University until fees owed are paid in full.
    • Furniture in residence hall/apartment rooms may not be removed or altered without the prior permission of the Director of Residence Life.
    • Costs of labor and repair or replacement of damaged items is determined in conjunction with the Director of Facilities and based on actual cost to replace, repair or clean the area or item(s). Any of the other occupants, furnishings, and features of the room shall be assigned and may be changed only by Chatham University at any time at its discretion.

     

     

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    Personal Property: Indemnity

    PERSONAL PROPERTY: INDEMNITY

    The University will not be liable, either directly or indirectly, for any loss by theft of personal property by residents or their guests or for any damage or destruction of such property by fire, water, or any other cause.  The University advises that students insure personal property against loss, damage, or destruction arising from any cause.

    Students shall indemnify, defend and save harmless the University from any claim, loss, damage, liability, or expense (including without limitation reasonable attorney’s fees and court costs) arising from  a) any breach by student of the University’s terms, conditions, or rules, whether contained or otherwise incorporated by reference in these Terms and Conditions and b) any injury to the student or any other person, including but not limited to any guests of the student, or property occurring in, on or around the residence hall/apartment area.

     

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    Compliance with Applicable Residence

    COMPLIANCE WITH APPLICABLE RESIDENCE

    Students are required to comply with federal, state, and local laws as well as all residential policies and procedures established by the University and the Residence Life staff included in this contract, in other official University publications such as the Student Handbook 2011-12 and assumed under this contract by reference.  Such policies and procedures are available from the appropriate University offices.  Students are responsible for informing themselves of such policies and procedures.

    Alcohol and other Drugs

    The University prohibits the use, possession or sale of illegal drugs and the possession or purchase of alcohol by any person less than 21 years of age.

    Guests

    The student is responsible for the conduct of any guest(s) at all times.  All guests must comply with University policies and procedures. 

    No co-habitation is permitted; overnight guests are permitted no more than three consecutive nights (First year students may not have overnight guests until December 3rd, 2011). Visitation is only allowed with the consent of any/all roommates.

    Fire Safety

    No candles and/or incense, decorative, religious, or otherwise, are permitted in student’s residences

    Failure to evacuate during a fire alarm and theft, tampering, or improper use of fire fighting, detection and/or alarm equipment is strictly prohibited.

    The University prohibits the use or possession of firearms, fireworks, or any type of weapon.

    Pets

    No pets are permitted in student residences in the residence halls/apartments, with the exception of aquarium fish. 

     

    As every community is directed by changing needs, policies, and procedures are subject to periodic change.  The student agrees that they will abide by all residence hall/apartment policies and regulations as they appear in the Student Handbook and any supplements to the handbook that may be issued.

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    Responsibility of the Residence Life Staff

    The University has delegated to the staff of each residence hall/apartment building the responsibility for maintaining a living-learning environment in the residence halls/apartments where the students may express individuality while acting as a responsible member of the community. Residence Life staff members will educate the community about residence hall/apartment policies and procedures and will be responsible for enforcing such policies and procedures.

     

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    University Rights of Residence

    The University reserves the right to take the necessary and appropriate action to protect the safety and well being of the residence hall/apartment community.  This includes the right to terminate this contract or retake possession of a student’s room should the student fail to maintain themselves as a student in good standing with the University regulations, or fail to comply fully with the terms of this agreement.

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    Abandoned Premises

    The University will consider the room to be abandoned if the tenant does not reside in the residence hall room/apartment for more than two weeks without notifying the University.  In such cases, the University may enter the room without liability and reassign the room for any portion of the term.  The University will make reasonable attempts to contact the student to arrange for the exchange of any possessions left in the room/apartment.  In the event that the student cannot be contacted or does not cooperate, the University will treat any possessions left on the premises as abandoned goods and make arrangements to remove said possessions from the abandoned room.  The University shall not be obliged to hold the resident’s property longer than 7 (seven) days after determining the room to be abandoned before disposing of it, with no liability to the resident.  The resident shall assume the expenses for such removal of property.

     

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    Right to Entry

    The university reserves the right to enter any residence area, room or apartment for any of the following reasons: Maintenance; inspection; repair; in cases of clear emergency; to assume compliance with federal, state, and local laws and University policies; where there is cause to believe violation has occurred or is taking place; or, to aid in the responsibility of the University to maintain an educational atmosphere. 

    • Keys and University Identification cards that have been coded for residence hall access may not be used in a negligent manner.  Keys may not be duplicated or transferred to anyone other than the resident student who signs for them

     

    If the University has cause to believe a violation has occurred or is taking place, the University has the right to conduct a room search (most likely in the case of suspected illegal drug and/or alcohol possession and/or use).  The University recognizes its responsibility to respect the right of the residential student not to have her privacy disturbed.

     

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    Two Year Residency Policy

    The on campus living experience is vital to the growth and development of the whole student.

    All students who have completed less than four semesters of college/university are required to reside in on-campus housing for their first two years on campus. An exception to this is students may live with parent(s) and/or legal guardians in the greater Pittsburgh area (within 30 miles of campus.) Students choosing to live at home must register as a commuter and provide documentation to the Office of Residence Life. Students found in violation will face disciplinary review and fines up to the cost of housing. Gateway students may request an exception to the residency requirement by contacting the Office of Residence Life.

     

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    Medical Accommodations

    Chatham University students are encouraged to take full advantage of the residential experience by sharing rooms with other Chatham women and first-year students living on campus are required to live with a roommate. However, Chatham does recognize that rare occasions do exist in which students may be faced with extreme conditions in which accommodations are required. In these cases, students can request to be assigned or moved to a single room reserved on campus for students with unique needs, or for other accommodations (i.e. lower floor room, building with an elevator, or exemption from the residency requirement).

    Because cases which warrant medical singles are rare and extreme, students will need to follow specific procedures to request a medical single and will need to plan well ahead of their arrival to Chatham University.

    The following procedure is in place for students who face life-threatening conditions that require their assignment to a medical single, an exception to the residency requirement, or a release from their yearlong housing contract (Terms and Conditions of Residency) during their study at Chatham University:

    • The student needs to provide a written request for a medical single, addressed to the director of residence life. This request must come directly from, and be signed by, the student.
    • The students must make an appointment with health or counseling staff at Chatham University to review her request.
    • Medical conditions: In addition to submitting the necessary paperwork, students must make an appointment with a physician on staff at Chatham University for an evaluation. It is the students' responsibility to make this appointment early and to arrange for transportation to campus for their medical evaluation. Summer appointments may not be possible.
    • Psychiatric conditions: In addition to submitting the necessary paperwork, students must give consent to the director of counseling services to consult with the students' treatment team(s) (psychiatrist, psychologist, therapist or counselor). The director of Counseling Services will then assess the students' need for a medical single. The student needs to provide written documentation to health or counseling staff from the student's treatment team that details the condition. Documentation must include a consent form signed by the student that would allow health and counseling staff at Chatham University to consult with the student's treatment team. Upon complete review, the Director of Health Services or the Director of Counseling Services in conjunction with the Director of Residence Life and the Vice President for Student Affairs will decide if a student's condition warrants need for a medical accommodation. Questions regarding Chatham's Medical Accommodation Policy can be addressed to the Director of Residence Life at 412-365-1518. Students who are living on campus with other or additional accommodation needs should communicate those needs to the director of residence life through the PACE center.

     

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    New Students

    New Students

    First year students are matched based on the information self-reported on the roommate questionnaire. By hand matching roommates and not using an automated system like larger schools, we are able to match the reported living styles and to find compatible interests. After their first year, residents find their own roommates and pick their rooms through Room Draw in early April.

    Newly admitted students should pay a $150 advanced housing reservation fee shortly after their admission to be assigned to campus housing. After deciding to attend Chatham and paying the initial deposits, students will receive the New Student Information Packet at their mailing address. Students need to complete the Residential Student Survey through the CampusVue portal to be assigned to campus housing. Students submitting their application by June 1st  will be assigned a room and roommate by the end of June.

    Students are notified of their housing assignment and roommate(s) via email to their Chatham University email account. Students requesting housing after June 1st will be assigned as spaces are available. Any questions about housing assignments should be addressed directly to the Office of Residence Life. Chatham University Residence Life program offers a choice of several campus residential options, each with its own special features. Only full-time registered students are eligible to participate in Room Selection and to live on campus. By participating in room selection and signing a housing contract, students agree to abide by all University policies and procedures. The housing contract extends for the full academic year and cannot be broken at any time. Students not in good financial standing, as determined by the Office of Student Accounts, will have their housing assignments deleted.

     

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    Returning Students

    Room selection will occur in the spring semester. Students with fewer than 4 complete undergraduate semesters should plan on participating in room selection to live on campus if they are not living in the Pittsburgh area with a parent or legal guardian. Students unable to attend in person should designate a proxy through the Office of Residence Life to choose their assignment for them.

    The housing reservation fee of $150 is due to Student Accounts in order to participate. Afterwards, students should log in to my.chatham to pick a lottery number. Please note: the student's account must be current in order to pick a lottery number.

    Chatham University Residence Life program offers a choice of several campus residential options, each with its own special features. Only full-time registered students are eligible to participate in Room Selection and to live on campus. By participating in room selection and signing a housing contract, students agree to abide by all University policies and procedures. The housing contract extends for the full academic year and cannot be broken at any time. Students not in good financial standing, as determined by the Office of Student Accounts, will have their housing assignments deleted.

     

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    Summer Housing

    Applications for summer housing are made available in conjunction with room selection for the following academic year. A limited number of spaces are available in Laughlin and Rea Houses to house Chatham students during the summer. Degree-seeking, full-time Chatham students who meet the following criteria qualify for summer housing:

    Enrollment in summer classes (including internships) at Chatham or one of the PCHE institutions during one or both of the summer sessions. Chatham credit must be received.

    Working a summer job on Chatham's campus during the summer months. Students will need to specify the department for which they will work in their application.

    Being an international student unable to go home over the summer and without alternative housing available.

    Summer Housing residents move directly from spring into summer housing after the residence halls close for Maymester and move from summer into fall housing during a pre-determined moving date in August. Flexibility outside of these moving dates is NOT possible due to the needs of the Office of Facilities Management, Continuing Education, and Residence Life in May and August.

     

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  • Early Arrivals

    Students may not return to campus before published move-in dates in August or January without permission of the Office of Residence Life. Students who arrive early without permission will not be issued a key, will not be given access to the room, and will be asked to vacate the premises by University officials. Students and their families are expected to plan work schedules, vacations, etc., around the University move-in dates and times.

     

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    Late Stays

    Students are required to vacate their rooms within 24 hours after their last final exam or by the time residence halls close. Failure to leave within this timeframe will result in disciplinary action, fines and being asked to vacate the premises by University officials. Travel plans should be made well in advance.  Exceptions will not be made because of poor planning.

     

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    University Break Periods

    University Break Periods

    The University observes several break periods throughout the year. Please refer to the current year Terms and Conditions of Residency for occupancy dates.

    Spring Break, Long Weekend, Thanksgiving

    The residence halls remain open during these university break periods. Students will be asked to register to stay during this time for the office of residence life to ensure appropriate staffing.

     

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    Winter Break

    Chatham's residence halls and apartment only close during the academic year during Winter Break. During this time, the residence halls and apartments are closed. Woodland Hall and Laughlin House remain open only to International residents who cannot go home for the break and do not have alternative housing available to them. If you think you may need housing at any time during Winter Break, you should live in one of those buildings for the entire year. Residents in Woodland and Laughlin will be contacted to register for winter housing around Thanksgiving. Failure to request Winter Break housing before students move into fall housing will likely result in future requests being declined due to lack of living space available. Food service and residence life staff may not be available during winter break and students are responsible for making their own provisions.

     

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    Living Learning Communities

    Living Learning Communities are special housing options which afford students the opportunity to continue the learning experience outside of the classroom. The purpose of living learning communities is to create an environment where students continue to learn about an area of interest outside of the classroom through the use of specific programming within the house, daily interactions with other residents, and through the exploration of academic and community resources.

    The Office of Residence Life-Student Affairs offers three Living Learning Communities:

    Intercultural LLC in Laughlin House

    Laughlin House is home of the Intercultural Living Learning Community. This special housing option is open to all students who are interested in becoming more culturally and globally aware. The goal of this living learning community is to foster a cultural exchange between all residents of the house. Students, faculty, and staff collaborate to plan activities that will expose the residents to the differences and similarities that exist among cultures. Laughlin houses students in single, double, triple, and quad rooms. 

    Rachel Carson Environmental LLC in Rea House

    Rea House is the home of the Rachel Carson Environmental Community. Named after the

    1929 alumnae, Rachel Carson, this is a special housing option is open to all students interested in becoming more environmentally aware. The students who reside in this living learning community share an interest in participating in a environment which focuses upon sustainable and green practices. Students work closely with staff and faculty to plan activities which focus upon different aspects of living a green lifestyle. Rea houses students in single, double, and triple rooms. 

    First Year Experience LLC in Woodland Hall

    The First Year Experience Community is a living learning community located on the 2nd floor of Woodland Hall that will assist first-year students in transitioning to college life.  This community will offer additional support in connecting students with the University community. Two upperclass student mentors live in the community, including a Resident Assistant and a Cougar K-Nector. This community is designed especially for our first-year students will offer

    support, socializing, and fun!

     

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    • Chatham's residence halls and apartments offer vibrant and unique communities that celebrate all of the things that make our students special. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about living on campus:

      Are students required to live on campus?

      Chatham has a rich history as and a commitment to the undergraduate residential, liberal arts college. As such, Chatham maintains a two-year campus residency policy. Though the policy allows first and second year students to live at home with parents or legal guardians, most local students choose to live on campus for the community and convenience.

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      Can I get a tour of my room?

      Tours are available on Accepted Student Days only. Due to the heavy summer schedule and limited staff, we are unable to take requests to view specific rooms during the summer.

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      What about money? What are the deadlines and fees?

      Every student who moves in to campus housing signs to a one year contract through the Residency for the current academic year. This one year contract can only be broken if the student leaves Chatham, or in the most dire circumstances. Housing reservation fees are $150 for any room type and due before the student can be assigned. This $150 is directly applied to the students account.

      The tentative standard room rate for 2009-2010 is $2205 per semester; single rooms are $2646 per semester. Spring semester housing includes Maymester, where applicable.

      Housing applications are due, via my.Chatham.edu, on May 31st. Housing assignments for new first year students will be sent out on or about July 1st. Applications for housing received after the May 31st deadline will be processed on a rolling basis, and assignments made to what is available. Returning student room draw is held in the spring every year.

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      Am I required to purchase a meal plan if I live on campus?

      Yes, Upper Campus residents (Fickes, Laughlin, Rea and Woodland) are required to choose one of the “Chatham� plans. Undergraduate Lower Campus apartment residents (Chatham and Pelletreau Apartments) are required to have one of the “Cougar� plans. The meal plan options available are:

    • Chatham Gold, which includes 19 meals per week and $55 in flex dollars
    • Chatham Silver, which includes 14 meals per week and $110 in flex dollars
    • Chatham Bronze, which includes 10 meals per week and $220 in flex dollars
    • Cougar Platinum, which includes 5 meals per week and $220 in flex dollars
    • Cougar Gold, which includes 100 meals per semester and $200 in flex dollars
    • Cougar Silver, which includes 50 meals per semester and $200 in flex dollars
    • Cougar Bronze, which includes 25 meals per semester and $200 in flex dollars

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      What comes with the room?

      All student bedrooms come furnished with a single bed, desk and desk chair, dresser and either a closet or a wardrobe. Apartments also come with one set of common area furniture: coffee table, couch, chair, and dinette set. All students have access to the campus network and phone systems. Students living in the apartments may contract for cable through Comcast, however residence hall rooms are not cable-ready.

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      What size are the beds? Where can I find information about the rooms?

      We have both standard and extra long beds on campus. We suggest that you bring extra long sheets or deep pocket twin sheets, since it's better to have sheets that are too large, than not large enough. If you would like to find out more information about your room, please contact the Office of Residence Life via email (reslife@chatham.edu).

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      Can a student live in single room?

      First year students are eligible for a single room only through the Medical Accommodations Process. Upper-class students are eligible to live in single rooms.

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      What if a student is having roommate problems?

      Most roommate problems are the result of poor communication. All students living in a multiple occupancy space are required to fill out roommate contracts to ease the transition of living together for the first time. There are many situations in which the roommate contract has to be amended and updated throughout the year as the students grow into their new lives as college students.

      Most students will, at one point or another, have a disagreement with a roommate. This is part of being in college, and the experience of working it out, either on their own or with staff help, can be a major learning and growth experience. We will always first defer to the students themselves to sort out any problems, next bringing in an RA to facilitate a discussion, and lastly a professional staff person to assess the situation, and in many cases provide additional mediation.

      If, after a sincere effort, things aren't working and there is space available we may talk with one or more roommates about a move to another space.

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      My student called and is upset – what can I do to help?

      If your student is sick or injured or is having a mental health crisis they, or you, should immediately call Health Services (412-365-1238) or Counseling Services (412-365-1282) during the day, or Public Safety (412-365-1111) after 5pm.

      If your student is having a rough day, the best you can do for them is listen. Help them keep perspective, make a plan, and utilize the resources available to them; the academic advisor, faculty, RAs and professional Student Affairs staff. Give them time to address the situation themselves, and check in on their progress.

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      I lived on campus for a semester, but now want to commute. Can I do that?

      All students who contract for housing do so for the entire academic year. In rare, significant circumstances, a year lease may be broken. These circumstances may be, but are not limited to: medical accommodations (requires documentation), a significant change in financial status (must be documented) that is aided by the student moving in with a parent or legal guardian or if a student leaves Chatham or falls below full-time status. Students wishing to change their residency to commuter must complete the Commuter Application Form found on the document section of my.chatham.

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      What is an RA?

    • Resident Assistants (RAs) are student staff members who live in each residence hall and primarily serve as a resource for students living in the building.  RAs are there to listen to students’ problems, concerns, and help direct students to the appropriate place to find a resolution.  RAs are student leaders that help make living in the residence halls an enjoyable and healthy experience.  Students never need a specific reason to see their RA, but here are common items RAs can assist students with:

      • To talk to about anything!  RAs are there to listen!
      • To request a work order for something broken in your room or building.
      • To hang out.
      • To help mediate roommate conflicts.
      • To check you in and out of your room.
      • To suggest campus activities to attend.
      • To raise questions, concerns, and comments about anything.
      • To seek assistant in resolving a conflict in your building.
      • To help students meet new friends and get involved on campus.
      • To serve as a resource and guide for referrals.
      • To help establish community standards.
      • To serve as an academic role model and resource for students.

       

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      What is a GRD?

      The paraprofessional staff members who supervise the RAs and each residence hall are the Graduate Resident Directors (GRDs).  The GRDs live in your building and help to facilitate that the community is healthy and enjoyable for everyone.  GRDs hold office hours in the Office of Residence Life-Student Affairs and meet with students on first-level violations of residence hall policy.

       

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      Who are the Professional Staff Members?

      The Area Coordinator (AC) and Assistant Director of Residence Life (AD) are professional staff members who supervise the GRDs, oversee housing, staff training, and meet with students on second-level violations of residence hall policy.  Students are welcome to visit the office and see the AC and AD at any time.  Here some items they can assist you with:

      • To say hello, to visit, or talk about anything.
      • To suggest campus activities to attend.
      • To ask questions about how to become and RA.
      • To ask questions about the housing selection process.
      • To request a room change.
      • To meet about a residence hall policy violation.
      • To appeal a damage charge.

      The Director of Residence Life provides overall leadership for the office, supervises the professional staff, meets with students on high-level violations of residence hall policy, and serves as a resource for all students.  Students are always welcome to visit the Director:

      • To say hello, to visit, or talk about anything.
      • To help find a resolution when a concern or issue has not reached a conclusion.
      • To suggest ideas and offer feedback about the residence halls and living on campus.
      • To invite her to a program or residence hall activity.
      • To meet about a higher level residence hall policy violation.

       

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      What is my mailing address?

      All residential students are assigned a mailbox in the campus post office when they arrive on campus. Your student should go to the post office to obtain this number. The address will be:

      Student Name
      Woodland Road
      Box ###
      Pittsburgh, PA 15232

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    2011-2012 Office of Residence Life Important Dates

    August 25, 2011    Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â  First-Year students move-in to fall housing

    August 27, 2011    Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â  Upper-class students move-in to fall housing

    August 28, 2011                        All Residents Meeting, AFC,

    October 10 – 14, 2011  Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â  Health and Safety Inspections

    November 1, 2011  Â Â Â Â Â    Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Winter Break Housing Request Forms Available on my.chatham

    November 14, 2011  Â Â Â    Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â RA Applications Available on my.chatham

    November 22, 2011  Â Â Â    Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Winter Break Housing Request Form Due

    November 30, 2011  Â Â Â    Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â RA Information Session Woodland Hall 8:30pm-9:15pm

    December 16, 2011  Â Â Â Â    Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â RA Information Session Fickes Hall 8:00pm-9:15pm

    December 17, 2011  Â Â Â    Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Residence Halls close for Winter Break

    December 18, 2011  Â Â Â Â    Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Residence Halls close for graduating seniors

    January 3, 2012    Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Residence Halls open for spring housing at 9:00am

    January 11, 2012    Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â RA Information Session Laughlin House 4:00-5:00pm

    January 13, 2012    Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â RA Information Session 10:00am-6:30pm Tables on Campus

    January 17, 2012  Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â  RA Info Session Woodland Student Lounge by Res Life 4:00pm-5:00pm

    January 19, 2012    Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â RA Applications Due by 5:00pm to Residence Life

    February 6, 2012  Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â  LLC/UG Apt. Applications/Graduate Housing Intent Forms Available

    February 14-17, 2012  Â    Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â RA Individual Interviews

    February 18, 2012  Â Â Â Â Â Â    Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â RA Group Process Day & Returning RA Interviews

    February 20, 2012  Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â  LLC/UG Apt. Apps./Grad Housing Intent Forms Due to Res Life by 5:00pm

    February 20, 2012  Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â  Room Selection Event Woodland Student Lounge by Res Life 4:00pm-5:00pm

    February 27-March 1, 2012  Â Â    Health and Safety Inspections

    March 2, 2012    Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â    Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â LLC Housing Decision Letters

    March 12, 2012  Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â  Room Selection Event Woodland Student Lounge by Res Life 11:30am

    March 12-15, 2012  Â Â Â Â    Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Maymester Meetings – All Residence Halls  Â Â 

    March 13, 2012    Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â  LLC Room Selection Woodland Student Lounge by Residence Life 5:00pm

    March 16, 2012    Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Apartment Housing Decision Letters

    March 19, 2012    Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Housing Deposits Accepted

    March 23, 2012  Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â              Maymester Intent Forms Due/Summer Housing Applications Available

    March 25 – 30th, 2012  Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â    Hall Olympics

    March 28, 2012  Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â              Room Selection Information Session

    March 30, 2012  Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â              Housing Deposits Due

    April 3, 2012  Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â               Room Draw Srs. & Jrs. Woodland Student Lounge by Res Life 8:00pm

    April 4, 2012  Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â               Room Draw Sophomores Woodland Student Lounge by Res Life 8:00pm

    April 6, 2012  Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â               Summer Housing Applications Due

    April 14, 2012    Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â             RA Pre-Service Training

    April 25, 2012    Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â             Residence Halls close for student not enrolled in Maymester

    May 16, 2012    Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â             Residence Halls close for Maymester students

    May 20, 2012    Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â             Residence Halls close for graduating seniors

     

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    Office of Residence Life Documenation Process

    Any interaction with a member of the Residence Life Staff (RA, GRD, AC, DRL) regarding residential concerns will result in confidential documentation which describes the concern, individual(s) involved, and steps taken to address the concern. All items which are documented are kept confidential and only reviewed by the professional staff in the Office of Residence Life or the Office of Student Affairs. Upon reviewing the documentation, a student may be contacted via email to request of a meeting between the student and a professional staff member from the Office of Residence Life.

     

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    Office of Residence Life Policy Violation Process

    • Office of Residence Life Policy Violation Process

    Serious issues or violation of the Residential Student Handbook will result in a meeting with a professional staff member in the Office of Residence Life. The judicial process is a confidential experience for each student; therefore, the Residence Life Staff member will not disclose information about meetings with other individuals who were present at the time of the incident(s). When multiple students have been involved in a potential policy violation, professional staff members will meet with all students on an individual basis. Please note: One concern may contain multiple violations of the Residential Student Handbook, and will be addressed within the one meeting. If the violation(s) include Honor Code Violations, the list of applicable charges is made and referred to the Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students.

    GENERAL OVERVIEW

    SANCTIONS

    All sanctions, which are assigned by professional Residence Life staff members, are fully supported by the Office of Residence Life-Student Affairs and are expected to be upheld and respected. Failure to complete an assigned sanction may result in further disciplinary action and a meeting with the Director of Residence Life. The Office of Residence Life acknowledges that each policy violation is unique and may result in either of the types of sanctions mentioned below or a combination of the two.

    Types of Sanctions

    Appealing a Sanction

    If a student feels that a sanction is disproportionate to the policy he or she has been found responsible for violating or feels there is other information that would change the decision, he or she is welcome to appeal the decision with the Director of Residence Life. To appeal the sanction, the following must be completed and submitted in writing to the Director of Residence Life within 7 days (including weekends) of the date you received the decision letter. To make an appeal, please complete the following process.

     

    Please Note: The above procedures are meant to inform the students of the Office of Residence Life’s basic judicial process.  The Office of Residence Life reserves the right to amend the process and sanctions as determined necessary by the Office of Residence Life.

     

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