Student Copyright Guideline
Definition of Copyright
Copyright is the right of an author, artist, composer or other creator of a work of authorship to control the use of his or her work by others. Protection extends to literary works, musical works, dramatic works, pantomimes and choreographic works, pictorial and graphic works, sculpture, motion pictures and other audiovisual works, sound recordings and architectural works. Generally speaking, a copyrighted work may not be reproduced by others without the copyright owner’s permission. The public display or performance of copyrighted works is similarly restricted.
Eastern Wyoming College (EWC) encourages all faculty, staff, and students to respect the intellectual property of others through adherence to copyright laws.
Copyright Laws and Technology
Copyright laws also extend to Peer-to-Peer (P2P) file sharing networks. P2P networks allow files (including, but not limited to music and video files) to be shared among, and stored on, the computers and devices that have access to that network. Though a P2P network itself is not illegal, the content that is shared may include copyrighted material. While using a P2P file sharing (or any file sharing) network - students who share, download, and/or otherwise obtain and use copyrighted material without permission, can be subject to the civil and criminal penalties stipulated for violating copyright laws (see below). Students who perform these actions while using an EWC computer, or while connected to a wired or wireless network affiliated with EWC, may be subject to additional College penalties and disciplinary action.
Applicable college, civil, and criminal penalties can apply even if the file’s copyright was unbeknownst to the student. Students are still responsible for their interactions and engagement on all P2P and file sharing networks.
Additionally, EWC complies with all laws and cooperates with law enforcement agencies concerning the investigation of copyright infringement that may have allegedly occurred from a campus-based computer or device, or one connected to a wired or wireless computer network affiliated with EWC.
EWC does not actively “police” its wired and wireless networks to discover acts of copyright infringement. The College does reserve the right, however, to monitor the data traffic that passes through its wired and wireless computer networks, and may investigate anomalies from expected levels and patterns of data usage. When anomalous activity is observed, measures will be taken to limit or suspend that activity at that time, and investigative measures may be employed to identify the user involved.
Violations of the Copyright Law Can Have Serious Consequences:
- Eastern Wyoming College Disciplinary Action: Copyright infringement can subject a student to disciplinary action under the Student Code of Conduct, since violation of law or College policy is grounds for discipline. First offenses will result in a notice from Computer Services to cease illegal activity. Failure to comply or further incidents of infringement may result in loss of network access for the infringing user or device. Sanctions may include suspension of network access and formal college disciplinary action, including Academic Suspension or Dismissal. These outcomes might prove harmful to future job prospects or academic pursuits, since many employers and graduate and professional schools require disclosure of College disciplinary action.
- Civil Liability: Persons found to have infringed may be held liable for substantial damages and attorney(s) fees. The law entitles a plaintiff to seek statutory damages of $150,000 for each act of willful infringement. In the cases filed by the RIAA against students at Princeton, RPI, and Michigan Tech, the recording industry sued for damages of $150,000 for each recording infringed.
- Criminal Liability: Copyright infringement also carries criminal penalties under the federal No Electronic Theft Act. Depending on the number and value of the products exchanged, penalties for a first offense may be as high as three years in prison and a fine of $250,000.
Safety
Correct safety instruction and practices are a vital concern within the instructional programs and it is the responsibility of all persons to practice correct safety measures.
If an injury occurs, either during instruction or at any other time while on campus, the injured party must report the injury to the appropriate office (instructor or advisor) so that an “Accident and Injury Report” may be completed.
Eastern Wyoming College Notification of Rights under FERPA for Postsecondary Institutions
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect to their education records. They are:
- The right to inspect and review their education records within 45 days of the day EWC receives a request for access.
Students should submit to the Vice President for Student Services, or other appropriate official, written requests that identify the record(s) they wish to inspect. The EWC official will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.
- The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes are inaccurate or misleading.
Students may ask EWC to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the EWC official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading.
If EWC decides not to amend the record as requested by the student, the College will notify the student of that decision and advise the student of his or her right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.
- The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.
One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by EWC in an administrative, supervisory, academic or research, or support staff position; a person or company with whom the College has contracted (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent); a person serving on the Board of Trustees; or a student serving on an official committee such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks.
A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.
Upon request, EWC discloses education records with consent to officials of another school in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.
- The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by Eastern Wyoming College to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA is:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202-5920
Directory Information
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), a federal law, requires that Eastern Wyoming College, with certain exceptions, obtain a student’s written consent prior to the disclosure of personally identifiable information from his or her educational records. However, EWC may disclose appropriately designated “directory information” without written consent unless the student has advised the College to the contrary in accordance with EWC procedures. The primary purpose of directory information is to allow EWC to include this type of information from student educational records in certain publications such as honor roll or other recognition lists, graduation programs, and sports activity sheets.
Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released, can also be disclosed to outside organizations without prior written consent. Students must submit written notification to the Registrar’s Office within ten (10) days of the beginning of the semester if they wish the personal directory information about them be withheld.
Eastern Wyoming College has designated the following information as directory information:
- Student’s name
- Date and place of birth
- Dates of enrollment
- Affirmation of whether currently enrolled
- Full or part-time status
- Grade level
- Major field of study
- Address (local and permanent)
- Telephone listing (local and permanent)
- Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
- Weight and height of members of athletic teams
- Most recent educational agency or institution attended
- Photograph
- Electronic mail address
- Degrees, honors, and awards received
The student is hereby notified of these rights and that a copy of the “Privacy Rights of Parents and Students” pertaining to Eastern Wyoming College may be obtained in the office of the Vice President for Student Services.
Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity Policy Statement
Eastern Wyoming College is dedicated to providing opportunities and recognizing the talent of all people within the institution. The College is committed to a policy of equal employment opportunity for all persons on the basis of merit without regard to race, color, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender, religion, political belief, veteran status, age, or disability. In accordance with the policy, Eastern Wyoming College affirms its commitment to non-discrimination in its employment practices as they relate to recruitment, hiring, selection, screening, testing, compensation, promotion, employment benefits, educational opportunities, access to programs, work assignments, application of discipline, access to grievance procedures, and any and all other conditions of employment which are provided by Eastern Wyoming College policy, regulation, rule or practice.
All administrators, faculty and staff committees and others involved in employment decisions are directed to comply with this policy. The Director of Human Resources is responsible for administering and coordinating the College’s Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity Program.
Name, office location and telephone number are:
Director of Human Resources
Affirmative Action Officer
Tebbet Building, 234
Eastern Wyoming College
3200 West “C” Street
Torrington, WY 82240
(307) 532-8330
The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act
Prepared for EWC students, faculty, staff and prospective students in accordance with the Crime Awareness and Campus Security Act of 1990.
Introduction
Many students and parents are concerned about the issue of personal safety on college campuses. Eastern Wyoming College (EWC) employs security measures that help ensure students enjoy their time at the College as free as possible from any threats to safety and well-being.
Crime is a national problem that affects all communities and college campuses. To minimize the occurrence of crime incidents, college administrators, residence life and physical plant staff members, the city and county law enforcement authorities, and the students themselves must work together to ensure that students and their possessions are protected as much as possible.
The Crime Awareness and Campus Security Act of 1990
The Campus Security Act (1990, 1994) and the Jeanne Clery Act (1998) are federal laws that require colleges and universities to disclose information about crime on and around their campuses to students, employees and prospective students. The Eastern Wyoming College (EWC) crime statistics may be found on the EWC website by clicking on “Consumer Information” located at the bottom of the home page. The EWC Crime Awareness and Campus Security policies, procedures and statistics are available upon request in the EWC Vice President for Student Services’ Office.
Every prospective and admitted student is provided with a mailed notification that provides the website to access the information available in this report.
Student Demographic Information
Eastern Wyoming College district operations include campuses in Torrington and Douglas, Wyoming. Torrington is the administrative center and main campus of the district, and Douglas functions as a branch campus. Enrollment is approximately 1,200 credit students each semester with additional offerings in the community services and continuing education areas. Total headcount credit enrollment includes course offerings from throughout the EWC service area communities.
Lighting/Physical Plant Concerns
The Physical Plant Department maintains all college buildings and grounds with a concern for safety and security. Staff inspect campus facilities regularly; promptly making repairs affecting safety and security, and responding immediately to reports of potential safety and security hazards, such as broken windows and locks. Lighting checks are conducted on a regular basis to ensure that lights are in proper working order.
Local Police Provide Campus Security
Eastern Wyoming College (EWC) maintains a close working relationship with both the Torrington Police Department and the Goshen County Sheriff’s Department. The Torrington police routinely patrol the streets and parking lots on campus as well as the residence hall areas. They respond to both routine and emergency calls, and provide the College with timely information relating to criminal activity in the community so that college employees and students may act to protect themselves and assist in crime prevention efforts. The EWC Board of Trustees and the Torrington Police Department cooperatively instituted a Campus Resource Officer program to enhance the quality of life on campus by providing safety and security, maintain a high level of visibility around the campus, maintain order, and provide a range of general and emergency services.
Reporting of Crimes
Crimes in progress and other emergency situations in on-campus buildings can be reported directly to the Torrington Police Department by picking up any campus phone and dialing 9-9-1-1, and then following up by contacting the Vice President for Student Services. Upon receipt of the call, police dispatch will initiate the appropriate emergency response. Telephones are accessible in all buildings during normal hours of operation. Five 911 Emergency-Only telephones are located strategically along campus walkways and dial directly to the police dispatch office.
Non-emergency situations should be reported to the Vice President for Student Services located in the Student Services Office, 307.532.8257, between 7:30 am and 4:30 pm Monday through Friday. The Student Services Office serves as the student assistance and information center for the campus. The Vice President for Student Services and the staff are available to initiate crime reports and respond to questions or concerns regarding personal safety on campus. The Director of Residence Life may be contacted at 307.532.8336 in Lancer Hall after regular working hours.
Victims of a crime who do not want to pursue action within EWC or the criminal justice system may still want to consider making a confidential report. With the victim’s permission, the Vice President for Student Services can file a report on the details of the incident without revealing the victim’s identity. The purpose of a confidential report is to comply with the victim’s wish to keep the matter confidential while taking steps to ensure the future safety of the victim and others. With such information, EWC can keep an accurate record of the number of incidents involving students, determine where there is a pattern of crime with regard to a particular location, method or assailant, and alert the campus community to potential danger. Reports filed in this manner are counted and disclosed in the annual crimes statistics for the institution. An employee of an institution whose official responsibilities include providing psychological counseling to members of the institution’s community and who is functioning within the scope of his/her license or certification is not considered to be a campus security authority and is not required to report crimes for inclusion into the annual disclosure of crime statistics. They are encouraged, if and when they deem it appropriate, to inform persons being counseled of the procedures to report crimes on a voluntary basis for inclusion into the annual crime statistics.
Timely Warnings
In the event that a situation arises, either on-or off-campus, that, in the judgment of the Vice President for Student Services or Campus Resource Officer, constitutes an ongoing or continuing threat, a campus-wide “timely warning” will be issued. The warning will be issued through the EWC email system to faculty, staff and students, and through the CodeRed cell phone text messaging system. Warnings will also be issued on the EWC website at ewc.wy.edu and on the electronic bulletin boards at the Information Center and Student Services.
Depending on the particular circumstances of the crime, especially in all situations that could pose an immediate threat to the community and individuals, a copy of the notice will be posted in each residence hall, and at the front door of each on-campus classroom building. Anyone with information warranting a timely warning should report the circumstances to the Vice President for Student Services by phone at 307.532.8257, in person at the EWC Student Services Office; or to the Campus Resource Officer at 307.532.7001 (Torrington Police Department).
Crime Awareness and Prevention Activities
Programs sponsored by community/campus organizations, residence life, college staff and local law enforcement personnel provide sessions each academic year on topics including personal safety awareness and security, domestic violence/sexual assault, the prevention of theft and vandalism, and alcohol and drug abuse. Information on safety and security issues is provided to students and employees regularly through bulletins, crime alerts, posters, brochures and college/community newspapers.
College Access
During business hours, EWC (excluding residence halls) is open to students, parents, employees, contractors, guests and invitees. During non-business hours access to all EWC facilities is by key, if issued, or by admittance via the Physical Plant staff. Over extended breaks, the doors of all halls will be secured around the clock. Some facilities have individual hours which may vary at different times of the year. Examples are the Student Center, the Library and the Student Success Center. In these cases, the facilities will be secured according to schedules developed by the department responsible.
Security Personnel
EWC does not employ a police staff. However, the Physical Plant staff who work past regular business hours have the authority to ask persons for identification and to determine whether individuals have lawful business at EWC. Criminal incidents are referred to the Campus Resource Officer or the local police department who have jurisdiction on the campus. Community members, students, faculty, staff and guests are encouraged to report all crimes and public safety related incidents to local law enforcement, the Vice President for Student Services and/or the Physical Plant staff in a timely manner.
Crime Prevention Programs
Crime prevention programs and sexual assault prevention programs are offered on a continual basis. Specific programs designed to inform students and employees about campus security procedures and practices, and to encourage students and employees to be responsible for their own security and the security of others include:
- Orientation activities (1 time annually)
- Residence Hall educational programming (3-4 times during academic year)
- College Studies classes (every semester)
- Employee Inservice Activities (2 times each academic year)
A common theme of all awareness and crime prevention programs is to encourage students and employees to be aware of their responsibilities for their own security and the security of others. In addition to seminars, information is disseminated to students and employees through crime prevention awareness packets, security alert posters, electronic displays, and videos. When time is of the essence, information is released to the College through security alerts posted prominently throughout campus, through e-mail messages to employees and through website notifications.
Sexual Assault Prevention and Response
Eastern Wyoming College adheres to the requirements set forth in the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) which became law in 2014. Information regarding the College’s VAWA compliance efforts is located on the EWC website (ewc.wy.edu) under “Consumer Information.”
Eastern Wyoming College educates the student community about sexual assaults and date rape through freshman orientations each Fall. The Goshen County Task Force on Family Violence and Sexual Assault offers sexual assault, education and information programs to college students and employees upon request. Educational programming and literature on date rape education, risk reduction and EWC response is available through Residence Life and other Student Services offices.
Victims of a sexual assault at Eastern Wyoming College should first get to a place of safety and then obtain necessary medical treatment. Student Services strongly advocates that a victim of sexual assault report the incident in a timely manner. Time is a critical factor for evidence collection and preservation. An assault should be reported directly to a Residence Life staff member, the Vice President for Student Services, another college administrator or law enforcement. Filing a report will not obligate the victim to prosecute nor will it subject the victim to scrutiny or judgmental opinions from EWC employees. Filing a sexual assault report will:
- Ensure that the victim receives the necessary medical treatment and tests.
- Provide the opportunity for collection of evidence helpful in prosecution which cannot be obtained later (ideally a victim of sexual assault should not wash, douche, use the toilet or change clothing prior to a medical/legal exam).
- Assure that the victim has access to free confidential counseling from counselors specifically trained in the area of sexual assault crisis intervention.
When a sexual assault victim contacts Eastern Wyoming College, the Torrington Police Department or Goshen County Sheriff’s Office may be notified as well. The victim of a sexual assault may choose for the investigation to be pursued through the criminal justice system and Eastern Wyoming College, or only the latter. A college employee will guide the victim through the available options and support the victim in his or her decision. Various counseling options are available from the EWC Counseling Office. Counseling and support services outside EWC can be obtained through the Goshen County Task Force on Family Violence and Sexual Assault, and Peak Wellness.
Eastern Wyoming College’s Student Code of Conduct prohibits “Participating in any actual or threatened non-consensual sexual act”, and outlines disciplinary proceedings and guidelines for cases involving sexual misconduct. The accused and the victim will each be allowed to choose one person to accompany them throughout the formal grievance procedure. Both the victim and accused will be informed of the outcome of the grievance procedure. A student found guilty of violating the EWC Student Code of Conduct could be criminally prosecuted in the state courts and may be suspended or expelled from the College for the first offense. Student victims have the option to change their academic and/or on-campus living situations after an alleged sexual assault, if such changes are reasonably available.
The Eastern Wyoming College (EWC) crime statistics, policies, and procedures may be found on the website by clicking on “Consumer Information” at located at the bottom of the EWC home page.
In accordance to the “Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act” of 2000, which amends the Jacob Wetterling Crimes Against Children and Sexually Violent Offender Registration Act, the Jeanne Clery Act and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, EWC is providing a link to the information regarding registered sex offenders in Goshen County available through http://communitynotification.com and in Wyoming available through http://sheriffalerts.com.
Alcohol & Drug Enforcement Policies at EWC
The Eastern Wyoming College Board of Trustees has enacted a drug and alcohol policy stating that drugs and alcoholic beverages may not be present on campus or at college-sponsored activities. The policy states that the College may take disciplinary action for the following violations:
- The possession, use, sale, or distribution of narcotics, illegal drugs, or prescription drugs for which the person does not have a prescription, on college premises or at college-sponsored activities.
- The illegal possession, use, sale, or distribution of alcoholic beverages on college premises or at college-sponsored activities.
Please refer to the alcohol/drug sections in the Student Code of Conduct and the “Alcohol & Drug Enforcement” policy for more detailed information on disciplinary measures related to illicit alcohol and drug use.
Prevention Programs
EWC has a variety of methods to prevent the illicit use of drugs and abuse of alcohol by students and employees. The programs provide services related to drug use and abuse including dissemination of informational materials, educational programs, College Studies classes, counseling services, referrals and college disciplinary actions. The EWC registration confirmation email provided to every student includes the alcohol and drug enforcement policies at EWC.
Wyoming Laws
Illegal Possession: Any person under the age of 21 who has any alcoholic beverage in his or her possession or who is under the influence of alcohol is guilty of a misdemeanor.
Falsification of Identity: Any person under the age of 21 who attempts in any manner to purchase alcoholic or malt beverages or who falsifies any identification or uses any false identification in order to obtain alcoholic or malt beverages is guilty of a misdemeanor.
Driving While Under the Influence (DUI) - Under 21: The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) for person under 21 is .02% as opposed to a BAC of .08% for those of legal age. A .02% BAC would result from consuming any alcohol.
Consequences of a Misdemeanor: The consequences upon conviction for violating any of the misdemeanors listed above shall be imprisonment for no more than 1 year, a fine of up to $750, or both. Minors convicted of DUI may have additional consequences.
Student and Employee Responsibilities
The cooperation and involvement of students and employees in a campus safety program is absolutely essential. Individuals must assume responsibility for their own personal safety and the security of their belongings. The following is a list of some precautions:
Reduce Your Risk
Walk with others when possible; be especially cautious during evening hours; keep keys ready, use sidewalks and well-lit pathways; be careful about whom you let approach you when alone. Call 9-911 in an on-campus building or utilize the Emergency-Only telephones outside on-campus if you notice something suspicious or believe yourself to be in danger.
Lock It Up
Use the locks on exterior building doors, individual rooms and offices, and vehicles; keep windows secured; and store valuables out of sight. Weapons are not allowed in on-campus facilities and residence halls.
Record All Serial Numbers
Maintain a list of serial numbers and descriptions for valuable property (cameras, bicycles, etc.) Items such as coats, books, CDs, and cell phones without identifying numbers should be labeled. An engraver suitable for metal, plastic or wooden objects is available through Residence Life.
Be A Crime Stopper
Report all accidents, thefts or other criminal activities to the Torrington Police Department or the Vice President for Student Services as soon as possible. Help the Torrington Police do their job by cooperating when asked to provide a statement, sign a complaint, or testify in court. Stay calm and give accurate details when making calls for assistance. Be concerned for the safety and property of everyone.
On-Campus Housing Security
The following represents a summary of the ways on-campus housing security is addressed:
Staffing
The Residence Halls have staff members living in the buildings. Student Housing Staff (Resident Assistants and Residence Life work-study students) also reside in the building. Housing staff responsibilities include securing doors, observing activity in the facility and responding appropriately, reporting incidents and potential problems, reporting maintenance and safety concerns.
Procedures
Eastern Hall has three exits and Lancer Hall has eight exits. All doors are locked 24 hours a day for the safety of the students. Keys are assigned to students to allow them access to the main entrance of the residence hall in which they reside.
The residence halls have a duty station near the front door which enables housing staff to keep track of which residents and visitors are in the building. This station is manned by Housing staff from 4 pm - 2 am, Sunday-Thursday, and from 6 pm - 6 am, Friday and Saturday. Housing staff are trained to enforce quiet hours and visitation hours. They make rounds of the building and respond to student requests. Visitors are required to sign-in and visitation hours end at 12 midnight Sunday-Thursday nights and at 2 am on Friday and Saturday nights. Residents are responsible for the conduct of their visitors.
During Fall and Spring orientation meetings all residence students are warned about the dangers of leaving their room doors unlocked and exterior door security measures. Fire safety, fire alarm and tornado procedures, theft prevention, and domestic violence/sexual assault issues are also addressed.
Key Control
Student room door keys are not marked to indicate building or room number.
Crime Statistics
Individuals can access the Eastern Wyoming College crime statistics report directly from the Consumer Information section on the EWC home page (ewc.wy.edu/consumer-information).
The Crime Awareness and Disclosure of College Information
Federal disclosure reports such as EWC’s Graduation/Completion and Transfer-Out rates, Athletic Graduation/Completion and Transfer-Out rates are available on the EWC website at ewc.wy.edu/ (click on “Consumer Information” at the bottom on the home page). Other Student Right-To-Know information, such as Athletic Participation and Financial Support, is also available on the website at ewc.wy.edu, or upon request in the office of the Vice President for Student Services at Eastern Wyoming College.
All Eastern Wyoming College students are held individually responsible for the information and policies in this catalog and failure to read and comply with all stated regulations will not exempt a student from such personal responsibility.
Reporting Concerns Regarding Animal Treatment
“Whistleblower Statement”
All animals used at Eastern Wyoming College (EWC) must be handled, housed, treated, cared for, and transported in a humane and ethical manner in accordance with federal law and college rules. Any person having reason to question the treatment of animals at EWC is encouraged to report incidents involving perceived non-compliance without fear of retaliation.
- Any person having reason to question the humane or ethical treatment of animals at the College should contact the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee at the anonymous number 855.392.2273 (855-EWCCARE). No threat or retaliation will be made against anyone reporting perceived mistreatment or non-compliance. In addition, reports can be made to any standing member of EWC’s Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee.
- All complaints and documentation will be brought to the attention of the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC).
- Anonymous concerns are acceptable and all reports will be investigated. Federal laws and college rules prohibit discrimination or reprisal for reporting violations of standards and regulations promulgated under the Animal Welfare Act. All concerns will be discussed by the IACUC and, if warranted, appropriate measures will be taken.
- All complaints, violations and recommendations for subsequent action will be forwarded to the Institutional Official.
*The Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) is a self-regulating entity that, according to U.S. federal law, must be established by institutions that use laboratory animals for research or instructional purposes to oversee and evaluate all aspects of the institution’s animal care and use program. http://www.iacuc.org/
|
