Student Life
California Lutheran University provides a stimulating environment in which students learn and live as part of a community of scholars. Opportunities for individual growth are enhanced by campus involvement. Cal Lutheran offers a broad range of opportunities for students to pursue individual interests as well as dedicate themselves in service to others.
Within Cal Lutheran’s community, there are opportunities for cultural, social, recreational, leadership, and service-oriented activities. Support services are also available to ensure students receive the assistance needed to have a successful and enriching experience. At Cal Lutheran, each student is expected to contribute to the common good, promote the welfare of the institution and strengthen the university’s academic and spiritual life.
Campus Involvement
At Cal Lutheran, participation in co-curricular activities is encouraged as a way to enrich students’ overall learning experiences. During this time of exploration and growth, there are a variety of involvement opportunities, clubs and activities for students to remain active in their established areas of interest or pursue new interests. For a list of activities and events, please visit the Student Events calendar at www.CalLutheran.edu/thehub.
Theatre Arts
Cal Lutheran students have ample opportunity to be involved in theatre arts productions both as spectators and participants. The Theatre Arts Department annually stages several productions including Main Stage Theatre, Black Box Theatre Series, and film and video productions.
The Kingsmen Shakespeare Festival, held annually on the Cal Lutheran campus, provides students with professional theatre intern opportunities. Cal Lutheran’s theatre faculty are working professionals who help students connect with the theatre and film industry.
Fine Arts
Student artists will want to join Cal Lutheran’s Art Department faculty on field study trips to art exhibitions and museums. Students may also assist in preparing campus art exhibitions. Each spring, the Art Department sponsors a senior art exhibit to highlight student work. In addition to the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza, major museums, galleries and theaters are located in nearby Santa Barbara and Los Angeles counties.
Honor Societies
Honorary societies with active campus chapters include Alpha Kappa Delta (Sociology), Alpha Mu Gamma (Foreign Language), Alpha Phi Sigma (Criminal Justice), Omicron Delta Kappa (Leadership), Pi Sigma Alpha (Political Science), Phil Alpha Theta (History), Sigma Beta Delta (Business), Sigma Delta Pi (Spanish), Sigma Tau Delta (English) and Zeta Chi (Pi Delta Phi - French).
Journalistic and Literary Interests
Student writers are encouraged to submit their work to Cal Lutheran’s literary magazine, Morning Glory; the weekly student newspaper, The Echo; and multicultural journal, The Word. Courses to hone writing skills are offered through the English and Communication departments.
Music
Cal Lutheran’s Music Department offers vocalists and instrumentalists a variety of ensembles in which to participate including the University Choir (touring group), the Women’s Chorale, the University Symphony, Wind Ensemble and Jazz Improvisational Band as well as other instrumental and vocal chamber ensembles. Musical stage productions give students further opportunity for musical expression.
Social Activities
Involvement Fair, Buh Bye Bash, and Safe Spring Break are examples of events and programs sponsored by the Office of Student Life. Additionally, the Programs Board of the Associated Students of California Lutheran University Government (ASCLUG) organizes a wide variety of events throughout the year. Both the Office of Student Life and the ASCLUG offices are currently housed on the lower level of the Student Union.
Community Service and Interfaith Center
The Community Service Center, which is part of Student Life, serves to engage students in sustainable service outside the classroom; to develop active citizens that will be knowledgeable of the difference an individual can make within their community. We strive to create a student body committed to lifelong service and justice in a global society. In keeping with Cal Lutheran's mission to educate leaders committed to service and justice, we create service opportunities that match community needs and student interests.
The CSC connects individuals and groups to volunteer opportunities relating to their interests. In addition, students can participate in a winter or spring Alternative Break trip. Past locations include: Florida, New Mexico, El Salvador, Costa Rica, and Cambodia. Whether you're an experienced volunteer or want to get involved for the first time, we have a variety of ways for you to explore service. Join us! Please visit our website at www.CalLutheran.edu/students/community-service/.
Center for Cultural Engagement and Inclusion
The Center for Cultural Engagement and Inclusion (CCEI), which is a part of the Student Life Office, is a space for students to engage, organize, socialize, and inquire about social justice issues and learn about identities beyond their own. The Center supports students from all backgrounds as they explore the intersections of their identities and transform into leaders for a diverse global society. The Center strives to cultivate and maintain an inclusive campus community and facilitate cross-cultural learning. The CCEI is located on the top floor of the Student Union and has an outdoor patio space located between the Student Union and Mt. Clef Hall.
Wellness Resources
Wellness Resources, which is a part of Student Life, is an open space for all students to gain access to information and resources about their well-being. Students can come to the Wellness Resources office looking for answers to questions or other resources related to staying active and fit, anxiety, mindfulness, sexual health, drug and alcohol use, or sexual violence and assault prevention. The Wellness Resources Office is part of Student life and is located in the Student Union adjacent to Student Life.
Visit our website for 24 hour a day resources and up to date information: www.CalLutheran.edu/students/wellness/
Student Clubs and Organizations
Cal Lutheran has approximately 100 active student clubs and organizations. Examples include:
Accounting Association
Adventure Club
Armenian Students' Association
Black Student Union
CLU Line Dance Club
Dance Team
Hillel
iCLU Radio
Knights Rugby
Latin American Student Organization
Lord of Life
Math Club
Philosophy Club
Pokemon Club
PRIDE
Psi Chi Connection
The Secular Student Alliance
Ultimate Frisbee
Young Life College
A full listing of currently active clubs and organizations can be found at www.CalLutheran.edu/students/clubs/directory.html
Associated Students of California Lutheran University (ASCLU)
Students are involved in campus life in a variety of ways, including clubs and organizations, student government, student/faculty committees, personnel searches and task forces on particular issues.
All traditional undergraduate students carrying 12 units or more are automatically members of the Associated Students of California Lutheran University. The representing governing body of the ASCLU is the ASCLU-Government (ASCLU-G), which is divided into three distinct bodies: the Executive Cabinet, Programs Board and Senate. The Executive Cabinet, consisting of the President, Senate Director, Programs Board Director, Director of Relations, and Director of Finance, oversees the two boards, facilitates the weekly meetings, and acts as the formal representatives of ASCLU. The Programs Board is responsible for ASCLU-sponsored student events such as the Fall Carnival, competing for the Crown, Let It Snow, and several other campus favorites. The Senate develops legislation to make recommendations to the university for campus improvements, approves student clubs and organizations, and allocates student fee money to projects deemed important by undergraduate students.
Students are elected into the ASCLU-G Executive Cabinet, Programs Board and Senate during the spring semester for most offices and during the fall semester for selected offices, with terms lasting one academic year. Committee appointments within the boards are made through the ASCLU-G Executive Cabinet.
Cultural Opportunities
Cal Lutheran is an exciting place to be, with enthusiastic artists preparing for careers in drama, music and the visual arts. Each year, these students exhibit their fresh talents through plays, concerts, recitals and exhibitions. In addition to on-campus talent, visiting artists enrich CLUs array of cultural offerings. Most events on campus are free to Cal Lutheran students.
Cultural Events Series
Cal Lutheran’s Cultural Events Series features a variety of talented guest lecturers and performers. Dance troupes, authors, poets and musicians are examples of the entertainment one can expect. Recent noted lecturers have included political activist Naomi Wolf; award-winning authors Tim O’Brien, Kao Kalia Yang and Lisa See; journalist Joe Klein and NPR host Scott Simon.
The Harold Stoner Clark Lecture Series is an annual fall event. Fascinated by a philosophical sense of wonder about what lies just beyond the reach of scientific research, the late Harold Stoner Clark endowed this lecture series. Ecologist Sandra Steingraber, theologian Nancey Murphy, theoretical physicist Brian Greene and philosopher David Chalmers are among recent featured speakers.
Festivals and Special Events
The dynamic campus community is host to colorful celebrations throughout the year. Diverse cultures are explored and celebrated through a variety of events including the Scandinavian Festival highlighting the university’s Nordic heritage, Festival de Encuentros, the Asian Festival and national Black History Month.
Art Collections
Cal Lutheran’s collections include the La Boyteaux Collection of New Guinea Art, the Lou Grubb Collection of Native American Art and European Paintings, the Rev. Patty Hundley Photographic Archive, the Brosius Collection of Philippine Island ethnic materials and other contemporary works. In addition to Cal Lutheran’s own collection, the Kwan Fong Gallery of Art and Culture and Overton Hall regularly display art and special exhibits.
Recreation and Athletics
Intercollegiate
Cal Lutheran competes in the Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SCIAC). Founded in 1915, the SCIAC was one of the first athletic conferences formed in the United States. Membership includes California Institute of Technology, Chapman University, Claremont-Mudd-Scripps Colleges, University of La Verne, Occidental College, Pomona-Pitzer Colleges, University of Redlands and Whittier College. Cal Lutheran is also a member of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division III.
The men’s intercollegiate program includes:
Baseball
Basketball
Cross country
Football
Golf
Soccer
Swimming and diving
Tennis
Track and field
Water polo
Women’s intercollegiate sports include:
Basketball
Cross country
Golf
Soccer
Softball
Swimming and diving
Tennis
Track and field
Volleyball
Water polo
Recreational Sports
This program exists on campus to provide opportunities in recreational athletics for the Cal Lutheran campus community. Cal Lutheran’s current intramural program offers multiple fall and spring leagues including basketball, volleyball, outdoor and indoor soccer. In addition, numerous tournaments are held annually including cosmic dodge ball, capture the flag, softball, and kickball. All intramural sports teams are coed, creating an inclusive environment for all participants.
In addition to intramural leagues and tournaments, Recreational Sports also coordinates outdoor recreation opportunities for students – from large-scale camping trips, snowboarding, kayaking in Channel Islands, hikes in the LA and Ventura counties, and surf trips to the local beaches.
The Recreational Sports office also provides a substantial inventory of rental equipment including surf boards, tents and other camping equipment.
Forrest Fitness Center
The Forrest Fitness Center is located in the Gilbert Sports and Fitness Center. All students are welcome to use the facility while they are attending the university. Students must bring their current student I.D. card to gain access to the facility and must have completed the online liability waiver for entry. Equipment includes free weights, weight machines and cardio equipment. The department also offers various fitness classes such as Yoga, Zumba, Pilates, and boot-camp.
Recreational Opportunities
In addition to the formalized programs offered through Cal Lutheran’s intercollegiate and intramural sports programs, there are a variety of campus recreational facilities available to students. They include the tennis courts, gymnasium, pool, and hiking/mountain biking trails. Most athletic facilities at Cal Lutheran are open for general use during specific hours only.
Campus Ministry
You are a seriously connected individual: electronically, emotionally, socially, academically, spiritually, and globally. Just like you, Campus Ministry is connected. In fact we are in the business of making connections. So let’s make some connections - between classroom and life, between faith and research, between service to humanity and vocation, between identity and purpose, between you and the God that loves you.
By design, practicing one's faith causes connections. Worship is one way to connect with God. Worship opportunities include University Chapel on Thursdays, Lord of Life Student congregation worship on Sunday, Common Ground evening Worship on Wednesdays all held within Samuelson Chapel. Prayer and Reflection, a brief time to pause and remember the faith you have within and the God that knows you, is held on the Woodland Hills and Oxnard campuses midweek. Celebrating and remembering numerous Jewish holiday traditions are part of the regularly scheduled calendar of Campus Ministry events. Faith forming opportunities are offered through small groups, service learning projects, and educational offerings to further your growth in faith.
The Wennes Interfaith Meditation Chapel is open for prayer and contemplation. Prayer mats and resources from the world's major religions are available for your use. You are welcome to enter the Meditation Chapel through the outside door adjacent to the doors of Samuelson Chapel. Behind Samuelson Chapel is a Labyrinth. The Labyrinth is another means to encounter focused prayer for all faith traditions. You can also access the many Sabbath Hour resources provided by Campus Ministry on our website: www.CalLutheran.edu/mission-identity/campus-ministry/.
Campus Ministry endeavors to create a web of connections reminding us that we are connected to God and neighbor. ELCA Campus Pastors Scott and Melissa Maxwell-Doherty and Rabbi Belle Michael welcome all those who wish to share a common faith in God. Got faith, doubt, and hope? Bring it, regardless of your denominational, religious, or spiritual affiliation. You are invited and encouraged to express and explore your connection to a living God.
The Office of Campus Ministry is located in Samuelson Chapel.
Support Services
California Lutheran University provides students with the necessary support services to enhance their educational experience and create an environment which is encouraging, caring and conducive to their success.
Career Services
Career Services provides an array of individualized services and programs to students and alumni at no charge. We provide assistance in job and internship searches, including hundreds of weekly listings on internship, part-time, and full-time positions for all majors/programs at all career levels. Career Services works with more than 20,000 employer contacts and will help you target the employers you want to work for. We offer career assessments, counseling, resume/cover letter writing help, mock interviews, salary negotiations coaching. We offer formats in person and online. We also host the CLU Career & Intern Expo in the Spring Semester and a graduate school fair every Fall along with graduate school advising for general programs and Pre-Med/Health and Pre-Law students. Complete a profile at www.CLUpostings.com to get started. Call our office with any questions M-F 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. at 805-493-3200.
Website: www.CalLutheran.edu/career
Facebook: www.facebook.com/CLUcareer
Twitter: www.twitter.com/CLUcareer
Office of International Students and Scholars, Center for Global Engagement
The university recognizes the benefits of exchange between students of various cultures and backgrounds and encourages interaction among its diverse student body. The Office of International Students and Scholars is dedicated to providing the highest quality service possible for the support of all international students and faculty, while supporting the institution’s mission. OISS provides support for immigration matters and global engagement through cultural exchange.
Immigration advisement includes a wide portfolio of regulatory compliance work to keep students, faculty and staff informed of U.S. government policies impacting the institution’s eligibility to host international students. Programs offered to support international students include, but are not limited to: orientation, immigration advisement, online communication, travel advisement/signatures, immigration benefits/status application guidance, support letters (e.g., for visitors’ visas, driver’s licenses, social security numbers, etc.), tax compliance workshops, and visas beyond the H1-B workshops (with immigration attorney).
The OISS also provides campus-based engagement opportunities to strengthen intercultural competence and global awareness, with an emphasis on direct interactions between international and U.S. domestic students. Examples of programs offered include, but are not limited to: International Peer Mentors, International Education Week Activities, Country Cluster Socials, World Fair (international festival of food, trivia, & activities), International Women’s Day Celebration, and International Student Advisory Council.
Academic Services
Academic Services at Cal Lutheran encompasses three main areas: Registrar Services, Student Success Services and Disability Support Services.
Registrar Services
Registrar Services supports all constituents of Cal Lutheran through the delivery of Class Scheduling, Classroom Scheduling, Student Registration, Federal and State Compliance Reporting, FERPA Compliance, Transfer Articulation, Academic Transcripts, University Catalogs, PLTS Support, and Parent Portal Access.
Student Success Services
Student Success Services serves the Cal Lutheran community by offering the Students Taking Academic Responsibility Program (STAR), Student Success Workshops, Academic Difficulty Notices, Undergraduate Advisor Changes, 4 to Finish Program. We also list tutoring schedules by department, facilitate academic planning, and support faculty advising and mentoring.
Additionally, every student is assigned a Student Success Counselor in Academic Services; each with their own alpha split listed on Academic Services website at www.CalLutheran.edu/academicservices.
Work collaboratively with faculty in the advising and mentoring role
Assist students with their academic records
Provide academic support and resources
Facilitate the academic planning process
Answer questions about degree completion
Disability Support Services
California Lutheran University is committed to providing equal educational opportunities to students with various documented disabilities who choose to self-identify. Students must register with Disability Support Services (DSS) in order to formally request and receive disability-related aids and services.
The DSS staff works together with the student, administrators, and faculty to assure access to course materials, classrooms and other campus buildings as well as on-campus programs and events. Reasonable accommodations and services are determined based on disability information and individual need. These include but are not limited to note-taker services, extended test time, alternative test location, books in alternative formats, housing accommodations as well as resources and referrals to other campus services.
All services and accommodations are provided in a confidential manner that promotes independence, self-advocacy, and accountability. In addition, these services are provided in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Sections 504 and 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, University policies, and state requirements.
DSS is located in the Academic Services building. For more information, please visit our website at www.CalLutheran.edu/disabilities or email dss@CalLutheran.edu.
Student Support Services Program
Student Support Services (SSS) is a federally funded grant program that aims to increase the retention and graduation rates of eligible participants. CLU students whose parents do not have a bachelor’s degree, students whose families meet specific income requirements, and students with a disability are eligible for SSS. Students who meet the eligibility requirements may apply to be a part of the program by visiting our website: www.CalLutheran.edu/students/support-services/.
The program focuses on promoting academic excellence by providing holistic personalized services to students so they can make the most of their undergraduate education, graduate from a four-year university, and continue on to graduate or professional schools upon completing their degree. Program elements include: SOAR (Summer Orientation to Academic Resources) summer bridge program, Student Success Plans, academic planning, tutoring, student leadership program, cultural events, study skills seminars, graduate school workshops, FAFSA workshops, financial literacy workshops, and personal/social counseling.
Writing Center
The Writing Center, located in Pearson Library, helps students develop their writing abilities. Trained composition tutors are available to help students at all stages of the writing process. The staff at the center assists students in focusing, developing and organizing papers as well as polishing and editing the final draft.
Health Services
Health Services is available to all full-time or residential Cal Lutheran students. We provide treatment of injuries and illness, administer immunizations and preventive health services. For more complex medical issues, Health Services can help students access appropriate medical care in the community. Please call 805-493-3225 for an appointment.
Professional Care
A physician, a psychiatrist, physician assistants, and nurses help students meet their health care needs. The physician assistants are in attendance at regularly scheduled hours and the psychiatrist by referral only. Consultation, physical exams, referrals, immunizations, and care of common ailments are available to full-time or residential Cal Lutheran students. Prescription medications and lab tests are available at low cost. The charge for most office visits is $10. We take cash, check, and most credit and debit cards. For more information and current hours please see our website at www.CalLutheran.edu/students/health-services/.
Required Forms
Prior to entering Cal Lutheran, all students (except online-only students) are required to submit proof of COVID-19 vaccination via the student health portal.
In addition, all undergraduate students are required to log on to the student health portal to submit a Medical History Form, Immunization Form, Meningitis Awareness Form, and a Tuberculosis Screening Form. All undergraduate students are required to have the following immunizations: 1) two immunizations for Measles, Mumps and Rubella, 2) Hepatitis B series (three shots), 3) a tetanus shot within 10 years (after completion of the primary childhood series), and 4) a Meningitis ACWY immunization at 16 years old or later (such as Menactra or Menvio). Students must upload an official copy of their Immunization Record to provide proof of these vaccinations.
A link to the student health portal will be emailed to you but you may also find more information and a link at www.CalLutheran.edu/students/health-services/policies/. Students whose forms are not completed and immunization record not uploaded to Health Services on time will be unable to register for the following semester.
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) (www.CalLutheran.edu/studentcounseling) provides currently-enrolled students with confidential, short-term therapy. CAPS is located at 3222 Luther Avenue on the main Thousand Oaks campus. All services are free, confidential, solution-focused, and culturally-affirming. Services include individual therapy, relationship therapy (only for enrolled students), group therapy, and outreach and consultation. Students may call or come to CAPS to schedule an appointment. For students experiencing psychological crisis, services are available without an appointment during office hours. Counseling is provided by licensed psychologists, post-doctoral residents, and practicum trainees. All trainees work under the clinical supervision of licensed psychologists.
**During the COVID-19 pandemic, teletherapy is available for students residing in California and in-person services are available for vaccinated students. Any students residing outside the state of California are welcome to schedule a consultation for assistance in identifying resources, as well as calling for a crisis appointment during a psychological emergency.**
Students come to CAPS for various reasons. The pressures, demands, and life experiences students face can create stress that impairs academic performance and negatively impacts mental and emotional health. Some of the most common reasons students come to CAPS include anxiety, identity-based stress or discrimination, loneliness, post-traumatic stress, depression, academic challenges, interpersonal conflicts, relationship problems, behavioral concerns, suicidal feelings, and substance use difficulties. By request, CAPS also provides educational programming in classes and in residence halls regarding mental health issues.
To schedule an appointment or request a crisis appointment, please call 805-493-3727. CAPS is open M-F 8:00am - 5:00pm, closed for lunch from 12:00pm-1:00pm and Chapel Hour on
Standards of Conduct
The Standards of Conduct are part of the California Lutheran University commitment to holistic student development. It is the university’s purpose to assist students in developing a personal set of values and ethics, managing emotions, making decisions and following through on commitments, becoming more independent, recognizing interdependence, and accepting the consequences of personal actions and decisions.
The Standards of Conduct were not established to be judgmental, but rather to ensure individual responsibility and an environment that contributes to a learning community.
The Cal Lutheran community assumes that each student who enters the university possesses an earnest purpose; the ability to exercise mature judgment; the ability to act in a responsible manner; a well-developed concept of, and commitment to, honor, morality and integrity; and a respect for law and the rights of others. This assumption prevails unless a student negates it through misconduct.
The Standards of Conduct shall apply to conduct that occurs on university premises, at university-sponsored activities, and to off-campus conduct that adversely affects the university community and/or the pursuit of its objectives.
Each student shall be responsible for his or her conduct from the time of application for admission through the actual awarding of a degree, even though conduct may occur before classes begin or after classes end, as well as during the academic year and between the terms of actual enrollment (even if conduct is not discovered until after a degree is awarded). The Standards of Conduct shall apply to a student’s conduct even if the student withdraws from the university while a disciplinary matter is pending.
Public postings or displays of information pertaining to and/or in direct violation of university policy are subject to disciplinary action. This includes but is not limited to websites, Facebook, MySpace, blogs, online messaging, and other sources on or off line.
The Vice President for Student Affairs/Dean of Students shall decide whether the Standards of Conduct shall be applied to conduct occurring off campus on a case-by-case basis.
The university adopts only such policies and procedures that seem necessary for the welfare of the educational community. Each student associated with California Lutheran University is expected to be familiar with and to follow all policies and procedures promulgated by the university.
Failure to abide by the policies and procedures as outlined in the Standards of Conduct may result in disciplinary action and sanctions.
General University Policies
The following are prohibited:
1.1 Verbal abuse, harassment, intimidation, or in any way threatening the well-being of another individual.
1.2 The physical abuse of any person or conduct that threatens the health or safety of any person on or off university property.
1.3 Reckless, disorderly, rude, or lewd conduct on university property or at official university functions. Disorderly conduct includes but is not limited to: Any unauthorized use of electronic or other devices to make an audio or video record of any person while on university premises without his or her prior knowledge, or without his or her effective consent. This includes, but is not limited to, surreptitiously taking pictures or video of another person.
1.4 Attempted or actual theft or unauthorized possession of university property or other property on campus.
1.5 Attempted or actual burglary or attempted burglary of university property or other property on campus.
1.6 Attempted or actual theft or unauthorized possession of a university vehicle or other vehicles on campus.
1.7 Misusing, destroying, vandalizing, or attempting to destroy or vandalize university property or other property on campus.
1.8 Unauthorized entry or use of university facilities.
1.9 Failure to comply with the directions and/or requests of a university official (i.e., Campus Safety and Security, Area Residence Coordinator, Resident Assistant, or university employee or staff member) in the performance of his or her duty. This includes evasiveness, running, hiding and giving a false name.
1.10 Creating a fire, safety, or health hazard of any kind. This includes personal hygiene, cleanliness of shared living spaces and personal property, activating a fire alarm without the existence of a fire or a similar emergency situation, failing to evacuate the building during a fire alarm and/or abusing fire and safety equipment.
1.11 Creating excessive noise or disturbing the peace.
1.12 All forms of academic dishonesty. (See “Academic Policies”)
1.13 Knowingly furnishing false information to the university, forgery, alteration or misuse of university documents, or university instruments of identification.
1.14 Disruption or obstruction of teaching, research, administration, disciplinary proceedings, public functions or other activities of the university, including interference with the freedom of movement of any member or guest of the university community.
1.15 Actions violating university policies by a student’s guest.
1.16 Abuse of the Student Judicial System. (See “Student Judicial System”)
Alcohol and Other Drug Information
The specific guidelines governing the use of alcohol and other drugs on campus are included in the policy section of this handbook. However, it is important to understand the context within which those policies are created. The Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act of 1991 outlines clear expectations of universities in preventing the illegal use of drugs and alcohol on our campuses. In addition, the abuse of alcohol and other drugs continues to be a major problem on campuses across the country. The majority of traffic accidents, vandalism, suicides, physical abuse, fights and sexual assaults involve the use of alcohol or drugs by the individuals involved. Relevant sections of state and local statutes regarding alcohol and drugs are summarized below.
University Policy on Alcohol
2.1 Campus standards do not allow alcoholic beverages, including empty alcohol containers on campus.
2.2 All persons in the presence of alcohol confronted by a university official (e.g.), Resident Assistants, Graduate Assistants, Area Residence Coordinators, and Campus Safety and Security) will be documented for a policy violation. All alcohol and items containing alcohol will be disposed of and/or confiscated. Beer bongs and/or other paraphernalia used in the consumption of alcohol may be confiscated and/or destroyed.
2.3 Use or possession of alcohol by students off campus is subject to local laws and university discipline.
2.4 Undesirable behavior both on and off campus resulting from on- or off-campus use of alcohol is subject to university discipline.
2.5 Hosting groups or parties where large numbers of persons and/or large quantities of alcohol are present is a flagrant violation of the alcohol policy and is subject to increased sanctions.
2.6 Possession of a keg on campus is a flagrant violation of the alcohol policy and is subject to increased sanctions. The university reserves the right to confiscate and hold all kegs, party balls, taps and other alcohol paraphernalia.
2.7 No alcohol related, or similarly offensive posters, stickers, caps, lights, etc., may be displayed in residence hall windows or on the outside of doors. Bottle caps are not allowed on ceilings or walls.
2.8 Due to the risks involved to the health and safety of Cal Lutheran students, competitive drinking events and games are prohibited both on and off campus. Planning or participating in such events will result in university disciplinary action for organizers and participants.
The following are exceptions to this policy:
Faculty and professional staff members who live on campus are allowed to have alcohol in their residence, but may not serve alcohol to or in the presence of undergraduate students.
Graduate students who live in university-owned residences segregated from undergraduate student housing are allowed to have alcohol in their residence, but may not serve alcohol to or in the presence of undergraduate students.
Alcohol is allowed and may be served in the President’s Residence to guests other than undergraduate students at his or her personal discretion.
Communion wine at on-campus worship services is allowed.
Alcohol is allowed on campus and may be served at special events where specific permission is sought and granted by the President of the university (or designee). These special events include, but are not limited to, wedding receptions, dinners for Regents or other guests of the university, and receptions held on campus by external organizations.
Distilled spirits are not permitted at approved special events and all non-distilled spirits provided must be served by catering services holding license to do so. On-campus university residential facilities will not be considered for this exception.
Alcohol Policy Violation Sanctions
Following is a list of the minimum sanctions for violations of the University Policy on Alcohol. The university reserves the right to impose further sanctions up to and including expulsion/dismissal from the university.
1st Violation: Disciplinary warning, participation in an alcohol education program, students under 21 years of age are informed that parents/guardians will be notified if further violations occur
2nd Violation: Residence hall probation, parents/guardians of students under 21 years of age notified
3rd Violation: Residence hall suspension, university probation, parents/guardians of students under 21 years of age notified
4th Violation: Suspension from the university, parents/guardians of students under 21 years of age notified
During each alcohol-related policy violation, the student is required to sign an Alcohol Policy Review Form acknowledging awareness of the university policy on alcohol, and acknowledging that future Alcohol Policy Violations will result in a minimum of the above outlined sanctions. Failure to sign a Policy Review Form in an alcohol-related incident may result in a Student Life fine and/or a disciplinary hold on the student’s account.
University Policy on Drugs
3.1 The use, possession, manufacture, cultivation or trafficking of any controlled substance, including but not limited to amphetamines, barbiturates, narcotics, LSD, marijuana and/or other hallucinogenic agents is a violation of state and federal laws and is a violation of California Lutheran University policy. Violation of the California Lutheran University policy on drugs can result in suspension, dismissal or expulsion from the university. All drugs and paraphernalia will be confiscated in order to be destroyed.
3.2 The use or possession of prescription drugs without a valid and current authorized prescription is a violation of California Lutheran University policy.
3.3 Paraphernalia includes any object that contains the residue of a controlled substance and any object that is used in the cultivation, manufacture, consumption or distribution of a controlled substance. Examples of paraphernalia include, but are not limited to, a marijuana pipe, bong or blow tube, a scale used for measuring quantities of an illegal drug, rolling papers, hookahs and hookah components. While these items can be used for legal purposes, they are prohibited because of their common misuse.
3.4 Being under the influence of prescription drugs without a valid and current authorized prescription or being under the influence of controlled substances is considered a violation of this policy.
3.5 No drug-related or similarly offensive posters, stickers, caps, lights, etc., may be displayed in residence hall windows or on the outside of doors.
3.6 California Lutheran University will not tolerate drug sales and/or distribution. California Lutheran University reserves the right to expel any student for the sale and/or distribution of any controlled substances or prescription drugs.
University Policy on Smoking
4.1 In accordance with the City of Thousand Oaks Municipal Code and university standards, no smoking is allowed in any building on the Cal Lutheran campus or within 20 feet of any entrance to any building.
4.2 Hookah and hookah components are strictly prohibited on campus.
4.3 Specifically designated smoking areas will be determined by the Area Residence Coordinator of each residence hall complex.
University Policy on Student Harassment
The university seeks to create and maintain an academic environment in which all members of the community are free from harassment based on race, color, religion, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or sex.
California Lutheran University espouses values that infuse the academic and residential life of its campus. Undergirding community life must be the awareness on the part of every member of the rights and human dignity of every member. Attitudes of condescension, hostility, role stereotyping and social or sexual innuendo weaken the health of the community.
Furthermore, harassment compromises the integrity of a liberal arts education because it makes the learning and working environment hostile, intimidating and offensive; it destroys opportunities for students to develop a strong, positive self-concept and the sense of self-confidence which is essential to living out the ideals of a liberal education.
In addition, persons who harass others compromise their own integrity and credibility. Consequently, no form of harassment will be tolerated on our campus.
Harassment
Harassment refers to unwelcome behavior that is offensive, fails to respect the rights of others, and interferes with work, learning, living, or campus environment. Forms of harassment include, but are not limited to:
5.1a Verbal: Conduct such as suggestive comments, derogatory slurs, off-color jokes, threats, suggestive or insulting sounds, etc. Verbal harassment also entails using the telephone to harass others. This includes, but is not limited to, unwanted phone calls, hang ups, unwanted voice mail messages, obscene calls.
5.1b Nonverbal/Visual: Conduct such as derogatory or inappropriate posters, pictures, cartoons, faxes, emails, or drawings, suggestive objects or pictures, graphic commentaries, leering, obscene gestures.
5.1c Physical: Conduct such as unwanted physical contact including touching, interference with an individual’s normal work or movement, assault.
Sexual Harassment
Any sexual advances, requests or demands for sexual favors and other physical, verbal or visual conduct of sexual nature constitute sexual harassment when:
Such conduct has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with an individual’s work or academic performance, creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive work, learning, living, or campus environment; or
Submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis for employment or academic decisions affecting the individual; or
Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual’s employment or academic program.
The University Policy on Student Sexual Harassment includes, but is not limited to, the following behaviors:
5.2a Verbal: Conduct such as epithets, derogatory jokes or comments, slurs or unwanted sexual advances, invitations or comments, obscene phone calls, or voice mail or email messages, and threats and demands to submit to sexual requests as a condition of continued employment or academic advancement, or to avoid some other loss, and offers of preferential treatment in return for sexual favors and/or retaliation for having reported or threatened to report harassment.
5.2b Nonverbal/Visual: Conduct such as derogatory and/or sexuality-oriented posters, photographs, cartoons, drawings or gestures, exposure (e.g., “mooning,” “streaking”), other lewd behaviors.
5.2c Physical: Conduct such as assault, unwanted touching, blocking normal movement or interfering with work or study.
Any student who feels subject to such harassment, or becomes aware of an actual or potential incident of sexual harassment, should report the incident immediately, either verbally or in writing, to any one of the following people:
Leanne Neilson
Provost/Vice President for Academic Affairs
805-493-3145
Melinda Roper
Vice President for Student Affairs/Dean of Students
805-493-3553
Cal Lutheran will respect the complainant’s right to confidentiality in both informal and formal procedures. The complainant will be supported and any attempted reprisals will not be tolerated.
Many additional policies exist for students at California Lutheran University. To access additional policies, go to www.CalLutheran.edu/StudentLife and follow the link to the Online Student Handbook. To request a paper copy of the policies, contact the Residence Life and Student Conduct Office at reslife@CalLutheran.edu or 805-493-3220.
Residence Life
The university is primarily a residential institution with more than 1,300 full-time undergraduate students residing on campus. The residential experience is considered a crucial part of students’ education, as significant learning occurs through peer interaction in the residence halls.
Requirements
All full-time undergraduate students are required to reside on campus through their junior year at Cal Lutheran. Seniors have the option of living off campus. However, as with all students, once a senior has signed a housing contract, it is expected that the full term of the contract will be honored (one academic year) or there may be financial penalties for breaking the contract. The housing contract includes the meal plan. Room and board are not separable except for residents of apartments and university houses.
Exceptions to the requirements to live on campus would normally fall into one of the following categories:
Married students
Students living with their parents within a 30-mile radius
Graduate and Bachelor's Degree for Professionals students
Seniors
Students who are 23 years of age or older
Note: Students who are seeking an exception to the housing or meal plan requirements must meet with the Housing Review Committee through the Residence Life Office. Students who are not granted an exception to the housing requirements who move off campus will be penalized. This penalty will consist of being charged for room and board for the first semester and loss of university-funded financial aid the subsequent semester.
Housing Contracts
Student housing contracts are for the full academic year. A student who occupies a room in university housing will be held responsible for that room and the stipulated charges until the end of the academic year unless the student is expressly released from the contract by the Housing Review Committee.
Room Applications and Assignments
Housing contracts are submitted online to the Residence Life Office, which is responsible for the assignment of rooms and approval of room changes during the year.
Student Responsibilities
Residential students are expected to uphold Cal Lutheran’s high standards. Each student is responsible for contributing to the positive community environment by being courteous, considerate, honest and ethical. When individuals do not accept these responsibilities, the university administration may take appropriate action for the benefit of the community.
Additionally, students requesting to live on campus are expected to be aware of and abide by all the policies of the university as stated in the University Catalog and Standards of Conduct. These policies include but are not limited to: no alcohol or illegal drugs on campus; quiet hours; and a general respect for the rights of other residents.
By accepting university housing, students agree to observe all housing regulations and respect university property. When an individual is suspended or expelled from a residence hall, fees are not refunded.
Graduate Housing
Cal Lutheran provides fully furnished private bedroom residence hall rooms for graduate students in Grace Hall. These rooms are available on a first-come first-served basis. Please visit our website for more information or a virtual tour of the room. Students may request housing by filling out the Graduate Student Housing application.
Residence Hall Vacation Schedule
All first year residence halls are closed during the winter holiday. Campus Dining closes after the evening meal on the last day of classes prior to the session break. Food service is not available during various holidays, winter break and spring break. The services and facilities reopen the afternoon before the resumption of classes.
Student Mail
All correspondence will be sent to students’ campus mailboxes outside the Mail Room. The student mailing address is:
Student Name
101 Memorial Parkway #_____
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360