MISSION AND VISION FOR RESIDENCE LIFE
Residential Life at Washington Adventist University provides a safe, clean living and learning environment for our students. We provide an environment that affirms human dignity and welcomes people of all cultures, as we seek to develop and nurture a community experience that binds us together. Our goal to prepare our students in the development of a Christ-like character is woven into our mission and vision expression.
RESIDENCE LIFE A TO Z
BICYCLES
Residents may store their bicycles in an area in the residence hall authorized by the dean or in private rooms. See a residence hall dean for details. For safety and security reasons, bicycles should never be left unlocked or in a hallway, or ridden inside the buildings. Any bicycle found in an inappropriate place will be confiscated by a residence hall dean, and there may be a $50 fine to reclaim it. Riding bicycles, skateboards, rollerblades, scooters, and all other types of sports equipment is prohibited in the residence halls.
BULLETIN BOARDS AND RESIDENCE HALL NEWSLETTERS
Part of being a successful student is being properly informed. Please check the bulletin boards, screens, residence hall newsletters, WAU email, or the WAU App, for information about residence hall and campus activities, campus and residence hall policy updates, and announcements.
All information placed on bulletin boards in the residence halls or distributed in resident mailboxes must be approved by the dean prior to display or distribution.
CITIZENSHIP PROBATION
Citizenship probation means that upon further violation of Washington Adventist University’s policies and expectations, your status as a student will be immediately reevaluated by the Vice President of the Center for Student Life and/or the Conduct and Guidance Committee. During the second weeklong probationary period, weekend and overnight leaves may be restricted to the home of your parents. Any exceptions may be granted by a residence hall dean. Further violations will be grounds for immediate suspension, dismissal, or expulsion from Washington Adventist University.
COMPUTER LAB
The computer lab is located in the Science Bldg #3. Please check online for hours and availability.
CURFEW AND LEAVE POLICY
Residence hall living means there are many individuals sharing the same “home.” It is our responsibility to provide you with a safe environment, and it is your responsibility to honor your commitment to follow the expectations and policies outlined in this Student Handbook, and to exercise good judgment.
Students living in the residence halls are to abide by the following curfew times. Please note: Curfew is based on class standing and age.
All freshmen, regardless of number of completed credit hours:
Sunday - Friday 11:00 p.m.
Saturday - 12:00 a.m.
Sophomores
Sunday - Friday 12:00 a.m.
Saturday - 1:00 a.m.
Juniors
Sunday - Friday 12:30 a.m.
Saturday - 1:30 a.m
Seniors
Sunday - Saturday 2:00 a.m.
All residents 21 and older:
Sunday - Saturday 2:00 a.m.
Washington Adventist University residence hall students have the privilege of a 15-minute grace period beyond curfew. Curfew is the expectation! In case of an emergency please call the Head RA, Graduate Assistant, or Dean. The grace period is to allow for any delay, not a late entry.
Entry into a residence hall after 2:00 a.m. is considered an overnight absence. (See Leave Requests, and Curfew Infractions.)
Residents must fill out a Leave Request Form online and have it approved prior to departure for late, extended, overnight, or weekend leave. Late leaves will be granted for no more than one hour past normal curfew and never later than 2:00 a.m. Please note: Late leaves are only to be used under special circumstances. They are not an extended curfew time. Forms must be electronically submitted and approved by the dean before the resident leaves. The leave request form is then sent to his/her WAU email. Changes in plans after approval should be communicated to the dean on duty before leave is taken. Please note: Leaves are not automatically granted. Do not leave campus prior to a leave approval. All leaves must comply with University standards. Leaves will not be approved after midnight. Violation of this policy will result in disciplinary action.
If you are on an approved leave and, for some reason, need to return to the residence hall prior to the end of the leave, please inform the dean on duty immediately upon your return. If you wish to leave the residence hall again, another Leave Request Form must be filled out and approved.
A leave is invalid if a resident leaves before getting approval, remains in the residence hall or does not fill out the (i.e., contact information: name, address, phone number, relation to resident, etc.).
CURFEW INFRACTIONS
- The resident will meet with a dean concerning the infraction(s) and a warning will be given. Failure to meet with the dean on duty within two (2 business days, M- F) will result in an immediate fine (a fine may be applicable depending on the severity of the infraction).
- The resident will be fined according to the list of infractions below. The resident may email the deans to appeal the infraction(s) within two (2 business days, M- F). A resident can receive a maximum of five charges prior to being referred for further disciplinary actions to the Center for Student Life, for infraction(s) incurred throughout the academic semester.
- The resident will be referred to the Center for Student Life where disciplinary actions will be taken, which may include but are not limited to: citizenship probation, community service, residence hall expulsion, or conduct and guidance committee hearing.
List of infractions:
- Curfew
- Noise
- Misconduct
- Worship
- Cleanliness
EMERGENCIES
In case of emergencies, please call the residence hall deans at (301)-891-4174, HH; (301)-891-4043, MH; Safety and Security at (301)-891-4019, and/or in an extreme emergency, dial 911. If an evacuation is necessary, instructions for evacuation are posted behind each residence hall room door. See a residence hall dean for a list of emergency procedures. Please familiarize yourself.
EXEMPT STATUS
Exempt status is a privilege, and with privileges there are increased responsibilities.
However, in keeping with best practices and common sense for safety in a community-based campus, exempt students will be required to sign in and out when entering and exiting the residence hall after 2 a.m. Residents who are graduating seniors will be given exempt status upon presentation of the approved graduation contract to a residence hall dean. Students who are 21 and older are encouraged to attend residence hall worship.
Exempt status is a privilege. Failure to follow residence hall rules will result in loss of privileges. Should you have any further questions, please see the Residence Hall Dean.
If your birthday falls within a semester, your exempt status will not become effective until the following semester.
Graduate Students
The following pertains to all graduate students living in the residence hall:
- Graduate students are exempted from curfew.
- Graduate students are encouraged but not required to attend worships, and all other events pertaining to the residence hall.
- Graduate students are encouraged to complete a leave request online for all weekend, overnight, and extended leave from the residence hall; or inform the Head RA or Graduate Assistant.
- Graduate students are encouraged to follow the same guidelines, as it pertains to overnight guests (see overnight guest policy under GUESTS).
FIRE DRILLS
Fire drills are conducted periodically as a safety precaution. When the fire alarm sounds, residents should leave the building immediately and meet at the designated place. If you are in your room or if you are not in your room, refer to the fire evacuation plan where you are located. Residence hall deans and RAs will review the fire drill procedures in detail. Please note: Familiarize yourself with proper fire safety procedures above. Review the information posted behind your residence hall room door.
Failure to leave the residence hall during a fire drill will subject the resident to disciplinary action. In addition, the Montgomery County Fire Code Enforcement official may impose a fine of up to $500 for not exiting the building during a fire drill.
FIRE SAFETY
County code prohibits open flame in residence halls. This includes, but is not limited to, candles and incense. The only exception to this is the fireplace in the basement of Halcyon Hall. Instructions for evacuation of the building in the event of fire or other emergencies are posted behind each residence hall room door.
Following are some general guidelines in case of fire:
- If you are the first person to notice a fire, pull the fire alarm in the hallway, and immediately exit the building using the nearest exit door.
- When the alarm sounds, evacuate the building quickly and safely according to the emergency exit plans and fire drill procedure posted in each area/room.
- Stay close to the floor if there is smoke. Check the doorknob for heat before opening. If the doorknob is hot, do not open the door.
- If needed, soak a blanket and lay it over and around yourself.
- Don’t try to fight the fire.
- Once outside, please stand away from the building until told by a member of the residence hall staff that it’s safe to return.
- Identify yourself to the authorities if you pulled the alarm.
- Familiarize yourself with the location of all alarms, exits, and fire extinguishers; learn how to use them before a fire starts.
If you are trapped by fire or smoke:
- Keep doors closed.
- Put a towel or some clothing in the crack at the bottom of the door.
- Open a window from the top so the heat will go out.
- Open a window from the bottom so fresh air will come in.
- Wave a brightly colored object from the window until emergency personnel arrive.
- Wait to be rescued. If you must exit using the window do not jump out. Go out stomach side down by placing your feet out first and holding on to the window ledge. Allow your body to hang down and then release your hands from the ledge in order to hit the ground feet first. Don’t jump unless you have to.
FIRST AID
A first-aid kit for minor medical needs is available from your RA and at the front desk in each residence hall. Each resident assistant is certified at first aid and CPR.
FOOD DELIVERIES
If you have ordered food for delivery, please provide the restaurant or delivery company with an accurate number to contact you. NOTE: Food deliveries are not allowed on campus during Sabbath hours (See Sabbath and Seventh-day Adventist Church )
FURNISHINGS FOR RESIDENCE HALL ROOMS
Each room is tiled and furnished. All rooms are furnished with the following: twin beds, two desks, two chairs, a sink, and two closets. Residents must provide their own linen, towels, and wastebasket. Please note that all residents living in Morrison Hall must purchase a carpet to cover the common walk space of the room. The room size is 11’x13’ so the rug size will vary depending on how you choose to set up the furnishings provided.
(See a full list of What To Bring to the residence hall on the respective residence life webpage). Possession of a SmartTV, Playstation, Xbox, and other sound equipment is allowed, so long as the volume is controlled (see Noise). Headphones must be worn after 11:00 p.m. Use white poster putty to mount posters or pictures. Mounting with anything that will damage the walls, including tacks, nails, masking tape, and Scotch tape is prohibited. Check with your RA for additional information and instructions.
The University reserves the right to charge for room damages, unclean rooms, and unauthorized moving of furniture. This includes damage to walls, floors, and painting of walls and room furniture (see Room Deposit). Residents who want to request a change in room furniture must make arrangements with one of the residence hall deans before making any changes.
Halcyon Hall Residents: The window measurements are: 47” wide, 52” high (rod to sill), 89” high (rod to floor). All rooms are furnished with Venetian blinds, but rods are not provided. All window curtains must be fire-retardant.
Morrison Hall Residents: The window measurements are: 1st floor: 35” x 62” 2nd and 3rd Floor: 35” x 54”. For hanging drapes: 78” wide and 64” high. All rooms are furnished with Venetian blinds, but rods are not provided. Please note: All window curtains must be fire retardant.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Your Mailing Address:
Your Name
Washington Adventist University
7600 Flower Avenue
Your Residence Hall, Room #_____
Takoma Park, MD 20912-7796
Residence Hall Telephone Numbers:
Halcyon Hall, (301)-891-4174
Morrison Hall, (301)-891-4043
Food Deliveries:
Halcyon Hall: Building #8
Morrison Hall: Building #9
GUESTS
No visitors of the opposite sex are allowed in students’ rooms without permission from the residence hall dean on duty. Violation of this policy will result in disciplinary action. In consideration of the care and safety of all parties involved, BABYSITTING IS PROHIBITED IN THE RESIDENCE HALLS. Violation of this policy will result in disciplinary action.
Guests of the Opposite Sex
Guests of the opposite sex are welcome to visit residents in the residence hall lobby on the main floor or in the recreation room. Please note: When visiting in the recreation room, the guest must sign in at the front desk and show his/her ID badge at the front desk. Upon leaving the residence hall, the guest must sign out. All guests must leave the residence hall at closing time (12:00 a.m.).
Overnight Guests
Residents are to arrange with a residence hall dean for same-sex guests to stay overnight in their rooms. All guests are to sign in at the front desk, and are expected to abide by campus and residence hall regulations. Failure to register a guest at room check will result in a $75 fine. Each visitor may stay a maximum of three nights per semester with no charge.
Please note: After three nights, a guest will be charged $30 per night for a maximum of 10 nights per semester. Failure to register a guest at room check will result in a $30 fine, per night, to the resident’s account. Former students who want to stay overnight in a resident’s room will be subject to the policies and procedures governing residence hall guests.
Parents, grandparents, and siblings of the same gender as the resident are welcome to a maximum stay of three nights per semester (See Overnight Guest policy above). These guests must register at the front desk. Free rooms for graduation weekend are allotted in both residence halls, as space allows: one free room per graduating senior. Guests may not sleep in the lounges or community areas.
GUEST ROOMS
Halcyon Hall guest rooms must be reserved in advance. To reserve, please email halcyon@wau.edu
HAIR CARE
County health code prohibits barbering and hair care in public places. Public places include lobbies, halls, stairwells, bathrooms, etc.
Halcyon Hall Residents:
The beauty salon is available for your use. Men may make appointments on special occasions by signing in at the front desk.
The salon is located next to the north laundry room in the basement.
Morrison Hall Residents:
Room 118 is available for braiding and barbering services by appointment only.
HOLIDAY AND BREAK POLICY
Remember that the residence halls have limited operations during Christmas and Summer break. We ask that all unauthorized students (i.e. non-athlete, campus employee, international resident, summer student) leave by 3:00 p.m. on Friday following final exams. Also note that the dining hall is closed during Christmas, Summer, Thanksgiving, and Spring breaks.
INSURANCE
Residents are required to purchase insurance on their valuables. The University is not responsible for any loss of personal items. Brochures and applications may be picked up at the Center for Student Life, WH 104, and in the residence halls.
INTERNET CONNECTION
Free WiFi is available for all residence hall students. To log on, please use your school credentials and password. Each room is equipped with two Ethernet connections. Contact Information Technology Systems at ext. 4570 for assistance in connecting your PC or laptop. In the event that your PC or laptop is not properly equipped, there is a charge for the necessary connectors.
KEY CARDS/LOCK CODES
Residents in Halcyon Hall will receive a room keycard upon moving into the residence hall. The resident agrees not to duplicate any key cards supplied by the University. Residents in Morrison Hall will receive a six-digit lock code. The resident agrees not to share the lock code or key with anyone, and not to tamper with the codes on any room door. If a student gives out his lock code or key, he will be charged $150; and thereafter subject to disciplinary procedures.
When a student terminates his/her residency, the keycard must be returned to the residence hall dean. If a resident loses or damages a keycard, code, a replacement fee of $50 will be charged. If a keycard is stolen, a report must be filled out with the Office of Safety and Security. Students using electronic entry devices must see a residence hall dean for information about fines for lost devices. Residents should keep their rooms locked at all times.
who lock themselves out should contact their RA. There will be a monetary fine imposed for repeated requests to unlock doors. Contact your RA or a residence hall dean for detailed information.
Unlawful Entry
It is unlawful to enter someone else’s room without their verbal or written consent. Residents may not obtain access to anyone else’s room. Please do not ask! To ensure your privacy and security, no master keys are available at the front desk.
KITCHEN/COOKING
County codes prohibit cooking in the residence hall rooms, except in microwave ovens. Where available, residents may use the residence hall kitchen free of charge. The kitchen is only for use by current residents. Each kitchen is equipped with a stove, refrigerator, sink, and oven.
If residents store food in the refrigerator, they should mark it clearly with their name and date. The University is not responsible for the loss or contamination of items left in the kitchen. Unmarked or spoiled food may be thrown out by residence hall staff at any time. To maintain a clean, healthy environment, it is expected that residents thoroughly clean the kitchen after each use. Failure to do so will result in loss of privileges and a possible fine. Refrigerators are emptied periodically for health reasons. Notifications will be made prior to removal of items.
LAUNDRY ROOMS
Laundry rooms equipped with card-operated washers and dryers are located in each residence hall. All laundry facilities are for the convenience of the residents only. The laundry rooms are open 24 hours a day except from sundown Friday to sundown Saturday. Laundry cards may be purchased in WH near the Bookstore.
LEAVE REQUESTS
Weekend and extended leave requests must be completed online by Friday 1 hour before sunset. In case of emergency, please contact the dean on duty via email. Information can be received at the front desk of each residence hall. Leave requests can be found at www.wau.edu, under Student Life, click on housing and dining, then select your respective residence hall. Or by going directly to www.wau.edu/studentlife/housing-dining/residence-halls/ and selecting your respective residence hall.
Leave requests can be approved or denied based upon the discretion of the deans. Any weekend leave requests after that time must be communicated directly with the residence hall dean on duty for approval.
Saturday night/weekend leaves to other students’ homes will be approved at the discretion of the dean on duty. Overnight/weekend leave requests to homes of single members of the opposite sex will be denied. If you have questions, consult with the residence hall dean on duty.
Students who stay away overnight from the residence hall without proper authorization are in violation of the rules. Please note: “Overnight” is defined as being out after 2:00 a.m. without permission from the residence hall dean. Whenever a resident is in doubt about proper authorization, he/she should contact the residence hall dean at the earliest possible time and make proper arrangements.
Students who violate this rule will be immediately referred to the Vice President of the Center for Student Life, and will be subject to citizenship probation and/or a meeting with the Conduct and Guidance Committee.
LIGHT BULBS
Facilities Services replaces light bulbs. Notify the resident assistant if you need a bulb replaced.
LOBBIES
The lobbies on the first floor of the residence halls are accessible to the public. Even though they are places of social interaction, when the buildings are “open,” please be sure to dress and conduct yourself in a manner befitting one living in the WAU campus community (see Community Standards and Policies ).
MAIL
There is a United States mailbox located behind Wilkinson Hall (loading dock area).
Mail Delivery
Mail is delivered in the afternoons. There is no mail delivery on weekends. Residence hall personnel do not have access to the University mailroom at any time.
Packages and Postage
Packages can be mailed from the mailroom, Wilkinson Hall, first floor. Stamps may be purchased at the Bookstore.
MEAL PLAN
All residence hall students are required to purchase the meal plan. The plan entitles the students to eat in the dining hall for every meal. Please note: If a student moves out of a residence hall during a semester, the cost of the meal plan is nonrefundable.
MOVING
The following steps must be followed to properly check into a residence hall room:
- Confirm your room reservation and schedule a time for move-in prior to arriving on campus (see Room Reservations).
- Contact the residence hall dean on duty upon your arrival.
- Please complete the Residence Check-In Folder.
- Secure your room keycard, key or lock code (see Keys).
- Proceed to your assigned room.
- In honor of the Sabbath please refrain from moving during Sabbath hours.
Checkout Procedures
The following steps must be followed to check out of a residence hall room properly:
- Make an appointment with your RA at least 48- 72 hours prior to your check out time.
- Clean the room thoroughly and remove all items prior to your RA’s arrival.
- Complete a residence hall check out form.
- Return key card to your RA
- Keep the pink copy of the Residence Hall Checkout form for your records.
- In honor of the Sabbath please refrain from moving during Sabbath hours.
Failure to follow the above procedures will result in a $75 charge for improper checkout, a $100 cleaning and damage repair fee, and/or $50 for not returning the keycard. Costs for any damages in excess of $500 (see Room Deposit) will be charged to your account.
Moving from Room to Room
At the residence hall dean’s discretion, residents and/or guests may be required to relocate or be reassigned to another room in order to facilitate residence hall management and safety needs. Failure to comply with directives in this regard may result in disciplinary action and or dismissal from the residence hall. Reasonable notification will be provided to residents and or guests should the need for relocation or room reassignment be needed.
NOISE
Residence hall students live close to each other; therefore, it is important for students to be considerate of others. A student’s right to be noisy stops when other students are forced to listen. The residence hall has a 24-hour sound curfew, and must remain quiet for study and sleep at all times. Sound emissions (voice or equipment) are considered excessively noisy if audible outside a resident’s room with the door closed. Headphones must be worn after 10:30 p.m. A radio, stereo, television, or musical instrument, etc. that can be heard in other rooms, or in the hallway, is considered too loud. Noise levels in the lobbies should be kept to a minimum after 10:30 p.m.
Residents are responsible for the noise volume of guests in their rooms. When a resident is inconsiderate of the noise policy, the RA will meet with the student and may refer the resident to the residence hall dean. Disciplinary action will be taken, which may include the removal of sound equipment from the room and referral to the Vice President of the Center for Student Life. Sound equipment shall not be placed in windows nor directed outside the building or into the halls.
Members of the University community are required to control the volume of auto sound equipment. Auto stereos that are audible outside of a vehicle will subject the driver/owner to University discipline and/or suspension of auto registration and parking privileges on University parking lots.
Residence hall staff or the Vice President of the Center for Student Life (for commuter students) will appropriately handle violations of these standards.
PARENTAL PERMISSION OPTIONS
Three options are available on Parental Permission Cards for freshmen concerning Saturday night/weekend leaves:
- Parents grant Saturday night/weekend leaves only to resident’s home.
- Parent grants Saturday night/weekend leaves to specified homes only, in keeping with policies outlined in this Student Handbook.
- Parents grant unrestricted Saturday night/weekend leaves in keeping with the community standards and policies outlined in the Student Handbook.
PARKING
Your vehicle may be registered on www.my.wau.edu, but the parking permit is obtained from the Office of Safety and Security, 301-891-4019/ 301-300-0342.
On-campus parking is available for residents of each residence hall. Halcyon Hall residents may park in the lot next to the residence hall, in the lot behind Morrison Hall, or with the proper authorization on Maplewood Avenue. Morrison Hall residents may park in the lot behind the residence hall, as well as the lot behind Richards Hall. A resident’s vehicle must be registered with the Security Department.
Vehicles with suspended registration or that are illegally parked (i.e., handicap, fire lanes, dean’s parking, etc.) are subject to booting and subsequent impoundment at the owner’s expense. In addition, there is a possibility of a citation by the city of Takoma Park.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL LIFE
The strength to live the Christian life is possible only through an ongoing personal relationship with God. We encourage you to take time to pray, meditate, and study on a daily basis. For additional spiritual nurture, please contact your residence hall deans, Campus Ministries (301) 891-4112, and the pastoral staff at Sligo Church, (301)-270-6777.
PETITION FOR CURFEW EXEMPTION
The following must be attached to your petition:
- A letter on official letterhead from your employer verifying work hours (electronic or hardcopy)
The resident must complete a leave request form until the Curfew Exemption document is approved by the deans. If there is a class/work conflict, a petition must be resubmitted within 10 days of each semester. If your weekly schedule changes, you must submit your work schedule each week.
PRAYER ROOMS
There is a prayer room available for special, private, and small group meditation in each residence hall. Please see your RA or residence hall dean for specific information.
PROHIBITED ITEMS
In order to maintain a safe environment in the residence halls, several items are strictly prohibited for the sole purpose of helping to maintain a safe environment for all who live and work in the residence halls. Among the prohibited items are: firearms or weapons of any kind, lighters, matches, candles, incense, toaster ovens, hot plates, electric skillets, knives, metal knuckles, explosive devices, razors, and any other item that a reasonable individual can consider a weapon.
Clothing peculiar to cult groups and those bearing slogans and/or insignia not in harmony with the standards and philosophy of WAU is prohibited. Also prohibited are any items or decorations promoting, pertaining to, or glorifying lifestyles contrary to the standards of WAU and the Seventh-day Adventist Church. This includes, but is not limited to, alcoholic beverages and/or containers, tobacco products or packaging, illegal drugs, or drug paraphernalia. Please note: If lighters are needed for special use, such as braiding, please contact a residence hall dean for assistance. See the residence hall dean or an RA for more information and an extended list of prohibited items.
RECREATION ROOMS
A recreation room and television room are available in the residence halls and on campus. See the residence hall dean or RA for locations in your residence hall.
Halcyon Hall Residents:
Halcyon’s recreation room is located off the basement lobby. Residents who want to use the room for parties or other activities should make arrangements in advance with. This room can be used for coed parties, but these parties must have more than three individuals attending.
Morrison Hall Residents:
The Shock Cafe located in the lower level is the gathering space used for meetings, social events, studying, and any other activities that allow for coed visitation. Arrangements must be made in order to use this space. Student ID’s must be presented and left at the front desk for all female visitors.
Co-ed Student Recreation Room:
This room is located in the basement of the Health Sciences building adjacent to the Athletic offices. There are various games (Table Tennis, pool, chess, etc.) for the students’ use and enjoyment. Social conduct in the room should always be appropriate and in line with the expected behavior of a WAU student.
Student Weight Room:
The Weight Room is located across the hall from the Recreation Room in the Health Science building, adjacent to the Athletic offices.
Student Fitness Room:
The fitness room is located on the first floor of the Bruce E. and Gail S. Boyer Health and Wellness Center. A variety of fitness equipment is available for student use, including treadmills, and stationary bicycles.
REPAIRS
If an item provided by the University in a residence hall room breaks or is nonfunctional, residents should contact their RA so that it can be completed and submitted. Facilities Services personnel may need to be in the residence halls to make necessary repairs. The front desk professional will announce their presence.
RESIDENCE HALL PROBATION
A student may be placed on residence hall probation for infractions against residence hall policy. Residence hall probation is for a period of two to six weeks and may affect, but is not limited to, weekend leaves, overnight leaves, or status as a residence hall student. Further incidents of misconduct will result in citizenship probation and an appointment with the Vice President of the Center for Student Life. At the discretion of the Vice President, the student will be placed on citizenship probation or referred to the Conduct and Guidance Committee.
RESIDENCE HALL SECURITY
Locked Doors
In an effort to secure your safety, the residence halls exterior doors are under control access 24/7. To gain access to the building, please use the main entrance. Front desk workers are available at all times. The residence hall lobby opens at 8 a.m. and closes at 11:00 p.m. The back door to Morrison Hall is open during operating hours for exiting purposes only. Windows and locked doors are prohibited as entries or exits, except during emergencies.
Personal Losses
Wisdom dictates that room doors be locked whenever a resident leaves the room. The University is not responsible for personal losses that may occur in your room or in public areas. Expensive equipment should be covered by your own insurance.
RESIDENCE HALL SUSPENSION
A resident who is placed on residence suspension is not permitted into the residence hall until the end of his/her probation term. Failure to comply with the terms of residence hall suspension may result in further disciplinary actions. Violators will be referred to the Vice President of the Center for Student Life and or Conduct and Guidance Committee.
RESIDENCY
Living in a campus residence hall is a privilege that is granted by WAU. At WAU, that privilege is reserved for traditional students enrolled in six or more semester hours. If, for whatever reason, a student is asked to withdraw from WAU, the student must find another place to live within 24 hours from when withdrawal/non-acceptance becomes final. If there are extenuating circumstances that preclude a student from leaving within 24 hours, a residence hall dean must be informed of the circumstances and will give appropriate counsel.
Off-Campus Residency
Single students who are younger than 21 years of age and are registered for six or more hours are required to live with their parents or in a campus residence hall. However, approval to live off campus is readily granted if the student has a good citizenship record and falls into one or more of the following categories:
- is living with his/her parent(s);
- is living with his/her grandparent(s);
- is living with his/her biological uncle and/or aunt who is age 21 or older;
- is living with a brother/sister who is 21 or older.
Students who do not fall into one of the above categories will not be granted off-campus status. Exceptions are very rare and only made under truly extenuating circumstances. If a student wishes to request an exception, Off-Campus Housing Petition Forms are available at the Center for Student Life, Wilkinson Hall, Room 104. Petitions will be given consideration by the Vice President of the Center for Student Life.
Please note: Permission to live off campus is not granted until the application has been processed and approved. Approval must be obtained prior to moving or signing a lease.
Change in Residency
Please note: Students who reach the age of 21 during a semester are not allowed to transition from a campus residence to an off-campus residence until the following semester. When transitioning from a campus residence to an off-campus residence, students must notify the Center for Student Life and be officially approved to change residency status.
RESIDENT ASSISTANTS (RA’S)
RAs are student staff members who are an integral part of the resident hall team. They are available to answer questions about WAU and/or help with personal, academic, or other problems that typically confront students. RAs assist the deans in management of the residence halls, and they are responsible for the development of a healthy environment conducive to academic and personal success. RAs provide leadership and support for students who reside on their floor. RAs coordinate educational, social, spiritual and cultural programming, take room check and conduct floor worship. Your RA lives in the hall with you, and will orient you to residence hall living (i.e., policies concerning worship, fire drills, room check, curfews, etc.). The RAs will assist in the check-in and checkout processes.
RIGHT OF ENTRY
WAU reserves the right for residence hall deans, University administrators, RAs, law enforcement and fire department personnel, IT technicians, security, and facilities services personnel to enter and search a room. If a search is to be made, it must be authorized by a residence hall dean, Director of the Office of Safety and Security, Vice President, or President of the University. To ensure compliance with WAU standards, the appropriate personnel have the right to check through all contents in the room. The right of entry also helps to ensure compliance with fire, health and safety standards, policy infractions, and cleanliness. Please note: By accepting residence hall living, a resident acknowledges and authorizes this right of entry.
ROOM CHECK
Room check is at 11:00 p.m., Sunday through Friday, at 11:00 p.m., and 12:00 a.m. on Saturday. An RA must see residents personally before checking them in for the evening. It is the resident’s responsibility to inform the front desk if he/she has not been checked in by 11:00 p.m. Please note: Each resident must be in their room for the 11:00 p.m. room check. If a student is unaccounted for without permission, they will be subject to disciplinary action (see Curfew and Leave Policy). Parents of residents under the age of 18 may be notified.
ROOM DEPOSIT
Each resident must pay a room deposit at the time a room is reserved. The amount of the deposit is determined by the residence hall staff and the Vice President of the Center for Student Life. The request for a refund of a room deposit is initiated with the completion of the Residence Checkout Form. All deposits are refunded by Accounting Services (WH 426). This deposit is refunded when a student permanently terminates (i.e., graduation, transfer to another school, etc.) his/her residency from WAU. However, if the residence hall dean or his/her appointee discovers room damage during checkout procedures, the room deposit will not be refunded and an additional fee may be charged, depending on the extent of the damage (see Moving/Checkout Procedures). If there is a balance owed on the student’s account, the refund is applied to the balance.
ROOM INSPECTION/CLEANLINESS CHECKS
Each student in a residence hall deserves to live in a clean, safe environment. Students are responsible for the care and maintenance of their assigned room. Fire regulations call for clear floor space under windows and the doors must be able to open fully. Rooms will be spot-checked for cleanliness, appropriateness, and fire safety hazards. A residence hall dean will request and require compliance, if needed. Excessive violations will result in disciplinary action and or Safety and security action.
ROOM RESERVATIONS
Please note: A reservation is not a guarantee of a room. All students must be financially cleared before moving into a residence hall.
How to reserve a room:
- Be accepted as a student at Washington Adventist University.
- Submit a Room Reservation form, and pay a $500 room deposit to the cashier’s office or call 301-891-4488.
- The room reservation process is now complete.
Please note: The reservation process is complete, but a student cannot move into a residence hall unless he/she has been financially cleared. (see your respective residence hall Dean for exceptions)
ROOMMATE RIGHTS
How much you enjoy life at WAU is really dependent upon how much thoughtful consideration you display toward others. The list below should help you with your responsibility to your roommate. Each roommate has a right to the following:
- The right to read in a quiet environment; noise and unnecessary distraction interfere with this right
- The right to sleep undisturbed day or night
- The right to expect that your roommate will respect what is yours
- The right to live in a clean room
- The right to some privacy
- The right to have visitors, understanding they will respect you and your roommate’s rights, and the rights of others who live in the hall
- The right to have your concerns addressed
- The right to be free from fear of intimidation, physical, and/or emotional harm
SABBATH OBSERVANCE
Seventh-day Adventists believe the seventh day of the week is the day of rest and worship as stated in the Bible. Therefore, we celebrate the Sabbath from sundown Friday to sundown Saturday. (See Student Life Handbook, Seventh-day Adventist Church and Sabbath ). Please note the dining hall is being shared with various members of the Adventist community on Sabbaths. Appropriate attire is strongly encouraged to enter the dining hall. No pajamas, sweats, tights, crop tops, athletic gear, etc. are to be worn.
SIGNING IN/OUT
All residents leaving or returning to the residence halls after the doors are locked must sign in/out at the front desk.
STORAGE
Each residence hall has limited space for storage. Check with a residence hall dean for available space. All items stored must be labeled with name and a permanent address. The residence hall and University are not responsible for any loss or damage to items left in storage.
The residence hall staff will dispose of items left without proper arrangements. There is - no summer storage.
STUDY ROOMS
Study rooms are located in Halcyon Hall. The rooms are available 24 hours a day upon request to the dean, except during the hours from sundown Friday to sundown Saturday. No food, televisions, or radios are permitted in the study rooms. (See a residence hall staff member for additional information.)
SUMMER RESIDENCE
Residence hall living is a privilege, and all students who wish to live in the residence hall during the summer must file a petition no later than weeks before the end of the spring semester. Students are expected to be on exemplary behavior at all times. ALL summer residents will have a 2:00 a.m. curfew. All residence hall policies apply. There is a zero-tolerance policy during the summer break, and violation of policies will result in immediate disciplinary action.
TRASH DISPOSAL
In order to maintain sanitary conditions in the residence halls, students are expected to dispose of their trash in the dumpsters located behind the residence halls and in the appropriately designated locations in the residence halls. Dumping personal trash in inappropriate areas such as the hallway, will subject you to immediate disciplinary action. The residence hall dean will determine where and when the community service will be rendered. Each resident is to supply his/her room with a trash receptacle.
WORSHIP POLICY
Worship is an integral part of our community at Washington Adventist University. This is a special time when we can set aside studies and work to reflect on our Creator and Savior, and how He impacts our personal lives. Floor worships are provided in the residence halls. Your participation is part of your residence life experience.
There are various worship options available to assist you in completing your worship requirement. Please see residence hall dean
- There are also more intimate “floor worships” conducted by the RAs. Check with your RA for scheduling.
- If a group of students is studying certain inspirational and/or religious themes, the group may share a brief proposal with the RAs.
- Scheduled worship times are posted; if you miss the signs, see residence hall deans for the scheduled times and for your worship requirements.
- Proper attire is expected at all worships during Sabbath hours (see Sabbath ).
Worship policy is as follows:
Class Number of worships required each semester
- Freshman - 30
- Sophomore - 24
- Junior - 21
- Senior - 15
If you do not fulfill your worship requirements, you can expect to meet with the residence hall dean regarding disciplinary actions. You may be subject to early curfew restrictions. If you continue to miss worship, you may be placed on residence hall probation, which may ultimately result in probation and possible suspension.
WORSHIP ROOM
A worship room is located on the lower level of each residence hall and prayer rooms are located on each floor of Halcyon Hall. To reserve the worship rooms for a religious service or for practice for a religious event, you should make arrangements in advance with one of the residence hall deans. Please note: Food, radios, or televisions, etc., are not allowed in the worship rooms without permission from a residence hall dean or his/her designee
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