Troy University Staff Handbook Changes

Old Staff Handbook (Adopted 2002)

Troy University Staff Handbook (Adopted 2006)

All references to “System” or “campus”

All references to President, Vice President, etc.

All references to “Troy State University

 

Preface insert (same as Faculty Handbook)

 

 

 

 

 

Preface insert (same as Faculty Handbook)

 

 

 

 

 

INTRODUCTION

            Troy State University is a multi-campus system, with campuses in Troy, Montgomery, Dothan, and Phenix City, Alabama.  Because of its desire to provide higher education opportunities to the men and women of the United States Armed Forces, Troy State University provides education on military bases throughout the United States and around the world.

            Troy State had its beginning in 1887 as Troy Normal School, chartered by the Alabama Legislature.  It has developed through the stages characteristic of institutions of this type, starting as a two-year teacher training institution, gaining four-year status as Troy State Teachers College, the Troy State

College, and in 1967, Troy State University with its own board of trustees.

 

            Troy State University (TSU) consists of six colleges, namely, the College of Education, the College of Arts and Sciences, the Sorrell College of Business, the College of Communication and Fine Arts, the College of Health and Human Services, University College and Troy State University Phenix City campus.

            TSU primarily serves a traditional student population and employs approximately 600 personnel, making it among the largest employers in Pike County.  It is the component of the System that is home to NCAA Athletics, fielding a total of 16 men’s and women’s teams and “The Sound of the South,” one of the most dynamic and exciting marching bands in the nation today.

              TSU first offered academic programs in Montgomery in 1957.  Then in 1965,

responding to the request of the Air Force for an on-base program, TSU established a resident center at Maxwell AFB designed to meet the educational needs of both military and civilian populations.  In 1966, the Montgomery location was designated a branch campus and was authorized to offer degree programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.  In 1983, Troy State University Montgomery (TSUM) received independent accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.  Currently TSUM consists of three colleges, which include the College of Education, the College of Arts and Sciences, and the College of Business.  TSUM is the home of the Rosa Parks Library and Museum and the Davis

Theatre for the Performing Arts.

             The Dothan campus’ roots date to 1951, when TSU began

 

offering extension courses at Fort Rucker.  By the mid-seventies, TSU at Fort Rucker had outgrown its facilities, and in 1974, TSU began offering courses in Dothan.  In 1975, space was leased in the Houston Hotel and the name was changed to Troy State University at Dothan/Ft. Rucker.  In 1985, Troy State University Dothan (TSUD) received independent accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.  In 1990, TSUD moved to its new campus and present location on US Highway 231 North.

            TSUD includes three colleges:  the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Business Administration, and the College of Education.  TSUD provides a special environment to meet the needs of both the traditional and non-traditional commuting student.

As Troy State University enters the twenty-first century, it will continue as a dynamic, growth-oriented university operating in multiple locations in Alabama, the nation and around the world.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION (EEO/AA) POLICY

The Troy State University System recognizes its legal and moral obligation to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, or disabled veteran/Vietnam Era veteran status, or national origin.  The System affirms its commitment to this principle and to an affirmative action program, which will establish and sustain the criteria of equal opportunity for employment, and also detect and eliminate elements of discrimination and harassment, which may be found to exist during employment.  These commitments are made for both academic and non-academic employment areas.

The System is an affirmative action employer of women, minorities, qualified persons with disabilities, and covered veterans.  It is committed to making sustained, diligent efforts to identify and consider such individuals for employment and for opportunities arising during employment.

            Each Campus President will appoint an Equal Employment Opportunity/ Affirmative Action Officer for academic personnel and non-academic personnel to be responsible for supervision of the University's EEO/AA program and for monitoring its effectiveness.

The Chancellor, Vice Chancellors, Presidents, Vice Presidents, Deans, Directors, Department Chairs, and other academic/admin­istrative leaders play an important part in providing personal leadership to insure that both the letter and spirit of the System's EEO/AA program are observed in their respective departments.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

1.1  Types of Employment, A., 2., a. (pg 1)

Most employees who work fewer than 40 hours per week are not entitled to system benefits.

Insert

 

 

1.1  Types of Employment (pg 2)

Inserts

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.2  Appraisal Period, B. (pg 4)

Insert

 

 

 

2.3 Salary Classification Plan, C. (pg 7)

;any salary adjustment or merit increase for these employees must

be recommended by the immediate supervisor, Vice Chancellor, campus President or by the Chancellor, in accordance with established procedures.

 

3.2.2  OTHER PROCEDURES

 

Insert (pg 9)

 

 

  

 

3.3    Anniversary Date (pg 9)

This anniversary date is used to grant a one-step pay increase…

 

 

 

 6.33 Absences from Work (pg 43)

Moved to more appropriate section.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5.4 Sick Leave (pg 15)

References to “earn” sick leave

 

5.5 Maternity (pg 16)

A disability related to pregnancy is treated the same as other illnesses. Sick leave and annual leave may be used for a disability related to pregnancy.  Medical verification may be required.  Expectant mothers may continue working as long as they desire, provided they          physically perform their duties and have the consent of their private physicians.  Such consent in writing may be requested by the System when deemed appropriate.   Leave should be approved well in advance.  A leave of absence without pay may be applied for under the Family Medical Leave Act.

 

 

 

 

 

 5.7 Jury Duty (pg 17)

Attendance in court for jury duty will not be charged to annual or sick leave.  Written evidence of jury duty may be requested by the System.

 

 

5.9  Military Leave (pg 17)

Official military orders must be provided to the supervisor

 

5.10 Leave of Absence Without Pay (pg 18)

The leave must be approved by the appropriate Vice President or Provost, President, and/or Vice Chancellor. 

 

5.11  Family and Medical Leave Act (19)

System employees are eligible for 12 weeks of unpaid leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).  Employees requesting this leave must have worked 12 months with the System and have provided 1250 hours of services during the 12 months prior to requesting leave.  Qualifying events for use of FMLA include:  birth of a son or daughter and/or the requirement to care for the newborn child, the placement with the employee of a son or daughter for adoption or foster care, the need to care for the employee's spouse, son, daughter, or parent with a serious health condition, or a serious health condition that makes the employee unable to perform the job.  Request forms for leave under the FMLA should be obtained in the campus Office of Human Resources.  A letter of medical certification by a health care provider is required and must be submitted with the request.  The following conditions apply when FMLA is approved:

2.  Under FMLA, an employee may maintain any existing health coverage by paying the employee's portion of the premium with a post-dated check(s).

3.  Under FMLA, an employee may maintain existing life insurance coverage by paying the premium with a post-dated check(s).

4.  Under FMLA, the employee must return to work on the first work day following the last day of leave.

5.  Employee life insurance and health insurance will be automatically terminated unless a post-dated check(s) is delivered to the Office of Human Resources prior to the first day of approved leave under FMLA.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5.13    Tuition Assistance (pg 22)

Eligible spouses and dependents of these employees are granted a reduction of normal tuition cost.  Applications for tuition assistance must be completed prior to registration.

  

 

Employees, their spouses, and eligible dependents must maintain a semester grade point average of 2.0 (4.0 scale) to retain eligibility for the tuition assistance program.  To obtain a TSU System Tuition Assistance Guide and application form, please contact the campus Office of Human Resources.

 

6.4 Political Activity Policy (pg 24)

No System employee may seek or hold public office without first obtaining written consent from the Chancellor through appropriate reporting channels.

 

6.7 Updating Personnel Records (pg 26)

Insert

 

6.11 Drug-Free/Smoke-Free Workplace Policy (pg 27)

In compliance with the drug-free requirements of Public Law 100-690 for recipients of federal contracts and grants, the following policy is in effect for Troy State University System.  The unlawful possession, use, consumption, manufacture, distribution, or dispensation of alcohol or controlled substances on any System property, in the workplace of any employee of the System, or as any part of any functions or activities of the System is prohibited.  Any employee of the System, against whom a determination has been made for violating the System’s policy regarding alcohol or drugs, shall be subject to sanctions imposed by the System.  Such sanctions shall be determined on a case-by-case basis and shall be commensurate with the severity of the violation.  Such sanctions may, however, include termination in the case of an employee and suspension in the case of a student.  Additionally, violators will be referred to the appropriate law enforcement officials for prosecution.   The System will maintain a drug-free awareness program to inform students and employees of the System about the dangers of alcohol and drug abuse.  The System will keep an up-to-date list of local drug and alcohol treatment and rehabilitation programs.  Annually, each employee in the Troy State University System will receive a written copy of the System policy.  The System will make a good faith effort to ensure that the above criteria are met and will review this policy annually.  All System buildings are smoke-free facilities.  Smoking areas are designated for each building.  Any smoking should only occur in these areas.  Consult your supervisor for the approved smoking area for your building.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

Insert (pg 28)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

6.17 Personal Visitors, Calls, and Mail (pg 30)

 

 

6.21 Blood Borne Pathogen Education and Prevention Policy

(pg 32)

Insert (same as Faculty Handbook)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Insert (pg 37)

Same as Faculty Handbook

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Insert (pg38)

Same as Faculty Handbook

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

6.24 Purchasing Policies (pg 39)

…employees may not enter into purchase contracts or otherwise obligate the System for expenditures unless authorized by the Vice-President for Financial Affairs or appropriate campus administrator.

 

6.25 Travel and Reimbursement Regulations (pg 40)

…official travel shall be reimbursed in accordance with the laws of the State of Alabama.  Travel regulations are available in the Financial Affairs Office of each campus or the system website.

 

6.29 Weapons on Campus (pg 40)

System employees, other than University police, are prohibited from carrying weapons on campus.  Weapons are defined to include but are not limited to firearms, knives, explosives, ammunition, or any other device designated as illegal by an ordinance of law.    Any employee who violates this policy and jeopardizes the safety and security of fellow employees is subject to immediate dismissal.   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

6.30 Incident Reporting (pg 42)

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7.0 Disciplinary Procedures (pg 45)

Level II.  A summary of the oral warning should be formulated …

 

A copy of this summary will become part of the employee’s official personnel file.

Level III.  A written warning should be addressed to the employee in memorandum format. 

Level IV.  The employee should be notified of a suspension in writing with terms of the suspension clearly stated. 

 

8.2.3 Hearing (pg 47)

An employee entitled to a hearing by virtue of a Notice of Intent to Terminate shall have two working days from the date of receipt of the notice of intent to request a hearing before a grievance committee.

 

If the employee requests a hearing, the hearing shall occur within four working days of the receipt of the notice of intent to terminate.

 

 

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9.3 Final Grievance Step (pg 53)

This request must be made within five (5) working days after receipt of a decision from the final administrative level.

 

 

Also, if he/she wishes, the employee may have a maximum of two (2) witnesses. 

 

The Grievance Committee will submit a written report and recommendations, which are advisory only, to the Office of the Chancellor or to the applicable campus Office of the President/Vice Chancellor.  The Office of the Chancellor or the applicable campus Office of the President/Vice Chancellor will provide a final…

 

10.2.5 Supplemental Part-Time Employment not Associated with Regular Work Duties (pg 56)

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 Statement of Receipt (pg57)

The Troy State University System Staff Handbook and campus Administrative Policies and Procedures Manual been prepared.

 

Appendex A, IV (pg 61)

Insert

Added the wording “or discrimination” when referencing “harassment”

 

 

 

 

V. (pg 61)

Troy State University System’s comprehensive harassment policy covers all employees, students, applicants, and others conducting official business with the system.

 

VI. (pg 61)

any person who believes he or she is a victim of harassment …

 

 

 

The Harassment Response Team members shall consist of seven members, which will include both males and females of various ages, classified personnel, professional staff, tenured and tenure-track faculty, and shall include one person from TSUD, TSUM, University College and Phenix City.

F. Resolving the Complaint (pg 66)

Accused                    Appropriate Body

Student                      Student Affairs Committee

Faculty                      Provost/Vice President for Academic Affairs

                                           Dean of College or School

                                           One faculty member

Staff or                     Human Resource Director, Vice Chancellor    

                                One Classified Employee member from the                                                                              Personnel Advisory Committee

One Professional Staff member from the Personnel Advisory                                  Committee

One faculty member

Others                         

Associated                    Vary depending on circumstances
With the

System

 

VIII. Appeals

The system recognizes that the question of whether a particular course of conduct constitutes harassment requires a factual determination. The system also recognizes that false accusations of harassment can have serious effects on innocent persons. If an investigation results in a finding that a person who has accused another of harassment has maliciously, or recklessly made false accusations, the accuser will be subjected to appropriate sanctions, as listed above.

hearing procedures outlined in the Faculty Handbook or Staff Handbook, as appropriate.

Vice presidents, deans, and regional directors will regularly inform those assigned to their respective divisions to become familiar with the TSU System Harassment Policy.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Changed to “University”

Changed to Chancellor, Senior Vice Chancellor, Vice Chancellor

Changed to “Troy University

 

Certain policies set forth in this handbook concern matters governed by provisions of the law.  Such provisions contained herein are intended to be in compliance with applicable Federal or State law.  In the event, however, any provisions conflicts with applicable Federal or State law, the law will govern.

 

Troy University is accredited by the Commission on colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097; telephone 404-679-4501) to award the associate degree, the bachelor’s degree, the master’s degree, and the education specialist degree.

 

The History of the University

Troy University’s tradition of teaching excellence dates to its founding on February 26, 1887 when an act of the Alabama Legislature established State Normal School, Troy as an institution to train teachers for Alabama’s schools. Joseph Macon Dill was the institution’s first president. In 1893, the school was renamed Troy State Normal College.  The original campus was located in downtown Troy.

            The Normal College offered extension courses for teachers and granted teaching certificates until 1929, when the State Board of Education changed the charter of the institution and renamed it Troy State Teacher’s College. That same year, the

college moved to its present site and the first two buildings were dedicated: Shackelford Hall, named for Edward Madison

 

Shackelford, president of the school from 1899-1936, and Bibb Graves, Alabama’s “education governor.” Graves is also remembered for commissioning the Olmsted Brothers architectural firm of Brookline, Massachusetts, to design the campus landscape plan.

            Like many American universities, Troy State Teacher’s College enjoyed one of its most prosperous periods of growth in the years following World War II, when returning veterans took advantage of the GI Bill. The enrollment of the College more than doubled and this growth led to the introduction of degree programs in disciplines other than education, most notably in business.  In 1957, the State Board of Education recognized this expanded role and dropped “Teacher’s” from Troy State College’s name.

            The decade of the 1950s also marked the University’s long relationship with the United States Military, as extension courses were offered on nearby bases, first at Fort Rucker, near Dothan; and later at Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery. A separate Troy State College teaching center was established at Fort Rucker in 1961, which evolved into the present-day Dothan Campus. A similar center, begun at Maxwell Air Force Base in 1965, led to the creation of the present-day Montgomery Campus. These programs were the forerunners of the modern University College division of Troy University, which operates all TROY teaching sites outside of Alabama. In 1973, the University opened sites at military bases in Florida. Today, University College operates more than 60 sites in 17 U.S. states and 11 nations.

            In 1967, Gov. Lurleen B. Wallace appointed eight members to the newly established Troy State College Board of

 

Trustees, removing the institution from the control of the State Board of Education. One of the first acts of the new board was to recommend the change of the name to Troy State University. The new name became official on Dec. 14, 1967.

            In 1975, the Phenix City Campus was opened as a branch of the main campus.

            In 1982, the Troy State University System was formed, as the campuses in Dothan and Montgomery were granted independent accreditation status. In August 2005, all TROY campuses were again unified under one accreditation.  In April of 2004 the Board of Trustees voted to drop “State” from the University’s name to better reflect the institution’s worldwide mission.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Troy University Mission Statement

Approved by the Board of Trustees

April 16, 2004

Effective August 1, 2005

 

Troy University is a public institution comprised of a network of campuses throughout Alabama and worldwide. International in scope, Troy University provides a variety of educational programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels for a diverse student body in traditional, nontraditional, and emerging electronic formats. Academic programs are supported by a variety of student services which promote the welfare of the individual student. Troy University’s dedicated faculty and staff promote discovery and exploration of knowledge and its application to life-long success through effective teaching, service, creative partnerships, scholarship and research.

Troy University Goals

1. Provide an international scope to University programs

and services.                                            

2. Provide a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs in traditional, non-traditional and electronic formats.

3. Maintain a diverse student population.

4. Provide services that promote the individual welfare of

students.

5. Maintain a dedicated faculty and staff.

6. Promote discovery and exploration of knowledge dedicated to life-long learning success.

7. Ensure effective teaching.

 

8. Ensure the development of creative partnerships,

scholarship and research.

9. Ensure efficient and effective operations and to assess and provide resources as needed to implement institutional mission, goals and objectives.

 

 

Equal Employment Opportunity

 

Troy University recognizes its legal and moral obligation to provide an employment environment in which opportunities are available to all qualified individuals without discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, age, political or religious opinions or affiliations, national origin, disability, or disabled veteran/Vietnam-Era veteran status. The University affirms its commitment to this principle.  The University also commits itself to maintaining on a nondiscriminatory basis the conditions for continuing employment and for individual advancement.  Troy University is committed to the following principles and procedures:

1. Recruiting, employing, training, retaining, and promoting individuals in all employment classifications, without regard to race, color, political or religious opinions or affiliations, sex, age, national origin, disability, or disabled veteran/Vietnam-Era veteran status, except in those cases in which sex, age, national origin, or disability are bona fide occupational qualifications.

 

2.  Rendering employment decisions to advance the principle of equal employment opportunity.

 

3. Insuring that promotion decisions are based upon the principles of equal employment opportunity by imposing only valid requirements for promotional opportunities.

 

4. Insuring that all personnel actions, such as compensation, benefits, transfers, and leave policies, are administered without regard to race, color, political or religious opinions or affiliations, sex, age, national origin, disability, or disabled veteran/Vietnam-Era veteran status.

 

5. Providing a work environment in which harassment of employees by other employees or non-employees is not tolerated; viz., any form of harassment related to an employee's race, color, sex, political or religious opinions or affiliations, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, or veteran status.

 

Troy University is a government contractor subject to Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and Section 402 of the Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Act of 1974 which require government contractors to take affirmative action to employ and to advance in employment qualified individuals with disabilities, qualified disabled veterans, and qualified veterans of the Vietnam era.  The Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost is the equal employment opportunity/affirmative action officer for academic personnel; the Director of Human Resources is the equal employment opportunity/affirmative action officer for non-academic personnel and is also responsible for supervising the University's equal employment opportunity program and for monitoring its effectiveness.

 

1.1 Types of Employment, A., 2., a.

Employees

most university benefits

All university employees may elect to participate in the Supplemental Retirement Program.

 

C. Interim

Current employees may hold interim appointments for positions in which their services are required for a certain period of time.  

 

D. Sponsored Programs

It is the policy of Troy University to employ, in good faith, personnel to fulfill the requirements of externally funded grants and contracts.  These employees are expected to adhere to policies and procedures that apply to all University personnel as indicated in Staff and Faculty Handbooks and other official Troy documents.  The benefits to be provided to grant and contract personnel will vary in accordance with the project.  The University may, at is discretion, offer additional benefits but is under no obligation to do so.  The benefits to be provided by the external project and/or the University will be outlined to employees at the beginning of the term of employment.  The University neither states nor implies that employment will extend beyond the term of the project and/or the funding that applies to the individual position.  Fringe benefits cannot be guaranteed and are subject to change at any time.

 

A part-time employee who is hired in a full-time capacity shall fall under the six months initial appraisal period under Section 1.2.A.   For further information concerning promotions refer to Section 6.2. 

 

2.3 Salary Classification Plan, C.

;any salary adjustment or merit increase for these employees should be recommended by the immediate supervisor, Vice Chancellor, Senior Vice Chancellor or by the Chancellor, in accordance with established procedures.

 

3.2.2        PAYROLL POLICIES

 

3.2.3    DIRECT DEPOSIT

All employees must participate in the University’s Direct Deposit Program.  Employees will receive their regular pay through direct deposit to a financial institution of their choice.  A completed Direct Deposit Authorization form must be completed and submitted to the Office of Human Resources no later than one week prior to an employee’s pay date to ensure timely payment.  Forms are available in the Office of Human Resources or at the following web address http://www.troy.edu/humanresources/DirectDeposit.pdf.

 

3.3          Anniversary Date

This anniversary date is used to determine eligibility for a one-step pay increase…

 

 

 

4.5 ABSENCES FROM WORK (pg 13)

If an employee expects to be absent from work for ANY REASON, the supervisor must be notified in advance.  An employee absent from work without permission is  considered to be on unauthorized leave without pay -- a condition which is cause  for dismissal.  Three consecutive working days of absence without notice constitutes a resignation and forfeiture of all accumulated University benefits.

 

 

Changed to “accure

 

 

Leave is provided for conditions associated with pregnancy and childbirth and related medical conditions.  Such leave may be accumulated sick leave and/or FMLA leave.  (See the FMLA policy with reference to the concurrent use of University-provided leave and FMLA leave).  Absences related to pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions are treated the same as illnesses.  Medical verification may be required.  Pregnant employees may continue working as long as they desire, provided they have the consent of their obstetrician.  (Such written consent may be required by the University).  Application for leave should be made as far as practicable in advance of the expected starting date of leave so that arrangements for a replacement can be accomplished. 

 

 

 

The University permits full time employees leave with pay for attendance in court for jury duty.  Written evidence of jury duty may be requested by the University.  The University will comply with all applicable Federal and State laws governing jury duty.

 

 

the immediate supervisor

 

 

The leave must be approved by the appropriate Senior Vice Chancellor. 

 

 

University faculty and staff are eligible for 12 weeks of unpaid leave within any 12 months period in accordance with the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 (FMLA), as follows:

1.  Eligibility for FMLA Leave:  To be eligible for FMLA leave, you must (a) have been employed by the University for at least 12 months and (b) have performed at least 1250 hours of service for the University during the 12 month period immediately preceding the commencement of the leave.

2.  Qualifying events:  The qualifying events for FMLA leave are:

(1)  For the birth of a son or daughter, and to care for the newborn child;(2)  For placement with the employee of a son or daughter                                          for adoption or foster care; (3)  To care for the employee’s spouse, son, daughter, or parent with a serious health condition; and (4)  Because of a serious health condition that makes the employee unable to perform the functions of the employee’s job.

3.  Requesting FMLA leave:  The forms to request FMLA leave are available in the Office of Human Resources.  Forms are also available on the University website at:  www.troy.edu/humanresources/forms.htm.

4.  Notice to the University:  Where practicable, you should give 30 calendar days advance notice of the need to take FMLA leave.  Where 30 days advance notice is not practicable, you should give as much notice as is practicable.  These provisions are designed to enable the University to make arrangements for a replacement.

5. Certification of Health Care Provider:  Where leave is requested for an employee’s serious health condition or the serious health condition of a spouse, son, daughter, or parent, the form to request FMLA leave will be accompanied by an FMLA form known as Certification of Health Care Provider which the employee must have completed by the attending health care provider and returned to the Office of Human Resources.  A completed and returned Certification of Health Care Provider is required, and is a condition to the approval of FMLA leave.

6.  Absence of more than 3 Consecutive Days for an Employee’s Serious Health Condition:  An employee who is required to be absent for more than three (3) consecutive days because of his or her serious health condition should notify his or her supervisor, who in turn will notify the Office of Human Resources to provide the FMLA request form and Certification of Health Care Provider to the employee for his or her use if he or she so desires.

7.  Concurrent use of accrued University provided time off:  All forms and types of paid and unpaid leave related to an FMLA qualifying absence shall be counted toward an employee’s maximum 12 weeks FMLA leave.  Therefore, an employee will be required to utilize any University-provided time off concurrently with FMLA leave, with both University-provided time off and FMLA leave being counted toward the 12 weeks FMLA leave.  For example, in the case of an employee with 30 days accrued sick days, such first 30 days of sick days will be applied to the maximum of 12 weeks FMLA leave.  

8.  Insurance coverage:  Employees on FMLA leave may maintain any existing health care insurance coverage and any existing life insurance coverage by paying the employee share of the premium.

9.  Return to work:  An employee on FMLA leave is entitled to be returned to the same position he or she held when leave commenced, or to an equivalent position with equivalent benefits, pay, and other terms and conditions of employment.  A fitness for duty certification from the employee’s health care provider may be required by the University.

10.  12 months period:  For purposes of determining eligibility for 12 weeks FMLA leave within any 12 months period, such 12 months period will be measured backward from the date any FMLA leave begins to determine the number of FMLA weeks available.

 

 

 

Employees, their spouses, and eligible dependents may qualify for a reduction of normal tuition cost under the policy.  The University Tuition Assistance Policy is available on the University website. 

 

 

 

Deleted

 

 

 

 

 No University employee may seek or hold public office without first giving written notification to the Chancellor through appropriate reporting channels.  

 

 

by completing the appropriate forms.

 

6.11 Drug-Free Workplace Policy

Troy University complies with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 (Public Law 100-690) and the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989 (Public Law 101-226).  For the purposes of this policy, the term Workplace means any office, building, classroom, laboratory, or property (including parking lots) owned or operated by the University, or any other site at which an employee is to perform work for the employer. An employee of the University is any faculty, staff, or student receiving remuneration for services rendered. Student means any person registered at the University for any type of academic credit, regardless of the length of the student's program of study. Possession means to be contained either on a student's or employee's person, or in a student's or employee's person, or in a student's or employee's motor vehicle, tools, briefcases, book bags, or areas entrusted to the control of the student or employee. Impaired means under the influence of an illicit drug or alcohol such that the student or employee is unable to perform his or her assigned tasks properly.  The unlawful possession, use, consumption, manufacture, distribution, or dispensation of alcohol or other controlled substances in the workplace of any employee or student, or as any part of any functions or activities of Troy University is prohibited. Any student or employee of Troy University against who a determination has been made for violating the University's policy regarding alcohol or drugs, shall be subject to sanctions imposed by the University. Such sanctions shall be determined on a case-by-case basis and shall be commensurate with the severity of the violation. Such sanctions may, however, include termination in the case of an employee and suspension in the case of a student. Additionally, violators will be referred to the appropriate law enforcement officials for prosecution.  Troy University will maintain a drug-free awareness program to inform students and employees of the dangers of alcohol and drug abuse and will also maintain a current roster of local and area drug and alcohol treatment and rehabilitation programs.  Each employee and student at Troy University will annually receive a written copy of this policy. Troy University will make a good faith effort to ensure that the criteria in this policy are met and to review the policy on an annual basis

 

6.12 TOBACCO USAGE POLICY

It is the policy of Troy University to prohibit the use of tobacco in all nonresidential buildings. The use of tobacco will not be allowed in public areas of Troy University facilities including (but not restricted to): lobbies, corridors, stairwells, elevators, waiting rooms, public reception areas, classrooms, offices, laboratories, clinics, conference rooms, meeting rooms, employee lounges and break rooms, restrooms, cafeterias and restaurant facilities (unless a specified smoking area is provided), and multiple-occupancy work areas.  Residential units owned by the University and occupied by individuals or families are subject to the smoking preferences of the occupants.  Failure to comply with this policy will constitute a violation of University policy and may be dealt with accordingly through established formal disciplinary procedures.

 

Changed to:

6.17 Personal Visitors, Call, Email, and Mail

 

6.21    BLOOD BORNE PATHOGEN EDUCATION AND PREVENTION POLICY

This policy establishes that the University is aware of risk factors associated with certain academic majors and other activities, and has adopted measures to deal responsibly with both employees and students. The policy recognizes that departments face varying degrees of risk for exposure to employees and students, and provides for separate departmental procedures to be developed in areas of high risk. Specific provisions are identified for prevention measures and post-exposure follow-up for employees, at University (departmental) expense. Likewise, specific provisions are given for students to bear the cost of prevention measures and other expenses.

 

A.  Policy

Troy University adopts this policy to limit any occupational exposure to blood borne infections by providing training sessions for employees and for students, an Exposure Control Plan, vaccination for Hepatitis B, post-exposure evaluation and follow-up, medical records, and policy implementation. This policy has been prepared in accordance with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Blood Borne Pathogens regulation, 29 CFR 1910.1030.

B.  Scope

This policy and related procedures will cover all employees who could be "reasonably anticipated," as a result of their job duties, being exposed to blood borne infections.  All such employees must be familiar with the "Universal Precautions."  In addition, this policy and related procedures will apply to any student who could be "reasonably anticipated," as a result of academic requirements, to be exposed to blood borne infections.

C.  Employee and Student Information and Training

The University will make available the policy and institutional guidelines for blood borne infections to both employees and students.  Training and education of employees at risk of exposure shall take place within the first ten work days of employment.  Training and education of students in departments of courses where exposure risks can be anticipated shall take place during new student orientation or within the first week of each semester. Training records shall be maintained for at least three years in each departmental office, according to procedures adopted in each department.  Students may be potentially at risk of exposure to blood borne pathogens during clinical laboratory experiences include Nursing, Athletic Training, and Medical Technology.  For students and employees with no specific risk of exposure, information will be provided through routine publications about potential risk, existing policy, and incident reporting procedures.

D. Blood/Body Fluid Spill Incident Reporting Procedures

If an accident or illness occurs where blood or body fluids are spilled, immediately contact the University Police or the Security Officer for your campus.DO NOT TRY TO CLEAN UP A SPILL WITHOUT PROPER TRAINING AND SAFEGUARDS.

1.      Identify spill.

2.      Immediately remove contaminated clothing and wash hands with soap and water.

3.      Phone University Police or Campus Security, and give details of the incident, identifying the situation as one with blood or body fluids.

4.      The Security personnel will contact an ambulance or other emergency service as needed.

5.      The Security personnel will contact Physical Plant Housekeeping to clean up spill in a proper manner.

6.      Security personnel will write an incident report and will notify the Campus Safety Officer if exposure to blood or body fluids has occurred.

E. Exposure Control Plan

A model exposure control plan has been developed by the University and shall be individualized at the departmental level. Detailed policies and procedures consistent with this University policy shall be defined and implemented by individual departments where there is significant risk of exposure to blood or body fluids. Each department's policies and procedures shall be approved by the Dean of the college. Those who work or study in the departments covered shall be subject to these specific departmental policies and procedures.  The exposure control plan shall include key definitions, hazard recognition, and exposure control procedures. Such procedures shall include but not be limited to:  engineering controls, required general work practices, personal protection equipment, housekeeping, waste disposal, laundry, communication of hazards to workers, medical surveillance, record keeping, student education, and exposure control action plan.  The University will provide facilities and equipment through affected departments and ensure that employees use them following exposure to blood or body fluids.  Universal Precautions shall be used to minimize needle sticks, to minimize splashing and spraying of blood, to ensure appropriate disposal of specimens, to regulate wastes, and to decontaminate equipment.

F. Hepatitis B Vaccination

The University, through the supervision of licensed physicians or other licensed health care professionals through the Student Health and Wellness Center, will make Hepatitis B vaccination available to all employees who are at risk for occupational exposure to blood. This vaccination will be at no charge to the employee.  Students who have exposure risk to human blood in a clinical lab setting or other students who are concerned with exposure potential may receive vaccinations at the expense of the student through the Student Health and Wellness Center.

G. Post-Exposure Evaluation and Follow-Up

Following an exposure incident, follow-up will include a confidential medical evaluation documenting the circumstances of exposure, identifying and testing the source individual if feasible, testing the exposed employee's blood if the employee consents, post-exposure prophylaxis, counseling, and evaluation. The University will, upon request, provide laboratory tests at no cost to all employees who have had a documented on-the-job exposure incident. The laboratory tests for the employee will be scheduled through a designated laboratory.

H. Record Keeping for Exposure Incidents

The Office of Human Resources will keep records of each employee's occupational exposure under OSHA guidelines, which currently require that such records be maintained for the duration of employment plus 30 years. Medical records must be made available to the employee, anyone with written consent of the employee, or OSHA.

I. Disposal of Contaminated Materials

The Campus Security Officer or the Student Health and Wellness Center must be contacted regarding disposal of all contaminated materials, such as towels and other fabric products, gauze, sterile pads, swabs, etc. The College of Health and Human Services has separate disposal plans for medical wastes and sharps which have been contaminated.

J. Policy Review and Publication

This policy and related procedures shall be reviewed and updated in keeping with developments in medical practice and federal/state regulations. The policy shall be published in the University Safety and Security Procedures Manual and departmental documents as appropriate.

 

  

6.22  Communicable Disease Alert

Inasmuch as Troy University is a global institution in scope, the University is occasionally affected by the outbreak of serious communicable diseases which restrict access and necessitate precautions in certain areas, viz., the recent Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS),  In each such instance, it is the policy of the University to adhere to guidelines issued by such agencies as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) to ensure the safety of its employees.  As these guidelines become available, they will be communicated to all faculty and staff.

 

 

6.23  Policy Statement on Significant Communicable Diseases & University Travel

The purpose of this statement is to advise the University community on measures to be implemented to safeguard the health and welfare of students, staff, faculty, and the community from the spread of significant communicable diseases.

DEFINITION:  A significant communicable disease is one which has been identified by a recognized authority (e.g., World Health Organization, Centers for Disease Control, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services) as one which may have life-threatening potential or result in serious illness or infirmity and may be contracted merely by travel within a certain region.  Recent examples include Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), Asian Influenza, Yellow Fever, and Dengue Fever.

  All students, faculty, and staff are strongly discouraged from travel to countries, provinces, or locations under travel advisories.  However, all students, faculty, and staff planning to travel to and return from a geographic area under health advisory are strongly encouraged to seek advice from appropriate University offices (the International Programs Office, University College, the Office of Student Health Services, or the campus Student Services Office) to protect themselves, insofar as possible, from exposure through personal hygiene and self-protection.

● Those who travel to regions under health advisories will be advised that re-enrollment or return to work may require passing a screening procedure administered through a public health department, a licensed physician or clinic, or the Office of Student Health Services.  The cost of any such screening procedure shall be borne by the student or staff member unless the travel was a requirement of the University.  Individuals showing symptoms will require immediate isolation and proper treatment until symptoms are no longer present.

  Departments which require or initiate travel for faculty, staff, or students will be required to monitor health advisories issued by CDC or WHO, and to review travel authorization to destinations for which an advisory is issued.

  New students, staff, and faculty arriving from countries under health advisories will be subject to the screening procedure set forth above.

  If, for any reason, faculty or staff must travel to areas under health advisories, they must adhere strictly to all precautions and guidelines set forth by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

  For additional information, refer to www.cdc.gov/travel/. 

 

 

 

employees may not enter into purchase contracts or otherwise obligate the University for expenditures unless authorized.

 

 

 

 

…official travel shall be reimbursed in accordance with the University policy.  Travel regulations are available on the University website.

 

 

Troy University prohibits on all University properties possession, use, and transportation of any dangerous or potentially dangerous weapons described below:

1.      Fixed blade knives concealed on the person or in a vehicle (e.g., Bowie Knife, knife, or instrument of like kind or description).

2.      Shotgun or rifle or other shoulder gun.

3.      Pistol or revolver.

4.      Air gun (e.g., air or gas powered rifle or pistol).

5.      Bow and arrow (e.g., archery equipment).

6.      Slingshots (including throwing weapons).

7.      Swords.

8.      Crossbows.

9.      Brass Knuckles.

10.  Fireworks or explosive devices.

11.  Electronic stunning devices.

 

This policy shall apply to all faculty, staff, and students of Troy University; and to all visitors to any University properties.This policy does not apply to duly authorized law enforcement officials in the lawful discharge of their duties. Temporary exclusions may be granted by permit only by the Dean of Students or his designated representative for job-related, educational, or demonstration purposes Department Chairs and respective faculty members may be granted a blanket authorization by the Dean of Students or his authorized representative for organized activities. These organizations must guarantee qualified instruction, safety, and security for such activities. All applicable federal, state, as well as local laws and ordinances will be strictly enforced.

 

All injuries (employees, students, and visitors), no matter how slight, must be reported to the Human Resources Office.  A reporting form may be obtained on-line at www.troy.edu/humanresources/forms.

 

 

A summary of the oral warning should be documented on the disciplinary form …

A copy of this document will become part of the employee’s official personnel file.

A written warning should be documented using the disciplinary form. 

The employee should be notified of a suspension in writing, using the disciplinary form, with terms of the suspension clearly stated. 

 

 

 

An employee entitled to a hearing by virtue of a Notice of Intent to Terminate shall have two working days from the date of receipt of the notice of intent to request a hearing before an appeals committee.  The request should be submitted to the Chair of the Personnel Advisory Committee.

 

If the employee requests a hearing, the hearing shall occur within  ten working days of the receipt of the notice of intent to terminate (unless a longer time is mutually agreed upon).

 

A committee of impartial employees with no direct relationship to the situation involved will be appointed by the Chair of the Personnel Advisory Committee. The committee may discuss the appeal with the employee's supervisors or other University employees.  The committee will accumulate and study the statements of fact in the case.  The employee(s) and the supervisor will be notified, in writing, at least three (3) working days before the case will be heard by the committee.  The appeals hearing is an internal and informal procedure, but the appellant may bring a representative to the hearing for advisement purposes only.  If this person is an attorney, he/she will act solely in an advisory capacity to the employee and will not be permitted to take a direct role in the proceedings.  

A reasonable time shall be set aside to conduct the hearing in order to provide ample time for presentation of all materials by both parties. Pertinent materials should be made available to the subcommittee at the scheduled hearing.  A general outline of the order of procedure should be provided by the Chair of the Personnel Advisory Committee. A list of all involved persons, such as witnesses, will be distributed to the members of the subcommittee.

 The University reserves the right to have its attorney(s) present.  Also, if he/she wishes, the employee may present witnesses.  The committee reserves the right to call additional witnesses if the situation warrants this action.  The parties interested will be notified as to the time and place of the meeting.  Failure of either party to appear shall not prejudice the case nor prevent the committee from hearing the case and rendering a decision.  If the proceedings concern a group appeal, no more than three (3) members of the group may be present at the review.

The Appeals Committee will submit a written report and recommendations, which are advisory only, to the Office of the Chancellor.  The Office of the Chancellor will provide a final determination of each appeal reaching that level.  Copies of the decision will be provided to the appellant and all parties involved within ten (10) working days (unless a longer time is mutually agreed upon).  

NOTE:  When warranted by unusual circumstances (illness, extended absence, etc.) the Chair of the Personnel Advisory Committee may extend or modify time limits in this procedure and the committee may waive the limits set by the procedure as it pertains to the number of witnesses in unusual circumstances.

 

 

This request must be made within ten (10) working days after receipt of a decision from the final administrative level (unless a longer time is mutually agreed upon).

 

 

Also, if he/she wishes, the employee may present witnesses. 

 

 

The Grievance Committee will submit a written report and recommendations, which are advisory only, to the Office of the Chancellor.  The Office of the Chancellor will provide a final…

 

 

 

Full-time staff in administrative positions normally may not teach more than the equivalent of six (6) semester hours on an adjunct basis in any one semester and should not exceed the equivalent of 18 semester hours per calendar year.  Exceptions to this policy must be justified and submitted through proper administrative channels for approval.

 

 

The Troy University Staff Handbook has been prepared …

 

Definition of Discrimination

For the purposes of Troy University’s policy, discrimination is defined as any action resulting in illegal differentiation or adverse treatment of an individual based on their age, sex, race,religion, national origin, martial status or veteran status.

 

 

Troy University’s comprehensive harassment and discrimination policy covers all employees, students, applicants, vendors/contractors and others conducting official business with the University.

 

 

 

any person who believes he or she is a victim of harassment or discrimination …

Any person witnessing behavior which they believe to be harassment or discrimination should report the incident.

The Harassment Response Team members shall consist of seven members, which will include both males and females of various ages, classified personnel, professional staff, tenured and tenure-track faculty, and shall include one person from the Dothan, Montgomery, University College and Phenix City campuses.

  

Accused                    Appropriate Body

            Student                    Student Affairs Committee

            Faculty                     Executive Vice Chancellor

                                           Dean of College or School

                                           One faculty member

                                           Director of Human Resources

 

Staff or           Senior Vice Chancellor of the employee’s division                                                                                      Two staff members from Personnel Advisory Committee                               Director of Human Resources

Others                         

Associated                    Vary depending on circumstances
With the

System

 

 

 

Deleted

 

 

 

 

 

 

hearing procedures outlined in the Faculty Handbook or Staff Handbook, or Oracle as appropriate.

 

Deleted