Self Expression: Support, Resources, and Guidance

Dear Students, Faculty, and Staff: 

It is our pleasure to welcome you back to campus. As we approach the new academic year, we are reaching out to address an important and timely topic regarding self-expression and its role in our campus community.  

As an institution of higher education, we encourage and welcome healthy dialog and exchange of ideas. We collaborate across campus to ensure that all members of our community are validated and supported, consistent with our commitment to students’ emotional and physical well-being. At the same time there are guidelines, boundaries, and policies in place to ensure a productive and safe environment for all to learn, teach, work, live, and feel that they are part of our community. Informed discussions are part of what we do as a college, but it is essential that these remain within the domain of civil discourse.

For questions about student support, policies, and guidelines, we direct you to these resources which we refer to often and encourage you to do the same:

• Student Government Association advocates for students through policy changes and recommendations, serving as an unbiased, independent safe space.
• The Office of the Dean of Students offers student advocacy services, addresses student concerns and Title IX inquiries, in addition to guidance, assistance, and referrals.
• The Student Code of Conduct outlines standards and expectations, consistent with the purpose and values of the College.
• The Office of Student Activities promotes career, social, and personal development. Page 33 of the OSA manual includes the Right to Assemble policy and procedures for both student organizations and students at large. 

Finally, FSC’s University Police Department is available to respond to campus concerns and incidents 24/7/365. Let’s work together to create an environment where self-expression is carefully balanced with sharing our diverse perspectives in collaborative and respectful ways.

Kevin Jordan, EdD
Vice President, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusive Excellence
Chief Diversity Officer 

Michael Nembhard
Acting Dean of Students
Director of Residence Life